The Middle-Range Theory of the Adapting Family: From Theory to Practice

Abstract

The middle-range theory of the adapting family, derived from the Roy adaptation model, was chosen as the guiding framework for the newly formed Family Center at Holy Family University. The committee governing the Family Center supported the application of this theory to the provision of resources to families through education, counseling, consultation, and advocacy. The concepts of stimuli, coping processes, and outcomes of the middle-range theory of the adapting family are examined. Services offered, including the parenting workshops, retirement workshops, and the cakes for kids program, are explained with detailed examples of how the theory is used in practice.

Family-focused practice and policy recommendations to improve the inpatient experience for patients undergoing a stem cell transplant.

“…This theory was used as a framework to develop the services offered by a university-sponsored center that supports families in the community through education, counseling, consultation, and advocacy, thus representing a tangible example of the connection between theory and practice. This nursing theory emphasizes the importance of engagement as a conduit to improving family outcomes (Butt, 2020), an important element of HCT family care. Through the process of patient and family engagement, healthcare professionals are able to promote family coping and adjustment (Butt, 2020; Hayden & Buckner, 2014).…”

“…This nursing theory emphasizes the importance of engagement as a conduit to improving family outcomes (Butt, 2020), an important element of HCT family care. Through the process of patient and family engagement, healthcare professionals are able to promote family coping and adjustment (Butt, 2020; Hayden & Buckner, 2014). We chose to add variables from Fife et al’s (2009) conceptual model of HCT experience because it is specific to HCT family caregivers’ experiences and includes factors relevant to the HCT illness and treatment context.…”