Universal Spiritual Development Phases ​

Researchers have long sought to categorize human development across various dimensions. While there are numerous theories about human development, their accuracy varies significantly. No single tool can perfectly capture every stage of an individual's growth, as each person’s experiences are unique. Therefore, any list or chart presented is merely an approximation of "typical" development and cannot encompass all the nuances of human growth and change. Scholars have created such lists for every aspect of humanity—from psychology and physicality to sexuality and spirituality. However, some areas, like spiritual development, have received considerably less attention and funding in academic contexts. Many religious leaders have attempted to address this gap with various models of faith and religious commitment, often limited to specific traditions or sects. One notable model extensively researched in academic literature is James W. Fowler's Stages of Faith. This model has demonstrated resilience and accuracy over the decades and is widely recognized by authorities in the field. Although it is useful in educational contexts, it is less effective in clinical settings due to its complex terminology, which can hinder communication with clients. While it serves a specific purpose, it also has limitations. The need for suitable models that can be applied to diverse religious or spiritual worldviews, while facilitating meaningful dialogue with clients about their spiritual progress, is evident. A tool based on widely accepted stages of progression, devoid of clinical jargon, would be beneficial. Erikson's psychosocial development phases appeared to be a promising starting point. These were combined with a widely applicable spiritual developmental model that is not overly intricate—Pastor Gary DeLashmutt's stages of spiritual development. The two frameworks were integrated and distilled into five stages to illustrate a detailed progression. The following universal spiritual development phases aim to strike a balance between simplicity and accuracy. Each stage corresponds to a specific part of the human lifespan, but no age indicators are attached, as individuals may not progress through all the stages or may do so at different life stages. This tool serves as a resource for spiritual mentors to assess where a person might be along their spiritual journey. It is intended as a guide to conceptualize spiritual development and encourage dialogue rather than act as a diagnostic tool. Additionally, it can be useful in clinical discussions with some clients, allowing them to evaluate their current stage and measure progress or discuss goals for self-development. *Legacy* definition: How I want others to remember me when we part and after I am gone. 1. Childhood - Focused on learning. - Spiritual focus: Self-discovery—exploring our identities as spiritual beings. - Common traits: Individuals often prioritize themselves, may feel like victims. 2. Young Adulthood - Seeking a higher purpose beyond the self. - Spiritual focus: Understanding personal and externally imposed limits as spiritual beings. - Common traits: Acknowledgment that others matter, along with learning to accept responsibility. 3. Middle Adulthood - Concentrated on producing a legacy. - Spiritual focus: Contributing to and creating things, ideas, or movements that endure beyond oneself. Common traits: Recognition that one's own identity matters, but others also hold equal importance; a gradual shift of control over power or self. 4. Late Adulthood - Focused on imparting wisdom. - Spiritual focus: Contributing to the spiritual well-being of younger generations and preparing for death and what lies beyond (both ethereal and material). - Common traits: Emphasis on the value of all life, prioritizing the growth of others and the community over personal needs and desires. 5. Afterlife - Focused on--determined by each individual. - Spiritual focus: Influencing others through the legacy left behind in this material world, primarily created before one's death. Compiled by David F. Garner, integrating Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development and Pastor Gary DeLashmutt's stages of spiritual development. Sources: 1. https://www.simplypsychology.org/erik-erikson.html 2. https://www.dwellcc.org/teaching/1595/bible/1-john/2/gary-delashmutt/2005/stages-of-spiritual-development

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