Objective: The present study aims to analyze the sociological effects of urban social crises on the level of social capital among employees of the Ahvaz oil industry. Given the strategic importance of the oil sector and the complex social conditions of Ahvaz as a metropolitan city facing multiple urban crises, this research seeks to examine how such crises influence social trust, social participation, and organizational cohesion among employees.
Methods: This study adopts a quantitative research design using a survey method. The statistical population consists of employees working in the Ahvaz oil industry. A sample was selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through a standardized questionnaire measuring urban social crises and dimensions of social capital, including social trust, social participation, social networks, and institutional cohesion. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multivariate regression techniques.
Results: The findings indicate a significant negative relationship between urban social crises and social capital among employees of the Ahvaz oil industry. Higher levels of perceived urban social crises—such as social insecurity, environmental degradation, unemployment, and declining public services—were associated with lower levels of social trust, reduced social participation, and weakened organizational relationships. Regression analysis showed that urban social crises significantly predict changes in employees’ social capital, with social trust being the most affected dimension.
Conclusions: The results suggest that urban social crises play a crucial role in shaping the social capital of organizational employees, particularly in strategic industries such as oil. Addressing urban social challenges and improving social stability can contribute to strengthening social capital, enhancing organizational commitment, and improving employee well-being. Policymakers and organizational managers are encouraged to consider urban social conditions as a key factor in human resource and organizational development strategies.