Through a Glass Darkly, but Face to Face: Comments on Psychology and Theology Eyeing one Another

Abstract

Comments made on four main Symposium articles and a discussant's article stress the hope that theological literacy will increase the sensitivity of psychological research to the real complexities of religious people. Differing theologies need to be considered seriously, even if new or unfamiliar. Different theologies may fit different psychological models. Sampling needs to be more sensitive to theological differences among potential subjects, and researchers need to be aware of how standard test results and other methods may be distorted by religious beliefs. Designs as well as theory must increase in complexity. Openness to ontological issues is a fascinating if risky and rare possibility.