Halal Dating and Norwegian Youth Culture

Abstract

Abstract Through conversations with Norwegian youth of Muslim background, this article explores how such young people negotiate religious identity, intimacy and sexuality within Norwegian youth culture. In light of recent statistics on marriage patterns in Norway, it further investigates norms and approaches significant to these youths’ choices. Marriage and intimate relationships are central to how this study’s participants connect the expectations of their minority background with the norms of Norwegian society. Some choose to engage in informal religious marriages—such as “halal dating”—while others are in love relationships and define for themselves the boundaries of what is and is not allowed.