Ongoing Research Project: Possession, Culpability & Moral Responsibility

The Phenomenon of Demonic Possession in Contemporary Roman Catholic Italy

Religious possession remains a significant, yet often misunderstood, phenomenon within contemporary Roman Catholicism. Despite the advances of modernity and secularisation, the belief in and experiences of possession continue to persist and are not limited only to mainly rural and devout communities. This raises complex questions about the intersection of faith, psychology, and cultural identity in a rapidly changing society. The Catholic Church’s role in addressing these cases, while recognising exorcism as an official ritual, is marked by a reluctance to grant such requests. Exorcisms are typically only authorised after thorough medical and psychological assessments, reflecting the Church’s cautious approach. 

Dr. Loriga is currently engaged in an ongoing research project that explores the sociocultural dimensions of religious possession in contemporary Roman Catholic societies. The study focuses on the concept of culpability within the Roman Catholic tradition, examining how notions of sin, guilt, and moral responsibility intertwine with beliefs in possession. The research aims to understand how these concepts influence individual behaviour and community dynamics, particularly in cases where possession is seen as a manifestation of divine or demonic forces.

By conducting fieldwork, interviews, and archival research, Dr. Loriga’s project investigates how religious possession is experienced, managed, and represented in a context where traditional Catholic practices intersect with modern societal norms. It examines how culpability is assigned or absolved, how the Church and religious authorities mediate these events, and how individuals and communities negotiate their roles within this framework.

This research contributes to broader discussions on the intersection of religion, culture, and mental health, offering insights into the ways in which religious and spiritual experiences are interpreted in contemporary societies. By focusing on culpability, the study sheds light on the moral and ethical dimensions of possession and how these beliefs shape both personal identity and collective practices within the Roman Catholic communities.