This study was to provide firsthand description and analysis of phenomenological data of singular, subjective, and lived experience of hardiness.
Specifically, the objectives of this study were
1) to explore experience of hardiness of patients with chronic disease.
2) to describe the meaning of hardiness as it is lived.
9 patients suffering from chronic disease, such as cancer, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and rheumatoid arthritis, were selected for this study. Data were collected from December, 1997 to April, 1998 through depth interview method.
Phenomenological method described by Colaizzi was used for the phenomenological analysis of the data. After transcribing the recorded interview, the researcher read the data repeatedly to identify significant statements, restated them succinctly, and then formulated meanings, themes, theme clusters, and categories.
The formulated meanings are grouped into 5 categories : control, commitment, coping, consideration, and appreciation.
An exhaustive description of hardiness can be deduced from this study as follows. Patients with hardiness control the way of life and health care, commit themselves to the maintenance of enthusiastic life style and good health, cope with their disease, consider the position of their family and other patients, and thank the Absolute and neighbors for their help.
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