WHOLISTIC MODEL OF PSYCHO-SPIRITUAL SUPPORT (WHIPS)

Religiosity and spiritual experiences are primarily associated with better physical and mental health, less need for health services, faster recovery from illness, and increased longevity.  Unfortunately, in any disasters or calamities, psycho-spiritual consequences are given less emphasis. In fact, to date, there has been no specific and comprehensive religious-based model being introduced to the victims in minimizing the risks of psycho-spiritual impacts. These psycho-spiritual impacts could be even more disastrous to the victims than the disaster itself if they are not treated properly in a more religious manner. WhiPS is therefore developed to signify the wholistic approach in managing and handling disasters’ victims to get themselves recovered from the traumatic tragedy or hurtful events. WhiPS is an acronym for Wholistic Model of Psycho-spiritual Support for disaster victims. The model, structured based on the maqasid al-shariah, is an outcome of a qualitative research through desk study and inductive analysis. The strength and weaknesses of existing models in managing disaster victims were examined and analysed in order for the new model to be developed. Using interviews as the main instrument in collecting data, inductive method of data analysis has been employed to come up with the structure of the model. WhiPS covers the necessary plans for Pre-crisis, In-crisis and the Post-crisis management of the victims with the ultimate objective of attaining their well-being in this world. The model is considered unique as it covers both hard-ware and heart-ware aspects in the management plans and activities. The adoption of the model in managing disasters’ victims would benefit them in getting treatment wholistically and comprehensively. This is in line with the government aspiration to have well-treated citizens with better quality of life in the future.

1. ULFAH MANSURAH BINTI ZAINUDIN
2. ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR SITI KHADIJAH BINTI AB. MANAN
3. ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR RAFEAH BINTI SAIDON
4. NURZAHIDAH BINTI JAAPAR
5. DR AISHAH BINTI MOHD NOR