PE-Fit Theory and the book: It Shouldn’t Be This Way
• Use the “Person-Environment Fit” theory (PE-Fit) to analyze one of Ruth’s transitions (from one care
setting to another) and see how this theory can explain the conflicts she experiences.
Getting Started:
• The PE-Fit model reveals where a good “fit” is possible. It comes from a good balance between individual
“competence” (or abilities) and the “press” (or expectations) of the “environments” in which they live or act.
A lack of fit comes from an imbalance in these two factors.
• When we examine Ruth’s “long-term care” journey over three years, we see her moving through many
different care settings in a relatively short amount, as her competence levels change and eventually decline.
• She goes from ER, ICU, Hospital to Rehab to ALF to Dementia Unit to Nursing Home. Each of these is its
own environment with its own demands and expectations for Ruth and other patients in terms of
competence and ability. She keeps moving because she keeps experiencing a “lack of fit.”
