Searching for meaning in negative events: concept analysis.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this paper was to synthesize the literature related to meaning and present a conceptual analysis of searching for meaning in unexpected, significant, negative events.


BACKGROUND
Events or situations that are perceived as unexpected and negative (e.g. chronic and/or life-threatening illness) can disrupt life plans and lead to emotional distress. Nurses are in a key position to aid in the coping process by assisting individuals to integrate the meaning of an unexpected, negative event into the life experience.


METHODS
In May 2004, a comprehensive literature search using the terms meaning, search for meaning, meaning-making, making meaning, life change events, adaptation-psychological, stress, and coping was carried out. Of 339 possible references, 86 were included in the analysis.


RESULTS
Global meaning refers to an individual's beliefs, values, and purpose/goals. Situational meaning refers to the meaning the individual attaches to a situation. When the meaning attached to the situation is not congruent with global meaning, meaning is considered shattered and a search for meaning ensues. In the search for meaning, people may attempt to change the meaning of the event (through reattributions or creating illusions) or change global meaning (through positive reappraisal, problem-solving coping, or revaluing ordinary events).


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses are in a key position to assist people through negative events. The process of searching for meaning provides a solid foundation for the development of nursing interventions to assist individuals through difficult times. Research is needed to develop nursing interventions based on the process of the search for meaning, as well as measures reflective of the search for meaning.
Skaggs
Brenda G
BG
Quality Improvement Specialist, Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA. Brenda.Skaggs@med.va.gov
Barron
Cecilia R
CR
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D003210:Concept Formation; D003469:Culture; D006040:Goals; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000523:psychology; D009732:Nursing Care / Q000379:methods*; D012649:Self Concept; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology; D009626:Terminology as Topic