1	“I Have a Theory” Development of a theory: bullying in midwifery Dr Patricia Gillen Professor Marlene Sinclair Professor George Kernohan DMRS Conference 2^nd September 2010
2	What do we know about theories? Theories are “abstractions that are created and invented by humans” (Polit et al 2001; p145)
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4	Background “Theory without research and research without theory does little to advance knowledge in any meaningful way” (Fawcett and Downs1992, p v)
5	So how do you go about building a theory? It needs a bit of blue sky thinking that is build upon firm foundations
6	Where to begin? The research question To explore the nature and manifestations of bullying in midwifery The design of the study
7	Phases of Study
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9	Definition of Bullying Bullying in midwifery is persistent, offensive, abusive, intimidating, malicious or insulting behaviour, abuse of power or unfair penal sanctions, which makes the recipient feel upset, threatened humiliated or vulnerable, which undermines their self-confidence and which may cause them to suffer stress (RCM 1996, p 3).
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11	Framework following concept analysis
12	Framework following focus groups
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15	In Conclusion Each phase of this study has built upon the tentative theoretical framework The findings of the research are important as they not only confirm the reality of bullying in midwifery Provide us with a new definition but they also contribute to the development of the theory
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17	References