Self-in-relation theory and the role of the clinical nurse specialist. Part I: Theory and role development.

Concepts and assumptions of the self-in-relation theory of women's development are discussed in this article. Proposed by feminist scholars at the Stone Center in Wellesley. Massachusetts, the theory is used to explore staff development and mentorship roles of the CNS. How the theory provides a new way to view these roles and applies concepts from the theory to advanced practice is examined.