Social Identity and Discrimination in Religious/Spiritual Influences on Health

Introduction to the special section: Psychology of Indian spirituality and religion, emerging perspectives.

“…In the first article, Pandey and Gupta (2019) examine religion in the lives of Hindu widows. Much evidence from diverse religious traditions has linked religion with either better or worse health and well-being, depending upon the specific population and upon the dimension of religion that is being considered (Abu Raiya, Pargament, & Magyar-Russell, 2010; Oman & Nuru-Jeter, 2018). Similarly, based on qualitative interviews with 37 Hindu widows, Pandey and Gupta document a “dual role” (Pandey & Gupta, 2019, p. 91) of religion, as in popular understanding it simultaneously sanctions social disabilities of widows and supplies numerous coping strategies that assist them in managing life challenges.…”

“…Such findings parallel the widely observed patterns of dual impacts worldwide and in western samples, in which religion is often ambiguously or adversely linked to ethnic and sexual discrimination, yet simultaneously serves as a multifaceted resource for the marginalized groups. Over time, however, as religious traditions evolve, justice- and equity-enhancing changes often occur in the social expectations and norms that are sanctified by religious traditions (Oman & Nuru-Jeter, 2018). Through their study, Pandey and Gupta hope to aid mental health professionals working with widow populations, and to help policymakers and activists to work effectively, taking into account “prevailing socioreligious realities” (Pandey & Gupta, 2019, p. 98).…”

Introduction to the Special Issue: Spirituality and Psychology, Emerging Perspectives

“…Oman & Nuru-Jeter, 2018). Many of this issue's articles offer insights or identify resources to support society in tolerating or even flourishing with social diversity, and for living in peace.…”