Absorption, mentalizing, and mysticism: sensing the presence of the divine

Coleman III, T. J., Bartlett, J. E. , Holcombe, J. M., Swanson, S. B., Atkinson, A., Silver, C. F. and Hood, R. W. (2020) Absorption, mentalizing, and mysticism: sensing the presence of the divine. Journal for the Cognitive Science of Religion, 5(1), pp. 63-84. (doi: 10.1558/jcsr.37551)

Abstract

Research suggests trait absorption, individual differences in Theory of Mind (ToM), and orthopraxical training are important for explaining a variety of extraordinary experiences typically associated with religion. However, no studies exist quantifying ToM ability or testing its relationship with trait absorption in the prediction of what is arguably the most ubiquitous type of extraordinary experience-the mystical experience. To address this, two exploratory studies were conducted using a sample of meditators (N = 269) and undergraduate students (N = 123). Instudy one, regression analyses revealed weekly religious/spiritual practice, absorption, and mentalizing predict increased mystical experiences. Moreover, moderation analysis indicated the absorption-mysticism relationship is stronger among individuals with lower mentalizing ability. Study two only replicated the relationship of absorption and weekly practice with mysticism.These studies highlight the robust contribution of absorption in mystical experiences and suggest a more dynamic role for mentalizingthan is accounted for in the current literature.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Bartlett, Dr James
• Authors: Coleman III, T. J., Bartlett, J. E., Holcombe, J. M., Swanson, S. B., Atkinson, A., Silver, C. F., and Hood, R. W.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Psychology
• Journal Name: Journal for the Cognitive Science of Religion
• Publisher: Equinox Publishing
• ISSN: 2049-7555
• ISSN (Online): 2049-7563