Exploring Psychological Factors of Iranian Students’ Migration Intentions: A Qualitative Study Based on Thematic Analysis

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: The aim of this study was to identify and explain the psychological factors influencing migration intentions among Iranian students within the framework of social psychology.

Methodology: This qualitative study employed thematic analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 11 purposefully selected students, and sampling continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis was conducted in three stages: extraction of basic themes, formation of organizing themes, and integration into overarching themes. To ensure credibility, test–retest reliability, inter-coder agreement, and expert evaluation using the Lawshe content validity ratio were applied.

Findings: The analysis resulted in ten overarching themes, including dissatisfaction and social inequality, hopelessness and lack of future perspective, negative self and societal perception, psychological insecurity, lack of social commitment, social pressure, desire to improve quality of life, lack of belonging, meaning-making and self-discovery, and identity-seeking. These findings indicate that migration intention is primarily rooted in emotional, cognitive, and identity-related processes rather than purely economic determinants.

Conclusion: Students’ migration intention reflects a complex, multilayered psychological process shaped by social disintegration, perceived instability, and the pursuit of meaning, dignity, and self-actualization. Understanding these dimensions provides a foundation for developing educational, cultural, and policy interventions aimed at strengthening belongingness and reducing migration tendencies.