Utilizing eastern spirituality in clinical Practice: A qualitative study of Chinese women with breast cancer

Abstract

Drawing on the empirical findings of a qualitative study on Chinese women with breast cancer, this article presents the women's experience of spirituality and discusses the implications of culturally competent practice that addresses spirituality. Following the constructivist research approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 26 Chinese women with breast cancer. The findings reveal their spirituality is manifested through (1) experiencing a spiritual shock, (2) making meaning, (3) achieving connectedness, and (4) attaining transcendence. The Eastern cultural teachings of embracing suffering, letting go and living in the moment, and meditative practice have important implications for social work practice. Culturally competent practice requires social workers to appreciate the diverse ways that clients use spiritual resources and reflect on how our own spirituality may affect intervention. © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.