Gratitude for the caregivers at the GMIM Damai Tomohon Deaf Shelter
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62260/causalita.v3i2.573Keywords:
gratitude, orphanage caregivers, deaf childrenAbstract
Gratitude is an important psychological aspect that plays a role in maintaining emotional well-being and resilience, especially for individuals working in environments with high social demands, such as those working as caregivers in foster homes. This study aims to understand how gratitude is interpreted and manifested by caregivers at the GMIM Damai Tomohon Home for the Deaf. The approach used was a qualitative case study method. The primary subjects of the study consisted of two caregivers, while supporting subjects included the head of the home and fellow caregivers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and participant observation, then analyzed based on the four aspects of gratitude according to McCullough, Emmons, & Tsang (2002): intensity, frequency, span, and density. The research stages included instrument preparation, data collection, transcription, coding, and interpretive analysis. The results showed that both caregivers displayed strong gratitude in the form of acceptance of the foster children's conditions, sincerity in service, and deep spiritual reflection. Although there were differences in the intensity and frequency of gratitude expressions, both showed consistency in using gratitude as a source of motivation and inner peace. These findings confirm that gratitude serves as an adaptive mechanism that strengthens psychological well-being and work meaning in nursing home caregivers.
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