Psychology-Informed Theology: A Case Study of Older Adults in Hong Kong

From the beginning of Gillian’s academic career, she has been involved in ventures related to science-engaged religion. From working with Professor Ross Hastings (Regent College) as his research assistant on his John Templeton Foundation-funded research project to witnessing her doctoral supervisor, Dr John Perry (University of St Andrews), conducting his John Templeton Foundation-funded research project, the experiences have shaped how she understands theology and religious studies. It made her more aware of science-engaged theology ventures, and she often pondered on what leads to human flourishing. As such, when the opportunity of Cross Training in Psychology and Theology came her way, again funded by the John Templeton Foundation (surprise, surprise!), she leapt at the chance. Dr Carissa Sharp and her team at the University of Birmingham have created a unique space for theologians to understand what research psychologists of religion are doing and how, as theologians, we can conduct psychology-informed research. Our research just began in November 2024, and at this preliminary stage, we have already gained some helpful insights. As such, in this post, we hope to share some of these preliminary insights with you.