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Inner Strength-A Systematic Review of Qualitative Empirical Studies
Astrid Norberg1, Gunilla Strandberg1
1Emerita, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
Aim:
This review focuses on the use of the term inner strength (IS) in empirical studies in a health care context.
Method:
After database searches during the period 1990-2024, 64 articles were selected for summative content analysis.
Result:
The findings were divided into three groups: Group 1, studies where IS was stated in the aim; Group 2, where IS was not stated in the aim but described as a concept; and Group 3, where IS was used as a lay term. All articles in Group 1 described IS as 'A connectedness grown in relationship'; several articles described it as 'An internal powerful resource', 'A process of growth and transition' and as 'A positive view of life'. These four themes were also found in Group 2, but in this group, IS was also used to describe 'A characteristic of self' and 'A courage to stand up for oneself'. The articles in Group 1 and Group 2 seemed to use IS as a cluster concept, that is, various descriptions might be aspects of a common phenomenon. In Group 3, IS was used as a lay term without further reflection on the meaning of the term.
Conclusion:
The use of the term IS indicates that it is a cluster concept involving several aspects. Overall it is described as an important inner resource grown in connectedness with others and developed throughout life in a life worth living.
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