Author: Auris Huang Hung

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol. 25(3), Fall 2006, pp. 226-239

Abstract:

Modeling a multi-disciplinary evaluation of psychological concepts for use in cross-cultural settings, this paper presents a psychological, theological, and cultural analysis of the concept of differentiated oneness (and related concepts individuation, differentiation, and boundaries) to examine its theoretical foundations and applicability in counseling Asian American families. After evaluating some of the psychological research among non-Western populations and the theology underlying differentiated oneness, this paper explores how Western and Eastern cultural differences, at the core of which are differing views of self, make direct application of this Western-based psychological principle to Asian Americans problematic. Some implications for Christian counseling are presented.

Author: Peet, Christopher

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(2), Sum 2005, pp. 105-112

Abstract:

Religion to date has eluded adequate definition. This article explores the issue of defining religion in terms of different strategies employed that acknowledge the difficulties of definition. The history of the relations of psychology to religion, and in turn of science to religion, is discussed as one such strategy. A second strategy of rich description in place of a definition is examined, while the practice of operational definition within experimental psychology is evaluated as a third strategy. How these strategies provide insight into religion in lieu of an overarching description is discussed, while the lessons to be learned if these strategies are under- stood reflexively, as pointing back to the scientific inquirer, are summarized.

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.

Author: Brown, Warren S.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 23(2), Sum 2004, pp. 110-120

Abstract:

It is often difficult to be clear about either the processes to engage in, or the final outcomes to be expected, when attempting to relate science and religion, or psychology and faith. This article presents the Resonance Model as a metaphoric way to think about the processes and outcomes of these dialogues. The Resonance Model has the advantage of (a) specifying a larger number of domains of relevant information that must be taken into account; (b) suggesting what sort of interrelationships can be expected; and (c) providing a formulation that is dynamic and suggestive of how to proceed. One example of a search for resonance is described—an attempt to relate a Christian anthropology to a neuroscientific view of human nature.