THE IMPACT OF RELIGIOSITY ON LIFE SATISFACTION AND HAPPINESS AMONGST MUSLIM STUDENTS

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of religiosity on life satisfaction and happiness amongst Muslim students aged 17 to 39 studying at the International Open University (IOU). A convenience sampling technique was employed, resulting in a diverse sample of 75 participants. The Religiosity of Islam Scale, Satisfaction with Life Scale, and Subjective Happiness Scale were utilized to explore the relationship between Islamic religiosity, life satisfaction, and subjective happiness using a quantitative and correlational research design. Data analysis revealed a diverse demographic. On correlational analysis, religiosity exhibited a weak and non-significant positive association with subjective happiness (r = 0.047, p > 0.05) and life satisfaction (r = 0.073, p > 0.05). However, a moderate and statistically significant positive correlation emerged between subjective happiness and life satisfaction (r = 0.416, p < 0.01). Religiosity levels, based on beliefs and behavioral practices, indicated that over 98% of participants demonstrated a high level of religiosity. Contrary to expectations, the study found that religiosity had no significant impact on the participants' overall life satisfaction and happiness. These findings provide insights into the complex relationship between religiosity and subjective well-being amongst Muslim students, and they also emphasize the need for further research to understand these dynamic constructs.

Keywords: Religiosity, happiness, life satisfaction, subjective well-being.