Perceived Benefits of Religious Rituals in the Latter-Day Saint Home

Keywords

religious rituals, family relations, homes, fathers, mothers, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, family members, prayer, children

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore in detail how family religious rituals influence the life of Latter-day Saint individuals and families. It includes qualitative analysis of interviews with highly religious parents and children in 67 families that belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While several challenges of religious rituals were mentioned, no negative influences of religious rituals were reported by this sample. Individual benefits of religious rituals included greater spiritual growth, happier daily life, more focus and direction, and better personal behavior. Familial benefits of religious rituals included strengthened relationships, more family togetherness and unity, increased communication, less contention and more kindness, better parenting. This research focuses on proximal measures of daily religious rituals in an attempt to produce a more complete picture of the meaning and role of religion places in family life. As familiar research is conducted utilizing samples of different denominations and cultures, a more complete depiction of the interface between religion and family life will be produced. Information derived from this research could be helpful for social scientists, therapists, clergy, and outreach professionals. Limitations are discussed.

Original Publication Citation

Loser, R. W., Hill, E. J., Klein, S. R., & Dollahite, D. C. (2009). Perceived benefits of religious rituals in the Latter-day Saint Home. Review of Religious Research, 50(3), 345-362.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2009-3

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/6853

Publisher

Review of Religious Research

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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