Rural Atheists in the United States: A Critical Grounded Theory Investigation

The occurrence and impact of antiatheist stigma appear to differ based on the geography and religiousness of the communities in which atheists live (Frazer et al., 2020; Frost et al., 2022). However, few studies have examined the potentially unique experiences of atheists living in parts of the United States (U.S.) designated as rural. Using a critical, grounded theory approach, the present study interviewed 18 rural-residing atheists about their experiences including antiatheist discrimination, outness, and their psychological well-being. Qualitative interviews resulted in five core categories of responses: (a) Harm to Atheists Living in Rural Communities; (b) Anti-Atheist Stigma Complicates Relationships in Rural Communities; (c) Hiding Atheism as a Primary Strategy for Safety in Rural Communities, (d) Personal Advantages that Promote Health and Safety, and (e) Atheism as a Part of a Healthy and Tolerant Worldview. Participants described a heightened danger to their physical safety, a preference for identity concealment, and barriers to access to health-promoting resources like non-religion-affirming health care and community, particularly in the rural Southern United States. However, conversely, participants also described the health benefits of their nonreligious worldview in the context of the challenges of living as an atheist in a rural community. Implications for future research and recommendations for clinical practice are provided. Public Significance Statement The present study suggests the religiousness and political conservatism of rural communities are associated with risks to atheists' safety, lead them to hide their atheism, and create barriers to interpersonal connection. Importantly, nonreligiousness appears to support health through establishing a congruent worldview and offering some protection against experiences of antiatheist discrimination.