Leaving faith behind : the emotional experience of people who undergo deconversion

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the emotions that people go through while undergoing religious deconversion. Participants were recruited by means of purposive sampling, and in depth semi structured interviews were conducted with five participants. All interviews were transcribed and analysed using the method of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Five Super- Ordinate Themes emerged: ‘Starting to Doubt’, ‘A Difficult Journey’, ‘Protective Factors’, ‘Consequences of Deconversion’ and ‘Moving On’. Logical inconsistencies, disappointment towards faith and the church and preoccupation with morality proved to be the main causes the participants mentioned for their deconversion. Participants mentioned how their deconversion was an emotionally difficult period in their lives. Furthermore, this study explored several protective factors which helped them to cope with their experience. Moreover, participants reported how hard it is to face the negative reactions that they get after disclosing their true beliefs and lastly, life after their deconversion was also discussed. These findings are presented with reference to the limited literature on the emotional experience of deconverts. This study concludes by suggesting recommendations for future research.