Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Gary G Berntson |
Author | Greg J Norman |
Author | Louise C Hawkley |
Author | John T Cacioppo |
Abstract | BACKGROUND: Spirituality has been suggested to be associated with positive health, but potential biological mediators have not been well characterized. PURPOSE AND METHODS: The present study examined, in a population-based sample of middle-aged and older adults, the potential relationship between spirituality and patterns of cardiac autonomic control, which may have health significance. Measures of parasympathetic (high-frequency heart rate variability) and sympathetic (pre-ejection period) cardiac control were obtained from a representative sample of 229 participants. Participants completed questionnaires to assess spirituality (closeness to and satisfactory relationship with God). Personality, demographic, anthropometric, health behavior, and health status information was also obtained. A series of hierarchical regression models was used to examine the relations between spirituality, the autonomic measures, and two derived indexes--cardiac autonomic balance (CAB, reflecting parasympathetic to sympathetic balance) and cardiac autonomic regulation (CAR, reflecting total autonomic control). RESULTS: Spirituality, net of demographics, or other variables were found to be associated with enhanced parasympathetic as well as sympathetic cardiac control (yielding a higher CAR) but was not associated with CAB. Although the number of cases was small (N = 11), both spirituality and CAR were significant negative predictors of the prior occurrence of a myocardial infarction. CONCLUSIONS: In a population-based sample, spirituality appears to be associated with a specific pattern of CAR, characterized by a high level of cardiac autonomic control, irrespective of the relative contribution of the two autonomic branches. This pattern of autonomic control may have health significance. |
Publication | Annals of Behavioral Medicine: A Publication of the Society of Behavioral Medicine |
Volume | 35 |
Issue | 2 |
Pages | 198-208 |
Date | Apr 2008 |
Journal Abbr | Ann Behav Med |
DOI | 10.1007/s12160-008-9027-x |
ISSN | 1532-4796 |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18357497 |
Accessed | Fri Nov 13 18:49:11 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 18357497 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
The present study examined the potential relationship between spirituality and patterns of cardiac autonomic control, which may have health significance. A series of hierarchical regression models was used to examine the relations between spirituality, the autonomic measures, and two derived indexes--cardiac autonomic balance (CAB, reflecting parasympathetic to sympathetic balance) and cardiac autonomic regulation (CAR, reflecting total autonomic control). Results: Spirituality, net of demographics, or other variables were found to be associated with enhanced parasympathetic as well as sympathetic cardiac control (yielding a higher CAR) but was not associated with CAB.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | W. B. Cannon |
Publication | American Journal of Physiology |
Volume | 33 |
Issue | 2 |
Pages | 356-372 |
Date | February 2, 1914 |
URL | http://ajplegacy.physiology.org |
Accessed | Mon Oct 12 17:12:48 2009 |
Library Catalog | HighWire |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Tue Nov 15 21:15:08 2011 |
The first paper recognizing that the homeostasis of the body is affected by both physical and emotional stress.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | James Carmody |
Author | Ruth A Baer |
Author | Emily L B Lykins |
Author | Nicholas Olendzki |
Abstract | S. L. Shapiro and colleagues (2006) have described a testable theory of the mechanisms of mindfulness and how it affects positive change. They describe a model in which mindfulness training leads to a fundamental change in relationship to experience (reperceiving), which leads to changes in self-regulation, values clarification, cognitive and behavioral flexibility, and exposure. These four variables, in turn, result in salutogenic outcomes. Analyses of responses from participants in a mindfulness-based stress-reduction program did not support the mediating effect of changes in reperceiving on the relationship of mindfulness with those four variables. However, when mindfulness and reperceiving scores were combined, partial support was found for the mediating effect of the four variables on measures of psychological distress. Issues arising in attempts to test the proposed theory are discussed, including the description of the model variables and the challenges to their assessment. |
Publication | Journal of Clinical Psychology |
Volume | 65 |
Issue | 6 |
Pages | 613-626 |
Date | Jun 2009 |
Journal Abbr | J Clin Psychol |
DOI | 10.1002/jclp.20579 |
ISSN | 1097-4679 |
Accessed | Tue Feb 22 19:39:03 2011 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 19267330 |
Date Added | Thu Sep 29 09:07:00 2011 |
Modified | Thu Sep 29 09:07:00 2011 |
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Christopher G. Ellison |
Abstract | This study examines the multifaceted relationships between religious involvement and subjective well-being. Findings suggest that the beneficent effects of religious attendance and private devotion reported in previous studies are primarily indirect, resulting from their respective roles in strengthening religious belief systems. The positive influence of religious certainty on well-being, however, is direct and substantial: individuals with strong religious faith report higher levels of life satisfaction, greater personal happiness, and fewer negative psychosocial consequences of traumatic life events. Further, in models of life satisfaction only, the positive influence of existential certainty is especially pronounced for older persons and persons with low levels of formal education. Finally, there are persistent denominational variations in life satisfaction, but not in happiness: nondenominational Protestants, liberal Protestants, and members of nontraditional groups such as Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses report greater life satisfaction than do their unaffiliated counterparts, even with the effects of other dimensions of religiosity held constant. Several directions for additional research on religion and psychological well-being are discussed. |
Publication | Journal of Health and Social Behavior |
Volume | 32 |
Issue | 1 |
Pages | 80-99 |
Date | Mar., 1991 |
ISSN | 00221465 |
URL | http://www.jstor.org.ezproxy.bu.edu/stable/2136801 |
Accessed | Fri Sep 25 12:11:30 2009 |
Library Catalog | JSTOR |
Extra | ArticleType: primary_article / Full publication date: Mar., 1991 / Copyright © 1991 American Sociological Association |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Findings suggest that the beneficent effects of religious attendance and private devotion reported in previous studies are primarily indirect, resulting from their respective roles in strengthening religious belief systems. The positive influence of religious certainty on well-being, however, is direct and substantial: individuals with strong religious faith report higher levels of life satisfaction, greater personal happiness, and fewer negative psychosocial consequences of traumatic life events
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Christopher G. Ellison |
Author | Jeffrey S. Levin |
Abstract | The volume and quality of research on what we term the religion-health connection have increased markedly in recent years. This interest in the complex relationships between religion and mental and physical health is being fueled by energetic and innovative research programs in several fields, including sociology, psychology, health behavior and health education, psychiatry, gerontology, and social epidemiology. This article has three main objectives: (1) to briefly review the medical and epidemiologic research on religious factors and both physical health and mental health; (2) to identify the most promising explanatory mechanisms for religious effects on health, giving particular attention to the relationships between religious factors and the central constructs of the life stress paradigm, which guides most current social and behavioral research on health outcomes; and (3) to critique previous work on religion and health, pointing out limitations and promising new research directions. |
Publication | Health Educ Behav |
Volume | 25 |
Issue | 6 |
Pages | 700-720 |
Date | December 1, 1998 |
DOI | 10.1177/109019819802500603 |
Short Title | The Religion-Health Connection |
URL | http://heb.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/25/6/700 |
Accessed | Mon Sep 7 11:02:44 2009 |
Library Catalog | Sage Journals Online |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
This article has three main objectives: (1) to briefly review the medical and epidemiologic research on religious factors and both physical health and mental health; (2) to identify the most promising explanatory mechanisms for religious effects on health; and (3) to critique previous work on religion and health, pointing out limitations and promising new research directions.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Kevin J. Flannelly |
Author | Andrew J. Weaver |
Author | David B. Larson |
Author | Harold G. Koenig |
Abstract | An exhaustive literature search was undertaken to find studies on mortality rates among clergy. A total of twelve studies, published between 1959 and 2000, were identified that examined mortality among American and European clergy. All but one of the reports found lower all-cause death rates for clergy compared to the people in general population of similar age. Protestant ministers consistently were found to have more than a 25% mortality advantage in various studies. Catholic nuns had a mortality advantage of roughly 20%–25%, whereas the mortality advantage of Catholic priests was just over 10%. Possible factors contributing to the lower death rates of clergy are discussed. |
Publication | Journal of Religion and Health |
Volume | 41 |
Issue | 1 |
Pages | 57-68 |
Date | March 01, 2002 |
DOI | 10.1023/A:1015158122507 |
URL | http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1015158122507 |
Accessed | Fri Oct 30 22:49:19 2009 |
Library Catalog | SpringerLink |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
An exhaustive literature search was undertaken to find studies on mortality rates among clergy. A total of twelve studies, published between 1959 and 2000, were identified that examined mortality among American and European clergy. Possible factors contributing to the lower death rates of clergy are discussed.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Linda K. George |
Author | Christopher G. Ellison |
Author | David B. Larson |
Abstract | There is increasing research evidence that religious involvement is associated both cross-sectionally and prospectively with better physical health, better mental health, and longer survival. These relationships remain substantial in size and statistically significant with other risk and protective factors for morbidity and mortality statistically controlled. In this article, we review the social and psychological factors that have been hypothesized to explain the health-promoting effects of religious involvement. The four potential psychosocial mechanisms that have received empirical attention are health practices, social support, psychosocial resources such as self-esteem and self-efficacy, and belief structures such as sense of coherence. Evidence concerning these potential mediators is mixed and inconsistent, suggesting there is more to be learned about the pathways by which religion affects health. Other possible explanations for the salubrious effects of religious involvement on health and longevity are discussed. |
Publication | Psychological Inquiry |
Volume | 13 |
Issue | 3 |
Pages | 190-200 |
Date | 2002 |
ISSN | 1047840X |
URL | http://www.jstor.org/stable/1449328 |
Accessed | Mon Sep 7 13:47:30 2009 |
Library Catalog | JSTOR |
Extra | ArticleType: primary_article / Issue Title: Religion and Psychology / Full publication date: 2002 / Copyright © 2002 Lawrence Erlbaum Associates (Taylor & Francis Group) |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
In this article, we review the social and psychological factors that have been hypothesized to explain the health-promoting effects of religious involvement. The four potential psychosocial mechanisms that have received empirical attention are health practices, social support, psychosocial resources such as self-esteem and self-efficacy, and belief structures such as sense of coherence.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Robert A. Hummer |
Author | Richard G. Rogers |
Author | Charles B. Nam |
Author | Christopher G. Ellison |
Abstract | We use recently released, nationally representative data from the National Health Interview Survey-Multiple Cause of Death linked file to model the association of religious attendance and sociodemographic, health, and behavioral correlates with overall and cause-specific mortality. Religious attendance is associated with U.S. adult mortality in a graded fashion: People who never attend exhibit 1.87 times the risk of death in the follow-up period compared with people who attend more than once a week. This translates into a seven-year difference in life expectancy at age 20 between those who never attend and those who attend more than once a week. Health selectivity is responsible for a portion of the religious attendance effect: People who do not attend church or religious services are also more likely to be unhealthy and, consequently, to die. However, religious attendance also works through increased social ties and behavioral factors to decrease the risks of death. And although the magnitude of the association between religious attendance and mortality varies by cause of death, the direction of the association is consistent across causes. |
Publication | Demography |
Volume | 36 |
Issue | 2 |
Pages | 273-285 |
Date | May, 1999 |
DOI | 10.2307/2648114 |
ISSN | 00703370 |
URL | http://www.jstor.org/stable/2648114 |
Accessed | Mon Sep 7 13:44:52 2009 |
Library Catalog | JSTOR |
Extra | ArticleType: primary_article / Full publication date: May, 1999 / Copyright © 1999 Population Association of America |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Health selectivity is responsible for a portion of the religious attendance effect: People who do not attend church or religious services are also more likely to be unhealthy and, consequently, to die. However, religious attendance also works through increased social ties and behavioral factors to decrease the risks of death.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Ellen L. Idler |
Abstract | The relationship between religion and physical health is a complicated one. In the Durkheimian tradition, and in longitudinal epidemiological studies, religious involvement is shown to have a protective effect on health. Cross-sectionally, however, and even in short followup periods, we sometimes see higher levels of religiousness associated with poorer, not better, health, as people in the midst of crises often turn to religion for comfort and social support. A third way of thinking about the relationship involves self-ratings of health, which appear to represent broad conceptions of self in which physical health and abilities may be deemphasized and nonphysical characteristics, including religious or spiritual self-identities, may be relied upon. Quantitative and qualitative data from a cross-sectional sample of disabled clients of an urban rehabilitation clinic support both of the latter perspectives. |
Publication | Social Forces |
Volume | 74 |
Issue | 2 |
Pages | 683-704 |
Date | December 1995 |
DOI | 10.2307/2580497 |
ISSN | 00377732 |
URL | http://www.jstor.org/stable/2580497 |
Accessed | Mon Sep 7 13:51:15 2009 |
Library Catalog | JSTOR |
Extra | ArticleType: primary_article / Full publication date: Dec., 1995 / Copyright © 1995 Social Forces, University of North Carolina Press |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Self-ratings of health appear to represent broad conceptions of self in which physical health and abilities may be deemphasized and nonphysical characteristics, including religious or spiritual self-identities, may be relied upon. Quantitative and qualitative data from a cross-sectional sample of disabled clients of an urban rehabilitation clinic support both of the latter perspectives
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Ellen L. Idler |
Author | Stanislav V. Kasl |
Abstract | Despite its importance in Durkheim's work, the subject of religion's influence on health and well-being is rarely addressed in contemporary sociological research. This study of elderly persons in New Haven, Connecticut, examines the prospective relationship between religious involvement and several aspects of health status. Results show significant protective effects of public religious in volvement against disability among men and women and of private religious involvement against depression among recently disabled men over a three-year period. Religious group membership also protected Christians and Jews against mortality in the month before their respective religious holidays during a six-year period. The article concludes that religious involvement exerts a strong positive effect on the health of the elderly; that this effect varies by religious group and by sex; that the health behaviors, social contacts, and optimistic attitudes of religious group members may explain part but not all of this association; and that several aspects of religious experience, such as participation in ritual and religion's provision of meaning play a role. |
Publication | The American Journal of Sociology |
Volume | 97 |
Issue | 4 |
Pages | 1052-1079 |
Date | Jan., 1992 |
ISSN | 00029602 |
URL | http://www.jstor.org.ezproxy.bu.edu/stable/2781506 |
Accessed | Fri Sep 25 11:57:01 2009 |
Library Catalog | JSTOR |
Extra | ArticleType: primary_article / Issue Title: New Directions in the Sociology of Medicine / Full publication date: Jan., 1992 / Copyright © 1992 The University of Chicago Press |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
This article concludes that religious involvement exerts a strong positive effect on the health of the elderly; that this effect varies by religious group and by sex; that the health behaviors, social contacts, and optimistic attitudes of religious group members may explain part but not all of this association; and that several aspects of religious experience, such as participation in ritual and religion’s provision of meaning play a role.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Ben Kavoussi |
Author | B. Evan Ross |
Abstract | This review article presents the evidence that the antiinflammatory actions of acupuncture are mediated via the reflexive central inhibition of the innate immune system. Both laboratory and clinical evidence have recently shown the existence of a negative feedback loop between the autonomic nervous system and the innate immunity. There is also experimental evidence that the electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve inhibits macrophage activation and the production of TNF, IL-1{beta} , IL-6, IL-18, and other proinflammatory cytokines. It is therefore conceivable that along with hypnosis, meditation, prayer, guided imagery, biofeedback, and the placebo effect, the systemic anti-inflammatory actions of traditional and electro-acupuncture are directly or indirectly mediated by the efferent vagus nerve activation and inflammatory macrophage deactivation. In view of this common physiological mediation, assessing the clinical efficacy of a specific acupuncture regimen using conventional double-blind placebo-controlled trials inherently lacks objectivity due to (1) the uncertainty of ancient rules for needle placement, (2) the diffuse noxious inhibitory control triggered by control-needling at irrelevant points, (3) the possibility of a dose-response relationship between stimulation and effects, and (4) the possibility of inadequate blinding using an inert sham procedure. A more objective assessment of its efficacy could perhaps consist of measuring its effects on the surrogate markers of autonomic tone and inflammation. The use of acupuncture as an adjunct therapy to conventional medical treatment for a number of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases seems plausible and should be validated by confirming its cholinergicity. |
Publication | Integr Cancer Ther |
Volume | 6 |
Issue | 3 |
Pages | 251-257 |
Date | September 1, 2007 |
DOI | 10.1177/1534735407305892 |
URL | http://ict.sagepub.com/cgi/content/abstract/6/3/251 |
Accessed | Fri Sep 4 13:55:40 2009 |
Library Catalog | Sage Journals Online |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
This review article presents the evidence that the antiinflammatory actions of acupuncture are mediated via the reflexive central inhibition of the innate immune system.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Kyung Bong Koh |
Author | Young-Joon Lee |
Author | Keyng Min Beyn |
Author | Sang Hee Chu |
Author | Duck Man Kim |
Abstract | The counter-stress effects of relaxation on proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were examined. From 36 medical students, 18 were randomly assigned to the relaxation group, and 18 were randomly assigned to the non-relaxation group. Relaxation lasted for four weeks. The levels of stimulated production of IL-6, TNF-alpha, and IL-10, and blood pressure were measured during the non-examination period (baseline period) and the pre-examination period (stress period). The levels of perceived stress were assessed by the Global Assessment of Recent Stress (GARS) scale, the Stress Response Inventory (SRI) and the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) anxiety subscale. Repeat measure ANOVA revealed that the SRI total score, scores of the SCL-90-R anxiety subscale and diastolic blood pressure were significantly higher during the stress period than during the baseline period regardless of groups. The level of IL-6 production was significantly lower but the level of IL-10 production was significantly higher during the stress period than during the baseline period. Significant reduction in the delta (stress period value minus baseline period value) in the total GARS score, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, the levels of IL-6 and TNF-alpha production but significant enhancement in the delta in the level of the IL-10 production were found in the relaxation group compared with the non-relaxation group. These results suggest that relaxation is associated with reduction in stress-induced psychological or physiological responses and proinflammatory cytokine alterations but with enhancement in stress-induced anti-inflammatory cytokine alteration. Therefore, relaxation is more likely to have counter-stress effect on proinflammatory cytokines than on anti-inflammatory cytokine. |
Publication | Brain, Behavior, and Immunity |
Volume | 22 |
Issue | 8 |
Pages | 1130-1137 |
Date | November 2008 |
Journal Abbr | Brain Behav. Immun |
DOI | 10.1016/j.bbi.2008.06.009 |
ISSN | 1090-2139 |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18639628 |
Accessed | Fri Sep 4 14:02:30 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 18639628 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
The counter-stress effects of relaxation on proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were examined. The results suggest that relaxation is associated with reduction in stress-induced psychological or physiological responses and proinflammatory cytokine alterations but with enhancement in stress-induced anti-inflammatory cytokine alteration
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Kathleen A Lawler |
Author | Jarred W Younger |
Author | Rachel L Piferi |
Author | Rebecca L Jobe |
Author | Kimberley A Edmondson |
Author | Warren H Jones |
Abstract | The relationship of forgiveness, both state and trait, to health was assessed. Eighty-one community adults completed a packet of questionnaires and participated in a laboratory interview about a time of hurt or betrayal. Heart rate and blood pressure were recorded during a 10 min baseline, the interview and during a recovery period; interviews were structured around a framework of questions and videotaped. Four measures of forgiveness were all statistically associated with five measures of health (physical symptoms, medications used, sleep quality, fatigue, and somatic complaints). Trait forgiveness was associated with decreased reactivity (rate-pressure product) to the interview, but sympathetic reactivity did not account for the trait forgiveness-health association. Four mechanisms or pathways by which forgiveness could lead to fewer physical symptoms were examined: spirituality, social skills, reduction in negative affect, and reduction in stress. All factors either partially or fully mediated the effect of forgiveness on health; however, the strongest mediator for both state and trait forgiveness was reduction in negative affect. For state forgiveness, the second strongest mediator was reduction in stress; for trait forgiveness, both conflict management and reduction in stress were strong contributors. |
Publication | Journal of Behavioral Medicine |
Volume | 28 |
Issue | 2 |
Pages | 157-167 |
Date | Apr 2005 |
Journal Abbr | J Behav Med |
ISSN | 0160-7715 |
Short Title | The unique effects of forgiveness on health |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15957571 |
Accessed | Fri Nov 13 15:13:36 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 15957571 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
The relationship of forgiveness, both state and trait, to health was assessed. Eighty-one community adults completed a packet of questionnaires and participated in a laboratory interview about a time of hurt or betrayal. The strongest mediator for both state and trait forgiveness was reduction in negative affect.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Jeff Levin |
Abstract | This article provides an overview of both empirical research and conceptual and theoretical approaches bearing on the connection between spirituality and health. Special emphasis is placed on key epidemiologic concepts that are typically overlooked or misinterpreted in discussions of religious and spiritual factors in health and healing. These include the natural history of disease, the epidemiologic triangle, the levels of prevention, risk factors, protection, salutogenesis, and host resistance. After reviewing research evidence of both a protective factor for health and therapeutic factor in healing attributed to religiousness, faith, or spirituality, a typology is proposed which classifies potentially salutogenic mechanisms underlying such effects. This model differentiates among biological, psychosocial, bioenergy-based, nonlocal, and supernatural pathways. Finally, the clinical and scientific implications of this work is described. |
Publication | Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine |
Volume | 9 |
Issue | 6 |
Pages | 48-57 |
Date | 2003 Nov-Dec |
Journal Abbr | Altern Ther Health Med |
ISSN | 1078-6791 |
Short Title | Spiritual determinants of health and healing |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14618858 |
Accessed | Thu Nov 12 23:32:57 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 14618858 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
The summary finding of a protective religious effect on morbidity is examined in terms of three important epidemiologic concepts: the natural history of disease, salutogenesis and host resistance.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Jeff Levin |
Abstract | This paper summarizes theoretical perspectives from psychology supportive of a healing effect of faith. First, faith is defined as a congruence of belief, trust, and obedience in relation to God or the divine. Second, evidence for a faith-healing association is presented, empirically and in theory. To exemplify religiously sanctioned affirmation of such a connection, selected passages are cited from the Jewish canon attesting to biblical and rabbinic support for a faith factor in longevity, disease risk, mental health and well-being, disease prevention, and healing. Third, reference to theories of hope, learned optimism, positive illusions, and opening up or disclosure, and to theory and research on psychoneuroimmunology and placebos, demonstrates that contemporary psychology can accommodate a healing power of faith. This is summarized in a typology of five hypothesized mechanisms underlying a faith-healing association, termed behavioral/conative, interpersonal, cognitive, affective, and psychophysiological. Finally, implications are discussed for the rapprochement of religion and medicine. |
Publication | Explore (New York, N.Y.) |
Volume | 5 |
Issue | 2 |
Pages | 77-96 |
Date | 2009 Mar-Apr |
Journal Abbr | Explore (NY) |
DOI | 10.1016/j.explore.2008.12.003 |
ISSN | 1550-8307 |
Short Title | How faith heals |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19272579 |
Accessed | Fri Nov 13 19:55:03 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 19272579 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
After reviewing research evidence of both a protective factor for health and therapeutic factor in healing attributed to religiousness, faith, or spirituality, a typology is proposed which classifies potentially salutogenic mechanisms underlying such effects. This model differentiates among biological, psychosocial, bioenergy-based, nonlocal, and supernatural pathways.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Jeffrey Levin |
Abstract | This paper surveys the field that has come to be known as the epidemiology of religion. Epidemiologic study of the impact of religious involvement, broadly defined, has become increasingly popular in recent years, although the existence, meaning and implications of an apparently salutary religious effect on health have not yet been interpreted in an epidemiologic context. This paper attempts to remedy this situation by putting the “epidemiology” into the epidemiology of religion through discussion of existing empirical findings in terms of several substantive epidemiologic concepts. After first providing an overview of key research findings and prior reviews of this field, the summary finding of a protective religious effect on morbidity is examined in terms of three important epidemiologic concepts: the natural history of disease, salutogenesis and host resistance. In addition to describing a theoretical basis for interpreting a religion-health association, this paper provides an enumeration of common misinterpretations of epidemiologic findings for religious involvement, as well as an outline of hypothesized pathways, mediating factors, and salutogenic mechanisms for respective religious dimensions. It is hoped that these reflections will serve both to elevate the status of religion as a construct worthy of social-epidemiologic research and to reinvigorate the field of social epidemiology. |
Publication | Social Science & Medicine |
Volume | 43 |
Issue | 5 |
Pages | 849-864 |
Date | Sept. 1996 |
DOI | 10.1016/0277-9536(96)00150-5 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
This paper summarizes theoretical perspectives from psychology supportive of a healing effect of faith.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Jeff Levin |
Abstract | This paper summarizes theoretical perspectives from psychology supportive of a healing effect of faith. First, faith is defined as a congruence of belief, trust, and obedience in relation to God or the divine. Second, evidence for a faith-healing association is presented, empirically and in theory. To exemplify religiously sanctioned affirmation of such a connection, selected passages are cited from the Jewish canon attesting to biblical and rabbinic support for a faith factor in longevity, disease risk, mental health and well-being, disease prevention, and healing. Third, reference to theories of hope, learned optimism, positive illusions, and opening up or disclosure, and to theory and research on psychoneuroimmunology and placebos, demonstrates that contemporary psychology can accommodate a healing power of faith. This is summarized in a typology of five hypothesized mechanisms underlying a faith-healing association, termed behavioral/conative, interpersonal, cognitive, affective, and psychophysiological. Finally, implications are discussed for the rapprochement of religion and medicine. |
Publication | Explore (New York, N.Y.) |
Volume | 5 |
Issue | 2 |
Pages | 77-96 |
Date | 2009 Mar-Apr |
Journal Abbr | Explore (NY) |
DOI | 10.1016/j.explore.2008.12.003 |
ISSN | 1550-8307 |
Short Title | How faith heals |
Accessed | Tue Feb 22 19:38:47 2011 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 19272579 |
Date Added | Thu Sep 29 09:07:00 2011 |
Modified | Thu Sep 29 09:07:00 2011 |
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Jeffrey S. Levin |
Author | Kyriakos S. Markides |
Abstract | Epidemiologists often correlate religious attendance with a variety of health outcomes and claim that religion represents a protective factor with respect to health. However, these analyses are typically zero-order (i.e., uncontrolled) and thus fail to address the possibility that partialling out the effects of potential explanatory variables might reduce such associations to insignificance. Using a three-generations sample of Mexican American Catholics, the authors regress subjective health onto religious attendance, alternatively controlling for four such variables: social support, physical capacity, social class, and subjective religiosity. Among both older and younger women, significant zero-order associations are explained away by removing the effects of physical capacity. These findings lend empirical support to theoretical work in social gerontology which suggests that religious attendance may represent a proxy for functional health, especially in older people. |
Publication | Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion |
Volume | 25 |
Issue | 1 |
Pages | 31-40 |
Date | Mar., 1986 |
ISSN | 00218294 |
URL | http://www.jstor.org.ezproxy.bu.edu/stable/1386061 |
Accessed | Fri Sep 25 13:01:08 2009 |
Library Catalog | JSTOR |
Extra | ArticleType: primary_article / Full publication date: Mar., 1986 / Copyright © 1986 Society for the Scientific Study of Religion |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Culturally specific, causal link, or geriatrics?
Religious attendance may represent a proxy for functional health, especially in older people.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Quan-Zhen Li |
Author | Ping Li |
Author | Gabriela E Garcia |
Author | Richard J Johnson |
Author | Lili Feng |
Abstract | BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The great similarity of the genomes of humans and other species stimulated us to search for genes regulated by elements associated with human uniqueness, such as the mind-body interaction. DNA microarray technology offers the advantage of analyzing thousands of genes simultaneously, with the potential to determine healthy phenotypic changes in gene expression. The aim of this study was to determine the genomic profile and function of neutrophils in Falun Gong (FLG, an ancient Chinese Qigong) practitioners, with healthy subjects as controls. SUBJECTS AND DESIGN: Six (6) Asian FLG practitioners and 6 Asian normal healthy controls were recruited for our study. The practitioners have practiced FLG for at least 1 year (range, 1-5 years). The practice includes daily reading of FLG books and daily practice of exercises lasting 1-2 hours. Selected normal healthy controls did not perform Qigong, yoga, t'ai chi, or any other type of mind-body practice, and had not followed any conventional physical exercise program for at least 1 year. Neutrophils were isolated from fresh blood and assayed for gene expression, using microarrays and RNase protection assay (RPA), as well as for function (phagocytosis) and survival (apoptosis). RESULTS: The changes in gene expression of FLG practitioners in contrast to normal healthy controls were characterized by enhanced immunity, downregulation of cellular metabolism, and alteration of apoptotic genes in favor of a rapid resolution of inflammation. The lifespan of normal neutrophils was prolonged, while the inflammatory neutrophils displayed accelerated cell death in FLG practitioners as determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Correlating with enhanced immunity reflected by microarray data, neutrophil phagocytosis was significantly increased in Qigong practitioners. Some of the altered genes observed by microarray were confirmed by RPA. CONCLUSION: Qigong practice may regulate immunity, metabolic rate, and cell death, possibly at the transcriptional level. Our pilot study provides the first evidence that Qigong practice may exert transcriptional regulation at a genomic level. New approaches are needed to study how genes are regulated by elements associated with human uniqueness, such as consciousness, cognition, and spirituality. |
Publication | Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.) |
Volume | 11 |
Issue | 1 |
Pages | 29-39 |
Date | Feb 2005 |
Journal Abbr | J Altern Complement Med |
DOI | 10.1089/acm.2005.11.29 |
ISSN | 1075-5535 |
Short Title | Genomic profiling of neutrophil transcripts in Asian Qigong practitioners |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15750361 |
Accessed | Fri Nov 13 14:24:31 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 15750361 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Qigong practice may regulate immunity, metabolic rate, and cell death, possibly at the transcriptional level. Our pilot study provides the first evidence that Qigong practice may exert transcriptional regulation at a genomic level.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Richard W. Maxwell |
Abstract | Chakras are a basic concept of yoga but typically are ignored by scientific research on yoga, probably because descriptions of chakras can appear like a fanciful mythology. Chakras are commonly considered to be centers of concentrated metaphysical energy. Although clear physiological effects exist for yoga practices, no explanation of how chakras influence physiological function has been broadly accepted either in the scientific community or among yoga scholars. This problem is exacerbated by the fact that yoga is based on subjective experience, and practitioners often shun objective descriptions. This essay builds on earlier work hypothesizing that intercellular gap junction connections provide a physiological mechanism underlying subtle energy systems described in yoga as well as other disciplines such as acupuncture. Three physical aspects of chakras are distinguished that are integrated through gap junction mechanisms and are proposed to have arisen during embryological development. Furthermore, electrical conductance associated with a high concentration of gap junctions could generate phenomena that, when subjectively experienced, have the radiant qualities attributed to chakras. This theory provides a scientific rationale for previously unexplained details of chakra theory and offers a new orientation to conceptualizing and studying such subjective phenomena. |
Publication | Zygon |
Volume | 44 |
Issue | 4 |
Pages | 807-824 |
Date | December 2009 |
DOI | 10.1111/j.1467-9744.2009.01035.x |
URL | http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9744.2009.01035.x |
Accessed | Sat Nov 28 08:27:37 2009 |
Library Catalog | Wiley InterScience |
Date Added | Thu Sep 29 09:05:21 2011 |
Modified | Thu Sep 29 09:05:21 2011 |
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Kelley Raab Mayo |
Abstract | Research in neurobiology supports use of spiritual techniques as a beneficial treatment for anxiety. Psychotherapy, including mindfulness CBT and meditation, has been shown to change brain structure. The amygdala-the brain structure responsible for processing emotion and anxiety-demonstrates plasticity, and the purpose of therapy may be to allow the cortex to establish more effective and efficient synaptic links with the amygdala. A main feature of spiritual approaches is changing one's focus of attention. Instead of worry, one focuses on peaceful thoughts, thoughts of helping others, etc. Research demonstrates that thought, meditation, and other manifestations of mind can alter the brain, sometimes in an enduring way. Few studies have addressed the neurobiological underpinnings of meditation. Limited evidence, however, suggests that brain changes occur during prolonged meditation and that meditation activates neural structures involved in attention and control of the autonomic nervous system. |
Publication | Journal of Health Care Chaplaincy |
Volume | 16 |
Issue | 1 |
Pages | 53-57 |
Date | Jan 2009 |
Journal Abbr | J Health Care Chaplain |
DOI | 10.1080/08854720903451055 |
ISSN | 1528-6916 |
Short Title | Support from neurobiology for spiritual techniques for anxiety |
Accessed | Thu Mar 4 08:45:44 2010 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 20183113 |
Date Added | Thu Sep 29 09:04:35 2011 |
Modified | Thu Sep 29 09:04:35 2011 |
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | L McEnvoy |
Author | G Land |
Abstract | Members of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (RLDS) are dissuaded from the use of tobacco, alcohol, and hot drinks. A well-balanced diet is also stressed. This study compares the 1972-78 mortality experience of the Missouri RLDS with three other population groups. The findings show Missouri RLDS experiencing age-adjusted death rates which are 22.6 percent lower than rates for Missouri non-RLDs whites; 19.6 per cent lower than the non-RLDS of Independence, Missouri; and 14.4 per cent lower than Utah residents. The RLDS display lower death rates than the two Missouri comparison groups for each of seven selected causes-particularly lung cancer, pneumonia/influenza, and violent deaths. Comparisons between the Missouri RLDS and Utah residents show an inconsistent pattern, with Utah residents having non-significantly lower death rates for lung cancer and ischemic heart disease, but with the Missouri RLDS having significantly lower rates for pneumonia/influenza and violent deaths. These inconsistencies are of interest because 72 per cent of Utah's population belong to the Mormon Church which advocates life-styles similar to the RLDS. If these disparate mortality patterns persist under a more direct comparison between the Missouri RLDS and Utah Mormons, they could provide the opportunity to assess the impact of similar life-styles in separate settings. |
Publication | American Journal of Public Health |
Volume | 71 |
Pages | 1350-1357 |
Date | 1981 |
ISSN | 0090-0036 |
URL | http://www.ophsource.org/periodicals/ophtha/medline/record/MDLN.7316000 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Missouri RLDS experiencing age-adjusted death rates which are 22.6 percent lower than rates for Missouri non-RLDs whites; 19.6 per cent lower than the non-RLDS of Independence, Missouri; and 14.4 per cent lower than Utah residents. These results may be mediated by religious behavioral pre- and proscriptions.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Mahyar Mofidi |
Author | Robert F DeVellis |
Author | Brenda M DeVellis |
Author | Dan G Blazer |
Author | A T Panter |
Author | Joanne M Jordan |
Abstract | Although many studies suggest lower rates of depressive symptoms in those who report greater spirituality, few have investigated the mechanisms by which spirituality might relate to depressive symptoms. The current study aimed to elucidate potential psychosocial mechanisms that link these 2 variables. Data were drawn from a community-dwelling stratified sample of 630 racially diverse adults in rural North Carolina. Spirituality was assessed by 6 items of the Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale. Depressive symptoms were measured using 4 subscales from the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression. Hypothesized mediators were optimism, volunteering, and perceived social support. Structural equation modeling was used to test whether proposed mediators explain a link between spirituality and depressive symptoms. The model demonstrated a satisfactory fit. Spirituality was indirectly related to depressive symptoms. More specifically, spirituality was significantly associated with optimism and volunteering but not with social support, and optimism, volunteering and perceived social support were significantly associated with depressive symptoms. The link between spirituality and depressive symptoms is indirect. The relationship is mediated by optimism, volunteering, and social support. Findings present research and practice implications. |
Publication | The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease |
Volume | 195 |
Issue | 8 |
Pages | 681-688 |
Date | Aug 2007 |
Journal Abbr | J. Nerv. Ment. Dis |
DOI | 10.1097/NMD.0b013e31811f4038 |
ISSN | 0022-3018 |
Short Title | The relationship between spirituality and depressive symptoms |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17700301 |
Accessed | Fri Nov 13 17:53:18 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 17700301 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
The link between spirituality and depressive symptoms is indirect. The relationship is mediated by optimism, volunteering, and social support.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Marc A. Musick |
Author | James S. House |
Author | David R. Williams |
Abstract | Research and theory increasingly suggest that attendance at religious services is protective against premature mortality. However, prior studies are limited and do not extensively explore potential explanations for the relationship, especially in terms of religious beliefs and behaviors associated with service attendance. This study estimates the impact of service attendance on mortality in a national probability sample and provides the most extensive empirical examination of potential explanations. Individuals who report attending religious services once a month or more (just over 50 percent of the population) have a 30-35 percent reduced risk of death over a 7.5 year follow-up period after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Consistent with prior research, 20-30 percent of this effect may be explained by better health behaviors (especially physical activity) among regular service attendees. Surprisingly, other religious beliefs and behaviors do not explain, and often tend to suppress, the association between service attendance and mortality. |
Publication | Journal of Health and Social Behavior |
Volume | 45 |
Issue | 2 |
Pages | 198-213 |
Date | June 2004 |
ISSN | 00221465 |
URL | http://www.jstor.org/stable/3653839 |
Accessed | Mon Sep 7 13:44:31 2009 |
Library Catalog | JSTOR |
Extra | ArticleType: primary_article / Full publication date: Jun., 2004 / Copyright © 2004 American Sociological Association |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Research and theory increasingly suggest that attendance at religious services is protective against premature mortality. 20-30 percent of this effect may be explained by better health behaviors (especially physical activity) among regular service attendees. Surprisingly, other religious beliefs and behaviors do not explain, and often tend to suppress, the association between service attendance and mortality.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Crystal L Park |
Abstract | The existence of links between religion and spirituality (R/S) and health appear to be firmly established, but much less is known about how these various aspects of R/S are translated into health outcomes. Within a meaning systems framework, this article reviews and integrates findings regarding the many pathways through which R/S may influence physical health and well-being. In particular, evidence for the pathways of body sanctification, meaning in life, social support, health locus of control, health behaviors, positive and negative affect and stress moderation, treatment adherence, and coping is examined. The article concludes with suggestions for future research. |
Publication | Journal of Behavioral Medicine |
Volume | 30 |
Issue | 4 |
Pages | 319-328 |
Date | Aug 2007 |
Journal Abbr | J Behav Med |
DOI | 10.1007/s10865-007-9111-x |
ISSN | 0160-7715 |
Short Title | Religiousness/spirituality and health |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17522971 |
Accessed | Fri Nov 13 17:44:43 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 17522971 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
This article reviews and integrates findings regarding the many pathways through which R/S may influence physical health and well-being. In particular, evidence for the pathways of body sanctification, meaning in life, social support, health locus of control, health behaviors, positive and negative affect and stress moderation, treatment adherence, and coping is examined.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Teresa E Seeman |
Author | Linda Fagan Dubin |
Author | Melvin Seeman |
Abstract | The authors review evidence regarding the biological processes that may link religiosity/spirituality to health. A growing body of observational evidence supports the hypothesis that links religiosity/spirituality to physiological processes. Although much of the earliest evidence came from cross-sectional studies with questionable generalizability and potential confounding, more recent research, with more representative samples and multivariate analysis, provides stronger evidence linking Judeo-Christian religious practices to blood pressure and immune function. The strongest evidence comes from randomized interventional trials reporting the beneficial physiological impact of meditation (primarily transcendental meditation). Overall, available evidence is generally consistent with the hypothesis that religiosity/spirituality is linked to health-related physiological processes--including cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, and immune function--althogh more solid evidence is needed. |
Publication | The American Psychologist |
Volume | 58 |
Issue | 1 |
Pages | 53-63 |
Date | Jan 2003 |
Journal Abbr | Am Psychol |
ISSN | 0003-066X |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12674818 |
Accessed | Thu Nov 12 23:18:56 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 12674818 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
The authors review evidence regarding the biological processes that may link religiosity/spirituality to health. Available evidence is generally consistent with the hypothesis that religiosity/spirituality is linked to health-related physiological processes--including cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, and immune function.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Kevin S Seybold |
Abstract | During the last two decades of the 20th century, psychological science rediscovered religiosity/spirituality (R/S) as a legitimate subject matter in understanding the human experience. In large measure, this renewed interest was motivated by the positive association between this variable and health (physical and mental) reported in much of the literature. If the described relationship between R/S and health is accurate, the question of how such an influence might be realized becomes important and subject to empirical investigation. The present paper develops a rationale for why such an outcome might be expected and describes various physiological mechanisms that could mediate the effect of R/S on health. |
Publication | Journal of Behavioral Medicine |
Volume | 30 |
Issue | 4 |
Pages | 303-309 |
Date | Aug 2007 |
Journal Abbr | J Behav Med |
DOI | 10.1007/s10865-007-9115-6 |
ISSN | 0160-7715 |
URL | http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17549618 |
Accessed | Fri Nov 13 17:45:33 2009 |
Library Catalog | NCBI PubMed |
Extra | PMID: 17549618 |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
If the described relationship between R/S and health is accurate, the question of how such an influence might be realized becomes important and subject to empirical investigation. The present paper develops a rationale for why such an outcome might be expected and describes various physiological mechanisms that could mediate the effect of R/S on health.
Type | Journal Article |
---|---|
Author | Kevin S. Seybold |
Author | Peter C. Hill |
Abstract | An increased interest in the effects of religion and spirituality on health is apparent in the psychological and medical literature. Although religion in particular was thought, in the past, to have a predominantly negative influence on health, recent research suggests this relationship is more complex. This article reviews the literature on the impact of religion and spirituality on physical and mental health, concluding that the influence is largely beneficial. Mechanisms for the positive effect of religion and spirituality are proposed. |
Publication | Current Directions in Psychological Science |
Volume | 10 |
Issue | 1 |
Pages | 21-24 |
Date | Feb., 2001 |
ISSN | 09637214 |
URL | http://www.jstor.org/stable/20182684 |
Accessed | Mon Sep 7 13:43:29 2009 |
Library Catalog | JSTOR |
Extra | ArticleType: primary_article / Full publication date: Feb., 2001 / Copyright © 2001 Association for Psychological Science |
Date Added | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
Modified | Sat Oct 1 16:55:15 2011 |
This article reviews the literature on the impact of religion and spirituality on physical and mental health, concluding that the influence is largely beneficial. Mechanisms for the positive effect of religion and spirituality are proposed.