Analysis and Evaluation of Reed's Theory of Self-Transcendence

Abstract

Background and PurposeReed's theory of self-transcendence is a nursing theory originally derived from inquiry on well-being in older adults. It has since become a viable theory for promoting well-being in all age groups and health/illness experiences. The current theory analysis aimed to uncover the applicability of Reed's theory in promoting individuals' self-transcendence and enhancing well-being. Although there is a wealth of evidence supporting the usefulness of Reed's theory, little is known about how nurses can understand and apply the theory in clinical practice.MethodsThe authors of this current theory analysis adopted Meleis' (2018) approach to theory analysis and evaluation.ResultsReed's theory provides concepts that relate to nursing interventions, which foster the patients' ability to experience multi-level self-transcendence and, thus, enhanced well-being. Applying Reed's theory in clinical practice underpins professional enrichment and brings forth holistic care that assists in facilitating well-being.ConclusionReed's theory of self-transcendence propels the individual beyond constrictive viewpoints of self and the world. The theory is useful for patients at all life-stages and in many different contexts.Relevance to clinical practiceNurses can draw on Reed's theory to develop activities that enhance patients' environment in order to promote self-transcendence. These theory-based activities can expand healthy self-boundaries intrapersonally, interpersonally, transpersonally, and temporally.

Disaster Relief Nurses: Exploring the Impetus to Respond to Multiple Efforts

“…Consistent with recent work, Fiske (2019), Khait et al (2020), Palmer et al (2010), and Reed's (2018 theory of self-transcendence, a positive feedback cycle seems to emerge with disaster relief volunteerism. A state of vulnerability exists (either environmentally or where the person is confronted with their mortality and that of others), thus creating an opportunity for personal growth, well-being, and commitment.…”

“…Self-transcendence as described by Reed (2018) in her middle-range theory of self-transcendence supported the core category in this study. One assumption of self-transcendence is “that human beings are integrated within and affected by their environment” (Khait, Sabo, & Shellman, 2020, p. 172). The four dimensions of intrapersonal (introspection), interpersonal (outreach to other and the environment), temporal (integrate past and future), and transpersonal (something greater than the self) are evidenced throughout the interviews (Reed, 2018).…”

COVID-19 Caregiving Strategies, Quality of Life, and Stress Among Faith Community Nurses and Faith Leaders in Appalachia

“…The purpose of this study was to (a) identify the most common care strategies faith leaders and FCNs used during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020–August 2020) and (b) examine the relationships between the professional quality of life, perceived stress, and associated factors in the leaders and FCNs. Reed's Theory of Self-Transcendence was used as a framework to guide development of the study ( Abu Khait et al, 2020 ; Reed, 2018 ). The theory facilitates turning difficulties and struggles in life into meaningful systems of support.…”

Existential Suffering in Palliative Care: An Existential Positive Psychology Perspective

“…Sessions for CALM address both managing illness/symptoms and maintaining a sense of meaning and purpose (Nissim et al, 2012). Reed's theory of self-transcendence also addresses the need to turn vulnerability to suffering into personal growth and wellbeing through self-transcendence (Abu Khait et al, 2020;Psych-mental health NP, n.d.).…”