Interdisciplinary Studies in Society, Law, and Politics

The present study is applied in nature and employs a quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional survey method for data collection. The statistical population comprises all experts and active managers associated with the water industry (national water resources management). According to the latest human resources statistics in national water resources management, the population includes 20,000 technical, engineering, and managerial personnel across the country. The sample size for this study was calculated using the Morgan table, resulting in a sample of 391 respondents. The research instrument consists of a 47-item questionnaire developed by Mahdavi Far et al. (2024). The reliability of the research instrument was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, yielding a value of 0.724. The findings from the study indicate that the highest path coefficient pertains to the relationship between strategies and outcomes, with a path coefficient of 0.947. The second highest is the relationship between causal conditions and the core category, with a path coefficient of 0.923. The relationship between contextual conditions and strategies follows, with a path coefficient of 0.879. The fourth highest path coefficient is between intervening conditions and strategies at 0.851, and finally, the core category and strategies have a path coefficient of 0.844. The results of the research demonstrate that causal conditions have a significant positive effect on the core phenomenon (β = 0.923, t = 49.568, p < 0.0001). Therefore, an increase in causal conditions leads to an increase in the core phenomenon. Additionally, contextual factors significantly and positively affect strategies (β = 0.879, t = 47.632, p < 0.001), suggesting that an increase in contextual factors leads to an enhancement in strategies. Intervening conditions also have a significant positive effect on strategies (β = 0.851, t = 41.937, p < 0.001), indicating that these conditions contribute to the reduction in strategies. Furthermore, the core phenomenon significantly and positively influences strategies (β = 0.844, t = 45.177, p < 0.001), suggesting that an increase in the core phenomenon enhances strategies. Finally, strategies significantly and positively affect outcomes or results (β = 0.947, t = 53.941, p < 0.001), indicating that an increase in strategies leads to improved outcomes or results.

The value structure of youth concerning marriage has undergone significant changes, one of which is exemplified by the increasing prevalence of cohabitation. This article aims to provide a sociological analysis of the value structure of young people within the lived experience of cohabitation in Tehran. The research methodology employed is a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both grounded theory and survey techniques. Data collection tools included interviews and questionnaires, respectively. The study's target population comprised all young individuals with cohabitation experience in Tehran, with 18 participants selected through purposive sampling for the qualitative section and 128 participants for the survey. Qualitative data were analyzed through a three-stage coding process—open coding, axial coding, and selective coding—resulting in the extraction of 144 concepts from the initial data. This process led to the identification of 41 categories and 18 themes. In the final stage of selective coding, the central phenomenon identified was "selective hedonism." Subsequently, the categories were transformed into questionnaire items. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and SPSS22 software. The data analysis reveals that the causal conditions include individual worldview, economic challenges, rejection of traditional culture, desire for independence, sexual and emotional hedonism, and dissatisfaction with formal marriage. The intervening conditions consist of globalization, cultural and social changes, the country's flawed economic structure, and liberation from conventional marriage and divorce norms. The strategies identified are hiding the relationship, resisting tradition, frugality, and implementing macro-structural measures. The outcomes include rational choice, individual and social isolation, reduced levels of commitment and responsibility, and an increase in open relationships within society.

The political history of Afghanistan indicates that this country, except during specific periods, has not enjoyed the necessary political stability and has always been caught in crises of instability, civil war, and political conflicts. The research question in this study is: What are the causes, obstacles, and challenges to political stability in Afghanistan? What are its dependent variables? The research hypothesis suggests that the fundamental factors contributing to political instability include: a mosaic society, the lack of a unified nation, the absence of symbols of national identity, nationalism, active ethnic, linguistic-religious cleavages, the lack of political development and modernization, and the absence of an inclusive government. Additionally, the presence of fundamentalist and Salafist groups such as al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and ISIS has exacerbated this instability. The aforementioned issue can be analyzed within the framework of David Sanders' theory of political instability patterns. The research method employed in this study is descriptive and analytical, examined through causal and sociological explanations. The research approach is qualitative, the purpose of the research is applied, and its nature is exploratory. Moreover, data collection for the research has been conducted through library and documentary sources. The research findings also show that Afghanistan has repeatedly witnessed violent events such as war and occupation, revolution, rebellion, assassination, violent protests, the emergence of extremist groups like al-Qaeda, the Taliban, and ISIS, ethnic-linguistic domination and tyranny, and governments lacking legitimacy and authority, which have resulted in recurrent instability that persists to this day.

This research investigates the types of support that can be provided to female victims in cases of sexual crimes. Victimization of women and the methods of prevention vary from one society to another, depending on temporal, spatial, and especially cultural factors. In Iran, the issue of women’s victimization concerning violence and sexual crimes is closely tied to cultural and religious factors. Consequently, the type of support and preventive measures is also influenced by these factors. The research methodology is descriptive-analytical and relies on library sources. The findings indicate that one of the major issues faced by female victims of sexual crimes is the weakness in the system of evidence. Since most sexual crimes occur in secrecy, the current evidence laws are not applicable. Another right of victims in criminal proceedings is ensuring their safety, which depends on implementing measures to prevent threats or retaliatory actions by the accused or their family. Raising awareness and informing the victim is one of the most important ways to respond to victims' needs. This awareness could pertain to the human and ethical rights of victims, information about the progress of criminal investigations, the timeline of the proceedings, the status of the case, and whether the accused is detained or released on bail or surety. Ultimately, achieving a model of criminal support within the framework of criminal policy not only requires precise and comprehensive planning but also the support of governmental institutions and organizations, including welfare organizations and civil institutions.

This study aims to explore the influence of religious beliefs on health decision-making among diverse faith communities. The research seeks to understand how religious doctrines, practices, and community dynamics shape health behaviors, medical interventions, mental health approaches, and end-of-life decisions. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews to gather in-depth insights from participants. A purposive sample of 30 individuals representing various religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, and other minor faiths, was selected. Interviews were conducted in person or via video calls, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis was performed using NVivo software, following a thematic approach to identify and categorize key themes and subthemes. Theoretical saturation was achieved when no new information emerged from the interviews. The study identified several key themes: the influence of religious beliefs on health, the role of religious communities, and the interplay between religion and medicine. Participants reported that their religious beliefs significantly influenced dietary practices, medical interventions, mental health approaches, and end-of-life decisions. Religious communities provided crucial emotional and financial support, while religious leaders played a significant role in guiding health decisions. The compatibility and conflicts between religious beliefs and medical advice were evident, with participants employing various strategies to negotiate these differences within medical contexts. Religious beliefs profoundly shape health decision-making across diverse faith communities. Healthcare providers must recognize and respect these beliefs to provide culturally competent and holistic care. Training programs that enhance cultural and religious competence, collaborative approaches involving religious leaders, and institutional policies that accommodate religious practices can improve patient satisfaction and health outcomes. Future research should explore these dynamics with larger, more diverse samples and mixed-methods approaches.

The objective of this study was to explore the challenges faced by ex-offenders in reintegrating into society. The research aimed to identify the barriers in employment, social integration, psychological well-being, and legal and bureaucratic systems that hinder successful reintegration. The study also sought to highlight supportive factors and potential areas for intervention to facilitate smoother transitions for ex-offenders. This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews to collect data from 33 ex-offenders who had been released from prison within the past five years. Theoretical saturation was reached after interviewing 25 participants, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the issues. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using NVivo software to identify key themes and patterns. Ethical considerations, including informed consent and confidentiality, were strictly adhered to throughout the research process. The study identified several major themes regarding the challenges of reintegration. Employment challenges included discrimination by employers, lack of job skills, unstable work history, and limited job opportunities. Social integration issues involved stigmatization, social exclusion, and the need for community and family support. Psychological challenges highlighted mental health issues, coping mechanisms, and access to psychological services. Legal and bureaucratic barriers included navigating parole conditions, housing challenges, financial stability, and access to social services. Supportive employment programs and community organizations were found to be crucial in aiding reintegration. The findings underscore the multifaceted nature of the reintegration process for ex-offenders. Addressing employment discrimination, enhancing social support systems, improving access to mental health services, and simplifying legal and bureaucratic processes are essential for successful reintegration. The study highlights the need for comprehensive interventions and policy reforms to support ex-offenders in rebuilding their lives and reducing recidivism, ultimately contributing to a safer and more inclusive society.

This study aims to explore the impact of economic crises on mental health through the personal narratives of affected individuals. By examining their experiences, this research seeks to understand the emotional toll and coping mechanisms adopted during periods of financial instability, providing insights into the broader implications for mental health and well-being. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 20 participants who experienced significant financial hardship due to economic downturns. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling from community centers, support groups, and online forums. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software, with thematic analysis identifying key themes and subthemes. Ethical considerations included informed consent, confidentiality, and anonymity. The study identified three main themes: Emotional Impact, Coping Strategies, and Perceived Support Systems. Participants reported increased anxiety, stress, depression, and feelings of shame and guilt. Coping strategies included seeking social support, financial management, avoidance, substance use, positive reframing, and physical activity. Support systems such as family, community resources, government assistance, workplace support, and online communities played a crucial role in mitigating the mental health impacts. These findings align with existing literature, underscoring the complex interplay between economic crises and mental health. Economic crises have a profound impact on mental health, exacerbating anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Effective coping strategies and robust support systems are essential in mitigating these impacts. This study highlights the need for accessible mental health services, financial literacy programs, and strong social support networks to support individuals during economic downturns. Future research should focus on larger, diverse samples and integrate quantitative measures to further understand these dynamics.