Pathology of Non-Attendance of Students in Congregational Prayers at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences

Based on the evidence, participation in congregational prayers positively impacts mental and spiritual health, fostering spiritual guidance. In this regard, the present study aimed to identify the factors contributing to students’ non-attendance in congregational prayers at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences and propose solutions to enhance participation in this divine obligation. This descriptive cross-sectional study included 436 students selected through a stratified random sampling method, from a total population of 9471 students at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2023. The data were collected using a questionnaire including demographic information and factors affecting participation in congregational prayers. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were confirmed. Data analysis was performed using SPSS  software (version 23). Independent t-tests, ANOVA, and correlation coefficients were used to examine the effects of demographic factors on the total questionnaire score. The results of the statistical tests showed that demographic variables, field and level of education, marital status, and age significantly affected the total score of the questionnaire (P<0.05). Married individuals (P=0.014) and professional doctoral students (P=0.034) had higher questionnaire scores. Besides, the scores increased with age (P=0.001). Physical factors, the role of the prayer leader, social influences, and personal inclinations significantly influenced attendance (P≤0.001), while extracurricular activities and the presence of a counselor had no significant effect (P=0.924). The findings suggested that better-equipping prayer halls, organizing extracurricular activities, the effective role of prayer leaders and religious advisors, and the presence of university officials and professors in congregational prayers could encourage students to participate in this divine obligation. University authorities can facilitate maximum participation through better planning and programming.