Gender perceptions of men with temporary protection status in Turkey: The case of Istanbul

This research is conducted as part of the master's thesis titled "Gender Perceptions of Men with Temporary Protection Status in Turkey: The Case of Istanbul." The study evaluates the gender perceptions of Syrian men aged between 18 and 50, who are married and have been living in Turkey for at least five years, as well as the transformation of these perceptions. The primary aim of the research is to understand how the gender perceptions of Syrian men are shaped within the context of their experiences in Syria and Turkey, and how the migration process has influenced these perceptions. In this regard, the study explores the direct relationship between migration and the transformation of gender roles. The research was carried out using a qualitative approach, with in-depth interviews conducted with 22 Syrian men. Participants were reached through purposive sampling and snowball sampling methods. The data obtained were analyzed using the thematic analysis method with the assistance of the software "MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2020." The findings are structured around socio-demographic data and five main themes: Transformation of Migration and Social Norms, Masculinity and Societal Expectations of Men, The Ideal Woman and Expectations of Women, Gender Patterns in Working Life, and Gender Roles and Expectations in Family and Marriage. The findings reveal that migration to Turkey has led to a limited transformation in gender perceptions, which is particularly evident among younger men receiving education in Turkey. However, some men view this transformation as a threat to their dominance and resist the changes. The study emphasizes the need to move beyond the perception of temporariness by involving more men in social service activities and integrating them into gender-related initiatives. Additionally, the study suggests that employment projects supporting women's participation in the workforce should focus on vocational training and include childcare support, such as access to free daycare services.