Pragmatics and Parenting

Abstract

Theoretical principles: Pragmatic Children's Nursing Theory draws on the theory principles of North American Pragmatist including the work of William James, Richard Rorty, and John Dewy and incorporates Margaret Urban Walkers' work on expressive collaborative feminism.

Phenomena addressed: In this discussion paper I explore how the role of parents is framed in Pragmatic Children's Nursing Theory. In setting out Pragmatic Children's Nursing Theory I detailed a rebuttal of Family Centred care. However, working with the theory I have come to realise how the arguments against Family Centred care do not exclude involving parents in children's care. Indeed, Pragmatic Children's Nursing recognises the vital role parents and other carers play in children's access and experience of childhood. Using Walkers expressive collaborative feminism who accepts and who rejects the parenting role for children living with illness is discussed.

Research linkages: This is an emergent theoretical approach to children's nursing with challenging research evidence. However, I draw on existing children's nursing studies to explore the potential of Pragmatic Children's Nursing Theory to assist children, parents and nurses in negotiating care. Concluding that as childhoods and parenting are continually evolving, in time, in certain physical, cultural and political contexts, that pragmatic theory will evolve to meet these intergenerational contextual challenges.

Keywords: Child rearing; Childhoods; Children; Parenting.