Toward a theorizing strategy with components of terminologies, classifications, and nursing theories

Purpose This article describes a theorizing strategy that integrates the components of classifications or terminologies with elements of grand or middle-range theories. Methods The source of metatheoretical data to support the strategy was the levels of theories by Dickoff et al. (1968). Terminological data sources were professional classifications and terminologies. Findings The authors synthesized data and philosophical, metatheoretical, theoretical, and terminological knowledge from primary sources on the subject to construct arguments and demonstrate suitable links. Conclusions The proposal presented in this article of a strategy for building theories integrates theories and classifications or standardized nomenclatures. It applies levels of theorization: scrutiny of phenomena, description, conceptualization, naming, relationship, modeling, and operationalization to achieve higher levels of explanatory, predictive, and prescriptive properties on generated theory. Implications for Nursing Practice The implications for practice and research are connected to the theorizing strategy proposed in this article. We assume that using professional language at all levels of theorization can ensure that the concepts generated are closer to clinical practice.