Professional psychology and the doctrines of sin and grace: Christian leaders' perspectives.

Abstract

What is a professional psychologist to do when a client brings up the concept of sin? To some, sin may seem like a stifling religious relic that has no place in contemporary psychology. But viewing sin from within the Christian faith, and in tandem with the doctrine of grace, can help psychologists understand why sin is such an important concept for many of their Christian clients. Psychologists' misunderstanding of sin and grace may contribute to relatively low rates of referral from Christian leaders to clinical psychologists, and may sometimes hinder therapeutic progress. Two methods of data collection, involving a total of 171 respondents, were used to discern what Christian leaders wish psychologists understood regarding the doctrine of sin. Respondents emphasized the nature and consequences of sin, grace, and the importance of psychologists understanding sin and grace. Implications for professional psychologists are offered.

Adolescent mental health: the role of youth and college pastors

“…However, it is encouraging that the youth pastors were likely to refer to psychologists and psychiatrists as well. Previous research has indicated that referral patterns likely differ based on whether the client is experiencing a "religious issue" (McMinn et al, 2006); however, the current study did not differentiate between reasons why they referred to different professionals. While a majority of the sample had collaborated with other mental health workers and claimed a desire to collaborate in the future, the respondents mentioned different barriers that prevent them from optimally serving as gatekeepers.…”

“…In summary, research suggests that individuals seek services for mental health issues from clergy, and most clergy generally respond with some kind of counselling; however, a majority of them feel unprepared to identify and treat mental illness, and a need and desire for more education is consistently highlighted (Holmes & Howard, 1980;Mannon & Crawford, 1996;McRay, McMinn, Wrightsman, Burnett, & Ho, 2001;Stanford & Philpott, 2011;Virkler, 1979). Although many studies have been devoted to investigating the referral patterns of clergy to mental health professionals (Farrell & Goebert, 2008;McMinn, Ruiz, Marx, Wright, & Gilbert, 2006), training pastors more effectively in recognising and responding to mental illness would allow them to serve as much more effective gatekeepers before they refer.…”

Experiences of Divine Grace Among Christian Friends

“…The notion of common grace-the blessings provided from God to all humanity-has also been considered alongside psychotherapy (Kim-van Daalen, 2012). McMinn et al (2006) add further nuance to the understanding of divine grace in relation to psychotherapy, noting that grace is not fully known without an understanding of sin. They write, "the doctrine of grace, intrinsically linked to the doctrine of sin, teaches that God forgives humans of their sin and offers unmerited kindness and love to whomever acknowledges a need for redemption" (p. 297).…”

Effects of an analogue counselor's religious or financial self-disclosure and observer characteristics on therapeutic processes

“…Religious and spiritual counselor disclosures. McMinn, Ruiz, Marx, Wright, and Gilbert (2006) in particular, advised religious psychologists to make their religious or spiritual values explicit in an informed consent document prior to beginning work with a client. This might be especially important if, as noted, clients actively attempt to draw conclusions about their counselor's religious beliefs based on the therapeutic environment.…”