Exploring Religiosity among the Educated Generation of the 70s in Yazd City: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction Religion continues to be a vital human institution, adapting and thriving despite significant changes in its social roles. Contrary to classical sociological predictions of religious decline, the latter half of the 20th century saw a resurgence of faith, especially in Western Europe and America. For example, Protestantism in the United States has experienced considerable growth, with a multitude of denominations emerging. Projections indicate that by 2025, Christianity and Islam will have approximately 2.7 billion and 1.97 billion adherents, respectively, with Islam recognized as the fastest-growing religion worldwide, boasting a growth rate of 1.84% from 2000 to 2013. While institutional religion may be diminishing in Western societies, personal and private expressions of spirituality are on the rise. Research suggests that perceived hypocrisy within religious communities can lead to disbelief and apostasy. However, theories of secularization have not fully captured the complexities of this transformation. In contrast, Islam is experiencing growth in many societies although the nature of this expansion remains largely unexplored. In Iran, generational shifts in religious beliefs and practices—shaped by globalization and modernity—have created a notable divergence between the values of youth and those of their parents. This study aimed to examine the religious experiences and interpretations of young people from religious families, particularly within the context of Yazd. Materials & Methods This study conducted in 2023 in Yazd City employed qualitative research to explore the religiosity of the educated generation born in the 1990s. Utilizing thematic analysis based on the 6-phase framework developed by Braun and Clarke (2006), the research involved semi-structured interviews with 15 young adults aged 24 to 32, all from religious families. Participants were selected through purposive and theoretical sampling to ensure a diverse representation of educational backgrounds and social statuses. Interviews took place in university settings and cafes, lasting between 20 to 30 minutes each, and were recorded for subsequent analysis. The researchers transcribed the interviews, identified key concepts, and generated initial codes. These codes were linked to develop sub-themes, which were then refined into main themes. The final analysis adhered to ethical considerations, ensuring participant confidentiality throughout the process. To validate the findings, the study applied the criteria established by Lincoln and Guba (1985), focusing on credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Member checks were performed by re-interviewing 5 participants to assess the accuracy of the findings. This study aimed to investigate the differences in religiosity between this educated generation and their parents with particular emphasis on the experiences of women, who had encountered unique challenges within religious families. Discussion of Results & Conclusion The study highlighted that participants faced significant religious conflicts with their families, primarily stemming from the traditional values upheld by the older generation and the shifting perspectives of the younger generation. This generational tension is particularly pronounced in religious families, where established beliefs clash with the emerging secular and humanistic values of youth. These conflicts often arise in the context of rapid societal changes, especially the transition from traditional to modern society, where digital technologies and social media play a pivotal role. The generational gap is further widened by differences in beliefs, values, and lifestyles, leading to misunderstandings and strained relationships between parents and their children. The study identified 4 key themes: generational transformation, value chaos, religious dissent, and dynamics of resistance and acceptance. The individual and social experiences of the younger generation significantly diverged from those of their parents, resulting in a broader generational shift. This transformation was influenced by the transition to modern society, where digital and technological advancements created new opportunities and challenges, fueling everyday conflicts and misunderstandings between generations. Additionally, the study emphasized the role of social status in generational conflict. Young people were increasingly striving for material success and social recognition, which starkly contrasted with the focus of older generation on traditional and religious values. This shift had led to a disconnection between the generations, with younger individuals often feeling misunderstood and unsupported by their parents, particularly regarding their views on religion and lifestyle choices. Participants in the study frequently expressed frustration with their parents' inability to understand or accept their evolving values and perspectives. The findings also indicated that younger individuals were more adaptable and less reliant on traditional structures, often turning to new media for information and social interaction, which further distanced them from their parents. In conclusion, while the younger generation was shifting toward more secular and individualistic values, the older generation struggled to adapt to these changes. Over time, some parents might begin to accept their children's new beliefs, but this process was often slow and met with resistance. The study underscored the importance of dialogue and understanding between generations to bridge the gap and foster mutual respect and acceptance.

Keywords

• religion
• islam
• social changes
• generation gap
• selective religiosity