Iranian Journal of Sociology

Abstract The youth defined as persons of 15 to 29 years of age, account for about 35 percent of Iran’s population. Such significant percentage may be considered a comparative advantage for the country. However, if this opportunity is not used properly it can become a serious threat. Thus, developing policies and plans for this age group is a major priority. Social capital alongside other forms of capital can facilitate envisaged planning processes and help realize planning objectives. In this article, we present a multidimensional scale developed to measure social capital among the Iranian youth.  Using this scale, a survey of 4,500 persons in the age bracket of 15-29 (drawn from across the Iranian provinces) has been conducted. Results indicate weak social capital among the surveyed youth, in particular in terms of relations with associations and trust placed on non-acquaintances and officials. The effect of social and individual characteristics on social capital is found to be significant. In light of the significance of the aforementioned relations as well as the dominance of traditional social capital among the youth, enhancing the social milieu, strengthening civil institutions, and improving attitudes and actions of individuals are seen as necessary.