Mortality awareness in the context of positive psychology coaching: An interpretative phenomenological analysis of client experience

Abstract

The combination of positive psychology (PP), specifically second wave (SWPP), with coaching and mortality awareness (MA), has not previously been researched. This limits our understanding of coaching within the context of more emotionally challenging, or emotionally mixed, experiences; this study addresses this gap.Objectives:The purpose of the research was to explore client experience of SWPP coaching when MA was introduced into the session.Design:A qualitative exploration of participant experience was undertaken, and data processed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).Method:Four women from the UK were selected as participants. A creative coaching session was undertaken in the Ancient Egypt gallery of the World Museum, Liverpool, UK.Results:Four main themes arose: emotional diversity, common humanity, self-relationship and choice, and relationship quality and goals.Conclusion:The study provided insight into the emotionally diverse experience of participants, resulting in a greater understanding of the potential benefits of a SWPP and MA coaching experience.