Knowledge and Opinions of Orthodox Clergy in Greece Regarding Religious Psychopathology

Datos Bibliográficos

ID5918935
AutoresGeorgios Timotheos Chalkias (0000-0002-9534-9533, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, autor de correspondencia)
Año2025
Volumen16
Número11
Páginas1348
Fecha de publicación2025-10-25
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaReligions (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 2077-1444 • E-ISSN: 2077-1444
EditorialMDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT)
DOI10.3390/rel16111348
OpenAlexW4415560260
IdiomaEN
Referencias citadas18

This study focuses on the knowledge and attitudes of Orthodox clergy in Greece regarding religious psychopathology, which refers to the complex phenomena where religious experiences or beliefs intersect with mental disorders. The sample included 125 clergy members with varying levels of education and pastoral experience. The findings reveal significant gaps in the understanding of basic concepts of religious psychopathology, despite recognition of the need for collaboration with mental health professionals. Formal education proved to be a decisive factor in understanding religious psychopathology, as clergy with higher educational levels demonstrated significantly better knowledge. In contrast, clergy opinions towards mental health issues appeared to be shaped by multiple factors beyond education alone. Experience in collaboration with psychologists or psychiatrists was positively associated with higher knowledge levels and more realistic, positive attitudes toward managing religious psychopathology. Additionally, clergy who had direct experience with cases of religious psychopathology showed greater sensitivity and differentiated perspectives. The study highlights the urgent need to incorporate knowledge of religious psychopathology into theological education in Greece and to strengthen cooperation between the Church and mental health services. Such initiatives can improve pastoral care, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and holistically support members of religious communities

Mental health · Psychopathology · Religious controversies · Religious education · Religious identity · Mental Health and Psychiatry · Mental Health Treatment and Access · Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology