Social Relations and Interpersonal Dialogue among Couples: A Study in the City of Yazd Based on the Grounded Theory

Abstract

Introduction The family as the most significant and fundamental social institution exerts direct and profound influences on other societal institutions. It assumes distinct roles and functions and addresses a range of human needs. Central to family life and functioning are the relationships among family members. Communication serves as the foundation through which families define themselves and members acquire the skills to navigate shared meanings (Miller, 2017). Consequently, communication and interactions between family members emerge as crucial characteristics within any family unit. When communication is positive and effective, it ensures the overall well-being of the family and, in turn, contributes to the health of society as a whole. Effective communication skills encompass both verbal and nonverbal elements with effective verbal and conversational skills occupying a significant role in marital communication. Furthermore, communication within the family, like any other form of dialogue, is influenced by cultural and social contexts. Dialogue, in fact, not only stems from an individual's background and social network, but also shapes the formation of future relationships and interactions. As per Michel's definition, a social network comprises unique connections among a specific group of individuals. These connections collectively provide insights into the social behavior exhibited by the individuals involved (Mitchel, 1999). Therefore, recognizing the pivotal role played by tradition, culture, and social backgrounds in fostering interactions and dialogues between couples, this research aimed to comprehend the process of dialogue formation within the context of couples' social relations. Materials and Methods This research aimed to elucidate the process of dialogue formation within the context of social relations. An interpretive paradigm and qualitative methodology were employed. Specifically, a grounded theory approach utilizing Strauss and Corbin's objectivist perspective was adopted as the primary methodological framework. The sample selection followed a purposive and theoretical sampling technique with the goal of achieving data saturation. A total of 31 couples from normal families in Yazd were chosen as participants. In-depth interviews served as the primary method of data collection. With participants' consent, the interviews were recorded and each session lasted between 70 and 180 minutes. The data analysis utilized the theoretical coding method, which facilitated the development of the grounded theory. All recorded interviews were transcribed into text and the analysis process occurred concurrently with data collection. Following Strauss and Corbin’s method, line-by-line analysis was conducted for open-coding, leading to the development of concepts and categories and construction of the grounded theory's foundation. Ultimately, a research paradigm model was formulated. To ensure the validity of the findings, measures, such as prolonged engagement, peer review, negative case analysis, member checking, and detailed description were employed. Discussion of Results and Conclusion This study aimed to elucidate the role of the social network in shaping and influencing dialogue within Yazdi families. The collected data were subjected to open, axial, and selective coding, resulting in the identification of 22 main categories and 63 secondary categories. These categories collectively contributed to the core category of "dialogue emerging from the social network". The research presented a paradigm model and theoretical framework based on these findings. The overall analysis of the results demonstrated that dialogue was a product of the social relationships that the couples had experienced across various domains, spanning from the past to the present. The sociocultural context, particularly within the family, held the greatest influence on the individuals by establishing either a democratic or authoritarian environment. Additionally, friendship groups, educational and occupational systems, and the living environment all played significant roles in shaping interactions and dialogue within the family. When confronted with the impact of this social network, the individuals tended to react in two distinct ways. Some individuals accepted these influences without critical evaluation, implementing them within their family dynamics. However, this approach often led to dissatisfaction within the contemporary family structure due to the changing dynamics of today's society. On the other hand, certain individuals equipped with an awareness of various factors, social changes, and established principles for building relationships engaged in a thoughtful reconsideration of the effects of their past experiences within the family and different social environments. These individuals actively strived to enhance interactions within their current family and effectively managed their familial relationships.

Keywords

• network
• family
• couples
• dialogue
• social relations