Youth and Religion: What Should Parents Know?
24.11.2025 09:30:33 17
In modern society, religion plays an important role in the lives of many, including young people. Research shows that for many, religion is a source of spiritual values and moral compass. However, recently, there has been a growing interest in spiritual practices associated with the search for meaning in life, sometimes leading to various new movements and movements, participation in which can be associated with certain risks. As part of a project to improve religious literacy and strengthen interfaith harmony, led by the Kostanay Region Association of Psychologists and commissioned by the district's internal policy department, meetings were held in the villages of Borovskoye and Pervomayskoye to discuss key issues in the development of religiosity in young people and the role of parents in this process.
Yu. Kalyuzhnaya, director of the center for assistance to victims of destructive organizations, emphasized protective factors against pseudo-religious influence:
Parents should have a basic knowledge of religious movements, their differences, and potential dangers. This will help them recognize early signs of their child's involvement in destructive organizations.
Creating an atmosphere of trust is key to ensuring that teenagers share their thoughts and feelings with their parents. It's important not to judge, but to listen attentively and be interested in the child's inner world.
Sometimes young people seek meaning in life and support in religious groups, which can leave them vulnerable to destructive organizations. If you have any doubts or suspicions, you can contact the Help Center in Kostanay at +77714294221, where a psychologist and lawyer will provide free assistance.
Yu. Kalyuzhnaya cited examples of young people who have become victims of manipulation and emphasized the need for early intervention and prevention. She also offered practical recommendations for parents:
Regular communication and interest in the child's interests.
Discussing the role of religion in life and its positive aspects.
Teaching children critical thinking, the ability to distinguish safe religious practices from destructive ones, and developing other social skills: constructive communication, stress resilience, non-violent conflict resolution, and the ability to ask for and provide help to others.
If you have any suspicions, seek professional help.
The combined efforts of parents, teachers, and specialists can significantly reduce the risk of youth becoming involved in dangerous religious organizations. It's important not only to be informed but also to create an atmosphere of trust and support so that our children can navigate the world of spiritual values.
