This paper explores the relationship between attachment and faith. John Bowlby's attachment theory provides pastoral counsellors with a method for understanding patterns of human interaction. Attachment styles which develop during childhood shape adult relationships though these styles are not fixed and can be made more secure with pastoral counselling. The literature on child and adult attachment is surveyed and theological reflections and applications for pastoral counseling are included. The attachment dynamics within James Fowler's faith development theories are explored and an argument is made for a connection between attachment to God and the complex of atonement theories developed by F. W. Dillistone.
Conclusions are that attachment theory can be grounded within contemporary theological discourse.
It provides fresh insights on faith development theory and is applicable to pastoral counselling. Abstract Using reference to an earlier article by this author, Lester argues contrarily that suicide may be a valuable and meaningful act of self-fulfillment in life. Clarification of misinterpretations and misleading inferences by Lester of this author's remarks are discussed. Implications for counseling and pastoral counseling are also discussed. You can also obtain sample copies of any Haworth Press titles from the address above.