Belief and subjective well-being in outpatients

Journal/Book: J Relig Health. 1999; 38: 233 Spring St, New York, NY 10013-1578, USA. Kluwer Academic-Human Sciences Press. 219-228.

Abstract: Background. The purpose of this study was twofold: to test the hypothesis that religious and spiritual beliefs provide medical outpatients with a system of meaning and existential understanding, and to seek to determine some elements that constitute the domain of spiritual and religious beliefs as they relate to subjective well-being. Methods. The Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS) questionnaire was administered to a convenience sample of adult outpatients. Results. Patients agreed, strongly to moderately, with statements that had a direct reference to God having a significant influence (cares about me, concerned about my problems, contributes to my sense of well-being) on the daily life of the respondent. Conclusion. Religious and spiritual beliefs provide medical outpatients with a system of meaning and existential understanding. Outpatients identified with more cognitive rather than affective perceptions of well-being, in addition to a conceptualization of what a loving God may mean.

Note: Article Daaleman TP, Univ Kansas, Med Ctr, Sch Med, Dept Family Med, Kansas City,KS 66103 USA

Keyword(s): HEALTH; RELIGION; SCALE; LIFE

Zurück | Weiter