How People Use Faith to Cope: A Look at Different Religious Practices
People often turn to their beliefs to deal with tough times. This review looks at how different religions help people cope. It compares two main types: theocentric, which focuses on a higher power, and non-theocentric, which looks inward for strength.
Key Findings
The study found three big differences:
Theocentric Coping:
- Involves prayer
- Trusting in a divine plan
Non-Theocentric Coping:
- Focuses on self-improvement
- Emphasizes rituals
Most research has been on Western religions like Christianity and Islam. Eastern practices like Buddhism and Taoism have been studied less.
Gaps in Research
The study also found that topics like mindfulness and meditation are not well-researched in the field of religious coping. This is a problem because these practices are important to many people.
Recommendations
The study suggests that researchers need to:
- Look more into non-theocentric coping methods
- Update current models for measuring coping
- Better reflect the diversity of spiritual practices
Importance of the Review
This review is important because it shows how people use their beliefs to deal with stress. It also points out areas where more research is needed. By understanding these differences, we can better support people in their coping strategies.