Bibliography 2: #BIB39236

Key	BIB39236
Reference type	Thesis
Title	The Impact of Apostasy : A Phenomenological Study on the Effects of Leaving Religion
Author	Mazik, Jordan Taylor
Year	2023
Place published	Chicago
Abstract	The concept of leaving religion is widely undiscussed in the psychological community. As most of the relevant research comments on the positive impact religion can have on an individual, such as providing a sense of purpose or community, there remains a lack of research regarding the potential impacts of denouncing religion. This study explored the lived experiences of individuals who have apostatized from fundamentalist religions and the universality of their narratives. Seeking to identify commonalities between lived experiences to demonstrate the common meaning of the phenomenon, this study provided a cross-analysis of the unique stories of twelve individuals who have left religion and identify as nonreligious (i.e., atheist, agnostic, nonpracticing, etc.). Utilizing a phenomenological approach, several common experiences stood out in regard to the processes and effects of leaving religion, including the following six major themes: fear, separation, education, self-discovery, changes in perceptions, and relief. Results indicated that all participants experienced positive effects of apostasy, such as increased autonomy, compassion for others, and self-esteem, as well as decreased feelings of guilt, shame, and judgmentalism. Most participants also reported negative effects of apostasy, such as experiencing ostracism, existential crises, and a loss of purpose and community. By examining these themes and their subthemes, ways in which clinicians can better service individuals experiencing this religious identity crisis are offered through increasing awareness of the aftermath of apostasy and providing better informed care to clients in distress by utilizing techniques that facilitate self-
Notes	Bahá'í Faith: pp. 15, 149, 150.
Language	English
Keywords	APOSTASY; COVENANT-BREAKING; MEMBERSHIP
Number of pages	160
Academic department	Clinical Psychology
University	Chicago School of Psychology
Degree	Psy.D.
File attachments	internal-pdf://1314724676/Mazik (2023) - Impact_Apostasy.pdf

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