Bridging cultures: Exploring Bicultural Belonging among Muslim youth in Italy

This study is part of the research project, “IMAGE-identity between culture and religion” , coordinated by Prof. Moscardino. The aim of this project is to delve into the role of individual and social factors in the development of the identity among young adults of Muslim faith who were born, raised, and/or currently reside in Italy. Specifically, this qualitative study explores the role of subjective and social factors in the integration of social identities (ethnic, national and religious) among young Muslim adults and their strategies for reconciling these identities. Three types of identity emerged -“Integrated,” “conflicting,” and “parallel”- by thematically analysing 20 identity maps drawn by the Italian-Muslims (age between 18 and 25) during online interviews. The findings shed light on the complex dynamics of cultural adaptation, social interaction, and identity negotiation among Italian Muslim youth, providing valuable insights into the discourse on social integration and youth identity in contemporary Italy.