Intentionality forms the matrix of healing: a theory.
The understanding of intentionality in a healing context has been incomplete and confusing. Attempts have been made to describe it as a concrete mental force in healing while healing has been accepted as a nonlocal phenomenon. This paper reviews several definitions and theoretical frameworks of intentionality. It proposes a new integrative theory of intentionality, Intentionality: the Matrix of Healing. The theory proposes definitions, forms, and phases of intentionality, a process of development and mediators that sculpt intentionality in healing. The theory has implications for conceptualizing intentionality and provides a framework for continued exploration of the nature of intentionality in healing for scholars as well as clinicians.


METHODS
This study was done as a Doctoral dissertation at New York University, School of Education, Division of Nursing.
Zahourek
Rothlyn P
RP
D003243:Consciousness; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D029221:Faith Healing; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D033182:Intention; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008602:Mental Healing; D019222:Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical; D008960:Models, Psychological; D009742:Nursing Theory; D011603:Psychophysiology