Definitions

Abstract

Abstract This book begins with the most controversial of all topics: definitions. Definitions of terms such as religion, spirituality, and humanism are necessary for communication purposes, for the development of measures to quantify these constructs, and ultimately, for the creation of effective interventions. Of particular concern has been the definition of spirituality, especially as it applies to conducting research on this topic. What is spirituality, and how does one measure or quantify it? How is spirituality related to religion? Is a common definition for spirituality possible, one that everyone will agree on? Such agreement is essential for conducting research that must be replicated by other investigators. Also important is that definitions of terms such as religion and spirituality not overlap with the health outcomes being studied. Otherwise, the results will be meaningless and uninterpretable. Does this also apply to the use of such terms in clinical practice?

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