Fowler’s Stages of Faith: 6 Stages of Faith Development
Photo by Daniel McCullough on Unsplash
James Fowler developed a theory of six stages that people go through as their faith matures. The basic theory, known as Fowler’s Stages of Faith, can be applied, not only to those in traditional faiths, but those who follow alternative spiritualities or secular worldviews as well.
Fowler was an American theologian who was a Professor of Theology and Human Development at Emory University. He was director of both the Center for Research on Faith and Moral Development and the Center for Ethics until he retired in 2005.
Fowler’s Stages of Faith
Here are the 6 Stages of Faith developed by James Fowler.
Stage 1: Intuitive-Projective Faith (Preschool)
Stage 2 – Mythical-Literal Faith (School Age)
Stage 3 – Synthetic-Conventional Faith (Adolescence)
Stage 4 – Individuative-Reflective Faith (Early Adulthood)
Stage 5 – Conjunctive Faith (Middle Adulthood)
Stage 6 – Universalizing Faith (“Enlightenment” Quite Rare)
If you want to learn more about each stage, click here to download a free printable with details and explanations for each stage of Fowler’s Stages of Faith.
Faith Expansions and Fowler’s Stages of Faith
Faith expansions often occur in the transition from stage 3 to stage 4, as you move from external authority to internal authority, have a life experience/tragedy that doesn’t make sense with your current frames, “I’ve been obedient and tried to do everything right. Why am I going through this difficult challenge?”, see flaws in the religious leaders, etc.
It’s also a move from quid pro quo — if I do this I’ll get this—to more complex views of life. Stage 4 is often full of angst, anger, and dissonance and can take several years to move through.
Resources for Faith Expansions
Here are some resources that may be helpful if you are in the middle of a faith expansion or faith transition and need support.
Therapy can be helpful for a variety of mental health and relationship issues, but therapy for faith transitions is also beneficial. Wasatch Family Therapy has a team of compassionate therapists who are experienced in holding space for and supporting individuals while navigating faith expansions. Call or text 801.944.4555 to schedule an appointment.
I offer individual and group coaching and would be honored to help you as you navigate your faith expansion. Click here to see my most up-to-date coaching availability.
My podcast, Ask Dr. Julie Hanks, is full of episodes relating to faith expansions.
These faith transitions affirmation cards are not designed to help you leave the Church or to stay in the Church, but to trust yourself and to practice self-compassion during the intense emotional process you’re experiencing.
