The Model of Behavior Change and Modification from the Perspective of Islam and Positive Psychology

Abstract

The present study was conducted with the aim of presenting a model of behavior change and modification with an Islamic approach and determining its similarities and differences with the model of behavior change and modification with a positive psychology approach. The research method is qualitative, of a descriptive-analytical and inferential type, and has also been carried out using the comparative method. The data collection method was documentary, and by studying sources and describing and analyzing the data, the Islamic model of behavior modification and change was inferred. The findings of the research indicate that the most important similarities between the two approaches are: an optimistic view of human nature, a positive view of religion, belief in behavior change and modification, belief in human capacities, talents, and abilities, emphasis on a positive attitude and human virtues, and application in the fields of counseling, therapy, and education. Likewise, the most important differences were differences in ontology, teleology, axiology, methodology, and defensive pessimism. The process of the behavior change and modification model with an Islamic approach consists of monitoring actions (moraghebeh), facing the problem, identifying the problem, desire to change (tobah), setting the goal of change (taqwa), designing a change plan (tafakkor), implementing the plan, receiving feedback (mohasebeh), and follow-up (mojahedeh). Whereas the process of the behavior change and modification model in positive psychology (the selected model) includes the stages of pre-contemplation, contemplation, planning, action, maintenance, and termination.