Statement of the Scientific Association of Iranian Psychiatrists on the Law of Hijab and Chastity

In the name of God

Considering the final approval of the "Family Support Bill through the Promotion of the Culture of Chastity and Hijab," which is said to be implemented on December 13, 2024, the Iranian Scientific Association of Psychiatrists, as a specialized organization committed to enhancing the mental health of society, feels it is its duty to provide necessary warnings about some adverse consequences of this law. Based on the analysis of survey data, statistics on social harms, and scientific theories, the following points are noteworthy:

1. Decreased Sense of Security and Trust in Public Institutions

   According to data from the World Values Survey and domestic studies, Iran's social capital is not in a good state. Recent surveys have shown that a significant percentage of people feel distrust towards the performance of public institutions. The approval and implementation of laws that do not align with the beliefs and values of a considerable portion of society will deepen this distrust and increase the likelihood of civil disobedience.

2. Increased Desire for Elite Migration

   According to statistics published by the Statistical Center of Iran and the International Monetary Fund, currently over 30% of the country’s elites and specialists have a desire to migrate. This law, especially among elite women and educated youth, will exacerbate feelings of alienation and social insecurity, leading to a new wave of elite migration. The consequence of this phenomenon will be the loss of human capital and increased social and economic costs for the country.

3. Harm to Public Mental Health

   The implementation of restrictive and punitive laws, such as the mandatory hijab law, will lead to increased psychological tensions, feelings of failure, and despair in society. Women and vulnerable groups will bear the brunt of this psychological pressure, which could result in higher rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicide.

4. Ineffectiveness of Coercion in Behavior Change

   According to behavioral theories, including Skinner's positive reinforcement theory and Maslow's hierarchy of needs, changing human behavior through coercion and punishment leads to counterproductive outcomes. Domestic and international studies show that coercive approaches not only fail to bring about positive changes but also increase the likelihood of tension, conflict, and division in society.

5. Exacerbation of Social Harms

   According to statistics from the Research Center of the Parliament, indicators such as divorce, domestic violence, and social delinquency are on the rise in Iran. The implementation of punitive and restrictive laws, such as the law intensifying penalties for non-compliance with mandatory hijab, can exacerbate these harms. Vulnerable groups, particularly women and youth, will face greater pressures, with negative effects returning to the entire society in the long term.

To the rulers who believe in wise governance and national solidarity, we suggest that in a situation where the country is facing economic, social, and identity crises, focusing on restrictive laws is not a solution but will create new challenges. The Iranian Scientific Association of Psychiatrists believes that:

1. Strengthening the Culture of Dialogue Solutions based on education and awareness should be chosen instead of coercion.

2. Respect for Individual Rights Acceptance of cultural and ideological diversity is essential for national solidarity.

3. Utilizing Expert Perspectives It is essential to draw on the analyses of sociologists, psychologists, and other behavioral science experts in drafting laws.

In conclusion, the Iranian Scientific Association of Psychiatrists calls for the cessation of the implementation of this law and serious attention to expert opinions to prevent further harm to society while respecting human rights and dignity.

Iranian Scientific Association of Psychiatrists
December 7, 2024