Oklahoma Southern Baptist churches: a descriptive analysis of family strengths and stressors

Date

2001-08

Authors

Choate, M. Kent

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to discover the strengths and stressors of families in Oklahoma Southern Baptist churches who participated in the Church Census from January 1999 to July 2000. The study utilized data from an existing database at Baylor University's Center for Family and Community Ministries in Waco, Texas. Respondents (N=996) from 7 different Oklahoma Southern Baptist churches, ranging in size from 50 to 250, participated.

A descriptive analysis of 36 family strengths and challenges and 31 family stressors listed in the Church Census inventory was conducted. Additional statistical analysis was conducted to determine any significant difference between single parent families with children and married couple families with children.

The sample had a high level of family cohesion and commitment and the ability to communicate in the midst of conflict. They expressed some adaptability and flexibility as well as companionship. However, the study indicated community connections to be a challenge to the sample. The sample also struggled to display open and honest communication within their families and seek outside help when they need it.

The most common stressor was "difficulty on the job for a family member." "Tasks and chores don't get done," and "serious illness and/or death of a member or close friend or relative" were stressors that were most often identified by the sample. The stressors experienced often by the sample included familial conflict and external conflict as well as illness, disability, and death.

Single parent families with children were less likely than married couple families with children to respond positively to the following: "we can depend on one another," "we respect one another," "we support each other during hard times," and "we forgive one another." In the family stressors section, only one significant difference was found. Single parent families with children were more likely than married couples with children to report "a parent away from home a lot."

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Keywords

Southern Baptist, Family, Stress, Familial Conflict

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