Abstract

HOFFMANN, Eduardo Friederichs  and  COSTA, Cristofer Batista da. Associations between religiosity - spirituality and marital relationships: systematic review study. Contextos Clínic [online]. 2019, vol.12, n.2, pp.533-559. ISSN 1983-3482.  https://doi.org/10.4013/ctc.2019.122.07.

Religiosity/Spirituality (R/S) is a phenomenon that pertains different cultures and can guide and influence interpersonal relationships. Furthermore, R/S is related to deep and significant experiences that gives meaning to life. The objective of this study was to assess the associations between R/S and marital relationships by means of a systematic review of scientific literature published on Medline, PsycINFO, Scielo and Lilacs databases related to the descriptors "spirituality AND marriage" and "religion AND marriage". In the initial search, 670 studies were found, but only 18 were selected due to the inclusion criteria. According to the analyzed studies, R/S affects marital relationships and decisions prior to the marriage. Thus, R/S may be considered either a resource for couples, when it is related to marital satisfaction, conflict resolution capacity and a full experience of sexuality, or a challenge, when partners have different religious beliefs or strict behaviors regarding their religious doctrine and practice. In the latter case, the aspects mentioned may generate stress and disagreement. Identify and understand the particularities of the religiosity / spirituality of individuals, couples and families in the clinical context it is essential to intervene respectfully and empathetically, whereas such consideration may increase or reduce the effects of psychological intervention. Other results are discussed in the light of scientific literature.

Keywords : religion; spirituality; marriage.

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