Religion, Guilt, and Mental Health

Abstract

This article reviews the constructs of religion, guilt, and mental health and explores relationships between these constructs as they pertain to the counseling profession. General therapeutic approaches are identified and summarized for counseling practice.

OCD cognitions and symptoms in different religious contexts

“…On the other hand, Christianity emphasizes liturgy, intentions and striving for excellence with relatively few behavioral rituals. Faith is defined by belief in Jesus (Favier, O'Brien, & Ingersoll, 2000;Sica et al, 2002;Siev & Cohen, 2007). These characteristics of the religions might account for the differences between Muslims and Christians on some OC-related cognitions and symptoms.…”

Spirituality, religion and counselling practice: a guide to competent integration

“…But as this definition denotes, spirituality includes one's awareness, beliefs, values, sense of purpose and mission, subjective experience, and one's attempts to achieve something beyond the self. It could be said that this definition captures both the exoteric-the communal facet of spirituality-and the esoteric-the private facet-of ones spiritual life (Faiver, O'Brien, & Ingersoll, 2000). This definition seems more inclusive, encompassing and clearer than many found in the literature.…”

“…An individual who practices exoteric religion focus their attention on the public, concrete, outer forms or doctrine of a religion. Those practicing religion from an esoteric perspective focus on the personal experiences of the Divine reality (Faiver et al, 2000).…”

“…On the one hand, extrinsic religious orientations are beliefs that are self-serving, used more for socializations and selfjustification, including explanations for existential dilemmas, security, and acceptance into a community. These individuals are spiritually immature and those with this orientation use religion for personal gains (Burton & Bosek, 2000;Faiver, et al, 2000;Weld & Ericksen, 2007).…”

“…Faiver et al (2000) provide ample evidence demonstrating that religious guilt may have negative effects on one's mental health.…”