Religious Identity Status as a Model to Understand, Assess, and Interact With Client Spirituality

Abstract

Spirituality and religion are important concerns for many people; consequently, counselors must possess the knowledge and skills required for assisting clients with these issues. This article offers a conceptual framework, based on E. H. Erikson's (1980) notion of identity formation, for understanding, assessing, and discussing spirituality and religion. Religion can play a significant role in the structure of identity and can be categorized into four statuses: Diffusion, Foreclosure, Moratorium, and Achievement. Religious identity status can provide direction and guidance for counselors who wish to integrate spirituality and religion into counseling.