Jean Watson Nursing Theory Analysis

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As stated, the interviewee strongly identified with transformational leadership as a guiding theory. Most interestingly this view had evolved from previous identification with Watson’s Nursing Theory of Caring. The interviewee made a profound statement on the importance of addressing those you lead as a person first: ‘you are working with people, not widgets. If you do not see or treat them as a whole person how can they be inspired by you to accomplish great work? You are not there to direct them, nor be their friend, but bring them to the point that they see the impact of their work and are inspired to do greater work still’. While transformational leadership does speak to addressing individuals as whole beings, Watson’s theory addresses …show more content…

Elements speak to the importance of viewing clients as whole beings in order to establish true caring moments (Watson, 2012). It is through the multiple ways of knowing in nursing; science, art, aesthetic, intuitive, and ethical that allows nurses to establish a therapeutic transpersonal caring relationship (Watson, 2012). When applying this to leading, the same professional transpersonal caring relationship can be established with followers. This connection allows for a meaningful relationship to be established supporting followers in their needs as whole beings and identifying their driving factors. While transformational leadership has been criticized for lacking clarity on how a leader accomplishes transforming followers and themselves, Watson’s theory provides this foundation. Ten “Caritas Processes” within the theory, occasionally referred to as “Caring Practices” exist to achieve human caring which are further broken down into competencies to achieve each Carita (Wagner, 2010). Through the use of the Caritas competencies leaders can establish the same meaningful transpersonal relationship transcending the level of motivation of both leader and follower and accomplishing greater outcomes. Nurse leaders may find incorporating Watson’s theory into their leadership practice quite beneficial. Other healthcare leaders may also find this approach useful but may experience unfamiliarity with the theory due to its focus in nursing. Knowledge translation beyond nursing leadership may be warranted in order to address

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