Spiritism in Puerto Rico. Results of an island-wide community study

Br J Psychiatry. 1990 Mar:156:328-35. doi: 10.1192/bjp.156.3.328.

Abstract

Using data from the first community-based, epidemiological survey of Puerto Rico, this paper examines the current prevalence of use of spiritist healers by Puerto Ricans, the role of spiritism in the provision of mental health services, and the association between spiritism and psychiatric disorders and symptoms. Those who visit spiritists were found to be more likely to work outside the home, to have a low family income, to have sought help for emotional problems from mental health professionals, and to have mild symptoms of depression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / epidemiology
  • Mental Disorders / therapy*
  • Mental Healing*
  • Mental Health Services
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Puerto Rico / epidemiology
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Spiritualism*