POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY
PRESENTATION
RELIGIOSITY/SPIRITUALITY
DEFINITION:
Religiosity refers to people's varying
tendencies to commit themselves to
religious beliefs, principles, and
activities.
A concern for or sensitivity to things of
the spirit or soul, especially as opposed
to materialistic concerns.
Purpose and pathways to spirituality;
Spirituality is a deeply personal and subjective aspect of
human existence that involves seeking meaning, purpose, and
connection to something beyond oneself. It is a broad and
multifaceted concept that can be understood and pursued in
various ways.
Here are some common purposes and pathways to spirituality:
Seeking meaning and purpose.
Connection to the divine or higher power.
Self-exploration and personal growth.
Cultivating inner peace and well-being.
Connection to others and the world.
Seeking meaning and purpose: Many people
turn to spirituality to find deeper meaning and
purpose in life. They may feel a longing for a
greater understanding of themselves, their place
in the world, and the nature of reality.
Connection to the divine or higher power:
Spirituality often involves a desire to connect
with a higher power, whether it be a traditional
religious deity, a universal life force, or a
transcendent consciousness. This connection can
provide a sense of guidance, comfort, and
support.
Self-exploration and personal growth:
Spirituality can be a journey of self-discovery and self-
improvement. It may involve practices such as meditation,
mindfulness, introspection, and contemplation to gain insight into
one's thoughts, emotions, and beliefs.
Cultivating inner peace and well-being:
Spirituality often emphasizes the cultivation of inner
peace, harmony, and well-being. Practices such as prayer,
meditation, yoga, and energy healing can help individuals
calm their minds, reduce stress, and promote physical,
emotional, and mental well-being.
Connection to others and the world:
Spirituality can foster a sense of interconnectedness and
empathy with other beings and the natural world. It can
inspire individuals to cultivate compassion, service, and
stewardship towards others and the environment.
Research on religiosity and health.
Research on the relationship between religiosity and health
has been a topic of interest for many years. Here are some
of the researches;
Longevity: Some research suggests that religious
individuals tend to have longer life expectancies. This
could be due to factors such as healthier lifestyles, social
support from religious communities, and the psychological
benefits associated with religiosity.
Coping with illness and disability: Religiosity has been
found to play a role in coping with illness and disability. It
can provide individuals with a sense of purpose, hope, and
meaning in the face of challenging circumstances.
Religious beliefs and practices may also facilitate
acceptance and provide a framework for understanding
and navigating health-related struggles.
• Mental health outcomes: Religiosity has been
linked to various mental health benefits. Studies indicate
that religious involvement and belief systems can
contribute to greater psychological well-being, lower levels
of depression and anxiety, and a reduced risk of suicide.
Religious practices, such as prayer and meditation, may
also serve as coping mechanisms in times of stress or
adversity.
• Physical health outcomes: Several studies have
found associations between religiosity and better physical
health. For example, some research suggests that religious
individuals may have lower rates of certain conditions like
hypertension, heart disease, and cancer. They may also
have better overall health behaviors, such as lower rates
of smoking and alcohol consumption.
Case study; religiosity and Coping with Chronic
Illness.
Background: Sarah is a 45-year-old woman who has been living
with multiple sclerosis (MS) for the past 10 years. MS is a chronic
autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system and
can lead to various physical and cognitive impairments. Over
time, Sarah's condition has progressively worsened, resulting in
limitations in mobility and daily functioning. Sarah has been
actively involved in her religious community for many years,
attending religious services regularly and participating in prayer
groups and spiritual retreats.
Psychological well-being.
Coping mechanism.
Social support.
Improved quality of life.
THANK YOU!
