The experiences of Iranian humanities PhD graduates with unemployment and its challenges: a qualitative study
通过44名伊朗人文学科博士毕业生的半结构化访谈，采用扎根理论方法，揭示了失业经历中的九大主题，包括人文学科边缘化、大学与市场脱节、心理伤害等，为高校和政策制定者提供参考。
Over the recent past, the escalating unemployment rate among Iranian humanities PhD graduates has been a matter of concern. This study, conducted with meticulous attention to detail, explored the experience of humanities PhD graduates with the challenges of employment and unemployment in Iran. We aimed to understand and explore how participants experienced unemployment and how they addressed their needs in this situation. We also sought to examine the consequences of this situation for the participants. We used a qualitative approach and grounded theory method. Participants were sampled purposively with different genders, fields of study, universities, and graduation dates. A total of 44 interviews were performed with participants who had graduated at least a year ago and did not have a suitable job or income. Data collection was performed through semi-structured interviews. The interview transcripts were analyzed using grounded theory coding. After analyzing the data, nine main categories were explored: the marginalization of the humanities, dissatisfaction and failure, the gap between the university and the market, psychological injuries, poor livelihood, the massification of the university, physical pains, lack of meritocracy, and immigration. The results showed that institutional barriers are among the most important reasons for participants' unemployment. The results of this research can also help universities and politicians to review and revise humanities disciplines by informing them about the experiences of humanities PhD graduates.