Abstract
Spiritual struggles are a distinct problem which have implications for psychological, social, emotional and physical health. They are not unique to religious persons; instead both the religiously unaffiliated (Nones) and those who call themselves “Spiritual but not Religious,” (SBNR) have struggles with existential issues common to all humans, and which can be identified as “spiritual”. Nones are a very diverse group and different types of Nones struggle differently. This qualitative study, based on interviews in North America with over 100 Nones, particularly SBNRs, explains the types of spiritual struggles, with many examples and illustrative quotes. Nones’ key struggles are in the areas of Self and Self-in-Relation. This is a vastly under-researched topic which will only grow in importance, given the rapid and continuing rise of the None population. The topic is of concern to social scientists, but is equally important for psychologists, counselors, medical personnel, chaplains and others in the helping professions given that Nones will come to them for assistance.
Highlights
It is contended that all people, whether religious or not, have spiritual struggles
If one accepts that spirituality encompasses the existential issues every human faces—questions of self-hood, meaning, ultimacy, evil, death, and the like, the contention holds
Four key themes were covered in the interviews—transcendence/immanence, human nature, community and afterlife—but results clustered around two main areas, Self and Self-in-Relation, with one area (Sin, Evil and Death) surprisingly causing less spiritual struggles than expected
Summary
It is contended that all people, whether religious or not, have spiritual struggles (Pargament et al.2005, 2013). Those who identify spirituality with religion may dispute this. The most complex type of none is the “spiritual but not religious” (SBNR) These people define spirituality as personal, heart-felt, and authentic, while claiming religion is external, structured, and non-essential. Religions 2020, 11, 513 the middle space between these orientations This makes them an especially intriguing population to consider regarding spiritual struggles (Mercadante 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018a, 2018b).. Social scientists, psychologists, chaplains, medical personnel, spiritual directors, clergy, and religious people alike, need to better identify and understand the spiritual struggles this rising population may have
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