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

The study explores the motivations that drive modern youth toward religious commitment, both in belief and practice. In the context of rapid social change, globalization, digitalization, and the transformation of cultural values, religion continues to play a significant role in shaping the identity of young people and their 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 interviews, 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 of youth identity formation. The results are useful for educators, religious leaders, sociologists, and young people. These findings emphasize both personal and sociocultural dimensions of religious engagement among youth. The study contributes to a deeper academic understanding of the role of religion in the life trajectory of younger generations and social integration.