Date of Award

2005

Level of Access Assigned by Author

Open-Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Human Development

Advisor

Sandra Caron

Second Committee Member

Phyllis Brazee

Third Committee Member

Mary Ellin Logue

Abstract

This study examines the spiritual dimension within human development by looking at the ways in which spirituality is defined, how growth may take place and how one aspect of its connection with other dimensions is experienced. In a survey designed to investigate connection between spirituality and sexuality, 33 women in mid-life and beyond reported experiencing such a connection. Information was obtained by means of a 25-question survey. Analysis of the surveys shows that for these respondents sexual experience does involve characteristics that are spiritual in nature. This study contributes to the foundation upon which further investigation may serve to expand the understanding of spirituality and its development. The potential for understanding intimacy-connectedness with others and with the Divine is abundant for examination.

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