Psychology of Prayer
Reviewing the growing body of scientific research on prayer, this book describes what is known about the behavioral, cognitive, emotional, developmental, and health aspects of this important religious activity. The highly regarded authors provide a balanced perspective on what prayer means to the individual, how and when it is practiced, and the impact it has in people's lives. Clinically relevant topics include connections among prayer, coping, and adjustment, as well as controversial questions of whether prayer (for oneself or another) can be beneficial to health. The strengths and limitations of available empirical studies are critically evaluated, and promising future research directions are identified.
Bernard Spilka, PhD, until his death in 2025, was Professor Emeritus of Psychology at the University of Denver, where he joined the faculty in 1957. Best known for his scholarship on the psychology of religion, Dr. Spilka published 151 papers as well as 16 books and major federal reports. He served as president of the Psychology of Religion division of the American Psychological Association and was a recipient of its William James Award and Distinguished Service Award. Dr. Spilka also served as vice-president of the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion and president of the Colorado Psychological Association and the Rocky Mountain Psychological Association.
Kevin L. Ladd, PhD, is Professor of Psychology at Indiana University South Bend and former pastor of United Methodist and Presbyterian (PCUSA) congregations. A consulting editor for journals including the Journal of Social Psychology, Archive for the Psychology of Religion, and Psychology of Religion and Spirituality, he also serves on the Board of Directors of the International Association for the Psychology of Religion. Dr. Ladd's research on the psychology of prayer has involved collaborations, publications, and lectures in China, Europe, India, and South America.