Meaning and Affecting Factors of Spirituality in Adolescents

Purpose: The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of adolescents about spirituality via semistructured, in-depth interviews. Method/Design: A qualitative research design using interviews was performed with 17 adolescents in a mostly Muslim region in Turkey. Interviews were conducted via five open-ended questions. Findings: Three main categories and eight themes emerged from the analysis. The “Spirituality Meaning” category included five themes, such as mind, emotions, mind/emotions, ethical principles, and religion. Personal practices and environmental factors as well as mind, emotions, ethical principles, and religion themes were in the “Factors That Increase Spirituality” category. The theme living negativity was in the “Factors That Decrease Spirituality” category. Most of the adolescents (58.8%) stated that the meaning of spirituality was love, respect, and the ability to think, analyze, and synthesize. Conclusion: It is important to determine and evaluate the perceptions and experiences of children about spirituality in different cultures to improve the quality of care.