A Case Study: Spirituality and Altruism in the Healing Journey among Young Incest Survivors in CSWD–Ozamiz

This study examined domains of functioning and the enabling factors related to the healing journey of incest survivors. This document reports spirituality and altruism among children who are survivors of incest using the Draucker’s Model of Healing from Child Sexual Abuse, focusing on the third stage—tackling the effects of the abuse. The female participants, aged 11 to 17 and under the care of the City Social Welfare and Development – Ozamiz, were receiving treatment and making progress in their personal and interpersonal lives. Data from eight participants were gathered and analyzed, and key themes emerged. The spirituality domain highlights experiences of spiritual journey such as prayerfulness, faithfulness, hopefulness and awareness in the presence of a Higher Being, while the altruism domain indicates compassion which focuses on empathy and showing of support and giving of advice towards co-survivors of incest. The enabling factors of healing includes being able to participate in faith-based activities and coping activities through writing and art; receiving affirmation as helpful and empathetic; incorporating faith in their healing and seeking comfort through prayers; and engaging or taking active roles in helping others. These findings provide a foundation for developing data-informed interventions appropriate for every child who has experienced abuse.