In Anne Boykin and Savina Schoenhofer’s Nursing as Caring theory, the concept of personhood is central and distinct. It’s not merely about being a human being, but rather about the inherent capacity for caring and the dynamic process of living and growing in caring relationships.

Here are the key aspects of personhood within this theory:

1. Inherent Caring Nature: A foundational assumption of the theory is that all persons are caring by virtue of their humanness. This means that caring is not something learned or acquired, but an intrinsic quality of being human. Every person possesses the potential to be a caring being.
2. Relational and Contextual: Personhood is profoundly relational. It is expressed, nurtured, and enhanced through participation in nurturing relationships with caring others. This highlights that one’s personhood is not a static, isolated entity, but rather unfolds and is realized in interaction with others. The nurse-nursed relationship is a prime example of a context where personhood is affirmed and deepened.
3. Wholeness and Completeness in the Moment: The theory posits that persons are whole or complete in the moment. This means that at any given time, a person is a complete being, without insufficiency or brokenness. This perspective encourages nurses to see the person as they are, in their current lived reality, rather than focusing on deficits or what they “lack.” It emphasizes recognizing the fullness of their being.
4. Process of Living Grounded in Caring: Personhood is understood as a process of living life grounded in caring. It’s not a fixed state but an ongoing journey of unfolding possibilities. To live as a person is to continually express and grow in one’s unique way of caring. This involves being authentic and living in congruence with one’s beliefs.
5. Enhancement through Nurturing Relationships: A critical tenet is that personhood is enhanced through participating in nurturing relationships with caring others. When nurses genuinely engage with individuals, recognizing and valuing their unique way of living caring, they contribute to the enhancement of that person’s personhood. This goes beyond simply providing physical care; it’s about connecting with the person’s spirit, their dreams, and their unique way of being in the world.
6. “Being” as a Caring Person: For the nurse, recognizing personhood involves “coming to know” the other as a caring person. This requires an authentic presence and an intentional commitment to enter the world of the other, to understand what truly matters to them. It’s about respecting their individuality, dignity, and their capacity for growth.