RELIGIOUS ORIENTATION AND VULNERABILITY TO ANXIETY IN ADULTS
Abstract
Objective: The role of religion in mental health issues is greatly understudied. The purpose of the present research is to determine the role of religious orientation in the development of anxiety in adults.
Research Design: Correlational Study.
Place of study: Karachi, Pakistan
Subjects and Methods: After a detailed literature review it is assumed that there will be a relationship between religious orientation and anxiety. The sample used in order to test this hypothesis consisted of 212 participants out of whom 53 were Muslims, 53 were Christians, 53 were Hindus and 53 were Parsis. Their ages ranged between 25 to 45 years. The entire sample had at least a graduation degree. To measure the variables of religious orientation and anxiety, a general scale of religious orientation, Age Universal I-E scale[1] was used. The SA-45[2] was used to tap the level of anxiety. Descriptive statistics and linear regression analysis were computed to translate the data in statistical language.
Results: The results reveal significant predictive relationship between religious orientation and anxiety (R2.036, F=7.919, p<.01). These findings are very critical considering the present global circumstances. Their implications for future research and applications are also discussed.
[1] Gorsuch, R. L. & Venable, G. D. (1983). Development of an Age Universal I-E Scale. Journal for the scientific study of religion, 22, 181- 187.
[2] Mental Health System Inc. (2000). The symptom assessment questionnaire- 45, Authors: USA.
