Volume 14, Issue 1 (10-2023)                   Social Problems of Iran 2023, 14(1): 211-235 | Back to browse issues page


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Shams-Ghahfarrokhi F, Askari-Nodoushan A, Eini Zeinab H, Ruhani A. (2023). The application of Q-methodology for identifying the mental patterns of the people of Isfahan city about childbearing. Social Problems of Iran. 14(1), 211-235. doi:10.61186/jspi.14.1.211
URL: http://jspi.khu.ac.ir/article-1-3630-en.html
1- , aaskarin@yazd.ac.ir
Abstract:   (706 Views)
Mental and attitudinal patterns represent pivotal determinants influencing a couple's childbearing preferences and behaviors. This study employs Q methodology to discern prevalent mental patterns within people of Isfahan city regarding childbearing intentions. Q methodology, designed to unveil individuals' perspectives and mental frameworks. In this study, a set of 75 statements was derived from in-depth interviews with 30 participants which encompassing both single and married participants, ensuring maximum variation in perspectives. Subsequently, another 48 participants were asked to rate the Q statements in a normal distribution on a scale of -7 to +7. In the ultimate analysis, four distinct common mental patterns emerged within the surveyed society, comprising economic-oriented fertility mental patterns, welfare-oriented fertility mental patterns, pro-natalist mental patterns, and anti-natalist mental patterns. These patterns provide valuable insights for policymakers and planners to design more effective and acceptable childbearing policies. This research is an initial exploratory study in this field and more research is needed to apply obtained typology in larger surveys.
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Type of Article: Original Research | Subject: Health
Received: 2023/04/28 | Accepted: 2023/09/12 | Published: 2023/10/9

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