Dr. Michael Sheridan Awarded $200,000 Duke University Grant

 

Congratulations to Dr. Michael Sheridan for receipt of Duke University's Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health $200,000 research grant!! Her research proposal, Investigation of the Effects and Mechanisms of Religious Involvement on the Physical and Mental Health of African American Caregivers has been selected as one of the final seven award winners. Joining Dr. Sheridan, Principal Investigator on this grant, are: Dr. Barbara Soniat, Co-principal Investigator, and Dr. Susanne Bennett, Co-Investigator. 

Duke University’s Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health (STH) conducted a Request for Research Proposals (RFP) entitled Religion and Health: Effects, Mechanisms, and Interpretation for research to elucidate how religion/spirituality influences individual and community health. This RFP focused on the health effects of active involvement in faith communities (religious attendance, worship, altruistic and caring activities).

In response to the RFP, the Center for STH received 232 letters of intent. From these, 40 finalists were chosen to submit full proposals, and seven were selected.

The goals of this research are to (1) document effects on health (where health is broadly defined), (2) clarify the biological, social, psychological mechanisms involved, and (3) interpret what the findings mean for individual, congregational, and community health through trans-disciplinary collaboration and deliberation. This research will advance scientific understanding of the mechanisms by which spirituality has an impact on health. It will build on previous findings regarding the association between religious attendance and health and will enhance our ability to interpret these findings through the engagement of multiple disciplines including theology and others.