Investigating Some Identity-Building Factors Considering the Mediation of Religiosity (Case Study: Youth in Ahvaz)
Keywords:
Identity, normative pressure, social adaptation, self-esteem, religiosity, case study, youth, Ahvaz city, mediator, mental norms, society, intergenerational conflict, culture, religious beliefs, intentionAbstract
The main objective of this study was to examine the effects of normative pressure, social adaptation, and self-esteem on youth social identity, considering the mediating role of religiosity. This survey-based study collected data using a researcher-made questionnaire. The statistical population consisted of young individuals aged 18–29 in Ahvaz, from whom 400 participants were selected through multistage stratified random sampling. Data analysis employed Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), including exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, using SPSS and AMOS. Reliability was verified through Cronbach’s alpha, and model fit indices across parsimonious, absolute, and comparative categories confirmed the adequacy of the measurement model. The results indicated a significant positive association between normative pressure and social identity, both directly and indirectly through religiosity. Social adaptation also showed a significant positive relationship with social identity, mediated by religiosity. However, no significant relationship was found between self-esteem and social identity, nor between self-esteem and religiosity. Path analysis confirmed that religiosity served as a mediator only for normative pressure and social adaptation, but not for self-esteem. The findings demonstrate that normative pressure and social adaptation are key determinants of youth social identity, with religiosity reinforcing these influences. In contrast, self-esteem does not play a meaningful role in predicting social identity. Overall, the study highlights the central importance of social and cultural factors in shaping youth identity.
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