Patricia Benner on the ethic of caring

Abstract

According to Patricia Benner, "the responsibility side of the ethic of care is also expressed as a sense of respect for another human being's body". This dissertation which is in part a fulfillment for the final examinations of a Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies at the Faculty of Theology, will reflect on the themes of caring, with special reference to Patricia Benner's works and her research studies which focused on narratives known as 'nurse stories' . Therefore the Introduction will give the aims and methodology of the subject matter. Chapter one of this dissertation deals with the meaning of Caring and authentic care in this modern age of technology and science. Chapter two gives definitions and characteristics of caring, including attitudes, behaviours and virtues in caring. Then, Chapter three focuses on professional and experiential and practical part of caring. Finally Chapter four reflects on the narrative aspect which gives implications for future care and research. Chapter five will discuss what has been found out in literature in contrast with what emerged from the nurse stories. Conclusion will summarize what has been found out through the analyses of the 'nurse stories' and includes limitations and strengths and recommendations, and implications for the future will be made. Benner' s works will be discussed to understand better her view on the concept of caring, and the ethic of caring and her humanistic approach in her philosophy and its relevance to this age of modernity, and post modernity. Her philosophy is derived from the values, principles and beliefs that support the individualized 'nurse stories'.