The relationship of existential well – being to identity, religious coping, mental and general health among Norwegian aging women

The Social Construct of Religious Identity and Its Implications on the Integration Experience of Immigrant Muslim Youth in Canada

“…Religious identity for Muslim youth acts as a protective shield (Stuart & Ward, 2018), that assists in improving the physical, mental and social well-being of a young Muslim (Ai et al, 2013). This is made possible because affiliation to a religious group creates a stronger support system (Ai et al, 2013), through which a young person gains a sense of comfort and belonging in a society that otherwise alienates them (Kalfoss, et al, 2022, Stuart & Ward 2018. For example, collective religious prayers are one way that a sense of community and purpose is fostered among youth belonging to racialized groups (Abo-Zena & Barry, 2013; Adam & Ward, 2016).…”

“…For example, collective religious prayers are one way that a sense of community and purpose is fostered among youth belonging to racialized groups (Abo-Zena & Barry, 2013; Adam & Ward, 2016). For those young people that lack a connection to faith, this may lead to hopelessness, guilt, depression or anxiety when dealing with life's challenges (Kalfoss, et al, 2022). The significance of the religious identity in this context is that it allows Muslim immigrant youth to sustain their emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing with a sense of community and comfort, especially as they experience life changes such as moving to the Western world and being exposed to different beliefs, values, and lifestyles (Albaghli & Carlucci, 2021;Sloane & Petra, 2021).…”

“…The significance and benefits of a strong religious identity are clearly outlined in the academic research and findings. As religion creates a sense of community, safety, and belonging for Muslim youth, it also increases their social, emotional, and psychological well-being (Ai et al, 2013;Kalfoss et al, 2022;Stuart & Ward, 2018). It must be better understood and respected in Canadian society, including news media, in order to facilitate healthy integration of Muslim immigrants, including young people.…”

“…This principle emphasizes the need to perceive oneself as valuable to the community around them (Jaspal & Cinnirella, 2012;Vignoles et al, 2000). However, for Muslim youth who are unable to practice aspects of their faith this leads to negative self perceptions, guilt and shame (Kalfoss et al, 2022). The belonging-meaning principles hold that when a person feels a strong sense of acceptance by those around them it can lead to attaching a deeper meaning or purpose to one's life (Mitha et al, 2020;Phillips et al, 2020).…”

Effects of generational age on religious coping and psychological outcomes in females exposed to interpersonal violence.

“…Women exhibit higher levels of RS than men (Bengtson et al, 2015), and despite the value of incorporating RS into IpV trauma treatment (Garssen et al, 2021), little is known about whether differences across generations influence religious coping or psychological outcomes in this population. The current literature is limited and focuses on older population, failing to account for younger adults (Bowland et al, 2013; Kalfoss et al, 2022).…”