Intersection of Religion and Health Behaviour Change

Abstract

This study is an exploration on the intersection of religion and health behaviour change, examining the complex dynamics that underpin this relationship and shedding light on the ways in which religious beliefs and practices can shape health behaviours and
facilitate behaviour change. The objectives of the study were to examine the influence of religious beliefs on health behaviour change, identify the mechanisms through which religious practices impact health-related decisions and evaluate the role of faith-based
organisations in promoting health behaviour change. The researcher employed the health belief model as its theoretical framework. The theory posits that people's health behaviours are influenced by their perceptions of susceptibility to illness, severity of illness, benefits of taking action and barriers to taking action. The findings of the study showed that religious beliefs and practices can play a significant role in shaping health behaviours and facilitating behaviour change, but that this relationship is influenced by a range of individual and contextual factors. The researcher recommended that healthcare providers should consider incorporating patients' religious beliefs and practices into their treatment plans, policymakers should develop policies and programmes that support the
integration of religion and health and faith leaders should incorporate health promotion and behaviour change messages into their teachings and practices.