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.

Authors: Paul K. Nesselroade, Jr., John K. Williams, & Ruth K. Nam

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol 25(1), Spr 2006. pp. 27-33

Abstract:

A total of 128 participants from a religiously-affiliated institution and 82 from a state university indicated which of two opinions they would choose on four different morally-based topics and five different non-moral topics. Participants also estimated how well they thought they examined both sides of each issue when developing their final opinions and how well another student considered both sides of the issue. Participants from both populations showed a greater level of self-enhancement when their opinion differed from that of the other student and when evaluating moral topics compared to non-moral topics. Furthermore, a significant two-way interaction between issue type and opinion indicated that opinion dissimilarity had a greater self-enhancing effect when considering the moral topics than when considering the non-moral topics, but only for students from the religiously-affiliated school. Results are discussed in terms of different schema used for processing moral vs. non-moral topics, and why this might lead to misunderstandings within the church.

Authors: Jones, Stanton L.; Kwee, Alex W.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(4), Win 2005, pp. 304-316

Abstract: Contemporary scientific findings are selectively reviewed to ascertain if recent research necessitates altering the conclusion of Jones and Yarhouse (2000) that scientific arguments fail to warrant overturning the Church’s traditional teaching about homosexuality. Reviewing the findings in six key areas of etiological research, we conclude that findings of biological causation of homosexuality are not unequivocal, while there is suggestive but similarly inconclusive evidence of environmental causation. Next, using a cross-cultural comparison of psychopathology rates among homosexuals, we challenge the ‘heterosexist rejection’ argument as the sole causative explanation for heightened psychological distress in LGBT populations. Finally, we discuss Spitzer’s (2003) treatment outcome research and conclude that change, though of unknown frequency, does occur for some individuals and reorientation therapy (offered with appropriate informed consent) should not be dismissed as a treatment option. We reaffirm our prior conclusion that scientific research does not warrant a revision of the Church’s historic position on homosexuality.

Author: McMinn, Lisa Graham

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(4), Win 2005, pp. 368-377

Abstract: Most sexual identity development models disregard the importance of valuative frameworks and faith for young adults with same sex attraction. This article is a theoretical and pastoral attempt to outline practical considerations for Christian professors, staff, and laity who seek a new role, that of compassionate companion, or a supportive presence for Christian young adults with same sex attraction. Observations and recommendations are based on 11 years of teaching and mentoring college students, sexual identity development research, and a theological concept of our human will-to-relate.

Author: Emmons, Robert A.; Kneezel, Teresa T.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(2), Sum 2005, pp.140-148

Abstract:

Gratitude is a Christian virtue and an emotional disposition that has recently become the focus of systematic scientific research. We explore first the theological origins of gratitude as a virtue that is emphasized in Judeo-Christian traditions, and we then examine spiritual and religious predictors of dispositional gratitude and grateful emotions measured on a daily basis in a sample of persons with neuromuscular disease (NMDs). In this primarily Christian sample, grateful emotions and tendencies were related to both conventional religious practices (e.g., church attendance and reading the Bible) as well as to spiritual self-transcendence. Sanctification through personal goals (the perceived degree to which strivings enable one to feel closer to God) was also predictive of gratitude. Some implications of the research for psychospiritual assessment, religion and health, and the integration of psychology and theology are discussed.

Author: Strawn, Brad D.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 23 (2), Sum 2004, pp. 140-148

Abstract:

The present article suggests three sins of omission in the clinical integration literature and illustrates an alternative approach with a Wesleyan, theology-directed clinical integration. A Wesleyan informed psychotherapy will include six presuppositions. First, it will take seriously the immanence of God. Second, its focus will be healing and not just cure. Third, it will take a holistic approach to the brain and body. Fourth, it will direct its interventions at the core motivational dispositions of persons. Fifth, it will emphasize the relational embeddedness of humanity, and finally, it will personify a telos of love. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy will be presented as a form of therapy that encompasses these six presuppositions and clinical material will be used to illustrate the therapeutic process.