Description
Book SynopsisIn this book, Damian Janus examines the connections between psychopathological phenomena and religion. Janus contends that there are certain factorsfear of death, desire for power and longevity, and need for predictability of life and longing for carewhich reside within the framework of religion and mental disorders. These factors shape the psychopathological image and contribute to the genesis of religiosity. He explores this contention in his analysis of various mental disorders (neuroses, personality disorders, dissociative disorders, psychoses, eating disorders) and symptoms (delusions, hallucinations, self-destructive behaviors), as well as more common psychological phenomena. This book is recommended for scholars of psychology, religion, and philosophy as well as psychotherapists.
Trade ReviewPsychopathology and Religion is an insightful look at how religion often supplies a horizon upon which to understand the concrete experience, interpretation, and treatment of various forms of psychopathology. It is also a reminder that Freud has made important contributions to the philosophy of religion. -- Patrick Whitehead, Albany State University
“In a captivating manner, Damian Janus presents unique, creative, and informative conjunctions between psychopathology and religion, including commentary conjoining religion with neurosis, anorexia nervosa with aspirations for godliness, psychosis and narcissism with religiosity, demonic possession, spirits, souls, and immortality with psychopathology.” -- Marvin P. Osman, New Center for Psychoanalysis
Table of ContentsChapter 1: Psychopathology and Religion – Towards the Non-Reductionist Approach Chapter 2: Religion as a Neurosis, Neurosis as a Religion Chapter 3: Child, Parent, God Chapter 4:Anorexia nervosa – a Pathological Attempt at Deification Chapte r 5: Psychosis, Narcissism, God Chapter 6: Demonic Possession Chapter 7: Spirits, Soul, Immortality
