Concept analysis strategies for the development of middle-range nursing theories

Abstract

Objective: to reflect on strengths and limitations of the concept analysis strategies as resources for the development of middle-range nursing theories. Method: a reflection study of metatheoretical nature. Results: strategies for concept analysis for the development of middle-range nursing theories are presented. The philosophical foundations of concepts and their interface with the analytical procedures were presented. It has been found that Nursing uses three approaches for concept analysis: adapted Wilsonian, evolutionary and pragmatic utility. The concept analysis strategy was illustrated by the Interactive Theory of Breastfeeding. Conclusion: concept analysis strategies have been employed in nursing to develop theories and to refine the concepts and terminologies used in research and practice. Despite their widespread use, there is still great diversity of methods used and some uncertainties that hinder their implementation.