Abstract
In this chapter, the focus is on developing an interdisciplinary perspective on existential meaning making as a process of orientation in life. It is argued that this allows for a holistic understanding of existential meaning making which highlights not only its spiritual character but also its physical, relational, and socio-cultural dimensions. Disorienting experiences are an inherent part of processes of orientation in life, interrupting habitual modes of meaning making. Such interruptions may be experienced as a threat to meaning making or as an opening towards new meaning. An existential meaning making model is presented, explaining how people (re)orient in life in the context of disorienting experiences.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Chaplaincy for a plural world |
| Subtitle of host publication | Humanistic perspectives |
| Editors | Carmen Schuhmann, Annelieke Damen, Gaby Jacobs, Marishelle Lieberwerth, Joanna Wojtkowiak |
| Publisher | Routledge |
| Chapter | 1 |
| Pages | 3-22 |
| Number of pages | 20 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9781032492445 |
| Publication status | Published - 11 Aug 2025 |
Themes from the UHS research agenda
- Humanist chaplaincy and meaning making