Conceptualizations of Health and Health Communication by Clergy in Jefferson County Alabama: A Qualitative Exploration

• In Event: 262 - Section on Sociology of Religion Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 10. Social Trust and Well-Being

Abstract

Research on the role of churches in health communication has assessed the attitudes and perceptions of churchgoers or the general public but few have addressed this topic from the perspective of clergy. As a result, little is known and much is assumed about how clergy members are involved with health in congregations. As heads of faith organizations and key figures in communities, clergy are important and trusted sources of information. They have the potential to influence large numbers of people in a variety of ways and may determine the existence of programs or extent of health activities offered within their organizations. This study uses a qualitative, grounded theory approach to explore the definitions, perspectives, and experiences of clergy concerning health and to examine factors related to health communication. In-depth interviews with a diverse sample of up to 40 clergy in Jefferson County Alabama are currently being conducted and will provide much needed information about the range of clergy experience related to matters of health. Preliminary findings show that clergy do not necessarily share a mutual definition of health and this influences their health-related communication in important ways. Findings may have implications for improving future research and health programming in congregations.

Author

• Anthony David Campbell, University of Alabama-Birmingham