Understanding the Life Issues of Spiritually-Based Clients

Abstract

Understanding the meaning of life events from the perspective of a spiritually-based client is essential in social work practice. This article discusses several life events that are likely experienced by clients with spiritual worldvlews. The meaning of childbirth and the perception of human nature provide insight into the family's socialization experience. In adolescence, sexuality and the potential for parental conflict emerge as issues that require a spiritually-sensitive approach. In adulthood. the spiritual reality has the most notable impact on an individual's attitudes, behaviors, and the decision-making process. Because spirituality operates similar to cultural realities, the authors' support the development of a knowledge base for working with clients who have a spiritual worldview.

The Impact of an Interim Protection Order (Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998) on the Victims of Domestic Violence

“…When relationships are absent, or dysfunctional, in each or all of the domains, a lack of wholeness, health and/or spiritual disease could manifest itself in a person's life (Fisher, 2000a). This model supports the view of Pellebon and Anderson (1999) that spirituality determines a person's perception of his/her self-image and his/her relationship with the natural world and the metaphysical domain. Chandler et al (1992) emphasise the importance of linking spiritual well-being to psychological well-being, as spirituality and the connection to a higher power provide meaning in life and affect the way that life is experienced and evaluated.…”

A Significance of Sacramental Ministry Among Individuals with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness

“…It is often seen as the human need to create order, connectedness, and meaning in a chaotic existence, much like an inherent need to achieve fulfillment. This set of personal beliefs derived from the individual's perception of self and his or her relationship to both the natural world and some metaphysical realm can include an individual experience with or without a structured belief system (Pellebon & Anderson, 1999).…”

“…Religion is "an integrated belief system that provides principles of behavior, purposes of existence, meaning of death, and an expression of reverence for a supernatural being (or beings)" that is structured and typically has a group following. Religion is usually subsumed within the term spirituality (Pellebon & Anderson, 1999). Luther's explanation of the third article of the Creed "On Being Made Holy" concerning the work of the Holy Spirit reads, I believe that by my own understanding or strength I cannot believe in Jesus Christ my LORD or come to him, but instead the Holy Spirit has called me through the gospel, enlightened me with his gifts, made me holy and kept me in the true faith, just as he calls, gathers together, enlightens and makes holy the whole Christian church on earth and keeps it with Jesus in the one communion, true faith.…”

Genograms and African American Families: Employing Family Strengths of Spirituality, Religion, and Extended Family Network

“…Spirituality and religion are generally understood to be distinct, but overlapping concepts (Carroll, 1998;Pellebon & Anderson, 1999). Spirituality is defined as "experiences and expressions of one's spirit in a unique and dynamic process reflecting faith in God or a supreme being; connectedness with oneself, others, nature, or God; and an integration of the dimensions of mind, body, and spirit" (Meraviglia, 1999, p. 29).…”