RESUMO
The aim of this descriptive study was to examine the prevalence and perceived intensity of potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) in a group of VA chaplaincy service users. A secondary aim was to examine the relationship between PMIEs, spiritual injury, and religiosity. A convenience sample of veterans (n = 84), participants in a spiritual injury support group, completed the Moral Injury Events Scale (MIES). Most individuals also completed the Duke University Religion Index (as a measure of religiosity) and Spiritual Injury Scale. Results suggest a high prevalence of PMIEs among participants. These PMIEs were also higher in perceived intensity compared to other military and veteran samples. No significant correlations were identified between MIES scores and either religiosity or spiritual injury. These findings draw attention to the engagement of chaplains in supporting veterans affected by PMIEs. Implications for future research are discussed.
Assuntos
Serviço Religioso no Hospital , Hospitais de Veteranos , Princípios Morais , Grupos de Autoajuda , Espiritualidade , Adulto , Idoso , Serviço Religioso no Hospital/estatística & dados numéricos , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , New York , Prevalência , Testes Psicológicos , Grupos de Autoajuda/estatística & dados numéricos , Inquéritos e Questionários , Veteranos/psicologia , Veteranos/estatística & dados numéricos , Adulto JovemRESUMO
This participant outcome evaluation serves as a preliminary investigation into the effects of lectio divina, a chaplaincy service representing a form of focused Scripture reading. A sample of n = 19 patients who participated in this service at a Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in upstate New York was screened at baseline and 30-days follow-up using the Duke University Religion Index, Berg Spiritual Injury Scale, and a screening question for thoughts of harming self or others. These measures were used to assess the intended outcomes of enhanced religiosity, ameliorated spiritual injury, and decreased thoughts of violence. Data were collected through retrospective clinical chart reviews. The outcomes of enhanced religiosity or decreased thoughts of violence were not observed in this sample population. Ameliorated spiritual injury was observed in veterans with substantial engagement in lectio divina (>2 sessions) as well as those who endorsed thoughts of harming self or others.