MIQOT: Jurnal Ilmu-ilmu Keislaman
Vol 50, No 1 (2026)

RELIGIOSITY AMONG AUTISTIC CHILDREN: The Formation of Religious Practices and Islamic Spiritual Experiences

Ampun Bantali (Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta)
Sjafri Sairin (Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta)
Fuad Nashori (Universitas Islam Indonesia)
Azam Syukur Rahmatullah (Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta)



Article Info

Publish Date
09 Apr 2026

Abstract

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), despite their developmental limitations, remain spiritual subjects who can be introduced to religious life. This study investigates the nature of autistic children’s spiritual experiences, the significance of nurturing religiosity, and the strategies used to cultivate religious practices. Employing a phenomenological design, the research was conducted in North Sumatra with six informants: three autistic children and their parents. Data were collected through in-depth interviews. The findings reveal diverse patterns of religiosity: some children display difficulties grasping the abstract concept of God, while others develop heteronomous faith shaped largely by parental instruction and environmental exposure. Religious practices are typically performed through routine imitation rather than internalized theological comprehension. However, sustained parental guidance and supportive environments appear to foster more complex forms of religiosity. Importantly, religiosity functions not only as spiritual formation but also as a psychosocial resource that promotes self-regulation, emotional stability, and reduced anxiety. Effective strategies include habituation, modeling, repetition, and active engagement within supportive and inclusive communities.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

MIQOT

Publisher

Subject

Religion Arts Humanities

Description

MIQOT: Jurnal Ilmu-Ilmu Keislaman is a peer reviewed academic journal, established in 1976 as part of the State Islamic University of North Sumatra Medan (see: video), dedicated to the publication of scholarly articles in various branches of Islamic Studies, by which exchanges of ideas as research ...