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Religion, Spirituality, and Positive Psychology: Strengthening Well-Being

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Perspectives on the Intersection of Multiculturalism and Positive Psychology

Part of the book series: Cross-Cultural Advancements in Positive Psychology ((CAPP,volume 7))

Abstract

Attitudes toward religion have long been highly polarized, particularly within the field of psychology, with many individuals viewing religion as either a solely constructive or destructive force. However, the increasing integration of religion and spirituality into psychological research and clinical practice has offered evidence that the picture is more complicated and that both positive and negative aspects are vital to a discussion of this topic. Aided in part by positive psychology topics such as hope, forgiveness, gratitude, humility, resilience, and compassion, the field of the psychology of religion and spirituality has in recent years achieved a more balanced and nuanced approach to the role religion/spirituality can play in people’s overall well-being and functioning. This chapter asserts that whether or not religion and spirituality serve primarily as a positive or negative force in people’s lives depends largely on the kind of religion and the ways in which the individual interacts with and expresses that religion. We use a broad definition of religion and spirituality, focusing on their commonalities rather than their differences. In this way, we hope maintain a focus on the conversation at hand: religion/spirituality at its best, at its worst, and how religion/spirituality can be utilized to enhance social, psychological, physical, material, and spiritual well-being among diverse populations.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Psychology Department, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH, 43403, USA

    Melissa D. Falb M.A. & Kenneth I. Pargament Ph.D.

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  1. Melissa D. Falb M.A.
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  2. Kenneth I. Pargament Ph.D.
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Correspondence to Melissa D. Falb M.A. .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology & Child Development, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California, USA

    Jennifer Teramoto Pedrotti

  2. Department of Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

    Lisa M. Edwards

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Falb, M.D., Pargament, K.I. (2014). Religion, Spirituality, and Positive Psychology: Strengthening Well-Being. In: Teramoto Pedrotti, J., Edwards, L. (eds) Perspectives on the Intersection of Multiculturalism and Positive Psychology. Cross-Cultural Advancements in Positive Psychology, vol 7. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-8654-6_10

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