Liberal Psychology and the Decline of Christianity

This paper attempts to trace the theoretical roots, as well as the practical consequences, of mid-century psychology-exemplified by Carl Rogers-into Protestant and Catholic churches in America. Drawing largely on Rogers himself, it argues that liberal psychology takes on a different view of man than that which is part and parcel of Christianity. Next, citing Alan Petignys' book The Permissive Society, it traces the history of Rogerss' thought and its popularity both in Christianity and in the larger American culture. Lastly, it investigates the ways in which Rogerss' psychology-in the form of "client- centered therapy"-made its way into the churches.