The Status of Psychology of Religion: An Interview with Raymond F. Paloutzian

Maureen P. Hester (MPH) is Professor of Psychology at Holy Names College (Oakland, CA). She has published research in humor, history, and group process. She teaches psychology of religion at Holy Names College and has also explored the relation between psychology and religion at local and national psychology teaching conferences. Raymond F. Paloutzian (RFP) is Professor of Psychology at Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA. His original research in psychology of religion was on the conversion experience. In 1992–1993, he served as President of APA Division 36 (Psychology of Religion). Besides publishing articles on religious experience, he coedited a special issue of The Journal of Social Issues on the topic of “Religious Influences on Personal and Societal Well-Being.” His Invitation to the Psychology of Religion (1996) is in its second edition. In addition, Paloutzian coauthored the chapter on religion in John Santrock's Psychology (1997). He is the editor of The International Journal for the Psychology of Religion.