Rola religijności w procesie radzenia sobie ze stresem. Perspektywa psychologiczna

Abstract

The article is an attempt to elaborate and analyze effects of religious activities in coping processes. In coming to terms with various traumatic and tragic events, people try to draw on a number of resources which are available in their life. Some of the resources can be related to psychosocial factors, while others can grow out of religion. Several examples of research suggest that religion is more than a simple defensive mechanism. Instead, religion appears to be linked theoretically and empirically to a wide variety of functions in coping that surpass anxiety reduction. Studies also indicate that religion is not generally connected with the blanket denial of the situation, but it encourages individuals to actively face up to difficult situations. The results of studies conducted by K.I. Pargament reveal that religious coping can be helpful or harmful, depending upon the particular type of religious coping strategy employed. In general, religious coping methods can be grouped into two wide overarching categories: positive and negative religious coping. Positive religious coping styles relate to secure relationships with God and a sense of spiritual connectedness with others. They tend to be more beneficial for people who experience stressful events. Negative religious coping styles reveal insecure relationships with God and strains between individuals, and as research indicates they are usually maladaptive. The article presents particular religious coping styles and discusses their psychological outcomes. A very promising area for future research on religious coping is found within a conceptual framework of meaning systems. Meaning is central to human existence, and is imbued both in religion and coping. Religion as a meaning system influences psychological resources when an individual encounters stressful situations. A conceptual model of coping developed by C.L. Park is presented and religion as a meaning system is defined. Drawing on this model, theory and research results reflecting various roles played by religion as a meaning system in the coping process are provided. The article finishes with conclusions summarizing multifaceted relations between religion and coping. Suggestions for future research are also discussed.