The meanings older adolescents attach to spirituality.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the details of the experiences and meanings that adolescents associate with spirituality. DESIGN AND METHODS: This exploratory qualitative study used focus group discussions to uncover the experiences of 22 adolescents ages 16-19 years from two midwestern Canadian high schools. RESULTS: Three themes emerged: understandings of spirituality, the influence of spirituality on wellness, and the moderating influences of spirituality. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The unique stories and experiences of this study's participants provide nurses with some possible starting points and ideas for dialogue related to spirituality with their adolescent clients.