The Effect of Virtual Social Networks on the Identity of the Family Institution

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of social networks in the family institution and its effect on family identity. In Iran, the Internet and cyberspace, with increasing influence, are often known as a factor for social change, and researchers believe that this category has been able to create a new public domain. In this context, the Internet can be considered the first public domain for Iranian society. It means an arena for the formation, expansion and strengthening of relationships with each other and the strengthening and clarification of norms and rules of behavior, which, of course, has its own positive and negative functions.

The research method in this research is descriptive-analytical. Therefore, first the variables were studied regardless of considering their relationship with each other, and the theoretical content and backgrounds were explored using books, articles and theories of legal authors, then the relationship between variables with their consequences were investigated.

The results of this study indicated that: social networks undermine the adherence of individuals and institutions of society to the values and norms accepted in culture and consequently social security; therefore, the immunity of individuals from harm and deviations in society depends on being institutionalized by the political system and education centers at the highest and middle levels of the country and creating order and discipline in society. Also, the present study showed that social networks have a negative effect on lifestyle and indigenous family pattern; and launching healthy and useful social networks to combat destructive social networks reduces the challenges.