Journal of Iranian Social Studies

Abstract With the rising divorce rates, extensive discussions have emerged regarding the causes and factors influencing marital stability. In both popular culture and prior Iranian studies, homogamy and shared characteristics between spouses have often been considered as key determinants of marital durability. This study aims to assess the impact of homogamy on marital stability. Using a quantitative approach and secondary analysis techniques, it investigates data from the National Divorce Survey (2017-2018). The findings reveal that contrary to many previous studies, homogamy in dimensions such as education, religion, ethnicity, and age has a very limited effect on marital stability. In contrast, individual factors such as education level, age, gender, employment status, and behavioral traits like internet and social media usage, division of household labor, and time spent outside the home play a more significant roles. Unlike traditional views, female breadwinning positively influences marital longevity and strengthens mutual economic participation within the family. Therefore, it can be argued that in Iran, as a transitional society, structural or superficial similarities between spouses do not necessarily enhance marital stability, while individual choices and daily lifestyle patterns play a more critical role in sustaining marital relationships.

Abstract The present study aimed to analyze the impact of perceived ethnic discrimination on social alienation, with a particular focus on the mediating role of social exclusion among young people in the city of Qorveh. This applied research employed a quantitative approach and survey methodology. The statistical population consisted of all young individuals aged 18 to 30 residing in Qorveh, from which a sample of 384 participants was selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire incorporating standardized scales of ethnic discrimination, social exclusion, and social alienation. The reliability of the instruments was confirmed with Cronbach's alpha values ranging from 0.85 to 0.91, and their validity was supported through confirmatory factor analysis.
The results of structural equation modeling revealed that perceived ethnic discrimination had a direct and significant effect on social alienation, as well as a significant direct effect on social exclusion. Moreover, social exclusion had a stronger influence on social alienation and played a significant mediating role in transmitting the effect of perceived ethnic discrimination. The final model explained 52.3% of the variance in social alienation.
The findings confirm the proposed conceptual model and underscore the crucial role of social exclusion in amplifying the negative consequences of perceived ethnic discrimination. They highlight the urgent need to pursue cultural, educational, and social interventions and policies aimed at reducing discrimination and exclusion in multiethnic societies.

Abstract The food system, cooking and food consumption methods, in addition to biological needs, are based on kinship, cultural and social relations, national and religious, mythological and aesthetic beliefs; Therefore, the cultural structure of the food system, its beliefs and rituals, has a dual nature based on the functions of cultural structure and social relations which appears as dualities like: nature and culture, nomadic and sedentary, raw and cooked, man and woman, grain and oil, bread and meat. Food and eating system in Horaman region has a cultural, social, religious and religious role tailored on mythological and aesthetic identities in a dual system and opposite interaction. This article has investigated the characteristics and place of food in the cultural structure of Horaman region with the approach of anthropological structure based on qualitative study and field work, participatory observation, open interviews, library ethnographic method and the use of food anthropology resources in Horaman region. The results of the research show that food, in addition to physical needs, has a structure that is part of the cultural structures of Horaman region and has an anthropological application, As it has a constructive role in the rules, principles and values ​​governing the cultural system of Horaman region and it forms part of the national and religious beliefs and cultural and social values ​​and rituals of this region.

Abstract The role of women entrepreneurs has become a key driver of economic and social transformation. Indigenous women entrepreneurs in Gilan, active in sectors such as handicrafts, tourism, and services, significantly contribute to local development. This qualitative study examined the challenges they face and their role in economic and social progress, considering their individual characteristics. Twenty-eight experienced women were purposively selected, and were interviewed by semi-structured in-depth methods. Through Analyzing the data, following Graneheim and Lundman method three main themes appeared: key constraints in business development, women’s role in social and economic transformation, and their capabilities and success strategies. Findings indicate that success arises from the interplay of institutional and financial limitations, social and familial support, and individual capacities. Accordingly, resilience, managerial skills, and social networks enable women to overcome barriers and build sustainable, impactful businesses. Thus, women’s entrepreneurship functions not only as an economic activity but also as a catalyst for broader social, cultural, and economic change.

Abstract This study aimed to examine university students’ understanding and perceptions of employment in the public, private, and self-employment sectors. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 undergraduate and graduate students at Kharazmi University. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis at three levels: initial, secondary, and main themes. The findings indicate that students’ job preferences are shaped by factors such as economic independence, job stability, advancement opportunities, and competitive work environments. Most students preferred self-employment as a desirable and ideal career option, viewing it as a pathway to autonomy, self-actualization, and freedom of action. In contrast, some students opted for public sector employment due to its stability, welfare benefits, and structured environment. Employment in the private sector was also considered attractive by some students because of its meritocratic system and broader opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Abstract The purpose of the present study is to explore the lived experiences of employed women in a government office in Lorestan Province when confronting sexual harassment and gender-based pressures. This study employed a descriptive phenomenological approach and Colaizzi's method of analysis. Data were gathered through 12 in-depth semi-structured interviews with employed women. The analysis of the data uncovered five main themes: sexual harassment as a continuous threat, compulsory silence as a protective shield, reconstruction of self-image in the face of harassment, the impact of patriarchal organizational culture, and social isolation as a consequence of harassment. The findings indicate that sexual harassment, influenced by power inequalities and cultural taboos, disrupts women's psychological and professional security, resulting in silence and isolation. This research underscores the need for establishing supportive mechanisms, anti-harassment training programs, and organizational structural reforms to mitigate sexual harassment.