Growing a Professional Identity: A Grounded Theory of Baccalaureate Nursing Students

Background: The purpose of this study was to construct a grounded theory that describes the experiences and explains the process of prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students as they progressed in a traditional nursing program. Method: Strauss and Corbin's approach to grounded theory was utilized to guide this study. Result: The basic social psychological process (BSPP) for baccalaureate nursing students that emerged was “searching for balance and utilizing support networks while growing a professional identity.” The core category identified was unanticipated expectations, whereas the subcategories that emerged were self-doubt, confidence, sacrifice, rigor, and relevance. To successfully progress through the program, students needed to relinquish preconceptions and acclimate to the academic and, ultimately, the professional nursing climate. Conclusion: Findings support and broaden previous research on the expectations and professional identity formation of nursing students. Understanding this BSPP process is beneficial for educators to promote a student-centered learning environment. [ J Nurs Educ . 2018;57(12):705–711.]