YOUTH AND RELIGION: EXPLORING THE MOTIVATIONS BEHIND RELIGIOUS COMMITMENT AND IDENTITY FORMATION: Scientific article

Diana Turysbekova; Samal Toleugaliyeva

doi:10.32523/3080-1281-2025-152-3-119-136

Authors

Diana Turysbekova Al-Farabi Kazakh National University Author https://orcid.org/0009-0004-5813-0876
Samal Toleugaliyeva Narxoz University Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3187-7174

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32523/3080-1281-2025-152-3-119-136

Keywords:

youth, religion, , faith, religious commitment, motivations, religious identity, social influence, belief systems, cultural background

Abstract

The study explores the motivations that drive modern youth toward religious commitment, both in belief and practice. In the context pf rapid social change, globalization, digitalization, and the transformatiom of cultural values, religion continues to play a significant role in shaping identity of young people and sense of meaning. The research employed scientific methods of content analysis and data analysis. Content analysis was used to examine religious discourse, online materials, and interview, while data analysis was applied to process survey results and identify consistent patterns. The finding revealed key motivating factors, including the search for meaning, the influence of family and belonging. The study highlights both individual and sociocultural drivers og youth identity formation. The results are useful for educators, religious leaders, sociologists, and young people. These finding emphasize both personal and sociocultural dimensions of religious engagement among youth. The study contributes to deeper academic understanding of the role of religion in the life trajectory og younger generations and social integration.

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Author Biographies

Diana Turysbekova, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University

doctoral student, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University
Samal Toleugaliyeva, Narxoz University

Master of Economics, senior lector, Narxoz University

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