A phenomenological perspective of the lived experiences of Jewish holocaust survivors seeking health care in the United States today

Authors

Marsha Berger, Florida International University

Document Type

Thesis

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Major/Program

Nursing

First Advisor's Name

Kathleen Blais

First Advisor's Committee Title

Committee Chair

Second Advisor's Name

Robert Nesselroth

Third Advisor's Name

Sandra Lobar

Date of Defense

8-8-2000

Abstract

Seven Jewish Holocaust survivors were interviewed using a phenomenological method to determine the essence of the Jewish Holocaust survivor's experience with health care in the United States today. The transcriptions were analyzed using Colaizzi's approach to phenomenological research. This approach includes extraction of significant statements, from the transcriptions, that described the participant's health care behaviors and needs. Formulated meanings of the significant statements were then organized into six themes: Hiding and Avoidance, Self care, Fear/Trust Dichotomy, Security, Luck, and Need for Understanding. These six themes were forms of protection for the participants, which ultimately led to continued survival, the essence of their experience. Knowledge of their experience may direct the nurse in implementing creative and appropriate nursing interventions to provide comfort and assist the survivor with their needs in today's health care arena.

Identifier

FI14051110

Comments

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Recommended Citation

Berger, Marsha, "A phenomenological perspective of the lived experiences of Jewish holocaust survivors seeking health care in the United States today" (2000). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1608.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/1608