Religion, Mental Health, and the Latter-day Saints: A Review of the Literature (1995-2017)

Authors

Adrienne Rogers, Brigham Young University
Daniel K. Judd, Brigham Young University

Keywords

religion, mental health, Latter-day Saints, review

College

Religious Education

Department

Ancient Scripture

Abstract

There are over 4,000 religions in the world today. One of the core functions of religion is to help individuals find meaning and purpose in life. Several researchers have found that this religious function impacts psychological well-being, often for the better. This relationship between religious belief, practice, affiliation, and mental health has been an ongoing conversation that has generated controversy and debate.

Our research focuses specifically on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and how this religion affects the mental health of its members. Several studies have shown positive outcomes regarding Latter-day Saint membership and mental health. Also, social issues like LGBTQ matters and suicide, have inspired recent studies involving their connection with the Latter-day Saint faith. Many of these have reported negative findings. The purpose of our project is to inform others of the negative and positive findings in current research.

Recommended Citation

Rogers, Adrienne and Judd, Daniel K. (2019) "Religion, Mental Health, and the Latter-day Saints: A Review of the Literature (1995-2017)," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2019: Iss. 2019, Article 162.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2019/iss2019/162