Theory Description
It is crucial to state that the Cherokee Self-Reliance theory by John Lowe is based on the Native American value system and cultural characteristics. The historical context for the creation of this theory is the statement by Cherokee leaders in 1976 that self-sufficiency is an essential component of people’s lives (Lowe, 2002). They also indicated self-sufficiency in the Cherokee Nation’s constitutional mission statement. Thus, the theory arose in response to the needs of the people after leaders expressed concern about the self-sufficiency of community members. The approach has influenced the overall health of the Cherokee population, especially since the theory was created to reduce drug use, reduce diabetes, and the rate of committing suicide. It is significant to mention that the goal is to accelerate people’s goodness and health status in relation to their value system. Cherokee Self-Reliance theory encouraged the concept that people should be concerned about their health and take responsibility for their actions (Lowe, 2002). Thus, the basic concepts are discipline and connection to cultural roots. There are three primary structures: discipline, assurance, and responsibility. Hence, the Cherokee Self-Reliance theory suggests a method for nurses to work with patients.
Analysis
While analyzing the basic postulates of the theory, it can be specified that the approach is based on the interrelated three interrelated categories to have a clear framework. To describe the clarity and accessibility of the approach, there is a general notion of fidelity to self in theory (Lowe, 2002). This perspective allows people to understand and embrace the Cherokee cultural values and worldview. Cultural specificity is a basic concept to summarize Lowe’s concept. Therefore, people with cultural affiliations can maintain a balance in their lives. The theory is developed in the context of culture and lifestyle, which is why it aims to maintain balance in all spheres of people’s lives, especially in health care (Lowe, 2002). The importance of the theory is that it provides general information about the Cherokee people. This is because the literature is deficient in concentrating on and giving information about values and their impact on the lives of the nations. This information is essential for nurses of other origins because they also work with the Cherokee people.
Evaluation
The theory demonstrates a description of Cherokee adolescents from a cultural perspective. Cherokee Self-Reliance theory can be used as an aid in the way communication is established between nurses and the community of Cherokee (Lowe, 2002). The nurse-client relationship promotes Cherokee self-reliance and is key to effective nursing care. It is especially applicable to adolescent males in the article (Williams, 2013). Thus, with the assistance of theory, nursing staff in their practice can eliminate preconceptions about the significance of self-sufficiency. Instead, they can become cultural mediators to help adolescents according to the core concepts of their beliefs. For example, medical professionals can, in a rehabilitative narcotics center, devise a plan of care in such a way as to enhance the self-independence of patients. Only if this method does not produce the desired results proceed to the standard of care. Thus, using this theory in nursing will contribute to establishing a trusting relationship with patients and the medical peer community (Williams, 2013). Consequently, assisting patients in learning self-sufficiency skills will allow them to recover from their harmful addictions.
Development
The theory has been examined in studies conducted by scientists. For example, an experiment was performed in which health care professionals used the approach in the Cherokee drug treatment center. All participants in this experiment noted that self-sufficiency would prevent the Cherokee from abusing drugs and alcohol (Lowe, 2002). Nevertheless, the theory does not have significant support among scientists because it needs more implementation in medical practice to demonstrate its effectiveness. Hence, the Cherokee Self-Reliance theory needs further practical research to confirm its viability in medical practice.
References
Lowe, J. (2002). Cherokee Self-Reliance. Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 13(4), 287-295.
Williams, S. (2013). Lessons from my father.Minority Nurse, 40-44. Web.