In the 79th episode, Dr. Knabb explores the problem of spiritual avoidance, also called spiritual bypass. First, a secular psychological perspective is offered on the dilemma of spiritual bypass, including research that suggests it is linked to psychological distress. Then, a Christian understanding is provided on the importance of accepting, not avoiding, emotions as God-given signals as 21st century Christ followers. To conclude, a spiritual practice, the daily examen, is offered to help Christians recognize that God is working in and through our emotional pain.
References
Aschenbrenner, G. (2007). Examen. British Province of the Society of Jesus.
Cashwell, C. S., Bentley, P. B., & Yarborough, J. P. (2007). The only way out is through: The peril of spiritual bypass. Counseling and Values, 51(2), 139-148.
Colombiere, C. (1980). Trustful surrender to divine providence: The secret of peace and happiness. Tan Books.
Fox, J., Cashwell, C. S., & Picciotto, G. (2017). The opiate of the masses: Measuring spiritual bypass and its relationship to spirituality, religion, mindfulness, psychological distress, and personality. Spirituality in Clinical Practice, 4(4), 274.
Ignatian Spirituality. (n.d.). Consolations and desolations. https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/consolation-and-desolation-2/
Ignatian Spirituality. (n.d.). The examen. https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-examen
Ignatius of Loyola. (n.d.). Suscipe. https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/prayer/traditional-catholic-prayers/saints-prayers/suscipe-prayer-saint-ignatius-of-loyola/
Knabb, J. (2021). Christian meditation in clinical practice: A four-step model and workbook for therapists and clients. IVP Academic.
Knabb, J., Vazquez, V., Pate, R., Garzon, F., & Wang, K. (2019). Christian meditation for trauma-based rumination: A four-week program. Unpublished manual.
Thibodeaux, M. (2015). Reimagining the Ignatian Examen: Fresh ways to pray from your day. Loyola Press.
Welwood, J. (1984). Principles of inner work: Psychological and spiritual. Journal of Transpersonal Psychology, 16(1), 63-73.
Welwood, J. (n.d.). On spiritual bypassing and relationship. https://scienceandnonduality.com/article/on-spiritual-bypassing-and-relationship/