Relationship between religiosity and substance dependence among a sample of Egyptian patients

Shaker, Mena S.; Mohamed Darweesh, Alaa El Din; Khalifa, Hossam El-Din; Mahmoud, Shehab H.

doi:10.4103/jcmrp.jcmrp_127_20

Relationship between religiosity and substance dependence among a sample of Egyptian patients

Authors

Abstract

Background
Religious and spiritual beliefs appear to be important factors associated with drug use and have protective effects against substance use and abuse.
Aim
To assess the relationship between religiosity and substance use disorder.
Patients and methods
This case–control study included 60 addicts and 60 cross-matched healthy volunteers from the patients' families. Each participant was assessed through the following tools: (a) demographic data sheet, (b) the socioeconomic status scale, (c) addiction severity index, and (d) the religious values and associated social behavior value scales.
Results
High percentages of addicts have disturbance in medical status, employment status, drugs, family status, and social relationship on the addiction severity index. The total mean score of religious value in addicts is a significantly lower than that of controls. Moreover, the total mean score of associated social behaviors in addicts is significantly lower than that of controls.
Conclusion
Addicts have a significantly lower level of both religious values and associated social behavior values than controls.

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