An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of a Religious Conversion.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology of Religion

Background:

• Religious conversion is a significant phenomenon in contemporary society.
• Existing psychological research predominantly employs quantitative methods, leaving a gap in qualitative exploration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively explore the lived experience of religious conversion.
• To understand the process, impact on life, identity, personality, and coping mechanisms associated with conversion.

Main Methods:

• In-depth interview with a French woman detailing her conversion experience from 40 years prior.
• Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) to analyze the interview data.

Main Results:

• Four key themes emerged: conflicted relationship with Judaism, spiritual quest, post-conversion changes, and life after conversion.
• The analysis depicted conversion as a powerful, dynamic, and lifelong spiritual transformation.
• Integration of new concepts, practices, life changes, and personal developments were observed.

Conclusions:

• Religious conversion is a profound and multifaceted lifelong process.
• Qualitative methods offer valuable insights into the subjective experience of religious conversion.
• The study contributes a deeper understanding of the psychological and personal impact of religious conversion.