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Al Shelali M, Alibrahim H, Alomar N, Pandi-Perumal SR, Seeman MV, Jahrami H. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Faith Healers and Psychiatric Illnesses: A Systematic Review of the Literature in the Arab World. J Relig Health 2024; 63:857-876. [PMID: 37626227 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01898-1] [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] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Faith healing is a traditional healing method involving spiritual and faith-based practices performed by a religious medicine man referred to here as a faith healer. The practice of faith healing is widespread in the Arab World for treating a range of mental disorders. This research aims to review the literature concerned with faith healing practice in the Muslim Arab population. Based on the results of the review, there are seven distinct aspects of faith healing. These include the characteristics of persons who visit faith healers, the rate of visits, the symptoms for which visits are made, the treatment methods, the general stigma and prevalent attitudes toward mental disorders in the Arab world, and the perceived effectiveness of faith healing as applied to mental disorders. The results of the review show that many patients with mental disorders, as a first resort, prefer to seek the help of faith healers (or other non-professional trusted counselors) rather than approach mental health services. This is due to several factors: the misconceptions around causes of mental illness in Arab traditions and culture and the stigma associated with mental illness. As an overall determination derived from the literature, Arabs remain highly reliant on faith healers as helpful resources for dealing with mental health problems. In conclusion, the recommendation to public health authorities is to consider including faith healers in the support system for mental health and cease viewing them as barriers to optimal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Musab Al Shelali
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Hussain Alibrahim
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Nadia Alomar
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Seithikurippu R Pandi-Perumal
- Division of Research and Development, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, 144411, India
- Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mary V Seeman
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Haitham Jahrami
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain.
- Psychiatric Hospital, Government Hospitals, Manama, Bahrain.
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Kpobi L, Read UM, Selormey RK, Colucci E. 'We are all working toward one goal. We want people to become well': A visual exploration of what promotes successful collaboration between community mental health workers and healers in Ghana. Transcult Psychiatry 2024; 61:30-46. [PMID: 37801486 PMCID: PMC10903112 DOI: 10.1177/13634615231197998] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
The practices of traditional and faith-based healers in low- and middle-income countries in Africa and elsewhere have come under intense scrutiny in recent years owing to allegations of human rights abuses. To mitigate these, there have been calls to develop collaborations between healers and formal health services to optimise available mental health interventions in poorly resourced contexts. For various reasons, attempts to establish such partnerships in a sustainable manner in different countries have not always been successful. In this article, we present findings from the Together for Mental Health visual research project to showcase examples of healer-health worker collaborations in Ghana that have been largely successful and discuss the barriers and facilitators to establishing these partnerships. Data reported in this article were collected using visual ethnography and filmed individual interviews with eight community mental health workers, six traditional and faith-based healers and two local philanthropists in the Bono East Region. The findings suggest that successful collaborations were built through mutually respectful interpersonal relationships, support from the health system and access to community resources. Although these facilitated collaboration, resource constraints, distrust and ethical dilemmas had to be overcome to build stronger partnerships. These findings highlight the importance of dedicated institutional and logistic support for ensuring the successful integration of the different health systems in pluralistic settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Kpobi
- Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana
| | - Ursula M. Read
- Centre for Mental Health & Wellbeing Research, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick
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Varela RP. Faith healing based on narratives of healing experiences: A psycho-spiritual interpretation. Explore (NY) 2023; 19:792-796. [PMID: 37286467 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2023.03.011] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated 216 individual transcripts of faith healing experiences drawn from the healing ministries of 2 Catholic priests in the Philippines. The accounts of these healing narratives were generously provided to the researcher in hard copies for analysis by the 2 Catholic priests. The narratives were individual stories of healing experiences and written voluntarily by the healees themselves. Five themes were extracted from the narratives, namely, sensation of warmth, feeling of lightness, electrifying sensation, feeling of heaviness, and a weeping episode. Further, the study was able to unfold four themes on spiritual coping, namely, empowering faith, letting God be in control, acceptance leading to renewal, and connectedness with God. Faith healing experience begins with multisensory-physiological changes (e.g., sensation of warmth, electrifying sensation, feeling of heaviness) leading to affective/emotional, changes (e.g., weeping moment and feeling of lightness) that occur simultaneously, or in succession as antecedent conditions that awaken or activate inner adaptive spiritual coping responses with illness such as empowering faith, God being in control, acceptance leading to renewal, and connectedness with God.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reynold P Varela
- Adamson University, College of Science, Department of Psychology, 900 San Marcelino St., Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines.
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Yeh PM. A Testimony of Christian Drug Rehabilitation: Transformed by the Power of God. J Christ Nurs 2023; 40:E36-E39. [PMID: 37271920 DOI: 10.1097/cnj.0000000000001084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Drug addiction is at crisis level in the United States. Nurses caring for persons affected by substance use disorder (SUD) have a resource in Mr. Ming Ho Liu's testimony on Good TV (Taiwan)-translated and summarized in this article-of his addiction experiences and successful treatment at Operation Dawn, a Christian drug rehabilitation center. Recovery from SUD is possible by God's power. In Mr. Liu's case, his recovery was accomplished without medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pi-Ming Yeh
- Pi-Ming Yeh, PhD, RN, is an associate professor at East Tennessee State University, teaching Advanced Quantitative Design and Data Analysis in Nursing Research. Her research focuses on factors influencing people's psychological well-being. She serves as Epsilon Sigma at-Large Chapter President
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Ayinde OO, Fadahunsi O, Kola L, Malla LO, Nyame S, Okoth RA, Cohen A, Appiah-Poku J, Othieno CJ, Seedat S, Gureje O. Explanatory models, illness, and treatment experiences of patients with psychosis using the services of traditional and faith healers in three African countries: Similarities and discontinuities. Transcult Psychiatry 2023; 60:521-536. [PMID: 34913379 DOI: 10.1177/13634615211064370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
As part of formative studies to design a program of collaborative care for persons with psychosis, we explored personal experience and lay attributions of illness as well as treatment among persons who had recently received care at traditional and faith healers' (TFHs) facilities in three cultural groups in Sub-Saharan Africa. A purposive sample of 85 individuals in Ibadan (Nigeria), Kumasi (Ghana), and Nairobi (Kenya) were interviewed. Data was inductively explored for themes and analysis was informed by the Framework Method. Across the three sites, illness experiences featured suffering and disability in different life domains. Predominant causal attribution was supernatural, even when biological causation was also acknowledged. Prayer and rituals, steeped in traditional spiritual beliefs, were prominent both in traditional faith healing settings as well as those of Christianity and Islam. Concurrent or consecutive use of TFHs and conventional medical services was common. TFHs provided services that appear to meet the therapeutic goals of their patients even when harmful treatment practices were employed. Cultural and linguistic differences did not obscure the commonality of a core set of beliefs and practices across these three groups. This similarity of core worldviews across diverse cultural settings means that a collaborative approach designed in one cultural group would, with adaptations to reflect differences in context, be applicable in another cultural group. Studies of patients' experience of illness and care are useful in designing and implementing collaborations between biomedical and TFH services as a way of scaling up services and improving the outcome of psychosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Alex Cohen
- Centre for Global Mental Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
| | | | | | - Soraya Seedat
- Centre for Global Mental Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
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Kruijthoff DJ, Bendien E, van der Kooi C, Glas G, Abma TA. Can you be cured if the doctor disagrees? A case study of 27 prayer healing reports evaluated by a medical assessment team in the Netherlands. Explore (NY) 2023. [PMID: 35987685 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2022a.07.008] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED THE SETTING: between 2015 and 2020 a medical assessment team evaluated 27 reports of prayer healing in the Netherlands. OBJECTIVES Three research questions were formulated. What are the medical and experiential findings? Are there medically remarkable and/or unexplained healings? Which explanatory frameworks can help us understand the findings? METHODS The reported healings were analyzed using both medical files and patient narratives, as part of a case study research design compiled by a multidisciplinary research team. An independent team of five medical consultants, representing different fields of expertise, evaluated the 27 case files. According to criteria these were selected from a larger group of 83 received reports. Experiential data was obtained by in-depth interviews and analyzed. Instances of healing could be classified as 'medically remarkable' or 'medically unexplained'. Subsequent analysis was transdisciplinary. RESULTS Eleven of the 27 healings assessed were evaluated as 'medically remarkable', none were labelled as 'medically unexplained'. Recurring characteristics were common to some degree in all healings, whether 'medically remarkable' or not: a temporal connection with prayer, instantaneity and unexpectedness of healing, strong emotional and physical manifestations, and a sense of 'being overwhelmed' and transformed. The healings were invariably interpreted as acts of God. Positive effects have persisted for 5 to 33 years, with 2 relapses. CONCLUSIONS Our findings on remarkable healings do not fit well in the traditional biomedical conceptual framework. All healings exhibited important non-medical aspects, whether or not they were assessed as medically remarkable. We need a broader multi-perspective approach in which all relevant data is considered to be valuable, both experiential and objective. This so-called horizontal epistemology may be helpful when trying to understand the findings, and it may bring about mutual understanding between patients, health practitioners and relevant disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk J Kruijthoff
- Department of Ethics, Law and Humanities, Amsterdam University Medical Center, and external PhD student in the Faculty of Theology, Vrije Universiteit (VU), Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Elena Bendien
- Leyden Academy on Vitality and Ageing, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Gerrit Glas
- Faculty of Humanities, Vrije Universiteit (VU) and Emeritus Professor of the Philosophy of Neuroscience at the Amsterdam University Medical Centre, location VU mc, the Netherlands.
| | - Tineke A Abma
- Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Public Health and Primary care; Executive-Director of Leyden Academy on Vitality and Ageing, Leiden, the Netherlands.
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Amen TB. Prayer and Care: Faith as a Form of Culturally Competent Care. Acad Med 2023; 98:356. [PMID: 36512822 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000005116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Troy B Amen
- T.B. Amen is a second-year resident, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York;
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Kruijthoff DJ, Bendien E, van der Kooi C, Glas G, Abma TA, Huijgens PC. Three cases of hearing impairment with surprising subjective improvements after prayer. What can we say when analyzing them? Explore (NY) 2022. [PMID: 34052122 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2021b.05.001] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM to enhance the understanding of documented mismatches between 'subjective' experiences and 'objective' data in three cases of self-reported instantaneous healing of hearing impairment upon prayer. METHOD description of three cases taken out of a larger retrospective case-based study of prayer healing in the Netherlands. In this larger study multiple reported healings were investigated using both medical files and patients' narratives through in-depth interviews. A subset of three cases with dramatic subjective reduction of hearing impairment upon prayer was studied. These patients underwent extensive additional investigations at the audiology center of the Amsterdam University Medical Centre. All data was evaluated by an interdisciplinary medical assessment team, subsequent analysis was transdisciplinary. RESULTS the three case histories with self-reported healing after prayer demonstrated a clear mismatch between subjective experiences and objective findings. No measurable improvements were found in four different audiological testing methods. However, in-depth interviews, hetero-anamnesis and a validated questionnaire all confirmed the healings. The medical assessment team could not label these healings as 'medically remarkable' because of absence of measurable 'objective' changes, but they did consider them as 'remarkable in a broader sense'. On expert consultation no equivalents of mismatches to this extent could be found. The healing experiences of our participants involved their entire being with profound positive effects in different domains of their lives, and a perception of a benevolent God who acted upon them. There was a distinctive pattern, labelled by the participants as a healing of mind, soul and body. CONCLUSIONS The subjective-objective incongruities that were found were not well understood. We noticed a paradox: the 'objective' measurements did not reflect hearing abilities in daily life where-as 'subjective experiential' data did. The latter could be 'objectified' and validated in various ways. In fact, a rigid distinction between 'objective' and 'subjective' was not relevant here, nor a hierarchy among them. A model leaving room for different causations (horizontal epistemology) complied best with the multi dimensionality we came across.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk J Kruijthoff
- Department of Medical Humanities, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, the Netherlands; Faculty of Theology, Vrije Universiteit (VU), Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Elena Bendien
- Leyden Academy on Vitality and Ageing, Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Gerrit Glas
- Faculty of Humanities, Vrije Universiteit (VU), the Netherlands; Philosophy of Neuroscience, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, location VU mc, the Netherlands.
| | - Tineke A Abma
- Department of Medical Humanities, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, the Netherlands.
| | - Peter C Huijgens
- Department of Haematology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, location VUmc, the Netherlands.
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Abstract
Faith healing has been prevalent in the South Asian society since time immemorial. This is often coupled with alternative and complementary systems of medicine and attract a large proportion of people belonging to different sects, religions, and organizations. Though based on blinded trust, it does address the psychosomatic component of chronic disorders and hence does make the patient feel better. In this article the authors highlight the significant role of modern medicine in patients with certain endocrine and systemic disorders but also explore futuristic options to utilize these different systems in amalgamation for the better control and treatment of endocrine disorders like diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Kalra
- Department of Endocrinology, Bharti Hospital, Karnal, India
| | - Jubbin Jacob
- Department of Medicine, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, India
| | - Nitin Kapoor
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Christian Medical College, Vellore (TN) -632004, India, and Non Communicable Disease Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. ) Rakesh Sahay ( Department of Endocrinology, Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, India
| | - Ganpathi Bantwal
- Department of Endocrinology, St. Johns Medical College, Bangalore, India
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Pham TV, Koirala R, Wainberg ML, Kohrt BA. Reassessing the Mental Health Treatment Gap: What Happens if We Include the Impact of Traditional Healing on Mental Illness? Community Ment Health J 2021; 57:777-791. [PMID: 32894398 PMCID: PMC7936992 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-020-00705-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In this Fresh Focus, we reassess what the mental health treatment gap may mean if we consider the role of traditional healing. Based on systematic reviews, patients can use traditional healers and qualitatively report improvement from general psychological distress and symptom reduction for common mental disorders. Given these clinical implications, some high-income countries have scaled up research into traditional healing practices, while at the same time in low-and middle-income countries, where the use of traditional healers is nearly ubiquitous, considerably less research funding has studied or capitalized on this phenomena. The World Health Organization 2003-2020 Mental Health Action Plan called for government health programs to include traditional and faith healers as treatment resources to combat the low- and middle-income country treatment gap. Reflection on the work which emerged during the course of this Mental Health Action Plan revealed areas for improvement. As we embark on the next Mental Health Action Plan, we offer lessons-learned for exploring potential relationships and collaborations between traditional healing and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony V Pham
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, 2213 Elba Street, Durham, NC, 27705, USA.
- Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Drive, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Nepal, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, 44616, Nepal.
| | - Rishav Koirala
- University of Oslo, Problemveien 7, 0315, Oslo, Norway
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Nepal, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, 44616, Nepal
- Brain and Neuroscience Center Nepal, Krishna Dhara Marg, Kathmandu, 44600, Nepal
| | - Milton L Wainberg
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Brandon A Kohrt
- Duke Global Health Institute, 310 Trent Drive, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization (TPO) Nepal, Baluwatar, Kathmandu, 44616, Nepal
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, 2120 L Street, NW, Suite 600, Washington, DC, 20037, USA
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Mshana G, Mchome Z, Aloyce D, Peter E, Kapiga S, Stöckl H. Contested or complementary healing paradigms? Women's narratives of COVID-19 remedies in Mwanza, Tanzania. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2021; 17:30. [PMID: 33902620 PMCID: PMC8072083 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-021-00457-w] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 has caused worldwide fear and uncertainty. Historically, the biomedical disease paradigm established its dominance in tackling emerging infectious illnesses mainly due to innovation in medication and advances in technology. Traditional and religious remedies have emerged as plausible options for prevention and treatment of COVID-19, especially in Africa and Asia. The appeal of religious and traditional therapies against COVID-19 in the African setting must be understood within the historical, social, and political context. This study explored how women and community members dealt with suspected symptoms of COVID-19 in Mwanza, Tanzania. METHODS This study was conducted in Nyamagana and Ilemela districts of Mwanza, Tanzania, between July and August 2020. We conducted 18 mobile phone in-depth interviews with a purposively selected sample of women aged 27-57 years participating in an existing longitudinal study. For safety reasons, smart mobile phones were used to collect the data. Each interview was audio recorded after obtaining verbal consent from the participants. The audio files were transferred to computers for analysis. Four researchers conducted a multistage, inductive analysis of the data. RESULTS Participants reported wide use and perceived high efficacy of traditional remedies and prayer to prevent and treat suspected symptoms of COVID-19. Use was either alone or combined with public health recommendations such as hand washing and crowd avoidance. Despite acknowledging that a pathogen causes COVID-19, participants attested to the relevance and power of traditional herbal medication and prayer to curb COVID-19. Four main factors underline the symbolic efficacy of the traditional and religious treatment paradigms: personal, communal, and official reinforcement of their efficacy; connection to local knowledge and belief systems; the failure of biomedicine to offer a quick and effective solution; and availability. CONCLUSIONS In the context of emerging contagious illnesses, communities turn to resilient and trusted treatment paradigms to quell fear and embrace hope. To tackle emerging infections effectively, it is essential to engage the broader sociopolitical landscape, including communal considerations of therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerry Mshana
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania.
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania.
| | - Zaina Mchome
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Diana Aloyce
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Esther Peter
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Saidi Kapiga
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit, Mwanza, Tanzania
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Heidi Stöckl
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Kruijthoff DJ, Bendien E, Doodkorte C, van der Kooi C, Glas G, Abma TA. "My Body Does Not Fit in Your Medical Textbooks": A Physically Turbulent Life With an Unexpected Recovery From Advanced Parkinson Disease After Prayer. Adv Mind Body Med 2021; 35:4-13. [PMID: 33620331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
AIM The purpose of this article is to enhance our understanding of prayer healing by studying a case which was described as a 'remarkable healing' by a medical assessment team at the Amsterdam University Medical Centre (UMC) in the Netherlands. METHOD This retrospective, case-based study of prayer healing investigated numerous reported healings using both medical files and patient narratives. A medical assessment team evaluated the associated medical files, as well as any experiential data. The instances of healing could be classified as 'remarkable' or 'unexplained.' Experiential data were obtained by qualitative, in-depth interviews. The study was transdisciplinary in nature, involving medical, psychological, theological, and philosophical perspectives. The object was to understand such healings within the broader framework of the science-religion debate. RESULTS We present the case of a female patient, born in 1959, with Parkinson disease who experienced instantaneous, nearly complete healing in 2012 after intercessory prayer. At that point the disease was at an advanced stage, rapidly progressive, with major debilitating symptoms. High doses of oral medication were required. Following this healing there was no recurrence of her former symptoms, while the remaining symptoms continued to improve. She regained all of her capacities at work, as well as in daily life. The medical assessment team described her recovery as 'remarkable.' The patient reported that she had always 'lived with God,' and that at a point when she had given up hope, 'life was given back to her.' This recovery did not make her immune to other illnesses and suffering, but it did strengthen her belief that God cares about human beings. CONCLUSION This remarkable healing and its context astonished the patient, her family, and her doctors. The clinical course was extraordinary, contradicting data from imaging studies, as well as the common understanding of this disease. This case also raised questions about medical assumptions. Any attempt to investigate such healings requires the involvement of other disciplines. A transdisciplinary approach that includes experiential knowledge would be helpful. Against the background of the science-religion debate, we feel that the most helpful approach would be one of complementarity and dialogue, rather than stoking controversy.
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Abstract
Despite extensive ethnographic and qualitative research on traditional healers in Nepal, the role of traditional healers in relation to mental health has not been synthesized. We focused on the following clinically based research question, "What are the processes by which Nepali traditional healers address mental well-being?" We adopted a scoping review methodology to maximize the available literature base and conducted a modified thematic analysis rooted in grounded theory, ethnography, and phenomenology. We searched five databases using terms related to traditional healers and mental health. We contacted key authors and reviewed references for additional literature. Our scoping review yielded 86 eligible studies, 65 of which relied solely on classical qualitative study designs. The reviewed literature suggests that traditional healers use a wide range of interventions that utilize magico-religious explanatory models to invoke symbolic transference, manipulation of local illness narratives, roles, and relationships, cognitive restructuring, meaning-making, and catharsis. Traditional healers' perceived impact appears greatest for mild to moderate forms of psychological distress. However, the methodological and sample heterogeneity preclude uniform conclusions about traditional healing. Further research should employ methods which are both empirically sound and culturally adapted to explore the role of traditional healers in mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony V Pham
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27701, USA.
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Bonnie N Kaiser
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Anthropology and Global Health Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rishav Koirala
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Brain and Neuroscience Center Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | | | - Lauren Franz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brandon A Kohrt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, 2301 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, USA
- Transcultural Psychosocial Organization Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington, Washington, DC, USA
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Blažević J. The Phenomenon of Miraculous Healing Through Suggestion in the Context of Faith and Magic - Psychological-Theological Approach. Psychiatr Danub 2021; 33:933-939. [PMID: 35026824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The example of the practices of three eighteenth and nineteenth century physicians, the author points out the importance of the profile of healers whose role (suggestion) in the healing process was more effective than their controversial methods. The following represents the impact mechanisms of suggestion (placebo effect) on the amazing healing phenomenon, indicating the possibility of the fatal consequences of suggestion in the context of (black) magic (nocebo effect), corroborating the facts stated. It warns of the frequent confusion of the fields of psychology and religion (the resuscitation of Mesalianism, the ancient misconception of confusing authentic spiritual experiences with psychological states), which has become the dominant feature of New Age self-help literature and psychology. It concludes with Christian miracle theology and features of Christian prayer for healing, suggesting guidelines useful for the pastoral and therapeutic work that has been derived from this research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josip Blažević
- "Croatian Areopag" Centre for Interreligious Dialogue, Croatian Provinces of Conventual Friars, Sveti Duh 31, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia,
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Abstract
This study closely examines 51 breast cancer narratives Latina and Spanish women wrote for other patients to illuminate how they conceptualize their health, with insights for addressing health disparities. Using discourse analysis of the role of language and culture in health care communication, this study focuses on the use of metaphors in the narratives. This provides revelations about the cultural and linguistic aspects of how the writers conceptualize their disease. Building on past research on metaphor use in cancer discourse in the English language, this study reveals the prevalence of metaphors comparing cancer to combat, or more generally, violence (e.g., "my battle against cancer"), or a journey (e.g., "my path with cancer"). Writers used this metaphorical language to offer advice to others with cancer and to mark their membership in a larger community of people with cancer. We also find that Spanish women use metaphors more frequently than Latinas and that they differed in their metaphorical portrayals of cancer. This research uncovers culturally embedded themes that are central to how women with cancer think about the disease, such as the prominence of spirituality in Latinas' metaphorical constructions, a pattern not evident in Spanish women's narratives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Magaña
- Department of Literature, Languages & Cultures, School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Arts, University of California
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Naimi E, Eilami O, Babuei A, Rezaei K, Moslemirad M. The Effect of Religious Intervention Using Prayer for Quality of Life and Psychological Status of Patients with Permanent Pacemaker. J Relig Health 2020; 59:920-927. [PMID: 30218372 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-018-0698-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The development of heart disease, followed by the pacemaker implantation, has reduced the quality and psychological problems for patients. Thus, the present study was conducted to determine the effect of prayer on the quality of life and the psychological status of patients with permanent pacemaker. This is a quasi-experimental study in which 75 patients were assigned to experimental and control groups. Religious intervention was conducted for the experimental group, including the Tavasol prayer and four recommended (mustahab) remembrances in 7 sessions. Before and after the intervention, the patients were provided with the quality of life questionnaire and psychological status. Then, the questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive and analytical tests. Before intervention, there was no difference between quality of life status and psychological status of patients, but after intervention, their quality of life increased and their psychological status improved significantly. The implementation of religious intervention based on prayer positively affects the quality of life and psychological status of patients; thus, implementing this intervention is necessary for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Naimi
- Department of Public Health, Faulty of Health, Yasuj University of Medical Science, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Owrang Eilami
- School of Medicine Social, Determinants of Health Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Amin Babuei
- Deputy of Development of Management, Yasuj University of Medical Science, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Karim Rezaei
- Determinants of Health Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Moslem Moslemirad
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran.
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Abstract
Healthcare practitioners are increasingly aware that patients may utilize faith-based healing practices in place of conventional medicine based on their spiritual and/or religious understandings of health and illness. Therefore, elucidating the ontological understandings of patients utilizing such religion-based treatments may clarify why patients and clinicians have differing understandings of 'who' heals and 'what' are means for healing. This paper describes an Islamic ontological schema that includes the following realms: Divine existence; spirits/celestial beings; non-physical forms/similitudes; and physical bodies. Ontological schema-based means of healing include conventional medicine, religion-based means (e.g., supplication, charity, prescribed incantations/amulets), and active adoption of Islamic virtues (e.g., reliance on God [tawakkul] and patience [sabr]). An ontological schema-based description of causes and means of healing can service a more holistic model of healthcare by integrating the overlapping worlds of religion and medicine and can support clinicians seeking to further understand and assess patient responses and attitudes toward illness and healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsan M Arozullah
- Darul Qasim Institute, 550 Regency Drive, Glendale Heights, IL, 60139, USA.
| | - Aasim I Padela
- The Initiative on Islam and Medicine, Program on Medicine and Religion, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Section of Emergency Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - M Volkan Stodolsky
- Darul Qasim Institute, 550 Regency Drive, Glendale Heights, IL, 60139, USA
| | - M Amin Kholwadia
- Darul Qasim Institute, 550 Regency Drive, Glendale Heights, IL, 60139, USA
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Abstract
Previous research has associated prayer practices with positive health outcomes, but few studies have examined: (a) the perceptions of prayer in relation to perceptions of the efficacy of conventional medicine, and (b) whether the perceptions of prayer efficacy differ based on illness type, context of prayer, and whether prayer is for the self or someone else. The current study surveyed 498 emerging adults at a public university. Conventional medicine was perceived as more effective for alleviating health concerns overall, but participants perceived prayer as most effective when performed in a group setting for someone else. Individuals perceived prayer as more effective than conventional medicine when they reported greater religious activity, lower health locus of control, and higher spiritual locus of control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert L Ly
- Department of Psychology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA.
| | - Anondah R Saide
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, 76203, USA
| | - Rebekah A Richert
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
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Abstract
Traditional and faith healing is a common practice in many low- and middle-income countries due to resource limitations and belief systems, particularly for disorders such as mental disorders. We report on the beliefs about mental illness from the perspective of one category of alternative healers in Ghana-the Muslim faith healers. We also report on their methods of diagnoses and treatment for mental disorders. Results show that the healers' beliefs about mental illness revolved around the notion of Jinn as causing most mental illness. Emerging themes are discussed with reference to their potential implications for patients' care and health-seeking behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily N A Kpobi
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, 2nd Floor RW Wilcocks Building, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
| | - Leslie Swartz
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, 2nd Floor RW Wilcocks Building, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Bard TR. Faith and Truth Revisited. J Pastoral Care Counsel 2019; 73:71. [PMID: 31189442 DOI: 10.1177/1542305019856431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
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Kpobi L, Swartz L, Keikelame MJ. Ghanaian traditional and faith healers' explanatory models for epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 84:88-92. [PMID: 29754110 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is the most common neurological condition in sub-Saharan Africa. A significant number of people with epilepsy in low- and middle-income countries do not receive formal biomedical care. They utilize the services of various traditional and alternative medicine practitioners. However, there is relatively little information about the beliefs and methods of alternative healthcare providers about epilepsy in many African countries. Using explanatory models of illness framework, we interviewed thirty-six traditional and faith healers in Ghana on their beliefs and perceptions about epilepsy, as well as how they would treat epilepsy. The healers' beliefs about the nature of epilepsy were reflected in the labels they assigned to the condition. These indicated a belief in the influence of the moon in epilepsy. Furthermore, the participants held multiple, simultaneous explanatory models of causes for epilepsy, including biological, social, and supernatural causes. Epilepsy was also considered to have serious social implications for patients, especially for women. Finally, their treatment methods involved a range of herbal and spiritual practices. These varied based on the identified cause of the condition, as well as the orientation of the healer. We discuss these findings with reference to their implications for potential collaboration between biomedical and alternative healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Kpobi
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| | - Leslie Swartz
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
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Bhattacharya S, Singh A. Beliefs of a traditional rural Indian family towards naturalistic and faith healing for treating epilepsy: a case study. BMJ Case Rep 2018; 2018:bcr-2018-225405. [PMID: 29914907 PMCID: PMC6011541 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2018-225405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In this case study, we describe our experiences with a rural poor family from north India that initially contacted faith healers for treatment of their child who was having symptoms suggestive of epilepsy, but the seizures continued even after this. The family migrated to a city, where they started allopathic treatment, but eventually they had to discontinue it as there was no apparent relief. Again, they went back to their native village and restarted the treatment from the faith healer.This case study highlights the fact that in spite of the significant development of medical science, many questions pertaining to epilepsy treatment are still unanswered. Such dissatisfaction with the allopathic treatment of epilepsy is very common. Complexity of the disease and high cost of modern medication, side effects of drugs, efficient but heavy treatment protocols and unpredictable outcome are responsible for continued practice of people consulting faith healers for treatment of epilepsy. However, these remain unnoticed and undocumented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudip Bhattacharya
- Community Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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Abstract
Prayer is viewed in modern medicine as a complimentary alternative treatment. However, to many patients, it is a source of hope and comfort. Patients, when facing illness, advanced disease, disability or death, can benefit from prayer. For healthcare providers, comfort with praying with patients can be deemed as unprofessional conduct or blurred therapeutic boundaries, particularly, when prayer is offered to patients' unsolicited by the patient or their family member(s). Therefore, it is imperative that healthcare providers await the request of prayer by the patient before prayer is initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl Ann Green
- Southern Connecticut State University, 501 Crescent Street, Jennings Hall, Office 121, New Haven, CT, 06515, USA.
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Kruijthoff DJ, van der Kooi C, Glas G, Abma TA. Prayer Healing: A Case Study Research Protocol. Adv Mind Body Med 2018; 31:17-22. [PMID: 28987036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Context • Prayer healing is a common practice in many religious communities around the world. Even in the highly secularized Dutch society, cases of prayer healing are occasionally reported in the media, often generating public attention. There is an ongoing debate regarding whether such miraculous cures do actually occur and how to interpret them. Objective • The aim of the article was to present a research protocol for the investigation of reported cases of remarkable and/or unexplained healing after prayer. Design • The research team developed a method to perform a retrospective, case-based study of prayer healing. Reported prayer healings can be investigated systematically in accordance with a step-by-step methodology. The focus is on understanding the healing by studying it from multiple perspectives, using both medical judgment and patients' narratives collected by qualitative methods Setting • The study occurred at Vrije Universiteit (VU) and VU Medical Center (Amsterdam, Netherlands) as well as the general medical practice of the first author. Participants • Potential participants could be any individuals in the Netherlands or neighboring countries who claim to have been healed through prayer. The reports of healing came from multiple sources, including the research team's medical practices and their direct vicinities, newspaper articles, prayer healers, and medical colleagues. Outcome Measures • Medical data were obtained before and after prayer. Subsequently, a member of a research team and of a medical assessment committee made a standardized judgment that evaluated whether a cure was clinically remarkable or scientifically unexplained. The participants' experiences and insider perspectives were studied, using in-depth interviews in accordance with a qualitative research methodology, to gain insight into the perceptions and explanations of the cures that were offered by participants and by the members of the medical assessment committee. The medical findings and participants' experiences were weighed and interpreted based on a transdisciplinary framework, including biopsychosocial and theological perspectives, with reference to a conceptual framework derived from Ian Barbour's typology of positions in the science-religion debate. Conclusion • A case-based, research study protocol that compares medical and experiential findings and that interprets and structures those findings with reference to Ian Barbour's conceptual model is an innovative way of gaining deeper insight into the nature of remarkable and/or unexplained cures.
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Gamero-Vega G, Cjuno J, Bazalar J, Azañedo D, Taype-Rondan Á, Miranda J. [Research on faith-based interventions and faith-placed health interventions: current situation and perspectives in Latin America]. Gac Sanit 2018; 32:315-317. [PMID: 29395126 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaceta.2017.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giulianna Gamero-Vega
- Centro de Estudios de Población, Universidad Católica Los Ángeles de Chimbote (ULADECH-Católica), Chimbote, Perú.
| | - Julio Cjuno
- Centro de Estudios de Población, Universidad Católica Los Ángeles de Chimbote (ULADECH-Católica), Chimbote, Perú
| | - Janina Bazalar
- Centro de Estudios de Población, Universidad Católica Los Ángeles de Chimbote (ULADECH-Católica), Chimbote, Perú
| | - Diego Azañedo
- Centro de Estudios de Población, Universidad Católica Los Ángeles de Chimbote (ULADECH-Católica), Chimbote, Perú
| | - Álvaro Taype-Rondan
- CRÓNICAS Centro de Excelencia en Enfermedades Crónicas, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Perú
| | - Jaime Miranda
- CRÓNICAS Centro de Excelencia en Enfermedades Crónicas, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Perú
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Abstract
Belief in the healing power of prayer is found in various religious traditions. Spiritually grounded clinical interventions, such as intercessory prayer (IP), need to be understood in a broader sense. This essay features the IP trials, observing the controversial relationship between inconsistent results and allegedly inadequate methods and theoretical hypothesis. A survey of the literature was conducted including publications indexed until September 2013, focusing on the trials developed in the field and on the critics about the methodological design. Recent meta-analyses and multicenter studies found inconclusive results in the investigation of IP. Clinical trials on IP present some methodological difficulties: The intervention is not fully controlled; the primary outcome is not properly defined; and the theoretical models seem inconsistent. The "non-local consciousness" model may be appropriate for studies of IP. Directions for future research: greater emphasis on the evaluation of the effectiveness of this intervention in animal models; selection of subjects and healers who have previous connection; considering the hypothesis of non-local consciousness in the study design.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tiago Pires Tatton-Ramos
- Department of Psychology - Laboratory of Experimental Fenomenology and Cognition, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Affiliation(s)
- Najat Khalifa
- Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, Leicester LE5 0LE, UK
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Ferraz GAR, Rodrigues MRK, Lima SAM, Lima MAF, Maia GL, Pilan CA, Omodei MS, Molina AC, El Dib R, Rudge MVC. Is reiki or prayer effective in relieving pain during hospitalization for cesarean? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. SAO PAULO MED J 2017; 135:123-132. [PMID: 28443949 PMCID: PMC9977345 DOI: 10.1590/1516-3180.2016.0267031116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: This systematic review compared reiki and prayer with drug use for relieving pain during hospitalization for cesarean, given that the popularity of integrative medicine and spiritual healing has been increasing. It had the aim of evaluating whether reiki or prayer is effective in relieving pain during cesarean section. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review with meta-analysis conducted at Botucatu Medical School, UNESP, São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: The following databases were searched up to March 2016: MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS and CENTRAL. Randomized controlled trials published in English or Portuguese were included in the review. Two reviewers independently screened eligible articles, extracted data and assessed the risk of bias. A GRADE table was produced to evaluate the risk of bias. RESULTS: There was evidence with a high risk of bias showing a statistically significant decrease in pain score through use of reiki and prayer, in relation to the protocol group: mean difference = -1.68; 95% confidence interval: -1.92 to -1.43; P < 0.00001; I2 = 92%. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference in heart rate or systolic or diastolic blood pressure. CONCLUSION: Evidence with a high risk of bias suggested that reiki and prayer meditation might be associated with pain reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Augusto Rago Ferraz
- MSc. PhD’s Student, Postgraduate Program on Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu (SP), Brazil.
| | - Meline Rosseto Kron Rodrigues
- MSc. PhD’s Student, Postgraduate Program on Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu (SP), Brazil.
| | - Silvana Andrea Molina Lima
- PhD. Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu (SP), Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Aparecido Ferraz Lima
- BA. Master’s Student, Postgraduate Program on Public Health, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu (SP), Brazil.
| | - Gabriela Lopes Maia
- Undergraduate Nursing Student, Faculdade Marechal Rondon (FMR), São Manoel (SP), Brazil.
| | - Carlos Alberto Pilan
- Undergraduate Medical Student, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil.
| | - Michelle Sako Omodei
- MD. Physician. Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu (SP), Brazil.
| | - Ana Cláudia Molina
- PhD. Nurse, Botucatu Outpatient Clinics, Municipal Authority of Botucatu, Botucatu (SP), Brazil.
| | - Regina El Dib
- PhD. Assistant Professor, Institute of Science and Technology, Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), São José dos Campos (SP), Brazil, and Research collaborator, Institute of Urology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Marilza Vieira Cunha Rudge
- MD, PhD. Titular Professor, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu (SP), Brazil.
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Tajadini H, Zangiabadi N, Divsalar K, Safizadeh H, Esmaili Z, Rafiei H. Effect of Prayer on Intensity of Migraine Headache: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med 2017; 22:37-40. [PMID: 26865602 PMCID: PMC5871201 DOI: 10.1177/2156587215627551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Revised: 11/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Migraine is a common form of headache that affects patients quality of life negatively. In addition to pharmacologic treatment, there are a variety of nonpharmacologic treatments for migraine headache. In present study, we examined the effect of prayer on intensity of migraine pain. METHODS In a prospective, randomized, controlled trial from October 2013 to June 2014, this study has been conducted in Kerman, Iran. We randomly assigned 92 patients in 2 groups to receive either 40 mg of propranolol twice a day for 2 month (group "A") or 40 mg of propranolol twice a day for 2 months with prayer (group "B"). At the beginning of study and 3 months after intervention, patients' pain was measured using the visual analogue scale. RESULTS At the beginning of study and before intervention, the mean score of pain in patients in groups A and B were 5.7 ± 1.6 and 6.5 ± 1.9, respectively. According to results of independent t test, mean score of pain intensity at the beginning of study were similar between patients in 2 groups (P > .05). Three month after intervention, mean score of pain intensity decreased in patients in both groups. At this time, the mean scores of pain intensity were 5.4 ± 1.1 and 4.2 ± 2.3 in patients in groups A and B, respectively. This difference between groups was statistically significant (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed that prayer can be used as a nonpharmacologic pain coping strategy in addition to pharmacologic intervention for this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haleh Tajadini
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Kouros Divsalar
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hossein Safizadeh
- Social determinants of health research center, Institute for futures studies in health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Hossein Rafiei
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Qazvin University of Medical Science, Qazvin, Iran
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Abstract
This essay draws on the personal experiences of a spiritual pilgrimage in northern Spain. Using pilgrimage as metaphor and the experience of walking a portion of the famous Spanish El Camino, (the way), the author raises questions such as: How do we walk through life? How do we get our footing to bring artistry of caring into our lives and work and world? What steps do we take that speak to who we are and our raison d’être? This perspective is grounded in Newman’s health as evolving consciousness, Rogers’s science of unitary being, Quinn’s view of sacred space, and Watson’s caritas (cosmic loving consciousness) as the highest form of consciousness, and the infinite source of healing/wholeness. A walking spiritual pilgrimage serves as metaphoric invitation for nurses and nursing to engage in conscious, creative, artful steps, imprinting self and society with caritas in our lives, our work, and our world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Watson
- Caring Science, University of Colorado, Denver, USA
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Ayede A, Osinusi K, Falade AG. Responses to spread of.Ebola virus disease epidemic in West Africa: A review. Afr J Med Med Sci 2016; 45:119-134. [PMID: 29465855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The first Ebola virus disease (EVD) epidemic in West Africa is unprecedented in its spread, complexity and severity. Comparing responses to spread of the virus in the three most affected countries - Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia- with that in Nigeria, Senegal and Mali where the epidemic was quickly brought under control may guide future mitigation efforts. METHODS Literature from Pubmed. Google,Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), World Health Organization's Updates and Ebola Response Reports: Results: The epidemic spread undiagnosed for three months from Meliandou in Guinea to its four rural prefectures and its. capital Conakry, two countires in Liberia and two districts in Sierra Leone. Control measures were hampered by traditional and faith healers offering -inappropriate treatments, as well as secret societies encouraging unsafe burial rituals. Whereas, in Nigeria, a case imported from Liberia on 20 July 2014 was diagnosed on the 3rd day; all primary, secondary and tertiary contacts were traced. Also, at a formal meeting, officials of Lagos state government discouraged treatment of EVD by faith healers. In Senegal, a single case imported from Guinea on 20 August 2014 was diagnosed on the 9th day, treated and further spread was prevented. In Mali, there were two waves of transmissions identified on 23 October and 12 November 2014 within 15 days of importation and the epidemic was controlled.There were no cases of EVD treated by any traditional healers or faith healers in Nigeria, Senegal and Mali. CONCLUSION Education of traditional and faith healers on EVD will complement control measures for EVD epidemic.
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Poulton TJ. On the problems of chatting with angels. Pharos Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Med Soc 2016; 79:10-12. [PMID: 29481002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
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Abstract
Sarkar and Seshadri have presented an interesting paper in this issue on the ethical approach that a physician should take when faced with requests for faith healing (1). The paper describes four approaches that the physician can take. These are rejecting the request, keeping oneself detached from the issue, endorsing the request and trying to understand the practices concerned so as to make a reasoned decision. This commentary attempts to explore the issue of faith healing further, from the point of view of clinical care. It shall discuss five important dimensions which can supplement the arguments by Sarkar and Seshadri. These are the concepts of faith, spirituality and religion and faith healing; the difference between cure and healing; patient-centred care; the various factors influencing a doctor's response to requests for faith healing; and finally, the ethical issues to be considered while making a decision. Before launching into the discussion, it should be made clear that this commentary refers mainly to those faith healing practices which are not overtly harmful, such as prayers, and wearing rings and amulets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijayaprasad Gopichandran
- Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, ESIC Medical College & PGIMSR, KK Nagar, Chennai 600 078, India,.
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Schultz E, Loen M. Pilgrimage as a Spiritual Experience. Beginnings 2015; 35:18-28. [PMID: 26677636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
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Welby-Roberts K. Suffering Depression in the Christian Church--One Person's Experience. Psychiatr Danub 2015; 27 Suppl 1:S243-S244. [PMID: 26417772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The author has suffered for several years from Anxiety and depression. Here she describes her experiences, both of depression and of her experience as a person suffering from depression within the Christian Church.
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Pikó B. [Scientific and complementary medicine. Irreconcilable differences or mutually supportive systems]. Lege Artis Med 2015; 25:381-386. [PMID: 26642593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
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Hickner J. "Will you pray with me, Doctor?". J Fam Pract 2015; 64:391. [PMID: 26324966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
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Bock GL. Case study. Faith and futility in the ICU. Commentary. Hastings Cent Rep 2015; 45:10. [PMID: 26180845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
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Bonilla E. John of God: an enigma for the medical sciences. Invest Clin 2014; 55:392-399. [PMID: 25558757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Some cures carried out by Medium João Teixeira de Faría (John of God) are presented. He claims to channel spiritual entities (Drs. Augusto de Almeida, Oswaldo Cruz, and José Valdivino) that have instantaneous access to the physical, emotional and spiritual history of each patient who is then treated by physical or "spiritual" surgeries, herbs, meditation, prayers and the ingestion of "energized" water. People operated on have no pain during the interventions and infections have not been observed. The mechanisms responsible for the healings are unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Bonilla
- IVIC-Seda Zulia, Hospital Universitario de Maracaibo, Venezuela.
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Chui PL, Abdullah KL, Wong LP, Taib NA. Prayer-for-health and complementary alternative medicine use among Malaysian breast cancer patients during chemotherapy. BMC Complement Altern Med 2014; 14:425. [PMID: 25358688 PMCID: PMC4230750 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The inclusion of prayer-for-health (PFH) in the definition of complementary alternative medicine (CAM) has resulted in higher levels of CAM use. The objective of this study was to assess PFH and CAM use among breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. METHODS A cross-sectional study was performed at two chemotherapy providers. Patients were questioned about use of three categories of CAM, mind-body practices (MBPs), natural products (NPs) and traditional medicine (TM). PFH was also examined separately from CAM to better characterise the patterns of CAM and PFH used during chemotherapy. RESULTS A total of 546 eligible patients participated in the study; 70.7% (n = 386) reported using some form of CAM, and 29.3% (n = 160) were non-CAM users. When PFH was excluded as a CAM, fewer patients reported the use of CAM (66.1%; n = 361). The total number of patients who used MBPs decreased from 342 to 183. The most common CAM use category was NPs (82.8%), followed by MBPs (50.7%), and TM (35.7%). CAM users were more likely to have a tertiary education (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.15-3.89 vs. primary/lower), have household incomes > RM 3,000 (≈944 USD) per month (OR 2.32, 95% CI 1.40-3.84 vs. ≤RM 3,000 (≈944 USD)), and have advanced cancer (OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.18-2.59 vs. early stage cancer), compared with non-CAM users. The CAM users were less likely to have their chemotherapy on schedule (OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.10-0.58 vs. chemotherapy postponed) than non-CAM users. Most MBPs were perceived to be more helpful by their users, compared with the users of NPs and TM. CONCLUSION CAM use was prevalent among breast cancer patients. Excluding PFH from the definition of CAM reduced the prevalence of overall CAM use. Overall, CAM use was associated with higher education levels and household incomes, advanced cancer and lower chemotherapy schedule compliance. Many patients perceived MBP to be beneficial for improving overall well-being during chemotherapy. These findings, while preliminary, clearly indicate the differences in CAM use when PFH is included in, and excluded from, the definition of CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Lei Chui
- />Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
| | - Khatijah Lim Abdullah
- />Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
| | - Li Ping Wong
- />Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
| | - Nur Aishah Taib
- />Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Malaysia
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Abstract
This article concerns the relationship between addiction recovery, spirituality and psychotherapy. Since its founding, members of AA have been encouraged to pursue a spiritual life. They have also sought psychotherapy. A paradox obtains, because 51 % of therapists are atheists. Others have little awareness of the dynamics of the spiritual life. The developmental process of the spiritual life is discussed, and suggestions are made regarding how a therapist might be helpful in this process.
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Bryant K, Haynes T, Greer-Williams N, Hartwig MS. "Too blessed to be stressed": a rural faith community's views of African-American males and depression. J Relig Health 2014; 53:796-808. [PMID: 23288483 PMCID: PMC3639295 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-012-9672-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Among African-Americans, the faith community has a long history of providing support to its members. Because African-American men tend to delay and decline traditional depression treatment, the faith community may be an effective source of support. The aim of this study was to determine how a rural African-American faith community describes and perceives experiences of depression among African-American males. A convenience sample of 24 men and women participated in focus groups and interview. Four themes were identified: defining depression, etiology of depression, denial of depression, and effect of masculine roles on depression experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keneshia Bryant
- Translational Research Institute KL2 Scholar College of Nursing University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences 4301 West Markham Street, Slot #529 Little Rock, Arkansas 72205 Phone: (501) 296-1896 Fax: (501) 296-1765
| | - Tiffany Haynes
- Translational Research Institute KL2 Scholar University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences 4301 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72205 Phone: 501-257-1795
| | - Nancy Greer-Williams
- Division of Research Practice and Improvement University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences 4021 West 8 Street Little Rock, AR 72205 Phone: (501) 686-7364
| | - Mary S. Hartwig
- Area Health Education Center-Northeast University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences 223 East Jackson Jonesboro, AR 72401 Phone: (870)972-9603 X 254 Fax: (870)931-0839
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Venkatrajut B, Prasad S. Use of complementaryand alternative therapies among rural TB patients in Nalgonda, Andhra Pradesh: a qualitative study. Indian J Tuberc 2014; 61:134-141. [PMID: 25509936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A considerable number of studies have been conducted on health seeking behaviour of TB patients in different parts of the world. However, these studies largely ignored the prevalence and use of complementary and alternative medical practices (CAM) among TB patients. This present study was prompted by the recognition that, an understanding of different factors influencing CAM use in a medically pluralistic setting has important implications for providing patient-centred comprehensive care, and improving the quality of life for TB patients. AIM The objective of the study was to explore the reasons and motivations for the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapies among rural TB patients. METHODS A sample of 110 respondents were recruited purposively from two selected rural TB units at Yadagirigutta and Chintapally in Nalgonda district in Andhra Pradesh (A.P.). Semi-structured interview schedule and case study methods were used for the collection of primary data. A qualitative content analysis method was employed to analyse and interpret the data. RESULTS TB patients employed a variety of alternative therapies such as massage, prayer, amulets, diet, faith or spiritual healing, restriction in alcohol consumption and smoking, abstinence from sex, and herbal teas as an adjunct to biomedical TB treatment. Engaging in alternative medical practices resulted in a sense control and relief from physical and psychological suffering and trauma associated TB illness. CONCLUSION There is a need on the part of the health care professionals and health policy managers to gain insight into the motivations and reasons for CAM use among the TB patients. Such a shift in thinking will impact on reducing non-compliance, and identifying and dealing with unmet needs of patients which are seen as major deterrents to successful TB control programmes.
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Aslam N. The cost associated with the supernatural explanation of the natural diseases: dual responsibility of the doctors. J Coll Physicians Surg Pak 2014; 24:150. [PMID: 24491017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Naeem Aslam
- Department of Psychology, National Institute of Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad
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Homayounfar G. Body and soul: lessons from my third year in medical school. Acad Med 2013; 88:966. [PMID: 23799445 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0b013e3182956e96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
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Peach HG. Migrant farm-workers and health. Rural Remote Health 2013; 13:2337. [PMID: 23641804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
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Yeh JT, Lin CL. Beauty and healing: examining sociocultural expectations of the embodied goddess. J Relig Health 2013; 52:318-334. [PMID: 21360223 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-011-9470-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Studies indicate mental health improvement can occur via religious communities offering social support and other resources. Many people from many cultures regard medicine as a supernatural or magical treatment that can somehow lead to a better state of living. In medical advertising, female role portrayal involves the blending of beauty, ritual and attractiveness in combination with the best product image. A Chinese saying suggests that, "A girl will doll herself up for him who loves her." Female role attraction is a very important ethical subject in gender issues. Moving forward in time, female role visualization and consumption in medical advertising reveal depictions that encouraged women to do some self-searching and find, or develop, inner strength. This study is designed to examine female role portrayals in a restricted patriarchal society. The results indicate that the ideology of motherhood is an accepted social orientation that the public readily identifies with. Results further indicate that beautification through medical products incorporates an emotional element of religious healing and that the objectification of beauty in the media reveals a possible neglect of women's internal beauty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Tsann Yeh
- Department of Commercial Design, Vanung University, No. 1, Van-Nung Rd., Chung-Li, Tao-Yuan, 32061, Taiwan.
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