Sport Management Studies

Conceptual Framework of Peace-Oriented Social Transformation in Women's Sports: A Multi-Grounded Theory Approach

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Farzaneh Heidari Joni 1
Nazanin Rasekh 2
Rouhallah Ershadi 3
BI BI Fakhrosadat Hashemi 3
Seyed Ehsan Amirhosseini 4

1 Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Ki.C., Islamic Azad University, Kish, Iran

2 Department of Management and Policy-Making in Sport, Sport Sciences Research Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Physical Education and sport science, Bu.C., Islamic Azad University, Bushehr, Iran

4 Department of Physical Education and sport sciences, Yas.C., Islamic Azad University, Yasuj, Iran.

https://doi.org/10.22089/smrj.2026.18452.4190
Abstract
This study aimed to develop a conceptual framework for peace-oriented social transformation in women's sports in Iran. A qualitative research method was employed using a multi-grounded theory approach (combining interviews and textual analysis). Data were extracted from two sources: interviews with 16 academic and executive experts, and analysis of 27 scholarly articles. Sampling continued until theoretical saturation was achieved, using a purposive sampling method. Research tools included semi-structured interviews and a structured framework for textual analysis. Validity and reliability were confirmed through inter-coder agreement (Kappa coefficient = 0.71). Data analysis followed multi-grounded theory coding procedures. The results revealed that, based on the coding framework, 209 initial conceptual codes were categorized into 6 main themes, 12 selective codes, and 56 core codes. The six main themes and their subcategories included: driving factors (causal conditions), challenges (intervening conditions), contextual factors, the transformation process (phenomenon), capacity-building (strategies), and outcomes (consequences) of peace-oriented social transformation in women's sports. The conceptual model integrates primary and secondary factors, providing a comprehensive framework to explain the systematic relationships among various components of this phenomenon. The findings indicate that peace-oriented social transformation in women's sports requires a systematic, multi-level approach that holistically addresses the identified drivers, challenges, and contextual factors.

Keywords

Social change
societal transformation
social development
women's sports
sports for peace
Subjects
Sport Management Studies

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 19 July 2026

  • Receive Date 02 September 2025
  • Revise Date 08 December 2025
  • Accept Date 20 May 2026

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