Title

Countering Systemic Abandonment by Creating Systemic Change

Author

Nathan DavisFollow

Publication Date

6-2020

Abstract

In recent years, the United States has seen a rapid rise in the number of adolescents experiencing anxiety and depression. As has been noted by researchers, this growth is linked to the changing culture and the new challenges facing adolescents. To address this, this ministry project will create an online training seminar for youth workers that will help them identify and respond to the underlying issues in students’ lives leading to anxiety and depression.

The first part of the project explored the social science as it relates to the rapid growth that has been observed in adolescents experiencing anxiety and depression. It gave special attention to how the rise of systemic abandonment has created an environment where students are apt to succumb to anxiety and depression. The second part of this project focused on the biblical and theological teachings that are relevant to this specific ministry challenge both in regards to developing a proper understanding of mental health struggles and exploring the biblical mandate to pursue, welcome, and include those who are on the fringes of society into the family of God. Specifically, it focused on how these teachings relate to how the Church is called to engage adolescents who are struggling with anxiety and depression.

The third part of this project focused on the creation and implantation of an online training seminar that equips and empowers churches to effectively ministers to adolescents who are struggling with anxiety and depression. It reviewed the data presented in the project, the theological implications of the training, assessed and outline the new ministry initiative goals, strategy, and established a methodology of the training. It also includes a review and assessment of the initial training and notes changes for future adaptations.

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

First Advisor

Greenway, Tyler

Document Type

Project

Language

English

Keywords

Anxiety, Depression, Systemic Abandonment, Adolescence, Youth Ministry, Mental Health

Disciplines

Practical Theology

Comments

This was uploaded by the David Allan Hubbard Library from the Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN). If there are any mistakes in this record, please contact archives@fuller.edu

Upload File

wf_yes

Date Uploaded

6-19-2020

Collection Number

DMin125

File Name

DMin125-0436

Rights

Material is subject to copyright.

Recommended Citation

Davis, Nathan, "Countering Systemic Abandonment by Creating Systemic Change" (2020). Doctor of Ministry Projects. 430.
https://digitalcommons.fuller.edu/dmin/430

Embargo Period

6-19-2020