Mladen Pecujlija, PhD – Professor, Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Vojvodina, Serbia

Series: Psychology of Emotions, Motivations and Actions;
BISAC: PSY000000; REL049000; SCI064000
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52305/RJHL3075

 “Orthodox psychology” is still a theological concept, not a branch of conventional academic psychology. It refers to the Eastern Orthodox Church’s traditional path for human spiritual growth, healing, and development. Orthodox Christianity Concept of Psychology is an attempt to integrate Orthodox Christianity and psychology. Today, “Orthodox psychology” is a pastoral and theological term, distinct from the Western, scientific, and evidence-based methods of modern psychology. The ultimate purpose is not merely psychological or emotional balance, but theosis (deification) or communion with God, which involves the cleansing of the “nous” (mind or “eye of the heart”) that was darkened by sin. This approach is rooted in the Church’s ancient neptic (watchfulness) and hesychastic tradition, which emphasizes inner life, prayer (specifically the Jesus Prayer), and the guidance of a spiritual father. It has a different anthropology (understanding of the human person) than Western psychology, which often focuses on rationalism and human autonomy. While distinct, Orthodox thought today does not entirely dismiss modern psychology or medical science. Many sources advocate for a cooperative or integrative approach where the spiritual father (who uses Orthodox “psychotherapy”) and a psychiatrist or a Christian psychotherapist address the person’s needs in a holistic manner. Modern psychology and medicine can help with neurological and physiological imbalances, while the Orthodox spiritual life addresses the deeper spiritual roots of distress, such as passions (sinful dispositions), pride, and lack of spiritual peace. Let Orthodox Christianity and Psychology live together.

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