Designing a Model for the Popularization of Social Security Services with Emphasis on the Middle Circles of the Second Step of the Revolution:  A Grounded Theory Approach

Akbari, Peyman; Veismoradi, Akbar; Mehrabkohi, Milad

doi:10.30471/rsm.2025.11136.1487

Designing a Model for the Popularization of Social Security Services with Emphasis on the Middle Circles of the Second Step of the Revolution: A Grounded Theory Approach

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

¹ Assistant Professor, Department of Public Management, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran

² Senior Expert, Department of Business Management, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran

10.30471/rsm.2025.11136.1487

Abstract

Extended Abstract

Introduction and Objectives: The popularization of social security services refers to the active engagement of citizens in the design and implementation of these services, enhancing the identification of community needs and improving service quality. This study aims to design a model for the popularization of social security services, with emphasis on the middle circles of the Second Step of the Islamic Revolution. Grounded in interpretive philosophical foundations with a developmental orientation, the research adopts a qualitative, inductive, field-based approach using grounded theory. Theoretical sampling was conducted through interviews with 20 participants from the middle circles of the Social Security Organization in Kermanshah. Open coding categories were linked via axial coding and refined through selective coding to develop the grounded theory.
The resulting paradigmatic model includes:

Core category: Non-instrumental use of citizens and their participation in executive actions.
Causal conditions: Support for grassroots organizations and establishment of community-based institutions.
Contextual factors: Promotion of public participation and support for community-led initiatives.
Intervening conditions: Delegation of responsibilities to citizens and establishment of organizational justice under public guidance.
Interactional strategies: Leveraging public opinions and financial contributions.
Outcomes: Strengthened decision-making by grassroots organizations and responsiveness to public demands.

This model provides a strategic framework for managers of social security organizations to enhance citizen engagement and leverage the benefits of the middle circles emphasized in the Second Step of the Revolution.
Introduction: Organizations are established to achieve meaningful outcomes, and accountability—particularly within government institutions—is a cornerstone of democracy, crucial due to the risk of power misuse. In Iran, the social security system began in 1922, with the Social Security Organization serving as its main pillar. This organization currently covers approximately 13 million insured individuals and over 2.5 million pensioners, although many in the informal sector remain excluded. Effective social security relies on robust legal frameworks and internal coordination. In democratic systems, the rule of law governs public relations and applies equally across all sectors.
The Islamic Revolution of Iran brought transformative changes to government structures, emphasizing religious values and serving as a model for other nations. The Declaration of the Second Step of the Islamic Revolution, issued on February 12, 2018, outlines a roadmap for self-development and societal transformation over the next forty years. Neglecting this declaration could result in policy deviations. This study explores the design of a model for popularizing social security services aligned with this declaration.
Methodology: This research employs an interpretive and developmental approach, using qualitative methods and the grounded theory strategy of Corbin and Strauss (2014). The study addresses limitations of prior models by providing a deeper understanding of citizen participation in social security services. Key research questions include why and how social security services should be evaluated, identifying drivers for popularization, necessary infrastructure, intervening factors, and potential strategies.
The sample comprised representatives from Kermanshah, including managers, employees, and clients of the Social Security Organization. Interview data were analyzed through open, axial, and selective coding using MAXQDA software. Validity and reliability were ensured via Lincoln and Guba’s criteria: validity through process verification and expert consultation, reliability through meticulous documentation and preservation of research records.
Findings: Interviews generated 83 initial codes from 20 participants, confirmed after reaching theoretical saturation. The coding process included “primary” open coding for concept extraction and “secondary” open coding to form main categories, resulting in six primary categories, including citizen support, public participation, and popular justice. These categories are detailed in the study’s tables, showing open codes and related concepts.
During selective coding, the core category was identified, and the paradigmatic research model was developed (Figure 1). This model serves as a roadmap for popularizing social security services in Kermanshah, providing guidance for improving processes and enhancing service quality.
Discussion and Conclusion: The model emphasizes that effective social security services require citizen engagement throughout decision-making and implementation. Causal conditions include support for and establishment of citizen-based institutions to mediate community needs. Contextual factors, such as promoting participation and providing resources, facilitate the process. Intervening conditions—delegating responsibilities and establishing organizational justice—strengthen social responsibility and belonging. Interactional strategies, including utilizing citizen feedback and financial support, further improve service quality.
Outcomes include enhanced grassroots decision-making and responsiveness to public demands. Future research could benefit from quantitative methods, expanded study scopes, and investigation of limiting factors, helping clarify and optimize the popularization of social security services.

Highlights

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Keywords