Rivals: Religion And Psychiatry - Study Reflects Tension That Influences Care For Mental Health

Main Category: Mental Health
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry
Article Date: 24 Sep 2007 - 15:00 PDT

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Historic tensions between religion and psychiatry continue to shape the care that patients receive for mental health concerns. That's one conclusion of a study in the September 2007 issue of Psychiatric Services, a publication of the American Psychiatric Association.

"This study illuminates the overlap and healthy rivalry between religion and psychiatry," says John Lantos, MD, a co-author of the study and the John B. Francis Chair in Bioethics at the Center for Practical Bioethics in Kansas City, Missouri.

The study, entitled The Relationship Between Psychiatry and Religion Among U.S. Physicians, reports results of a national survey of physicians in 2003. The survey compared the religious characteristics of psychiatrists with those of other physicians. It also examined the tendencies of physicians to refer patients to psychiatrists and psychologists.

The results? Religious doctors are more likely to refer someone with grief and depression problems to religious counselors. Less religious doctors are more likely to refer that same patient to a psychiatrist or psychologist.

According to Dr. Lantos, the study hints at internal tensions within psychiatry. "Psychotherapy is quite similar to pastoral counseling," says Dr. Lantos. "Both are conversational, and harness the profound healing power of understanding and emotional connection."

On the other hand, Dr. Lantos says psychopharmacology is completely different. "It represents a new and still controversial therapy for psychiatrists," he says. "The underlying question is whether our moods and emotions are more shaped by our experiences or our neurotransmitters, or some complex interaction between the two."

For patients, Dr. Lantos says this debate has practical implications. "It is important to know a little bit about your doctor's religious beliefs and to let your doctor know about yours," he says. "Misunderstandings about either could lead to bad decisions about treatment and referral." Link:The Relationship Between Psychiatry and Religion Among U.S. Physicians, Psychiatric Services, September 2007

Founded in 1984, the Center for Practical Bioethics raises and responds to ethical issues in health and healthcare. John Lantos, MD, is the first holder of the John B. Francis Chair in Bioethics. The chair was established in 2005 with a $3 million endowment to significantly advance the Center's vision and mission and to honor the legacy of John B. Francis.

http://www.practicalbioethics.org