Renee Taylor

Proposed title

Lived Faith and Wellbeing: Intersections, Transmissions and Experiences of Muslim children in Australia

Supervisors

Principal Supervisor: Dr Mahsheed  Ansari
Co-Supervisor: Carol Mroue

Summary

This research explores the ways in which Muslim children in Australia aged 6–12 understand and experience Islamic spiritual practices as supportive of their wellbeing. The conceptualisation of wellbeing in this study focuses on psychological, social, identity, spiritual aspects. It includes aspects of physical wellbeing as a secondary layer. A strengths-based approach will be adopted, where Islamic practices are positioned as potentially protective resources in children's lives.

A qualitative research methodology will be utilised to examine specific Islamic practices and investigate the manner in which these practices enhance children's development and wellbeing. Further investigation into the processes of transmission of these practices from one generation to another via family relationships, parental modelling, and lived experience, and the impact of the social context of being a religious minority in Australia, including cultural negotiation and marginalisation, will also occur.

Additionally, the role of Islamic based community organisations in reinforcing these practices and enhancing children's sense of belonging, identity, and resilience will be examined. The study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of faith as an asset for wellbeing and inform education, child welfare, and multicultural policy in Australia.

Why I chose Charles Sturt

After working in the field of education and community leadership, I pursued further study by completing a Master of Education at Charles Sturt University (CSU), with the flexibility of online delivery. My studies focused on Educational Leadership, through which I developed an understanding of how successful educational outcomes are shaped by interdisciplinary factors.

Following the completion of my Master’s degree, I continued further postgraduate study in Islamic Studies. During this time, I completed several research-based projects and publications with a particular focus on Muslim citizenship and wellbeing. I also undertook periods of study in Malaysia in 2024 and 2025. I have since continued my academic journey by undertaking a PhD with CSU and CISAC.

Engagement and memberships

Member, Australian Association of Islamic and Muslim Studies [AAIMS]

Member, Muslim Network of Academics & Researchers (MNARA)

Member, Australian Journal of Islamic Studies

Publications

https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7652-6429

McLaren H, Hamiduzzaman M, Patmisari E, Jones M, Taylor R. Health and Social Care Outcomes in the Community: Review of Religious Considerations in Interventions with Muslim-Minorities in Australia, Canada, UK, and the USA. J Relig Health. 2024 Jun;63(3):2031-2067. doi: 10.1007/s10943-022-01679-2. Epub 2022 Oct 1. PMID: 36181633; PMCID: PMC11061054.

McLaren, H., Taylor, R., Patmisari, E., McLaren, C., Jones, M., & Hamiduzzaman, M. (2024). Community Cultural Wealth among a South Australian Muslim Population: A Reflective Evaluation of Strengthening Family Health and Wellbeing. Religions, 15(3), 351. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15030351

McLaren, H., Patmisari, E., Hamiduzzaman, M., Jones, M., & Taylor, R. (2021). Respect for Religiosity: Review of Faith Integration in Health and Wellbeing Interventions with Muslim Minorities. Religions, 12(9), 692. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel12090692