The drama of nursing

Abstract

This exploratory paper considers a few possibilities for conceiving nursing as a form of aesthetic praxis. More specifically, drawing on the works of Erving Goffman on dramaturgy, and Elizabeth Burns on theatre, it makes some suggestions concerning nursing as a form of dramatic performance, and briefly attempts to relate this to concepts of praxis drawn from the writings of Hannah Arendt and critical social theorists. In contrast to Goffman's dramaturgy, which stresses the artifice of social relations and suggests a cynical view of human interactions, a critical theory of dramatic praxis introduces a normative dimension in which performance may become self-realizing and emancipatory as it aspires to the status of aesthetic praxis. Conceived in such terms, nursing practice becomes a powerful form of self-expression which has the potential to become liberating for the nurse and the patient.

Understanding the humanistic interaction with medical imaging technology

“…Through micro-sociological analysis and by focussing on the meaning of mundane interaction, a dramaturgical approach will Ausdrucken (squeeze out) 98 understanding, and become liberating to patient and healthcare professional (Holmes, 1992). Brissett and Edgley (1975) also reinforced the point that it is descriptive understanding, not explanation, that is the focus of this analysis.…”

“…It is possible to identify scripts, roles and ceremonies within the metaphorical stage of the clinical setting (Holmes, 1992). Working on the premise of Jacques in Shakesphere's As You Like It (Act II, scene 7) that `all the world is a stage, and men and women merely players; they have their exits and entrances;…”

“…It is interesting to note that many of Goffinan's studies were centred around mental institutions and there have been few attempts since to explore parallel situations within general hospitals (Holmes, 1992). Any form of hospitalisation or illness, whether brief or long term, can lead to the identity of the patient being challenged (Clarke, 2001;Lupton, 1994) and the individual has to come to redefine self.…”

“…There is the common, traditional positivism; but this can be considered as almost `symbiotic' with another `type of language' which is phenomenological in nature and is constructed by stories of human agency. Not only do narratives and metaphorical analysis of communication enable professionals to further understand the `reality' of health care, but they also develop a salubrious territory (Sandelowski, 1991;Holmes, 1992). Both `types of language' consist of rules and vocabulary, a grammar (Cahill, 1986), and since the two are dependent on one another, but only one version (positivism) is dominant, the use of the term `symbiotic' is considered appropriate.…”

“…The team attempt to achieve common goals. In order to utilise dramaturgy analysis to enlighten (Holmes, 1992) the profession, it is essential to critically analyse previous dramaturgical studies, especially those in health care.…”