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Brewer M, Clifton T. Religious affiliation and women's receipt of person-centered contraceptive care: Findings from the National Survey of Family Growth, 2017-2019. Contraception 2023; 127:110097. [PMID: 37343615 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2023.110097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess patient ratings of person-centered contraceptive care among women of different religious affiliations in the United States. STUDY DESIGN Data from the 2017-2019 National Survey of Family Growth and a sample of female respondents ages 15-49 years who received contraceptive services in the past year and completed the Person-Centered Contraceptive Counseling scale (N = 2226). RESULTS Catholic and Protestant women had higher odds of reporting overall person-centered contraceptive care (odds ratio [OR] = 1.77, OR = 1.54) compared to respondents without a religious affiliation and net sociodemographic characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Women's experiences with person-centered contraceptive care differ based on their religious affiliation. IMPLICATIONS Advancing research on the barriers to person-centered contraceptive care is essential for providing quality health care and reproductive autonomy. This analysis suggests that researchers and clinicians should consider how patient religious affiliation shapes patient-provider encounters and patient experiences of person-centered care to promote quality, equitable family planning care.
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Moszka N, Aarabi G, Lieske B, König HH, Kretzler B, Zwar L, Hajek A. Religious affiliation and oral health-related quality of life: a cross-sectional study based on a nationally representative survey in Germany. BMC Oral Health 2023; 23:586. [PMID: 37612607 PMCID: PMC10463515 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-023-03265-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown an association between a person's religiosity, and physical as well as psychological, health status. However, results differ between certain religious affiliations. While good oral health is important for our overall health and wellbeing, research on religious affiliation and oral health status, specifically oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), is lacking. Thus, our aim was to investigate the association between religious affiliation and OHRQoL. METHODS A nationally representative online survey (n = 3,075 individuals) was conducted in August/September 2021. The mean age was 44.5 years (SD: 14.8 years, 18 to 70 years) and 51.1% of the individuals were female. OHRQoL was measured using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-G5). Religious affiliation served as key explanatory variable. Several covariates were included in regression analyses. RESULTS Regressions revealed that compared to individuals with no religious affiliation, individuals belonging to Christianity had poorer OHRQoL (β = 0.31, p < 0.01), individuals belonging to Islam had poorer OHRQoL (β = 2.62, p < 0.01) and individuals belonging to another religious affiliation also had poorer OHRQoL (β = 1.89, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated an association between religious affiliation and OHRQoL. Individuals with specific religious affiliations should be addressed to avoid low OHRQoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Moszka
- Department of Periodontics, Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, Center for Dental and Oral Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ghazal Aarabi
- Department of Periodontics, Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, Center for Dental and Oral Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Berit Lieske
- Department of Periodontics, Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, Center for Dental and Oral Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Benedikt Kretzler
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Larissa Zwar
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - André Hajek
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, Hamburg, Germany.
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Kopel J. The Influence of Religious Affiliation and Attitudes of Clinical Genetic Testing Among Medical Students in the West Texas Region. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect 2023; 13:109-112. [PMID: 37868246 PMCID: PMC10589017 DOI: 10.55729/2000-9666.1212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Genetic counseling is an essential and pertinent field in any society to lower the prevalence of hereditary disorders. However, the desire to undergo counseling and genetic testing varies widely depending on the cultural background and level of scientific literacy of the individual. In this survey, we examine the perspectives of medical students on clinical genetic testing based upon their religious tradition. Methods The total number of participants in the study was 257 (122 male and 135 female) second year medical students at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC). The distribution of religious identification (Atheist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, Spiritual/not Affiliated, and Other) among the second-year medical students. The survey was available to students through TTUHSC's Omnibus survey program for a period of two weeks. Results Most of the second-year medical students interviewed identified as being Christian (67%) with the next highest religious identification being Spiritual/not Affiliated (9%), Atheist (8%), and Muslim (6%). With regards to genetic tests, most of the students (95%), regardless of religious identification, have not used any commercial genetic testing services. Most second year medical students regardless of religious affiliation had similar agreement with questions regarding clinical genetic testing. However, there was a similar drop in agreement when it came on where students would want genetic screening to be performed regularly in clinics/hospitals. Conclusion Given the numerous factors that must be considered, such as the patient's attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs towards the counseling process and genetic testing, genetic counseling is a challenging problem. Each target population's history, relevant exposure to, and domain expertise must be considered while promoting decision-making in genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Kopel
- School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
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Mondesir R. A civic bridge or a silo? Islam, religious affiliation, and civic engagement in rural Indonesia. Soc Sci Res 2023; 112:102876. [PMID: 37061320 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssresearch.2023.102876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
This article tests the hypothesis that membership in faith-based civic associations leads to more secular forms of civic engagement in a Muslim-majority nation. Drawing from Social Capital Theory and using survey data from rural Indonesia, this study examines whether religion, especially Islam, works as a silo that houses most civic life or as a bridge to greater and more diversified civic engagement.The study poses two questions: Does religious affiliation increase secular volunteering and charitable giving? Anddo levels of engagement and philanthropic giving vary based on a household's faith or the community's religious composition?The findings imply that Islam serves as a civic bridge to more secular forms of engagement, albeit a short civic bridge. Residents of Muslim-majority communities engaged less diversely, raising concerns that Islam may operate more as a silo that fosters local network ties rather than as a bridge to more cross-cutting connections.
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Dyer WJ, Crandall A, Hanson CL. COVID-19 Stress, Religious Affiliation, and Mental Health Outcomes Among Adolescents. J Adolesc Health 2023:S1054-139X(23)00017-4. [PMID: 36809866 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the relationship between religious affiliation, stressors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and mental health challenges in a representative sample of adolescents. METHODS The sample was composed of 71,001 Utah adolescents who participated in a survey by the Utah Department of Health in 2021. Data are representative of all Utah adolescents in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12. Bootstrapped mediation was used to test indirect effects of religious affiliation on mental health challenges through COVID-19 stressors. RESULTS Religious affiliation was related to significantly lower rates of teen mental health challenges as measured by suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, and depression. For religiously affiliated adolescents, the rate of considering and attempting suicide was nearly half of that of unaffiliated adolescents. In mediation analyses, affiliation was indirectly related to mental health challenges (suicide ideation, suicide attempt, and depression) through stressors from COVID-19, including affiliated adolescents experiencing the following: less anxiety, fewer family fights, fewer school difficulties, and fewer skipped meals. However, affiliation was positively related to becoming sick with COVID-19 (or having COVID-19 symptoms), which was related to more suicidal thoughts. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that adolescent religious affiliation may be a promotive factor that decreases mental health challenges through a reduction in COVID-19-related stressors, except religious individuals may be more likely to become sick. To increase positive mental health outcomes among adolescents during pandemic times, consistent and clear policies that facilitate religious connections that also align with good physical health measures will be critical.
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Unser A, Riegel U. Making sense of the crisis: how religion shapes the attribution of meaning during the corona pandemic. Z Relig Ges Polit 2022; 7:1-24. [PMID: 36465328 PMCID: PMC9707135 DOI: 10.1007/s41682-022-00135-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
In times of existential crisis, such as the Corona pandemic, people may turn to religious traditions that help them make new sense of the depressing situation. While recent studies have shown that during the Corona pandemic, the frequency of prayer and church attendance increased in several countries, we know little about whether and how religious interpretations of the current crisis occur. Building on Crystal Park's Meaning Making Model, the article examines whether individual religiosity, religious affiliation, and the experience of a SARS-CoV‑2 infection influence religious interpretations of the Corona pandemic. Our results show that religiosity is strongly associated with the idea of a benevolent God and weakly associated with the concept of a punishing God. Members of specific religious groups differed significantly in their religious interpretation of the Corona pandemic. Finally, we found that the experience of a SARS-CoV‑2 infection was associated with doubts about the power of God.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Unser
- Faculty of Humanities and Theology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Ulrich Riegel
- Department of Catholic Theology, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
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Livne O, Wengrower T, Feingold D, Shmulewitz D, Hasin DS, Lev-Ran S. Religiosity and substance use in U.S. adults: Findings from a large-scale national survey. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 225:108796. [PMID: 34119881 PMCID: PMC8918021 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent decades, the US religious landscape has undergone considerable change such as a decline in religious service attendance. These changes may indicate that religious social support structures have deteriorated, possibly leading to a decrease in strengths of associations with substance use. Considering this, and given limitations of past studies (e.g., limited control for potential confounders), large-scale general population studies are needed to reexamine associations between religiosity domains and substance use. METHODS This cross-sectional study used data from the 2012-2013 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III (N = 36,309). In unadjusted and adjusted models, controlling for religiosity domains and other covariates, we examined associations between three religiosity domains (importance of religiosity/spirituality, service attendance, and religious affiliation) and DSM-5 SUD. Focusing on service attendance, we also examined associations with other substance use-related outcomes. RESULTS Among religiosity domains, only frequency of service attendance was associated with SUD across most substances. Frequent service attendees had lower odds of alcohol use disorder (adjusted OR [aOR] = 0.4, 95 % CI 0.33,0.51), tobacco use disorder (aOR = 0.3, 95 % CI 0.22,0.33) and cannabis use disorder (aOR = 0.4, 95 % CI 0.24,0.68), compared to non-service attendees. For alcohol and tobacco, the protective effect of frequent service attendance was more robust for SUD than for respective substance use. CONCLUSIONS Despite decreasing rates of religious belief and practice in the US, service attendance independently lowered the odds of substance use and SUD across multiple substances. Results may inform religious leaders and clinicians about the value of utilizing religious social support structures in the prevention and treatment of substance use and SUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ofir Livne
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Tovia Wengrower
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Dvora Shmulewitz
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Deborah S. Hasin
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA,New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shaul Lev-Ran
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel,Lev Hasharon Medical Center, Netanya, Israel
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Colledani D, Camperio Ciani A. A Worldwide Internet Study Based on Implicit Association Test Revealed a Higher Prevalence of Adult Males' Androphilia than Ever Reported Before. J Sex Med 2020; 18:4-16. [PMID: 33250358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social constrictions or the lack of a clear awareness about one's sexual orientation may influence the ability of individuals to explicitly declare their sexual preferences. Thus, the actual prevalence of males' sexual attraction toward adult males, which is estimated by studies relying only on explicit questionnaires, may be biased. Conversely, the implicit measurement of androphilia may be a promising method to obtain more reliable data. AIM In the present work, explicit and implicit methods have been used to investigate the rates of explicit nonheterosexuality and implicit androphilia in a large sample of adult males from all around the world. For implicit androphilia, a rate consistent across the continents and close to that predicted by recent genetic models (about 15%) was expected. In contrast, for self-declared homosexuality, a lower and more variable rate was expected. METHODS A sample of 1,050 participants was recruited through an online platform. All participants completed a short biographical questionnaire, an Autobiographical-Implicit Association Test, the Sexual Preference-Implicit Association Test, and an explicit measure of sexual orientation. The answers to these measures were used to explore explicit sexual orientation and implicit androphilia across six main geographical areas (Middle East and Africa, South America, North America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania). OUTCOMES The main outcome measures were the D score at the Sexual Preference-Implicit Association Test and the scores at the explicit measure of sexual orientation. RESULTS The rate of nonheterosexuality, which can be found using explicit measures, is rather low, variable (from 6.3% to 11.4%), and influenced by cultural factors. In contrast, the prevalence of androphilia resulting from implicit methods is higher and consistent across geographical areas (from 14.4% to 17.6%). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Studying the diffusion of adult males' androphilia may be useful to better understand sexual behaviors and preferences and to develop effective health promotion programs among males who have sex with males. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS The large and cross-cultural sample and the use of both implicit and explicit measures allowed for obtaining a detailed picture of adult males' sexual orientation and androphilia. The main limitations were the Web-based characteristics of the protocol and the lack of an investigation of actual sexual behaviors. CONCLUSION Compared with the explicit measurement of nonheterosexuality, the implicit measurement of sexual preferences showed a prevalence of androphilia among adult males that is higher, more stable across continents, and more consistent with the predictions of recent genetic models. Colledani D,A. Camperio Ciani Worldwide Internet Study Based on Implicit Association Test Revealed a Higher Prevalence of Adult Males' Androphilia than Ever Reported Before. J Sex Med 2021;18:4-16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiana Colledani
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology - School of Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Camperio Ciani
- Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology - School of Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
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Čvorović J. The Differential Impact of Religion on Self-Reported Health Among Serbian Roma Women. J Relig Health 2019; 58:2047-2064. [PMID: 31098830 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-019-00824-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The present paper offers an account of how self-reported health varies with religious affiliation and reproductive effort among Serbian Roma women. Data were collected in 2014-2018 in two Roma semi-urban settlements in central Serbia. The sample consisted of 177 Christian and 127 Muslim women, averaging 54 years of age. In addition to religious affiliation (Christianity/Islam), demographic data, reproductive histories, data on self-reported and children's health were collected, along with height and weight, and smoking status. Christian and Muslim Roma women differed significantly on a number of variables, with Muslim women reporting poorer health and higher reproductive effort. Among Roma women religion may be an important determinant of reproductive and fertility patterns, largely because it may have formed an important foundation upon which identity is based. This study adds to the literature on the cross-cultural relevance of the ways religion shapes reproductive behaviors for understanding the health variations of women from the same ethnic group who profess different religions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Čvorović
- Institute of Ethnography, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Serbia.
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Hirode G, Vittinghoff E, Bharmal NH, Kandula NR, Kanaya AM. The association of religious affiliation with cholesterol levels among South Asians: the Mediators of Atherosclerosis in South Asians Living in America study. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2019; 19:75. [PMID: 30925868 PMCID: PMC6441170 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-019-1045-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background South Asians have disproportionately high rates of cardiovascular disease. Dyslipidemia, a contributing factor, may be influenced by lifestyle, which can vary by religious beliefs. Little is known about South Asian religions and associations with dyslipidemia. Methods Cross-sectional analyses of the MASALA study (n = 889). We examined the associations between religious affiliation and cholesterol levels using multivariate linear regression models. We determined whether smoking, alcohol use, physical activity, and dietary pattern mediated these associations. Results Mean LDL was 112 ± 32 mg/dL, median HDL was 48 mg/dL (IQR:40–57), and median triglycerides was 118 mg/dL (IQR:88–157). Muslims had higher LDL and triglycerides, and lower HDL, while participants with no religious affiliation had lower LDL and higher HDL. The difference in HDL between Muslims and those with no religious affiliation was partly explained by alcohol consumption. Conclusions Religion-specific tailoring of interventions designed to promote healthy lifestyle to reduce cholesterol among South Asians may be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grishma Hirode
- OakCare Medical Group, Highland Hospital, 1411 E 31st St, Oakland, CA, 94602, USA
| | - Eric Vittinghoff
- UCSF Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, 550 16th St, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Nazleen H Bharmal
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Avenue, Washington DC, 20201, USA
| | - Namratha R Kandula
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 6th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Alka M Kanaya
- UCSF Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, 550 16th St, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA. .,UCSF Division of General Internal Medicine, 1545 Divisadero Street, Suite 311, San Francisco, CA, 94115, USA.
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Campbell M, Hinton JDX, Anderson JR. A systematic review of the relationship between religion and attitudes toward transgender and gender-variant people. Int J Transgend 2019; 20:21-38. [PMID: 32999592 DOI: 10.1080/15532739.2018.1545149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Prejudice against transgender people is widespread, yet in spite of the prevalence of this negativity relatively little is known about the antecedents and predictors of these attitudes. One factor that is commonly related to prejudice is religion, and this is especially true for prejudice targets that are considered to be "value violating" (as is the case for transgender individuals). Method: In this paper, we present the findings of our systematic search of the literature on this topic and present the synthesized evidence. Our search strategy was conducted across five databases and yielded 29 studies (across 28 articles). Results: We found consistent evidence that self-identifying as with either being "religious" or as Christian (and to a lesser extent, being Muslim) was associated with increased transprejudice relative to being nonreligious (and to a lesser extent, being Jewish). Additionally, we found consistent evidence that certain forms of religiosity were also related to transprejudice - specifically religious fundamentalism, church attendance, and interpretations of the bible as literal (transprejudice was unrelated to religious education). Conclusion: Although this young, but important field of research is growing, more empirical exploration is needed to fully understand that nuances of the religion-transprejudice relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Campbell
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Jordan D X Hinton
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Joel R Anderson
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia
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Tomita A, Ramlall S. A Nationwide Panel Study on Religious Involvement and Depression in South Africa: Evidence from the South African National Income Dynamics Study. J Relig Health 2018; 57:2279-2289. [PMID: 29305744 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-017-0551-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Panel data from the South African National Income Dynamics Study, a nationally representative sample of households (years 2008, 2010 and 2012), were used to examine the longitudinal association between religious involvement and depression risk. Approximately 89.6-91.8% identified themselves as religiously affiliated, while 88.0-90.3% perceived religion to be important in South Africa during the observed study periods. A short-term association between religious involvement and significant depressive symptomatology was not detected, but logistic regression models that accounted for the clustering of repeated observations within participants indicated that, over time, those with religious affiliations (aOR 0.85, 95% CI 0.76-0.96) were at a lower risk than those not affiliated. Furthermore, individuals who reported religious activity as being important (aOR 0.81; 95% CI 0.73-0.91) were at less risk of significant depressive symptomatology over time than those rating religious activity as not important. Our study points to the potentially important role of religious involvement as an emerging area of investigation toward improving mental health at a population level in resource-limited settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Tomita
- Centre for Rural Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X7, Durban, South Africa.
- KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing (KRISP), Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
- Africa Health Research Institute, University of KduuwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Suvira Ramlall
- Department of Psychiatry, Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Martin N, Baralt L, Garrido-Ortega C. What's Religion Got to Do with It? Exploring College Students' Sexual and Reproductive Health Knowledge and Awareness of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services in Relation to Their Gender and Religiosity. J Relig Health 2018; 57:1856-1875. [PMID: 28653265 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-017-0432-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between religiosity and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) knowledge and awareness of campus SRH services among college students on a racially and ethnically diverse college campus. The sample included 996 undergraduate students at a large public university in California. For women, there was a consistent pattern across religious affiliations of more frequent attenders reporting lower SRH knowledge than less frequent attenders. These findings suggest that higher rates of religious attendance among Catholic, Protestant, and Evangelical women pose a risk for lower SRH knowledge. The results suggest the need for SRH outreach and educational materials targeting men in general, who had lower levels of SRH knowledge and awareness of SRH services overall, and taking religiosity into account, particularly with regard to women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Martin
- Department of Sociology, California State University, Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | - Lori Baralt
- Department of Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies, California State University, Long Beach, 1250 Bellflower Blvd, MHB-819, Long Beach, CA, 90840, USA.
| | - Claire Garrido-Ortega
- Department of Health Science, California State University, Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
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Agadjanian V, Jansen NA. Historical Legacies, Social Capital, and Women's Decision-Making Power: Religion and Child Nutrition in Mozambique. J Relig Health 2018; 57:1458-1472. [PMID: 29188545 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-017-0526-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In sub-Saharan settings, parental religion may have important implications for children's health and well-being. Using survey data from rural Mozambique, we examine the relationship between women's religion and the likelihood of their children being chronically malnourished (stunted). Multivariate analyses show that children of religiously affiliated women are significantly less likely to be stunted than children of non-affiliated women. We also find a strong advantage of mainline Protestants, especially compared to members of Pentecostal-type denominations, net of other factors. We relate this advantage to two historically rooted characteristics of mainline Protestantism: its connections to the public health sector and higher levels of women's autonomy that it fosters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Agadjanian
- Department of Sociology, University of Kansas, 1415 Jayhawk Boulevard, Fraser Hall 716, Lawrence, KS, 66045, USA.
| | - Natalie A Jansen
- Department of Sociology, University of Kansas, 1415 Jayhawk Boulevard, Fraser Hall 716, Lawrence, KS, 66045, USA
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Craig BA, Morton DP, Kent LM, Gane AB, Butler TL, Rankin PM, Price KR. Religious Affiliation Influences on the Health Status and Behaviours of Students Attending Seventh-Day Adventist Schools in Australia. J Relig Health 2018; 57:994-1009. [PMID: 28913748 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-017-0495-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Students attending Seventh-day Adventist (Adventist) schools in Australia have been shown to have better health status and behaviours compared to secular norms, yet these schools cater for a high percentage of non-Adventist students. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of religious affiliation (Adventist/non-Adventist) on the health status and behaviours of students attending Adventist secondary schools in Australia. The sample included 1734 students who responded to a health and lifestyle survey that captured demographic details, self-reported height and weight, self-reported health status, mental health and select health behaviours. Students who identified themselves as Adventist reported significantly better health behaviours than the non-Adventist students in several behavioural domains, especially among the male students. However, this did not translate to a difference in health status. Further research is needed to understand the causal mechanisms responsible for the potential health advantage of Adventist students, which may include family or church religious influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bevan Adrian Craig
- Lifestyle Research Centre, Avondale College of Higher Education, PO Box 19, Cooranbong, NSW, 2265, Australia.
| | - Darren Peter Morton
- Lifestyle Research Centre, Avondale College of Higher Education, PO Box 19, Cooranbong, NSW, 2265, Australia
| | - Lillian Marton Kent
- Lifestyle Research Centre, Avondale College of Higher Education, PO Box 19, Cooranbong, NSW, 2265, Australia
| | - Alva Barry Gane
- Avondale Seminary, Avondale College of Higher Education, Cooranbong, NSW, Australia
| | - Terry Leslie Butler
- Lifestyle Research Centre, Avondale College of Higher Education, PO Box 19, Cooranbong, NSW, 2265, Australia
| | - Paul Meredith Rankin
- Lifestyle Research Centre, Avondale College of Higher Education, PO Box 19, Cooranbong, NSW, 2265, Australia
| | - Kevin Ross Price
- Adventist Health, Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Wahroonga, NSW, Australia
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Woods JL, Hensel DJ. Religious Affiliation, Religiosity, and Spirituality in Pediatric Residents: Effects on Communication and Self-Efficacy with Adolescents in a Clinical Setting. J Relig Health 2018; 57:636-648. [PMID: 29058158 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-017-0509-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Religion and spirituality are known influences on medical providers' care of patients, but no studies have assessed resident beliefs related to patient perception of clinical care. The main objective of our study was to assess resident religious affiliation, religiosity, and spirituality in relation to self-efficacy and communication with patients during adolescent clinic visits. We found that religious affiliation and religiosity appear to affect patient perception of communication with residents during adolescent visits; spirituality had little noted effect. Further research is warranted, especially regarding resident and patient gender correlations and differences in religious affiliation effects on patient perception of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Woods
- Section of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
| | - Devon J Hensel
- Section of Adolescent Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Bharmal NH, McCarthy WJ, Gadgil MD, Kandula NR, Kanaya AM. The Association of Religious Affiliation with Overweight/Obesity Among South Asians: The Mediators of Atherosclerosis in South Asians Living in America (MASALA) Study. J Relig Health 2018; 57:33-46. [PMID: 27460674 PMCID: PMC5269531 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-016-0290-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Religiosity has been associated with greater body weight. Less is known about South Asian religions and associations with weight. Cross-sectional analysis of the MASALA study (n = 906). We examined associations between religious affiliation and overweight/obesity after controlling for age, sex, years lived in the USA, marital status, education, insurance status, health status, and smoking. We determined whether traditional cultural beliefs, physical activity, and dietary pattern mediated this association. The mean BMI was 26 kg/m2. Religious affiliation was associated with overweight/obesity for Hindus (OR 2.12; 95 % CI: 1.16, 3.89), Sikhs (OR 4.23; 95 % CI: 1.72, 10.38), and Muslims (OR 2.79; 95 % CI: 1.14, 6.80) compared with no religious affiliation. Traditional cultural beliefs (7 %), dietary pattern (1 %), and physical activity (1 %) mediated 9 % of the relationship. Interventions designed to promote healthy lifestyle changes to reduce the burden of overweight/obesity among South Asians need to be culturally and religiously tailored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William J. McCarthy
- UCLA Fielding School of Public Health Department Cancer Prevention & Control Res/FSPH & JCCC BOX 956900, A2-125 CHS Los Angeles, CA 90095-6900, USA
| | - Meghana D. Gadgil
- UCSF Division of General Internal Medicine 1545 Divisadero Street San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
| | - Namratha R. Kandula
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Department of General Internal Medicine 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 10 Floor Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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Abstract
Some health research suggests that religious and spiritual variables positively predict health-screening behaviours. However, much of the literature on this topic has utilized exclusively religious samples, or has sampled from populations without uniform access to health care. Either of these issues may have artificially inflated the relationship between religion/spirituality and health-screening behaviours. The current study used data from the 2012 Canadian Community Health Survey to examine a general sample of women from New Brunswick and Manitoba (N > 1200). Results indicated that lower levels of church attendance were positive predictors of papanicolaou tests and mammograms, while higher levels of attendance were generally associated with poorer screening behaviours. Religiosity was a uniformly non-significant predictor of screening behaviours. Finally, religious affiliation was inconsistently related to screening behaviours, but tended to favour religious non-affiliation when it was. Religion/spirituality does not appear to have a uniformly positive nor linear effect in predicting health-screening behaviours in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Speed
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Saint John, NB, E2L 4L5, Canada.
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19
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Mutti-Packer S, Hodgins DC, Williams RJ, Konkolÿ Thege B. The protective role of religiosity against problem gambling: findings from a five-year prospective study. BMC Psychiatry 2017; 17:356. [PMID: 29110644 PMCID: PMC5674844 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-017-1518-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little research has examined the potential protective influence of religiosity against problem gambling; a common addictive behavior, and one with a host of associated negative health and social outcomes. The aims of this study were to examine (1) the potential longitudinal association between religiosity and problem gambling among adults and (2) the potential moderating role of gender on this association. METHODS Data were from five waves of the Quinte Longitudinal Study (QLS), between 2006 and 2010. Participants were Canadian adults from Belleville, Ontario, Canada (n = 4121). A multiple group (based on gender) latent growth curve analysis was conducted to examine the overall trajectory of problem gambling severity. Two models were tested; the first examined the influence of past-year religious service attendance, and the second examined an overall measure of personal religiosity on the trajectory of problem gambling. The Problem and Pathological Gambling Measure (PPGM) was used as a continuous measure. The Rohrbaugh-Jessor Religiosity Scale (RJRS) was used to assess past-year frequency of religious service attendance and personal religiosity. Religious affiliation (Protestant, Catholic, Atheist/Agnostic, Other, Prefer not to say) was also included in the models. RESULTS At baseline, higher frequency of past-year religious service attendance (males: β= -0.54, females: β= -0.68, p < 0.001 for both) and greater overall personal religiosity (males: β= -0.17, females: β= -0.13, p < 0.001 for both) were associated with lower PPGM scores. The moderating effect of gender indicated that the influence of past-year religious service attendance was greater among females (χ2diff(44) = 336.8, p < 0.001); however, the effect of overall religiosity was greater among males (χ2diff(36) = 213.4, p < 0.001). Findings were mixed with respect to religious affiliation. No measures of religiosity or religious affiliation were associated with the overall decline in problem gambling severity. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that religiosity may act as a static protective factor against problem gambling severity but may play a less significant role in predicting change in problem gambling severity over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Mutti-Packer
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | - David C. Hodgins
- 0000 0004 1936 7697grid.22072.35Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4 Canada
| | - Robert J. Williams
- 0000 0000 9471 0214grid.47609.3cFaculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB Canada
| | - Barna Konkolÿ Thege
- grid.440060.6Research and Academics Division, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, ON Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
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ten Kate J, de Koster W, van der Waal J. The Effect of Religiosity on Life Satisfaction in a Secularized Context: Assessing the Relevance of Believing and Belonging. Rev Relig Res 2017; 59:135-155. [PMID: 28680186 PMCID: PMC5487934 DOI: 10.1007/s13644-016-0282-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The positive relationship between religiosity and life satisfaction is well-established. This relationship is, however, likely to vary across cultural contexts and different religious affiliations. Furthermore, research is needed to uncover why religion is relevant for life satisfaction. Addressing these issues, we investigate what dimensions of being religious play a role in the life satisfaction of individuals with different religious affiliations, including the understudied Muslim category, in the highly secularized Dutch context. We examine 'believing', which captures how religion provides meaning and a coherent worldview, and 'belonging', which comprises both cultural benefits of being embedded in a congregation with a shared framework of meaning and structural benefits due to more social ties. Analyses of the NEtherlands Longitudinal Lifecourse Study (n = 5312) first indicate that Muslims display significantly lower life satisfaction than the non-religious, which appears to be due to their underprivileged social position rather than intra-religious factors of believing and belonging. Second, we find that Catholics experience significant life satisfaction benefits compared to those who are not religious, and that only belonging plays a role in this association. Next to the beneficial effect of the structural aspect of belonging, which revolves around social ties, a cultural aspect of religious belonging appears to be salient, suggesting that an important life satisfaction advantage of religious communities lies in their ability to foster a sense of solidarity and commitment through a shared framework of meaning. We make several recommendations for further research based on these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josje ten Kate
- Department of Public Administration and Sociology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, P.O. Box 1738, 3000 DR Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willem de Koster
- Department of Public Administration and Sociology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, P.O. Box 1738, 3000 DR Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen van der Waal
- Department of Public Administration and Sociology, Erasmus University Rotterdam, P.O. Box 1738, 3000 DR Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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21
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Hayward RD, Krause N, Ironson G, Hill PC, Emmons R. Health and Well-Being Among the Non-religious: Atheists, Agnostics, and No Preference Compared with Religious Group Members. J Relig Health 2016; 55:1024-1037. [PMID: 26743877 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-015-0179-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Although recent research suggests that the proportion of the US population identifying as non-religious has been rapidly expanding over the course of the last decade, relatively little research has examined the implications of this development for health and well-being. This study uses data from a large representative survey study of religion and health in the adult US population (N = 3010) to examine group differences among religious group members (N = 2401) and three categories of non-religious individuals: atheists (N = 83), agnostics (N = 189), and those stating no religious preference (N = 329). MANCOVA was used to analyze group differences on five outcome dimensions, incorporating 27 outcome variables. Religious non-affiliates did not differ overall from affiliates in terms of physical health outcomes (although atheists and agnostics did have better health on some individual measures including BMI, number of chronic conditions, and physical limitations), but had worse positive psychological functioning characteristics, social support relationships, and health behaviors. On dimensions related to psychological well-being, atheists and agnostics tended to have worse outcomes than either those with religious affiliation or those with no religious preference. If current trends in the religious composition of the population continue, these results have implications for its future healthcare needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- R David Hayward
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Neal Krause
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2029, USA
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Siani M, Ben-Zvi Assaraf O. The Moral Reasoning of Genetic Dilemmas Amongst Jewish Israeli Undergraduate Students with Different Religious Affiliations and Scientific Backgrounds. J Genet Couns 2015; 25:596-609. [PMID: 26642964 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-015-9918-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to shed light on the moral reasoning of undergraduate Israeli students towards genetic dilemmas, and on how these are affected by their religious affiliation, by the field they study and by their gender. An open ended questionnaire was distributed among 449 undergraduate students in institutions of higher education in Israel, and their answers were analyzed according to the framework described by Sadler and Zeidler (Science Education, 88(1), 4-27, 2004). They were divided into two major categories: those whose reasoning was based on the consideration of moral consequences (MC), and those who supported their opinion by citing non-consequentialist moral principles (MP). Students' elaborations to questions dealing with values towards genetic testing showed a correlation between the students' religious affiliation and their reasoning, with religious students' elaborations tending to be more principle based than those of secular ones. Overall, the students' elaborations indicate that their main concern is the possibility that their personal genetic information will be exposed, and that their body's personal rights will be violated. We conclude the paper by offering several practical recommendations based on our findings for genetic counseling that is specifically tailored to fit different patients according to their background.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merav Siani
- Science and Technology Education Department, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel.
| | - Orit Ben-Zvi Assaraf
- Science and Technology Education Department, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
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23
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Abstract
Very few studies have examined the effects of both religious affiliation and religiosity on mortality at the same time, and studies employing multiple dimensions of religiosity other than religious attendance are rare. Using the newly created General Social Survey-National Death Index data, our report contributes to the religion and mortality literature by examining religious affiliation and religiosity at the same time. Compared to Mainline Protestants, Catholics, Jews, and other religious groups have lower risk of death, but Black Protestants, Evangelical Protestants, and even those with no religious affiliation are not different from Mainline Protestants. While our study is consistent with previous findings that religious attendance leads to a reduction in mortality, we did not find other religious measures, such as strength of religious affiliation, frequency of praying, belief in an afterlife, and belief in God to be associated with mortality. We also find interaction effects between religious affiliation and attendance. The lowest mortality of Jews and other religious groups is more apparent for those with lower religious attendance. Thus, our result may emphasize the need for other research to focus on the effects of religious group and religious attendance on mortality at the same time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jibum Kim
- Department of Sociology, Sungkyunkwan University, 25-2 Sungkyunkwan-ro, Jongno-gu, Faculty Hall, #513, Seoul, 110-745, Korea.
| | - Tom W Smith
- GSS, NORC at the University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jeong-han Kang
- Department of Sociology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
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Lytle MC, De Luca SM, Blosnich JR, Brownson C. Associations of racial/ethnic identities and religious affiliation with suicidal ideation among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning individuals. J Affect Disord 2015; 178:39-45. [PMID: 25795534 PMCID: PMC4397160 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2014.07.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our aim was to examine the associations of racial/ethnic identity and religious affiliation with suicidal ideation among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning (LGBQ) and heterosexual college students. An additional aim was to determine the prevalence of passive suicidal ideation (i.e., death ideation) and active suicidal ideation among culturally diverse LGBQ individuals. METHODS Data from the National Research Consortium probability-based sample of college students from 70 postsecondary institutions (n=24,626) were used to examine active and passive suicidal ideation in the past 12-months and lifetime active suicidal ideation among students by sexual orientation, racial/ethnic identity, and religious affiliation. RESULTS Across most racial/ethnic groups and religious affiliations, LGBQ students were more likely to report active suicidal ideation than non-LGBQ individuals. Among LGBQ students, Latino individuals had lower odds of reporting both past 12-month passive and active suicidal ideation than their non-Hispanic white LGBQ counterparts. Compared to Christian LGBQ students, Agnostic/Atheist LGBQ individuals had greater odds of reporting past 12-month passive suicidal ideation, and Jewish LGBQ students were less likely to endorse past 12-month passive and active suicidal ideation. LIMITATIONS Cross-sectional design and self-reported data. CONCLUSIONS Results corroborate previous research showing elevated prevalence of suicidal ideation among LGBQ individuals in comparison to their heterosexual counterparts. These findings are among the first to document prevalence differences within the LGBQ population based on intersectional identities (race/ethnicity and religious affiliation). Providers should recognize that LGBQ individuals might need support in negotiating the complex relationship between multiple identities, especially due to their elevated prevalence of suicidal ideation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan C Lytle
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, Rochester, NY, United States.
| | - Susan M De Luca
- School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - John R Blosnich
- Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Chris Brownson
- Counseling and Mental Health Center, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
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Lin KP, Chou YC, Chen JH, Chen CD, Yang SY, Chen TF, Sun Y, Wen LL, Yip PK, Chu YM, Chen YC. Religious affiliation and the risk of dementia in Taiwanese elderly. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2015; 60:501-6. [PMID: 25631324 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2015.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Religious affiliations vary across ethnic groups because of different cultural backgrounds. Some studies have explored the association between religious affiliation and cognitive decline. Only a small portion of patients with cognitive decline progress to dementia. However, the association between religious affiliation and dementia risk remains unclear. METHODS In this case-control study, we recruited 280 patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 138 with vascular dementia (VaD) (both aged ≥60 years) from three teaching hospitals in northern Taiwan between 2007 and 2010. Age-matched healthy controls (n=466) were recruited from an elderly health checkup program and from volunteers visiting the hospital during the same period. Three religious affiliations-Taoism, Buddhism, and Christianity-were evaluated. The study also assessed the effect of important factors such as gender or leisure activities on the association of religious affiliation with dementia risk. RESULTS Participants with Christianity affiliation showed decreased AD risk (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.25-0.87) compared with those without any religious affiliation. Moreover, this effect was stronger in women (AOR=0.38, 95% CI=0.15-0.92) and in participants who exercised regularly (>3 times/week; AOR=0.33, 95% CI=0.14-0.77). No significant association was observed among participants with Taoism and Buddhism affiliations. Affiliation to none of the religions was associated with VaD risk. CONCLUSIONS Thus, Chinese participants having Christianity affiliation showed decreased AD risk. Moreover, the protective effect was more evident in women and in participants who exercised regularly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Pei Lin
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chun Chou
- Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Hau Chen
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Geriatrics and Gerontology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Dan Chen
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Ying Yang
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ta-Fu Chen
- Department of Neurology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Neurology, En Chu Kong Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Li Wen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, En Chu Kong Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Keung Yip
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Center of Neurological Medicine, Cardinal Tien's Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Min Chu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cardinal Tien's Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Ching Chen
- Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, Environment and Human Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan; Research Center for Genes, Environment and Human Health, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Gerbi GB, Habtemariam T, Robnett V, Nganwa D, Tameru B. The association between religious affiliation and frequency of attendance at religious services on HIV risky behaviors among people living with HIV/AIDS. J AIDS HIV Res 2012; 4:136-143. [PMID: 24707442 DOI: 10.5897/jahr11.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine if religious affiliation and frequency of attendance at religious services were associated with HIV risky behaviors among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The participants are HIV positive clients of a community based HIV/AIDS outreach facility (CBHAOF) located in Montgomery, Alabama, USA. The participants completed the questionnaire during their medical visits to the clinic at their own convenience and that of the facility's staff. A total of 341 questionnaires were distributed to PLWHA and 326 (96%) were fully completed and returned. There were more male than female participants (56 versus 42%). The majority of the respondents (67%) were between 30 and 49 years of age. Nearly two thirds of the participants (64%) were African Americans whilst 36% were other races combined (White = 29%, Hispanic = 3% and other races = 4%). A chi-square test was used to examine the association between selected variables. Findings show substantial variations of selected HIV risky behaviors according to religious affiliation and frequency of attendance at religious services (p < 0.05). The study findings suggest the importance of religious affiliation and frequency of attendance at religious services in reducing HIV risky behaviors among PLWHA. The findings have implications for HIV/AIDS prevention and we recommend that it is important to incorporate Faith-based organizations in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemechu B Gerbi
- Center for Computational Epidemiology, Bioinformatics and Risk Analysis (CCEBRA), College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health (CVMNAH), Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama 36088, U.S.A
| | - Tsegaye Habtemariam
- Center for Computational Epidemiology, Bioinformatics and Risk Analysis (CCEBRA), College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health (CVMNAH), Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama 36088, U.S.A
| | - Vinaida Robnett
- Center for Computational Epidemiology, Bioinformatics and Risk Analysis (CCEBRA), College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health (CVMNAH), Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama 36088, U.S.A
| | - David Nganwa
- Center for Computational Epidemiology, Bioinformatics and Risk Analysis (CCEBRA), College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health (CVMNAH), Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama 36088, U.S.A
| | - Berhanu Tameru
- Center for Computational Epidemiology, Bioinformatics and Risk Analysis (CCEBRA), College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health (CVMNAH), Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama 36088, U.S.A
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