THE FUNCTION OF RELIGIOUS FAITH AND BELIEFS IN OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER

Abstract

This paper is a review of the scientific literature regarding the topic of the function of religious faith and beliefs in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The mentioned papers are exploring a connection between religion and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) as well as religion’s influence in the development of OCD, and its effect on the treatment follow-ups. Moreover, it has been shown that there are both positive and negative effects considering scientific evidence and theoretical links about religion and mental health image in the general population. Extended research regarding OCD and religion is provided. Next, we attempt to make a division between religious faith (trust - πίστη - “how we believe”) and religious beliefs (the system regarding the symbol of faith - credo - “what we believe”) and consequently connect them with the already existing research papers additionally with feasible new topics of research.