Perceptions of sects among higher education students (The case of Yalova University)

This study aims to examine, through a multidimensional approach, the knowledge levels, forms of sectarian affiliation, and attitudes toward other sects—along with levels of tolerance and prejudice—among university students aged 18–28 studying at Yalova University. The research seeks to descriptively reveal the relationships between students' demographic characteristics, religious education backgrounds, and levels of religiosity in relation to their perceptions of sects. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire consisting of 40 items developed by the researcher. The obtained data were analyzed and interpreted through frequency and percentage distributions, visualized in 39 different graphs. The sample of the study consists of 405 students randomly selected from various faculties at Yalova University. Students enrolled in the fields of Islamic Studies/Theology were excluded from the sample, as it was assessed that their specialized knowledge on the subject could significantly influence the findings and potentially lead to distortions in terms of generalizable results. The findings suggest that students at Yalova University are inclined toward a more inclusive, tolerant, and critically reflective religious identity, rather than a traditionally sectarian perspective. Based on the findings, the study offers recommendations to religious education institutions, the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet), and civil society organizations for developing educational programs and awareness campaigns that address the needs of youth, foster tolerance, and fill knowledge gaps. This research contributes to a better understanding of university youth's orientations regarding sects and sheds light on topics such as religious diversity, tolerance, and religious education policies.