Coping with major life events: The role of spirituality and self-transformation

Jason Palframan, Brian Les Lancaster

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

31 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to explore the process of self-transformation as a result of coping with a major life event, and to address the role, if any, that spirituality plays within the coping and transformational process. Using grounded theory methodology, six participants were interviewed over a period of 6 months. The findings, supportive of previous research, produced a preliminary model illustrating transformation as a gradual process. The core category was identified as "openness," in that by being open to others or to the "Transcendent," the participants were able to let go and transform. It was theorized that openness, in this sense, enables acceptance of material deriving from a realm of self beyond the everyday ego. Indeed, such a journey of transformation crucially seems to entail expanding the conception of self beyond customary limits. Understood in this way, transformation may be conceptualized as a process of continual movement into the unconscious, where the totality of the self is awakened, resulting in a reinterpretation of life purpose. The consequences of the transformation for participants were positive in nature. The role that spirituality plays within the coping and transformation process was seen to manifest as being subtle and unfolding and/or supportive.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)257-276
Number of pages20
JournalMental Health, Religion and Culture
Volume12
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2009

Keywords

  • Coping
  • Spirituality
  • Transformation
  • Transpersonal psychology

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