Final answer:
Research shows that individuals with deep religious convictions often report better health, coping abilities, and lower depression levels. The support from religious beliefs and community involvement contributes to these positive outcomes. The naturally social aspect of humans also leads to forming attachments that can include religious connections.
Step-by-step explanation:
Research indicates that individuals with heartfelt religious convictions tend to experience various positive health outcomes. Those with such convictions often report being healthier, better able to cope with life's challenges, and less depressed compared to those who have an external locus of control. This is potentially tied to the religious experience, which encompasses the conviction or sensation of being connected to 'the divine', and the support from religious beliefs and communities.
Further, the religious beliefs and practices developed through strong attachments from childhood can continue to provide comfort and emotional support in adulthood. Such beliefs may offer a sense of hope and meaning, especially when individuals face life's most difficult moments, such as illnesses, ageing, and the death of loved ones. The social support from religious or spiritual associations also plays a crucial role in the well-being of believers.
From a societal perspective, adapted for faith, humans as social creatures have evolved to form strong bonds and attachments to each other, non-human animals, objects, and even religious deities and figures. This propensity to form attachments may explain why religious experience and belief are widespread, with only a small fraction of the global population identifying as non-religious. Religious individuals often find additional comfort and sense of community through religious observance, such as attending worship and participating in communal activities.