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01-10-2015 | Original Paper

Optimal Health (Spirit, Mind, and Body): A Feasibility Study Promoting Well-Being for Health Behavior Change

Authors: Jenelle Walker, Barbara Ainsworth, Steven Hooker, Colleen Keller, Julie Fleury, Jack Chisum, Pamela Swan

Published in: Journal of Religion and Health | Issue 5/2015

Abstract

Faith-based programs have shown beneficial effects for health and behaviors. Few have specifically intervened on the spiritual, mental (i.e., stress), and physical dimensions of well-being combined for health and healthy behaviors (i.e., exercise and diet). The purpose of this report is to describe the feasibility of executing a spirituality-based health behavior change, program founded upon the Spiritual Framework of Coping. This study was a quasi-experimental one group pretest–posttest design. Feasibility objectives were assessed, and limited efficacy of pretest and posttest measures was analyzed using paired t test (p < .05). Acceptance of the program was positive, and modest demand was shown with initial interest and an average attendance of 78.7 %. The program was successfully implemented as shown by meeting session objectives and 88 % homework completion. The program was practical for the intended participants and was successfully integrated within the existing environment. Limited efficacy measures showed no pre–post changes. This study provided preliminary support for the design and further testing of the theoretical components of the Spiritual Framework of Coping that informed the program.

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Title: Optimal Health (Spirit, Mind, and Body): A Feasibility Study Promoting Well-Being for Health Behavior Change
Authors: Jenelle Walker
Barbara Ainsworth
Steven Hooker
Colleen Keller
Julie Fleury
Jack Chisum
Pamela Swan
Publication date: 01-10-2015
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Religion and Health / Issue 5/2015
Print ISSN: 0022-4197
Electronic ISSN: 1573-6571
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-014-9890-7

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