The science of clergy work-related psychological health, stress, burnout and coping strategies : introduction to the special section

The purpose of this special section of Research in the Social Scientific Study of Religion is to provide a forum for examples of current scientific research examining work-related psychological health, stress, burnout and coping strategies among clergy. The collection, comprising three qualitative studies and seven quantitative studies, draws on the work of four established research groups which are making a scientific impact in that area (two in the USA, one in the UK, and one in Australia). It is international networking and collaboration of this nature that stands to advance scientific knowledge in the Academy and provide better understanding and practice in the Church. Keywords: psychology, clergy, burnout, coping, stres