In Search of Meaning: A Preliminary Typology of Gay Male Spiritual Identity Development. Issue 1 (10th April 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hart, David; Brew, Leah; Pope, Mark
• Is Part Of: Counseling and values. Volume 64:Issue 1(2019:Apr.)
• Page Start: 35
• Page End: 52
• Publication Date: 2019-04-10
• Subjects: homosexuality -- gay men -- religion -- spiritual identity development -- sexual identity; Counseling -- Religious aspects -- Periodicals; Spiritual direction -- Periodicals; Philosophical counseling -- Periodicals; Values -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; 158.3
• DOI: 10.1002/cvj.12093
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-7960

Abstract

Abstract : Reconciliation of the conflict between religious identity and sexual orientation has been related to a number of psychological challenges (Lease, Horne, & Noffsinger‐Frazier, 2005; Schuck & Liddle, 2001), and little is known about the convergence of spiritual identity, distinctly defined as separate from religious identity, and sexual orientation identity. This qualitative inquiry investigated the process by which 7 Caucasian gay men from a variety of religious backgrounds constructed spiritual identities outside the realm of institutionalized religion. From the findings, the authors hypothesize a typology of spiritual development influenced by religions of origin. Limitations of the study, implications, and future directions in research are also addressed.