Date Approved

1998

Graduate Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Nursing (M.S.N.)

Degree Program

College of Nursing

Abstract

Nursing is a profession. It is important for nurses to know what impacts professional development. Educational preparation plays a large role in professional development.

Data were originally collected in 1995 through a survey of nurses from one chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International. The survey was sent to 544 members to determine their scores on professional development. The current study conducted a re-analysis of that data to determine if a relationship existed between professional development and education.

This thesis was based on Leddy and Pepper’s (1993) theory of professional development modified from Eric Erikson’s eight stages of the life cycle. They contend that professional development occurs in stages over time. The ultimate goal being to reach the final stage of development and appreciate full professionalism.

There is a correlation between professional development and education. The correlation is weak indicating there may be additional factors that influence professional development.

Comments

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