This study explores the conversion experiences of unmarried Muslim women who decided to accept Islam. There exists an important gap in studying the reasons behind their choice to convert and their adaptation to their new religious beliefs and experiences after conversion. The aim of this study is to examine the conversion processes, difficulties encountered, and how they navigated their social and cultural environment while reviewing the support systems within the Muslim community.
This study used thematic analysis to interpret data from interviews with 10 female unmarried participants (mean age = 29.7 years) from various countries. The participants were queried on their early life experiences, learning about Islam, difficulties as a new Muslim, and the intricacies of family structures and community support.
The analysis emphasized several prominent themes, such as personal and societal motivations for exploring Islam, changes in identity, the strain associated with concealing their conversion from their family, and diverse reactions from born Muslims. Many participants expressed dissatisfaction with the inadequate support provided by the Muslim community, highlighting various difficulties they faced both during and after their conversion. Despite these difficulties, a significant number of participants experienced a sense of empowerment from their spiritual pursuit. Findings emphasize the need for more specific support groups that would facilitate the sharing of experiences and provide guidance on the integration of Islamic practices in their lives.