Faculty Research and Publications
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Item Eternal Destinies: A Comparative Analysis of Eschatological Perspectives in Islam and Hinduism(Journal of Religion and Theology, 2025) Khan, Sana Rizwan; Ali, Md. YousufThis research paper provides an in-depth analysis of eschatological viewpoints within Islam and Hinduism, examining both differences and similarities in relation to the afterlife, judgment, and salvation. In Islam, a linear eschatological paradigm is presented, signifying a Day of Judgment where individuals are rewarded with Paradise or Hell based on deeds and belief. Hinduism offers a cyclical understanding of existence, in which the soul reincarnates according to karma until achieving moksha, or liberation from rebirth. Despite their distinct eschatological perspectives, both faiths address the ultimate fate of the soul and the moral implications of human actions. By drawing parallels between these traditions, the study seeks to enhance understanding of how diverse theological contexts shape beliefs about the destiny of the soul and broader spiritual and moral implications.Item A Study of Relationship Between Mental Health, Emotional Intelligence and Religiosity Among Muslim Students(Journal of Integrated Sciences, 2023) Khan, Sana Rizwan; Bocca-Aldaqre, Francesca Umm Yahya; Yatoo, Nissar AhmadThis research explored the relationships between mental health, emotional intelligence and religiosity of Muslim students. 382 students (273 females and 109 males) from higher education institutions participated in the study through a random sampling method. These students belonged to both Muslim majority and Muslim minority countries. General Health Questionnaire, Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire, and IIUM Religiosity Scale were adapted and used. Results indicated no significant difference in religiosity and emotional intelligence between males and females or between students from Muslim majority and Muslim minority countries. Religiosity and emotional intelligence were lower among students from non-Islamic institutes and among younger students, while no significant difference in mental health was found across categories. The study found a negative but significant correlation between emotional intelligence and psychological distress, a positive and significant correlation between emotional intelligence and religiosity, and a negative but significant correlation between psychological distress and religiosity. The findings indicate that religiosity and emotional intelligence are high in Muslim students and may aid in maintaining good mental health.Item A Mixed Methods Study of Mental Health, Emotional Intelligence and Religiosity in Muslim Students(International Journal of Islamic Psychology, 2023) Khan, Sana Rizwan; Yatoo, Nissar AhmadThe current study employed an explanatory sequential mixed methods design to explore the relationships between mental health, emotional intelligence (EI), and religiosity of Muslim students. Random sampling was used for the quantitative part of the study, with 382 students from higher education institutions participating. No significant difference was reported in EI and religiosity between genders or between students from Muslim majority and minority countries. Lower levels of EI and religiosity were reported in students from non-Islamic institutions and younger students. No significant difference in mental health was reported across categories. Most groups showed a negative but significant correlation between psychological distress and religiosity, a negative but significant correlation between EI and psychological distress, and a positive and significant correlation between EI and religiosity. A qualitative component included 16 experts from mental health, EI, and religiosity fields. The findings indicated that Islamic religious aspects and practices act as protective factors for maintaining good mental health, and that many EI competencies are embedded in Islamic teachings.Item Forgiveness in Islam: A Pathway to Positive Religious Coping(The Journal of Arts, Sociology and Humanities, 2024) Khan, Sana RizwanForgiveness, as a religious coping mechanism, plays a pivotal role in the Islamic tradition, providing a framework for emotional and spiritual resilience. This paper explores the concept of forgiveness within Islamic teachings and examines its significance as a tool for managing interpersonal conflict and personal suffering. Drawing on Quranic verses, Hadith literature, and contemporary scholarly interpretations, the study highlights how forgiveness is not only a moral virtue but also a strategic response to adversity. The article analyses religious texts and theological discourses to explain the mechanisms through which forgiveness operates in Islamic contexts. Key findings reveal that forgiveness in Islam is linked to mercy, divine justice, and social harmony. By integrating forgiveness into religious practice, individuals can mitigate stress, enhance social relationships, and achieve spiritual tranquillity.Item The Way HomeHassem, ZarinaItem Butterfly Wings(A.S. Noordeen, 2013) Hassem, ZarinaItem Working with Crisis and Trauma from an Islamic Perspective(Routledge, 2025) Hassem, ZarinaItem 7 Things To Talk About: A Collection of Original Stories and Poems to Discuss Important Issues in Islam(A.S. Noordeen, 2010) Hassem, ZarinaItem Women's Groups as a Tool of Empowerment for Muslim Women(VDM Verlag, 2011) Hassem, ZarinaItem Ethical Considerations in High-Stakes Academic Assessments: Insights from the Nigerian Educational System(2024-10) Oladunmoye, E. O.; Oyedele, Leah Oyeyemi; Sa'ad, M. T.; Nakalema, FaithNigeria's youthful population, with a significant portion under 30, presents both challenges and opportunities for national development. High-stakes exams such as the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) tests are crucial in shaping educational and career trajectories. However, the ethical and social implications of these standardized assessments warrant critical analysis. This study examines key concerns, including cultural bias, where test content may disadvantage candidates from Nigeria's diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Additionally, test anxiety is a prevalent issue, disproportionately affecting students from under-resourced communities who may lack access to adequate preparation or psychological support. The study also explores disparities in access to test preparation resources, such as private tutoring or quality schooling, which often benefit wealthier, urban students. Moreover, examination malpractice and score manipulation further undermine the meritocratic intent of these assessments. By analyzing these challenges, the study proposes recommendations for culturally sensitive test designs, better support for anxious students, improved access to learning resources, and stronger anti-malpractice measures.Item A Study on Love-Related Mental Illness and its Therapeutic Interventions: Examining Ibn Qayyim Al Jawziyyah's Work(2025-09) Puspapandari, Nimas; Sa'ad, TajuddeenThe topic of love is an interesting discussion for researchers and laypeople. This is because love can be a driving force in daily activities, but if it is not managed properly, it can cause problems and become a manifestation of mental disorders. Love can influence various aspects of our lives, making it an important subject to discuss. This study was conducted to delve deeper into mental illness related to love, specifically based on Ibn Qayyim's thoughts about excessive forms of love, which he calls ʿishq. Ibn Qayyim discussed love with a deep view. Since the love discussed by Ibn Qayyim is about the definition of true love, the levels and types of love include mental illness related to love. In addition to explaining the definition of ʿishq, Ibn Qayyim also provides therapeutic suggestions related to ʿishq, which can be beneficial for Muslims as his works are based on the Qurʾān and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad. Since Ibn Qayyim's thoughts as a Muslim were based on basic principles which are a source of guidance for every Muslim thus his work can be enlightening for the development of Islamic Psychology.Item Role of Artificial Intelligence in Advancing Mental Health Counselling: A Critical Review(2025-02) Oladunmoye, E. O.; Enamudu, G. P.; Sa'ad, M. T.; Oyedele, Leah Oyeyemi; Nakalema, FaithThe integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into mental health counselling has emerged as a transformative solution to address the global mental health crisis, which affects over 970 million individuals worldwide. AI technologies, including chatbots, predictive models, and real-time emotion recognition systems, have demonstrated significant potential in enhancing access to care, personalizing interventions, and improving treatment outcomes. This study critically reviews the role of AI in mental health counselling, emphasizing its methodological implications, challenges, and ethical considerations. AI-powered tools like Woebot and Wysa effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, while predictive algorithms enable early identification of mental health risks. However, issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and limited cultural inclusivity raise concerns about equitable implementation. In the African context, AI is beginning to address systemic barriers such as limited infrastructure and a shortage of mental health professionals.Item A Mediation Model of Social-Adjustment among School Adolescents in Nigeria: Predictive Weights of Parental Expectations, Self-Esteem, and Identity Crisis(2024-06) Oladunmoye, E. O.; Sa'ad, M. T.; Oyedele, Leah Oyeyemi; Enamudu, G. P.Adolescent social adjustment is influenced by various psychosocial factors, including self-esteem, parental expectations, and identity crisis. Given the scarcity of empirical research examining the relationships between these variables, this study aimed to explore how self-esteem and identity crisis influence social adjustment, both directly and indirectly, through parental expectations. Using a correlational research design, data was collected from a random sample of 374 Senior Secondary II (SSII) students in Ibadan North Local Government Area, Nigeria. Self-report questionnaires were administered to measure self-esteem, identity crisis, parental expectations, and social adjustment. The data were analyzed using the General Linear Model (GLM) mediation analysis in JAMOVI software to assess the direct and indirect effects of self-esteem and identity crisis on social adjustment, mediated by parental expectations. The findings revealed significant positive correlations between social adjustment, parental expectations (r = .819, p < .01), and self-esteem (r = .856, p < .01), while identity crisis was negatively correlated with social adjustment (r = -.705, p < .01). Mediation analysis showed that self-esteem had a significant indirect effect on social adjustment through parental expectations.Item The Role of Spiritual Coping and Psychological Resilience in Preventing Addictive Behaviors among Young Muslims: An Islamic and Psychological Assessment(2025-09) Iqbal, Syeda Baseera; Sa'ad, TajuddeenThe issue of Addiction has taken the world by a storm of experiences, tarnishing one's behavior. It is not related to any particular religion, race or ethnicity but is a widespread pandemic. The main objective of this research is to explain the relationship of spiritual practices in coping and resilience to overcome addictive behaviors. A combination of detailed literature review and survey among selected participants was conducted to establish the fact that there is remarkable relationship between addiction and spiritual coping. This was done by framing a questionnaire and randomly circulated electronically via emails and other social media platforms. The survey received responses from 67 participants from different parts of the world. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation analysis. A correlation matrix using a heat map explained the effects. The findings of this research show that there is a remarkable relationship between spiritual practices and addictive behaviors. The study explored a strong connection between Quran, Hadith and opinions of scholars in overpowering the Biopsychosocial aspects of Addiction.Item Exploring the Challenges of Paper-Based Documentation in Clinical and Administrative Departments at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, the Gambia(2026) Fatajo, Ebrima; Sa'ad, TajuddeenEffective records management is essential for quality health care delivery, administrative efficiency, and institutional accountability. Despite global progress toward digital health systems, many health care facilities in low- and middle-income countries continue to rely on paper-based documentation. This study investigated the challenges associated with paper-based documentation within the clinical and administrative departments of the EFSTH in the Gambia. A qualitative descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. Primary data were collected across all hospital departments using structured visual inspections and face-to-face interviews with Heads of Departments (HoDs). An inspection checklist was used to assess the availability of digital infrastructure, storage capacity, documentation practices, and the safety and security of patient data. The study revealed significant challenges associated with the continued use of paper-based records, such as high volumes of manual documentation, inadequate storage space, lack of secure filing infrastructure, and absence of designated records personnel. These challenges contributed to the frequent loss, misplacement, and damage of patient records, delayed information retrieval, and disruption of clinical and administrative workflows. The findings highlight the inadequacy of paper-based documentation systems in meeting a tertiary and teaching hospital's operational demands.Item An Investigation into Al-Balkhi's Conceptualization of Mental Health in the Book 'Sustenance of the Soul'(2025-08) Puspapandari, Nimas; Sa'ad, TajuddeenMental health is an important issue today because it can affect a person's daily life as an individual and their contribution to the community. The DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) as the main source of diagnosing mental disorders today is from the American Psychiatric Association which came from the research of American students and animals as subjects of the research. It is culture-bound since it cannot be applied to all nations. As a Muslim, the Qurʾān and Ḥadīth influenced the Muslims' personality and traits. It also had special values that may be contrary to American culture. Therefore, the need to explore Islamic Psychology as a solution for Muslim mental health nowadays is significant. This study explores the concept of mental health as recorded by al-Balkhi in his book 'Sustenance of the Soul'. In this book, al-Balkhi explained the strategy for maintaining mental health. The concept of mental health based on the book 'Sustenance of the Soul' is a treatise based on scientifically proven practices and with an Islamic perspective. Al-Balkhi also classified mental disorders into four main categories. He explained the symptoms for each category and the treatments.Item Effectiveness of Integrating Islamic Spiritual Practices in Psychotherapy for Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders(2025-06) Iqbal, Syeda Baseera; Sa'ad, TajuddeenAs the modern therapeutic approaches have shortcomings dealing patients with severe PTSD symptoms, this research highlights the integration of psycho spiritual method in the conventional therapeutic method. The study explores the effectiveness of Islamic spiritual practices like Salah (prayer), Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), Qur'anic recitation, and Tawakkul (trust in Allah) in alleviating PTSD symptoms among Muslim participants. A total of 41 participants responded to the survey. Quantitative and Qualitative methods were used to assess the impact of these practices on trauma-related symptoms. The quantitative data was analyzed using a Chi-Square test, revealing a statistically significant association between the severity of PTSD symptoms and the perceived effectiveness of Salah and Dhikr, which were identified as the most effective practices. Qur'anic recitation also showed beneficial effects, while Tawakkul was reported as less effective. Qualitative responses highlighted the emotional relief provided by Salah and Dhikr, with participants describing these practices as sources of comfort and spiritual connection. The findings suggest that Islamic spiritual practices, particularly Salah and Dhikr, offer meaningful support for Muslims suffering from PTSD.Item Perceived Barriers to Education: The Role of Hijab in the Experiences of Muslim Girls in Non-Muslim Countries, an Islamic and Psychological Assessment(2025-08) Iqbal, Syeda Baseera; Sa'ad, TajuddeenThis study explores the perceived barriers to education faced by Muslim girls wearing the Hijab in non-Muslim-majority countries, integrating Islamic perspectives and psychological assessments. The Hijab, a symbol of modesty and religious identity in Islam, holds significant spiritual and cultural value. This study examines the relationship between the Hijab and its impact on the educational experiences of Muslim girls. Drawing from Quranic teachings, Ḥadīth, and psychological frameworks, the study emphasizes the Hijab's role in fostering spiritual empowerment and self-respect. However, Hijab-wearing Muslim girls often encounter challenges such as discrimination, social exclusion, and cultural misunderstandings, which can hinder their academic performance, self-esteem, and social integration. Using a qualitative review of existing literature and data collected through a questionnaire-based survey, this study highlights the dual role of the Hijab as both a source of empowerment and a potential barrier to educational access. Recommendations are provided for educational institutions to address these challenges, including the implementation of awareness programs, inclusive policies, and supportive networks.Item Ethical Considerations in High-Stakes Academic Assessments: Insights from the Nigerian Educational System(2024-10) Oladunmoye, E. O.; Oyedele, Leah Oyeyemi; Sa'ad, M. T.; Nakalema, FaithNigeria's youthful population, with a significant portion under 30, presents both challenges and opportunities for national development. High-stakes exams such as the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) tests are crucial in shaping educational and career trajectories. However, the ethical and social implications of these standardized assessments warrant critical analysis. This study examines key concerns, including cultural bias, where test content may disadvantage candidates from Nigeria's diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Additionally, test anxiety is a prevalent issue, disproportionately affecting students from under-resourced communities who may lack access to adequate preparation or psychological support. The study also explores disparities in access to test preparation resources, such as private tutoring or quality schooling, which often benefit wealthier, urban students. Moreover, examination malpractice and score manipulation further undermine the meritocratic intent of these assessments. By analyzing these challenges, the study proposes recommendations for culturally sensitive test designs, better support for anxious students, improved access to learning resources, and stronger anti-malpractice measures.Item A Mediation Model of Social-Adjustment among School Adolescents in Nigeria: Predictive Weights of Parental Expectations, Self-Esteem, and Identity Crisis(2024-06) Oladunmoye, E. O.; Sa'ad, M. T.; Oyedele, Leah Oyeyemi; Enamudu, G. P.Adolescent social adjustment is influenced by various psychosocial factors, including self-esteem, parental expectations, and identity crisis. Given the scarcity of empirical research examining the relationships between these variables, this study aimed to explore how self-esteem and identity crisis influence social adjustment, both directly and indirectly, through parental expectations. Using a correlational research design, data was collected from a random sample of 374 Senior Secondary II (SSII) students in Ibadan North Local Government Area, Nigeria. Self-report questionnaires were administered to measure self-esteem, identity crisis, parental expectations, and social adjustment. The data were analyzed using the General Linear Model (GLM) mediation analysis in JAMOVI software to assess the direct and indirect effects of self-esteem and identity crisis on social adjustment, mediated by parental expectations. The findings revealed significant positive correlations between social adjustment, parental expectations (r = .819, p < .01), and self-esteem (r = .856, p < .01), while identity crisis was negatively correlated with social adjustment (r = -.705, p < .01). Mediation analysis showed that self-esteem had a significant indirect effect on social adjustment through parental expectations.