GUIDELINES FOR THEORY CRITIQUE – WRITTEN ASSIGNMENT
The Theory Critique is an essay that you will systematically evaluate a theory on work’s effectiveness including what it does well and what it does poorly. You discuss your assigned theory and must read carefully specifically the unfamiliar terms or concepts. If you are unfamiliar with the terms and concepts, it requires you to do research related reading prior to writing the theory critique written assignment.

1. INTRODUCTION

State the title of the theory you are assigned to critique. The name of the theorist. Outline main ideas of the theory and the application in the nursing practice. State your own statement and your own idea about the theory.
e.g. The environment theory of Florence Nightingale is an excellent work
because the theory . . .

1. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION

• Clarity
• Consistency
• Simplicity/Complexity

 

• DIAGRAM OF THEORY

The critique/analysis may look at whether the theory is:

• Visual and graphic presentation
• Logical representation
• Clarity

 

1. CIRCLE OF CONTAGIOUSNESS

• Geographical origin of theory and geographical spread
• Influence of theorist versus theory.

 

1. USEFULNESS

Criteria	Unit of Analysis
Practice	–          Direction –          Applicability –          Generalizability –          Cost Effectiveness –          Relevance
Research	–          Consistency –          Testability –          Predictability
Education	–          Philosophical statement –          Objectives –          Concepts
Administration	–          Structure of care –          Organization of care –          Guidelines for patient care –          Patient classification system

 

1. EXTERNAL COMPONENTS OF THEORY

Criteria	Units of Analysis
Personal Values	–          Theorist implicit/explicit values –          Critic implicit/explicit values
Congruence with other professional values	–          Complementarity –          Esotericism –          Competition
Congruence with social values	–          Beliefs –          Values –          Customs
Social Significance	–          Value of Humanity

 

• REFERENCES

Five (5) minimum references with APA format.
 
 
Please follow the cover page.