Abstract
Exceptional human experiences (EHEs) are spiritual experiences that can impact positively or negatively on an individual's mental health. Seen across a person's life span, they often have a serious impact on an individual. The aim of this research is to explore EHEs throughout the life span of Paulo Coelho, a Brazilian-born contemporary international best-selling writer who is known for his spiritual writings and his association with Regnus Agnus Mundi (RAM), a Catholic order. The study employs a psychobiographical single case study approach within the methodological frameworks of modern hermeneutics. Thus, Coelho was purposefully chosen as the subject of research. First and third person documents were used for content analysis. Findings demonstrate that most EHEs experienced were perceived as positive and impacted strongly on Coelho's life, including his spiritual and professional development and success.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 166-181 |
| Number of pages | 16 |
| Journal | Spirituality in Clinical Practice |
| Volume | 6 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Sept 2019 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- hermeneutics
- life study
- psychobiography
- single case
- spirituality
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Complementary and Manual Therapy
- Clinical Psychology
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- Psychiatry and Mental Health