The two faces of spirituality in times of traumatic loss : a thematic analysis study

Abstract

Introduction: Research strongly suggests a steady relationship between important life events and one’s tendency toward spirituality. Studies view this phenomenon as both positive and negative, always depending on many contributing factors. More complex is the situation when individuals are exposed to vicarious posttraumatic exposure. This study analyzed such lived experiences vis-a-vis spirituality, from a purposive sample of relatives of victims from tragic pyrotechnics accidents in Malta. Method: Guided by Braun and Clarke [1] Thematic Analysis guidelines, we interviewed 8 relatives of individuals who tragically died in fireworks accidents, and who met the inclusion criteria. Results & Discussion: This study highlighted two key results that were noted by the thematic analysis employed: conflicting and complicated spirituality, highlighted by strong emotions and difficulty integrating the hard truth that ensues from such trauma, and protective spirituality, resulting from family cohesion, ability to move on with life, and living in the present. The relevance and implications of these results were discussed.