The Relationship between Dimensions of Religiosity and General Health among Shahed University Students
Journal of Pizhūhish dar dīn va Salāmat (i.e., Research on Religion & Health),
Vol. 12 No. 1 (2026),
24 May 2026
,
Page 14-30
https://doi.org/10.22037/jrrh.v12i1.47135
Abstract
Background and Objective: Religiosity is one of the key psychosocial factors that can be related to individuals’ general health. General health is a key component of overall human well-being, playing a significant role in both quality of life and individual as well as social functioning. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between religiosity and general health among students at Shahed University in Tehran, to determine which aspects of general health are correlated with levels of religiosity and how this relationship manifests within the student population.
Methods: This study employed a descriptive-correlational design, and the statistical population consisted of all students enrolled in Shahed University. A sample of 360 students was selected using stratified random sampling. Religiosity was measured using Khodayari-Fard’s Religiosity Questionnaire, and general health was assessed using the GHQ-28 (General Health Questionnaire). Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation test. In the present study, all ethical considerations were observed and the authors reported no conflicts of interest.
Results: Statistical analysis revealed significant negative correlations between religiosity and somatic symptoms (r=-0.507), anxiety and sleep disorders (r=-0.448), social dysfunction (r=-0.462), and depression (r=-0.435). These findings indicate that higher levels of religiosity are associated with lower levels of physical problems, anxiety, social dysfunction, and depression. The overall correlation between religiosity and general health disorder symptoms was also significant and negative (r=-0.566), suggesting that increased religiosity is linked with decreased general health disorder symptoms among students. In other words, students with higher religiosity levels are less likely to experience psychological and functional impairments. This negative correlation highlights the protective role of religiosity in enhancing mental well-being and reducing health-related issues in this population.
Conclusion: Overall, the findings suggest that religiosity and adherence to religious principles can play an effective role in promoting general health among university students.
- Religiosity
- General Health
- Students
- Shahed University
How to Cite
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