Journal of Women Interdisciplinary Researches

Abstract The Quranic perspective on women’s identity symbols, in both their internal and external dimensions, aligns their performance and behavior with values, respect, dignity, and protection within the faithful community. These symbols not only have a deep connection with Islamic culture and teachings but also manifest the religious values and beliefs, as well as the dignity and status of Muslim women. The present study aims to answer the question: Based on Quranic foundations, what symbols encompass the external identity of women in the faithful community? A descriptive-analytical examination of this issue indicates that the symbolic behavior of women, rooted in their innate nature and inner self, is particularly emphasized through actionable symbols, especially for Muslim women. The expression of human external behaviors is the result of their inner inclinations, and every inner inclination stems from rational and practical insight. Cultivating and refining these inner characteristics, in alignment with the specific roles of women in the human social system, leads to the emergence and manifestation of virtuous traits in them. Due to their unique creation, these manifestations are more prominent in women than in men. The significant function of Quranic symbolism in presenting and elucidating the external identity of Muslim women lies in conveying meaning and fostering a sense of identity through symbols such as chastity, modesty, compassion, and devotion. Faithful women, by embodying the symbols of their external identity within the faithful community, can effectively be introduced as role models for all of humanity.

Abstract Spirituality and religious beliefs are among the most important factors that can protect individuals against various physical and psychological problems. Therefore, considering the significance of this issue, the present study aimed to examine the spiritual and religious factors that influence the reduction of illness anxiety disorder symptoms in Iranian women.This research was qualitative in nature and employed the latent content analysis method. The study population included seven mental health specialists and seven Iranian women, who were selected through purposive sampling and interviewed using a semi-structured format until theoretical saturation was achieved.Analysis of the findings led to the identification of five main categories: having hope and motivation, inner belief and faith in God, adherence to religious principles, serenity and tolerance, and having meaning in life.The results indicate that spiritual and religious components can be effectively utilized to reduce psychological problems such as somatic symptom disorders, particularly illness anxiety disorder, among women.

Abstract The present study aimed to examine the impact of studying at coeducational universities on factors related to successful marriage among female students. This research was quantitative in nature and employed a descriptive–survey methodology. The statistical population consisted of female students of Islamic Azad University in Eqlid County, from whom 100 participants were selected through convenience sampling. The data collection tool was a 24-item Marriage Interest Questionnaire, designed based on a five-point Likert scale, measuring four main components: feedback on marriage, readiness and willingness to marry, attitudes toward marriage outcomes, and marriage barriers. The internal consistency of the questionnaire, assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, was 0.89, indicating satisfactory reliability and validity. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and independent t-tests in SPSS software. Results showed a significant difference in the mean scores of the components of feedback on marriage, attitudes toward marriage outcomes, and marriage barriers among students in the coeducational environment (p < 0.05), whereas the readiness and willingness to marry component did not reach a significant level. The findings suggest that studying at a coeducational university can enhance female students’ awareness and attitudes toward marriage; however, converting positive attitudes into practical readiness for marriage requires targeted educational, cultural, and supportive interventions. Accordingly, designing skill-development programs, pre-marital counseling, and institutional support can play an effective role in facilitating informed and successful marriages among students.

Abstract This study aimed to predict internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems in children based on empathy, family communication processes, and mothers’ early maladaptive schemas. The research design was descriptive and correlational. The statistical population consisted of all elementary school children in Yasuj city during the 2022-2023 academic year, along with their mothers. A sample of 361 individuals was selected through multistage cluster random sampling. Data were collected using the Fitzpatrick and Ritchie (1994) Family Communication Patterns Questionnaire, Young’s Schema Questionnaire (YSQ), and Achenbach’s Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). The participants’ scores were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis via SPSS-24 software. The results of the Pearson correlation showed a significant positive correlation between the conformity subscale and internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems, and a significant negative correlation between the conversation subscale and internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems. Additionally, a significant positive correlation was found between the components of early maladaptive schemas (including disconnection/rejection, impaired autonomy/performance, impaired limits, other-directedness, and over-vigilance/inhibition) and internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems. The findings indicated that the conformity subscale and the components of early maladaptive schemas could positively predict internalizing and externalizing behavioral problems in children. These findings can be applied in the etiology of behavioral problems and the development of preventive strategies.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based couple therapy on sexual satisfaction and self-differentiation among women affected by infidelity. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test, post-test, and control group. The statistical population included women affected by infidelity in Isfahan during the third quarter of 2023. A sample of 30 participants was selected through purposive sampling from the available population and assigned to experimental and control groups. Data were collected using the Larson Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (1998) and the Drake and Murdock Self-Differentiation Questionnaire (2015). The mindfulness-based couple therapy intervention was conducted in accordance with Gerhart’s (2012) protocol over nine 90-minute sessions for the experimental group. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). The results showed that mindfulness-based couple therapy had a significant effect on sexual satisfaction (P<0.05) and self-differentiation (P<0.05). These findings suggest that mindfulness-based couple therapy can be an effective intervention for enhancing sexual satisfaction and strengthening self-differentiation among women affected by infidelity.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to examine in depth the jurisprudential and legal dimensions of online marriages and related contracts, with a special emphasis on women's rights. The necessity of conducting this research arose from the fact that, in the era of modern technologies and the expansion of social relations in virtual space, the issue of online marriage has gained significant importance as an emerging phenomenon in legal and jurisprudential systems.The present research was carried out using a descriptive-analytical method, and the data were collected through the study and analysis of reliable jurisprudential, legal, and social sources. The research population included classical jurisprudential texts, the domestic laws of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as international documents and regulations related to marriage contracts and associated agreements, which were examined with a comparative and analytical approach.The findings of the study showed that, from the perspective of Islamic jurisprudence, the realization of the will and consent of the parties, valid digital identity verification, the presence and validity of witnesses in the virtual space, and the possibility of official registration of the marriage are among the most important jurisprudential challenges of online marriage. From the legal aspect, the results also showed that the lack of comprehensive and explicit regulations regarding online marriage contracts, the difficulty of proving the official nature of the marriage in courts, the incompatibility of e-commerce regulations with the special nature of marriage, and the lack of sufficient enforcement guarantees for the conditions stipulated within the contract are considered among the main obstacles to the proper implementation of this type of marriage.The analysis of the data indicated that these gaps and challenges, in particular, place women more than other groups at risk of legal, social, and even cultural harm and can seriously threaten their legal security and social status. In general, the results of this research emphasize the necessity of reviewing and developing new jurisprudential and legal regulations appropriate to the new conditions of virtual space and the phenomenon of online marriage. It is also suggested that, alongside the reform and adoption of laws, educational, judicial, and social support for women should be strengthened so that they face greater security and fewer harms in the process of online marriages.This research can be used as a preliminary step for lawmakers, jurists, and social policymakers to reconsider traditional frameworks and adapt them to the needs of today’s society.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between chaste living and organizational excellence with the mediating role of value orientation of female principals of elementary schools in Shiraz.This study was an applied study and the research method was a descriptive correlational study. The statistical population of this study was all female principals of Shiraz elementary schools in the academic year 2024-2025, totaling 810 people. The sample size was determined based on the Cochran formula, 260 people, and the random cluster sampling method was used. The data collection tools in this study were the Schwartz Value System Questionnaire (1994), the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance's Chaste Lifestyle Questionnaire on the subject of Chastity and Hijab (2022), and the Deming Standard for Organizational Excellence Questionnaire (2012). The face validity and reliability of the questionnaire were confirmed with Cronbach's alpha coefficient. In order to test the hypotheses, the structural equation model and SmartPLS version 3 and SPSS27 software were used. The results of data analysis showed that value orientation plays a mediating role in the relationship between chaste life and organizational excellence of female principals of Shiraz elementary schools. There is a positive and significant relationship between chaste life and organizational excellence of female principals of Shiraz elementary schools. There is a positive and significant relationship between chaste life and value orientation of female principals of Shiraz elementary schools. There is a positive and significant relationship between value orientation and organizational excellence of female principals of Shiraz elementary schools. The results obtained help female principals of schools to create a better educational environment by increasing their adherence to ethical principles.

Abstract Chastity, as an internal force that restrains the self from indecent behaviors, has always been emphasized in Islam. The Almighty God, through a gradual presentation of comprehensive policies, has promoted, stabilized, and institutionalized chaste living within the Islamic society. While the concept of chastity in its various dimensions is discussed in Meccan surahs, the reinforcement and implementation of sexual chastity laws have been deferred to the Medinan period—under circumstances where an Islamic government is established.This study seeks to answer the question: What strategies does the Medinan Surah An-Nur employ to institutionalize sexual chastity within a faith-based community? Through a descriptive-analytical approach and based on library resources, the study reveals that in the context of an established Islamic society, God begins with preventive rulings against sexual deviance—such as harsh punishment for adulterers and strict evidentiary standards, prohibition of illicit glances, encouragement of marriage, and emphasis on youth chastity.Furthermore, the issue of hijab is introduced as part of cultivating a spirit of modesty. To consolidate sexual chastity within both the familial and social spheres, the surah proposes adherence to divine chastity rulings, respect for private boundaries in the family (especially regarding parents), overcoming carnal desires, cultivating fear and awe of God, allowing divine rulings to illuminate the hearts of believers, and complete obedience to God and His Messenger. These strategies aim to embed chastity within the hearts of the faithful—something only achievable through safeguarding the boundaries between mahram and non-mahram, the family unit, parents, and the Prophet Muhammad.

Abstract Domestic violence is considered one of the major health issues affecting individuals. Today, preventing this issue and managing cases of domestic violence have become a significant health priority worldwide. The aim of this study is to examine the interventions carried out and global experiences in preventing domestic violence and to evaluate their effectiveness.This study is a qualitative-descriptive review conducted through a systematic search of articles in reputable databases using relevant English and Persian keywords. The interventions related to domestic violence and their effectiveness were analyzed.Some interventions in the field of domestic violence in various countries focus on affected individuals, particularly women and children, and include strategies such as education, gaining support, and psychological counseling and therapy for at-risk individuals. Other interventions target healthcare system staff and support organizations to train and empower them in identifying and managing cases of domestic violence.Empowering healthcare workers for screening, diagnosing, and managing domestic violence cases, as well as educating individuals about the underlying factors contributing to violence, developing communication and coping skills, and choosing appropriate alternative behaviors in violent situations, can be significant steps in preventing or reducing domestic violence. These findings are consistent with many studies conducted in various countries.

Abstract Women's financial literacy is a key factor in household well-being and in the financial socialization of children. However, research shows that women's financial literacy levels are generally lower than those of men. One possible explanation lies in individual psychological traits such as financial self-efficacy. Accordingly, the present study aims to investigate the effect of financial self-efficacy on women's financial literacy. The statistical population consists of all women in Yazd province in the year 2024, and based on the recommended formula for structural equation modeling, a sample of 383 individuals was selected. Data on individual characteristics were collected using standardized questionnaires assessing women's interest in financial resources and available information, fear of financial matters, and strong emotional dependencies on money and investment. For measuring financial literacy, a standardized financial literacy questionnaire covering three dimensions—financial knowledge, financial attitude, and financial behavior—was used. The research hypotheses were tested using the structural equation modeling approach via Smart PLS software. The results indicate that financial self-efficacy has a significant and direct effect on financial knowledge, financial attitude, and financial behavior. Therefore, to improve women’s financial literacy, it is essential to not only provide financial education but also focus on developing such individual traits.

Abstract The aim of the present study was to compare happiness, social interest, and emotion dysregulation in female-headed and non-female-headed households. This study employed a causal-comparative design. The statistical population included all female heads of households who referred to the Welfare Organization of Tabriz in 2023. The sample consisted of 100 individuals (50 female heads of households and 50 non-female-headed women) selected through purposive sampling. The participants were assessed using the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (1989), Alizadeh’s Social Interest Questionnaire (2020), and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale by Gratz and Roemer (2004). Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and independent t-tests. The results showed significant differences between female-headed and non-female-headed women in terms of happiness and its components (life satisfaction, positive affect, health, efficiency, self-esteem) (P < 0.001), social interest and its components (caring for others, responsibility, courage, self-acceptance) (P < 0.001), and emotion dysregulation (P < 0.001). Based on the findings, it can be concluded that female heads of households experience lower levels of happiness and social interest and higher levels of emotion dysregulation compared to non-female-headed women.