Women's Strategies against Economic Violence Case Study Bandar Abbas

perInstitute of Humanities and Social Studiesپژوهش انحرافات و مسائل اجتماعی3060-821X3060-82282025-09414131articleWomen's Strategies against Economic Violence Case Study Bandar AbbasHadi Salimihadisalimi69@yahoo.com1Fatemeh Zaherifatemeh.zaheri1994@gmail.com2Fatemeh Roustaei fateme.rousta77@gmail.com3Mohamad Bazle444bazleh@gmail.com4Akbar Hasannejad Ghorvali akbar.hasannezhad.75@gmail.com5Hasan Akhgarhassanakhgar1377@gmail.com6Assistant Professor Counseling Department, Faculty of Humanities, Hormozgan University. M.A in Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, Hormozgan University, Bandar Abbas, Iran. M.A in Counseling Department, Faculty of Humanities, Hormozgan University, Bandar Abbas, Iran.M.A in Department of Management, Faculty of Management, Hormozgan University, Bandar Abbas, Iran. M.A in Department of Management, Faculty of Management, Hormozgan University, Bandar Abbas, Iran. M.A Student, Department of Psychology and Education of Exceptional Children, Faculty of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, University of Rehabilitation Sciences and Social Health, Tehran, Iran. Women's Strategies against Economic Violence Case Study Bandar Abbas   Hadi Salimi<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1">*</a> Fatemeh Zaheri <a href="#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2">**</a> Fatemeh Roustaei<a href="#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3">***</a> Mohammad Bezleh <a href="#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4">****</a> Akbar Hasan Nejad Qoroli<a href="#_ftn5" name="_ftnref5">*****</a> Hasan Akhgar<a href="#_ftn6" name="_ftnref6">******</a>   Economic violence is one of the most important gender-based problems and a form of domestic violence that occurs in a hidden and invisible way against women and has negative effects on their quality of life. Currently, due to the economic situation, this type of violence is on the rise. Since it has unpleasant consequences, understanding women's coping strategies is of particular importance. Therefore, the purpose of the present study is to examine women's strategies against economic violence. The present research design was qualitative and phenomenological. The statistical population included all housewives who were victims of economic violence in Bandar Abbas; 27 housewives’ women were selected using snowball sampling. Semi-structured interviews and the Economic Abuse Scale (SEA2) were applied to collect data. The data were analyzed using the Colaizzi method. In the study of women's coping strategies with their husband's economic violence, in coding and examining the main and sub-themes, 82 initial codes were initially identified, and by eliminating duplicates, 20 initial concepts remained. Then, the concepts were combined, and 6 categories were finally identified. The sub-themes were conceptually placed together, and 2 main themes were identified. The results showed that women's strategies against economic violence include two general strategies: adaptive (resilient, participatory, and planning strategies) and maladaptive (avoidance, submission, and confrontation strategies). In general, it can be concluded that victimized women may use different strategies against economic violence. Maladaptive strategies lead to temporary relief of distress, and adaptive strategies lead to reduced tension and improved conditions.   Keywords: Domestic violence, intimate partner violence, economic violence, coping strategies, women   Introduction One of the hidden or “invisible” forms of violence occurring within marital relationships is economic violence (Postmus et al., 2020: 1). Economic violence includes behaviors that control a person's ability to acquire, use, or maintain economic resources, thereby threatening their financial security and potential for self-sufficiency (Adams et al., 2008: 264). Research indicates that economic violence has a high prevalence. In the general population, the lifetime prevalence of economic violence experienced by women is 15.7%, which is higher than that of men at 7.1% (Kutin et al., 2017: 269). In clinical samples, various studies have reported that this rate reaches 93% (Stylianou, 2018a: 3) and 94% (Postmus et al., 2011: 411) among women. Numerous studies have demonstrated that victims of economic violence experience a wide range of consequences on individual, interpersonal, social, and economic levels (Alkan et al., 2021: 3; Johnson et al., 2022: 2; Eriksson & Ulmestig, 2021: 1642). In response to the adverse outcomes of economic violence, individuals attempt to cope with it through various strategies. These coping strategies include cognitive, emotional, and behavioral efforts that individuals employ when confronted with psychological stress, to overcome, endure, or minimize the consequences of distressing situations (Salehi Moghadam et al., 2024: 230). Existing research has mostly examined women’s coping strategies against intimate partner violence in general, with far less focus on specific coping mechanisms related to economic violence (Yakubovich et al., 2022: 23; Renner & Hartley, 2022: 585). Iran, as a country facing high inflation and extensive economic challenges in recent years, has experienced unique conditions that have intensified economic violence within marital relationships. This is particularly since men are generally regarded as the primary breadwinners of the household (Alavi Rad & Sabbaghchi Firouzabad, 2022: 279; Daliri, 2019: 35). However, what has been neglected in previous research is the way housewives respond to this form of abuse by their husbands. Due to the lack of employment and independent income, housewives are more economically dependent on their spouses. Therefore, the present study was conducted to identify the coping strategies employed by housewives in Bandar Abbas in response to economic violence. Overall, considering the limited background and lack of research in the Iranian academic context—particularly within the socio-cultural setting of Bandar Abbas—on women’s coping strategies in response to economic violence, there exists a significant theoretical and empirical gap in the existing literature. The present study, by focusing on an in-depth exploration of Iranian women’s coping strategies, seeks to address this gap.   Methodology The present study employed qualitative design using the phenomenological approach. The statistical population included all married housewives who had experienced economic violence in Bandar Abbas in 2023. Participants were selected using a snowball sampling method, resulting in 27 housewives being interviewed. The participant selection process aimed to achieve theoretical saturation. Inclusion criteria were: having experienced economic violence based on an initial psychological assessment, obtaining a score higher than 9 on the Scale of Economic Abuse (SEA2), being a housewife with no employment, having been married for at least one year, giving full consent to participate in the interviews, and residing in Bandar Abbas. To ensure ethical standards and maintain participant confidentiality, all ethical considerations were explained at the beginning of the interview process, and the confidentiality of the data was emphasized. Given the phenomenological nature of the research topic, Colaizzi’s seven-step method (1978) was employed for data analysis. To ensure the validity and reliability of the data, strategies such as member checking (reviewing the findings with participants), careful coding and categorization of concepts, and the use of an independent evaluator were implemented.   Findings In the descriptive section, the mean age of the 27 housewives who had experienced economic abuse was 33.11 years (SD = 6.69). Regarding the duration of marriage, 13 participants had been married for 1–5 years, 5 for 6–10 years, 3 for 11–15 years, 2 for 16–20 years, 3 for 21–25 years, and 1 for 26–30 years. Concerning the number of children, 8 had no children, 3 had one child, 7 had two children, 6 had three children, 2 had four children, and 1 had five children. Regarding educational level, 2 participants were illiterate, 5 had completed primary school, 2 had junior high school (middle school) education, 9 held a high school diploma, and 9 had a bachelor’s degree. In terms of housing type, 15 women lived in private (owned) homes, 11 in rental properties, and 1 in a government-provided residence. In analyzing women’s coping strategies with economic abuse from their husbands, a total of 82 initial codes were identified. After merging overlapping items and removing duplicates, 20 initial concepts remained. These were then synthesized into six subthemes, which were conceptually grouped into two overarching main themes. The sub-themes were conceptually placed together, and 2 main themes were identified. The results showed that women's strategies against economic violence include two general strategies: adaptive (resilient, participatory, and planning strategies) and maladaptive (avoidance, submission, and confrontation strategies).   Table 1 – Women’s Coping Strategies Against Economic Abuse by Husband <table> <tbody> <tr> <td width="92"> Main Themes </td> <td width="132"> Subthemes </td> <td width="243"> Initial Concepts </td> </tr> <tr> <td rowspan="3" width="92">   Maladaptive Strategies </td> <td width="132"> Avoidant Strategy </td> <td width="243"> Concealment, indifference, sulking, crying, passivity </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="132"> Submissive Strategy </td> <td width="243"> Acceptance of victim role, silence, yielding, need suppression </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="132"> Confrontational Strategy </td> <td width="243"> Aggression, stubbornness, role imposition, conditional affection </td> </tr> <tr> <td rowspan="3" width="92"> Adaptive Strategies </td> <td width="132"> Resilient Strategy </td> <td width="243"> Patience and trust in God, accommodation </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="132"> Participatory Strategy </td> <td width="243"> Negotiation and dialogue, professional counseling </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="132"> Planning Strategy </td> <td width="243"> Financial management, saving, income generation </td> </tr> </tbody> </table>   Discussion and Conclusion This study aimed to identify the coping strategies of women in response to economic violence. The findings indicated that housewives who were victims of economic violence in Bandar Abbas utilized a variety of coping strategies, which could be categorized into two main groups: maladaptive and adaptive strategies. Maladaptive strategies primarily included withdrawal (avoidance), passive acceptance of the situation (submission), or emotional confrontation. While these strategies may offer temporary relief, they are likely to lead to the continuation of abuse and a further erosion of women’s self-esteem in the long term. In contrast, adaptive strategies—such as participation in problem-solving (dialogue and counseling), resilience (patience and accommodation), and economic planning (financial management and income generation)—though less commonly used, were associated with greater potential for empowerment and harm reduction. In general, it can be concluded that women victims of economic abuse employ various adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies depending on their individual, familial, and cultural circumstances. Based on this, it is recommended that women's empowerment programs in regions such as Bandar Abbas be designed and implemented at multiple levels, considering the specific socio-cultural context and economic conditions of these areas. At the individual level, teaching effective coping skills, enhancing psychological resilience, and promoting financial empowerment through improved economic literacy and resource management training can help reduce the use of maladaptive strategies. At the structural level, supporting small-scale and locally based employment initiatives, creating income-generating opportunities tailored to the conditions of housewives, and offering economic incentives for productive activities are considered key actions. At the social level, establishing family counseling centers with a culturally sensitive approach and promoting couple therapy with a focus on the negative consequences of economic abuse can play a crucial role in reshaping the interactive patterns between spouses. This study was subject to certain limitations. These included difficulties in accessing female victims due to fear of disclosing their experiences or potential repercussions, and the influence of cultural context on how experiences were articulated, which may have introduced some bias into the data. Moreover, due to the specific cultural characteristics of the Bandar Abbas region, the findings of this study may have limited generalizability to other areas. It is recommended that future research explore the role of individual factors such as resilience, self-esteem, and social support in shaping coping strategies. Additionally, comparative studies among women in urban, rural, and nomadic areas could offer a more comprehensive picture of this phenomenon. Furthermore, evaluating the effectiveness of educational and counseling interventions in reducing maladaptive strategies could pave the way for designing more effective support policies and programs for women who are victims of economic abuse.   References Adams, A. E., Sullivan, C. M., Bybee, D., & Greeson, M. R. (2008) Development of the Scale of Economic Abuse. Violence Against Women, 14, 563–588. Alavi Rad, A., & Sabbaghchi Firouzabad, M. (2022) Investigating the sudden changes in the money on the welfare cost of inflation in Iran. Journal of Applied Economics Studies in Iran, 11(42), 279-313. Alkan, Ö., Özar, Ş., & Ünver, Ş. (2021) Economic violence against women: A case in Turkey. PLoS one, 16(3), e0248630. Colaizzi, P. F. (1978) Psychological research as the phenomenologist views it. In: Valle RS, King M, editors. Existential-phenomenological alternatives for psychology. New York: Oxford University Press. Daliri, H. (2019) Identifying the effective economic variables on divorce in Iran. Women's Studies Sociological And Psychological, 17(2), 35-62. Eriksson, M., & Ulmestig, R. (2021) “It’s not all about money”: Toward a more comprehensive understanding of financial abuse in the context of VAW. Journal of interpersonal Violence, 36(3-4), NP1625-1651NP. Johnson, L., Chen, Y., Stylianou, A., & Arnold, A. (2022) Examining the impact of economic abuse on survivors of intimate partner violence: a scoping review. BMC public health, 22(1), 1014. Kutin, J., Russell, R., & Reid, M. (2017) Economic abuse between intimate partners in Australia: prevalence, health status, disability and financial stress. Australian and New Zealand journal of public health, 41(3), 269-274. Postmus J. L., Hoge G. L., Breckenridge J., Sharp-Jeffs N., Chung D. (2020) Economic abuse as an invisible form of domestic violence: A multicountry review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 21(2), 261–283. Postmus, J. L., Plummer, S. B., McMahon, S., Murshid, N. S., & Kim, M. S. (2011) Understanding economic abuse in the lives of survivors. Journal of interpersonal violence, 27(3), 411-430. Renner, L. M., & Hartley, C. C. (2022) Women’s perceptions of the helpfulness of strategies for coping with intimate partner violence. Journal of family violence, 37(4), 585-599. Salehi Moghadam, F., Nikorad, M., Moharer Sanagouye, G., Madadi, P., & Alimardani, S. (2024) Predicting marital intimacy based on infertility stigma and coping strategies in infertile women. Applied Family Therapy Journal (AFTJ) , 5(1), 229-237. Stylianou, A. M. (2018a) Economic abuse within intimate partner violence: a review of the literature. Violence and Victims, 33(1), 3-22. Yakubovich, A. R., Bartsch, A., Metheny, N., Gesink, D., & O'Campo, P. (2022) Housing interventions for women experiencing intimate partner violence: a systematic review. The Lancet Public Health, 7(1), e23-e35.   <a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1">*</a> Corresponding Author: Assistant Professor Counseling Department, Faculty of Humanities, Hormozgan University. hadisalimi69@yahoo.com       <a href="#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2">**</a> M.A in Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, Hormozgan University, Bandar Abbas, Iran. fatemeh.zaheri1994@gmail.com <a href="#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3">***</a> M.A in Counseling Department, Faculty of Humanities, Hormozgan University, Bandar Abbas, Iran. fateme.rousta77@gmail.com <a href="#_ftnref4" name="_ftn4"> ****</a> M.A in Department of Management, Faculty of Management, Hormozgan University, Bandar Abbas, Iran. 444bazleh@gmail.com <a href="#_ftnref5" name="_ftn5">*****</a> M.A in Department of Management, Faculty of Management, Hormozgan University, Bandar Abbas, Iran. akbar.hasannezhad.75@gmail.com         <a href="#_ftnref6" name="_ftn6">******</a> M.A Student, Department of Psychology and Education of Exceptional Children, Faculty of Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, University of Rehabilitation Sciences and Social Health, Tehran, Iran. hassanakhgar1377@gmail.comhttp://risi.ihss.ac.ir/Article/49842Domestic violence intimate partner violence economic violence coping strategies women.perInstitute of Humanities and Social Studiesپژوهش انحرافات و مسائل اجتماعی3060-821X3060-82282025-094143361articleRepresentation of Cultural Messages of Divorce Celebrations on InstagramFaezeh Taghipourf.taghipour@khuisf.ac.ir1AILAR BAYANI SHAHRIailar.bayani.sh@gmail.com2Associate Professor, Department of Communication Sciences, Faculty of Marketing and Business, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. Ph.D Student, Department of Communication Sciences, Faculty of Marketing and Business, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.Content Analysis of Messages and Comments on Divorce Celebrations from a Cultural Perspective on Instagram   Faezeh Taghipour<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1">*</a> Ailar Bayani Shahri <a href="#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2">**</a>                                                                                                                               This study was conducted to analyze the content of messages and comments related to divorce celebrations from a cultural perspective on Instagram in January 2025. The research adopted a qualitative approach utilizing content analysis. Posts related to divorce celebrations on Instagram were examined. The data collection tool involved creating a checklist of Instagram posts. Purposive sampling based on specific criteria was employed, with eleven samples selected, and sampling continued until data saturation was achieved. The profiles of individuals who celebrated their divorce and shared images of these celebrations on Instagram were analyzed. The overall findings indicate that divorce celebrations on Instagram are a growing phenomenon, shared with the aim of enhancing self-awareness and self-confidence following the end of a marital relationship. Many posts contained positive messages about new beginnings and personal freedom. Additionally, the analysis revealed that these celebrations are more prevalent among women, who use them to display independence and personal empowerment.   Keywords: Divorce Celebration, End of Marital Relationship, Display of Independence, Instagram, Display of Personal Empowerment.   Introduction Divorce is one of the four major life events that are officially recorded. Divorce is obligatory in Islam. In the past, divorce was considered harm to the family that was generally tried to be hidden. Divorce is generally associated with grief, psychological reactions and subsequent problems for women. Divorce is one of unwanted situations in the life of spouses. During almost two recent decades divorce rate has increased in Iran. Studies show that women are more likely than men to applied for divorce. This indicates significant changes in attitudes towards family and its sustainability in society, especially among women. Divorce celeberation is a new form of announcement for the end of a marital relationship. Generally, women more celebrate at such event. This study was conducted to analyze the content of messages and comments related to divorce celebrations from a cultural perspective on Instagram.   Methodology This study utilized a qualitative approach with content analysis. Data was collected by gathering and examining posts, images, and videos related to divorce celebrations on the Instagram social network. The data collection tool consisted of preparing a checklist of posts to ensure accurate and organized recording and analysis of information. Relevant hashtags, such as #DivorceCelebration, were used to identify data, and samples were selected purposefully based on specific criteria to ensure maximum informational richness. The study population comprised all posts and comments published on Instagram in January 2025 related to divorce celebrations. Samples were selectively chosen to maximize diversity and coverage of perspectives and attitudes. A total of eleven samples, including textual, visual, and video posts, were selected. Sampling continued until data saturation was reached, where no significant new information was obtained from additional samples, and key concepts and patterns were repeatedly observed. The content analysis method involved identifying main themes, classifying perspectives, and extracting cultural and social patterns related to divorce celebrations. This approach enabled a comprehensive examination of the individual, psychological, and social dimensions of divorce celebrations. Additionally, analyzing user reactions, including comments and likes, facilitated the assessment of social acceptance and support for divorced individuals. The selection of eleven samples, considering the diversity of formats, user engagement, and depth of data, was deemed appropriate and sufficient for precise and in-depth analysis.   Findings The findings indicate that divorce celebrations on Instagram are emerging as a growing socio-cultural phenomenon. Many posts conveyed positive messages about restarting life, personal freedom, and strengthening independent identity. The analysis revealed that these celebrations are predominantly prevalent among women, who utilize them to showcase independence, self-confidence, and personal empowerment. Sharing images and videos of celebrations reflects a form of impression management and the representation of a desirable identity, as users strive to present a positive image of their lives (Gibbs et al., 2016). User reactions were varied; some offered messages of encouragement and congratulations, while others expressed criticism or mockery. This diversity underscores the cultural and social complexities surrounding the acceptance of divorce celebrations. The findings also suggest that divorce celebrations provide opportunities for psychological reconstruction, post-divorce emotional management, and increased social support. Women, through receiving likes and comments, experience enhanced validation and self-worth, contributing to the rebuilding of self-esteem and confidence (Hetherington & Kelly, 2002; Levine & Perkins, 2007). The analysis further highlighted the significant role of social media and micro-celebrities in shaping attitudes. By sharing their divorce celebrations, micro-celebrities exert considerable influence in altering public perceptions and redefining social norms (Shariati Shiri & Naghibzadeh, 2023). This phenomenon has also facilitated the commodification of divorce celebrations, with related services—such as photography, decorations, clothing, and advertising—offered in the commercial market, enhancing user engagement (Ghorbani et al., 2024). Beyond individual and cultural dimensions, divorce celebrations carry potential negative consequences, including the weakening of family institutions, diminished valuation of marriage, increased consumerism, and perpetuation of gender stereotypes. Nevertheless, divorce celebrations reflect evolving attitudes toward divorce in individualistic and modern cultures, presenting it as an opportunity for personal growth and a fresh start (Mentser & Sagiv, 2025).   Discussion and Conclusion The findings demonstrate that divorce celebrations on Instagram constitute an emerging socio-cultural phenomenon with multifaceted dimensions, encompassing individual, psychological, social, and media-related aspects. These celebrations are primarily associated with positive messages, portraying divorce as a new beginning, an opportunity for personal growth, and an expression of individual independence. Sharing images and videos of divorce celebrations aids in identity reconstruction, impression management, and the presentation of a desirable self. Analysis of user comments and reactions revealed that this phenomenon is more prevalent among women, who leverage it to enhance self-confidence, self-efficacy, and social support. User interactions through likes and comments foster a sense of belonging, value, and social acceptance for divorced individuals. This trend underscores the significant role of social media in improving post-divorce psychological and social experiences and providing a platform for sharing emotions and personal experiences (Hetherington & Kelly, 2002; Levine & Perkins, 2007). Moreover, the examination of micro-celebrity posts indicates that their display of divorce celebrations can influence public attitudes and redefine social norms (Shariati Shiri & Naghibzadeh, 2023). This phenomenon has both positive and negative implications. Positive effects include strengthening individual identity, enhancing self-confidence, and creating an open space for divorce acceptance. Potential negative effects include weakening family institutions, diminishing the value of marriage, increasing consumerism, and reinforcing gender stereotypes. Psychologically, divorce celebrations offer opportunities for emotional release and stress management post-separation. Women can achieve faster psychological recovery and gain social and emotional support through this platform (Hetherington & Kelly, 2002). Socially, this phenomenon impacts social networks, interpersonal relationships, and cultural norms. Divorce celebrations on Instagram signify a redefinition of modern values and culture in society, reflecting shifting attitudes toward divorce and individual identity reconstruction (Mentser & Sagiv, 2025). From a media and technological perspective, Instagram’s extensive features enable users to reconstruct personal narratives and manage their online identities. Sharing images and videos empowers users to control the representation of their lives and create social capital through user interactions (Ghorbani et al., 2024). This indicates that social media not only shapes attitudes and social norms but also serves as a tool for identity reconstruction, emotional management, and social interaction. Additionally, divorce celebrations can significantly influence social attitudes toward gender issues and women’s rights, challenging stereotypes and traditional norms, and demonstrating that women can lead independent, high-quality lives post-divorce (Tavakoli et al., 2022). Observing and participating in divorce celebrations allows users to share personal experiences, learn from others, and build networks of social support. Analysis of various samples showed that users narrate their personal stories through celebration videos and images, fostering solidarity and social belonging. Some posts included explanations about post-divorce life, strategies for coping with psychological challenges, and methods for maintaining social and family relationships. Active users, particularly young women, utilize this space to model independence, self-confidence, and personal empowerment (Kabiri & Taghipour, 2023). This study highlights that divorce celebrations on Instagram are a multidimensional phenomenon requiring thorough examination by sociologists, social psychologists, and cultural scholars. It contributes to a deeper understanding of cultural and social trends surrounding divorce and the role of social media in shaping attitudes. Concurrently, identifying and managing the negative consequences of this phenomenon is essential to mitigate potential adverse effects on family institutions and social values. Overall, divorce celebrations reflect cultural and social transformations and signify evolving representations of individual and gender identity. This phenomenon has transformed social media into a vital platform for interaction, experience exchange, and social capital creation, facilitating open dialogue about cultural and psychological issues. Through an in-depth analysis of these dimensions, this study underscores the role of divorce celebrations in redefining values, shaping attitudes, and promoting social support.   References Ghorbani, M. R., et al. (2024) Identifying communicative and media factors influencing the development of social participation in NGOs and charities. Socio-Cultural Strategy, 13(51), 247–280. Gibbs, M., Meese, J., Arnold, M., Nansen, B., & Carter, M. (2016) Funeral and Instagram: Death, social media, and platform vernacular. Information, Communication & Society, 18(3), 255–268. Hetherington, E. M., & Kelly, J. (2002) For Better or For Worse: Divorce Reconsidered. W. W. Norton & Company. Kabiri, O., & Taghipour, F. (2023) Measuring the diversity of human communication on Instagram among Iranian users. Media Journal, 34(3), 55–81. Levine, M., & Perkins, D. D. (2007) Principles of Community Psychology: Perspectives and Applications (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press. Mentser, S., & Sagiv, L. (2025) Cultural and personal values interact to predict divorce. Communications Psychology, 3, Article 12. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-025-01234-5 Shariati Shiri, M. T., & Naghibzadeh, A. (2023) A social pathology of Iranian micro-celebrities on Instagram. Parliament and Strategy, 30(116), 177–204. Tavakoli, F., Rashidpour, A., & Taghipour, F. (2022) Exploring the impact of mobile social networks on students’ cultural identity. Cultural Management Journal, 16(58), 125–138.   <a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1">*</a> Corresponding Author: Associate Professor, Department of Communication Sciences, Faculty of Marketing and Business, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. f.taghipour58@iau.ac.ir <a href="#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2">**</a> Ph.D Student, Department of Communication Sciences, Faculty of Marketing and Business, Isfahan (Khorasgan) Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran. ailar.bayani@iau.ac.irhttp://risi.ihss.ac.ir/Article/47520Divorce Celebration End of Marital Relationship Display of Independence Instagram Display of Personal Empowerment.perInstitute of Humanities and Social Studiesپژوهش انحرافات و مسائل اجتماعی3060-821X3060-82282025-094146393articleSocial Consequences of Inflation; An Analysis of Iranian Twitter Users’ ExperienceAbbasali shekardoostAbbasali.shekardoost1372@ens.uk.ac.ir1Soodeh Maghsoodimaghsoodi299@yahoo.com2Saideh Garousisgarousi@uk.ac.ir3Ph.D Student, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.Associate Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.Social Consequences of Inflation; Analyzing the Experiences of Iranian Twitter Users<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1">[1]</a>   Abbasali Shekardoost* Soodeh Maghsoodi ** Saideh Garousi***   Chronic and persistent inflation in Iran has emerged as a pivotal factor driving profound social transformations. The social network Twitter, as a reflection of lived experiences, mirrors the multifaceted impacts of inflation on social structures. This study examines the social consequences of inflation through the lens of Iranian users’ discourse on Twitter, employing a qualitative approach and the conventional content analysis method of Hsieh and Shannon (2005). The data comprised 260 tweets related to the social consequences of inflation, which were coded, categorized, and analyzed using MAXQDA 18 software. The findings indicate that inflation, through multilayered economic pressures, gives rise to three primary categories of social consequences: transformation and widening of social stratification, eruption of social discontent, and social disintegration. In the first category, inflation has reshaped traditional social stratification by fostering modern class conflicts, manifested as class downward mobility, polarization, and the emergence of an urban landed class. The second category emphasizes institutionalized despair, the legitimization of protests, and strategic migration as survival strategies. This despair has shaped the collective mindset of Iranians, fostering widespread distrust in governmental institutions and paving the way for protest movements and elite emigration. The third category reflects a decline in social cohesion, widening generational gaps, increasing social inequalities, and diminishing social capital, all of which undermine societal resilience against crises. The results suggest that Iranian society faces not only a scarcity of economic resources but also a deficit of social hope, with migration as a long-term “salvation project” signaling an erosion of optimism for domestic improvement.   Keywords: Iran, inflation, social consequences, social dissatisfaction, Twitter social network.   Introduction Inflation represents one of the most significant macroeconomic challenges, particularly prevalent in developing countries. In recent years, Iran’s economy has been profoundly affected by this issue, with inflation becoming a persistent characteristic of the economic system and a critical crisis in people’s lives. According to official statistics, the point-to-point inflation rate reached 38.9% in April 2025, indicating a substantial increase in household expenses (Statistical Center of Iran). This phenomenon extends beyond mere material wealth reduction, altering individuals’ perceptions of social realities. The instability of the national currency has engendered livelihood anxieties, distrust in economic structures, and a relentless struggle for survival. The erosion of purchasing power, lifestyle changes among vulnerable groups, increased pressure on the elderly, and diminished psychological well-being are among the significant consequences of inflation. In the long term, this trend may lead to inequitable wealth distribution and a decline in quality of life, necessitating a deeper examination of inflation’s social impacts (Béland et al., 2024; Tavakolian et al., 2018). Nowadays, social networks such as Twitter, particularly in Iran, provide an effective platform for monitoring and analyzing inflation’s consequences (Findawati et al., 2023; Muñoz-Martínez et al., 2023). Twitter is recognized as a vital tool for gauging public sentiment toward inflation, with recent studies demonstrating that inflation expectations can be accurately measured through its data (Muñoz-Martínez et al., 2023). However, field research on the social impacts of inflation within Iran’s virtual space remains underexplored, requiring both qualitative and quantitative studies for a comprehensive understanding (Iman & Nooshadi, 2011). Therefore, this study aims to investigate the social consequences of inflation from the perspective of Iranian Twitter users, addressing the question: “What are the most significant social consequences of inflation according to Iranian Twitter users?” The findings can contribute to formulating practical and effective strategies to mitigate inflation’s adverse effects.   Methodology This study was conducted to explore the social consequences of inflation through the discourse of Iranian users on the Twitter social network. A qualitative approach was employed, utilizing conventional content analysis based on the framework of Hsieh and Shannon (2005). The data consisted of 260 tweets related to the social consequences of inflation, systematically coded, categorized, and analyzed using MAXQDA version 18 software. This analytical process facilitated the identification of key themes and concepts concerning inflation’s social impacts in the virtual space, presenting the researchers’ interpretations within a rigorous and evidence-based framework (Iman & Nooshadi, 2011).   Findings The findings reveal that inflation, through multilayered economic pressures, results in three primary categories of social consequences: transformation and widening of social stratification, eruption of social discontent, and social disintegration. In the first category, inflation has fundamentally transformed the traditional structure of social stratification by fostering modern class conflicts, manifested as class downward mobility, polarization, and the emergence of an urban landed class. These changes have redefined the class system and deepened social divides (Sachan, 2024; Rashidi, 2015). The second category underscores institutionalized despair within society, the legitimization of popular protests, and the adoption of strategic migration as survival strategies. This despair has shaped the collective mindset of Iranians, intensifying widespread distrust in governmental institutions and creating conditions conducive to protest movements and elite emigration (Sardarnia & Alborzi, 2022; Hosseinzadeh, 2024). The third category reflects a decline in social cohesion, widening generational gaps, increasing social inequalities, and diminishing social capital, all of which have weakened societal resilience against economic and social crises (Guriev & Melnikov, 2016; Delaviz et al., 2020). These results indicate that inflation acts not only as an economic crisis but also as a determinant of structural and psychological changes in Iranian society, necessitating comprehensive policy approaches to mitigate its social consequences.   Discussion and Conclusion Inflation in Iran has transcended its role as a mere economic phenomenon or price fluctuation, emerging as a structural factor driving profound social transformations. The findings of this study indicate that the social consequences of inflation, as perceived by Iranian Twitter users, can be categorized into three primary themes: transformation and widening of the social stratification system, eruption of social dissatisfaction, and social disintegration. The transformation and widening of the social stratification system reflect a redefinition and increased complexity of inequalities. Inflation, by eroding wage values, depleting savings, and exacerbating disparities in access to economic resources, has pushed the middle class toward poverty and facilitated the emergence of a new urban landed class. This phenomenon aligns with the concept of “proletarianization” described by McKinlay and Arches (1985) and signifies the collapse of traditional class balances in Iran. Modern class conflicts are increasingly rooted in disparities in access to inflation-protective mechanisms (e.g., investments in financial and non-financial assets) rather than solely income differences. These findings align with prior research (Mehrbani, 2010; Ghaderi et al., 2022; Karimi et al., 2023). The eruption of social dissatisfaction, as the second major consequence, stems from institutionalized hopelessness, the legitimacy of social protests, and increased strategic migration. Chronic inflation and ineffective economic policies have undermined public trust in the political system, creating conditions that legitimize street protests and social movements. These dynamics can be explained through Durkheim’s theory of anomie (Nayebi et al., 2017) and Charles Tilly’s resource mobilization theory (Bahranipour et al., 2019). Moreover, migration, as a purposeful rational action, reflects distrust in domestic improvement and a pursuit of better opportunities abroad, consistent with Max Weber’s rational choice theory (Javadi Yeganeh, 2008; Rahmatollahi, 2003). These findings are corroborated by domestic and international studies, including those by Keshavarz (2023), Sardarnia and Alborzi (2022), Heydari and Torkan (2025), Zhdanov and Korotaev (2024), and Rocha et al. (2020). Social disintegration, the third significant consequence, encompasses reduced social cohesion, widening generational gaps, increased social inequalities, and declining social capital. Inflation has replaced social cooperation with competition over scarce resources. Generational divides have intensified due to differences in experiences and asset ownership, with younger generations without assets facing greater pressure, leading to generational conflicts and injustice, consistent with Mannheim’s and Bourdieu’s theories (Tavakkol & Ghazinajad, 2006). Furthermore, inequalities in access to public services have adversely affected the quality of life for low-income groups. Coupled with declining social capital, trust and collective cooperation have been significantly weakened, reducing society’s capacity to address crises (Ryff & Keyes, 1995). These trends align with studies by Heydarian Boroujeni (2022), Afrasiabi and Baharlooi (2019), Baoosh et al. (2017), and Putnam’s social capital theory (Delaviz et al., 2020). In conclusion, this study underscores the structural role of inflation in driving profound social changes in Iran. Inflation has not only precipitated an economic crisis but also a social crisis by altering class patterns, amplifying dissatisfaction and protests, and undermining social cohesion and capital. Addressing inflation’s consequences thus requires more than economic policies alone; it demands comprehensive social and political strategies to manage and mitigate these gaps and crises.   References Afrasiabi, H., & Baharlooi, M. (2020) The consequences of inflation in the everyday life of lower-class youth. Applied Sociology, 31(4), 23–44. (In Persian) Baharluoei, M., & Afrasiabi, H. (2022) Inflation and contingency life in Iran society: A grounded theory study. Journal of Economic Development Studies, 11(1), 31–57. (In Persian) Bahranipour, A., Fazeli, A., Kazemi, S., & Lajmorak Moradi, A. (2019) The analysis of Sarbedaran movement based on Charles Tilly collective action theory. The Journal of Islamic History and Civilisation, 14(28), 89–120. (In Persian) Béland, D., Cantillon, B., Greve, B., Hick, R., & Moreira, A. (2024) Understanding the inflation and social policy nexus. Social Policy and Society, 23(1), 149–162. Delaviz, M., Mortazavi Asl, S. K., & Sinaei, S. A. (2020) A comparative contemplation on the concept of social capital from the perspective of Putnam and Fukuyama. Iranian Journal of Political Sociology, 3(4), 2288–2306. (In Persian) Findawati, Y., Puspitasari, R., & Rosid, M. A. (2023) Sentiment analysis of post-COVID-19 inflation based on Twitter using the k-nearest neighbor and support vector machine classification methods. Jurnal Teknik Informatika (JUTIF), 4(4). Ghaderi, R., Shafiee, E., & Madani, S. M. (2022) Assessing the causes of class divisions and its relationship with the decline of trust in government officials in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iranian Journal of Political Sociology, 5(11), 1502–1518. (In Persian) Guriev, S., & Melnikov, N. (2016) War, inflation, and social capital. The American Economic Review, 106(5), 230–235. Heydari, A., & Torkan, R. (2025) A phenomenological study of international migration of educated Iranian girls: A case study of girls visiting the Isfahan County Department of Cooperation, Labor, and Social Welfare. Applied Sociology, 36(1), 23–48. (In Persian) Hosseinzadeh, M. S. (2024) Investigating and analyzing the impact process of virtual social networks on basic economy protests (Case study of January 2017 and November 2019) Afagh-e Amniat Quarterly, 17(63), 103–133. (In Persian) Hsieh, H. F., & Shannon, S. E. (2005) Three approaches to qualitative content analysis. Qualitative Health Research, 15(9), 1277–1288. Iman, M. T., & Nooshadi, M. R. (2011) Qualitative content analysis. Pajouhesh, 3(2), 15–44. (In Persian) Javadi Yeganeh, M. R. (2008) A sociological approach to rational choice theory: An introduction to planned cultural and social changes. Rahbord-e Farhang, 1(3), 33–64. (In Persian) Karimi, S., Indrawari, I., & Ridwan, E. (2023) The effect of inflation on income inequality: Evidence from a non-linear dynamic panel data analysis in Indonesia. Decision Science Letters, 12(3), 639–648. Muñoz-Martínez, J. A., Orozco, D., & Ramos-Veloza, M. A. (2023) Tweeting inflation: Real-time measures of inflation perception in Colombia. Latin American Economic Review, 33(10), 1–39. Rocha, A., Silva, C. G. da, & Perobelli, F. (2020) Inflation and labor migration: Modelling the Venezuelan case (Working Paper No. 2020_05). University of São Paulo (FEA-USP), Department of Economics. Sachan, B. (2024) A sociological investigation of the theoretical underpinnings and applied consequences of social stratification. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research in Arts, Science and Technology, 2(8), 51–61. Sardarnia, K., & Alborzi, H. (2022) Analysis of social guild protests in Iran from the perspective of street politics theory. Strategic Policy Studies, 11(40), 107–150. (In Persian) Statistical Center of Iran. Homepage. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from http://www.amar.org.ir (In Persian) Zhdanov, A. I., & Korotayev, A. (2024) Inflationary pressure and revolutionary destabilization: Impact assessment and comparative analysis. Sociology of Power, 36(2), 113–141.           <a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1">[1]</a>. This article is extracted from the PhD dissertation in Sociology entitled "A Sociological Analysis of Iranian Users' Tweets on the Experience of Inflation in Everyday Life," from Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman. * Ph.D Student, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. Abbasali.shekardoost1372@ens.uk.ac.ir ** Corresponding Author: Associate Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. smaghsoodi@uk.ac.ir &zwnj;*** Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran. sgarousi@uk.ac.irhttp://risi.ihss.ac.ir/Article/50157Iran inflation social consequences social dissatisfaction Twitter social network.perInstitute of Humanities and Social Studiesپژوهش انحرافات و مسائل اجتماعی3060-821X3060-82282025-0941495126articleSatellite Broadcasting and Psychological Operation Techniques in Public Opinion Control within FootballRoozbeh Radmehrroozbehradmehr100@gmail.com1M.A in Social Communication Sciences, Demand Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damavand , Iran.Satellite Broadcasting and Psychological Operation Techniques in Public Opinion Control within Football   Roozbeh Radmehr<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1">*</a>   This study aims to identify and analyze the latent and manifest dimensions of psychological operation tactics employed in football-related programming by Persian-language satellite networks, particularly the Manoto network, to influence public opinion among football fans. Given football’s profound cultural, social, psychological, and political impact in Iranian society, and the increasing influence of transnational media offering Persian-language sports content, analyzing the psychological strategies of these media is of significant importance.   Keywords: Psychological Operations, Media, Public Opinion, Football, Tactics.   Introduction Football, as Iran’s most popular cultural-sporting phenomenon, provides a broad platform for expressing and channeling collective emotions. Beyond its role as entertainment and a source of social joy, football has become a potent tool for political messaging, media propaganda, and even social destabilization in targeted societies. Major football events, such as national matches or local derbies, often serve as arenas for reflecting political inclinations, social tensions, and, at times, emotionally charged or protest-driven collective actions. Consequently, Persian-language satellite networks have leveraged football’s widespread appeal to conduct psychological operations aimed at shaping public sentiment. This research is grounded in two prominent communication theories: Agenda-Setting Theory (McCombs & Shaw, 1972) and Framing Theory (Entman, 1993). Agenda-Setting Theory posits that media influence audience priorities by selectively emphasizing certain issues, determining what the public thinks about. Framing Theory extends this concept, arguing that media not only select topics but also shape how audiences interpret them by constructing specific narratives. Rooted in Goffman’s (1974) sociological work, framing theory highlights the media’s role in meaning-making, interpretation, and internalization of messages. From this perspective, football programs on satellite broadcasting like Manoto are not merely informational or analytical but serve as deliberate psychological interventions designed to steer the perceptions and emotions of football fans.   Methodology This study adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing thematic analysis as its analytical strategy. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 experts in sports journalism, purposefully selected from senior editors, editorial coordinators, and veteran journalists affiliated with prominent Iranian sports media outlets, including Abrar Varzeshi, Esteghlal Javan, Iran Varzeshi, Persepolis, and Khabar Varzeshi. Selection criteria included professional experience, media expertise in football, relevant academic qualifications, and familiarity with international media dynamics. Interviews were conducted with informed consent, recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-step thematic analysis method.   Findings Thematic analysis identified five primary categories of psychological operation tactics frequently employed in Manoto’s football programs, particularly Offside and Rakhtekhan: targeted relationship-building, cognitive confusion, strategic exposés, fear appeals, and message repetition. <ol> <li>Targeted Relationship-Building: This tactic involves media positioning themselves as intermediaries between fans and clubs to gain audience trust. Interviewees noted that fans are treated as loyal brand customers, with media exploiting perceived inefficiencies in official club communications. For instance, an editor from Esteghlal Javan remarked: “Satellite programs often invite fan leaders, creating a pseudo-emotional and organizational bond with fans. Though superficial, this fosters media loyalty.” This is achieved through featuring popular figures, informal dialogues, behind-the-scenes reports, and addressing fans’ concerns.</li> <li>Cognitive and Informational Confusion: This tactic disseminates contradictory information, rumors, and conflicting narratives to neutralize or redirect fan emotions toward disengagement. A coordinator from Khabar Varzeshi stated: “Rumors about an injured player’s return, sudden coaching changes, or financial disqualifications create cognitive disruption, leaving fans uncertain and emotionally subdued.”</li> <li>Planned Exposés: Strategic revelations about financial, ethical, or tactical issues provoke intense emotional reactions. These exposés can incite anger or protest but may also lead to disillusionment if targeting a fan’s own team. An interviewee noted: “Pre-match reports about federation corruption, regardless of accuracy, foster systemic mistrust, potentially reducing team support.”</li> <li>Fear Appeals and Threats: Common in high-stakes games, this tactic uses threatening messages or warnings about legal/security consequences to deter fan actions. A journalist from Iran Varzeshi explained: “Repeated warnings about closed-door matches or heavy fines make fans feel responsible for the team’s fate, discouraging protest.”</li> <li>Strategic Message Repetition: Repetition of specific messages or rumors across platforms internalizes them as truth. A Persepolis staff member noted: “Repeated claims of a club’s financial crisis, even if false, become accepted as reality by some fans.” This is enhanced by persuasive elements like celebrity guests, archival footage, or sensational headlines.</li> </ol> These tactics operate at four levels to control fan opinion: <ul> <li>Pre-Event Emotional Control: Using relationship-building and fear appeals to manage emotions before key matches.</li> <li>In-the-Moment Control: Circulating rumors during matches to elicit immediate emotional reactions and limit real engagement.</li> <li>Post-Event Control: Employing exposés or confusion to shape post-match narratives, absorbing fans in emotional or contradictory analyses.</li> <li>Long-Term Stabilization: Sustained programming embeds durable attitudes aligned with the media’s political, cultural, or ideological goals.</li> </ul> The findings align with Agenda-Setting Theory, as media prioritize issues like financial crises or corruption to shape fan focus, and Framing Theory, as programs use frames like “team victimization” or “systemic corruption” to impose specific interpretations.   Discussion and Conclusion The study concludes that Persian-language satellite media effectively use psychological operation tactics in football programming to influence fan emotions and public opinion. Addressing these tactics requires enhancing fans’ media literacy to bolster cognitive resilience. Strategies include educational policies, transparent club-fan communication, and proactive narrative-building by domestic media to counter these operations.   References Jaitner, M. L. (2015) Russian Information Warfare: Lessons from Ukraine. In K. Geers (Ed.), Cyber War in Perspective: Russian Aggression Against Ukraine (pp. 39–47). Tallinn: NATO CCD COE Publications. McQuail, D. (2006) Mass Communication Theory (P. Ejlali, Trans.). Tehran: Center for Media Studies and Development.[in Persian] Mohammadzadeh, M. (2019) Psychological warfare techniques in the media. Audio-Visual Media Quarterly, (3). .[in Persian] Rezaei, s. And Esmaeili, m. (2019) Broadcasting rights in the iranian football industry. Journal of sport management and development, 8(1), 86-101. Doi: 10.22124/jsmd.2019.3722.[in Persian] Saeedi Kia, A. (2023) The role of media in sports events. Quarterly Journal of Rural Sports Development, Ministry of Sports and Youth, 2(2). .[in Persian] Sedigh Sarvestani, M. (2012) Passive emotional discharge or active injection. Social Sciences Monthly, 4(3). .[in Persian] Tankard, J., & Severin, W. (2010) Communication Theories (A. Dehghan, Trans.). Tehran: University of Tehran Press.       <a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1">*</a> M.A in Social Communication Sciences, Demand Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damavand , Iran. roozbehradmehr100@gmail.comhttp://risi.ihss.ac.ir/Article/50234Psychological Operations Media Public Opinion Football Tactics.perInstitute of Humanities and Social Studiesپژوهش انحرافات و مسائل اجتماعی3060-821X3060-82282025-09414127149articleExamining the Relationship between Citizens’ Mental Health and Urban Physical Design (Case Study: District 2 of Kermanshah City)mohammad ghasemisianighasemi_siani@yahoo.com1nasim fartashmehrnfartashmehr@gmail.com2Assistant Professor, Urban and Regional Planning Research Group, Institute of Humanities and Social Studies in ACECR, Tehran, Iran.M.A in Urban Planning, Institute of Applied Science in ACECR Kermanshah, Iran. Examining the Relationship between Citizens’ Mental Health and Urban Physical Design (Case Study: District 2 of Kermanshah City)                                                   Mohammad Ghasemi-Siani<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1">*</a> Nasim Fartashmehr<a href="#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2">**</a> Cities, as hubs for residence, work, leisure, and social interaction, significantly influence the mental health and well-being of their citizens. Recent studies indicate that urban growth and expansion have generated a broad spectrum of factors threatening mental health, with mental disorders, particularly depression, being among the most prevalent urban health issues. This study investigates the relationship between urban physical design and citizens’ mental health and well-being. Employing a descriptive-analytical approach, the research utilized a questionnaire administered to 384 residents of District 2 of Kermanshah city, with data analyzed using SPSS software. The quality of the built environment and urban physical form, as a meso-level factor, exhibits a synergistic effect with micro- and macro-level factors on citizens’ mental health. Key qualities of urban physical design, including permeability, safety, security, sensory richness, climatic comfort, aesthetics, and sociability, were found to impact mental health. These qualities were categorized into four dimensions—urban landscape, public spaces, accessibility, and urban architecture/physical form—and their influence on mental health was examined. The findings revealed a weak correlation between the urban landscape dimension and mental health, and no significant relationship between the design of public spaces and mental health. However, a strong and positive correlation was observed between accessibility and mental health, indicating that improved accessibility significantly enhances citizens’ mental well-being. Thus, accessibility emerges as a critical factor for citizens’ comfort and mental health. Keywords: Urban design, mental health, citizen well-being, social satisfaction, Kermanshah Municipality.   Introduction Humans are profoundly influenced by their surrounding environment, with physical spaces exerting varied psychological effects on citizens. The advancement of technology and the increasing complexity of urban lifestyles have led to a disregard for the logical interplay between visual and functional elements in architecture and urban planning. This has resulted in visual disorder, loss of spatial identity, emotional disconnection from space, impaired spatial perception, and, consequently, diminished mental health and civic well-being, alongside increased psychological stress, anxiety, and depression. While modernization has enhanced quality of life in many respects, it has also introduced challenges that negatively impact citizens’ physical and mental health. According to the Welfare Organization of Iran, Kermanshah Province ranks at an average national level for mental health. However, Kermanshah city faces significant social and psychological challenges, including family issues, poor anger management, and impaired decision-making, which have caused considerable problems for families and society (Welfare Organization of Iran, 2024). Official statistics report that 391,290 individuals in the province are enrolled in social prevention programs, with 2,161 receiving services for substance-related disorders (Statistical Yearbook of the Welfare Organization, 2024). Against this backdrop, this study seeks to address the central question: What is the relationship between urban physical design and citizens’ mental health?   Methodology This research adopts a deductive strategy and employs a descriptive-analytical, correlational approach. Data was collected through documentary sources and field surveys. Key urban design dimensions influencing mental health, derived from environmental design and crime prevention theories, were operationalized in a questionnaire. The statistical population comprised residents of District 2 of Kermanshah Municipality, totaling 111,800 individuals. Using Cochran’s sampling formula, a sample size of 384 was determined through stratified sampling. The questionnaire’s face validity was confirmed by experts in urban management and planning, and reliability was established using Cronbach’s alpha in SPSS software.   Discussion and Conclusion The relationship between urban design components and citizens’ mental health was analyzed using Pearson’s correlation test. The results indicated a weak correlation (r = 0.203) between the urban landscape dimension and mental health, suggesting limited influence on psychological well-being. For public spaces, the Pearson correlation yielded a significant level of 0.61, exceeding the assumed correlation threshold, indicating no significant relationship between public space design and mental health. In contrast, the accessibility dimension demonstrated a strong, positive correlation with mental health, implying that enhanced accessibility directly improves psychological well-being. The architecture and physical form dimension showed a weak correlation, suggesting minimal impact on the mental health of District 2 residents. These findings align with Han et al. (2019), who highlighted the role of access to parks and urban spaces in promoting mental health, and Zhang et al. (2016), who identified relationships between built environment qualities and psychological well-being. Among Iranian studies, Taheri et al. (2019) found a strong correlation between well-designed physical environments and citizens’ happiness, while Haghi and Heidarzadeh (2022) confirmed that “functional structure” and “visual character” of urban neighborhoods were strongly associated with mental health.   References Ahmadi, S., et al. (2012) Examining the relationship between the sense of disorder and the sense of insecurity among Yasouj citizens. Strategic Research on Social Issues of Iran (Strategic Research on Security and Social Order), 1(3), 63–80. [in Persian] Asghari Ebrahimabad, M. J., & Mameizadeh Owjur, M. (2018) The role of psychological flexibility and psychological hardiness in explaining psychological well-being of soldiers. Clinical Psychology and Counseling Research (Educational and Psychological Studies), 8(1), 37–51. [in Persian] Azevedo, V., Sani, A., Nunes, L. M., & Paulo, D. (2021) Do you feel safe in the urban space? From perceptions to associated variables. Anuario de Psicología Jurídica, 31(1), 75–84. Barzenjeh, A., & Barzenjeh, K. (2015) Investigating the impact of urban public space design on residents’ mental health: A case study of Boukan city. National Conference on Identity-Oriented Architecture and Urban Planning, Mashhad, Iran. Haghi, M., & Heidarzadeh, K. (2022) [The relationship between functional structure and visual character of urban neighborhoods and mental health]. [Journal Title Not Provided in Source]. Beeler, J. N. (2011) Security planning for public spaces: Testing a proposed CPTED rating instrument in Berlin, Germany (Master’s thesis). University of Florida. Dong, H., & Qin, B. (2017) Exploring the link between neighborhood environment and mental well-being: A case study in Beijing, China. Landscape and Urban Planning, 164, 71–80.  Han, B., et al. (2019) [The impact of access to parks and urban spaces on mental health]. [Journal Title Not Provided in Source].  Kamali-Far, F., & Fanaei, S. (2023) The relationship between urban spaces and women’s mental health. Green Architecture Journal, 34, 99–108. Koozegari Kalaji, L., & Norouzi, A. (2022) The role of defenseless urban spaces in women’s security: A case study of Jiroft, Kerman. Quarterly Journal of Environmental Planning, 57, 103–124.  Mir Moeini, M., & Jalili Sadrabad, S. (2019) Measuring environmental security using space syntax theory and spatial metrics: Case study of Saraasiab neighborhood, Tehran. Geography, 17(62), 218–242. Pfeiffer, D., & Cloutier, S. (2016) Planning for happy neighborhoods. Journal of the American Planning Association, 82(3), 267–279. Saeidi Zarangi, S., et al. (2024) Evaluating the impact of built environment quality on the mental and psychological health of neurology and psychiatry patients in Ardabil city. Quarterly Journal of Urban Social Geography, 11(21), 47–63.  Shahouran, F., & Asadpour, H. (2024) What role do urban environments play in citizens’ mental health? Lessons learned from studies in Iran. Iranian Journal of Urban Design Studies, 1(1), 257–284. Taheri, M., et al. (2019) [Examining the relationship between physical environment and citizens’ satisfaction and happiness]. [Journal Title Not Provided in Source].     <a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1">*</a> Corresponding Author: Assistant Professor, Urban and Regional Planning Research Group, Institute of Humanities and Social Studies in ACECR, Tehran, Iran. M.ghasemi@acecr.ac.ir <a href="#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2">**</a> M.A in Urban Planning, Institute of Applied Science in ACECR Kermanshah, Iran. nfartashmehr@gmail.comhttp://risi.ihss.ac.ir/Article/49959Urban design mental health citizen well-being social satisfaction Kermanshah Municipality.perInstitute of Humanities and Social Studiesپژوهش انحرافات و مسائل اجتماعی3060-821X3060-82282025-09414151178articleMeasuring the Social Health Status of Families Living in the Marginal Areas of Ahvazbahram nikbakhshnikbakhsh.b@gmail.com1Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran.Measuring the Social Health Status of Families Living in the Marginal Areas of Ahvaz   Bahram Nikbakhsh<a href="#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1">*</a>   The aim of the present study was to investigate the social health status of families living in the marginal areas of Ahvaz city with emphasis on the categories of social prosperity, solidarity, acceptance and social participation. The method of this study was descriptive, analytical, and was conducted using a survey technique. The statistical population of the present study included all people over 18 years of age living in the marginal areas of Ahvaz city. In this regard, 380 people were estimated as the sample size using a multi-stage cluster sampling method proportional to the size. Keyes and Shapiro standard questionnaire, was used to measure social health status, and its reliability were confirmed at a Cronbach's alpha level of above 0.70. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software. The results showed that the social health status of the residents of the marginalized neighborhoods of Ahvaz city varies according to the region of residence. Also, the status of social prosperity, social solidarity, social cohesion, social acceptance, and social participation among the residents of the marginalized neighborhoods of Ahvaz city varies according to the region of residence. However, the health status did not vary according to the region, duration of residence. Also, the results of the regression analysis showed that the components of social acceptance, social participation, and social solidarity were the most important factors affecting the social health of the marginalized.   Keywords: Social Health, Marginalization, Migration, Social Participation, City of Ahvaz   Introduction Marginalization, as one of the major urban challenges in developing countries, has profound effects on various aspects of the lives of the residents of these areas. The city of Ahvaz, as one of the metropolises of Iran, faces a serious problem of marginalization, so that, according to statistics, nearly 400,000 people of the city's population live in thirteen marginalized neighborhoods. This phenomenon has been caused by various factors, including unwanted migrations caused by the imposed war, drought, and the economic attractions of the city. Social health, as one of the important dimensions of health, refers to the quality of an individual's social relationships and the degree of satisfaction with his life and his performance in society. Keyes (1998) considers social health to include five basic dimensions: social prosperity, social solidarity, social acceptance, social participation, and social cohesion. In marginalized areas, due to economic, social, and cultural deprivations, the social health of residents is often under threat. This study aimed to investigate the social health status of families living in marginalized areas of Ahvaz, emphasizing the components of social prosperity, solidarity, acceptance, and social participation. It also examined the differences in social health based on demographic variables such as region of residence, age, ethnicity, and duration of residence.   Methodology This study is descriptive-analytical in terms of method and applied in terms of purpose and was conducted using a survey technique. The statistical population of the study included all people over 18 years of age living in the marginal areas of Ahvaz, which included the neighborhoods of Malashieh, Hasirabad, Zargan, Menbabad, Ain Do, Al Safi, Zoveyeh, Koy Siyahi, and Koy Alavi (Shlangabad). The sample size was estimated at 380 people using the Cochran formula, and the multistage cluster sampling method was used. The data collection tool was the standard Keyes and Shapiro (2004) questionnaire, which included 28 questions in five dimensions of social health (prosperity, cohesion, participation, solidarity, and social acceptance). The reliability of the questionnaire were confirmed using Cronbach's alpha (above 0.80). The data were analyzed using SPSS version 24 software and using Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and analysis of variance statistical tests. Findings Descriptive findings showed that out of 380 respondents, 67.1% were female and 32.9% were male. Most respondents were illiterate (40.52%) and the largest age group was between 26 and 30 years (47.6%). In terms of ethnicity, most respondents were Arab (44.2%) and the longest period of residence was between 5 and 10 years (47.36%). The statistical test shows that there is a significant difference between the average social health of marginalized people and the average of their area of residence. The level of social health of residents of marginalized areas according to their place of residence shows that the respondents' enjoyment of social health is affected by their place of residence in the marginalized neighborhoods of Ahvaz. Social health in neighborhoods of Zoveyeh 1 and 2 was significantly higher compared to other neighborhoods, and this variable was also significantly lower in Shilangabad and Siyahi neighborhoods than other neighborhoods.   Discussion and Conclusion This study showed that the social health of residents of the marginalized areas of Ahvaz city is affected by various factors, including the area of residence, the length of residence, and social components such as acceptance, participation, and social solidarity. In contrast, factors such as age and ethnicity did not have a significant effect on social health. The findings are consistent with Keyes and Weber's theories, indicating that the low level of social health in these areas can be due to relative deprivation, feelings of discrimination, and lack of access to social resources and opportunities. Also, the differences between different marginalized neighborhoods indicate the impact of local infrastructure, facilities, and the level of social support in each neighborhood.   References Keyes, C. M. (1998) Social well-being. Social Psychology Quarterly, 2, 121–140. Keyes, C. M., & Shapiro, A. (2004) Social well-being in the U.S: A descriptive epidemiology. In O. Brim, C. D. Ryff, & R. C. Kessler (Eds.), How healthy are you? A national study of well-being at midlife. University of Chicago Press. Tacoli, C. (2017) Migration and inclusive urbanization, united nations expert group meeting on sustainabling cities human, mobility and internatonal migeration, UN/POP/EGM/2017/6. UN Habitat. (2019) Planning Sustainable Cities, Global Report on Human Settlements, United Nation Human Settlement Programme, London. Zerbo, A., Delgado, R. C., & González, P. A. (2020) Vulnerability and everyday health risks of urban informal settlements in Sub-Saharan Africa. Global Health Journal, 4(2), 46-50.&rlm;       <a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1">*</a> Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Payam Noor University, Tehran, Iran. nikbakhsh@pnu.ac.irhttp://risi.ihss.ac.ir/Article/49378Social Health Marginalization Migration Social Participation City of Ahvaz.