Intentionality: Evolutionary Development in Healing

Abstract

Although intentionality has been implicated as a causal variable in healing research, its definition has been inconsistent and vague. The objective of this grounded theory study is to develop a substantive theory of intentionality in a naturalistic encounter between nurse-healers and their healee-clients, and to consider the implications for practice and research. Six expert nurse-healers and six healee-clients were interviewed as individuals and in dyads before and after treatments. Interviews and observational data were analyzed using the constant comparative method and synthesized analysis. Participants described their experience of intentionality in healing as an evolutionary process characterized by distinctive shifts. The theory of intentionality: the matrix for healing (IMH) includes definitions of intentionality and a conceptual framework of three developmental phases of intentionality (generic, healing, and transforming intentionalities). The predominant attribute, development, is described. The theory contributes to knowledge about healing and intentionality and has implications for practice and future research.

Intentionality in Healing—The Voices of Men in Nursing

“…The purpose of the study was to expand the knowledge base of intentionality in healing with a sample of men in nursing. In addition, the purpose was to determine if these data support, contradict, or modify a previously devised the theory, Intentionality: The Matrix of Healing (IMH; Zahourek, 2004, 2005, 2012b, 2014). The theory was limited to a population of female nurses and their female patients.…”

“…Previously, this author identified the properties, antecedents, consequences, and characteristic relationships of intentionality with female nurse–client dyads (Zahourek, 2004, 2005, 2012b). A substantive theory of intentionality in healing was the goal.…”

“…A modified grounded theory approach was used (Eaves, 2001; Tesch, 1990). Analysis produced the IMH theory (for a full description of the theory, see Zahourek, 2004, 2005, 2012b, 2014; Table 1).…”

Being in Nature

“…Based on the relevant literature, it seems that the above approach corresponds with the holistic and mind-body-spirit orientation of the holistic nursing practice (Frisch, 2003;Zahourek, 2005). Thus, the present article describes an innovative therapeutic framework that uses creativity and…”

The Science of Energy Therapies and Contemplative Practice

“…." 85(p15) Many within nursing literature 86 indicate the role of intentionality as an essential component of the healing experience. Watson contends that this intentionality is not an aim that guides an action, but rather a mindful conscious awareness, centering the practitioner's focused attention on the client.…”