Publication Date

2011

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Department

School for Social Work

Keywords

Women-Suicidal behavior, Hope, Hope-Religious aspects, Spirituality-Psychology, Suicide-Prevention, Suicide, Depression, Spirituality

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the role of hope and spirituality in those lives of people who were previously suicidal. Eight formerly suicidal women were asked a series of questions regarding their suicidal ideation, their suicidal belief system, suicidal behavior, and their thoughts on the role of hope and spirituality in their lives. Participants' answers revealed the strength these women have. Major findings suggest that hope and spirituality play a huge role in helping people through desperate times. Almost all but one of the participants said that hope gave them the inspiration to carry on. The one person who said she did not believe in hope said it was because it meant not living in the moment; she needed to be future oriented. All participants said they rely on some form of spirituality. They all reported that spirituality is what gives them strength to go on and keeps them from wanting to try and end their lives again. The findings did support the previous literature. There are implications for social work practice such as informing clinicians on what works with working with suicidal clients. Additionally, a strong rapport between the clinician and the client was instrumental in the eyes of the client.

Language

English

Comments

iii, 55 p. Thesis (M.S.W.)-Smith College School for Social Work, Northampton, Mass., 2011. Includes bibliographical references (p. 42-44)

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