Toward a Positive Psychology of Islam and Muslims: Spirituality, struggle, and social justice

This book explores the international experiential and spiritual lives of Muslims, integrating research in positive psychology, Islamic psychology, and Muslim wellbeing. It highlights the struggles and successes of minoritized Muslim groups, such as the LGBTQ community, Muslims with autism, Afghan Shiite refugees, and the Uyghur community in China. It contributes to scholarship within the second wave of positive psychology (PP 2.0) that aims to illustrate a balance between positive and negative aspects of human experience.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 17 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate tapestry of positive psychology, Islamic psychology, and Muslim well-being, offering a profound exploration into the diverse international experiences and spiritual journeys of a religious group that constitutes over 24% of the global population. By seamlessly integrating Western psychological paradigms, such as the theories of Jung, Freud, Maslow, and Seligman, with Islamic ways of knowing, it sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of marginalized Muslim communities, including the LGBTQ community, Muslims with autism, Afghan Shiite refugees, and the Uyghur community in China. Positioned at the crossroads of multiple social science disciplines, including psychology of religion, cultural psychology, and positive psychology, this book contributes to the emerging field of positive psychology 2.0, which aims to strike a harmonious balance between the positive and negative aspects of human experience. While primarily designed for students, researchers, and academic scholars in psychology, culture, and religious studies, particularly Muslim studies, this book also appeals to a broader audience interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Islam and Muslims through a research-based social science lens.

Introduction:
This book serves as a groundbreaking exploration into the multifaceted realm of positive psychology, Islamic psychology, and Muslim well-being, providing a comprehensive and insightful perspective on the diverse international experiences and spiritual journeys of a religious group that constitutes over 24% of the global population. By seamlessly integrating Western psychological paradigms, such as the theories of Jung, Freud, Maslow, and Seligman, with Islamic ways of knowing, it sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of marginalized Muslim communities, including the LGBTQ community, Muslims with autism, Afghan Shiite refugees, and the Uyghur community in China. Positioned at the crossroads of multiple social science disciplines, including psychology of religion, cultural psychology, and positive psychology, this book contributes to the emerging field of positive psychology 2.0, which aims to strike a harmonious balance between the positive and negative aspects of human experience. While primarily designed for students, researchers, and academic scholars in psychology, culture, and religious studies, particularly Muslim studies, this book also appeals to a broader audience interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Islam and Muslims through a research-based social science lens.

Positive Psychology and Islamic Psychology:
Positive psychology and Islamic psychology are two distinct yet interconnected fields of study that explore the human experience from different lenses. Positive psychology, rooted in Western psychological paradigms, focuses on promoting well-being, happiness, and fulfillment by cultivating positive emotions, positive relationships, and positive life experiences. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and positive self-talk, among other strategies, to enhance overall well-being. On the other hand, Islamic psychology draws upon the rich traditions and teachings of Islam to promote mental health, spiritual development, and overall well-being. It emphasizes the importance of balance, harmony, and the integration of the spiritual and the material aspects of life. Islamic psychology emphasizes the role of the Quran, Hadith, and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad in shaping mental health and well-being. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from religious scholars and practicing mindfulness, meditation, and other spiritual practices.

Muslim Well-being:
Muslim well-being is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects of an individual's life, including their spiritual, emotional, physical, and social well-being. It is deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam and is influenced by the cultural and social context in which Muslims live. Muslim well-being is not just about individual happiness but also about the collective well-being of the Muslim community. It emphasizes the importance of social justice, community engagement, and the promotion of peace and harmony. Muslim well-being is also closely linked to the concept of tawakkul, which means reliance. It is the belief in the absolute power and trust in God, and it provides Muslims with a sense of security and resilience in the face of adversity.

Marginalized Muslim Communities:
Marginalized Muslim communities, such as the LGBTQ community, Muslims with autism, Afghan Shiite refugees, and the Uyghur community in China, face unique challenges and struggles in their pursuit of well-being. These communities often face discrimination, marginalization, and social exclusion, which can have a profound impact on their mental health and overall well-being. This book highlights the experiences and perspectives of these communities, providing a valuable insight into their challenges and successes. It emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments that promote the well-being of all Muslims, regardless of their background or identity.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration into the diverse international experiences and spiritual journeys of Muslim communities. By integrating Western psychological paradigms with Islamic ways of knowing, it sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of marginalized Muslim communities, including the LGBTQ community, Muslims with autism, Afghan Shiite refugees, and the Uyghur community in China. It contributes to the emerging field of positive psychology 2.0, which aims to strike a harmonious balance between the positive and negative aspects of human experience. This book is valuable for students, researchers, and academic scholars in psychology, culture, and religious studies, particularly Muslim studies, as well as for general audiences interested in gaining a deeper understanding of Islam and Muslims through a research-based social science approach.

Weight: 658g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030726089
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021