An Analysis of the Perception of Inequality in Life before and after Migration from Rural to Urban Areas: A Case Study of Immigrants Entering the City of Arak during the Last 50 Years

The purpose of this article is to explore the understanding of rural migrants living in Arak about inequality. For this purpose, we have used the Grounded Theory as a qualitative approach. Research data were collected through interviews and direct observation. The study population includes rural immigrants living in the city of Arak who migrated to this city in the last 50 years, and the samples included 22 people from different age and occupation groups. From the description of the findings, 50 basic concepts and 15 categories were extracted; Central theme which create perception of inequality is lack of benefiting. Causal conditions influencing the lack of benefiting include: Socio-economic status, status heterogeneity, quality of life style, how to perceive benefiting, and comparing, which by means of interventional conditions such as: media views, network characteristics of relationships, and quality of life are adjusted and intensified. Based on the finding, immigrants adopt the following strategies: tolerance, false pretend of benefiting, and receiving assistance from supporting organizations. The consequences include an increased life dissatisfaction, and a sense of social differentiation and it can lead to mistrust and reduced social solidarity.