Sociological exploration of place and identity in youths : Siġġiewi as a case study

Abstract

This dissertation aims to explore the terms of place and identity though a Sociological lens, applying the case study of youths in Siġġiewi. A qualitative research design was used to explore the following research questions: 1. Does Siġġiewi play a significant role in impacting a sense of identity of youths in the study? Does living in Siġġiewi make a difference to how strong this sense of identity is, if present at all? 2. Is family a determining factor in impacting why youths associate themselves with Siġġiewi and leading them to continue to reside in the locality or surrounding areas? 3. Do social organisations and/or attendance/participation in local events create a better sense of belonging to the locality of Siġġiewi? Through academic literature, the exploration of identity and place are explored in various themes, as well as additional themes which give information to solidify arguments. A total of ten interviews studied through a qualitative approach, two of these being walk-along interviews, all ten taking part within the peripheries of Siġġiewi, participants needed to be aged from 18-24 (both mentioned ages included) and are current residents of the locality. The participants were gathered though two methods; convenience sampling and voluntary response sampling, the data gathered later being analysed through Thematic Network Analysis.