Disengaged from Social Concerns (DSC)

This is a group of politically moderate, socially reserved individuals whose general outlook on life is somewhat negative. Compared to other types, they tend to be disinterested in volunteering at either a local or international level. This type is least comfortable in reaching out to others. Interestingly, this type also has the most access to the Internet at home (85%). This suggests that they may be more comfortable interacting with others via technology (versus face-to-face). This group most believes that their spiritual needs are not being met. This group also has a higher incidence of depression and non-family violence. They do not believe that a global awakening is taking place, nor that it will make the world a better place. While they recognize a need for spiritual growth, they are not likely to participate in personal growth activities, and are less spiritually inclined than other types. The majority of this group is male (59%) and many are single (38%). The median age for this group is 37; the median annual income is $41,020. On average, this group has completed high school and some college. (This type constitutes 14.2% of U.S. households.)

Persisting through Adversity (PA)

This group has a strong positive outlook and believes in connecting to God through the self. They tend to look within themselves for spiritual direction and sustenance. This group feels (more than any other type) that we should each attend to our own spiritual growth, and that we need to become more conscious of and connected to all aspects of ourselves. Even though this group does report experiencing some feeling of distance from others and has experienced the most family trauma and problems in general, they value personal growth and expressing their creativity. This group somewhat believes that a global awakening is taking place, and that it will make the world a better place. They are tolerant and interested in making a difference. They are most likely to try alternative health care as well as to use marijuana and alcohol. It may be that this group is trying to break through cultural or social limitations. This group has the largest number of children per household. The median age for this group is 34; 56% are female, 40% are single, and the median annual income is $42,170. In addition, this group tends to have completed fewer years of formal education than other types. (This type constitutes 9.4% of U.S. households.)