Watson's Transpersonal Caring Theory: A Holistic Approach

Watson’s Transpersonal Caring Theory focuses on “preserving humanity and human dignity” (Williams, McDowell & Kautz, 2011 p.31). Watson viewed caring holistically in terms of a patient’s overall wellbeing, including the individual’s existence, spiritual background, body, and mind. The theory focuses on the belief that caring can do more for the patient’s health than a medical remedy, calling on nurses to “go beyond procedures, tasks, and techniques used in practice settings” (Alligood, 2014, p. 85), and treating the patient therapeutically.

Theoretical Sources

Watson defines theory as “an imaginative grouping of knowledge, ideas, and experience that are represented symbolically and seek to illuminate a given phenomenon” (Alligood, 2014

84). Seven assumptions are the foundation for the Theory of Transpersonal Caring. The first assumption states that the nurse has the moral commitment to protect and enhance the human dignity of the patient. Second, caring is respecting the subjective and spiritual needs of the patient during times of despair, honoring “an I-Thou Relationship rather than an I-It Relationship”(Alligood, 2014, p. 84). For example, honoring his or her needs, routines, or rituals. The theory’s third assumption states that effective caring is accomplished by establishing human connection. The nurse must seek to connect with the inner spirit of another by being present in the moment. The fourth assumption discusses the importance of honoring the wholeness of the person. Watson’s fifth assumption is about finding one’s inner harmony. “The nurse helps another through this process to access the healer within” (Alligood, 2014, p. 85). Assumption six focuses on the practice of caring. Continued growth in physical and mental well-being are essential to advance nursing practice. The nurse’s personal history and knowledge gained from worldly experiences shapes the way he/she may practice. Lastly, the seventh assumption states that the practice of caring is ongoing, and a central part to both nursing and Jean Watson’s Theory of Caring (Alligood,