Abstract
Within monotheistic religions, guilt and forgiveness have long been important themes. In The Netherlands, however, the influence of traditional religions is declining. This qualitative interview study explored how non-religious and multireligious inmates experience guilt and forgiveness, and how the humanistic chaplain could address these issues within counselling. Guilt and forgiveness are complex constructs that are individually and subjectively experienced. Most inmates experience personal guilt and regret for what they have done. Some inmates cope with these feelings in a repressive way, where others have an active coping style. Both multireligious and non-religious inmates have a need for interpersonal forgiveness, especially from close relatives. In addition, multireligious inmates also have a transcendent need for forgiveness from a personal god. The humanistic chaplain may help inmates with an active reflection on guilt and forgiveness, which can contribute to a development on an existential level. Guilt and forgiveness ought to be approached from a counselling perspective and attention should be paid to the multiple meanings of personal responsibility. An active and critical reflection on guilt and forgiveness may lead to new meanings of the (criminal) past and create a positive change in the behaviour of detainees.
Highlights
Guilt and Forgiveness in a Secular AgeWithin monotheistic religions, guilt and forgiveness have always played an important role
The theme of forgiveness currently does not play a major role in contact with the humanistic chaplain, this study showed the need for forgiveness was present among most of the respondents
Guilt and forgiveness and the role they play in the lives of inmates are complex constructs
Summary
Guilt and Forgiveness in a Secular Age. Within monotheistic religions, guilt and forgiveness have always played an important role. In the Netherlands, the influence of traditional religions is declining (Bernts and Berghuijs 2016). The Netherlands has undergone a religious transformation, partly due to secularisation, individualisation and migration (Kalsky 2017). Fewer people believe in a god or feel connected to a religious tradition. The declining influence of religious traditions does not mean that people do not struggle with existential questions or issues (Jacobs 2020). Guilt and forgiveness are not exclusively religious themes. The concept of sin may have become less common, but guilt and the need for forgiveness are still very much alive
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