-For this assignment, analyze current dynamics within religious institutions, social institutions, and the American family.
In addition to selecting a religious institution, also select one social institution from the list below:
Educational
Governmental
Community
Economy
Next, in 500-750 words, address the following:
Describe a recent challenge within religious institutions, your chosen institution, and the family system.
Citing three to five scholarly sources, provide a solution to the problem you presented from a mental health perspective.
Summarize the relationship between the family unit and this social institution. Explain why this relationship is necessary and can prove to be beneficial for the family unit.
In what ways do these institutions promote the Christian worldview of hope and restoration to encourage healthy communities?
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. A link to the LopesWrite technical support articles is located in Class Resources if you need Helpance
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Religious institutions have been a significant part of the American landscape since the country’s founding, playing a crucial role in shaping American values and culture. However, the challenges that religious institutions face today are markedly different from those of the past. Additionally, social institutions such as educational, governmental, community, and economic institutions are equally crucial in shaping and maintaining social norms and values.
Recent Challenges within Religious and Educational Institutions and the Family System
Religious Institutions: One of the most significant challenges facing religious institutions today is the decline in membership and attendance. According to a Pew Research Center survey, over the last decade, the percentage of adults who identify as Christians in the United States has dropped from 78% to 65%, while the percentage of those who identify as “religiously unaffiliated” has risen from 16% to 26%. As a result, many religious institutions struggle to maintain their traditional roles as the moral and social centers of their communities.
Educational Institutions: One of the significant challenges facing educational institutions today is the increase in mental health problems among students. Research shows that the prevalence of mental health problems among college students has increased significantly in recent years. The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that 41% of college students experienced anxiety, and 36% suffered from depression in the past year.
Family System: One of the most significant challenges facing the American family system is the increase in divorce rates. Divorce has become a common occurrence in American society, with approximately 40% to 50% of marriages ending in divorce. Divorce can have a profound impact on the family system, including economic instability, emotional distress, and the disintegration of family values.
Mental Health Perspective Solutions
Religious Institutions: One potential solution for the decline in religious attendance and membership is to focus on providing mental health services to congregants. Research shows that individuals who attend religious services have better mental health outcomes than those who do not attend. A study published in the Journal of Religion and Health found that “religious participation was associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms and higher levels of life satisfaction and self-esteem.” Religious institutions can partner with mental health professionals to offer counseling services, support groups, and education on mental health topics.
Educational Institutions: One potential solution to the increase in mental health problems among students is to provide more mental health services on campus. Research shows that college students are more likely to seek mental health services when they are readily available on campus. Educational institutions can offer a range of mental health services, including counseling, medication management, and group therapy. Additionally, schools can provide mental health education to students and faculty to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.
Family System: One potential solution to the increase in divorce rates is to provide marital counseling services. Research shows that marital counseling can improve communication and relationship satisfaction, which can ultimately reduce the likelihood of divorce. Additionally, family therapy can help families navigate the emotional and financial challenges associated with divorce. Family therapy can help children cope with the changes in their family system and can help parents develop co-parenting strategies that prioritize the well-being of their children.
The Relationship between the Family Unit and Social Institutions
Social institutions such as educational, governmental, community, and economic institutions play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining the norms and values of the family unit. For example, educational institutions provide children with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in society, while governmental institutions provide a legal framework that protects the family unit. Community institutions provide families with social support and resources, while economic institutions provide families with the means to support themselves financially.
In promoting the Christian worldview of hope and restoration, social institutions can encourage healthy communities by providing a supportive and nurturing environment for families. Social institutions can help families navigate the challenges of modern life by providing mental health services, education, and resources that promote
