PSYCHOLOGY OF

SPIRITUALITY AND
RELIGION
Psychology Club
Presentation created by: Xavier Stagg
Dr. Chinnes, Advisor
WHAT IS SPIRITUALITY?

 a concern for or sensitivity to things of the spirit or soul, especially as opposed

to materialistic concerns (APA, 2018).
 Spirituality involves the recognition of a feeling or sense of belief that there is
something greater than oneself, something more to being human than sensory
experience, and the greater whole of which we are part is cosmic or divine in
nature.
 An aspect of the human experience, and often as a tool to enhance resilience in
the face of adversity, and as a compass for navigation of fulfilled life.
HOW WOULD YOU
DEFINE
SPIRITUALITY?
WHAT ARE SOME OF
YOUR SPIRITUAL
EXPERIENCES?
 polytheism: multiple gods. (Belief systems of the ancient greeks and romans)
 monotheism: single god (Judaism, Christianity, Islam)
 atheism: Nothing is divine or what specific.
 animism: nonhuman beings (animals, plants, natural worlds) (Indigenous
nature worship).

SPIRITUAL IDENTIFICATIONS
 studies have shown that higher levels of spirituality or religiosity are
associated with a greater sense of meaning in life as well as higher levels of
psychological and emotional well-being. In other words, some people who
hold a belief in some of “higher power”, something “bigger than who we are
and what we are” whether defined as “god” “energy” “source” “collective
consciousness” or “spirit”, tend to be happier, healthier and even live longer.

RESEARCH AND SPIRITUALITY

 refers to the part of our consciousness that seeks deeper meaning, connection,
and understanding beyond the physical world.
 It’s the part of us that yearns for a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It’s the
source of our intuition and inner wisdom. It’s the doorway to experiencing
transcendence and higher states of consciousness. It’s the realm of meditation,
mindfulness, and self-reflection. It’s the space where we explore and cultivate
our values, virtues, and moral compass.

THE SPIRITUAL MIND

HOW DO YOU USE
YOUR SPIRITUAL
MIND IN YOUR
EVERYDAY LIFE?
 Humanity states that we are the highest form of life, that there is no higher
power, no god, that we make our own destiny, our own life, and that we as
humans are basically gods, no afterlife, no eternity, no life after death.
 Humanity believes that it has the capacity to solve its all own problems, that
humanity has the ability to do whatever it needs to do and carries all its own
power and the capacity of life and death; all within its own resolve. We think,
therefore, we are, and there is nothing better than the human mind, the human
resolve, and human strength.

HUMANITY
 research has consistently found that religious involvement correlated with
better physical and mental health, including better sleep, lower blood pressure,
and an overall lower rate of mortality.
 higher levels of spirituality have also been linked to increased compassion,
strengthened relationships, and improved self-esteem.
 The downside for people who avoid spirituality: some research has indicated
that eschewing “magical thinking” and being unable to identify patterns in the
surrounding world may be linked to depression or anhedonia (the inability to
experience, pleasure).

BENEFITS OF SPIRITUAL LIFE

CAN SPIRITUALITY HELP
DEPRESSED INDIVIDUALS?
 spirituality can play a significant role in coping with depression for many individuals. It often
provides a framework for understanding suffering, a sense of hope, and a means to find purpose
and spiritual connection. For some, spiritual beliefs and practices offer a way to transcend difficult
emotions and find solace in something great then themselves. This can be through prayer,
mediation, or various forms of worship, which can promote feelings of peace and well-being.
Additionally, being part of a spiritual community can offer social support, which is crucial for
those struggling with depression. Research has shown that spiritual engagement can lead to more
optimistic outlook on life, and in some cases, it can reduce the symptoms of depression by
providing individuals rooted in positivity and resilience.

SPIRITUALITY AND DEPRESSION

 spiritual humility is a beautiful and profound quality that embodies the
recognition our own limitations and the vastness of the universe. It’s about
understanding that, despite our individual talents and knowledge, there’s so
much more that we don’t know and can learn from others and the world
around us. When we embrace spiritual humility, we open ourselves to growth,
learning, and the wisdom that comes from experiences beyond our own.

SPIRITUAL HUMILITY
 HOW DO YOU
INTEGRATE
SPIRITUAL HUMILITY
IN YOUR LIFE?
 studies have found that individuals who have a strong sense of spirituality tend
to have lower levels of stress and greater resilience in the face of adversity.
 research indicates that spiritual beliefs and practices can contribute to a greater
sense of purpose and meaning in life, leading to increased life satisfaction.
 studies have shown that spiritual beliefs and practices can play a role in
promoting physical greatness, such as reducing slower blood pressure, and
boosting immune functioning.
 studies have found that spiritual practices, such as mindfulness mediation, can
enhance cognitive abilities, including attention, memory, and problem-solving
skills.

RESEARCH FINDINGS ON
SPIRITUALITY
 a system of spiritual beliefs, practices, or both, typically organized around the
worship of an all-powerful deity or (deities) and involving behaviors or rituals
such as prayer, meditation, and participation in collective rituals.
 the belief in a god or gods and the activities that are with this belief.
 How would you define religion?

WHAT IS RELIGION?
 christianity: christians believe in the teachings of jesus christ and his role as the son of god. They believe in the
holy trinity, consisting of god the father, jesus christ, and the holy spirit. They believe in salvation through faith
in jesus and strive to follow his teachings of love, forgiveness, and compassion.
 Islam: Muslims follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as revealed in the Quran. They believe in the
oneness of Allah (God) and the importance of submitting to his will. Muslims practice the five pillars of Islam,
which include faith, prayer, fasting, giving to charity, and making a pilgrimage to Mecca.
 Hinduism: diverse religion with a wide range of beliefs and practices. Hindus believe in a supreme being called
Brahman, which is manifested in various forms and deities. They believe in karma, reincarnation, and the pursuit
of spiritual liberation through righteous living and self-realization.
 Judaism: Jews believe in the covenant between god and the jewish people. They emphasize the importance of
ethical living, social justice, and the observance of religious rituals and traditions.

RELIGIONS
 religion holds a profound power in human societies, influencing not just
personal beliefs and behaviors but also shaping cultural norms, legal systems,
and social structures. It can be a source of comfort and guidance for
individuals, offering a framework for understanding the mysteries of life and
finding a sense of purpose. For many religious practices and communities
provide a sense of belonging and support, creating strong social bonds and
networks that can be crucial during times of needs.

THE POWER OF RELIGION

THE DOWNSIDE OF RELIGION