EBOOK Handbook of Religion and Health

What effect does religion have on physical and mental health? In answering this        question, this book reviews and discusses research on the relationship between        religion and a variety of mental and physical health outcomes, including depression        and anxiety; heart disease, stroke, and cancer; and health related behaviors such as        smoking and substance abuse. The authors examine the positive and negative effects        of religion on health throughout the life span, from childhood to old age. Based on        their findings, they build theoretical models illustrating the behavioral,        psychological, social, and physiological pathways through which religion may        influence health. The authors also review research on the impact of religious        affiliation, belief, and practice on the use of health services and compliance with        medical treatment. In conclusion, they discuss the clinical relevance of their        findings and make recommendations for future research priorities.Offering the first        comprehensive examination of its topic, this volume is an indispensable resource for        research scientists, health professionals, public policy makers, and anyone        interested in the relationship between religion and health.