The Roy Adaptation Model has some of the characteristics of systems theory and some of the characteristics of interaction theory. Her work is studied and utilized frequently in nursing education. Roy's Adaptation Model of nursing relies heavily on the stress theory, the concept of adaptation, and the ability of the nurse to facilitate adaptation to stress. The term adaptation appears frequently throughout the model and is used to describe that which promotes the integrity of the person in terms of survival, growth, reproduction and mastery. According to Roy, environment is all conditions, circumstances, and influences surrounding and affecting the development and behavior of persons and groups.
Environment has both internal and external components, and is constantly changing.
Health results with adaptation to reach optimal levels of individual potential in meeting physical, psychosocial, and self actualization needs. The individual is in constant interaction with the changing environment and to respond positively that person must adapt. The individual uses both innate and acquired biological, psychological, or social adaptive mechanisms. Receives input from external environment and from changes in the person's internal state. Receives input from external and internal stimuli that involve psychological, social, physical factors and processes it though cognitive pathways.