Children of Iranian Asylum-Seekers in Turkey

This thesis analyzes thew construction of children of Iranian asylum-seekers' national and religious identity who are dwelling in Kayseri , Turkey. The research was conducted through semi-structured in depth interviews. Childhood experiences of the children were investigated profoundly by taking into consideration of related identity theories. "I am thinking about Iran very often. I miss my grandparents, my uncle and my friends. At times we talk on the phone with my grandparents. I want to be in Iran" (14 year old girl, Azerbaijani) "I don't want to live in Turkey for a long time. Here, everything is old. Armchairs, carpets, clothes , our home....We have to live on such a little money. I am aware of everything. I have to be contented with my present life. (10 years old girl, Shi'i)

Autorentext

Merve Çalhan obtained her bachelor degree in Sociology in 2005. She received her graduate degree in 'Middle East Studies' at Middle East Technical University. She has worked in various international projects in India and Turkey. Currently, she is working in 'Silkroad Development Agency' as an expert in the field of social development.