Hello everyone,
I have recently been accepted in the MSW/MDIV program at UNC-CH and Duke Divinity. I have been considering doctoral programs pending graduation. In discussing with UNC faculty and staff about my research interests, there is a consensus that it is a unique topic that affects both disciplines but can't quite give me guidance on whether it is feasible to pursue this with a PhD in Social Work.
My research interest is spiritual violence or abuse that occurs in theo-centric communities, such as the African American faith traditions. My hope is to look at how the relationship between marginalized groups within the African American communities and the 'Black Church' creates trauma within communities and affects spiritual formation and identity development.
I see how it affects the community on a service provision level and a theological level. However, I am struggling with finding people and programs who are: 1) interested in this work academically, 2) conducting current research about spiritual violence that is not linked to domestic violence, or 3) willing to provide insight on whether or not I could research this.
If anyone is willing to give me some insight or assistance, I would greatly appreciate it.