Let’s Get Real with Stephen Jones Church Psychologist: Why So Many Latter-day Saints Still Feel Unworthy | Dr. Kawika Allen E0036
9 snips
Jun 26, 2025 Dr. Kawika Allen, a Church psychologist and BYU professor, dives into the spiritual struggles of scrupulosity and perfectionism within the Latter-day Saint community. He discusses how the pursuit of unattainable perfection can lead to feelings of unworthiness and anxiety. Allen emphasizes the liberating truth of grace, arguing that you don’t need to earn love but rather accept it in your flaws. The conversation reveals how embracing imperfection and focusing on mercy can transform one’s faith journey, fostering resilience and a deeper connection to Christ.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Redefining Feeling "Broken"
- Feeling "broken" often means accepting imperfection in a fallen world rather than being fundamentally flawed.
- Everyone makes mistakes and grows through life's ups and downs, which is part of the earthly experience.
Perfectionism Misunderstands Grace
- Perfectionism in faith is often misunderstood and causes people to exclude mercy and grace.
- Maladaptive perfectionism leads to expecting to earn God’s love solely through works, neglecting faith and compassion.
Legalism Fuels Unworthiness
- Legalism makes people feel they must earn God's love by works, ignoring faith and mercy.
- This excessive focus on works leads to constant self-judgment and feelings of unworthiness.
