A psychosocial analysis of adult individuals with deistic beliefs

The purpose of this study is to provide an objective description of how individuals who hold deistic beliefs define deism, their reasons for preferring deism, and their processes of transitioning to this belief system, as well as to describe the basic characteristics of the psychosocial interactions that occur after belief transformation. The study was conducted using a phenomenological design with qualitative research methods on the axis of the understanding paradigm. The study analysed data from 85 participants chosen through a hybrid sampling method and conducted descriptive analysis. Although there were various definitions of deism given by adults who defined themselves as deists, belief in God was emphasized in every definition. Different forms of deism were identified within the scope of the study. Furthermore, psychological factors that contribute to deism were found to include the desire for freedom, childhood traumas and anxiety disorders. Some psychosociological reasons for belief in deism include social environment, educational experience, and perception of justice. The shift to deism has highlighted several theological aspects, including the problem of evil, the incompatibility between belief and morality, and religion-science dualism. The transition to deism follows a linear model, which includes first contact, curiosity, questioning, doubt, emptiness, search, denial, and conversion. Individuals who prefer deism encounter both positive and negative emotions, social interactions, and changes in habits. The study indicates that deism is a rational belief consciously chosen by adults who aim to reorganize their social relations, possess high social sensitivity, and reject limitations. Individuals undergoing a crisis of faith and uncertainty tend to favour non-religious alternatives, rather than severing their connection with God over time. Contrary to popular opinion, deism is not a passing trend; rather, it is a personal, intellectual and rational decision that endures for a lifetime. While deists who embrace a secular perspective may have the capacity to transition to atheism or other belief systems in later life, such possibilities were not specifically discussed. The study is expected to yield high-quality data on deism or faith crises in the psychology of religion field, fostering diverse discussions. Furthermore, it is anticipated that this data will serve as a valuable resource for policy makers.