Choose a clinical situation in your specialty and create a theory from your observations.

In the field of mental health nursing, a common clinical situation involves the management of patients with anxiety disorders. One theory that can be developed from observations of anxiety disorder patients is that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) (Concept A) is effective in reducing (Proposition) symptoms of anxiety (Concept B). CBT is a form of psychotherapy that aims to help patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their anxiety. Anxiety is defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome, and it can range from mild to severe. Anxiety disorders affect about 40 million adults in the United States each year, making it the most common mental illness in the country (NIMH, 2021). Research studies have shown that CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety disorders (Concept B). Studies have also shown that CBT can improve the quality of life, reduce the risk of relapse, and improve social functioning in patients with anxiety disorders (Concept B) (Butler et al., 2006). In addition to CBT, other therapeutic interventions, such as mindfulness-based interventions and exposure therapy, have also been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety (Concept B) (Hoge et al., 2013; Hofmann et al., 2012). Overall, the theory that CBT is effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety disorder is supported by current literature. By identifying negative thought patterns and behaviors and changing them, CBT can help patients manage their anxiety and improve their overall quality of life.

References: Butler, A. C., Chapman, J. E., Forman, E. M., & Beck, A. T. (2006). The empirical status of cognitive-behavioral therapy: a review of meta-analyses. Clinical psychology review, 26(1), 17-31. Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: a review of meta-analyses. Cognitive therapy and research, 36(5), 427-440. Hoge, E. A., Bui, E., Marques, L., Metcalf, C. A., Morris, L. K., Robinaugh, D. J., … & Simon, N. M. (2013). Randomized controlled trial of mindfulness meditation for generalized anxiety disorder: effects on anxiety and stress reactivity. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 74(8), 786-792. National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders/index.shtml.