Psychological Health and the Experience of Transcendence

Abstract

Transcendent experience is generally viewed by mental health professionals as a rare occurrence and symptomatic of psychopathology. A growing body of research, however, suggests that it is more common and more productive of psychological health than was previously believed. This article reviews the recent literature and its implications for psychologists whose clients have had transcendent experience of some kind, and who need support in the adjustment period that follows. It reviews common characteristics of the experience, incidence, catalysts, and relationship to mental health. It also offers treatment guidelines for adjustment reactions and suggests directions for future research.

The Impact of an Interim Protection Order (Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998) on the Victims of Domestic Violence

“…The evaluation of one's ability to solve a problem via religious means may serve a self-maintenance function, meaning that the individual may draw emotional support through the appraisal of a problem as solvable with God's help (Newman & Pargament, 1990). Noble (1987) came to the conclusion that, although transcendental experiences could be accompanied by periods of adaptation, or temporary panic, anxiety or depression, it contributed to psychological well-being. (Gomez & Fisher, 2005).…”

“…The researchers recommend that the findings should be compared to those gathered in a more representative sample (Newman & Pargament, 1990). Noble (1987) reviewed various studies with regard to spiritual and psychological wellbeing and came to the conclusion that, although transcendental experiences could be accompanied by periods of adaptation, or temporary panic, anxiety or depression, it contributed to psychological well-being.…”

‘They daren’t tell people’: therapists’ experiences of working with clients who report anomalous experiences

“…In terms of supporting individuals who have had AEs, suggestions have been made about specific techniques and approaches that might be beneficial in work with clients, such as mapping a timeline to see if there is a correspondence between emotional life events and when AEs occur or adopting a Rogerian approach (Kramer, 2012), holotropic breathwork and hypnosis (Ahmed, 2012), dreamwork techniques (Kripnner & Friedman, 2010), bibliography (Noble, 1987), psychoeducation, guided imagery and art therapy (Greyson, 1997), group therapy (Parra, 2012), and normalising and demythologising AEs Gerding, 2012). Guidelines have also been published offering advice on how to counsel individuals who have AEs (e.g., Hastings, 1983;Siegel, 1989).…”

Wild epiphany: Turning youth care inside out.

“…(Davis et al 1991, p.92) A number of other researchers have confirmed these benefits of the peak experience phenomena (Noble, 1987;Pressman, 1992;Lanier, Privette, Vodanovich, & Bundrick, 1996). Wuthnow (1978) suggests that associated with the manifestation of peak experiences is a sub average concern for material possessions, a lessened concern for social status, an increase in social concern and an increase in self-confidence.…”