A Sociological Study of Permanent Singlehood among Women in Tehran (A Case Study of Women Aged 40-50 in Districts 3, 10, and 19 of Tehran)

Abstract

Purpose: The primary objective of this article is to explore the impact of sociological factors on permanent singlehood among women aged 40-50. Methodology: This research adopts an applied research approach for its purpose and uses a survey method. The study population includes all single women in districts 3, 10, and 19 of Tehran. Sampling methods in this research consist of quota sampling and snowball sampling. This approach begins with familiar and accessible samples, where each respondent leads to the introduction of additional hidden and unfamiliar respondents, thereby gradually expanding the sample size. Findings: The research findings indicate that sociological factors and societal changes, particularly in social and economic dimensions, have influenced women’s singlehood. Key sociological reasons influencing permanent singlehood among women aged 40-50 include higher education, employment and financial independence, shifts in values and attitudes toward marriage, women’s distrust toward people, especially men, and societal attitudes toward women’s higher education. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that sociological factors and societal transformations, particularly in social and economic dimensions, are consistent with the theoretical frameworks proposed by Giddens and Castells (for social factors) and Cross and Pieterse (for economic factors), aligning with the study’s findings.