The initiation ritual as a model for oncology counseling.
Journal of Religion and Health December 1, 1987 DOI: 10.1007/bf01533882 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Proposes that initiation rituals can serve as a counseling model for cancer patients, using the encounter with death to foster personal growth. |
Abstract
This article examines the use of the initiation ritual of primitive people, described in the works of Mircea Eliade, as a model for counseling cancer patients, giving both meaning and structure to the interactions between patient and counselor. Within this model the patient's encounter with death, whether feared or actualized, can be used as impetus toward personal growth, whatever the stage of the person's disease process. Case examples are given to illustrate how the model can be used in practice. Comparison is also made between stages and components of the initiation ritual and other techniques used to alter a person's consciousness.