The Predictive Role of Spiritual Wellbeing in Social Anxiety University Students

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Social anxiety disorder is one of the most common anxiety disorders. It presents with a persistent fear of one or more social or functional situations and is highly prevalent. This study aimed to investigate the predictive role of spiritual wellbeing in social anxiety. Methods: The method of research was descriptive correlational. The study population included all students of Al-Zahra University in the 2018-2019 academic year. The cluster random sampling method was used to recruit 290 samples. Data collection tools included social phobia inventory and spiritual wellbeing. A correlation and multivariate regression test was used to analyze the data. Results: The results showed that the dimensions of spiritual wellbeing have a negative relationship with social anxiety. Based on these results, the correlation coefficient (r=0.157) between the total score of spiritual wellbeing and social anxiety is significant (P<0.01). Also, the results showed that the spiritual wellbeing variable explains 10% of the changes in social anxiety. Conclusion: According to these findings, planning, and teaching to promote students’ spiritual wellbeing are essential in reducing their social anxiety

Keywords

• social anxiety
• spirituality
• wellbeing
• university students