The Guru at Your Fingertips: An Exploratory Study of Spiritual Leaders on Social Media

Описание: Melissa Caicedo Farbman, Olivia Jenkins, & Petra Parvati Meedt
Sophia University

Abstract: This study explores the rapidly evolving culture of a new generation of self-identified online gurus that use social media to connect with their followers and share their content and services with a growing community of spiritual seekers. Using netnography, 15 social media profiles of spiritual leaders and teachers were analyzed regarding their online presentation, engagement style, general profile content, qualifications, and services offered. This method was used to assess trends in online spirituality, drawing from published content across different social media platforms including YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. The findings reveal the potential benefits and dangers, which include ease of access, an opportunity for connection, inspiration, and a sense of community. On the other hand, there is a considerable risk of being misled by inauthentic representation since many online gurus lack adequate qualifications to work with vulnerable populations that present with complex psycho-spiritual issues and experiences.

Presenter bios: Melissa Caicedo Farbman is a researcher and psychotherapist who holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is based in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Olivia Jenkins is a passionate researcher and writer, and adjunct faculty at Sofia University who currently lives in Massachusetts.

Petra Parvati Meedt is a licensed psychologist and Marriage and Family Therapy Intern. She graduated with a M.A. in Anthropology from the University of Freiburg, Germany, and with a M.S. in Counseling Psychology from the Interamerican University in Puerto Rico

The researchers are Ph.D. candidates at Sofia University, completing their doctorates in Transpersonal Psychology.