Subject Guides: Henry Ford Hospital Nursing Research Toolkit: Step 5: Use Theory

Use Theory to Guide Your Project and Define Research Concepts

Theories explain phenomena and help researchers organize observations and facts. Theories specify relationships between concepts, provide a framework for gathering hypotheses related to human behaviors, and guide the design of interventions.
For more detail on theories, visit the following website, and refer to the resources noted in "Additional Reading."

Use of Theoretical Frameworks in Research Connelly, L. M. (2014). "Use of Theoretical Frameworks in Research." MEDSURG Nursing 23(3): 187-188.
How Could Nurse Researchers Apply Theory to Generate Knowledge More Efficiently? Lor, M., et al. (2017). "How Could Nurse Researchers Apply Theory to Generate Knowledge More Efficiently?" Journal of Nursing Scholarship 49(5): 580-589. Background Reports of nursing research often do not provide adequate information about whether, and how, researchers applied theory when conducting their studies. Unfortunately, the lack of adequate application and explication of theory in research impedes development of knowledge to guide nursing practice. Objectives To clarify and exemplify how to apply theory in research. Methods First we describe how researchers can apply theory in phases of research. Then we share examples of how three research teams applied one theory to these phases of research in three different studies of preventive behaviors. Conclusions Nurse researchers can review and refine ways in which they apply theory in guiding research and writing publications. Scholars can appreciate how one theory can guide researchers in building knowledge about a given condition such as preventive behaviors. Clinicians and researchers can collaborate to apply and examine the usefulness of theory. Clinical Relevance If nurses had improved understanding of theory-guided research, they could better assess, select, and apply theory-guided interventions in their practices.

Theoretical Basis for Nursing by Evelyn M. Wills Access the essential information you need to understand and apply theory in practice, research, education, and administration/management.
Call Number: WY 86 M94 2019 (available at Sladen)
ISBN: 9781496351203
Publication Date: 2019, 5e
Nursing Theorists and Their Work by Martha Raile Alligood A classic text is back with fresh, comprehensive nursing theories, critiques, and philosophies. Nursing Theorists and Their Work, 9th Edition provides you with an in-depth look at 39 theorists of historical, international, and significant importance.
Call Number: WY 86 N9738 2018 (available at Sladen)
ISBN: 9780323402248
Publication Date: 2018, 9e
Middle Range Theories by Sandra J. Peterson; Timothy S. Bredow The most complete and detailed book devoted to middle range theories, this text examines theories and their applications in clinical nursing research and practice. The authors provide expert advice on selecting an appropriate theory for a nursing research project and on critiquing theories.
Call Number: WY 86 M535 2013 (available at Sladen)
ISBN: 9781608318001
Publication Date: 2013, 3e