Development of "Mutuality Model in Interpersonal Care Relationship" based on human care theory in women's health nursing

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aimed to develop a Model of Reciprocity in Interpersonal Care Relationships in Women's Health Nursing by examining reciprocity through the experiences of nurses, women, and caregivers. Method: A theory-research-theory design was adopted. Initially, Human Care Theory (HCT) was redefined and operationalized. During the research phase, a constructivist grounded theory study was conducted with 14 nurses in the obstetrics clinic and 18 women and 18 companions hospitalized in the clinic. Data were collected through observation and individual interviews and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding. The final stage led to the development of the Reciprocity Model of Interpersonal Care Relationships. Results: Analysis revealed two categories, six themes, and 13 sub-themes. In the nature of reciprocity category, themes included 'initiating and maintaining reciprocity,' 'factors affecting reciprocity,' 'forms of reciprocity,' and 'projection of reciprocity on care: mutual healing and transformation.' In the undeveloped reciprocity category, themes were 'absence of reciprocity in the relationship' and 'projection of undeveloped reciprocity on care.' The Reciprocity Model was developed based on HCT, literature, expert opinions, and grounded theory findings. Conclusion: Reciprocity in women's health nursing starts with understanding human beings, a compassionate approach based on love, and reciprocity energy between nurses, women, and companions. It is sustained by strategies such as self-care, self-compassion, and empathy. Reciprocity is realized in two ways: unconditional and partial. The study concluded that undeveloped reciprocity interrupts communication and energy, reducing care quality and well-being. Testing the Reciprocity Model in women's health is recommended. Keywords: Human Caring Theory, reciprocity, interpersonal caring relationship, model development, grounded theory