The Effects of Religion on

HealthMark Bertucci

Argosy University

Healthy Behavior

• Rules and Required Behaviors

Prohibition of certain substances

• Abstinence from harmful activities

Psychological States

• Ability to cope

Social support through congregation

• Stress=Cortisol=Poor health

• Sense of meaning to events/illnesses

Teaching of Forgiveness

• Confounding Factors

Social Support

• Support’s benefits

Increased Cardiovascular Health and Psychological Well-Being

• Interconnectivity

Negative Aspects

• Increased discrimination

Intolerability

• Aversion to Current Medicine and Medical Practices

Discussion

• Many confounding factors involved

Are these only secondary effects?

• Are there primary effects?

• Are there other options for these effects?

Eastern/Western Bias

• Ethical implications