Individual Experiences Research Articles

Working from everywhere: The future of work and inclusive organizational behavior (IOB)

SummaryThe rapid digitalization of work, accelerated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, has fundamentally transformed organizational behavior and necessitated a reconceptualization of inclusion in virtual spaces. This editorial synthesizes six groundbreaking studies that advance our understanding of inclusive organizational behavior (IOB) in digital contexts. Drawing on these contributions, we propose a novel, multilevel framework for digital IOB that integrates individual, group, and organizational factors shaping inclusive experiences in virtual and hybrid work arrangements. Key themes emerging from the studies include (1) reconceptualizing inclusion for digital contexts, (2) multilevel dynamics of digital inclusion, and (3) technology as both enabler and barrier to inclusion. Our framework conceptualizes digital IOB as arising from complex interactions between individual, group, and organizational factors, mediated and moderated by technological infrastructures and practices. We discuss theoretical and practical implications, highlighting the need for holistic, systemic approaches to fostering digital inclusion and outlining promising avenues for future research in this critical area.

Veterinary ethics and companion animal euthanasia: what can we learn from critical disability studies?

Within veterinary ethics and practice around companion animal end-of-life and euthanasia, the political and cultural dimensions of death and dying are rarely addressed. This reduces the ability to engage with questions like: what future potential goods (positive affective states, meaning) could an animal experience by continuing to live; what constitutes a life worth living; and how can we make this decision for another being? These are questions that have been subject to extensive dialogue within Critical Disability Studies. The aim of this paper is to provide an analysis of how core considerations from Critical Disability Studies could be useful in veterinary ethics when considering companion animal end of life and euthanasia. First, critiques of the dis/ability binary and associated hierarchies raise questions about how animal disability and illness are understood, and around challenging questions like psychological illness and behavioural euthanasia. Second, nuanced engagements with questions of a life worth living and Quality of Life emphasise the importance of individual animal experiences, personality, and the foregrounding of 'what is important for the animal'. Third, dialogues around choice and agency critique the tendency to focus on owner choice, rather asking what opportunities there are to listen to the preferences of animals themselves. Finally, engaging with care and power highlights the ambivalent nature of caregiving, of euthanasia as a practice of care, and the power intrinsic to making End of Life decisions on behalf of another. Overall, perspectives from Critical Disability Studies allow us to engage with challenging questions of veterinary ethics and end-of-life care in companion animal practice with more nuance and complexity.

Much more than a biological phenomenon: A qualitative study of women's experiences of brain fog across their reproductive journey.

Whilst 'brain fog' is mostly considered a biological problem little is understood about an individual's experience. This qualitative study explored women's experiences of brain fog focusing on those at the start (aged 18-25; n = 10) and end (aged 45-60; n = 10) of their reproductive journey. Descriptive thematic analysis described three themes: (i) 'daily disruptions' describing cognitive dysfunctions and the main triggers; (ii) 'the cycle of impact' with a focus on women's emotional experiences and how these can exacerbate brain fog; (iii) 'taking control' highlighting the use of self-care, physical prompts and Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT) to manage brain fog. Transcending these themes was the notion of 'crisis of identity' illustrating the negative impact of brain fog on the women's sense of self with some older women describing acceptance and finding it less challenging. Brain fog is much more than a biological phenomenon and has broader implications for a woman's sense of self.

The presence of experienced individuals enhance the behavior and survival of reintroduced woolly monkeys in Colombia.

Primate populations are under threat due to human activities, like illegal trafficking, requiring conservation efforts such as reintroduction programs. However, these initiatives often encounter challenges, such as aspects of individual behavior related to movement and foraging. The presence of experienced conspecifics has been suggested to improve the success of these programs. This study focuses on woolly monkeys and examines how the presence of experienced conspecifics influences the performance of reintroduced individuals. Focal animal sampling was used to collect data on proximity, diet composition, home range, and use of vertical strata of three groups of reintroduced woolly monkeys. Data was analyzed for the first 2 and 6months after release of individuals. The results reveal that the involvement of experienced conspecifics speeds up the process of adaptation, particularly in terms of diet diversity and spatial utilization; however, differences in individual responses were also prevalent. Our findings highlight the importance of incorporating individuals with prior wild experience into reintroduction groups for improving the likelihood of success. Additionally, the study underscores the role of social learning in captive management practices, aiding in post-release behavioral adaptation and survival. This research offers valuable insights for primate conservation, emphasizing the significance of considering the presence of experienced individuals and possible social learning processes in the planning and execution of effective reintroduction efforts.

Existential Buddhism: embracing life's uncertainties and finding meaning within

This study explores the profound questions surrounding the pursuit of Nirvana in Buddhism, examining whether it arises from the cycle of rebirth, present suffering, or future pain as depicted in early Buddhist scriptures. It also investigates the potential convergence of Buddhism with existentialism, a philosophy emphasizing individual experience, freedom, responsibility, and life’s inherent uncertainties. The primary inquiry examines whether Buddhism can harmonize with existentialist perspectives, which emphasize individuality amidst life’s enigmas. This research comprehensively investigates the reasons driving individuals in mainstream Buddhism to seek Nirvana, delving into their quest for liberation, and emphasizes the existential essence of Buddhism. Finally, It explores the plausibility of an alternative form of Buddhism that incorporates existential philosophy. Using a literature analysis approach with a thematic focus, this study critically examines the writings of prominent Buddhist scholars, existential philosophers, and researchers on the intersection of Buddhism and existentialism. The analysis reveals that Buddhists aspire for Nirvana to escape the cycle of suffering and find solace and serenity. Moreover, the juxtaposition of Buddhism and existentialism offers a fresh perspective, highlighting individual autonomy and choice in confronting life’s complexities, and providing an early Buddhist account of existential nature. By deepening the understanding of how mindfulness and meditation connect to core Buddhist principles, this research fosters more authentic engagement with Buddhist practices, enriching personal well-being. This research has vital implications for understanding the pursuit of meaning and liberation from suffering amidst life’s chaos, challenging conventional perceptions of Buddhism, and elucidating potential alignments with existential thought, inviting further research.

Lived experiences of women with uterine rupture who were managed at Nekemte specialized hospital: a qualitative study

BackgroundUterine rupture is a rare but severe obstetric complication that poses significant risks to maternal and fetal health. Understanding the lived experiences of individuals who have undergone uterine rupture is crucial for improving care and support for those affected by this condition. This qualitative phenomenological study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals who have experienced uterine rupture.MethodThe study employed a qualitative phenomenological approach, conducting 12 in-depth interviews and four key informant interviews with individuals who had experienced uterine rupture. Data analysis was conducted thematically using Atlas ti software to identify patterns and themes within the participants’ narratives.ResultsThe analysis of the interviews highlighted six key themes: experience during diagnosis and initial symptoms, perceived predisposing factors of uterine rupture, challenges faced by individuals with uterine rupture, impacts on their lives, and coping and resilience strategies. The findings revealed that women often failed to recognise the initial symptoms of uterine rupture due to a lack of preparation, a preference for home deliveries, husband refusal, and a general lack of awareness. This delay in seeking care resulted in severe consequences, including the loss of their babies, infertility, fistula, psychological trauma, and disruptions to daily life and relationships. To cope, many women resorted to accepting their situation, isolating themselves, and using traditional healing techniques.ConclusionsThis study’s findings provide valuable insights into the complex and multifaceted nature of uterine rupture, shedding light on the experiences of those affected by this condition. To address the challenges, it is essential to enhance awareness and education through community education programs and comprehensive antenatal classes. Additionally, improving access to healthcare by strengthening health infrastructure and deploying mobile health clinics can ensure better prenatal care. Furthermore, encouraging hospital deliveries through incentives and the support of community health workers can reduce risks. Providing psychological counselling and establishing support groups can help affected women cope with the consequences. Moreover, engaging men in maternal health through educational programs and involving them in antenatal care can foster better support. Finally, promoting safe traditional practices by integrating traditional healers and respecting cultural sensitivities can increase acceptance and adherence.

A Virtual Reality Approach to Overcome Glossophobia among University Students

In the contemporary academic landscape, university students frequently deliver presentations in front of their peers and faculty, often leading to heightened levels of Public Speaking Anxiety (PSA). This study explores the potential of Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) to alleviate PSA among students. Our study introduces "Manch," a realistic VR environment that simulates classroom public speaking scenarios with lifelike audience interactions and a slide-deck presentation feature. The study was conducted with N=28 participants, showing a significant reduction in PSA levels post-VR exposure, thereby establishing VR's efficacy in mitigating PSA. Additionally, we also incorporated a unique qualitative analysis through participant interviews, offering deeper insights into individual experiences with VRET. Manch shows great promise as a tool for future studies and interventions aimed at reducing PSA, particularly among university students.

Association between Sexual Abuse Experience and Salivary Stress Biomarkers among Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Individuals in Chennai – A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Gender-nonconforming people undergo unimaginable sexual and physical abuse. This leads to stress and other stress-related disorders which can be easily determined by salivary stress biomarkers. Early life stress has an association with the immune system linked with stress. Transgenders and gender nonconforming people are prone to sexual abuse in early life more compared to normal people. This study aims to know about the association between sexual and physical abuse experience and salivary stress biomarkers in Transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional epidemiological study. A snowball sampling design was adopted. The study was conducted in various places in Thozhi Shelter for Transgenders, Chetpet, Chennai among Gender non-conforming individuals and Transgenders. This study was conducted in April 2022. MDA and IL-6 levels were determined from their saliva using the passive drool method. Result: Interleukin L 6 and MDA levels were significantly higher in the GNC Group than in the control group. 63.64% of Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals experienced sexual abuse whereas 73% of them have experienced physical abuse in their lifetime. Conclusion: Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals who experienced physical/sexual abuse have increased IL 6 levels and decreased MDA levels in saliva when compared to the non-transgender individuals.

Survey on current clinical practice in geriatric oncology: the individual experience in five European Cancer Centers.

To gather information from clinicians on how geriatric oncology models of care have emerged in different European countries and describe current practice in this clinical area. A semi-structured online interview was performed, exploring aspects related to implementation, perceived quality of care, and professional satisfaction. The centers participating in this interview showed significant differences in terms of resource allocation, team members, components of the comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), and CGA-driven interventions. High levels of professional satisfaction were expressed by all participants. This was deemed a consequence of a perception of increased quality in the provision of care and enhanced educational and academic opportunities. Interdisciplinary models of care in geriatric oncology, regardless of implementation details, seem to provide grounds for increased professional satisfaction and perception of better provision of quality of care. These characteristics could support promoting and further developing similar collaborations on a wider scale.

The Experience of Birth Professionals Who Witness Obstetric Violence During Childbirth

Research The experience of obstetric violence is well documented. However, the impact on and experience of doulas and midwives who witness OV deserves more attention. The research questions that guided this study were: What types of harm are doulas and midwives witnessing, what factors influence their decision to intervene, and what impact does this experience have on their professional career and well-being? Methods This exploratory study used semi-structured qualitative interviews to understand how doulas and midwives navigate the experience of witnessing OV. The data analysis included reflexive thematic analysis. Feminist standpoint theory was employed to center the lived experiences of women and other individuals from marginalized groups in the research and in the knowledge acquisition process. Key contributions This study found that independent birth professionals like doulas and midwives are struggling with how to navigate their roles in the obstetric system. They find creative ways to advocate yet are often met with mistreatment themselves. This work is a call to action to the field of social work to engage in issues related to perinatal health and reproductive justice.

Inguinal Hernia Repair: Comparative Study between TEP versus Extended Totally Extraperitoneal.

Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure, with laparoscopic techniques offering advantages over open surgery. The extended Totally Extraperitoneal (eTEP) technique provides a larger working space compared to the traditional Totally Extraperitoneal (TEP) approach, potentially improving outcomes. A prospective study was conducted comparing eTEP and TEP techniques for inguinal hernia repair at Padmashree Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune. Forty patients (20 in each group) aged 15-65 with uncomplicated inguinal hernias were included. Surgical procedures were performed based on patient preference. Data on surgical duration, pain scores, hospital stay, and complications were collected and analyzed using statistical methods. eTEP surgery had a significantly shorter mean duration (48.70 ± 7.505 minutes) compared to TEP surgery (74.20 ± 7.78 minutes; P = 0.00). Patients undergoing eTEP experienced lower mean pain scores (3.75 ± 0.55) compared to those undergoing TEP (5.15 ± 0.745; P = 0.00). Hospital stay following eTEP surgery was shorter (1.70 ± 0.657 days) than following TEP surgery (3.65 ± 1.137 days; P = 0.00). eTEP had lower incidences of hematoma and surgical emphysema but higher seroma complications. TEP surgeries were associated with more post-operative complications and a higher likelihood of requiring conversion to open surgery. The eTEP technique offers several advantages over TEP, including shorter surgical duration, less post-operative pain, and shorter hospital stays. However, TEP had more complications related to seroma. Individual patient factors and surgeon experience should guide the choice of technique. The eTEP technique appears to be a promising option for inguinal hernia repair, offering advantages over TEP in terms of surgical outcomes. However, further studies are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes and complication rates comprehensively.

The effect of climate crisis on bipolar disorder: A qualitative study about experiences of individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

It can be said that the bipolar disorder is influenced by weather events. It is stated that climate change can have direct and indirect effects on bipolar disorder. Determining the impact of the climate crisis on individuals with bipolar disorder may assist in the development of preventive, protective and active treatment interventions for this group. The aim of this study was to determine the views and experiences of people with bipolar disorder about the impact of the climate crisis on their illness. The study was conducted using the phenomenological method, one of the qualitative study methods. Purposive sampling was used to select the sample for the study. In-depth individual interviews were conducted with the selected sample group. Data saturation was reached with 11 participants and data collection was finalized. The study data was collected using a personal information form and an open-ended structured interview form in which participants were asked about their views and experiences of the climate crisis. Voice recordings were transcribed, and categories, sub-themes and themes were formed. Based on the statements of people with a bipolar diagnosis, the study formed the themes of emotional impact, negative physical impact, impact on daily life, impact on symptoms, negative impact on recovery and ways of coping. People with a bipolar diagnosis are negatively affected by the impact of the climate crisis in many areas. There is a need to develop intervention programmes to arm people with a bipolar diagnosis against the negative effects of the climate crisis.

Depression symptoms, wellbeing, health-related quality of life, and diabetes-related distress in novel subtypes of recent-onset diabetes in Germany: a 5-year observational follow-up study.

The subjective experiences of individuals living with diabetes is commonly assessed with patient-reported outcomes (PROs; eg, depression symptoms, wellbeing, health-related quality of life [HRQOL], and diabetes-related distress). Cluster analyses have identified novel diabetes subtypes differing in phenotypic and metabolic characteristics. We aimed to investigate associations between these subtypes and PROs and whether subtype predicted PROs 5 years later. Baseline (<12 months after a diabetes diagnosis) and 5-year follow-up data were collected from German Diabetes Study (GDS) participants. Multiple regressions were applied to analyse associations between diabetes subtypes and depression symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale), wellbeing (WHO-5), HRQOL (SF-36), and diabetes-related distress (Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale). Cluster analyses at baseline (n=1391) identified participants with severe autoimmune diabetes (SAID, 417 [30%]), severe insulin-deficient diabetes (SIDD, 33 [2%]), severe insulin-resistant diabetes (SIRD, 150 [11%]), mild obesity-related diabetes (MOD, 354 [25%]), and mild age-related diabetes (MARD, 437 [31%]). At baseline, multiple regression analyses showed that participants with SIRD had higher depression symptoms than participants with MARD and lower physical HRQOL than all other subtypes. Participants with SAID reported higher depression symptoms and lower mental HRQOL than participants with MARD, higher physical HRQOL than participants with MARD and MOD, and higher diabetes-related distress than most other subtypes. At the 5-year follow-up, clustering predicted no statistically significant changes in PROs after adjustment for multiple testing, whereas descriptive analyses demonstrated that individuals with SIRD were more likely to experience clinically relevant depression symptoms (16% vs 6%) and low wellbeing (31% vs 14%), respectively, than individuals with MARD. Diabetes subtypes already differ in PROs at diabetes diagnosis. Our analyses had limited predictive power during follow-up. However, our findings suggest that clustering could predict future changes in depression symptoms. The GDS was initiated and financed by the German Diabetes Center, which is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Culture and Science of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, and by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research to the German Center for Diabetes Research. For the German translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Exploring community gardens on mental well-being among urban dwellers in Lagos, Nigeria

Purpose: In Lagos, Nigeria, Rapid urbanization raises serious concerns about mental well-being due to limited green spaces and social isolation; hence, this qualitative study aims to investigate the experiences of individuals engaged in community gardens and their effect on mental health. Method: This research uses semi-structured interviews with five individuals engaged in Lagos community gardens to thoroughly investigate their influence on mental well-being. Result: The findings demonstrate an increased social connection, improved mood, and reduced stress, through nature contact, and gardening. Also, the findings review that community gardens contributed to overall well-being, provided opportunities for mindfulness, and physical activity, and facilitated a sense of belonging Conclusion: The novelty of the research is that it sheds light on the specific experiences of Nigerians in community gardens and their perceived mental health benefits, thereby, pinpointing the potential of these spaces in tackling the urban mental health issues. This systematic study informs the development of culturally relevant community gardens as accessible interventions to enhance mental well-being in Lagos and similar urban settings.

Addressing Shame Through Self Compassion.

Shame is a common experience for individuals living with chronic diseases related to lifestyle, such as obesity and diabetes. It is often characterized by feelings of stigma and worthlessness, leading many patients to feel judged and unworthy of respect, which can profoundly affect health outcomes and overall quality of life. Despite the severe consequences of shame, therapeutic approaches to address it remain underexplored. This paper highlights the role of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy as effective strategies to mitigate shame, cultivate self-compassion, and, therefore, enhance health outcomes for individuals with chronic lifestyle-related conditions. These therapies have demonstrated positive effects on treatment adherence and self-management among patients with chronic diseases. Therefore, healthcare providers can improve patients' overall well-being by adopting strategies from these therapies, such as using compassionate language that emphasizes empathy, non-judgmental support, and validation, all of which help reduce shame and stigma.

Reflections on Inclusion. An Essay on Ideological Contradiction, Expectations and a Search for Meaning

Is it widely known what inclusion is? Is there a difference between inclusion and integration? There are many opinions and answers that reveal a low level of understanding. The certain elusiveness of inclusion is both an advantage and a pitfall. The ambiguity of interpretation allows for greater reflection and exploration. However, it also hinders society-wide understanding since meaning is only given to inclusion by individuals through a unique understanding tied to individual experience and context of meaning. We present here our take on the issue, deliberately raising questions without requiring strict answers, as an inspiration for welcome discussion and reflection.

The Influence Of Father Involvement On Adolescent Sexual Self-Concept

Purpose: Self-concept is constructed through individual experiences and knowledge. Adolescents who start to become complicated about finding their identity, self-concept is also needed to help adolescents deal with the development of sexual turmoil, in this case it is called sexual self-concept. One of the factors that influences the construction of sexual self-concept is how fathers involve themselves in parenting. This research aims to determine the influence of father's involvement in parenting on adolescents' sexual self-concept. Method: This research used quantitative method with a total of 347 participants selected. They were teenagers aged 12-18 years who lived in Nganjuk Regency, East Java. Result: It showed that fathers' involvement in caring for adolescents in Nganjuk was at a medium level (91.1%) and teenagers' sexual self-concept was also at a medium level (72.6%). The significance value (Sig.) in the simple linear regression test is 0.000 &lt; 0.05, with the t test result being -7.252 &lt; 1.649, providing information that father involvement in parenting has a significant influence on adolescents' sexual self-concept. Conclusion: Result that show a negative direction indicated limitations in understanding and openness regarding the importance of sexual self-concept in adolescents. Many participants thought sexual self-concept as taboo to be discussed.

Employer support for health and social care registered professionals, their patients and service users involved in regulatory fitness to practise regulatory proceedings.

Health and social care employees may be involved in professional regulatory proceedings because their alleged behaviour raises health or conduct concerns. Employees, patients or service users may also be involved in a regulatory tribunal as witnesses. This study is about the role of employers in supporting them in this process. Taking an organisational support perspective, we interviewed 25 senior employees in health and social care organisations in the UK who are responsible for managing the employer's role in the proceedings. Template analysis was used to analyse the transcripts. Support for patients was limited to that offered during an employer's complaints process, and only one employer gave some support during the regulatory process if the patient or service user initiated regulatory proceedings. Support for employees in tribunals was little different to that offered during an initial investigation by the employer. However, where additional support for being involved in a regulatory tribunal was offered to employees, it most often came from the senior employees' own experience of the stressfulness of being a witness in these proceedings. Employers were not aware of training resources that would better support their employees to engage with professional regulatory proceedings. Employers offer limited support to employees who are involved in professional regulatory proceedings, and the support offered may depend more on senior employee's individual experience of involvement in regulatory proceedings to exercise this discretion. Patients, service users and other public witnesses receive almost no support from health and social care employers during professional regulatory proceedings.

Key aspects in the development of gender identity and sexual orientation according to trans and gender diverse people: a qualitative approach.

For decades, the sexuality of trans and gender diverse people has been researched from a pathologising and medical perspective. This approach makes assumptions about the experiences of trans people, limiting concern for unique and individual experiences, especially for those with non-binary or gender diverse identities. A growing number of articles however are beginning to take the viewpoints of trans people seriously, taking into consideration their unique experiences and insights within the context of sexual and romantic relationships. This study examines the development of gender identity and sexual orientation of a group of trans individuals in Spain. Thirteen self-identified trans participants were interviewed about their sexual orientation, gender identity and the interplay between both those aspects. A constructivist grounded theory methodology was employed to analyse the data. Five major categories were identified: reinterpreting experiences through identification with gender identity and sexual orientation; questioning gender identity and sexual orientation norms; understanding the interplay between gender identity and sexual orientation; developing as a couple; and building a community. Findings highlight the dynamic and relational nature of gender identity and sexual orientation and provide further insight into the interaction of these aspects in the development of trans and gender diverse identities.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Sexual and Reproductive Health among Secondary School Students in Kicukiro District, Rwanda

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is intricately connected to a variety of factors, including cultural norms, psychological influences, and individual experiences. This study explores the experiences of late adolescents regarding SRH, focusing on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Kicukiro District, Rwanda. Despite government efforts to educate youth on SRH, many secondary school students remain vulnerable to issues like unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding sexual and reproductive health among secondary school students in Kicukiro District, Rwanda. The study targeted secondary school students from two schools: Groupe Scolaire Saint Vincent Pillotie Gikondo (urban) and EFOTEK (rural). Using Fisher’s formula, a sample size of 423 respondents was determined through stratified random sampling. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS and descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The findings revealed that 88% of students were aware of puberty and pregnancy processes, while 78.7% were knowledgeable about contraceptive methods, particularly condoms and oral contraceptives. Positive attitudes towards SRH were noted, with a mean score of 4.00 for pre-marital relationships, but significant misconceptions existed, such as 11% of respondents lacking knowledge on HIV protection. The overall mean for practices related to SRH was 3.98 for seeking medical check-ups, indicating a willingness to engage with health services. However, practices promoting healthy lifestyles received a lower mean of 3.25, suggesting areas needing improvement. The study highlights the need for enhanced sexual and reproductive health education among secondary school students in Kicukiro District. While students demonstrate good knowledge and positive attitudes toward SRH, targeted interventions are necessary to address misconceptions and promote healthier practices, particularly in areas related to lifestyle and open communication.