Recommended Readings

Learning Objectives:
 

LO 2-1: Discuss the basic principles of existential psychology.

LO 2-2: Summarize findings about the influence of coherence, purpose in life, and existential hardiness on well-being.

LO 2-3: Explain the role of spirituality and religion in adjustment. 

LO 2-4: Describe the effects of choice and free will on individuals’ attitudes and behaviors.

 

Frankl, V. E., & Crumbaugh, J. C. (1967). Psychotherapy and existentialism; selected papers on logotherapy. New York: Washington Square Press.
Description: This book discusses some of the basic concepts of existential psychology and how they can be applied in therapy.

 

Learning Objectives: 2-1

Ilie, P. (1967). Unamuno; an existential view of self and society. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press.
Description: This book’s main theme is that human’s desire immortality and covers many aspects of existential psychology and philosophy.

 

Learning Objectives: 2-1, 2-2, 2-3 & 2-4

James, W. (1994). The varieties of religious experience: A study in human nature. New York: Modern Library.
Description: This book was referenced in chapter two and discusses diverse perspectives on individual experiences with religion.

 

Learning Objectives: 2-3

May, R. (2009). Man's search for himself. New York: Norton.
Description: This book touches upon several themes in existential psychology, including religiosity and the search for meaning and purpose.

 

Articles that should be Available via Your Library

Learning Objectives: 2-1, 2-2, & 2-3

Brown, I. T., Chen, T., Gehlert, N. C., & Piedmont, R. L. (2013). Age and gender effects on the Assessment of Spirituality and Religious Sentiments (ASPIRES) scale: A cross-sectional analysis. Psychology Of Religion And Spirituality, 5(2), 90-98. doi:10.1037/a0030137
Description: This article discusses the influence of gender and age on ASPIRES scores.

 

Learning Objectives: 2-3

Baumeister, R. F., Bauer, I. M., & Lloyd, S. A. (2010). Choice, free will, and religion. Psychology Of Religion And Spirituality, 2(2), 67-82. doi:10.1037/a0018455
Description: This article discusses how religion is a useful mechanism in the practice of choice and free will.

 

Learning Objectives: 2-3 & 2-4

Auhagen, A. E. (2000). On the psychology of meaning of life. Swiss Journal Of Psychology / Schweizerische Zeitschrift Für Psychologie / Revue Suisse De Psychologie, 59(1), 34-48. doi:10.1024//1421-0185.59.1.34
Description: This article addresses the multidimensional nature of meaning, the ability to assess it empirically, and its importance to well-being.

 

Learning Objectives: 2-3 & 2-4

Auhagen, A. E. (2000). On the psychology of meaning of life. Swiss Journal Of Psychology / Schweizerische Zeitschrift Für Psychologie / Revue Suisse De Psychologie, 59(1), 34-48. doi:10.1024//1421-0185.59.1.34
Description: This article addresses the multidimensional nature of meaning, the ability to assess it empirically, and its importance to well-being.

 

Learning Objectives: 2-1 & 2-2

Heintzelman, S. J., & King, L. A. (2014). Life is pretty meaningful. American Psychologist, 69(6), 561-574. doi:10.1037/a0035049
Description: This article discusses the importance of coherence in finding meaning in life.