Posttraumatic Spiritual Yearning: Religious Deconstruction and the Nearness Program in Psychological and Theological Context

Religious affiliation in the United States is undergoing a seismic transformation, with the number of religiously unaffiliated individuals—often termed “nones”—rising significantly. However, this demographic is not homogeneously irreligious. Many continue to engage in spiritual practices, pray, and even report experiences of divine communication. This paper examines the psychological and theological dimensions of religious deconstruction, particularly among those who de-identify from traditional religion but retain a sense of spiritual yearning. Drawing on empirical findings from a Templeton-funded evaluation of the Nearness program—a mixed-methods intervention supporting “spiritual but not religious” parents—this research explores the phenomenon of "religious residue," wherein individuals retain quasi-religious behaviors and worldviews post-disaffiliation. It further investigates how religious trauma and spiritual abuse contribute to mental health challenges among deconstructing individuals. Proposing a framework for post-religious spiritual flourishing, this paper highlights novel therapeutic interventions that prioritize ritual, belonging, and meaning-making beyond institutional religious structures. These findings offer new pathways for understanding and supporting individuals navigating religious transitions.