Date of Award
Fall 2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
College
Barnett College of Ministry & Theology
Department
Department of Christian Ministries and Religion
Primary Advisor
Dr. Deedra Shilliday
Second Advisor
Dr. Geraldine Daniels
Third Advisor
Dr. Alan Ehler
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify the prevailing mental health perspectives of African American spiritual leaders and to analyze how their views on this subject are communicated to their congregations. Historically, research has demonstrated that African American clergy have admonished congregants for seeking mental health care from mental health professionals instead of seeking God. Twelve African American and Caucasian American spiritual leaders were interviewed. According to the interview results, spiritual leaders' personal beliefs about mental health impact their perspectives on mental health services, which determines their receptiveness and support––or lack thereof––of mental health services. The research concluded that providing education on mental health to spiritual leaders, their staff, and congregants could help destigmatize mental health in the African American community. Mental health training could open a dialogue on mental well-being and reduce the disparity between African Americans and Caucasian Americans in the rate at which mental health services are received.
Recommended Citation
McCurdy, Sonya R., "MENTAL HEALTH IN THE AFRICAN AMERICAN CHURCH: DISMANTLING THE STIGMA OF TREATMENT AND SERVICES" (2023). Doctor of Ministry (DMin). 38.
https://firescholars.seu.edu/dmin/38