Many health care providers and educators are often confronted with the question “which principle pertaining to the relationship of family to patient education is most accurate?” This issue has been percolating through many minds for some time now and continues to do so. To answer this question, we believe that both principles are equally important. However, one must take into consideration factors that may complicate the interpretation of any findings regarding this relationship. Also, it is best to remember that whether or not a theory is supported by empirical evidence, it can still be considered a theory even if its claims are subject to doubt.
According to the American Academy of Professional Psychology: One of the most accurate theories concerning the relationship of family to patient education is the “principle of proximal development.” According to this principle, the most developed individuals are the individuals who have the greatest ally during adolescence. Thus, an individual who values and supports his/her family during their formative years is said to be the person who will most likely become an exemplary health educator.
However, the American Psychological Association emphasizes: That the importance of this theory in determining health care practices cannot be underestimated. The association further noted that this principle is not meant to supplant the need for solid cognitive and emotional development in all of our citizens. The crux of the matter is that the best way to ensure optimal patient education and development is to foster healthy relationships with competent and willing health care providers.
According to the latest research: There are certain individuals who are more likely to thrive as adults when in a loving and secure environment. Such people, it is believed, benefit from greater social ties and interaction with people from different social status and economic backgrounds. This theory, it is believed, helps address the concern that a child who grows up surrounded by loving and supportive family members tends to do better in school, has greater self-esteem, and reaches his or her potential in various areas. Consequently, it also contributes to healthier life outcomes for the individual, as well as for those entrusted to care for him or her, such as parents, caregivers, and teachers.
What about the second principle of the theory on the relationship between health and family?
According to this second premise, the development of children who grow up feeling secure and loved by their parents is more likely to develop healthy attitudes towards health and disease as adults. However, the primary basis for this belief is that parents who provide unconditional love and affection to their children are less likely to succumb to peer pressure and eventually succumb to physical or psychological abuse. In fact, studies have shown that many victims of child abuse were abused by members of their own family. According to the third assumption, it is important to address the relationship between family and health education because, if there is a link established between family members influencing an individual’s health decisions, it is likely that unhealthy lifestyles and behaviors will continue to affect the lives of other family members.
Based on the preceding arguments: It appears that the third health principle regarding the role of family in patient education is most accurate. It can be concluded from these examples that family members play an important role in the health of patients. In addition to that, health education that addresses family elements can play a significant role in reducing health-related stigma and thus improve overall health.