Theories and Frameworks

Theories and frameworks are essential tools for nurse practitioners in guiding their practice and understanding complex phenomena. They provide a structured approach to intervention development, practice, research, and evaluation. This chapter explores various models and theoretical foundations of care within a biopsychosocial framework. It also introduces the classification of psychiatric disorders in the DSM and discusses developmental and foundational nursing theories that support the nurse practitioner role. Understanding and applying these theories and frameworks enable nurse practitioners to develop interventions, communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals, and conduct research that informs future practice.