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Theo Lens
Theo Lens
Kegan’s theory, is a theory that was developed by Robert Kegan that tackles
about social maturity. This is an important subject to tackle within the research since
this theory can best describe the reactions of the and changes that occur within the
Muslim population in Christian institutions. Essencially Kegan’s theory talks about how
one develops, and becomes “socially mature”. Social maturity is important because it is
essential in order to deal with new environments which require a slick social skill in
order to get a grasp of the ins and outs of society and understand the very nature of it.
The theory is applied to the research since it coincides with the observations of
the researchers about the changes of the participants. This theory is relevant because it
forms the basis of the themes that the researchers have come up with and shows the
evolving self.
Then comes the alienation stage where the participants feel they are different,
where they feel somewhat alone, this is the stage which they start to find a place to
belong in. After this stage comes the enlightenment stage. This is the stage where they
become enlightened to the very nature of their surroundings, and learn new insights to
their surroundings and the people around them.
Then there is the stage of Belongingness, where the person finds a place for
himself, as observed in the participants, they often come to faith as their place to belong
to, they use prayer as an aid to the process of belonging. Some participants also come
to other people, and other Muslims, it seems that they are more incline to go to people
with more commonality with them.
This are the stages that were observed in the participants, the changes they
undergo, and the very process of their social development in order to belong. This
common theme within them is in line with Kegan’s theory since it also follows processes
of change and growth.