"Scholarly and comprehensive yet accessible, this state-of-the-science work is widely regarded as the definitive psychology of religion text. The authors synthesize classic and contemporary empirical research on numerous different religious groups. Coverage includes religious thought, belief, and behavior across the lifespan; links between religion and biology; the forms and meaning of religious experience; the social psychology of religious organizations; and connections to morality, coping, mental health, and psychopathology. Designed for optimal use in advanced undergraduate- and graduate-level courses, every chapter features thought-provoking quotations and examples that bring key concepts to life. New to this edition: revised and updated with the latest theories, methods, and empirical findings. Many new research examples. Restructured with fewer chapters for better 'fit' with a typical semester. More attention to the differences between religion and spirituality Covers emerging topics: genetics and neurobiology, positive psychology, atheism, and more"--Publisher description.

The psychological nature and functions of religion -- Foundations for an empirical psychology of religion -- Religion and biology -- Religion in childhood -- Religion in adolescence and young adulthood -- Adult religious issues -- Religion, aging, and death -- Conversion, spiritual transformation, and deconversion -- Relationships between individuals and religious groups -- Religious and spiritual experience -- Mysticism -- Religion, morality, and prejudice -- Religion, psychopathology, and coping -- Epilogue.