Life stories and faith development

This study has been conducted with 10 individuals in the Adana province, considering factors such as gender, age, education, and affiliation with different religions and sects. By analyzing the data obtained through interviews, significant themes forming the life story has been identified. Within these themes, factors influencing belief development have been discussed. Belief development is influenced by both external factors and individual internal processes. External factors, starting from the family environment in which a person is born, to friends, and teachers, shape one's beliefs. Significant life events experienced by individuals, such as crises, losses, marriage, and becoming parents, impact their inner world. Sociocultural factors, values, beliefs, traditions, and societal expectations also contribute to shaping an individual beyond their family and inner world. The research generally discusses life events that influence individuals and the impact of these events on belief development. All participants in the study received religious education, guidance, or advice from their parents or people in their surroundings during childhood. As a result, they have stated that during childhood, they believed in God and prayed, but over time, their beliefs changed due to the experiences they gained, leading them to move away from religious beliefs. On the other hand, participants who felt strengthened in their beliefs due to distressing events and felt closer to God have been included in our research. Results indicated that parental attitudes or critical life events did not significantly influence belief development. When the impact of belief development is examined in life stories, it is revealed that religion is generally evaluated from a societal perspective. While there are participants who criticize the essence of religion itself, the majority have criticized the practices associated with religious lifestyles. The behaviors and attitudes of those practicing religion became important factors influencing belief development. The conception of God undergoes changes depending on one's religious perspective. Individuals who distance themselves from religion have also been observed to question God at the same time