Sociological Analysis of the Role of Social Factors in Inequalities in the Field of Social Health in Mazandaran Province (Case Study of Sari County)
Keywords:
Social health, lifestyle, cultural consumption, social, inequality, SariAbstract
This study aimed to sociologically analyze the role of social factors in social health inequalities in Sari County, examining how lifestyle, cultural consumption, education, social inequality, and access to healthcare services influence the level of social health. The research employed a descriptive–analytical survey design. Data were collected through a researcher-developed questionnaire whose validity was confirmed by experts and reliability verified by Cronbach’s alpha (0.960). The study population included all citizens aged 15–60 in Sari (N = 125,400). Using the Cochran formula, a sample of 384 participants was selected through cluster random sampling. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS, applying descriptive statistics, Pearson and Spearman correlations, and multivariate regression. The findings revealed that the average level of social health was above moderate (M = 2.21 out of 3). Among its dimensions, social adaptation scored highest (M = 2.66) while social integration was lowest (M = 1.68). Social inequality had a significant negative relationship with social health (r = -0.512, p < 0.01), whereas education (r = 0.104, p < 0.05), lifestyle (r = 0.477, p < 0.01), and access to healthcare (r = 0.590, p < 0.01) showed positive correlations. Regression analysis indicated that 46.3% of the variance in social health was explained by the independent variables, with access to healthcare and social inequality being the strongest predictors, and education and socioeconomic status the weakest. Social health, as a vital dimension of human and community development, is largely shaped by social and structural factors. Reducing social inequality and improving equitable access to healthcare are essential strategies for enhancing social well-being. Promoting healthy lifestyles and cultural participation can further strengthen social cohesion, participation, and flourishing in Sari County.
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