Confrontation Process of Students with Hijab

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Cultural Studies
• Religious Studies

Background:

• The hijab is considered an Islamic value and divine duty, particularly relevant in university settings.
• Misveiling (not wearing the hijab) is a social phenomenon requiring study of its social, political, and cultural aspects.
• Understanding the factors and causes behind students' decisions regarding hijab is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and understand the process students undergo when confronting the decision to wear or not wear the hijab.
• To identify the key variables and underlying mechanisms influencing students' adherence to or rejection of the hijab.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative grounded theory design was employed.
• Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with students (veiled and unveiled), advisors, and family members.
• Data analysis involved continuous comparisons based on Strauss and Corbin's methodology.

Main Results:

• The 'sociocultural paradox of hijab' emerged as the core variable influencing students' confrontation with veiling.
• Key axial codes identified include: sociocultural paradox, transformation of values, values selection, adherence to spirituality, doubt in beliefs, and normative conflict.
• The acceptance or rejection of the hijab is driven by the sociocultural paradox, occurring after a transformation of values and strategic decision-making based on personal beliefs.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to spirituality strengthens veiling, while doubts in beliefs can weaken it.
• Promoting hijab requires addressing its underlying conditions and causes.
• Strengthening individual beliefs and values is vital for promoting hijab adherence.