Iranian Journal of Public Policy

Iranian Journal of Public Policy

Strategies for Removing the Obstacles to Childbearing for Female Faculty Members in Iran The Application of the Future-Oriented Approach of Casual Layer Analysis

Document Type : Research Article

Author
Leila Namdarian
Associate Professor of Science and Technology Policymaking, Information and Society Research Department, Iranian Research Institute for Information science and Technology (IranDoc), Tehran, Iran.
10.22059/jppolicy.2024.96179
Abstract
Iran is currently facing a decline in birth rates, particularly within families affiliated with the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology (ATF). This study aims to propose effective strategies for addressing barriers to childbearing among female academic faculty members within the ATF Ministry. Through forward-looking casual layer analysis, the research identifies obstacles across four layers: litany, systemic causes, worldview/discourse, and myth/metaphor. Thirteen obstacles at the litany level, 21 at the systemic causes level, 14 at the worldview/discourse level, and 15 at the metaphorical layer are identified. Strategies are systematically presented, beginning with challenging and transforming deeply rooted myths and metaphors, then interventions targeting social narratives, structural changes, and practical measures to support childbearing. These strategies are designed to preemptively address future impediments and foster a conducive environment for marriage, childbirth, and overall youth welfare within the ATF Ministry.
Keywords
Obstacles to Childbearing
Female Faculty Members
Causal Layered Analysis
and Strategies to Increase Childbearing
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Iranian Journal of Public Policy
Volume 9, Issue 4
2023
Pages 24-46