Analyzing Strategies for Enhancing Religious and National Identity among University Students: From Theoretical Foundations to Identity-Building Components in Iranian Higher Education
Keywords:
National identity, religious identity, identity-building components, humanitiesAbstract
This study aims to explain the bidirectional relationship between religious and national identity and to identify key identity-building components within the context of Iranian higher education. The research adopted a qualitative approach using a documentary-analytical method. Data were collected through a systematic search across national and international academic databases, resulting in the selection of 60 articles and 20 scholarly books after screening. Data analysis was conducted using deductive qualitative content analysis, including categorization, thematic extraction, and synthesis to develop a coherent conceptual framework. The findings indicate a mutually reinforcing and synergistic relationship between religious and national identity in Iran. Eleven core identity-building components were identified, including identity-oriented humanities, active religious education, philosophical and logical thinking, cognitive-emotional reinforcement, role modeling, and connection to meaning-making sources. Strengthening these components significantly contributes to identity coherence, social belonging, and students’ psychological well-being. The results suggest that an integrated approach to fostering both religious and national identity within higher education can cultivate a generation of identity-conscious, active, and culturally resilient students capable of navigating global challenges.
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