The Psychology of Religion and Coping Theory, Research, Practice

When faced with a crisis, why do some people turn to religion to help them cope, while others turn away? Is religious belief merely a defense or a form of denial? Is spirituality a help or a hindrance in times of stress? Building a much-needed bridge between two different worlds of thought and practice--religion and psychology--this volume sensitively interweaves theory with first-hand accounts, clinical insight, and scientific research. The book underscores the need for greater sensitivity to religion and spirituality in the context of helping relationships, and suggests a range of ways that faith might be used more fully to help people in crisis.

Kenneth I. Pargament, PhD, is Professor of Psychology and Director of the PhD Clinical Psychology Program at Bowling Green State University. Currently President of Division 36 (Psychology of Religion) of the American Psychological Association, he is a recipient of the William James Award for his research on religion, stress, and coping. Dr. Pargament is a practicing clinical psychologist who has worked with clergy and congregation members from diverse religious communities.