A phenomenon is the term used to describe a perception or responses to an event. Examples of phenomena in nursing include caring and responses to stress. Assumptions are the ideas that we take for granted. They explain the nature of the concepts in the theory, giving it structure.

Choose a middle-range theory or grand theory that, in your opinion, can be applied to research.

• What is the phenomenon of concern in this theory?
• What are the assumptions underpinning this theory?