Understanding the meaning of human dignity in Korea: a content analysis

Abstract

This study aims to understand the meaning of human dignity among adults in Korea. The authors utilized a qualitative study design. Data were collected with non-structured questions in a sample of 74 Korean adults and were then analyzed with qualitative content analysis. There were 4 categories, 31 themes and 106 theme clusters classified. The four categories that emerged were: fullness of dignity, loss of dignity, reinforcement of dignity, and enfeeblement of dignity. The results of this study may contribute to healthcare professionals' understanding of Korean adults' human dignity.

Patients' perception of dignity in Iranian healthcare settings: a qualitative content analysis: Table 1

“…As shown in other studies, dignity is still not being maintained in most cases 8–11. Some studies argue that culture plays an important role in how dignity is interpreted and maintained 15 27. It is surprising that, despite having a quite different culture, participants in the present research shared similar views with the above studies.…”

Palliative Care Nursing Interventions in Thailand

“…The desire to be treated with dignity at end-of-life is a fairly universal preference found in most cultures (McDonald, 2004). Promoting dignified dying is part of nursing practice in different countries and cultures (Gelfand, Raspa, Briller, & Schim, 2005; Jo & Doorenbos, 2009). …”

Supporting dignified dying in the Philippines

“…Finally, how the concept of dignity at the end of life is perceived in the Philippines generally is still not well known. Research on the concept of dignity at the end of life has been conducted in other countries (Jo and Doorenbos, 2009), and a greater understanding of this concept in the context of the Filipino culture would further contribute to our understanding.…”