University of Twente Student Theses
Beyond the self : A Systematic Qualitative Review unveiling core themes of Self-Transcendent Experiences in Spirituality and Religion
Nijland, I. (2025) Beyond the self : A Systematic Qualitative Review unveiling core themes of Self-Transcendent Experiences in Spirituality and Religion.
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| Abstract: | Self-transcendent experiences (STEs) enhance well-being and prosocial behavior, marked by self-loss and oneness. They foster love, joy, peace, connectedness, and support spiritual growth. As spirituality evolves and religiosity declines, critical questions arise about STEs' characteristics, manifestations, and implications. Despite growing qualitative research, systematic reviews remain limited. A systematic qualitative review followed PRISMA guidelines. Thematic analysis, with AI-assisted coding, ensured consistency while preserving nuances. Seventeen qualitative studies identified five key themes: acceptance of existentiality and transformation, cognitive-affective shifts, connectedness and oneness, guidance and protection, and perceptual shifts. These reveal shared and divergent STE characteristics, shaped by context. Meaning-making dominates spiritual contexts, while existential security aligns with religious ones. Spiritual STEs emphasize personal transformation, internal control, and agency, while religious STEs focus on collectivity, guidance, protection, and an external locus of control—though both rely on external transcendent sources. Future research should explore context-dependent differences in shaping STEs. Balancing individualized spirituality with communal practices will be crucial for addressing societal challenges and maximizing STEs’ transformative potential in an evolving cultural landscape. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/105339 |
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