HILDEGARD PEPLAU’S

THEORY OF
INTERPERSONAL
RELATIONSHIP
In Peplau's theory, nursing is defined as an interpersonal therapeutic
process of functioning cooperatively with other human processes
that make health possible for individuals in communities through
education that aims to promote forward movement of personality.

4 Phases of the Nurse-Patient

Relationship

orientation identification
Phase where the client seeks Client assumes posture of
help and the nurse assists the dependence, interdependence or
client to understand the independence in relation to the
problem and extent of help nurse

exploitation resolution
Client derives full value from what Old needs and goals are set aside
the nurse offers through the and new ones are adopted
relationship

6 Proposed Nursing Roles

Stranger Role Counseling Role
Resource Role Surrogate Role
Teaching Role Active Leadership Role

Theoretical Assertions
• Nurse and the patient can interact
• Both the patient and nurse mature as a result of the therapeutic
interaction
• Communication and interviewing skills remain fundamental tools
• Nurses must clearly understand themselves to promote their
client’s growth and avoid limiting choices to nurses value