Supernatural and Religious Beliefs among Rural and Urban Older Adults

By : Prashant Srivastava

Page No: 11-19

Abstract
Supernatural and religious causes of events are common in Indian society. Sometimes older adults are more likely to turn to supernatural and religious explanations for difficult events in their lives, from aging to dying. As mental health involves finding a balance in all aspects of life physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually but, this attribution disturbs their mental health and leads them to mental illness. Therefore this study was planned to assess and compare the supernatural and religious beliefs among rural and urban older adults. The present study aimed to assess and compare the supernatural and religious belief among rural and urban older adults aged 60 years and more. Sixty older adults giving written informed consent and fulfilling inclusion/exclusion criteria were included through purposive sampling. They were evaluated on Supernatural Attitude Questionnaire and Religiosity Scale. Results shows statistically significant differences between supernatural and religiosity beliefs among both the study groups.

Author :
Prashant Srivastava : Psychiatric Social Worker, CDC —Dept. of Paediatrics, Maulana Azad Medical College & Ph.D. Scholar, Dept. of Social Work, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi.