RELIGIOUS
BELIEFS, PRACTICES, AND COMMITMENT
Dean, Kenda Creasy. 2025. “Moshing for Jesus: Adolescence as a Cultural Context for Worship.” in Opening the Table: Multicultural Approaches to Worship, edited by Brian Blount and Leonora Tubbs Tisdale. Westminster/ John Knox.
Borden, Anne L. 2025. “Beyond Accommodation: When Religion and Popular Culture Meet.” Paper presented at Southern Sociological Society (SSS), 2025.
Abstract: Sociologists of religion
theorize that, in the face of modern secularized society, religious
organizations have two options: they may "resist" or they may
"accommodate" to the surrounding culture (eg, see Berger, Peter,
1967). Traditionally, the concept of accommodation has implied that religious
groups compete with secular society & are losing in the zero-sum game.
Recent scholarship (eg, Smith, Christian, 1988) asks sociologists to move
beyond this notion of accommodation & to recognize that religion can be both
strong & modern. Religious groups can transform aspects of the secular
world & may infuse popular culture with sacred meaning. Here, results of a
case study based on fieldwork at a Protestant high school youth conference
provides evidence of the resacralization of secular culture. TV shows, movies,
& commercials are reinterpreted & used to convey religious
messages. [Source: SA]
Elder, Glen H., Jr. and Rand D. Conger. 2025. Children of the Land: Adversity and Success in Rural America. Chicago, IL: The University of Chicago Press.
Abstract: (from the
publicity materials) This book presents the results of a long-term study in
which the authors followed the lives of more than 300 Iowa children from
adolescence until after high school. The authors show how the traditional
values associated with farm families--closely knit communities, churches, and
schools, and productive roles for youth in both work and social settings--were
crucial to the success of these children. This book offers lessons about
potential routes to success for all young people at risk. [Source: PI]
Johnson, B. R., D. B. Larson, and S. De Li. 2025. “Escaping from the Crime of Inner Cities: Church Attendance and Religious Salience among Disadvantaged Youth.” Justice Quarterly vol. 17, pp. 377-391.
Abstract: With the
theoretical backdrop of social disorganization and "resilient youth"
perspectives, we hypothesize that individual religiosity is protective in
helping at-risk youths such as those living in poor inner-city areas to escape
from drug use and other illegal activities. To test this hypothesis, we draw
data from an interview survey of 2,358 youth black males from tracts in poverty
in Boston, Chicago, and Philadelphia, conducted in 1979 and 1980. Results from
a series of multilevel analyses indicate that church attendance (the frequency
of attending religious services) has significant inverse effects on nondrug
illegal activities, drug use, and drug selling among disadvantaged youths.
Religious salience (the perceived importance of religion in one's life),
however, is not significantly linked to reductions in juvenile delinquency. we
discuss the implications of our findings, focusing on individual religiosity as
a potentially important protective factor for disadvantaged youths. [Source: SC]
Regnerus, Mark D. 2025. “Shaping Schooling Success: Religious Socialization and Educational Outcomes in Metropolitan Public Schools.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 39, pp. 363-370.
This paper analyzes
religious socialization as it relates to schooling success. I propose and test a multilevel model of
involvement in church activities as providing integration and motivation toward
schooling success among metropolitan U.S. public high school sophomores. Results indicate that respondents'
participation in church activities is related to heightened educational
expectations, and that these more intensely religious students score higher on
standardized math/reading tests, even while controlling for variables that
often show religious effects to be spurious.
The hypothesis that church involvement's effect varies by ecological
context - it being a better predictor for students in poorer neighborhoods than
average or wealthy neighborhoods - was not supported.
Daley and Elizabeth Grant. 1999. “Muslim Teens Dispel Myths and Stereotypes.” New York Amsterdam News vol. 10, p. 20.
Abstract: Presents an
interview with three Muslim teenagers on Islam and on stereotypes at the Mosque
of Islamic Brotherhood in Harlem, New York City. Includes a discussion on the
basic principles of Islam; Kimar religious clothes; Differences in rules for
men and women; Stereotyping of Muslims.
[Source: AS]
Donelson, Elaine. 1999. “Psychology of Religion and Adolescents in the United States: Past to Present.” Journal of Adolescence vol. 22, pp. 187-204.
Abstract: Many of the early
founders of America were concerned with religious issues, and some of their
concerns continue in contemporary science. Psychology of religion has a long
history in American psychology, but one marred by neglect and misguided claims
about the nature of science. Psychology of religion offers a chance for an
expansion of behavioral science into realms of importance to many people. For
example, both development during adolescence and the implications of gender
differences may be illuminated by a consideration of the role of religion in
human life. Particular topics discussed include conversion and religious
mobility, religious experience, images of God, identity, and mental health and
coping. Reprinted by permission of the publisher. [Source: SS]
Dudley, R. L. 1999. “Youth Religious Commitment over Time: A Longitudinal Study of Retention.” Review of Religious Research vol. 41, pp. 110-121.
Abstract: Over 1500
middle-teenagers were selected from Seventh-day Adventist churches throughout
the United States and Canada for a longitudinal study on church retention and
dropout. A new survey was sent each year for ten years, collecting a wide
variety of information on family background and personal beliefs, attitudes,
and practices. At the end of ten years it was determined how many of these now
young adults were still church members, how many were active in their
congregations, and how many had dropped out of membership or become inactive
during the study period. These facts were then correlated with information
collected during the first year of the study on family background and religious
beliefs and practices to develop predictions about what things in the lives of
church- affiliated teenagers will influence whether they continue in the church
or drop out of it as young adults.
[Source: SC]
Eccles, Jacquelynne S. and Bonnie L. Barber. 1999. “Student Council, Volunteering, Basketball, or Marching Band: What Kind of Extracurricular Involvement Matters?” Journal of Adolescent Research vol. 14, pp. 10-43.
Abstract: Examined the
potential benefits and risks associated with participation in five types of
activities: prosocial (church and volunteer activities), team sports, school
involvement, performing arts, and academic clubs. A sample of 1,259 Ss was
followed from 1983 when the Ss were in the 6th grade to 1997. First, the
authors explored the link between involvement in these activities and our
indicators of positive and negative development. Involvement in prosocial
activities was linked to positive educational trajectories and low rates of
involvement in risky behaviors. In contrast, participation in team sports was
linked to positive educational trajectories and to high rates of involvement in
one risky behavior: drinking alcohol. Then, the authors explored two possible
mediators of these associations: peer associations and activity-based identity
formation. The evidence supported the hypothesis that group differences in peer
associations and activity-based identities help explain activity group
differences. [Source: PI]
Irwin, Darrell D. 1999. “The Straight Edge Subculture: Examining the Youths' Drug-Free Ways.” Journal of Drug Issues vol. 29, pp. 365-380.
Abstract: Examined the
sociocultural attributes of a Straight Edge subculture, based on ethnographic
field observation and interviews with 86 youth (average age 16.5 yrs) attending
alternative music concerts in Long Island. Straight Edge subculture differs
from other youth movements by supporting a drug-free lifestyle. Aspects of
Straight Edge alternative identity discussed include symbols, dance,
lifestyles, religion, and diet. Discussion focuses on the social norms of this
drug-free subculture. Whether Straight Edge will develop into a larger movement
in the future or remain a small-scale scene is discussed. [Source: PI]
Kooistra, William P. and Kenneth I. Pargament. 1999. “Religious Doubting in Parochial School Adolescents.” Journal of Psychology and Theology vol. 27, pp. 33-42.
Abstract: 267 high school
juniors (aged 15-18 yrs) from Catholic and Protestant parochial schools were
surveyed in regard to their doubting of core tenets of Christianity. Various
indices were used to investigate the relationships between religious doubting
and adverse life events, family environment, and emotional distress. Support
was mixed and generally weak for the hypotheses that religious doubt would
correlate positively with adverse life events, conflictual family patterns, and
emotional distress. However, although no denominational differences were
predicted, separate analyses for the Catholic and Protestant students revealed
that the latter evidenced a pattern of consistently higher and statistically
significant correlations for the predicted relationships. The authors conclude
that religious doubting among adolescents may be most highly associated with
adverse life events, conflictual family patterns, and emotional distress in
subcultures in which religious values are well-integrated into the
familial-cultural identity. [Source:
PI]
Markstrom, Carol A. 1999. “Religious Involvement and Adolescent Psychosocial Development.” Journal of Adolescence vol. 22, pp. 205-221.
Abstract: The purpose of this
study was to determine if religious involvement was associated with
psychosocial maturity of adolescents as understood in Erikson's (1965)
psychosocial theory. Three forms of religious involvement (attendance at
religious services, participation in a Bible study group, and youth group
involvement) were examined in relation to ego strengths, ideological and ethnic
forms of identity, general self-esteem, and school self-esteem. Questionnaires
were completed by 62 African-American and 63 European-American students in the
11th grade. All participants were from rural areas in West Virginia and of
lower income status. Ego strengths of hope, will, purpose, fidelity, love, and
care were associated with various forms of religious involvement. These
associations were most apparent for European-Americans. Although ideological
identity was not related to religious involvement, higher ethnic identity was
associated with being African-American, especially for those more religiously
involved. General self-esteem was not significant in the analyses, but school
self-esteem was higher for each form of religious involvement. [Source: PI]
McKinney, John Paul and Kathleen G. McKinney. 1999. “Prayer in the Lives of Late Adolescents.” Journal of Adolescence vol. 22, pp. 279-290.
Abstract: Prayer is a
behavior that is performed by most people at least at some time, and yet social
scientists appear to have neglected this topic. 77 college students (aged 18-32
yrs) were interviewed, given the Objective Measure of Ego Identity Status, and
asked to keep 7-day diaries about their prayer activities, whether spontaneous
or formal. Correlational analyses revealed a relationship between identity
status and frequency of praying, as well as between identity status and commitment
to religion. A qualitative analysis of the diary data suggested that prayer may
be a revealing approach to the psychosocial lives of late adolescents,
including their central concerns, temporal orientation, and the social bounds
of their definition of self. [Source:
PI]
Shapiro, Susan. 1999. “Spiritual Education: An Assessment of Jewish Adolescents.” PHD Thesis, Temple University.
Abstract: The present
investigation was an exploratory study designed to assess the spiritual needs
of Jewish adolescents. Their spiritual beliefs, experiences, interest in
developing spiritually, and factors which facilitate and interfere with
spirituality were evaluated. A survey was completed by 273 Jewish teenagers in
the suburban Philadelphia area who were affiliated with Reform and Conservative
supplementary Hebrew high schools. Ten students, who provided a diverse range
of responses on the survey, participated in a semi-structured interview.
Results showed that over one half of the Jewish adolescents believe in the
existence of God, that God plays a role in the creation, and that some
decisions are predetermined. Gender differences showed that females are more
likely to view God as having a role in the creation, and more likely to view
God as having a role in determining important decisions in their lives. Over
90% of the Jewish adolescents in the present study reported having spiritual
experiences although they do no occur very often. Their spiritual experiences
were mainly related to prayer and religion. These experiences were associated
with feelings of peace and connection. About one fifth of the adolescents
reported that they do not pray or they feel emptiness or nothing when they do
pray. About one half of the Jewish teenagers showed interest in developing themselves
spiritually, and this interest increased with age. Over a third viewed
relationships with ones' peers as the most important area in which they would
like to develop themselves spiritually. Supportive behavior of parents and
peers were found to facilitate teenagers' spirituality. At the same time
judgmental behavior of parents or peers may interfere with teenagers' spiritual
experience. Teachers were not viewed positively as facilitating the teenagers'
spirituality. This investigation pointed out the need for inservice training
for educators in communication skills, adolescent and spiritual development.
The integration of current scientific theory, the arts and nature with
religious education; as well as the need for small group exploration with supportive
peers is recommended. Future research might examine the teacher-adolescent
relationship, gender differences, and the uncertainty expressed by
teenagers. [Source: PI]
Tori, Christopher D. 1999. “Change on Psychological Scales Following Buddhist and Roman Catholic Retreats.” Psychological Reports vol. 84, p. 125.
Abstract: Compares the
effects of theistic and nontheistic spiritual practices. Quantification of
psychological change scores among teenage youths following three-day Buddhist
or Roman Catholic retreats; Noninvolvement of belief in some sort of divinity
construct in Buddhism; Likelihood for more change following the Buddhist
retreat due to its emphasis on self-control and human existence. [Source: AS]
Trusty, Jerry and Richard E. Watts. 1999. “Relationship of High School Seniors' Religious Perceptions and Behavior to Educational, Career, and Leisure Variables.” Counseling and Values vol. 44, pp. 30-39.
Abstract: This study used
data from a national sample of 12,992 US high school seniors to investigate the
relationship of religious perceptions and behavior to several school, career,
and leisure variables. Seniors' positive perceptions of religion and frequent
attendance at religious services were related to positive parental involvement,
positive school attitudes and behaviors, and infrequent problem behaviors.
Parental involvement mediated the effects of religious perceptions and behavior
on adolescents, academic attitudes and drug use. However, a large portion of
the effects of religious perceptions and behavior was independent of parental
involvement. Implications for counselors and educators are provided. [Source: PI]
Youniss, James, Jeffrey A. McLellan, Yang Su, and Miranda Yates. 1999. “The Role of Community Service in Identity Development: Normative, Unconventional, and Deviant Orientations.” Journal of Adolescent Research vol. 14, pp. 248-261.
Abstract: Responses from a
nationally representative sample of 13,000 high school seniors were analyzed to
identify predictors of normative, unconventional, and deviant orientations
among youth. Normative orientation was indexed using indicators of conventional
political involvement (e.g., voting), religious attendance, and importance of
religion. Unconventional orientation was indexed with unconventional political
involvement (e.g., boycotting). Deviance was measured through marijuana use.
Frequency of community service substantially increased predictability of these
variables over and above background characteristics and part-time work involvement.
Involvement in most types of school-based extracurricular activities was
positively associated with doing service, as was moderate part-time work.
Background characteristics of attending Catholic school, being female, having
high socioeconomic status, and coming from an intact family also predicted
service involvement. Results are discussed in terms of a theory of
social-historical identity development, suggesting that community service
affords youth a developmental opportunity to partake of traditions that
transcend the material moment and existential present. [Source: PI]
Clark, Schofield Lynn. 1998. “Identity, Discourse, and Media Audiences: A Critical Ethnography of the Role of Visual Media in Religious Identity Construction among United States Adolescents.” Thesis, University of Colorado at Boulder.
Abstract: Employing a
critical/cultural studies approach, this dissertation argues that
identity-construction is best understood as the nexus of public discourses and
individual subjectivities. To understand the role of media in
identity-construction, this work analyzes both the themes of discourse that are
available in mediated texts and echoed throughout the culture, and the various
social, political, economic and other contexts that frame the individual
adolescent's identity narratives and practices. The discourses of religion and
their relation to the religious identity-construction of individual subjects
provides the focus for the current analysis. The study employed ethnographic
interviews with 70 adolescents and their parents, 5 in-depth case studies of
adolescents, 3 'peer-led' discussion groups (some of the adolescents involved
in case studies were trained to lead focus groups without the primary
researcher present), and 3 focus groups with parents of teens. The dissertation
argues that there are three distinctive elements of religious
identity-construction among adolescents today. First is a flattening of
religious symbols. Religious symbols are not necessarily seen by adolescents as
authoritative and 'fixed' due to their reference to formal religious
institutions but are rather approached as somewhat autonomous and, like other
commodified symbols of the postmodern condition of late capitalism, they must
be made useful. Second, analyzing the interpretive strategies teens brought to
the popular television program Touched by an Angel, the dissertation finds that
adolescents embrace a variety of publicly-available discourses of religion
which are not solely attributable to race, class, gender, and religious
affiliation. Thus the dissertation affirms the rise in personal autonomy or the
privatization of religion and the subsequent importance of the mediated realm
(as opposed to solely the realm of religious institutions) in determining
religious identities. Third, while affirming Stuart Hall's interpretive
taxonomy of dominant, negotiated, and oppositional readings, the dissertation
demonstrates a fourth interpretive approach, a regeneration that draws upon a
dominant or negotiated reading of a text and is based on a viewer's position
with reference to the text, yet also subtly informs the individual's larger
system of beliefs, thus resulting in a subtly changed belief system. [Source: PI]
Crawford, David Wayne. 1998. “The Relation of Religious Family Background and Ego Identity Development in Late Adolescence.” Thesis, University of Houston.
Abstract: This study was
designed to extend the literature relative to adolescent ego identity
development in family context, looking specifically at how significant
religious family background interacts with identity development. Results of
this study were based on responses to the Family Environment Scale and the
Extended Version of the Objective Measure of Ego Identity Status. The study
sample comprised 304 highly religious adolescents from a fundamentalist
Christian college. Data analysis was accomplished in two main ways. First, the
continuous scores from the religious sample were compared to norm scores
provided by the test manuals for the OMEIS and the FES. Second, without
reference to the norm groups, scores from the OMEIS and the FES were
correlated. The groups differed significantly on both measures, and canonical
correlation facilitated identification of potential relations among family
characteristics and identity statuses. Overall results indicated that the
religious subjects were characterized by high levels of commitment and
conviction, leading very directed and purposeful lives. At times, this
commitment is balanced and genuinely individual, being preceded by personal
search and introspective consideration of alternative commitments. There was
also evidence that the religious subjects are often characterized by
unreflective commitment typical of the Foreclosure identity status. They
perceived their families as highly religious and morally directed, and tending
to be very structured, organized and controlled. Very little conflict is
experienced, such that expressiveness is also relatively low in this family
environment. The numerous significant relations that emerged from the canonical
correlations indicate that the religious structure, control and organization is
associated with identity low in emptiness and aimlessness (i.e. identity
diffusion) and high in identity direction and commitment. However, a relatively
unreflective commitment style was found in frequent association with this
family environment. Importantly, when independence contributed significantly to
family style, more advanced identity functioning was related. In general, it
appears that supported individuality and balanced religiosity are most
conducive to more advanced identity functioning while highly structure
religious control which minimizes expressiveness tends to be associated with
less mature identity development.
[Source: PI]
Dean, Kenda Creasy and Ron Foster. 1998. The Godbearing Life : The Art of Soul-Tending for Youth Ministry. Upper Room.
Francis, Leslie J. and Carolyn Wilcox. 1998. “Religiosity and Femininity: Do Women Really Hold a More Positive Attitude toward Christianity?” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 37, pp. 462-469.
Gaviria, Alejandro. 1998. “Three Essays on Social Interactions and Intergenerational Mobility.” Ph.d. Thesis, University of California San Diego.
Abstract: This dissertation
consists of three loosely connected essays in applied microeconomics with a
special emphasis on social interactions. The first essay uses a sample of
tenth-graders drawn from the National Education Longitudinal Survey (NELS) to
test for the presence of peer-group effects on five different activities: drug
use, alcohol drinking, cigarette smoking, church going, and dropping-out of
high school. The empirical analysis reveals strong evidence of peer-group
effects at the school level for all activities analyzed. These effects remain
after controlling for personal and school characteristics, family background
variables, and several measures of parental behavior and parental involvement
in their children's daily life. Mild evidence of endogeneity bias is found for
two of the five activities analyzed (drug use and alcohol drinking). The second
essay studies the interplay between borrowing constraints and intergenerational
relations. This essay uncovers compelling evidence showing that the inability
of parents to borrow against their children's earnings depresses the earnings
of poor children vis-a-vis rich children with the same ability and retards
social mobility among the poor. This evidence contradicts several recent
studies that argue that innate ability is the overriding determinant of
educational attainment in the United States. The essay also shows that siblings
inequality seems to be independent of family wealth. This finding is important
because it contradicts the predictions of most economic models of resource
allocation within the family. The third essay offers an explanation to the
escalation of violent crime that occurred in Colombia during the 1980s. The
essay considers three implicit models that isolate different types of
externalities among criminals. In the first model criminals make crime more
appealing to nearby residents by congesting the law enforcement system and
hence lowering the probability of punishment. In the second model the
interaction of career criminals and local crooks speeds up the diffusion of
criminal know-how and criminal technology. In the third model the daily contact
of youth with criminal adults and criminal peers results in the erosion of
morals and hence in a greater predisposition toward crime. The essay shows that
a myriad of empirical evidence--both statistical and anecdotal--lends support
to the previous models in general and to the congestion-in-law-enforcement
model in particular. [Source: DA]
Jones, Karen Elaine. 1998. “A Study of the Difference between Faith Maturity Scale and Multidimensional Self Concept Scale Scores for Youth Participating in Two Denominational Ministry Projects.” PHD Thesis, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Abstract: Problem. The
problem of this study was to measure the difference between pre-test and
post-test scores on the Faith Maturity Scale (FMS) and the Multidimensional
Self Concept Scale (MSCS) for five groups of youth participating in specified
ministry projects. The five groups were females, males, 7th-8th graders,
9th-10th graders, and 11th-12th graders. It was also the problem of this study
to measure the difference in FMS and MSCS post-test scores between females and
males, and among 7th-8th, 9th-10th, and 11th-12th graders participating in
specified ministry projects. Procedures. Faith Maturity Scale and
Multidimensional Self Concept Scale pre-tests and post-tests were administered
to a convenience sample of youth attending one of five World Changers or World
Tour ministry projects during the summer of 1997. Pre-test and post-test
instruments were matched and difference scores were computed using t-tests for
correlated samples, t-tests for independent samples, and ANOVAs, with
significant differences analyzed with Fisher's Protected Least Significant
Difference test. There were 852 sets of matched instruments used to compute
differences. Findings and conclusion. Faith Maturity Scale and Multidimensional
Self Concept Scale post-test scores were significantly higher at the $\alpha$ =
0.05 level for all youth. Female post-test scores on the FMS and the MSCS were
significantly higher than male post-test scores. No significant differences in
FMS or MSCS post-test scores were measured among the three school grade levels.
Additional tests utilizing scores on the Affect, Competence, and Social
subscales of the MSCS found no significant differences among the three grade
levels. However, females scored significantly higher on the Social and
Competence subscales than males.
[Source: PI]
Kramer, Robert L. 1998. “Ethnic Identity Development in Jewish Adolescents and the Impact of an Israel Experience.” M.A. Thesis, University of Lowell.
Abstract: Positive attitudes
and a connection to Israel are seen as an important component in Jewish
identity. It is widely believed throughout the Jewish community that an Israel
experience (a trip to Israel with educational, experiential, and social
components) during the adolescent years will enhance Jewish identity.
Thirty-nine Jewish adolescents who regularly attend Jewish summer camps were
interviewed. Twenty of the subjects had taken part in an Israel experience
during the summer of 1997 while the other nineteen have never been to Israel.
Subjects were asked open-ended questions about their most memorable Jewish
cultural and life experiences, what connected them to the Jewish community,
feelings about the Holocaust, whether or not they expected to marry someone
Jewish, feelings about Israel, and other questions related to their Jewish
identities. This paper employed quantitative and qualitative analysis to
determine the impact that the Israel experience had on their Jewish
identities. [Source: DA]
Markstrom, C. A., R. C. Berman, and G. Brusch. 1998. “An Exploratory Examination of Identity Formation among Jewish Adolescents According to Context.” Journal of Adolescent Research vol. 13, pp. 202-222.
Abstract: Identity formation
among Jewish adolescents was examined according to a goodness-of-fit model and
an exploration- based/perspective-taking model. Forty-eight high school
students living in Jewish dominant neighborhoods and 54 high school students
living in Jewish nondominant neighborhoods completed measures of ideological,
interpersonal, and ethnic forms of identity, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.
A series of 2 (Context) x 2 (Gender) x 4 (Grade) ANCOVA procedures (controlling
for religious orientation and religious attendance) were performed on subscales
of ideological, interpersonal, and ethnic identity. Slight support was shown
for the goodness-of-fit model. Ideological identity diffusion was higher among
Jewish nondominant participants, and ethnic behaviors and practices and total
ethnic identity were higher among Jewish dominant adolescents. There were
several significant correlations between ideological and interpersonal forms of
identity and self-esteem. Limitations of the study are discussed and
suggestions for further research are given.
[Source: SC]
Marsh, David B. 1998. “The Influence of Religion and Religious Experiences on Families and Individuals.” Ph.D. Thesis, Brigham Young University.
Abstract: This dissertation
seeks to elevate the significance of religious experiences in research and
analysis, to describe the religious experience of a sample of LDS (Mormon)
youth and young adults, and to employ LISREL modeling and analysis to test
interrelationships associated with religious experiences. Because of the
persistence of reported divine influences in the lives of many individuals and
families, their inclusion in scholarly endeavors is argued. Including the role
of religious experience in research provides another avenue through which
further understanding of individual and family behavior can be sought. LDS
adolescents whose families read sacred literature together, pray together, and
discuss religious teachings together are more likely to engage in those same
behaviors in their personal lives. Those LDS adolescents who practice private
religious behaviors are more likely to report religious experiences such as
feeling the Spirit of the Lord, knowing what it feels like to repent and be forgiven,
and feeling that the Holy Ghost is an important influence in their life. Those
LDS adolescents who report experiencing sacred feelings are more likely to
continue their private religious behaviors during later adolescence and young
adulthood. Family religious behaviors influence the private religious behaviors
of adolescents and young adults which, in turn, influence the reception of
religious experiences. While attendance at church declines among the sample,
the practice of private religious behaviors, and the report of religious
experiences increase over time. As respondents age, private religious behaviors
and sacred feelings occur at such a coincidental rate that if an individual is
experiencing one he or she is likely experiencing the other. Three types of
religious experiences are identified: Sacred Feelings, Sacred Experiences, and
Sacred Blessings. The majority of the sample report receiving Sacred Feelings
(know the feeling of repenting and being forgiven, felt the Spirit in Sacrament
meeting; feel that the Holy Ghost is an important influence in their life). A
significantly smaller portion of the sample receive Sacred Experiences (voices,
visions, angels, or dreams). Most of the sample believe that their Sacred
Blessing (Patriarchal Blessing) is a revelation from God to them personally,
and experience comfort and guidance from it.
[Source: DA]
Ploch, Donald R. and Donald W. Hastings. 1998. “Effects of Parental Church Attendance, Current Family Status, and Religious Salience on Church Attendance.” Review of Religious Research vol. 39, pp. 309-320.
Prose, Francine. 1998. “Teen-Age Meditation, Silent and Not.” New York Times vol. 147.
Reinhold, Julie S. 1998. “Typologies of Adolescent Religious Orientation in Relation to Ego Development, God Concept, and Social Desirability.” Thesis, Pace University.
Abstract: The present
investigation is an exploratory study designed to establish typologies of
religious orientation in a population of adolescents from religious
backgrounds. Additionally, the validity of these constellations has been
explored in relation to ego development, God-concept, social desirability, and
religious practices. A sample of 182 students from three Parochial schools and
a Yeshiva, ranging in age from 14 to 18 years old, completed a series of scales
measuring religious and psychological variables. A hierarchical agglomerative
cluster analysis of the subjects responses to the intrinsic and extrinsic
scales of Age Universal Religious Orientation Scale - Revised, the consensual
scale of the Religious Viewpoints Scale and the quest scale of the Religious
Life Inventory resulted in a four cluster solution. These subgroups are
identified as Observance, Foreclosed Intrinsic, Skeptical, and Anti-religious.
These empirically derived subgroups were then compared on external validity
measures including the Washington University Sentence Completion Test, the
Crowne-Marlowe Social Desirability Scale, the Gorsuch Adjective Checklist, as
well as measures of religious background and behaviors. Analysis of variance
were performed on variables of ego development, social-desirability,
God-concept, age, religious background and behavior. Chi Square Analysis was
used to determine gender differences. Significant differences were found
between subgroups on all criteria except gender and social desirability.
Overall, the study indicates that adolescents have customary ways of
integrating various dimensions of religious experience into their spiritual
life in a manner that is consistent with typical adolescent psychological
development. In terms of the religious orientation construct and it's
measurement, the study demonstrates a more complex interaction of religious
orientation dimensions than has previously been seen in the empirical
literature. This finding supports the utility of a multi-dimensional approach
to assessing the religious orientation construct and exposes limitations of the
conventional four-fold classification system which utilizes only the intrinsic
and extrinsic dimensions. [Source: PI]
Scott, Sue M. 1998. “Exploring God-Images of Children: Implications for Pastoral Counseling.” Thesis, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary.
Abstract: This project
analyzes and compares the God-images of three children, each distinguished by a
different parental figure: intact, blended, and single parent. Grounding the
study in Sallie McFague's model of God as parent, the project employs David
Heller's methodology to investigate each child's image of God in a two-hour
interview, finding several common themes: sexual identity, female identity
development, separation and inequality, intimacy, creation, comforter,
authority, and dynamic action. A child's parental experience does inform who
God gets to be. [Source: RI]
Sherkat, D. E. 1998. “Counterculture or Continuity? Competing Influences on Baby Boomers' Religious Orientations and Participation.” Social Forces vol. 76, pp. 1087-1114.
Abstract: The presumed
attractiveness of countercultural orientations to young, educated, baby boomers
led many scholars to proclaim the 1960s counterculture as the driving force
behind declining religious participation, and a supposed growing distaste for
biblical religion. In contrast, theories of religious behavior predict
substantial continuity in religious orientations and commitments. Social ties
and life course events influence religious beliefs and rates of participation
yet these ties and transitions often support traditional religious expressions.
I integrate insights from studies of baby boomer religion with more general
theories of religious commitment, merging theories of the dual nature of social
structures with rational choice perspectives on religious behavior. Using data
from the 1965- 1982 Youth Parent Socialization Panel Study, I analyze the relative
influence of three factors on baby boomers' religious orientations and
participation: (1) traditional agents of socialization (denominations, parents,
and schools); (2) life course factors (marriage, divorce, and childrearing);
and (3) Participation in the protest movements of the 1960s and early 1970s-a
widely cited countercultural protagonist of religious change. I also
demonstrate how prior religious orientations directed participation in the
counterculture. My analyses show that traditional socialization agents, life
course factors, and countercultural participation all play a role in directing
future religious orientations and commitments. However, traditional
socialization factors have a dominant influence on future religious beliefs and
participation. [Source: SC]
Benda, Brent B. 1997. “An Examination of a Reciprocal Relationship between Religiosity and Different Forms of Delinquency within a Theoretical Model.” Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency vol. 34, pp. 163-186.
Abstract: Results from a
study of 1,093 adolescents (aged 13-20 yrs) do not support the argument that
property crimes, crimes against persons, and use of alcohol and other drugs are
behavior manifestations of an interrelated constellation or syndrome of delinquency.
A factor analysis clearly shows that the various forms of delinquency studied
load on three distinct factors. In addition, whereas the hypothesized
theoretical model does explain considerable variation in frequency of alcohol
use and of criminal behavior (22% and 24%, respectively), it does not account
for much variance in drug use (6%). Whereas there are reciprocal relationships
between religiosity and drug use and religiosity and crime, only the feedback
effect of religiosity on alcohol use is significant. These latter findings
suggest that future studies need to examine reciprocal relationships and that
the relationship between alcohol use and religiosity needs to be re-examined
conceptually and empirically in future studies. [Source: PI]
Benda, Brent B. and Robert Flynn Corwyn. 1997. “A Test of a Model with Reciprocal Effects between Religiosity and Various Forms of Delinquency Using 2-Stage Least Squares Regression.” Journal of Social Service Research vol. 22, pp. 27-52.
Abstract: This was a study
of 1,093 9th-12th graders from 6 different public high schools, where the same
integrated theoretical model of control and social learning theories fit the
data on alcohol use, heavy alcohol consumption, use of marijuana, criminal
behavior, sexual exploration, and suicidal thoughts. It was observed that the
model explained significantly more variance in some of these forms of
delinquency than in others, indicating only equivocal support for the deviance
syndrome argument in the literature. This study also found that religiosity was
a significant influence only on criminal behavior, whereas the feedback effect
of delinquency on religiosity was significant for all forms of delinquent
behavior studied. [Source: PI]
Benson, Peter L., Kevin S. Masters, and Larson. David B. 1997. “Religious Influences on Child and Adolescent Development.” in Handbook of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Vol. 4, Varieties of Development, edited by Joseph D. Noshpitz and Norman E. Alessi. New York: Wiley.
Bourdeau, Marie L. and Darren M. George. 1997. “Changes across Age Groups on Measures of Knowledge, Faith, and Belief of God's Personal Concern.” Psychological Reports vol. 80, pp. 1359-1362.
Abstract: 100 Protestant,
church-going children were surveyed concerning knowledge about the Bible, faith
in God, and belief of God's personal concern. Statistically significant
increases were found over five age groups (3-5 yrs, 6-8 yrs, 9-12 yrs, 13-15
yrs, 16-18 yrs) for the three variables: strong increases for knowledge and moderate
increases for faith and belief of God's concern. These and other results are
discussed. [Source: PI]
Burton, Linda M. 1997. “Ethnography and the Meaning of Adolescence in High-Risk Neighborhoods.” Ethos vol. 25, pp. 208-217.
Abstract: Draws on field
data & interviews from 186 African American teenagers in nine high-risk
neighborhoods in the urban Northeast to illustrate how ethnography can discover
elusive, but highly significant, issues concerning adolescent development in
context. Data collection was supplemented by analyses of newspapers &
interviews with religious, municipal, & community leaders. Findings
uncovered three influences that indicated that adolescence had become an
ambiguous & illusionary stage of life development in these neighborhoods:
(1) an accelerated life course prompted by an anticipated short life
expectancy; (2) diffuse age hierarchies that reduced respect for elders; &
(3) inconsistent role expectations in family & social organization. [Source: SA]
Charmé, Stuart Z. 1997. “Children's Gendered Responses to the Story of Adam and Eve.” Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion vol. 13, pp. 27-44.
De Haan, Laura G. and John Schulenberg. 1997. “The Covariation of Religion and Politics During the Transition to Young Adulthood: Challenging Global Identity Assumptions.” Journal of Adolescence vol. 20, pp. 537-552.
Abstract: Draws on survey
data from 209 students at a large midwestern university to investigate the
relationship between religious & political beliefs & their combined
influence during transition to young adulthood. Findings showed that the most
religious individuals had experienced some belief exploration before making a
commitment. Those who had not engaged in exploration & had no firm
commitment were the least religious. Faith in government proved unrelated to
identity development, but high political interest did correlate with high
identity achievement scores. No relationship between religious & political
identity was apparent, suggesting that components of ideological identity
should be considered separately.
[Source: SA]
Dickie, Jane R. and et al. 1997. “Parent-Child Relationships and Children's Images of God.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 36, pp. 25-43.
Fosarelli, Patricia. 1997. “Children in Our Midst: Listening to Children Talk About God.” Thesis, Wesley Theological Seminary.
Abstract: This project
examines ways that children, ages six to 11, "speak" about God
artistically, orally, and in written responses to a questionnaire. Children
"speak" about God in different ways at different ages, and their
experiences and responses should shape the ways that adults teach and elicit
responses. [Source: RI]
King, Valarie, Glen H. Elder, Jr., and Les B. Whitbeck. 1997. “Religious Involvement among Rural Youth: An Ecological and Life-Course Perspective.” Journal of Research on Adolescence vol. 7, pp. 431-456.
Abstract: Developmental
expressions of religion in the lives of youth extend from formal church
attendance and ritual involvement to religious beliefs and knowledge,
self-identity, and participation in youth groups. Using multiple dimensions of
religious development (church attendance, involvement in church activities,
felt religiosity, and religious identity), this study investigated data based
on 365 adolescents of 2-parent White, rural families from the Iowa Youth and
Families Project. Ss were followed from grade 7-10 to explore the developmental
pathways across the years of early adolescence, giving particular attention to
changing influences among farm and nonfarm rural youth. Adolescents who have
grown up on a farm have stronger ties to religious institutions than nonfarm
youth, and they express stronger commitments to religious values. The
correlates of religious change and continuity indicate that social identities
and qualities of the parent-child relationship are important influences. [Source: PI]
Lee, Jerry W., Gail T. Rice, and V. Bailey Gillespie. 1997. “Family Worship Patterns and Their Correlation with Adolescent Behavior and Beliefs.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 36, pp. 372-381.
Abstract: Examined behaviors
involved in family worship, how these behaviors cluster together into specific patterns
of family worship, and how these patterns of family worship relate to the
behaviors and beliefs of adolescents attending Seventh-day Adventist schools.
Seven patterns of family worship were detected by cluster analysis of
questionnaires completed by 7,658 Seventh-day Adventist youth, grades 6-12.
Worship patterns that actively involved youth in reading, praying, and sharing
their religious experience were rated as more meaningful and interesting and
were associated with higher levels of Active Faith (a factor score). Youth in
families with worship patterns that did not actively involve the youth were
even lower on Active Faith than youth whose families had no worship. However,
No Worship youth were highest on Materialism/Legalism and Alcohol/Drug Use.
With one exception, worship patterns with high youth involvement were
associated with lower Alcohol/Drug Use and lower Materialism/Legalism. Youth in
the Shared Worship group, in which every family member participated in every
phase of worship every day, were high on Active Faith but also relatively high
on Materialism/Legalism, and Alcohol/Drug use suggesting a pattern of
compulsive behavior. [Source: PI]
McNamara, Raymond Timothy. 1997. “Uses of Popular Music by Old Order Amish Youth in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.” Ph.D. Thesis, Temple University.
Abstract: This dissertation
defines the general dimensions of popular music use and avoidance by Old Order
Amish youth in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Information was primarily
obtained through in depth interviews with a variety of respondents including
Old Order Amish youth, adults, parents, and persons who were raised Amish but
left the church later in life. Several experts in Anabaptist culture were also
interviewed. The study found that popular music use by Old Order Amish youth is
quite widespread and appears, to varying degrees, in approximately three
fourths of the 17 youth groups in the settlement. While music use is prohibited
by "The Ordnung", or Amish behavioral code, extensive use of recorded
popular music, primarily country and country rock, dancing, and live music by
Amish performers has been a staple at many youth group activities, particularly
those of the more liberal youth groups, for several decades. While Amish youth
report using music primarily as a background to gatherings with friends, much
as it is used by mainstream youth, some researchers believe that its use is
tolerated by the Amish community because of several cultural
"loopholes." The Old Order Amish, as Anabaptists, believe that
members must accept the faith as adults in a conscious, mature choice.
Experimentation with the "world," though not condoned, is expected as
a part of this choice process. Amish adults also realize that the survival of
their culture requires the successful baptism of their children. They
understand that harsh control and sanctioning of youth could drive them away.
Thirdly, Old Order Amish arguments against popular music use by youth are
ineffective because traditionally many parents and even ministers used music or
played in bands as youth. In short, popular music use by Old Order Amish youth
in the Lancaster settlement has become a sort of liminal "rite of
passage." Amish youth use popular music in much the same ways as mainstream
youth do even though their culture technically prohibits such use because
certain basic principles, traditions, and necessities of the Old Order Amish
way of life afford them a window of opportunity to do so. [Source: DA]
Mercer, Joyce Ann. 1997. “Gender, Violence, and Faith: Adolescent Girls and a Theological Anthropology of Difference.” Ph.D. Thesis, Emory University.
Abstract: This dissertation
explores gender and faith identities among a group of adolescent girls. Drawing
from interview research I bring girls' discourses on gender, violence, and
faith into dialogue with feminist theologians. A gap exists between the
situations of these adolescent girls and the ability of feminist theologies to
speak to their situations because of problems created by overly immanental
theologies that cannot deal adequately with difference from a non-essentialist
framework. To function in critical and visionary ways in relation to the
subject positions of girls in the study group, feminist theologies need a
nuanced theory of gender, an alternative perspective on Divine transcendence, a
notion of community that protects difference, and a critical utopia. The
central question guiding this project concerns how to configure the interplay
of sameness and difference in theologically informed perspectives on gendered
subjectivity without resulting in either the erasure of difference on the one
hand or of relationality on the other. After surveying theories of adolescence,
I propose alternative background theories from the works of Michel Foucault,
Pierre Bourdieu, Drucilla Cornell, and themes from feminist theologians as
alternative perspectives on human personhood highlighting the productive power
of discourse and social practices in constructing subjectivities. I develop a
feminist qualitative research methodology, asserting the educational and
pastoral functions of interview research. A sub-theme of the dissertation
concerns the role that education plays in the construction of subjectivity. As
a discursive social practice embodying cultural norms and values, education
like religion can function negatively, contributing to the production of
problematic subject positions for women. Both religion and education also have
the potential to function as emancipatory discourses in relation to women's
subjectivity. In interviews, girls explored their experiences of the
educational roles of parents, schools, and religious communities in relation to
becoming a female self. The work concludes with a constructive theological
account of human personhood based upon the interviews with girls and their
dialogue with feminist theologies, as well as the alternative background
theories proposed for construing subjectivity.
[Source: DA]
Resch, Barbara J. 1997. “Teens and Church Music.” Reformed Worship vol. 44, pp. 4-6.
Santiago, Juan de. 1997. “Recovering the Signifier: New Jack Mormons.” Dialogue vol. 30, pp. 47-50.
Toman, James Anthony. 1997. “Dual Identity: Being Catholic and Being Gay.” PHD Thesis, Cleveland State University.
Abstract: The aim of this
research was to utilize survey methods to investigate the relationship between
two important personal identity markers, one's religiosity and one's sexual
orientation, and to examine these variables at two points in the life span,
retrospectively during youth and concurrently in adulthood. Specifically, the
study involved adult males raised in the Catholic tradition and the process of
their homosexual identity formation. This research sought to determine if
significant relationships exist between: (1) the strength of youthful religious
conviction and difficulty experienced during the adolescent coming-out process;
(2) formative religious conviction and later ability to achieve an adult
gay-affirmative life style; (3) religious conviction in the formative and adult
years; (4) the difficulty of coming-out and subsequent adult religious
conviction; (5) the difficulty of coming-out and adult capacity to experience a
gay-affirmative life style; and (6) adult religious conviction and capacity for
a gay-affirmative life style. The 70 respondents in the study were voluntary
and their survey responses anonymous. They were recruited either by contact
from professionals who work with individuals in the gay community or through
advertisements in the gay community and in the gay-oriented media. Analysis of
responses utilized quantitative procedures, but respondents also provided
narrative answers which added explanatory detail and enriched and clarified the
findings and conclusions. The findings from this study suggest that: (a) a
significant statistical relationship exists between adolescent religiosity and
difficulties encountered in the adolescent coming-out process, and also between
adolescent and adult religiosity; and (b) no statistically significant relationship
exists between adolescent religiosity and difficulties experienced in achieving
a affirmative adult gay life style, between adolescent and adult sexual
identity processes, nor between the adolescent coming-out process and adult
religiosity. This study further suggests that the interplay of religious and
sexual identity factors is a complex one. The data it offers may serve to
illuminate for those who work with the gay population some of the important
issues through which gay clients must navigate, and to suggest to researchers
in the field of religious and sexual orientation identity formation useful
directions which further research might take.
[Source: PI]
Trenton, Thomas Norman. 1997. “Generation X and Political Correctness: Ideological and Religious Transformation among Students.” Canadian Journal of Sociology / Cahiers canadiens de sociologie vol. 22, pp. 417-436.
Abstract: Draws on 1983-1994
questionnaire data from 2,070 first-year sociology students ("Generation
X" & "Bust Generation" members) at the U of Prince Edward
Island (Charlottetown) to assess changes in students' values & attitudes.
Analyses revealed two dimensions - liberalism & puritanism - that were
negatively correlated every year; their cross-tabulation produced a four-fold
typology labeled leftism, political correctness, traditionalism, &
fundamentalism. Political correctness represented a unique blend of a
liberalism that supports disadvantaged minorities while upholding institutional
moral controls. The dominant ideology shifted from a religiously oriented
fundamentalism to a secularly oriented political correctness. Traditionalism
all but disappeared, while the secular new leftism remained constant. Political
correctness, seen as a dialectic between liberalism & puritanism, is discussed
in terms of the larger social context.
[Source: SA]
Turner, Reginald A. 1997. “An Examination of the Adolescent African American Male's Attitude Towards the Church and Pastoral Response.” Thesis, Andover Newton Theological School.
Abstract: This project
recognizes the distinctive religious tendencies of African Americans, manifest
in the African American church as the community's longest surviving and most
significant social institution. It is therefore useful to determine what
contribution the church has made in shaping perceptions of the church among
African American youth today and for tomorrow. The project investigates
responses of churches and clergy to the growing number of single-parent
families and the tensions between adolescent males and the church in the inner
city. [Source: RI]
Bradley, Nancy Anne. 1996. “Network Associations and Missionary Service Decisions of Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.” M.A. Thesis, Texas Woman's University.
Abstract: This study elaborates
on conclusions and implications of the Marie Cornwall research (1985) entitled
"Survey of Religion and Life" by attempting to further examine the
study with the use of focused qualitative research techniques. Research
questions considered network associates' levels of religious involvement as
defined by Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint participation
(membership, temple service, and missionary service) and the subjects' choice
to serve a full-time mission controlling for gender. Thirteen males and
fourteen females were interviewed. Findings included a relationship between
missionary and non-missionary adult males in regard to their associates' LDS
Church membership and temple attendance. Female teens who would serve missions
tended to be more religiously active than non-missionaries. Missionaries'
religious activities increased from teen to adult years and surpassed those of
non-missionaries. While the number of LDS friendships were similar for
mission-bound and non-mission-bound teens, such friendships increased for adult
missionaries. It was concluded that network association did not play a role in
missionary service decisions, but rather missionary service affected network
association and religious behavior.
[Source: DA]
Dudley, R. L. and H. P. Muthersbaugh. 1996. “Social Attachment to the Seventh-Day Adventist Church among Young Adults.” Review of Religious Research vol. 38, pp. 38-50.
Abstract: As part of a
ten-year longitudinal study on youth retention in the church, 755 young adults
with Seventh-day Adventist backgrounds were surveyed to explore factors that
relate to social attachment to the religious community. The sample was
distributed throughout the United States and Canada. A reliable Social
Attachment Scale was constructed from six items measuring commitment to Jesus,
religious faith, the local congregation, and the denomination as well as
frequency of attendance at worship services. Attachment was found to be
predicted by perceptions of the religious education program in the church,
personal involvement in congregational activity, lack of conflict in church
areas, and remembrances of childhood experiences with local church lenders. The
first two areas proved to be the most important as demonstrated by multiple
regression analysis. [Source: SC]
Dunkin, James C. 1996. “The Perspective of Object Relations Theory for Listening to the Image of God in Young Adults.” Thesis, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
Abstract: Object relations
theory focuses on "relationship" as the matrix within which the
"self" is formed. The most significant object in becoming a person is
the image (object) of God. This project seeks to examine a young adult's
process of their "image of God" formation. It offers an overview of
object relations theory; a theological reflection on language used to describe
"images of God"; an exploration of faith development in young adult
years; a discussion of benefits of object relations theory in pastoral
counseling; and a discussion on listening to young adults reflect on their on
their "image of God".
[Source: RI]
Frangoulis, Sandra, Netta Jordan, and Richard Lansdown. 1996. “Children's Concepts of an Afterlife.” British Journal of Religious Education vol. 18, pp. 114-123.
Frank, Naava Leah. 1996. “Adolescent Constructions of Jewishness: The Nesiya 1988 Summer-Trip to Israel.” Ed.d. Thesis, Harvard University.
Abstract: This thesis
portrays adolescent conceptions of Jewishness and the impact of a summer trip
to Israel on these conceptions. The sample consists of twenty North American
Jewish adolescents attending the 1988 Nesiya trip to Israel for Jewish students
in the arts. In-depth interviewing and qualitative methods of analysis were
used. Uncertainty, doubt, confusion and searching abound in the data, and
indicate the starting point of identity development. Some statements reflect
adolescents coming to know themselves more deeply, and are termed
"identity statements." Vygotsky's theory of language and thought is
used to explain the internalization of such statements from their source in the
social world. The potential importance of these "identity statements"
is that they seem to provide early signs of the direction students will take
upon concluding their adolescent search. A "trajectory," is
observable for some students: a slow and evolving course of growth in a
particular direction--either towards or away from Jewishness--that takes place
over many years and is not easily re-routed. Three phases are defined based on
students' descriptions of their Jewish growth over time. During the first
phase, "Learning the Judaism of One's Parents," (based on
retrospective questions), students are embedded in the value systems of their
parents. This phase culminates some time around Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The second
phase, "Separating from Early Patterns," begins with the breaking
apart of early Jewish conceptions. The student separates from the family's
customs and synagogue, struggles with the multiplicity of religious truths,
explores ultimate questions, and may feel a discomfort at being Jewish. A
variety of previously unexplored Jewish options are examined at this time.
During the questioning of the second phase, the family traditions serve as an
anchor to stabilize the search. The third phase, "Finding a Jewish
Self," is the beginning of finding and feeling comfortable with a chosen
Jewish self. Three in-depth cases are presented (one involving an adolescent
from a mixed Jewish-non-Jewish marriage). The 1988 Nesiya trip was an important
identity intervention experience in that it intensified the process of
self-clarification of the students' Jewish identity. [Source: DA]
Glover, Rebecca J. 1996. “Religiosity in Adolescence and Young Adulthood: Implications for Identity Formation.” Psychological Reports vol. 78, pp. 427-431.
Abstract: Examined
religiosity in adolescence and young adulthood as a function of age and its
implications for identity formation. 70 males and 77 females (aged 14-17 yrs,
18-25 yrs, and 26-30 yrs) were categorized into 3 religious groups:
Fundamental, moderate, and liberal. Ss completed the Scale of Religiosity (S.
T. Gladding et al, 1981) during church or fellowship functions. Results reveal
that the younger Ss had significantly lower scores for religiosity than did the
older groups. Ss whose religious group was categorized as fundamental had
significantly higher scores for religiosity than those in the other groups. No
gender differences were observed. Findings suggest relationships between
religiosity and identity formation during adolescence. [Source: PI]
Jeggle Merz, Birgit and John tr Bowden. 1996. “Children in the Liturgy: Initiation and Participation.” Pp. 111-119 in Little Children Suffer, edited by M. Junker-Kenny and Norbert Mette. Maryknoll, N.Y.: Orbis Books.
Kafkafi, Eyal. 1996. “Changes in Ideology During Two Generations of a Zionist Youth Movement.” Journal of Israeli History vol. 17, pp. 283-299.
King, Brian C. 1996. “Lutheran Young People's Societies to 1895.” Currents in Theology and Mission vol. 23, pp. 347-355.
LaHurd, Carol Schersten. 1996. “Public and Private Realities: Women, Youth, and Family Traditions.” Word & World vol. 16, pp. 143-150.
Markowitz, F. 1996. “''Shopping'' for the Future: Culture Change, Border Crossings, and Identity Options of Jewish Teenagers from the Cis.” Ethos vol. 24, pp. 350-373.
Markstrom Adams, Carol and Melanie Smith. 1996. “Identity Formation and Religious Orientation among High School Students from the United States and Canada.” Journal of Adolescence vol. 19, pp. 247-261.
Abstract: Two studies were
conducted to examine the relations between Marcia's four identity statuses and
Allport and Ross' four religious orientations. Study 1 was conducted among 38
Mormon and 47 non-Mormon high school students living in a predominantly Mormon
Utah community. Study 2 was conducted among 102 Jewish high school students
living in Ontario, Canada. It was revealed through the use of MANCOVA
procedures that, in both studies, identity diffusion was associated with the extrinsic
religious orientation. The indiscriminate proreligious scored significantly
higher on foreclosure than the intrinsic and nonreligious groups, and the
extrinsic scored significantly higher on moratorium than the intrinsic and
nonreligious groups in Study 1. The indiscriminate proreligious scored
significantly higher on identity achievement than those classified as extrinsic
or nonreligious in Study 2. The indiscriminate proreligious and intrinsic
religious orientations were associated with higher scores in three subscales of
ethnic identity for the Jewish adolescents. Potential moderating influences of
religious orthodoxy, religious attendance, grade, and gender were found to not
operate between identity and religious orientation. [Source: PI]
Montgomery, Alice and Leslie J. Francis. 1996. “Relationship between Personal Prayer and School-Related Attitudes among 11-16-Year-Old Girls.” Psychological Reports vol. 78, pp. 787-793.
Abstract: Investigated the
relationship between personal prayer and school- related attitudes with 392
girls (aged 11-16 yrs) attending a single-sex Catholic secondary school. Ss
completed 6 semantic differential scales of attitudes toward school and toward
lessons concerned with English, music, religion, mathematics, and sports,
together with information about paternal employment and their personal practice
of prayer. The relationship between personal prayer and attitude toward school
after controlling for age and social class was positive. [Source: PI]
Smith, D. Linnet. 1996. “Private Prayer, Public Worship and Personality among 11-15-Year-Old Adolescents.” Personality and Individual Differences vol. 21, pp. 1063-1065.
Abstract: A sample of 191
11-15-year-old adolescents completed the short form of the Junior Eysenck Personality
Questionnaire together with indices of private prayer and public worship
habits. The data confirm the view that psychoticism is the dimension of
personality fundamental to individual religiosity. [Source: PI]
Tamm, Maare. 1996. “The Meaning of God for Children and Adolescents--a Phenomenographic Study of Drawings.” British Journal of Religious Education vol. 19, pp. 33-44.
Wortman, Julie A. 1996. “Holding to the Faith: Young Muslim Women.” Witness vol. 79.
Currie, David Malcolm. 1995. “Adolescent Spirituality: Relationships among Spiritual Growth Factors, Spiritual Well-Being and Authenticity.” Ed.d. Thesis, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
Abstract: Enhancing the
spiritual growth of teenagers has always been a concern among church youth
leaders. Specifically, what factors, designed or assumed to assist in
adolescent spiritual development, are the most effective as reported by those
persons converted as adolescents? This study sought to determine what relationships
exist among the frequency of involvement and the power of influence of twenty
factors of spiritual growth and the Paloutzian-Ellison Spiritual Well-being
Scale (1982) and the Bassett et al. Shepherd Scale (1981), two instruments
designed to measure aspects of spiritual growth; spiritual well-being and
spiritual authenticity respectively. Precedent adolescent spirituality
literature, current follow-up and discipleship material, a survey of youth
professionals, ten Christian life interviews, and a panel of experts served to
guide the development of the Spiritual Growth Factor Survey, an updated Likert
scale revision of two previous works by Zuck and Getz (1968) and Lamport
(1989). One hundred and seventy-three subjects from three denominational groups
in British Columbia, Canada, participated in the study who were converted
during their teen years (thirteen to nineteen inclusive) and currently
twenty-nine years or younger. The survey was analyzed using comparison of means
and the Pearson correlation coefficient procedures. The results indicate low,
positive correlation for seven of the twenty factors when correlated with
scores of the Spiritual Well-Being and Shepherd Scales (in rank order: church
services, personal Bible reading, personal time with God in prayer, serving in
the church, personally sharing faith, the influence of Christian music, the
influence of spiritual growth books). Clear gender differences surface
regarding factors of greatest spiritual influence. Multiple cross-tabulations
yielded a variety of other correlations that enhance the understanding of the
effectiveness of the twenty spiritual growth factors on those converted as
adolescents. Numerous implications for adolescent spiritual development are
given. [Source: DA]
Dudley, Carl S. 1995a. “Young-Adult Power in Afro-American Congregation.” Christian Ministry vol. 26.
Dudley, Roger L. 1995b. “Grace, Relevancy, and Confidence in the Future: Why Adventist Young Adults Commit to the Church.” Journal of Psychology and Christianity vol. 14, pp. 215-227.
Giesbrecht, Norman. 1995. “Parenting Style and Adolescent Religious Commitment.” Journal of Psychology and Christianity vol. 14, pp. 228-238.
Abstract: Explored the
relationship of parental religious commitment, parenting styles and spousal
agreement in parenting style to adolescent religious commitment. 132
adolescents and their parents completed the Intrinsic-Extrinsic (Revised)
Scale, Parental Authority Questionnaire, and the Cornell Parent Behavior
Description. It was found that parental religious commitment was not
significantly related to adolescents' religious commitment. A permissive
parenting style was significantly related to extrinsic social commitment,
mainly among male Ss. Cluster analysis revealed 4 distinct adolescent religious
profiles. It was concluded that an authoritative and supportive parenting style
and spousal agreement in parenting style appeared to be instrumental in
fostering intrinsic religious commitment among adolescents. [Source: PI]
Helwig, Charles C. 1995. “Adolescents' and Young Adults' Conceptions of Civil Liberties: Freedom of Speech and Religion.” Child Development vol. 66, pp. 152-166.
Abstract: To examine
conceptions of freedom of speech & religion, 48 adolescents & young
adults in 3 grade levels were administered a structured interview containing
assessments of civil liberties in general, in straightforward (unconflicted)
applications, & in conflict with other social & moral concerns,
including law, physical & psychological harm, & equality of opportunity.
Findings show that freedom of speech & religion were conceptualized as
universal rights & applied to social events in unconflicted contexts; a
diverse array of rationales, differentiated according to type of freedom, were
used to ground conceptions of universal freedoms. Judgments of civil liberties
in conflicts exhibited several sources of variation, including developmental
differences, situational or contextual variation determined by the particular
types of issues in conflict, & individual differences. Results are
consistent with the proposition that judgments of civil liberties reflect
age-related patterns of coordination of delimited social & moral concepts
rather than general orientations.
[Source: SA]
Kidd, Timothy W. 1995. “Psychosocial Development through Service-Learning: Enhanced Spiritual Consciousness in Workcamp Experience.” Ed.D Thesis, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
Abstract: The problem
examined in this research was the identification and description of the
distinctive components associated with the Christian youth workcamp experience
found to promote the psychosocial development of church youth participants and
the linkages to enhanced spiritual consciousness. The unit of analysis for this
multi-case study was the Christian youth workcamp. The criteria used for
selection of the three cases examined were: (1) location within the Appalachian
region; (2) philosophy and practice consistent with service-learning
principles; (3) emphasis upon facilitating spiritual development; and (4)
logistical concerns. Thirty-four subjects were selected from three church youth
groups, each attending one of the three workcamps. Data was gathered through
the following methods: (1) a time sequenced series of four semi-structured
interviews conducted individually with each of the thirty-four subjects; (2)
participant-observation during the total experience at each of the three
workcamps, including church based experience conducted before and after; and
(3) collection and analysis of relevant documents. The descriptions of the
experience drawn from the research offered valuable insights into the
subjects's perceptions of their participation in the workcamp. The small size
and nature of the sample preclude statistical generalizations to the larger population.
Nevertheless, the following conclusions have been advanced for further
research: (1) Participation in a Christian youth workcamp experience can
promote psychosocial maturity by contributing to increased self-reliance and
self-esteem, a greater ability to empathize with others, a stronger
appreciation for community, greater concern for the needs of others, and a
greater commitment to serving others. (2) The increased ability to empathize
with others is correlated with an enhanced spiritual consciousness. (3) The
particular aspect of spiritual perception (i.e., cognitive, affective, or
volitional) [Source: PI]
Levitt, Mairi. 1995. “Sexual Identity and Religious Socialization.” British Journal of Sociology vol. 46, pp. 529-536.
Abstract: Examined the
effect of religious socialization on gender differences in beliefs, attitudes,
and practice with 38 children followed from age 10 to 17 yrs old and their
families. Christian beliefs and practices were not usually seen by mothers as relevant
to everyday life, even if they were churchgoers, but were desirable for young
children. Church schools providing aspects of Christianity mothers want for
their children are popular, but more specific Christian teaching can lead to
fears of indoctrination. Girls had more positive attitudes toward religion and
higher levels of belief than did boys, just as Ss' mothers were more interested
in religion than their fathers and more likely to attend a church. Mothers'
central values of individualism, autonomy, and freedom mitigate against
commitment to any Christian denomination and lead them to abhor any attempt to
influence their own or their children's religiosity above the normal
level. [Source: PI]
Lewis, Christopher Alan. 1995. “Teenage Religion and Values.” Irish Journal of Psychology vol. 16, pp. 192-193.
Logan, John. 1995. “Insider-Outsider: Sacramental Theology through the Eyes of Children and Young People.” Pp. 160-168 in The Candles Are Still Burning : Directions in Sacrament and Spirituality, edited by M. Grey, Andrée Heaton, and Danny Sullivan. Collegeville, Minn: Liturgical Press.
Lybeck, Jennette and Cynthia J. Neal. 1995. “Do Religious Institutions Resist or Support Women's "Lost Voices?".” Youth and Society vol. 27, pp. 4-28.
Abstract: Examined how the
concept of the "lost voice" functions in religious circles. 30 female
Ss were divided into 3 age groups (ages 8-20, 12-24 and 20-30 yrs) and equally
distributed between a conservative evangelical church that promotes traditional
women's roles and a mainline evangelical church that professes egalitarian
views of women's roles. Ss were individually interviewed. Results show that the
younger Ss from both churches reported sacrificing themselves and their
opinions in order to maintain relationships. Further, adult women from the
egalitarian church evidenced a regaining of their voices and perceived this as
a newly found strength. Adult women from the conservative church also evidenced
a regaining of their voices and yet perceived this as a weakness. [Source: PI]
Marshall, Sheila K. and Carol Markstrom Adams. 1995. “Attitudes on Interfaith Dating among Jewish Adolescents: Contextual and Developmental Considerations.” Journal of Family Issues vol. 16, pp. 787-811.
Abstract: Examined Jewish
adolescents' attitudes toward inter-faith dating (ID), and the contextual and
developmental variables influencing them. 106 Ss (aged 14-28 yrs) were
interviewed using the Religious Experience Survey, to investigate issues
related to their being a religious minority, social relations, perceptions of
prejudice and attitudes toward religion. Ss also completed the Imaginary
Audience Scale and Perspective Taking Scale as measures of social-cognitive
development. Results show that the Jewish majority and minority context was a
crucial factor in adolescent ID relationships. Religious orientation, religious
participation, and gender were also salient factors. Developmental factors were
not found to play strong predictive roles in respect to attitudes toward ID. Findings
suggest that adolescents formed attitudes about ID that facilitated the
filtering and selection of desirable partners.
[Source: PI]
Murphy, Carolyn Hanna. 1995. “Circling the Wagons: Conceptions of Science and Religion Held by Middle Adolescents and Implications for Critical Thinking.” Ed.D. Thesis, University of South Carolina.
Abstract: The American
educational climate of the 1990's is affected, and perhaps determined, by a
"culture war," presently waged within the society around such issues
as the nature of science and religion and how each is defined and taught in the
schools. This study correlated American students' current low levels of science
literacy and their lack of adequate application of critical thinking skills
with inadequate teaching of science and religion. This is thought to threaten
the survival of needed democratic values and skills, abilities needed by the
rising generation of American youth. The purposes of this study were to
ascertain the conceptions of science and religion held by middle adolescent
youth, to determine the sources of their conceptions, to determine whether
there were major anomalies between science and religion in the minds of the
students, and to see how these concepts of science and religion fostered or
hindered the use of critical thinking skills. The ethnographic study focused on
eight evangelical Christian students who attended a Christian school and a
public school. The study included content analysis of interviews, documents, observations,
and a questionnaire of students. Also interviewed were parents, ministers,
teachers and a school administrator. The data were analyzed using feminist
critical theory from the perspective of a Baha'i earth science teacher.
Feminist critical theory proposes that at the center of religious literalism
lies patriarchy, which is ultimately harmful to both sexes. Patriarchy was seen
as preventing the acceptance of diverse voices by limiting language, by
narrowly defining religious meanings and by discounting metaphorical
understandings and biblical hermeneutics, all of which hinder both the unity of
men and women and the harmonization of science and religion. The data showed
that the conceptions held by the students were largely determined by their overriding
belief in a literal interpretation of the Bible which acted to hinder their
ability to critically assess scientific and religious claims to truth. The
public school was also found to hinder the teaching of evolution and the use of
critical thinking through fear of arousing criticism from conservative
Christian cultures. [Source: DA]
Muthersbaugh, H. Phillip. 1995. “Attachment and the Church: Toward an Understanding of Bonding for Youth as Applied to Their Relationship to the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.” Thesis, Seventh Day Adventist Theological Seminary.
Abstract: The present study
explores the factors that relate to attachment of bonding to the religious
community. Two questionnaires were used in a quantitative analysis: Parental
Bonding Instrument (modified), and the Valuegenesis survey. The findings
revealed that bonding factors for Adventist young people can be determined. A
reliable bonding scale was constructed from six items measuring commitment to
Jesus, religious faith, the local congregation, and the denomination as well as
frequency of attendance at worship services. The scale had a reliability alpha
of .81 with item scale correlations ranging from .45 to .72. All but one
correlation were significant at the p .001 level. [Source: RI]
Paloutzian, Raymond F. and Lee A. Kirkpatrick. 1995. “Introduction: The Scope of Religious Influences on Personal and Societal Well-Being.” Journal of Social Issues vol. 51, pp. 1-11.
Abstract: Introductory essay
for a special journal issue focusing on religious influences. Religious belief
& behavior have farreaching influences on personal & social life, in
both beneficial & deleterious ways. Religious influences on a variety of
aspects of well-being, broadly defined to include both personal & societal levels
of analysis, are examined. Religion & well-being are both multifaceted
constructs, & the empirical relationships between them are highly complex.
A diverse sampling of conceptualizations of well-being (coping, mental health,
physical health, & substance abuse & recovery), social issues &
problems (religion-related & ritualistic child abuse, prejudice &
right-wing authoritarianism, & human immunodeficiency virus infection),
& special populations (adolescents & the elderly) are presented. [Source: SA]
Penner, James Allan. 1995. “Adolescent Religious Disposition in Canada: An Exploratory Sociological Analysis.” M.a. Thesis, University of Lethbridge (Canada).
Abstract: Taking as a given
the general decline of organized religion in Canada, this thesis attempts to
document the present lack of commitment towards organized religion among
adolescents. Four questions are explored: (1) how committed are Canada's
adolescents towards organized religion relative to other social options? (2) to
what degree has religious commitment among Canadian adolescents shifted over
time? (3) in what ways does adolescent religious commitment vary according to
religious group? and (4) do adolescent religiosities patterns follow those of
adults? The major findings of this study, based on national Project Teen Canada
and Project Canada data, is that organized religion is seldom experienced or
valued by the vast majority of Canadian youth. Furthermore, adolescent
religious commitment decreased from 1984 to 1992. Conservative Protestants
reported higher religious commitment than did other youth and adolescent
religiosity generally reflected adult levels. Lastly, tentative evidence
suggests that Canada may experience future social consequences if adolescent
religious disinterest continues. Despite being tentative and exploratory in
nature, it is believed that the thesis gives social scientists their first
national, in depth, sociological analysis of Canadian youth and organized
religion. As such the findings provide a solid launching pad for further
research. The thesis concludes with a plea for innovative study of Canadian
adolescent religiosity and offers a list of potential projects. [Source: DA]
Pulcini, Theodore. 1995. “Values Conflict among American Muslim Youth.” Pp. 178-203 in Muslim Minorities in the West, edited by Syed Abedin and Ziauddin Sardar. London: Grey Seal.
Ryan, Maurice and William J. Foster. 1995. “Mass Attendance and Faith Development in Catholic Adolescents: Exploring Connections.” Journal of Christian Education vol. 38, pp. 47-57.
Stolzenberg, R. M., M. Blairloy, and L. J. Waite. 1995. “Religious Participation in Early Adulthood - Age and Family- Life Cycle Effects on Church Membership.” American Sociological Review vol. 60, pp. 84-103.
Abstract: We attempt to
integrate, elaborate, and test competing theories of why religious
participation increases with age during young adulthood. We reconceptualize age
and family formation as interacting causes of religious participation rather
than competing explanations of it. We expand the concept of family formation to
include divorce, cohabitation, and dissolution of cohabitational relationships.
We distinguish attitudes toward the family from family formation behavior We
analyze data from the National Longitudinal Study of the High School Class of
1972, which traces church membership to age 32. Our results show that the
effect of children on church membership varies with the combination of the
children's and parent's ages. We find separate effects of family formation
behavior and attitudes toward the family. Cohabitation, divorce, and
dissolution of cohabitational unions all affect membership probability, but
these effects vary with age and are often different for men and women. [Source: SC]
Subkoviak, Michael J., Robert D. Enright, Ching Ru Wu, and Elizabeth A. Gassin. 1995. “Measuring Interpersonal Forgiveness in Late Adolescence and Middle Adulthood.” Journal of Adolescence vol. 18, pp. 641-655.
Abstract: The construct of
interpersonal forgiveness was operationalized and tested with 197
late-adolescent college students and 197 of their same-gender parents in the
Midwestern US. Ss completed the Enright Forgiveness Inventory (EFI), a
background information scale, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Beck Depression
Inventory, measures of religiosity and social desirability, and a 1-item
forgiveness question. The EFI showed strong internal consistency reliability.
The EFI correlated significantly and negatively with anxiety, particularly when
a S was experiencing deep hurt in a developmentally relevant area. Age
differences also were observed. College students were less forgiving and had
more anxiety than their same-gender parents, particularly when the hurt
concerned a developmentally relevant area.
[Source: PI]
Sullivan, Danny. 1995. “"to Such as These the Kingdom of Heaven Belongs": Children's Spirituality and Our Contemporary World.” Pp. 137-146 in The Candles Are Still Burning, edited by M. Grey, Andrée Heaton, and Danny Sullivan. Collegeville, Minn.: Liturgical Press.
Beck, Gary L. 1994. “Discipleship Principles Applied to Confirmation Ministry.” Thesis, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
Abstract: Confirmation
ministry is most effective when discipling confirmands than merely teaching
them the content of the Christian faith. Biblical principles of discipleship
are presented from two main sources: The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert
Coleman, and Jesus Christ Disciple Maker by Bill Hull. The historical
background and theological rationale for confirmation is presented, as well as
an analysis of the physical, cognitive, emotional, social, moral, and faith
development of thirteen- and fourteen-year olds. Interviews were conducted with
representatives of five Lutheran churches with unique confirmation programs.
Discipling confirmands stimulates growth in their relationship with the
Lord. [Source: RI]
Chia, Edmund K. F. and Chwan Shyang Jih. 1994. “The Effects of Stereotyping on Impression Formation: Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Viewing Religious Persons.” Journal of Psychology vol. 128, pp. 559-565.
Abstract: Examined the
effects of stereotyping on impression formation when encountering people
dressed to represent a religious faith. Stimulus photographs portrayed 8 male and
female models dressed casually and 1 male and 1 female model in religious
attire. From each set of photos, Ss (82 students from a US Catholic high
school, 68 from a US public high school, and 84 from a Malaysian Muslim
secondary school) selected a photo of the person with whom they would associate
the positive personality traits suggested by stimulus questions. All Ss
attributed more positive traits to photos of the models who were religiously
attired than to the control photos, but Ss from the US schools attributed more
positive traits to the photos of religiously dressed models than did Ss from
the Malaysian school. [Source: PI]
Díaz Stevens, Ana María. 1994. “Latino Youth and the Church.” Pp. 278-307 in Hispanic Catholic Culture in the Us, edited by J. Dolan and Allan Figueroa Deck. Notre Dame: University of Notre Dame Press.
Janssen, Jacques, Joep De Hart, and Marcel Gerardts. 1994. “Images of God in Adolescence.” International Journal for the Psychology of Religion pp. 105-121.
Johnson, Carolyn. 1994. “God in the Inner City.” Religious Education vol. 89, pp. 502-514.
Abstract: Part of a special
issue on religious education and child abuse. A study examined the responses of
five inner-city adolescents to a revised set of questions taken from David
Heller's book The Children's God. At the time of the study, the adolescents
were preparing for the sacrament of Christian Initiation. The questions
explored the adolescents' images of, belief in, and feelings toward a deity
they firmly believe in. The adolescents expressed their views through taped
interviews, note writing, and drawing. The responses were analyzed, and the
results demonstrated a spirituality reflective of the inner-city environment
where the adolescents were born and raised. The adolescents represented their
deity as a powerful male God who serves as protector and guide, one who bestows
them with love and security, challenges them, and has faith in them as no one
else does. The writer expresses the hope that these responses represent the
views of the multitudes of inner-city youth whose opinions often go
unheard. [Source: EA]
Markstrom Adams, Carol, Greta Hofstra, and Kirk Dougher. 1994. “The Ego-Virtue of Fidelity: A Case for the Study of Religion and Identity Formation in Adolescence.” Journal of Youth and Adolescence vol. 23, pp. 453-469.
Abstract: Investigated the
relationship between 2 variables of religiosity (religious minority status and
church attendance), identity status, and fidelity among 36 Mormon adolescents
and 47 Catholic and Protestant adolescents in Grades 9-22. Ss provided
information about church attendance and completed the Extended Objective
Measure of Ego-Identity Status (EOM-EIS), which measured both interpersonal and
ideological forms of identity. Among Mormon Ss, fidelity (observed through
heightened commitment illustrated in foreclosure) obtained greater expression.
Weekly church attenders also scored higher in interpersonal foreclosure, but
scored lower in ideological diffusion. For Mormon Ss, church attendance was
related to higher identity achievement, while for non-Mormons, less frequent
church attendance was related to higher identity achievement. [Source: PI]
Ortiz Torres, Blanca. 1994. “The Ecology of Empowerment for at-Risk Youth.” Ph.D. Thesis, New York University.
Abstract: The study
examined: (1) the measurement of empowerment, in terms of psychological and
behavioral dimensions; (2) the relationship of reported participation in
microsystems and empowerment; and (3) how the effects of participation differ
by race/ethnicity and gender in a sample of poor, urban, and culturally diverse
youth. The psychological dimension of empowerment was indexed by academic and
social efficacy expectations and self- esteem. Behavioral empowerment was
assessed by examining adolescents' negotiation strategies with important
aspects of their social environment. Transactions with microsystems was
measured by the frequency of involvement/participation with five critical
microsystems: family, peers, school, church and neighborhood. Data were drawn
from a longitudinal investigation of the pathways to adaptive and maladaptive
outcomes of adolescents from at-risk schools in Baltimore, Washington, D.C.,
and New York (N = 1333). The sample was 58% female. The ethnic composition was
27% Black, 23% White, 38% Latino, 3% Black/Latino, 6% Asian, and 3% other.
Results showed that empowerment was composed of psychological and behavioral
dimensions. Males reported higher psychological empowerment than females.
Females were more effective in their interpersonal negotiation skills; that is
showed higher levels of behavioral empowerment. Blacks and Whites adolescents
did not significantly differ in psychological empowerment levels; it was Blacks
and Latinos who differed in this outcome. Latinos reported the lowest levels of
psychological empowerment. Involvement and participation in activities with
peers was the most important predictor of behavioral empowerment across groups.
This relationship was always negative: the more involvement with peers, the
less behaviorally empowered. For Blacks and Whites involvement/participation in
none of the microsystems seemed to facilitate psychological empowerment. For
Latinos, family involvement is positively related to psychological empowerment
for both males and females. Family was an important predictor of behavioral
empowerment only for White females. For Black females, involvement with the
neighborhood was positively associated with behavioral empowerment. Within the
Latino female group, church involvement was negatively related to behavioral
empowerment. [Source: DA]
Tamminen, Kalevi. 1994. “Religious Experiences in Childhood and Adolescence: A Viewpoint of Religious Development between the Ages of 7 and 20.” International Journal for the Psychology of Religion pp. 61-85.
Vanderbeek, Herbert Anthony. 1994. “Religious Identity Formation and Adolescent Friendships in a Tight-Knit Social Group.” M.a. Thesis, The University of Manitoba (Canada).
Abstract: Erikson argued
that identity formation represents the central developmental task for
adolescents. Two processes, i.e., exploration (E) and commitment (C),
contribute to identity formation. The high versus low levels of exploration and
commitment determines the nature of an adolescent's identity status: (a)
Identity Achievement (high E, high C); (b) Foreclosure (low E, high C); (c)
Moratorium (high E, low C); (d) Identity Diffusion (low E, low C). The
adolescent's social environment encourages/discourages exploration and
commitment. Erikson felt that tight-knit social groups would favour Foreclosure
by discouraging exploration and by encouraging commitment. Following Erikson's
theoretical framework, the thesis examines the relationship between identity
formation, adolescent friendship patterns and religious commitment in two
samples: (a) students attending an ethnically (Dutch) and religiously
(Christian Reformed) homogeneous college characterized by tight-social
networks; (b) an unselected sample of Manitoba university students. [Source: DA]
Belopopsky, Alexander. 1993. “Youth as Part of the People of God.” Ecumenical Review vol. 45, pp. 421-425.
Brisben, David Edward. 1993. “Adolescent Spirituality: Relationships among Adolescent Self-Esteem, Parent-Adolescent Communication, and Adolescent Spiritual Well-Being.” Ed.d. Thesis, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
Abstract: Purpose. This
research investigated the relationships among the factors of self-esteem,
parent-adolescent communication, and spiritual well-being for older adolescents
in the evangelical community. Two other factors in the family environment were
identified in the research literature as important to a person's spiritual
well-being. These factors, parent's marital status and parent's religious
orientation, were also examined as to their interaction effect on the three
previously mentioned interval variables. This study, unlike previous studies,
has statistically analyzed the relationship between the level of constructive
communication perceived by the adolescent in the parent-adolescent relationship
and the sense of spiritual well-being experienced by the adolescent. Secondly,
this study has statistically examined the interaction effect of parent's
marital status and parent's religious orientation on the adolescent's spiritual
well-being. Procedure. This correlational research focused on certain
indicators of the spiritual well-being of older adolescents (16-20 years)
within the evangelical, Christian community. The sample population of the study
was made up of 202 volunteers selected from three Christian colleges and nine
evangelical churches in the southeastern United States. Data were collected by
having the subjects complete three testing instruments (the Coopersmith
Self-Esteem Inventory, the Bienvenu Parent-Adolescent Communication Inventory,
and the Paloutzian-Ellison Spiritual Well-Being Scale) and a demographic
questionnaire. The correlational method of statistical analysis utilizing the
Pearson product moment correlation was employed to measure the degree of
relationship between the variables of self-esteem, parent-adolescent
communication, and spiritual well-being. The causal-comparative method of
statistical analysis utilizing t-tests was then employed to test for
significance in relationships between the above mentioned criterion variables
and their interaction with categorical variables of parent's marital status and
parent's religious orientation. Findings. The results of the statistical
analysis indicated that there is a low, positive correlation between the variables
of parent-adolescent communication and adolescent spiritual well-being and a
moderate, positive correlation between the variables of self-esteem and
spiritual well-being for the adolescents in this study. Moreover, the findings
indicated that the parent's religious orientation is a stronger predictor of
the adolescent's spiritual well-being and the adolescent's self-esteem than is
the parent's marital status. Finally, the findings indicated that there is a
different set of predictor variables for adolescents with divorced parents than
for adolescents with intact parents and that the variable of self-esteem is a
stronger predictor of the adolescent's sense of spiritual well-being for
adolescents with divorced parents than it is for adolescents with intact parents. [Source: DA]
Dudley, Roger L. 1993. “Indicators of Commitment to the Church: A Longitudinal Study of Church-Affiliated Youth.” Adolescence vol. 28, pp. 21-28.
Abstract: Studied the
factors that determine which late adolescents drop out of the church and which
remain committed to it by examining 3rd- and 4th-yr questionnaires of 859 17-29
yr old Seventh-Day Adventist youth. Ss were part of a 10-yr study that
originally involved over 1,500 Ss distributed throughout the US and Canada.
Commitment was found to be related to cognitive, experiential, and activity
dimensions of religion. Ethical considerations, a perception of one's
importance to the local congregation, and peer influence also played a part in
the stepwise regression package, which accounted for half of the variance in
commitment scores. [Source: PI]
Fontaine, John S. 1993. “Young Adult Participation in the Afro-American Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia.” Thesis, Boston University School of Theology.
Abstract: This thesis project
investigates the Afro-American young adult attendance and participation in the
Afro-American Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, over the past 20 years.
Research for this project is generated from reference material and literature,
interviews with religious leaders and other professionals, and questionnaires
completed by young adult members of Baptist and non-denominational churches,
and by young adults who no longer attend Baptist churches. The last two decades
have seen an increase in young adult participation in the Afro-American Baptist
Church due to active efforts by the church to provide young adults with
incentives to maintain membership.
[Source: RI]
Francis, L.J. and H.M. Gibson. 1993. “Parental Influence and Adolescent Religiosity: A Study of Church Attendance and Attitude toward Christianity among Adolescents 11 to 12 and 15 to 16 Years Old.” The International Journal for the Psychology of Religion vol. 3, pp. 241-253.
Gannon, Thomas M. 1993. “Conscience First, Tradition Second: A Study of Young American Catholics.” Review of Religious Research vol. 34, pp. 375-376.
Matusiewicz, Raymond Leonard. 1993. “The Meaning of Adolescent Membership Behavior: A Qualitative Approach to Action Research in a Religious Organization.” Ed.D. Thesis, University of Massachusetts.
Abstract: A function of
organized religion thought crucial to the maintenance of society is the passing
of societal values to the young. Yet membership and participation in mainline
religious organizations has been in decline since the 1960's, a fact attributed
to teenage youth rejecting the institutional expression of religion. The
assumption that religious dropout behavior is a normal process of adolescent
development has limited the focus of social science research. Missing in this
account is the actor's subjective perspective. What is needed in order to
understand the forces that govern membership behavior is an exploration of the
concept structure that constitutes the psychological life space of the
adolescent participant. The purpose of this study was to examine the subjective
meaning of church membership from the viewpoint of eight religiously active
adolescents. As the first step in an action research process in organizational
development, the study utilized the long ethnographic interview as a
qualitative approach to problem solving by focusing on the organizational
actor's inside perspective as the primary source of data. The interpretation of
this data then served as the diagnostic stage of action research laying the
ground work for future participatory planned change. The data in this study
supported survey research that showed religious interest is strong among
adolescents. The findings suggest that among church youth, both a high level of
religious belief and a high level of social relationship serve as positive
reinforcers in maintaining church involvement. Parents modeling religious
behavior who set their children on a religious path, yet allow them to choose
their own level of religious involvement in adolescence, seem to promote a
process of values clarification among church youth that results in a positive
religious attitude and active participation. Moreover, church youth who see a
lack of tangible results in religious behavior, feel invulnerable, or have little
familial support in the face of socio-economic demands for their time, are more
likely to be persuaded by peer pressure than familial influence, and are more
likely to disengage from religious practice.
[Source: DA]
Plympton, Tia Jean. 1993. “Street Family Contexts: An Ethnographic Study of Homeless Youth.” Ph.d. Thesis, University of Oregon.
Abstract: The purpose of
this ethnographic study was to gain an understanding of the experience of
displaced youths within their natural environment while living the lifestyles
of their street culture. The subjects of this study were informants who self-
identified as street youth by virtue of having lived on the street at any point
in time. Data were collected using the field methods of overt observation and
included occasional participation in the culture. There was a seven-month
period in the field which included the streets and youth hang-outs in a city
with a population of 500,000. The collected field notes contained a range of
quotes from one-time, spontaneous conversations through and including the
statements from nine youths who were engaged in at the least one guided
interview. The data were analyzed using axial coding within a grounded theory
approach. The ordinal foci were the existence and nature of the street family
contexts followed by their functional properties and dimensions. Primarily, the
experience of street families can be understood as a reification employed by
many youths in this study. Functions of the street families included the properties
of: seeking responsibility, developing egalitarian relationships, having a
recreational unit, finding opportunities to contribute, and building a personal
agency. The listed mythological features of the street family were: origins,
myths to live by, heroes of the past, religion, art, and social classification
schemes. Recommendations for further research included to gain an understanding
of the different ways youths employ the street family context versus the way
youths utilize the nurturing contexts of the service structures and agencies.
Additionally, there is a need for further study of the differences among the
youths' patterns of dependence on and commitment to the street family
contexts. [Source: DA]
Wright, Loyd S., Christopher J. Frost, and Stephen J. Wisecarver. 1993. “Church Attendance, Meaningfulness of Religion, and Depressive Symptomatology among Adolescents.” Journal of Youth and Adolescence vol. 22, pp. 559-568.
Abstract: Self-administered
questionnaires were completed by 208 male and 243 female 9th-22th graders. The
instrument used contained the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and items to
determine the participant's gender, frequency of church attendance, and
meaningfulness of one's religion. Based on social support research and the writings
of Jung (1932, 1933) and V. Frankl (1959), it was predicted that those who
attended church frequently and those who viewed their religions as providing
meaning for their lives would have lower BDI scores than their classmates. The
findings supported these predictions.
[Source: PI]
Bower, Peter C. (ed.). 1992. “Children as Participants in Corporate Worship.” Reformed Liturgy and Music vol. 26, pp. 2-46.
Abstract: Grow up and become
children, by P C Bower. Children in the worshiping community, by D Ng. The
developing child at worship, by M A Fowlkes. Worship that welcomes children, by
V C Thomas. Children and the sacraments: baptism and the Lord's Supper, by W B
Lane. Children's choirs as participants (not performers) in corporate worship,
by M M Macaulay. Music resources for children in worship, by J Dardiganian.
Children and the liturgical year: reflections on practical application, by L D
Vandercook. Encouraging children to hear the word of God, by D Ng. Helping
children learn to worship, by C W Logan. Worship rated G: two case studies of
opening the sanctuary to children, by D B Batchelder. What to do after the
third Sunday of the new thing, by T J Wardlaw. Journeys of faith: a guide for
confirmation-commissioning--a review, by K L Smith. Hymns to grow on, by J D
Cain. Welcoming children in worship, by N R Nichols. Hymns for all of God's
children, by J F Patterson. Let's do something for the children, by R E
Reinovsky. [Source: RI]
Erickson, Joseph A. 1992. “Adolescent Religious Development and Commitment: A Structural Equation Model of the Role of Family, Peer Group, and Educational Influences.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 31, pp. 131-152.
Abstract: Tests a conceptual
model of adolescent religious belief and commitment that is informed by recent
advances in measurement theory and scale construction (R. L. Gorsuch and G. D.
Venable, 1983). The model draws on M. Cornwall's (1988) study of Mormon adult
religious development. The model was examined by looking at the linear structural
relations from the covariance matrix of relations in a survey of the religious
attitudes and behavior of 900 Ss (aged 16-28 yrs). Results suggest that
adolescent religious development is triggered by home religious habits and
religious education, while the influence of parents and peers is less important
than previously suggested. [Source: PI]
Francis, Leslie J. and Alice Montgomery. 1992. “Personality and Attitudes Towards Christianity among Eleven to Sixteen Year Old Girls in a Single Sex Catholic School.” British Journal of Religious Education vol. 14, pp. 114-119.
Gallup, G. H. Jr. and R. Bezilla. 1992. The Religious Life of Young Americans. Princeton, NJ: George H. Gallup International Institute.
Gamoran, Adam. 1992. “Religious Participation and Family Values among American Jewish Youth.” Contemporary Jewry vol. 13, pp. 44-59.
Abstract: Data from 457
Jewish participants in the 1980 High School & Beyond survey are used to
explore the link between religious involvement & family orientation among
American Jewish teenagers. Results show that students who are synagogue &
youth group leaders tend to be more family-centered than nonparticipants. But
this assocation cannot be attributed to the effects of participation per se,
for it is found to exist before the reported involvement took place. Students
who became youth group leaders were already more family-oriented by their
sophomore year of high school. It is therefore hypothesized that the relation
between religiosity & family views results from acceptance of Jewish
tradition in general, which places strong emphasis on the family. [Source: SA]
Short, Geoffrey and Bruce Carrington. 1992. “The Development of Children's Understanding of Jewish Identity and Culture.” School Psychology International vol. 13, pp. 73-89.
Abstract: Explored the
development of children's understanding of Jewish identity and culture using a
structured interview with 28 8- and 9-yr-olds (Group 1), 28 10- and 11-yr-olds (Group
2), and 32 12- and 13-yr-olds (Group 3). Some Group 1 Ss had virtually no
concept of a Jew, and among those who did there was some confusion. Many Group
2 Ss had the capacity to define "Jewishness" with sufficient
complexity to have an understanding of anti-Semitism. Group 3 Ss displayed only
superficial knowledge of the Jewish religion, even though they had visited a
local synagogue during the previous year. In comparison with Group 2 Ss, Group
3 Ss appear to be aware of anti-Semitic stereotypes relating to personality
(e.g., stinginess), and more of them are reluctant to conceive of Jewish
identity in anything other than religious terms. [Source: PI]
Whyte, Wallace E. 1992. “Community and the Transmission of Faith.” Thesis, Knox College.
Abstract: This thesis is
about a qualitative and phenomenological study of eight young adults with
living faith and active participation in their faith community. It was
discovered that the friendship and intergenerational relationships within the
church which they experienced in childhood and adolescence contributed
significantly to the generation and development of their faith, second only to
the impact of their parents and family life. It was concluded that the quality
of relationships within two communities, faith and family, have as much or more
significance related to Christian education as the extent and quality of formal
instruction. [Source: RI]
Wilcock, Robert Orvel. 1992. “Adolescent Influences on Young Adult Religious Family Values.” Ph.d. Thesis, Brigham Young University.
Abstract: Using longitudinal
design this research assessed the degree to which an adequate conceptualization
and measurement of religious family values could be conducted. Questionnaire
responses from 560 young adult LDS Males, originally studies in 1981, were
analyzed revealing a cluster of values centering around family home evening,
scripture study, family prayer, and moral behavior formed one dimension of
religious family values. Three other related value dimensions were also identified,
viz. birth control, divorce, working mother. A LISREL model was developed and
tested which showed that the family, peer, and religious influences all
contributed to explaining variation in young adult religious family values.
Adolescent religiosity emerged as an important intervening variable which also
influenced whether or not the young man chose to serve a mission for the
church. Of the exogenous variables, home religious observance was the single
most important influence on young adult religious family values. The direct
effect over nine years suggests the strength of family socialization in a
specific relationship to special values. These findings have important
implications for those wanting to better understand how religious, familial,
and peer influences combine to shape the adolescent's world, which in turn
influences young adult religious family values some nine years later. [Source: DA]
Barazangi, Nimat Hafez. 1991. “Parents and Youth: Perceiving and Practicing Islam in North America.” Pp. 132-147 in Muslim Families in North America, edited by Earle H. Waugh, Sharon McIrvin Abu-Laban, and Regula Burckhardt Qureshi. Edmonton: University of Alberta Press.
Bovasso, Gregory, John Jacobs, and Salomon Rettig. 1991. “Changes in Moral Values over Three Decades, 1958-1988.” Youth and Society vol. 22, pp. 468-481.
Abstract: Scale data are
drawn on to examine the moral values of 168 introductory sociology students at
Ohio State U in 1988, comparing their responses to those of students queried using
the same instrument in 1958 & 1969. Factor analysis reveals that 4 moral
value factors - misrepresentation, religion, selfishness, & crime -
accounted for nearly 40% of the total variance over time. Females rated the
misrepresentation, religion, & selfishness factors more severely than did
males in both 1958 & 1988. In general, moral severity was found to increase
between 1929 & 1958, & to decrease in the same magnitude between 1959
& 1988. However, while significant changes were found in the misrepresentation
& selfishness factors, religious severity did not change, indicating an
increasing mercenary orientation for youth of the 1980s. [Source: SA]
Brinkerhoff, Merlin B., Elaine Grandin, Irving Hexham, and Carson Pue. 1991. “The Perception of Mormons by Rural Canadian Youth.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 30, pp. 479-486.
Abstract: Explored
perceptions about Mormons as an identifiable minority and the relationship
between tolerance for Mormons and selected religious and nonreligious factors
with data from 273 students in Grades 8-22 from rural Alberta, Canada. The
number of Mormon acquaintances had the greatest effect on tolerance for
Mormons, followed by belief in interreligious marriage and belief in the
paranormal. A multivariate model suggested that a connecting theme, described
as a cosmopolitan world view, connected factors that impacted independently on
religious tolerance for Mormons.
[Source: PI]
Dean, Kenda Creasy and Paul R. Yost. 1991. “A Synthesis of the Research on, and a Descriptive Overview of Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish Religious Youth Programs in the United States.” Washington, D.C.: Carnegie Council on Adolescent Development.
Duckett, P. Joan. 1991. “Relationship of Mental Well-Being and Religious Commitment in Adolescence.” M.sc. Thesis, University of Calgary (Canada).
Abstract: A sample of 172
adolescents (102 females, 70 males) was drawn from urban Roman Catholic high
schools. Results of three statistical analyses failed to find an association
between religious commitment, as measured by the Religious Orientation Scale
(ROS), and mental well-being, as measured by the General Health Questionnaire
(GHQ). A significant correlation was found, however, between the Ego Strength
Scale (ES) and the GHQ, r = $-$.55, p $<$.001, although the magnitude of the
relationship was not large enough to recommend substitution of one test for the
other in diagnostic work with adolescents. No gender differences in reported
religiosity were found in the present study. But highly significant
correlations were found between adolescent religious practices and the
perceived practices of their parents, particularly for church attendance, r
=.80, p $<$.001. Internal locus of control was found to be significantly
related to intrinsic religiosity only when attributing failure to lack of
effort. [Source: DA]
Furnham, Adrian and Barrie Stacey. 1991. Young People's Understanding of Society. New York, NY: Routledge.
Abstract: Adopting a social
cognitive perspective, data from previous empirical studies are employed to
explore how young people (YP) develop an understanding of the social worlds of,
eg, politics, economics, work, gender, & religion, in this vol published as
part of the Adolescence & Society series (John C. Coleman, series editor),
& presented in 10 Chpts with a Preface. (1) Introduction to the Issues -
explains that YP's social views are often fragmented because social knowledge
is based on arbitrary social, economic, & cultural definitions learned by
observing the behavior of adults & peers. (2) Politics and Government -
discusses the stages of development as YP acquire knowledge of political
systems, exploring gender, cultural, & generational differences, as well as
methods to teach politics & government that encourage reponsible
citizenship. (3) Economics and Trade - reviews the acquisition of economic
socialization & consumer behavior patterns among YP, noting age, gender,
& class differences, & examining development differences in capitalist
vs socialist societies. (4) Work and Employment - considers factors influencing
YP's understanding of the nature of employment, exploring especially the impact
of part-time jobs, & discusses ways to prepare YP so that they have
appropriate expectations about work. (5) Sex and Gender - investigates how YP
construe sex, gender, sex roles, & marriage & family life, explaning
how this socialization process occurs in the family, schools, & society.
(6) Religion and Spiritual Matters - discusses how very young children often
become aware of religious activities without understanding their meaning, &
gradually develop conceptions of God, & explores the role of religion in
YP's identity-formation process. (7) Race, Colour and Prejudice - explains that
YP develop race & color awareness very early, & related attitudes &
behaviors are influenced by cultural agents, eg, parents, siblings, teachers,
peers, the media, & churches. (8) Law and Justice - examines the legal
socialization process of YP, highlighting the development of legal ideas, concepts,
attitudes, reasoning, behavior, & a sense of legal obligation. (9) Social
Class and Stratification - contends that legitimation of the notion of social
class is part of YP's socialization, which allows the maintenance of
inequalities (eg, in income or power) in the wider social structure. (10)
Conclusion - argues that YP would benefit from school curriculum that places
greater emphasis on how societies operate, & summarizes the main points of
the book. [Source: SA]
Gow, Murray D. and Kathlyn Ronaldson, (eds.). 1991. “Youth at the Crossroads.” CBRF Journal vol. 126, pp. 5-23.
Abstract: Children and
worship in a Brethren assembly, by H Martin. The Brethren and the young, by J
Allan. Faith development in childhood through discovery learning, by R Fountain. [Source: RI]
Heischman, Daniel R. 1991. “Adolescents' Moral Compass, Adults' Moral Presence.” Christian Century vol. 108, pp. 109-111.
Hutsebaut, Dirk and Dominic Verhoeven. 1991. “The Adolescents' Representation of God from Age 12 to 18: Changes or Evolution?” Journal of Empirical Theology pp. 59-72.
Hyde, Kenneth E. 1991. Religion in Childhood and Adolescence: A Comprehensive Review of the Research. Birmingham, AL.: Religious Education Press.
London, Perry and Allissa Hirschfeld. 1991. “The Psychology of Identity Formation.” Pp. 31-50 in Jewish Identity in America, edited by D. Gordis and Y. Ben-Horin. Los Angeles, Calif: Susan and David Wilstein Institute of Jewish Policy Studies.
McNamara, Patrick H. 1991. “Catholic Youth in the Modern Church.” Pp. 57-66 in Vatican Ii and Us Catholicism, edited by H. Ebaugh. Greenwich, Conn.: JAI Press.
Nipkow, Karl E. and Friedrich Schweitzer. 1991. “Adolescents' Justifications for Faith or Doubt in God: A Study of Fulfilled and Unfulfilled Expectations.” New Directions for Child Development pp. 91-100.
Abstract: Presents data
concerning reflections and feelings about God obtained from 16-22 yr old
students. Most Ss had expectations of God and the Church that had not been fulfilled,
including God as helper, God as the key for explaining the world, God as more
than symbol, and the Church as God's witness. Results are examined through the
lenses of psychoanalytic and cognitive-developmental theories. The issue of how
adolescents talk about God and the Church is discussed. [Source: PI]
Roghaar, H. Bruce. 1991. “The Influence of Primary Social Institutions and Adolescent Religiosity on Young Adult Male Religious Observance.” Ph.d. Thesis, Brigham Young University.
Abstract: A model was
constructed to test the influence of family religious observance and
church/institutional integration on adolescent private and public religious
observance, future religious intentions, and religious education on subsequent
on young adult male religious observance. The study was longitudinal, utilizing
a sample of 934 LDS adolescents first selected and studied in 1981. Family
religious observance was found to be a reliable predictor of adolescent
religiosity, and, indirectly and directly, of young adult religious observance.
The private dimension of adolescent religious behavior was also found to be a
strong predictor of young adult religious behavior, particularly the private
dimension. For LDS young men, full time mission service was found to be an
especially strong predictor of subsequent religious observance. [Source: DA]
Scarlett, W. George and Lucy Perriello. 1991. “The Development of Prayer in Adolescence.” New Directions for Child Development vol. 52, pp. 63-76.
Abstract: Examined developments
during adolescence in prayer's function and meaning, as evidenced by the way
adolescents pray and by the way they speak about prayer. 89 7th and 9th graders
and undergraduates wrote prayers for hypothetical situations concerning
adolescence and responded to questions about prayer. For solicited prayers,
there was a shift during adolescence away from using prayer to request changes
in objective reality and toward using prayer to change or cope with feeling and
increase intimacy with God. Results show the usefulness of a developmental
perspective on prayer as a way to understand the phenomenon. [Source: PI]
Steinmetz, Daniel. 1991. “An Agenda for the Study of Jewish Identity and Denominationalism among Children.” Pp. 181-185 in Jewish Identity in America, edited by D. Gordis and Y. Ben-Horin. Los Angeles, Calif.: Susan and David Wilstein Institute of Jewish Policy Studies.
Thorson, James A. 1991. “Afterlife Constructs, Death Anxiety, and Life Reviewing: The Importance of Religion as a Moderating Variable.” Journal of Psychology and Theology vol. 19, pp. 278-284.
Abstract: 65 high school
students, 77 university students, and 247 adult continuing education students
completed a death anxiety scale and questions dealing with frequency of church
attendance, religiosity, and afterlife concerns. 72 of the Ss were male.
Variance in both death anxiety and religiosity was greater between age groups
than across gender. Afterlife items tended to have higher correlations with
death anxiety than did either self-rated religiosity or frequency of
church-going. Elements of religiosity seem to have important interrelationships
with the developmental process of life review in old age. [Source: PI]
Carr, Mary T. 1990. “Adolescents and Factors Influencing Participation in Organized Religion: An Exploratory Study of Black Youth, Their Families and Pastors in an Urban Environment.” Thesis, Union Inst, OH.
Day, Wayne Allan. 1990. “Religious Generation Gap: A Relational Study of Selected Religious Attitudes of Union University Freshmen and Their Parents.” Ed.d. Thesis, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Abstract: Problem. This
study addressed the issue of the differences in religious attitudes which existed
between entering freshmen at a Tennessee Baptist college and their parents.
This study compared and contrasted selected religious attitudes of students,
mothers and fathers to see if a religious generation gap existed at a Tennessee
Baptist college. Procedures. Three separate populations were utilized for this
study. Union University freshmen (20 years of age or younger) during the Fall
semester of 1989 and the mothers of these entering freshmen and the fathers of
these students. These groups responded to Likert scale questionnaires
concerning religious attitudes. This instrument was developed using the 1963
Baptist Faith and Message statement by the author and was validated and tested
for reliability by a pilot study. The responses were statistically treated
using t-Test for correlated samples and Pearson's r for matched pairs. Findings
and conclusions. The study found both emancipation and social learning theory
at work, though neither was adequate to fully explain the interaction of family
attitudes. Parents and adolescents were different in their attitudes about
Southern Baptist doctrine. There were also 7 similarities in attitudes that
were found in the 18 attitudes measured between the groups. The current study
found that there were significant differences between parents' and adolescents'
religious attitudes. This meant that mothers and fathers were significantly
different from their adolescent and that emancipation theory was at work.
Significant negative relationships were found in adolescent and parent
attitudes regarding liberty, God, and the social order. Significant positive
relationships were found in adolescent and parent attitudes about Scripture,
leisure, and the church. This meant that when parents were paired with their
adolescent that there were some significant similarities and that social
learning theory was at work. [Source:
DA]
Erickson, Joseph Arthur. 1990. “Adolescent Religious Development and Commitment: A Structural Equation Model of the Role of Family, Peer Group, and Educational Influences.” Ph.d. Thesis, University of Minnesota.
Abstract: This investigation
explores the social psychological study of adolescent religion and why it has
lagged behind other areas of social psychology. It also looks at the
significant advances made during the past 20 years, especially in the areas of
scale and index construction and structural equation model testing. Later, I
propose and test a conceptual model of adolescent religious belief and
commitment which is informed by these recent advances. This model looks at the
linear structural relations from the covariance matrix of relations in a large
survey of adolescent religious attitudes and behavior conducted in late 1988
and early 1989. This proposed model is specified, modified and re-specified.
The final fit of the proposed conceptual model to the data is quite good,
especially when one takes into account the survey used for this study was
originally written for another purpose. Finally, the implications of this new
model and additional research strategies and questions are suggested. [Source: DA]
Fulton, Aubyn S. 1990. “Religious Orientation, Antihomosexual Sentiment, Identity Status, and Fundamentalism: In Search of Mature Religion.” Ph.d. Thesis, Fuller Theological Seminary School of Psychology.
Abstract: The intrinsic
($I$), extrinsic ($E$), and quest ($O$) religious orientation scales have been
empirically productive, but theoretically inconsistent. Both $I$ and $O$ have
been found to correlate positively, negatively, and not at all with various
measures of tolerance (see Fulton, 1990). $E$ has recently been shown to be
comprised of two distinct sub-scales, social ($Es$) and personal ($Ep$). In
this study the theoretical and empirical deficits of $I$, $E$, and $O$ were
reviewed in light of Allport's concept of mature religion. It was suggested
that the theoretical consistency of research in this area would be improved by
considering not just the degree of religious commitment, but its developmental
quality as well. One hundred and seventy-four conservative Christian
undergraduate students were assessed for religious orientation, and these were
correlated with three approaches to the evaluation of religious maturity:
anti-homosexual sentiment, fundamentalism, and identity status as measured by
Adams' Extended Objective Measure of Ego Identity Status (EOMEIS). Significant
correlations were found between $I$ and both fundamentalism and negative
morally-based attitudes towards homosexuals. Also, there were just as many
foreclosed (developmentally immature) high $I$'s as there were foreclosed low
$I$s. However, $I$ was negatively correlated with social distance from
homosexuals; when fundamentalism was controlled for the association between $I$
and negative attitudes toward homosexuals disappeared. $Es$ was found to
correlate with measures of prejudice toward homosexuals, but was uncorrelated
with fundamentalism. The correlations of $Ep$ were exactly opposite. $O$ was
found to correlate with most measures of tolerance, and also correlated with
moratorium ("identity crisis" status). Results were interpreted as
support for the positions that: $I$ confuses both mature and immature religious
commitment; $E$ is comprised of two distinct types of immature commitment, $Es$
and $Ep$; and $O$ is best understood as a developmentally intermediate
orientation similar to an adolescent identity crisis. The assessment of the
developmental quality of religious commitment is discussed as an important step
in the proper understanding of $I$, $E$ and $O$. [Source: DA]
Gamoran, Adam. 1990. “Civil Religion in American Schools.” Sociological Analysis vol. 51, pp. 235-256.
Abstract: The central role
played by US public schools in producing & transmitting civil religion is
examined drawing on data from classroom observations, retrospective essays by
17 undergraduates, & personal experiences as a student in suburban Chicago,
Ill. Results indicate that civil religion in schools appears in daily rituals,
eg, the pledge of allegiance, holiday observances, activities such as music
& art, & the social studies curriculum. The beliefs, symbols, &
rituals of US civil religion are specified, & it is argued that the
practice of civil religion in public schools plays a dual role: while it
socializes youth to a common set of views, it also sets off subgroups whose
backgrounds or beliefs prevent them from participating fully in civil
religion. [Source: SA]
Garland, Kenneth Ray. 1990. “Factors Which Motivate High School Students to Participate in Sunday School and Weekly Youth Group Meetings of the Churches of the Conservative Baptist Association of Southern California.” Ed.d. Thesis, Biola University Talbot School of Theology.
Abstract: This descriptive
study examined the motivation to participate in Sunday school and weekly youth
group meetings among high school students of the Conservative Baptist
Association of Southern California. This motivation was examined in
relationship to the spiritual well-being and religious orientation of the
students. Motivation to participate was measured using an adaption of the
Education Participation Scale. Spiritual well- being was measured using the SWB
Inventory. Religious orientation was measured using the Religious Orientation
Inventory. Seven factors emerged from the EPS regarding Sunday school
participation and seven factors emerged regarding weekly youth group
participation. The Sunday school factors were Spiritual Growth, Honor to God,
Service to Others, Identity Formation, Social Contact, Escape, and External
Expectations. The youth group factors were Spiritual Growth, Identity
Formation, Cognitive Interest, Social Stimulation, Integration with Life,
Escape, and External Expectations. Spiritual Growth had the highest mean score
in both program activities. The Escape and External Expectations Factors
emerged in a factoral analysis, however the mean scores for these two factors
on both program activities studied were quite low, greatly reducing the impact
of these factors as significant motivators to participation. Findings indicated
that the only demographic variable which had significant relationship with many
of the factors at the.05 alpha level was the number of years a student had been
a Christian. Students were seen in four profiles according to their orientations
on the ROI. Students identified themselves as Intrinsically Oriented,
Extrinsically Oriented, Indiscriminately Pro-religious, or Indiscriminately
Anti- religious. There were only small significant differences between the four
profiles with regard to motivation to participate. However, there were larger
significant differences between the four profiles with regard to spiritual,
existential, and religious well-being.
[Source: DA]
Gibson, Harry M., Leslie J. Francis, and Paul R. Pearson. 1990. “The Relationship between Social Class and Attitude Towards Christianity among Fourteen- and Fifteen-Year-Old Adolescents.” Personality and Individual Differences vol. 11, pp. 631-635.
Abstract: Explored the
relationship between social class and attitude toward Christianity (ATC) among
2,717 14- and 15-yr-olds who completed a scale of attitude toward Christianity,
as well as a Likert scale pertaining to God and religion. Ss also provided
information about church attendance and father's occupation. Although parents
and adolescents from higher social class backgrounds attended church more
frequently and church attendance was associated with positive ATC, after
controlling for differences in parental church attendance, adolescents from
lower social class backgrounds recorded a more positive ATC. Results are
discussed against the background of H. J. Eysenck's (1967) 2-dimensional model
of social attitudes. [Source: PI]
Hernandez, Edwin I. and Roger L. Dudley. 1990. “Persistence of Religion through Primary Group Ties among Hispanic Seventh-Day Adventist Young People.” Paper presented at American Sociological Association (ASA), 1990.
Abstract: In a serarch for
factors related to religious commitment, 443 Hispanic youth from 22 Seventh-Day
Adventist churches distributed throughout the US were surveyed. It was
hypothesized that the strength of primary group ties are related to religious
commitment, providing evidence for a collective-expressive view of the church,
& that the process of acculturation weakens these ties leading to a
lessening of religious commitment. Three components of commitment were defined,
& four blocks of predictor variables were introduced. Multiple regression
reveals that acculturation variables predicted saliency of religion, ritual
commitment, & devotional commitment; the family dynamics block predicted
saliency & ritual commitment; & pastoral relations predicted only
saliency. Demographic variables were not significantly predictive, except for
family income, which was negatively related to saliency. [Source: SA]
Hull, John M. (ed.). 1990. “Science, Technology and Religious Education.” British Journal of Religious Education vol. 13, pp. 1-73.
Abstract: Attitude towards
Christianity, creationism, scientism and interest in science among 11-15 year
olds, by L J Francis, H J Gibson and P Fulljames. Science-and-religion: a
challenge for secondary education, by M Poole. Science and religion: how to
start an argument, by R Stannard. Science and religious education--conflict or
co-operation? by T Cooling. True stories: science and religion in education, by
P Yates. The influence of beliefs and values on technological activities--a
challenge to religious education, by R Conway. Biotechnology and religious
education, by A Riggs. Beliefs of German and Swiss children and young people
about science and religion, by H Reich.
[Source: RI]
Hyde, Kenneth Edwin. 1990. Religion in Childhood and Adolescence: A Comprehensive Review of the Research. Birmingham, AL: Religious socialization Press, Inc.
Abstract: (from the cover)
"Religion in Childhood and Adolescence: A Comprehensive Review of the
Research" is, as its title denotes, a careful and thorough examination of
virtually every significant empirical research study on this topic done in the
United States and throughout much of the English-speaking world. Major topics
covered in this exhaustive book include religious beliefs, religious attitudes,
religious values, religious experience, overt religious behavior and lifestyle,
religious schooling, and much more. [Source: PI]
Jackson, Ellen Pastorino. 1990. “The Influence of Gender, Family Cohesion and Family Adaptability on the Domains of Adolescent Identity.” Ph.d. Thesis, The Florida State University.
Abstract: The purpose of
this study was to investigate the influence of gender, family cohesion and
family adaptability on identity exploration and identity commitment in six
domains: occupation, religion, politics, friendships, dating, and sex roles.
Specific objectives included the assessment of (1) the interaction between
family functioning and gender, and their effect on identity exploration and
identity commitment, (2) the domains by which males and females define
themselves, and (3) the typical sequence in which the identity domains are
resolved by late adolescents. Subjects were 210 male and female college
students. The FACES III Inventory provided measures of perceived cohesion and
adaptability of families. The Ego-Identity Interview provided measures of
identity exploration and commitment for the six domains. The findings of this
study indicated a complex association between family functioning, gender, and
identity. Females perceived more cohesion in the family environment than males,
and higher levels of family cohesion were associated with higher levels of
identity commitment. An interaction between adaptability and gender on identity
exploration also was found. High-exploring males perceived high levels of
adaptability in the family whereas high-exploration in females was related to
low and high levels of family adaptability. Gender differences by domain also
were observed. Males were more likely to have explored in politics and females
were more likely to have explored sex role values. Males were more committed in
the political domain whereas females were more committed in the domains of
religion and dating. The results also indicated little evidence of exploration
by the subjects in pursuit of religious or political identity. [Source: DA]
Kirkpatrick, Lee A. and Phillip R. Shaver. 1990. “Attachment Theory and Religion: Childhood Attachments, Religious Beliefs, and Conversion.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 29, pp. 315-334.
Kotarba, Joseph A. 1990. “Adolescent Use of Heavy Metal Rock Music as a Resource for Meaning.” Paper presented at American Sociological Association (ASA), 1990.
Abstract: Rock music critics
& academic observers have traditionally viewed the heavy metal genre with
disdain, arguing that, in contrast to more artistic styles of rock, heavy metal
is commercial, its lyrics are banal, & its performers are sexist. Further,
heavy metal fans are routinely portrayed stereotypically as inarticulate,
working class, & ethnic. Here, it is argued that, sociologically, heavy
metal music functions like any other cultural form by providing philosophical,
aesthetic, & practical meanings for its audiences' use in everyday life.
Heavy metal is noteworthy because it serves as a primary source of meaning for
much of its audience, ie, those adolescents who do not receive viable meanings
from school, church, family, or other cultural institutions. Topics addressed
& interpreted by heavy metal include, among many others: school, parents,
authority, drugs, self-concept, relations with friends, gender, life, death,
& good & evil. Problems inherent in analyzing popular music through the
framework of cultural criticism are discussed: since this approach is grounded
in criteria of taste, it unwisely directs the social scientist's attention away
from the study of audiences' perception & use of culture. [Source: SA]
Miller, Alan S. 1990. “Conservatism or Faddism: Trends in Political Conservatism among the Young.” Paper presented at American Sociological Association (ASA), 1990.
Abstract: The relationship between
shifts in the social desirability of a label & the willingness of young
people to apply this label to themselves is examined, using data from the 1972
& 1987 General Social Surveys to construct & test a LISREL model.
Results show that, holding religiosity & socially conservative attitudes
constant, time produced a change in how young people perceive themselves on a
liberal-conservative continuum. No correlation is found between year & the
other exogenous dimensions of religiosity & attitudes, indicating no
concomitant change over time in either religiosity or attitudes. In addition,
the % of young people willing to apply a conservative label to themselves
increased without a concomitant change in typically conservative attitudes or
religiosity, suggesting that the perceived increases in conservatism &
religiosity reflect a change in the social desirability of these labels rather
than a substantive shift in either attitudes or religiosity. Results also
highlight the limitations of labeling & attribution theory, which tend to
ignore the incentive side of self-labeling.
[Source: SA]
Persinger, M. A. and K. Makarec. 1990. “Exotic Beliefs May Be Substitutes for Religious Beliefs.” Perceptual and Motor Skills vol. 71, pp. 16-18.
Abstract: Examined whether
people who attended church regularly would endorse more traditional and fewer
exotic beliefs, while those who did not attend church regularly would
demonstrate the opposite effect. Personal philosophy inventories of 847
university students (aged 16-58 yrs), collected over 10 yrs, were analyzed.
Results suggest that exotic beliefs may serve as substitutes for more
traditional religious concepts. The absence of an absolute decrease in belief
scores suggests that the influence of a university education did not change
this core of beliefs. Early-onset religious experiences appear to promote or to
enhance exotic and religious beliefs.
[Source: PI]
Riley, Patrick J. 1990. “Welcome, Nurture, Challenge: A Program of Collaboration in Youth Ministry Involving a Catholic High School and Four Catholic Parishes.” Thesis, United Theological Seminary.
Abstract: This project was
designed to help integrate students of a Catholic high school into the life of
their parishes. The project did so through the high school's active support of
parish youth retreats, through encouragement of student involvement in the
ministries of the parish and through providing school time and space for
interaction of the parish staffs and their youth on a quarterly basis. A pre-
and post-project self-report questionnaire was administered to the student
participants as a means of determining the success of the project.
Questionnaire results indicated that the project was successful in helping the
students to become more involved in the life of their parishes. [Source: RI]
Tews, Thomas H. 1990. “An Investigation of the God Images of Twelve Students Who Are Members of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake, Illinios.” Thesis, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary.
Abstract: The project explored
the God images of twelve students, all of whom were members of Immanuel
Lutheran Church (Crystal Lake, Ill). Six students attended the Christian Day
School operated by the church, and six students attended public school and
Sunday school at Immanuel Lutheran Church. There were three groups, with an
equal number of boys and girls, in each group representing first, fourth,
fifth, and seventh grades. To investigate their God images, the students were
interviewed, using the interview utilized by David Heller. The results of the
project reported that Immanuel students related more knowledge of God and faith
statements or left brain image(s), showing the naming function of the left
brain, than public school students, while public school students related more life-related
experiences or right and whole brain image(s) than Immanuel students. [Source: RI]
Benson, Peter L., Michael J. Donahue, and Joseph A. Erickson. 1989. “Adolescence and Religion: A Review of the Literature from 1970 to 1986.” Pp. 153-181 in Research in the Social Scientific Study of Religion: A Research Annual, Vol. 1, edited by Monty L. Lynn and David O. Moberg. Greenwich, CT: Jai Press, Inc.
Abstract: (from the chapter)
examines recent research on the religiousness of individuals aged 10 to 18
limited to the literature published in the United States, with a few selected
excursions into publications from other English-speaking countries this review
is divided into four sections: a national profile of adolescent religiousness,
cognitive processes in adolescent religious development, psychosocial factors
in religious development, and the relationship of adolescent religiousness to
social-personality variables [Source:
PI]
Carr, Mary Trout. 1989. “Adolescents and Factors Influencing Participation in Organized Religion: An Exploratory Study of Black Youth, Their Families and Pastors in an Urban Environment.” Ph.d. Thesis, The Union For Experimenting Colleges and Universities.
Abstract: The primary
purpose of this study is to investigate the Pentecostal church serving the
Black Community (although youth and ministers from other denominations were
interviewed). This work summarizes some of the difficulties of the Black church
in reaching the youth, specifically in the Pentecostal church. Emphasis is
placed on the disassociation of youth from the church, based on an examination
of this institution and its relationship to young adults. Also, this study is
about how these two entities (the youth and the church) can bridge the chasm
that exists between them. Qualitative-quantitative and descriptive
methodologies were employed in hopes of finding the missing factors that can
bring the church and youth together. Finally, this study suggests that the
church needs to do more to keep the attention of the youths by employing more
resources outside of the church to reach them. The basic hypothesis purports
that Black youth are leaving the church of their family origin at a high rate,
and many of the churches in the Black communities fail to meet the needs of these
youth. Sixteen pastors were interviewed from various mainline denominations as
well as pastors from the Pentecostal church. An open-ended questionnaire was
developed to do the field work. After interviewing twenty-nine churched and
unchurched youth, male and female, ages thirteen to eighteen, it was revealed
that most youth were disenchanted with the church. In addition, many youth in
this study had low regard for some of the pastors because of their questionable
behavior. The unchurched youth viewed these pastors as hypocritical and not
living up the their "Call" as ministers. This work, however, is not
to be understood as the ultimate answer to the problem of adolescents and the
church, but this study will recommend some appropriate responses to these concerns. [Source: DA]
Daly, Doris L. 1989. “The Relationship between High School Class, Grades, Extracurricular Activities and Adolescent Concerns.” Ph.d. Thesis, Temple University.
Abstract: This research was
conducted to increase knowledge of a population of adolescents by means of an
assessment of their concerns. Research has demonstrated that environmental
conditions impact on adolescent concerns, and therefore, a local survey
provides knowledge relevant to each population. In addition to a survey of
concerns, demographic variables--grade level, grade point average and
participation in extracurricular activities were included to determine the
mediating role of each variable on adolescent concerns. To add knowledge to the
contemporary complex problems of adolescent suicide, alcoholism, and drug
abuse, an analysis of specific items relating to these problems were included
in this study. Comparative studies to determine if concerns are mediated by
community differences and by time (zeitgeist) were also conducted. To assess
concerns, the Mooney Problem Check List (MPCL) (Mooney & Gordon, 1950) was
used. This instrument contains 330 items of concerns grouped into 11 distinct
categories. A new category, "Drugs and Alcohol," was added by the researcher
and contained 30 items relating to drug and alcohol concerns. The sample
consisted of 356 students (grades 9-12) who attended a private male
college-preparatory high school. These students responded to the MPCL, the new
category, and a questionnaire including the demographic information. The data
was analyzed by means of descriptive and inferential statistics. Results
revealed the top three ranking categories of concerns in this population were:
"Adjustment to School Work," "Social/Psychological
Relations," and "Morals and Religion." Multivariate discriminant
analyses revealed groups differentiated by each demographic variable--grade
level, grade point average, and participation in extracurricular activities
were significantly different, with the exception of 11th and 12th grade groups.
The tenth grade, low grade point average, and "no" activity groups
had higher levels of total concerns with academic concerns the major category.
In addition, t tests revealed respondents to each of the suicide, alcohol, and
drug items of concern showed significantly higher levels of concerns in the
majority of categories in comparison to nonrespondents. Finally, comparisons
with earlier research demonstrated that students in this current study (1987)
responded to a higher level of total concerns.
[Source: DA]
Dudley, Roger L. and C. Robert Laurent. 1989. “Alienation from Religion in Church-Related Adolescents.” Sociological Analysis vol. 49, pp. 408-420.
Abstract: To explore
alienation from religion among church-related adolescents, 390 high school
students attending 3 youth conferences sponsored by Protestant judicatories
were asked to complete the Youth Perceptual Inventory, which included a scale
to measure religious alienation & 17 other scales to measure various independent
variables. This sample did not appear to be highly alienated, but there was a
wide range in alienation scores. Multiple regression suggests that religious
alienation is highly related to the quality of teens' relationships with
pastors & parents as well as to opportunities for church involvement, their
own self-concepts, & the influence of peer groups & the media. All but
one of the research hypotheses were supported by the findings, but pastoral
& church influences ranked considerably higher than parent & home
influences. [Source: SA]
Enright, Robert D., Maria J. Santos, and Radhi Al Mabuk. 1989. “The Adolescent as Forgiver.” Journal of Adolescence vol. 12, pp. 95-110.
Abstract: Tested a social
cognitive development model of forgiveness in 2 studies among 119 predominantly
Catholic 4th, 7th, and 10th graders; college students; and adults. Ss were
given a forgiveness interview that assessed 6 stages of forgiveness
development, the Defining Issues Test, and a religiosity scale. There were
strong age trends for forgiveness and justice; forgiveness and justice were
related, but distinct, constructs. The more Ss practiced their faith, the
higher they were in the forgiveness stage. Findings support evidence that
people's understanding of forgiveness develops with age. [Source: PI]
Francis, Leslie J. 1989. “Measuring Attitude Towards Christianity During Childhood and Adolescence.” Personality and Individual Differences vol. 10, pp. 695-698.
Abstract: A 24-item Likert-type
scale of attitudes toward Christianity (Form ASC4B) was completed by 3,600
pupils (1st yr of junior school to 5th yr of secondary school) attending
non-church related state maintained schools in England. Results support the
consistent unidimensionality, reliability, and validity of the scale. The
performance of the scale among 1st- and 2nd-yr junior school Ss was less
satisfactory than among the older age groups. Norms are presented for boys and
girls from each year group separately, demonstrating a persistent decline in
attitudes toward Christianity for both sexes between the ages of 8 and 16
yrs. [Source: PI]
French, Hal W. 1989. “The Psycho-Dynamics of Adversary Identity.” Studies in Religion/Sciences religieuses pp. 261-272.
Garfinkle, Martin I. 1989. “The Relationship between Reported Alcohol Abuse and Self-Perceived Jewishness among Adolescents.” D.S.W. Thesis, Adelphi University School of Social Work.
Abstract: This study
explores the relationship between alcohol abuse among Jewish adolescents and
three related factors that comprise the trait we define as
"Jewishness": (1) Jewish ethnic identity, (2) religious affiliation
(synagogue attendance), and (3) religiosity. Instruments were developed to
measure the strength of Jewish ethnic identity and religiosity, the frequency
of synagogue attendance (affiliation), and the extent of alcohol abusing
behavior. The results indicated that Jewish adolescents who are ethnically
identified tend to abuse alcohol less frequently than Jews who do not have a
strong sense of ethnic identity. The same inverse relationship was true for
religiosity. However, the combined effects of ethnic identity and religiosity
were not additive, thus indicating no interactive influence in the prediction
of alcohol abusing behavior. Other findings from the study indicated that
friends' use of alcohol was a strong predictor of alcohol abusing behavior in
the Jewish adolescent. It appears that past discrepancies in findings with
regard to the Jew and alcohol abuse relate to the dependent measure in those
studies. The implications of the findings suggest that social workers should
encourage the enhancement of ethnic identity in their clients when possible and
where appropriate since this may retard alcohol abuse. Another implication for
social workers, educators, and other professionals is the promotion of programs
that discuss the vulnerability of adolescents to peer influences. [Source: DA]
Gill, Newell T. and Linda H. Thornton. 1989. “Religious Orientation and Self-Esteem among High School Students.” High School Journal vol. 73, pp. 47-60.
Abstract: Conducted a study
to determine the popular religious mindset of 2 groups of high school seniors,
92 from 2 public schools and 87 from Catholic high school, and to identify what
relationship existed between their religious orientation and their perceived
self-esteem. Instruments included the "What I Believe" (WIB) scale
(N. T. Gill and L. H. Thornton, 1988), the Self-Esteem Inventory (SEI [S.
Coopersmith, 1967]), and a personal data questionnaire. Crisis dependency and
school type were found to be related to religious zeal. The parochial school Ss
performed better on the WIB's Judeo-Christian scale and indicated greater
religious zeal than the public school Ss. No relationship was found between the
SEI and religious beliefs. [Source: PI]
Haas, Marilyn Goldman. 1989. “Concerns and Characteristics of Tucson Jewish Youth, Grades 4-12.” M.A. Thesis, The University of Arizona.
Abstract: This study
assesses the concerns of Jewish youth in Tucson, Arizona and reports their
demographic characteristics and those of their families. Other issues explored
are Jewish identity, family and peer relations, use of community resources, and
program interests. The 382 Jewish youth surveyed in grades 4-12 were
essentially an affiliated population with over 96% belonging to a Jewish
religious institution, education program, or youth organization. The
relationship was examined between Jewish youth concerns and family changes of
single-parent and stepfamily living, dual careers, and interfaith marriage.
Differences in concerns were also identified by gender, educational level, and
affiliation. Results are also presented of a survey of 59 Jewish community
resources concerning their utilization by parents and youth and their
perception of youth concerns. Based on findings, recommendations are made to
encourage Jewish community awareness and responsiveness to concerns and needs
of Jewish youth and their families. [Source:
DA]
Hillman, Evelyn D. 1989. “The Relationship of Church Attendance to Adolescent Self-Concept and Career Choice.” Ph.d. Thesis, The University of Michigan.
Abstract: The relationship
of church attendance to adolescent self-concept and career choice is a research
study which engaged forty-four (44) grade 11 and grade 12 students in career
decision-making activities in order to study the impact of church attendance,
which provides for moral training, on the variables: self-concept, career
decision-making skill, career maturity and the formation of post-high school
plans. The sample, from a large, metropolitan high school, completed the
Tennessee Self Concept Scale, Fitts (1965); the Career Maturity Inventory,
Crites (1978) and a questionnaire which revealed post-high school plans. Data from
these instruments were analyzed using analysis of variance and chi-square
statistics. Results revealed that church attenders had a higher self-concept
and better career decision-making skills than non-church attenders. The career
maturity (ability to successfully enter into the world of work) was not
statistically different for the two groups, but church attenders displayed
superior performance on all indices. There was no real difference between the
groups in their formation of post-high school plans. These research findings
suggest that the addition of moral training to adolescent preparation for
adulthood increases the likelihood of positive development. Indications are
that moral development might be considered as an important additional variable
in the study of adolescent development.
[Source: DA]
Janssen, Jacques, Joep de Hart, and Christine den Draak. 1989. “Praying Practices.” Journal of Empirical Theology pp. 28-39.
Jaret, Beth Gerstel. 1989. “Factors Related to Religiosity in Jewish Adolescents.” Ph.d. Thesis, Hofstra University.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the relative
influence of variables related to the religiosity of Jewish adolescents. The
sample in this study consisted of 208 Jewish teenagers (grades nine through
twelve); 107 male, 101 female; 41 were reform Jewish teenagers, 71
conservative, 50 orthodox, and 46 unaffiliated. Subjects completed a revision
of the Religiosity Scale (Rohrbaugh & Jessor, 1975) four times, reflecting
their perceptions of: (a) their mother's religiosity, (b) their father's
religiosity, (c) the average religiosity of their peer group, and (d) their own
religiosity. They also completed Schuldermann and Schludermann's 1988 revisions
of the Children's Reports of Parental Behavior Inventory (CRPBI-30) to
determine their perceptions of their mothers' and fathers' behavior and a
demographic data and religious referent questionnaire. The results of this
study indicated a positive relationship between subject and perceived parental
religiosity (r = .723, p < .001) as well as between subject and peer
religiosity (r = .670, p < .001). No difference was found between the
relationships of mothers' and fathers' religiosity to that of the subject (t
[51] = -.466, p > .05). The correlation between perceived parental
religiosity and subject religiosity was found to be greater among male than
among female subjects (z = 3.59, p < .01). Perceived parental behavior was
not found to contribute significantly to the explained variance within
adolescent religiosity, once perceived parental religiosity was considered (p
> .05). In choosing referents for religious beliefs (chi sq [4, n = 181] =
27.8, p < .001) and behavior (chi sq (4, n = 179) = 29.8, p <.001),
subjects report choosing parents more frequently than they report choosing
peers. [Source: DA]
Jones, Stephen D. 1989. “Faith Shaping: Youth and the Experience of Faith; Rev Ed.” Chicago Theological Seminary Register vol. 79, p. 143.
Mangino, Nancy A. 1989. “Adolescents' Death Anxiety: Relationships with Parental Death Anxiety, Religious Orientation, and Death Experience.” Thesis, George Washington University.
McAuley, E. Nancy and Moira Mathieson. 1989. “Faith without Form: Beliefs of Catholic Youth.” Sociological Analysis vol. 50.
Ozorak, Elizabeth W. 1989. “Social and Cognitive Influences on the Development of Religious Beliefs and Commitment in Adolescence.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 28, pp. 448-463.
Abstract: Examined a social-cognitive
model of change of adolescent religious beliefs, based on the concepts of
anchoring and polarization. 390 9th, 11th, and 12th graders and 134 alumni
filled out a questionnaire assessing family demographics, religious background,
beliefs, practices, and experience, existential questioning, and closeness to
family and peers. Parents' religious affiliation and practices were positively
related to all aspects of religiousness among early and middle adolescents but
only to practices and to decreased likelihood of change in the college-age
group. There was evidence of peer influence on religious doubt and changes of
faith. Existential concerns and Scholastic Aptitude Test scores were positively
related to change in older Ss. [Source:
PI]
Reich, Karl Helmut. 1989. “Between Religion and Science: Complementarity in the Religious Thinking of Young People.” British Journal of Religious Education vol. 11, pp. 62-69.
Selengut, Charles. 1989. “The Search for the Sacred: Jewish Youth and Contemporary Religious Movements.” Dialogue and Alliance vol. 3, pp. 29-38.
Serow, Robert C. 1989. “Community Service, Religious Commitment, and Campus Climate.” Youth and Society vol. 21, pp. 105-119.
Abstract: Current debates
over a national service policy have focused attention on voluntary action by US
youth. Analysis of questionnaire data collected from 2,100 college students in
a southeastern state reveals that participation in community service is related
to individual religious commitment & to the moral climate of the campus.
The finding that campus climate is most important among students with
relatively weak religious commitments suggests that institutions can take steps
to encourage pro bono efforts by young people.
[Source: SA]
Willits, Fern K. and Donald M. Crider. 1989. “Church Attendance and Traditional Religious Beliefs in Adolescence and Young Adulthood: A Panel Study.” Review of Religious Research vol. 31, pp. 68-81.
Abstract: Utilizing data on
a sample of 331 married persons, who had responded to a questionnaire survey in
1970, as high school students, & in 1981, it was found that, as
adolescents, the Ss reported highly traditional religious beliefs &
frequent church attendance. Although they saw themselves as attending worship services
somewhat more frequently than their parents, youthful attendance & beliefs
were significantly correlated with perceived parental attendance. Ten years
later, Ss' church attendance had declined, & earlier parental patterns had
no direct effect on attendance or belief. Frequency of spouse's church
attendance was importantly linked with the S's own attendance & religious
beliefs in young adulthood. [Source:
SA]
Zern, David S. 1989. “Some Connections between Increasing Religiousness and Academic Accomplishment in a College Population.” Adolescence vol. 24, pp. 141-154.
Abstract: A sample of 251
college students were asked via a 6-item questionnaire to describe their own
degree of religiousness & that of the home atmosphere in which they grew
up. Ss gave self-report measures of their total religiousness, belief in God,
& ritual observance. When these measures were related separately to their
cumulative grade point averages (GPAs), no relationship was found for either
present or past degree of religiousness. However, on each of the three measures
of religiousness, about 75% of the approximately 10% of the sample who reported
being more religious currently than in the atmosphere in which they grew up had
GPAs above the sample mean, while fewer than 50% of the rest of the sample
did. [Source: SA]
Francis, Leslie J. and Paul R. Pearson. 1988. “Religiosity and the Short-Scale Epq--R Indices of E, N and L, Compared with the Jepi, Jepq and Epq.” Personality and Individual Differences vol. 9, pp. 653-657.
Abstract: The short-scale
Eysenck Personality Questionnaire--Revised (EPQ--R) proposes 12 item indices of
Extraversion (E), Neuroticism (N), and Lie (L) scale scores. The reliability
and validity of these short indices and their relationship with religiosity
were explored among 181 15- and 16-yr-olds and in comparison with scores on the
EPQ, the Junior EPQ (JEPQ), and the Junior Eysenck Personality Inventory
(JEPI). Results show that there were no significant relationships between N or
E scores and religiosity; L scores were significantly related to religiosity.
The value of the short-scale EPQ--R is recommended for further research. [Source: PI]
Kangas, Janet Leigh. 1988. “A Study of the Religious Attitudes and Behaviors of Seventh-Day Adventist Adolescents in North America Related to Their Family, Educational, and Church Backgrounds.” Ph.D. Thesis, Andrews University.
Abstract: Problem. Why are
Seventh-day Adventist youth leaving the church in North America? This study,
the first report of a 10-year longitudinal research project, sought to identify
attitudes and behaviors of Adventist adolescents and examine possible
correlations with the religious backgrounds and influences of their homes,
churches, and schools. Method. One church was randomly chosen for every 1,000
members within each local conference of the Seventh-day Adventist church in
North America which totaled 695 congregations. Eventually 659 of the 695 church
clerks responded, producing the names of 2,429 eligible baptized 15- and
16-year old youth. A questionnaire designed to report their backgrounds and
attitudes regarding religious beliefs was mailed, with two follow- up mailings,
and 1,511 teenagers responded. The statistical analyses used were correlations,
t-tests, and multiple regression. Results. Over half the respondents felt
positive about Seventh-day Adventism. Fifty-nine percent were positive about
their baptism, and 53% regarded themselves as active members. Seventy-seven
percent indicated positive intentions to remain Adventists. Of the 41% who
wished they hadn't been baptized, 19% already identified themselves as inactive
Adventists. Twenty-one percent expressed feelings of rebellion, with a
perceived amount of restraint contributing to their rebellion. The 12 strongest
influences or experiences, accounting for 47% of the variance of teenagers'
intentions to remain Adventists, were agreement with standards (27% of the
variance), frequency of personal prayer, love expressed by members, frequency
of church attendance, the church meeting their spiritual needs, undesirable
aspects of competition, aid felt toward independence, both parents as members
of the church, frequency of Bible reading, perceived spiritual commitment of
parents, closeness of relationships, and perception that members live what they
believe. The regression was significant at the.001 level. Conclusions.
Teenagers seek a religion based on relationships with and the spiritual
perceptions of others. The home is the most important religious influence, with
its perceived spiritual benefits influencing how much spiritual benefit is
perceived from the school. Longer attendance at Adventist schools is the
greatest influence on degree of agreement with the church's standards, but it
is not associated with the respondents' present happiness with religion.
Attendance also predicts spiritual intentions for the future. Frequency of
church attendance and the extent to which the church meets youth's needs are
strong predictors of teenagers intentions to remain Adventists. Teenagers
prefer to learn religion through involvement and discussion, not traditional
methods. [Source: DA]
Loomis, Barbara Diane. 1988. “Piety and Play: Young Women's Leisure in an Era of Evangelical Religion, 1790-1840.” Ph.d. Thesis, University of California Berkeley.
Abstract: In the years of
the Second Great Awakening, from the 1790s to 1837, thousands of young American
women faced a crucial decision: whether to enjoy themselves in youthful fun or
to follow the more austere regimen required by the revivalistic, Protestant
churches. As a result of the growing militance of evangelical Protestantism,
the ways in which people occupied their free time became an issue of pressing
public concern. Religion and recreation are not necessarily incompatible. But
in the early decades of the nineteenth century, the particular tenets of the
evangelical denominations in the United States forced their followers to choose
between the pursuit of amusements and the habits of a truly devout life. The
perception of a fundamental tension between the urgings of the flesh and the
desire for a higher spirituality reflected a long tradition of religious and
ethical concerns that antedated the teachings of early nineteenth-century
Protestantism. And some of the complaints against such amusements as dancing
were, by the nineteenth century, already very old. However, the issue of young
women's leisure surfaced in the period 1790 to 1840 in ways that revealed
tensions which were unique to those years. Changes that had been a long time in
the making suddenly crystallized, especially changes in the ways in which young
people met and selected a partner for life. Alterations in the nature of
parental authority, the increasing power of the peer group in guiding young
people's behavior, uncertainties about what was proper in the interaction
between the sexes, fears about widening class differences and new habits of
consumption--all of these significant historical developments were reflected in
the belief of evangelical church leaders that feminine leisure activities
constituted an urgent problem. Evangelicals stood squarely opposed to the
frivolous youth subculture that had become increasingly conspicuous by the end
of the eighteenth century. [Source: DA]
Oyefeso, M. A. 1988. “Religion and Duty in Islam: Leaders, Youth and Women.” Pp. 298-310 in Nigerian Studies in Religious Tolerance, edited by C. S. Momoh, M.S. Zahradeen, and S.O. Abogunrin. Ibadan: Centre for Black and African and Civilization (CBAAC) and National Association for Religious Tolerance (NARETO).
Shapiro, Z. V. I. 1988. “From Generation to Generation: Does Jewish Schooling Affect Jewish Identification?” Ph.d. Thesis, New York University.
Abstract: This study tries
to answer three primary questions: (1) What is the effect of Jewish schooling
on Jewish religious identification? (2) What is the effect of the family on
Jewish religious identification? (3) What is the effect of the interaction of
Jewish schooling and family on Jewish religious identification? The study also
explores the effect of Peers, Camps and Jewish Group Activity on Jewish
identification and investigates how the predictors of Jewish identification
vary by denomination. The students of grades five, six and seven in all the
Atlanta Jewish schools were surveyed. The schools included two day schools,
three Traditional, three Conservative and four Reform synagogue schools. At the
same time the parents of all the students were surveyed. The final sample
consists of 416 families in which both children and parents responded. Some of
the major findings are: (1) The number of hours of Jewish schooling does not
make a significant independent contribution to Total Jewish Identification
after controlling for the influence of Family background, Peers, Camps and
youth groups. This finding differs from previous findings. (2) Family
background makes a large and significant contribution to Total Jewish
Identification after controlling for Jewish Schooling, Peers, Camps and youth
groups. (3) The interaction between the hours of Jewish Schooling and the
Parents' Residence-Friendship Patterns make a slight contribution to Total
Jewish Identification. All other interaction variables are not significant. (4)
The most important predictors of Total Jewish Identification are: Parents'
Ritual Observance, Parents' Residence-Friendship Patterns, the children's
Jewish Group Activity and the Parents' Parenting Behaviors. (5) The Peers
variable is negatively related to Total Jewish Identification. (6) Two
sub-scales of Total Jewish Identification, Religious Observance and Charity,
are predicted by the hours of Jewish Schooling. (7) The pattern of predictors
of Total Jewish Identification varies by denominational affiliation. The total
Jewish Identification of Traditional/Orthodox subjects is predicted by Parents'
Ritual Observance and Parents' Residence-Friendship Patterns. Reform Total
Jewish Identification is predicted by Parents' Parenting Behaviors, subjects'
Jewish Group Activity, and by Parents' Residence- Friendship Patterns.
Conservative Total Jewish Identification is predicted by the subjects' Jewish
Group Activity, years of Jewish Camping, Parents' Parenting Behaviors, and
Peers. [Source: DA]
Steele, Lester L. 1988. “Identity Formation Theory and Youth Ministry.” Christian Education Journal pp. 91-99.
Stott, G.N. 1988. “Familial Influence on Religious Involvement.” Pp. 258-271 in The Religion and Family Connection: Social Science Perspectives, edited by D.L. Thomas. Provo, Utah: Religious Studies Center.
Watson, P. J., Robin Howard, Ralph W. Hood, Jr., and Ronald J. Morris. 1988. “Age and Religious Orientation.” Review of Religious Research vol. 29, pp. 271-280.
Wright, Susan J. 1988. “Catechism, Confirmation and Communion: The Role of the Young in the Post-Reformation Church.” Pp. 203-227 in Parish, Church and People, edited by S. Wright. London: Hutchinson.
Francis, Leslie J. 1987. “The Decline in Attitudes Towards Religion among 8-25 Year Olds.” Educational Studies vol. 13, pp. 125-134.
Abstract: Employed the
semantic differential scaling technique to compare the attitudes of 800 pupils
from the 1st year in junior school to the 4th year in secondary school toward 7
different attitudinal areas. Attitudes toward religious education declined in a
consistent linear fashion throughout, confirming earlier studies. Attitudes
toward school and other school subjects did not follow the same pattern,
confirming the peculiar place of religion and religious education within the
child's attitudinal structure. [Source:
PI]
Goodnow, Robert E. and Renato Tagiuri. 1987. “Religious Ethnocentrism and Its Recognition among Adolescent Boys.” Pp. 232-239 in Error without Trial: Psychological Research on Antisemitism. Current Research on Antisemitism, Vol. 2, edited by Werner Bergmann. Berlin, Germany: Walter De Gruyter.
Abstract: (from the chapter)
the present study employs a technique that obtains measures of recognition and
of ethnocentrism simultaneously and from the same subjects Protestant, Roman
Catholic, and Jewish students in a boys' preparatory school offering the four
high school years [Source: PI]
LaNoue, Kaywin B. 1987. “A Comparative Study of the Spiritual Maturity Levels of the Christian School Senior and the Public School Senior in Texas Southern Baptist Churches with a Christian School.” Thesis, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Mackenzie, Caroline. 1987. “The Search of Western Youth for Experience of the Divine through Indian Culture.” Journal of Dharma vol. 12, pp. 145-149.
McGrath, Eileen Agnes. 1987. “Supportive or Non-Supportive Religious Beliefs of Children with Life-Threatening Diseases.” Ph.D. Thesis, New York University.
Abstract: Problem. The
purpose of this researcher was to investigate the relationship between
religious beliefs, religious backgrounds, and the supportive effect of those on
the attitudes toward sickness and death of children with diagnosed
life-threatening disease. Procedure. Through the use of a semi-structured
interview, this descriptive study involved an individual analysis of the
content of religious beliefs held by children with life-threatening diseases.
There were thirteen boys and twelve girls in the sample, aged nine to twelve,
eleven diagnosed with acute lymphocytic or lymphoblastic leukemia, nine with
other neoplasms, four with cystic fibrosis, and one child with Coolies anemia.
The children were affiliated with various Protestant and Catholic faiths. The
Graebner Child Concept of God Inventory, consisting of twenty-two pictures and
accompanying questions, was the instrument used by the investigator to assess
the children's religious beliefs. The children's responses were tape-recorded
verbatim and written by the researcher. The children answered the standardized
questions and stated whether the designated concepts of God were supportive or
non-supportive to them. The children's answer sheet and tapes were analyzed by
the researcher and were also reviewed by a consultant of that child's religion.
The parents completed a fourteen-item questionnaire which included the
religious background, church attendance, and the child's and sibling's medical
history. Findings. It was determined that all the children in this sample had
religious beliefs, and for the majority of the children, these beliefs had a
supportive effect upon their attitudes toward sickness and death. Seven
children stated that one or two concepts of God were not supportive to them,
although their overall responses indicated that they held supportive religious
beliefs. It could not be concluded if a relationship existed among the religious
affiliation, formal years or type of religious education, the children's age,
sex, or indication of intelligence, and their supportive or non-supportive
beliefs. Parental attitudes and beliefs toward religion and church attendance
appeared to have an influence on the child and siblings. Most participants
expressed a deep faith and trust in God who was supporting them throughout
their illness. Parental attitudes toward the treatment and disease outcome also
influenced the child. [Source: DA]
Ozorak, Elizabeth Weiss. 1987. “The Development of Religious Beliefs and Commitment in Adolescence.” Ph.D. Thesis, Harvard University.
Abstract: It has been
proposed that adolescents are likely to change, expand, or abandon their
religious beliefs because of cognitive development, existential anxiety, or
pressure from parents or peers. Three hundred and ninety early, middle and late
adolescents filled out a questionnaire assessing family demographics, religious
background, beliefs, practices, and experiences, existential questioning, and
closeness to family and peers. A follow-up interview further exploring
religious beliefs, participation, experiences, and commitment was done with a
subsample of 32 volunteers. Both questionnaire and interview data suggest that
existential questioning is often associated with change in religious beliefs,
most often with change away from religious orthodoxy, but probably does not
cause these changes. For subjects with a strong commitment to orthodox
Christian beliefs, existential questioning actually appears to strengthen
beliefs. Change in religious beliefs seems usually to be triggered by personal
trauma, such as the death of a loved one, or by substantial disappointment with
important religious rites or leaders. It is proposed that the consequent doubt
is analogous to the attributional hypothesis-testing shown elsewhere to be
associated with unexpected negative outcomes. By contrast, social and emotional
aspects of religious belief and participation appear to be associated with
increased commitment, particularly for subjects with close family ties.
Parents' religiousness is positively associated with all aspects of adolescent
religiousness, especially in early and middle adolescence, and is negatively
associated with religious change throughout adolescence. Peer influence on
religiousness seems to be limited.
[Source: DA]
Russ, Tim. 1987. “Adolescence.” Pp. 35-43 in First Aid in Pastoral Care, edited by L. Virgo. Edinburgh: T.&T.; Clark.
Tucker, Larry A. 1987. “Television, Teenagers, and Health.” Journal of Youth and Adolescence vol. 16, pp. 415-425.
Abstract: The effect of TV
viewing on adolescents' health-related attitudes & practices & physical
fitness level is investigated using data from questionnaires containing
multiple assessment instruments completed by 406 white, Mc, high school Ms.
Multiple discriminant analysis reveals that high levels of TV watching are
significantly associated with poorer physical & emotional health, increased
drug & alcohol use, & decreased church attendance, exercise,
self-control, self-confidence, & Coll aspirations. Though the
directionality of causality cannot be assumed, it is argued that since TV
viewing is a passive pastime, the media has great power to shape attitudes
& behaviors. At present, its messages largely promote antisocial norms
& unhealthy lifestyles. Suggestions are proposed to help health
professionals & other specialists develop & promote more healthy,
constructive uses of TV. [Source: SA]
Ambert, Anne Marie and Jean Francois Saucier. 1986. “Adolescents' Overt Religiosity and Parents' Marital Status.” International Journal of Comparative Sociology vol. 27, pp. 87-95.
Abstract: A comparison of
religious behavior in adolescents (N = 275) from families of differing parental
marital status, based on questionnaire data collected in public & private
high schools & Colls in Montreal, Quebec. Adolescents from
separated/divorced families had the lowest rate of church attendance, &
those from legally intact families the highest; adolescents from widowed
families were intermediate. Sex differences in similarities are also examined.
The possible relevance of overt religiosity to family disruption & cohesion
is examined. [Source: SA]
Boyle, John J. and Leslie J. Francis. 1986. “The Influence of Differing Church Aided School Systems on Pupil Attitude Towards Religion.” Research in Education pp. 7-12.
Abstract: Studied attitudes
toward religion of 1,205 12- and 13-yr-old pupils in Roman Catholic voluntary
aided schools in relationship to whether they attended a middle school or a
conventional secondary school. Results show that religious attitudes were not
related to type of school attended but were related to Ss' sex, age, and church
attendance. [Source: PI]
Danser, Donald Bruce. 1986. “The Impact of Religious Activity, Belief, and Commitment Upon Parental Discipline and Family Interaction.” Ph.d. Thesis, Virginia Commonwealth University.
Abstract: Father-mother-son
triads (N = 36) who were middle SES, of similar religious beliefs and church
attendance, and with a prepubertal adolescent first son were distributed into a
2 x 2 (higher or lower church attendance x literal or mythological Christian
beliefs). Parents and sons completed questionnaires, were interviewed, and
underwent videotaped (and subsequently coded) family interaction tasks. The
variables under study were parental control and support, family conflict,
parental dominance, marital satisfaction, and adolescent self-image. Using
multivariate ANOVAs, several differences between groups were found. First,
mothers who were higher attenders were able to discipline their sons with less
resentment than were mothers who were lower attenders. Second, fathers with
either high attendance and literal belief or low attendance and mythological
belief were more dominant than fathers with high attendance and mythological
belief. Third, couples with mythological belief, lower attenders showed greater
initial family agreement than did higher attenders. Finally, for both fathers
and mothers, high attendance was associated with greater marital satisfaction
than was low attendance. A second focus of the study was upon the relation of
church attendance, religious belief, and religious commitment. In general,
parents who held literal beliefs stated they felt a more intense religious
commitment in almost every area. This difference, however, rarely translated
into differences on parental discipline or family interactions. Using a
multiple regression analysis, a wide range of religious variables were found to
predict parental discipline variables in a multifaceted and complex way. [Source: DA]
Eve, Raymond A. and Francis B. Harrold. 1986. “Creationism, Cult Archaeology, and Other Pseudoscientific Beliefs: A Study of College Students.” Youth and Society vol. 17, pp. 396-421.
Abstract: An empirical
inquiry into the prevalence & etiology of pseudoscientific beliefs
(including certain tenets of biblical literalism & sensationalistic
archaeological claims about ancient astronauts, lost tribes, sunken continents,
monsters, etc). Data were collected from approximately 400 undergraduates at a
large public U using closed-ended modified Likert-scale items. Belief levels
were found to be strikingly high for a wide variety of pseudoscientific beliefs
(20%-60% belief in each phenomenon). A factor-analytic statistical procedure
indicated that the domains of items relating to Christian fundamentalism &
those relating to "cult" science were highly internally homogeneous
but largely uncorrelated between these two domains. Fundamentalist Christian
beliefs were correlated, not surprisingly, with conservative outlooks in
religion & politics, but also with lower grades, less outside reading, more
authoritarian & dogmatic personalities, & support for the so-called
Moral Majority. The etiology of the cult science items was much less clear.
Older students were less likely to hold such beliefs, & they were weakly
related to an internal locus of control. It is concluded that pseudoscientific
beliefs have several different likely origins. Suggestions are offered for
future research & for science education.
[Source: SA]
Funderburk, Charles. 1986. “Religion, Political Legitimacy and Civil Violence: A Survey of Children and Adolescents.” Sociological Focus vol. 19, pp. 289-298.
Abstract: Religious
institutions are an agent of childhood socialization with consequences for
political learning. The results of a questionnaire survey (N = 736 children
& adolescents) in Key Largo, Fla, indicate that religious beliefs are
associated with support for the political system, its symbols & laws,
&, to a lesser extent, political authority figures. Conversely, strength of
religious commitment is negatively associated with approval of political
violence. The strength of these associations increases with age, suggesting
that the longer & more intensely religious beliefs are held the more likely
they are to influence political attitudes.
[Source: SA]
Higgins, Gregory C. 1986. “Ethics and High School Students.” Religious Education pp. 288-294.
Jaspard, J. M. 1986. “Jesus Christ as Identification-Model for the Adolescents: Report of Several Studies.” Pp. 256-263 in Current Issues in the Psychology of Religion, edited by J. Belzen and J.M. van der Lans. Amsterdam: Rodopi.
Keown, Duane. 1986. “What Utah Children Believe.” Humanist vol. 46, pp. 21-26.
Abstract: An examination of
the roots of particular beliefs of members of the Church of Latter-Day Saints
(Mormons), eg, that curses by God caused the dark skin of some races, &
that Mormons need to rear large families. It is argued that the rigid adherance
to these beliefs & others that stem from revelations to their prophets
cause the Church & its members a great deal of social, ecological, &
intellectual strife in the late twentieth century. The results of a survey of
Salt Lake City, Utah, teenagers (N = 508) reveal wide acceptance of the Old
Testament version of man's beginning in the Garden of Eden, original sin, &
the destruction of earth life by a universal flood in Noah's time; however,
only the most orthodox youth continue to believe the Mormon theological
teaching that dark skin originated with curses by God of sinful men. [Source: SA]
Laurent, Carl Robert. 1986. “Selected Variables Related to Alienation from Religion among Church-Related High School Students.” Ph.D. Thesis, Andrews University.
Abstract: Problem. One of
the most important concerns of parents and church leaders is alienation from
religion among church-related adolescents. This research was conducted to
discover relationships that might exist between alienation from religion and
other selected variables. Method. Three hundred and ninety students were
selected by a stratified random method from among all students attending three
church-related youth conferences. Each teenager was asked to respond to an
inventory which consisted of 162 statements divided into eighteen attitude
scales. One scale measured alienation from religion, while the other seventeen
measured the independent variables. The major statistical method used in analyzing
the data was multiple regression analysis. Results. The alienation scores
revealed that 12.8 percent of the adolescents might be considered alienated
from religion in general, while 51 percent are alienated from some aspect of
their religion. Items which elicited the most alienation concerned experiences
with the church, uninteresting sermons, deficient devotional life, and
religious restrictions on life-style. Correlations between the
alienation-from-religion scale and the other scales were all significant except
one. Therefore, all but one of the research hypotheses were supported. Four of
the five highest correlations dealt with church influences. No home influences
ranked higher than tenth. Three of the scales, which were not included in Dudley's
1977 study, Media Influence, Self-Esteem, and Peer Influence, ranked third,
sixth, and seventh, respectively. Conclusions. Alienation from religion in
church-related adolescents is highly correlated with the quality of their
relationships with parents and other authority figures, peer groups, their own
self-concepts, media influence, and the church. As the quality of these key
relationships is improved, parents and church youth leaders can expect a
reduction in adolescent alienation from religion. [Source: DA]
Mueller, D.P. and P.W. Cooper. 1986. “Religious Interest and Involvement of Young Adults: A Research Note.” Review of Religious Research vol. 27, pp. 245-254.
Prager, Karen J. 1986. “Identity Development, Age, and College Experience in Women.” Journal of Genetic Psychology vol. 147, pp. 31-36.
Abstract: The identity
status - achievement, moratorium, foreclosure, or diffusion - of 86
undergraduate Coll Fs aged 18-23 was assessed via interviews covering
occupation, political & religious ideology, & sexual values. Overall
identity status showed a significant association with the women's ages &
Coll experience. Achievement women were older & had been in Coll longer
than women in the other statuses. Occupational & political identity status
were each significantly associated with Coll experience. No association was
found for religious or sexual identity status. The results support Erik
Erikson's notion (Identity: Youth and Crisis, New York: Norton, 1968) that
identity achievement is the most mature outcome of the identity crisis &
extended his theory to women. [Source:
SA]
Tucker, Gordon. 1986. “The Jewish Point of View.” Pro Mundi Vita Bulletin vol. 105, pp. 24-31.
Hunsberger, B. 1985. “Parent-University Student Agreement on Religious and Nonreligious Issues.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 24, pp. 314-320.
Kalia, Ashok K. and S. S. Mathur. 1985. “Value Preferences of Adolescents Studying in Schools with Different Socio-Economic Environments.” Asian Journal of Psychology and Education vol. 15, pp. 1-6.
Abstract: Compared
differences in the values of adolescents studying in schools with different
socioeconomic status (SES) environments, using 454 adolescents (aged 14-27+
yrs) from high, medium, and low SES schools. Ss were administered a test
designed to measure the relative prominence of 6 values: theoretical, economic,
aesthetic, social, political, and religious. Results show significant
differences in theoretical, economic, and social values among the groups
studied. [Source: PI]
McNeel, Steven P. and Philip L. Thorsen. 1985. “A Developmental Perspective on Christian Faith and Dogmatism.” The High School Journal vol. 68, pp. 211-220.
Abstract: Identified mutual
implications in the areas of dogmatism, the nature of mature biblical faith,
and a focus on human growth and development during the late adolescent and
adult years. 65 freshman and sophomore undergraduates were administered scales
measuring dogmatism, doctrinal orthodoxy, and styles of religiosity (external,
internal, interactional). 41 Ss had previously been administered the Defining
Issues Test; most Ss completed a 119-item questionnaire to measure attitudes
toward, beliefs about, and behavior relevant to the Christian life, the Bible,
authority, decision making and seeking God's will, difficult doctrinal
questions, the Christian, and the community. Results show that dogmatism scores
were somewhat high; Ss more orthodox doctrinally tended to show more dogmatism.
Ss who viewed their Christian commitment as a quest (interactional) tended to
be more dogmatic. Dogmatism was significantly related to Ss' reliance on
external authority but not to their reliance on internal feelings or their
tendency to think in noncritical, global terms. [Source: PI]
Parker, Mitchell S. 1985. “Identity and the Development of Religious Thinking.” New Directions for Child Development pp. 43-60.
Abstract: Discusses the
adolescent search for religious identity, using examples from the Bible, and
compares theories of D. Elkind (1970) and J. Fowler (1981) on religious
development and identity formation. The relationship of cults, conversion,
stability, and defection to identity are studied, and research with 49 15-26 yr
old converts is reviewed. Data show that (1) some degree of stress is required
for religious development to proceed and (2) identity development is reflected
in the normal course of religious development. Forms of religious expression
are distinguished. [Source: PI]
Potvin, Raymond H. and Douglas M. Sloane. 1985. “Parental Control, Age, and Religious Practice.” Review of Religious Research vol. 27, pp. 3-14.
Abstract: Previous research
(see SA 32:2/84N8229) revealed significant declines in religious practice with
age for adolescents from Baptist, Catholic, & mainline Protestant
denominations. This research is extended to determine whether other
characteristics of adolescents' religiosity &/or parental religiousness
& control have an effect on that decline. Data on 868 adolescents of these
religious groups show that, while parental religiosity & adolescents'
religious belief are strongly related to religious practice, neither affects
the decline in practice with age. It is also found that the decline in religious
practice with age varies jointly across categories of religious experience
& parental control. [Source: SA]
Rigby, Ken and Tony R. Densley. 1985. “Religiosity and Attitude toward Institutional Authority among Adolescents.” Journal of Social Psychology vol. 125, pp. 723-728.
Abstract: Examined the
relationship between attitude to authority among 114 male and 113 female 14-27
yr olds attending Catholic high schools and (a) expressed belief in God and (b)
reported frequency of church attendance. No sex differences were found on
either of the indices of religiosity, but females were significantly more
proauthority than were males. For both sexes, Ss expressing a belief in God
were, as predicted, significantly more proauthority than were others. Reported frequency
of church attendance was positively related to proauthority attitudes for males
only, suggesting that attitudes toward authority may have different
implications for the sexes. [Source:
PI]
Silber, Tomas J. and Mary Reilly. 1985. “Spiritual and Religious Concerns of the Hospitalized Adolescent.” Adolescence vol. 20, pp. 217-224.
Abstract: 114 hospitalized
11-29 yr olds completed a Likert scale questionnaire on spiritual and religious
concerns. ANOVA was performed to correlate responses with sex, race, religion,
type of school, and severity of illness. A subgroup of Ss, those with more
serious disease, experienced intensified spiritual and religious concerns.
Religious concerns were more frequent among Blacks than Whites, Catholics than
Protestants, and parochial school students than public school students. In
response to the questionnaire, over 15% of the Ss requested further help.
Findings suggest that training in adolescent health care and the provision of
services to teenagers ought to include teaching in the area of spiritual and
religious values of teenagers, with emphasis on the hospitalized
adolescent. [Source: PI]
Sinclair, Donna. 1985. “Few and Determined: Teens Stay in the Church.” Ecumenism vol. 78, pp. 3-6.
Wilson, R. Ward. 1985. “Christianity-Biased and Unbiased Dogmatism's Relationships to Different Christian Commitments, Including Conversion.” High School Journal vol. 68, pp. 374-388.
Abstract: Administered a
Christianity scale, a short form of the Rokeach Dogmatism Scale, a prejudice
evaluation measure, and an optimism toward the future scale to 2 high school
populations totaling 289 students. One group consisted of youth and leaders of
Young Life, an interdenominational organization with a soft-sell evangelistic
and total life concern; the other group consisted of students from a rural
southern high school in a predominantly Baptist county. Using a 4-group design,
based on stated religious position and testing times, there were 10 major
conditions. Four groups were tested twice, 3 groups were pretested only, and 3
groups were posttested only. Findings show a negative relationship between
conservative Christian beliefs and both the dogmatism and nonbiased dogmatism,
but these beliefs were unrelated to Christianity-biased dogmatism. It appears
that religious people who are more interpersonally related with people outside
their religious circles tend to be less dogmatic than those who are not. An
information-processing framework is posited to explain the data. [Source: PI]
Barlev, M. 1984. “Cultural-Characteristics and Group Image of Religious Youth.” Youth & Society vol. 16, pp. 153-170.
Boyd, Mary Maxine. 1984. “The Religiosity of Black Youth in Transition.” M.a. Thesis, California State University Dominguez Hills.
Degelman, Douglas, Peter Mullen, and Nancy Mullen. 1984. “Development of Abstract Religious Thinking: A Comparison of Roman Catholic and Nazarene Youth.” Journal of Psychology and Christianity vol. 3, pp. 44-49.
Abstract: Administered a
research instrument, Thinking About the Bible, to 130 Roman Catholic and 105
Nazarene 3rd-22th graders to examine changes in religious thinking and to
explore the relationship between abstract religious thinking and literalism in
the interpretation of Bible stories. Results show that abstract religious
thinking increased over grade levels and that Roman Catholic Ss employed more
abstract responses, particularly at higher grade levels. Literalism was largely
independent of abstract religious thinking.
[Source: PI]
Levine, Saul V. 1984. “Alienated Jewish Youth and Religious Seminaries: An Alternative to Cults?” Adolescence vol. 19, pp. 183-199.
Abstract: Examines the
backgrounds, personalities, and experiences of 110 male (aged 18-29 yrs) North
American and other Western Jewish youth who left their families, lifestyles,
and their "charted courses" to enter orthodox religious seminaries in
Israel, called Yeshivot. The majority of the Ss were from conservative, reform,
or progressive Jewish homes or from secular-humanistic backgrounds. Some of the
Ss reported that their parents felt that they had "strayed," were
acting self-destructively, and were "losing" valuable time during
which they could be pursuing higher education, careers, or other middle-class
activities. Other Ss reported that their parents felt that they had done no
better than joining cults, although cults were pictured as being somewhat more
alien. It is suggested that these Ss gravitated to Israel because it was
inculcated, even subtly, into their consciousness, sometimes in spite of the
efforts of their parents. It is also suggested that much more could be learned
about religious cults and their members by using a more "palatable"
or acceptable option or model. [Source:
PI]
Nelsen, Hart M. and Alice Kroliczak. 1984. “Parental Use of the Threat "God Will Punish": Replication and Extension.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 23, pp. 267-277.
Abstract: Tested C. Z.
Nunn's (see record 1965-04617-001) thesis that, to secure compliance from their
children, powerless parents tell them that God will punish them if they
misbehave and that youths who subscribe to this belief have higher levels of
self-blame and greater feeling that they should be obedient than youths who do
not. Data were collected from 3,000 children in Grades 4-8. Findings show
little support for the hypothesis that powerless parents use this technique;
however, the belief that "God punishes youths who are bad" was
positively associated with self-blame and obedience. An additional variable
(subscribing in general to the image of God as punishing or angry) is proposed.
Findings agree with Nunn's linkage of parental coalition with God and the
child's benevolent image of God; the malevolent view was linked with a lower
level of internalization. [Source: PI]
Setiawani, Mary Go. 1984. “An Analytical Study of Perceived Childhood Familial and Religious Educational Background as Related to Religious Commitment in Adulthood.” Ed.d. Thesis, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Abstract: Problem. The
problem of the study was to investigate the relationship between the religious
commitment and the preceived childhood background of familial and religious
training of members from selected Southern Baptist churches in Tarrant County,
Texas. Procedure. The sampled subjects were 480 members selected at random from
eight Southern Baptist churches in Tarrant County, Texas. A questionnarie was
developed to measure the religious commitment of the subjects, childhood
backgrounds of family relationships, home religious training, and church
religious education. Each member to be sampled received the questionnaire
through the mail. The statistic formula of Chi-square k-sample was used to
determine whether religious commitment was dependent on childhood family
relationships, home religious training, and church religious education. The
Chi-square value was tested at .05 significant level. Findings and Conclusion.
The findings of the study are as follows: (1) Ninety-five percent of the
respondents had some religious training during their childhood, 87 percent had
some during their youth. (2) Fifty-three percent of the respondents made their
profession of faith during their childhood, 30 percent in their youth, and 17
percent in their adulthood. (3) Religious commitment is independent of the
perceived childhood family relationship. (4) Religious commitment is dependent
on the perceived home religious training during childhood. (5) Religious
commitment is independent of perceived childhood church religious education
(Sunday School). (6) Religious commitment is dependent on the combination of
childhood family relationships, home religious training, and church religious
education. [Source: DA]
Seyfarth, Leonard H., Knud S. Larsen, Kris Lamont, Chris Haasch, Tom Hale, and Dierk Haskin. 1984. “Attitude toward Evangelism: Scale Development and Validity.” Journal of Social Psychology vol. 123, pp. 55-61.
Abstract: In the
item-selection phase of a 2-part study, 130 18-37 yr old undergraduates
participated in the development of a Likert-type scale measuring attitude
toward evangelism. In the reliability and validity phase, 124 18-39 yr old
undergraduates participated. The final scale, consisting of 21 internally
consistent items, had high internal reliability and related highly to
fanaticism. Factor analyses were performed on the evangelism scale and S.
Putney and R. Middleton's (see PA, Vol 36:3GD85P) 6-item fanaticism scale. The
evangelism scale consisted of 2 major independent theoretical components:
"respect for the courage to stand up for one's beliefs," and
"interpersonal approach." A high evangelism score was associated with
relative youth, being of any religion (rather than none), being non-Catholic,
being Protestant, being of a high-outreach Protestant denomination, and being
active in religion. It did not discriminate on sex, class standing, or academic
major. Attitude toward evangelism appeared to be a multidimensional concept,
related to, but distinct from, fanaticism, and having specified relationships
with other variables. It is suggested that positive attitude toward evangelism
may be related to heightened adolescent role confusion. [Source: PI]
Short, Robert L. 1984. “Young Adults, the Popular Arts, and the Bible.” Explor vol. 7, pp. 61-69.
Strommen, Merton, John Forliti, and Mark Wickstrom. 1984. “The Myth of the Generation Gap.” Christianity Today pp. 14-19.
Thwaites, Hugh S. 1984. “Spiritual Adolescence - a Catholic Viewpoint.” Pp. 169-193 in The Spiritual Hunger of the Modern Child, edited by J. Bennett and C. Williams. Charles Town, W. Va.: Claymont Communications.
Tobacyk, Jerome, Mark J. Miller, and Glenda Jones. 1984. “Paranormal Beliefs of High School Students.” Psychological Reports vol. 55, pp. 255-261.
Abstract: 193 11th graders
were administered the Paranormal Belief Scale, which provides a total
Paranormal Belief score and scores on 7 paranormal subscales (Traditional
Religious Belief, Psi Belief, Witchcraft, Spiritualism, Superstition,
Extraordinary Life Forms, and Precognition). Ss' paranormal scale/subscale
scores were compared to those of 424 college students. Results indicate that,
in general, high school Ss were greater disbelievers in paranormal phenomena
than college Ss. High school Ss showed significantly less belief than college
Ss on the total Paranormal Scale and on the subscales Psi Belief, Extraordinary
Life Forms, and Witchcraft. The number of science courses taken by high school
Ss correlated significantly and inversely with total Paranormal Scale scores,
Traditional Religious Belief scores, and Psi Belief scores, and their
Traditional Religious Belief scores were significantly and directly associated
with GPA. High school Ss in the most accelerated academic track showed
significantly less belief on superstition than Ss in other tracks. [Source: PI]
Buhrmann, Hans G. and Maxwell K. Zaugg. 1983. “Religion and Superstition in the Sport of Basketball.” Journal of Sport Behavior vol. 6, pp. 146-157.
Abstract: Superstitious beliefs
and practices were compared with the church attendance and religious
affiliation of 529 12-22 yr old basketball players. Ss were administered a
40-item questionnaire in which Likert-type questions were divided into 7
categories: team ritual, game, pregame, prayer, coach, clothing and appearance,
and fetish. There were 118 Catholic, 182 Mormon, and 142 Protestant Ss. Results
support the notion that superstitious behaviors are positively related to
church attendance (i.e., the higher the frequency of church attendance, the
greater the occurrence of superstitious beliefs and practices). Mormon Ss
attended church significantly more frequently and were also significantly more
likely to subscribe to superstitions when compared to Catholics and Protestants.
Attempts are made to account for some of the differences in terms of the
religious environment in southern Alberta, where the study took place. [Source: PI]
Collins, Mary. 1983. “Is the Adult Church Ready for Liturgy with Young Christians?” Pp. 3-17 in The Sacred Play of Children, edited by D. Apostolos-Cappadona.
Dudley, Roger L. 1983. “Adolescent Heresy: The Rejection of Parental Religious Values.” Andrews University Seminary Studies vol. 21, pp. 51-59.
Abstract: Some adolescents
who have been reared in religious homes reject parental values and may even
make a permanent break with the
church. This phenomenon may perhaps be best
understood in the light of the adolescent experience. Like other life stages adolescence has its developmental tasks, among
which are the gaining of emotional and economic independence and the gaining of
a separate identity. Life in complex,
technological, Western society has prolonged these tasks at the same time that
youth are reaching physical and sexual maturity at earlier ages. The result often is that youth may seek a
symbolic statement of independence from a rejection of parental values. However, youth do want values--it is just that their sense of
personal integrity demands that they personally choose the values. Parents and
leaders work with these natural forces when they facilitate the feelings of
adulthood in the adolescent. This
involves giving responsibility, facilitating gradual
independence, allowing decision-making, teaching how to make decisions from principles, and modeling attractive and satisfying religion. [Source: RI]
Gorsuch, Richard L. and G. Daniel Venable. 1983. “Development of an "Age Universal" I-E Scale.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 22, pp. 181-187.
Abstract: Describes the
development of an adaptation of the Religious Orientation Inventory, a measure
of G. W. Allport's (1950, 1954, 1959, 1966) concept of extrinsic (E) and
intrinsic (I) meanings of religion, suitable for use with children and
adolescents. Three studies with 101 adults, 90 11th graders, and 257 5th and
7th graders indicated that there was no loss of quality with the age-universal
scale. The modified scale is suitable for children down to the 5th grade level
(although verbal ability needs to be taken into account) and permits the
investigation of developmental trends in religious orientations. [Source: PI]
Sloane, Douglas M. and Raymond H. Potvin. 1983. “Age Differences in Adolescent Religiousness.” Review of Religious Research vol. 25, pp. 142-154.
Abstract: Review of previous
research suggests that declining religiousness during adolescence may be more
pronounced for some groups than for others. Interview data from a national
probability sample of adolescents aged 13-18 (N = 1,121) conducted in 1975 are
analyzed to determine the effect of sex & denomination on the change with
age of religious orthodoxy & practice. While sex did not interact with age
in affecting either dimension, denomination interacted with age in affecting
both. Further, sex & denomination interacted with each other in affecting
both practice & orthodoxy. The decline in religiousness during adolescence
is seen to be more complex than was previously recognized. [Source: SA]
Spilka, Bernard and Greg Schmidt. 1983. “General Attribution Theory for the Psychology of Religion: The Influence of Event-Character on Attributions to God.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 22, pp. 326-339.
Abstract: General
attribution theory is presented and applied to the problem of
God-attribution. Hypothesizing that
religious attributions are a function of situational and stylistic factors,
this work deals with event-character and contextual influences that are aspects
of the former. 12 Short stories
picturing positive or negative social, economic, and medical occurrences
varying in importance were written. In
the initial experiment these were administered under personal or
impersonal-reference conditions to 135 respondents. The degree to which God was seen as involved in each happening
was assessed. A 4-factor ANOVA revealed
that God-attributions varied
meaningfully with event-domain, positive-negativeness, and event-importance. Significant interactions among these factors
and with the personal-impersonal condition were also observed. In the second experiment, an experimental
manipulation of a personal-impersonal experimental condition produced evidence
that more God-attributions result in personal than impersonal circumstances. An attempt to assess the effect of a church
vs. a nonchurch context resulted in negative findings. [Source: RI]
Archer, Sally L. 1982. “The Lower Age Boundaries of Identity Development.” Child Development vol. 53, pp. 1551-1556.
Abstract: 80 female and 80
male early and midadolescent 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th graders were interviewed
to document the lower age boundaries of ego identity development in the content
areas of vocational choice, religious beliefs, political philosophies, and
sex-role preferences. Frequency of the identity achievement status increased
significantly with increase in grade level. The diffusion and foreclosure
statuses were most evident at all grade levels. Frequency of identity status
differed by content area, with the majority of instances of identity
achievement in the vocational choice and religious beliefs content areas,
moratorium in vocational choice, foreclosure in sex-role preferences, and
identity diffusion in political philosophies. Similar patterns of development
were found for both sexes. [Source: PI]
Buhrmann, H., B. Brown, and M. Zaugg. 1982. “Superstitious Beliefs and Behavior: A Comparison of Male and Female Basketball Players.” Journal of Sport Behavior vol. 5, pp. 175-185.
Abstract: Examined the
superstitious beliefs and behavior of 272 male and 257 female basketball
players aged 12-22 yrs. Likert-type questions on superstitious beliefs and
behavior were divided into 7 categories; clothing and appearance, fetish,
pregame, game, team ritual, prayer, and coach. Results reveal little difference
as to number of superstitions endorsed and degree of superstitiousness between
male and female Ss. Findings contradict some previous research results. Gender
differences were, however, discovered in terms of the type of superstitions to
which they ascribed, differences that can, at least in part, be accounted for
by differential socialization practices of males and females. [Source: PI]
Critchfield, Arthur Barry. 1982. “Religious Achievement of Hearing Impaired Youth in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.” Ph.d. Thesis, Brigham Young University.
Abstract: The purpose of
this study was to assess the religious achievement levels of hearing impaired
youth in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in comparison with
that of other youth in the same Church. A test of L.D.S. religious knowledge
was developed and comparable groups of 72 deaf and 77 non-deaf subjects were
evaluated as to their knowledge of basic Church doctrine. Deaf subjects'
responses were evaluated to assess what factors lead to improved scores of
religious knowledge. Results of the study indicated that hearing impaired youth
scored significantly lower on the test of religious knowledge than similar
non-hearing impaired young people. Recommendations for improved programming and
service delivery were made. [Source:
DA]
Currie, Raymond, Leo F. Klug, and Charles R. McCombs. 1982. “Intimacy and Saliency: Dimensions for Ordering Religious Experiences.” Review of Religious Research vol. 24, pp. 19-32.
Abstract: Rodney Stark
proposed a taxonomy of religious experiences based on the degree of intimacy
between the human actor and the divine.
Those who report higher order experiences on the dimension of intimacy
should also report lower order experiences.
A logical extension of the taxonomy would suggest
that the higher order, more intimate experiences should also be more salient to the individuals. A test of these two hypotheses was conducted on a city-wide random sample of young adults, 15 to 24 years of age. There is support for the taxonomy, although not all experiences fit the model. The saliency of the experiences follows a different pattern. It is not determined by the higher order of the experience but rather by the cumulative effect of having more experiences. [Source: RI]
Dickinson, George E. 1982. “Changing Religious Behavior of Adolescents 1964-1979.” Youth and Society vol. 13, pp. 283-288.
Abstract: Data on religious
behavior were gathered through questionnaires administered to the tenth,
eleventh, & twelfth grades in 1964, 1974, & 1979 (N = 367, 432, &
459 Rs, respectively) in a northeast Tex community with a 1970 population of
5,000 & a racial composition of approximately 66% white & 33% black.
Chi-square, gamma, & Z tests were used in statistical analysis. Racial
desegregation of the high schools was effected in 1970. Previous studies had
revealed a general decrease in adolescent religious behavior in this community
from 1964 to 1974. The study of 1979 showed some evidence of a reverse trend.
The reversal of declining religious behavior was especially true for Ms (black
& white) in all three measures of religious involvement - f of church
attendance, f of Bible reading, & whether grace was said at mealtime. While
the decline for Fs was more subtle over the decade 1964-1974, the decline in
religious involvement generally continued in 1979. Although M religious
behavior for the two races is changing in the same direction over time, & F
behavior for both groups is going its way, the gap between the sexes tends to
have narrowed slightly since 1974. A curvilinear pattern in religious
involvement over the 15-year period exists for the Ms - both black &
white. [Source: SA]
Duvall, Henry. 1982. “Youth Demanding Change in the Black Church.” The Crisis vol. 89, p. 11.
Fullerton, J. Timothy and Bruce Hunsberger. 1982. “A Unidimensional Measure of Christian Orthodoxy.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 21, pp. 317-326.
Abstract: Describes the
conceptualization, development, and cross-validation of the 24-item Christian
Orthodoxy Scale. Eight studies involved samples of Canadian high school
students, university students, the parents of university students, and
Australian university students. Evidence is presented that the scale is
unidimensional, reliable, and valid.
[Source: PI]
Hoge, Dean R. and Ella I. Smith. 1982. “Normative and Non-Normative Religious Experience among High School Youth.” Sociological Analysis vol. 43, pp. 69-81.
Abstract: A sample of 451
Catholic, Baptist, and Methodist tenth-grade youth were asked about definite
religious experiences in their lives, and 58 percent reported them. Most took place in church services or at a
retreat or camp. The authors
categorized the experiences using the Elkind-Elkind and Stark typologies
and found that with one
additional category the Elkind-Elkind typology was apt. The "salvation or inspiration"
type is the most common, especially among the Baptists and Methodists. This type is normative in those
denominations, and church life encourages it.
The analysis of factors encouraging the experiences showed the necessity
of distinguishing normative from non-normative religious experiences, since
their determinants are different. The
former are encouraged in certain denominations, and their occurrence is
patterned. The latter are idiosyncratic
and unpatterned. [Source: RI]
Potvin, Raymond H. and Che Fu Lee. 1982. “Adolescent Religion: A Developmental Approach.” Sociological Analysis vol. 43, pp. 131-144.
Abstract: The relationship
between practice & internal religiousness (belief & experience) is
examined with 1975 interview data from a national probability sample of
adolescents (N = 1,121 aged 13-18). At ages 13-14 the influence of practice on
internal religiousness was found to be greater than the reverse process. At
ages 15-16 the influence of belief on practice is greater than the influence of
practice on experiential religiousness. At ages 17-18 the greater influence of
practice on internal religiousness is reestablished. The results are
interpreted in the context of a theory of religious development. [Source: SA]
Schab, Fred. 1982. “Early Adolescence in the South: Attitudes Regarding the Home and Religion.” Adolescence vol. 17, pp. 605-612.
Abstract: Summarizes the
perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs regarding religion and the home situation
of 751 8th graders (180 White males, 181 Black males, 92 White females, and 198
Black females) from 22 middle schools in Georgia. Differences attributable to
sex and race were evident. Living with both parents or with just one (this was
usually the mother for Blacks) was an obvious cause for perceptual
dissimilarities. Black mothers were seen as more restrictive than White
parents. White males claimed to have more social freedom than the other 3
groups. Black females conformed to their mothers' dictates yet more had run
away from home than their White counterparts, and more Black than White males
had considered doing so. Black males were more adamant about having fewer
children of their own and indicated that they would treat them differently from
the way they themselves were treated. The Black experience in the South was an
important factor in Black Ss' views on the home. Ss felt that many adults were
hypocritical in their religiosity, but they did not alter their childhood
ideals despite lapses in religious education. Religious traditions are still
very strong in the South, perhaps more so among Blacks than Whites. [Source: PI]
Stevenson, Robert M. 1982. “Children of the Parsonage.” Pastoral Psychology vol. 30, pp. 179-186.
Abstract: This article
reports on a retreat and survey done with twenty-three youth, all of whom were
children of clergy in the Louisville Annual Conference, the United Methodist
Church. It explores their opinions and
attitudes toward various facets of parsonage life, including general
satisfaction, parsonage moves, family and church expectations. It discusses the need for increased study of
parsonage children and outlines common features of their experience. [Source: RI]
Buhrmann, Hans G. and Maxwell K. Zaugg. 1981. “Superstitions among Basketball Players: An Investigation of Various Forms of Superstitious Beliefs and Behavior among Competitive Basketballers at the Junior High School to University Level.” Journal of Sport Behavior vol. 4, pp. 163-174.
Abstract: Examined the
superstitious beliefs and behaviors of male and female competitive basketball
players in urban junior and senior high schools, one college, and one
university in Lethbridge, Canada. Data were gathered from 310 athletes (158
males and 152 females; ages 12-22 yrs) by a specially designed questionnaire.
The independent variables of sociodemographic and athletic measurements were
compared by employing L. A. Goodman and W. H. Kruskal's (1954) gamma method of
association, with the dependent variables measuring beliefs and behavior in
various categories of superstition. Results reveal that 40% of the tested
superstitious beliefs and behaviors exhibited statistical significance. Results
also indicate the following: (a) females were more likely than males to
subscribe to superstitions; (b) age and measures of athletic participation
demonstrated a consistently positive relationship to superstitious beliefs and
practices; (c) a strong relationship was discovered between church attendance
and several prayer-related ritualistic beliefs and practices; (d) in the sport
of basketball, superstitions are prevalent; and (e) superstitious beliefs and
behaviors varied with sex, age, and various measures of athletic
involvement. [Source: PI]
Devonshire, Winfield J., Jr. 1981. “Two Models of Ministry: A Study of Confirmation Models and the Views of Lutheran Youth as to Their Church Identity.” Thesis, Lancaster Theological Seminary.
Abstract: The purpose of
this study was to seek clarity in the current Lutheran Church in America's
definition of confirmation. The study proceeded on the hypothesis that there is
correlation between a congregation's practice of confirmation and the
perceptions of youth regarding their identity and participation in that
congregation. The project identified two models of confirmation ministry on the
basis of predominate characteristics within that ministry. Eighth and ninth
grade youth from six congregations equally representing the two models
participated in the interviews. A content analysis of the interview responses
indicated certain tendencies in youth perceptions in relation to dominant
characteristics of the two models of confirmation ministry. [Source: RI]
Friesen, Barbara Kay. 1981. “Values and Recreational Interests of Thirteen to Fifteen- Year-Old Seventh-Day Adventist Youth Relevant to the Pathfinder Club Program in the State of Michigan.” Ph.d. Thesis, The University of Utah.
Abstract: A questionnaire
was administered to 235 thirteen to fifteen-year-old Seventh-day Adventist
(SDA) youth in Michigan. The subjects were selected from a random sample of SDA
churches in Michigan that sponsored both Pathfinder Clubs and church schools.
The purpose of the study was to determine the overall values and recreational
interests of thirteen, fourteen, and fifteen-year-old SDA youth relevant to the
Pathfinder Club program in the state of Michigan in comparison to Rokeach's
values survey. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov one-sample test was used to compare the
overall value ratings with a theoretical distribution of value ratings and the
overall recreational interest ratings with a theoretical distribution of
recreational interest ratings. All of the terminal and instrumental values
identified by Rokeach were considered important by the SDA youth. A Spearman
rank-order correlation showed a significant difference in the way the SDA
subjects and Rokeach subjects ranked the combined terminal and instrumental
values. The greatest difference was in the rank assigned salvation with the SDA
subjects ranking salvation higher than the Rokeach subjects. The
Kolmogorov-Smirnov one-sample test was used to compare the recreational
interest ratings with a theoretical distribution of recreational interest
ratings. Fifteen of the activities offered by the Pathfinder Club were
considered important by SDA youth. Eight of the activities were considered of
neutral importance. The Chi-square test was used to compare value and
recreational interest responses among the three age groups included in the
study. No significant differences existed in the stated values of thirteen,
fourteen, and fifteen-year-old SDA youth. Significant differences existed
between age groups in two recreational interests. Awards ceremonies and earned
awards were significantly more important to thirteen-year-olds than to fourteen
or fifteen-year-olds. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov two-sample test was used to
compare value and recreational interest responses between sexes, between
baptized and non-baptized SDA church members, between current Pathfinder Club
members and non-members, and between those who had never been Pathfinder Club
members and those who had at sometime been members. No significant differences
existed between the stated values of any of the comparison groups in relation
to the expected mean. However, a Spearman rank-order correlation showed a
significant difference between the rank orders assigned to the combined
terminal and instrumental values by SDA male and female subjects. A Spearman
rank-order correlation also showed a significant difference between the rank
orders assigned to the combined terminal and instrumental values by Rokeach
male and female subjects. Although a male-female dichotomy was indicated, a
Spearman rank-order correlation between SDA male and Rokeach male subjects and
between SDA female and Rokeach female subjects showed significant differences
in rank-orders assigned by each comparison group indicating different male-
female dichotomies. Several recreational interests showed significant
differences in the importance attached to them by SDA male and female subjects.
Female subjects attached significantly more importance to domestic skills,
discussing and learning, and developing personal talent. Male subjects attached
significantly more importance to building and repairing things. No significant
differences existed between the baptized and non-baptized SDA youth in their
recreational interests. Eight recreational interests were ranked significantly
more important by current Pathfinder Club members than by non-members. They
were camping and hiking, patriotic ceremonies, ceremonies, marching and drill,
awards ceremonies, nature and conservation, earned awards, and personal awards.
Three recreational interests, camping and hiking, ceremonies, and parties, were
ranked significantly more important by sometime members than by never-members.
Factor analysis determined nine values factors and seven recreational interest
factors in the data. Three significant canonical correlations were found among
values factors and recreational interests factors. [Source: DA]
Hauser, James. 1981. “Adolescents and Religion.” Adolescence vol. 16, pp. 309-320.
Abstract: Reviews research on
the forces that influence adolescents' decisions about moral questions, the
lack of appeal of traditional religions, and the popularity of alternate forms
of religion (e.g., cults) among members of this age group. It is suggested that
if the churches made a more conscious effort to reach youths and deal with
their problems, the church could provide more assurance and guidance for them
at a crucial time in their lives. However, it is first the parents'
responsibility to form a strong, supportive relationship with their children
that would make them more amenable to traditional religion and the associated
moral beliefs. [Source: PI]
Hoge, Dean R., Cynthia L. Luna, and David K. Miller. 1981. “Trends in College Students' Values between 1952 and 1979: A Return of the Fifties?” Sociology of Education vol. 54, pp. 263-274.
Abstract: Four identical
surveys carried out in 1952, 1968-69, 1974, and 1979 among men at Dartmouth
College and the University of Michigan depict
value
shifts in several areas. Privatism decreased from 1952 to 1968-69, then
increased again in the late 1970s. Traditional religious beliefs
were
relatively weak in the 1960s but gained in the late 1970s although church
attendance did not increase. Other-direction dropped from
1952
to the 1960s and changed little thereafter. Anxieties about deviant social
groups dropped sharply during the late 1950s and remained low.
Belief
in free enterprise ideology was strong in 1952, weak in the 1960s, and slightly
stronger again in 1979. Faith in the government and the
military
similarly fell during the 1960s but rose again in 1979. The changes in survey
findings are not traceable to changes in student selection at
the
two colleges; they represent broader value shifts among college-going youth. In
some respects there is the beginning of a return of the fifties,
but
not in areas involving personal freedoms, such as sexual behavior and
life-style. The demand for increased personal freedoms, begun in the
1960s, continues to rise. [Source: JS]
Huffhines Kelly, Linda Diane. 1981. “Family of Origin and Differentiation of Self of Selected Catholic Women: A Case Study.” Ed.d. Thesis, East Texas State University.
Abstract: Purpose of the
Study. The purpose of this study was to identify certain collective characteristics
and selected aspects of the original families of four Catholic nuns that might
have been related to their choice of a vocation to the religious life. Also
examined were each subject's differentiation of self from her family of origin
and her sense of self as an autonomous person. Procedure. To pursue this
investigation, the researcher conducted an extensive clinical interview with
each of the four subjects in approximately six two-hour individual sessions.
Upon completion of the clinical interview, each subject responded to the Whole
Family Questionnaire, the Family Characteristics Inventory, and the Internal,
Powerful Others, and Chance (IPC) Scale. The researcher also interviewed one of
each subject's siblings, who was willing to participate in this study as a
consultant. Three of the four siblings also responded to the Whole Family
Questionnaire and to the Family Characteristics Inventory. The taped interviews
were transcribed, edited, and summarized thematically by the researcher. Data
received from the Whole Family Questionnaire, the Family Characteristics
Inventory, and the IPC Scale were analyzed and summarized. All data collected
were reviewed by the researcher, who sought to understand the subjects and
their families of origin from a family systems perspective. Findings. Distinct
similarities and recurring patterns and themes were noted among the familes
studied. The following findings apply to each subject and family that was
studied for this research. (1) The father was dominant; he was the authority
figure. (2) The mother was a submissive wife who assumed the
"traditional" role of the woman. (3) The parents rarely praised the
children. (4) Affection was not expressed outwardly in the home. (5) There was
a special father-daughter bond. (6) The daughter had a symbiotic relationship
with her mother. (7) Religion and religious practices were valued in the home.
(8) Sex was not a topic for discussion in the home. (9) The subjects'
heterosexual relationships were minimal. (10) Home life was routine, scheduled,
and disciplined. (11) The socioeconomic level was of the low-middle or working
class. (12) The primary value in the home was hard work. (13) Infant deaths
occurred in the home. (14) Expiation of guilt was an unconscious motivating
factor in the subjects' choice of a religious vocation. Conclusions. Because
this study is idiographic in nature, with an N of four, and a goal to describe
rather than to generalize, only one overall conclusion was drawn. The
researcher believes, based on the findings of this study, that the family of
origin has a perceivable influence on a woman's choice of a religious vocation.
A clearer understanding of what motivates a woman to choose a vocation to the
religious life was obtained by looking at career choice from the perspective of
family systems theory. [Source: DA]
Kloepper, Howard W., Wilbert M. Leonard, and Lucy J. Huang. 1981. “A Comparison of the "Only Child" and the Siblings' Perceptions of Parental Norms and Sanctions.” Adolescence vol. 16, pp. 641-655.
Abstract: Used a 77-item
questionnaire to examine the extent to which 1,474 college students from
one-child or multiple-child families perceived that they had been regulated
during their last 2 yrs of high school by their parents. Specifically studied
were the following behavioral variables: academic achievement, alcohol
consumption, cigarette smoking, dating practices, driving privileges, athletic
participation, money-saving and spending habits, movie attendance, and
religious worship attendance. Cross-sectional analyses provided only weak
support for the hypothesis that only-children would be granted more autonomy
and would be less severely sanctioned by their parents than Ss with siblings.
Findings demonstrate that regardless of family size, the majority of Ss had
been given a great deal of freedom in the substantive areas investigated and
were rarely parentally sanctioned with physical punishment and/or withdrawal of
financial support. [Source: PI]
Mischey, Eugene J. 1981. “Faith, Identity, and Morality in Late Adolescence.” Character Potential: A Record of Research vol. 9, pp. 175-185.
Abstract: 32 18-22 yr olds
were interviewed regarding such issues as death, meaning-of-life, loyalties and
commitments, evil, symbol, guilt, and shame. Tapes of the 2-hr interviews were
rated by 2 judges for J. W. Fowler's (1977) "faithing" stage
descriptions and 7 general variables. Ss were also given an identity rating and
a score on a Kohlberg-type moral dilemmas questionnaire. Four groupings of Ss'
faith statuses were delineated that arranged themselves from youngest to
oldest. Faith stage, moral reasoning scores, and identity status were all
highly correlated. Results support a progression of identity status and faith
orientation followed by moral reasoning. Implications for religious education
are discussed. [Source: PI]
Nelsen, Hart M. and Raymond H. Potvin. 1981. “Gender and Regional Differences in the Religiosity of Protestant Adolescents.” Review of Religious Research vol. 22, pp. 268-285.
Abstract: Gender differences
on religiosity by region & denomination are assessed by means of a 3-way
analysis of variance. The data were collected in 1975 from a national
questionnaire sample of adolescents (N = 1,121); the analysis is limited to
Protestants grouped into churchlike, Baptist, & sectlike categories. Three
measures of religiosity were employed: personal-experimental religiosity,
religious practice, & fundamentalism. It was hypothesized that Fs would be
more religious than Ms on the more personal dimension, but not on the more
public or cultural measures (religious practice & fundamentalism). This
gender difference was expected for churchlike youth in the non-South &
South, & Baptist youth in the South. These expectations were fulfilled
except that churchlike Fs in the South did not score significantly higher on
the personal-experimental measure than did the Ms & in the South, Baptist
Fs were more likely to engage in religious practice than Baptist Ms. These
differences, as well as the interaction effect between sex & region in
predicting fundamentalism, are discussed. The review of literature & the
discussion relate gender differences in religiosity to regional &
denominational variation in sex-role definition, as well as to parent-child
interaction & the socialization process.
[Source: SA]
Sigal, John, David August, and Joseph Beltempo. 1981. “Impact of Jewish Education on Jewish Identification in a Group of Adolescents.” Jewish Social Studies vol. 43, pp. 229-236.
Abstract: It was
hypothesized that the failure of other studies to demonstrate any impact of
full-time Jewish education on Jewish identification over that provided by the
home was due to the students' not yet having achieved a capacity to think
abstractly. The impact of full-time Jewish education on Jewish identification
in adolescence, when this capacity emerges, was examined by comparing the
Jewish identification of two groups of students. Both had attended the same
secular, Jewish elementary school to the end of grade 6. Subsequently one group
attended a secular Jewish high school & the other regular high schools. In
the Jewish elementary & high schools, approximately 50% of the day was
devoted to Jewish studies. When the students were in grade 11, all were given
two copies of the Brenner Jewish Identification Scale (JIS), one to be
completed by them & one by their parents. Forty-three parent-student pairs
from the Jewish high school & 30 from the other high schools returned the
questionnaires, an overall return rate of 75%. In order to control for the impact
of home environment, families were divided into high & low Jewish
identification groups at the median of the total JIS score. Then they were
matched within the high & low groups. Children of the parents in each of
the groups were then compared on each of the separate JIS factors & on the
total score, using a 2-way analysis of variance. Those students who came from
families with a lower level of Jewish identification who attended the Jewish
high school had higher scores on Positive Group Cultural (p less than .001),
Positive Group National (p less than .001) factors, & on the total score
for Jewish identification (p less than .01). Those from families with a higher
level of Jewish identification who attended the Jewish school scored
significantly lower on the Positive Group Religious factor (p less than .01).
Regardless of the level of parental Jewish identification, public high school
students scored significantly higher on the Combating Anti-Semitism factor (p
less than .01). The first two sets of findings are attributed to the impact of
the school, the last to difference in the respective school environments.
All-day Jewish education can, therefore, have an impact, provided it is
continued into adolescence, when the capacity to think abstractly & to conceptualize
develops. [Source: SA]
Suziedelis, Antanas and Raymond H. Potvin. 1981. “Sex Differences in Factors Affecting Religiousness among Catholic Adolescents.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 20, pp. 38-51.
Abstract: Three factorially
derived aspects of religiousness--intrinsic, orthodoxy, practice--are examined
with indices of sex-role identity and interpersonal style. The data were analyzed separately for boys
(N=297) and girls (N=344) from several Catholic parochial schools. The result indicate that religiousness is
related to sex-role definition in boys,
but not in girls; conversely, interpersonal style is more predictive of
religiousness in girls. [Source: RI]
Francis, Leslie. 1980. “The Young Person's Religion: A Crisis of Attitude?” Scottish Journal of Theology pp. 159-169.
Abstract: The paper presents
a case for the study of attitudes toward religion among young people by means
of professionally constructed attitude scales (psychometrics). The results of two studies are
presented. Attention is drawn to: 1)
the positive effect of Roman Catholic and the negative effect of Church of
England primary schools on pupil attitudes,
2) the failure of new forms of agreed syllabus of religious education to
influence attitudes more favourably than the old form, and 3) the problem of the alienation of
young people from the churches.
[Source: RI]
Fullerton, John T. 1980. “An Investigation of Christian Orthodoxy and Right-Wing Authoritarianism in a Collegiate Population.” Thesis, University of Manitoba.
Hepburn, Lawrence R. 1980. “Adolescent Religious Attitudes.” Pp. 111-116 in Growing Edges in the Psychology of Religion, edited by J. Tisdale. Chicago: Nelson-Hall.
Nelsen, Hart M. and Raymond H. Potvin. 1980. “Toward Disestablishment: New Patterns of Social Class, Denomination, and Religiosity among Youth?” Review of Religious Research vol. 22, pp. 137-154.
Abstract: In the past,
mainline Protestant religious denominations profited from a positive relationship
between SC & religiosity, mainly through church attendance. Recent studies
suggest that affluent young adults with mainline denominated preferences
display low levels of church involvement, suggesting a trend toward
disestablishment or eventual weakening of the position of the mainline bodies.
Employing a national questionnaire sample of Protestant adolescents (N = 499),
a significant interaction is found between denomination & occupation in
predicting the personal-experiential dimension of religiosity among
non-Southerners. Furthermore, examination of the means on 3 dimensions of
religiosity indicates that mainline, white-collar youths exhibit low levels of
religiosity. Future research should examine these relationships over time,
since the religious climate can change; future studies should also consider the
processes by which disaffiliation or loss of interest in religion can
occur. [Source: SA]
Ohara, J. P. 1980. “A Research Note on the Sources of Adult Church Commitment among Those Who Were Regular Attenders During Childhood.” Review of Religious Research vol. 21, pp. 462-467.
Parker, Mitchell and Eugene L. Gaier. 1980. “Religion, Religious Beliefs, and Religious Practices among Conservative Jewish Adolescents.” Adolescence vol. 15, pp. 361-374.
Abstract: Among 22 male and
24 female Jewish 13-27 yr olds, religion was defined in terms of observance. Ss
completed a questionnaire composed of 3 scales: religious beliefs, religious
practices, and parental practices. A trivariate step-wise multiple regression
analysis showed the relationship between religious beliefs and religious
practices to be linear. Only parental practices significantly accounted for any
of the variance in the criteria variables, which also included Hebrew school
attendance, youth group attendance, and sex.
[Source: PI]
Rodman, Iris J. 1980. “A Comparison of Attitudes toward Religion, Ethnic Groups, and Racial Prejudice of High School Students in the American Cooperative School in La Paz, Bolivia, to Those High School Students in the Columbus High School in Columbus, Georgia.” Thesis, University of Alabama.
Tremewan, Chris. 1980. “What Youth Are Saying over the Shouting.” One World vol. 53, pp. 20-21.
Wiebe, Ken F. and J. Roland Fleck. 1980. “Personality Correlates of Intrinsic, Extrinsic, and Nonreligious Orientations.” Journal of Psychology vol. 105, pp. 181-187.
Abstract: Personality
profiles of 158 Canadian university freshmen were compared across religious
orientation and religious affiliation. The Religious Orientation Inventory and
the 16 PF were employed. It was hypothesized that the profiles of extrinsically
religious and nonreligious Ss would correlate significantly with each other and
that both would differ significantly from intrinsically religious Ss. Both
hypotheses were supported. The personality variables for which the hypotheses
were supported included superego strength, emotional sensitivity, and
liberalism. Differences were also found across religious affiliation for
certain personality variables. [Source:
PI]
Young, Michael and Seldon Daniels. 1980. “Born Again Status as a Factor in Death Anxiety.” Psychological Reports vol. 47, pp. 367-370.
Abstract: 320 rural high
school students completed the Death Anxiety Scale. A 3-way ANOVA yielded significant
main effects for race, sex, and born again status. Higher death anxiety was
exhibited by Blacks, females, and non-Christians than by Whites, males, and
Christians. [Source: PI]
Cremins, John J. 1979. “Perceptual Style and Religious Orientation as Indices of the Fear of Death in Junior High School Students.” Thesis, St John's University.
Fleck, J. Roland. 1979. “Research on Adolescent Religiosity.” Pp. 69-90 in Youth Education in the Church, edited by R. B. Zuck. Seoul, Korea: Word of Life Press.
Hoge, Dean R. and Gregory H. Petrillo. 1979. “Youth and the Church.” Religious Education vol. 74, pp. 305-313.
Abstract: We interviewed 451
tenth graders (age 15 and 16) who are children of Catholics, Southern Baptists,
and Methodists, to assess their church involvement and attitudes about the
church plus the determinants of each.
The principal determinants were parents' church attendance for their
church attendance; peer
pressures and types of leaders
for their participation in youth groups and attitudes toward youth groups; and
past religious education, types of leaders, and beliefs for their attitudes
toward the church. In fostering church
commitment among these youth, personal relationships have been foremost -
relationships with parents, peers, and church leaders. The Baptist youth had the strongest church
commitment due to several crucial denominational differences in religious
socialization and family life. [Source:
RI]
Raphael, Dennis. 1979. “Sequencing in Female Adolescents' Consideration of Occupational, Religious and Political Alternatives.” Adolescence vol. 14, pp. 73-80.
Abstract: In 2 studies on
how adolescent females deal with adolescent issues, it was observed that the 69
undergraduates (Study 1) and the 112 12th graders (Study 2) were not in the
same identity status (J. E. Marcia's Identity Status Interview) for the areas
of occupation, religion, and politics. It appeared that it was necessary for
female adolescents to have explored alternative courses of action in the
occupation area before they could consider possibilities in the religion area.
The exploration of alternative beliefs and plans was necessary in the religion
and occupation areas before alternatives could be explored in politics.
Reanalyses of data from the 2 studies indicated that this scaling sequence was
reliable. A suggestion of a horizontal decalage of successive applications of
cognitive structures to these areas of concern is discussed within a Piagetian
theoretical framework, as is the possibility that environmental variables
determined areas of exploration. An attempted synthesis of these 2 viewpoints
is presented. [Source: PI]
St. Clair, Sally and H. D. Day. 1979. “Ego Identity Status and Values among High School Females.” Journal of Youth and Adolescence vol. 8, pp. 317-326.
Abstract: To test the
hypothesis that adolescent females who are high in ego identity have high
interests in religious and political values, the relationship between the ego
identity status (determined by the Identity Status Interview) of 80 high school
females and their response to the Allport-Vernon-Lindzey Study of Values was
examined. Ss' identity in the achievement, moratorium, and foreclosure statuses
had higher religious value scores than did those in the diffusion status;
however, differences on political value scores were not found. Two-thirds of
the identity achievers came from homes disrupted by divorce or death of 1
parent, while less than 20% of the members of the other 3 statuses came from
broken homes. [Source: PI]
Zegans, Susan and Leonard S. Zegans. 1979. “Bar Mitzvah: A Rite for a Transitional Age.” Psychoanalytic Review vol. 66, pp. 115-132.
Abstract: Examined the
significance of the Jewish bar mitzvah ritual as experienced by 9 boys who
participated in the ceremony, and studied the interaction of social and
psychological factors that facilitated the maturational process. The bar
mitzvah is one of the few surviving rites to mark the entrance into adolescence
for a segment of the population, and it remains a ceremony that helps bind
family and friends in a search for a meaningful symbolic reconciliation of the
tensions between tradition and change.
[Source: PI]
Bardis, Panos D. 1978. “The Borromean Family and the Influence of Religion.” Journal of Comparative Family Studies vol. 9, pp. 231-241.
Abstract: According to the
author's Borromean theory, pro-family trends are balanced by anti-family ones,
with the former dominating. Data from 200 White students at 2 Catholic high
schools indicate that (a) increasing age was accompanied by diminishing
religiosity and increasing anti-family attitudes, (b) frequent church
attendance was associated with high religiosity and pro-family scores, and (c)
mothers' education influenced the offspring's family attitudes inconsistently,
but the children of less educated women were more religious. [Source: PI]
Brink, T. L. 1978. “Inconsistency of Belief among Roman Catholic Girls: Concerning Religion, Astrology, Reincarnation.” Review of Religious Research vol. 20, pp. 82-85.
Abstract: Religious attitudes of 227 junior and senior students at a Catholic girls high school
are examined. Students who expressed a
belief in astrology did not report religious attitudes which differed
significantly from the other students.
Those who expressed belief in reincarnation manifested only slight
differences in attitudes. Students
expressing a belief in astrology were more likely to express a belief in
reincarnation. These results were held to be inconsistent with cognitive
theories which stress the importance of attitude consistency. The author presents a functional perspective. Although these attitudes are structurally incompatible with each other, they serve similar functions for some adolescent girls: the provision of security in the face of confusion and uncertainty. [Source: RI]
Dudley, Roger L. 1978. “Alienation from Religion in Adolescents from Fundamentalist Religious Homes.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 17, pp. 389-398.
Abstract: Youth in
fundamentalist religious homes sometimes reject the faith of their
parents. What variables correlate with
alienation from religion in adolescents?
multiple regression analysis of 400 high school students indicated that
alienation from religion in Seventh-day
Adventist adolescents is correlated with the quality of their relationships
with parents and other religious authority figures, especially as these relationships concern religious
values. A strong relationship was also
found between alienation and inconsistency between profession and practice
reported by youth in the lives of their religious teachers. A moderate relationship was found between
alienation and the concept of religion held by the adolescent. [Source: RI]
Hoge, Dean R. and Gregory H. Petrillo. 1978. “Determinants of Church Participation and Attitudes among High School Youth.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion pp. 359-379.
Abstract: We interviewed 451
(Catholic, Southern Baptist, and Methodist) tenth graders in three
denominations. To identify determinants
of church attendance, church youth group participation, attitudes toward the
church, and attitudes toward church youth programs, predictor variables
included family factors, peer group pressures, program and leadership factors, and
beliefs. The principal determinants
were parents' church attendance for church attendance; peer pressures and types
of leaders for youth group participation and attitudes toward youth
groups; and past religious education,
types of leaders, and beliefs for
overall attitudes toward the church. In
fostering church commitment among the youth, personal relationships have been
foremost, relationships with parents, peers, and church leaders. The Baptist youth had stronger church
commitment and involvement than the others, a pattern explainable by
denominational differences on several crucial determinants. [Source: RI]
Ostow, Mortimer. 1978. “The Psychologic Determinants of Jewish Identity.” Pp. 311-333 in Perspectives on Jews and Judaism, edited by A. A. Chiel. New York: Rabbinical Assembly.
Wagner, Hilmar. 1978. “The Adolescent and His Religion.” Adolescence vol. 13, pp. 349-364.
Abstract: Addresses adolescent
attitudes, behavior, and conflicts related to religion and recommends ways to
make religion applicable to adolescent needs.
[Source: PI]
Cygnar, Thomas E., Cardell K. Jacobson, and Donald L. Noel. 1977. “Religiosity and Prejudice: An Interdimensional Analysis.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 16, pp. 183-191.
Abstract: Notes that the
multidimensional nature of prejudice and religiosity suggests that
contradictory relationships reported in the literature might stem from different
operationalizations of either or both variables. Eight dimensions of
religiosity and 4 of prejudice were measured with 307 White freshman and senior
high school students to determine if the relationship varies as a function of
the dimensions measured. Results indicate that ritual, knowledge, and orthodoxy
dimensions of religiosity were not related to any dimension of prejudice.
Fanaticism and importance, however, were negatively related to all 4 measures
of prejudice. Consequential religiosity, by contrast, was positively correlated
with all 4 measures. Results support the central hypothesis of this study,
i.e., that the relationship between religiosity and prejudice varies with the
dimension of religiosity measured, if not with the dimension of prejudice. [Source: PI]
Moore, Kathy and Sue Stoner. 1977. “Adolescent Self-Reports and Religiosity.” Psychological Reports vol. 41, pp. 55-56.
Abstract: Administered the
Brownfain Self-Rating Inventory and Religiosity Index to high school juniors,
46 males and 66 females. Correlations between scores on the 2 inventories were
significant for males but not for females. Ss were divided into high and low
groups on the Self-Rating Inventory (self-concept). The high group scores were
.5 standard deviation above the mean and the low group scores were .5 standard
deviation below. Mean differences on the Religiosity Index for the 2 groups
were significant for males but not for females. Results suggest that male
adolescents with positive self-reports score higher on religiosity than those
with low self-reports, but not female adolescents. [Source: PI]
Nelsen, Hart M. and Raymond H. Potvin. 1977. “The Rural Church and Rural Religion: Analysis of Data from Children and Youth.” Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science vol. 429, pp. 103-114.
Abstract: Focus is on Ru-Ur
differences in religiosity. Research done in the 1960's & 1970's indicated
differences only on the ideological (belief) dimension. Data from 2 1975
studies -- one involving children in Minnesota, & the other adolescents in
a national sample -- are reported, showing continuing Ru-Ur-metropolitan
differences in religious belief. There are higher rates of fundamentalism for
Protestants in the 1st 2 residential categories. For the 1st sample, the
relationship between SES & fundamentalism virtually disappears in the Ru
area. The importance of residential (& church) propinquity of SC is
suggested as an important intervening variable, & this brings the focus
full circle in terms of ecological vs structural & organizational
characteristics. The future of the Ru (small) church is discussed, as are
negative effects of inflation & the overall decline in national church
membership & participation, & the positive effects of church decentralization
as they impinge upon the Ru church.
[Source: SA]
Peatling, John H. 1977. “Religious Thinking in Adolescence.” Pp. 57-73 in Knowing and Helping Youth, edited by G. T. Sparkman. Nashville: Broadman Press.
Potvin, Raymond H. 1977. “Adolescent God Images.” Review of Religious Research vol. 19, pp. 43-53.
Abstract: Data gathered in a
1975 national probability sample of 1,121 adolescents aged 13 to 18 were used
in an attempt to discover the origin & nature of God images held during
youth. Ss were classified according to age, sex, & God image. Responses of
Ss believing in a personal God who both loves & punishes, a personal God
who only loves, & nonbelievers were analyzed by means of discriminant
function analysis with regard to six predictor variables: parental education,
parental religious practice, parental affection, parental control, self-esteem,
& years of religious education. Factors of parental religious practice
& years of religious education were found significant in distinguishing
between believers & nonbelievers, while factors of parental control &
parental education distinguished those believing in a loving-nonpunishing God
from the other two groups. The evidence supports current socialization &
parental image projection theories of God image formation. Self-esteem,
however, was found relevant only among older Fs. [Source: SA]
Savin Williams, Richard C. 1977. “Age and Sex Differences in the Adolescent Image of Jesus.” Adolescence vol. 12, pp. 353-366.
Abstract: An open-ended
questionnaire was administered to 274 adolescents between the ages of ten and
sixteen attending one of two adjacent, sex-segregated youth camps in north
central US. The questionnaire, intending to probe the ideological dimension of
religiosity, asked the adolescent to write a paragraph on his/her personal
image of Jesus, specifying aspects of his physical appearance, personality
attributes, & role or function in the world. The completed
questionnaires--blinded as to age & sex of Rs--were sorted by two judges
into three categories: "spiritual," "human," &
"doubt." Also, a detailed, word-by-word content analysis of the
physical, personality, & functional attributes ascribed to Jesus was
conducted. The data suggest that by the age of fifteen or sixteen there is an
increase in those who express doubt in the traditional image of Jesus &
that girls are slightly more devout & orthodox than are boys in their image
of Jesus. This doubting, however, does not reflect a massive rejection of the
traditional Jesus; he is still the same Jesus of the Biblical account to the
surveyed adolescents. Results are discussed in light of traditional
psychoanalytic theory of adolescence & recent empirical research. [Source: SA]
Soderstrom, Doug and E. Wayne Wright. 1977. “Religious Orientation and Meaning in Life.” Journal of Clinical Psychology vol. 33, pp. 65-68.
Abstract: Tested the general
hypothesis that a mature religious commitment should aid youth in their search
for meaning in life. A questionnaire was given to 427 college freshmen and
sophomores in 6 midwestern colleges. Results indicate that intrinsically
motivated Ss, committed Ss, and true believers had significantly higher Purpose
in Life Test mean scores than did extrinsically motivated Ss, uncommitted Ss,
and unbelievers. The results also indicate that religious integration (moral
commitment paired with spiritual commitment) is indicative of meaning in life.
It is concluded that a mature religious commitment should aid youth in their
search for meaning in life. [Source:
PI]
Vener, Arthur M., Mary Margaret Zaenglein, and Cyrus Stewart. 1977. “Traditional Religious Orthodoxy, Respect for Authority and Nonconformity in Adolescence.” Adolescence vol. 12, pp. 43-56.
Abstract: Previous studies
of youth cultures have failed to account for impact of moral & religious
beliefs on adolescent behavior. In Nov & Dec 1969, a pretested opinionnaire
containing 190 forced-choice items was administered to 4,220 students in grades
eight through twelve in three midwestern communities of differing SES. Traditional
religious orthodoxy & respect for authority represent viable social forces.
Beliefs dealing with respect for authority, which lack specificity in regard to
the institutional locus of authority, remain substantially unchanged with
increasing age. Several items concerning traditional religious orthodoxy &
respect for authority either did not show a consistent decline with increasing
age or showed only a slight decline. Commitment to these conventional beliefs
is inversely associated with nonconforming behavior. [Source: SA]
Blum, Alan H. 1976. “Children's Conceptions of Death and an after-Life.” Thesis, State University New York, Buffalo.
Cater, David A. 1976. “Personality and Demographic Correlates Associated with Conceptual Religious Thinking and Religious Orthodoxy in Children and Adolescents.” Thesis, Fuller Theological Seminary.
Chartier, Myron R. and Larry A. Goehner. 1976. “A Study of the Relationship of Parent-Adolescent Communication, Self-Esteem, and God Image.” Journal of Psychology and Theology vol. 4, pp. 227-232.
Abstract: Studied 84 10th
and 11th graders from a Christian high school. They were administered 3 tests
to measure the relationships of parental communication, self-esteem, and God
image: M. J. Bienvenu's Parent-Adolescent Communication Inventory, the
Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory, and a 5-item differential extracted from P.
Benson and B. Spilka's 13-item semantic differential developed for measuring
loving and controlling God images. Significant relationships were found between
parental communication and self-esteem, between self-esteem and God image, and
between practical communication and the adolescents' image of God. [Source: PI]
Dickinson, George E. 1976. “Religious Practices of Adolescents in a Southern Community: 1964-1974.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 15, pp. 361-363.
Abstract: Religious
practices of black & white adolescents in 10th, 11th, & 12th grades in
a high school in a northeast Tex community were measured between 1964 &
1974 by the variables: f of church attendance, f of Bible reading, & grace
at meals. Questionnaires were administered to 367 adolescents in 1964 & 432
in 1974. 3-way analysis by variance (race x time x sex) of the data shows
adolescent religious involvement to be declining, especially with respect to
M's. Differences in religious practices were greater for sex than they were for
race in church attendance & Bible reading, but greater for race in the
saying of grace at meals. [Source: SA]
Garrison, Charles E. 1976. “Effect of Participation in Congregational Structures on Church Attendance.” Review of Religious Research vol. 18, pp. 36-43.
Abstract: The structure of
congregations that college students attended prior to college is examined for
for effect upon church attendance rates while in college. Specifically, the division of labor in the
congregation was measured as was also
the extent to which the individual held
positions in the division of labor.
The findings reveal that the division of labor itself does not affect
attendance rate. However, holding
positions in the division of labor does have some effect on the attendance rate in college even when
rate of high school church attendance is controlled. In comparing positions held in the division of labor with
participation in church sponsored youth activities, a greater effect on church
attendance was derived from the holding of positions in the congregational
division of labor. [Source: RI]
Levine, Saul V. and Nancy E. Salter. 1976. “Youth and Contemporary Religious Movements: Psychosocial Findings.” Canadian Psychiatric Association Journal vol. 21, pp. 411-420.
Abstract: Studied 106
members of fringe religious groups, interviewing them at length (usually in
Toronto) about their reasons for joining the group. Of the Ss, 55 were male, 51
female; median age was 21.5 yrs; most were middle-class. Most said that they
joined the cult in a search for meaning in their lives. [Source: PI]
Potvin, R. H., D. R. Hoge, and H. M. Nelsen. 1976. Religion and American Youth: With Emphasis on Catholic Adolescents and Young Adults. Washington, DC: U.S. Catholic Conference.
Sévigny, Robert. 1976. “The Religious Experience of Youth in Quebec.” Pp. 485-496 in Religion in Canadian Society, edited by S. Crysdale and L. Wheatcroft. Toronto: Macmillan of Canada.
Abstract: Abridged from
Sociology Canada: readings, ed by Christopher Beattie and Stewart Crysdale,
Toronto: Butterworth, 1974. Previously published as "La conception de
l'exp‚rience religieuse" in Sociologie et Soci‚t‚s, vol 1, no 1, May 1969,
pp 7-21 [Source: RI]
Stewin, L. L. 1976. “Integrative Complexity: Structure and Correlates.” Alberta Journal of Educational Research vol. 22, pp. 226-236.
Abstract: A battery of
complexity tests and measures of proposed correlates of complexity was
administered to 100 11th-grade students. Data reveal 5 factors which are
interpreted as Intradimensional Discrimination, Indiscriminately Pro-Religious
Response, Religious Rejection, External Dependence and Integrative Complexity.
Although data lend some support to the model of integrative complexity as
proposed by H. M. Schroder et al (1967), the findings are perhaps better
illustrative of the present lack of well defined measures in this area. [Source: PI]
Batson, C. Daniel. 1975. “Rational Processing or Rationalization? The Effect of Disconfirming Information on a Stated Religious Belief.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology vol. 32, pp. 176-184.
Abstract: Cognitive
dissonance theory assumes that man is a rationalizing animal, actively
defending himself by means of distortion and denial against information which
contradicts deeply held beliefs. In contrast, recent critiques of dissonance
theory by D. J. Bem (1967) and others picture man as a rational, if fallible,
information processor. A study is reported in which 50 adolescent female high
school students were given a chance to commit themselves publicly to a
religious belief and were then faced with information which seemed to disconfirm
that belief. Consistent with dissonance interpretations of earlier field
studies, Ss who both expressed belief and accepted the veracity of the
disconfirming information subsequently expressed a significant increase in
intensity of belief. This reaction was not found among Ss who either had not
expressed initial belief or had not accepted the veracity of the disconfirming
information. Possible limitations on the generality of these results are
emphasized. [Source: PI]
Boyd, George N. 1975. “The Relation of Admission to the Eucharist to Confirmation.” Pp. 83-100 in Trinity Univ Studies in Religion, Vol 10, edited by F. Garcia-Treto. San Antonio, Tex.: Dept. of Religion and Philosophy.
Captain, Philip A. 1975. “Effect of Positive Reinforcement on Comprehension, Attitudes, and Rate of Bible Reading in Adolescents.” Journal of Psychology and Theology vol. 3, pp. 49-55.
Abstract: Twenty-seven
students from a high school Sunday School department were randomly assigned
to one of three groups, money reinforcement
group, verbal reinforcement group, and
control group. The purpose of
this experimental procedure was to evaluate the effect of two different types
of positive
reinforcement
upon the rate of daily Bible reading behaviors, personal attitudes related to those behaviors, and
comprehension of what has been read in this sample of adolescents. The major finding of this study was the general effectiveness of money as a
reinforcer for this group of adolescents.
Money given as a reward for reading by the parents was able to
significantly increase the Bible
reading of the subjects as well as positive attitudes toward themselves in
relation
to their Bible reading. But, verbal
praise given as a reward for reading by the parents had no significant effect
on the rate of Bible reading or on the attitudes of the young people toward
reading. One explanation is that verbal
praise as a social reinforcer might be confounded during adolescence with
the adolescent's movement toward establishing independence from his parents in a way that money as a reinforcer does not. [Source: RI]
Damrell, Joseph D. 1975. “Improvisational Youth Groups and the Search for Identity: A Study of an Urban Religious Sect in the Youth Culture.” Religious Education vol. 70, pp. 438-439.
Leonhart, Joan S. 1975. “The Youth Religious Movement.” M.A. Thesis, California State University Fullerton.
Lergessner, James G. 1975. “Youth Cultures and Youth Movements: Some Considerations of Their Relevance.” Journal of Christian Education Papers vol. 52, pp. 58-61.
Montgomery, S.M. and R.L. Montgomery. 1975. “Religious Practice and Orthodoxy among Catholic Students as a Function of Parents' Beliefs and Religious Training.” Psychological Reports vol. 37, p. 706.
Rogers, Martha L. 1975. “A Fundamentalist Church as an Autonomous Community and Its Relationship to the Larger Community.” Journal of Psychology and Theology vol. 3, pp. 210-215.
Abstract: Suggested that a
small fundamentalist church can be defined as an autonomous community meeting
many of its own needs. A questionnaire was used to study intra-community
relationships, goals, and interaction with the larger community. The hypothesis
of autonomy with little exchange with the larger community was confirmed while
their primary goal, identified as bringing others to Christ, was seen to be
thwarted by separatism. An individual's role in the church was largely
predictable by sex, age, and marital status. Adolescents' responses suggested
that neither their needs for spiritual guidance nor their social needs were
being adequately met. [Source: PI]
Whiteman, Raymond G. 1975. “Analysis of the Relationship between Selected Interpersonal and Institutional Variables and the Value Systems of Youth.” Religious Education vol. 70, pp. 442-443.
Williams, Mavis L. 1975. “Children's Concepts of God and Self: Developmental Sequences.” Thesis, University of Texas, Austin.
Zaenglein, Mary M., Arthur M. Vener, and Cyrus S. Stewart. 1975. “The Adolescent and His Religion: Beliefs in Transition, 1970-1973.” Review of Religious Research vol. 17, pp. 51-60.
Abstract: A survey of
orthodox beliefs of adolescent boys & girls between the ages of 13 & 17
in the same community over a 3 year period (1970-73) showed an overall increase
in religiosity. The instrument used in the survey was a group-administered,
pretested questionnaire. Despite the general decline in orthodoxy with
increasing age, occasional upswings occur. Large numbers of conversions or
defections are not apparent at any specific age level. The orthodox index
consists of interrelated items which are not hierarchically arranged. Agreement
with doctrinal items over the 3 year period increased, reflecting a resurgence
in spiritualism. The convergence in responses of boys & girls to the orthodox
items parallels similar findings in other attitudinal & behavioral areas.
The orthodoxy index offers a basis upon which standardized instruments can be
developed enabling scholars to more accurately ascertain trends in religious
beliefs over time. [Source: SA]
Adler, Moshe. 1974. “Alienation and Jewish Jesus Freaks.” Judaism vol. 23, pp. 287-297.
Coursey, Robert D. 1974. “Consulting and the Catholic Crisis.” Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology vol. 42, pp. 519-528.
Abstract: Conducted 3
studies to explore some of the dimensions of the present crisis facing the
Catholic church. A scale was developed to assess the liberal-conservative
nature of this conflict. Study 1, using Ss in both liberal and conservative
parishes (N = 678), found that although a generalized liberal-conservative
dimension exists, 6 factors emerged from factor analysis: Concerns with
Authority, the Open-Closed Nature of the Catholic Community, Marriage Issues
(e.g., birth control), Church Regulations, and Styles of Worship, and the
Church's Involvement in Sociopolitical Issues. The liberal-conservative
religious conflict appeared to function like other social attitudes in that
conservatism was related to greater age and less education. Study 2
investigated the cognitive dimensions of the conflict among 486 9th and 12th
graders. Liberal religious attitudes were associated with degree and amount of
liberal religious education and with achievement, motivation, and intelligence
within a liberal context. A strong cognitive component to the
liberal-conservative conflict was thus established for younger populations.
Study 3 compared 98 pairs of liberal and conservative subjects matched on sex,
age, education, and income and still found profound differences on the
liberal-conservative scale. [Source:
PI]
Krishnan, L. 1974. “Attitude Structure and Change: An Experimental Study.” Psychologia: An International Journal of Psychology in the Orient vol. 17, pp. 6-15.
Abstract: Measured attitudes
toward religion (taken in the broadest sense). Included were valences of
religious attitude, congruence-incongruence of attitude change, and sex
differences in relation to these 2 factors. 3 hypotheses were tested. Ss were
110 16-22 yr old undergraduates, most of whom were Hindus. A Likert-type
religious attitude scale was used. On the basis of scores obtained, Ss were
classified into 6 valence groups. Results indicate that positivist males were
significantly more likely to change than negativist males and that males and
females were equally likely to change.
[Source: PI]
Thompson, Andrew D. 1974. “Open-Mindedness and Indiscrimination Antireligious Orientation.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 13, pp. 471-477.
Abstract: G. W. Allport and
J. M. Ross's Religious Orientation Scale has been widely criticized for lack of
conceptual clarity. The present research employs the scoring technique devised
by R. Hood (see record 1972-24774-001) which allows for the identification and
measurement of 4 rather than 3 categories of religious orientation. The new 4th
category is labeled "indiscriminate antireligious orientation." Data
were collected from 532 adolescents (and their parents) attending Catholic
parochial and Sunday schools. Using the Rokeach Dogmatism Scale, analysis
showed the indiscriminately antireligious to be the most open-minded of the 4
categories of religious orientation, and to be significantly more open-minded
than the extrinsics and the indiscriminately proreligious. Caution is urged in
interpreting Hood's procedure for scoring the Religious Orientation Scale, and
questions are raised concerning the validity of the scale when used with
Catholic Ss. [Source: PI]
Weigert, Andrew J. and Darwin L. Thomas. 1974. “Secularization and Religiosity: A Cross-National Study of Catholic Adolescents in Five Societies.” Sociological Analysis vol. 35, pp. 1-23.
Abstract: A discussion of a
study testing the hyp that: The more Ur'ized & industr'ized the society
& the lower the cultural importance of religion, the lower the degree of
member's traditional religiosity, with the exception of religious knowledge
which is expected to be higher. Data were obtained from 12 purposive samples of
1,071 M & 94 F adolescents, Mc & Catholic, attending HSch's in each of
6 cities: Bonn, Germany; New York; St. Paul, Minn.; San Juan, Puerto Rico;
Merida, Yucatan; & Seville, Spain. 5 dimensions of religiosity measured
were: (1) traditional belief, (2) religious experience, (3) religious practice,
(4) religious knowledge, & (5) religious consequences. Results tend to
corroborate secularization theorizing, but with important diff's, eg, on the
belief & practice dimensions if compared with adult samples, & the
knowledge & experience dimensions if compared with the a priori continuum.
Alongside cross-nat'l variations in the degree of religiosity, a consistent
ranking of the associations between pairs of dimensions suggests a similar
structure with belief as the keystone within individual religiosity across
societies. In light of the similar structure, the weakening of traditional
belief in the more modernized societies presages powerful changes in the entire
configuration of traditional individual religiosity within Catholicism. [Source: SA]
Benson, Peter and Bernard Spilka. 1973. “God Image as a Function of Self-Esteem and Locus of Control.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 12, pp. 297-310.
Abstract: Predicted that a
believer's level of self-esteem and his degree of locus of control will
influence his description and definition of God. 23 items selected from S.
Coopersmith's 1967 list of 50 items measuring self-esteem and Rotter's
Internal-External Control Scale were administered to 128 male Catholic high
school students. Self-esteem was positively related to loving, accepting God
images and negatively related to rejecting images. Locus of control was
unrelated to controlling beliefs. It is suggested that self-esteem may be a
major determinant of God images and that results have important implications
for studying the dynamics of personal religion. [Source: PI]
Currie, Raymond Francis. 1973. “Religion and Images of Man among Calgary Youth.” Ph.d. Thesis, Fordham University.
D'Abreo, Desmond A. 1973. “Youth and Faith.” Afer vol. 15, pp. 206-217.
Gecas, Victor, Darwin L. Thomas, and Andrew J. Weigert. 1973. “Social Identities in Anglo and Latin Adolescents.” Social Forces vol. 51, pp. 477-484.
Abstract: Examined social
identities, conceptualized as self-designations and measured by the Twenty
Statement Test, for samples of high school adolescents in 3 societies: the
United States, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. 4 identities (IDs) were explored in
terms of salience, frequency, and valence: gender, religion, family, and peer.
For both males and females in Latin and Anglo cultures gender emerged as the
most prominent ID. Religious IDs were more frequent for Catholic adolescents.
The strongest cultural difference was found with respect to negative religious
IDs: these were significantly more frequent for Anglo adolescents. Positive
gender and family IDs were more frequent for Latin adolescents, while peer IDs
were slightly more common self-designations for Anglos. These tendencies were
generally in the expected direction. Social and cultural differences between
the Anglo and Latin societies were considered as explanations for variations in
adolescent ID structures. (20 ref.)
[Source: PI]
Henry, Carl F. H. and et al. 1973. Quest for Reality: Christianity and the Counter Culture. Downers Grove Ill: Inter-Varsity Pr.
Abstract: Some clinical
sketches of the youth culture, A M Nicholi. Selfhood and the protests of youth,
J Daane. The loss and recovery of the personal, J M Houston. The self and the
community, D E Trueblood. A hard look at the church, D Carley. The failure of a
religious subculture, D D Feaver. Marcuse, Reich and the rational, R H Nash.
Reason and historical reality, A F Holmes. The counter culture: a flight toward
reality?, G I Mavrodes. The Christian view of work, J Scanzoni. The Christian
view of work: some implications, V E Anderson. Christian perspectives on work
and leisure, D O Moberg. Some aspects of the counter culture, J W Snyder. The
secular prophets and the Christian faith, C H Pinnock. The thrust of the
counter culture, M Westphal. The search for reality, C D Linton. What is man on
earth for?, C F H Henry. [Source: RI]
Shea, F. X. 1973. “Reason and the Religion of the Counter-Culture.” Harvard Theological Review vol. 66, pp. 95-111.
Thompson, Donald D. 1973. “A Study of the Relationship of Rokeach's Dogmatism with the Religious Orientation and Religious Orthodoxy of Catholic High School Students and Their Parents.” Thesis, Catholic University of America.
Whiteman, Raymond Gerard. 1973. “An Analysis of the Relationship between Selected Interpersonal and Institutional Variables and the Values Systems of Youth.” Ph.d. Thesis, University of Notre Dame.
Dache, Marguerite. 1972. “The Lord's Apparitions and the Resurrection: Research into the Attitudes of Adolescent Girls Receiving Religious Instruction.” Pp. 181-188 in Death and Presence, edited by A. Godin. Brussels, Lumen: Vitae Press.
Fredrickson, L. C. 1972. “Value Structure of College Students.” Journal of Youth and Adolescence vol. 1, pp. 155-163.
Abstract: An investigation
of value orientations & perceived value sources in 4 domains: fam, educ,
ethical situations, & religious beliefs. What was sought was (1) the nature
of student att's toward specific value situations, & (2) student perception
of the relative amount of influence of various soc agencies in shaping values.
The sample consisted of undergraduates enrolled in classes in educ'al psychol
at the U of Iowa, & freshman & senior students living in residence
halls at Coe Coll. 415 students participated in the project, 312 men & 283
women. In general, the results did not support the findings of a
"degeneration of values in a majority of Coll students" reported in
previous published res. That is, students seem to still recognize the
importance of fam, educ, & religion. In fact, the findings do support
recent res which indicates that Coll students have a high positive
identification with their fam's (ie, esp with parental values). [Source: SA]
Friedman, Samuel R. and John E. Pierce. 1972. “Religion and the American Youth Movement.” Paper presented at American Sociological Association (ASA), 1972.
Gobuyan, Cordelia Alasa. 1972. “A Study of the Relationship between the Economic Status of Certain Youth and Adults and Their Belief in a Benevolent God.” Ph.d. Thesis, The American University.
Jacks, Irving. 1972. “Religious Affiliation and Educational, Political and Religious Values of College Freshmen and Sophomores.” Adolescence vol. 7, pp. 95-120.
Abstract: An inventory
covering educ'al, pol'al & religious values & att's was admin'ed to 337
freshmen & sophomores at the Ogontz Campus of Pennsylvania State U.
Responses of 4 subgroups--Protestant, Roman Catholic-parochial Sch, Roman
Catholic-public Sch, & Jewish--were compared. Intergroup similarities far
exceeded divergences. Coll educ was perceived as most relevent to civic &
vocational area of life, least to primary interpersonal relationships. Little
change in religious or pol'al outlook was acknowledged, although some tendency
to pol'al liberalization was suggested. Protestants resemble most closely the
total group norm. There was a noticeable diff in att's & values between the
2 Catholic subgroups, related to whether they had gone to public or parochial
secondary Sch's. Jews were most occup'ly oriented, most liberal pol'ly, most
rejecting of formal religion, but most adhering to their own religious
affiliation. [Source: SA]
Luz, Ehud. 1972. “Between Necessity and Will--Kibbutz Youth Discuss Their Jewishness.” Immanuel vol. 1, pp. 95-95.
Mader, Paul Douglas. 1972. “Residential Background and Religious Socialization: An Examination of College Student's Beliefs and Practices.” Paper presented at Rural Sociological Society (RSS), 1972.
Rackover, Sam S., Yoel Yanon, and Rivka Arad. 1972. “Religious Observance among Girl Pupils in Religious Schools.” Immanuel vol. 1, pp. 85-87.
Robbins, Thomas and Dick Anthony. 1972. “Getting Straight with Meher Baba: A Study of Mysticism, Drug Rehabilitation and Postadolescent Role Conflict.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 11, pp. 122-140.
Weigert, Andrew J. and Darwin L. Thomas. 1972. “Parental Support, Control and Adolescent Religiosity: An Extension of Previous Research.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 11, pp. 389-393.
Abstract: Investigated
previous empirical findings that parental control and support are jointly
related to religiosity among urban Catholic adolescents. A questionnaire
administered to the entire population of 12-18 yr. old Mormons (N = 44) in a
small, western United States university town yielded similar results. [Source: PI]
Beard, Roger Stanton. 1971. “A Study of Decisions for Church-Related Vocations Made in Selected Youth Camps Related to the Christian Churches from 1960-1970.” D.r.e. Thesis, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Hampe, Gary D. 1971. “Interfaith Dating: Religion, Social Class and Premarital Sexual Attitudes.” Sociological Analysis vol. 32, pp. 97-106.
Hepburn, Lawrence R. 1971. “Religion in the Social Studies: The Question of Religious Attitudes.” Religious Education vol. 66, pp. 172-179.
Abstract: Systematic
information concerning adolescents' views towards religion is very limited,
though at least 1 study reported as early as 1900 perceptively related the general
nature of adolescence to an undefined sense of incompleteness. Religious
interest ranks high among adolescent students but is not nearly so marked among
nonstudent peers. Conflict between literal religious teachings and scientific
views of the world appears to be implicated in adolescent student concern over
religion. Since commitment has many dimensions, it poses measurement
difficulties. Some investigators define dimensions of religion as belief,
practice, experience, knowledge, and consequence or effect in everyday life.
Development of valid approaches to the academic study of religion can provide
expanded educational opportunities since religion elicits attitudinal responses
from people whether or not they are "religious." [Source: PI]
Schreiber, Barry. 1971. “Youth and the Irrelevance of the Church.” Reformed Review vol. 24, pp. 110-112.
Appleyard, Robert B., Arthur S. O'Brien, and John Hardwick. 1970. “Religious Attitudes of Youth.” Pp. 139-147 in Today's Youth and Moral Values, edited by J. Douglas. New York : Academy of Religion and Mental Health: Academy of Religion and Mental Health.
Barron, Frank and Harben B. Young. 1970. “Rome and Boston: A Tale of Two Cities and Their Differing Impact on the Creativity and Personal Philosophy of Southern Italian Immigrants.” Journal of Cross Cultural Psychology vol. 1, pp. 91-114.
Abstract: Various
psychological tests and questionnaires were administered to 95 Boston
adolescents whose grandparents had migrated from Southern Italy around 1900 and
125 similar adolescents in Rome. The Boston Ss were found to be more
religiously orthodox and socially conservative. The Rome group was also higher
in ideational fluency, originality, and flexibility, though not in
intelligence. [Source: PI]
Cohen, Joseph Isadore. 1970. “Group Membership and a Belief System: A Study of the Relationship between Membership in a National Jewish Religious Youth Organization and the Religious Attitudes of Its Membership.” Ed.d. Thesis, New York University.
Friedman, Maurice and et al. 1970. “Youth Alienation from and Protest against the Establishment and Middle Class Culture Including Church and Synagogue.” Religious Education vol. 65, pp. 165-170.
Fung, Raymond. 1970. “Impresssions of the Religious Attitudes of Young Industrial Workers.” Ching Feng pp. 25-33.
Hendrix, John Dillard. 1970. “An Examination of Adolescent Religious Crises in Relationship to the Church.” Ph.d. Thesis, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.
Light, Harriett K. 1970. “Attitudes of Rural and Urban Adolescent Girls toward Selected Concepts.” Family Coordinator vol. 19, pp. 225-227.
Abstract: Examined the
attitudes of 164 rural and 161 urban adolescent girls toward family, religion,
peer groups, premarital sex, ethnic prejudice, morality, and education. Ss were
matched on age (16-17 yr. old), grade in high school (juniors-seniors) and
socioeconomic status (middle class). Each S was given a questionnaire
consisting of 45 statements with 5 choices for responding to each. Data were
analyzed using chi-square. Results show highly significant differences between
rural/urban girls toward family, religion, morality, premarital sex, and
education: (a) family and religion are more likely to influence attitudes of
rural than urban girls; (b) rural girls continue to accept conventional ethical
standards, urban girls are more receptive to new morality; and (c) rural girls
place greater value on education than do urban girls. [Source: PI]
Mahoney, Robert Joseph. 1970. “Mid-American Catholic Youth: Secular or Sacred?” Ph.D. Thesis, University of Missouri - Columbia.
Stewart, Charles W. 1970. “Adolescent Religion.” Review of Religious Research vol. 12, pp. 54-55.
Ash, Roberta T. 1969. “Jewish Adolescents' Attitudes toward Religion and Ethnicity.” Adolescence vol. 4, pp. 245-282.
Abstract: "Faith in
knowledge applied to human progress and potentially springing from any human
being is the central tenet of the Ss' sense of Jewishness; despite their claim
that Jewish identity is based on religion, it seems really to be based on the
belief in a universal contribution (humanistic, applied, rational and
meliorative knowledge) made by a unique and persecuted people." [Source: PI]
Bahador, Darius and Addison W. Somerville. 1969. “Youth at the Crossroads: A Comparison of American and Iranian Adolescence.” Adolescence vol. 4, pp. 1-18.
Abstract: The most
conspicuous differences between American and Iranian cultures are due to the
more rigid religious traditions in Iran . . . . Prohibited heterosexual
relationship before marriage, class differences, financial barriers, scarcity
of universities and job opportunities, are the main sources of frustration for
Iranian adolescents . . . . The Iranian adolescent has the advantage of having
learned greater self-discipline, and having a firmer relationship with his
parents and family members on whom he can rely when in need. [Source: PI]
Conley, William H. 1969. “Do Adolescents Have Faith?” Catholic School Journal vol. 69, p. 10.
Abstract: Summarizes
questionnaire results from 1300 diocesan high school seniors. The detailed
questionnaire sought "accurate, comprehensive, and current"
information on the students in 2 areas: selected characteristics of families,
and certain attitudes and behavior attitudes toward matters pertaining to
religion. Findings indicate the "majority of the students are the oldest
and 2nd oldest sons and daughters of middle class and upper socioeconomic
levels." Almost 75% of the students noted omission of important subjects
from a religion course, and indicated a desire for greater knowledge. [Source: PI]
DeBord, Larry W. 1969. “Adolescent Religious Participation: An Examination of Sib-Structure and Church Attendance.” Adolescence vol. 4, pp. 557-570.
Abstract: Studied adolescent
church attendance in relation to sib-structure, age, and
intropunitiveness. [Source: PI]
Heath, Douglas H. 1969. “Secularization and Maturity of Religious Beliefs.” Journal of Religion and Health vol. 8, pp. 335-358.
Abstract: An unexpected
finding in the course of a study of how entering freshmen of 1 college had
changed characterologically since 1948, was data suggesting "that the
secularization of religious beliefs and practices is occurring, as Cox asserts,
but that such secularization is not necessarily accompanied by an increased
maturity, as Greeley might assert." It is concluded "that because
Cox's assumptions about secular man are only partially valid psychologically,
the implication that secularization necessarily leads to maturity confuses more
than it clarifies our understanding of their relationship." Included in
the data was information derived from a measure of religiousness which was
developed from the MMPI and the Study of Values. Based on the analysis of this
sample, it is proposed that "(a) Young persons of the 60s are less
religiously orthodox but not less religiously philosophical than their
counterparts of the 50s. (b) Youths of the 60s are not more mature or better
adjusted than those of the 50s . . . . (c) The psychological significance of
religious orthodoxy in the 50s differs from that of the 60s . . . . (d)
Generally, extreme religio-philosophical interest in the 17 yr. old tends to be
associated with immaturity . . . ."
[Source: PI]
Meehan, Francis X. 1969. “Sunday Mass and the High School Student, 1969.” Dimension vol. 1, pp. 147-154.
Stewart, Charles W. 1969. “Adolescent Religion.” Journal of Pastoral Care vol. 23, pp. 120-121.
Vergote, A. 1969. “Concept of God and Parental Images.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 8, pp. 79-87.
Yates, Jere E. 1969. “Erikson's Study of the Identity Crisis in Adolescence and Its Implications for Religious Education.” Thesis, Boston University Graduate School.
Branson, Helen Kitchen. 1968. “In Church Every Sunday.” International Journal of Religious Education vol. 44, pp. 10-11.
Bray, Mary. 1968. “Image of the Church in the Mind of Young People.” London Quarterly and Holborn Review vol. 193, pp. 16-22.
Neidhart, Walter. 1968. “What the Bible Means to Children and Adolescents.” Religious Education vol. 63, pp. 112-119.
Abstract: SINCE CHILDREN
LOVE TO HEAR STORIES, THEY FIND BIBLE STORIES NATURALLY INTERESTING. SUCH
STORIES, WHICH ALREADY HAVE A SOUND PSYCHOLOGICAL BASIS, CAN ALSO CONVEY DEEP
THEOLOGICAL TRUTHS PROVIDED THE STORY'S IMAGERY IS UNDERSTOOD. RELEVANCE OF THE
BIBLE WILL DIFFER FROM THE ODYSSEY AND IVANHOE ONLY IF STUDENTS SEE AS LIVING
WITNESSES THE TEACHERS WHO PASS ON THE TEXTS.
[Source: PI]
Sanua, Victor D. 1968. “The Jewish Adolescent: A Review of Empirical Research.” Jewish Education vol. 38, pp. 36-52.
Abstract: Research on the
Jewish adolescent in the past 35 yr. is critically examined. Papers discussed
are classified under the following headings: (1) Jewish identification (2)
values and attitudes, (3) Hebrew education and religious practices, (4)
psychological studies, and (5) deviancies among Jewish adolescents.
Recommendations for future research are provided. [Source: PI]
Schab, Fred. 1968. “Adolescence in the South: A Comparison of White and Negro Attitudes About Home, School, Religion, and Morality.” Adolescence vol. 3, pp. 33-38.
Abstract: RESPONSES TO A
QUESTIONNAIRE GIVEN 1000 WHITE AND NEGRO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS REVEALED MANY
AREAS OF DIFFERENCES, REFLECTING CONTINUING DIFFERENCES IN EDUCATION, SOCIAL,
AND ECONOMIC FACTORS. [Source: PI]
Smith, Leona J. 1968. “A Report of Four 1965 Youth Congress Delegates and Their Use of Concepts, Both During the Youth Congress and the Year Following the Congress.” Character Potential: A Record of Research vol. 4, pp. 69-72.
Abstract: 4 delegates' data
were analyzed to discover how much 6 concepts studied during Youth Congress had
carried over into the youth's lives during the following yr. A totaling of the
frequency of the concepts' use following the Congress indicated that the
destiny concept was used most frequently, positive use of culture was 2nd,
while delegates' use of unique learning patterns, and their positive use of
home resources were closely tied for 3rd and 4th place. The delegates' use of
ways they differed from the peer group, and their religious convictions, were
in 5th and 6th place. Each youth's own uniqueness emerged stronger than
similarities among the 4 case studies. Knowledge gained from the Congress
helped them to integrate elements in their personalities toward purposive
behavior. [Source: PI]
Bealer, Robert C. and Fern K. Willets. 1967. “The Religious Interests of American High School Youth: A Survey of Recent Research.” Religious Education vol. 62, pp. 435-444, 464.
Abstract: RESEARCH SUMMARY
ON RELIGIOUS COMMITMENT, ARRANGED ACCORDING TO GLOCK AND STARK'S 5 DIMENSIONS:
RITUALISTIC, EXPERIENTIAL, IDEOLOGICAL, INTELLECTUAL, AND CONSEQUENTIAL.
LIMITATIONS OF RESEARCH PRESENTLY AVAILABLE MAKE EVALUATIONS OF RELIGIOUS
TRENDS PROBLEMATIC. JUDGING FROM AVAILABLE RESEARCH, THE BEST LABEL APPLICABLE
TO TEEN-AGERS' RELIGIOUS ORIENTATION IS "HEDGING" SINCE MANY MANIFEST
NEITHER NIHILISM NOR COMMITMENT. FIRM CONCLUSIONS CONCERNING RELIGIOUS
COMMITMENT NECESSITATE FURTHER RESEARCH.
[Source: PI]
Eister, Allan W. 1967. “Brief Survey Report on Youth and Religion in the United States.” Archives de Sociologie des Religions vol. 12, pp. 103-106.
Jacks, Irving. 1967. “Attitudes of College Freshmen and Sophomores toward Interfaith Marriage.” Adolescence vol. 2, pp. 183-209.
Abstract: PROTESTANT
STUDENTS WERE MORE BROADLY ACCEPTING OF MARRIAGE TO EITHER CATHOLICS OR JEWS
THAN WERE STUDENTS OF THE LATTER RELIGIONS. JEWISH STUDENTS, ESPECIALLY
FEMALES, WERE LEAST ACCEPTING OF INTERFAITH MARRIAGE FOR THEMSELVES. [Source: PI]
Pacella, Bernard L. 1967. “Morals, Ethics, and Religion.” New York State Journal of Medicine vol. 67, pp. 1975-1979.
Abstract: ANALYZES THE
CHARACTER OF THE ADOLESCENT IN TERMS OF MORALS, ETHICS, AND RELIGION. THE
ADOLESCENT'S ATTITUDES TOWARD SOCIETY, HIS VIEW OF MORALITY, AND HIS NEED FOR
RECOGNITION AND ACCEPTANCE ARE DESCRIBED AS WELL AS HIS NEED FOR PARENTAL,
RELIGIOUS, AND SOCIETAL GUIDELINES. A DEFINITION OF HIS VALUE SYSTEM IN TERMS
OF THE WORLD HE LIVES IN IS STRESSED.
[Source: PI]
Taylor, Bob R. 1967. “A Study to Determine and Evaluate the Concepts toward Selected Leadership Principles Held by Youth Active in Southern Baptist Churches.” Ph.d. Thesis, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Williams, Robert L. 1967. “Psychological Efficacy of Religiosity in Late Adolescence.” Psychological Reports vol. 20, p. 926.
Augsburger, A. Don. 1965. “Control Patterns and the Behavior of Mennonite Youth.” Mennonite Quarterly Review vol. 39, pp. 192-203.
Babin, Pierre. 1965. “Faith and the Adolescent.” Worship vol. 39, pp. 440-441.
Dougherty, Denis. 1965. “Normative Value Differences between Public and Parochial School Adolescents.” Sociological Analysis vol. 26, pp. 96-109.
Johnson, Roger Sherwood. 1965. “Conscience and the Adolescent: A Psychological and Religious Approach.” Th.D. Thesis, School of Theology At Claremont.
Northrup, Jean and Arline Brown. 1965. “Junior High Youths' Ability to Help Someone Learn a Concept of Vicarious Sacrifice.” Character Potential: A Record of Research vol. 3, pp. 57-59.
Abstract: ATTEMPTED TO
DETERMINE A RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN "REALISTIC-IDEALISTIC" SELF-ANALYSIS
AND THE ABILITY TO HELP OTHERS APPLY A PRINCIPLE OF VICARIOUS SACRIFICE. THE
RESULTS WERE SIGNIFICANT AT THE 10% LEVEL OF CONFIDENCE, BUT THE NEED TO
EXPLORE THE HYPOTHESIS FURTHER IS EXPRESSED AS FINDINGS WERE INCONCLUSIVE. [Source: PI]
Sanua, Victor D. 1965. “A Study of Attitudes of Adolescents Attending Jewish Community Centers in New York.” Journal of Jewish Communal Service pp. 402-417.
Abstract: A report on the
responses of approximately 180 Jewish adolescents, male and female, who are
members of a Jewish center affiliated with the Associated YM-YWHAs of Greater
New York. [Source: PI]
Bailey, Frances E. 1964. “Youth's Response to the Bible.” Religious Education vol. 59, pp. 214-249.
Abstract: Exploration by
essays and objective tests of the ability of a sample of youth to understand
and apply biblical teaching to their own lives. [Source: PI]
Sanua, Victor D. 1964. “The Relationship between Jewish Education and Jewish Identification.” Jewish Education pp. 1-14.
Abstract: Reviews a number
of studies which have attempted to determine the effects of religious education
on Jewish identification. 1 of the greatest problems confronted by studies
attempting to measure such effects, is the difficulty of defining Jewish
identification. Findings are reported on the Jewish Anti-Semitic Scale, the
F-Scale and the Jewish Authoritarian Scale which were administered to
approximately 180 adolescents, boys and girls, attending 6 Jewish Community Centers,
some having received extensive religious education and others with little or no
religious education. No relationship was found between the extensiveness of
religious education and the respondents' Jewish identification among the more
traditional Jewish denominations such as Orthodox Jews. No relationship was
found between respondent's socioeconomic background and the extensiveness of
his religiosity. Girls were found to be more positive towards the need for
religious education and had enjoyed their education in this area to a greater
extent than the boys. [Source: PI]
Scholl, Mason E. and Jerome Beker. 1964. “A Comparison of the Religious Beliefs of Delinquent and Nondelinquent Protestant Adolescent Boys.” Religious Education vol. 59, pp. 250-253.
Abstract: Questionnaire
study to compare religious beliefs of institutionalized Protestant delinquents
with a group of "normal" Protestant adolescents. [Source: PI]
Burkhardt, Edward C. 1963. “Characteristics of High School Religion.” Worship vol. 37, pp. 605-611.
Hill, Jean. 1963. “Some Teen-Age Views on the Church.” Student World pp. 312-319.
Blumenfeld, W. S., R. D. Franklin, and H. H. Remmers. 1962. “Teenagers' Attitudes toward Study Habits, Vocational Plans, Religious Beliefs, and Luck.” Purdue Oppinion Panel Poll Report vol. 22, p. 11.
Abstract: "This report
presents the results of the initial poll of the 1962-1963 school year. The
questionnaire was administered to approximately 8000 high school students . . .
. When asked as to their main reason for studying outside of school, the
majority (62%) of the panel said to improve grades. Another 23% gave career
preparation as their primary motive. Such responses were most common among the
non-believers in luck." Vocational plans tend to be in the direction of
more college planning. "More than 1/2 of the panel (57%) have tried to get
career information from a school source such as the library or the guidance
counselor. This group appears to be non-luck-oriented." Approximately 38%
of youth agree that religious faith is better than logic for solving life's
important problems, 68% agree that fate in the here-after depends on present
behavior, 84% agree that God knows every thought and movement, 59% agree that
God controls everything, and 25% believe that their prayers are answered. The
luck-oriented group believes that a great deal of what happens is beyond their
control, and the "non-luck" group believes that one can control
personally a great deal of what happens.
[Source: PI]
Elkind, David and Sally Elkind. 1962. “Varieties of Religious Experience in Young Adolescents.” Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion vol. 2, pp. 102-112.
Kosa, John, Leo D. Rachiele, and Cyril O. Schommer. 1962. “Marriage, Career and Religiousness among Catholic College Girls.” Marriage and Family Living vol. 24, pp. 376-380.
Loomis, Irven Lyle. 1962. “A Comparison of the Religious Views of High School, College Age, and Adult Leaders of Methodist Youth.” Ed.D. Thesis, Wayne State University.
Portnoy, Joseph Leon. 1962. “An Analysis of Reform Jewish Youth Participation in Jewish Activities in the Northern California Council Region.” Ed.d. Thesis, New York University.
Reid, Clyde H. 1962. “Where, Oh, Where Have Our Senior Highs Gone?” International Journal of Religious Education vol. 39, pp. 14-16.
Beekman, A. J. 1961. “Youth and Religion in a Changing World.” Social Compass vol. 8, pp. 447-467.
Kirkland, William. 1961. “The Gospel and the Off-Beat Generation.” International Journal of Religious Education vol. 37, pp. 4-6.
Spoerl, Dorothy T. 1961. “The Values of Unitarian-Universalist Youth.” Journal of Psychology vol. 51, pp. 421-437.
Abstract: An investigation
into the value systems of 1077 Unitarian-Universalist youth from all sections
of country. A consistent "liberal pattern" high on theoretical,
aesthetic, and social values and low on religious values emerged and was
unaffected by denomination, sex, year in school, geographic location, or social
status. [Source: PI]
Holcomb, Elaine. 1960. “What Are Teen-Agers Like?” International Journal of Religious Education vol. 36, pp. 20-22.
Shanor, Clarence Richard. 1958. “Characteristics Related to the Reputed Practice of Vicarious Sacrifice by Certain Ninth Grade Youth.” Ph.d. Thesis, Boston University Graduate School.
Strunk, O., Jr. 1958. “Relationship between Self-Reports and Adolescent Religiosity.” Psychological Reports vol. 4, pp. 683-686.
Abstract: "136 high
school students were given a modified form of the Brownfain Self-Rating
Inventory and the Religiosity Index . . . . A significant difference in
religiosity was found between the high and low self-report scorers [on the
Brownfain Self-Rating Inventory], those adolescents with a relatively affirmative
self-report tending to score higher on religiosity than the less affirmative
self-report scorers. r = .32 between self-reports and religiosity scores . . .
. Since these relationships appear to contradict results of some classical
studies in the psychology of religion, and interest in understanding the
significance of value schemata in the formation of the self-concept is growing,
further research in the psychology of religion is urged." [Source: PI]
Ziegler, Mary Eugenia. 1958. “A Comparative Study of the Problems, Personality Adjustments, and Values of Catholic Adolescent Girls Attending Two Types of Secondary Schools.” Ph.d. Thesis, Fordham University.
Staurides, Basileios T. 1956. “Orthodox Youth and the Ecumenical Movement.” Greek Orthodox Theological Review pp. 81-88.
Kagan, Henry Enoch. 1952. Changing the Attitude of Christian toward Jew; a Psychological Approach through Religion. NY: Columbia University Press.
Abstract: Three methods of
interfaith education were tried in 5 day summer church camps. Average age was
16. A group of 357 that received no training served as controls. The indirect
method of teaching Jewish origins and contributions to Christianity did not
increase prejudice; neither did it reduce it. A second method, called focused
private interview, employed the indirect class method with the addition of a
half hour interview in which the adolescent was encouraged to relate his
experiences with Jews. The direct method, in which personal experiences and
attitudes were discussed as a regular part of the class teaching was the most
effective, and the changes in attitudes were the most permanent as measured 8
months later. 68-item bibliography.
[Source: PI]
Myers, M. S. 1951. “The Role of Certain Religious Values for High School Youth.” Studies in Higher Education, Purdue University pp. 79-85.
Abstract: The samples in
this study were drawn from a national survey of 8,000 high school students.
Comparisons are made of superstitious and non-superstitious respondents and of
religiously and secularly oriented students. Socioeconomic status, educational
level of parents, and replies on factual knowledge questions were found to be
lower for the superstitious and orthodox groups than for the non-superstitious
and secular groups. Religious orientation influenced the selection of academic
courses. "The typical high school student has a favorable attitude toward
the church, attends services about once a week, and says prayers once or twice
a day." [Source: PI]
Remmers, H. H., M. S. Myers, and E. M. Bennett. 1951. “Some Personality Aspects and Religious Values of High School Youth.” Purdue Opinion Panel vol. 10, p. 30.
Abstract: A sample of 2500
replies from a nationwide poll of high school students shows that the typical teen-age
student has a favorable attitude toward the church, says prayers once or twice
a day, thinks of God as an omnipotent and omniscient bodyless spirit existing
everywhere, who guided the writing of the Bible and helps man in the building
of a good society. He is ready to admit that study of certain sciences may
alter his beliefs, that one may question his religious beliefs and often be
perplexed by the confusion of opinions. Differences are noted between sex,
grade, rural-urban and geographical location, religious denomination, low vs.
high income, and mothers' education.
[Source: PI]
Ross, Murray G. 1950. “The Religious Beliefs of Youth.” Ph.d. Thesis, Columbia University.
Gilkey, Charles W. 1949. “Religion in Our College Generations.” Christianity and Crisis pp. 147-150.
Hollingshead, August B. 1949. Elmstown's Youth; the Impact of Social Classes on Adolescents. NY: Wiley.
Abstract: The impact of the
social system of a mid-western community on its adolescents' social behavior is
analyzed through a description of the relationships of 735 boys and girls both
in and out of high school. The major areas examined are school, job, church,
recreation, cliques, dates, and sex as seen through field study in 1941-42.
Statistical and verbatim materials are interwoven in presenting the results of
interview and observation methods. Major findings are (1) an affirmation of the
hypothesis that social behavior is functionally related to position in the
stratafied social structure, and (2) that there results a surprisingly marked
diversity of behavior by adolescents by different social classes. Hollingshead
stresses the departures in actuality from the "American dream" and
directs his book to the intelligent general reader as well as to specialists. [Source: PI]
Pixley, Erma and Emma Beekman. 1949. “The Faith of Youth as Shown by a Survey in Public Schools of Los Angeles.” Religious Education vol. 44, pp. 336-342.
Abstract: In May 1949 a
survey was conducted by the Moral and Spiritual Education Section of the Los
Angeles Public Schools of the attitudes of high school seniors toward religion.
Of 3,676 students who wrote anonymous essays on church attendance 36% attend
church regularly, 52% irregularly, and 12% never attend. Of 3,317 students who
wrote on prayer 22% pray to ask for personal benefits, 19% to express thanks,
15% to talk to God, 11% to ask for guidance, 10% to comply with habit, and 9%
to seek comfort. Students recommend that schools offer voluntary
non-denominational religious education, that homes should encourage early
religious training of children, that the church should have a more reverent
atmosphere during worship services, and encourage more club and recreational
opportunities for youth. Excerpts from essays are quoted. [Source: PI]
Hartley, Eugene L., Max Rosenbaum, and Shepard Schwartz. 1948. “Children's Use of Ethnic Frames of Reference: An Exploratory Study of Children's Conceptualizations of Multiple Ethnic Group Membership.” Journal of Psychology vol. 26, pp. 367-386.
Abstract: This study
undertook to test identification of children with ethnic group symbols from
ages of 3.5 to 10.5. Jewish, Catholic, and Protestant children were
interviewed, some of the latter being colored. Typical questions: Are you
Jewish? What does it mean to be Jewish? Can you be Jewish and American? Frames
of reference develop with age, and different situations evoke different types
of reference frames, which differ from adults' frames. [Source: PI]
Kuhlen, R. G. and M. Arnold. 1944. “Age Differences in Religious Beliefs and Problems During Adolescence.” Journal of Genetic Psychology vol. 65, pp. 291-300.
Abstract: "Five hundred
forty-seven children and adolescents, in three groups which averaged 12, 15,
and 18 years of age, responded to a questionnaire which listed 52 statements
representing various religious beliefs and 18 problems dealing with religious
issues. Many significant differences appeared in religious beliefs when
twelve-year-olds and eighteen-year-olds were compared. A greater tolerance with
respect to religious beliefs and practice, a discarding of a number of specific
beliefs and increased 'wondering about' statements regarding the hereafter
(death, heaven, hell) constituted the major trends. An analysis of responses of
'wondering about' particular beliefs and 'problems' did not substantiate the
commonly accepted hypothesis that adolescence is a period of generally
increased religious doubts and problems. Catholics 'wondered about' fewer
beliefs and checked fewer problems than did non-Catholics." [Source: PI]
Wheeler, L. R. and V. D. Wheeler. 1944. “Religious Ideas of Children in Communities of Two Different Cultural Patterns.” Journal of Educational Sociology vol. 17, pp. 563-571.
Abstract: On the basis of
replies to questions by a large number of clergymen, a questionnaire of 50
items was constructed covering factual knowledge and ideas concerning God,
prayer, future life, the church, Jesus, the sacraments, Christian conduct, and
religion in general. It was given to seventh- and eighth-grade pupils in
industrial Lebanon, N.H., and in the college town of Hanover, N.H., and the
results were compared with the clergymen's standards. Among the pupils who
attend church or Sunday school, the Hanover pupils showed more factual
knowledge than those from Lebanon. Among nonchurch children the average scores
on factual questions were the same for the two communities. Questions on ideas
and attitudes gave the Hanover children slightly higher average scores than the
Lebanon children. This difference is greater among nonchurch children in the
two communities. [Source: PI]
Middleton, W. C. and P. J. Fay. 1941. “Attitudes of Delinquent and Non-Delinquent Girls toward Sunday Observance, the Bible, and War.” Journal of Educational Psychology vol. 32, pp. 555-558.
Abstract: 3 of Thurstone's
scales for the measurement of social attitude were administered to 83
delinquent and 100 non-delinquent girls, all from 8th to 10th grade level. The
delinquents showed measured attitudes more favorable to Sunday observance and
the Bible. There was no significant difference between the groups in attitude
toward war. [Source: PI]
Dunstan, John L. 1939. “A Study of Some Factors Making for the Continued Participation of Individuals in the Program of a City Church, with Particular Attention to the Adolescent-Adult Transition.” Ph.d. Thesis, Columbia University.
Bell, H. M. 1938. Youth Tell Their Story. American Council on Education.
Abstract: This is a study of
conditions and attitudes of young people between the ages of 16 and 24. What is
the youth problem in the United States and what does youth think of this
problem? Conclusions are drawn from a study of Maryland youth, rural and urban,
negro and white. Young people are not bitter and rebellious, but apathetic,
accepting their given lot meekly. Home and church appear not to have lost their
hold on youth. The article is illustrated and the comments by the young people
themselves are given. [Source: PI]
Dimock, H. S. 1936. “New Light on Adolescent Religion.” Religious Education vol. 31, pp. 273-279.
Abstract: This article
reports the results of an investigation seeking to throw light on the religious
development of adolescents. 200 boys were studied continuously over a period of
years. They were normal and their status regarding pubescence was established.
The questionnaire method was used. From this study the author concludes that
"these adolescent years are apparently sterile and barren from the
standpoint of developing individuals with a contemporary, religious world
view." Furthermore, there is no rapid acceleration of interest in
religious ideas during adolescence and the growth of religious thinking which
does take place bears no appreciable relation to the process of physiological
development. Finally the study brings the author to the conclusion that
"since moral and religious thinking seem primarily to be conditioned
socially rather than biologically they should be amenable to educational
control and direction." [Source:
PI]
Franzblau, A. N. 1934. “Religious Belief and Character among Jewish Adolescents.” Teachers College Contributions to Education p. 80.
Abstract: 701 students aged
12 to 16 years were given a battery of character tests, intelligence tests, and
religious tests. The findings show that maturity measures (intelligence, age,
etc.) are negatively related to the acceptance of religious beliefs, as are all
measures of honesty and character. None of the evidence which was found
supports the principle, fundamental in most religions, that acceptance of the
traditional religious dogmas is creative of superior character. The
"Religious Ideas Test" and the "Confession and Reporting
Blank" developed for the study are given, together with the data on their
validity and reliability. The bibliography lists 32 titles. [Source: PI]
Trout, D. M. 1934. “How the Child Becomes Religious. (Child Welf. Pamphl. No. 40.).” State University of Iowa.
Abstract: Whenever the child
performs an act with integrity, he is behaving religiously. He begins to become
religious whenever he responds wholeheartedly to any objectives or goals. When
his energies are so focalized, organized, devoted to the achievement of an
objective or a series of goals that all fears, conflicts, indecisions and
distractions disappear, he is acting religiously. The child becomes religious
through a gradual process of satisfaction of demands, education and learning.
The means which he uses to achieve his ends are imposed upon him by adults,
adopted by him from exemplary behavior or invented as appropriate completions
of otherwise unorganized situations.
[Source: PI]
Chave, E. J. 1932. “Measurement of Ideas of God.” Religious Education vol. 27, pp. 252-254.
Abstract: Chave refers to
two published Ph.D. theses, one by A. H. MacLean and one by H. I. Donnelly; the
former aimed to analyze the ideas of God held by 75 primary children by means
of interviews, and those of 443 junior and intermediate children by
questionnaires. While the results were not entirely satisfactory, the method
was suggestive. The same was true of the work of Donnelly, who used a
vocabulary test, a rating scale to show the effect of faith in God upon
conduct, an attitude scale to measure trust in God, and a check list to
determine the nature and certainty of beliefs about God. These studies suggest
a promising field for work. [Source:
PI]
Dudycha, G. J. 1930. “The Religious Beliefs of College Freshmen.” School and Society vol. 31, pp. 206-208.
Abstract: All freshmen
entering Ripon College in 1929-1930 were requested to indicate on a
questionnaire their belief or disbelief in each of 25 religious propositions.
Twenty-five minutes after the first questionnaire had been answered a second
was submitted in which the propositions included in the first were presented in
the negative. The correlation between the results of the two questionnaires was
.93. Among the propositions upon which the students were asked to react were
such as the following: the existence of God, heaven, hell, angels, the devil,
the soul, miracles, etc. In the average case 60% of the propositions were said
to be accepted whole-heartedly, while only 8% were disbelieved with equal
conviction. Lukewarm faith or non-committal attitudes were confessed on the
average with respect to 32% of the items. It is concluded that students tend to
believe more than they disbelieve and that their faiths are firm. Among the
propositions accepted most frequently and with most conviction were the moral
truth of the ten commandments, the existence of God, the existence of the soul,
and the divinity of Christ. Of the existence of the devil, on the other hand,
53% of the students were skeptical.
[Source: PI]
Kelloway, W. F. 1930. “Young People's Attitudes toward Worship.” Religious Education vol. 25, pp. 303-305.
Abstract: After making tests
on 600 young people from fourteen to twenty-five years of age, the author
concludes that while they are largely interested in public worship they dislike
the artificial arrangement of services. The beauties of nature and the serious
problems of life stimulate in them an attitude of worship, whereas we have
tried to substitute for this dimly lit churches, flowing robes, and ritual. It
may not be wise to discontinue formal worship, but for young people worship
should not be made unnatural or inflicted from without. [Source: PI]
Bose, R. G. 1929. “Religious Concepts of Children.” Religious Education vol. 24, pp. 831-837.
Abstract: Since thinking is
a factor in action, religious thinking is a factor also in determining conduct.
100 concepts such as God, church, Bible, were used with high school pupils in
Southern California to discover what meanings children associated with them. It
was found that a short stay in church school did as well as a longer one, and
that there was but little evidence of growth after fifteen years of age. The
present church school appears inadequate for religious development and does not
fit children for religious experience.
[Source: PI]
Strang, R. 1929. “Religious Activities of Adolescent Girls.” Religious Education vol. 24, pp. 313-321.
Abstract: This is a study of
140 high school girls in different geographical, economic, and social
environments. The object was to discover how much time is spent in formal
religious activities. The data were obtained from daily schedules which the
girls kept for one or two weeks. 63% of these girls attended either church or
Sunday school. 71% took no part in clubs or other week-day church programs. 89%
reported no religious observances at home. The extra-church activities of those
who attended church and those who did not showed no significant differences.
There seemed no important differences in intelligence between church-goers and
non-church-goers. [Source: PI]
Varkuyl, G. 1929. Adolescent Worship, with Emphasis on Senior High School Age. NY: Revell.
Young, J. R. 1929. “The Changing Attitudes of Adolescents Towards Religion and the Church.” Religious Education vol. 24, pp. 775-778.
Abstract: In recent years
the church has been losing its hold upon adolescents. The young are skeptical
of the Bible and its sanctions for conduct. The church should emphasize the
concept of God as a God of physical and social as well as of moral law, and the
idea that retribution is a natural result of bad conduct. The church should
provide opportunities for active service in social and religious work, and
present a sympathetic attitude towards the craving for independence, reasoning
and joyful activity. [Source: PI]
Horan, E. 1928. “Religious Needs of the High-School Girl.” Thought vol. 3, pp. 375-395.
Sacks, M. L. 1928. Religious Consciousness of Late Adolescence. NY: Avon Press.
Abstract: Book One:
Relations between religion and the sciences, as biology, psychology, sociology;
and between religion, philosophy, theology and morality. Religion has been the
cause of many decided changes in civilization. This should be an impetus
towards a better understanding of the basic principles underlying religion, the
possible application of religion to modern life, and its potentialities in the
development of realities. It cannot be divorced from science or vice versa. It
represents a worldly whole and consists of the soul, science and the world. It
must be recognized as a natural phenomenon which must be dealt with from every
possible scientific point of view. Adolescence is preeminently the period of
the rise of religious consciousness in the individual. Book Two: A case study
in religious consciousness. Evaluation of questionnaire methods. Questionnaire
given to about 800 males and females, ages from 13 to 57 years, with majority
between 16 and 26. Questions such as: "What does religion mean to
you?" "Do you think you were born with religious feeling, etc.?"
"Did your understanding of religion undergo a change, from 12th to 14th to
16th years, etc.?" Individual treatment of responses, and typical
responses given. Book Three: What are the colleges doing to satisfy the
religious needs of late adolescents? Questionnaire sent to 52 colleges.
Conclusions quite heterogeneous. 55 references to psychology of religion are
appended. [Source: PI]
Drury, Marion Richardson. 1890. “Young People's Christian Societies.” United Brethren Review pp. 254-268.