The Relationship Between Faith and Well-Being

Despite the considerable literature that documents the existence of a positive relationship between religious faith and individual well-being, there has been little investigation of the mechanisms by which this connection operates. An investigation of this issue, using qualitative research methods and based on classical and contemporary sociological theory, suggests that Christian faith provides its adherents with several tools with which they can combat those circumstances in their lives that are likely to lead to distress and disease. These tools include community, hope, meaning systems, behavioral constraints, and elements of church practice and church life, all of which work together to provide the faithful with a sense of peace that contributes to their well-being.