Document Type : Scientific-Research
Authors
1 Assistant Professor in Demography, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
2 Department of sociology at University of Kurdistan
3 M.A. in Sociology, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic imposed unprecedented challenges globally, significantly impacting various social aspects. This qualitative study delves into the experiences of couples in Sanandaj, Iran, who were planning to get married during the peak of the pandemic. Through in-depth interviews with 10 couples conducted in 2020-2021, six primary themes emerged: environmental and situational constraints, psychological and cultural factors, concerns, alternative meanings for postponed events, social relationships, and lifestyle changes. Findings indicate that a combination of environmental and psychological factors, coupled with anxieties stemming from the pandemic's consequences, led individuals to make rational decisions regarding whether to proceed with, postpone, or cancel their wedding celebrations. The outcomes of these decisions manifested in altered social relationships and limited kinship networks. Furthermore, the study revealed the suppression of personal desires and aspirations, such as wearing a wedding dress for brides. In response, participants sought to substitute the postponed event, a significant life milestone, with alternative actions. These included scaled-down celebrations, reduced social interactions, professional photo shoots, and reallocating wedding expenses to other essential life needs. This substitution process was characterized by the elimination of what individuals perceived as non-essential elements.
Keywords
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