An empirical exploration of psychoanalysis and religion: Spiritual maturity and object relations development

Author(s): Brokaw, B. F., Edwards, K. J., Pike, P. L.

Journal/Book: J Sci Stud Relig. 1998; 37: Purdue University, 1365 Stone Hall, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1365. Soc Scientific Study Religion. 303-313.

Abstract: The present study builds on the emerging body of empirical literature examining religion from a con temporary psychoanalytic perspective that is particularly informed by object relations theory. Such a perspective leads to the hypothesis of a positive relationship between spiritual maturity, defined relationally, and level of object relations development. In other words, it is proposed that the developmental maturity of one's faith and relationship with God is associated with the developmental maturity of one's relationships with others. Spiritual maturity was measured by the Spiritual Assessment Inventory and the Religious Status inventory. Level of object relations development was measured by the Bell Object Relations Inventory. Results revealed 19 out of 20 significant correlations in the predicted direction between both measures of spiritual maturity and the measure of level of object relations development. Research and clinical implications are discussed.

Note: Article Hall TW, Bliss Army Community Hosp, Community Mental Hlth Serv, Attn Mcxj-MH, FT Huachuca,AZ 85613 USA

Keyword(s): INVENTORY

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