Positive emotion in knowledge creation

Abstract

PurposeDespite the importance of evidence-based practice, the translation of knowledge into quality healthcare continues to be stymied by an array of micro, meso and macro factors. The purpose of this paper is to suggest a need to consider different – if not unconventional approaches – like the role of positive emotion, and how it might be used to promote and sustain knowledge translation (KT).Design/methodology/approachBy reviewing and coalescing two distinct theories – the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions and the organisational knowledge creation theory – this paper presents a case for the role of positive emotion in KT.FindingsTheories pertaining to positive emotion and organisational knowledge creation have much to offer KT in healthcare. Three conceptual “entry points” might be particularly helpful to integrate the two domains – namely, understanding the relationship between knowledge and positive emotions; positive emotions related to Nonaka’s concept of knowledge creation; and the mutual enrichment contained in the parallel “upward spiralling” of both theories.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a conceptual paper and as such is limited in its applicability and scope. Future work should empirically explore these conceptual findings, delving into positive emotion and KT.Originality/valueThis is the first paper to bring together two seemingly disparate theories to address an intractable issue – the translation of knowledge into quality healthcare. This represents an important point of departure from current KT discourse, much of which continues to superimpose artefacts like clinical practice guidelines onto complex healthcare context.