Structural Pressures and Purposeful Planning for Migration: A Qualitative Exploration Among High School Students in Yazd

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

1 Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran

2 Sociology Department, Social Sciences Faculty, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran

10.22084/csr.2025.30764.2356

Abstract

In recent years, migration has emerged as a major concern among adolescents, gaining new meaning and direction among students as an individual path toward a desirable future. This study aims to explore the planning process of students regarding migration. Conducted with a qualitative approach and grounded theory methodology, the research utilized in-depth semi-structured interviews for data collection. Using purposive and theoretical sampling, 25 high school students from Yazd, who were actively considering migration, were selected as participants. The data were analyzed through open, axial, and selective coding. The main categories extracted include economic instability, fear of career failure, anti-elite policies, the erosion of aspirations, development of language skills, initial financial actions, and navigating the application process. According to the findings, students perceive migration as part of their future plans and are taking practical and goal-oriented steps such as improving language proficiency, increasing awareness about destination countries, researching migration pathways, and enhancing personal capabilities. These efforts reflect not only the emergence of a migratory identity among adolescents but also indicate that their decisions are shaped and directed within the context of specific, experienced structural conditions.

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Two Quarterly Journal of Contemporary Sociological Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 15 July 2025

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