Reflections on the research methods, ontology and purpose of scientific transpersonal psychology, inspired by Eurotas 2024.

This article focuses on the future of research in scientific transpersonal psychology, addressing key debates about research methodologies, ontological inquiry, and disciplinary boundaries. It discusses whether existing quantitative and qualitative methods suffice for studying transpersonal phenomena or if novel, intuitive approaches are needed, with some panelists advocating for traditional methods to maintain scientific rigor and others suggesting cautious incorporation of intuitive inquiry. The article highlights the importance of engaging with ontological questions about consciousness beyond the brain-body paradigm as a distinctive feature of transpersonal psychology, while also emphasizing the need for clearer definitions distinguishing scientific transpersonal psychology from related spiritual or philosophical practices. It concludes that strengthening academic rigor, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and focusing research questions on genuinely transpersonal experiences can enhance the field's credibility and impact within mainstream psychology without compromising its core transpersonal integrity.