Differences in Style of Pastoral Counseling as a Function of Religious Beliefs and Attitudes toward Human Nature

Abstract

A model for considering differences in styles of pastoral care is herein proposed. Whether these styles are a function of personality, situational, group, or longevity issues, is questioned. Two investigations are reported. The first studied the extent to which pastoral style could be identified across pastoral tasks. A group of persons who sought pastoral counsel could not identify pastors who counseled frequently. The second studied the extent to which more effective pastoral counseling was related to attitudes toward human nature and religious beliefs. The data suggest that effective pastoral counseling is not related to differences in religious beliefs but is a junction of an optimistic view of human nature. Previous counseling training is likewise a determinant. Discusses these results in light of methodological and theoretical considerations. Suggests that current theological positions need to be systematically related to styles of pastoral care.