Posted: September 1st, 2022

An Evaluation of the Theory of Modeling and Role-Modeling in Nursing

An Evaluation of the Theory of Modeling and Role-Modeling in Nursing
The theory of Modelling and Role-Modelling theory (MRM) developed by Helen Erickson, Evelyn Tomlin, and Ann Swain has significantly impacted nursing as a profession in numerous ways. It was first published in 1983 in their book Modeling and Role-Modelling: A Theory and Paradigm for Nursing. Over the years, this theory has gained tremendous significance and has been integrated into dozens of different nursing programs and research studies in many universities. The theory helps nurses care for patients while being aware, focusing, and respecting the unique needs of each person.
The MRM theory of nursing is a simple yet complex concept because it draws ideas from other theories, including Maslow’s theory of hierarchy, Erickson’s theory of psychological development, Jeans Piaget’s theory of cognitive development, and Selye and Engle stress response, or rather known as theories of psychology. These theories address the internal subsystems, namely, cognitive, psychological, biophysical, and social aspects, which make up the health of the individual. According to the theory of MRM, these aspects must be present for the effective treatment of the entire person.
The theory of modeling and role-modeling consists of two important stages. The first stage is “modeling,” which occurs when the nurses begin to learn and understand that each patient is different and unique and makes an effort to understand them from their point of view. This is achieved through communication with the patient and creating a peaceful, trusting relationship with them. The second stage is “role-modeling” and is based on the assumption that all humans want to interact with each other and perform different roles in society. Role modeling allows nurses to use the patient’s model to create focused health interventions that meet their perceived needs, help them grow, develop, and eventually heal. The nurse is able to promote self-care, nurturance, and adaptive coping without neglecting the patient’s unique model of the world.
Since its publishment, multiple instruments have also been developed to promote the better application of the theory both in practice and in research. The theory can be applied in dozens of ways to different groups of people of all ages and with varying health issues. For instance, it has been used to understand how older people over the age of 85 manage their health, care for acute cancer patients, and understating people living with mental illnesses. The Society for Advancement of Modelling and Role-Modelling theory was recently founded to promote the future development of the theory. This proves the importance and impact of the MRM theory in nursing.

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