The 1st International Social Research Symposium: Contemporary Family Studies, organized by the Department of Social Work, Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Yalova University, was successfully completed with sessions held between November 12-14, 2025. A total of 152 scientists and researchers from many universities in Turkey, as well as from Algeria, Tunisia, and other countries, participated in the symposium by presenting papers. The event addressed the transformations and problems facing the contemporary family structure from an interdisciplinary perspective.
The Changing Structure of the Family Was Evaluated from Multiple Perspectives
During the three-day program, experts from the fields of sociology, social work, psychology, law, education, health sciences, and public administration comprehensively discussed the effects of modernization, digitalization, economic and cultural transformations, and legal developments on the family institution.
Key topics highlighted in 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 work and the experiences of fathers with disabilities
Current debates concerning the family in the context of criminal law
Examples of good practice presented by municipalities and civil society organizations
Reasons for postponing the age of first marriage
Activities of city councils towards families
Experiences of single parenthood among refugee women
Psychological coping attitudes of mothers of autistic children
The effects of poverty on family dynamics
Disruptions in family relationships caused by digitalization
The impact of online gambling addiction on intra-family relationships
Reshaping family patterns in Algerian society
These comprehensive presentations demonstrated that family-related problems should be evaluated not only through national policies but also through international collaborations and interdisciplinary holistic approaches.
International Participation and Multi-Perspective Discussions
The symposium facilitated international scientific interaction through online and in-person sessions. Academics from Turkey, Algeria, and Tunisia participated, offering a comparative perspective by evaluating family structures and social changes in their respective countries.
Good Practice Examples Attracted Attention
The "Good Practice Examples" session, held within the scope of the symposium, showcased the practical applications of family-focused service models. Participants shared successful examples and experiences obtained in the field.
Dimensions of the Crisis in the Family and Proposed Solutions
Speaking at the closing session of the symposium, Prof. Dr. Ergün Yıldırım evaluated 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 revealed the economic, cultural, psychological, legal, and technological dimensions of the crisis in the family institution, confirming the importance of developing holistic policies.
Our Rector's Message of Appreciation: “A Meaningful Contribution to the 2025 Year of the Family”
In his closing speech, our Rector, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Bahçekapılı, drew attention to the scientific depth and social sensitivity of the symposium, stating:
“Within the scope of the 2025 Year of the Family, this symposium, where presentations from different disciplines such as social work, sociology, psychology, law, and education were given, provided a multi-dimensional perspective on the family structure, extending from the local to the global. I would like to thank the symposium organizing committee, the scientific committee, the peer review board, and all the academics who contributed with great dedication.”
Our Rector also thanked the institutions that sponsored and supported the symposium: Yalova Governorship, Yalova Provincial Social Services Directorate, Yalova Provincial Special Administration, Humanitarian Aid Foundation (IHH), İDO Istanbul Sea Buses, and Yalova Altınova Shipyard Entrepreneurs Industry and Trade. The Rector stated that the sponsors were A.Ş., Dem İlaç, Grand Thermal Yalova, Crowne Plaza, Grand Hotel, IVY Hotel, and Yalovadan. Our Rector, once again thanking these institutions and organizations for their valuable support of the symposium, presented plaques to the sponsor representatives.
Our Rector also extended special thanks to our university students and staff for ensuring the smooth running of the symposium.
Gala Program and Plaque Presentations
Following intense academic discussions, the symposium concluded with a gala program. Participants had the opportunity to come together for evaluation and interaction after the scientific presentations.
One of the prominent award presentations at the gala program was given to Mr. Hasan Soygüzel, the Chairman of the Yalova Provincial General Assembly, for his valuable contributions to Yalova in the fields of culture, art, history, education, and sports. Mr. Soygüzel, who has made significant contributions to the city's cultural heritage with lasting works such as the Bonzai Museum, was presented with a plaque and gifts in appreciation of his valuable contributions to Yalova University and Yalova.
Additionally, a plaque was presented to Hediye Altundal, the representative of the brand YALOVADAN, who contributed to promoting our city with its products and whose efforts were involved in preparing the gifts.
A plaque was also presented to Crowne Plaza, which hosted the gala night.
