...A 4-MAT Review System: Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity Summary The book that will be reviewed in this paper is Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity, which was written by David N. Entwistle. This book was meant for secular, spiritual, and Christian counselors. Entwistle wrote this book to teach these counselors how they can successfully integrate psychology and Christianity together. It is important to do this because there is a history of conflict that exists between science and religion as well as supernaturalism and naturalism. Science, being naturalistic, believes in things that can be observed and measured which conflicts with religion, which is super-naturalistic, since most things relating to it cannot be observed or measured. Thus began the conflict of science and religion. Entwistle (2010b) spoke of the conflict Galileo had because he believed in the science experiments he had conducted. These experiments taught that the universe does not revolve around Earth, the heliocentric model, however this conflicted with the church and its religious beliefs since they believed in the Aristotelian model (Entwistle, 2010b). After pushing for his beliefs in his books, he received punishment after the second book was released. Entwistle (2010a p. 8) also brought to our attention the question asked by Tertullian, “What indeed has Athens to do with Jerusalem?” This is asking us if there is harmony that exists between the church and teaching...
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...Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity, by David Entwistle, is a comprehensive book that details the conceptual behavior influenced by the developmental processes of the physical mind and its influence on spiritual development. The basis of the book is to explore the claims and the strains, “given the historical animosity of some psychologists toward religion and some Christians toward psychology” (p.217), that arise from the intertwining of psychological and Christian theological views, in order to help us understand and appreciate humanity better than viewing from either perspective individually. “The closer one gets to considering psychotherapeutic and pastoral concerns, the greater the common ground and the greater possibility for conflict” (p. 36). The book’s focus is on integrative approaches in a well comprehended Christian worldview by which “we can evaluate our beliefs and behavior in light of the biblical message (p. 63), and “form a body of theories from which all prejudice, bias, and unjustifiable conjecture have been eliminated” (p. 199). The historical opposition and advocacy of the integration of the two views, along with the current integration research and application, is presented with the help of multiple psychological researchers. Entwistle’s view is that integration is possible if the proper cautions are taken; that “human nature can be mapped from two directions” (p. 198), if the disciplines participate in a productive interchange of...
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...4-MAT Review of Integration of Psychology and Christianity by David N. Entwistle Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity by David N. Entwistle (2010) encompasses some enlightening information about the history and path of theology and psychology coming together for Christian counseling. Entwistle suggests the two are in conflict with each other. This conflict is created due to one (theology) being grounded on faith and the other (psychology) built on truth. Throughout the next 13 chapters, the author builds on his remark, “The interaction of psychology and theology is virtually inevitable due to their mutual interest in understanding the ambiguities and mysteries of human behavior, and healing human brokenness.” (Entwistle, 2010). Summary The first section develops a historical context of spiritual integration. Entwistle offers references to Augustine, the Middle Ages, and medieval Scholasticism prior to transitioning into a history of psychology. The author quickly answers the infamous question, “What indeed has Athens to do with Jerusalem?” (Entwistle, 2010). He offers wherever and however truth is found, it is God’s truth. This being his primary presupposition that “All truth is God’s truth.” Building on truth, Entwistle suggests a person’s world view determines how they view the truth in their lives. He also suggests this world view is something learned by our family, experiences, religion and education, not something that is chosen. Our world view ultimately...
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...4-MAT Review: Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity Liberty University Summary The book, Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity (2010) by David N. Entwistle, readers are first presented with the concept of the conflict between the integration of Christianity and psychology. Psychology is founded on the truth while Christianity focuses on an individual’s faith. This leads one to question whether Christianity and psychology are possible to coexist. Entwistle offers a statement that is fundamentally an examination of the entire book: “The integration of psychology and theology is virtually inevitable due to their mutual interest in understanding the ambiguities and mysteries of human behavior and healing human brokenness” (Entwistle, 2010, p. 51). Entwistle mentions an individual’s worldview. A worldview is defined as how an individual looks at the world as well as the assumptions that are seen within the world. A person’s worldview effects the way in which they look at their own expectations and experiences. And with this comes a natural perception of assumption. Worldviews can be learned in many different aspects: family, school, media, and religion. There are two aspects that both psychology and theology have in common: human behavior and the healing of shattered lives; however, each approaches the aspect of human behavior with different assumptions, approaches, and goals (Entwistle, 2010). Entwistle explains psychology seeks out natural...
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...4-MAT Review Paper Juli J. McFarland Liberty University Summary In his book Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity, David Entwistle introduces the complicated connection between psychology and theology. The connection between psychology and theology is a topic of great argument. (Entwistle, 2010) Some scholars believe it is a great idea to connect psychology and theology, while others believe it would be harmful to do so. Entwistle focuses on the similarities of psychology and theology, instead of their differences. Psychology focuses on finding the cause of behavior through biological and environmental methods as well as past experiences. Theology focuses on the cause of behavior being linked to sin. Psychology focuses on healing through theories. Theology focuses on healing through Christ. Even though psychology and theology have different methods they have similar goals to achieve overall wellness. Entwistle stated that both psychology and theology focus on the cause of behavior and healing. (Entwistle, 2010) Psychology and theology also both contain truth. Entwistle believes “All truth is God’s truth.” (Entwistle, 2010) Psychology and theology are not so different and both can be combined to help achieve overall wellness in the lives of others. Entwistle made a point that theology and science have been embattled throughout history. Entwistle explains that how a person views the world determines how they view the truth in their lives. Entwistle also emphasizes...
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...A 4 MAT Review of Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity Liberty University Summary Entwistle’s book, Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity, discusses the historical background of psychology, religion, and the tension that is often associated when trying to blend the two. According to Entwistle, “psychology utilizes reason and observation of nature as its primary source,” whereas “theology utilizes Scripture as its primary source” (p. 135). Psychology and Christianity are discussed under five models of integration within the text. These models are Enemies, Spies, Colonists, Neutral Parties, and Allies. The Enemies model pits psychology and theology against one another. One either chooses the scientific path of psychology or goes the spiritual route with theology to solve a problem. There is no room to integrate the two. People who follow this model are either spiritual or scientific. They do not believe the two are intertwined. Entwistle further divides the Enemies into Secular Combatants, who embrace psychology without any religious authority, and the Christian Combatants, who embrace religious authority and work to protect it from human interference (Entwistle, p. 138). The Spies model recognizes the benefits of religion and Scripture but does not seek to integrate the religious aspect into psychology. If religion does try to play a part, it is reduced to the most minimalist form. Therefore, the therapist may recognize his or...
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...Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity Liberty University Summary David Entwistle’s (2010) book, Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: An introduction to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration, opens the reader’s eyes to unexpected possibilities, beginning with the often combative regimes of faith and reason using Tertullian’s symbolism of Athens as the seat of reason and Jerusalem as the seat of faith; which is the basic ongoing battle between science and religion (Entwistle, 2010). What Entwistle addresses is his belief that integration of the disciple of psychology and Christianity is possible, each contributing to the whole allowing effective therapy, where the therapist becomes a type of shepherd that invites the client into the goodness of God and introduces Christ as his savior. Psychology attempts to understand, describe, and diagnose human behavior but Christian theology seeks to understand “what it means to be human” (Entwistle, 2010, p. 3). In the end Entwistle (2010) reoccurring theme throughout the book is that this integration is possible because “all truth is God’s truth” (p. 13). All the reasoning, precise measurements, and descriptives of psychology are possible because of God’s work in creation. Entwistle expands on the concept of worldviews and how each individual interprets everything around them. Each person will search for the truth but it will be biased according to the individual’s worldview...
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...argument in favor of integrating psychology and theology (2011). His argument starts with a definition of integration and a discussion on how to integrate. He differentiates between counselors who simply spew information vs. counselors who truly understand and apply spiritual concepts (p.32). His argument starts with an historical perspective. He compares two ancient cities: Athens and Jerusalem. Athens represents reason, while Jerusalem represents spirituality (Entwistle, 2010). He argues, using the comparison of each city’s knowledge source, that “All truth is God’s truth” (Entwistle, 2010, p.13). Entwistle believes that both psychology and theology must be employed in a counseling setting because both are God’s truths. This thought process is the basis for the rest of the text. In order to accept that all truth is God’s truth, and therefore accept that theology and psychology are both truths, Entwistle recommends examining our own worldview. Worldviews are not innate. The way in which we view our world is based on our experiences, education and culture. Our worldview greatly influences our ability to integrate the two disciplines (Entwistle, 2010). One must be secure in a solid base of spirituality before integration with psychology can occur. Again, Entwistle emphasizes God’s sovereign truth in both psychology and theology (2010). Entwistle then discusses five models of integration. Christ against Culture, or combatants, believe psychology has no place with theology....
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...Liberty University 4-MAT-Entwistle Entwistle’s concept on psychology and Christianity allows the student to foster a better understanding the importance of integrating the concepts of science (psychology) and religion. In the book the author’s opinion of integrating psychology and Christianity is displayed to possess the client’s understanding that science and religion when integrated will promote a higher probability of healing. Christianity has been a part of the lives of mankind since the fall of Adam. Entwistle believes that God has given mankind a guideline to promote living a spiritual lifestyle that is beneficial to all mankind. Although there is not a connection with psychology and Christianity, when integrated both psychology and religion involves the appreciation and comprehension that will make an individual outlook on life meaningful and complete. The author relates throughout the book that there are no differences between sinful people and Christians when involving the truth. Since the fall of Adam we are taught good and evil exists and being sinful is part of our human DNA. The word of God in the Holy Bible shows that mankind sinful intentions can create barriers when integrating psychology and theology. The main intent of secular psychology and Christianity is to help individuals to overcome barriers they may encounter in their daily lives. People benefiting from secularism and Christianity must look past circumstances and find solutions to the troubled...
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... revealing “stories” we tell the self as contextual meanings. These beliefs now evolve one’s creation and truth. The therapist, joining in recognition of new perspectives, empowers and helps the client see that forward progress is strength within oneself. In a social constructivist point of view, the therapist detaches from the expert status of defining the problem. From family therapy and the multicultural lens, therapists now challenge cultural factors that, in turn, shape the client’s perceptions in the format of brief therapies. Keywords: brief therapies, collaborative, family therapy, social constructionism Postmodern Approach to Social Constructivism In the 21st century a paradigm shift motivated the field of psychology to unlock a fresh world view revealing the objet d'art of collective exchange. Referring to the modernistic creation of self, it is said that the anthropological essence and the search for truth is being reworked within a flowing social change (Young and Collin, 2004, Corey, 2005, Gergen, 1985). A developing kaleidoscope, swirling within the consciousness of man today resonates not of absoluteness, but, of social stories revealing multidimensional perspectives. Truth, thus, is then replaced with the concept of communal stories created...
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...Introduction Roughly defined, a family is a system of one or more adults, parents, together with the children they care for. Today the definition of a family has expanded beyond the structure of the traditional family, but yet, they system or care for one another stays the same. The role of many psychologists is to determine and interpret the effects of the family system on childhood development. The strength in the system’s structure is often a determining factor in the health of a child’s development. Social, cultural, physical, emotional and spiritual factors all take place of help mold children into who they become. Healthy Family Systems The health of a family system is most often discerned by the role parents play in their children’s lives; a parent’s presence plays a huge factor in development, as well as the strength of the system as a whole. Although each culture has its own interpretation of effective parenting, the influences a parents exposes to children play a significant role in their development, and likewise, the reactions of a child, can shape the parents as well ( Feldman, 2010, 254). When one views a cohesive and healthy family system, each member understands his or her own appropriate roles, they work together to support each other, provide protection, and well as build each other up with a set of morals and ethics. When parents do not play their appropriate roles, the negative effects that play out in a child can often be seen through lack of focus...
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...Biblical Worldview Essay No Name Liberty University Introduction A worldview is defined as “ a window through which he or she views the world” (Entwistle, 2010, pg. 55). Worldviews are based on the beliefs of an individual and define how he or she perceives events of life. From a Christian worldview perceptions are defined by faith in God and therefore all truth known to humanity is of God. This applies whether truth is discovered Scriptural or scientifically. From this basis the natural world, human identity, human relationships, and culture can be defined from a Christian worldview. More specifically, Romans 1 through 8 gives insight into these subjects. The Natural World The natural world is perceived differently based on the worldview an individual holds. From a naturalism perception the material or physical universe is the only reality. In other words, if you do not subscribe to the belief or existence of ghost, spirits, gods, or souls than you hold to the worldview of naturalism. On the other extreme, if you believe that everything is an illusion and only the spiritual universe exist than you hold to a pantheism worldview. From this perspective it is impossible to know what is real within the natural world because everything is unknowable. If an individual holds to the belief that there are gods and demons that create events to guide human actions than they have a polytheism worldview. Scripture states that God created the entire world and that His eternal power...
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...Comparison Paper “Effective Biblical Counseling” By Dr. Larry Crabb Presented to Dr. Jaeduk Kim Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary Lynchburg, VA In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the course Theology and Spirituality in Counseling PACO 507-B02 By James E. Hulsey (ID#L24531662) AUGUST 31, 2013 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction………………………………………………………………………………...01 II. Summary…………………………………………………………………………………...02 III. Practical Application and Conclusion….............................................................................09 IV. References……………………………………………………………………………...….10 Comparison Paper “Effective Biblical Counseling: A Model for Helping Caring Christians become capable Counselors” By Dr. Larry Crabb I. Introduction Christian Counselors should always be looking for assistance with the development of higher levels of competency by examining the content, comprehensiveness, and validity of a variety of counseling theories developed by prominent Christian counselors.[1] Ron Hawkins teaches that “Christian counselor help people to see their problems and then see how to get of problems. Contributions by various Christian Counselor’s and authors like, Dr. Larry Crabb will equip other Christian counselors to help people solve the various problems...
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...Existential Case Study of George Costanza A Conceptualization and Treatment Plan Abstract An existential case study of G.C. was developed to address his maladaptive behaviors caused from strong generalized anxiety, relational, and employment concerns. The treatment was prompted by his employer who wanted to make sure G.C. could work professionally. A brief introduction of G.C. is followed by an introduction to Existential therapy and its theory and principles. Existential psychotherapy, with a focus on growth and development, is an approach that primarily utilizes the therapeutic relationship and has no specific methodology. Four givens or major concerns in Existentialism are identified and three target areas are determined. Several Existential approaches are used to reach experiential goals for the client. The addition of spirituality to the treatment modality is considered for its utility, compatibility, and possible incompatibility. Empirical evidence is used to support the treatment choices and the rational for the sequence of changes. The anticipated progress and results are considered with possible challenges to the process. Existential Case Study of George Costanza A Conceptualization and Treatment Plan A gentleman with strong generalized anxiety issues was referred by his employer for counseling. It was decided that the most effective approach would be Existential psychotherapy because of its flexibility and efficacy with all of the issues. In addition, the client’s...
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...Integration Paper Thiago DeSouza Psychology and the Bible Liberty University Abstract Integration for many years has been a topic of discussion between psychologists and Christian leaders. The debate between the two disciplines has been whether or not the two can coexist together or if the two disciplines should never merge. Epistemology, cosmology, and philosophical anthropology lays down the foundation for integration. Both disciplines seek to understand human behavior and both seek to fix what appears to be broken within humanity. Both disciplines seek for truth. Psychology seeks for truth through science and what has been observed, whereas the source for truth for Christianity is found in God through His Words and His Works. The two may not contradict. There are several models of integration and they look to explain what the relationship between psychology and Christianity ought to be. The Allies model, which is discussed in more depth, holds the view that truth is found in God’s Words and Works and that God is sovereign over all things. Integration Paper The integration of psychology and Christianity has been a topic of discussion for many years and will be for many more years to come. It is important that this discussion is not put aside but rather be openly discussed among members from both disciplines. There are many models within integration and they all offer their own perspectives on the relationship between psychology and Christianity. One is not necessarily better...
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