”Between two worlds”: Young people’s identity formation in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas

This study explores how youth with immigrant backgrounds living in socioeconomically disadvataged neighborhoods in Sweden construct their identites and create a sense of belonging. Through qualitative interviews and interpretive analysis, the research examines how the youths identities are shaped through the interaction between individual experiences and the social cultural context of their neighborhoods. The findings reveal that identity construction is characterized by a complex negotiation influenced by negative stereotypes and marginalization, while youth simultaneously develop strategies of resistance and community building. The study highlights the importance of the neighborhood as a space for safety and social interaction, wich is crucial for identity development. The conclusion emphasizes that social and territorial factors interplay in identity formation, and that integration efforts should be grounded in youths own perspectives to promote social inclusion.