Date of Award

2-16-2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

Ryan Thompson, Psy.D.

Second Advisor

Amber Nelson, Psy.D.

Third Advisor

Kathleen Gathercoal, Ph.D.

Abstract

An individual’s ability to balance the identity of self with the identity of the other, Quiet Ego, consider situations from various perspectives (Reflective Wisdom) and reflect on emotional reactivity (Affective Wisdom) are influential components to engaging in dialogue. The context for dialogue within the United States is increasingly impacted by the backdrop of polarization and defensiveness, impacting one’s ability to develop and maintain the characteristics above. The Christian Church in the United States is not immune to the shifts in dialogue and are experiencing similar difficulties with dialogue seen in the broader society. Virtuous Dialogues is a training curriculum that attempts to increase the likelihood of dialogue across differences. Results indicate the training significantly impacted one’s ability to balance the identity of self with the identity of other in unexpected ways. Additionally, results illustrated increased ability to consider various perspectives and reflect on emotional reactivity. Together, results suggest trainings on engagement with dialogue are impactful and can decrease avoidance of dialogue across differences.

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