5th ISA Forum of Sociology (6-11 July 2025)

Language, discourse, and narratives are integral to shaping and perpetuating core beliefs in both religion and mental health paradigms. In religious contexts, sacred texts and oral traditions serve as foundational narratives, encapsulating doctrinal teachings, ethical guidelines, and existential meanings. These narratives are maintained through ritualistic and communal practices and dynamically interpreted to address contemporary issues, ensuring the belief system's relevance and continuity.

In mental health, the discourse surrounding mental illness and well-being is deeply influenced by cultural, historical, and scientific narratives. These narratives shape public perceptions, influence policy-making, and guide therapeutic practices. For example, the biomedical model, which emphasizes diagnosis and treatment, contrasts with holistic approaches that consider psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions.

The interplay of language, discourse, and narratives in these belief systems reveals the dynamics of power, identity, and community cohesion. Dominant narratives often reinforce existing power structures and societal norms, while counter-narratives challenge and transform them. Examining linguistic and narrative practices provides crucial insights into the formation, maintenance, and evolution of core beliefs, illustrating their impact on individual and collective lives. This session underscores the significance of understanding these elements in the context of religion and mental health to comprehend how belief systems develop and influence human experience.