ANALYSIS OF SPIRITUALITY AND RELIGIOSITY AMONG PRISONERS IN BUCARAMANGA PRISONS

Abstract

Spirituality and religiosity are fundamental elements in human life, and even more so in the prison context. The presence of religious groups and chaplaincies in prisons has been a reality in Latin American countries, but there is a gap in the scientific literature regarding how a specific spiritual intervention can directly influence the religiosity of prisoners. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze spirituality and religiosity in incarcerated individuals through spiritual and religious assistance in two prisons in Bucaramanga, Colombia. To this end, a quantitative methodology with a correlational design was used, applying the ASPIRES and Age Universal I-E-12 scales to a sample of 209 inmates selected for convenience. The results revealed that spirituality and religiosity in this population, after a spiritual and religious intervention, are not superficial practices but are deeply internalized. Also, the religiosity of the participants is significantly related to intrinsic orientation, indicating that faith is perceived as an internal guide for life. It was also found that the practice of prayer is positively associated with universality and connectedness. Furthermore, it was found that spiritual interventions can be a significant tool for personal growth, comfort, and stability in the prison environment, acting as a personal resource of great importance to inmates.