The Role of Suffering in Human Flourishing: Contributions from Positive Psychology, Theology, and Philosophy

Abstract

Should alleviating suffering always be the primary goal in treatment? This paper proposes that suffering can best be understood in the context of the flourishing life, from the intersecting vantage points of positive psychology, philosophy of theology. We further argue that in this context, we can articulate a role for suffering. Suffering can be understood as a marker of disordered living, a means of cultivating characteristics that are essential to the flourishing life, or an opportunity for worldview orientation. In sum, the role of suffering is not to endure it for its own sake, but for the sake of cultivating the flourishing life. Finally, we will consider some implications of this conceptualization for the practice of therapy.

God’s role in suffering: Theodicies, divine struggle, and mental health.

“…The Soul-Building scale is based on the theodicy that God uses suffering to build virtues, such as mercy, forgiveness, and courage, which could not be achieved without the existence of evil and suffering (Nash, 1988). The Providence scale is based on the theodicy that God is in complete control of human suffering and has planned suffering for higher, benevolent purposes (M. E. L. Hall, Langer, & McMartin, 2010). Finally, the overcoming scale is based on the theodicy that humans can reduce their own suffering through faith, prayer, and good works to glorify a benevolent God (Hagin, 1966).…”

“…These scales collectively assess beliefs that suffering affords a unique opportunity to draw closer to God, to experience suffering with God, to build one's character through suffering, and to ultimately overcome suffering through interaction with God. Therefore, people endorsing these beliefs are likely to see suffering as a significant growth experience and respond more positively when confronted with difficult circumstances in their lives (M. E. L. Hall et al, 2010). The limited knowledge scale is based on the belief that God has not predetermined the future so as to allow humanity the free will to make responsible choices in life (Boyd, 2000).…”

The Personal Experiences of Pastoral Leaders During the COVID-19 Quarantine

“…So, too, the science bears out this truth. In discussing human flourishing and suffering, Hall et al (2010) note "…both positive psychology and theology recognize the constructive potential of adversity in providing a context for the cultivation of enduring, virtuous traits of character" (p. 116). It seems fair to use the term "adversity" as a descriptor for the COVID-19 quarantine.…”

Integrative Reflections on Disasters, Suffering, and the Practice of Spiritual and Emotional Care

“…They also noted that faith communities can be healing agents or they can cause further harm. Hall, Lunger, and McMartin (2010) pointed out that while suffering itself is not a good thing, suffering can bring about awareness of disorder, cultivate positive characteristics, and contribute to an accurate worldview. Hall and Johnson (2001) explored the idea that some theodicies can be helpful in framing a person’s way of understanding reality and experiencing God, while others can be harmful.…”