Wilsonian methods of concept analysis: a critique.

Judith Hupcey, J. M. Morse, E. R. Lenz, M. C. Tasón

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

56 Scopus citations

Abstract

Wilsonian methods of concept analysis--that is, the method proposed by Wilson and Wilson-derived methods in nursing (as described by Walker and Avant; Chinn and Kramer [Jacobs]; Schwartz-Barcott and Kim; and Rodgers)--are discussed and compared in this article. The evolution and modifications of Wilson's method in nursing are described and research that has used these methods, assessed. The transformation of Wilson's method is traced as each author has adopted his techniques and attempted to modify the method to correct for limitations. We suggest that these adaptations and modifications ultimately erode Wilson's method. Further, the Wilson-derived methods have been overly simplified and used by nurse researchers in a prescriptive manner, and the results often do not serve the purpose of expanding nursing knowledge. We conclude that, considering the significance of concept development for the nursing profession, the development of new methods and a means for evaluating conceptual inquiry must be given priority.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)185-210
Number of pages26
JournalScholarly inquiry for nursing practice
Volume10
Issue number3
StatePublished - 1996

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Wilsonian methods of concept analysis: a critique.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this