Rethinking Parenting Styles in the Age of Mobile Phones: A Cultural Study of Iranian Families

Hossein sarfaraz; Yousef Bahmanabadi

Volume 11, Issue 43 , May 2026, Pages 50-1

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2026.82635.1776

Abstract

Extended AbstractThe widespread use of mobile phones and their easy accessibility in the daily lives of Iranian families have brought about significant transformations in parenting ... Read More Extended AbstractThe widespread use of mobile phones and their easy accessibility in the daily lives of Iranian families have brought about significant transformations in parenting styles. This study aims to examine the quality of interpersonal communication between parents and children under the age of ten and to analyze digital parenting styles, drawing on communication theories and Yalda Tehraniyan's model of parenting styles. Data were collected through a qualitative approach using focus groups and interviews with urban and rural parents. The findings indicate that parents' dependence on mobile phones reduces face-to-face interaction time with children and disrupts parental communication roles in the "drone parenting" and "helicopter parenting" styles. In contrast, in the "media mother and digital father" style, although mobile phone use at home is common, guiding children toward functional uses of mobile phones partially mitigates the negative effects. The results highlight the necessity of rethinking current parenting styles and developing context-specific strategies to moderate the impact of mobile phones on intra-family relationships. IntroductionSmart technologies—particularly mobile phones—are among the most influential factors transforming human relationships and family lifestyles. The dominance of mobile phones and their integration with the internet have blurred the boundary between private and public spaces, shaping the quality of parent-child relationships. Numerous studies show that parental distraction caused by continuous mobile phone use reduces verbal and non-verbal communication with children, leading to notable educational and psychological consequences.In Iran, the sharp rise in mobile phone penetration and the extensive use of mobile devices by both parents and children further underscore the importance of examining the "quality of interpersonal communication." Reports indicate that the average daily effective interaction among family members has dropped to approximately 30 minutes, with some studies suggesting a decline to as little as 15 minutes. The diminishing emotional and interpersonal connection within families in the presence of constant mobile phone use has become a critical concern.Accordingly, this study investigates the influence of mobile phones on digital parenting styles and parent-child relationships among children under ten—a group in a crucial stage of emotional and social development.Materials and MethodsThis research is qualitative and descriptive in nature. The study population consisted of parents with children under ten who regularly use smartphones. A purposive sampling method was employed, selecting participants based on criteria such as accessibility, willingness to participate, and relevant lived experience.Data collection tools included a focus group of ten parents (either father or mother) and semi-structured interviews with five parents of both genders conducted in family settings. Interviews continued until theoretical saturation was reached. The data were transcribed, coded, categorized, and analyzed. The interview questions focused on five thematic areas: the role of mobile phones within the family, children's exposure to mobile phones, parental control versus permissiveness, parents' dependence on mobile phones, and the impact of mobile phone use on emotional and interpersonal relationships.The theoretical framework relied on media dependency theory and Tehraniyan's digital parenting style models.Discussion and ResultsThe analysis revealed three dominant patterns of digital parenting in Iranian families:Drone Parenting Style:Parents exhibit high dependency on mobile phones, leaving the child unattended for extended periods. Children spend long hours engaged with mobile devices, parental supervision is minimal or absent, interpersonal communication sharply declines, and children often experience a form of "media-induced loneliness." This style was the most prevalent among the participating families and was associated with the greatest disruption in parent-child emotional relationships.Helicopter Parenting Style:Parents impose excessive monitoring; children lack media autonomy, and all consumed content is fully controlled. Despite strict supervision, emotional and face-to-face communication remains insufficient. This style was observed in families concerned about digital risks but unable to strike a healthy balance between supervision and emotional connection.Media-Mother and Digital-Father Style:Parents actively use mobile phones themselves but attempt to guide children toward "useful and functional" mobile engagement. The father provides moderate supervision without strictness, and the mother is less dependent on mobile phones but does not impose significant restrictions either. Occasional conflicts arise due to excessive mobile phone use. Compared to the other two styles, this pattern is less harmful and has the potential to evolve into a more effective model.Derived Indicators from Data AnalysisThe study identified the following indicators:Decline in Parent-Child Interpersonal Communication:Parents engage less in verbal and non-verbal interaction when using mobile phones. Some children reported feelings of being "ignored."Redefined Role of Mobile Phones in Children's Learning:Mobile-based learning, virtual classes, and school communication have become common. Some rural mothers viewed educational use as an essential opportunity.Increased Child Dependency on Mobile Phones:Some children, even as young as two, displayed a strong interest in watching videos. Parents often hand over mobile phones to calm their children.Educational Conflicts Due to Children's Media Consumption:Parents expressed dissatisfaction with prolonged mobile phone use by children. Disagreements between parents over acceptable usage limits emerged as a source of family tension.Role Conflict Among Parents in Mobile Phone Use:Many parents did not model responsible media use themselves, and part of the family's shared time was lost to parental "endless scrolling".Heightened Individualism Within the Family:Decline in group conversations, increased solitary engagement, and reduced shared playtime.ConclusionThe findings demonstrate that mobile phones, beyond being communication tools, have become determinant factors in shaping parenting styles in Iranian families. The "drone" and "helicopter" styles have the most damaging effects on parent-child relationships, as they either leave the child unattended or impose excessive control while diminishing genuine emotional interaction. The "media mother and digital father" style, though not free of challenges, has the potential to evolve into a more balanced approach through modification and parental education.The study underscores the need to rethink parenting styles, emphasizing that families must establish a balance between media use and face-to-face communication. Further localized research on media and family dynamics is necessary, and promoting healthy media practices should be incorporated into public education. Ultimately, mobile phones are neither inherent threats nor complete allies to the family; rather, it is the quality of parental media use and attention to interpersonal communication that determines children's emotional well-being in the digital age.

Development and Validation of an Educational Package for Behavior Management in Cyberspace and Its Effectiveness on Mental Health and Academic Self-Regulation Among Female Secondary School Students in Tehran

Esmaeil sadipour; Farideh Ebrihimi; Bita Nasrolahi; Hasan Asadzadeh

Volume 11, Issue 43 , May 2026, Pages 82-51

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2025.86481.1854

Abstract

The primary aim of this research was to develop and validate an educational package for behavior management in cyberspace and to evaluate its effectiveness on mental health and academic ... Read More The primary aim of this research was to develop and validate an educational package for behavior management in cyberspace and to evaluate its effectiveness on mental health and academic self-regulation among female secondary school students in Tehran. In the first phase, the educational package was developed using a library-based method and content analysis of scientific texts. Then, with the help of experts in psychology, educational psychology, and media management, its content validity was examined using the content validity ratio (CVR). The results showed that all the developed topics and content had sufficient validity and were approved by the experts from both scientific and practical perspectives.In the second phase, using an experimental research design (pre-test, post-test with a control group) and repeated measures analysis of variance, the effectiveness of the educational package on the research variables was evaluated. The results indicated that the mental health of students who received cyberspace behavior management training improved significantly compared to the control group. This finding, considering the role of social media in increasing stress, anxiety, and distraction, underscores the importance of proper behavior management education in cyberspace for enhancing students' mental health. Additionally, the academic self-regulation of the experimental group students increased significantly compared to the control group. This finding suggests that training in cyberspace behavior management, by enhancing skills in planning, time management, and controlling digital distractions, has led to improved academic self-regulation. Although the cyberspace behavior management educational package had an effect on both dependent variables, the calculated effect size indicated that its greatest impact was on academic self-regulation, followed by mental health.Extended AbstractIntroductionWith the rapid expansion of digital technologies and increased access to the internet, cyberspace has become an inseparable part of students' daily lives. Although this space provides countless opportunities for learning, social communication, and personal growth, it also brings numerous psychological and behavioral challenges. Recent research indicates that inappropriate and excessive use of cyberspace can have significant negative effects on students' mental health and academic self-regulation (Andersen & Jiang, 2018; Ryding & Fox, 2018). These negative effects, particularly during adolescence—a critical stage of psychological and social development—can lead to long-term consequences for individuals' mental health and academic success.Academic self-regulation refers to students' ability to plan, monitor, and control their own learning processes. This concept includes components such as time management, goal setting, use of learning strategies, self-evaluation, and emotion regulation (Zimmerman, 2000). Academic self-regulation helps individuals maintain motivation and focus when facing academic challenges. Cyberspace, by providing access to unlimited information resources, interactive learning tools, and social networks, has created both opportunities and challenges for academic self-regulation. Access to information resources enables students to access diverse and up-to-date educational resources. Students can access scientific articles, instructional videos, and online courses via the internet (Dabbagh & Kitsantas, 2012). However, by offering entertainment-oriented content and social networks, cyberspace can cause distraction and reduce students' concentration (Janko, 2012). The vast amount of information available online can lead to confusion and diminish students' ability to select appropriate resources. Moreover, over-reliance on digital tools can affect students' time management and planning abilities.Given the above, social networks and the web have become an inseparable part of modern life for all members of society, especially adolescents, who are considered the Net Generation, Digital Natives, Generation Thumb, and the "anti-generation." Media have not merely become part of our lives; they have come to encompass our entire existence. In such circumstances, the inability to optimize the use of this space and the lack of capacity to manage behavior will entail irreparable harms and losses. Therefore, in this study, the researchers aim to develop an educational package based on theoretical foundations, media psychology, and the experiences of other countries to assist with behavior management, examine its psychometric properties for validation, and subsequently investigate the effect of teaching this package to students on enhancing both their mental health and academic self-regulation. This study not only helps fill the research gap in this field but can also serve as a basis for designing educational programs and preventive interventions at the level of schools and the national educational system.Research MethodThis study is fundamental-applied in terms of its objective and, regarding data type and collection technique, employs a mixed-methods approach of the instrument development model type (Saadipour, Vol. 2, 2024). Accordingly, the first phase of the study, aimed at developing an educational package for behavior management in cyberspace, is qualitative in nature. The second phase, which examines the effectiveness of the developed educational package on students' mental health and academic self-regulation, is a quantitative study and an experimental study using a pretest-posttest design with a control group.Discussion and ConclusionThe hypothesis of this study, which was confirmed, was that the mental health of students who received cyberspace behavior management training (the experimental group) is higher than that of those who did not receive this training. Examples of research consistent with the findings of this study include Ahmadi-far and Abdi (2022); Baradaran and Ranjbar Noshahri (2022); Harrer et al. (2019); Orang et al. (2023); Dashti (2022); Koohi-Aghdam et al. (2024); Nemati (2024); and Nejati (2024). According to the aforementioned studies, it can be concluded that cyberspace behavior management training can have positive effects on students' mental health, especially when such training is delivered purposefully and with the participation of teachers and parents. However, improper and excessive use of cyberspace can lead to serious psychological problems. Therefore, designing and implementing appropriate educational programs and intelligently managing cyberspace is essential for maintaining and promoting students' mental health.The other hypothesis of this study, which was confirmed, was that the academic self-regulation of students who received cyberspace behavior management training is higher than that of those who did not receive this training. Examples of research consistent with the findings of the present study include Zimmerman (2002); Pintrich (2004); Sánchez-Martínez and Otero (2021); Schunk and DiBenedetto (2020); Kostnić and McLaren (2020); Duckworth and Steinberg (2015); Tsai et al. (2020); Pintrich and Zusho (2007); Ahmadi et al. (2022); Bahrami and Kazemi (2021); Jafari and Mousavi (2020); Hosseini and Nouri (2023); Nasiri et al. (2023); Rezaei and Mousavi (2020); and Sharifi and Amiri (2021).Therefore, it can be concluded that cyberspace behavior management training, by providing a suitable platform for enhancing self-regulation skills, plays an important role in improving students' academic performance and success. It is recommended that schools and educational institutions design and implement such training programs to improve learning quality and academic achievement, thereby benefiting from their positive impact on students' academic self-regulation.

An Aesthetic Typology of the Visual Content of Everyday Instagram Bloggers: The Case of Sepideh Bazmi-Pour

Fatemeh Montazeri Hedeshi; Ehsan Shahghasemi

Volume 11, Issue 43 , May 2026, Pages 124-85

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2025.79307.1693

Abstract

AbstractThe present study examines the aesthetic typology of visual content produced by a well-known everyday Instagram blogger. "Everyday bloggers" are defined as individuals who generate ... Read More AbstractThe present study examines the aesthetic typology of visual content produced by a well-known everyday Instagram blogger. "Everyday bloggers" are defined as individuals who generate content daily and continuously on Instagram, employing various formats and making use of the platform's affordances, and who have succeeded in attracting a substantial audience to their pages. In this research, we first sought to identify everyday Instagram bloggers with approximately one million followers and an average of more than one hundred thousand likes and views per post. From among these bloggers, Sepideh Bazmi-Pour was purposively selected for semiotic analysis. The unit of analysis in this study consisted of the posts published on this blogger's Instagram page. From the influencer's Instagram posts, we selected the fifty most recent posts published on her page. We then employed a semiotic approach to examine the aesthetic elements utilized in these posts that contributed to their higher visibility and engagement. Finally, we extracted and presented a typology of the aesthetic elements employed in the posts of Sepideh Bazmi-Pour.Keywords: Typology, aesthetics, bloggers, Instagram, Sepideh Bazmi-Pour Extended AbstractIntroductionInstagram is a predominantly visual social networking platform whose image-centered structure has generated distinctive forms of interaction between users and celebrities. The visual orientation of this platform compels social actors to produce and curate visual content in order to construct and present themselves as recognizable participants within the network. Its infrastructural affordances—including diverse content formats, thematic categorization of pages, and algorithmic visibility—have diversified audiences and contributed to the emergence of various categories of social actors, among whom bloggers occupy a prominent position.Bloggers produce content across multiple domains such as beauty, lifestyle, cooking, and fashion, seeking to attract and retain followers. Audience culture plays a crucial role in this process, as bloggers strategically select and curate content rather than publishing all recorded materials. Their production is therefore shaped not merely by the act of content creation but by aesthetic considerations designed to appeal to a broad audience. Visual and emotional elements—such as affective cues, luxury signifiers, and pleasurable imagery—are employed to generate audience engagement and aesthetic appreciation.Among these actors, everyday lifestyle bloggers represent a distinctive category, sharing moments of daily life while drawing upon culturally meaningful signs and signifiers to construct aesthetically valued content. Given their reliance on culturally resonant visual and symbolic elements, it becomes necessary to classify and typologize the signs embedded in their posts in order to understand what constitutes "beauty" from the perspective of Instagram influencers and how such perceptions reflect broader cultural meanings.Accordingly, this study identifies various types of bloggers and focuses specifically on the everyday lifestyle blogger Sepideh Bazmi-Pour as a case study. The primary objective of the research is to identify the signifiers employed in her content production and to develop a typology of aesthetically oriented content.Research QuestionWhat elements do everyday Instagram bloggers employ to create aesthetically appealing content for their audiences?Into what typological categories can the aesthetically constructed content of everyday Instagram bloggers be classified?Research MethodThis research applies a semiotic approach to examine how aesthetic meaning is constructed in the content of an everyday Instagram blogger. Drawing on the theories of Ferdinand de Saussure and Charles Sanders Peirce, the study focuses on identifying signifiers and interpreting their culturally embedded secondary meanings in visual and textual posts. The aim is to classify the aesthetic elements used to represent everyday life and attract audiences.Using hashtag search and snowball sampling, several prominent everyday bloggers with over one million followers and high engagement rates were identified. From this group, Sepideh Bazmi-Pour was purposively selected due to her higher visibility and active content production, as well as her association with the Iranian actor Shahrokh Estakhri.The unit of analysis consisted of the blogger's fifty most recent posts from the past two years. Through qualitative semiotic analysis, key visual and symbolic elements were extracted and interpreted, and the identified signifiers were categorized to develop a typology of aesthetically constructed content.FindingsThe semiotic analysis of fifty recent posts identified eight dominant aesthetic signifiers that structure the blogger's visual representation of everyday life. These elements, repeatedly emphasized across posts, construct culturally resonant and visually appealing meanings:Clothing (Fashion Aesthetics): Princess-style dresses and references to Disney characters symbolize luxury, Western cultural values, nostalgia, and aristocratic refinement. Clothing functions as a marker of social status and aesthetic distinction.Celebrations and Occasions (Western Cultural Aesthetics): The frequent celebration of events such as Christmas and Halloween signifies the valorization of Western consumer culture and provides a visual framework for displaying decoration, fashion, and extravagance.Sisterhood and Children (Gendered Aesthetics): The intimate and affectionate representation of the blogger's daughters constructs emotional appeal, softness, and feminine beauty. Children function as influential micro-celebrities and central aesthetic subjects.Fame (Aesthetics of Celebrity): Posts featuring her husband, Shahrokh Estakhri, highlight celebrity status as a signifier of success, legitimacy, wealth, and social influence.Pose and Body (Body Aesthetics): Carefully staged gestures, facial expressions, and coordinated outfits signify elegance, attractiveness, fashionability, and controlled self-presentation.Setting and Environment (Spatial Aesthetics): Luxurious domestic spaces, foreign travel locations, hotels, and branded elements signify affluence and an idealized upper-class lifestyle.Family (Aesthetics of Character): Gatherings during Iranian cultural events such as Nowruz and Yalda emphasize collectivism, tradition, and respect for family values.Motherhood (Maternal Aesthetics): The blogger presents an idealized form of motherhood that combines care and emotional intimacy with beauty, fitness, and stylized daily life.Overall, the visual typology demonstrates that aestheticized everyday life is constructed through interconnected signifiers of luxury, Westernization, femininity, celebrity, ideal family life, and curated motherhood. These eight categories collectively define the dominant aesthetic framework of the blogger's content.ConclusionSocial media has reshaped not only communication but also cultural perceptions of everyday life. In line with the dramaturgical theory of Erving Goffman, everyday bloggers strategically construct idealized self-presentations designed to align with social expectations and generate audience pleasure.In response to the first research question, the findings show that bloggers create aesthetically appealing content through culturally meaningful signifiers such as clothing, celebrations, setting, fame, femininity, sisterhood, family, and motherhood. These elements function as visual tools for presenting a desirable and socially valued image.Regarding the second question, the extracted meanings can be summarized into four overarching aesthetic axes: Western cultural orientation, luxury and affluence, gendered attractiveness, and emotional intimacy. Together, these dimensions shape a typology in which everyday life is stylized, idealized, and culturally coded to maximize visual appeal and audience engagement.

Representation of Afghanistan in Western Digital Games Industry: A Case Study of Action Games After September 11, 2001

Faisal Faizi; Farzaneh Sharifi; Mohammad Mohsen Hasanpour

Volume 11, Issue 43 , May 2026, Pages 157-125

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2026.82391.1770

Abstract

Video games, as a form of new media with mass and global audiences, have provided a suitable opportunity for Western governments to reinforce their military, political, and ideological ... Read More Video games, as a form of new media with mass and global audiences, have provided a suitable opportunity for Western governments to reinforce their military, political, and ideological objectives. The collaboration between Video game producers and the military has introduced the idea of real wars to game developers, who utilize it in the entertainment industry. Today, we can observe a general depiction of the wars in Afghanistan within these games. This research employs qualitative content analysis to examine how Afghanistan is represented in the Western Video games industry. For this purpose, 13 Western Video games centered on Afghanistan were purposefully selected using a non-probability sampling method and were coded and categorized using MaxQDA. The codes obtained from the comparative analysis were divided into two main categories and eight subcategories. The most significant identified categories include misrepresentation and hegemony. The findings indicate that the unrealistic and meaningful representations of the real wars in Afghanistan by Western game developers after September 11 have been unfair and lacking in integrity. Introduction and Problem Statement The media representation of video games has evolved since the Cold War to create a barrier against communism, with the portrayal of U.S.-led wars in Afghanistan after September 11 being framed within the context of the global war against terrorism. The objective of representing Afghanistan in video games is to establish mental stereotypes and normalize a negative perception of the country, thereby facilitating the acceptance of U.S. military and political interventions in global public opinion.Games depicting Afghanistan often illustrate themes of disorder, violence, irrationality, and human rights violations. Companies such as Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, and Bohemia Interactive have acted as media extensions of imperialist governments, often funded by entities like the U.S. Department of Defense (Hammar & Woodcock, 2019). The impact of media messages, particularly video games, on Afghanistan has not been adequately addressed. The central question of this research is how Afghanistan is represented in Western digital games after the September 11, 2001 incident. Understanding this representation will help illuminate how people around the world perceive Afghanistan and how the West views the country in the context of video games production.MethodologyWe employed qualitative research methods, utilizing qualitative content analysis based on the researcher’s perspective and analysis of phenomena. To gain a deep understanding of the subject, we used a case study approach, which is media-oriented, to explore and describe the data. The rationale for using qualitative content analysis in a context like the study of Video games, where quantitative analysis encounters limitations, is evident. Therefore, qualitative content analysis can be considered a research method for the subjective interpretation of textual data through systematic classification and coding or the design of known patterns (Babi, 2011).FindingsIn the qualitative content analysis of these games, two main categories and eight subcategories were identified. The main categories are as follows:1- Misrepresentation 2- Hegemony Data Analysis The analysis of 13 Western Video games depicting Afghanistan shows a significant distortion of reality, influenced by the designers' preconceived notions. These games misrepresent Afghanistan and fail to accurately reflect its historical context, particularly regarding the Soviet-Afghan war and subsequent Western-led conflicts against terrorism.The creators do not depict the true nature of war or the factors contributing to Afghanistan's underdevelopment. Afghanistan is portrayed as a backward and uncivilized nation needing liberation from communism and terrorism by the West, particularly the U.S., which acts as a global police force imposing Western values.ConclusionAccording to Edward Said's theory of Orientalism, Afghanistan is represented by the West as part of the East. In these representations, Afghanistan is depicted as an Eastern, backward, and uncivilized country that the West, led by America in its role as global police, must liberate from communism and international terrorism while imposing Western values such as human rights, liberal democracy, and freedom.Upon reflection, it becomes clear that these slogans are lies and deceptions directed at the people of Afghanistan and the world. In these games, Afghanistan is depicted as a part of the Middle East or Central Asia, portrayed as a permanent war zone where the interests of America and the West are in constant conflict with various forms of Islamic radicalism and terrorism. Keywords: Representation, Video games, Hegemony, war, Orientalism, cultural imperialism.

Modeling Customer Attractors Using Social Media Marketing in Omid Entrepreneurship Fund with a Structural-Interpretive Approach

Amir Alizadeh chamazkoti; Bagher bagherian kasgari; Majid fattahi

Volume 11, Issue 43 , May 2026, Pages 200-159

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2026.85096.1828

Abstract

Introduction: In the present era, customer attraction is one of the most important factors for the success of businesses, because intense competition and the numerous options available ... Read More Introduction: In the present era, customer attraction is one of the most important factors for the success of businesses, because intense competition and the numerous options available to customers have caused companies to make more efforts to attract and retain their customers. Applying new marketing strategies, providing quality services, and creating a unique experience for customers are among the factors that play a significant role in this regard. The need to attract customers and understanding the role of attraction in business decision-making is a key issue that, despite its great importance, has received less attention in the field of service marketing. Social media has become a pervasive communication tool that creates connections and opportunities for interaction with customers. In particular, attracting new customers is a fundamental issue in the Omid Entrepreneurship Fund. The goal of this fund, according to Article 6 of its statute, is to mobilize financial resources and provide facilities to individuals, especially in rural and deprived areas, industrial clusters, and entrepreneurs. In recent years, the fund has played an effective role in supporting production and job creation by increasing capital and financing stagnant production units. For example, in 1403, the Omid Entrepreneurship Fund has included financing 730 stagnant production units on its agenda. From a positive perspective, the use of social media marketing can help the Omid Entrepreneurship Fund to communicate more widely with entrepreneurs and small business owners. By using platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, and Telegram, the fund can better inform about financial facilities, loan conditions, and business growth strategies. Also, direct interaction with applicants and publishing entrepreneurs’ success stories increases public trust and attracts new customers to the fund’s services. Targeted marketing on social media also allows for the identification of the needs of different groups and the provision of services tailored to them. From a negative perspective, not paying attention to social media marketing can reduce public awareness of the fund’s services and miss important opportunities to attract applicants. In today’s digital world, many small businesses and entrepreneurs rely on the online space for information; as a result, the lack of an active presence in this space prevents the fund from properly delivering its message to its target audience. In addition, competition with other financial and support institutions requires the fund to use modern marketing methods; otherwise, applicants may turn to alternatives and the effectiveness of its services may decrease. Therefore, the present study answers the key question of what is the customer attraction model using social media marketing at the Omid Entrepreneurship Fund?Methodology: The present study was based on interpretive philosophy and conducted with an inductive approach. It is also an applied-developmental research in terms of its purpose and a non-experimental (descriptive) research in terms of its data collection method. A qualitative research design was used to achieve the research objective. The participant population includes university professors and experienced managers of the Omid Entrepreneurship Fund. Sampling was conducted purposively and theoretical saturation was achieved with 18 people. Interviews and a decision matrix-based questionnaire were used to collect data. The results of the qualitative section coding were validated using the Holst method (0.712) and Cohen's kappa estimate (0.655). The validity of the questionnaire was confirmed using the formal method and the reliability of the questionnaire was also confirmed by estimating the internal correlation coefficient (0.826). The analysis and coding of the interview texts were performed using the qualitative theme analysis method in MaxQDA 20 software. In the second part, the structural-interpretive modeling method and MicMac software were used to determine the relationships between the structures and design the model.Results and Discussion: In the findings section, to facilitate data analysis, the interview transcripts were loaded into MaxQDA software and reviewed several times to extract key points. In the open coding stage, 319 codes were identified and finally, using axial coding, 13 main themes and 67 basic themes were extracted. The results of the thematic analysis identified themes related to the customer attraction model through social media marketing in the Omid Entrepreneurship Fund and presented them.Conclusion: The results of the research have shown that strategic factors, artificial intelligence, and technical factors affect media management and media security. The aforementioned factors also affect media customer friendliness and media quality, and lead to the value of content, content management system, and content production principles. Finally, by creating aesthetics and interactivity, the ultimate goal of attracting customers to the Omid Entrepreneurship Fund is achieved.

Validation of the Game Addiction Scale among Adolescents

Safdar Nabi Zadeh; Mohammad Reza Zoghi Paydar; Sayed Ali Sharifi Fard; Maryam Zolgharnin; zahra darki

Volume 11, Issue 43 , May 2026, Pages 230-201

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2026.74870.1601

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to validate the online game addiction scale among students in Alborz city. The method of the current research was survey-descriptive. The research population ... Read More The purpose of this research was to validate the online game addiction scale among students in Alborz city. The method of the current research was survey-descriptive. The research population included second-grade high school students in Alborz city. The research sample consisted of 374 high school students who were randomly selected using a cluster sampling method and responded to the scales of online game addiction by Khazaal et al. (2018), life satisfaction by Sharifi Fard et al. (2021), Ryff's psychological well-being (2002), and Instagram addiction by Kirkcaburun and Griffiths (2018). Data analysis was performed using Pearson correlation, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and Cronbach's alpha analysis in SPSS v. 22 and LISREL v. 8.80 software. Results showed that the online game addiction scale is unidimensional. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis also confirmed the single-factor structure of the instrument. Convergent validity was demonstrated through a correlation with Instagram addiction of 0.47 (p<0.01), and divergent validity was shown through correlations with life satisfaction (-0.39) and well-being (-0.37) (p<0.01). The reliability of the online game addiction scale was 0.83 using Cronbach's alpha and 0.74 using the retest method. According to the obtained findings, it can be concluded that Khazaal et al.'s online game addiction scale has acceptable psychometric properties in an adolescent sample and can be used in the field of behavioral addiction studies, including adolescent game addiction.Extended Abstract:IntroductionGaming has become one of the central recreational activities for children, adolescents, and, increasingly in recent decades, adults. With the rapid advancement of digital technology and the widespread availability of the internet, engagement in computer-based games has grown substantially, especially among younger populations (Prevratil et al., 2022). Psychological assessments are essential for evaluating behavioral and emotional variables, and given the growing popularity of computer-based and online games among diverse age groups, including older adults (Statista, 2022), the assessment of gaming addiction has gained considerable importance. Over the past decade, substantial research has been conducted on online gaming addiction and internet gaming disorder—two closely related concepts—part of which has focused on developing and validating reliable assessment tools (Khazaal et al., 2018). Considering that gaming constitutes a significant part of daily life for many individuals, particularly adolescents, having access to valid, reliable, culturally relevant, and time-efficient instruments for assessing gaming addiction is crucial. Children and adolescents, who represent the largest proportion of computer-game users, are at higher risk of experiencing psychological and social consequences associated with excessive gaming. Therefore, the need for a short, psychometrically sound, and culturally appropriate tool is evident. Given the prevalence of gaming in Iran and the lack of recently standardized instruments tailored to the Iranian cultural context, the present study aimed to validate and establish normative data for a gaming addiction scale among adolescents.MethodThis study employed a descriptive–survey design. The statistical population consisted of all middle and high school students in Alborz Province, from which a sample of 400 students was selected using cluster sampling. After removing 26 outlier cases, the final sample included 374 participants. All adolescents in the sample played computer games at least three times per week for two to three hours per session. Data were collected by distributing the survey link through class social network channels. The instruments included the Online Gaming Addiction Scale developed by Lemmens et al. (2009), the Instagram Addiction Scale (Kircaburun & Griffiths, 2018), Ryff’s (1979) Psychological Well-being Scale, and the Single-Item Life Satisfaction Scale by Sharifi Fard et al. (2021).ResultsOf the total participants, 228 (61%) were boys and 146 (39%) were girls. Exploratory factor analysis was conducted using principal component analysis with varimax rotation on the seven items of the gaming addiction scale. Based on eigenvalues greater than one, a single-factor structure emerged, accounting for approximately 51% of the total variance in gaming addiction. Convergent validity was supported by a significant positive correlation between the gaming addiction scale and the Instagram addiction scale (r = 0.47, p < 0.01). Divergent validity was examined through correlations with psychological well-being and life satisfaction. As expected, gaming addiction was negatively and significantly correlated with both psychological well-being (r = –0.37, p < 0.01) and life satisfaction (r = –0.39, p < 0.01), supporting the scale’s discriminant validity. Reliability analyses showed satisfactory coefficients: Cronbach’s alpha was 0.83, and test–retest reliability was 0.74, indicating good internal consistency and temporal stability. Analysis of gender differences revealed no statistically significant difference in gaming addiction scores between boys and girls (p > 0.05).ConclusionThe findings demonstrate that the gaming addiction scale possesses strong psychometric properties within the adolescent population. These results are consistent with previous studies confirming the psychometric adequacy of gaming-related assessment tools (Khazaal et al., 2018) and align with research by Whang and Chang (2002) and Anuthawarn (2008) on the characteristics and correlates of gaming addiction. Similar to other behavioral addictions, such as addiction to social networking platforms (e.g., Instagram), gaming addiction is characterized by excessive time investment driven by uncontrollable urges, which can lead to adverse real-life consequences. Online games, due to their engaging and immersive nature, particularly attract children and adolescents, who are developmentally more prone to emotional reactivity and impulsivity. High levels of involvement in gaming may cause neglect of academic responsibilities, reduced school performance, and interpersonal conflicts with family members and peers (Rosyid et al., 2019). Considering the increasing prevalence of computer-based gaming and the potential benefits and harms associated with it (Rosyid et al., 2019), as well as the practical advantages of the present scale—such as short administration time, ease of scoring, and clear interpretability—the validated scale can serve as a useful and appropriate tool for assessing gaming addiction among Iranian adolescents.

Investigating the impact of new media in shaping the consumption patterns of Iranian society

Karim Nematiaghdam; Nasim Majidi; Aliasghar Keya

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 14 February 2024

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2024.70227.1465

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this research is to investigate the role of modern media in the apparent changes in the Iranian society's culture, which research method was carried ... Read More Abstract The purpose of this research is to investigate the role of modern media in the apparent changes in the Iranian society's culture, which research method was carried out without relying on popular theories and with the Grounded Theory (GT) method. In this method, after explaining the elements and features of the message, the relationship between the elements of communication and the background and consequences (or effects) of the communication process can also be addressed in an inferential way. ) Online data culture based on the Likert scale and two methods of decoding by another researcher and member review method were used and analyzed based on the database theory with Glazerian approach. The findings of this research show that the Iranian society has become extroverted due to the expansion of social networks. And virtual social networks are so influential in the appearance of Iranians' lives that people look for superficial issues (such as the role of consumer culture in anthropology, ideological factors, rhetoric and impracticality of reforming consumption patterns, the use of self-made patterns to reform consumption, lack of media planning in promoting and recognizing patterns consumption, the influence of celebrities on mass media, especially Instagram, and the exchange of information by word of mouth) have accepted changes in the type and form of consumption culture day by day. And in conclusion, it is proposed to form an institution for prudent supervision in the space of virtual advertising. The results and findings of the research were such that the Iranian society has become extroverted due to the expansion of social networks. and virtual social networks in the apparent context of Iranian life, people looking for superficial issues, the role of consumer culture in people, as well as ideological factors, the sloganeering and impracticality of reforming consumption patterns, the use of self-made patterns to reform consumption, the media's lack of planning in promoting and recognizing consumption patterns, the influence of celebrities in social media, especially Instagram and exchanging information by word of mouth; It has caused changes in the type and form of consumption culture day by day. And it is obvious that reforming the process of social affairs in this field will not be possible apart from the guidance approach which is based on scientific and applied studies of needs assessment and adapting the current culture to the goals of human development. Research findings show that policymakers should consider consumer control over the information they are exposed to in social networks and Instagram. The power of the media, both positive and negative, still dominates the representations of people and their concerns. Less time for celebrities, lower costs for product development or promotional products, more creative product ideas, and greater product acceptance were some of the benefits cited, and celebrity endorsement appears to be important when communicating marketing messages. And they have considerable credibility. This shows that it is essential for brands to use Instagram effectively when determining their target audience; They should pay attention to what kind of fame and notoriety can be most effective in attracting a specific target group. The interviewers indicated that the lower-scale celebrity types were most influential, as these categories were perceived as more believable and relevant to users, especially with regard to purchasing decisions as the products and services they endorsed were more cost-effective for participants. Therefore, in choosing a celebrity, policy makers should focus more on a brand that customers can relate to. Due to the change of governments, today's government focuses more on Iran's foreign policy and economy. An institution that is necessary to monitor Iranian culture in the country's media to hold this industry responsible for representing Islamic Iranian culture. Although radio and television stations are required to allocate a certain amount of broadcast time to Iranian content with Islamic culture, which is regulated by the Communications and Telecommunications Commission and most of the Iranian Broadcasting Corporation, the products that the most visited Instagram pages in the field of promoting consumer products are usually free of charge. They will support Iranian brand-making companies regarding Iranian consumer products. As in other countries, young people in Iran care about their style, the only differences they have compared to others is the limitation in appearance and the absence of an organized system to work on consumer products. This system is mostly based on people and their interaction with other groups in the society. They are consumers, importers, personal designers and groups of creative young people who, inspired by global culture, create new trends to create domestic trends that will be more applicable in Iran's situation. Diversity in the age and social position of people and differences in their views lead to diversity in their tastes and classify them in different stages of accepting new trends, and different people in different stages of acceptance follow the same process of accepting innovations, but according to their local conditions. These conditions have caused integration and some changes in the stages of product diversification and its consumption among Iranians. Some people try to choose products and consume them by imitating others in order to achieve social status without paying special attention to their social position. The system offers a variety of products and needs to meet the emerging needs of larger groups of consumers who are mostly young and interested in new products, but our limitations Keywords: culture, virtual networks, Instagram, consumer goods

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مطالعه شیوه های ارتباط هواداران زن با سوییت هوم بلاگرهای اینستاگرام

somayeh shalchi; fatemeh norozi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 04 February 2025

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2025.79338.1694

Abstract

Virtual networks have become an integral part of human life, especially in the last decade. Thanks to the availability of smartphones at varying prices, people can now easily access ... Read More Virtual networks have become an integral part of human life, especially in the last decade. Thanks to the availability of smartphones at varying prices, people can now easily access all kinds of virtual networks that were once inaccessible before 2010. Instagram, a powerful social platform, has gained immense popularity among global users, particularly Iranians, as Iran is among the top ten countries in terms of Instagram usage. It is crucial to examine and understand the effects of this virtual network on people in different ways. As technology has made incredible progress in recent years, introducing new tools and features into people's lives every month, social researchers need to keep up-to-date research in this field. This research specifically focuses on Sweet Home bloggers, who are well-known among Iranian users, and their fans on Instagram. The aim is to understand the nature of their relationship. Firstly, we will explore how fans define the relationship between themselves and Sweet Home bloggers and identify the factors that influence their understanding of this relationship. Finally, we will investigate how the content produced by Sweet Home bloggers is perceived and understood by their fans. Qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews with 21 active female audiences who consider themselves fans of one of the five Sweet Home bloggers on Instagram, were used in this research. Through thematic analysis of the data obtained, we identified five main themes. The first theme focused on the level of awareness and understanding of the content on Sweet Home's pages. We found that there was sometimes a deep mistrust towards the content produced by the blogger. The second theme explored how the audience perceives themselves and the blogger with Sweet Home. We found that one group of fans completely identified themselves with the blogger, while another group did not relate to similar bloggers. In this study, we explore several themes related to blogging on Instagram. Firstly, we analyze how fans influence the content creation process of bloggers and how they have the power to direct the path of bloggers' home pages. Secondly, we examine the importance and impact of high-quality and colorful photos posted by bloggers, which can be a factor in retaining audience attention. Thirdly, we investigate the spread of pop culture specific to Instagram by Sweet Home bloggers, which creates a sense of belonging for their audience. Throughout the study, we found that the current audience is very selective about the type of content they consume, and they have a two-way relationship with bloggers. They not only consume content but also demand and influence the type of content produced. We aimed to understand this unique relationship that has emerged from the virtual world of Instagram and to gain insights into the fans' perspectives. Keywords: Instagram, sweet home blogger, daily blogger, blogger-follower relationship, social networks, Persian Instagram Virtual networks have become an integral part of human life, especially in the last decade. Thanks to the availability of smartphones at varying prices, people can now easily access all kinds of virtual networks that were once inaccessible before 2010. Instagram, a powerful social platform, has gained immense popularity among global users, particularly Iranians, as Iran is among the top ten countries in terms of Instagram usage. It is crucial to examine and understand the effects of this virtual network on people in different ways. As technology has made incredible progress in recent years, introducing new tools and features into people's lives every month, social researchers need to keep up-to-date research in this field. This research specifically focuses on Sweet Home bloggers, who are well-known among Iranian users, and their fans on Instagram. The aim is to understand the nature of their relationship. Firstly, we will explore how fans define the relationship between themselves and Sweet Home bloggers and identify the factors that influence their understanding of this relationship. Finally, we will investigate how the content produced by Sweet Home bloggers is perceived and understood by their fans. Qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews with 21 active female audiences who consider themselves fans of one of the five Sweet Home bloggers on Instagram, were used in this research. Through thematic analysis of the data obtained, we identified five main themes. The first theme focused on the level of awareness and understanding of the content on Sweet Home's pages. We found that there was sometimes a deep mistrust towards the content produced by the blogger. The second theme explored how the audience perceives themselves and the blogger with Sweet Home. We found that one group of fans completely identified themselves with the blogger, while another group did not relate to similar bloggers. In this study, we explore several themes related to blogging on Instagram. Firstly, we analyze how fans influence the content creation process of bloggers and how they have the power to direct the path of bloggers' home pages. Secondly, we examine the importance and impact of high-quality and colorful photos posted by bloggers, which can be a factor in retaining audience attention. Thirdly, we investigate the spread of pop culture specific to Instagram by Sweet Home bloggers, which creates a sense of belonging for their audience. Throughout the study, we found that the current audience is very selective about the type of content they consume, and they have a two-way relationship with bloggers. They not only consume content but also demand and influence the type of content produced. We aimed to understand this unique relationship that has emerged from the virtual world of Instagram and to gain insights into the fans' perspectives.

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Presentation of communication policy model with emphasis on regulation for Starlink satellite internet

Reza Ali Rezaei Malidarreh; Ali Akbar Farhangi; Seyyed Mihammad Dadgaran; Ali Delavar

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 16 February 2025

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2025.81386.1748

Abstract

The study was conducted with the aim of understanding the communication policy model with an emphasis on regulations for Starlink satellite internet. The study with applied-developmental ... Read More The study was conducted with the aim of understanding the communication policy model with an emphasis on regulations for Starlink satellite internet. The study with applied-developmental purpose is a cross-sectional survey research in terms of the method and time frame of data collection, and in terms of the research design, it is a mixed research. The community of participants in the qualitative section includes law professors and communication managers, 10 of whom were selected through theoretical sampling. The interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The statistical population of the quantitative part includes law professors and experts in the field of communication, the sample size of 70 people was estimated by Cohen's power analysis method, and a simple random sampling method was used. The data collection tools were semi-structured interviews and researcher-made questionnaires. The validity of the interview was confirmed based on the four criteria of credibility, transferability, confirmability and reliability, and the reliability of the qualitative part was estimated as 0.709 by calculating the Holstein coefficient. The validity of the quantitative part was checked with the formal validity methods of judges' point of view, convergent validity (above 0.5) and divergent validity. The reliability of the questionnaire was also evaluated by estimating Cronbach's alpha, Rho coefficient and composite reliability above 0.7. Data analysis was done in the qualitative part with the Grand Theory method and in the quantitative part with the partial least squares method. The research findings showed that the consistent international law and determining the precise responsibility for the performance affect the communication policy. The development of communication infrastructures provide the necessary background and the challenge of Starlink satellite internet also plays an intervention role. Finally, the regulation of Starlink satellite internet leads to the facilitation of communication in the age of globalization. The emergence of Starlink satellite internet and its strategic options were analyzed. The results showed that policy-making in this field should not be done with a confrontational approach and a solution based on interaction should be on the agenda. A review of the study and research literature, especially in the country, shows that despite its importance, the issue of satellite internet is less on the agenda of researchers, and in the few studies that have been conducted, the issue of communication policy has not been addressed in any of these researches in this field. It has not been studied and adapted as a unit. Therefore, in this study, an effort will be made to take into account the existing knowledge gap and the discussion of innovation and the review of internal and external research, the existing knowledge gap regarding communication policy and with an emphasis on regulation, because until now, researchers in this particular field of work has not done and has not given an article, the research has been done in terms of the topic and the new approach and collecting information and producing content from this technology is considered as research innovation and from another angle, the innovation of this research is a framework for developing regulations for technology The internet from space is called Starlink. Regarding the challenge of Starlink satellite internet, reduce radio frequency interference by forming joint organizations and mechanisms to deal with cyber threats. In this regard, the development of security culture and technologies and the determination of legal requirements for reporting security breach data will be helpful. Also, relevant managers can reduce the existing challenges to some extent by providing clear and understandable information to users about rights and obligations. Communication policy with emphasis on regulations for Starlink satellite internet has faced a serious challenge due to non-acceptance of the laws of the country by Starlink and the lack of international laws in the field of satellite internet, and the lack of setting standards and guidelines in this area has caused neglect of regulations for Starlink satellite internet. Therefore, it is suggested that by intensifying the penalties for privacy violations and data theft, the path to achieve the goal of communication policy will be facilitated by emphasizing the regulations for Starlink satellite internet. Regarding the regulations for Starlink satellite internet, it is suggested to prevent interference with satellite services by determining the rules and regulations related to frequency spectrum allocation and management. In this regard, it is important to use frequency spectrum resources equitably and of course to align with international laws and domestic laws of the country. The goals of communication policy can be achieved by emphasizing the regulations for Starlink satellite internet by promoting interaction and cooperation between traditional and satellite operators and determining fair tariffs, and determining and regulating competition laws and paying attention to the International Covenant on Civil Rights will be helpful in this regard. And by implementing the aforementioned strategies, achieving goals such as facilitating communication in the era of globalization, increasing internet bandwidth, increasing access to high-speed internet in the world, covering all parts of the planet with Starlink satellite internet, reducing the distance from current satellites, not being specific It will be possible to a specific geographical area and a specific and strictly controlled location. One of the most important cyber issues and concerns of the country in the field of communications is the operationalization of satellite internet in the coming months and years, which seems to have not been given much attention in the country's communications policy, especially in the discussion of the National Information Network. Satellite systems are expanding and with their wide coverage in Iran, they can overshadow the entire national information network at once. If the national information network cannot provide better, cheaper and more diverse services, the national network will be affected by global satellite internet networks, which are mostly American. Of course, what today in this project.

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Study of the Structure and Dissemination Trends of Content Related to Sexual Identity on Persian Twitter (X)

milad abdollahi; sobhan yahyaie

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 05 May 2025

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2025.83405.1787

Abstract

Today, media has become an inseparable part of people's lives, and users spend a significant portion of their time throughout the day on social media, constantly exposed to various ... Read More Today, media has become an inseparable part of people's lives, and users spend a significant portion of their time throughout the day on social media, constantly exposed to various data and information. Unlike traditional media such as television and radio, in modern and social media, it has become easier to create a media wave around various topics on social platforms. Social media, by bringing about fundamental changes in communication and social interaction, has transformed the collective space of the past into the modern individualistic space. In terms of media interaction, the convergence that once prevailed has now turned into divergence, leading to a sense of passivity among users, especially adolescent users (Farahani & Saeed, 2012). However, social networks differ from social media and are considered a subset of social media. By joining social networks, individuals can access other users, become familiar with their interests, share their own text, audio, visual content, etc., and also form groups based on common interests (Afrasiabi, 2014). Today, with technological advancements and the onset of the digital era, social networks have become an important tool for users to shape and represent their individual and social identities. One such social network is Twitter, now renamed X, where users can freely and publicly share their opinions, perspectives, and worldviews on various issues. One of these issues is "sexual identity," which has received considerable representation on this platform and has led to discussions on Twitter. Content related to sexual identity is published in various forms on this network, generating interactions and responses that connect different users through algorithms and create user networks around this issue. On the social network Twitter, now renamed X, the ease of use and the option to remain anonymous have led users to exhibit a certain level of openness in their content production and behavior on the platform. The term "openness in behavior" refers to being unreserved, outspoken, or freely expressing one’s views and opinions in social interactions. For Twitter users, this term refers to posts or comments that are direct, unfiltered, and candid, with little regard for social concerns or constraints. This openness in user behavior on Twitter has enhanced their self-expression, making the "self" they present clearer and more transparent. This self-expression means that users freely and openly share their feelings, views, and personal experiences on Twitter without paying much attention to social restrictions or assumptions. Through openness in behavior and self-expression on Twitter, users have the best opportunity to express and present their personal identity. In general, and based on what has been discussed, it can be stated that individual and social identities are always influenced by various factors such as political, social, cultural, and others. Regarding sexual identity, it can also be said that in different societies, especially in those facing political and social constraints, social networks like Twitter can become a space for self-expression and representation. Due to the lack of political and social restrictions and the existence of an open space for self-expression, Twitter allows various identity groups to discuss and publicly share their identities without the limitations of the real world. As the ability to produce content related to sexual identity increases on the Twitter social network, questions about the formation of user networks, the process of disseminating sexual identity-related content, and the mechanisms for content dissemination on Twitter, as well as its role in the acceptance of different identity groups, also become more prominent. Despite the increase in the publication of sexual identity-related content on Twitter, few studies have systematically analyzed such content. In this research, we aim to use big data analysis to explore how communication networks surrounding sexual identity are formed, how sexual identity-related content is published and reshared on the Twitter platform, and what media waves related to sexual identity have been formed during a specified time period in Persian Twitter, leading to discussions about sexual identity. This research was designed and conducted with the aim of identifying communication networks formed in relation to sexual identity and the process of disseminating content related to sexual identity on the social network Twitter, within the period from March 21, 2023, to August 10, 2024. To achieve the research objectives, two methods were used: big data analysis using the Gephi visualization software and trend research. The results of these two methods identified 78 clusters and show that the data contain 9,361 nodes, 11,454 edges, with a modularity value of 0.858. Additionally, in the trend research method, 9 media waves were identified within the specified time frame. The theory used to analyze the findings was Manuel Castells’ Network Society Theory. According to Castells, it can be said that the Twitter social network creates a new space for the representation of sexual minority groups. By using this platform, sexual minorities have created small, like-minded communities to share and disseminate their experiences. This process allows them to distance themselves from the center and, through establishing communication in the digital space, connect with other users, forming networks based on their interests and beliefs. This leads them to move away from the dominant norms in society and to represent themselves in a space with greater security.

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The state of media literacy of Iranian political elites

abbas asadi; Ahmadreza Masoudi; Ahmad Bahraini

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 09 June 2025

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2025.73669.1561

Abstract

The state of media literacy of Iranian political elites abstract Literacy media, Elite political one From areas, About Neglected remaining is, nowadays From on the one hand Volume ... Read More The state of media literacy of Iranian political elites abstract Literacy media, Elite political one From areas, About Neglected remaining is, nowadays From on the one hand Volume breadth From Contents And Contents At Media I see To About media, social With Target impact On Elite political And other Contents Production done, From Elite political To influence On thoughts General, publish be, That Of course, At every two the face, that's mean What At Production content Or Consumption it, By Elite political, to have Literacy media, above the Very Important is, this Research With Target Check Condition Literacy media, At between Elite political Iran the face taken is, The method used in this research was Delphi, which was conducted in three stages and the form of an in-depth interview. To select the interviewees, parameters such as a long history of presence in the political scene, media activity, ‌especially ‌virtual media, or familiarity with ‌media advertising techniques ‌, party communication, have been taken into consideration. After identifying them, they were invited to interview by sending an invitation letter. Further, by using an in-depth interview and in the form of a panel, the opinions of the participants were evaluated and questioned. In the first round of Delphi Interviews ‌, 16 One of the ‌participants Coding became and 48 subindex From Interviews ‌, To got it At far Second Delphi 48 subindex To Hand came To Specialists and professors of political science and communication Supply became until the At Status item the existence or absence of it among the political elites to declare their opinion and position; And Also amount importance Each Identify the following indicators among the political elites.‌ The findings of the current research were categorized and analyzed into 4 strategies, 12 main indicators, and 48 sub-indices. The strategies were: 1- personal bio strategy 2- bio-organizational strategy 3- bio-communication strategy 4- bio-social strategy. Although different nominal indicators were obtained in the process of interviewing and coding, all the resulting strategies and indicators refer to the basic components of media literacy and the goals and expectations that have been addressed and discussed by scholars in various research. Is; Therefore, in naming ‌these strategies as a functional road map of Iranian political elites, the title of life in measuring media literacy has been used, Media literacy is a means of living in a new ecosystem where today's political elites are engaged in providing political and social activities at the community level. One of the strategies of the ‌upcoming research is "bio-individual strategy" ‌. This strategy deals more with the media literacy ‌of political elites based on analytical understanding ‌. Analytical understanding is one of the ‌basic components in media literacy ‌, which lead ‌ to content production, and finally, through content production, functional and intellectual distinction in media literate elites. ‌"Bio-organizational strategy" is one of the results of acquiring media literacy ‌in the political elites, which mostly refers to the organization, formulation, guidance, and management of ‌media flows ‌and public opinion under the political goals of the country's political elites. "Bio-communication strategy" is one of the ‌most important manifestations of media literacy ‌in political elites. The nature of the extensive communication of politicians in the media environment ‌and the resulting products are included in this strategy. The strategy of "social life" is another important strategy in the study of media literacy ‌of political elites. This strategy looks at ‌different political and social aspects, ‌their roles and functions social and political activities ‌. To increase the media literacy of political elites in four strategies: 1- personal life strategy, 2- organizational life strategy, 3- communication life strategy, and 4- life strategy, the following measures are necessary: Ability Use From Technology Day Including Computer To Processing And Production Information; Ability conclusion ‌, At item Relationships Ali And disabled, between Reports ‌, media And reaction General; Ability diagnose the effect of distortion, stereotyping, Advertising, And Violence At The media‌ visual; Ability diagnosis interpretation And To Existence to bring Pictures visual; Ability Consumption critical And No passive From media; Ability to analyze social, political, And Economic The media‌ Keywords: media literacy, social media, political elites. Ability diagnose the effect of distortion, stereotyping, Advertising, And Violence At The media‌ visual; Ability diagnosis interpretation And To Existence to bring Pictures visual; Ability Consumption critical And No passive From media; Ability to analyze social, political, And Economic The media‌ Keywords: media literacy, social media, political elites.

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Relevant factors in video content virality in social networks from the experts' point of view: the case study of the Iranian Platform Rubika

Mohammad Khezri Moghaddam; Ali Asghar Kia; Mohsen Masoudian

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 15 July 2025

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2025.80131.1715

Abstract

With the advancement of technology and the expansion of the use of the Internet, social networks have become one of the most important means of communication and information exchange ... Read More With the advancement of technology and the expansion of the use of the Internet, social networks have become one of the most important means of communication and information exchange in the modern world. These platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube as global networks and Rubika, Eita and Aparat as Iranian networks, have a special place in daily life and have become a place to communicate with others, share experiences and publish various contents. This research identifies the factors that are effective in the viral spread of content in social networks. Factors such as content value, algorithm intelligence, interaction and user preferences play an important role in this process. In the fifth chapter, a special emphasis has been placed on the irreplaceable role of algorithms and quality content as the source of any viral content. Content production does not necessarily have to be expensive; Rather, it is enough that it is liked by users so that the algorithms try to increase the consumption of users in order to make it viral.In the end, the process of content becoming viral is likened to the flight of a bird, one wing of which is quality content and the other wing is the power of the algorithm. The conditions of the society are also like the weather conditions that can affect the flight. By conducting in-depth interviews with 12 experts and using external and internal sources, this research has investigated and provided solutions for producers and users of social networks.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Identification of the motives of self-displaying users by means of hijab in the Instagram space – a case study of hijab stylists and homemaking bloggers.

Mohsen Masoudian

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 15 February 2026

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2026.83703.1799

Abstract

Introduction and Background: This paper explores the complex and emerging phenomenon of using hijab as a tool for self-expression and identity display on Instagram. While the hijab ... Read More Introduction and Background: This paper explores the complex and emerging phenomenon of using hijab as a tool for self-expression and identity display on Instagram. While the hijab traditionally symbolizes modesty, chastity, and religious commitment in Islamic tradition, in the virtual space, particularly on Instagram, it has transformed into a means of attracting attention, self-promotion, marketing, and even competition. This research investigates and identifies the hidden and apparent motivations of women who use the hijab for these purposes as hijab stylists and stay-at-home bloggers. By examining this apparent contradiction, the paper seeks a deeper understanding of the motivations, challenges, and consequences of this phenomenon in the digital space. Main Issue: The core issue of this research is the contradiction between the traditional concept of hijab as a symbol of modesty and shyness and its modern use as a tool for self-display and attention-seeking on social media. This paper seeks to understand why some women, especially hijab stylists and stay-at-home bloggers, use the hijab as a visual element to attract audiences, promote products and services, and create a personal brand. In other words, this research explores what motivates women to use hijab as a tool for self-expression and earning income, while this covering is often associated with concepts such as lack of self-display and seclusion in religious tradition. Research Methodology: This research employed a qualitative methodology and semi-structured interviews to collect data. Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 25 active Instagram users identified as hijab stylists and stay-at-home bloggers. The interviews were conducted in-depth and in compliance with ethical principles to gain a better understanding of the participants’ motivations, experiences, and viewpoints. Additionally, researchers established a relationship with the participants for at least six months before conducting the interviews to create a safe and friendly environment. The data were analyzed using content analysis to extract the main patterns and themes. Key Findings: The present research identified various motivations behind women using hijab for self-presentation on Instagram, which broadly include: Economic Motivations: Many female participants in the study use Instagram as a marketing tool to generate income. They have achieved financial independence through the virtual space by advertising hijab stylist services, promoting products, and earning advertising revenue. Attracting Attention and Visibility: Another motivation is the need to be seen and attract audience attention. For this purpose, women use hijab as a visual element to attract attention and increase followers by creating attractive and diverse content. Creating and Managing a Digital Identity: Many participants see Instagram as a platform for self-expression and creating a unique digital identity. They try to create differentiation and attract audiences with similar tastes by using hijab and unique clothing styles. Social Confirmation and Increased Self-Confidence: For many participants in this research, receiving likes, positive comments, and positive feedback from the audience acts as a factor in enhancing self-confidence. This social confirmation motivates them to continue their activity in the virtual space. Competition and Differentiation: The women participating in this study are aware of the intense competition that exists on Instagram. For this reason, they are constantly trying to outperform their competitors and attract more audiences by providing innovative and unique content. Cultural and Religious Tensions: Participants in this research face tensions between traditional religious values and modernity. By using hijab as a tool for self-promotion, they are actually offering a redefinition of the concept of hijab. Discussion and Analysis: This research shows that the use of hijab on Instagram is a multi-dimensional phenomenon that cannot be attributed to a single factor. Rather, economic, social, psychological, and cultural motivations play a role in this phenomenon. Furthermore, the results of the research show that the virtual space, especially Instagram, is a platform that can play an important role in redefining religious and cultural concepts. However, this phenomenon can also create tensions and challenges in traditional and religious societies. Conclusion: Ultimately, this research demonstrates that using hijab as a means of self-presentation on Instagram is a complex and multi-layered phenomenon rooted in various motivations. Understanding this phenomenon requires attention to economic, social, cultural, and psychological factors. By presenting its findings, this research can help cultural and religious policymakers, the media, and other stakeholders to have a better understanding of the phenomenon of self-display with hijab in the virtual space and adopt appropriate strategies for its management. This study also emphasizes the importance of further investigation into the impact of social media on the religious and cultural identity of women in different societies.

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Design and Validation of a Modern Media Diplomacy Model to Enhance Public Satisfaction with the IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting)

Seyed fazlollah Ghazavi; Mohammadreza Rasouli; ali geranmayeh pour

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 February 2026

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2026.84101.1808

Abstract

Introduction With the emergence and growth of mass media in the 20th century, especially after World War II, the face of traditional diplomacy has completely changed, and we are faced ... Read More Introduction With the emergence and growth of mass media in the 20th century, especially after World War II, the face of traditional diplomacy has completely changed, and we are faced with a phenomenon called media diplomacy, which is unprecedented in history; because the media, especially television networks and video satellites, practically carry out tasks that ministries and diplomatic missions traditionally carried out, and in many cases even act more powerfully, faster and more effectively. In other words, the national media needs a comprehensive and up-to-date media diplomacy that can, by utilizing technological facilities, present rich, attractive content that is suitable for various segments of society. From a negative perspective, this issue is also very crucial because the continuation of current policies and passivity in the face of changing tastes and the invasion of foreign media and social media will cause people to distance themselves from and become increasingly dissatisfied with the national media, and the people's anger with the Iranian Broadcasting Corporation will have unpleasant consequences both from the perspective of information and from the perspective of education and entertainment. This issue is also important from a research and academic perspective, and the number of studies that have been conducted in these fields is evidence of this claim. However, the fundamental issue from a research perspective is that in the studies conducted, the two categories of "satisfaction with the national media" and "media diplomacy" have been studied separately. An applied research that organizes and weaves these concepts together in the national media space has been neglected from the researchers' perspective. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of filling this research gap. The research contribution and theoretical synergy of the present study is that this study attempts to identify the country's media policy-making structures with the aim of satisfying the audience and explain the pattern of relationships between them, using an exploratory approach based on the views of experienced and expert individuals. The present study answers this key question: What is the paradigmatic model of the national media in gaining public satisfaction through modern media diplomacy? Methodology: This research is philosophically based on the interpretivist paradigm, so a qualitative research strategy and specifically the grounded theory method with an inductive approach was used. It is also a descriptive research in terms of its applied-developmental purpose and in terms of the method and time frame of data collection. The research participants included national media managers in the field of domestic and international news; managers of domestic and international television networks; managers of the IRIB Research Center and professors of the IRIB Faculty and the Faculty of Social Sciences and Communications of Azad University who were aware of the field of media diplomacy. The theoretical sampling method was used and interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved, and finally 22 people participated in this study. The data collection tool was a semi-structured interview and a questionnaire. The paradigmatic model of the research was presented using the grounded theory method and the indicators were prioritized using the fuzzy Sava method. Results and Discussion: Based on the paradigmatic model of the research, it was determined that causal conditions (alignment of national media with global platforms, media literacy, and audience-centeredness) affect the pivotal phenomenon (national media product). The pivotal phenomenon, enabling conditions (national media technological infrastructure), and interventionist conditions (audience aversion) affect strategies and actions (new media diplomacy). Ultimately, strategies and actions lead to outcomes (attracting public satisfaction, national media productivity, and developing national and international communications). Conclusion: In the findings section, the Swara method was used to determine the weight of the indicators of the paradigm model of the national media in gaining public satisfaction through modern media diplomacy. The index of establishing global communications and interactions (S41) was given the first priority with a weight of 0/1262. The index of trust in the content and news provided by the national media (S51) was given the second priority with a weight of 0/1158. The index of producing programs based on the wishes of the audience (S27) was given the third priority with a weight of 0/0934. The index of usefulness of the information provided to the audience (S55) was given the fourth priority with a weight of 0/0889. The index of observing impartiality and fairness in presenting news (S57) was given the fifth priority with a weight of 0/747.

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Information Recognition Knowledge, a Moderator of Iranian Social Media Users' Activism

nahid saadat sirat; Hadi Khaniki

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 19 April 2026

https://doi.org/10.22054/nms.2026.83645.1797

Abstract

Abstract Predicting information sharing by social media users in Iran has various objectives, including their attitudes, experiences, and activism. This article studies the information ... Read More Abstract Predicting information sharing by social media users in Iran has various objectives, including their attitudes, experiences, and activism. This article studies the information sharing behavior of Iranian users on social media and the moderating role of information recognition knowledge. The purpose: of this study is to predict the factors of information sharing by Iranian users and the moderating role of information recognition knowledge in social media. In fact, users' attitudes towards information sharing are influenced by various goals. Understanding these factors can help develop effective strategies to optimize information sharing on social media and lead to improving the quality of shared information. Method: This research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey research in terms of method. The data of this research were collected by distributing an online questionnaire link to more than 697 social network users in Iran using convenience sampling method. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data using IMOS software. Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be said that Iranian users share information through different actions on social media, and at the same time, information recognition knowledge moderates their information sharing. The findings showed that Iranian users share information on social media in pursuit of information search, location search, social relationship creation, metasocial interaction, and group perception, and the knowledge of users to recognize false information reduces the amount of information sharing on social media. Statement of the Problem: Social media act as platforms for exchanging information and establishing connections between people. These platforms allow users to share various information, which can include educational content, entertainment, and even educational and health information. The importance and necessity of the research is that; the way of using social media and the type of content shared can be influenced by the experiences and mental models of users. In this context, the role of information recognition knowledge as a moderator in information sharing behavior has positive and significant effects. People who have a greater ability to evaluate and recognize information tend to share more true content and are less inclined to spread false information. This can lead to improving the quality of shared information and reducing the spread of false news. Information recognition on social platforms plays an important role in moderating the sharing behavior of users on social media. Information detection systems help users to prevent the dissemination of false information by identifying inappropriate and unreliable content, which helps to improve the quality of information. Because the negative effects of sharing poor-quality information can have negative consequences on society. In this regard, users' trust in social platforms and news sources may decrease due to the negative effects of false information. This decrease in trust may lead to a decrease in user interaction and participation in information sharing. Ultimately, information detection is an essential tool for moderating information sharing, which can lead to improving the quality of published content and reducing the negative effects of false and inaccurate information. By adopting effective approaches in this field, we can hope to improve public awareness and build positive collaborations in the social media space. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to predict the factors of information sharing by social media users and the moderating role of information detection knowledge. According to research, various factors such as motivation, concerns, and personality traits of users influence information sharing behavior on social networks. For example, users may share certain content due to personal goals, which can create a different atmosphere for online interactions. Information recognition knowledge refers to the ability of users to identify and evaluate the accuracy and credibility of the information they share. This knowledge helps users to check information before sharing and prevent the spread of false or misleading information. Research has shown that people with higher levels of media literacy are more likely to check the accuracy of information before sharing it (Hernandez et al., 2024:2). In general, predicting information sharing behavior on social media requires attention to various factors that influence this behavior. Several factors can influence information sharing behavior. Among these, we can mention the cognitive ability of users, which can help them identify the authenticity and accuracy of information. Also, the structure and design of social platforms also affect the behavior of users in sharing information. In addition, strengthening the knowledge of information recognition in users can help improve the quality of information that is shared and prevent the spread of misinformation. This will lead to the expansion of awareness and positive interactions in the social media context. Information recognition can effectively moderate information sharing, especially in various fields such as social media and user-generated content. Strong standards and processes in information recognition can improve the quality of information among those who share information and prevent the spread of misinformation. Therefore, the present study focuses on the question of how to predict information sharing by social media users and whether information recognition knowledge can moderate it? The theoretical framework of this study relies on the theory of use and gratification, social influence, and social media site dependence. The findings of this study can deepen our understanding of social media users' activism and provide us with clear strategies. Because in the contemporary world, social media, as one of the key tools, plays a very important role in the formation and development of users' activism. This role has arisen due to the unique capabilities of social media in communicating, exchanging information, and creating the capacity to organize public opinion. The research questions encompass this main objective, namely; predicting the activism of social media users in information sharing and the moderating role of information recognition knowledge. On this basis, an attempt has been made to answer the following questions: 1. Does “information seeking” by users lead to information sharing on social media? 2. Does “location seeking” by users lead to information sharing on social media? 3. Does “social networking”, “extra-social interaction” and “group perception” by users lead to information sharing on social media? 4. Does “information recognition knowledge” by users lead to increased information sharing on social media?

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