POST-RELIGIOUS IDENTITY FORMATION AND WELL-BEING: A NARRATIVE REVIEW abstract

Religious disaffiliation is an increasingly common phenomenon in many parts of the world, with a growing number of individuals identifying as atheist, agnostic, or “spiritual but not religious.” This transition involves not only a change in belief but also a significant identity shift, often accompanied by challenges and opportunities for psychological well-being. This narrative review examines empirical evidence on the relationship between post-religious identity formation and well-being outcomes, including subjective well-being, mental health, and social belonging. Findings suggest that post-religious individuals experience enhanced autonomy, authenticity, and personal growth; however, they also face stigma, social isolation, and existential distress, particularly in highly religious societies. The review further reveals that factors such as cultural environment, prior religious involvement, and access to secular support networks moderate the relationship between post-religious identity and well-being