Batson defined religion in terms of its functional, existential nature.

Batson defined religion in terms of its functional, existential nature. Another definition says that religiousness involves a conscious dependency on a deity or God. In general, we can say that religion is a set of beliefs that individuals adhere to and use as a guide in their personal life. In psychology of religion, an important strategy is to operationally define the aspects of religiousness that are being studied. One issue is whether religion and spirituality are different.

Dimensions of Religious Commitment The concept of religion is multifaceted and multidimensional. The dimensions of religious commitment include religious belief, religious practice, religious feeling, religious knowledge, and religious effects. Conceptually, it can be useful to combine the dimensions in ways that are psychologically meaningful, such as high and low degrees of belief and knowledge.

The Science-Versus-Religion-Problem Psychology (like any other science) is not necessarily in conflict with religion. The either/or view of psychology and religion is inaccurate. For the most part, scientists’ views are compatible with, rather than in opposition to, religious teachings. Psychology can neither prove nor disprove religion, but the psychology of religion can tell us much about how religion works in people’s lives.

Religious Orientation One of the most important concepts that have guided psychology of religion since the 1960s is the concept of intrinsic religious motives (motives within the person) and extrinsic religious motives (using religion for nonreligious ends). The notion that intrinsically religious individuals live their religion while their extrinsic counterparts use it also includes the concept that religion is a master motive in the lives of those who are intrinsically motivated.

In actuality, religious orientation is more complicated than a simple dichotomy between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Religious Development and Conversion Religious Development in Children and Adolescents Many children show an interest in religion, and religious institutions are designed to introduce children to religious beliefs. In many cases, the indoctrination works. Religious issues are important to adolescents, and adolescence may be a special juncture in religious development.

Many adolescents incorporate a religious view into their identity development.