Investigating different aspects of identity among the students of Tehran Universities: the role of sex differences

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate different aspects of identity among the students of Tehran universities with a focus on the role of sex differences. The statistical universe included all the students who were studying at Tehran universities. The samples included 1004 cases that were selected by stratified random sampling. Religious and national identity scale and the revised identity style questionnaire were the devices used in this study. Multiple-variance analysis of variance was applied for the purpose of data analysis. The results of the study indicated that: regarding the three sub-scales of information, normative and commitment identity style, the female group had (got) higher means compared to the male group. This is while the male group showed a higher mean in the sub-scale of diffuse/avoidance; the female group showed a higher mean in all the sub-scales of national and religious identity. On the whole, the present study revealed that all the sub-scales of religiosity, psychological well-being, information, normative and commitment identity, religious and national identity are higher in the female students compared to the male students, whereas the diffuse and avoidance identity was higher in the male students. In general, these findings prove psychological and social disorientation among the male students in comparison to the female group. Since the male population (community) of the society is considered as more active and dynamic, this issue needs the serious consideration of those in charge.