Devotional Overload Syndrome: A New Pediatric Psychobehavioral Concern

Objectives: Religious instruction forms a core element of family and cultural identity in India. When devotion turns into excessive or forced ritualism, children may experience cognitive dissonance, anxiety, and behavioral conflict. Devotional overload syndrome (DOS) is proposed as a pediatric psychosocial condition arising from intense devotional pressure at home or school. Religious instruction forms a core element of family and cultural identity in India. When devotion turns into excessive ritualism, children may experience psychological distress. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and psychological impact of Devotional Overload Syndrome among Indian children. Material and Methods: A prospective mixed-method cross-sectional study was conducted across three urban districts of Madhya Pradesh from January to July 2024. Five hundred school-going children aged 10–16 years were selected through stratified random sampling. The DOS screening questionnaire, standardized anxiety and behavioral scales, and qualitative interviews with parents and teachers were used. Statistical analysis employed Statistical Package for Social Sciences v26. Results: Twenty-six percent (95% confidence interval: 22.2–29.8%) of participants showed moderate-to-severe DOS symptoms. A strong correlation (r = 0.72, P < 0.001) existed between parental religiosity and children’s psychological distress. The main manifestations were anxiety (68%), academic distraction (51%), ritual-based guilt (43%), and sleep disturbance (38%). Conclusion: DOS is emerging as a distinctive psychosocial issue in Indian pediatric practice. Balanced spiritual teaching and mental-health awareness among parents and educators are essential to prevent its escalation.