| The influence of religion, spirituality, and the role of clergy in the lives of African Americans has previously been studied. However, very little research is available that explains how the slavery movement, the development of the Black church, religious beliefs and practices, as well as the use of ministerial support impact African Americans utilization of formal mental health services. This literature review documents and critiques the instrumentalist approach that has traditionally been used in psychology to study ethnicity and religion as well as its influence on the conceptualization and treatment of African American clients. The history and role of the Black church, informal and formal support networks, traditional barriers to treatment, and alternative coping resources are discussed. As an alternative to the instrumentalist approach, clinical vignettes are illustrated to demonstrate how African American culture can be integrated in the therapeutic process. Suggestions for building working alliances between mental health professionals, pastoral counselors, and clergy are provided. |
