In Watson's nursing theory, which of the following is not considered a carative factor?

In Watson's nursing theory, which of the following is not considered a carative factor?

• A. Forming humanistic-altruistic value system
• B. Instilling faith-hope
• C. Cultivating sensitivity to self and others
• D. Strengthening flexible lines of defense

Answer: (D)

Watson's theory centers on caring as the core element of nursing, with carative factors guiding how nurses create a healing presence for patients. Forming a humanistic-altruistic value system reflects the nurse's commitment to genuine, ethical caring for the person. Instilling faith-hope supports the patient’s coping and sense of meaning during illness. Cultivating sensitivity to self and others enables authentic presence and empathetic engagement, which are essential to meaningful caring encounters. Strengthening flexible lines of defense, however, belongs to Roy's adaptation model, not Watson's carative factors. It concerns protecting the person from stressors by reinforcing protective barriers, which is why it does not fit as a carative factor in Watson's framework.

Watson's theory centers on caring as the core element of nursing, with carative factors guiding how nurses create a healing presence for patients. Forming a humanistic-altruistic value system reflects the nurse's commitment to genuine, ethical caring for the person. Instilling faith-hope supports the patient’s coping and sense of meaning during illness. Cultivating sensitivity to self and others enables authentic presence and empathetic engagement, which are essential to meaningful caring encounters.

Strengthening flexible lines of defense, however, belongs to Roy's adaptation model, not Watson's carative factors. It concerns protecting the person from stressors by reinforcing protective barriers, which is why it does not fit as a carative factor in Watson's framework.