Julie Exline

In this discussion, clinical psychologists Kenneth I. Pargament and Julie J. Exline, along with UC Irvine resident Kevin Ing, dive into the complexities of spiritual struggles within psychotherapy. They explore how religion and spirituality intersect with mental health, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' beliefs. Key topics include the emotional impact of spiritual doubt, the necessity of psychological safety, and how early attachments shape spiritual perceptions. The conversation highlights thoughtful engagement in therapy as vital for healing.

Religion and spirituality can be a source of comfort and strength but can also cause stress and conflict in people’s lives, when for example they wonder why God has allowed something terrible to happen or feel rejected by their religious community. Julie Exline, PhD, of Case Western Reserve University, talks about how spirituality and spiritual struggle affect mental health and well-being; what spiritual struggle looks like for religious believers, atheists and agnostics; how should psychologists and other mental health professionals can address spirituality and religion with their patients; and the causes and consequences of people’s belief in messages from God, after-death communication, and other supernatural attributions. For transcripts, links and more information, please visit the Speaking of Psychology Homepage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julie Exline, a psychology professor at Case Western Reserve University, dives into the psychology of spirituality and religiosity. She shares her journey into the field and the nature of spiritual struggles many face. The conversation touches on balancing spirituality within conservative beliefs and the complexities of emotions like anger towards God, even among atheists. Exline discusses how personality traits shape these experiences and highlights the benefits of non-dogmatic spiritual direction and integrating spirituality into therapy.