Four basic types of theory should be distinguished depending on the purposes of theory, and they are related to theory research and practice. These specific types are descriptive, explanatory, predictive, and usually prescriptive theories. Descriptive theories are also known as factor-isolating models that explain phenomena depending on certain features. These theories are used to name specific concepts or factors to describe, determine, and isolate them (McEwen & Wills, 2019). As a result, these theories cannot be used for analyzing the relationships between phenomena as the focus is only on observing and describing them. The following level of theories is represented by explanatory theories. They are important to concentrate on the relations between certain phenomena or variables, and they are also named factor-relating theories (Gómez-Salgado et al., 2019). These theories are typically applied in correlational research studies when it is necessary to understand how certain variables are related to each other.
The third type of theory identified depending on its purpose is predictive. These theories are described as situation-relating ones when the focus is on conditions under which certain phenomena are studied, as well as on outcomes (McEwen & Wills, 2019). Thus, much attention is paid to predicting specific outcomes of the relationship between particular phenomena or variables. The fourth type of theory is known as prescriptive or situation-producing. In nursing and health care, these theories are applied when it is necessary to examine the potential results of certain activities. The emphasis is on reaching a set goal and achieving desired outcomes of selected interventions (Gómez-Salgado et al., 2019). Different levels or types of theories allow for guiding nurses and other healthcare professionals in their research and evidence-based practice to determine the most effective approaches to care and treatment in clinical settings.
References
Gómez-Salgado, J., Navarro-Abal, Y., López-López, M. J., Romero-Martín, M., & Climent-Rodríguez, J. A. (2019). Engagement, passion and meaning of work as modulating variables in nursing: A theoretical analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(1), 108-112. Web.
McEwen, M., & Wills, E. M. (2019). Theoretical basis for nursing (5th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.