Agricultural Planning, Economics and Rural Development Research Institute (APERDRI) Village and Development 1563-3322 28 1 2025 07 23 Exploring Rural Migration Motives in Isfahan County: Insights from Thematic Analysis Exploring Rural Migration Motives in Isfahan County: Insights from Thematic Analysis 149 176 132226 10.30490/rvt.2025.367412.1659 FA A. Yousefi Assistant Professor, Department of Rural Development, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran. 0000-0003-1017-9350 A. Torabi MSc Graduate in Rural Development, Department of Rural Development, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran. 0009-0007-9266-5681 Journal Article 2025 04 08 Abstract Introduction In recent years, Iran has experienced a significant demographic shift with rapid urbanization leading to increased rural-to-urban migration, raising concerns about rural depopulation. This study uses thematic analysis to investigate the reasons behind rural migration in Isfahan County, addressing the gap in understanding individual motivations and local factors influencing migration decisions. Materials and Methods Data was collected through in-depth interviews with migrants from villages known for high migration rates, selected through purposive sampling. The analysis process included transcribing data, identifying keywords, coding, developing themes, conceptualizing, and creating a model. Results and Discussion The study found that dissatisfaction with rural life was a common driver for migration, influenced by lifestyle changes, limited prospects, unfulfilled aspirations, increased awareness, and the desire for a better quality of life in urban areas. Migration was motivated not only by economic disparities but also by the search for personal fulfillment and meaning. Rural dissatisfaction stemmed from perceived limited opportunities for social mobility and status, while urban areas offered more prospects for advancement and a fulfilling life. Conclusions Understanding rural-to-urban migration requires considering psychological and social factors alongside economic drivers. Policies for rural development should address social factors like social status, youth engagement, empowerment, and hope for the future, in addition to infrastructure. To combat negative perceptions of rural areas, portraying villages as valuable, innovative, and sustainable through media representation is crucial. Abstract Introduction In recent years, Iran has experienced a significant demographic shift with rapid urbanization leading to increased rural-to-urban migration, raising concerns about rural depopulation. This study uses thematic analysis to investigate the reasons behind rural migration in Isfahan County, addressing the gap in understanding individual motivations and local factors influencing migration decisions. Materials and Methods Data was collected through in-depth interviews with migrants from villages known for high migration rates, selected through purposive sampling. The analysis process included transcribing data, identifying keywords, coding, developing themes, conceptualizing, and creating a model. Results and Discussion The study found that dissatisfaction with rural life was a common driver for migration, influenced by lifestyle changes, limited prospects, unfulfilled aspirations, increased awareness, and the desire for a better quality of life in urban areas. Migration was motivated not only by economic disparities but also by the search for personal fulfillment and meaning. Rural dissatisfaction stemmed from perceived limited opportunities for social mobility and status, while urban areas offered more prospects for advancement and a fulfilling life. Conclusions Understanding rural-to-urban migration requires considering psychological and social factors alongside economic drivers. Policies for rural development should address social factors like social status, youth engagement, empowerment, and hope for the future, in addition to infrastructure. To combat negative perceptions of rural areas, portraying villages as valuable, innovative, and sustainable through media representation is crucial.

http://rvt.agri-peri.ac.ir/article_132226_2553761c31ac33576b6030cf1a70a08b.pdf