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I Belonged to the world: changes of the self-concept on the pentecostal conversion

This paper describes the results and the analyses of the data obtained from a qualitative research carried out with individuals newly-converted to the pentecostal cult, whereby an attempt was made to discuss the changes on self-concept, having as a starting point the idea of "Three Worlds" (Umwelt, Eigenwelt and Mitwelt) used by Ludwig Binswanger. A significant change was observed in the dimension of Mitwelt (social relationships), which led to the conclusion that from the point of view of Existential Psychology, the main element of pentecostal power, in the studied cases, lies in the reconstruction of the identity itself, as from the acquisition and participation in a new reference group, which provides not only a solidary and welcoming environment, but also the opportunity to develop latent potentials.

Pentecostalism; self-concept; life world


Instituto de Psicologia, Universidade de Brasília Instituto de Psicologia, Universidade de Brasília, 70910-900 - Brasília - DF - Brazil, Tel./Fax: (061) 274-6455 - Brasília - DF - Brazil
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