| This multiple case study explores factors leading a person to seek or join a charismatic group or teacher. Research has been done on charismatic groups, also known as "new religions movements" or even cults, and their practices. While many experts (J.-M. Abgrall, 2000; M. Langone, 2005b; M. Singer, 2003) agree that anyone may get involved with a charismatic group, the reasons for that received less attention. This dissertation attempted to systematize the existing data from various studies of spiritual seekers, and bridge this field of research with information about spiritual traditions of the world.;To examine attachment styles and personality characteristics, as well as circumstances at the time of becoming an active seeker, 10 individuals have been interviewed about their involvement with a charismatic group (joining and leaving, or joining and remaining with their organization or teacher). Instruments to assess antecedents included: Experiences in Close Relationships, Revised (R.C. Fraley, N.G. Waller & K.A. Brennan, 2000, 2004); NEO Personality Inventory, Revised (P.T. Costa, Jr. & R.R. McCrae, 1992); and a semi-structured interview. The results were analyzed and coded by a peer group using qualitative methods.;A cross-case analysis suggested that while there was no significant difference between the reported experiences, attachment style and personality characteristics of the study participants and the general population, common trends were observed across the sample: conflict with primary caregivers; dissatisfaction with societal values; and interest in spiritual traditions other than those of their family background.;Other noteworthy findings showed that 90% of participants' self-reported attachment was deemed "secure" on the ECR-R (Fraley et al., 2000) and 80% of participants scored higher than the general population in the Openness dimension of the NEO-PI (R) (Costa & McCrae, 1992).;The study findings lead to provocative questions regarding seekers' motivations: did the seeker's need for reparenting experience play a major role in their involvement with the group? And was it connected to possible achievement of an "earned secure attachment" status?;Further research recommendations include longitudinal attachment studies of new members of charismatic groups, and a potential healing effect of being involved with a teacher or a group. |
