Sunum, ss.9-10, 2022
According to social identity theory, holding positive social identities is crucial
for their role in nurturing the basic human needs of self-confidence and self-compassion. When social identities begin to feel more negative than positive, or in case of
multiple conflicting identities, these basic needs are not met adequately. Therefore, it is
essential for young people to develop social identities that nourish and strengthen them,
allowing them to feel good about themselves and use their full potential to benefit both
their personal lives and society. In her input Bengisu Akkurt focused on what social
psychology studies say about various stigmatized group identities, as well as multiple
conflicting identities and intergroup/intersectionality dimensions. Special attention was
given to the participation of disadvantaged groups in social change processes and their
well-being. Finally, it was discussed what youth work and youth policy can offer young people from disadvantaged groups in order to develop strong positive identities and
demonstrate greater intergroup solidarity