Identity Research and the Psychosocial Formation of One’s Sense of Spiritual Self: Implications for Religious Educators and Christian Institutions of Higher Education

Authors

Chris Kiesling
Gwendolyn T. Sorell
Marilyn J. Montgomery, George Fox UniversityFollow
Ronald K. Colwell

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2006

Abstract

Utilizing Erikson’s (1963) psychosocial ego identity development theory, 28 qualitative interviews with religiously devout Americans are analyzed to determine different patterns of adult spiritual identity. Following an integrationist approach, we provide response to the question, “What types of identity development are accommodated, promoted, or prohibited by particular models of Christian education and the educational communities that embody them?” Recognizing individual differences in (a) the social and contextual factors that affect identity formation, (b) the way religious doubts are resolved, and (c) what individuals seek from community, we offer important implications for religious educators and Christian institutions of higher education.

Comments

Originally published in Christian Education Journal. 2006. Volume 3. Issue 2. Pages 240-259.

Recommended Citation

Kiesling, Chris; Sorell, Gwendolyn T.; Montgomery, Marilyn J.; and Colwell, Ronald K., "Identity Research and the Psychosocial Formation of One’s Sense of Spiritual Self: Implications for Religious Educators and Christian Institutions of Higher Education" (2006). Faculty Publications - Graduate School of Counseling. 85.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/gsc/85