Why do the devout remain devoted? Exploring religious expectations and relational compensators.

Abstract

Through in-depth qualitative interviews with a sample of 198 diverse religious families (N = 480 participants), this study explored why highly religious individuals remain involved in and meet the often costly demands of religious institutions. Specifically, we explored (a) the various religious expectations and demands individuals and families encounter and (b) the relational compensators or benefits they report receiving as a result of their religious sacrifice and involvement. Findings indicate a complex connection between religious expectations and relational compensators. Specifically, our participants report significantly positive and multifaceted relational benefits not only: (a) in spite of religious expectations, or (b) in addition to religious expectations, but in some cases, (c) because of religious expectations. Findings are discussed and interpreted through a rational choice theory lens to increase understanding of how religious expectations and relational compensators might influence individuals' decisions to remain religious.