A Grounded Theory Study of Socializing Men into Nursing

Abstract

This study explores the process that led to the male nurse's decision to become a nurse and to remain a nurse. Grounded theory methods were used to generate a descriptive theory of socialization of men into nursing. Data were collected by individual, semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 20 male Registered Nurses (RNs), residing in Massachusetts, with 1 to 35 years of experience as RNs. Analysis was conducted throughout the data collection period. A constant comparative approach was used until saturation of the categories appeared. MaxQDA, a qualitative software package, was used to assist with data management and analysis. A basic social process, socializing men into nursing, emerged from the data. The basic social process comprises a trajectory of four stages, which encompass the path that men travel to become and remain nurses. These stages occur in a linear manner. The first stage is prior to considering nursing. This is followed by choosing nursing, becoming a nurse, and ends with being a nurse. This study has implications for policy development that will influence the recruitment and retention of men in nursing.