J Nurs Acad Soc.  1989 Apr;19(1):92-98.

Concept Analysis: Reminiscence

• Chon SJ

Abstract

Concept analysis is a formal linguistic exercise to determine certain defining attributes. The basic purpose of concept analysis is to clarify ambiguous concepts in a theory, and to propose a precise operational definition which reflects its theoretical base (Walker, 19 83, 27~28). In later life, elderly people are faced with various psychological problems such as depression, and lowered self esteem for these psychological problems of the elderly. Reminiscence has been studied as an effective therapeutic measure by gerontologists and psychologists. It is considered to have potential as an effective nursing intervention with geriatric clients. The purpose of this paper was to explore the feasibility of adopting reminiscence as a nursing intervention through analysis of the concept. The concept can be defined as follows : Reminiscence is thinking and talking about one's past with or without a specific purpose. It is a composite mental process which involves psychological, emotional, and social interactional aspects. The defining attributes of reminiscence arc : 1. Thinking about past experiences which are meaningful to oneself. 2. It includes the emotional aspect of past experiences. 3. It occurs with or without specific purposes. 4. It is communicated to others by means of language and the subject has the feeling of being heard. In regard to the consequences of reminiscence, it is expected to contribute to psychological adaptation by providing a sense of self-fulfilment and self-achievement, promoting the discovery of the meaning of life, decreasing depression, and overcoming guilt feelings and conflict about one's past. However, if the past is regarded as a total failure, it may be harmful to the psychological well-being of the subject.

MeSH Terms

Aged/*psychology
Communication
Depression/nursing/psychology
Geriatric Nursing/*methods
Humans
Interpersonal Relations
*Memory
Nurse-Patient Relations
Nursing Theory
Self Concept