This paper examines the identity crisis that students face in Bangladeshi madrasahs. Erik Erikson’s theorizing of identity crisis in youth is explored in the context of madrasahs in Bangladesh. A thorough literature review is conducted on the historical context of the country and its role shaping identities of madrasah students. The role madrasahs have played in the history of Bangladesh and their increasing popularity for conservative parents in Bangladesh is explored in light of existing literature. Ghosh et al and Scott Atran’s recommendations and theoretical frameworks are used in understanding the reasons which motivate the youth towards violent extremism and how to counter it in a proactive rather than a reactive manner. A multipronged approach fostering an environment where vulnerabilities of students are embraced and a careful balance of care and critique is used to ensure that they are encouraged to engage in critical thinking is recommended.

Published in: Canada International Conference on Education, 2017

• Date of Conference: 26-29 June, 2017
• DOI: 10.2053/CICE.2017.0251
• Electronic ISBN: 978-1-908320-83-4
• Conference Location: University of Toronto Mississauga, Canada