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Abstract
This study was an exploratory qualitative investigation into the role of spirituality in adolescent resilience. Using grounded theory techniques, data were gathered from one-on-one in-depth interviews with 15 adolescents about the role of spirituality in their lives. The focal areas examined were: adolescents’ understanding of spirituality and perception of whether spiritual beliefs and practices are resourced to overcome life’s lowest points. Three dimensions of spirituality emerged: (a) a transcendental perspective expressed, as a relationship with God or a higher power; (b) sense of meaning and (c) connection with the inner self. These dimensions fostered resilience by providing: (a) a sense of protection, comfort and security, (b) a sense of meaning, coherence and optimism and (c) the opportunity for increased self-awareness and self-efficacy. All but one of the participants drew on spiritual resources to overcome low points.
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Acknowledgements
The research in this paper was conducted in 2004 as part of the requirements towards completion of a postgraduate diploma in psychology. The research was completed under the supervision of Professor Glen Bates, deputy dean in the Faculty of Life and Social Sciences at Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Australia. The content of this article is not drawn in any way from the author’s work at the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH), Melbourne, Australia. Any opinion or any understanding drawn from this article is that of the authors and not that of the RCH.
