An integrated perspective on the factors that shape marriage in Iran: a qualitative study

Document Type : Original Research

Authors

1 PhD student, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Kharazmi, Tehran, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Kharazmi, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The formation of marriage is an important decision in people’s lives. This study aimed to identify the effective factors in the formation of official marriage and develop an integrated model for marriage using the qualitative grounded theory approach (Strauss & Corbin, 1990). The data were collected through interviews with subject-matter experts and the data were theoretically saturated with 10 interviews. The data from each interview were recorded, coded, and then classified into main categories, subcategories, and themes. Data analysis revealed 118 secondary codes, 30 themes, 10 subcategories, and 3 main categories (extramarital, intramarital, and individual factors). The findings of this study showed that according to experts, extramarital, individual, and intramarital factors are the most effective factors in the formation of marriage. The most important extramarital factors affecting the formation of marriage are family, economic, social, and cultural factors. Besides, individual factors affecting marriage are individual inhibitors, individual facilitators, and goals. Finally, the most important intramarital factors affecting marriage are knowledge, age, attractiveness, and the initiation of marital relationships. The findings of this study can have some implications for counseling, education, and macro policies related to marriage. Using the data from this study, a model can be developed for people who are about to marry.
 

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Main Subjects


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