Family systems theory as a theoretical reference for research with families who experience illness and death

Abstract

A theoretical reference constitutes the universe of principles, categories and concepts, forming a coherent unit, in which the research is based and developed. The family systems theory as a theoretical reference for nursing research enables the growth of the knowledge in the science of family nursing. The purpose of this article is to weave some considerations and reflections regarding the use and contributions of the family systems theory as a Reference in researching families in illness and death situations. We present the main orienting concepts as well as its applicability in research in family nursing. within the perspective of family systems nursing theory, the patient becomes the family system, that is, the family becomes the unit of care and research.