Relational agency: an evolutionary concept analysis
Faculty Advisor
Date
2026
Keywords
Allied health, care provision, evolutionary concept analysis, nursing, relational agency
Abstract (summary)
Background: Relational agency has emerged across care disciplines to conceptualize agency as a process embedded in relationships. However, the concept remains underdeveloped in nursing and allied health literature—fields where relationship-building is central to care provision.
Purpose: We clarify the concept of relational agency and explore its relevance and application to nursing practice.
Methods: An evolutionary concept analysis was conducted using Rodgers’ method.
Discussion: Relational agency has four attributes: individual growth, collaborative action, relational knowing, and as something that can be cultivated. Antecedents included recognition, respect, and the creation of relational and/or physical spaces of opportunity. Consequences resulted in the development of trust, resilience, empowerment, and the ability to imagine new possibilities.
Conclusion: Relational agency offers a framework for relationship-building in nursing and allied health practice. It holds particular promise for addressing health disparities and improving care for populations who experience systemic barriers and distrust in formal health systems.
Publication Information
Wadams, M., Kaushik, M., Estefan, A., de Padua, A., & Caine, V. (2026). Relational agency: An evolutionary concept analysis. Nursing Outlook, 72(2), 102685. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2026.102685
Notes
Item Type
Article
Language
Rights
Attribution (CC BY)
