An accelerated emergence of the self during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic: a hermeneutic phenomenological analysis

ABSTRACT

While research within positive psychology has demonstrated the potential for growth and flourishing when facing adversity, experiences of psychological growth during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have not yet been investigated. A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used to explore the meaning and experience of personal growth and transformation during the COVID-19 first lockdown phase. Semi-structured interviews, with 49 adults between the ages of 20 and 58 occurred. Five themes emerged across participants: (1) pre-pandemic life as functionally complacent (2) the unexpected loss of coping strategies and familiar rhythms due to lockdown, (3) choice to engage with emotion and discomfort as a means to experience growth, (4) discovering and embracing an authentic sense of self, and (5) integration of the growth through sharing with others. Participants reported that participating in the interview itself was growth-enhancing. The findings of the study are discussed in light of existing AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) theory.

KEYWORDS:

• Pandemic
• well-being
• AEDP
• hermeneutic phenomenology
• COVID-19

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Hillary L. McBride

Hillary L. McBride is a registered psychologist in Victoria, BC. She is a sessional instructor in various graduate programs in Counselling Psychology within BC.

Andrew J. Joseph

Andrew J. Joseph is a psychotherapist in private practice in New York City and a member of the research team at the AEDP Institute.