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“The Ship of my Life floats on the Sea of my Thoughts”: Phenomenological Analysis of the Fundamental Beliefs that Determine the Lifestyle in Iranian Culture
Mohammad ali Fallahnejad1 , Mohammad naghi Farahani1 , Hamidreza Hassanabadi *2 , Azizallah Tajik esmaeili1 , Morteza Manteghi1
1- Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
2- Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran , hassanabadi.hr@gmail.com
Abstract:   (54 Views)
In all societies, the formation of lifestyle is largely dependent on the underlying cultural beliefs, meanings, and values. Considering the pivotal role of this concept and the profound impact of lifestyle on all aspects of human life, the purpose of this research was to identify the fundamental beliefs that shape lifestyle within the context of Iranian culture. In this study, a qualitative method of psychological phenomenology has been used, which is based on the description of the phenomenon from the perspective of the participants. The study involved a total of 12 participants, comprising psychologists, sociologists, and social psychologists. The data was collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews. The data has also been analysed using Creswell's qualitative data analysis steps. A qualitative analysis identified four principal categories of ontological and spiritual beliefs, social beliefs, family beliefs and teleological and purpose in life. The category of ontological and spiritual beliefs encompasses a number of subcategories, including belief in the hereafter or materialism, belief in God, spirituality, superstition and sanctism. The category of social beliefs includes the necessity of interpersonal communication and interaction, social emotions, social credibility, the importance of occupational issues, the ability to get along with others, and social values against individualism. The category of family beliefs includes family-oriented beliefs and beliefs related to life with a spouse. The category of vision and purpose in life also includes responsibility towards others, competition and growth, transformation in the context of profit - seeking and hedonism. The results obtained from this research have identified the beliefs that determine the lifestyle in the context of Iranian culture. These results can be used in planning, research, and education and help to improve the health of the individual, family and society.
Keywords: Lifestyle, Iranian Culture, Fundamental Beliefs, Phenomenological Method
     
Type of Study: Research | Subject: Special
Received: 2024/02/28 | Revised: 2025/05/16 | Accepted: 2024/08/24 | ePublished ahead of print: 2025/05/16
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