Approaches in sociology and development

Abstract Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify and prioritize the factors that contribute to social integration aimed at reducing high‑risk behaviors among young men recovering from addiction. Method: This research employed a descriptive‑survey design with a correlational approach. The study sample consisted of 384 young men aged 20–30 who had recovered from addiction and were attending a harm‑reduction treatment and rehabilitation center in Tehran. Participants were selected using multi‑stage cluster random sampling. To analyze the factors related to social integration and to prioritize the identified elements, Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) was utilized. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural modeling using SmartPLS3 were also applied to examine relationships and validate the factor structure. Findings: The analysis identified 15 key categories, including: family support, social acceptance, economic empowerment, access to psychological services, physical‑health support, life‑skills training, participation in cultural and social activities, support and involvement of non‑governmental organizations, sustainable housing facilities, vocational and technical training, development of personal identity and self‑worth, governmental support programs, rehabilitation and reintegration facilities, support and self‑help groups, and regular monitoring and follow‑up. Conclusion: Social integration is one of the most significant strategies for providing emotional and instrumental support to young men recovering from addiction, ultimately helping to control their circumstances and reduce social harms and high‑risk behaviors.

Abstract Objective: The objective of the present study was to analyze and formulate sustainable rural tourism development planning patterns in Khabar village. Method: This study is applied-developmental in terms of its objective and descriptive-analytical in terms of its method. The statistical population of the study included all villagers of the Khabar tourism village in Baft county, numbering (756), of which 255 were selected as the sample size based on the stratified random sampling method and according to the Cochran formula. In order to collect data, a sustainable rural tourism development planning questionnaire was used. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were measured as 0.93 and 0.90, respectively. To identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, both external factor evaluation (EFE) and internal factor evaluation (IFE) matrices were used, and to identify sustainable rural tourism development planning patterns, a strategic planning model, the SWOT matrix, was used. Findings: The results indicate that considering the fact that the vulnerability level of villages is very high due to tourism development, planning and management in tourism is essential, considering the limited opportunities and high weaknesses. Conclusion: The tourism industry is one of the important sources of production, income, employment, and infrastructure creation for achieving sustainable development.

Abstract Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze and diagnose the pathologies associated with the unconventional use of social networks among Iranian adolescents, drawing on subcultural perspectives. Method: Using a qualitative approach and meta‑analysis technique, this article reviewed, evaluated, and synthesized existing research in this domain. After categorizing and critically examining the approaches of previous studies, it proposes a theoretical framework for analyzing this phenomenon. The central argument of the researchers is that an accurate understanding of the issue requires a hybrid theoretical model: both the characteristics of virtual networks (supply‑side factors) and the cultural and structural characteristics of local–national contexts (demand‑side factors) interact to shape adolescents’ specific choices and behaviors in social networks. Findings: The theoretical analysis of prior studies indicates that in Iranian society, the unconventional and excessive use of social networks is becoming a potential threat—one that, if left unidentified, may lead to future crises. Nevertheless, recognizing these threats can serve as an effective step toward reducing or eliminating them. Conclusion: While social networks offer many advantages, excessive and addictive forms of use can produce negative outcomes, intergenerational challenges, and various social problems in individuals’ lives. Despite this, statistical evidence shows that unconventional and value‑inconsistent uses of social networks remain among the most popular and attractive choices for Iranian youth.

Abstract Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of emerging technologies on social structures, with a qualitative focus on artificial intelligence and shifting work patterns in Iran. Method: Employing a qualitative approach and grounded theory methodology, this research offers an in‑depth investigation into the consequences of AI adoption for Iran’s labor market and its related social structures. Data were collected through semi‑structured interviews with technology experts, human‑resources managers, and members of the workforce, and were analyzed using multi‑stage coding. Findings: The results indicate that artificial intelligence, in addition to enhancing productivity and fostering the emergence of knowledge‑intensive occupations, contributes to the elimination of repetitive jobs, the widening of skill gaps, and fundamental transformations in work relations. Alongside these opportunities, several challenges have also appeared, including intensified social inequalities, heightened feelings of job alienation, and emerging threats to digital justice. Conclusion: Policymakers can facilitate society’s adaptation to technological transformations by expanding technological‑skills training and supporting vulnerable groups.

Abstract Abstract Purpose: The present study aimed to explore the causes, contexts, and consequences of the growing tendency toward cohabitation (“white marriage”) from a sociological perspective in the city of Shiraz. Method: This research employed a qualitative approach based on Grounded Theory. The study population consisted of young men and women in Shiraz who had chosen this lifestyle and were living together in such relationships. Using snowball sampling and the principle of theoretical saturation, 19 participants were selected. Data were collected through in‑depth semi‑structured interviews, and the analysis was conducted using the Grounded Theory method. Findings: The results identified 67 codes derived from 383 concepts, which were organized into nine main categories: individuals’ economic conditions, reduction of the high costs associated with formal marriage, personal worldview, family rejection, modernity, facilitation of relationships between men and women, transformation of traditional values into global values, being divorced, and distrust accompanied by lack of responsibility. Conclusion: Young people constitute an essential human capital of society. Given the rapid social transformations taking place, studying and understanding their living conditions and behavioral patterns is of critical importance for comprehending emerging family forms and social changes.

Abstract Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify and prioritize the factors influencing the migration of middle‑class rural residents to urban areas in Goleijan Village, located in the central district of Tonekabon. Method: This research employed a descriptive‑survey design with a correlational approach. The statistical sample consisted of 366 residents aged 20–50 from the study area, selected through multi‑stage sampling. Data were collected using a researcher‑developed questionnaire. The factors influencing migration were categorized into four main themes: socio‑cultural factors, economic factors, administrative and service‑related factors, and natural‑environmental factors. To prioritize these factors, the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) was applied, and Expert Choice software was used for data analysis and ranking. Findings: The results showed significant relationships between migration and several variables, including aspirations for advancement in the city, interactions with relatives and acquaintances, influence of social networks, job shortages, low income, lack of investment and entrepreneurial opportunities, inadequate educational facilities, insufficient health and medical services, poor recreational and leisure services, unfavorable cold and dry climate, and shortages of agricultural and drinking water. Conclusion: Rural‑to‑urban migration leads to the depopulation of rural areas by removing active labor forces, while simultaneously creating various challenges in urban environments due to the increasing number of incoming rural migrants.