Work

Healthcare Engagement as a Potential Source of Psychological Distress among People without Religious Beliefs: A Systematic Review

Year: 2017

Type: review

Abstract: Research into religion and mental health is increasing, but nonbelievers in terms of religion are often overlooked. Research has shown that nonbelievers experience various forms of psychological distress and that the negative perception of nonbelievers by others is a potential source of distress. This review builds on that research by identifying another potential source of psychological distress for nonbelievers: engagement with the healthcare system. Poor understanding of nonbelievers by healthcare professionals may lead to impaired communication in the healthcare setting, resulting in distress. Attempts by nonbelievers to avoid distress may result in different patterns of healthcare utilization. Awareness of these concerns may help healthcare providers to minimize distress among their nonbelieving patients.

Source: Healthcare

DOI: 10.3390/healthcare5020019

Authors: Samuel Weber, James Lomax, Kenneth Pargament

Institutions: Intermountain Healthcare, Baylor College of Medicine, Bowling Green State University

Language: English

Topic: Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258