Coping Behavior Changes in Christian Congregations in the United States: A National Survey.

During the COVID-19 pandemic quarantines, stay-at-home orders, and other precautionary measures impacted the ability of individuals to engage in group religious practices associated with positive religious coping, a protective factor for community resilience following disaster. The aim of this cross-sectional survey of Christian congregations in the U.S. was to 1) assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on congregation members' coping strategies, and 2) evaluate any changes to Christian coping behaviors. Paired samples t-test identified changes in coping behaviors associated with avoidance, as well as resilience. Implications for Christian congregations and social workers in responding to these changes are discussed in the context of the ethical integration of faith and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]