Philippine E-Journals

Conceptions and lived experience of spirituality of Filipino adults: A Consensual Qualitative Research

Yayetta C. de la Peña | Jerome A. Ouano

 

Abstract:

Research interest in spirituality stemmed from its ability to promote well-being. Definitions of spirituality vary from one sociocultural context to another. Using Consensual Qualitative Research method, the study explored the conceptions and lived experience of spirituality among Filipino adults. Five church leaders and five non-church leaders were interviewed, and cross-analysis of the data allowed the discovery of general, typical, and variant domains. From the qualitative data, three conceptions of spirituality were found, where spirituality was conceived as being connected with God, life transformation, and search for meaning. Spirituality was expressed by showing social responsibility, maintaining relationship with others, contribution to the good of society, and engaging in self-directed activities. Religious teachings, exposure to practices of people and institutions, values formation, and personal convictions were also found to facilitate the understanding and expression of spirituality. Implications are discussed highlighting the cultural rootedness of Filipino adults’ lived experience of spirituality.