The Created Environment A Neuman Systems Model Perspective

The Created Environment: A Neuman Systems Model Perspective Frans Verberk Jacqueline Fawcett

Created Environment: A Definition • “The created environment is dynamic and represents the client’s unconscious mobilization of all system variables, including the basic structure energy factors, toward system integration, stability, and integrity. It is inherently purposeful, though unconsciously developed, since its function is to offer a protective shield or safe arena for system function. It pervades all systems, large and small, at least to some degree; it is spontaneously created, increased, or decreased, as warranted by a special condition of need” (Neuman, 2011, p. 32)

Created Environment: Elaboration • • • The created environment “represents the client’s unconscious mobilization of all system variables (particularly the psychosociocultural)” The “client is usually cognitively unaware of the host of existing psychosocial and physiological influences” The created environment is a “protective coping shield” (Neuman, 1995, p. 31; Neuman, 2001, 2011).

Created Environment: Elaboration • • de Kuiper (2011) added, “Overtime, the created environment has been interpreted by users of the Neuman Systems Model to be the client system’s construction of reality, which influences the client system’s perception of and reaction to stressors” (p. 100). In addition, de Kuiper (2011) explained “Through the created environment, client systems develop patterns of coping strategies that are not always effective. Nurses may assist client systems to develop effective, positive coping strategies through empathy, cultural sensitivity, interpretation of the client system’s behavior, and feedback” (p. 104).

Created Environment: Elaboration • • • Created environment understood as elaboration of each of the five client system variables Physiological Psychological Sociocultural Developmental Spiritual (Verberk, 2016)

Created Environment and the Five Client System Variables � Physiological ◦ Involves the meaning a person ascribes to the physical shape of his or her body, as well as its functioning ◦ Extends to the meaning a person gives to his or her home or neighborhood.

Created Environment and the Five Client System Variables � Psychological ◦ The meaning the person ascribes to his or her personality and the way in which emotions are expressed

Created Environment and the Five Client System Variables � Sociocultural ◦ The meaning the person ascribes to the extent of his or her interactions with others and awareness and meaning of cultural heritage

Created Environment and the Five Client System Variables � Developmental ◦ The meaning the person ascribes to life changes over time and innovations in life style

Created Environment and the Five Client System Variables � Spiritual ◦ The meaning the person ascribes to his or her beliefs, hopes, and dreams, as well as the meaning of any religious or other spiritual practices

Created Environment � Your thoughts?

Created Environment • Frans joins me in thanking you for this opportunity to share ideas about a Neuman Systems Model perspective of the created environment