Identity Challenges Research Articles

The Enlightened Path: Muḥammad ‘Abduh's Fusion of Reason and Revelation

This research paper, titled "The Enlightened Path: Muḥammad ‘Abduh's Fusion of Reason and Revelation," explores the transformative influence of Muḥammad ‘Abduh’s rationalist theology on modern Islamic thought. Focusing on his seminal work "Risālat al-Tawḥīd" the study examines how Abduh’s integration of reason and revelation has provided a framework for a dynamic and progressive interpretation of Islamic teachings in particular contemporary theology. The research highlights Abduh’s belief in the compatibility of faith and reason, arguing that rational thought is essential to truly understand God’s unity (Tawḥīd) and Islamic ethics. This research demonstrates the continuing significance of Abduh's rationalist theology and offers a helpful framework for negotiating the challenges of modernity, identity, and religion. It asks for more investigation into the long-term effects of Abduh's theories, theological comparisons, and real-world implementations of his reforms in Muslim countries today. Muḥammad 'Abduh has shown by his enlightened path that revelation and reason can coexist peacefully, each enhancing the other and leading to a deeper and more applicable understanding of Islam in the contemporary world.

Teaching While Streaming: Adult Adoptee Themes in The Real Housewives Reality Series

Bravo network's The Real Housewives, a long running reality tv series, spans multiple cities in the United States and across the globe. Counselor educators may utilize adult adoptee related issues present in the series for couples and family counseling students. This teaching brief describes the Real Housewives of Orange County's Katie Ginella, a transracial, international adoptee, whose storyline includes identity challenges, intergenerational trauma, and birth family reunion. Implications for couple and family counselor educators are described.

Unifying human development and family science: Navigating identity challenges in higher education

Unifying human development and family science: Navigating identity challenges in higher education

Exploring the interplay of language proficiency, use and attitudes: insights from Shenzhen-Hong Kong cross-border students

ABSTRACT This study examines the interplay among language proficiency, use and attitudes of Shenzhen-Hong Kong cross-border students (CBS), a unique group of Hong Kong students who reside in Shenzhen and attend school in Hong Kong. A questionnaire survey of over 500 CBS reveals that Putonghua is their dominant language, followed by Cantonese, while their hometown dialect and English play peripheral roles. CBS show strong preferences for Putonghua, both instrumentally and integratively. Statistical analyses indicate significant correlations between CBS’ proficiency in the four languages and their attitudes towards them. The study identifies pairwise associations among CBS’ use of Cantonese at school, their proficiency in the language, and their attitudes towards it, forming a reinforcing cycle. However, no such patterns were found for Putonghua or English. The study concludes that improving CBS’ Cantonese proficiency and emotional connection to the language is essential for their integration into Hong Kong society, addressing identity challenges, and fostering a cohesive sense of belonging.

EXPLORATION OF PERCEIVED FEARS AMONG HAEMOPHILIA PATIENTS IN PAKISTAN

Background: Haemophilia is a chronic genetic disorder characterized by impaired blood clotting, leading to recurrent bleeding episodes that significantly impact physical and psychological well-being. Patients often face various challenges, including social restrictions, stigma, and identity challenges, which give rise to different fears. These fears can affect their quality of life, mental health, and ability to perform daily activities. Limited research has explored the perceived fears of haemophilia patients, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan, where healthcare resources and awareness are constrained. Objective: This study aimed to explore the perceived fears of haemophilia patients in Pakistan, evaluate their causes and effects on various life domains, and assess the pathways they adopt to cope with internal bleeding episodes using the fear-avoidance model. Methods: A qualitative study design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews based on pre-developed interview guidelines. A total of 28 participants, including 20 males and 8 females aged 14 to 35 years, were recruited through snowball and convenience sampling techniques. The participants were from Rawalpindi, Lahore, Raiwind, Bahawalnagar, Gujranwala, and Hafizabad. Data collection continued until saturation was achieved, and thematic analysis was conducted following Byrne's guidelines (2021). Themes and subthemes were developed using QSR Nvivo 10 software. The fear-avoidance model was applied to assess the pathways adapted by patients during internal bleeding episodes. Results: The study identified several fears among haemophilia patients, including fear of bleeding (6/28), rejection (4/28), injury (4/28), pain (3/28), disability (2/28), and death (2/28). Fear of treatment, illness, emotional trauma, losing social roles, and discrimination or stigma were also reported. Patients commonly employed avoidance as a coping mechanism, leading to negative consequences such as psychological distress, isolation, and disability. The findings highlighted the significant physical and mental challenges faced by patients, including social restrictions, dependence, and identity struggles. Conclusion: Haemophilia patients in Pakistan face multifaceted challenges that give rise to various perceived fears, profoundly impacting their physical, psychological, and social well-being. The study emphasized the importance of addressing these fears through improved healthcare strategies, awareness programs, and supportive interventions to enhance the quality of life for haemophilia patients.

Gender Identity Formation of Single Parent Children in Pinang Sebatang Barat Village, Tualang District, Siak Regency (Study Case: Single Parent Families and Gender Identity Formation)

This study was conducted in Pinang Sebatang Barat Village, Tualang District, Siak Regency. This study aims to identify how single mothers and fathers shape the gender identity of children aged 3-7 years through their roles as caregivers, educators, and breadwinners. This study involved 6 subjects, consisting of 5 single mothers and 1 single father, selected using purposive sampling techniques. The theory used in this study is Albert Bandura's social learning theory, which looks at the process of forming children's gender identity through observation, imitation, and behavioral reinforcement. This study uses a qualitative method with a descriptive approach, as well as a case study research type. Data collection techniques are carried out through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation. To ensure data validity, researchers also use triangulation methods to compare results from different methods and sources. The results of this study indicate that single mothers and fathers have challenges in shaping children's gender identity, especially in modeling masculine or feminine gender roles. Limited time and economic resources are often obstacles for single parents in carrying out parenting and education functions, so that some children are cared for more by other family members, such as siblings or grandparents. Nevertheless, the role of single mothers in providing positive reinforcement for children's behavior still seems important in the social learning process. Based on these findings, researchers suggest that single parents need social and economic support to help them shape their children's gender identity in the most effective way.

Why Scotland Should be Independent: Historical Context, European Identity, Future Prosperity and Unique Citizenship Challenges

Why Scotland Should be Independent: Historical Context, European Identity, Future Prosperity and Unique Citizenship Challenges

Minority stress and psychological well-being in queer populations

Queer individuals experience unique stressors related to their minority status, negatively impacting their mental health. One factor contributing to these disparities is exposure to minority stress, which involves social stressors related to minority status. Previous research has focused on the negative impacts of minority stress, with less attention to its impact on positive psychological functioning. This study explored the relationship between minority stress and psychological well-being among 270 queer individuals in German-speaking countries. Participants completed an online survey assessing minority stress and psychological well-being. Analyses of Covariance indicated that proximal factors of minority stress—such as self-stigma, concealment, and expectations of rejection—had a particularly negative impact on psychological well-being, but no effects could be found for gender and sexual orientation. Additionally, gender identity but not sexual orientation had a significant effect on minority stress, with non-binary and other gender identities reporting higher minority stress compared to females. Thematic analysis revealed concerns about survey inclusivity, gender identity challenges, and intersectionality of minority identities. Our findings emphasize the significant impact of minority stress on the psychological well-being of queer individuals, particularly non-binary people and those with diverse gender identities, while demonstrating the need for inclusive research methodologies, tailored interventions, and policies addressing the diverse experiences within the queer community.

Dialogic Discourse Analysis of Steve Chang's "A Temporary Arrangement": A Bakhtinian Perspective

Using Mikhail Bakhtin’s ideas on dialogues, this study analyzes Steve Chang’s short story, "A Temporary Arrangement," to explore character interactions and sociocultural meanings. The research uses qualitative textual analysis, concentrating on Bakhtin’s ideas of diverse voices, dialogue as a representation of human experiences, and conflicting viewpoints. The aim of this study is to explain how different perspectives in the story mirror larger societal and emotional contexts. Historical and cultural tensions influence the characters' relationships, demonstrating how their conversations navigate power dynamics and identity challenges. This analysis emphasizes the crucial role of conversation in promoting comprehension and the complex links between personal stories and societal impacts.

Exploring Bilingualism: Cognitive Benefits and Cultural Challenges

Bilingualism is a multifaceted phenomenon with profound implications for cognitive functioning and cultural identity. Research has consistently shown that being bilingual enhances cognitive abilities, such as improved executive function, greater cognitive flexibility, and superior problem-solving skills. These cognitive advantages stem from the constant mental exercise of managing two linguistic systems, which enhances brain plasticity and can even provide protective effects against cognitive decline in aging. However, the benefits of bilingualism are accompanied by cultural and identity challenges. Bilingual individuals often navigate complex social dynamics, including cultural duality, identity conflicts, and experiences of language stigmatization or marginalization. This article explores these cognitive benefits and cultural challenges, analyzing how bilingualism influences an individual's worldview and opens up diverse career opportunities. It also discusses the broader societal implications, highlighting the importance of creating supportive environments for bilingual and multilingual communities.

Iran’s Sacred Duty: Advocating Palestine in the Face of National Identity Challenges

The Islamic Republic of Iran’s approach to the Palestinian issue since the revolution is characterized by its complexity and intricacy. This article proposes a framework centered on the dynamic interaction between 'self and other' to analyze how identity shapes Iran's policy toward Palestine. Departing from the premise that Iran's foreign policy on this issue is influenced by multiple identities rather than a singular one, the study underscores the notion that these identities can both contest and complete each other. The research seeks the narratives articulated by Iranian elites regarding the Palestine issue. It also handles the Iran decision-maker’s discourses regarding developments after October 7, 2023, and the invasion of Gaza. While the aim is to focus on how Iran’s national identity has been tested and challenged on the Palestinian matter, the analysis also tries to illuminate how elite discourse has reshaped foreign policy narratives.

Femme-bracing Neurodiversity: Applying Femme Theory to the Experiences of Feminine Autistics

Abstract At the crossroads of femme theory and Autistic femininity lie the nuanced experiences of individuals whose identities challenge societal norms of both gender and neurodiversity. By delving into these intersections, this article seeks to illuminate the unique perspectives of Autistic individuals who, in some aspect, identify with femininity. Employing six core principles of femme theory—reclaiming femininity, valuing feminine knowledge and characteristics, intersectionality, agency and empowerment, visibility and inclusivity, and resistance to femmephobia and misogyny—, the authors analyze, through theory application, how these principles manifest in the lives of Autistic individuals. Using femme theory, this research identifies the nuanced ways Autistic individuals navigate societal expectations and stereotypes. The findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse spectrum of femininity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting the agency and experiences of Autistic individuals.

The Impact of Foster Care on Child Development: The Role of Sibling Separation

This paper explores the impact of sibling relationships on children’s development within the foster care system, focusing particularly on how sibling separation affects children of different ages emotionally, cognitively, and socially. To address this, the study synthesizes existing literature and theoretical models by combining the developmental stages of children with the role of siblings in child development. Findings reveal that sibling separation at different ages leads to distinct developmental challenges: infants experience severe disruptions in attachment and emotional regulation, middle childhood separations hinder cognitive and social skills development, and adolescent separations result in long-term relational and identity challenges. Previous research underscores the importance of maintaining sibling bonds in foster care, highlighting that these relationships can provide crucial emotional support and stability, mitigating the adverse effects of family disruptions. This study emphasizes the necessity for age-appropriate actions and support services in foster care to minimize the detrimental impacts of sibling separation and promote healthy development. Additionally, it calls for further longitudinal studies to track the developmental trajectories of children separated from their siblings and consider variables such as age differences between siblings and the dynamics of step-sibling relationships. This comprehensive understanding is essential for informing policies and practices that enhance the well-being of children in foster care.

The Cost of Dancing with the Government: A Conservation of Resources Theory of Political Networking and CEO Burnout

AbstractAlthough prior research on the dark side of corporate political activity (CPA) has examined the negative impact of CPA on firms from the perspective of the macro cost of CPA (i.e., organizational loss) and the self‐interested motives of executives (i.e., personal gain), it has largely overlooked the negative repercussions of CPA for individuals intimately engaged in that process (i.e., personal loss). Drawing on the conservation of resources (COR) theory and focusing on Chief Executives Officers (CEOs) who engage in political networking (PN), we investigate how PN affects CEO burnout. We conceptualize PN as a form of relational exchanges between firms and political entities, positing that PN entails substantial resource depletion for those deeply involved, primarily due to significant ethical and moral challenges (i.e., identity threat). As PN intensifies, CEOs are compelled to allocate more time, effort and energy to navigate these escalating challenges, consequently exacerbating CEO burnout. Through the analysis of a 2‐year matched survey of CEOs and comprehensive archive data, we find robust support for our hypothesis. Furthermore, our findings suggest that CEO altruism and institutional knowledge weaken the relationship between PN and CEO burnout, indicating that individual intentions to benefit the collective and the ability to navigate such networking practices alter CEOs' perceived identity challenges. Our study contributes an individual‐level resource‐depletion perspective of CPA and cautions against the propensity of CEOs to engage in CPA driven by Machiavellian logic.

‘Being a Social Worker … It's in My DNA’ Retaining Experienced Child and Family Social Workers: The Role of Professional Identity

ABSTRACTThe retention of experienced child and family social workers is a significant issue in the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe. Failure to retain experienced practitioners has serious implications for the protection and support of vulnerable children. Existing research and workforce interventions have focused on the support of early‐career social workers to prevent exit. Relatively few studies have examined what can be learned from experienced social workers who have remained in the profession long‐term. This study captures the voices of experienced stayers. Data consist of interviews with social workers (n = 58) across 11 local authorities in England who have remained in practice for ≥8 years. Findings suggest that a strong sense of professional identity (PI) sustains social workers and promotes retention. For experienced social workers, staying in the profession long‐term involves navigating a series of identity challenges over the course of their career, conceptualized here as Critical Career Episodes (CCEs). Based on these findings, we suggest that retaining experienced social workers involves support to navigate CCEs alongside meaningful opportunities for learning and development. We identify three key factors that support and sustain ongoing PI development and support retention: generativity, specialism and mobility. The article concludes with recommendations to support workforce retention.

The Role of Language in Forming Identity Crisis in Belgaum District of India

The Belgaum District in India provides a unique case study of phonetic and identity challenges. This area, characterized by its diverse linguistic landscape, is marked by significant cultural and political tensions rooted in language differences. The Marathi-Kannada linguistic divide has been a central issue, affecting the socio-political dynamics and identity of its residents. This paper explores the historical, cultural, and political factors contributing to the ongoing conflict and investigates the pivotal role of language in shaping the identity crisis in Belgaum District. By analysing the relationship between language, regional identity, and socio-political movements, the study highlights the broader implications for regional unity and identity development, emphasizing the role of language in forming group identities and the challenges posed by linguistic diversity in building a cohesive regional identity.

A Self-Determined Learning Approach: Enhancing Workplace Adaptability for Overcoming Inequality

A new era of student-centered learning, fueled by the power of digital tools and advanced teaching methods, means that classrooms are no longer entirely defined by four walls and a teacher at the leadership. At the same time, the educational landscape of African countries is very slowly adapting to these changes: the traditional face-to-face approach to learning dominates, student groups are overcrowded, and there is a significant gap in digital skills between students from urban and rural areas. Today, the development of online education becomes an important prerequisite for addressing the problem of educational disparity, a tool for meeting individual educational needs, increasing students’ motivation and responsibility for their learning outcomes. The Self-Determined Learning Approach allows for a personalized learning environment in which students can choose what, how and when they learn, work at their pace, choose or receive learning tasks in an order that makes sense to them, which allows for the individual interests of each student, learning style, cultural identity, life experience and personal challenges. The research is based on the results of in-depth interviews with students aged between 25 and 37 years with work (2‒5 years) and study experience, who fit the profile of self-determined learners, have part-time distance learning experience, are employed in different positions and are currently studying different programs, and are also registered with one of the three Distance Education Institutions. All participants are in their final year of study and have experienced digital transformation in distance education. This qualitative study is based on a constructivist paradigm employing a phenomenological strategy to explain the perceptions of students regarding how self-determined practices are applied at their institutions. The phenomenological approach aimed to capture the lived experiences of these students, focusing on their descriptions and interpretations of encountering self-determination practices in their educational environment. The results of the study confirmed the value of a self-determined approach to learning and its positive impact on enhancing students’ workplace adaptability. However, at the same time, the survey revealed that African higher education institutions are not ready for the effective implementation of self-determined learning technologies, the main reasons being the lack of technology and the unpreparedness of teachers.

Liminal Identities and Epistemic Injustice: Introduction to the Special Issue

ABSTRACT The concept of social identity is central to research on epistemic injustice, but what it means to belong or not to belong to a marginalized identity is often left undertheorized. After offering an overview of the state of the art in social and feminist epistemology, in this introduction we argue that liminal and interstitial identities challenge received notions and push the conversation further. We then provide a brief synopsis of the articles included in this special issue.

Playful stances for developing pre-service teachers’ epistemic cognition: Addressing cognitive, emotional, and identity complexities of epistemic change through play

BackgroundTeachers who show more developed epistemic cognition teach better and promote more and better learning in their students. Studies indicate that teacher training impacts little on student teachers’ epistemic cognition development. One of the difficulties of epistemic cognition interventions is that, beyond the conceptual level, epistemic change implies identity challenge and emotional distress. Both benefit from a playful setting to be managed. We designed and implemented a university course as a socio-constructivist playful training experience. In a previous study, using growth curve analysis, we showed that this course promoted epistemic cognition development in student teachers. AimsIn this study we analyzed the experience of the course participants to characterize the lived process of change and to propose ways of understanding the relationship between a game-based course and epistemic change. ParticipantsTwenty-five female student teachers in their second, third, or fourth year of study participated in the study. MethodsBoth small and whole group interactions from 15 training sessions, and 8 individual interviews after the course, were recorded and qualitatively analyzed to explore the students’ experiences. ResultsThe analysis allows us to acknowledge changes in the students’ attitudes towards the course, their roles in the classroom, and conceptual understandings that we organized in four phases from initial bewilderment and resistance, to the active and applied integration of knowledge. ConclusionsWe discuss how different levels and layers of playfulness can sustain the difficulties student teachers’ face during their epistemic change process.

“Agricultural to Non-agricultural” Ways and Chinese Labor Market Differentiation: Endowment Difference or Identity Discrimination?

Abstract Different methods of transforming rural migrants’ household registration can affect their integration into citizenship. This study assesses the impact of different rural-to- urban hukou conversion methods on labor market wages and job entry, utilizing empirical analysis with China General Social Survey (CGSS) data. Rural migrants transitioning to urban hukou are categorized as active or passive “agricultural to non-agricultural” groups. Wage disparities between these groups are analyzed using the Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition method, revealing that 50% of the wage gap remains unexplained by individual characteristics. Additionally, this paper explores factors contributing to wage and job entry differences using OLS regression analysis. Empirical findings indicate that discrimination significantly contributes to the wage and job entry gap between passive and active groups, with primary mechanisms including statistical bias, information acquisition differences, and identity challenges. These results underscore the inevitable transition of the agricultural population to urban areas in emerging nations’ development trajectory. However, challenges may arise during this transformation, particularly in China, where passive “agricultural to non-agricultural” individuals face discrimination. Addressing the rights and interests of this group is crucial for ensuring smooth urbanization in China and offers insights to improve urbanization efforts in developing nations.