THE INGREDIENTS OF A THEORY
In the process of evolving a theory efforts may proceed through various levels or
stages. These levels are identified differently by various writers (Homans 1950, Jacox 1974, Riehl & Roy 1974) depending on their particular approach to theory construction. Generally speaking, however, there are four stages in theory con-
struction.
1 Describing the phenomena related to the particular field of inquiry.
2 Specifying, defining, and classifying the concepts that relate to corresponding
empirical entities.
3 Developing statements which propose how concepts are inter-related.
4 State how the statements relate to each other in a systematic and logical way.
The first stage, describing the phenomena related to the particular field of inquiry, is more often associated with research than with theory construction. However, research and theory construction are inextricably interwoven and the astute and accurate descriptions of a phenomena are just as essential to theory building as they are to research. Downs (1975) has made reference to this very point:
Description is a scientific enterprise that is often downgraded, probably because it lacks the elegance of theoretically grounded research. . . . First, careful description of a situation can avoid many abortive attempts at research which is presumably but not actually related to a problem area
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THEORY FOR THE NURSING PROFESSION
While the development of a nursing theory is essential to the establishment of a theoretical body of knowledge unique to nursing as a science, this must not be its only function. Theory development must be integrated with nursing practice if the profession is to survive and grow. Unlike Schaefer (1973), we cannot assume that once we have developed a 'unique body of knowledge . . . that practice must and will follow'. Such attitudes play an important role in increasing not only the gap between practitioners and theorists, but also the state of cognitive discord that is so prevalent among practitioners today. This discord has been one of the major forces coercing many practitioners to leave the nursing system.
The process of theory construction plays an important role in guiding research by pointing out the areas that are most likely to produce meaningful relationships among the phenomena being studied (Abdellah 1969). It also serves as the basis for successful explanation of phenomena, especially anomolous phenomena, and for hypothesis testing. However, the successful application of a theory for ob- servation and hypothesis testing is dependent upon the intellectual capacity and capabihties of the individual applying the theory. Again, this highlights the need to bridge the gap between theorist and practitioner. Theory development also tends to summarize and order the research findings so that the profession is continually becoming aware ofthe rapid changes taking place within itself Since change is a continuous process, the profession must be continually re-evaluating its concept and theories. It is theories then, that keep us in touch with the gestalt
of the nursing profession.