Diana Van Buren Lantz

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator as a Tool for Spiritual Growth Diana Van Buren Lantz

Spirituality is a term which has become popular within the Christian Church and society in general. There are, however, very few resources available to the United States Navy Chaplains to attain the Chaplain Corps mission goal of strengthening the spiritual well-being of Sailors and Marines. The purpose of this thesis project is to explore the question of whether or not psychological type and temperament through the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator can be an effective tool to facilitate spiritual growth and development among female Navy Chaplains. Also examined was Grant's hypothesis and the influence of age and the Shadow (or Dark Night) on the stages of spiritual growth. Fifteen female chaplains participated in a four-week study using MBTI with associated spiritual profiles and exercises. Soulwork exercises included prayer, Scripture, worship, service and study. Spiritual profiles included thankfulness, spiritual support, facing difficulties and honoring one's pathway to God. The majority of the participants reported some degree of progress as well as renewed interest spiritual growth. They also reported a greater awareness of the depth and breadth of spiritual disciplines, and how they can be used. All noted the value of the project as a practical resource for both themselves and the fleet.