Psychology: Ancilla Theologiae or an Equal Partner? A Reflection Based on Selected Statements of the Magisterium on Psychology in the 21st Century

Abstract

The article critically examines the relationship between psychology and theology from a theological perspective, grounden in selected texts of the Magisterium of the Church in the twenty-first century. Recognizing the significant role of psychology in contemporary conceptions of the human person, this work aims to consider the benefits and potential challenges associated with applying its methods and research findings across various areas of theology. The analysis demonstrates that the Church generally adopts a positive stance toward psychology, appreciating its contribution to a holistic understanding of the human person, enhanced anthropological insight, and the contextualization of theology within the modern era. Concurrently, it acknowledges fundamental methodological differences and distinct objectives inherent to each discipline, highlighting the fragmentary nature of psychology which may give rise to reductionist tendencies in theological anthropology.