Brigham Young University researchers continue an ongoing national study examining how religious participation influences family life and health, building on decades of sociological research regarding the link between faith and community resilience. The American Families of Faith Project, led by professors Loren Marks and David Dollahite, has interviewed more than 250 Christian, Jewish, and Muslim families across 34 states to understand these complex dynamics.
Focus on Abrahamic Faiths
The research project focuses on the intersection of religion and family structures within the Abrahamic faiths. Dr. David Dollahite and Dr. Loren Marks, both professors of family life at BYU, lead the initiative, which includes interviewing couples and families from various ethnic and national cultures. The project's scope includes the study of over 80 adolescents to gain a broader perspective on how faith impacts different generations.
Scholarly Impact and Reach
The ongoing study has already produced substantial academic output, including over 100 articles in scholarly journals and three books. Dr. Marks, who joined the BYU School of Family Life in July 2015, has focused his research on religion and families, including studies on children's outcomes in various family forms and strong African American families. His work has received national media attention from outlets such as The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal.
Religion and Health Connection
Sociological research has long explored the connection between religious participation and physical and mental well-being. According to EBSCO research, individuals engaged in religious activities generally enjoy longer lifespans, better health, and enhanced resilience to stress. While the exact mechanisms are not entirely clear, researchers suggest that religious beliefs may promote healthier lifestyles by encouraging moderation in diet and discouraging harmful behaviors like substance abuse.
Sociological Trends in Faith
Despite a trend toward secularization in modern society, interest in the connection between religion and health has grown significantly since the 1990s. Research indicates that participation in religious groups often fosters social support and community, which can benefit mental health and coping strategies. Dimensions of religiosity, including regular service attendance and community involvement, are frequently associated with positive health indicators.
Ongoing Research Directions
The complexity of these relationships continues to drive academic inquiry. While some historical views linked illness to divine punishment, modern researchers focus on how religious frameworks provide ways for individuals to understand health and disease. The American Families of Faith Project remains an active effort to map these connections across diverse religious and cultural landscapes in the United States.
