Nursing School Directors: A Discussionon Adapting to the Social Environment Based on the Roy Theory

Abstract

Objective: The study addresses the managerial performance of the first nursing directors in Mexico’s central region, so as to analyzethe challenges they faced in their social environment while managing nursing schools in the seventies. Methods: A qualitative, socialhistoricalapproach was used, based on the theory of adaptation. The subjects were directors or their close collaborators. The data wascollected through interviews and analyzed with the colorimetric technique. Results: The results showed their challenges were social,gender related and involved eradicating social stigma. The inherent mechanisms were: being visionary; those acquired; overcoming fearof being in charge; and adapting to the university organization. Conclusion: This research contributes to the theory and signals its applicabilityin the field of management. It reflects the importance of adaptation in managerial positions and shows the level of adaptationwas comprehensive.