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Leininger’s Cultural Care Diversity and Universality Theory
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According to Melanie and Evelyn (2018, pp 222), nursing is a dynamic discipline that
constantly develops to meet the different complex needs of individuals from various cultural
backgrounds. Madeleine Leininger made significant contributions by emphasizing the pivotal
role of culture in healthcare and the need for culturally congruent nursing care. Leininger's
Cultural Care Diversity and Universality Theory laid the foundation for transcultural nursing
through offering a framework for understanding and delivering culturally sensitive care. This
paper explores the major concepts, purpose, context for use, nursing implications, empirical
testing, and practical applications of Leininger's theory.
Major Concepts
Leininger's theory is built upon several major concepts like culture, culture care
similarities (universals), culture care and culture care differences (diversities) within the
context of transcultural human care. In this theory, culture encompasses the values, beliefs,
practices and lifeways that shape an individual's identity (Melanie & Evelyn, 2018, pp. 222).
Culture care refers to the holistic personalized care that takes into account cultural
background of a patient. Leininger also introduces the concepts of emic view (specific to a
culture) and etic view (universal across cultures) which highlights the importance of
understanding both perspectives. Other main ideas within the theory are care, culturally
congruent nursing care, caring, professional system of health care and lay system of health
care.
Purpose and Context for Use
According to McFarland and Wehbe-Alamah (2019, pp. 550), Leininger's Cultural
Care Diversity and Universality Theory is about understanding the vital connection between
care and culture. It serves as a practical guide for nurses and healthcare professionals to
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ensure that care aligns with a patient's unique cultural beliefs and practices, fostering a more
personalized healthcare experience and improved health outcomes. This theory not only
influences nursing education but also shapes healthcare policies, making healthcare more
culturally sensitive and inclusive. In a world of diverse healthcare needs, it is the key to
providing compassionate care that transcends borders and disciplines.
Nursing Implications
This theory provides a guiding principle that beckons nurses to embark on a journey
towards culturally congruent care that genuinely honors each patient's cultural roots (Melanie
& Evelyn, 2018, pp. 222). This journey entails getting deeper into the tapestry of cultural
values, beliefs and practices by leveraging this understanding to customize care that aligns
perfectly with the unique needs of each patient. Culturally congruent nursing care is essential
for enhancing patient outcomes, elevating patient satisfaction and narrowing the chasm of
healthcare disparities.
Evidence of Empirical Testing and Application in Practice
Leininger's Cultural Care Diversity and Universality Theory has thrived over the
years, standing strong in rigorous empirical testing and widespread application in nursing
research and practice (Jeffreys & Zoucha, 2016, pp. 113). It has been the foundation for
numerous studies exploring various health topics and diverse cultural groups from Latino
subgroups' health beliefs to understanding cardiovascular disease in the Amish and
addressing HIV/AIDS challenges among sex workers in Bolivia. Beyond research, nonresearch articles guide nurse practitioners in cultivating deeper cultural awareness and
competence to provide patient-centered care that transcends cultural boundaries. This theory
is a practical tool empowering healthcare professional to deliver culturally sensitive care,
making it a vital cornerstone in nursing and healthcare. Additionally, the theory's practical
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applications extend beyond the realm of research as non-research articles discusses the
transcultural nursing and the real-world implications of Leininger's work. These articles serve
as beacons as it guides nurse practitioners towards a deeper cultural awareness and
competence which enables them to offer patient-centered care that transcends cultural
boundaries.
Conclusion
Cultural Care Diversity and Universality Theory has an influential beacon which
illuminates the path towards patient-centered care. This theory is an abstract construct that
represents a valuable framework for nurses to deliver care that is harmonious with the rich
cultural backgrounds. Through empirical testing and real-world applications, this theory has
proven its worth in enhancing patient care and in the ongoing endeavor to reduce healthcare
disparities. As the nursing profession continues to metamorphose, Leininger's theory stands
as an enduring guide that helps healthcare providers meet the unique needs of culturally
diverse patient populations with empathy and competence.
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References
Jeffreys, M. R., & Zoucha, R. (2016). Cultural Congruence in the Workplace, H ealth Care,
and A cademic Settings for M ultiracial and M ultiheritage Individuals. Journal of
Cultural Diversity, 25(4), 113–123.
Melanie, M., & Evelyn M., W. (2018). Theoretical basis for nursing (5th ed., pp. 221–223).
Wolters Kluwer.
McFarland, M. R., & Wehbe-Alamah, H. B. (2019). Leininger’s Theory of Culture Care
Diversity and Universality: An Overview With a Historical Retrospective and a View
Toward the Future. Historical Theory Article, 30(6), 540–553.