Screening and Brief Advice for Risky Substance Users among Charismatic and Main Stream Churches in South Africa

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate screening and brief advice for risky substance users among charismatic and main stream churches in South Africa. The sample included 117 clergy (63 from charismatic and 54 from mainstream churches) chosen randomly from exiting lists of 98 churches in Vhembe district in South Africa. Results indicate that clergy have pastoral counselling interactions with an ample number of church members including problems of alcohol and drug abuse. Many of these clergy were found receptive to learning about screening and intervention on alcohol and drug problems. Clergy from both charismatic and main stream churches could play an important role in screening and intervention on alcohol and drug problems in South Africa.