Religiosity to Minimize Violence: A Study of Solo Indonesian Society

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to explore whether religiosity was associated with reduced violence in a representative sample of the population of the Solo community in Indonesia.   Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted through face-to-face interviews between 2020 and 2024, involving 100 people aged 25 years and older. The survey included indicators of religiosity (religiosity and importance of religion), violence (involvement in fights, domestic violence, and police detention), depression, social support, and alcohol dependence. We use logistic regression models and mediation analysis. In the analysis of the total sample, after adjustment, religious attitudes were negatively associated with reduced involvement in fights and fewer police arrests, whereas the importance of religion was only associated with fewer fights.   Results and Conclusion: These findings suggest that Solo's religiosity appears to be an important factor associated with low levels of violence in this nationally representative survey, and alcohol dependence appears to mediate this relationship. These findings should be examined by the Minister of Religion, Education, and Health.   Research implications: This research implies that the concept of religiosity can be used as a measure to minimize violence in Solo and Indonesia.   Originality/value: The originality of the research lies in the function of religiosity to minimize violence that this study conducted in a Solo society.