FAQs
What do you mean by “tilt”?
Picture a seesaw on a children’s playground. Research has revealed that narcissism and humility stand opposite each other. High traits in narcissism typically mean low presence of humility, and vice versa. Every pastor tilts towards narcissism or humility. It’s just a matter of how far.
Is it really anonymous?
Absolutely! You won't be asked to provide any information that could identify who you are. You will be asked general demographic info (age, gender, education, etc) and broad ministry-specific info (e.g., denomination, current role in church, total years of full-time employment, how many churches you’ve worked for, etc). None of the information can be linked back to you.
What will you do with my responses on the assessments?
Your responses will be combined with those of hundreds of other pastors. This data will be evaluated to test the various research hypotheses. The results will be published in a dissertation, which will be available to future researchers. Additionally, some denominational leaders have asked for a summary of their fellowship's data to be provided. No individual responses will be provided to denominational leaders.
Do I have to participate?
All research should be voluntary. You are not forced to complete the assessment. And if you change your mind about participating while completing the assessment, then close the browser window and go on with your day.
Why use “clergy” instead of “pastor”?
It sounded more formal. It’s a doctoral dissertation after all!
What do you get out of this, Chris?
In the long run, it will help me complete a doctorate, which could open doors of opportunity. In the short term, it will answer a question that I am really curious about.
Bonus: My students will have to call me doctor!
Are you writing a book?
CLERGY TILT: The burden of ego. The lift of humility.
It does sound like a catchy title for a book! I won’t rule it out, but I don’t have any plans currently to turn this research into a book. I have other research projects that I want to focus on.