More knocks makes more gullible'

This piece of research is fascinating, partly because it contradicts a piece of pop psychology [though not completely].

"People who have experienced an adverse childhood and adolescence are more likely to come to believe information that isn't true- in short they are more suggestible, and easily mislead which may in turn impact upon their future life choices; they might succumb to peer pressure more readily."

It seems to me therefore, that ensuring the maximum number of children are brought up in relatively good conditions free from bullying etc. is a long-term priority for a healthy democracy and a better society.

Interestingly enough, it seems something like self-esteem is implicated.

Experience of adversity may have a knock-on effect on a person's mindset- they may come to believe that "they are no good", or "nothing they do is ever good enough".

And this is one area where Christians really have to think hard about the implications of popular versions of 'fall-redemption' theologies which clearly have supported or even driven a similar mindset and feed, clearly, authoritarian and abusive forms or distortions of religion and spiritual affiliation.

And the implication seem to go further still:

"However, the notion of suggestibility falls far beyond that of forensic psychology. People may find they are more easily influenced by the media, by TV adverts and so may make life choices as a result that they otherwise would not e.g. they may choose not to vaccinate their children, "

How to make sure churches and Christians are part of the solution not part of the problem? Seems to me that it highlight the importance of building genuinely loving communities where love is the trump card beyond doctrine ...

And while we're in the vicinity;

people who were verbally abused as children grow up to be self-critical adults prone to depression and anxiety.

the evidence seems to be coming in thick and fast about how socially constructed we all really are. Can a definitive cultural change modifying individualism be far behind? The building blocks of an Integral world view are mounting up.

ScienceDaily: Life's Harsh Lessons 'Make You More Gullible':
Filed in: psychology, adversity, upbringing, suggestibility, self_esteem