Humility in family relationships: Exploring how humility influences relationships in religious families

J Fam Psychol. 2022 Mar;36(2):201-211. doi: 10.1037/fam0000860. Epub 2021 Apr 8.

Abstract

In this article, we explored how humility influences family relationships in religious families. We used a qualitative methodology and interviewed a religiously, ethnically, and geographically diverse sample of 198 highly religious families (N = 476). Family-level data were collected by using multiple informants through joint interviews with family members. Semistructured interviews regarding how religion influenced family life were conducted in the participants' homes. Interview transcripts were analyzed using qualitative data analysis software, team-based coding, and grounded theory procedures. Findings included four themes: (1) Pride as an obstacle to relational well-being, (2) the influence of religious beliefs on humility, (3) the influence of religious practices on humility, and (4) humility in practice. Together, these themes suggest that humility can be both grounding and empowering for individuals and relationships. Implications and future directions are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).

MeSH terms

  • Emotions
  • Family
  • Family Relations*
  • Humans
  • Religion*