The Christian Psychologist: Mental Health for 21st Century Christ Followers

ReferencesAbernethy, A. (2022). Savoring scripture: A six-step guide to studying the Bible. InterVarsity Press.Guigo II. (2019). The ladder of monks. Independent publishing.Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.LaFreniere, L. S., & Newman, M. G. (2023). Reducing contrast avoidance in GAD by savoring positive emotions: Outcome and mediation in a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 93, 102659.Llera, S. J., & Newman, M. G. (2017). Development and validation of two measures of emotional contrast avoidance: The contrast avoidance questionnaires. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 49, 114-127.Newman, M. G., & Llera, S. J. (2011). A novel theory of experiential avoidance in generalized anxiety disorder: A review and synthesis of research supporting a contrast avoidance model of worry. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(3), 371-382.Newman, M. G., & Przeworski, A. (2024). Introduction to a special issue on the contrast avoidance model. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 102, 102831.Newman, M. G., Rackoff, G. N., Zhu, Y., & Kim, H. (2023). A transdiagnostic evaluation of contrast avoidance across generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 93, 102662.Piper, J. (2004). Seeing and savoring Jesus Christ. Crossway. Quoidbach, J., Berry, E. V., Hansenne, M., & Mikolajczak, M. (2010). Positive emotion regulation and well-being: Comparing the impact of eight savoring and dampening strategies. Personality and Individual Differences, 49(5), 368-373.Smith, J. L., & Bryant, F. B. (2013). Are we having fun yet? Savoring, Type A behavior, and vacation enjoyment. International Journal of Wellbeing, 3(1).

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This discussion highlights the powerful role attentional control plays in mental health. By directing focus towards meaningful aspects of life, individuals can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Personal stories illustrate how maintaining focused attention deepens one's connection with spiritual practices like contemplation and centering prayer. The impact of mindfulness techniques is also emphasized, showcasing their potential to enhance both psychological well-being and spiritual growth.

Explore the complex world of cognitive distortions and their impact on mental well-being. Discover how distorted thinking shapes emotions and behaviors from both psychological and Christian perspectives. Learn about cognitive behavioral therapy techniques that effectively address negative thought patterns. Dive into the importance of renewing one's mind with biblical insights, emphasizing balanced thinking over mere positivity. Gain practical strategies for recognizing and correcting these unhelpful thought patterns to foster emotional and spiritual growth.

ReferencesAPA Dictionary of Psychology. (n.d.). Forgiveness. https://dictionary.apa.org/forgivenessBeeke, J., & Jones, M. (2012). A Puritan theology: Doctrine for life. Reformation Heritage Books.Davis, J. C. (2001). Pardoning Puritanism: Community, character, and forgiveness in the work of Richard Baxter. Journal of Religious Ethics, 29(2), 283-306.Gao, F., Li, Y., & Bai, X. (2022). Forgiveness and subjective well-being: A meta-analysis review. Personality and Individual Differences, 186, 111350.Holman Bible Dictionary. (2004). Forgiveness. Holman Bible Publishers.Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.Lin, Y., Worthington Jr., E. L., Griffin, B. J., Greer, C. L., Opare‐Henaku, A., Lavelock, C. R., & Muller, H. (2014). Efficacy of REACH forgiveness across cultures. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 70(9), 781-793.Rasmussen, K. R., Stackhouse, M., Boon, S. D., Comstock, K., & Ross, R. (2019). Meta-analytic connections between forgiveness and health: The moderating effects of forgiveness-related distinctions. Psychology & Health, 34(5), 515-534.Upper Room Dictionary of Christian Spiritual Formation. (2003). Forgiveness. Upper Room Books. Wade, N. G., Worthington Jr, E. L., & Meyer, J. E. (2005). But do they work? A meta-analysis of group interventions to promote forgiveness. Handbook of Forgiveness, 423-440.Wade, N. G., Hoyt, W. T., Kidwell, J. E., & Worthington Jr., E. L. (2014). Efficacy of psychotherapeutic interventions to promote forgiveness: a meta-analysis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 82(1), 154.Worthington, E. (2003). Forgiving and reconciling: Bridges to wholeness and hope. InterVarsity Press.Worthington, E. (n.d.). REACH forgiveness of others. http://www.evworthington-forgiveness.com/reach-forgiveness-of-others

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ReferencesAPA Dictionary of Psychology. (n.d.). Hope. https://dictionary.apa.org/hopeBarclay, W. (1974). New Testament words. SCM Press.Beeke, J., & Jones, M. (2012). A Puritan theology: Doctrine for life. Reformation Heritage Books.Corn, B. W., Feldman, D. B., & Wexler, I. (2020). The science of hope. The Lancet Oncology, 21(9), e452-e459.Favale, D., Nacci, M., Bellomo, A., Torales, J., Castaldelli-Maia, J. M., & Ventriglio, A. (2023). Hope and resilience among patients affected by unipolar and bipolar depression. International Journal of Social Psychiatry, 00207640221147166.Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. InterVarsity Press.Rustøen, T., Cooper, B. A., & Miaskowski, C. (2011). A longitudinal study of the effects of a hope intervention on levels of hope and psychological distress in a community-based sample of oncology patients. European Journal of Oncology Nursing, 15(4), 351-357.Snyder, C. R., Sympson, S. C., Ybasco, F. C., Borders, T. F., Babyak, M. A., & Higgins, R. L. (1996). Development and validation of the State Hope Scale. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 70(2), 321.