Spirituality and Religiosity Related to the Well-Being of Children and Adolescents: A Theoretical and Empirical Approach

Abstract

Interest in spirituality and religiosity and the relationship of these with health and well-being has increased in recent years. Most of the research on this topic, however, is conducted in the United States with adult participants. Even though spirituality and religiosity are strongly rooted in the culture of South American peoples, few studies address these aspects in these countries, especially during childhood and adolescence. This chapter’s objective is to discuss the importance of the spiritual and religious dimensions and how they contribute to the well-being of children and adolescents. Conceptual aspects of spirituality and religiosity are discussed from both a theoretical and empirical perspective, identifying meanings adolescents and children assign to each. Results from recent studies addressing the relationship of spirituality and religiosity with well-being during childhood and adolescence are also presented and discussed. In general, studies have reported a positive association between these constructs, though some inconsistencies are observed. Challenges and future prospects in this field of study are also discussed. Greater dissemination is needed in the scientific community and among professionals caring for children and adolescents of the importance of including spirituality and religiosity within a view that considers human beings in their wholeness.