Using spirituality after an adult CF diagnosis: cognitive reframing and adherence motivation

Chronic illness is a significant stressor; the majority of Americans cope utilizing spirituality. Numerous studies demonstrate links between spiritual coping and health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine whether persons diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) as adults use spirituality to cope and influence disease management. Semi-structured interviews were completed and analyzed using grounded theory. Data saturation was reached following twelve interviews (83% female); representing 100% participation of those approached and 48% of eligible adults. Persons with late-life CF diagnoses used spirituality to make meaning, understanding themselves in a collaborative partnership with their pulmonologist and God. Supporting themes were: (a) God's intervention depended on treatment adherence and (b) spiritual meaning was constructed through positively reframing their experience. The constructed meaning differed from that of adult parents of children with CF. Late-life diagnosed adults focused on personal responsibility for health. Clinical and research implications for chaplains are presented.