Date of Award
6-8-2001
Document Type
Open Access Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Department
Social Work
First Advisor
Maria C. Dinis, M.S.W., PhD
Second Advisor
Rosemary Link, PhD
Third Advisor
Paul Berge, ThD
Abstract
Despite the increasing literature on the significance of spirituality to individuals with a terminal illness, specific research focused on the spirituality of individuals in hospice is limited to several quantitative studies, only one with a qualitative component. This qualitative study expands understanding or experience through hermeneutic analysis of in-depth interviews with three individuals with a terminal illness. The individual's narratives revealed "believing" as the way they found meaning in the present moment. "Always believing" and "adamantly believing" in a Supreme Being gave their daily lives meaning and direction. They were steadfast in leaving all to God for this life and life after death. Implications for social work practice and policy are discussed.
Identifier
SC 11.MSW.2001.Backman.GK
Recommended Citation
Backman, Ginny K., "A Hermeneutics Study: The Spirituality of Adults with a Terminal Illness in a Hospice Program" (2001). Theses and Graduate Projects. 66.
https://idun.augsburg.edu/etd/66