Concept analysis is an approach use to clarify the meanings of terms and to define terms (concepts) so that writers and readers share a common language. Concept analysis should be conducted when concepts require further clarification or development. A method commonly seen is the Walker and Avant method.

As a group decide on a concept of interest and conduct a concept analysis using the eight steps as outlined by Walker and Avant and used in the Dugger (PDF) article.

• Choosing the concept is a very important part of the analysis. The concept should be something of interest to the group and clearly stated. The approval from your instructor will help to confirm your concept is stated clearly.
• Determine the aims of the concept analysis according to Walker & Avant’s method.
• Identify all uses of the concept possible by using dictionary, thesauruses, colleagues, and current literature to establish definitions and uses.
• Determine the defining attributes of the concept by taking notes on the characteristics that appear repeatedly when examining the differ instances of the concept.

Adapted from: Concept analysis: Examining the state of the science (PDF) (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.

Walker, L.O., & Avant, K., (2005). Strategies for theory construction in nursing (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall