Social Exclusion and Health: The Development of Nursing Knowledge

Abstract

The concept of social exclusion has been proposed as an important social determinant of health. However, use of the concept in health and health promotion research is in its infancy. In nursing discourse, in particular, exploration and application of the concept of social exclusion is minimal. The purpose of this article is to explore the relevance of the concept of social exclusion in the development of nursing knowledge. Current knowledge regarding social exclusion is examined and its use in health-related research is explored. To conclude, a conceptualization of social exclusion for the development of nursing knowledge is proposed.