Journal of College Student Development

Through in-depth interviews with ten diverse participants, this phenomenological study explored the meaning, dimensions, and processes of spiritual struggle in college students' lives. The findings revealed that encountering contrast was the unifying dimension underlying students' spiritual struggle narratives. Contrast was apparent in students' efforts to manage possible selves (ideal/actual selves and revealed/concealed selves), navigate relationships between self and others, and make meaning of their lived experiences and realities.