A Counseling-Based Model for Islamic Character Development in Secondary School Students

Abstract

Strengthening Islamic character in madrasah is an urgent need amid challenges of moral degradation and the negative influence of digital media. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of Islamic counseling services in strengthening student character in madrasahs. The method used is qualitative with a case study design, involving 32 students, one counseling teacher, two Islamic Education teachers, and three homeroom teachers. Data were collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and then validated with source and technique triangulation. The results of the study show a significant increase in Islamic character indicators, especially discipline and responsibility. The key factors that strengthen this process are the integration of the values of the Quran and Hadith, the exemplary behavior of guidance counselors, and the consistency of messages reinforced through collaboration between guidance counselors, Islamic Education teachers, and homeroom teachers. These findings confirm that cross-educator synergy is an integrative strategy that has rarely been studied before. This study contributes theoretically to the development of an Islamic counseling model and practically to schools in building contextual character education.