Thoughts About Social Issues: A Neuman Systems Model Perspective

Abstract

The Neuman systems model includes social issues as a client system of interest. The other client systems of this conceptual model of nursing are individuals, families, other groups, and communities, about which exists a considerable amount of literature. However, social issues as a client system have not yet been defined or described, nor has any application of this client system been published. This essay is a discussion of the meaning of social issues as a client system from the perspective of the Neuman systems model, and offers examples from the literature, from the results of a survey of Neuman systems model trustees, including Betty Neuman, and from dialogue with participants at the 15th Biennial Neuman systems model symposium. This article was adapted from a paper presented at the 15(th) Biennial International Neuman Systems Model Symposium, Philadelphia, PA. June 19, 2015.

Keywords: Neuman Systems Model; client system; nursing; social issues.