PLO4

PLO 4: Students will demonstrate knowledge and skill in integrating a biblical worldview (i.e. Christian faith and practice) with the discipline of psychology and applying that integrative understanding in practical contexts. 

Reflection on PLO 4 

          PLO 4: Students will demonstrate knowledge and skill in integrating a biblical worldview (i.e., Christian faith and practice) with the discipline of psychology and applying that integrative understanding in practical contexts.

          For PLO 4, I chose to reflect on paper titled, “Gratitude: A Psychological and Theological Perspective,” completed for Positive Psychology class, APSY 465-01 with Dr. Goss. I chose this assignment for my e portfolio because it shows my ability to integrate both psychological and theological perspectives into one understanding. The paper let me examine the concept of gratitude from two significant viewpoints: psychology and Bible. I was able to show the common ground between the two fields. The process of integration is what PLO 4 asks for, to demonstrate an understanding of psychology through the lens of biblical worldview and applying that understanding in a meaningful way.

          Through this paper, I did psychological research on gratitude, focusing on cognitive and emotional benefits, such as emotional regulation, mental health improvements and strengthening social connections. From a psychological viewpoint, gratitude is understood as an emotional process that promotes well-being, particularly fostering positive relationships and improving resilience (Smith et al., 2022). Integrating a biblical worldview allowed me to bring depth to this understanding by introducing the spiritual view of gratitude. Scripture tells us that gratitude is not just a psychological tool for emotional regulation, but a spiritual discipline that helps individuals cultivate trust in God’s sovereignty and deepens their relationship with Him, especially during times of hardship (Ephesians 5:20, 1 Thessalonians 5:18).

          This paper shows how psychological concepts of gratitude connects with biblical teachings about expressing thanks to God in both positive and negative times. For instance, psychological research supports that gratitude improves resilience, while the Bible teaches us that gratitude is a faithful act that transcends all circumstances. I realized that psychological understanding of gratitude serves an important role in emotional health. But without theological background, it is incomplete. Only through biblical view, I can fully comprehend why gratitude is a powerful expression of faith, even during suffering.

          I also considered the importance of worldview, how a person’s view of the world influences how they view gratitude. A biblical worldview, shaped by God’s special revelation in scripture, claims that gratitude is an important spiritual discipline that points to God’s goodness. This is in contrast to psychological viewpoint, where gratitude is just an emotional process. The integration of these two viewpoints connects with Christian calling to live out one’s faith in all areas of life.

          The paper explores gratitude from both psychological and theological perspective, showing their congruence, complement, completion and conflict. Gratitude is an emotional process that promotes well-being in the world of psychology. It strengthens relationships and mental health, serving as a tool for coping with difficulty. Theologically, gratitude is seen as a spiritual discipline that deepens one’s faith, trust and relationship with God. The paper highlights the integration of these perspectives, showing that while psychology shows gratitude’s emotional benefits, theology frames it as a profound act of worship. The integration of both viewpoints offers a holistic understanding of gratitude.

          Working on this paper deepened my understanding of how psychological concepts and theology can complement each other in understanding complex human concepts like gratitude. I learned to integrate research on gratitude, with biblical teachings that frame gratitude as a spiritual discipline. I developed skills in combining diverse perspectives. I also learned how to articulate these concepts clearly while maintaining academic standards. I sharpened my ability to critically analyze and compare different worldviews.

          Through the paper, I learned that I value reflection and synthesis. I researched not only on the academic side of gratitude but also on its spiritual applications in my own life. This insight reinforced my desire to continue a career that integrates faith and psychology, where I can help others find meaningful ways to improve their well-being. Recognizing that emotional health and spiritual growth are interconnected, I see the importance of addressing both views when working with others, in my future counseling career.

          In my current life, this integration influences how I approach relationships and difficulties. I am more aware of how gratitude can shape my viewpoints on life. It can help me to respond to difficult situations with faith. This brought greater balance to my own emotional and spiritual practices. This paper reinforced my desire to work in a career where I can blend psychology and faith. I feel more confident in my ability to offer a balanced approach to my clients. The ability to synthesize these two perspectives is valuable as I work toward my goal of becoming a counselor who can guide others in navigating life. This paper shaped my vision of a career where I can serve others in a deeply integrated way.