The Integration of Islamic Educational Psychology in Enhancing Self-Esteem and Its Implications for Da’wah Job Satisfaction

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to explore the role of integrating Islamic ducational ยsychology (IEP) in enhancing the self-esteem of da’wah practitioners and its subsequent implications for job satisfaction in fulfilling da’wah responsibilities. This research adopts a qualitative library research design. Data were gathered from primary sources, such as Imam Al-Ghazali’s Ihya' Ulumuddin, and secondary sources comprising indexed journal articles, theses, and dissertations published between 2015 and 2025. The data analysis process involved qualitative content analysis using thematic and comparative techniques to interpret the underlying meanings within the selected texts. The findings indicate that IEP serves as a fundamental mental defense mechanism through the processes of Tazkiyah al-Nafs (purification of the soul) and Tarbiat al-Aql (education of the intellect). This integration successfully fosters a tawhid-based self-esteem (izzah), which relies on devotion to Allah rather than external human validation. Consequently, this shift positively impacts job satisfaction, rendering it transcendental as da’wah tasks are perceived as opportunities for worship rooted in the concepts of Ikhlas (sincerity) and Ihsan (perfection). The study emphasizes an urgent need for da’wah institutions to re-engineer leadership and human development modules by formally incorporating Islamic psychological elements. Furthermore, it is recommended that higher education Islamic curricula integrate IEP as a core subject to produce graduates who are attuned to human psychological dynamics and possess robust internal resilience.