Multi-method triangulation exploring the relationship between spirituality, power and change in women who have alcohol-related problems

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the relationship between spirituality, power and change in women experiencing alcohol-related problems.

Method Multi-method triangulation taking a quantitative and qualitative approach to the study. Three measuring instruments were used. The Spiritual Orientation Inventory (SOI), The Power As Knowing Participation In Change Tool (PKPCT) and the Severity of Alcohol Dependency Questionnaire (SADQ). The qualitative study consisted of a sample of women drawn from the first study. In-depth interviews were conducted. The only question the participants were asked was: ‘Where have you found your inner strength that has enabled you to stay alcohol free?’

Results Pearson's rho and partial correlations were generated using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Pearson's r correlations indicated a moderate positive relationship between the SOI and the PKPCT; a low negative significant relationship between PKPCT and the SADQ; a low positive significant relationship between age and SOI; and a nonsignificant, very low correlation between the SOI and the SADQ. Partial correlation indicated age and severity of alcohol dependency had little impact on the relationship between power and spirituality. The qualitative data were analysed using the editing style. The following themes emerged that characterize where women find their inner strength. These can be described as: awareness of utilizing thoughts and feeling, involving self and others in actions to maintain changed behaviour, and being connected to and part of a spiritual dimension.

Conclusions Spirituality and power appear to be closely related. Severity of alcohol dependency makes little difference to feelings of spirituality. The study also indicated that women who are more severely dependent on alcohol feel less powerful. Whether abstinent, practising controlled drinking, or having fewer binges, the women reported drawing their strength from many sources within and outside themselves. Future research could explore how psychotherapy, social support and spirituality could be incorporated into treatment/therapy programmes.

Key Words:

• spirituality
• Change
• alcohol