ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the complex history of how religion and spirituality have affected health (care) beliefs and practices. The effects of religion and spirituality also are discussed with regard to current healthcare contexts and addressing the healthcare needs of diverse populations. Relationships between religion and spirituality and health behaviors are considered, with attention to how health communication practitioners can use diverse healthcare beliefs and approaches in their work. Students are challenged to consider the implications of including and talking inclusively about religious and spiritual needs in healthcare contexts, especially for promoting person-centered care, quality of life, and control and empowerment in health and disease meaning making.
