Mechanisms of Legitimizing Gender Power (Case study: Women of Eyvan Town)

In less densely populated cities, tradition significantly influences various aspects of life, as mechanical interactions are frequently observed in these environments. This dynamic impacts the norms, values, and social relationships between the two genders. The aim of this research is to analyze the mechanisms through which gender power is legitimized from the perspective of women residing in the townof Eyvan, within the framework of familial structures. This research is anchored in the interpretive paradigm and employs a qualitative approach, utilizing the grounded theory methodology. The research encompasses women residing in the town of Eyvan, employing a purposive snowball sampling method. This sampling process persisted until theoretical saturation was achieved, resulting in a total of 20 interviews conducted. A semi-structured interview methodology has been used to collect information, with the data presented in textual format. The analysis of the data has been conducted utilizing a three-stage coding process, comprising open, axial, and selective coding. From the semantic expressions, a total of 233 concepts, 30 subcategories, and 13 primary categories were obtained. The principal category was designated as “The coexistence of religious and customary discourse,” signifying the simultaneous presence of two forms of customary-religious discourses that, when regarded as societal references, have the potential to reinforce and legitimize gender power dynamics. Although this coexistence is observed across various societies, the ideological framing of religious discourse within Iranian society—as a political ideology—has significantly intensified the legitimization of gender power.