Empowerment, introduced in the 1960s, denotes the yielding of authority. Empowerment originated to transform society to enable socially vulnerable groups, such as those affected by racial discrimination or the women’s movement, to showcase their strengths.

Empowerment was first introduced in nursing management, emphasizing the independence and decision-making rights of nursing staff. Over time, it gained recognition as a form of nursing support. In the nursing context, empowerment as an aid refers to “the process by which people develop their ability to control and make decisions about their own lives.” This involves nurses forming partnerships, tapping into the strengths of those under their care, and facilitating their ability to make and implement decisions. Empowerment thrives on collaborative relationships, trust, and the belief that everyone possesses the capacity for growth and self-determination. Healthcare workers play a crucial role in providing resources and creating an environment that allows others to demonstrate and enhance their innate abilities.

Empowerment extends beyond individuals to include families, collective organizations, communities, and society. The concept of empowerment is comprehensive, encompassing not only the process but also viewing it as an achieved outcome.

• Cutcliffe, J. R., & McKenna, H. P. (2008). 20 important concepts in nursing: An attempt to analyze concepts in the nursing field (Yamada, C., Trans. Ed.). Igaku-Shoin Ltd.
• Inoue, T. (2008). Macro counseling practice series: Empowerment counseling: Fundamentals of symbiotic social support. Kawashima Shoten.
• Nojima, S., & Nakano, A. (Eds.). (2005). Nursing practice that brings family empowerment. Herusu Publishing Co., Inc.