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“CHRONIC ILLNESS IS HARD, PEOPLE NEED PEOPLE”: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY ON HOW INDIVIDUALS DISCURSIVELY CONSTRUCT AND COPE WITH CHRONIC ILLNESS AS A LIVED EXPERIENCE
Wiley, Marissa Laine
Wiley, Marissa Laine
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Abstract
The current study used a phenomenological approach to better understand the discursive construction of chronic illness as a lived experience through the theoretical frameworks of the Health Belief Model, social support, and communal coping at a non-profit healthcare organization, Turning Point. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 participants; more specifically, individuals living with chronic illness, individuals acting as a caregiver for someone living with chronic illness, and individuals both living with a chronic illness and acting as a caregiver for someone living with chronic illness. Results revealed that, after the onset of chronic illness, individuals are receiving embodied support from members of their previously established support networks. However, in order to fill voids they are experiencing socially, emotionally, and relationally, individuals affected by chronic illness establish and maintain membership at the non-profit organization, Turning Point. More specifically, through interactions with similar others, individuals facing adversity in their health find support in: knowing they aren’t alone in their experiences, sharing their experiences in an equitable space, and engaging in physical activity and coping strategies. Practical implications suggest that a holistic approach to coping with chronic illness should be adopted by more healthcare organizations. Furthermore, more attention and focus on the lived experience, support, and coping strategies for caregivers could help mitigate the negative impact that caregiving can have on one’s own health.
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Date
2019-01-01
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University of Kansas
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This item contains archived web content.
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Wiley_ku_0099D_16701.pdf
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- Embargoed until 2169-05-31
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Keywords
Communal Coping, Embodiment, Health Belief Model, Health Communication, Resilience, Social Support