Exploring caring using narrative methodology: an analysis of the approach

The investigation of caring in nursing practice and the need to explicate w hat it is nurses do when they care present a challenge for nurse researcher s. This is due largely to the complex and nebulous nature of caring as a co ncept and the contextual elements that influence its perceived meaning. Con sequently, the use of qualitative methods in the exploration of caring is t he method of choice, with researchers employing a variety of such approache s. In particular, the use of stories as a primary way of making sense of an experience has gained attention in the literature and the narrative method is being seen increasingly as a valid means of tapping into the patient ex perience. However, the use of narratives is complex with a diversity of app roaches often being presented. This paper discusses the use of narratives i n the exploration of caring, focusing specifically on an approach developed by Donald Polkinghorne. Issues associated with the collection and analysis of narrative data using this approach are examined.