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Sufism as a spiritual approach has a great potential to prevent mental health problems among Generation Z students at UIN Walisongo Semarang. This is because Sufism focuses on inner balance, self-awareness, and strengthening spiritual values that can be a source of psychological resilience. This study aims to investigate how Sufism practices such as dhikr, self-reflection, and spiritual guidance can help prevent mental health problems, such as stress, anxiety, and loneliness among Generation Z students. The method used in this study is a qualitative study with a phenomenological design. Data were obtained from in-depth interviews with students, observations of religious activities on campus, and focus group discussions, then analyzed thematically. Interviews were conducted with three students: Wilda Ismatus Sarifah (Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training), Sinta Wahdatul Khusna (Faculty of Tarbiyah of Social and Political Sciences), and Umi Fathonah (Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training). The study found that regular Sufism practice guided by experienced individuals helped students feel more meaningful, more socially connected, and develop coping strategies. This was associated with reduced symptoms of stress and anxiety, as well as improved well-being. The study recommends integrating Sufism-based spiritual programs into campus counseling services and character development activities. It also recommends training spiritual mentors and fostering collaboration between student welfare units and religious institutions on campus to support the mental health of young people.

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of assertive communication techniques in cross-cultural counseling for reducing avoidance behavior among students experiencing interpersonal friendship conflicts. Cultural differences between counselors and clients may influence communication patterns, emotional expression, and conflict resolution processes during counseling sessions. Friendship conflicts among university students commonly arise from jealousy, misunderstanding, social comparison, and ineffective interpersonal communication. These conditions often encourage students to avoid direct interaction to prevent further conflict. This study employed an experimental method using a One Group Pretest-Posttest Design. The participants were students who experienced friendship conflicts and demonstrated avoidance behavior tendencies. Data were collected through counseling individual. The intervention was delivered through counseling sessions that used assertive communication techniques and combined behavioral and humanistic approaches in a cross-cultural counseling setting. The findings revealed that assertive communication techniques were effective in reducing students’ avoidance behavior. After receiving the intervention, participants demonstrated greater confidence in expressing opinions, improved emotional regulation, increased openness in communication, and healthier interpersonal relationships. The study indicates that assertive communication in cross-cultural counseling can serve as an effective counseling strategy to help students manage interpersonal conflicts and improve social adjustment in higher education environments.

Interpersonal problems within peer groups often become serious obstacles to the psychological and academic development of college students. This study aims to empirically examine the effectiveness of individual counseling services using cognitive restructuring techniques in reducing withdrawal behavior among college students experiencing peer conflict. The research method employed is a quantitative experiment with a Single-Subject Design approach, specifically utilizing an A-B design. The research subject  was a 6th-semester female college student, initialized as N, who experienced cognitive distortions in the form of feelings of exclusion by her five-member peer group, which triggered acute social withdrawal behavior (isolating herself in her boarding house). Data collection was conducted through a validated withdrawal behavior scale instrument, supported by clinical observations and in-depth interviews during the baseline phase (A) and the intervention phase (B). The results of the visual analysis within-conditions and between-conditions indicated a significant decrease in withdrawal behavior scores after the implementation of 4 intervention sessions. The subject was able to identify negative automatic thoughts (arbitrary inference), replace them with rational mindsets (positive thinking), feel more relieved, and commit to self-improvement. The implications of this study prove that individual counseling with cognitive restructuring techniques can be an effective intervention strategy for campus counselors to overcome cognitive distortions and interpersonal communication barriers in college students.

This research was conducted with the aim o modifying the behavior o children who are prepetratorso bullying at Tapak Suci Putera Muhammadiyah Jagakarsa, through group counseling methods using role playing techniques. The role playing technique is used as an effort to modify the behavior of children by exchanging roles between the bullying perpetrator and the bullying vicim, through this role exchange, which will directly build a sense of empathy for the children involved in bullying behavior. The research method used in this study is qualitative with a descriptive technique, in which all observations and research result will be explained in written form. The background of this study contains information on how the role playing technique in group counseling produces the growth of empathy in children who are perpetrators of bullying, so that with the formation of empathetic emotions, the bullying children at Tapak Suci Putera Muhammadiyah Jagakarsa can control themselves, leading to the realization of efforts to modify such behavior. The result of this study is that behavior modification using the group counseling methods with role playing techniques for children who engage in bullying was successful and optimal in changing the children’s bullying behavior into empathy and respect for others. Thereore, behavior modification using group counseling methods and role playing techniques for elementary school children has a positive and very effective impact in providing enlightenment on problematic behaviors in their social environment. 

This study aims to describe the dynamics of students’ social relationships using sociometric techniques within the context of guidance and counseling services. Social relationships are an essential aspect of individual development, particularly for guidance and counseling students who are expected to possess strong interpersonal skills as future counselors. This research employed a descriptive quantitative approach using a sociometric questionnaire covering aspects of collaborative learning, group work, understanding difficult materials, and emotional support. The participants consisted of 21 students from the Guidance and Counseling study program, selected using a total sampling technique. The data were analyzed using frequency distribution of peer selection and presented in the form of a sociometric matrix and sociogram to facilitate the interpretation of social interaction patterns within the group. The findings revealed that social relationships were not evenly distributed but tended to be concentrated on certain individuals. Some students demonstrated high levels of selection, indicating their role as central figures in both academic and emotional interactions, while others showed low levels of selection, suggesting potential social isolation. These findings indicate that group dynamics are influenced by social skills, academic competence, and individual empathy. Therefore, guidance and counseling services play a crucial role in improving the quality of students’ social interactions through appropriate interventions, such as group guidance and social skills training. This study is expected to serve as a foundation for developing more effective and inclusive guidance and counseling services.

Legal aid services play a crucial role in ensuring access to justice for the community, particularly for vulnerable groups and underprivileged communities in villages and sub-districts. However, limited legal knowledge and the lack of legal assistance in rural areas often lead to various legal issues being unresolved effectively. This community service activity was carried out with the aim of improving the capacity of village/sub-district officials and the community through paralegal training at Legal Aid Posts (Posbakum) in North Sumatra. The activity method was carried out using a participatory approach through legal counseling, paralegal skills training, simple case handling simulations, and interactive discussions. The results showed that the training was able to improve participants' understanding of basic legal knowledge, mediation techniques, out-of-court dispute resolution, and procedures for providing legal aid to underprivileged communities. In addition, this activity also helped increase public legal awareness and strengthen the existence of village/sub-district Posbakum as a community-based legal service medium. Therefore, paralegal training is one of the strategic efforts to expand access to justice in North Sumatra.

In the field of education, cheating remains a critical issue of academic dishonesty. This phenomenon does not merely affect students' grades but also obstructs the development of core character values, including integrity, responsibility, and independence in the pursuit of knowledge. This article aims to analyze the factors influencing cheating behavior and evaluate various forms of intervention from the perspective of early detection of problematic behavior. This study employs a literature review method, examining 20 relevant scientific articles published between 2021 and 2026. The findings reveal that cheating behavior is influenced by internal factors such as self-efficacy, self-control, self-confidence, religiosity, and self-esteem as well as external factors, including peer conformity, parental pressure, the learning environment, and evaluation systems. Effective interventions include group counseling services, classical guidance, modifications to evaluation systems, and the utilization of Artificial Intelligence-based technology to detect potential academic fraud. Consequently, efforts to prevent cheating behavior require a multidimensional approach involving students, teachers, parents, and school policies to cultivate an academic culture of integrity.

The increasing spread of HIV/AIDS in Jayapura City requires immediate and sustainable preventive efforts, particularly through reproductive health education for adolescents. This program aimed to improve adolescents’ understanding of reproductive health, puberty changes, and behaviors that may increase the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission. The activity was conducted for adolescents participating in Sunday School at GKKD Buper Waena, aged between 10 and 15 years. The program was carried out in April 2025 through counseling sessions, question-and-answer activities, and focus group discussions. These approaches were chosen to provide participants with an interactive learning experience while also creating opportunities for them to share their personal experiences and perspectives related to reproductive health. A total of fifty adolescents participated enthusiastically in the activity. During the sessions, participants asked various questions that were answered directly by the speakers to clarify their understanding of reproductive health and risky behaviors. In addition, six focus group discussions were conducted to discuss participants’ personal experiences regarding puberty, friendships, dating, and behaviors such as kissing. The results of the activity indicate that reproductive health education can improve adolescents’ knowledge, awareness, and skills in maintaining personal health and avoiding behaviors that may increase the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission.

The postpartum period is a critical phase in which mothers experience physiological and psychological recovery. Bengkung, a traditional abdominal binding cloth, is commonly used by Indonesian postpartum mothers, but inappropriate application may cause discomfort and may not support recovery optimally. This community service program aimed to improve postpartum mothers' knowledge and skills regarding safe and appropriate bengkung use. The activity was conducted through counseling, demonstration, guided practice, and evaluation using a one-group pre-test and post-test approach involving 30 postpartum mothers at a community-based maternal health service setting. The educational content covered postpartum physiological changes, indications and contraindications, safe binding principles, hygiene, duration of use, warning signs, and when to seek professional care. The evaluation showed an increase in good knowledge from 26.7% before education to 86.7% after education, and correct practice skills increased from 20.0% to 83.3%. Participants also reported better understanding of avoiding overly tight binding, maintaining breathing comfort, and discontinuing use when pain, shortness of breath, excessive bleeding, or wound problems occur. This activity indicates that structured education and demonstration can strengthen postpartum self-care and support safer integration of traditional practices into maternal health services.

Counseling etymologically derives from the noun counsel, which originates from the Latin consilium, rooted in consilere, meaning “to consult,” or to seek the views and advice of others as guidance for consideration and decision-making. As a verb, to counsel or counseling refers to the act of providing advice, guidance, warnings, encouragement, and instruction aimed at fostering self-surrender in addressing problems and managing negative behaviors among students. Educational guidance and counseling aim to strengthen Christian students to live victoriously in the Lord Jesus Christ by bringing them to an understanding of the light of God’s Word and the acceptance of themselves as God’s grace. This Classroom Action Research was conducted to address and resolve the problems of Christian students based on the research formulation, particularly through the application of intellectual, moral, and social approaches as strategic steps to enhance educational counseling services. The study employed a qualitative approach, with data collected through in-depth interviews and field notes. Data analysis was carried out by categorizing findings to generate emerging themes. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with three teacher participants and two student participants. The findings revealed that several students required special attention due to tendencies toward delinquent behavior, while one case indicated a student’s involvement in narcotics. These findings demonstrate that student-related issues require special intervention efforts to improve their spiritual and mental well-being, leading them to a deeper knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. The ultimate goal is the salvation of students’ souls and the glorification of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Smoking behavior is a modifiable risk factor for hypertension, with hypertension prevalence generally increasing alongside higher cigarette consumption and longer smoking duration. Research on hypertension prevalence among productive-age smokers in Indonesia using national-scale data remains scarce in Indonesian publications. This study aims to analyze factors influencing hypertension among productive-age smokers in Indonesia in 2015, utilizing data from the Indonesia Family Life Survey (IFLS) 2015. The research employs a quantitative design with an analytical observational approach using a cross-sectional study. The sample comprises 10,677 productive-age smokers in Indonesia, selected via multi-stage random sampling across 32 provinces in 2015. Independent variables include age, gender, employment status, work region, cigarettes smoked, smoking duration, and daily cigarette consumption, while the dependent variable is hypertension. Hypertension prevalence among productive-age smokers in Indonesia in 2015 reached 8.53%, with significant predictors including age ≥36 years, female gender, employment status, smoking intensity of 21–30 or >31 cigarettes/day, and smoking duration >16 years—reflecting multifactorial interactions of biological, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors. Accordingly, recommendations include routine screening at primary health centers for at-risk groups, tobacco control programs based on dose-duration, economic empowerment for the unemployed, intensive screening with lifestyle counseling by healthcare providers, and longitudinal designs for future causal studies.

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of time management-based group guidance services in reducing time-disciplined behavior among vocational high school students. The study used a qualitative approach with a case study design, involving several students with a history of tardiness and undisciplined time management at school. Data were collected through participant observation, structured in-depth interviews, and documentation of time planning and daily activity diaries during the group guidance sessions. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions using thematic analysis techniques. The results indicate that time management-based group guidance positively impacts students' awareness of the importance of time discipline, changes in habitual patterns, and improves their ability to plan and organize daily activities. Students reported that time management techniques, the use of daily schedules, and weekly reflections helped them reduce tardiness and procrastination. Some students also experienced increased regularity in completing schoolwork and active participation in extracurricular activities. The conclusions of this study indicate that time management-based group guidance is an effective service in the vocational high school context for reducing time-disciplined behavior if it is delivered systematically, sustainably, and takes into account student characteristics. The practical implication for guidance and counseling services is the need to develop a time management group guidance module based on the local context of schools and students.

This study aims to analyze group counseling services using the behavioral contract technique in reducing students' procrastination behavior at the junior high school level. Academic procrastination is a common problem among students, characterized by delaying task completion, lack of study discipline, and poor time management skills. This research employs a qualitative approach with a library research method by examining various relevant sources such as books, scientific journals, and articles. The data analysis technique used is content analysis to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the concept and implementation of the behavioral contract technique in group counseling. The results of the study indicate that group counseling services are effective in helping students understand and overcome procrastination behavior through supportive group dynamics. The application of the behavioral contract technique is proven to enhance students’ commitment, discipline, and responsibility in completing academic tasks. In addition, the reinforcement system within the behavioral contract encourages students to maintain positive behavior consistently. Therefore, group counseling with the behavioral contract technique can be considered an effective strategy to reduce students' academic procrastination at the junior high school level.

Education is a crucial aspect for individuals; however, in reality, many students face learning obstacles such as low motivation and academic procrastination, which can hinder their psychological development. This literature review aims to analyze the effectiveness of various Guidance and Counseling (GC) services in addressing students’ learning problems and to identify the most prevalent and efficient strategies. The research method used was a literature review of 20 scientific articles from accredited journals and academic books published over the past ten years. Data analysis was conducted thematically to map patterns and trends in the effectiveness of interventions. The results indicate that GC services significantly contribute to addressing learning difficulties through four primary models: group counseling, individual counseling, classroom guidance, and comprehensive services. Group counseling was found to be the most widely used and effective service in enhancing students’ learning motivation and social interaction through group dynamics. Meanwhile, individual counseling proved effective for addressing personal and specific issues such as truancy and procrastination. Although effective, the implementation of guidance and counseling services still faces challenges in the form of a limited number of counselors and suboptimal time management. The implications of this study emphasize the need to optimize group services as a primary strategy, as well as increased support from schools and parents to create preventive and comprehensive interventions.

This study focused on addressing the problem of low self-confidence among seventh-grade students at SMP In Tana Toraja. The issue was identified through several behaviors, such as difficulty in voicing opinions, lack of courage to stand in front of the class, and minimal participation during the learning process. To address the identified issue, the study was designed to enhance students’ self-confidence through group guidance activities incorporating the sociodrama technique. This investigation adopted a Guidance and Counseling Action Research approach implemented across two consecutive cycles, each involving planning, action implementation, observation, and reflection. The participants consisted of 30 students, while data were collected through questionnaires and observation instruments. The results indicated that students’ self-confidence developed progressively over time. In the initial condition, most students were still classified in the low-confidence category, but improvement began to appear in cycle one and became more significant in cycle two. These changes were reflected in students’ increased confidence in performing, better communication skills, and stronger active participation in group activities. The sociodrama technique provides direct social interaction experiences that help students develop their self-confidence. Based on the results, the use of group counseling activities incorporating sociodrama emerges as a viable strategy for school counselors to support the development of students’ self-confidence.

Learning motivation is very important for students’ academic success, especially at the senior high school level. At SMA Negeri 3 Tana Toraja, there are still problems that cause low student motivation. These problems include lack of interest in learning, low self-confidence, and the use of technology mostly for entertainment purposes. This study aims to identify ways to improve students’ learning motivation through technology-based group guidance services. The research uses a library study method by collecting and analyzing scientific sources such as books and previous research journals. The results show that learning motivation is influenced by both internal and external factors. Internal factors include self-efficacy, while external factors include the fulfillment of needs for autonomy, competence, and social relatedness. Technology-based group guidance services can be an effective alternative because they combine social interaction with digital media that are familiar to students. Through discussions, sharing experiences, and the use of digital platforms, students become more active, open, and motivated in learning. Guidance and counseling teachers play an important role as facilitators in creating a supportive group dynamic. They provide positive reinforcement and help students develop self-confidence. Healthy group dynamics encourage supportive interactions, which in turn enhance students’ intrinsic motivation. Therefore, the integration of group guidance services and technology can be an effective strategy to improve students’ learning motivation and support optimal learning outcomes.

The development of a student's personality, particularly during classroom interaction, is heavily influenced by their level of self-confidence. A lack of self-assurance often leads to public speaking anxiety, which subsequently restricts student engagement and diminishes academic performance. This phenomenon is frequently identified among tenth-grade Vocational High School (SMK) students who are navigating a period of environmental transition. This research focuses on enhancing the self-confidence of Grade X SMK students struggling with speech-related anxiety through the implementation of group guidance services utilizing role-playing methods. The study follows a Guidance and Counseling Action Research (GCAR) design conducted over two cycles, consisting of preparatory, executive, monitoring, and evaluative phases. The participants were tenth-grade students with low self-confidence profiles as determined by questionnaires and field observations. Data were analyzed using a descriptive quantitative approach to compare performance levels before and after the intervention. The results demonstrate that group guidance integrated with role-playing is an effective strategy for optimizing student self-confidence, as shown by the consistent upward trend in scores throughout the cycles. These findings suggest that this technique serves as a strategic instrument for school counselors to mitigate social anxiety among students. 

The purpose of this community service program is to enhance the capacity and independence of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing improved training in business management. The program covers the use of digital technology in the agricultural sector, the implementation of occupational safety and health practices, intellectual property protection, and simple financial record-keeping practices. In Pugeran Village, the activities were carried out using a collaborative approach involving the village government, MSME actors, and university students participating in the Community Service Program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata). A qualitative descriptive approach was employed through observation, interviews, and focus group discussions, complemented by direct mentoring and counseling sessions. The results indicate that MSME actors have begun to understand the importance of maintaining simple financial records, utilizing digital technology to market their products, and becoming more aware of workplace safety as well as legal protection for their businesses. The program also encouraged MSME actors to shift their perspectives and manage their enterprises in a more professional manner. However, the speed of implementation varied depending on differences in age, educational background, and established business habits. Overall, this community service activity contributed to strengthening the capacity of MSMEs and supporting sustainable economic growth in the village

This community service project aims to accentuate inclusive values among the youth of Tanjung Dapura, Makassar City, to strengthen social cohesion in a heterogeneous urban environment. The implementation methods included team consolidation, material preparation, and strategic coordination with local government authorities. The core activities were conducted through participatory counseling and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) to independently analyze social exclusion challenges. The materials focused on the importance of respecting diversity and the strategic role of youth as inclusive agents of change. The results indicated a significant increase in participants' understanding of inclusion literacy and their ability to formulate creative solutions for local discrimination issues. Evaluation through observation and reflection confirmed a paradigm shift among the youth from passive tolerance toward active participation in embracing differences. This project concludes that the synergy between critical education and collaborative dialogue successfully transforms youth into resilient pillars of social harmony. The accentuation of these inclusive values is expected to become the foundation for a more just and sustainable coastal community in Makassar.

Self-confidence is an important psychological aspect that affects students' academic, social, and emotional success. Students with low self-confidence often struggle with interactions, expressing opinions, and optimizing their academic potential, which can negatively impact their personal development in school. Therefore, this issue requires attention through appropriate guidance and counseling services. This study aims to review various guidance and counseling strategies to address low self-confidence in students based on a literature review of the last six years. The method used is a library study with a traditional literature review approach, analyzing 15 national and international journal articles. The results indicate that low self-confidence is influenced by internal factors (such as negative self-concept and low self-efficacy) and external factors (such as bullying experiences and lack of social support). The impacts include decreased academic performance, social barriers, and negative emotions such as anxiety. Various guidance strategies, such as individual counseling, group counseling with sociodrama, and empathetic teacher communication, have proven effective in enhancing students' self-confidence. These findings suggest that low self-confidence is not a permanent condition but can be addressed through planned and ongoing guidance interventions. .