Articles tagged with Religion
Experts analyze a study finding that religious involvement has the largest impact on early adolescent self-esteem. They caution against overlooking practical implications and highlight limitations of the study's explanations.
A study by Duke University Medical Center found that feelings of abandonment, punishment, and alienation from God can increase mortality risk among the elderly. The research highlights the need for spiritual assessment and pastoral interventions to address chronic religious struggles in patients with major medical illnesses.
A new study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that African-Americans who report higher levels of religious belief have lower blood pressure. The study measured blood pressure and 'religious coping' in 155 participants and found a significant relationship between the two, with African-Americans experiencing lower blood pressure.
A study of 558 students and professionals found that religious individuals value interdependence with others, whereas non-religious people prioritize self-reliance. This contradicts common criticisms that religious dependence is a sign of weakness.
A recent Purdue University study discovered that parents' influence on their children's religious beliefs is largely shaped by verbal communication rather than actual practice. The research found that students who had open discussions with their parents about religious beliefs were more likely to accurately perceive their parents' views.
Research at Ohio State University found that Americans' trust in individuals has declined by about 10% between 1975 and 1994, with a decline of half a percent per year. Despite this, trust in institutions such as government, religion, and education remained stable, and people maintained their involvement in clubs and organizations.
A study of nearly 4,000 elderly North Carolinians found that frequent religious attenders were 46% less likely to die over a six-year period. They also experienced greater social support and reported better mental health, which may contribute to lower mortality rates.
A team of scientists from Columbia University warns against incorporating spiritual interventions into medical practice due to methodological flaws in studies. Despite acknowledging comfort provided by religious activities, they argue that these should not be promoted as a means to improve health.
Research suggests high levels of religious involvement are associated with better health status, likely due to behaviors such as increased social support, positive self-image, and healthy lifestyle choices. Regular church attendance also contributes to better mammography screening status.
Genetics professor John Avise's book, The Genetic Gods, examines how genetic discoveries are shaping our understanding of human life, including spirituality. The book argues that genes have a significant influence on human affairs, challenging traditional views of the supernatural.
A new study reveals that religious grandparents develop and maintain stronger relationships with their grandchildren compared to non-religious grandparents. The research found that religious observance is associated with greater involvement in family and social ties, which may be a key factor in grandparent-grandchild relationships.
Dr. Daniel B. Lee's research suggests that rituals, not common beliefs, provide social glue for religious communities. This is evident in the Weaverland Mennonites' case study, where symbols and rituals sustain unity despite individual members having fluid and unstructured religious beliefs.
A study by Harold G. Koenig and colleagues found a significant connection between regular church attendance, Bible study, and lower blood pressure in older adults. The research, published in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine, suggests that practicing religion in traditional ways may have health benefits.
A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that older patients with high levels of intrinsic religiosity recovered faster from depression than those with low levels. The study, led by Dr. Harold Koenig, discovered a significant correlation between higher religiosity and faster recovery times.
Americans have gained almost five hours of free time per week since the 1960s, with women doing more household chores. This extra time is often used for television viewing and other leisure activities, yet many people feel rushed and stressed despite having more free time.