Research Participants Needed
The Journey from Strain to Strength
A study of the lived experiences of African American pastors navigating burnout, resiliency, and mentoring the next generation.
Dwaynna D. L. Moore, Doctoral Candidate · School of Behavioral Sciences · Liberty University
About the study
Purpose of the study
The purpose of this study is to explore and interpret the lived experiences of burnout and resilience among African American pastors across the United States, and to examine how those experiences inform their perspectives on mentoring and preparing the next generation of pastoral leaders.
This research is being conducted as part of a doctoral dissertation in the Department of Community Care and Counseling at Liberty University.
Eligibility
Who can take part
Inclusion criteria
To participate, you must:
- ✓Identify as an African American pastor (female or male)
- ✓Are 30 years of age or older
- ✓Serve in a church located in the United States
- ✓Have led a small church of 100 members or less
- ✓Have 10 or more years of pastoral leadership experience as a lead pastor
Exclusion criteria
You are not eligible if you:
- ✕Are under 30 years of age
- ✕Do not identify as African American
- ✕Have fewer than 10 years of pastoral leadership experience
- ✕Lead a congregation of more than 100 members
- ✕Serve in a church located outside the United States
Approximately 15–20 participants will be selected. Expressing interest does not guarantee selection.
Procedures
What participation involves
- 01
Review & sign consent
Before any study activity, you will receive a consent document by email to review and sign.
About 10 minutes
- 02
Individual interview
One audio/video-recorded, semi-structured interview on Zoom with 13 open-ended questions.
60–90 minutes
- 03
Transcript review
You will be asked to review your interview transcript for accuracy.
About 30 minutes
Total time commitment is approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Voluntary participation
Participation is completely voluntary. You may decline to answer any question and may withdraw at any time without penalty or effect on your relationship with Liberty University or the researcher.
Confidentiality
Your identity will be kept confidential. Pseudonyms will be used in all reports, recordings and transcripts will be stored securely, and only the researcher and faculty sponsor will have access.
Risks & benefits
Risks are expected to be minimal, though discussing burnout may bring up uncomfortable feelings; you may pause or stop at any time. Participants should not expect to receive a direct benefit. Findings may help the church better support pastors and future leaders.
Express interest
Interested in participating?
Complete the short screening below. It opens your email app with a message addressed to ddmoore1632@gmail.com. Please do not include personal details about your ministry experiences in this email. If you are eligible, the researcher will contact you and send a consent document. You may also email the researcher directly.