University of Isfahan Strategic Research on Social Problems 3041-8623 15 2 2026 06 22 Theory Testing of Factors Affecting the Perception of Corruption in the Healthcare System Theory Testing of Factors Affecting the Perception of Corruption in the Healthcare System 1 18 30027 10.22108/srspi.2025.145580.2125 FA Atefe Modabernejhad Ph.D. in Sociology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Yasouj, Yasouj, Iran Seyed Samad Beheshti Associate professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, University of Yasouj, Yasouj, Iran Vahid Ghasemi Vahid Ghasemi Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran Journal Article 2025 07 29 Introduction: Given the multitude of factors contributing to corruption and its numerous negative consequences, this research aimed to empirically test and generalize a data-driven theory designed to explain the causes of corruption. Modabbernejad and colleagues conducted a study titled "Using Shannon's Entropy Index to Explain the Background of Corruption in the Iranian Health Care System" and "Analyzing the Origins and Spread of Corruption in the Iranian Health Care System". The foundation of these two articles was a data-driven theory derived from interviews with stakeholders in the Ministry of Health. However, due to the nature of the research methods employed in these studies, the findings could not be generalized to the entire health care system. Therefore, this research was undertaken to empirically test the theory they proposed. Materials & Methods This study employed quantitative and survey methods to examine the relationship between various contexts—including economic, social, cultural, legislative, decision-making, organizational, individual, and micro-level factors—and the perception of corruption among stakeholders in the healthcare system. Data were collected by using a researcher-developed questionnaire, which was informed by multiple stages of the study, including a review of existing literature on corruption in healthcare and semi-structured interviews with experts at the Ministry of Health headquarters. The statistical population consisted of healthcare staff in Shiraz, a city recognized for its advanced medical services, and Yasuj, a less developed city, totaling approximately 23,000 individuals. Using GPower software and an alpha level of 0.01, the desired test power was set at 0.80, leading to an estimated sample size of 384 participants. A multi-stage random sampling method was employed, selecting 4 hospitals and 4 health centers in each city through simple random sampling. In the subsequent stage, 208 respondents were randomly chosen from Shiraz and 176 from Yasuj. Smart-PLS3 software was utilized to test the hypotheses. Discussion of Results & Conclusion The findings indicated that all legislative, economic, decision-making, organizational, social, cultural, individual, and micro-level factors significantly influenced the perception of corruption. This confirmed the foundational data theory regarding the origins of corruption in the healthcare system, which had been validated empirically and generalized to the broader statistical population. Overall, the independent variables in this study accounted for 76.9% of the variance in perceptions of corruption within the Iranian healthcare system, while the remaining 23.1% was attributed to other unexamined factors. Notably, the impacts of legislative factors on the perception of corruption was significantly greater than those of other contexts. In terms of relative effect sizes, legislative factors exerted an influence that was 7.5 times greater than economic factors, 7.2 times greater than organizational factors, 11.2 times greater than individual factors, and 12.5 times greater than social and cultural factors. Based on the Q2 index, we could conclude that the predictive power of the structural model concerning perception of corruption was moderate. The manifestations of corruption in the Iranian healthcare system were closely linked to the broader corrupt conditions present in Iranian society. Addressing this issue effectively requires comprehensive reforms of both formal and informal structures that contribute to corruption. Introduction: Given the multitude of factors contributing to corruption and its numerous negative consequences, this research aimed to empirically test and generalize a data-driven theory designed to explain the causes of corruption. Modabbernejad and colleagues conducted a study titled "Using Shannon's Entropy Index to Explain the Background of Corruption in the Iranian Health Care System" and "Analyzing the Origins and Spread of Corruption in the Iranian Health Care System". The foundation of these two articles was a data-driven theory derived from interviews with stakeholders in the Ministry of Health. However, due to the nature of the research methods employed in these studies, the findings could not be generalized to the entire health care system. Therefore, this research was undertaken to empirically test the theory they proposed. Materials & Methods This study employed quantitative and survey methods to examine the relationship between various contexts—including economic, social, cultural, legislative, decision-making, organizational, individual, and micro-level factors—and the perception of corruption among stakeholders in the healthcare system. Data were collected by using a researcher-developed questionnaire, which was informed by multiple stages of the study, including a review of existing literature on corruption in healthcare and semi-structured interviews with experts at the Ministry of Health headquarters. The statistical population consisted of healthcare staff in Shiraz, a city recognized for its advanced medical services, and Yasuj, a less developed city, totaling approximately 23,000 individuals. Using GPower software and an alpha level of 0.01, the desired test power was set at 0.80, leading to an estimated sample size of 384 participants. A multi-stage random sampling method was employed, selecting 4 hospitals and 4 health centers in each city through simple random sampling. In the subsequent stage, 208 respondents were randomly chosen from Shiraz and 176 from Yasuj. Smart-PLS3 software was utilized to test the hypotheses. Discussion of Results & Conclusion The findings indicated that all legislative, economic, decision-making, organizational, social, cultural, individual, and micro-level factors significantly influenced the perception of corruption. This confirmed the foundational data theory regarding the origins of corruption in the healthcare system, which had been validated empirically and generalized to the broader statistical population. Overall, the independent variables in this study accounted for 76.9% of the variance in perceptions of corruption within the Iranian healthcare system, while the remaining 23.1% was attributed to other unexamined factors. Notably, the impacts of legislative factors on the perception of corruption was significantly greater than those of other contexts. In terms of relative effect sizes, legislative factors exerted an influence that was 7.5 times greater than economic factors, 7.2 times greater than organizational factors, 11.2 times greater than individual factors, and 12.5 times greater than social and cultural factors. Based on the Q2 index, we could conclude that the predictive power of the structural model concerning perception of corruption was moderate. The manifestations of corruption in the Iranian healthcare system were closely linked to the broader corrupt conditions present in Iranian society. Addressing this issue effectively requires comprehensive reforms of both formal and informal structures that contribute to corruption.

https://ssoss.ui.ac.ir/article_30027_6e141f707a6c2b5bcdf7d127bae0bdd6.pdf

University of Isfahan Strategic Research on Social Problems 3041-8623 15 2 2026 06 22 The Role of Online Interactions and Offline Social Environment in Shaping Cyber and Traditional Delinquency among University Students The Role of Online Interactions and Offline Social Environment in Shaping Cyber and Traditional Delinquency among University Students 19 46 30036 10.22108/srspi.2025.144802.2101 FA Elham Shafaiimoghadam Assistant professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Law, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran Zahra Yazdani- Arani Master's student in Cultural Studies, Faculty of Electronic Education, University of Kashan, Kashan, Iran Journal Article 2025 04 07 Introduction The rise of online social networks has transformed interpersonal communication, creating hybrid social spaces where identity development, peer influence, and behavioral learning occur simultaneously. While these environments promote self-expression and social engagement, they also expose individuals—particularly young adults—to deviant norms and opportunities for cyber-offending. This study explored how both online and offline peer interactions collectively affect the likelihood of engaging in traditional and cyber-delinquent behaviors among university students. Drawing on 3 key criminological perspectives—social influence, social selection, and situational theories—the research investigated how proximity to motivated offenders, peer relationships, and individual self-control interact to predict delinquent behavior. In the Iranian context, where digitalization has rapidly transformed youth culture, understanding these dual social domains is essential for formulating effective crime prevention strategies. Materials & Methods This study utilized a quantitative survey design involving 300 students from the University of Kashan, who were selected through simple random sampling from a population of 7,305 students in 2024. Data were gathered using a standardized questionnaire adapted from Reyns (2010), which measured 2 dependent variables: traditional delinquency and cyber-delinquency. Additionally, 4 independent variables were assessed: proximity to motivated offenders, offline peer interaction, online peer interaction, and self-control. All items were rated on 5-point Likert scales and subsequently re-coded into a range of 0 to 4 for standardization purposes. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients surpassed 0.80 for most scales, indicating strong internal reliability; the self-control scale (α=0.64) was deemed acceptable for exploratory analysis. Construct validity was established through theoretical consistency and reference to previously validated instruments. Data analysis was conducted by using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with AMOS 24, which facilitated the estimation of both direct and indirect effects among the variables. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson correlations and standardized path coefficients, were also employed. Discussion of Results & Conclusion Model fit indices indicated an excellent overall fit (CFI=0.998, RMSEA=0.000, GFI=0.996), confirming the adequacy of the hypothesized structural model. The results revealed a strong positive correlation between traditional delinquency and cyber-delinquency (r=0.76), suggesting behavioral continuity across different contexts. Offline peer interaction demonstrated the most significant direct influence on both traditional (β=0.51, p<0.001) and cyber-delinquency (β=0.50, p<0.001), supporting the situational perspective that unstructured, unsupervised interactions increased opportunities for deviant behavior. Proximity to motivated offenders also exhibited significant positive effects with a stronger impact on traditional delinquency (β=0.26) compared to cyber-delinquency (β=0.13). This highlighted the enduring influence of immediate social environments in physical settings. While online peer interaction showed a weaker but still positive relationship with delinquency, it indicated that digital exposure could transmit deviant norms, albeit mediated by offline social ties. Conversely, self-control displayed a non-significant association with traditional offenses but had a significant negative correlation with cyber-delinquency (β=-0.14, p<0.001). This suggested that impulse regulation was particularly crucial in virtual contexts, which often had limited external oversight. Collectively, the independent variables accounted for 41% of the variance in both types of delinquency. These findings lent partial support to all three theoretical perspectives: social influence elucidated the peer transmission of deviant norms; social selection highlighted how low self-control drove associations with delinquent peers; and the situational perspective underscored how unsupervised peer contexts facilitated offending. From a practical standpoint, the results underscored the need for integrated prevention programs that addressed both online and offline peer dynamics. Enhancing digital literacy, improving institutional supervision, and fostering self-regulation skills could effectively reduce delinquent behavior in both environments. Overall, despite the digital shift, traditional socialization mechanisms continued to play a dominant role in the formation of deviant conduct among students. Future studies should consider employing longitudinal or mixed-method designs to capture the temporal and reciprocal nature of online and offline peer influences on delinquency. Introduction The rise of online social networks has transformed interpersonal communication, creating hybrid social spaces where identity development, peer influence, and behavioral learning occur simultaneously. While these environments promote self-expression and social engagement, they also expose individuals—particularly young adults—to deviant norms and opportunities for cyber-offending. This study explored how both online and offline peer interactions collectively affect the likelihood of engaging in traditional and cyber-delinquent behaviors among university students. Drawing on 3 key criminological perspectives—social influence, social selection, and situational theories—the research investigated how proximity to motivated offenders, peer relationships, and individual self-control interact to predict delinquent behavior. In the Iranian context, where digitalization has rapidly transformed youth culture, understanding these dual social domains is essential for formulating effective crime prevention strategies. Materials & Methods This study utilized a quantitative survey design involving 300 students from the University of Kashan, who were selected through simple random sampling from a population of 7,305 students in 2024. Data were gathered using a standardized questionnaire adapted from Reyns (2010), which measured 2 dependent variables: traditional delinquency and cyber-delinquency. Additionally, 4 independent variables were assessed: proximity to motivated offenders, offline peer interaction, online peer interaction, and self-control. All items were rated on 5-point Likert scales and subsequently re-coded into a range of 0 to 4 for standardization purposes. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients surpassed 0.80 for most scales, indicating strong internal reliability; the self-control scale (α=0.64) was deemed acceptable for exploratory analysis. Construct validity was established through theoretical consistency and reference to previously validated instruments. Data analysis was conducted by using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with AMOS 24, which facilitated the estimation of both direct and indirect effects among the variables. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson correlations and standardized path coefficients, were also employed. Discussion of Results & Conclusion Model fit indices indicated an excellent overall fit (CFI=0.998, RMSEA=0.000, GFI=0.996), confirming the adequacy of the hypothesized structural model. The results revealed a strong positive correlation between traditional delinquency and cyber-delinquency (r=0.76), suggesting behavioral continuity across different contexts. Offline peer interaction demonstrated the most significant direct influence on both traditional (β=0.51, p<0.001) and cyber-delinquency (β=0.50, p<0.001), supporting the situational perspective that unstructured, unsupervised interactions increased opportunities for deviant behavior. Proximity to motivated offenders also exhibited significant positive effects with a stronger impact on traditional delinquency (β=0.26) compared to cyber-delinquency (β=0.13). This highlighted the enduring influence of immediate social environments in physical settings. While online peer interaction showed a weaker but still positive relationship with delinquency, it indicated that digital exposure could transmit deviant norms, albeit mediated by offline social ties. Conversely, self-control displayed a non-significant association with traditional offenses but had a significant negative correlation with cyber-delinquency (β=-0.14, p<0.001). This suggested that impulse regulation was particularly crucial in virtual contexts, which often had limited external oversight. Collectively, the independent variables accounted for 41% of the variance in both types of delinquency. These findings lent partial support to all three theoretical perspectives: social influence elucidated the peer transmission of deviant norms; social selection highlighted how low self-control drove associations with delinquent peers; and the situational perspective underscored how unsupervised peer contexts facilitated offending. From a practical standpoint, the results underscored the need for integrated prevention programs that addressed both online and offline peer dynamics. Enhancing digital literacy, improving institutional supervision, and fostering self-regulation skills could effectively reduce delinquent behavior in both environments. Overall, despite the digital shift, traditional socialization mechanisms continued to play a dominant role in the formation of deviant conduct among students. Future studies should consider employing longitudinal or mixed-method designs to capture the temporal and reciprocal nature of online and offline peer influences on delinquency.

https://ssoss.ui.ac.ir/article_30036_2155e14224d733d316b23b7865efbafd.pdf

University of Isfahan Strategic Research on Social Problems 3041-8623 15 2 2026 06 22 Relationship between Human Needs and the Desire to Migrate among Youth in Shiraz Relationship between Human Needs and the Desire to Migrate among Youth in Shiraz 47 70 30035 10.22108/srspi.2025.145279.2118 FA Bijan Khajenoori Associate professor, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Economics, Management, and Social Sciences, University of Shiraz, Shiraz, Iran Narges Khezri Master's student of Women and Family Studies, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Economics, Management, and Social Sciences, University of Shiraz, Shiraz, Iran Journal Article 2025 05 18 Introduction Being grounded in a multilevel sociological perspective, this study investigated the relationship between human needs and migration aspirations among young people aged 15 to 29 years in Shiraz, Iran. Migration literature has primarily focused on macro-level push and pull factors—such as inflation, unemployment, and political uncertainty—as well as demographic characteristics. However, the motivational and psychological roots of migration have rarely been measured in a systematic manner. Drawing on the capability–aspiration framework and integrating key theories of human needs—including Maslow’s Hierarchy, Alderfer’s ERG Theory, Glasser’s Choice Theory, and the Robbins–Madanes Six Human Needs Model—this study posited that perceived deficits in the fulfillment of specific needs—particularly esteem/significance, growth/cognition, and freedom/certainty—intensified the desire to migrate. In contrast, satisfaction of security/stability and relatedness needs reinforced the inclination to stay. The innovation of this study lay in translating structural pressures into micro-level, need-based mechanisms and developing a quantitative instrument for empirically testing these mechanisms. Materials & Methods This research employed a descriptive–analytical and cross-sectional survey design. The statistical population included all residents of Shiraz aged 15 to 29 years in 2023 (1402 SH). Utilizing a multistage cluster random sampling method across the city’s 11 municipal districts—down to the neighborhood level—we collected 400 valid questionnaires through door-to-door interviews (Cochran’s estimated sample size was 384, which was increased to 400 to account for potential attrition). The research instrument consisted of 2 components: Migration Aspiration Scale: A researcher-developed, 19-item measure utilizing a 5-point Likert scale was designed in accordance with the capability–aspiration framework. Human Needs Inventory: An initial pool of 74 items covering 21 theoretical needs was derived from both classical and contemporary models. Content validity was confirmed through evaluation by an expert panel, while construct validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis (Principal Component Analysis with varimax rotation). The KMO statistic was 0.949 for the human needs construct and 0.972 for migration aspiration with Bartlett’s test being significant at p<.001 for both. For the human needs construct, 12 distinct factors were extracted, explaining 68.25% of the total variance. These factors included acceptance/respect, approval, cognition, growth, participation, security/calmness, relatedness, self-actualization, physiological needs, certainty, achievement, and conformity. For migration aspiration, 3 dimensions emerged: socioeconomic aspirations, sense of belonging/patriotism (inverse), and migration readiness, collectively explaining 75.66% of the variance. Internal reliability was satisfactory with Cronbach’s alpha exceeding .70 for most subscales (certainty, achievement, and conformity had values around .65). Data analysis was conducted by using SPSS 26, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and stepwise multiple linear regression with a significance level set at α=.05. Discussion of Results & Conclusion At the correlational level, migration aspiration demonstrated significant positive relationships with several needs: acceptance/respect (r=.199**), approval (.125*), cognition (.139**), participation (.104*), relatedness (.114*), self-actualization (.125*), and physiological needs (.233**). Conversely, significant negative correlations were identified with security/calmness (−.188**), certainty (−.110*), and conformity (−.130*). Notably, the needs for growth and achievement were not significantly correlated at the bivariate level. In the final regression model, 10 needs were included, collectively explaining 22.3% of the variance in migration aspiration (R²=.223; adjusted R²=.202; p<.001). Security/calmness emerged as the strongest negative predictor, while acceptance/respect served as the strongest positive predictor. Interestingly, when controlling for other variables, the signs of certain coefficients—such as those for physiological needs and self-actualization—reversed, indicating suppressor effects and complex interactions among human needs. From a sociological perspective, these findings suggested that structural pressures were internalized and translated into migration aspirations primarily through the lens of esteem, recognition, growth, and the need for freedom. Simultaneously, experiences of security and predictability within one's home environment acted as a psychosocial barrier that discouraged intentions to migrate. The policy implications were clear: addressing youth migration aspirations could not be accomplished solely through economic improvements. Effective policy had to also establish legitimate and visible pathways for social respect, achievement, and meaningful participation, while enhancing opportunities for academic and professional growth and improving the overall sense of safety and stability in daily life. This study highlighted that the desire to migrate among youth was not merely an economic or structural response; it also represented a profound quest for dignity, respect, and opportunities for self-actualization within a secure and predictable social environment. Therefore, effective migration management and youth retention strategies must address these need-based motivational factors in conjunction with macroeconomic reforms. The cross-sectional nature and single-city focus of this study limited causal inference and generalizability. Future longitudinal and qualitative research could provide deeper insights into how the dynamics of need satisfaction influence the evolution of migration aspirations over time. In summary, youth migration aspirations in contemporary Iran emerge as a multidimensional social phenomenon rooted in the interplay between unmet psychosocial needs and structural uncertainties. Introduction Being grounded in a multilevel sociological perspective, this study investigated the relationship between human needs and migration aspirations among young people aged 15 to 29 years in Shiraz, Iran. Migration literature has primarily focused on macro-level push and pull factors—such as inflation, unemployment, and political uncertainty—as well as demographic characteristics. However, the motivational and psychological roots of migration have rarely been measured in a systematic manner. Drawing on the capability–aspiration framework and integrating key theories of human needs—including Maslow’s Hierarchy, Alderfer’s ERG Theory, Glasser’s Choice Theory, and the Robbins–Madanes Six Human Needs Model—this study posited that perceived deficits in the fulfillment of specific needs—particularly esteem/significance, growth/cognition, and freedom/certainty—intensified the desire to migrate. In contrast, satisfaction of security/stability and relatedness needs reinforced the inclination to stay. The innovation of this study lay in translating structural pressures into micro-level, need-based mechanisms and developing a quantitative instrument for empirically testing these mechanisms. Materials & Methods This research employed a descriptive–analytical and cross-sectional survey design. The statistical population included all residents of Shiraz aged 15 to 29 years in 2023 (1402 SH). Utilizing a multistage cluster random sampling method across the city’s 11 municipal districts—down to the neighborhood level—we collected 400 valid questionnaires through door-to-door interviews (Cochran’s estimated sample size was 384, which was increased to 400 to account for potential attrition). The research instrument consisted of 2 components: Migration Aspiration Scale: A researcher-developed, 19-item measure utilizing a 5-point Likert scale was designed in accordance with the capability–aspiration framework. Human Needs Inventory: An initial pool of 74 items covering 21 theoretical needs was derived from both classical and contemporary models. Content validity was confirmed through evaluation by an expert panel, while construct validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis (Principal Component Analysis with varimax rotation). The KMO statistic was 0.949 for the human needs construct and 0.972 for migration aspiration with Bartlett’s test being significant at p<.001 for both. For the human needs construct, 12 distinct factors were extracted, explaining 68.25% of the total variance. These factors included acceptance/respect, approval, cognition, growth, participation, security/calmness, relatedness, self-actualization, physiological needs, certainty, achievement, and conformity. For migration aspiration, 3 dimensions emerged: socioeconomic aspirations, sense of belonging/patriotism (inverse), and migration readiness, collectively explaining 75.66% of the variance. Internal reliability was satisfactory with Cronbach’s alpha exceeding .70 for most subscales (certainty, achievement, and conformity had values around .65). Data analysis was conducted by using SPSS 26, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and stepwise multiple linear regression with a significance level set at α=.05. Discussion of Results & Conclusion At the correlational level, migration aspiration demonstrated significant positive relationships with several needs: acceptance/respect (r=.199**), approval (.125*), cognition (.139**), participation (.104*), relatedness (.114*), self-actualization (.125*), and physiological needs (.233**). Conversely, significant negative correlations were identified with security/calmness (−.188**), certainty (−.110*), and conformity (−.130*). Notably, the needs for growth and achievement were not significantly correlated at the bivariate level. In the final regression model, 10 needs were included, collectively explaining 22.3% of the variance in migration aspiration (R²=.223; adjusted R²=.202; p<.001). Security/calmness emerged as the strongest negative predictor, while acceptance/respect served as the strongest positive predictor. Interestingly, when controlling for other variables, the signs of certain coefficients—such as those for physiological needs and self-actualization—reversed, indicating suppressor effects and complex interactions among human needs. From a sociological perspective, these findings suggested that structural pressures were internalized and translated into migration aspirations primarily through the lens of esteem, recognition, growth, and the need for freedom. Simultaneously, experiences of security and predictability within one's home environment acted as a psychosocial barrier that discouraged intentions to migrate. The policy implications were clear: addressing youth migration aspirations could not be accomplished solely through economic improvements. Effective policy had to also establish legitimate and visible pathways for social respect, achievement, and meaningful participation, while enhancing opportunities for academic and professional growth and improving the overall sense of safety and stability in daily life. This study highlighted that the desire to migrate among youth was not merely an economic or structural response; it also represented a profound quest for dignity, respect, and opportunities for self-actualization within a secure and predictable social environment. Therefore, effective migration management and youth retention strategies must address these need-based motivational factors in conjunction with macroeconomic reforms. The cross-sectional nature and single-city focus of this study limited causal inference and generalizability. Future longitudinal and qualitative research could provide deeper insights into how the dynamics of need satisfaction influence the evolution of migration aspirations over time. In summary, youth migration aspirations in contemporary Iran emerge as a multidimensional social phenomenon rooted in the interplay between unmet psychosocial needs and structural uncertainties.

https://ssoss.ui.ac.ir/article_30035_689b654ddb46d3ca5e17a22902ada184.pdf

University of Isfahan Strategic Research on Social Problems 3041-8623 15 2 2026 06 22 Immigrants in Iranian Society: An Identity Perspective Based on Breakwell's Identity Process Theory (Case Study: Brick Kilns of Mahmoudabad, Tehran) Immigrants in Iranian Society: An Identity Perspective Based on Breakwell's Identity Process Theory (Case Study: Brick Kilns of Mahmoudabad, Tehran) 71 98 30086 10.22108/srspi.2025.143910.2069 FA Behnoosh Taherkhani Ph.D. student, School of Architecture and Environmental Design, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran Abbas Yazdanfar Associate professor, School of Architecture and Environmental Design, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran Fatemeh Mehdizadeh Saradj Professor, School of Architecture and Environmental Design, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran Sara Ghafar Samar Master of Architecture, School of Architecture and Environmental Design, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran Journal Article 2025 01 08 Introduction Identity encompasses the array of characteristics, through which individuals define themselves and are recognized by others, forming a dynamic construct shaped by social interactions and historical memory. Afghan migrants in Iran, particularly those residing in the brick-kiln settlements of Mahmoudabad, experience shifts in traditional identity patterns as they navigate linguistic, cultural, and religious commonalities within the host society. Daily interactions foster the emergence of new cultural expressions, while ethnic and religious identities rooted in Afghanistan continue to influence their sense of belonging. The living environment plays a crucial role in reinforcing or undermining these identity components, making spatial and architectural considerations vital for preserving cultural integrity. Migration, whether voluntary or forced, has long been a fundamental aspect of the human experience, often accompanied by social and economic challenges for minority groups. Afghan migrants in Iran encounter administrative restrictions, discrimination, and limited social acceptance, which impede the establishment of stable identities and contribute to feelings of marginalization. Recent political instability in Afghanistan, particularly following 2021, has intensified migration flows, resulting in a diverse Afghan population in Iran with strong linguistic and religious ties. Understanding these cultural, social, and symbolic aspects of identity is essential for designing collective housing that fosters integration while preserving distinct identities. Materials & Methods The theoretical framework of this study was anchored in 3 key perspectives: Social Identity Theory, Place Identity Theory, and Breakwell’s Identity Process Theory. Social Identity Theory elucidates how individuals derive a portion of their self-concept from their group affiliations, shaping their perceptions and intergroup interactions. Place Identity Theory underscores the significance of the physical environment as a meaningful reference for memories and social relationships. Breakwell’s Identity Process Theory conceptualizes identity as a dynamic system governed by 4 principles: distinctiveness, continuity, self-esteem, and self-efficacy. This framework provides valuable insights into how migrants sustain their identities in new sociocultural contexts. To operationalize these concepts, Ralph Tyler’s model was utilized, categorizing determinants of human behavior into human and environmental factors. This approach facilitated the translation of identity components into architectural criteria. Data collection employed a qualitative methodology, incorporating semi-structured and in-depth interviews, direct observations of daily practices, and documentation of the spatial needs of Afghan migrants residing in the brick-kiln settlements of Mahmoudabad. Discussion of Results & Conclusion Data analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s thematic approach, involving iterative coding and theme development until conceptual saturation was reached. Themes were organized according to Breakwell’s four identity components. Most participants expressed a strong identification as Afghan and took pride in their nationality, whereas second-generation migrants exhibited a partial emotional attachment to Iran. Administrative restrictions, limited citizenship rights, and apprehensions about returning to Afghanistan contributed to tensions regarding their identities. Distinctiveness was evident in cultural practices, such as marriage customs, religious ceremonies, and local gatherings, as well as in the physical environment, which was marked by poverty, shared facilities, and limited communal spaces. Continuity was compromised by the lack of positive spatial memories from Afghanistan, yet kinship networks, communal living, and memories of traditional foods, colors, and home layouts helped preserve cultural roots. Self-esteem was adversely affected by social exclusion, discriminatory language, and restricted access to public services; however, strong internal community cohesion fostered a sense of belonging. Self-efficacy was limited by restricted housing ownership and substandard living conditions though women engaged in small-scale, home-based economic activities. Architectural strategies that are sensitive to identity are crucial for enhancing migrants’ sense of belonging and facilitating social integration. These strategies include creating spaces that encourage social interaction, designing privacy-respecting housing units, providing areas for micro-businesses, and incorporating culturally meaningful spatial elements. Mixed-neighborhood layouts that include both Iranian and Afghan households can help prevent segregation, promote social cohesion, and support the preservation of identity and dignity. Residential environments should reflect the lifestyles, customs, and daily routines of the inhabitants to enhance quality of life while reinforcing cultural identity. Introduction Identity encompasses the array of characteristics, through which individuals define themselves and are recognized by others, forming a dynamic construct shaped by social interactions and historical memory. Afghan migrants in Iran, particularly those residing in the brick-kiln settlements of Mahmoudabad, experience shifts in traditional identity patterns as they navigate linguistic, cultural, and religious commonalities within the host society. Daily interactions foster the emergence of new cultural expressions, while ethnic and religious identities rooted in Afghanistan continue to influence their sense of belonging. The living environment plays a crucial role in reinforcing or undermining these identity components, making spatial and architectural considerations vital for preserving cultural integrity. Migration, whether voluntary or forced, has long been a fundamental aspect of the human experience, often accompanied by social and economic challenges for minority groups. Afghan migrants in Iran encounter administrative restrictions, discrimination, and limited social acceptance, which impede the establishment of stable identities and contribute to feelings of marginalization. Recent political instability in Afghanistan, particularly following 2021, has intensified migration flows, resulting in a diverse Afghan population in Iran with strong linguistic and religious ties. Understanding these cultural, social, and symbolic aspects of identity is essential for designing collective housing that fosters integration while preserving distinct identities. Materials & Methods The theoretical framework of this study was anchored in 3 key perspectives: Social Identity Theory, Place Identity Theory, and Breakwell’s Identity Process Theory. Social Identity Theory elucidates how individuals derive a portion of their self-concept from their group affiliations, shaping their perceptions and intergroup interactions. Place Identity Theory underscores the significance of the physical environment as a meaningful reference for memories and social relationships. Breakwell’s Identity Process Theory conceptualizes identity as a dynamic system governed by 4 principles: distinctiveness, continuity, self-esteem, and self-efficacy. This framework provides valuable insights into how migrants sustain their identities in new sociocultural contexts. To operationalize these concepts, Ralph Tyler’s model was utilized, categorizing determinants of human behavior into human and environmental factors. This approach facilitated the translation of identity components into architectural criteria. Data collection employed a qualitative methodology, incorporating semi-structured and in-depth interviews, direct observations of daily practices, and documentation of the spatial needs of Afghan migrants residing in the brick-kiln settlements of Mahmoudabad. Discussion of Results & Conclusion Data analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s thematic approach, involving iterative coding and theme development until conceptual saturation was reached. Themes were organized according to Breakwell’s four identity components. Most participants expressed a strong identification as Afghan and took pride in their nationality, whereas second-generation migrants exhibited a partial emotional attachment to Iran. Administrative restrictions, limited citizenship rights, and apprehensions about returning to Afghanistan contributed to tensions regarding their identities. Distinctiveness was evident in cultural practices, such as marriage customs, religious ceremonies, and local gatherings, as well as in the physical environment, which was marked by poverty, shared facilities, and limited communal spaces. Continuity was compromised by the lack of positive spatial memories from Afghanistan, yet kinship networks, communal living, and memories of traditional foods, colors, and home layouts helped preserve cultural roots. Self-esteem was adversely affected by social exclusion, discriminatory language, and restricted access to public services; however, strong internal community cohesion fostered a sense of belonging. Self-efficacy was limited by restricted housing ownership and substandard living conditions though women engaged in small-scale, home-based economic activities. Architectural strategies that are sensitive to identity are crucial for enhancing migrants’ sense of belonging and facilitating social integration. These strategies include creating spaces that encourage social interaction, designing privacy-respecting housing units, providing areas for micro-businesses, and incorporating culturally meaningful spatial elements. Mixed-neighborhood layouts that include both Iranian and Afghan households can help prevent segregation, promote social cohesion, and support the preservation of identity and dignity. Residential environments should reflect the lifestyles, customs, and daily routines of the inhabitants to enhance quality of life while reinforcing cultural identity.

https://ssoss.ui.ac.ir/article_30086_91050f34fc74c5381266d343b7530397.pdf

University of Isfahan Strategic Research on Social Problems 3041-8623 15 2 2026 06 22 Identification of Factors Influencing Iranian Students’ Emigration: A Meta-Synthesis Study Identification of Factors Influencing Iranian Students’ Emigration: A Meta-Synthesis Study 99 126 30007 10.22108/srspi.2025.145421.2122 FA Mohammad Khosravitanak Ph.D. candidate of Curriculum Planning, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran Ali Seyfi Ph.D. candidate in Educational Management, Department of Educational Management, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Yari Rudbarsara Master of Educational Management, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran Journal Article 2025 05 25 Introduction Human capital is a critical driver of national growth and a shortage of skilled individuals can significantly impede progress in developing countries. As a developing nation with a large, young, and educated populace, Iran faces a serious challenge in the emigration of its university students and graduates. In recent decades, the number of Iranians studying abroad has risen substantially. This trend is driven by domestic "push" factors—such as limited career prospects, inadequate academic infrastructure, and socio-political constraints—as well as external "pull" factors, including superior education, research opportunities, and higher living standards abroad. This phenomenon reflects not only individual aspirations for advancement, but also profound structural weaknesses within Iran’s higher education and labor systems. Consequently, this study sought to identify and synthesize the primary factors influencing the migration of Iranian students by systematically reviewing existing literature, thereby providing insights to inform more effective national policies. Materials & Methods This study employed a qualitative meta-synthesis design to systematically integrate findings from prior research on Iranian student migration. Adhering to the 7-step methodology established by Sandelowski and Barroso (2007), the process comprised: (1) formulating the research question; (2) conducting a systematic literature review; (3) identifying and selecting relevant literature; (4) extracting data; (5) analyzing and synthesizing the findings; (6) evaluating the quality of the included studies; and (7) presenting the integrated results. The approach emphasized both integrative and interpretative dimensions, combining convergent evidence from diverse sources while also interpreting the data to elucidate underlying causal relationships and contextual meanings. Discussion of Results & Conclusion The synthesis of findings revealed a complex, multi-layered network of drivers behind Iranian students' migration decisions, which could be organized into 7 overarching categories: educational, research, cultural, social, economic, political, and individual factors. Educational Factors: A primary driver was the perceived disparity in educational quality between Iranian and international universities. This encompassed curriculum currency, access to advanced technologies, international accreditation, and alignment with global academic standards. The opportunity to study under renowned scholars, engage in cutting-edge programs, and obtain a degree with greater global currency was a powerful motivator closely linked to enhanced career prospects. Research Factors: Significant deficiencies in Iran's research infrastructure—including limited funding, bureaucratic impediments, and a lack of international collaboration—were identified as major deterrents. Conversely, the availability of well-equipped laboratories, extensive open-access databases, and robust research funding in host countries acted as a compelling pull. Cultural and Social Factors: The appeal of cultural openness, social freedoms, and perceived meritocratic academic environments abroad was frequently cited. Many students expressed frustration with domestic social constraints, systemic inequalities, and a lack of transparency in academic and professional advancement. Consequently, migration was often framed not just as an educational pursuit, but as a quest for a lifestyle within a more liberal and equitable society. Economic Factors: Economic insecurity, high graduate unemployment, and inadequate financial incentives within Iran strongly propelled migration intentions. The prospect of higher income, stable employment, and superior living standards abroad served as a key counter-incentive. This economic calculus was often intertwined with perceived limitations on professional growth and entrepreneurial opportunity at home. Political Factors: Restricted academic freedom, political volatility, and government regulations on research and expression were identified as crucial push elements. The comparative political stability, institutional transparency, and supportive immigration policies of destination countries significantly enhanced their attractiveness. Individual Factors: Personal characteristics—including age, gender, marital status, and prior international exposure—were found to mediate the influence of broader structural factors. Specifically, younger, unmarried, and more globally-oriented students exhibited a stronger propensity to migrate. The synthesis confirmed that student migration was not a single-cause phenomenon but rather the outcome of intertwined structural and individual dynamics. It reflected a fundamental tension between national limitations and global opportunities within higher education and labor markets. From a policy perspective, addressing this challenge requires a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach. Key initiatives should focus on: Strengthening the quality and international standing of domestic universities; Increasing investment in research and innovation; • Enhancing the alignment between academic curricula and labor market demands; Fostering merit-based systems in academia and employment; Promoting return migration through robust reintegration programs and academic networks. Ultimately, the strategic goal should not be to restrict mobility, but to transform it into a circular flow of talent—thereby converting a potential "brain drain" into a dynamic process of "brain circulation" and knowledge exchange that benefits both individuals and the nation. Introduction Human capital is a critical driver of national growth and a shortage of skilled individuals can significantly impede progress in developing countries. As a developing nation with a large, young, and educated populace, Iran faces a serious challenge in the emigration of its university students and graduates. In recent decades, the number of Iranians studying abroad has risen substantially. This trend is driven by domestic "push" factors—such as limited career prospects, inadequate academic infrastructure, and socio-political constraints—as well as external "pull" factors, including superior education, research opportunities, and higher living standards abroad. This phenomenon reflects not only individual aspirations for advancement, but also profound structural weaknesses within Iran’s higher education and labor systems. Consequently, this study sought to identify and synthesize the primary factors influencing the migration of Iranian students by systematically reviewing existing literature, thereby providing insights to inform more effective national policies. Materials & Methods This study employed a qualitative meta-synthesis design to systematically integrate findings from prior research on Iranian student migration. Adhering to the 7-step methodology established by Sandelowski and Barroso (2007), the process comprised: (1) formulating the research question; (2) conducting a systematic literature review; (3) identifying and selecting relevant literature; (4) extracting data; (5) analyzing and synthesizing the findings; (6) evaluating the quality of the included studies; and (7) presenting the integrated results. The approach emphasized both integrative and interpretative dimensions, combining convergent evidence from diverse sources while also interpreting the data to elucidate underlying causal relationships and contextual meanings. Discussion of Results & Conclusion The synthesis of findings revealed a complex, multi-layered network of drivers behind Iranian students' migration decisions, which could be organized into 7 overarching categories: educational, research, cultural, social, economic, political, and individual factors. Educational Factors: A primary driver was the perceived disparity in educational quality between Iranian and international universities. This encompassed curriculum currency, access to advanced technologies, international accreditation, and alignment with global academic standards. The opportunity to study under renowned scholars, engage in cutting-edge programs, and obtain a degree with greater global currency was a powerful motivator closely linked to enhanced career prospects. Research Factors: Significant deficiencies in Iran's research infrastructure—including limited funding, bureaucratic impediments, and a lack of international collaboration—were identified as major deterrents. Conversely, the availability of well-equipped laboratories, extensive open-access databases, and robust research funding in host countries acted as a compelling pull. Cultural and Social Factors: The appeal of cultural openness, social freedoms, and perceived meritocratic academic environments abroad was frequently cited. Many students expressed frustration with domestic social constraints, systemic inequalities, and a lack of transparency in academic and professional advancement. Consequently, migration was often framed not just as an educational pursuit, but as a quest for a lifestyle within a more liberal and equitable society. Economic Factors: Economic insecurity, high graduate unemployment, and inadequate financial incentives within Iran strongly propelled migration intentions. The prospect of higher income, stable employment, and superior living standards abroad served as a key counter-incentive. This economic calculus was often intertwined with perceived limitations on professional growth and entrepreneurial opportunity at home. Political Factors: Restricted academic freedom, political volatility, and government regulations on research and expression were identified as crucial push elements. The comparative political stability, institutional transparency, and supportive immigration policies of destination countries significantly enhanced their attractiveness. Individual Factors: Personal characteristics—including age, gender, marital status, and prior international exposure—were found to mediate the influence of broader structural factors. Specifically, younger, unmarried, and more globally-oriented students exhibited a stronger propensity to migrate. The synthesis confirmed that student migration was not a single-cause phenomenon but rather the outcome of intertwined structural and individual dynamics. It reflected a fundamental tension between national limitations and global opportunities within higher education and labor markets. From a policy perspective, addressing this challenge requires a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach. Key initiatives should focus on: Strengthening the quality and international standing of domestic universities; Increasing investment in research and innovation; • Enhancing the alignment between academic curricula and labor market demands; Fostering merit-based systems in academia and employment; Promoting return migration through robust reintegration programs and academic networks. Ultimately, the strategic goal should not be to restrict mobility, but to transform it into a circular flow of talent—thereby converting a potential "brain drain" into a dynamic process of "brain circulation" and knowledge exchange that benefits both individuals and the nation.

https://ssoss.ui.ac.ir/article_30007_bb05997f1d70f147c1185132088425ba.pdf

University of Isfahan Strategic Research on Social Problems 3041-8623 15 2 2026 06 22 How to Live in the Generational/Value Gap: From Obedience to Autonomy (A Qualitative Study in Yazd) How to Live in the Generational/Value Gap: From Obedience to Autonomy (A Qualitative Study in Yazd) 127 150 30374 10.22108/srspi.2026.147360.2179 FA Saeedeh Sadeghzadeh M.A. student in Sociology, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran Ali Ruhani Associate professor of Sociology, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran Seyed Alireza Afshani Professor of Sociology, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran Journal Article 2025 11 07 Introduction This study aimed to understand the lived experiences of young people in Yazd City concerning generational and value gaps within families. The central premise of this research was that, in contemporary society, the relationship between parents and children is no longer characterized by the unidirectional transmission of values, norms, and behavioral patterns from the older generation to the younger one. Rather, processes of social transformation—including expansion of higher education, rise of social networks and digital media, changes in lifestyle, and demographic shifts—have exposed younger generations to a far greater diversity of sources of knowledge, experience, and choice. Consequently, the values of parents and their children have become increasingly divergent across a range of domains, including religion, dress, bodily appearance, emotional relationships, gender, individual autonomy, everyday politics, economy, and lifestyle. In this study, the generational gap was not understood simply as a natural or inevitable difference between age groups. Instead, it referred to a more profound distance in attitudes, values, and ways of living—a distance that manifested concretely in daily interactions and family relationships. Within this context, young people did not accept parental values uncritically. Rather, they responded to the traditional authority of the family through various strategies, including dialogue, negotiation, concealment, resistance, or redefinition of their own roles. The significance of conducting this study in the city of Yazd lay in its particular cultural and familial context. Yazd is widely recognized as a relatively traditional environment. Therefore, examining the experiences of young people in this setting provides valuable insight into how value transformations among the younger generation can emerge even within more traditional social spaces. Materials & Methods This study employed a qualitative approach based on grounded theory methodology. In grounded theory, the researcher does not begin with a fully predetermined theoretical framework; rather, the main concepts and categories emerge inductively from empirical data. Accordingly, data collection and analysis were conducted simultaneously and recursively, allowing the research concepts to gradually develop from the participants' narratives. The target population consisted of single young adults aged 18 to 35 years, who were living with their families in the city of Yazd and had clearly experienced conflict or value gaps with their parents. In total, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 such individuals. Sampling was both purposive and theoretical and efforts were made to ensure diversity among participants in terms of gender, age, economic class, educational level, and place of residence. The primary criterion for inclusion in the study was having lived experience of a generational and value gap within the family. The interviews ranged in length from 45 minutes to over 3 hours. Each interview continued until participants had no new points to add or until the researcher's questions approached theoretical saturation. Discussion of Results & Conclusion Following the interviews, data analysis was conducted in 3 stages—open coding, axial coding, and selective coding—resulting in the extraction of 333 concepts, 52 subcategories, 10 main categories, and one core category. These categories included: The decline of traditional parental authority and the birth of the autonomous subject The gap between faith and reason: from ritualism to critical rationality Politics of the body and bodily liberation Gender as a field of justice and equality Politics on the scale of everyday life Moral economy and existential independence Emotional revolution: from hidden love to the breaking of sexual taboos Reproduction of consciousness through university, networks, and self-reflection Existential reflexivity and living on the threshold of change Crisis of attachment and reconstruction of familial affection These themes ultimately converged into the central concept of the study: "Living within the generational and value gap: from obedience to autonomy". This core category reflected the younger generation's transition from traditional compliance toward critical self-awareness. The findings indicated that, among the youth studied, the generational gap was not merely a matter of differences in taste or superficial disagreements between parents and children. Rather, it represented a profound transformation in the ways of understanding life, family, religion, the body, gender, emotional relationships, and individual autonomy. One of the most significant findings of the study was the decline of traditional parental authority and the emergence of a form of practical autonomy among young people. Unconditional obedience was no longer regarded by youth as a sign of politeness or respect; instead, respect was understood as a reciprocal matter dependent on mutual understanding. Consequently, the family was transformed from a purely authority-centered structure into a field of negotiation, dialogue, concealment, and role redefinition. In the domain of religion, the findings pointed to the emergence of a gap between the ritualistic religiosity of parents and the reflexive or distanced religiosity of the younger generation. Many young people no longer treated religious practices as self-evident; instead, they examined them through questioning, doubt, and critical rationality. The body and dress also constituted important arenas of the generational gap. For parents, the child's body and appearance were often linked to concepts, such as honor, tradition, and family morality. For youth, however, the body served as a site for the expression of individuality, autonomy, and the right to choose. Alongside this, gender had emerged as a field of justice and equality. Young people—particularly young women—criticized the inequalities in freedom, opportunity, and familial expectations between sons and daughters. Emotional relationships and friendships with the opposite sex represented another domain of value transformation. While parents tended to interpret such relationships through the lenses of concern, honor, and moral control, young people regarded them as a natural part of their social and emotional lives. This difference, in turn, gave rise to concealment, creation of private space, and emotional distance between children and their families. Furthermore, universities, social networks, friendships, reading, and psychotherapy had become new sources shaping the consciousness of young people. As a result, the family was no longer the sole authority in forming values and personal identity. Overall, the results showed that the generational gap in the city of Yazd reflected a form of cultural transition: from obedience to autonomy, from the authoritarian family to the dialogical family, and from the unquestioned acceptance of tradition to critical reflexivity. This transition, however, was not always smooth or free of tension; it might lead to conflict, concealment, emotional distance, and a crisis of familial attachment. Therefore, young people in Yazd appeared to stand on the threshold of creating a new style of youth life—one in which the family still mattered, but was no longer the only source of meaning, value, and decision-making. Introduction This study aimed to understand the lived experiences of young people in Yazd City concerning generational and value gaps within families. The central premise of this research was that, in contemporary society, the relationship between parents and children is no longer characterized by the unidirectional transmission of values, norms, and behavioral patterns from the older generation to the younger one. Rather, processes of social transformation—including expansion of higher education, rise of social networks and digital media, changes in lifestyle, and demographic shifts—have exposed younger generations to a far greater diversity of sources of knowledge, experience, and choice. Consequently, the values of parents and their children have become increasingly divergent across a range of domains, including religion, dress, bodily appearance, emotional relationships, gender, individual autonomy, everyday politics, economy, and lifestyle. In this study, the generational gap was not understood simply as a natural or inevitable difference between age groups. Instead, it referred to a more profound distance in attitudes, values, and ways of living—a distance that manifested concretely in daily interactions and family relationships. Within this context, young people did not accept parental values uncritically. Rather, they responded to the traditional authority of the family through various strategies, including dialogue, negotiation, concealment, resistance, or redefinition of their own roles. The significance of conducting this study in the city of Yazd lay in its particular cultural and familial context. Yazd is widely recognized as a relatively traditional environment. Therefore, examining the experiences of young people in this setting provides valuable insight into how value transformations among the younger generation can emerge even within more traditional social spaces. Materials & Methods This study employed a qualitative approach based on grounded theory methodology. In grounded theory, the researcher does not begin with a fully predetermined theoretical framework; rather, the main concepts and categories emerge inductively from empirical data. Accordingly, data collection and analysis were conducted simultaneously and recursively, allowing the research concepts to gradually develop from the participants' narratives. The target population consisted of single young adults aged 18 to 35 years, who were living with their families in the city of Yazd and had clearly experienced conflict or value gaps with their parents. In total, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 such individuals. Sampling was both purposive and theoretical and efforts were made to ensure diversity among participants in terms of gender, age, economic class, educational level, and place of residence. The primary criterion for inclusion in the study was having lived experience of a generational and value gap within the family. The interviews ranged in length from 45 minutes to over 3 hours. Each interview continued until participants had no new points to add or until the researcher's questions approached theoretical saturation. Discussion of Results & Conclusion Following the interviews, data analysis was conducted in 3 stages—open coding, axial coding, and selective coding—resulting in the extraction of 333 concepts, 52 subcategories, 10 main categories, and one core category. These categories included: The decline of traditional parental authority and the birth of the autonomous subject The gap between faith and reason: from ritualism to critical rationality Politics of the body and bodily liberation Gender as a field of justice and equality Politics on the scale of everyday life Moral economy and existential independence Emotional revolution: from hidden love to the breaking of sexual taboos Reproduction of consciousness through university, networks, and self-reflection Existential reflexivity and living on the threshold of change Crisis of attachment and reconstruction of familial affection These themes ultimately converged into the central concept of the study: "Living within the generational and value gap: from obedience to autonomy". This core category reflected the younger generation's transition from traditional compliance toward critical self-awareness. The findings indicated that, among the youth studied, the generational gap was not merely a matter of differences in taste or superficial disagreements between parents and children. Rather, it represented a profound transformation in the ways of understanding life, family, religion, the body, gender, emotional relationships, and individual autonomy. One of the most significant findings of the study was the decline of traditional parental authority and the emergence of a form of practical autonomy among young people. Unconditional obedience was no longer regarded by youth as a sign of politeness or respect; instead, respect was understood as a reciprocal matter dependent on mutual understanding. Consequently, the family was transformed from a purely authority-centered structure into a field of negotiation, dialogue, concealment, and role redefinition. In the domain of religion, the findings pointed to the emergence of a gap between the ritualistic religiosity of parents and the reflexive or distanced religiosity of the younger generation. Many young people no longer treated religious practices as self-evident; instead, they examined them through questioning, doubt, and critical rationality. The body and dress also constituted important arenas of the generational gap. For parents, the child's body and appearance were often linked to concepts, such as honor, tradition, and family morality. For youth, however, the body served as a site for the expression of individuality, autonomy, and the right to choose. Alongside this, gender had emerged as a field of justice and equality. Young people—particularly young women—criticized the inequalities in freedom, opportunity, and familial expectations between sons and daughters. Emotional relationships and friendships with the opposite sex represented another domain of value transformation. While parents tended to interpret such relationships through the lenses of concern, honor, and moral control, young people regarded them as a natural part of their social and emotional lives. This difference, in turn, gave rise to concealment, creation of private space, and emotional distance between children and their families. Furthermore, universities, social networks, friendships, reading, and psychotherapy had become new sources shaping the consciousness of young people. As a result, the family was no longer the sole authority in forming values and personal identity. Overall, the results showed that the generational gap in the city of Yazd reflected a form of cultural transition: from obedience to autonomy, from the authoritarian family to the dialogical family, and from the unquestioned acceptance of tradition to critical reflexivity. This transition, however, was not always smooth or free of tension; it might lead to conflict, concealment, emotional distance, and a crisis of familial attachment. Therefore, young people in Yazd appeared to stand on the threshold of creating a new style of youth life—one in which the family still mattered, but was no longer the only source of meaning, value, and decision-making.

https://ssoss.ui.ac.ir/article_30374_d75132b9a621d1a0f0059295e4c06d69.pdf