Author: Johan (Ian) P. Verseveldt

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol. 25(3), Fall 2006, pp. 216-225

Abstract:

This article examines the philosophical presuppositions of EFCT using Browning’s (1987) Christian integrative model. After an introduction of Browning’s model and a brief synopsis of EFCT, the article focuses ont hree of Browning’s integration questions as they relate to EFCT: What does the theory claim as the ultimate meaning and foundation of life?, What does the theory morally obligate us to do?, and What are the fundamental needs and tendencies that this theory purports are foundational to psychological health and survival? These questions are then applied to EFCT.

Author: Roy Barsness

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol 25(1), Spr 2006. pp. 44-53

Abstract:

This article turns its attention towards analytic and theological understandings of the pull toward the Other, and the role of surrender and transcendence in the therapeutic process. The author argues that the innate nature of our being is not only Other-driven but also Other-seeking and that meaning in life is both a movement towards authentic living and towards transcendence. At the core of our search for meaning in our lives, vis-à-vis our interpersonal world, lies the search for the holy. It is suggested that the sacred is essential both theologically and psychologically in our quest for authentic meaning in our lives. It is further argued that the work of surrender and transcendence most often appears in our most doubtful moments. Through the use of a case study, terror, mystery, and hope are demonstrated as the author surrenders to the unknowable regions of the analytic hour and the transcendent is revealed.

Authors: Yarhouse, Mark A.; Brooke, Heather L.; Pisano, Paula; Tan, Erica S. N.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(4), Win 2005, pp. 352-360

Abstract: In this pilot study we explored the experiences of young adults who identify as Christian and experience same-sex attraction. We considered attributions and ways of making meaning out of experiences of same-sex attraction in light of one’s Christian identity. Young adults in the earlier stages of identity development were interviewed as they would most likely be closer to early identity appraisal before making a definitive a commitment to a sexual identity. Interviewees responded to questions about their experiences of same-sex attraction, how they made meaning of their attractions, and how they shared their experiences with others, as well as perceptions of ways in which their community of faith has helped or hurt them with respect to experiences of same-sex attractions.

Author: Reimer, Kevin

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(2), Sum 2005, pp. 130-139

Abstract:

L’Arche is a unique Christian community embracing the developmentally disabled and their caregiver assistants, providing a cognitively diverse context for the study of religious experience. This article considers the religious significance of a simple candle ritual in L’Arche. Based on Hutchins’ (1995) theory of distributed cognition, it is argued that problem-solving and meaning in religion are less dependent upon cognitive capacities of individual agents and more related to how knowledge is attributed to artifacts that serve as external scaffolds. To differentiate this discussion from constructivist philosophy, religious experience and cognition are considered on the basis of public language that exerts downward selection influence upon individual brains. The article concludes with methodological considerations in the study of semantically distributed cognitions relevant to the candle ritual and L’Arche religious experience.

Author: Yarhouse, Mark A.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(1), Spri 2005, pp. 29-35

Abstract:

How important is religion as a primary variable in the study of human sexuality and sexual behavior? Is religion merely a historical footnote in the study of human sexuality, to be regarded mostly as a social construction that limits sexual freedom, or is religion a key variable in the meaning structures around sexuality for some persons? This article makes three major points: (1) there exists a negative attitudinal set within the sexuality establishment in regards to religion that is not well-established (i.e., valid); (2) the ethical imperatives of the discipline of psychology mandate that religion as a variable be understood and explored respectfully; and (3) there is a possibility of a positive relationship for which a case example is provided.