What type of theory is characterized by having fewer concepts and relational statements, making it useful for examining specific clinical phenomena?

Middle range theory is characterized by fewer concepts and relational statements, which allows it to focus on specific clinical phenomena. This kind of theory is particularly valuable in nursing and other healthcare fields because it bridges the gap between grand theories, which are broad and abstract, and empirical research, which deals with concrete data.

Middle range theories are designed to explain particular aspects of a phenomenon or address specific problems, making them easier to apply in practical situations. For instance, they can provide insights into patient behaviors, nursing interventions, or healthcare outcomes without the need for the extensive framework needed in grand theories. Their specificity ensures they are directly relevant and applicable to clinical practice, enhancing the understanding and management of targeted issues.

This makes middle range theory highly effective in guiding research and informing evidence-based practice. Furthermore, it allows practitioners to develop hypotheses that can be tested in real-world settings, thereby advancing both clinical knowledge and patient care.