Date

3-22-2024

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Margaret Gopaul

Keywords

suicide, sermons, pastors, congregant members, stigma, God

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

The ongoing global crisis of suicide underscores the imperative for effective prevention measures addressing the mental health struggles of individuals, offering hope, and facilitating access to essential services. Research is vast when considering suicide in general; however, the gap in research lies in understanding the perceptions of pastors and congregant members regarding the topic. Pastors, by integrating the topic of suicide into their sermons, can play a crucial role in prevention through messages of hope and encouragement. This approach fosters open dialogue and reduces stigma within congregations. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to gain a deeper understanding of those perceptions. Participants included pastors and congregant members of a diversity of religious denominations who volunteered to participate in interviews. Participants were asked to provide information regarding their knowledge of risk factors, interventions, perceptions of how scripture addresses the topic of suicide, and thoughts on the inclusion of the topic in sermons. A thematic analysis produced 12 themes: (a) mental health, (b) physical health, (c) God’s word/Bible, (d) professional resources, (e) healthy relationships, (f) God does not provide specific parameters on suicide, but some scripture may be relatable, (g) God is final judge, (h) due to prevalence, most all had some sort of experience with suicide, (i) supports inclusion within certain parameters, (j) should do from a Biblical background, (k) appropriate age, and (l) topic publicized prior. The information obtained allowed for a deeper understanding of the perspectives of pastors and congregant members surrounding the topic of suicide.

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