Social Sciences

Abstract This article employs a critical-empathetic approach to examine the pain and suffering of mine workers. The adverse conditions in iron ore mines are shown to disrupt workers' lives across physical, psychological, social, and economic dimensions. Using a qualitative phenomenological methodology, this study explores the lived work experiences of 30 workers from a mine in eastern Iran, selected through purposive sampling and interviewed via semi-structured interviews.The findings indicate that workers' experiences consist of both negative aspects (relating to the individual, family, social, and workplace spheres) and positive aspects (at the individual and social levels). Additionally, the social consequences of work life are categorized into both positive and negative outcomes across these same dimensions. The research further reveals that mine workers experience social alienation and a low quality of work life. Therefore, the insights from this study can inform the development of support programs aimed at improving quality of work life indicators for mining workers in Iran.

Abstract  
The present study was done with the aim of analyzing the experience of the elderly from domestic violence and how to face it. The research method is qualitative. The participants were 18 elderly people with experience of domestic violence in Dehdasht city who were selected through purposive sampling. The data collection method was a semi-structured in-depth interview and thematic analysis technique was used to analyze the data. The obtained results revealed three main themes of diverse violence (physical, mental, neglect and financial exploitation), emotional stagnation and traumatic relationships and the (dominant) strategy of passivity and submission in the face of violence shows. Educating families on how to properly interact with the elderly, getting to know their needs and how to take care of them, providing a context for the elderly to interact with each other and the society and reducing their isolation and social exclusion, assigning a telephone consultation line for the elderly and providing information in this field, forming a bank Comprehensive information on the elderly and identification of the elderly at risk of injury and violence and professional interventions by social workers are among the effective policy recommendations in preventing and reducing elder abuse.
Keywords: Lived Experience, Elder Abuse, Domestic Violence, Social Problem, Policy Recommendation.

Introduction

The escalating global aging population, coupled with evolving family structures and functions, has created a conducive environment for elder abuse. Elder abuse encompasses physical, neglectful, financial, or psychological mistreatment, resulting in detrimental consequences for the elderly such as decreased self-esteem, despair, and physical and mental health issues. Given the rising trend of the elderly population in Iran, the city of Dehdasht is no exception. This is necessary to focus on the needs and rights of this group. Although the number of elderly care facilities has increased in recent years, due to prevailing cultural norms and the social stigma associated with institutionalizing the elderly, only a small portion of the capacity of the sole elderly care facility in Dehdasht is occupied. Considering that elder abuse in Iran often remains hidden due to cultural factors and the occurrence of abuse within the privacy of homes by family members, and has not received sufficient attention from experts, policymakers, and support organizations. This study aims to explore the elderly's experiences of domestic violence and their coping mechanisms.

Conceptual framework

Since domestic violence is perpetrated within families by caregivers of the elderly, it is essential to consider the nature of these relationships. The social-ecological theory, which examines individual interactions and societal relationships and how they influence health, is one such theory. Structural theory of the family focuses on the structure and organization of families and the role of each member. Intergenerational violence theory can also provide insights, suggesting that perpetrators of elder abuse may have been victims of abuse themselves or witnessed abusive behaviour in their own families. Finally, the life course theory posits that to better understand the elderly, we must engage with them effectively and consider their past lives through life story reviews.

Methodology

This qualitative study involved 18 elderly individuals from Dehdasht with experiences of domestic violence, who were selected through purposive sampling. Inclusion criteria included: alertness and willingness to participate, ability to communicate, age 60 or older, absence of psychological disorders, and a history of being abused by family members. Data was collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews, and thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data. In order to comply with the ethical principles, the necessary information regarding the objectives of the research, preservation of anonymity and personal identity, and the right to withdraw from the research were provided to the participants.

Findings:

The data analysis showed that most participants faced significant financial difficulties and had low incomes. A majority of the interviewees were widows. Additionally, many were illiterate. A total of 73 initial codes were derived from the interviews, which were eventually categorized into 10 subthemes and ultimately three main themes. The main themes identified were diverse forms of abuse (physical, psychological, neglect, and financial exploitation), emotional stagnation and damaged relationships (selective rejection and internal fragmentation), and the predominant coping strategy of passivity and submission in the face of abuse.

Discussion

The findings from the elderly's lived experiences of domestic violence indicate that their lives are marked by suffering. The presence of physical, psychological, neglectful, and financial abuse inflicted by family members results in significant physical, psychological, emotional, and financial pain. Moral and ethical deviations within society and between generations have led to a distorted understanding of relationships between the elderly and their children. The elderly have lived in a moral-cultural framework that differs significantly from contemporary Iranian society in transition. As a result, respect for the elderly have been replaced by a more rational approach that does not prioritize respect for the elderly, conflicting with the elderly's expectations of a respectful moral code. This conflict ultimately causes distress for the elderly.
Based on the findings, it can be concluded that most elderly individuals adopt a passive and submissive stance towards their families' abuse. This may be attributed to feelings of powerlessness, physical weakness, low levels of awareness, and religious beliefs. Physical and mental weakness can contribute to submission to the demands and abuse of family members. Educating families about how to interact appropriately with the elderly, understanding their needs and how to care for them, creating opportunities for the elderly to interact with each other and society, reducing social isolation and rejection, establishing a special telephone helpline for the elderly and providing information in this regard, creating a comprehensive database of the elderly, identifying elderly individuals at risk of abuse and violence, and conducting professional interventions by social workers are among the most effective policy recommendations for preventing and reducing elder abuse.
Acknowledgments
The authors thank all participants in this study.
Contribution of authors
All authors have been actively involved in writing all sections of this article.
Funds
This article was written independently and no financial support was received from any organization to write it.
Conflict of interest
 According to the authors, there is no conflict of interest in this article.
Principles of research ethics
Researchers in this study followed all the principles of research ethics in all stages
 

Abstract   Subjectivity is the reflexive experience of awareness and individual agency in interaction with oneself and with others in the real, symbolic, and institutional realms. This study aims to comprehend the social and semantic complexities of the subjectivity of Kurdish women. The research employed theoretical sampling and in-depth individual interviews with 43 Kurdish women, supplemented by the formation of a focus group consisting of six individuals, within the interpretive-constructivist approach and grounded theory method framework. The findings reveal that the subjectivity of Kurdish women can be grasped through the central phenomenon of suspension. This experience was categorized into four concepts: suspension of cognition and agency, suspension of lived experience, conscious suspension of fear, and suspension as a strategy. Contextual conditions and institutional relations encompass normative institutions, regulatory institutions, minority status, and economic status while intervening conditions include experiences of subjugation, social connections, and available resources. Three types of strategies emerged: protection strategy, resistance strategy, and negotiation. Ultimately, this study demonstrates the intricate nature of subjectivity in Kurdish women's experiences, depicting it as fluid, mixed, and multifaceted, and existing within three categories of female subjectivity, passive-unembodied-internal subjectivity vs. embodied/active subjectivity, and delocalized subjectivity. Keywords: Subjectivity, Suspension Experience, Power Relations, Lived Experience, Gender. Introduction This study focuses on the subjectivity of Kurdish women in Iran This study focuses on the subjectivity of Kurdish women in Iran. There has been a noticeable shift in attitudes, roles, and gender relations within Iranian society, with women now taking a more prominent role in the public sphere and challenging traditional gender norms. The increasing utilization of transnational communication and social networks has reduced governmental control over social relations, leading to the emergence of new power dynamics and associated conflicts. The intricate intersection of gender, ethnicity, and politics poses a significant challenge in exploring the subjectivity of Kurdish women in Iran. This research aims to investigate how to comprehend, interpret, and transform the subjectivity of Kurdish women within a specific social context characterized by institutionalized social powers. Theoretical Framework This study relies theoretically and conceptually on social constructionism and interpretation. According to this perspective, subjectivity is socially constructed, dependent on time, text, and social context, and it continually evolves. It is intersubjective and closely linked to power dynamics and resistance to domination. Individuals actively interpret phenomena, assign meaning to them, and subsequently act based on this understanding. Concepts such as reflexive awareness, practical awareness, and rethinking in Anthony Giddens' theory, as well as concepts of capital, habitus, and social field in Pierre Bourdieu's theory, are instrumental in framing the concept of subjectivity. Additionally, from a perspective theory standpoint, women's subjectivity is constructed by their social and historical position. Those occupying marginal positions in society may offer unique insights into power relations and social structures. Finally, intersectionality theory offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of gender, power, and resistance within society. It underscores that women's experiences of hegemony and resistance are diverse and not uniform. Materials and Methods The methodology employed in this research is grounded theory, drawing from the constructivist approach outlined by Charms (1995). The primary focus of the inquiry is Kurdish women in Iran. Sample selection follows a theoretical and purposeful sampling method. Data collection comprised individual and focused interviews, supplemented in some cases by participant observation. The interviews were conducted in-depth and followed a semi-structured format. The final sample selection was based on the centrality of the recurring and pivotal phenomenon identified in this research, termed the "suspension experience." Subsequent analysis utilized open, focused, and theoretical coding techniques. The research's validity was ensured through triangulation, facilitating multiple perspectives, documenting interviewees' reactions, and reflections on initial interpretations. Care was taken to offer comprehensive explanations, incorporate quotations, highlight diverse viewpoints on topics, and meticulously attend to detail. Results Based on the findings of this research, Kurdish women's subjectivity can be comprehended through the lens of the suspension experience, which emerges as a central phenomenon. This experience is elucidated through four key concepts: suspension of cognition and agency, suspension of lived experience, conscious suspension of fear, and suspension as a strategic approach. Contextual conditions encompass categories such as normative institutions, regulatory institutions, minority status, and economic status. Intervening conditions are factors that accelerate, facilitate, maintain, or alter subjectivity through the experience of suspension, which serves as the central category in this research. Here, four main theoretical categories were identified: institutional relations (including family, educational, and governmental institutions), experiences of subjugation and oppression (with an emphasis on violence and discrimination), social connections (with a focus on non-family interactions), and available resources (with an emphasis on cultural, social, and economic capital). Strategies refer to the methods that Kurdish women use to cope with their suspension experiences and optimize their conditions. The strategies of women activists are divided into three components: protection strategies, resistance strategies, and negotiation strategies. Social frustration, empowerment, and a reduced sense of social belonging emerge as consequences of the suspension experience. The characteristics resulting from the suspension experience are multifaceted and intertwined. Kurdish women's subjectivity is divided into three areas: female subjectivity, passive-unembodied-internal subjectivity vs. embodied/active subjectivity, and delocalized subjectivity. Delocalized subjectivity requires the integration of pre-existing structural and identity elements with a rethought understanding by Kurdish women. Conclusion Given the prevailing social atmosphere in Iranian society and Kurdish women's self-awareness of their position, they undergo a form of suspension, which appears as a gap between action and reality, despite often clear boundaries. This gap, delineated by the women themselves in their narratives, seems to be widening over time. Centering on the experience of suspension is crucial for gaining insights into aspects of latent subjectivity or how it remains concealed before emerging. The properties stemming from the suspension experience are fluid and multifaceted, enabling individuals to navigate between various bases and social situations, offering opportunities for resistance at the intersection of constraints.

Abstract The elderly are among the most vulnerable groups during crises and gender is one of the most important factors in this regard. The purpose of this study was to explore gender differences of lived experiences of young elderly people during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Using a qualitative method, 13 young elderly people (60-74 years old including 7 men and 6 women) were selected through purposive sampling in Mahabad and interviewed using a semi-structured format. The data were analyzed using Colaizzi method. The results were classified in two themes including "Transformed home and dwindling physical and spiritual powers" for women, and "Social distance and disturbed retirement life" for men. Based on the results, it is concluded that during pandemic older women were exposed to double physical and psychological pressures inside home while men faced increasing in emotional pressure due to not being able to go outside. Therefore, it is suggested that in policy formation, while understanding the different position of young elderly men and women, especially the situation of women, pay more attention to the role of family members and their social support in addition to official supportive measures.

Abstract This study concerns the situation of sociology education in Iran through a phenomenological approach. The question is: “what is the role of sociology education in the current situation of Iran?” In this research, we tried to categorize different influential reasons on sociology conditions, and after demonstrating the importance of the teaching, we straight to the reality of sociology education without any postulated approach. The methodology is grounded theory which lets us look at this subject from a phenomenological approach. The first step is to refer to the involved actors in the education process to explain the reality as they are experiencing and living it. This plan is completed by interviewing seven professors and 15 students from three universities in Iran. These interviews are taken in open and semi-open techniques, which provided us a level of reality based on the lived experience of the actors, the consciousness of sociology teaching, classes, and the university environment. The sample size was chosen based on theoretical saturation. To analyze data, an open and axial codification was applied, and by specifying the central categories, the authors reached a conceptual ordering and a description of the current situation of sociology education in Iran.

Abstract Historically men have notably migrated more often than women. However, these migration patterns have changed vastly during recent years; more women are now able to access higher forms of education which often allow them to attain a more privileged level of social status. There has especially been an increase in the number of Iranian women migrating and as a result many authors have been questioning why such changes may have occurred. In this article, we attempt to answer the question: What are the experiences of Iranian immigrant women with a master's degree or higher living in the Canadian cities of Toronto and Montreal? To explore this question, 11 Iranian women (ages 20-40) who had chosen Canada to continue their higher education (masters and doctoral degrees) were interviewed. The study was conducted using the social interpretive approach and during the stage of information analysis the Colaizzi method was used. From the information obtained, it can be said that the lives of the participating women have changed immensely as a result of having migrated. This especially applies to their social lives, which seems to have been impacted drastically.

Abstract Since earthquake has a wide range of effects on people's lives, we can think of it as an important variable in the changes of societies’ social life. The social consequences of the disaster vary according to age, gender, economic and social class. Children, women and low-income people are among the most suffering groups. This qualitative research has been conducted with the aim of understanding the women’s lived experiences of earthquakes in Sarpol-e-Zahab. This study has used a phenomenological approach and conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 women affected by the earthquake. As a result, there are 90 interview texts and 10 written texts of informant’s lived experiences and their interpretation, which are recorded in 120 semantic units. The findings of the study, which are 18 sub-themes and finally 5 main themes, show that women go through very difficult conditions. Identity crisis and their incompatibility with the post-earthquake condition, sexual abuse, committing suicide, decreasing in the age of committing suicide, earthquake and post-earthquake phobia, sudden lifestyle change, lack of peace, lack of facilities and financial capacity, qualitative and quantitative difficulties and disorders in schools, the increase in family strife, the increase in divorce, the increase in violence have caused social, psychological and cultural unrest in this city.