Turkish family structure and kinship relations within the framework of structure - action discussions in sociological theory: The case of Malatya

This study attempts to understand and explain how family and kinship relations are related to the ways in which individuals think, feel and actions in everyday life in the context of structure – action discussions in sociological theory. The aim of the study is to examine the effect of family and kinship relationships on individual action based on the participants' own meaning worlds and perspectives. For this purpose, three areas have been identified as individual areas of action: (i) political and ideological thought, (ii) religious beliefs and worship, and (iii) daily life practices. In this study, a field study was carried out within the scope of qualitative research methods and techniques. The field study part of the research was conducted in Malatya. Malatya has undergone a rapid industrialization and urbanization, and at the same time it combines both traditional values and the "urban" way of life of modern urban life. For this reason, face-to-face and in-depth interviews were conducted with 24 participants residing in Battalgazi and Yeşilyurt districts of Malatya within the scope of qualitative research methods and techniques, considering the subject and purpose of the study. Thematic analysis was carried out on the data obtained from the field. Based on the research findings, it has been determined that the ways of thinking, feeling and acting in daily life of individuals depend on their interactions with people in family and kinship relations. Individuals construct their actions mutually within the framework of the interactions they have entered with their families, which is one of the most important values in their lives. Therefore, it has been concluded that individuals take into account both their families' expectations and their own wishes and desires while performing their actions.