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: Carroll R., M. Daniel.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 25(2), Sum 2006, pp. 169-176

Abstract:

Observers utilizing Freudian and Jungian approaches have given considerable attention to various Old Testament prophets. These efforts represent both the interpretive stances of observing what is behind the text or presented in the text, as well as what is in front of the text. This paper explores the Old Testament prophet as an advocate for justice. Justice is a prophetic theme with strong emotional content. It stems from the prophet’s understanding of who God is and what are the emotions of God in the face of injustice. The article surveys the prophetic emotions as found in the book of Micah and concludes with some suggestions on how biblical and psychological studies could further work together in the area of social justice.

Author: Siang-Yang Tan.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 25(1), Spr 2006 pp. 68-73

Abstract:

The article discusses the practice of positive psychology being the focus in the studies of the American Psychologist. Positive psychology is the study of positive emotion, character and institutions. Progress in the field had been reported such as empirical validation of interventions. Seligman noted its application in positive prevention and positive therapy.

Authors: Don MacDonald & Marcia Webb

Journal of Psychology and Christianity, Vol 25(1), Spr 2006. pp. 3-16

Abstract:

The proliferation of theories for conducting psychotherapy makes it easy for a therapist to become lost in the welter of ideas. In particular, clarity about the criteria for and the evaluation of theories lags. The present article discriminates between syncretism and eclecticism. As part of the discrimination, it provides 14 interrelated criteria by which to assess a theory. It also distinguishes between theories and treatment models. Finally, it presents a proposal for the reciprocal development of both. These 14 criteria come from a broad array of professional literature, and provide an approximation of a holistic perspective of humanity. They also describe theories in a complex and comprehensive manner, and offer therapists the opportunity to make in-depth attempts toward the integration of one’s personal faith commitments and one’s professional identity. Even with responsible efforts toward conceptual clarity, the authors describe the high potential for syncretism, due to the multitude, of theories, models, and criteria currently available to psychotherapists. The authors further propose strategies to prevent the conceptual compromises associated with a syncretistic approach to the conceptualization and conduct of psychotherapy.

Author: Pembroke, Neil

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(1), Spr 2005, pp. 13-20

Abstract:

An attempt is made to bring a trinitarian perspective to bear on the way in which the counselling alliance is constructed in narrative therapy. A tripersonal alliance is promoted in this approach to therapy. Participating in the re-storying process are the counselor, the counselee, and the support person (s). The author finds in this structure an image or mark of the triune God. This theological approach can be located in the vestigia trinitatis tradition sponsored by Augustine.

Author: Blanton, P. Gregg

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 24(1), Spr 2005, pp. 68-79

Abstract:

Discusses key issues concerning the compatibility between spiritual direction and narrative family therapy. Key issues of interest; Analysis of pertinent topics and relevant issues; Implications on Christianity and psychology.

Authors: Strawn, Brad D.; Brown, Warren S.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 23(2), Sum 2004, pp. 121-129

Abstract:

The present ankle attempts to explore a non-dualist position regarding human nature in relationship to both Wesleyan rheology and modern psychoanalytic theory. We wail first explore the resonance between the current understanding of human thought and behavior taken from cognitive science as it can be related to a Wesleyan model of growth into holiness. Specifically, we will argue that a Wesleyan view of the person resonates with the concepts of procedural knowledge, affect memories, somatic markers, and automaticity as found within cognitive science. In the end, we will suggest how these ideas come together with modern psychoanalytic theory, and particularly with what is known of transference and of the therapeutic process. Taken together, these three areas resonate around (he ideas that human behavior and character are largely unconscious and difficult to change, and that time change must come through gradual and relationally mediated experiences that alter both conscious and unconscious cognitive processes.

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.

Author: Adams, Christopher J.

Journal of Psychology & Christianity, Vol. 23 (2), Sum 2004, pp. 149-154

Abstract:

This article is an attempt to begin a conversation via comparative analysis of Wesleyan theology, family systems theory, and psychoanalytic theory. The article also seeks to extend relevant concepts in the service of understanding how sin and grace are transmitted from one generation to the next. The article begins by defining collective tempers as emergent phenomena in family systems. Then, utilizing the Wesleyan Quadrilateral as a framework, processes of intergenerational transmission are shown to function via entitlement hidden within collective tempers, which are potentially either constructive or destructive. Finally, the article discusses potential implications for family therapy as well as for congregational life.