Fathana: Jurnal Psikologi Ar-Raniry
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): Fathana: Jurnal Psikologi Ar-Raniry

Finding Peace in Suffering: Religiosity-Based Meaning-Making among Muslim Middle-Aged and Older Adults with Chronic Illness

Rezaputra, Indira Ravly (Unknown)
Zahro Aisiyah, Yusanti (Unknown)
Marlina, Erli (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jan 2026

Abstract

Chronic illness generates not only physical suffering but also profound existential challenges, particularly among middle-aged and older adults. Within Muslim communities, religiosity often serves as a central framework for interpreting and coping with suffering. This study explores how Muslim middle-aged and older adults living with chronic illness construct religiosity-based meaning to foster self-acceptance and psychological adaptation. Integrating Pargament’s Religious Coping Theory, Frankl’s Logotherapy, and Park’s Meaning-Making Model, this study employed an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach with ten participants aged 35–75 diagnosed with various chronic conditions. Semi-structured interviews were thematically analyzed. Four major themes emerged: (1) Divine Attribution, viewing illness as part of God’s will; (2) Self-Acceptance through Surrender; (3) Spiritual Coping through prayer, religious practices, and medical adherence; and (4) Holistic Well-Being, where faith supports resilience and meaning reconstruction. A Religiosity-Based Meaning-Making Model is proposed, highlighting the central role of Islamic faith in promoting psychological well-being.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

JPA

Publisher

Subject

Public Health Social Sciences Other

Description

Fathana: Jurnal Psikologi Ar-Raniry is a peer-reviewed scientific journal published by the Department of Psychology, State Islamic University Ar-Raniry, Banda Aceh, Indonesia. The journal is committed to the dissemination of high-quality research in the field of psychology, both within Indonesia and ...