Exploration of Muslim Children's Engagement in Religion and Spirituality and Associations with Academic Functioning, Social Behaviors, and Well-Being

Abstract

Evidence suggests that religion and spirituality contribute to positive outcomes in youth, including academic functioning, social behaviors, and well-being. Islamic psychology merges psychological and spiritual well-being within the individual. Studies have shown positive outcomes for adult engagement in Islamic religious practices (i.e., salat prayer and dua), however studies have yet to explore whether these relationships exist for Muslim children. This study examined the relationship between Islamic religious practices (i.e., salat prayer and dua) and academic functioning, prosocial behaviors, happiness, and satisfaction with life in a sample of Muslim school children attending an urban private Islamic school. In addition, this study assessed several mediation models to examine the indirect association of student’s engagement in salat prayer and dua and student outcomes through student’s spirituality (i.e., relationship with God and mindful salat). The findings indicated a robust relationship between student’s religious practices and academic engagement, mediated by student’s relationship with God. Student’s religious practices were also associated with their social behaviors. Lastly, religious practices were indirectly associated with student’s well-being through their relationship with God. The results expand on the literature by providing empirical support for the significant contribution that religious practices and spirituality play in enhancing the academic, social, and well-being experiences of Muslim children. These findings reveal that for this marginalized population, Muslim American school children, their religious and spiritual practices are a source of empowerment.