Applied Psychology Research
April 24, 2026
Jeffrey Overall
To advance the empirical study of spiritual transformation, this article offers a two-part investigation into the lived experience of kensho spiritual awakenings. The first study applies grounded theory to in-depth interviews with 13 participants who underwent kensho experiences during facilitated retreat settings. The analysis identified three inductively derived categories—(1) inner peace,...
Integral Transpersonal Journal
March 15, 2026
Jeffrey Overall
Kensho, a Zen concept denoting enlightenment, reflects a transformative realization of one’s true nature. This study explores the blockages to kensho using a mixed-methods approach, with a specific focus on Charles Berner’s self-inquiry protocol. The first phase of the research involved interviews with 13 participants who did not achieve a kensho during a retreat, despite optimal conditions...
Journal of Management, Spirituality & Religion
2026
Jeffrey Overall
In this study, I investigate how psychedelic experiences influence career trajectories, using a qualitative interpretivist framework grounded in 28 in-depth interviews. Although prior research has emphasized the psychological and therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, little is known about their impact on work life. Through grounded theory analysis, four integrative categories emerged: (1)...
Applied Psychology Research
June 27, 2025
Jeffrey Overall
2 citations
To advance an understanding of post-kensho experiences, particularly the psychological and existential challenges that follow, this research utilizes a general interpretivist framework guided by grounded theory techniques. Thirteen in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with individuals who reported experiencing a kensho awakening. From the axial coding analysis, three overarching...
Applied Psychology Research
June 26, 2025
Jeffrey Overall
Objective: This study investigates the psychological mechanisms through which 5-methoxy-N, N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) influences mental health outcomes, with a focus on fear confrontation, emotional release, and intergenerational trauma. Design: A qualitative methodology was employed, combining grounded theory and qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). Fourteen individuals who had...
Sustainable Economies
June 9, 2025
Jeffrey Overall
2 citations
This article introduces conscious economics as a novel paradigm that integrates rational egoism with consciousness expansion to redefine economic agency as an ethically self-aware and developmentally oriented process. Drawing on Kohlberg’s cognitive moral development and Maslow’s self-transcendence, the framework positions ethical self-interest as a function of ontological integration,...
The Journal of Spirituality in Mental Health
May 18, 2025
Jeffrey Overall
ABSTRACT In this study, I investigate the transformative potential of online spiritual retreats by analyzing participant experiences from a 7-day virtual program integrating continuous self-inquiry, meditation, and breathwork. Fifty-six participants completed a post-retreat integration and feedback form designed to elicit reflective insights into their contemplative experiences. Using grounded...