Peak and mystical experiences in intimate relationships

Bibliographic Data

ID2935607
AuthorsAnne J Woodward (Swinburne University of Technology), Bruce M Findlay (Swinburne University of Technology), Bruce Findlay (Swinburne University of Technology, corresponding author), Susan Moore (0000-0003-4771-2876, Swinburne University of Technology), Susan M Moore (0000-0002-9924-6988, Swinburne University of Technology)
Year2009
Volume26
Issue4
Pages429-442
Publication date2009-06-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Social and Personal Relationships (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0265-4075 • E-ISSN: 1460-3608
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/0265407509339994
OpenAlexW2146769517
LanguageEN
Citations received4
References cited18

The focus of this paper is intimate relationship peak experiences arising from loving or sexual involvement. Different types of peak experiences were described and their relevance to relationship functioning explored qualitatively and quantitatively. In a convenience sample (N = 298), participants who identified having peak experiences were on average significantly older, more passionate, more sexually responsive and had less negative affect. Participants reporting peak experiences of a mystical nature tended to be significantly older and more spiritually focused. We concluded that relationship peak and mystical peak experiences represent important and memorable occasions which are personally significant to some couple members, deepening their bond. As such, therapists may strengthen partners' senses of belonging to the relationship by discussion of peak experiences

Affect (linguistics · Developmental psychology · Mysticism · Relevance (law · Theology · Attachment and Relationship Dynamics · Psychology · Psychotherapy Techniques and Applications · Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology · Social Psychology

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