Religious and Place Attachment: A Cascade of Parallel Processes

Abstract

This chapter explores the intersection of religious and place attachment as parallel processes, representing a cascade of relationships and flow-on effects flowing from one object of attachment (processing unit) to another both at macro and micro levels. The theory of parallel processing model is used to discuss how attached individuals simultaneously process incoming stimuli of differing attachment quality, though depending on the processing unit, rules of activation, and patterns of connectivity. It is argued that the believer–God and people–place relationships shape and affect each other based on the individual’s subjective and external factors such as life’s experiences, biographies, and socio-economic status, which shape the individual’s place spirituality. These factors influence aspects of adult attachment relationship which in turn is transferred to other forms of relationship experiences in a cascade of parallel processes. The broader implications of the theory of parallel processing model in relation to place spirituality are carefully discussed.