Religious Cognitive Behavioural Therapy as an Intervention For Depression Among Clergy in Kenya.
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Date
2024-10
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences
Abstract
Despite the recognized importance of mental health within the clergy community, there is a dearth of tailored interventions that resonate with their religious beliefs and practices. This study, with its distinctive focus on religious cognitive behavioral therapy (RCBT), was designed to fill this gap and the pressing need for effective and culturally sensitive interventions. By investigating the potential of RCBT in alleviating symptoms of depression among clergy members in selected Kenyan Churches, this study makes a significant contribution to the field of mental health interventions for clergy members. The sample consisted of 123 clergies (26-65 years; female = 35; male = 88) primarily affiliated with Love INC., Kenya. Data was collected virtually through a researchergenerated social-demographic questionnaire, Brief COPE, and Beck’s Depression Inventory 2 (BDI-II). Using purposive sampling, 64 clergy met the inclusion criteria for depression symptomatology (BDI-II cut-off =10), of whom 52 completed the research process. A quasi-experimental research design was employed, administering a 10-week RCBT program to an Intervention group (N=26) but not the control group (N=26). Assessments were conducted at baseline, midline (after five weeks), and end-line (3 months post-treatment). Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29, employing descriptive and inferential statistics. The prevalence of depression was 52%(n=64), and logistic regression analysis revealed that being young (OR= 0.554, p = .026) and having lower than graduate-level education (OR = 4.22, p =.005) were risk factors for depression. Most clergy frequently used problemsolving (n=41;78.8%) and emotion-focused coping techniques (n=39;75.5%). Increased use of the planning coping mechanism was significantly related to higher depression scores among males (r = .331, p = .049). The independent samples t-test demonstrated the efficacy of RCBT at the end line (t (48) = -2.49, p =.016; Cohen’s d= -.703; 95% C.I = -1.272 to .128), suggesting that RCBT is a valuable intervention in the treatment of depression among clergy. The researcher recommends the implementation of mental health screening and support programs for clergy members, fostering an open environment to discuss mental health issues without stigma, and providing accessible resources such as counseling services and peer support networks. Tailored interventions based on socio-demographic characteristics, like mentorship programs for younger clergy and continuing education opportunities, are proposed. Training and resources to enhance coping skills and resilience, including mindfulness practices and support mechanisms like retreats and wellness programs, are also advised. Additionally, integrating Religious Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (RCBT) into mental health services and expanding research on its effectiveness are recommended to provide culturally and spiritually sensitive interventions for clergy and congregants alike.
Description
Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology
Keywords
RCBT, Depression, Treatment, Clergy, Pastor, Mental Health, Coping Skills
Citation
Juma, T. W. (2024). Religious Cognitive Behavioural Therapy as an Intervention For Depression Among Clergy in Kenya. Daystar University, School of Applied Human Sciences