Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book suggests that a relational dialectic exists between psychology and theology consisting of descriptive and prescriptive orientations. It articulates an approach to the integration of psychology and theology one might call "relational integration". Relationality provides a useful theme for the content of integration, particularly within the Trinitarian Christian tradition which emphasizes a God who is relational. The book traces some of the history of how the term "integration" arose in the psychology and theology dialogue and offers a summary of differing models for relating psychology and theology. Psychology involves observations and interpretations of human behavior, and theology involves understandings of God, the sacred and ultimate concerns. Theology tends to emphasize the prescriptive—how things should be, while psychology and other social sciences emphasize the descriptive—or interpretations of how things are.