Self-management of a chronic illness: An exploratory study on the role of spirituality among older African American women.
Living with a chronic illness is an experience characterized by changes in self-management behavior. Few studies have addressed the role of spirituality in the self-management of a chronic illness among older African American women. The purpose of this exploratory study was to understand the role of spirituality in the self-management of chronic illness. Data from a sample of 10 African American women were collected from semi-structured interviews and analyzed for common themes through narrative analysis. Four themes emerge from the linkage of spirituality and self-management. Understanding this experience will assist public health providers in creating culturally appropriate health education interventions.
Harvey
Idethia Shevon
IS
The University of Michigan, School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA. shevon@umcih.edu
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001741:Black or African American / Q000523:psychology*; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000523:psychology; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D015438:Health Behavior / Q000208:ethnology*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D033262:Narration; D012648:Self Care / Q000941:ethics*; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012944:Social Support; D029181:Spirituality; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States