THE FAITH JOURNEYS OF CATHOLIC EMERGING ADULTS: A GROUNDED THEORY INQUIRY

Emerging young adults (ages 18-29) report a range of experiences in the transitions of acquiring psychological, social, and physical identities. Religious identity acquisition is an important development process for many young adults. There are 12 million Catholic emerging adults in the United States, who vary widely in their beliefs and behaviors, such as Mass attendance. Professionals from a broad range of professions may help Catholic emerging adults navigate identity formation processes. This grounded theory study explored how 31 Catholic emerging adults described the process of their process of faith development. Participants described this process as gradual and ongoing, with various influences that made the journey harder or easier. The main themes that emerged were the influences on this process: external influences, internal influences and choices/action. The findings could prove useful in helping social workers respond in more culturally competent ways to Catholic emerging adults and give insight to Church leaders about the needs of Catholic emerging adults and potential responses they could make to these needs. The implications are discussed in regards to theory development and clinical practice, policy, and research.