Mentoring Person-Centered Spiritual Maturation

Abstract

Person-centered spiritual maturation is a developmental process with prosocial potential for individuals and communities with diverse belief systems (including secular humanism). Investigation of this process has historical roots in Kass's work with Dr. Carl Rogers on the Person-Centered Approach Project. Previous work identifies this construct's conceptual properties. This article reports the effectiveness of a curriculum to mentor this learning process in higher education. We conducted a quasiexperimental, mixed methods study (triangulated qualitative and quantitative data) with experimental and control groups. Qualitative analysis (written student narratives, experimental group) documented five dimensions of growth (behavioral, cognitive, social-emotional, contemplative, and integrative) that culminated in a resilient worldview and prosocial behavior. Statistical analysis (experimental and control groups, pre-post intervention) confirmed these findings, demonstrating significant improvement in