Peplau's theory is based on which nursing approach?

Peplau's theory is based on which nursing approach?

• A. Psychodynamic nursing
• B. Environmental determinism
• C. Biomedical model
• D. Technocratic practice

Answer: (A)

Peplau’s theory is based on a psychodynamic nursing approach, which centers on the therapeutic use of the nurse–patient relationship to promote growth and healing. It draws from psychoanalytic and interpersonal ideas about how people relate, feel, and behave within the context of a healing alliance. In Peplau’s view, nursing is an interpersonal process that unfolds through stages of relationship work, helping patients explore feelings, cope with anxiety, and become more self-aware as they move through care. This approach matters because it shifts nursing from a task-focused role to one that actively engages with the patient’s inner experiences and interactions. The nurse acts not just as a caregiver but as a participant in a dynamic relationship that shapes outcomes, employing skills like communication, listening, and therapeutic use of self. The other options don’t fit Peplau’s emphasis. Environmental determinism centers on external factors shaping behavior, which misses the core focus on interpersonal processes. The biomedical model is primarily disease-centered and physiological, not about relational dynamics. Technocratic practice stresses technical efficiency and procedures, whereas Peplau’s theory foregrounds the healing power of interpersonal connection within nursing care.

Peplau’s theory is based on a psychodynamic nursing approach, which centers on the therapeutic use of the nurse–patient relationship to promote growth and healing. It draws from psychoanalytic and interpersonal ideas about how people relate, feel, and behave within the context of a healing alliance. In Peplau’s view, nursing is an interpersonal process that unfolds through stages of relationship work, helping patients explore feelings, cope with anxiety, and become more self-aware as they move through care.

This approach matters because it shifts nursing from a task-focused role to one that actively engages with the patient’s inner experiences and interactions. The nurse acts not just as a caregiver but as a participant in a dynamic relationship that shapes outcomes, employing skills like communication, listening, and therapeutic use of self.

The other options don’t fit Peplau’s emphasis. Environmental determinism centers on external factors shaping behavior, which misses the core focus on interpersonal processes. The biomedical model is primarily disease-centered and physiological, not about relational dynamics. Technocratic practice stresses technical efficiency and procedures, whereas Peplau’s theory foregrounds the healing power of interpersonal connection within nursing care.