4MAT Review 1

Running head: BOOK SUMMARY 1

BOOK SUMMARY 3

Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity

Name

Course

Tutor

Date

Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity

Summary

The book explains integrative approaches to psychology and to Christianity. The book is written by David N. Entwistle in 2010. The first challenge that the reader is presented with id the idea that psychology is at odds with psychology. This idea explains that it is impossible that theology co-exists in the same area as psychology due to the difference in their nature. One of the natures is based on truth while the other one is based on faith. Afterwards, Entwistle poses a brilliant idea that states that the interaction between theology and psychology is practically inevitable because of the mutual interest that relates to understanding the mysteries and ambiguities of human behavior and the healing of human brokenness (Entwistle, 2010). In this statement, the author sets the books theme which is the idea that Christianity and psychology are not just at odds but they can be used together and be integrated.

For him to explain the theme easily, the author builds a case decidedly throughout a history of the manner in which theological communities and scientific communities have interacted over the centuries. This aims at giving the reader an understanding of the build up and the process through which modern psychological thoughts have developed in relation to theology or Christianity. This also aims at explaining that the word integrated is not just a verb but it is also a noun. Entwistle states that if Jesus lays claim to life, then integration work will become feasible and imperative in the attempt of understanding the meaning of unity (Entwistle, 2010). Using this understanding, the author explains how faith and science have conflicted with one another through the history due to the idea that science is directly opposite to Christianity ideas and concepts. The author also agrees to this idea but in the individual’s presumptions context. If a certain psychologist need to understand that he or she is biased to a certain faith existing in their psychology field, then this is a case in understanding that their actions are bent towards faith and they can view science as a field that tried to proof that Christ is a genius (Entwistle, 2010).

In this book, we also understand the relationship that exists between the different disciplines. Entwistle lists five of this which includes enemies, colonialists, neutral parties, spies and allies (Entwistle, 2010). Antagonists view enemies to be either Christians or secular. They both oppose the view that there co-exists science and faith in the psychology field. Spies can include Christian community members with a reasonable psychology background but they are not interested in the benefits associated with the religious system (Entwistle, 2010). Spies could also include a secular person who observes the effects faith can have on an individual.

Colonialists use the useful parts in psychology in their own ideas knowingly and unknowingly according to their own belief. Neutral parties are usually indifferent to the theological and secular arguments that are for and against psychology but they still maintain segregation between Christianity and science (Entwistle, 2010). The allies differ from this people in the sense that they reject the idea that Christianity is subservient to psychology. They also reject the idea that faith is a vehicle of fostering psychological benefits and expressing psychological truths (Entwistle, 2010).

In conclusion, the book states the remaining parts that are dedicated to understanding the truth with both psychological and theological mindsets. This is the main part where the valid points in the book’s last chapter are set up discussing the various scenarios whereby everything that is discussed in this book. To emphasize on the understanding of the similarities and differences between Christianity and theology, the author elaborates that there is great understanding of the human psyche and also develop counseling and research techniques that can benefit future generations (Entwistle, 2010).

Concrete Response

While growing up, I had the thought that I have to do everything I can for me to be successful or someone. My father is an artist and he is very successful in this field. My elder brother is a also a very good artist. When I was about 15 years old, I had not even developed any interest to drawing materials. My father once said that he had never thought that I would become an artist. This broke my heart but I was to some extent proud of myself since my father would constantly praise my brother for being a great artist.

This made me feel that I had something to prove to them. I have done very many rebellious things that make me to be more than what I am. This includes assuming my own responsibilities to prove my worth. In the description of colonialist in the book, I am ashamed that I am block to my family and to my friends. Before reading this book I had never had an idea of this. I was very rebellious. However, this has made me believe that God has the plan for everything and we cannot go against His will. I am successfully following my carrier to be a counselor and I am happy I am in this field with a better knowledge and understanding that God needs to be integrated into the life of an individual ecumenically.

Reflection

Entwistle’s book on “integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity” explains the importance of understanding how Christianity and psychology correlates and their non-convergence. The author thoroughly addresses the academic study of psychology. However, there is no much description of what an individuals or an average christen can do with this text. It does not also refer the person to another text that addresses this issue. I believe that this book is perfect for college students and professors to scrutinize. However, the text hinders layman and the church pastor who may wish to use it to help him or her in his or her personal relationships or in their professional field. The author can be acknowledged for doing an excellent job in giving great attention to the psychology student. This text can be focused on someone who does not understand the background and the meaning of psychology and still derive the most of the aim of this text with as much power and context as is has to the astute of psychology.

This text is therefore very useful in different fields including the church setting. the book also states the how it is dedicated to understanding the truth with both psychological and theological mindsets. This book also explains the valid points in that are set up discussing the various scenarios whereby everything that is concerned with integration between Christianity and psychology. The text is also essential as it emphasizes on the understanding of the similarities and differences between Christianity and theology, the author also elaborates that there is great understanding of the human psyche and also develop counseling and research techniques that can benefit future generations (Entwistle, 2010).

Action

In the psychology field especially in a counseling profession, this text is essential for the understanding of the various disciplinary models. It is a crucial step for the staff in this field. In the Christian community, knowing where an individual lies among the provided five models may be difficult. These models include spies, colonialists, enemies, allies and neutral parties (Entwistle, 2010). It may also be difficult to know whether they are a help or harm due to the understanding o the particular models or the set of beliefs associated with them. By understanding these models, staff and psychologists will be able to professionally and personal evaluate them by considering where they stand in the models.

This will then ensure that they provide the most adequate care and best possible services they can offer. The step that will follow is taking a look at the scientific psychology models honestly and using them in a fashion that is integrated and that will benefit the clients significantly. By understanding these techniques and options, proving God through science will be allowed. This will in turn help in creating Christ disciples. Finally, by integrating Christianity and psychology we go beyond just practices and ideas, we learn about our everyday life with God (Entwistle, 2010).

Reference

Entwistle, D. N. (2010). Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: An introduction to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration. Eugene, Or: Cascade Books.