Perhaps it has to do with social class. Probably, but their thinking is seriously limited by them adopting a demonological perspective of life. Some tend to immediately reject information which are contrary to their religious beliefs and immediately accept information which are not. Also there are some passages in the Bible which restricts freethought if I'm not wrong. Most of them can't answer the inconsistencies and problems of their religion but they believe blindly in it nonetheless.
Research seem to indicate that it's better.
I suppose they cope better in times of stress. For example by concentrating on the afterlife, they don't have to concern themselves with many problems in the society. Their god is like an ever-present counsellor.