Spoon theory

Spoon Theory is a metaphor used within the chronic illness community to explain the limited energy reserves available to people with chronic illnesses or disabilities. The term was coined by Christine Miserandino in 2003 in her essay "The Spoon Theory," and it has since been widely adopted within the chronic illness community.

Origin

The Spoon Theory was introduced by Christine Miserandino, a woman living with lupus. She used spoons to visually demonstrate the energy limitations she experiences in her daily life to a friend. In the analogy, each activity that a person does in a day "costs" a certain number of spoons, which must be planned and rationed to avoid running out.

Usage

"Spoon Theory" has been widely adopted among people with chronic illnesses and disabilities to communicate their experiences. People who identify with the concept often refer to themselves as "Spoonies." The term helps to articulate the energy management and planning that people with chronic health conditions must do, and it offers a shared language for these experiences.

Application in Healthcare

Understanding the Spoon Theory can help healthcare providers, friends, and family members better comprehend the lived experiences of those with chronic illnesses or disabilities. It provides insight into the daily decisions people with these conditions make regarding their activities and helps to foster empathy and understanding.

See Also

• Chronic illness
• Disability
• Lupus

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