Impact of Muslim Religiosity on Emotional Issues Among University Students: Moderating Role of Life Satisfaction

Abstract

Religiosity plays an important role in mental well-being, particularly within religious populations. This quantitative study examined the relationship between Muslim religiosity (intrinsic and extrinsic) and emotional issues among university students, with life satisfaction as a moderating variable. Data were collected from 400 male and female university students aged 18–35 from various universities in Karachi using a convenience sampling technique. Standardized instruments were used, including the Muslim Religiosity Scale, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS 21, employing Pearson correlation and regression techniques. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic religiosity. Intrinsic religiosity showed a significant negative association with psychological distress, whereas overall Muslim religiosity did not show a significant relationship with emotional issues. Intrinsic religiosity was also positively correlated with life satisfaction. However, life satisfaction did not significantly predict or moderate psychological distress. The study highlights the potential value of intrinsic religiosity in promoting mental well-being and suggests that religious concepts and therapeutic approaches may be beneficial in educational and clinical settings for addressing emotional issues among Muslim populations.