Hope Research Study: Metaphors and Symbols of Hope

Abstract:     
This study explored and measured our knowledge and understanding of hope. It generated views, symbols, and metaphors of hope. The research team conducted a phenomenological study of internal meanings, and understandings of the participants of their lived experiences of hope. A qualitative-focus group method was utilized as well as a quantitative-survey exploration which permitted divergent perspectives to emerge and be integrated into a whole meaning of hope. A framework analysis approach was used to analyze the focus group data. Quantitative questions were analyzed by EZAnalize(c) statistics program. The data revealed that respondents distinguished a difference between their concept of hope and definition of hope. This study has allowed us to focus on hope, to articulate its meanings, and lead to a better idea of how hope affects us, and how we operationalize it in our lives.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 18

Keywords: hope concept, active, cognitive construct, symbols, metaphors, definition

working papers series