This study investigates participants' perceptions of the change process through their involvement in Kairos Marathons, regularly scheduled group experiences for federal prisoners and volunteers. The central thesis of the study is that the process of change is essentially spiritual in nature. In-depth interviews were conducted with six federally-incarcerated men who had been regular marathon participants over a three year period and who had displayed noticeable changes. Interviews were tape recorded, transcribed, and coded. Eight themes were identified: desire and decision to change, group acceptance and safety, validation of experience, self awareness, self acceptance, sense of value, relationships, and spirituality. Excerpts from the interviews and related literature are integrated in the presentation of the themes. Each theme is influential to the personal change process. All eight are interrelated to varying degrees with each person. Several findings are highlighted, including the uniqueness of the change process for each individual, the importance of a supportive community, and the emerging consciousness of the presence of God. Further reflections stress the importance of both individual and group work in one's change process. Emphasis is placed on the universal nature of woundedness and healing as instrumental in the discovery of one's soul.
Sheila Rae Hosick (Fri,) studied this question.