An examination of religious leaders’ perceptions of scrupulosity
A qualitative study
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 19503756 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Nicole K Hale (0009-0008-7576-9910, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey), Zoe Poisson (University of Central Florida), Brian Fisak (0000-0002-2472-0884, Florida Institute of Technology, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 28 |
| Issue | 4 |
| Pages | 385-402 |
| Publication date | 2025-04-21 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | No |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Mental Health Religion & Culture (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1367-4676 • E-ISSN: 1469-9737 |
| Publisher | Informa UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB) |
| DOI | 10.1080/13674676.2025.2572505 |
| OpenAlex | W7125815362 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 37 |
Religious obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or scrupulosity, is a subtype of OCD involving religiously themed obsessions and compulsions. Individuals with scrupulosity often first disclose symptoms to religious leaders, whose responses may significantly shape how symptoms are interpreted and whether mental health care is pursued. However, little is known about how religious leaders understand or respond to scrupulosity, including common guidance they may offer. This study aimed to clarify religious leaders' perceptions and responses, with particular interest in how they address both intrusive and indulgent thoughts that conflict with religious values. The study also examined potential differences across religious affiliations. Seventeen leaders from diverse faiths, including Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and Judaism, participated in semi-structured interviews to explore their views on scrupulous symptomatology. Four themes emerged: (1) Conceptualisation of scrupulosity, (2) Spiritual implications of thought processes, (3) Pastoral guidance, and (4) Referral to mental health care. Implications and future research directions are discussed
Perception · Qualitative analysis · Qualitative research · Semi-structured interview · Humor Studies and Applications · Legal Issues in Education · Workplace Violence and Bullying
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| Citation velocity | historical |
|---|---|
| Highly cited | No |