In Search of a Lost Identity: Iranian Women and Their Identity Issues

Authors

Mahsa Izadinia

Abstract

Using the data from the lives of two Iranian women, I focus on how context and self impact the process of identity formation. My aim of the present study is to empower and emancipate women by highlighting the significance of knowing who they are and holding on to their dreams, values, and choices especially when the social and family contexts are limiting and oppressive. Elaborating on the concept of identity and its significance for human development, I discuss the life stories of the two Iranian women and their major challenges. I explain how they gradually dissociated from who they were and wanted to be as they readily gave in and underestimated the power of self. I conclude by sharing my own experiences and providing some suggestions for finishing strong.

Author Biography

Mahsa Izadinia is a Ph.D. candidate at Edith Cowan University, Perth. Her areas of interest are teacher/student identity, feminism, critical pedagogy and critical literacy. She has published in peer-reviewed journals and presented her works in international conferences.

Recommended Citation

Izadinia, Mahsa (2015) "In Search of a Lost Identity: Iranian Women and Their Identity Issues," Journal of International Women's Studies: Vol. 16: Iss. 2, Article 8.
Available at: https://vc.bridgew.edu/jiws/vol16/iss2/8