Spirituality vis-à-vis Muslim Filipino families: Implications for social work intervention

Abstract

• Summary: Although social work literature acknowledges spirituality, Islamic spirituality has been neglected as a practice resource.

• Findings: Among the various Muslim populations, Islamic spirituality was found to be fundamental. The psychological well-being of Filipino Muslims is thus contingent upon access to said spirituality. It is not compulsory that social workers endorse client belief systems, but they should acknowledge such systems as critical to the client’s frame of reference as in the case of Juvy.

• Applications: Toward the end of her first semester at a Christian college, Juvy became increasingly overwhelmed with stress. The Islamic support system applied by the social worker resulted in a therapeutic experience which significantly reduced the client’s level of stress. Thus, it is essential for social workers to become informed about Islamic spirituality vis-à-vis Filipinos and other Muslim clientele.