Theoretic diversity: evolving paradigmatic issues in research and practice.

Although research and practice differ in that one is the building of knowledge and the other the application of that knowledge, it is suggested herein that there are interesting parallels to explore between the evolving debate on research methods and the emerging theoretic debates on practice. On the basis of the Canadian experience and the trend toward adoption of a single-theory approach, the authors argue for theoretic diversity in nursing practice settings.