The Mediating Role Of Intrinsic And Extrinsic Religious Orientation In The Relationship Between Personality Traits And Psychological Well-Being: Implications For Political Ideology And Societal Cohesion

Abstract

The current examination analyzed the role of intrinsic and extrinsic religious orientation between personality traits and psychological wellbeing in sample of 690 young (18-25years) {n =466, M= 21.5, SD= 7.2} and old age people (50-70 years) {n = 224, M=58.5, SD = 14.3}. A cross sectional study research design was utilized. Muslim Religious Orientation Scale (MROS; Anwar, et al., 2019), Urdu translated NEO Personality Inventory Revised (NEO-PI-R, Chishti & Kamal, 2002) and Urdu translated Psychological Well -Being Questionnaire (PWB) were used to measure religious orientation, personality traits and psychological well-being. Path analysis through Amos revealed parallel mediation where intrinsic religious orientation and extrinsic religious orientation mediate between personality traits (neuroticism and agreeableness) and sub-construct of psychological wellbeing (autonomy, personal growth and purpose in life). The findings provide insight into how religious orientations and personality factors influence well-being across age groups and contribute to political and social cohesiveness. Implications for policy and future study into the interconnections of religious orientation, psychological well-being, and political ideology are addressed.