A Woman between the Sky and Earth: An Ethnographic Study of the Lives of Abandoned Women and Their Understanding of Abandonment in the Cultural Context of One of the Marginal Neighborhoods of Isfahan City

Family institution is undeniably one of the most crucial and influential aspects of human life, shaping our present and future. Over the years, we have witnessed significant developments within the realm of family dynamics. Among the vulnerable families, there exists a subgroup known as disordered families. These families struggle to fulfill the basic functions and meet the essential needs of their children, including material, emotional, sexual, and socialization needs. Due to the inherent nature of family institution as the smallest social unit, disordered families are particularly susceptible to social harm. One specific group of vulnerable families that has received limited attention and lacks comprehensive scientific studies, both domestically and internationally, is that, in which the female head of the household has been abandoned by the father for various reasons. In this research, we aimed to investigate the lives of abandoned women within the cultural context of a suburban area in Isfahan City. By understanding the cultural nuances of this neighborhood and comprehending the experiences of abandoned women through the lens of suspension within this cultural context, we could gain valuable insights into their circumstances. The choice of this particular cultural context for our study stemmed from the preliminary observations made by the researcher. It became apparent that a significant number of abandoned women resided in this neighborhood with drug addiction being a prevalent reason for their abandonment by their husbands. This research sought to shed light on the lives of these women, their challenges, and the impact of abandonment on their overall well-being. By addressing this understudied issue, we could contribute to a better understanding of the complexities surrounding abandoned women and potentially develop interventions to support them in rebuilding their lives.

This study employed a qualitative approach, specifically utilizing an ethnographic method. The data collection process involved conducting semi-structured interviews and non-participatory observations with a sample of 21 abandoned women residing in the Joyabad Khomeini Neighborhood of Isfahan. The selection of participants was based on a combined purposive sampling approach, which incorporated snowball sampling and acute case sampling methods. Thematic analysis was employed as the data analysis technique, involving coding at 4 levels: first, second, third, and superior level codes. To ensure validity, two control measures were implemented. Firstly, member-checking was conducted, where the selected participants were asked to review and provide feedback on the analyzed findings, concepts, and categories. Secondly, a scientific peer review was employed to further validate the findings.

The findings of this research shed light on the experiences of abandoned women within the cultural context of this neighborhood. It was evident that the family structure of the abandoned women was highly vulnerable with a significant risk of collapse. The absence of the father figure had torn these families apart, leaving the wives and children to face numerous challenges.The cultural context of this neighborhood with its strong adherence to traditional values and customs had further complicated the situation for these abandoned women. The prevalence of addiction and drug-related issues in this harmful context posed a significant threat to the residents. The families of the abandoned women, particularly the children, were among the most affected groups in this neighborhood, susceptible to falling into the trap of injuries and deviations.Understanding the conditions of abandonment within this cultural context, it was clear that the abandoned women perceived their situation with a range of negative emotions. These included distress, confusion, indecision, doubt, despair, dislike of their husbands, mental and physical turmoil, a sense of destruction and burning of life, mental and psychological helplessness, a sense of displacement and fatigue, and longing for a different life. These perceptions could be attributed to the trauma of abandonment, which had deeply affected these women.In conclusion, it is crucial to address the challenges faced by abandoned women and their families to prevent further negative consequences. Efforts should be made to provide support, interventions, and resources to help these women overcome the trauma of abandonment and rebuild their lives in a healthier and more fulfilling manner. By addressing the underlying issues and providing the necessary assistance, we can work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive community for abandoned women.