There are many determinants that affect an individual’s personality and academic standing as he deals with the people in his surroundings whether at home, in school or other places. As a result, the four dimensions such as physical, mental, social and spiritual aspects are affected by these determinants. With this, as stated earlier, it is irrefutably convincing that the active participation in religious activities has something to do with the personality development and scholastic standing of a child.
McKenzie Smith discussed in his study “Religious Affiliation and its Relationship to Personality and Values” that religious attendance and active involvement does play a significant role in an individual’s views and some personality characteristics. Judging from the results of his study, one can conclude that predicting certain aspects of an individual’s personality and views is possible based on their religious participation and involvement. Furthermore, Francis and Bourke’s 2003 study showed that religious involvement is related to personality characteristics as the current research shows. This clearly shows that religious affiliation and activeness in church does affect an individual regardless of his religion as far as personality development and comprehension are concerned.
The present study examined the relationship of religious affiliation and values as well as conscientiousness, stability, and experimentation. Results indicated that religious affiliation and the amount of church attendance do influence views and some personality characteristics.This participation may lead them to have a variety of views about current values and issues. Religious affiliation and involvement may also be related to aspects of one’s personality. An individual’s views on many topics may be dictated or decided by their religion, and more directly the religious community in which they participate. For some, religious affiliation may play a major role in their life choices.
As an evidence, the proponent conducted an interview to those who are considered “cream of the crop” and nine out of ten respondents (random selection from top five students coming from grade 7 up to fourth year level) stated that they actively participate in religious activities especially those programs that are designated for young people. In addition, these students emphasized that they became more confident in school discussions and more respectful to others because of their active involvement in the church.
It can be simply concluded that a student’s active participation in religious activities is undeniably a considerable factor to create future leaders not only in the family but also in the society where he lives.
By: Joey R. Silva | T-III | Mariveles National Highschool – Poblacion | Mariveles, Bataan
