The myth of spirituality

Abstract

This article is designed to open a conversation about the place of spirituality in social work, highlight possible ethical issues, and question whether spirituality, as defined by social work and popular culture, is an immutable part of human development. Additionally, the role of social work in conducting spiritual assessments and interventions is specifically challenged, along with examples of how the misuse of spirituality can harm clients. The article also suggests that the profession would benefit from adopting an evidence-based concept of spirituality and establishing accountability standards. Findings: Until more is known about spirituality, social workers may want to consider: (1) placing a moratorium on using and developing spiritual assessment instruments until the concept can be accurately defined; (2) omitting words linked to religious symbols such as soul, anointing, blessing, etc. in social work practice; (3) conducting spiritual screenings rather than complete spiritual assessments, and (4) referring clients with spiritual questions or wanting spiritual support to experts known not to blame or harm clients and trained in the specific area of concerns expressed by the person. Applications. The time has come for social work to establish ethics, accountability, and limitations on the practice of spirituality.

Associations of religious and existential variables with psychosocial factors and biomarkers of cardiovascular risk in bereavement

“…Indeed, responding to spiritual concerns must be done with care in order to avoid religious imposition or coercion during times when patients may already be vulnerable. Some patients' SERT priorities mean a preference not to include overt religious and spiritual topics in care, especially for patients who have had challenging histories with religion (Taylor, 2023 ). Competencies in spiritually integrated care, such as those developed for psychologists, are important to carry over into clinical care that involves SERT domains (Vieten & Lukoff, 2022 ).…”

“…Indeed, responding to spiritual concerns must be done with care in order to avoid religious imposition or coercion during times when patients may already be vulnerable. Some patients' SERT priorities mean a preference not to include overt religious and spiritual topics in care, especially for patients who have had challenging histories with religion (Taylor, 2023).…”