Caring for Muslim Children and Families in Health Care Settings: Considerations and Recommendations for Pediatric Psychologists

Objective: This article explores the intersection of Islamic beliefs and pediatric psychology, proposes theoretical frameworks for understanding Muslim patients’ and families’ religious and spiritual needs, reviews religiously integrated assessments and interventions, and provides practical and actionable recommendations for pediatric psychologists interested in integrating religion and spirituality into their work generally and with Muslim patients and families specifically. Tenets of the faith are linked to factors such as religious coping and treatment adherence. Method: This topical review utilizes a systematic and explorative approach to identify and synthesize existing literature on this topic. Results: Research on addressing the religious and spiritual needs of Muslim pediatric populations is lacking; however, research shows religious coping is significantly associated with positive health outcomes. In recent decades, researchers have adapted therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to Muslim patients’ needs, and Muslim researchers have developed Islamically based frameworks for psychology and psychotherapy. Conclusions: This article highlights the need for culturally informed and religiously integrated intervention within pediatric psychology.