Charity Work and Religious Orientation: The Experience of the Student-Age Population

Abstract

This study aims to examine the impact of religious orientation on charitable behaviors among student-aged populations in Kazakhstan, highlighting the impact of internal and external orientations on charitable involvement, social responsibility, and empathy. Using the Intrinsic and Extrinsic Religious Orientation Scale together with the Philanthropic Activities Scale, the analysis draws on data from 128 students across various regions of Kazakhstan, thereby reflecting regional and cultural diversity. Internal religious orientation, defined as belief functioning as a central element of identity and moral guidance, is distinguished from external orientation, where religious practice is shaped more by social pressures and extrinsic factors. The findings reveal that internal religious orientation is strongly associated with positive attitudes toward charitable activities, higher levels of empathy, and greater participation in social initiatives, suggesting that students guided by intrinsic belief systems are more committed to philanthropy and social responsibility. In contrast, external orientation also relates to charitable engagement but has a weaker effect, indicating that extrinsic motivations are less effective in sustaining long-term philanthropic behaviors. These findings underscore the importance of intrinsic religious motivations in shaping youth philanthropy, suggesting that policymakers and educators should prioritize the integration of internalized beliefs into initiatives that encourage sustained participation in social causes. This study thus deepens understanding of the relationship between religion and social responsibility while providing practical recommendations for fostering empathy, responsibility, and engagement within Kazakhstan’s younger generation.