Reflections on Spiritual Themes in a Narrative Psychological Investigation of a Secular Swede: Practical Theology's Potential Contributions

Abstract

This article utilizes a longitudinal case study of a secular Swedish veteran to reflect on ongoing research. Special attentivon is paid to the study's potential contributions of practical theology. Drawing from psychological sources, a theoretical and methodological approach is presented that provides a useful framework for such an enterprise. By reflecting upon the specific experiences of a veteran referred to as Erik, it is suggested that a non-religious, but implicit spiritual aspect is developed and connected to the narrative identity of the self during military service. This military identity can pose a challenge to transitioning service members undergoing self-identity adaptation in a civilian context. Practical theologians may contribute to narrative psychology by providing another type of voice, as represented by spirituality, in the self-identity processes. Reflections upon narrative research including a longitudinal design may also connect to pastoral care and theology.