Religion, psychology, and mental health

Many mental health professionals look with suspicion upon religious involvement. This may be due to inadequate characterizations of religion or to the profound difference in religious involvement among professionals and nonprofessionals. These differences are examined and a theory of human nature is sketched which makes a place for both science and religion. Admittedly, religion frequently plays a role in psychopathology. This is not surprising, however, since religion as part of psychic life can be distorted. The common forms of such distortion are described and suggestions for management are given. Is there such a thing as "healthy" religion? Attempts to answer this question frequently reflect a bias toward the goals of contemporary psychotherapy--goals which may conflict with deeply held religious convictions. Therapist and client ought to explicitly recognize this potential for conflict before therapy continues.