Conceptual Clarity Research Articles

Social support from the physiotherapist and the therapeutic relationship in physiotherapy: bridging theory to practice

ABSTRACT Background/Purpose Therapeutic relationship and social support are critical components in physiotherapy that shape patient outcomes. However, defining these constructs, discerning their similarities and differences, and measuring them pose challenges. This article aims to facilitate scientific and clinical advancement on social support and the therapeutic relationship in physiotherapy by (a) providing conceptual clarity, (b) discussing measurement tools, and (c) offering practical recommendations for the deliberate incorporation of these constructs in clinical practice. Methods This is a perspective paper drawing on examples from existing research. Key Results Assessing the nature and strength of social support and promoting naturally occurring social support networks are practical ways for physiotherapists to foster social support in physiotherapy clinical practice. Physiotherapists can offer direct support, facilitate the development of an individual’s social skills, and promote participation in group activities. To strengthen the therapeutic relationship, it is important to maintain good communication, foster connectedness with the patient, demonstrate professional skills, and adopt a reflective practice. Physiotherapists are encouraged to establish clear roles and responsibilities, prioritize individualized patient-centered care, and involve patients in shared decision-making, ensuring congruence in goals and expectations. Willingness to dedicate time and energy within and beyond direct patient-therapist interactions can foster connections. Moreover, using the body – which is the main point of contact with patients – and physical touch can help physiotherapists to connect with patients. Finally, physiotherapists must be prepared to address and mend any conflicts which can impact the relationship’s trajectory. Conclusion Social support and therapeutic relationships are complementary aspects of one’s health care, and it is crucial to purposefully account for both in physiotherapy practice to optimize person-centered care and rehabilitation outcomes.

Integration of ChatGPT in IMG Study Strategies: An Exploratory Study of User Experiences and Perceptions

Introduction: IMGs face extensive challenges when preparing to enter a foreign workforce, such as adapting to new learning systems and studying without guidance, which can be alleviated by using AI tools like ChatGPT to supplement their studies by explaining concepts, generating questions, and providing personalized feedback. Aims: To explore International Medical Graduate’s (IMG) experiences with ChatGPT by integrating it into their study strategies for the United States Medical License exam (USMLE) preparation. Methods: This prospective study comprises 305 International Medical Graduates (IMGs) actively preparing for the United States Medical License exam (USMLE) . Data collection included qualitative semi structured interviews and Quantitative surveys via Google Forms. Quantitative data was analyzed with the help of SPSS version 27 for descriptive statistics and inferential analysis. Results: A total of 305 participant reported diverse sources through which they gained awareness about ChatGPT where Social media (31.15%) and online search platforms (28.52%) were primary sources .Word of mouth (18.69%), blogs (8.85%), friends (9.51%), and news outlets (3.28%) also contributed. Nearly half of the participants (49.5%) actively preparing for USMLE predominantly used it for concept clarification and practice question sessions (31.15%) , exam preparation and content clarification (28.52%) and summarization of study materials (18.69%). 49.5% found it helpful for preparation, others expressed dissent. Satisfaction ratings averaged at 3.7, indicating moderate satisfaction Participants willingness to recommend ChatGPT averaged at 7.2, showcasing a generally positive inclination. Participants highlighted ChatGPT's usefulness for various study-related activities. Recommendations for improvement included refining responses for accuracy and addressing concerns about plagiarism and reliability .Some participants did not observe noticeable improvements in their USMLE performance despite using ChatGPT. Conclusion: Participants reported that ChatGPT was beneficial for concept clarification and practice questions, though concerns about accuracy and potential plagiarism were noted. The study concludes that while ChatGPT holds significant promise as a supplementary study tool, users should verify information for accuracy and combine its use with traditional study methods to enhance comprehensive understanding. Incorporating ChatGPT into medical curricula as a supplementary tool, with proper training on responsible use, could further maximize its benefits.

Decentralized Identity Verification in Metaverse Auditing Using Blockchain Technology

This research paper presents a comprehensive review of decentralized identity verification in the context of metaverse auditing, leveraging blockchain technology. With the rapid evolution of virtual environments and the emergence of the metaverse, ensuring trust, transparency, and security becomes paramount. Traditional centralized identity verification systems face challenges in such decentralized and dynamic environments. Blockchain technology offers promising solutions by providing a transparent, immutable, and decentralized ledger for identity management and verification. Conceptual Analysis research methodology used in this research paper because theoretical and conceptual clarity are crucial for understanding complex phenomena. The paper begins by exploring the concept of decentralized identity management systems and their significance in virtual environments. It discusses various challenges associated with traditional identity verification methods and highlights the potential of blockchain-based solutions in addressing these challenges. Through a systematic literature review, the paper examines existing research and developments in decentralized identity verification, metaverse auditing, and blockchain technology. Key topics covered include the architecture of decentralized identity systems, consensus mechanisms for identity verification on blockchain networks, privacy-preserving techniques, and interoperability standards for cross-platform identity management. Furthermore, the paper investigates the role of smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps) in facilitating identity verification processes within the metaverse. The review also discusses the potential implications of decentralized identity verification in enhancing trust and security in virtual economies, enabling seamless user experiences, and fostering innovation in digital asset management. Moreover, it identifies current gaps and challenges in the field and proposes future research directions to address these issues. Overall, this research paper contributes to the understanding of decentralized identity verification in metaverse auditing using blockchain technology. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers interested in exploring the intersection of decentralized identity, virtual environments, and blockchain technology. The insights provided aim to stimulate further research and innovation in this rapidly evolving domain.

Facteurs de protection et facteurs de désistance chez les Auteurs d’Infraction à Caractère Sexuel : articulation et clarification

Forensic literature has witnessed a plethora of risk assessment tools, emphasizing on factors increasing recidivism risk. Thus, assessment and care practices of individuals who have offended have gradually evolved when professionals no longer ask what doesn’t work (Nothing works) but what does work (What works) with them. From this positivist forensic psychology perspective, the inclusion of so-called positive factors such as protective or desistance factors is an important issue. A strengths-based approach to risk assessment encourages a more balanced assessment by involving factors mediating, moderating, or even canceling out this risk, specifically protective factors. Despite a strong interest in them, there are many conceptual shortcomings that hinder their use. The existence of these factors is still assumed. While the importance of their integration in assessment is established, their lack of validity hinders it. Hence, the Structured Assessment of PROtective Factors (SAPROF) has been developed to measure exclusively protective factors. The SAPROF assesses internal factors (e.g., intelligence, secure attachment, etc.), motivational factors (e.g., work, leisure activities, etc.), and external factors (e.g., social network, intimate relationship, etc.). An additional version for Individual who have Committed Sexual Offenses (ICSO) has also been developed. The first study consists of a systematized literature review comprising six studies focusing on protective factors identified among ICSOs and the validity of their operational assessment using SAPROF. Main results suggest a poor prediction of the SAPROF. A section of narrative literature focuses on desistance. Desistance paradigm suggests that professionals would be better equipped to deal with individuals who have committed offenses if they were also allowed to guide them and listen to what they think is best for them, rather than insisting that our solutions are best. The principle of What works is therefore complemented by the Why works and How works approaches to rehabilitation by putting offenders back at the heart of the process. As a universal and complex process, desistance involves changes in identity related to exiting the criminal pathway. Therefore, it is a highly individualised and subjective process, whom definitional and operational modalities are still unclear. As with protective factors, narrative literature identifies external and internal factors that might influence the reintegration process. While some desistance factors seem to be common to protective factors such as employment, quality of relationships, or treatment, some non-operational factors are highlighted as narrative discourses or knifing off concept. The second study investigates desistance factors identified through discourses of six male ICSOs on probation or conditional release based on iterative thematic content analysis. Main results highlight a predominance of positive factors relating to desistance, specifically positive interpersonal relationships (external) and cognitive transformations marked by reflective processes linked to offenses (internal). For negative factors hindering their desistance process, ICSOs emphasize internal factors such as access to illicit substances and financial difficulties. To conclude, despite increasing attention, empirical and conceptual definitions are lacking, particularly regarding protective factors and related words. Less is known about how protective factors support desistance from sexual offending. The results of these two complementary studies will be discussed considering the literature, laying the foundations for future research necessary for conceptual and operational clarification of protective and desistance factors.

Pre-service Teachers' Sustainable Consciousness: Perceptions, Conceptualization, and Implementation of SDGS in e-Learning

This research study aims to investigate the perceptions of pre-services teachers to comprehend integration of SDGs into their practices. Under cross-sectional survey research method, Sustainability Consciousness Questionnaire (SCQ) was used. All students enrolled in the B.Ed. degree programs of Faculty of Education in Spring 2023 (N= 1235) was considered population for this study. The result revealed that prospective teachers are aware of the SDGs, and their importance in e-learning for a sustainable community. Findings revealed that pre-service teachers possess high perceptions and conceptual clarity regarding sustainable development (SD) goals and practices. However, their actions towards sustainable development are at a satisfactory level, necessitate curriculum interventions and rigorous training.

Legacy: The meaning of lasting impact for family, business, and beyond

The concept of legacy exists at the core of family business research, yet as a construct, the nature of what legacy is and why and how legacy matters across generations has been poorly understood (Hammond, Pearson, & Holt, 2016). This lack of conceptual clarity has limited legacy research in the domain of family business. In this article, we provide a comprehensive definition of legacy that can be used to draw connections across existing legacy research and open new avenues of inquiry critical to understanding both family firms and legacy itself.

Entrepreneurial leadership and transformational leadership: a historical-comparative conceptual analysis

Purpose This article provides a historical-comparative conceptual analysis of entrepreneurial leadership and transformational leadership, aiming to critically appraise how the latter has informed the former. Design/methodology/approach A narrative review methodology and three-stage framework is used to develop the analysis and structure the discussion. The framework consists of the following three stages – concept introduction and elaboration, concept evaluation and augmentation and concept consolidation and accommodation. Findings The key ‘narrative’ emerging from the review concerns how entrepreneurial leadership as a concept has evolved into a re-iteration of the transformational leadership approach, absorbing the conceptual merits, and more significantly, conceptual flaws of the latter. Notable critiques of transformational leadership theory, namely, a lack of conceptual clarity, over-reliance on quantitative methodologies and the ‘heroic bias,’ can similarly be raised against existing research on entrepreneurial leadership. To redress these issues, the conceptual, methodological and practical implications of the historical-comparative analysis are outlined, which includes avenues for further research – with and without key elements of transformational leadership theory. Originality/value The article is the first to discuss the historical evolution of entrepreneurial leadership as a concept in relation to transformational leadership theory, which has been influential in research on the former. In particular, the critical analysis illustrates how the conceptual evolution of entrepreneurial leadership has failed to acknowledge the significant limitations associated with transformational leadership theory, despite considerable application of it.

Corporate power and global value chains: current approaches for conceptualizing the power of multinationals

The influential position of multinational corporations in the global economy of the twenty-first century is a particularly controversial and timely subject. This paper aims to improve our understanding of this phenomenon by focusing on one particular aspect of it: corporate power. To this end, it first puts forth a number of conceptual clarifications that help to distinguish different kinds of power and the distinct analytical levels at which power is executed. It then focuses on corporate power and studies it against the backdrop of the development of global value chains. The aim of this analysis is twofold: firstly, to review the variety of analytical tools and ontological perspectives that coin current research on corporate power, and secondly, to discuss the causes and practical consequences of asymmetrical power constellations among corporations and between corporations and other actors. This discussion is meant to facilitate a better alignment of applied research on corporate power with pluralist approaches towards rethinking economics.

God, Philosophers and Theologians in Africa

There is renewed interest in philosophical and theological investigations about God, religions and the implications of religious beliefs among philosophers and theologians in Africa. This development is itself profitable because the question or the problem of God is a relevant discourse in Africa where the majority of people are theists. However, unlike the exploration of the first-generation African scholars—philosophers and theologians—whose primary objective was to show the symmetry between Christianity and African Traditional Religions (ATR), contemporary discourses arise within the clamour for decoloniality. The investigations, with varied emphasis, advocate the decolonisation of the concept of God, epistemic decolonisation, decolonisation of Christianity and African Christian theology, etc. In this essay, I critically examine the contemporary decolonial discourse about God, divine attributes, religious belief, and the relationship between African Christian theology and ATR. I argue that most of the contemporary literature is entangled in conceptual convolution and as such, there is a lack of clarity about what needs to be decolonised. Put differently, most works do not clearly distinguish between reality (the person or phenomenon “God”), thought (the concept “God”), and conceptions of God (language, that is, the terms and images used in making assertions about God). Further, I argue that when conceptual clarifications are adequately attended to, there is no need for decolonisation of discourses about God, divine nature, divine attributes, and the relationship between Christianity and ATR.

What makes energy consumption behavior visible? Conceptualization, scale development and validation of customized information feedback

Customized information feedback (CIF) can significantly mitigate carbon emissions by stimulating changes in energy consumption behaviors among businesses and residents. However, the lack of conceptual clarity and standardized has hindered research into its mechanisms and impact on energy consumption. This study aims to bridge this crucial research gap by developing and validating a CIF scale and dimensional structure. In study 1, grounded theory methodology is utilized to define and identify the five dimensions of CIF: content presentation, time granularity setting, delivery medium selection, translation internalization, and environment creation. Study 2 then develops a dependable and validated 20-item CIF scale, subsequently affirmed for applicability and the nomological network in Study 3. Overall, our findings establish a fundamental measurement scale for quantitative studies of CIF, while also developing a theoretical framework for designing field experiments and interventions. Furthermore, this study contributes to the advancement of the existing literature on environmental behavior.

Public–private hybrid organisations in the public sector: Evidence and future directions from a systematic literature review

ABSTRACT This paper presents a systematic literature review based on the PRISMA approach (final sample of 95 records) that investigates how public – private hybrid organizations (HOs) in the public sector have been studied in the literature. Specifically, this work adopts an organizational perspective to develop an analytical framework based on three dimensions: the relationship between HOs and their environment, the organizational manifestations of hybridity and the outputs of HOs. By providing conceptual clarity on the construct of HOs, this work identifies spaces for cross-fertilization between HOs and analogous – yet distinct – constructs, such as public – private partnerships and corporatization.

A bibliometric review on sustainable human resource management (1982–2023)

PurposeThis paper examines the growth trajectory, documents, journals, worldwide distribution authors, scientific production and thematic focus in the field of sustainable HRM.Design/methodology/approachA total of 765 publications (between 1982 and 2023) were chosen from the Scopus database that were diligently examined to reach insightful results. To aid the investigation, the Biblioshiny tool was used.FindingsThrough thematic mapping, the study finds that sustainable HRM is still an emerging and contemporary concept. Moreover, the themes of sustainable HRM are underdeveloped and need conceptual clarity. Additionally, these themes have evolved internally which have made a modest contribution to the advancement of the discipline. Furthermore, topic trending, word frequency and document citations indicate that a growing body of literature on sustainable HRM focuses extensively on environmental issues, demonstrating that HRM should be given greater attention to roles related to sustainability in the workplace.Practical implicationsSustainable HRM should be a top priority for businesses, with an emphasis on environmental and sustainability concerns. To be in line with global sustainability standards, HR training needs to be updated. Companies should develop HR policies that put sustainability first and spend money on analytical tools. Academic and industrial cooperation can improve the field more quickly. Best practices can be standardized by participation in forums. It is crucial to take a holistic approach that balances environmental, social and economic factors.Originality/valueThis study distinguishes itself by adding highlights on bibliometric insights and thematic emphasis on sustainable HRM, adding to the progress of the field's knowledge and offering insightful pathways for future research.

Introduction to the special issue: Allyship, advocacy, and social justice to support equality for marginalized groups in the workplace

Allyship is an important topic of growing interest in research and practice for management and organizations. However, research is still in its infancy, often fragmented across disciplines, and lacking conceptual clarity. The purpose of this special issue, “Allyship, Advocacy, and Social Justice to Support Equality for Marginalized Groups in the Workplace” is to enhance understanding of allies and allyship. We argue that allyship is a mechanism for centering social justice, reducing discrimination and inequality, and improving intergroup dynamics, inclusion, social cohesion, well-being, and organizational effectiveness. We note the importance of distinguishing between conceptualization of who is an ally and the different types of allyship in a brief review of the foundational grounding of the research stream. Next, we examine findings and insights from the eight papers in the special issue, examining how they move the field forward. These articles provide a springboard for understanding how to define, measure, and evaluate allyship, and for identifying key dynamics (e.g., marginalization, dominance, identity motivations), antecedents, consequences, contexts, and boundary conditions. We conclude by identifying future research opportunities that leverage this special issue’s content and gaps to address. We believe that improving understanding of how to be an ally, what they do, and the conditions under which allyship is effective, is valuable for enhancing social relationships between and within marginalized and dominant groups in organizations and society.

Workplace emotional blackmail: conceptual clarification and development

Workplace emotional blackmail: conceptual clarification and development

Analyzing the Progress in Chinese Tourism Research over the Past Decade: A Visual Exploration of Keywords and Delphi Surveys

Alongside the rapid development of China’s tourism sector, the continuous increase in the number of academic articles and research findings related to tourism in China has expanded the related research topics. Using a visual exploration of keywords and Delphi surveys, this paper systematically summarizes the progress in tourism research in China. The findings show that the research topics of national parks, rural revitalization, virtual tourism, the tourism economy and all-for-one tourism were hotspots in Chinese tourism filed over the past decade. Research methodologies have evolved from qualitative concept clarification to combining qualitative and quantitative approaches. In the future, Chinese tourism research should be explored further to the unique theoretical underpinnings of tourism in China; innovative research should be fostered to achieve theoretical originality; and collaborations between academia and the tourism industry should be facilitated to enhance the practical implications of academic findings. The aforementioned research bottlenecks and corresponding measures, and research vision and prospects indicated in the paper can guide future research, and let Western scholars know the hotspots and future trends of tourism research from the Eastern perspective.

On the Practical Implications of Universalism and its Relation to Suffering

The doctrine of universalism, which asserts that all will find salvation in the life to come, can be critiqued on the grounds that it appears to underplay the real and lasting significance of suffering and injustice in this life, potentially placing its adherents in an improper relation to suffering and sufferers. In this essay, I engage with this problem, first, through examining how Karen Kilby’s critique of conceptual clarity might problematize the doctrine. I argue, however, in this essay’s second part, that the conceptual clarity we might first see is not the full story of universalism. In seeking a fuller story, I approach universalism from the perspective of its practical implications, here borrowing from ideas explored by Simeon Zahl, taking up his call to attend to the concrete outworking of doctrine in human experience. Two possible ‘affects’ of universalism are suggested, which, in a third part, I argue might nurture in the believer a heightened sensitivity to the wrongness of death and the problem of sin. Universalism, examined from the perspective of its practical implications, problematizes in this life some of the suffering that it might appear to resolve in the next.

Perception and awareness of circular economy within water-intensive and bio-based sectors: Understanding, benefits and barriers

Perception and awareness can affect behaviour and decision-making, for example, how companies implement Circular Economy (CE) practices. However, there is limited empirical research about this topic. Thus, we investigated the perception and awareness of representatives from water-intensive and bio-based sectors regarding the CE concept based on interviews and a survey with 10 companies in Sweden. Our results indicate that CE is understood mainly as zero waste and its key principles are resource efficiency and ecodesign. Missing (or partially addressed) important elements of CE are consumption, social aspects, regenerative role of CE, collaboration, and Industrial Symbiosis. The main benefit from implementing circular strategies is economic, and the main barrier is the lack of financial resources. The bio-based companies have a broader understanding of CE and its benefits than the water-intensive companies. Overall, more clarification and standardisation of the CE concept is necessary to avoid misunderstanding with other concepts such as sustainability.

(Re)conceptualizing Sex and Gender in Physical Education Through Social Role Theory

ABSTRACT The line between gender and sex has become increasingly muddled in literature. Tensions surrounding this topic are ever-increasing and definitions of the two are rarely consistent. For improving conceptual clarity, we adopted the Social Role Theory to explore how these two terms differ and relate by laying out a cyclical framework of biological, sociological, and psychological components. Herein, we discuss the origins of the binary sex construct, anatomical brain/cognition differences, and sex/gender role implications for education and physical education. We confront the topic in a content area that continues to be masculine-oriented with the purpose to conceptualize sex/gender in physical education research through clarifying the evolutionary biosocial spectrum. Offering a reconceptualization of gender as a multidimensional construct could inspire further curricular reform for the content to be more inclusive of all participants, learnable by all students regardless of sex and gender, and beneficial both mentally and physically to all learners.

Overestimating prevalence? Rethinking boundaries and confounders of moral distress.

Moral distress denotes a negative reaction to a morally challenging situation. It has been associated with adverse outcomes for healthcare professionals, patients and healthcare institutions. We argue that existing definitions, along with measures of moral distress, compromise the validity of empirical research. First, the definition and measurement of moral distress conflate moral events and psychological distress, even though they are distinct phenomena that should be assessed independently. Second, in many studies, there is a lack of clarity in distinguishing between moral and non-moral events. Finally, prior research on moral distress often overlooks the substantial body of evidence demonstrating the impact of diverse work-related factors, beyond moral events, on both distress and job retention. These challenges might undermine the effectiveness of interventions aimed at alleviating moral distress. We outline a comprehensive research agenda that encompasses conceptual clarifications, the refinement of data collection instruments, the design of studies and the application of appropriate statistical methods.

Convergence of Age Differences in Risk Preference, Impulsivity, and Self-Control: A Multiverse Analysis.

Numerous theories exist regarding age differences in risk preference and related constructs, yet many of them offer conflicting predictions and fail to consider convergence between measurement modalities or constructs. To pave the way for conceptual clarification and theoretical refinement, in this preregistered study we aimed to comprehensively examine age effects on risk preference, impulsivity, and self-control using different measurement modalities, and to assess their convergence. We collected a large battery of self-report, informant report, behavioral, hormone, and neuroimaging measures from a cross-sectional sample of 148 (55% female) healthy human participants between 16 and 81 years (mean age = 46 years, standard deviation [SD] = 19). We used an extended sample of 182 participants (54% female, mean age = 46 years, SD = 19) for robustness checks concerning the results from self-reports, informant reports, and behavioral measures. For our main analysis, we performed specification curve analyses to visualize and estimate the convergence between the different modalities and constructs. Our multiverse analysis approach revealed convergent results for risk preference, impulsivity, and self-control from self- and informant reports, suggesting a negative effect of age. For behavioral, hormonal, and neuroimaging outcomes, age effects were mostly absent. Our findings call for conceptual clarification and improved operationalization to capture the putative mechanisms underlying age-related differences in risk preference and related constructs.