About Deconstruction
Religious deconstruction is a worldwide social experience currently being studied by psychologists and theologians. Many of us have felt like outsiders searching for a spiritual community that feels like home. We may have a strong desire for meaning and connection, but struggle to find it in traditional religious structures.
This journey can be isolating, forcing us to choose between spiritually vibrant yet restrictive communities or mentally healthy but less spiritually fulfilling ones.
Our project explores how to cultivate spiritual flourishing and meaning-making after de-identifying from religion.
Deconstruction Facts
Until recently, social sciences only studied different religious identities (Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, Buddhist, etc.), and identifying as none of these meant being labeled a religious “none.” However, recent studies in psychology have discovered a new group of people called the religious “dones.” Unlike some “nones” who have never been religious, this new group contains people who were religious at one point but have now de-identified from religion.
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But, religious “dones” aren’t always completely “done.” Sometimes they may not have totally de-identified but would describe themselves as “deconstructing.” Disaffiliating from religion seems to be more like a dimmer switch than an on/off switch. It is a process and can come in degrees across various domains. In fact, many “dones” would describe themselves as “still practicing” spirituality and are still spiritually hungry despite feeling spiritually homeless.
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Studies also show that the spiritually-seeking religious “dones” have the highest rates of depression, anxiety, and mental health needs. This may be because this group cites religious trauma and social adversity as top reasons for their deconstruction process. Many in this group want to prioritize their mental health in their quest for spiritual meaning.
Deconstruction doesn’t have to feel lonely.
Many of us have felt like outsiders searching for a spiritual community that feels like home. Our project is devoted to studying mental health care and spiritual meaning tailor-made for spiritually seeking religious “dones.”
We believe those experiencing deconstruction deserve access to the mentally healthy spiritual meaning they desire.