Abstract
This study examines the role of the Christian God as an attachment figure, using the attachment language criteria of a strong and enduring affectionate bond. Respondents were 15 anxiously attached Christian youths, purposefully selected for in-depth interviews to explore their God attachment language and God concepts. The results show how the respondents saw God as a target for their proximity-seeking behaviors, albeit conflicted in their relationship experience. They also used some form of metaphorical theology that represented God to them as either stronger or wiser, as a safe haven for security, or as a response to their internal conflict.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 316-346 |
Number of pages | 31 |
Journal | Journal of Spirituality in Mental Health |
Volume | 18 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2016 |
Keywords
- Christian youth
- God
- South Africa
- attachment behavior
- spirituality