Author Question: Identify three challenges which arise when conducting research on ... (Read 56 times)

Starlight · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

Identify three challenges which arise when conducting research on spirituality.

Question 2

The body's three-stage response to persistent stress is known as:
a. biofeedback training.
b. electrostimulation.
c. the general adaptation syndrome.
d. psychological hardiness.

popopong · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

1) Researchers do not always agree on how to define the term spirituality, and many use the term interchangeably with religiosity. This leads to confusion and inaccuracies when interpreting research on spirituality.

2) Researchers are confronted with issues related to the placebo effect. The term placebo describes the positive effects that are created when a person merely believes he or she will benefit from an intervention. This makes it difficult to determine whether the spiritual practice (e.g. prayer) or merely the belief in the spiritual practice creates real benefits for people.

3) Researchers must also consider the effects of alternative variables that may influence study results. For instance, do the health benefits that derive from being religious come from the intervention of a higher power, or are the benefits related to variables such as social support or healthier lifestyle choices that many religions teach?

Answer to Question 2

C