Purpose: The purpose of this presentation is to explore the challenges and opportunities of using theory to guide and analyze a qualitative research study titled Caring~Web©: Web-based Support for Rural Stroke Caregivers.
Theoretical Framework: Friedemann’s framework of systemic organization provides the conceptual basis for this study.
Research Design: The focus of this study was the scientific exploration of an interactive web-based intervention for support and education of caregivers of individuals with a stroke. All narrative data exchanged online between the caregivers and the nurse specialist as well as individual mailings to the nurse constituted the primary documents for analysis. Additional narrative data from follow-up phone interviews provided further information as to the caregiver’s problems, solutions and successes. The theory provided initial probes and focus for the research design. The development of a coding rubric began with theory domains. The development of the coding rubric included the theorist, researchers and nurse specialist who together applied the rubric to the data and refined the coding rubric.
Context: As a Telehealth intervention with follow up phone interviews, the context of this research is primarily in cyberspace.
Analysis of research or practice findings: The process of analysis included a triangulation of the researchers, the theorist and the nurse specialist participant. This provided a means of coding rubric development and content analysis, which was coherent with the theory and the actual experience. The major themes identified in this study were 1) changing roles and solving problems [system change and maintenance in Friedemann’s terms], 2) seeing others’ success or failure as own [individuation], 3) pulling together and feeling connected [coherence], 4) being spiritual [spirituality], and 5) balancing successes/problems [congruence].
Implication for nursing: This research process helped to refine an understanding of Friedemann’s theoretical concepts, delineate caregivers’ experiences in dealing with stroke, and affirm a need for family theory research.
Session #1205 - Family Caregiving
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)