Iranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321From Fragmentation to Co-Optimization: A Socio-Technical Thematic Analysis of AI Integration in Media OrganizationsFrom Fragmentation to Co-Optimization: A Socio-Technical Thematic Analysis of AI Integration in Media Organizations116023734410.22034/scm.2025.562888.1978FAZahraSaboornejadPhD Candidate in Communication Studies, Allameh Tabatabai University, Tehran, IranHadiKhanikiFull Professor, Faculty of Communication Sciences, Allameh Tabatabai University, Tehran, IranMostafaTaghaviassociate professor of philosophy of science and technology, Sharif University of TechnologyJournal Article20251129As technological entanglements deepen, media organizations are undergoing a fundamental transformation marked by increasingly complex intersections between human and algorithmic agency. Drawing from 33 peer-reviewed studies, this paper develops a socio-technical synthesis of AI integration, identifying four interrelated subsystems—social, technical, contextual, and interactional—that collectively reshape roles, hierarchies, workflows, and institutional values in media organizations. Grounded in socio-technical systems theory, the study frames ‘co-optimization’ as a conceptual anchor to capture the recursive interplay between human judgment and algorithmic logic in contemporary media environments. Theoretically, the paper reframes AI integration as a dynamic process of mutual adaptation; practically, it offers actionable frameworks for responsible AI governance in journalism and media practice. The findings indicate that AI integration in media organizations is a dynamic, iterative process that involves continuous negotiation across social, technical, and contextual dimensions. The analysis underscores the importance of considering these dimensions to effectively balance the benefits of AI with journalistic integrity and public trust.As technological entanglements deepen, media organizations are undergoing a fundamental transformation marked by increasingly complex intersections between human and algorithmic agency. Drawing from 33 peer-reviewed studies, this paper develops a socio-technical synthesis of AI integration, identifying four interrelated subsystems—social, technical, contextual, and interactional—that collectively reshape roles, hierarchies, workflows, and institutional values in media organizations. Grounded in socio-technical systems theory, the study frames ‘co-optimization’ as a conceptual anchor to capture the recursive interplay between human judgment and algorithmic logic in contemporary media environments. Theoretically, the paper reframes AI integration as a dynamic process of mutual adaptation; practically, it offers actionable frameworks for responsible AI governance in journalism and media practice. The findings indicate that AI integration in media organizations is a dynamic, iterative process that involves continuous negotiation across social, technical, and contextual dimensions. The analysis underscores the importance of considering these dimensions to effectively balance the benefits of AI with journalistic integrity and public trust.https://www.jscm.ir/article_237344_ade0ad25780c5dac2754b2578628c997.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321Determining dimensions of perceived value fostering intention to use local social media in IRANDetermining dimensions of perceived value fostering intention to use local social media in IRAN619123143210.22034/scm.2025.548544.1952FAHamidRezaGhorbani-HasanSaraeiQaS.C., Islamic Azad University0009-0004-2794-1924AliFallahDepartment of Management, No.C., Islamic Azad University, Noor, Iran0000-0002-9662-4138Seyyed AhmadJafari KolarijaniDepartment of Management, QaS.C., Islamic Azad University, Qaemshahr, Iran0000-0003-4302-7388MohammadMolani-AghdamInnovation and Management Research Center, Am.C., Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran0000-0001-8746-338XMeghdadAhmadi MojaveriTajan High Education Institute, Qaemshahr, Mazandaran, Iran0000-0002-9005-3266Journal Article20250921This study intends to determine the main dimensions of the total perceived value in users of local social network systems fostering tendency to be in favor of specific social network service. The applied model in this study is based on utilitarian, hedonic, monetary aspects. Data were collected from 165 SNS users in IRAN. In this study, the data has been analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. According to the results, all hypothesis drawing relationship between antecedents and second order construct of perceived value are approved with hedonic or emotion-oriented facets of perceived value reflecting the most the development of perceived value when it comes to social network media, while ease of use facet dimension of utilitarian aspect making the least significant contribution in determining total perceived value. Besides, the salient facet of the aesthetic experience has been investigated in current study and it has proven as a reflective dimension of total perceived value.This study intends to determine the main dimensions of the total perceived value in users of local social network systems fostering tendency to be in favor of specific social network service. The applied model in this study is based on utilitarian, hedonic, monetary aspects. Data were collected from 165 SNS users in IRAN. In this study, the data has been analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. According to the results, all hypothesis drawing relationship between antecedents and second order construct of perceived value are approved with hedonic or emotion-oriented facets of perceived value reflecting the most the development of perceived value when it comes to social network media, while ease of use facet dimension of utilitarian aspect making the least significant contribution in determining total perceived value. Besides, the salient facet of the aesthetic experience has been investigated in current study and it has proven as a reflective dimension of total perceived value.https://www.jscm.ir/article_231432_bc823636c7def9dee0774941b69923d5.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321Communication Aspects of Managers' Authentic Leadership Competencies: A Meta-Synthesis StudyCommunication Aspects of Managers' Authentic Leadership Competencies: A Meta-Synthesis Study9314322297710.22034/scm.2025.512809.1865FAGhodsiBayatAssociate Professor, Public Relations Department, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-5564-4802LadanHajianvariDepartment of Educational Sciences, Farhangian University, Zanjan, Iran.0009-0009-6086-4744AbbasRamezaniDepartment of Educational Administration, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran.0000-0002-1634-3708Seyed VahabOmat MohammadiM.A Student in Public Relations, Industry and Commerce major, Public Relations Department, Faculty of Communication Sciences, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran.0009-0008-9106-5489Journal Article20250316The current study aimed to identify and present a model of authentic leadership competencies for managers, with a particular emphasis on their communication aspects. Authentic leadership, as an emerging leadership style, is based on the model proposed by Walumbwa et al. (2008) and encompasses four key components: self-awareness, relational transparency, balanced information processing, and an internalized ethical perspective. These components are rooted in humanism and form the conceptual framework of this study. This research was conducted using the meta-synthesis method and the seven-step approach outlined by Sandelowski and Barroso. Among the 2,659 identified articles, 24 documents published between 2010 and 2024 were selected for examination using a content analysis strategy. The findings indicate that the communication aspects of managers' authentic leadership competencies can be categorized into five areas: Self-awareness (including critical reflection, awareness of opportunities and limitations, and self-actualization), Balanced processing (encompassing expectation, active listening, and prioritizing organizational benefits over personal interests), Relationship transparency (focusing on honesty and effective communication), Internalized moral perspective (adhering to personal values and a moral compass), and Creating a positive work environment (which involves enhancing employee satisfaction and qualitative development, attention to employee needs, and balanced psychological traits). These competencies empower managers to effectively promote the organization's image and achieve its goals by building trust, maintaining positive relationships, and providing accurate and transparent information. The results of this study can serve as a guide for developing training programs and evaluating the performance of managers, particularly those in public relations.The current study aimed to identify and present a model of authentic leadership competencies for managers, with a particular emphasis on their communication aspects. Authentic leadership, as an emerging leadership style, is based on the model proposed by Walumbwa et al. (2008) and encompasses four key components: self-awareness, relational transparency, balanced information processing, and an internalized ethical perspective. These components are rooted in humanism and form the conceptual framework of this study. This research was conducted using the meta-synthesis method and the seven-step approach outlined by Sandelowski and Barroso. Among the 2,659 identified articles, 24 documents published between 2010 and 2024 were selected for examination using a content analysis strategy. The findings indicate that the communication aspects of managers' authentic leadership competencies can be categorized into five areas: Self-awareness (including critical reflection, awareness of opportunities and limitations, and self-actualization), Balanced processing (encompassing expectation, active listening, and prioritizing organizational benefits over personal interests), Relationship transparency (focusing on honesty and effective communication), Internalized moral perspective (adhering to personal values and a moral compass), and Creating a positive work environment (which involves enhancing employee satisfaction and qualitative development, attention to employee needs, and balanced psychological traits). These competencies empower managers to effectively promote the organization's image and achieve its goals by building trust, maintaining positive relationships, and providing accurate and transparent information. The results of this study can serve as a guide for developing training programs and evaluating the performance of managers, particularly those in public relations.https://www.jscm.ir/article_222977_3f9d54bb0175a193d37775797329aea1.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321Explaining the lifestyle of young girls in Tehran on InstagramExplaining the lifestyle of young girls in Tehran on Instagram14517922649410.22034/scm.2025.536858.1931FAMaryamAlam MalekiPhD student in Social Communication Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, East Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran"MandanaSanieeAssistant Professor of Social Communication Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, East Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran.Journal Article20250724The methodological approach of this study was mixed and sequential. The sample size in the qualitative section was 24 young girls in Tehran. The theoretical coding method was used for data mining, which aims to achieve the main and secondary categories in order to set the theoretical model. The results of the study show that the central phenomenon is lifestyle, which is based on causal conditions, background conditions, intervening conditions, and strategies. According to the findings of the present study, the ten main categories of how to use Instagram, fluidity of consumption, dramatic consumption, individualism, change in taste, virtual hedonism, body management, fluid identification on Instagram, body management, and the tendency to blog are the completion of the research paradigm model chain. Also, in the quantitative method section, the survey type, data collection techniques were set using a questionnaire derived from the theoretical model of Grand Theory, and the sample size was 320 young girls in Tehran. The findings of the present study confirm the results of the qualitative section.The methodological approach of this study was mixed and sequential. The sample size in the qualitative section was 24 young girls in Tehran. The theoretical coding method was used for data mining, which aims to achieve the main and secondary categories in order to set the theoretical model. The results of the study show that the central phenomenon is lifestyle, which is based on causal conditions, background conditions, intervening conditions, and strategies. According to the findings of the present study, the ten main categories of how to use Instagram, fluidity of consumption, dramatic consumption, individualism, change in taste, virtual hedonism, body management, fluid identification on Instagram, body management, and the tendency to blog are the completion of the research paradigm model chain. Also, in the quantitative method section, the survey type, data collection techniques were set using a questionnaire derived from the theoretical model of Grand Theory, and the sample size was 320 young girls in Tehran. The findings of the present study confirm the results of the qualitative section.https://www.jscm.ir/article_226494_cfe52949eca0eb1c60659caf124e9aae.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321The Consequences of the Transformation of Global Power Balance on the Process of Peace and Security in the Middle East in the Era of GlobalizationThe Consequences of the Transformation of Global Power Balance on the Process of Peace and Security in the Middle East in the Era of Globalization18120923187810.22034/scm.2025.547918.1949FAMohsenGhorbaniPhD Candidate, Department of Political Science, International Relations Major, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran.Mohammad MehdiJavdani MoghadamAssociate Professor, Department of International Relations, Imam Sadeq University, Tehran, IranDavoodKianiAssociate Professor, Department of Political Science, International Relations Orientation, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, IranJournal Article20250918During the transition of the international environment from the flexible bipolar system (1945-1990), the concept of strategic alignment faced fundamental challenges in international relations. The traditional balance of power, defined for Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries within the prevailing atmosphere, was redefined in the 20th century as an arms race and hardware competition between the two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union. With the transformation of the bipolar system and the fundamental shift in the structure of international rules and relations since the 1990s, the crisis of authority legitimacy emerged. The key factor that exacerbated the perplexity of hard power in strategic alignments across the world and regions is the process of globalization. The globalization of information and communication led to increased transparency of power, heightened demands, and accountability of transnational, subnational, and lateral power structures. The 21st century world faces divergence across all domains of power, which has contributed to intra-structural crises within political units in regions such as the Middle East. The prevailing conditions of the 21st century have transformed the perception of power concepts in all spheres.During the transition of the international environment from the flexible bipolar system (1945-1990), the concept of strategic alignment faced fundamental challenges in international relations. The traditional balance of power, defined for Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries within the prevailing atmosphere, was redefined in the 20th century as an arms race and hardware competition between the two superpowers, the United States and the Soviet Union. With the transformation of the bipolar system and the fundamental shift in the structure of international rules and relations since the 1990s, the crisis of authority legitimacy emerged. The key factor that exacerbated the perplexity of hard power in strategic alignments across the world and regions is the process of globalization. The globalization of information and communication led to increased transparency of power, heightened demands, and accountability of transnational, subnational, and lateral power structures. The 21st century world faces divergence across all domains of power, which has contributed to intra-structural crises within political units in regions such as the Middle East. The prevailing conditions of the 21st century have transformed the perception of power concepts in all spheres.https://www.jscm.ir/article_231878_164b0f6df657cbb2152426ee44a8edc3.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321Analyzing the activism of Kurdish discussion groups in WhatsApp and ETA social networksAnalyzing the activism of Kurdish discussion groups in WhatsApp and ETA social networks21124323598810.22034/scm.2025.536092.1927FASeyed AliMosavi MirkalaeePhD student in Cultural Sociology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.0009-0005-4697-6863HosinAga JaniAssistant Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran(Corresponding Author)AsemehGhasemeiAssistant Professor, Department of social science, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IranJournal Article20250721The present study examines the way Iranian Kurds talk groups act in WhatsApp and ETA social networks. The research paradigm is interpretive and its approach is qualitative. ase study strategy was used to conduct the research and qualitative content analysis method was used to analyze the data.In this research, Kurdish activists living in Kurdistan who are active in WhatsApp and Ita social networks in 1403 were elected. Sampling continued until the desired questions reached theoretical saturation.The interview was analyzed with thematic analysis and with the help of MAXQDA software.The analysis of the test data was also done in two descriptive and inferential categories, Based on the results, it was determined that the activism of the online audience, (collectivism), ngaging and reacting and announcing and publishing) has the largest volume of activities and also the largest number of users, also the activities related to social activism among other activism among the Kurds have a wider range.the findings show that the Kurdish activists of Kurdistan suffer from five political and security challenges,digital, activist culture, economic and communication.he findings show that Kurdish activists of Kurdistan, to introduce their ethnic culture in social networks, from10 mechanisms of informing and disseminating news, training, raising awareness, strengthening communication function,strengthening social power, producing knowledge and content, advertising, targeted measurement, They use streaming and alternative media, شnd in the end, the Kurdish activists of Kurdistan pointed out 3 basic components among the components of ethnic identity in social network activists, which include value elements,cognitive elements and emotional elementsThe present study examines the way Iranian Kurds talk groups act in WhatsApp and ETA social networks. The research paradigm is interpretive and its approach is qualitative. ase study strategy was used to conduct the research and qualitative content analysis method was used to analyze the data.In this research, Kurdish activists living in Kurdistan who are active in WhatsApp and Ita social networks in 1403 were elected. Sampling continued until the desired questions reached theoretical saturation.The interview was analyzed with thematic analysis and with the help of MAXQDA software.The analysis of the test data was also done in two descriptive and inferential categories, Based on the results, it was determined that the activism of the online audience, (collectivism), ngaging and reacting and announcing and publishing) has the largest volume of activities and also the largest number of users, also the activities related to social activism among other activism among the Kurds have a wider range.the findings show that the Kurdish activists of Kurdistan suffer from five political and security challenges,digital, activist culture, economic and communication.he findings show that Kurdish activists of Kurdistan, to introduce their ethnic culture in social networks, from10 mechanisms of informing and disseminating news, training, raising awareness, strengthening communication function,strengthening social power, producing knowledge and content, advertising, targeted measurement, They use streaming and alternative media, شnd in the end, the Kurdish activists of Kurdistan pointed out 3 basic components among the components of ethnic identity in social network activists, which include value elements,cognitive elements and emotional elementshttps://www.jscm.ir/article_235988_1945ee4026cbe3339a6e803ef0c6b243.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321Soft Power, Hard Sanctions: Reassessing the Role of Media in Delegitimizing or Legitimizing the Snapback Against IranSoft Power, Hard Sanctions: Reassessing the Role of Media in Delegitimizing or Legitimizing the Snapback Against Iran24529424090510.22034/scm.2026.559554.1970FAHosseinSartipiPNUJournal Article20251113The reimposition of United Nations Security Council sanctions on Iran through the “snapback mechanism” was not merely a legal or political development, but a site of intense narrative contestation and an arena for the deployment of soft power by major international actors. This study examines how media—central instruments in shaping global public perception and constructing legitimacy—either contributed to delegitimizing or legitimizing the snapback procedure against Iran, and how these mediated representations influenced the interpretation of international law and state practice.<br><br><br><br>The theoretical framework is grounded in three pillars: the concept of legitimacy in international law and its role in the functioning of Security Council resolutions; the dynamics of soft power and the media’s capacity to form collective perceptions of legitimacy; and the critical media traditions within communication studies that reveal how narratives structure international political meaning.<br><br><br><br>Methodologically, the study adopts an analytical–comparative approach, drawing on legal documents, official statements, Security Council practice, and discourse analysis of international and regional media. The findings demonstrate that media coverage—particularly within Western outlets—did not merely mirror legal disputes surrounding the validity of restoring sanctions. Rather, media narratives played a constitutive role in shaping political expectations, influencing legal reasoning, and framing the broader understanding of international obligations.<br><br><br><br>The study concludes that in the post-truth era, legal legitimacy cannot be sustained without media legitimacy, and that sanctions lacking a coherent soft-power narrative risk diminished credibility and effectiveness. The paper ends with normative and practical recommendations for strengthening Iran’s legal and communicative positioning within global public discourse.The reimposition of United Nations Security Council sanctions on Iran through the “snapback mechanism” was not merely a legal or political development, but a site of intense narrative contestation and an arena for the deployment of soft power by major international actors. This study examines how media—central instruments in shaping global public perception and constructing legitimacy—either contributed to delegitimizing or legitimizing the snapback procedure against Iran, and how these mediated representations influenced the interpretation of international law and state practice.<br><br><br><br>The theoretical framework is grounded in three pillars: the concept of legitimacy in international law and its role in the functioning of Security Council resolutions; the dynamics of soft power and the media’s capacity to form collective perceptions of legitimacy; and the critical media traditions within communication studies that reveal how narratives structure international political meaning.<br><br><br><br>Methodologically, the study adopts an analytical–comparative approach, drawing on legal documents, official statements, Security Council practice, and discourse analysis of international and regional media. The findings demonstrate that media coverage—particularly within Western outlets—did not merely mirror legal disputes surrounding the validity of restoring sanctions. Rather, media narratives played a constitutive role in shaping political expectations, influencing legal reasoning, and framing the broader understanding of international obligations.<br><br><br><br>The study concludes that in the post-truth era, legal legitimacy cannot be sustained without media legitimacy, and that sanctions lacking a coherent soft-power narrative risk diminished credibility and effectiveness. The paper ends with normative and practical recommendations for strengthening Iran’s legal and communicative positioning within global public discourse.https://www.jscm.ir/article_240905_132b2af25f97a32ee172dd1d0d3e6099.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321Iranian bloggers' narratives of representing citizenship power on Instagram (a qualitative study)Iranian bloggers' narratives of representing citizenship power on Instagram (a qualitative study)29133124222910.22034/scm.2026.578815.1998FAElmiraSharifimoghadamDepartment of Social Communication Sciences, NT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IranSeyed AliRahmanadehDepartment of Social Communication Sciences, NT.C., Islamic Azad,, University Tehran, IranLeilaNiroomandDepartment of Social Communication Sciences, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.Journal Article20260221The present study seeks to conduct a qualitative study of the representation of citizen power on Instagram based on the narratives of Iranian bloggers. The research method was virtual ethnography and in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 bloggers using a judgmental sampling method. The results of the present study showed that citizen power on Instagram, based on the narratives of Iranian bloggers, is manifested in the form of 6 main themes as follows: 1. Victim citizen; The victim citizen's experience includes a sense of humiliation, a sense of rejection, and a sense of inferiority. 2. Demanding citizen; which is expressed in the form of three themes of the right to speak, meaning freedom of expression, the right to demand, and the right to be seen. 3. Observing citizen; is based on three themes of social responsibility, the formation of civil society, and the existence of campaigns. 4. Critical citizen; The main components of the critical citizen are: criticism of existing policies in the country, criticism of various programs, and criticism of the methods of implementing policies and programs. 5. Resistant citizen (symbolic resistance); The basic themes that constitute the resistant citizen are: ignoring official policies, confronting the existing official order, and replacing them. 6. Network citizen; which is defined in the form of three themes:The present study seeks to conduct a qualitative study of the representation of citizen power on Instagram based on the narratives of Iranian bloggers. The research method was virtual ethnography and in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 bloggers using a judgmental sampling method. The results of the present study showed that citizen power on Instagram, based on the narratives of Iranian bloggers, is manifested in the form of 6 main themes as follows: 1. Victim citizen; The victim citizen's experience includes a sense of humiliation, a sense of rejection, and a sense of inferiority. 2. Demanding citizen; which is expressed in the form of three themes of the right to speak, meaning freedom of expression, the right to demand, and the right to be seen. 3. Observing citizen; is based on three themes of social responsibility, the formation of civil society, and the existence of campaigns. 4. Critical citizen; The main components of the critical citizen are: criticism of existing policies in the country, criticism of various programs, and criticism of the methods of implementing policies and programs. 5. Resistant citizen (symbolic resistance); The basic themes that constitute the resistant citizen are: ignoring official policies, confronting the existing official order, and replacing them. 6. Network citizen; which is defined in the form of three themes:https://www.jscm.ir/article_242229_487a9a62da289987397397ae34f6bab1.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321Media Representation: The Role of Media In Establishing and Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes (A Study of Television Films on Gilan Local Network)Media Representation: The Role of Media In Establishing and Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes (A Study of Television Films on Gilan Local Network)33336724253210.22034/scm.2026.564998.1983FAZahraKhandan ChoubariM.S in Sociology. University of GuilanRezaMasoumiradگیلان(نویسنده مسئول)
Assistant Professor of Sociology, Department of Social Sciences, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Guilan (Corresponding Author).0000-0003-4035-229XAliYaqoubi ChoubariAssociate Professor of Sociology, Department of Social Sciences, University of Guilan.Journal Article20251208The media is one of the ways of representing and constructing the world for the audience, which if they repeat it over time and in different forms, they can turn that representation into a stereotype. The purpose of this research is to investigate the way of gender representation in television movies, for which qualitative content analysis method was used. The community under investigation is four TV movies produced by the local network of Guilan with the names "Flame in the Wind", "The Prize", "Sun after the Rain" and "Roja". These four movies were among the most popular movies of the local network of Guilan, which were selected by the purposeful sampling method. The findings of the research, which were analyzed from the theoretical point of view of Connell and Tuchman, showed that all the four films under review represented gender stereotypes to different degrees. The film "The Sun After the Rain" and "Flame in the Wind" represent most of the traditional, hegemonic representations. The film "The Prize" is a combination of tradition and innovation in the representation of gender. And the movie "Roja" also tried to portray the existing resistances against gender stereotypes. These works are often evaluated as reproducing and stabilizing gender stereotypes, but nevertheless, in some works, changing trends in gender identities are depicted.The media is one of the ways of representing and constructing the world for the audience, which if they repeat it over time and in different forms, they can turn that representation into a stereotype. The purpose of this research is to investigate the way of gender representation in television movies, for which qualitative content analysis method was used. The community under investigation is four TV movies produced by the local network of Guilan with the names "Flame in the Wind", "The Prize", "Sun after the Rain" and "Roja". These four movies were among the most popular movies of the local network of Guilan, which were selected by the purposeful sampling method. The findings of the research, which were analyzed from the theoretical point of view of Connell and Tuchman, showed that all the four films under review represented gender stereotypes to different degrees. The film "The Sun After the Rain" and "Flame in the Wind" represent most of the traditional, hegemonic representations. The film "The Prize" is a combination of tradition and innovation in the representation of gender. And the movie "Roja" also tried to portray the existing resistances against gender stereotypes. These works are often evaluated as reproducing and stabilizing gender stereotypes, but nevertheless, in some works, changing trends in gender identities are depicted.https://www.jscm.ir/article_242532_552d65b6e9616642fd0217dc7f8361bd.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321Analysis of Edutainment Television Programs for Adolescents on IRIB (1981–2024)Analysis of Edutainment Television Programs for Adolescents on IRIB (1981–2024)36940224429710.22034/scm.2026.564482.1982FAAzamAli EsfahaniDepartment of Media Management, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IranFatemehAzizabadi FarahaniDepartment of Cultural and Media Management, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran (Corresponding Author)0000-0002-1839-7726AtaollahAbtahi,Department of Media Management, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IranSeyed AbdolahSajjady JagharghDepartment of Media Management, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran0000-0003-2903-5795Journal Article20251206Over the past five decades, edutainment has emerged as a novel paradigm in global television program production, combining educational and recreational objectives and, in addition to filling leisure time, contributing to the enhancement of adolescents’ cognition, knowledge, and skills. This study aims to identify and interpret the underlying themes and meaningful patterns in Iranian television edutainment programs specifically designed for adolescents during the period from 1981 to 2024 (1360–1403 in the Iranian calendar). The research is qualitative and descriptive–analytical, conducted using library studies and an inductive thematic analysis approach. The data consisted of 37 written sources related to prominent edutainment programs, which were categorized into 165 initial codes and analyzed within 8 sub-themes and 2 main themes.<br><br>The findings indicate that, regarding the main structural theme, programs have evolved from simple and one-way formats to hybrid, magazine-style, and interactive forms. In terms of the main content theme, the focus has shifted from teaching basic norms and ethics toward identity formation, realistic role modeling, reflecting social concerns, and fostering adolescent agency. The overall outcome of these transformations suggests a transition of media from a guiding and instructive role to a meaningful, participatory, and action-oriented platform for adolescents.Over the past five decades, edutainment has emerged as a novel paradigm in global television program production, combining educational and recreational objectives and, in addition to filling leisure time, contributing to the enhancement of adolescents’ cognition, knowledge, and skills. This study aims to identify and interpret the underlying themes and meaningful patterns in Iranian television edutainment programs specifically designed for adolescents during the period from 1981 to 2024 (1360–1403 in the Iranian calendar). The research is qualitative and descriptive–analytical, conducted using library studies and an inductive thematic analysis approach. The data consisted of 37 written sources related to prominent edutainment programs, which were categorized into 165 initial codes and analyzed within 8 sub-themes and 2 main themes.<br><br>The findings indicate that, regarding the main structural theme, programs have evolved from simple and one-way formats to hybrid, magazine-style, and interactive forms. In terms of the main content theme, the focus has shifted from teaching basic norms and ethics toward identity formation, realistic role modeling, reflecting social concerns, and fostering adolescent agency. The overall outcome of these transformations suggests a transition of media from a guiding and instructive role to a meaningful, participatory, and action-oriented platform for adolescents.https://www.jscm.ir/article_244297_40d353d9d0a7dcf8f65d123034f08ffe.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321The Effectiveness of Sociology in Addressing Social Problems and Crises in Iran: Perspectives of Sociological Elites and ExpertsThe Effectiveness of Sociology in Addressing Social Problems and Crises in Iran: Perspectives of Sociological Elites and Experts40343624518410.22034/scm.2026.544316.1943FAMohammadAlipourPhD student0009-0004-2254-2502BijanKhajeNouriFaculty MemberJahangirJahangiriFaculty memberHalimeEnayatFaculty memberJournal Article20250923This study analyzes the role and position of sociology in addressing social problems and crises in Iran, with a particular focus on the factors shaping its effectiveness. The theoretical framework integrates three strands of literature: public sociology, institutional theories, and the sociology of crisis. The research employed a qualitative approach and thematic analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 35 sociology professors, university lecturers, and members or directors of specialized groups within the Iranian Sociological Association. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, followed by a theoretical sampling logic until saturation was reached. <br><br>The findings indicate that the effectiveness of sociology in Iran is constrained by five interrelated themes: the epistemic disconnection of sociology from the Iranian context, the weakness of problem-oriented sociological training, institutional limitations and declining academic autonomy, the detachment of sociology from the public sphere and civil society, and the weak linkage between sociology, policymaking, and crisis management. The analysis shows that these themes do not operate separately; rather, they form an interconnected and mutually reinforcing pattern that limits sociology’s capacity to understand, explain, and intervene in social crises. The study concludes that enhancing the effectiveness of sociology in Iran requires simultaneous transformation at three levels: epistemic, institutional, and public-policy. This entails producing context-sensitive knowledge, strengthening the relative autonomy of academic institutions, and expanding a critical, problem-oriented form of public sociology.<br><br>Keywords: Public sociology; effectiveness of sociology; academic autonomy; indigenous sociology; social crises; social policy.This study analyzes the role and position of sociology in addressing social problems and crises in Iran, with a particular focus on the factors shaping its effectiveness. The theoretical framework integrates three strands of literature: public sociology, institutional theories, and the sociology of crisis. The research employed a qualitative approach and thematic analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 35 sociology professors, university lecturers, and members or directors of specialized groups within the Iranian Sociological Association. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, followed by a theoretical sampling logic until saturation was reached. <br><br>The findings indicate that the effectiveness of sociology in Iran is constrained by five interrelated themes: the epistemic disconnection of sociology from the Iranian context, the weakness of problem-oriented sociological training, institutional limitations and declining academic autonomy, the detachment of sociology from the public sphere and civil society, and the weak linkage between sociology, policymaking, and crisis management. The analysis shows that these themes do not operate separately; rather, they form an interconnected and mutually reinforcing pattern that limits sociology’s capacity to understand, explain, and intervene in social crises. The study concludes that enhancing the effectiveness of sociology in Iran requires simultaneous transformation at three levels: epistemic, institutional, and public-policy. This entails producing context-sensitive knowledge, strengthening the relative autonomy of academic institutions, and expanding a critical, problem-oriented form of public sociology.<br><br>Keywords: Public sociology; effectiveness of sociology; academic autonomy; indigenous sociology; social crises; social policy.https://www.jscm.ir/article_245184_daf60527ed9fbd1192af3a065ad04188.pdfIranian Association of Cultural Studies & CommunicationSociety Culture Media2322-3855155820260321An Analysis of Institutional Formation, Vulnerabilities, and Governance Challenges of Online Audio-Visual Platforms in IranAn Analysis of Institutional Formation, Vulnerabilities, and Governance Challenges of Online Audio-Visual Platforms in Iran43746724704810.22034/scm.2026.586477.2023FAAbdolrahimGhaseminejadPh.D. Student, Department of Social Communication Sciences, Faculty of Literature, Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-4405-9827AfsanehMozaffariAssociate Professor, Department of Communication and Information Studies, Faculty of Literature, Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Research, Branch, Islamic Azad University.Tehran,Iran0000-0003-3855-7552AbdolkarimKhayamiAssistant Professor, Department of Communication and Media, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Culture and Communication, Imam ,Sadiq University (AS).Tehran, IranMohammadsadeqNasrollahiAssociate Professor, Department of Culture and Government, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Culture and Communication, Imam Sadiq University (AS). Tehran, Iran.0000-0002-7486-0121Journal Article20260613The rapid evolution of communication technologies and the expansion of digital platforms have introduced new challenges to media governance systems across countries. In Iran, the growth of online audio‑visual services and the emergence of video‑on‑demand (VOD) platforms have highlighted the need to reconsider existing media regulatory mechanisms. This study aims to identify and analyze the challenges and vulnerabilities of the regulatory system governing pervasive audio‑visual services in Iran. The research adopts a qualitative content analysis approach based on documentary data, including expert discussions, policy documents, and published statements by stakeholders in this field. The data corpus encompasses perspectives from regulatory authorities, policymakers, private‑sector actors, and media scholars. The findings indicate that the regulatory system for pervasive audio‑visual services in Iran faces multi‑level challenges that can be categorized into seven main groups: perceptual challenges related to understanding technological developments and media convergence; legal challenges arising from conceptual ambiguity and the absence of comprehensive legislation; structural challenges associated with potential conflicts of interest and the limited independence of the regulatory body; functional challenges concerning transparency and stakeholder participation; economic and market‑related challenges; cultural and content‑related challenges; and challenges related to relationships among actors within the media ecosystem. The results suggest that the persistence of these challenges may limit the effectiveness of the regulatory system and hinder the development of the digital media industry. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these vulnerabilities can provide a basis for rethinking media governance models in the era of digital platforms.The rapid evolution of communication technologies and the expansion of digital platforms have introduced new challenges to media governance systems across countries. In Iran, the growth of online audio‑visual services and the emergence of video‑on‑demand (VOD) platforms have highlighted the need to reconsider existing media regulatory mechanisms. This study aims to identify and analyze the challenges and vulnerabilities of the regulatory system governing pervasive audio‑visual services in Iran. The research adopts a qualitative content analysis approach based on documentary data, including expert discussions, policy documents, and published statements by stakeholders in this field. The data corpus encompasses perspectives from regulatory authorities, policymakers, private‑sector actors, and media scholars. The findings indicate that the regulatory system for pervasive audio‑visual services in Iran faces multi‑level challenges that can be categorized into seven main groups: perceptual challenges related to understanding technological developments and media convergence; legal challenges arising from conceptual ambiguity and the absence of comprehensive legislation; structural challenges associated with potential conflicts of interest and the limited independence of the regulatory body; functional challenges concerning transparency and stakeholder participation; economic and market‑related challenges; cultural and content‑related challenges; and challenges related to relationships among actors within the media ecosystem. The results suggest that the persistence of these challenges may limit the effectiveness of the regulatory system and hinder the development of the digital media industry. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these vulnerabilities can provide a basis for rethinking media governance models in the era of digital platforms.https://www.jscm.ir/article_247048_3e8b50f08dd20c7819d11fb41a59d334.pdf