This is an ongoing project which aims to shed light on the conditions for identity development. The paper adopts theoretical concepts of dialogical self-theory to conceptualize these conditions. Focusing on the social conditions for developing an (integrated) identity, it is asked how identities are positioned through the expectations of the social environments. This process is, according to dialogical self-theory, labelled as I-positioning. Vital for the identity development are individuals and groups with high impacts and status, called promotors. 

The purpose of the project is to investigate the conditions for identity development among religious youth with immigrant background in Sweden. The following research question is asked: What conflicts must religious immigrants with immigrant background deal with in their society of mind? The analysis is based on 24 qualitative interviews with Swedish students, living in the Stockholm area. All students have immigrant background and strong religious identities. The analysis reveals several conflicts in their society of mind. For example, having a strong religious identity and an identity of being a Swede is experienced as a paradox.