bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carl Whitaker's Therapy of the Absurd
Authors: Wynn J.C.
Published: February 2018

Carl Whitaker, MD, zany master of family therapy, has developed a therapy of the absurd, a tongue-in-cheek put on that inverts common therapeutic methods and produces dramatic results. Although sharing the same objectives as other experiential therapists, he uses sharply different approaches. He contends with his clients, confronts and cajoles them into change. Rather than eradicate the pathology in a family, he attempts to augment it until it “self-destructs.” He makes little attempt to be supportive, to adhere to a counseling theory, or to exhibit sympathy. Nevertheless, some of his work is exemplary for the pastoral counselor. His pattern challenges us to take a strong stand in our faith, to place direct responsibility upon the counselees themselves, and to avoid being overly active in helpfulness. Whitaker's zany methods could inspire our own in being aware and effective.
Christian Maturity in Light of Feminist Theory
Authors: Van Leeuwen Mary Stewart
Published: February 2018

Beginning with a methodological statement regarding the integration of faith and learning, the article proceeds to a brief historical overview of definitions of human maturity, followed by a critical evaluation of ideas of maturity implicit in liberal Marxist, and radical feminist movements. Particular attention is paid to certain aspects of “postradical” or “differentiating” feminisms which are compatible with a biblical world view.
Psychological Characteristics of Pentecostals: A Literature Review and Psychodynamic Synthesis
Authors: Gritzmacher Steven A. , Bolton Brian , Dana Richard H.
Published: February 2018

This article extends previous literature reviews on Pentecostalism by inclusion of studies from 1976–1985 as well as earlier studies. Psychometric and nonpsychometric investigations are considered separately. These data are then synthesized as one approach to an integration of findings that reflect a variety of nonconsensual theoretical premises. Consistently replicated psychological constructs are described, and therapeutic effects of Pentecostal psychodynamics is proposed which includes repression, regresson, and emotional release mechanisms.
Moral Development in Christian Higher Education
Authors: Dirks Dennis H.
Published: February 2018

Recent research concerning the mural development of evangelical college and seminary students utilizing Kohlberg's stage theory was examined. Biblical parallels to moral development theory were noted and briefly explored. Various explanations for evangelical students' lower than expected scores on moral development tests were considered including such factors as lack of reflection regarding the content of the faith as well as application of biblical principles, weaknesses in the evangelical educational process including the absence of cognitive disequilibrium, evangelical orientation toward biblical care and concern as well as toward justice, and the manner in which an institution's standards of conduct are communicated to students.
The Role-Sending of Perfectionism: Overcoming Counterfeit Spirituality
Authors: Mebane D. Louise , Ridley Charles R.
Published: February 2018

Role-sending is the process by which the expectations of one or more persons are transmitted to a focal person or persons in order to elicit a particular set of behaviors. This article discusses role-sending in the church, especially the sending of roles from the pastor to the congregation. The need to be perfect (as a Christian) is a case in point of a sent role. Such an emphasis, however, is a contradiction to authentic spirituality. By complying with the expectations of perfection, church members become susceptible to fear, hypocrisy and legalism. It is argued that sent roles in the church should lead to wholeness, healthiness, and grearer freedom. This occurs when people come to terms with their imperfection and function responsibly within God's unconditional acceptance.
Sin and Self-Functioning, Part 3: The Psychology and Ideology of Irrational Beliefs
Authors: Watson P.J. , Morris Ronald J. , Hood Ralph W.
Published: February 2018

Irrational beliefs identified by Rational-Emotive theory (Ellis, 1962) as pathogenic were related to religious motivations and to orthodox beliefs having to do with sin. An extrinsic religious motivation and beliefs referring to the guilt of others appeared to predict problematic self-functioning. On the other hand, intrinsicness and beliefs about grace displayed complex linkages with irrational thinking and were also associated with less depression. A direct analysis of how subjects evaluated specific beliefs relative to their religious commitments suggested that positive correlations of intrinsicness and of grace with at least some irrational beliefs may not be indicative of true “irrationality.” Instead, religious individuals may be reasoning from a world view that is ideologically incompatible with Rational-Emotive theory.
A Controlled Evaluation of Devotional Meditation and Progressive Relaxation
Authors: Carlson Charles R. , Bacaseta Panayiota E. , Simanton Dexter A.
Published: February 2018

The present study was conducted to determine the effects of devotional meditation (DM), defined as a period of prayer and quiet reading and pondering of biblical material, on physiological and psychological variables related to stress. It was hypothesized that religious persons engaging in DM experience physiological and psychological changes similar to those reported for persons using progressive relaxation (PR) exercises. Thirty-six participants, equally divided by sex into 3 groups: DM, PR, and a Wait List Control, underwent extensive psychophysiological assessment prior to and following a systematic introduction to either DM or PR. The hypothesis that DM could generate positive physiological and psychological effects similar to PR was partially confirmed. The results of the study are discussed in terms of the unique spiritual resources inherent among a Christian population that might foster physiological and psychological relaxation.
An Addendum to “Cross-Cultural Reentry: An Annotated Bibliography”
Authors: Austin Clyde N. , McDonald Deborah E. , Austin Sheila A.
Published: February 2018

This article is an addendum to Austin's “Cross-Cultural Reentry: An Annotated Bibliography” (1983). The initial work had 291 reference citations divided among the following groups: Corporations, Federally Employed Civilians, Internal Education. Military. Missionaries (Families, Singles, and Furlough), and General. The current article has the same format for 210 additional entries. North American resources were augmented by database searches and extensive contacts in the United Kingdom. Less emphasis was given to inquiries about materials in the categories of Military and International Education.
Disregarding Theology in the Psychology of Religion: Some Examples
Authors: Donahue Michael J.
Published: February 2018

Psychologists examining the effects of religiosity on other beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors have at times suffered from a lack of sophistication concerning the very real impact of differences in theology among various groups in the United States. Specific examples of this lack of sophistication are discussed. Recent findings concerning fundamentalism are then considered as examples of a more sophisticated approach. Lastly, a number of methodological and conceptual recommendations are offered to help bring theological perspectives to bear on research.
The Relevance of Theologies for Religious Experiencing
Authors: Hood Ralph W.
Published: February 2018

The relevance of theologies for religious experience is illustrated in three content areas in the empirical psychology of religion: (a) projection theories of religious experience; (b) images-of-God research; and (c) identity theories of mystical experience. In each area arguments are made to indicate the relevance of theologies for empirical research.
The Influence of Religious Orientation on Belief in Science, Religion, and the Paranormal
Authors: Williams Richard N. , Taylor Carl B. , Hintze Wayne J.
Published: February 2018

This study examines the relationships among belief in science and in religion and various paranormal beliefs. Tobacyk and Milford (1983) included religious beliefs in a multidimensional scale of belief in the paranormal, reasoning that religion and the paranormal constitute one end of a bipolar dimension, while belief in science defines the other pole. The present study employed the Tobacyk and Milford scales, the Allport and Ross (1967) Religious Orientation Scale, and newly constructed scales of belief in science and astrology. These scales were administered to a total sample of 260 college undergraduates drawn from both a large church-owned university and from a large state university. It was found that religious orientation influenced reported belief in science, religion, and the paranormal. Traditional religious beliefs were not consistently related to paranormal beliefs. Religion and the paranormal do not seem to define one end of a science/paranormal belief continuum. It is argued that belief in religion, science, and the paranormal are three separate, independent dimensions.
Relating Theologies and Belief Systems to Scientific Psychology: Recent Approaches and Perspectives
Authors: Paloutzian Raymond F.
Published: February 2018

Recent attempts to relate theologies and belief systems to psychological concepts and research are based on three basic methodologies: (a) Documenting a parallel between psychological and theological concerns, (b) using religious belief and behavior as variables in basic psychological research, (c) suggesting theological reality as part of the process that accounts for religious experience. These fundamental approaches underlie both the articles in the present issue (Donahue, 1989; Hertel, 1989; Hood, 1989; Spilka & Bridges, 1989; Williams, Taylor, & Hintze, 1989) and earlier attempts at integration. The meaning and limits of each are clarified.
A Critique of Integration Models
Authors: Clinton Stephen M.
Published: February 2018

The process of doing integration of psychology and theology is more complex than has often been assumed. While H. Richard Niebuhr's model in Christ and Culture (1951) has generally been followed by most authors, it neither proposes a method for doing integration nor does it take adequate account of broader philosophical approaches to doing integration. This article will critique most of the integration efforts over the past 20 years and will focus on what we can learn from them for use in a new approach.
Clergy's Knowledge of Psychopathology
Authors: Domino George
Published: February 2018

Although the literature suggests that clergy provide a substantial amount of psychotherapeutic counseling, and that potential clients seek out the clergy as a primary source of psychotherapeutic assistance, little is known about the degree of knowledge that clergy have about basic psychopathology. A 120-item multiple choice test was developed to assess knowledge about psychopathology, based on the material covered in Abnormal Psychology courses. The test was administered to clinical psychologists, graduate students in Clinical and Counseling programs, undergraduate students in Abnormal and in Introductory Psychology, and to clergy including Catholic priests, Jewish rabbis, Protestant ministers, Eastern religious leaders and those in nontraditional ministries. Clergy scored lowest of all groups, indicating a lack of exposure to basic material and/or lack of knowledge of psychopathology.
Measurement of Identity from Adolescence to Adulthood: Cultural, Community, Religious, and Family Factors
Authors: Koteskey Ronald L , Walker James S. , Johnson Anita Wells
Published: February 2018

Rather than defining identity in terms of individuality, we defined it in terms of relationships with others. People know who they are on the basis of their relationships with others in their culture, community, religion, and family. We developed a measure of identity with four subscales and gave it to six adolescent groups in Experiment 1. We revised it and gave it to another six groups, five adolescent and one adult, in Experiment 2. We further revised it and gave it to three groups, two adolescent and one adult, in Experiment 3. Identity scores increased with age and four factors emerged: family, religion, community, and culture. Identity can be defined and reliably measured in terms of relationships.
Cultural Reflection: A Necessary Task for the Christian Psychotherapist
Authors: Beck James R.
Published: February 2018

Recent literature has sensitized therapists to the need for a heightened sense of cultural awareness in the treatment of minorities and other subcultural groups. It is the thesis of this article that Christian therapists also need to develop intra-cultural reflection patterns that will help anchor their work with all populations in the broad cultural context more accurately. A Christological example of cultural reflection is used to explore the meaning of culture and national expression of it, the interactive relationship between social science and culture, the determinative relationship between the two, and the distinction between culture and revelation. The article concludes with an enumeration of some of the values derived from informed intra-cultural reflection for the psychotherapist.
Religious and Familial Factors in the Etiology of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Review
Authors: Fitz Allan
Published: February 2018

The present study looks at the role of religious and familial factors in the etiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A review of the literature suggests that the results of the research in this area are not conclusive because many studies fail to consider the heterogeneous nature of OCD, many studies are poorly designed and do not include adequate measures of parental functioning, and the multidimensional aspects of religious phenomena are seldom recognized. It is recommended that additional studies be done that look at the ways in which specific kinds of family environments interact with particular dimensions of religion to influence the onset and development of different sub-types of OCD.
The Chalcedonian Definition: An Example of the Difficulties and the Usefulness of Thinking in Terms of Complementarity?
Authors: Reich K. Helmut
Published: February 2018

An appropriate analysis of the proceedings at the fourth ecumenical council (451 AD) brings to light uncommon forms of thought that are still of practical significance today. Circumstantial evidence from the record of the final editing of the Chalcedonian Definition supports the conclusion that at least some of the Fathers thought in terms of complementarity. Given one type of problem structure, that type of thinking allows in particular the coordination of competing or even conflicting explanations (parallel complementarity). Given another problem structure, it allows the linking of explanations that might previously have been considered independent or even irrelevant before (circular complementarity). If, despite its unanimous acceptance, the Definition did not lead to lasting unity and peace within Christendom, one of the reasons could be the difficulties associated with thinking in terms of complementarity: Lack of motivation to adopt this unconventional form of thought (which goes beyond Piagetian formal operations when fully developed), unfamiliarity with its non traditional logic, unsuitable world views, and/or an as yet insufficient level of cognitive development. Evidence for this hypothesis is presented. The usefulness of thinking in terms of complementary is also argued from the history of Christology since 451 and from modern examples.
The Influence of Counselors’ Religious Values on Clients’ Perceptions of the Counselor
Authors: Wyatt Steven C. , Johnson Ray W.
Published: February 2018

This research studies the effect of pretherapy information regarding counselors' religious values on clients' selection of a counselor. The subjects, 250 undergraduates, each read one of five counselor descriptions. Scripts varied only in the descriptions of counselor religious values. Subjects rated the extent to which they perceived themselves as similar to, believed in the helpfulness of, and would be willing to see the counselor. Subjects reported a willingness to see and a belief in the helpfulness of all the counselors, but rated themselves as different from the agnostic counselors. Positive relationships were found between subject religiosity and the dependent measures for one of the counselors described as religious and between male subject religiosity and confidence in and willingness to see the Christian counselor. Results are discussed in terms of the acceptance or rejection of the counselor on the basis of extreme value orientations.
Jungian Archetypes and the Personality of Jesus in the Synoptics
Authors: Stahlke Paulette E.
Published: February 2018

The Jungian archetypes anima and animus are used as a tool for studying the personality of Jesus. To carry out this analysis, the synoptic Gospels were examined and passages about Jesus were rated as exhibiting either the animus or the anima archetypes. Each story was also classified as one of five literary types. Significant correlations were found between literary and archetypal classifications. No significant difference was found overall between the number of animus and anima accounts of the portrayal of Jesus in the synoptics by any combination of authors. Only in those stories exclusive to Matthew did animus traits predominate significantly. This finding suggests that Jesus demonstrated equally developed anima and animus archetypes.
Psychoanalytic Perspectives on Religion: The Illusion Has a Future
Authors: Sorenson Anita Lehmann
Published: February 2018

Several contemporary object relations theorists have amended Freud's treatment of religion as exclusively pathological. Broader object relational perspectives acknowledge the possibility of both a healthy and unhealthy line of religious development. Rather than every religious illusion necessarily dying of disenchantment as a person matures, one's religious beliefs may undergo continuous transformation and revision. Illusion is newly regarded as an essential and psychically useful component of human development.
Ritualistic Child Abuse, Psychopathology, and Evil
Authors: Cozolino Louis J.
Published: February 2018

Ritualistic abuse is an extreme form of psychological, physical, and sexual mal-treatment of children in the context of “religious” ceremony. The clinical presentation of the victims of such abuse is complex and raises many issues related to the diagnosis and treatment of psychopathology as well as the importance of spiritual counseling. The acknowledgement of belief systems so repugnant to the Judeo-Christian world view and the addressing of our own negative emotional reactions to the reality of ritualistic abuse are important first steps in responding to these issues. The phenomenon of ritualistic child abuse forces us to consider the relationship between theological notions of evil and psychological concepts of psychopathology. This article addresses the phenomenon of ritualistic child abuse, the psychological sequelae of victimization, and possible motivations for this form of abuse.
An Integrationist's Critique of and Challenge to the Bobgans’ View of Counseling and Psychotherapy
Authors: English William F.
Published: February 2018

The use of “secular” psychology by Christian counselors or therapists is severely criticized by Martin and Diedre Bobgan. This article responds to six of their most forceful criticisms against the use of psychology by Integranonist counselors. Quotes taken from the Bobgans’ writings indicate that their model of Christian counseling has not been proven to be more effective for the client than the psychological models they criticize. Additionally, they commit some of the same logical mistakes that they criticize in integrationists and non-Christian counselors. The Bobgans inject disclaimers in their own writings and they are challenged here to clarify their positions on the integration of psychology and theology.
John Stott and Erik Erikson on the Problem of Modernity: Applications for the Ministry of the Church
Authors: Pembroke Neil F.
Published: February 2018

Theological and psychosocial perspectives on technology and pluralism—key factors in modernity—are integrated around the themes of responsibility and judiciousness, respectively. It is contended that pastors need to pay attention to both the moral and the psychological dimensions of the problem of modernity. In doing this, they need to encourage persons to develop the virtues of responsibility and judiciousness. These virtues counter the vices of, on the one hand, apathy, and on the other, prejudice and a laissez-faire attitude. Further, pastors need to help persons in their care to develop a sound, comprehensive biblical framework as a counter to the disorienting effects of modernity. The biblical perspective is the ideology that enables the development of a clear sense of personal identity.
Interpreting the Biblical Words for the Self
Authors: Clark David K.
Published: February 2018

Biblical language describing the sinful dimensions of human personality creates many confusions. Some have thought that Jesus calls his followers to deny their very personhood (Luke 9:23). In this view, “deny yourself” requires that disciples reject entirely any notion of a positive self-concept. But biblical words like self, flesh, and old self refer not to things, but to qualities. They highlight the selfish dimensions of fallen human personalities. Their referent is not essential human personhood. By clarifying language, we suggest that humanness per se can be good, as it is created by God, even though it is entangled in sin in its present fallen state. This implies that “deny yourself” is consistent with “have a positive self-concept.”
Counseling Parents of the Mentally Retarded: A Christian Perspective
Authors: Ratcliff Donald E.
Published: February 2018

The families of mentally retarded individuals face unique stresses and often require counseling that will help them adjust positively to their problems. The distinctive difficulties encountered by such parents are summarized, and counseling guidelines are suggested. A Christian perspective on helping parents is outlined within the context of Christian counseling, including several theological issues parents and counselors are likely to encounter.
From Jericho to Jerusalem: The Good Samaritan from a Different Direction
Authors: Hoyer Stephen , Mcdaniel Patrice
Published: February 2018

This article analyzes the parable of the Good Samaritan in the light of recent research on helping behavior. Unlike much research that attempts to explain why people might behave as the characters in the parable did, this article looks at why Jesus might have constructed his parable in the way he did, examining both theological and psychological reasons. Research is cited not to explain human behavior, but to explain this alternate perspective of the parable. Specific points discussed are (a) the fact that the non-helpers were a priest and a Levite; (b) the fact that they “passed by on the other side”; (c) Jesus’ response to the question, “Who is my neighbor?” and (d) the implications of the exhortation, “Go and do likewise.”
Values, “Irrationality,” and Religiosity
Authors: Watson P.J. , Folbrecht Jeanelle , Morris Ronald J. , Hood Ralph W.
Published: February 2018

The predictive validity of rational-emotive understandings of religiosity, values, and irrational beliefs was found to be limited. Two rational-emotive irrationalities, both of which were consistent with an adaptive intrinsic religious motivation, correlated negatively with a number of other irrationalities. Subjects from a religious college and those with a more intrinsic commitment were not uniformly more irrational than those from a state university and those who were indiscriminately antireligious. Indices of individualism and a relativistic hedonism, both of which are value systems recommended by rational-emotive theory, were not identified as clearly positive in their psychological influences. Overall, these data support previous suggestions that the personality effects of particular beliefs must be examined within the ideological surround in which they operate (Watson, Morris, & Hood, 1990).
Psychosocial Development in Adult Missionary Kids
Authors: Wrobbel Karen A. , Plueddemann James E.
Published: February 2018

The article reports on a study of psychosocial development in adult missionary kids (MKs) based on Erikson's theory, using the Measure of Psychosocial Development (MPD). Responses from 292 adult missionary kids were used to compare the MKs with the population at large and to evaluate the relationship of on-field variables (years overseas, overseas location, boarding experiences, family perception) to psychosocial development. Average MPD scores for the MKs were lower than the norm group. MKs who lived more than 8 years overseas had higher average scores than those who spent 4 to 8 years overseas. Those who reentered their parents’ homeland at a later age also had higher mean scores. Boarding and nonboarding subjects showed few significant differences in mean scores. Overseas location (Western or non-Western setting; urban or rural area) made no significant difference in mean scores. Correlations between the subject's perception of their family (love, cohesion, and idealization) and psychosocial development were consistently significant.
The Relationship between Religious Orientation and Empathy in Pastoral Counselors
Authors: Lyons Peter , Zingle Harvey
Published: February 2018

The relationship between the religious orientation of pastoral counselors and client-perceived empathy was investigated. Forty-six parish clergy and 96 of their clients completed Batson's (1976) Three-Dimensional Religious Orientation Scale and the Truax-Carkhuff Relationship Questionnaire, respectively. As hypothesized, end-oriented and quest-oriented clergy are perceived by their clients to be significantly more empathic than means-oriented clergy. As empathy is generally acknowledged to be vital to counseling effectiveness, the findings suggest that the means orientation to religion potentially inhibits counselor effectiveness relative to quest and end orientations. This finding implies a greater suitability of quest- and end-oriented pastoral candidates for counselor training as compared to means-oriented candidates.
Toward An Integrative Measure of Health and Well-Being
Authors: Ellison Craig W. , Smith Joel
Published: February 2018

Psychological and theological concepts of the integrative nature of healthy human personality are examined, with particular emphasis on the biblical relationships between integrated personality and shalom, or well-being. The Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS) is suggested as a general indicator of personality integration and resultant well-being. A summary of reported research that has utilized the SWBS from 1982–1990 is presented and related to physical, psychological, relational, and religious well-being. Suggestions are made for additional research and application of the SWBS.
An Evaluation of the Research and Clinical Usefulness of the Spiritual Weil-Being Scale
Authors: Ledbetter Mark F. , Smith Leslie A. , Vosler-Hunter Wanda L , Fischer James D.
Published: February 2018

Recent research results (Moody, 1988) have suggested that the Spiritual Weil-Being Scale (SWBS) may have ceiling effects. This study evaluated 17 selected religious and non-religious SWBS samples to determine if ceiling effects were present. Means and standard deviations were examined and upper and lower T-score limits were calculated for each sample. The mean SWBS score for the 17 samples was 101.08 (SD=13.32). All samples were able to measure the SWBS total score 4 standard deviations below the mean. In contrast, only 2 samples were able to measure the SWBS total score 2 standard deviations above the mean. These results indicate that, with religious samples, the SWBS does have ceiling effects. The psychometric implications suggest that previously reported relationships between the SWBS and other variables are underestimated for religious samples. In addition, these results indicate that the clinical usefulness of the SWBS is limited to low scores.
Norms for the Spiritual Weil-Being Scale
Authors: Bufford Rodger K. , Paloutzian Raymond F. , Ellison Craig W.
Published: February 2018

As part of the growing interest in quality of life and subjective well-being, the Spiritual Well-Being Scale was constructed to measure the spiritual dimension. Research has shown good reliability for the scale and has provided encouraging support for its validity. It indicates well-being in a variety of spheres, including physical and mental health, psychological adjustment, and assertiveness. However, no norms have been published and little descriptive data have been readily available for the scale. Test-retest and internal consistency reliability coefficients and descriptive data are presented for several religious, student, and client groups. In evangelical samples the typical individual gets the maximum score; thus, the scale is not useful in distinguishing among individuals for purposes such as selection of spiritual leaders. The scale is currently useful for research and as a global index of lack of well-being.
An Evaluation of the Construct Validity of the Spiritual Weil-Being Scale: A Confirmatory Factor Analytic Approach
Authors: Ledbetter Mark F. , Smith Leslie A. , Fischer James D. , Vosler-Hunter Wanda L , Chew Grace P.
Published: February 2018

The construct validity of the Spiritual Wall-Being Scale (SWBS) was examined utilizing Confirmatory Factor Analysis (LISREL). One- and two-dimensional models were investigated in two religious samples (Davis, Longfellow, Moody, & Moynihan, 1987; Huggins, 1988). Fit to the models was assessed using the chisquare statistic, the ratio of chisquare relative to its degrees of freedom, the Adjusted Goodness of Fit Index, and the Tucker-Lewis Index as goodness of fit indicators. The fit was quite poor for both the one- and two-dimensional models. Although the two-factor model was superior to the one-factor model, neither model provided a good conceptualization of the factor structure of the Spiritual Well-Being Scale in these samples. These results suggest that, contrary to Ellison's two factor conceptualization and a postulated general factor model, the SWBS may be factorially complex. This complexity makes interpretation of scores ambiguous.
The Hebraic Model of the Person: Toward a Unified Psychological Science among Christian Helping Professionals
Authors: Boivin Michael J.
Published: February 2018

Because of a duolistic cultural tradition assumed to be biblical, many Christian helping professionals tend to conceptualize an individual's psychological difficulty as originating within either the spiritual, soulish, cognitive, or biological domain, depending on the context in which it occurs. Consequently, various methods of inquiry and treatment are prescribed based on constructs consistent with the perceived origination of the disorder. A Hebraic model of the person, however, conceptualizes the various dimensions of personhood as existing along a mutually interactive continuum in which the divinely inspired aspects of the human condition are directly apparent in the biopsychological aspects, without intermediate metaphysical states or constructs. Furthermore, this holistic interpretation is consistent with the New Testament term soma, often translated as “person.” As such, the Hebraic model vouches for the adequacy of the philosophical assumptions of a psychological science, and it can allow such a perspective to penetrate more thoroughly the analytical and treatment strategies of Christian helping professionals.
The Ideal Overseas Missionary: A Cross-Cultural Comparison
Authors: Diekhoff George M. , Holder Bruce A. , Colee Phil , Wigginton Phil , Rees Faye
Published: February 2018

The transition from home environment to an overseas culture is a difficult one for many overseas missionaries. Many efforts to facilitate cross-cultural adaptation have focused on selection and have assumed that some single ideal personality profile exists that marks the effective overseas missionary. Largely ignored in previous research are differences in personality that mark the effective missionary in different cultural settings. These differences were the focus of the present study. Eight-eight missionaries located in 11 overseas ministries rated an imaginary “ideal missionary” on each of 25 traits. Factor analysis revealed that these 25 traits represented four orthogonal underlying trait factors, labeled “Social Skill,” “Personal Energy,” “Outspokenness,” and “Timidity.” Significant cross-cultural differences were found between the 11 cultures on the latter two factors. Multidimensional scaling analysis suggested that the 11 ministries could be grouped into two broad clusters—“Moslem” and “East Asian.” These two culture clusters were found to differ significantly on the trait factor of “Timidity.”
Identity Formation and College-Level Religion Courses: A Pilot Study
Authors: Drovdahl Robert R. , Steele Les L.
Published: February 2018

Biblical literature courses are a significant feature in the curricula of Christian colleges. Most such colleges include biblical literature coursework in students’ graduation requirements. Student response to these courses vary. This article reports on exploratory research examining the relationship between identity status (Marcia, 1976) and students’ response to a biblical literature course. Questions rising from the findings are examined and possible curricular implications are considered.
A New Covenant of Blessing: Negotiating Change in Eating Disordered Families
Authors: Engebretson Darold , Schindler Nancy , Hollander Barbara
Published: February 2018

On the basis of the theory that there is a systemic nature to eating disorders, a program is proposed that outlines a treatment approach in which parents are active participants. The use of formal contracts is set forth as a means for negotiating change within the family system. The proposed model for contracting is derived from the elements contained in God's covenant with his elected people and provides a theological basis for that model.
Afterlife Constructs, Death Anxiety, and Life Reviewing: The Importance of Religion as a Moderating Variable
Authors: Thorson James A.
Published: February 2018

A diverse sample (N = 389) completed a death anxiety scale and a series of questions dealing with frequency of church attendance, self-rating of religiosity, and afterlife concerns. Variance in both death anxiety and religiosity was great between age groups than across gender. Afterlife items tended to have higher correlations with death anxiety than did either self-rated religiosity or frequency of church-going. It is suggested that elements of religiosity have important interrelationships with the developmental process of the life review in old age.
Psychotherapy with the Fundamentalist Client
Authors: Powell James , Gladson Jerry , Meyer Roger
Published: February 2018

With the public scandal in recent years involving soma religious leaders, the religiously conservative client is facing identity and trust issues critical to self-understanding but not well understood by Christian therapists unfamiliar with this subculture. What may be healthy expressions of seeking congruence as a person may be misinterpreted as increased psychoparhology. Beginning with a theoretical orientation to the fundamentalist movement, two therapists who work with the population and a religious scholar attempt to share perspectives and clarify Issues for counseling conservative clients within their own self-identity structures. The religious subculture can then be made part of the healing process if the therapist is not threatened by it.
Narratives and Counseling, Part 1: From Analysis of the past to Stories about It
Authors: Vitz Paul C.
Published: February 2018

It is proposed that the present practice of psychotherapy and counseling would be enriched by introducing a narrative model of the psychotherapeutic process. Recent contributions supporting the importance of a narrative (story) based model are discussed. Theorists briefly treated are: Schafer (1980, 1983), with his narrative interpretation of Freud's major concepts and a narrative understanding of the psychoanalytic session; Spence (1982), who introduced the notion of narrative truth as distinct from historical truth for understanding a client's past, an approach that supports non-psychoanalytic narrative interpretation; and Viederman (1983; Viederman & Perry, 1980), who used short life histories for interpreting relatively healthy clients facing acute crises. Within this context and the narrative literary theory of Frye (1957), a Christian narrative approach to counseling is introduced.
Narratives and Counseling, Part 2: From Stories of the past to Stories for the Future
Authors: Vitz Paul C.
Published: February 2018

After a summary of sources of power contained in narratives as proposed by Kilpatrick (1986), a case history of Christian narrative counseling is presented. Emphasis is on a narrative conclusion to the counseling process that focuses on the client's future. This future is understood as a story constructed by the client in response to God's call: the working out of a vocation. The vocation story, interpreted in the framework of Northrop Frye's (1957) four narrative archetypes, is primarily a comedy or romance, not tragedy or irony. The therapist's role in a narrative ending to therapy is interpreted as similar to that of a coach. Narrative models in psychology are also identified as part of a major paradigm shift to a less positivistic psychology, one that is much more compatible with Christian Scripture than is the traditional scientific paradigm.
Response to Vitz: The Search for Method
Authors: Malony H. Newton
Published: February 2018

The author reacts to Vitz's (1992a, 1992b) two preceding articles. Three major critiques are offered. First, it is suggested that, contrary to Vitz's assumption, not all people live by narrative or story; many are story-less and need help from therapists to construct their stories. Second, although Vitz (1992a) dichotomizes narrative thinking and scientific thinking, it is suggested that such a dichotomy is unrealistic: Both types of thinking are needed in psychotherapy. Third, Vitz seems to be unclear about how faith and Christian processes can be communicated in counseling.
Another look at Pastoral Candidates’ Personality Traits
Authors: Thorson James A.
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this research note is to comment upon a study by Jayne Patrick that appeared in the Summer, 1991, issue of this Journal (“Personality Characteristics of Male and Female Pastoral Candidates,” 19 [2], 186–196), suggest some alternative norms for comparisons for part of the data she presented, and provide additional data for purposes of comparison.
Overview of the Rech Conference on Christian Graduate Training in Psychology and Introduction to the Collected Papers
Authors: Jones Stanton L.
Published: February 2018

From October 25–28, 1990, representatives of four doctoral programs and five master's programs that provide graduate training from a Christian perspective in various aspects of professional psychology met in Lisle, Illinois, for the Rech Conference on Christian Graduate Training in Psychology. The purpose of the conference was to initiate a sustained dialogue among comparable programs regarding the distinctive features of our programs and the challenges that we face. Resource scholars and several special participants were in attendance to challenge the program representatives. This article attempts to summarize the proceedings of the Rech Conference and to briefly introduce the seven resource papers that were presented to the participants of the Rech conference and that comprise the balance of this special issue of the Journal of Psychology and Theology.
The Psychotherapist as Christian Ethicist: Theology Applied to Practice
Authors: Tjeltveit Alan C.
Published: February 2018

The ethical nature of human transformation in general and psychotherapy in particular means that therapists function as applied ethicists. Efforts to relate or integrate theology and therapy must therefore address ethical issues. Disciplines that might provide a basis for ethical positions–-science and ethics (including Christian ethics)–-are reviewed, along with the adequacy of the scientist-practitioner model to inform the ethical aspects of practice. The specific contributions of Christian ethics to the dialogue needed between ethicists, theologians, and psychotherapy theorists and practitioners are discussed. Implications for training and continuing professional development are considered.
The Role of Theology in the Training of Christian Psychologists
Authors: Beck James R.
Published: February 2018

Educators involved in the training of Christian psychologists need to develop a rationale for the role of theology in the curriculum that would be a meaningful apologetic for secular colleagues, the Christian public, and the psychology student. Using the example of Peter Abelard, a 12th century scholastic, the author suggests three major roles that theology can play in the training curriculum for Christian psychologists. The paper concludes with a brief description of current approaches to theology in the curriculum and a modest proposal for teaching theology creatively in the psychology training setting.
Developing Wisdom in Christian Psychologists
Authors: Evans C. Stephen
Published: February 2018

A major topic of the Rech Conference on Christian Graduate Training in Psychology was that of the “Christian virtues” as potentially powerful therapeutic factors that should be manifested in the lives of Christian psychologists. Yet, the Christian training programs do little to intentionally develop such virtues. This paper is a case study examining the virtue of wisdom as one of the central characteristics that should be encouraged in psychology graduate students. I begin by suggesting a way of defining or thinking about the nature of wisdom from a Christian perspective. A wise human person is someone who truly understands what it is to be human and the nature of the possible ways of existing that confront human beings. Understanding what it is to be human is inextricably tied to knowing and understanding God. Selection of those students who have the greatest potential of growing in wisdom during their graduate training is then discussed. I conclude with suggestions for fostering growth in wisdom during the years of graduate study.
Barriers to the Integration of Faith and Learning in Christian Graduate Training Programs in Psychology
Authors: Narramore Bruce
Published: February 2018

Although significant strides have been made in developing graduate training programs in psychology with a distinctively Christian perspective, much remains to be done. In this paper, the author examines several cultural, theological, theoretical, institutional, and individual barriers to the development and maintenance of quality graduate programs integrating psychology with Christian faith and theology.
Psychology in Service of the Church
Authors: Browning Don
Published: February 2018

Don Browning has been a major figure in pastoral theology for a number of years. His most recent major work (Browning, 1987b) is a challenging analysis of and dialogue with the religious dimensions of many of the major modern psychological paradigms that dominate the mental health field. Browning writes from a self-described “liberal Christianity or mainline church” perspective rather than that of evangelical Christianity. The reader will find this perspective clearly articulated, among other places, in the introductory sections below, where he defines his use of the words “church” and “Christian faith.” Though he writes from a nonevangelical perspective, Browning offers a number of insights for JPT readers into the assets and liabilities that a relationship with the field of psychology offers the Church. His analysis reflects a depth understanding of the contemporary view of social science as a cultural phenomenon, one that is founded upon assumptions that are often religious and moral in nature and yet are often poorly articulated. He discusses the often unrecognized ways in which the Church contributes to psychology by being a “carrier” of the moral and religious views of persons that undergird the psychologies. In the main section of this article, he develops a cautiously appreciative view of how the psychologies can help the Church in enhancing its understanding of the varieties of human pathologies, in challenging its understanding of human development, in enhancing the Church's effectiveness in promoting healing and growth, and in refining the Church's understanding of ethics. In each of these areas, however, he also expresses concerns about the potential and actual negative impact that the psychologies can and have had upon the church.
Results of the Rech Conference Survey on Religious Faith and Professional Psychology
Authors: Jones Stanton L. , Watson Elizabeth J. , Wolfram Timothy J.
Published: February 2018

The results of an extensive survey of the alumni of three doctoral- and four master's-level Christian graduate training programs in professional psychology are reported. The purpose of the survey was to assess how programs have done in training students in the integration of psychology and Christian faith. A total of 1,548 surveys were mailed out; a return rate of 41.3% limited the conclusiveness of the findings. The sample was found to be morally and religiously conservative; master's alumni were typically more conservative than were doctoral alumni. Alumni overwhelmingly identified themselves as evangelicals and reported a fairly high frequency of defined “religious behaviors.” Graduate training experiences had a moderately positive impact upon personal faith. Satisfaction with training in the task of integration was quite modest. Various measures indicated substantial commitment to the integration of Christian faith and the practice of professional psychology. Practitioners are most frequently eclectic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, or family systems in orientation. Frequency of use of specifically “religious” intervention techniques was low.
Adults who Report Childhood Ritualistic Abuse
Authors: Shaffer Ruth E. , Cozolino Louis J.
Published: February 2018

Therapists are finding an increasing number of patients uncovering memories of ritualistic forms of abuse from childhood. To gain a fuller understanding of this phenomenon, twenty outpatients reporting memories of ritualistic abuse were interviewed. Questions focused on the nature of the abuse and its perceived impact on interpersonal, occupational, and spiritual development. Reasons for entering psychotherapy as well as the nature and course of treatment were also discussed.

Subjects entered therapy with similar psychological complaints. Reported psychiatric sequelae included dissociative, affective, somatization, and eating disorders. Abuse experiences were reported to have affected every aspect of their adult functioning. Subjects began therapy with little or no knowledge of the phenomenon of ritualistic abuse, and only one patient reported vague memories of ritualistic abuse before entering therapy. Reports from this sample reflect striking convergence among subjects and with data from previous research and clinical reports. A composite clinical case study is presented based on these data.