Date

7-21-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.)

Chair

Keith Lahikainen

Keywords

divine grace, guilt, shame, same-sex attraction, Christianity, mixed-methods research, religious identity, mental health

Disciplines

Psychology | Religion

Abstract

This study examined the experiences of guilt, shame, and divine grace as they relate to Christians with same-sex attraction (SSA). Although divine grace, defined as unmerited favor and love given by God, has been linked to favorable psychological outcomes in general samples, it is unclear whether experiencing divine grace protects Christians with same-sex attraction from guilt and shame. The Perceptions and Experiences of Grace Scale (PEGS), Factor 1 and The Guilt and Shame Experience Scale (GSES) were used to assess whether an association exists between these variables. Findings from multiple regression models indicated that experiencing divine grace does not significantly predict levels of guilt and shame, and sexual attraction does not significantly moderate this relationship. However, individuals attracted to both genders experienced overall lower levels of guilt and shame. A thematic analysis of nine semi-structured qualitative interviews provides contextual information for these findings. In the interviews, participants spoke about experiencing meaningful instances of divine grace despite continuing to experience shame and spiritual conflict. Integrating findings from the quantitative and qualitative phases indicated that divine grace and guilt/shame may co-exist and that experiencing divine grace may function as a meaningful and supportive resource rather than serving a direct protective function against distressing emotions among Christians with same-sex attraction. Findings highlighted the complex role of religious experience among Christians with same-sex attraction and suggested that addressing shame may be an especially important target for interventions in clinical and pastoral contexts with this population.

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