ANALYSIS OF THE FILM "WONDER" WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF JEAN WATSON'S HUMAN CARING THEORY AND CARITAS PROCESSES: IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING EDUCATION

Zeynep GÜLOĞLU, Nur Deniz EYÜPOĞLU KARAOĞLU, İlknur KAHRİMAN

Middle Black Sea Journal of Health Science - 2026;12(2):201-220

Vocational School of Health Services, Department of First Aid and Emergency, Avrasya University, Trabzon, Türkiye

 

Objective: This study aims to analyze the film Wonder within the framework of Jean Watson's Human Caring Theory and Caritas Processes. It evaluates the film's potential as visual material to concretize humanistic care in nursing education and its effectiveness in raising awareness about stigma toward individuals with facial deformities. Methods: This study uses document analysis, one of the qualitative research methods. A descriptive analysis method was used, involving two detailed viewings of the film. Data were classified into four thematic frameworks based on Watson's 10 Caritas Processes: (1) Respect for human dignity and empathy, (2) Compassion-based relationships, (3) Acceptance of individual differences, and (4) Supportive healing environments. Scenes were evaluated according to "moment of care" and "transpersonal care" criteria. Results: Twenty-eight scenes reflecting Caritas processes were identified. The most prominent theme was "respect for human dignity and empathy". The characters' behaviors, specifically their expressions of compassion and reassurance, were found to be highly consistent with Watson's theoretical principles. Conclusion: It is believed that using the film Wonder to portray humane care and compassion will increase the comprehensibility of these abstract concepts. It is a strategic resource for developing empathy, critical thinking, and "humanistic literacy" among students, strengthening both cognitive and affective learning outcomes.