Overview

Word document

Hope is an elusive concept. While most of us have experienced it, the place of hope in discussions of far-advanced disease is somewhat problematic for healthcare providers. Hope is usually related to uncertainty or the desire for a reversal of fortune. This module explores the definition of hope as well as its meaning under various circumstances. Such notions as realistic hope, false hope and little hope are explicated. The relationships between hope and coping and hope and the illness trajectory will also be explored. Finally, hope fostering and hope hindering strategies will be examined.