Pastoral Power Beyond Psychology's Marginalization - (New Approaches to Religion and Power) by Philip Browning Helsel (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

In times of massive economic inequity, why do so many Americans consider themselves mentally ill? Exploring the psychological effects of debt, foreclosure, and unemployment, this book shows how our mental health categories are poorly equipped to explain the stresses of the current economy. Philip Browning Helsel provides concrete advice to ministers and counselors wishing to help those struggling with the stress of being in a member of the modern working class. 'Pastoral power' is the ability to help people define and resist the suffering that results from an unjust economic system. Helsel argues that psychological labels can reduce people to 'problem-identities' and make them feel internally responsible for their emotional problems. Drawing from the counter-conducts of pastoral power described by Michel Foucault, and highlighting the testimonies of the consumer/survivor/ex-patient movement, this book helps communities resist social class oppression while questioning the oversimplification of mental health pathology.

Review Quotes

"I enjoy reading scholarly books that offer different perspectives and new insights. Browning-Helsel's book is one of those that open up new vistas to explore and study, whether for students, pastoral ministers, or educators. ... this is one of the books that help us engage with the macro-political and economic issues that impact people within and outside of the church. More particularly, it is a book that challenges us to think seriously about class and its relation to mental suffering." (Ryan Lamothe, Journal of Pastoral Theology, Vol. 26 (3), February, 2017)

"This book deals with various practical reasons that cause mental illness in which economical issue contribute a lot. The author gives practical suggestions to equip the minsters and thecounselors to deals with economic and social context in which the patients live. ... In this context, this book is very relevant and useful to the students of psychology and to anyone who intend to help people affected with mental illness." (Paul Sigamony, New Life Theological Journal, Vol. 6 (2), December, 2016)

About the Author

Philip Browning Helsel is assistant professor of pastoral care and counseling, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry, USA.