Exploring Norm Internalization in Transitional Democracies
Keywords:
Norm internalization, transitional democracy, democratic values, civic culture, qualitative research, Iran, political socializationAbstract
This study aimed to explore the pathways, mechanisms, and barriers of democratic norm internalization among citizens in a transitional democratic context, using Tehran as a case study. A qualitative research design was employed to investigate how individuals internalize democratic norms in a semi-authoritarian setting. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 24 participants residing in Tehran, selected through purposive sampling to ensure diversity in age, gender, and professional background. Interviews focused on participants’ exposure to democratic values, their cognitive and emotional responses, and the social and structural factors influencing norm adoption. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis in NVivo software, following an open, axial, and selective coding process to identify key themes and subthemes. Three main themes emerged: (1) Pathways of Norm Exposure, including civic education, media, family, religion, and transnational exchanges; (2) Mechanisms of Internalization, such as critical reflection, emotional engagement, behavioral adoption, and peer validation; and (3) Barriers to Norm Consolidation, encompassing authoritarian legacies, political cynicism, structural constraints, elite manipulation, and cultural resistance. Participants displayed varied degrees of norm internalization, shaped by personal experiences, social context, and perceived legitimacy of democratic principles. Emotional resonance and social affirmation were particularly influential in sustaining democratic commitments. The internalization of democratic norms in transitional democracies is a complex, negotiated, and context-dependent process. While formal institutions matter, the cultural, emotional, and relational dimensions play a decisive role in shaping how democratic values become meaningful to individuals. These findings highlight the importance of culturally grounded, bottom-up approaches to democratic development in hybrid regimes.
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