Analysis of the role of religion and spirituality during adolescence in the context of health
Abstract
The study examines the role of religion and spirituality during adolescence, with a particular focus on religiosity as a determinant of health among young Catholics in Slovakia. It conceptualizes religiosity as a multidimensional phenomenon and addresses its key dimensions74as well as established typologies of believers. Attention is also paid to adolescent religiosity in the broader context of social development and the transition to adulthood. In addition, the study focuses on the structure of leisure activities of young Catholics and their relationship to religiosity and health-related behavior. Leisure activities are understood as an important part of adolescents’ lifestyle, reflecting value orientations, social integration, and behavioral patterns that can influence both physical and psychological well-being. The empirical analysis is based on a representative quantitative sociological survey conducted among 3rd and 4th year high school students in Slovakia. The sample consisted of 1,968 respondents and was representative in terms of gender, school type and regional distribution. A total of 1,208 respondents identifying as Roman Catholic or Greek Catholic were included in the cluster analysis. Using cluster analysis, the study identifies empirical typologies of young Catholics according to their leisure activity patterns. These typologies are further interpreted in relation to selected indicators of religiosity and health-related behaviors, allowing for a more detailed understanding of the relationship between religious engagement, lifestyle and adolescent health. The findings contribute to the understanding of religiosity as a complex social factor that interacts with health-related behaviors and developmental processes during adolescence. The study highlights the importance of considering both institutional and personal experiential dimensions of religiosity when analyzing its impact on young people’s lives.