Abstract

The successful development of an identity is related to greater well-being (Beyers & Luyckx, 2016; Crocetti, 2017; Kroger & Marcia, 2011; Luyckx et al., 2013; Ritchie et al., 2013). Identity development is likely influenced by religious doubt associated with conflicts or contradictions between religion and other domains, such as science (Cook, Kimball, Leonard, & Boyatzis, 2014; Puffer et al., 2008; Ritchie et al., 2013). The aim of the current study was to examine religious doubt as a mediator of the relationship between identity and well-being among emerging adults. Participants (N = 122) included undergraduate students who identified as Christian. Participants completed an online survey about their religious identity, quest orientation, religious doubts, and various well-being measures, such as emotional, social, and psychological well-being. The structural model suggested good model fit. Results indicated that religious doubt significantly mediated the relationship between identity and well-being but only for the reconsideration of commitment dimension of identity, a6b2 = .09, 95% CI [-0.35, -0.04]. The implications of the current study suggest that psychologists, clergy, and educators may better facilitate well-being by directly helping students address rather than avoid religious doubt.

LLU Discipline

Clinical Psychology

Department

Clinical Psychology

School

School of Behavioral Health

First Advisor

Kendal C. Boyd

Second Advisor

David Veermersch

Third Advisor

Elizabeth Johnston Taylor

Fourth Advisor

Calvin Thomsen

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree Level

Ph.D.

Year Degree Awarded

2022

Date (Title Page)

7-2020

Language

English

Library of Congress/MESH Subject Headings

Well-being--Religious aspects; Identity (Philosophical concept)--Religious aspects.

Type

Thesis

Page Count

viii, 77 p.

Digital Format

PDF

Digital Publisher

Loma Linda University Libraries

Usage Rights

This title appears here courtesy of the author, who has granted Loma Linda University a limited, non-exclusive right to make this publication available to the public. The author retains all other copyrights.

Collection

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Collection Website

http://scholarsrepository.llu.edu/etd/

Repository

Loma Linda University. Del E. Webb Memorial Library. University Archives

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