The 1st International Symposium on Social Research: Contemporary Family Studies, organised by the Department of Social Work at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Yalova University, was successfully completed with sessions held between 12 and 14 November 2025. Alongside numerous universities from Turkey, a total of 152 academics and researchers from Algeria, Tunisia and other countries participated in the symposium by presenting papers. The event addressed the transformations and challenges facing contemporary family structures from an interdisciplinary perspective.
The Changing Structure of the Family Was Assessed from Multiple Perspectives
During the three-day programme, experts from the fields of sociology, social work, psychology, law, education, health sciences and public administration comprehensively discussed the effects of modernisation, digitalisation, economic and cultural transformations, and legal developments on the institution of the family.
Key topics discussed during the sessions:
The transformation of the Turkish family
The impact of increased female employment on family structure
The decline in fertility rates
Home care practices in social services and the experiences of fathers with disabilities
Current debates concerning the family in the context of criminal law
Best practice examples provided by municipalities and civil society organisations
Reasons for postponing the age of first marriage
Activities of city councils targeting families
Single parenthood experiences of refugee women
Psychological coping attitudes of mothers of children with autism
The effects of poverty on family dynamics
The fractures in family relationships caused by digitalisation
The impact of online gambling addiction on family relationships
The reshaping of family patterns in Algerian society
These comprehensive presentations highlighted that family-related issues must be addressed not only through national policies but also through international collaborations and interdisciplinary holistic approaches.
Multiperspective Discussions with International Participation
The symposium was conducted through online and face-to-face sessions, facilitating international scientific interaction. Academics from Algeria and Tunisia, as well as Turkey, offered a comparative perspective by evaluating the family structure and social changes in their own countries.
The ‘Best Practice Examples’ session organised as part of the symposium highlighted the practical implications of family-focused service models. Participants shared successful examples and experiences gained in the field.
The Dimensions of Crisis in the Family and Proposed Solutions
Speaking at the symposium's closing session, Prof. Ergün Yıldırım assessed the risks facing the family institution in modern society within the framework of the concept of ‘the death of the family.’ The 102 papers presented highlighted the economic, cultural, psychological, legal, and technological dimensions of the crisis in the family institution, confirming the importance of developing comprehensive policies.
Our Rector's Message of Thanks: ‘A Meaningful Contribution to the 2025 Year of the Family’
In his closing speech, our Rector, Prof. Mehmet Bahçekapılı, highlighted the scientific depth and social awareness of the symposium, stating:
“Within the scope of the 2025 Year of the Family, this symposium, which featured presentations from various disciplines such as social services, sociology, psychology, law and education, provided a multidimensional perspective on the family structure, ranging from the local to the global. I would like to thank the symposium organising committee, the scientific committee, the panel of referees and all the academics who contributed to the symposium for their great dedication.”
Our Rector stated that the institutions contributing to and supporting the symposium as sponsors were the Yalova Governor's Office, Yalova Provincial Social Services Directorate, Yalova Provincial Special Administration, Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH), IDO Istanbul Sea Buses, Yalova Altınova Shipyard Entrepreneurs Industry and Trade Inc. Dem Pharmaceuticals, Grand Thermal Yalova, Crowne Plaza, Grand Hotel, IVY Hotel, and Yalovadan. Expressing his gratitude once again to these institutions and organisations for their valuable support to the symposium, our Rector presented plaques to the sponsor representatives.
Our Rector also expressed special thanks to our University students and staff for ensuring the smooth running of the symposium.
Gala Programme and Award Presentations
Following intense academic discussions, the symposium concluded with a gala programme. Participants gathered after the scientific presentations to evaluate and interact with one another.
One of the notable award presentations during the gala programme was given to Mr Hasan Soygüzel, Chairman of the Yalova Provincial Assembly, for his valuable contributions to Yalova in the fields of culture, art, history, education and sports. Soygüzel, who has made significant contributions to the city's cultural heritage with permanent works such as the Bonzai Museum, was presented with a plaque and a gift in gratitude for the valuable legacy he has left to Yalova University and Yalova.
In addition, a plaque was presented to Hediye Altundal, representative of the brand that promotes our city with products bearing the YALOVADAN label and contributed to the preparation of the gifts.
A plaque was also presented to Crowne Plaza, host of the gala evening, in appreciation of their contribution to the symposium.
