Research Article  |   May 2016
Dealing With Major Life Events and Transitions: A Systematic Literature Review on and Occupational Analysis of Spirituality
Christine M. Maley; Nicole K. Pagana; Christa A. Velenger; Tamera Keiter Humbert
Author Affiliations
  • Christine M. Maley, MS, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, South Bay Early Intervention, Lowell, MA
  • Nicole K. Pagana, MS, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, Susquehanna Health, Williamsport, PA
  • Christa A. Velenger, MS, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapist, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, Hamilton, NJ
  • Tamera Keiter Humbert, DEd, OTR/L, is Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy, Elizabethtown College, Elizabethtown, PA; humbertt@etown.edu
Article Information
Evidence-Based Practice / Health and Wellness / Education of OTs and OTAs / Mental Health / Multidisciplinary Practice / Neurologic Conditions / Occupational Therapy Practice Framework / Pediatric Evaluation and Intervention / Professional Issues / Rehabilitation, Participation, and Disability / Occupation, Participation, and Health
Research Article   |   May 2016
Dealing With Major Life Events and Transitions: A Systematic Literature Review on and Occupational Analysis of Spirituality
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, May 2016, Vol. 70, 7004260010p1-7004260010p6. doi:10.5014/ajot.2016.015537
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, May 2016, Vol. 70, 7004260010p1-7004260010p6. doi:10.5014/ajot.2016.015537
Abstract

This systematic literature review analyzed the construct of spirituality as perceived by people who have experienced or are experiencing a major life event or transition. The researchers investigated studies that used narrative analysis or a phenomenological methodology related to the topic. Thematic analysis resulted in three major themes: (1) avenues to and through spirituality, (2) the experience of spirituality, and (3) the meaning of spirituality. The results provide insights into the intersection of spirituality, meaning, and occupational engagement as understood by people experiencing a major life event or transition and suggest further research that addresses spirituality in occupational therapy and interdisciplinary intervention.