Date

5-1-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Robert M. Nelson

Keywords

shame, identity, reconciliation, regeneration, Christian community, faith and mental health

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the impact of reconciliation with Christ on shame narratives and identity. Although shame and identity has been extensively researched, the added theological construct of reconciliation with Christ makes this research unique. This phenomenological study explored the impact of reconciliation with Christ on shame narratives and identity. Sixteen participants, ages 20 to 75 years, who professed to have reconciled with Christ through faith and repentance, were selected and interviewed. Each participant was interviewed three times over a four-week period using a transcendental phenomenological method. Data were collected and analyzed using reflexive thematic analyses. Results showed that all participants reported experiencing both spiritual and emotional transformation. Other key experiences reported included a healthy relationship with Christ and a valued community as a Christian. Shame was not reported to be eliminated. Participants continued to deal with the shame of behavior and choices, as well as shame based on self-comparison. They did report having an alternative coping mechanism of viewing themselves as Christ views them. They also defined their identity as being in Christ, along with identity based on roles, and identity based on community.

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