- Helen C. Erickson

Modeling and Role-Modeling Theory (MRM; Erickson, Tomlin & Swain, 1983) provides a paradigm and theory for nursing. MRM is best depicted as a grand theory encompassing numerous mid-range theories. MRM has been applied in a variety of clinical practice settings, educational programs, and research.

All people are alike in some ways and different in other ways. Some commonalities exist among people as holistic beings, including their basic needs, developmental stages and drive for affiliated-individuation. Differences among people include their genetic endowment, unique model of the world and how they adapt to stress.

Today, MRM serves as one of the extant theories for holistic nursing, recognized by the ANA as a specialty in nursing. It has provided the framework for numerous dissertations, several research studies, and clinical practice.

The purpose of the Society shall be to advance the development and application of the theory, Modeling and Role-Modeling, by:

• Promoting the continuous study and integration of the theoretical propositions and philosophical foundations through research, practice and continuous education;
• Developing a network for the support, stimulation and growth of the membership through newsletters, conferences and membership meetings;
• Disseminating knowledge and information through conferences and publication of conference proceedings;
• Addressing society needs by contributing to improvement of health care through proactive promotion of holistic health.

Adopted at Chartering Session, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor Michigan, April 1986.

About Helen C. Erickson

Educational Background 1957 - Graduated Saginaw General Hospital 1974 - BSN; University of Michigan 1976 - MSN Psychiatric Nursing; University of Michigan 1984 - Doctorate in Educational Psychology; University of Michigan Clinical Background ER and Medical - Surgical Nursing Director of Health Services; San German, Puerto Rico Independant Psychiatric Nurse Consultant Current Activities Actively researching Modeling and Role-Modeling Theory Professor Emeritus; University of Texas at Austin Faculty Consultant for MRM; Various Schools of Nursing & Service Agencies Board of Directors; American Holistic Nursesʼ Certification Corporation

"All people want to be the best they can be."
(Erickson, Tomlin, and Swain, 1983)

• Maslow's Theory of Human Needs was used to help label and articulate Helen Erickson's observations the unmet basic needs interfere with holistic growth whereas satisfied needs promote growth.
• Helen Erickson credits Milton H. Erickson in the formulation of Modeling and Role-Modeling, when he told her to "Model the client's world, understand it as they do, then role-model the picture the client has drawn, building a healthy world for them."
• The MRM Theory was written over several years.
Culmination of work published in the book, "Modeling and Role-Modeling: A Theory and Paradigm for Nursing", in 1983.

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