Religion

Part A - Short definition:

Not applicable

Part B - Detailed definition:

Religion refers to the person's self-identification as having a connection or affiliation with any religious denomination, group, body, sect, cult or other religiously defined community or system of belief. Religion is not limited to formal membership in a religious organization or group. Persons without a religious connection or affiliation can self-identify as atheist, agnostic or humanist, or can provide another applicable response.

Reported in:

2011

Reported for:

Population in private households

Question number(s):

Question 22

Responses:

Respondents were asked to specify one denomination or religion only in Question 22. Two lines were provided for a write-in response and respondents could also mark a circle for 'No religion.' Refer to Appendix 1.7 for the 2011 National Household Survey classification for religion.

Remarks:

The 2011 NHS religion question asked: 'What is this person's religion?' Notes accompanying the religion question advised respondents to: Indicate a specific denomination or religion even if this person is not currently a practising member of that group.

For example, Roman Catholic, United Church, Anglican, Baptist, Lutheran, Muslim, Presbyterian, Pentecostal, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh, Greek Orthodox, etc.

The 2011 NHS Guide stated that:

In the answer box provided, respondents should write the name of the specific denomination or religion with which they identify, even if they are not currently a practising member of that group.

A person who has no religious affiliation can either choose to mark the circle for 'No religion' or to print other responses, such as 'Atheist' (does not believe in the existence of God) or 'Agnostic' (believes nothing can be known about the existence of God) in the write-in box.

For infants or children, report the denomination or religion in which they will be raised.

For persons who are members of a specific group within a larger religion, report the particular name or term for the specific group.

Respondents should indicate what they feel best describes their religious affiliation. For additional information on issues related to the collection and dissemination of religion data, refer to the Religion Reference Guide, National Household Survey, 2011.