Differentiating Spiritual Affliction from Mental Disorders: Reports of Experienced Practitioners

Abstract

Although many in the modern Western world do not believe in the existence of spiritual beings, many religions hold that spiritual beings exist and can afflict persons. A very limited number of studies have explored forms of spiritual affliction that do not rise to the level of possession, commonly referred to as diabolic obsession and oppression, in relation to mental disorders. This dissertation seeks to help answer the question: How can mental health professionals distinguish mental disorders from forms of spiritual affliction that do not rise to the level of full possession? Interviews were conducted on 16 individuals who had an estimated 7,270 contacts with those believed by participants to have issues of spiritual affliction. Participants include 5 exorcists, 8 deliverance ministers, and 3 mental health professionals who are consulted by clergy on cases of potential spiritual affliction. Using a Content Analysis within the context of Grounded Theory, this study found that the convergence of multiple factors, including presenting symptoms, personal history data, potential openings to spiritual affliction, unusual signs, and the subjective judgment of the assessor were important in distinguishing spiritual affliction from mental disorders. Ongoing assessment and working with uncertainty were also seen as important aspects of differentiation. This study highlights the importance of mental health professionals being aware of the spiritual issues affecting their patients and the importance of those in spiritual care being aware of the psychological issues impacting those to whom they are ministering. The results of this work support a conceptualization of the interplay between spiritual affliction and mental disorders, improved intake and screening materials for mental health clinicians, and a collaborative relationship between them and those involved in deliverance and exorcism.