factors affecting the stability of the families of the employees of the Ports and Maritime Organization

The aim of this study was to identify the factors affecting the stability of the families of employees of the Ports and Maritime Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran.This research was done with a qualitative approach and phenomenological method. The sample consisted of seven couples from the families of employees working on oil tankers in the open seas of the Persian Gulf and Oman in 1399 who were selected by purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. Data analysis was performed using Klaizi phenomenological analysis method.Findings showed that the factors affecting the sustainability of these families are in 3 main themes of individual factors (including sub-themes of psychological empowerment, ethics and meaningful busyness), Couple factors (including sub-themes of lovemaking, support, responsible participation, resolving constructive conflict, and adopting a constructive attitude toward the relationship) and "extramarital factors" that indicate extra-familial family resources.The results show that the emphasis on the special characteristics of a stable family in the form of Iranian-Islamic culture, which emphasizes moderate collectivism, spiritual-religious confrontation, social supports, self-sacrifice and avoidance of humanist individualism are prominent features of the stability of marriage.Therefore, it is suggested to use the findings of the present study in planning and preventive and intervention measures to strengthen these families