The Impact of Spiritual and Cultural Beliefs on Family Relationships and Marital Satisfaction in Religious Communities: A Systematic Review

Recognizing and examining factors that contribute to the strength and stability of families is a valuable step toward improving the quality of life and mental well-being of individuals in society. This systematic review aims to investigate the influence of spiritual and cultural beliefs on family relationships and marital satisfaction within religious communities.

This systematic review was conducted in January 2025, adhering to the PRISMA guidelines. The keywords “healthy family,” “marital satisfaction,” “spiritual health,” “religious communities,” “spiritual and cultural beliefs,” and “family relationships” were used to search the PubMed, Google Scholar, ISC, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, covering publications from 2010 to 2024. Study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT), and a total of eleven studies were included. Full-text reviews were conducted independently by two authors.

Findings indicate that religious and spiritual beliefs promote coping mechanisms, enhance marital satisfaction, and improve mental health outcomes.

Cultural and religious contexts significantly influence the effectiveness of interventions and educational programs designed to improve marital satisfaction. Islamic principles and religious education contribute to better marital adjustment, reduced distress, and enhanced family resilience. Sociodemographic factors and religious commitment are key predictors of marital satisfaction and family well-being.

Spiritual and cultural beliefs significantly enhance marital satisfaction and strengthen family relationships within religious communities, promoting improved mental health and resilience through effective coping mechanisms and religious education.