Open AccessIntrinsic spirituality among Alzheimer’s caretakers: A pathway to resiliency
Author(s) -
Scott E. Wilks
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
advances in social work
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2331-4125
pISSN - 1527-8565
DOI - 10.18060/121
Subject(s) - spirituality , prayer , psychology , clinical psychology , sample (material) , medicine , philosophy , chemistry , alternative medicine , pathology , chromatography , religious studies
The purpose of the study was to understand the influence of intrinsic spirituality on perceived resiliency among Alzheimer’s caregivers. A cross-sectional research design was employed, surveying a sample of Alzheimer’s caregivers (N=304) who attended caregiver support groups in the southeastern United States. Questionnaire items empirically measured a number of constructs, including perceived burden; frequency of prayer; intrinsic spirituality; and perceived resiliency. Demographic characteristics of the sample were reported. Over three-fourths of the sample reported a high frequency of prayer, along with a moderately high level of intrinsic spirituality. Regression analyses evaluating the relationship between spirituality and resiliency, while controlling for demographic variables, indicated a strong association and positive, significant relationship between intrinsic spirituality and resiliency. Implications for social work practice and education are discussed.