PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

Studies on urban poor families often focus on physical, economic, financial, and educational aspects with a lesser emphasis on spiritual and religious growth. Nonetheless, the spiritual and religious growth of the family is fundamental to the family’s resilience. Previous studies have demonstrated that incorporating spiritual and religious aspects into the support framework for urban poor families can enhance their overall resilience and well-being. Neglecting spiritual and religious aspects presents an incomplete picture of urban poor family support and development. Hence, this review aims to examine the relationship between spirituality and religious practices, and urban poor family resilience by employing a systematic literature review approach. The PRISMA method is used to provide a structured framework for the review. Following an analysis of 31 articles, six distinct themes were identified: spirituality as a source of inner strength, the strength of social relationships, the meaning of life and hope, religious practice and spiritual strengthening, religious education in the family, and religion and coping skills. This review contributes to current knowledge by understanding the significant relationships that exist between spiritual and religious aspects and resilience. It also offers recommendations for future research directions and informs the authorities, communities, and family organizations in improving aid programs by focusing on spiritual development and the well-being of urban poor families.