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The relationship of spiritual maturity to level of object relations development and God image

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Abstract

Several theoretical studies have suggested that spiritual maturity parallels psychological maturity from an object relations perspective in that both involve a relationality that is characterized by mature dependence (Shackelford, 1978; Pingleton, 1984). In addition, previous research has suggested that there is a positive relationship between level of object relations development and God image (Rizzuto, 1979; McDargh, 1983, 1986; Birky & Ball, 1988; Brokaw, 1991). In light of this, the present study theoretically and empirically explored the notion that both level of object relations development and God image are positively correlated with spiritual maturity. The results suggest initial support for the present hypotheses. Theoretical as well as clinical implications of the results are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Rosemead School of Psychology, Biola University, 13800 Biola Ave., 90639, La Mirada, CA

    Todd W. Hall Ph.D. Candidate, M.A. & Beth Fletcher Brokaw (Assistant Professor of Psychology)

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  1. Todd W. Hall Ph.D. Candidate, M.A.
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  2. Beth Fletcher Brokaw
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Hall, T.W., Brokaw, B.F. The relationship of spiritual maturity to level of object relations development and God image. Pastoral Psychol 43, 373–391 (1995). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02282629

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