The role of spirituality in family adjustment and resilience among Puerto Rican families post-Hurricane Maria

Abstract

ABSTRACT Natural disasters continue to devastate families and communities across the United States. An important aspect of family resiliency within a disaster context is the role spirituality plays in how families make sense of their experience. Using an arts-based visual research approach, this study explored the role of spirituality in the psychosocial adaptation of displaced Puerto Rican families who resettled in Orlando, Florida post-Hurricane Maria. Three main themes emerged: spirituality through 1) the relinquishment of control, 2) sense of empowerment, and 3) stabilization and security. The data suggest that spirituality plays a critical role in how Puerto Rican families make sense of their displacement experience and find the strength and motivation to adapt and move forward. The findings provide important insights for community-based organizations and religious leaders regarding how Latino families spiritually cope and navigate resettlement after a natural disaster.