Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
PhD Graduate in Agricultural Extension and Education, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
2
Assistant Professor, Department of Geomorphology, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran (Part-time Researcher at Kurdistan Studies Institute, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran)
3
PhD Student in Educational Administration, Department of Education, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
4
Department of Geomorphology, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
5
MSc Student in Urban Planning, Department of Urban Engineering, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
6
PhD Student in Higher Education Planning and Development, Department of Education, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction: Handicrafts, and carpet weaving in particular, serve as a convergence point for art, culture, and livelihood within the rural lifeworld. However, it is essential to identify the factors influencing the inclination toward this activity in the face of modern challenges. Establishing the necessary scientific background and context is crucial for implementing practical measures to address the obstacles hindering women's participation in this field. Consequently, this could lead to the prosperity, flourishing, and a form of revitalization of carpet weaving among rural women—an activity that has faced significant stagnation and decline in recent decades.
Objectives: The objective of this study is to propose a structural model of the factors influencing the inclination of rural women to participate in the handicrafts sector, specifically emphasizing carpet weaving.
Methodology: In terms of purpose, this is an applied study, and regarding its nature, it is descriptive-survey research employing an exploratory-confirmatory structural equation modeling (SEM) strategy. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire, which was validated for face and content validity. Data analysis was conducted at both descriptive and inferential levels using SPSS26 and Amos24 software.
Geographical Context: The study was conducted in Kurdistan Province, representing one of the nomadic territories in western Iran.
Results and Discussion: Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed that four factors—Revitalization of Cultural Identity (26.14% variance), Sense of Satisfaction (13.82% variance), Economic Value (9.83% variance), and Institutional Support (8.99% variance)—collectively explain 58.78% of the total variance in women's inclination. Furthermore, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) confirmed the desirable fit of the model with the empirical data.
Conclusion: The theoretical contribution of this study lies in bridging Bourdieu’s Capital Theory with the agency of rural women. The findings indicate that women's inclination stems more from identity-seeking than from purely material necessities. Therefore, a transition from a commodity-oriented approach toward identity-based business models is recommended to ensure the sustainability of this art-industry.
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