Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Theology

Faculty/School

Martin Luther University College

First Advisor

Not Applicable

Advisor Role

Not Applicable

Abstract

To determine whether there was a difference between a physical or mental health diagnosis on well-being, identity, relationship with God, and ability to use faith as a source of support, quantitative and qualitative studies were conducted using surveys and three focus groups. Of the 360 surveys returned 54% failed to indicate whether they experienced a physical or mental health issue, resulting in the quantitative data being unusable. Focus group participants reported feeling safe during the group to disclose their health issue, but not prior, resulting from previous experiences with stigma. Mental health diagnoses still carry stigma. Participants reported a strong relationship with God but not with a faith community, and diagnoses impacted on their sense of well-being and identity.

Convocation Year

2008

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Christianity Commons

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