Kinds of well-being: A conceptual framework that provides direction for caring

Abstract

This article offers a conceptual framework by which different kinds and levels of well-being can be named, and as such, provides a foundation for a resource-oriented approach in situations of illness and vulnerability (rather than a deficitoriented approach). Building on a previous paper that articulated the philosophical foundations of an existential theory of well-being (‘‘Dwelling-mobility’’), we show here how the theory can be further developed towards practice-relevant concerns. We introduce 18 kinds of well-being that are intertwined and inter-related, and consider how each emphasis can lead to the formulation of resources that have the potential to give rise to well-being as a felt experience. By focusing on a much wider range of well-being possibilities, practitioners may find new directions for care that are not just literal but also at an existential level.

Key words: Phenomenology, well-being, existential, conceptual framework, caring science, care, philosophy, Heidegger

(Published: 9 December 2011)

Citation: Int J Qualitative Stud Health Well-being 2011, 6: 10362 - DOI: 10.3402/qhw.v6i4.10362