Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 School of Nursing and Midwifery Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2 Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Spiritual healing is a complementary and alternative treatment with different
meanings in different cultures and religions. However, the concept has not been defined from the
cancer patients’ points of view. The present study was done with the aim of concept analyses of
spiritual healing from Iranian cancer patients’ viewpoints.
METHODOLOGY: The study was done using a hybrid method at three phases including of theoretical
study, field study, and final analysis. In the theoretical study phase and using the keyword “spiritual
healing,” pertinent articles were searched in main databases. In the field study phase, ten cancer
patients were interviewed, and in the final phase, the two other phases were analyzed. After
determining features, antecedents, and consequences, a conclusive definition of spiritual healing
from Iranian cancer patients’ viewpoints was proposed.
FINDINGS: Spiritual healing from Iranian cancer patients’ viewpoints was featured with four themes,
including connection with paranormal forces; effective, noninvasive, inexpensive, and efficient
therapeutic method; a way to achieve piece, adaptation, and health and influenced by cultural and
religious beliefs. Spiritual healing is a complementary and alternative treatment that helps careseekers
to achieve health through paranormal forces and energies. As the findings showed and according to
the participants’ viewpoints, the source of such forces and energies was divine force and the healers
were mediums to transfer the energy.
CONCLUSION: The findings supported that religion and faith were the key elements of spiritual
healing in the Iranian Islamic context.
Keywords
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