The utility of self-care theory as a theoretical basis for self-neglect.
OBJECTIVE
This paper sets out to explore the utility of self-care theory in understanding self-neglect. Further theoretical development of both self-care and self-neglect theory and attending core concepts is an important objective.


BACKGROUND
The notions of self-neglect and self-care are frequently linked in the literature. The relationship between self-neglect and self-care is not clear and the strengths and limitations in using self-care theory to facilitate a greater understanding of self-neglect will be addressed. Specifically the issues of self-care agency, self-care requisites, objectivity, class and culture, and lifestyle choice will be critically evaluated in the context of self-neglect theory.


CONCLUSIONS
Self-care theory has a useful role to play in furthering our understanding of self-neglect. Self-care theory is able to explain some aspects of self-neglect but not others, although this may be a reflection of the relatively underdeveloped state of self-care theories or alternatively may reflect a more fundamental limitation in our ability to fully explain human behaviour.
Lauder
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Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Highland Campus, University of Stirling, Old Perth Road, Inverness IV2 3FG, UK. william.lauder@stir.ac.uk
D001294:Attitude to Health; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D004522:Educational Status; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D006920:Hygiene; D008019:Life Style; D009742:Nursing Theory; D011582:Psychological Theory; D012648:Self Care / Q000523:psychology*; D016728:Self-Injurious Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D012923:Social Class