Psychological roots and branches of belief

Beliefs are discussed within a psychoanalytic context as objects of love and hate with specific content. Belief and disbelief are learned in early emotional relations, i.e. behind belief lie real love and hate objects of flesh and blood. Thus, beliefs are derivative in that they are satisfiers, they function defensively to avoid pain, and they aid adaptation and reality testing. Beliefs are coping devices which enable one to make sense of life, to improve one's lot, to endure, etc. Winnicott's transitional sphere is used to describe the ways beliefs are instilled and incorporated.He is an Elder in the United Presbyterian Church.