Superstitious Beliefs and Health Anxiety in Community Members: A Correlational Study

Abstract

Background Superstitions affect people's health, luck, and daily decisions.  Due to cultural and psychological factors, these beliefs affect people differently based on their experiences and societal norms. Methods: This quantitative study used the correlational method on 312 respondents of both genders.  The study used the Superstitious Beliefs Scale, Health Anxiety Scale, and demographic variables. Results: The study findings showed a rather high level (44.51) with a mean score of superstitious beliefs of 1.91 (±0.814).  Though popular beliefs had the lowest mean (1.56 ± 0.791), personal superstitious beliefs had the highest mean (2.29 ± 1.109).  Belief in good fortune ran from 1.52 to 2.38; "I seek good luck" scored highest (2.38).  Belief in bad luck ranged from 1.73–1.93; belief in changing luck ranged from 1.94–2.46; with "I can change events through different actions," scoring the highest (2.37).  For health anxiety, the mean was 2.09, with major correlations between superstitious beliefs and health anxiety across all dimensions (0.272–0.401, p < 0.001). Sociocultural superstitious behaviors peaked at (1.80).  This implies that levels of anxiety in society are much influenced by superstitious ideas.  In essence, superstitious beliefs shape attitudes and actions; they also frequently influence emotional well-being and decision-making.  Encouragement of critical thinking and awareness-raising will enable people to make more logical decisions and lower unwarranted fear.