Religiosity as a predictor of well-being and moderator of the psychological impact of unemployment

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between employment status and psychological well-being for a sample of British Asians; and explores the role of religiosity both as a direct predictor of well-being and as a moderator of the impact of unemployment. Two samples of male employed (N = 69) and unemployed (N = 71) British Asians were interviewed, selected to be equivalent in age and a number of demographic variables. Findings showed poorer psychological well-being for the unemployed group, and especially for those of middle age; thus replicating findings for white groups. Furthermore, the hypothesis of religiosity as buffering the impact of unemployment was confirmed. Results are interpreted in terms of transactional models of stress, and the benefits of religious belief and practice for unemployed people of Asian background are discussed.