Trajectory of Deconstruction Among Fundamentalist Exvangelical Women: Implications for Social Work

Leaving a strongly socialized identity can be particularly stressful. Using interviews with 32 women who left fundamentalist Christianity and now identify as atheist or agnostic, this study explores religious upbringings and how they shaped participants’ processes of leaving their faith communities. Results illustrate the toll of religious deconstruction, as well as resilience and agency in navigating identity outside previous religious frameworks. Initial deconstruction journeys were marked by cognitive dissonance, leading to reevaluation of self-perception, beliefs, and values. While deconstruction opened avenues for self-expression and freedom, it was described as emotionally painful and a significant loss of previous identity, family, and community. Adding to literature on transitioning identity, this study elaborates on ways support is indicated for those leaving faith communities.