Bidi Broderick, PhD
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Qualifications
PhD, York St John University
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BA (Hons) Study of Religions, The School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS)
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Diploma in Counselling for the Legacy of Childhood Trauma, Accredited by Middlesex University
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Diploma in Person-Centred Counselling, BACP Accredited
My Research & Approach
My work is situated in East Africa and London. I’m passionate about the study of lived religion, and about the role of religious beliefs and spirituality in everyday life.
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My Research Journey and Future Direction
The significance of this research has two strands. Firstly, it involves an ongoing exploration of the role of African and African Caribbean indigenous beliefs and spirituality in the lives of ordinary people in London, UK. Secondly, it provides a theory of methodology that incorporates elements of psychotherapy to enable a greater understanding of the continued evolution of indigenous religions and spirituality in addressing misfortune.
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Studies of religion have historically been framed within the narrative of colonial authorities, often with a belief in the superiority of Western philosophical traditions over African indigenous beliefs. My work considers this language construction when engaging with individuals in everyday life.
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In today's interconnected world, indigenous religious and spiritual beliefs continue to influence how individuals and communities manage misfortune. This research offers insights into witchcraft in the UK and promotes recognising belief in witchcraft as a coping mechanism, similar to accepted religions, rather than dismissing it as superstition. The aim is to provide professionals with tools to support those who believe they are bewitched or hear voices, and to address the gap in understanding.
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To improve mental health services, it is vital to comprehend non-Western spiritualities, unaffected by Western religious ideologies. Recognising the differences in individual beliefs and their effect on mental health is crucial. Understanding how indigenous beliefs promote safety, health, and community cohesion is imperative. My research examines the integration of diverse expressions of African and African Caribbean witchcraft and spiritual beliefs.
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My work aims to understand how African and African Caribbean people in diaspora experience and express misfortune, and its impact on their contemporary social and political realities.
Building on my doctoral research, I am committed to continuing this work and sharing new insights on the evolving role of indigenous belief systems in contemporary society.