Religiosity and spirituality among members of an African American church community: A qualitative analysis

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

12-1-2008

Abstract

This qualitative study explores how 21 African Americans, regular and active members in an African American Baptist church organization in the Midwest, define the terms religiosity and spirituality. The qualitative data were analyzed using a grounded theory methodology to determine the themes that were provided by the participants. This article will explore five recurring themes, including: (a) religiosity as external behaviors; (b) religiosity as internalized beliefs; (c) spirituality as acknowledging a "spiritual reality"; (d) spirituality as connectedness to God; and (e) interconnectedness of religiosity and spirituality. Narratives will be offered to support and illustrate each of these themes. © 2008 by The Haworth Press. All rights reserved.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Journal of Religion and Spirituality in Social Work

First Page

201

Last Page

234

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS