Life Social Space: Recreational Activities of Women in Shiraz

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Abstract

In traditional sociological definitions of class and socioeconomic status, a woman’s status is usually equated with that of her family. Against the background of changes in economic and social conditions and women’s increasing levels of capital and life opportunities, the question is whether traditional definitions still apply in determining socioeconomic status of women? A sample of women, 25 years of age and older, was drawn in Shiraz for this purpose. Economic, social and cultural capitals of women were measured. Leisure activities were also considered in order to distinguish different groups of women. Multiple correspondence analysis results show that social spaces for single and married women as well as availability of capital to them and their leisure-related lifestyles closely correspond to their class backgrounds. Women’s socioeconomic characteristics are strongly influenced by their family origins.

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