A Phenomenological Description of the Experience of Spiritual Distress
- 1 April 1996
- journal article
- Published by Wiley in International Journal of Nursing Terminologies and Classifications
- Vol. 7 (2) , 81-91
- https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1744-618x.1996.tb00297.x
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe the phenomenon of spiritual distress in order to clarify the nursing diagnosis of spiritual distress and to evaluate its defining characteristics. Phenomenological interview procedures were used. Ten participants were asked to describe a time in their life when they had been concerned about the meaning of life, death, and/or their beliefs (the major defining characteristics of this nursing diagnosis). The data were analyzed using a hermeneutical approach. The thematic structure of this experience indicated a biphasic process through which participants moved from distress to change and growth. Implications for nursing are discussed and suggestions made for further research on spiritual distress.Keywords
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