Psychology of Mormonism

[hope_for_things]

There are two observations about Mormons (likely not unique to Mormons) that I've been seeing repeating patterns for that I'm looking for your input on.  Both of these ideas were brought to my attention again, as I listened to this recent podcast with Josh and Lolly Weed that was released today by the SL Trib.  

https://www.sltrib.com/podcasts/mormonland/

1. Psychology of sacrifice.  In the Josh and Lolly Weed's relationship they went into this marriage knowing that it would be a challenge, yet when they both prayed about it, they both felt strong spiritual confirmation telling them that this was the right decision.  In early Mormon history, on the subject of polygamy, many women when approached to practice polygamy were initially against the idea, but after some contemplation felt spiritual confirmation that they should move forward.  People who have been asked to do many very difficult things.  Throughout history and from experiences in my family, there seems to be this pattern of people being asked to do very hard things, that when they are asked to do these things, they receive spiritual confirmation that these sacrifices are noble and important and confirmed by the spirit.  

2. Psychology of special and uniqueness.  Later in the Josh and Lolly interview, Josh talks about how a friend of his helped him realize that his gay identity is not just normal, but it is beautiful, that it is unique like blue eyes or the Grand Canyon.  That it should be celebrated.  And when the Weed's then told their children that a divorce was imminent, they quickly got confirmation from the spirit that this was the right thing for Josh and were very supportive.  Mormonism throughout my life has frequently used this idea of being unique, special, chosen, the elect, one of the few with the priesthood, etc.   Just last Sunday I attended a special meeting with my 11 yr old son to prepare him for the priesthood/temple, and in this meeting these ideas of special and unique were frequently espoused.  

I'm hoping to get some input from you on these two observations that I'm making.  I have simplified them to try and keep this post easy to read, and due to my lack of experience in psychology.  I'm hoping to understand if these kinds of observations of human nature have been studied before.  What is it about sacrificing things in ways that logically may be detrimental to a person, but that for some reason it contributes to people feeling even more compelled to sacrifice.  Also, what is it about establishing and promoting this idea of unique and special that is such a compelling motivator.  It seems like both of these scenarios are common in the Mormon tradition.  How do these dynamics influence people's psychology within Mormonism?     

*Disclaimer - Whatever level of knowledge is below a novice, that is what I am with respect to actual psychology, I have no training or education on the subject other than probably a psyche 101 course over 20 years ago. 

 

[Robert F. Smith]

17 minutes ago, hope_for_things said:

.................................... this idea of being unique, special, chosen, the elect, one of the few .............................. these ideas of special and unique were frequently espoused.  

.........................................  What is it about sacrificing things in ways that logically may be detrimental to a person, but that for some reason it contributes to people feeling even more compelled to sacrifice.  Also, what is it about establishing and promoting this idea of unique and special that is such a compelling motivator.  It seems like both of these scenarios are common in the Mormon tradition.  ...............................

The USMC has capitalized on being special and inviting enlistees to become "one of the few, the proud," "a few good men," etc.  You'll find the same sort of esprit de corps in other organizations, from the Russian Spetznatz, Army Special Forces, Navy Seals, etc., to CIA black ops officers, and it does have practical value in motivating people to pull together (gung ho) in ways they might not do in ordinary, humdrum circumstances.

In fact the harder it is to get into such an organization, and the greater the demands that are made on members, the more elite and desirable it seems.  Sacrificing for a holy cause may be detrimental in the short term, and perhaps especially to one individual, but seems worthwhile for the larger benefits it brings to the broader group or family.  England was especially successful when its people were willing to sacrifice for king and country without reservation.  The same was true for the Germans sacrificing for the Third Reich, and for the Russians willing to sacrifice for Mother Russia.  People who won't back down are particularly formidable.

[hope_for_things]

Good points Robert, and examples, these ideas definitely aren’t unique to Mormonism.  Some of it might tie back to the Hero’s quest motif that is so powerfully motivating.  

We have enough threads on this topic for now.