Entwistle summary

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ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 1 . ENTWISTLE INTEGRATION SUMMARY CHAPTERS 8-11 Karen Sopchak School of Behavioral Science, Liberty University Author Note Karen Sopchak I have no known conflict of interest to disclose. Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Karen Sopchak Email: Ksopchak@liberty.edu

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 2 ENTWISTLE INTEGRATION SUMMARY CHAPTERS 8-11 Summary Entwistle focuses on varying aspects within his book Integrative Approaches to Psychology and Christianity; however , the chapters reviewed in the following highlight his six models of the relationship between theology and psychology. Reductionism is a term that Entwistle uses throughout his work, referring to the idea that complex phenomena can be explained by reducing them to their essential components or simplifying them. Regarding psychology, reductionism suggests that human behavior may be understood by breaking it down into its simplest elements and forms, such as genetics, brain chemistry, biology, and environmental factors. Following earlier outlines from Brian Eck, Carter, and Narramore, Entwistle builds upon their ideologies and constructs the six models discussed in the following paper: Enemies, Spies, Colonists, Rebuilders, Neutral Parties, and Allies (Entwistle, 2015). By using a spectacularly insightful analogy, the author parallels the concept of his model to the similarities and differences of a traveling train. Entwistle informs the reader, “It is not enough to know how a train works; you also want to know where the train is going.” (Entwistle, 2015, p. 168). He writes that even though trains work in the same manner and have many similarities, the final destination is different. While his six models will appear to have similar concepts, the telos, or end, is very different. The first model explored is the enemy model. As the name would indicate, this model assumes that psychology and theology are diametrically opposed, with no common ground. This model rose in popularity during the Enlightenment period, as Enlightenment thinkers moved away from the dominant ecclesiastical authority of the Middle Ages. Reason and logic were considered the quintessential sources of knowledge, placing value on individuality, liberty, and

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 3 the right to self-determination (Entwistle, 2015). The perspective of the Enemies model takes a binary approach to understanding the psychology and theology of human beings. Those who adhere to the enemy model tend to adopt either a mechanistic or spiritual view, but not simultaneously. Proponents of the Enemies model typically employ methods that separate and isolate the elements between Christianity and science or Christianity and psychology (Entwistle 2015). One might disregard insights from the Bible or scientific observations, God’s word, and God’s works. This model branches into two forms: secular Combatants and Christian combatants. Secular combatants are devoted to the psychology field and uphold a worldview that counters religious beliefs. Seculars align with a modernist ideology that generally rejects authority, encompassing religious authority. Sigmund Freud and Albert Ellis could be umbrellaed under the secular combatant model due to their atheist views. The telos of the secular belief is to elevate the independent use of human reason (Entwistle, 2015). In contrast, Christian combatants exhibit suspicion toward human reasoning and prioritize safeguarding religious authority and its teachings from being influenced or distorted by human influence. Rene Descartes and Juan Luis Vives are two exemplary examples of combatants. The next model that Entwistle introduces the reader to is Spies. According to Entwistle, religious systems inherently include psychological elements. When people become entwined in communities of faith, social connections and bonds are made. Often, people find comfort through prayer and faith, and these beliefs and practices have significant psychological benefits. The potential psychological benefits of religious beliefs and practices are significant and attract considerable attention. Typically, these benefits are secondary outcomes of the religious system. At this point, religion becomes a tool for psychological benefits rather than

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ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 4 solely a platform for doctrinal teachings. This approach can be likened to espionage, where people either reject or downplay many religious doctrines to emphasize how belief aids coping or provides happiness and prosperity (Entwistle, 2015,). Entwistle further explains this model by separating it into foreign and domestic spies. Foreign spies are “psychologists that pragmatically explore religious elements for psychological benefits” (Entwistle, 2015. P. 173). Domestic spies are “people who follow a diluted religious practice, emphasizing its psychological advantages” (Entwistle, 2015, p.173). Foreign and domestic spies prioritize uncovering the psychological aspects of religion over strict theological adherence. This model focuses on viewing religion as a source of psychological insight. It is not concerned with adhering to traditional religious beliefs, as it sees religion as a collection of valuable psychological truths. The concept of the colonist model stems from a historical context dominated by descendants of white Europeans. Emphasizing individualism and exalting the self over the community, believers in this model perpetuate myths contrary to indigenous psychology and view human nature as having fallen due to original sin or egotistical animal instincts (Entwistle, 2015,). The Colonist’s model believes the individual self is central and responsible for success and failure, and a hierarchy must be sustained to maintain order. Colonists will use psychology while adhering to conservative Christian theology. Followers see science as valuable but foreign in their theological bubble, prioritizing alignment over strict psychological adherence. This is a pragmatic approach, where psychology serves as a tool within the framework of the Christian religion. Entwistle’s colonist model is a perspective where Christianity represents the true revelation of God regarding human nature and salvation. When accurately understanding human

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 5 issues, psychology can serve as a tool for what scripture conveys. Colonists possess a surface- level knowledge of psychological findings and do not actively explore the correlation between science and theology or how to express truth or mutually contribute an understanding of human behavior. The goal is to appropriate psychological methods that align with Christian views without delving into the more profound findings of psychology. In 587 BCE, after a 30-month siege, King Nebuchadnezzar II conquered Jerusalem. The Babylonians systematically destroyed the city and Solomon’s Temple. Years later, Artaxerxes allowed citizens to return to their homeland. Finding it in ruins and taken over by pagan practices, the returning citizens were forced to rebuild and reinstitute their religion (Entwistle, 2015,). Entwistle compares this story to the Rebuilders, the fourth model in his book. Rebuilders view psychology as a modality that belongs to God. However, they also believe modern psychology is at risk of slipping into idolatry. The risk lies in the heavy reliance on empiricism as the only means to discover truth, the rejection of divine revelations, and the alignment with modern views on human morality and self-determination (Entwistle, 2015,). The Rebuilders wish to establish a new psychology, incorporating God’s proclamations as the foundation. The neutral party allows psychological theories to stand on their merit. In strict separation, psychology and theology remain entirely separate. The goal is to prevent contamination between the two disciplines and maintain disciplinary independence. Theology and psychology are viewed as distinct perspectives, each offering ideologies without intersecting (Entwistle, 2015). Another version of the neutral parties model respects the independence of psychology and theology but permits comparing and correlating their separate findings. This approach allows aligning certain psychological and spiritual concepts without modifying the data

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 6 beforehand. It promotes integration without manipulation and acknowledges the legitimacy of truth from both disciplines (Entwistle, 2015) Believers in the neutral model aim to gather knowledge and safeguard the independence of science and religion. This approach recognizes the impact of worldviews and knowledge but significantly accepts the idea of separate, self-governing disciplines. The goal is to uphold the authority of the specific discipline used at the time. The Allies model asserts that all truths align harmoniously from God’s perspective, even though mankind has an imperfect understanding. While not all truths have equal value, this view affirms that psychology and theology are both under God’s autonomy (Entwistle, 2015). Since psychology was born of a subject under God’s creation, and theology originates from God’s word, both disciplines serve God’s purpose. While chapter eight in Entwistle’s book focuses on the models in depth, the following chapters focus on both the attacks on religion and psychology and the inclusion of both into one compatible modality. Entwistle pens about the explicit attacks on religious figures such as Freud, Ellis, and Maslow and how strict enemies have strained the relationship between Christianity and psychology. The attacks are rooted in the biased belief that scientific thinking and religious commitment are inherently incompatible (Entwistle, 2015). Entwistle touches on John MacArthur’s view on psychology. Entwistle claims that it is not only oversimplified but historically inaccurate. MacArthur believed that emphasis should be put on the biblical truth and that counseling should be grounded in God’s word. John also proposes that only Christians may engage in psychology using Christian resources and that accurate soul study is impossible for nonbelievers (Entwistle, 2015). However, this perspective overlooks the broader context and origins of psychology. While MacArthur emphasizes Christian authority, it

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ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 7 dismisses the valuable contributions of secular psychology to understanding non-physical human problems. Furthermore, Entwistle reflects on the animosity some Christians feel toward psychology, believing that combining the disciplines is heretical. Using historical references, he notes that this opposition stems from concerns about secular psychologists’ anti-religious sentiments. He alludes to the fact that Christian combatants object to psychology as a discipline, especially clinical psychology. The combatants argue that psychologists assume the role of physicians or preachers without God’s authorization. In this model, psychology is viewed as an intruder encroaching on the church’s territory, and changing lives should be done by a Christian ministry and true believers. Entwistle does not merely touch on the enemies and the combatants; he writes about David Myers, who presents a correlational approach to psychology and religion. Myers does not advocate for complete integration but finds parallels and correlations between the two. While acknowledging the influence of worldview assumptions, he argues for a measured approach (Entwistle, 2015,). Supporters of this view embrace modernist assumptions, valuing objectivity and self-discipline. Malcolm Jeeves, Fraser Watts, and Myers openly acknowledge their Christian faith and dialogue about the findings of psychology and theology. This approach encourages nuanced exploration while respecting the distinct domains of both disciplines (Entwistle, 2015). In the final chapter of the reading, Entwistle outlines the integration between theology and psychology. The Allies model offers a nuanced perspective on psychology and Christianity. Unlike the spies, who view religion as a source of psychological insight, the Allies model rejects the concept that religion serves solely as a conduit for psychological truths. Instead, it recognizes that tensions and misunderstandings have historically caused antagonism between the two

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 8 (Entwistle, 2015). In contrast to the Colonists and Rebuilders model, which advocates subordinating psychology to theology, the Allies model maintains disciplinary independence. It values orthodoxy but does not propose an absolute hierarchy. Instead, it acknowledges psychology as a unique discipline with distinct insights into human behavior (Entwistle, 2015).The allies model remains cautious about secular assumptions that may shape psychology. The neutral party shares the nature and scripture concept, yet the allies critique it. The allies believe the neutral model relies too heavily on objectivity, hindering a holistic approach to understanding human behavior (Entwistle, 2015). The Allies model seeks a harmonious partnership between psychology and Christianity. It fosters dialogue, critique, and mutual respect that recognize both psychology and theology as valuable while ensuring they maintain their distinct domains. Interaction I had the pleasure of reading Entwistle as an undergraduate student at Regent University. The most surprising thing I found while reading was that my opinion of the models has changed. The first time I read Entwistle in 2019, my views aligned closely with the neutral model. Christianity was a faith, and psychology was a science. I never wanted to incorporate the two, as I was adamant about not becoming a Christian or Biblical counselor. McMinn (2012) writes that the integrative model of Christian counseling joins psychology, theology, and spirituality in a flexible and adaptable manner tailored to the specific counseling situation or client’s needs. Since the integration models were grounded in a Christian worldview, I was skeptical about incorporating them as a newly founded Christian. The neutrality of keeping science and religion separate comforted me; I could acknowledge God and faith in my time but not live in them during my professional career. This belief was solidified

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 9 when I read the Nally vs. Grace Community Church case. Kenneth Nally committed suicide after receiving biblical counseling from varying pastors at the church. Four of the pastors were accused of clergy malpractice. Even though the courts upheld the church’s right to counsel and no malpractice was found (Entwistle, 2015), it still concerned me. It is fair to say that I was naïve. I never considered Entwistle again until this assignment. Reading his work this time, I have realized that the Allies model is worth defending. Incorporating spirituality or religion into science is now incorporated into the “curricula of several medical schools throughout the world, ranging from 40% of schools in Brazil to 59% in the United Kingdom and finally 90% in the United States” (Lucchetti et al., 2021, para. 5). This shows that not only is integration acceptable in the discipline, but it can also enhance the field. One of the most extensive studies on suicide was conducted by VanderWeele et al., which included 89,708 women from the United States aged 30 to 55 years. The women were followed for fourteen years, and those who attended religious services were associated with a five-fold lower incidence of suicide compared to those who never attended (Lucchetti et al., 2021). Another United States-based study, which represented a sample of 30650 non-institutionalized adults, found that religious attendance (not just affiliation) was protected against suicide in a 30- year follow-up (Lucchetti et al., 2021) After reading the numbers, one may deduce that Kenneth Nally’s heartbreaking situation was not a product of malpractice or unscrupulous pastoral counseling. While some people may argue “sola scriptura” the Bible does not have to be the end all of truth. Finding my religious footing has allowed me to look at scripture as a guide, a tool, and source of research. Ex nilio is the idea that God created the world from nothing, which many Christians wholeheartedly believe. In theory, supporting the Allies model means, for me, believing that God, in fact, created

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ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 10 evolution. One can believe in God while simultaneously respecting scientific facts and discoveries. In earlier chapters, Entwistle touches on secular psychology. Secular psychology’s reductionist view may also oversimplify complex human behavior. For example, a secular therapist might explain addiction as solely the result of brain chemistry or genetics, which ignores the role of environment and social factors (Entwistle, 2015). A Christian psychologist may recognize these outliers by implementing a more holistic approach. While secular psychology can provide helpful insight, it may sometimes overlook essential dimensions of human experience. Integrating a holistic or spiritual approach can help recognize human complexity and address all dimensions of the human experience (Entwistle, 2015). Science is a methodology for understanding the natural world through empirical observation, experimentation, and measurement. The supernatural refers to phenomena beyond the scope of natural laws and cannot be explained by empirical methods alone. While science is limited to studying natural phenomena, it does not necessarily preclude belief in the supernatural (Entwistle, 2015). There are copious numbers of scientists who are also believers, and they argue that science and the supernatural (faith) are complementary, not contradictory. They see science as providing insight into the world’s workings, while the supernatural provides a framework for understanding the supernatural. The perfect intersection between theology and psychology is demonic possession. A person’s faith and religion are very likely to affect clinical presentation and the content of psychotic symptoms. According to Pietkiewicz et al. (2021), cultural pathoplasticity can be seen in numerous studies (para. 1). Protestants report religious delusions more frequently than Catholics, and being Catholic is more conducive to delusions of sins and guilt compared to

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 11 Muslims (Pietkiewicz et al., 2021, para 2). Twenty to sixty percent of patients with psychosis report delusions with religious content (Pietkiewicz et al., 2021, para 2). Some people believe demons inhabit people, and exorcisms are done to expel them. While the Bible notes this is possible (Mark 6:7, Mark 7:25, and Mark 3:15), science explains the otherwise unexplainable. Schizophrenia and psychosis may very well present as possessions when, in fact, there is a worldly explanation. Reductionism is the idea that complex phenomena can be explained by reducing them to their essential components, essentially simplifying them (Entwistle, 2015). Regarding psychology, reductionism suggests that human behavior can be understood by breaking it down to its simplest form or elements, such as genetics, brain chemistry, biology, and environmental factors (Entwistle, 2015). Secular psychology tends to adopt a reductionist approach to understanding human behavior, while Christian psychology takes a more holistic, faith-based approach. In addition, Christian psychology recognizes that people are complex and created in God's image, with spiritual, psychological, and physical dimensions (Entwistle, 2015). Thus, all of these must be considered when understanding human behavior. One implication of secular psychology’s reductionist view is that it can overlook the spiritual aspect of human beings. For example, a secular therapist might diagnose a patient with depression and prescribe medication. However, this approach may not address the spiritual needs of the patient, which could very well contribute to their depression. In contrast, a Christian therapist would recognize the spiritual aspect and seek to address both the spiritual and physical (biological) needs. After rereading Entwistle and becoming more knowledgeable in theology and psychology, I now realize how the two disciplines work together and separately. A counselor or

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 12 therapist who identifies as a Christian does not need to be a Christian counselor. Separation is not only allowed but encouraged in the ACA code of ethics. If a counselor is not noted as a biblical, Christian, or faith-based counselor, it is only sometimes appropriate to make religion a topic. Multicultural psychology teaches that different cultures and religions have unique ways of incorporating traditions into counseling. Believing in science does not negate my faith; standing on scientific evidence is not blasphemy.

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ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 13 References Lucchetti, G., Koenig, H. G., & Lucchetti, A. L. G. (2021). Spirituality, religiousness, and mental health: A review of the current scientific evidence. World Journal of Clinical Cases , 9 (26), 7620–7631. https://doi.org/10.12998/wjcc.v9.i26.7620 McMinn, M. R., & Campbell, C. D. (2007). Integrative psychotherapy : toward a comprehensive Christian approach . IVP Academic. Pietkiewicz, I. J., Kłosińska, U., & Tomalski, R. (2021). Delusions of Possession and Religious Coping in Schizophrenia: A Qualitative Study of Four Cases. Frontiers in Psychology , 12 . https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.628925

ENTWISTLE SUMMARY 14 .

Entwistle summary

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