Divine Dichotomies: Gender Differences in the Impact of Spirituality on Positive Student Outcomes

This study uses Self-Determination Theory and Social Role Theory to empirically examine the relationships between spirituality and four key developmental outcomes—self-confidence, flexibility, volunteering, and helpseeking behaviors—among first-year undergraduate students, with a focus on gender differences. Survey data from 326 first-year undergraduates in the western U. S. indicate that higher levels of self-reported spirituality are positively associated with self-confidence, flexibility, volunteering, and help-seeking behaviors. The positive relationship between spirituality and self-confidence, flexibility, and volunteering was more pronounced in men, whereas the association between spirituality and help-seeking behaviors was stronger in women. These results show the importance of considering gender when exploring the impact of spirituality on student development and suggest that integrating spiritual support into educational programs may foster holistic growth among undergraduates.