Citation

Westerfield CM, Doolittle BR. J. Relig. Health 2021; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Academy of Religion and Mental Health, Publisher Holtzbrinck Springer Nature Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1007/s10943-021-01416-1

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

One-third of all children worldwide experience trauma. This includes domestic violence, serious illness, physical or mental abuse, and death of a parent, among other traumatic experiences. Children who experience trauma are more likely to experience other mental health disorders and often reject the religious and spiritual institutions of their upbringing. While cognitive-based therapy and other traditional psychological methods are crucial to the care of these children, incorporating their spirituality can be a helpful adjunct for their healing. Further, religious communities can play a critical role in reintroducing healthy forms of relationship building and community attentiveness, while providing a safe environment for coping.

Language: en

Keywords

Religion; Childhood trauma; Healing; Spirituality