Jesus got crucified, why should we expect any different?; UK Christian clergies' experiences of coping with role demands and seeking support

Clergy have an emotionally taxing role and are suggested to experience high rates of distress. Prior research suggests clergy utilise religious coping skills and may underutilise support. This study aimed to explore clergy experiences of role-demands, coping, and support, to supplement previous findings, and guide intervention. Nine clergy members participated in semi-structured interviews; data was analysed using inductive-deductive Thematic Analysis. Three major themes emerged from the data; 'the sacrifice you make', 'help along the way', and 'change that's needed'. Clergy-members' most prevalent and salient reported coping strategy revolved around a stable relationship with God. Clergy discussed barriers to support within, and outside of, the church. Clergies' experiences of challenging demands and distress support previous findings. Clergy preference for religious coping suggest future research, or intervention, should account for spirituality. Finally, clergy-members' varied experiences of support suggest practical/cultural changes within the church could reduce barriers.

Automated summary

This study explored clergy experiences of role-demands, coping, and support. The findings showed that clergy members commonly utilize religious coping skills, specifically maintaining a stable relationship with God. The study also identified barriers to support within and outside of the church. These findings support previous research and suggest the importance of considering spirituality in future studies and interventions. Additionally, practical and cultural changes within the church could help reduce barriers to support for clergy.