title: Professionalism of associate degree nurses: the role of self-actualization.
abstract: Historically, nursing has affirmed the inductive approach to professionalism gained through education at the baccalaureate level. Research has challenged the inductive approach by identifying professionalism among associate degree-prepared nurses returning for the professional degree. Two variables derived from the literature, self-actualization and work experience, were investigated as possible antecedents to the development of professional attitudes, values, and behaviors of associate degree nurses. Findings indicated that self-actualization was positively and significantly related to the degree of professionalism. The need to reevaluate the induction model of professional socialization and consider a reactive approach is considered.
authors.affiliation: University of New Hampshire, USA.
authors.forename: Susan Jane
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Fetzer
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D004507:Education, Nursing, Associate; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D009511:New England; D009729:Nursing; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012649:Self Concept; D012951:Socialization