Basic Principles and Clinical Considerations of Jainism

Jainism is a faith and philosophy with ancient origins in India. While Jains currently comprise less than 1% of India’s population, with small populations also worldwide, Jain principles—such as nonviolence, self-control, and introspection—often overlap with other worldviews and practices. However, with its small prevalence, Jainism may not be commonly known. This chapter aims to provide a primer for mental health clinicians, primarily in the context of working with patients and families who may follow Jain philosophies and observances. Basic demographics, historical and philosophical underpinnings, common practices and traditions, and clinical considerations are reviewed. As with many belief systems and cultures, it is important to acknowledge complexities, nuances, and variability, especially among individual practices.