The Effectiveness of Jacobson Relaxation Technique and Quranic Recitation in Reducing Anxiety among University Students: A Quasi-Experimental Study
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Anxiety is a common disorder among students due to workload or panic-related conditions during initial academic interactions before exams. Jacobson Progressive Muscle Relaxation (JPMR) techniques, involving tensing and relaxing body muscles, have shown efficacy in alleviating anxiety and strengthening muscles. Additionally, Quranic Recitation has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing student anxiety, promoting mental and spiritual relaxation. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of JPMR and Quranic Recitation among university students in relieving anxiety level before their exams. The research employed a Quasi-Experimental design by using non-probability convenience sampling with a sample size of 42 participants. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29. The study utilized the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-21), an internationally recognized questionnaire. Participants provided informed consent and were selected based on specific inclusion criteria: first-year students experiencing exam-related anxiety, elevated DASS scores, and absence of other psychotic or stress-related issues. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of interventions in mitigating anxiety among these students. JPMR and Quranic Recitation are both clinically and significantly effective treatment protocol for anxiety in students. However, the Group B (Combined) participants achieved a lower post-treatment median anxiety score of 2 compared to Group A (only JPMR) with a median of 3. This led to the conclusion that significant difference between both groups, showing Quranic Recitation combined with JPMR were more effective than JPMR.
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