Digital Religious Engagement and Spiritual Identity Formation among Generation z in Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/ijcrs.4056Abstract
Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the digital religious engagement and spiritual identity formation among generation z in Kenya.
Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low-cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
Findings: The findings suggested that digital religious engagement enhances religious accessibility, spiritual learning, and opportunities for religious belonging among Generation Z through online worship, social media, and digital religious discussions. However, excessive reliance on digital religious platforms may limit deeper spiritual commitment, consistent religious practices, and meaningful interpersonal connections. Overall, digital religious engagement has the potential to strengthen spiritual identity formation among Generation Z in Kenya, although its effectiveness depends on meaningful participation and integration with offline religious experiences.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social identity theory, uses and gratifications theory, social cognitive theory may be used to anchor future studies on the digital religious engagement and spiritual identity formation among generation z in Kenya. The study is expected to provide practical insights for religious institutions, spiritual leaders, educators, parents, and digital religious content creators seeking to strengthen spiritual identity formation among Generation Z in Kenya. The study is expected to inform the development of policies and institutional guidelines that promote responsible digital religious engagement, youth spiritual development, and inclusive participation in online religious environments.
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