Acceptance refers to a psychologically stable state where an individual acknowledges a particular event without making any judgments or evaluations. This concept can be applied to various aspects of life, including self-acceptance, the acceptance of others, and the acceptance of disabilities, diseases, death, aging, and roles.

The process of recovering from grief, such as bereavement or loss of physical function, is often viewed as occurring in stages, with acceptance being the final stage. During this stage, individuals can realistically recognize their loss and begin to adapt to it. However, not everyone may reach the stage of acceptance, and even those who do may experience fluctuations or setbacks, suggesting that acceptance is a dynamic process.

In nursing practice, adopting an attitude of acceptance means not judging the value of a person’s complaints, thoughts, or feelings but empathizing with them and accepting them as they are. This attitude involves recognizing the unique value of each individual without imposing any conditions. Establishing a supportive relationship based on acceptance is crucial, as it reduces defensiveness and fosters self-acceptance in individuals. Moreover, research suggests that improving one’s self-acceptance helps improve their ability to accept others.

• Japan Academy of Nursing Science, Nursing Academic Terminology Review Committee (Ed.). (1995). Nursing academic terminology (4th Academic Terminology Review Committee). Japan Academy of Nursing Science.
• Kajita, E. (Ed.). (2002). Current status of self-consciousness research. Nakanishiya Publishing.
• Okamoto, I. (2004). Fluctuating hearts: Accepting and overcoming disabilities and diseases of Japanese people. Ishiyaku Publishing.