Imogene King's 'goal attainment theory' is a type of which theory?

Imogene King's 'goal attainment theory' is a type of which theory?

• A. Need theories
• B. Interaction theories
• C. Outcome theories
• D. Humanistic theories

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how nursing theories are grouped by their focus, specifically identifying a theory that centers on interpersonal processes between nurse and patient. Imogene King’s Goal Attainment Theory is best described as an interaction theory because its core is the dynamic, ongoing exchange between nurse and client as they identify, negotiate, and work toward shared goals. The theory conceptualizes three interacting levels—the personal, the interpersonal, and the social—and views outcomes as the product of these transactions. Through communication, perception, and action, both parties influence each other and adjust goals as needed, leading to attainment. This focus on the relational process and mutual goal setting distinguishes it from need theories, which emphasize basic or physiological requirements, and from outcome theories, which concentrate on the results of care rather than the process used to achieve them. While humanistic elements may be present, the defining feature is the interactive partnership that drives goal attainment.

The main idea being tested is how nursing theories are grouped by their focus, specifically identifying a theory that centers on interpersonal processes between nurse and patient. Imogene King’s Goal Attainment Theory is best described as an interaction theory because its core is the dynamic, ongoing exchange between nurse and client as they identify, negotiate, and work toward shared goals. The theory conceptualizes three interacting levels—the personal, the interpersonal, and the social—and views outcomes as the product of these transactions. Through communication, perception, and action, both parties influence each other and adjust goals as needed, leading to attainment.

This focus on the relational process and mutual goal setting distinguishes it from need theories, which emphasize basic or physiological requirements, and from outcome theories, which concentrate on the results of care rather than the process used to achieve them. While humanistic elements may be present, the defining feature is the interactive partnership that drives goal attainment.