Workplace violence in nursing is a current issue that can be examined through three main sociological perspectives. The functionalist perspective views violence as disrupting social order and stability in healthcare settings. The conflict perspective sees violence as a power struggle between groups competing for limited resources. The symbolic interactionist perspective analyzes how communication and symbols between nurses and patients can escalate tensions and lead to violence. Understanding this issue through different theoretical frameworks provides insight into its causes and potential solutions.

1. Introduction: Workplace Violence in Nursing Discussion
Introduction: Workplace Violence in Nursing Discussion ON Introduction: Workplace
Violence in Nursing DiscussionINTRODUCTIONSociologists use theory to study society. In
science, theory is used to develop a deeper understanding of the universe. Although
abstract, sociologists use theory to expand on original ideas and develop practical solutions
to problems. In sociology, there are three main sociological theories or perspectives:
functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist. Each of these perspectives has a distinct
worldview, or interpretation, of the social world and human interaction:The functionalist
perspective presents the world as a system of inter-related parts, where all parts must work
together for society to function.For example, if we looked at sports teams, the functionalist
perspective would argue that sports teams serve a purpose for society. They have a
particular utility that helps society function properly. What purpose do sports teams have?
Do they provide us with entertainment? Some people with jobs? Do they help to form a
bond between people who otherwise would not be connected? The functionalist
perspective would see all of these reasons as important functions of sports teams.The
conflict perspective disagrees, seeing society as an arena made up of groups competing over
scarce resources in which there are issues of power and structural inequality.The conflict
perspective would see sports teams as groups competing over scarce resources. Those
resources may be a title, fans, finances, or athletes. With this struggle between teams, some
come out on top and others at the bottom. Thus, there is inherently inequality in sports
teams.Symbolic interactionism examines the symbols and social meanings we attach to
individuals, behavior, objects, or interaction in face-to-face exchanges on a daily basis. The
focus is more microcosmic than that of both functionalism and conflict perspective.Since the
symbolic interactionist perspective is a micro-level perspective it will look at the
interactions that go on between individuals and small groups in sports teams. Are there
symbols that exist between players on teams? Think of the gestures that are used by
baseball players as an example. This perspective also looks at how communication differs
for people on sports teams than it does for those in other groups. In football, for example,
tackling is an acceptable form of interaction. That is not the case in an office setting.
Introduction: Workplace Violence in Nursing DiscussionAs you can see, each of these three
perspectives proposes a framework for interpreting encountered social
phenomenon.DEMONSTRATION OF PROFICIENCYBy successfully completing this
assessment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies
and assessment criteria:Competency 1: Examine how theory and sociological concepts

2. apply to everyday life.Describe a current issue or event related to the learner’s
field.Examine an issue or event from the functionalist perspective.Examine an issue or event
from the conflict perspective.Examine an issue or event from the symbolic interactionist
perspective.Competency 6: Compose text that articulates meaning relevant to its purpose
and audience.Develop text using organization, structure, and transitions that demonstrate
understanding of cohesion between main and subtopics.For this assessment, search the
Internet or print resources for a popular (as opposed to scholarly) article concerning a
larger issue or event that has occurred in the last six months to a year related to your field
or the field you are considering working in (business, healthcare, technology, criminal
justice, et cetera). For example, if your field of study is healthcare management, you could
choose a recent article concerning the cost of prescription medicine.DELIVERABLESearch
for a popular article (magazine or newspaper) about an issue or event related to your field
of interest.Write an essay in which you complete all of the following:Part 1 – Describe a
current event or issue related to your field (1-2 paragraphs).Describe the current event or
issue objectively. What is the main issue?Part 2 – Examine this event or issue from the three
sociological perspectives: functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist.Address all
three theories in your essay.Use at least two scholarly sources when explaining your
theories.Examine how each perspective might explain or understand this event or issue.Use
the article you’ve chosen to your use of the perspectives and to provide examples to
highlight theoretical ideas.It is expected that you use the vocabulary and concepts for each
theory (for example, manifest and latent functions when discussing the functionalist
perspective).ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTSWritten communication: Develop text using
organization, structure, and transitions that demonstrate understanding of cohesion
between main and subtopics. Write in a professional style using references and correct
grammar, usage, and mechanics. Written communication is free of errors that detract from
the overall message.Sources: Cite at least two scholarly sources.Length: 2-3 pages, not
including title and reference pagesIntroduction: Workplace Violence in Nursing Discussion