Exploring Religion as a Path to Meaning: The Role of "Pastrotherapy" in Supporting Young People's Quest for a Good Life in Nigeria.

Journal: Journal of religion and health

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Issue: 

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Affiliated Institutions:  Research Unit Pastoral and Empirical Theology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Sint-Michielsstraat - Box , , Louvain, Belgium. cinwafor@gmail.com. Research Unit Pastoral and Empirical Theology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Sint-Michielsstraat - Box , , Louvain, Belgium.

Abstract summary 

This paper examines suicide prevalence among Nigerian youth struggling to find meaning in life. Frustrated by unattainable ideals, they experience despair. The study explores religion's role in providing support for meaning-seeking individuals. Utilizing an explorative approach, the paper highlights how religion can play a role in offering solidarity, morality, and hope as vital resources for creating a meaningful life. It introduces "Pastrotherapy" as a pastoral care approach to addressing existential questions. Findings emphasize the importance of religious communities and leaders in promoting resilience and addressing underlying causes of despair. This study reveals how religious beliefs and practices support Nigerian youth facing existential challenges, shedding light on the intersection of religion, meaning-making, and mental health.

Authors & Co-authors:  Nwafor Collins Ikeokwu CI Vandenhoeck Anne A

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations :  Adewuya, A. O., & Makanjuola, R. O. A. (2008). Lay beliefs regarding causes of mental illness in Nigeria: Pattern and correlates. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 43(4), 336–341. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-007-0305-x
Authors :  2
Identifiers
Doi : 10.1007/s10943-023-01979-1
SSN : 1573-6571
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Other Terms
Chaplain;Meaning in life;Nigerian youth;Pastor;Pastoral care;Pastoral caregiver;Pastrotherapy;Religion;Suicide;Suicide prevention
Study Design
Cross Sectional Study
Study Approach
Country of Study
Niger
Publication Country
United States