Citation
Regnerus, M. (2003). Religion and positive adolescent outcomes: A review of research and theory.
Review of Religious Research. vol. 44 (4) pp. 394-413
Abstract
I review recent research published in academic journals concerning religious influences on several positive outcomes during adolescence: physical and emotional health, education, volunteering and political involvement, and family well-being. Though much less research exists on these outcomes when compared with risk behaviors such as drinking, drug use, and sexual activity, the high-quality studies that do exist point to modest positive influences of religious involvement. That is, more extensive religious involvement is generally associated with positive outcomes during adolescence. Certain religious affiliations (e.g., conservative Protestantism) can mitigate the otherwise positive influence of religious involvement on educational attainment and aspirations. On most other outcomes, few or no religious affiliation differences were noted. Finally, I also explore theories of religious influence during adolescence, and conclude with suggestions for the methodological and substantive development of research in this area.
URL
http://dx.doi.org/10.2307/3512217Keyword(s)
Religion
Reference Type
Journal Article
Journal Title
Review of Religious Research
Author(s)
Regnerus, M.
Year Published
2003
Volume Number
44
Issue Number
4
Pages
394-413
DOI
10.2307/3512217
Reference ID
241
