Trust-based prayer expectancies and health among older Mexican Americans

J Relig Health. 2014 Apr;53(2):591-603. doi: 10.1007/s10943-013-9786-y.

Abstract

This study assesses the health-related effects of trust-based prayer expectancies, which reflect the belief that God answers prayers at the right time and in the best way. The following relationships are evaluated in our conceptual model: (1) older Mexican Americans who attend worship services more often tend to develop a closer relationship with God; (2) people who feel close to God will be more likely to develop trust-based prayer expectancies; (3) people who endorse trust-based prayer expectancies will have greater feelings of self-esteem; and (4) higher self-esteem is associated with better self-rated health. The data support each of these relationships.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment / methods*
  • Geriatric Assessment / statistics & numerical data
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mexican Americans / psychology*
  • Religion
  • Religion and Psychology*
  • Self Concept
  • Trust / psychology*
  • United States