A Case study on exploring happiness among the De La Salle Brothers in Myanmar

• Main Author: Hrang Lal, Noel, FSC
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2014
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_masteral/4607
• Institution: De La Salle University

Employing the qualitative research design, this study covered how the De La Salle Brothers defined the concept of happiness, what Brothers considered to be the characteristics of a happy Brother, and what the Brothers consider as factors that contribute to their happiness. This study employed the exploratory qualitative research method through a series of in-depth interviews, case studies, and focus group discussions (FGD). Ten (10) De La Salle Brothers from Myanmar participated in the in-depth interview. A qualitative thematic analysis of open-ended questions revealed that the expressed perceptions of happiness were a sense of satisfaction with life, a good relationship with God and people, a feeling of contentment, and living a quiet life. The characteristics of a happy Brother are experiencing an intimate relationship with God, harmonious interpersonal relationships, and demonstrating openness for mission and vision. On the question of contributing factors to happiness for the Brothers, spiritual life such as an intimate relationship with God, and faithfulness in spiritual exercises were considered as salient factors. Intrapersonal factors such as staying healthy, accepting the circumstances of ones life, and positive outlook toward life as well as interpersonal factors like positive relationships also came up as important factors. Recommendations were reached based on the findings of the study.