Family Structure Research Articles

The Discourse in Lontaraq Meongpalo Karellae: An Anthropological Perspective

This article discusses the Lontaraq Meongpalo Karellae manuscript from an anthropological perspective. The manuscript narrates the story of a cat subjected to violence by humans, leading to the descent of celestial beings known as Dewata Sangiangseri to administer 'retribution' against those who mistreat animals. The manuscript also explores the relationships between humans, nature, and other living beings to foster harmonious coexistence for environmental preservation. This narrative imparts ethical lessons from an anthropological and cultural standpoint.The study employs an anthropological approach to analyze cultural practices among the Bugis community, particularly in maintaining harmony among humans, nature, and the surrounding environment. Through the Maddoja Bine ritual, these practices substantiate how the Lontaraq Meongpalo Karellae manuscript provides concrete implications for Bugis ethnic entities to nurture and care for the environment. Furthermore, this research enables a deeper understanding of the dynamics of traditional Bugis society, especially in the contexts of social interaction, family structure, and inherited cultural values. Oral traditions, myths, and rituals constitute integral aspects of the cultural identity of the community, effectively manifesting as relational entities within historical and environmental contexts, thereby underscoring their relevance in contemporary anthropological studies.

FAMILY CAPITALISM AND THE EXPLOITATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES: A CATALYST TO CLIMATE CHANGE

Capitalism is one of the significant reasons behind the exploitation of the natural resources. Family is the primary unit of Social Structure. The evolution of family structure undergoes various cultural challenges throughout history, from Gynocracy to Patriarchy. Accordingly, the family structure is now divided into the Bourgeoisie and Proletariat families. The bourgeoisie family satisfies the demands of the proletariat family. However, both Family divisions exploit natural resources not for need but for greed. It is explicit that every family is modified into a capitalist family mindset. Most of the time, capitalism exploits natural resources, and that exploitation is the cause of the depletion of natural resources and environmental degradation, thus resulting in climate change. Resource exploitation, particularly natural resource exploitation, significantly contributes to climate change. The development of infrastructure for human needs, technological advancement, and others has never satisfied human expectations, which are unnecessary but an unwanted exploitation of natural resources. Thus, this research paper discusses how the materialistic and capitalist mindset of the family exploits nature and acts as a catalyst for climate change. KEYWORDS: Family system, Materialistic attitudes, climate change, Resource exploitation, and Human greed

Female single-parent family: a public policy issue

The traditional family unit consisting of a father, mother, and children no longer prevails in society as it did decades ago, giving way to other family structures such as the single-parent family, where only one person takes on the parenting role. This article aims to analyze the conditions for implementing public policies aimed at preventing or mitigating the impact of gender inequality in single-parent families led by women. The question guiding the research is what public policies can be effective in mitigating discrimination and unequal treatment given to female single-parent families. The starting point was a theoretical review of Brazilian single-parent families, the causes and impacts of gender inequalities, and public policies. The methodological process includes the SWOT matrix analysis (an acronym in English for the words strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) for diagnosing barriers to the implementation of suggested public policies. The hypothesis is that some social barriers make it difficult to implement public policies for single-parent families. The results show social barriers such as: lower income attainment; limited access to basic goods and services for members of single-parent families due to their low income; uncertain insertion into the job market; no proper family assistance; intensification of women’s double workload; school dropout; physical and psychological illness. Public policies are suggested based on the study.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of Helicobacter pylori infection in community households in Lanzhou city.

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection exhibits a familial clustering phenomenon. To investigate the prevalence of H. pylori infection, identify associated factors, and analyze patterns of transmission within families residing in the community. From July 2021 to September 2021, a total of 191 families (519 people) in two randomly chosen community health service centers in the Chengguan District of Lanzhou in Gansu Province, were recruited to fill out questionnaires and tested for H. pylori infection. Individuals were followed up again from April 2023 and June 2023 to test for H. pylori infection. The relationship between variables and H. pylori infection was analyzed using logistic regression and generalized linear mixed models. In 2021, the individual-based H. pylori infection rate was found to be 47.0% (244/519), which decreased to 38.1% (177/464) in 2023. Additionally, the rate of individual-based H. pylori new infection was 22.8% (55/241). The family-based H. pylori infection rate in 2021 was 76.9% (147/191), which decreased to 67.1% (116/173) in 2023, and the rate of family-based H. pylori new infection was 38.6% (17/44). Individual H. pylori infection was positively correlated with age, body mass index (BMI), eating food that was excessively hot, frequent acid reflux, bloating, and halitosis symptoms, and negatively correlated with family size and nut consumption. New individual H. pylori infection was positively correlated with BMI, other types of family structures, drinking purified water, and frequent heartburn symptoms, while negatively correlated with the use of refrigerators and following a regular eating schedule. A larger living area was an independent protective factor for H. pylori infection in households. Frequently consuming excessively hot food and symptoms of halitosis were independent risk factors for H. pylori infection in individuals; frequent consumption of nuts was an independent protective factor for H. pylori infection. Other types of family structure, drinking purified water, and frequent heartburn symptoms were independent risk factors for new individual H. pylori infection; the use of a refrigerator was an independent protective factor for new H. pylori infections. The household H. pylori infection rate in Lanzhou is relatively high and linked to socio-demographic factors and lifestyles. Eradication efforts and control of related risk factors are recommended in the general population.

Little evidence that nonmonogamous family structures are detrimental to children’s well-being in Mpimbwe, Tanzania

Nuclear family structures are often thought to be essential for the well-being of children. Divorce, the loss of either biological parent, the presence of step-parents, and the practice of polygynous marriage have all been claimed to negatively impact child well-being. However, empirical research on these topics has been limited by the routine use of cross-regional and cross-sectional databases. Cross-regional data render research vulnerable to the ecological inference fallacy, and cross-sectional data prevent assessment of age-specific impacts of time-varying family-structure variables. When longitudinal data are available, they tend to be drawn from Western/urban contexts. Detailed data on family structure and children's well-being are rarely collected in more marginalized communities. In many rural and traditional communities, nonnuclear family structures are indeed prevalent and viewed as socially permissible-and, as such, may have different impacts on children's well-being than in Western contexts. Here, we draw on a detailed, longitudinal dataset from a 20-y prospective study in rural Tanzania, where polygyny and serial monogamy are common. We analyze survival outcomes for 3,693 children born between 1931 and 2014, growth outcomes for 881 children born between 1976 and 2014, and educational outcomes for 1,370 children born between 1976 and 2014. Our analyses indicate that monogamous marriage is not consistently associated with better outcomes for children-contrary to some popular and public health perspectives on human family structure.

Family Experience of Detention for Migratory Reasons: Findings From a Qualitative Systematic Review

ABSTRACTIn response to growing international migration, several states have adopted controversial measures, including detaining migrants, which have detrimental impacts on migrants' physical, mental and social health. Although family is often at the heart of migratory decisions, few studies have used a family lens to examine this phenomenon. This paper reports on the findings of a qualitative systematic review that aims to describe the experience of migrant families dealing with detention. Articles were searched in relevant databases, and the quality of studies was assessed independently by two reviewers using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists. Twenty‐two out of 897 articles met the inclusion criteria and were subsequently included. Three themes emerged from the thematic synthesis that capture the experience of migrant families affected by detention: (1) alterations of the family structure, (2) disruptions in instrumental and emotional functioning and (3) weakening of the family identity. Results robustly evidenced the detrimental effects of detention on families and the urge to stop this practice. Limitations included the difficulty of distinguishing between the experience of detention and deportation in some studies, as well as limited information about the long‐term effect of detention on family health and integration in the host society.

The Influence of Cultural Factors on Financial Decision-Making in Ghana

This study investigates the role of cultural factors in shaping financial behaviors in Ghana, focusing on elements such as family obligations, communal traditions, religious beliefs, and traditional practices. It examines how these cultural dynamics influence decisions related to savings, borrowing, investments, and the use of informal financial systems like "susu," a widely trusted savings method in Ghanaian society. Through a mixed-method approach combining qualitative and quantitative techniques, the research provides a holistic view of the cultural influences driving financial decision-making. The analysis reveals a strong cultural preference for financial practices rooted in community trust and collective responsibility, often favoring informal systems over formal financial institutions. Family structures and societal expectations strongly influence financial priorities, emphasizing the needs of the group over individual goals. Religious values also play a significant role, shaping attitudes toward financial ethics, debt management, and charitable contributions. This reliance on cultural norms reflects the high level of trust in traditional methods that align with familiar and accessible systems. The findings underscore the necessity of culturally tailored financial solutions to bridge the gap between informal practices and formal financial services. Policymakers and financial service providers must consider these cultural intricacies when designing products and strategies to improve financial inclusion. Culturally aligned financial education and services can foster trust and encourage broader participation in formal financial systems, supporting economic growth and stability. This research not only advances academic understanding of the intersection between culture and finance but also offers actionable insights for creating financial policies and services that resonate with the cultural realities of Ghanaian society. By aligning modern financial systems with traditional values and practices, financial inclusion can be enhanced, fostering a more inclusive and equitable financial environment.

Maternal Morbidity and Medically Assisted Reproduction Treatment Types.

To compare odds of maternal morbidity by mode of becoming pregnant and type of medically assisted reproduction treatments: fertility-enhancing drugs, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and assisted reproductive technology (ART) with autologous or donor oocytes. Birth certificates were used to study maternal morbidity among the birthing population in Utah between 2009 and 2017 (N=469,919 deliveries); 22,543 pregnancies occurred through medically assisted reproduction (4.8%). Maternal morbidity was identified as a binary variable, indicating the presence of any of the following: blood transfusion, unplanned operating room procedure, admission to intensive care unit, eclampsia, unplanned hysterectomy, and ruptured uterus. Using logistic regression, we assessed maternal morbidity among medically assisted reproduction pregnancies (overall and by type of treatment) compared with unassisted pregnancies in the overall sample before and after adjustment for individual sociodemographics (age at birth, family structure, level of education, Hispanic origin, parity), and pre-existing comorbidities (ie, chronic hypertension, heart disease, asthma), multifetal gestation, and obstetric comorbidities (ie, placenta previa, placental abruption, cesarean delivery). Individuals becoming pregnant through medically assisted reproduction had higher risk of maternal morbidity, with odds ratios (ORs) increasing as medically assisted reproduction treatments become more invasive. Associations were largely attenuated when accounting for multifetal gestation and further reduced after controlling for obstetric comorbidities. However, ART with autologous oocytes (OR 1.46, 95% CI, 1.20-1.78) maintained higher coefficients compared with unassisted pregnancies. In models including only singletons, after controlling for obstetric comorbidities, the OR differences in maternal morbidity between all medically assisted reproduction groups and unassisted pregnancies were no longer statistically significant. More invasive medically assisted reproduction treatments (ART and IUI) are associated with higher odds of maternal morbidity, whereas less invasive treatments are not. This relationship is partially explained by higher prevalence of multifetal gestation and obstetric comorbidities in people undergoing more invasive treatment, but the persistent association suggests subfertility itself may contribute to maternal morbidity.

One is Good, but are Two Really Better? Outcomes for Dual versus Individual Attendees in a Behavioral Parent-Training Program for Caregivers of Young Children

ABSTRACT Background The Helping Our Toddlers, Developing Our Children’s Skills (HOT DOCS) BPMT program utilizes positive behavior support principles to help caregivers of children birth-5 years address early childhood disruptive behaviors and common developmental challenges experienced by many young children. Objective The present study examined whether there were differences in child outcomes, attendance rates, homework completion rates, levels of caregiver stress, and treatment satisfaction for individual versus dual caregiver participation in the HOT DOCS BPMT. Method Using a quasi-experimental design, caregivers of children ages 0–5 years were assigned to two non-equivalent groups: individual attendee (n = 141) and dual attendee (n = 123). Independent samples t-tests were utilized to compare means between individual and dual attendee groups for number of sessions attended and homework completion. Paired samples t-tests were calculated to compare means between individual and dual attendee groups on HOT DOCS program outcomes, including child behavior, parenting stress, and treatment satisfaction. Results There were no significant differences in outcomes between individual and dual attendee groups. Child behavior outcomes, parenting stress, treatment satisfaction, attendance, and homework completion were similar across both groups. Conclusions Individual caregiver engagement in the HOT DOCS BPMT program might be sufficiently potent to result in desirable outcomes. Future directions should include examining family structure and treatment modality on BPMT outcomes, maintenance of intervention gains, and perceived child behavior outcomes of BPMT non-attending caregivers.

Assessment of displaced Sudanese school-age children’s mental health at Ad-Damar, River Nile, Sudan, 2024: a descriptive cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe WHO defines mental health as well-being where individuals manage stress, work productively, and contribute to their community. Children’s mental health is critical, especially among vulnerable groups like refugees. Research shows refugee children, including Sudanese, face PTSD, depression, and anxiety due to conflict and displacement, yet specific studies on Sudanese children are scarce. East Africa faces high prevalence due to poverty, conflict, and inadequate healthcare. Sudan’s situation is exacerbated by ongoing conflict and limited resources, despite efforts from NGOs and international organizations.MethodologyThis cross-sectional descriptive study examines the mental health of Sudanese school-age children (6–18 years) in Ad-Damar, River Nile, Sudan, using a simple random sampling technique. The study included 246 participants. Data were collected using an author-designed questionnaire based on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), supplemented with demographic information. Data management involved secure handling and ethical considerations, including informed consent and confidentiality. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS V.25 to ensure accuracy and reliability of the findings.ResultsThe sample included children aged 6–18 years, with 54% males and 46% females. Displacement duration varied, with 34% displaced for 1–2 years. Socio-demographic findings indicated 39% lived with both parents, 56% were in urban environments, and 47% were in primary school. Mental health assessments revealed 68% frequently felt sad, 73% felt anxious, and 29% had diagnosed conditions, including PTSD and depression. Correlations showed significant positive relationships between overall mood ratings and both school support (r = 0.45, p < 0.01) and family support (r = 0.35, p < 0.05). Chi-Square tests indicated significant associations between gender and mental health diagnoses (χ²=5.67, p = 0.017) and family structure and perceived support (χ²=12.34, p < 0.05).ConclusionThe study highlights the urgent need for better mental health support for displaced children, given the high prevalence of mental health issues and inadequate support from schools and families. Future research should include longitudinal studies to evaluate long-term effects and intervention effectiveness. Key steps include improving access to mental health services, fostering supportive educational environments, and enhancing family support systems.

Exploration of Intergenerational Interaction in the Context of Contemporary Families: A Review from a Sociological Perspective

This study explores intergenerational interaction in the context of contemporary families from a sociological perspective. The main focus of this research is how value shifts and social changes influence relationships between older and younger generations within families. The findings reveal tension between older generations, who preserve traditional values, and younger generations, who are more open to change. However, there are also opportunities for mutual learning, both in terms of technology and cultural values. Changes in family structure, particularly the shift toward nuclear families, and the adoption of technology, play a significant role in shaping communication between generations. The study concludes that, despite challenges in intergenerational interactions, open dialogue and mutual learning can strengthen relationships within contemporary families.

Genome-wide identification and gene expression pattern analysis of the glycoside hydrolase family 1 in Fagopyrum tataricum

BackgroundThe β-glucosidases (BGLU) of glycoside hydrolase family 1 hydrolyze the glycosidic bond to release β-D-glucose and related ligands, which are widely involved in important physiological processes in plants. Genome-wide analysis of the BGLU genes in the model crops Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa revealed that they are functionally diverse. In contrast, the BGLU gene family in Tartary buckwheat remains unclear.ResultsThis study identified the FtBGLU gene family based on Tartary buckwheat genomic data and analyzed the biological function of the FtBGLU gene using bioinformatics methods and the expression pattern of the gene using fluorescence quantitative PCR. The results showed that 39 BGLU genes were identified in Tartary buckwheat, which were classified into 10 subfamilies and one unclassified group. They were unevenly distributed on 10 chromosomes, and seven tandem duplication events involving 19 FtBGLU genes were observed, which mainly occurred in subfamily II. Their physicochemical properties are highly variable; however, they have relatively conserved exon-intron structures and high sequence homology in the subfamily, and most of the FtBGLUs contain conserved motifs, among which the expression products FtBGLU1, FtBGLU17, FtBGLU19, FtBGLU21, FtBGLU22, and FtBGLU28 have no β-glucosidase activity. Additionally, we analyzed the tissue expression specificity of 10 FtBGLU genes during Tartary buckwheat growth and development and their expression patterns under adversity stress and hormone treatments. Revealing the important role of the BGLU gene family in Tartary buckwheat growth and development, as well as its response to adversity, provides strong support for further analysis of its regulatory mechanisms and functional applications.SummaryA total of 39 FtBGLU genes were identified. Bioinformatics analysis of the gene structure, evolutionary relationship, and expression pattern of the Fagopyrum tataricum BGLU gene family establishes a foundation for a better understanding and future research on the Tartary buckwheat BGLU gene family.

Social Issues Affecting Social Cohesion in Low-resource Communities in South Africa

South Africa’s rural communities face significant disparities, marked by high poverty and unemployment, which threaten social cohesion and inclusion. Residents often lack access to essential services and economic opportunities, while social issues like crime, unemployment, and substance abuse further strain these low-resource communities. While extensive research exists on social cohesion in urban settings, there is a notable gap in understanding how social issues such as unemployment, limited access to basic services, and housing insecurity uniquely impact social cohesion in low-resource communities. Therefore, this study seeks to explore the perceptions and experiences of social issues affecting social cohesion in low-resource communities in South Africa, and how one could facilitate the promotion of cohesive communities. This study adopts a qualitative methodological approach to gain a deep understanding of the participants and their lived experiences in low-resource communities. The current study was conducted in four communities within South Africa including Philippolis, Lamberts Bay, Caledon, and Grabouw. The study utilised a qualitative approach, with a phenomenological design, to interview 25 participants which included family members and community stakeholders. In-depth interviews were used for data collection and thematic data analysis. The findings highlight the disruption of societal unity in low-resource communities due to complex family dynamics, pervasive violence, substance abuse, and significant barriers to education. Dysfunctional family structures, historical factors like apartheid, and modern challenges such as urban migration and high unemployment contribute to social disintegration. Also, crime and violence, deeply intertwined with the lack of social cohesion, are exacerbated by historical and socio-economic factors. This highlights the need for comprehensive interventions which requires a multifaceted approach to tackle the underlying drivers of violence and inequality (SDG10) to achieve social cohesion in the face of entrenched inequalities is a formidable challenge, necessitating concerted efforts from both the government and civil society to bridge divides and foster a more inclusive and equitable society. This research emphasises the importance of addressing these complex social issues to build cohesive communities in South Africa’s rural areas.

The Phenomenon of Divorce is Caused by Online Gambling in East Jakarta

The phenomenon of divorce due to online gambling in East Jakarta has become a worrying issue, with a significant increase in recent years. This study aims to identify the factors that lead to the rise in online gambling-related divorce rates and develop effective strategies for recovery. The research method involves collecting data through surveys, in-depth interviews with affected families, and analyzing Islamic legal literature regarding online gambling. The results of the study showed that online gambling addiction causes serious damage to family structures, including severe financial problems, mental health disorders, and erosion of trust between family members. The study also found that ease of access and economic incentives are the main reasons people engage in online gambling. The impact of these findings underscores the need for comprehensive interventions, such as public education on gambling risks, emotional and financial support for affected families, and affordable rehabilitation programs. This study concludes that recovery strategies that involve collaboration between governments, health institutions, and local communities are urgently needed to reduce the negative impact of online gambling and help families get back on a healthier track. Proactive and collaborative efforts can effectively address this problem and reduce the divorce rate related to online gambling in East Jakarta.

Legal Certainty, Justice, and Maqasid al-Shari'ah in Polygamy Permits: A Case Study of Kediri Religious Court

Polygamy has been a problem with pros and cons until now. This also includes permission for polygamy carried out by the husband for reason of high sexual desire or hypersexuality, which causes the husband to take permission for polygamy to the Religious Court. This is what happened in the Kediri Regency Religious Court Number 3826/Pdt.G/2023/PA.Kab.Kdr. This article is library research, qualitative in nature, and uses a conceptual and statutory approach. The results of this research show that the practice of polygamy permit is in accordance with aspects of legal justice, legal certainty and legal benefit. As for maqasid al-shari'ah, if it is related to the case of polygamy permit, it can be understood that, First, legal texts and rules are not separate from their purpose. In Islam, there is a rule that polygamy is limited to four wives, the purpose of which is to worship Allah and form a harmonious family and must fulfill the positive legal aspects, namely permission from the first wife. Second, combine universal principles with arguments used for specific cases. In this case, even though there is a text about polygamy, it still requires permission from the first wife, and is connected to the principle of hifz al-usrah which contains hifz al-din, hifz al-al-'aql, hifz al-nasl, and hifz al-mal. All these principles emphasize the teachings of Islam rahmatan lil 'alamin. Third, achieving benefits and preventing harm. Therefore, polygamy must be accompanied by permission from the first wife to realize the benefits and the building of the family must prioritize the benefits aspect and avoid harm. Fourth, consider the final result. In this case, the implication of the husband's actions, if the impact is that the family structure is not harmonious, it is better for the husband to marry only one wife. So that the goals of marriage can be achieved. This is in accordance with the purposefulness feature conveyed by Jasser Auda.

The intricate dynamics of personality, emotional intelligence, and family in adolescent tendencies towards delinquent-prone behavior

ABSTRACT Delinquent-prone behavior among Indian youth poses a multifaceted challenge shaped by psychosocial factors and evolving behavioral trends. This study aimed to identify key contributors to delinquent-prone behavior among adolescents in conflict with law, examining variables like age, personality traits, emotional intelligence, and family environment. Using purposive sampling, a cross-sectional survey was conducted with 106 male adolescents aged 14 to 18 from observation and special homes in Tamil Nadu, India. Findings reveal that age and family structure significantly influence delinquent prone behavior among adolescents. Younger juveniles, aged 14 to 16, are particularly prone to such behavior due to the complexities of adolescence. The nuclear family structure notably impacts deviance. A positive correlation exists between emotional intelligence and a supportive family environment, indicating that juveniles from nurturing backgrounds exhibit better emotional well-being. Additionally, a positive correlation between delinquent prone behavior and personality traits underscores their significant role in delinquency. Understanding these relationships is vital for mitigating such behaviors. The study underscores the importance of personality traits and emotional intelligence as predictive indicators of delinquent prone behavior among juveniles, offering valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals addressing deviance.

The role of chinese culture and strategic orientation in enhancing competitive advantage and firm performance in Indonesian chinese family companies

Chinese culture plays an important role in shaping the dynamics of family businesses in Indonesia, especially in the context of increasingly intense business competition. This study aims to address gaps in understanding the influence of Chinese culture, including guanxi culture, Confucian inheritance, and the succession process, as well as strategic orientation, namely entrepreneurial orientation and market orientation, on firm performance, with competitive advantage as a mediating variable. The research method used in this study is a quantitative method with a data analysis approach using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Data were collected through surveys distributed to 232 Chinese family businesses in Bekasi and DKI Jakarta. The sample was selected using a non-probability sampling technique with a purposive sampling approach, where companies were chosen based on certain criteria, such as family structure, years of operation, and family member involvement in management. The data collection instrument consisted of structured questionnaires containing questions about corporate culture, strategic orientation, competitive advantage, and firm performance. The results of the study show that competitive advantage significantly mediates the influence of the succession process, entrepreneurial orientation, and market orientation on firm performance. However, guanxi culture and Confucian inheritance do not show a significant influence on firm performance, either directly or through competitive advantage. These findings contribute theoretically with five novel models related to the relationship between Chinese culture, strategic orientation, and firm performance in Indonesia. The implications of this study suggest that Chinese family businesses need to focus more on innovation, market adaptability, and succession management to maintain competitiveness and enhance business performance, while traditional values such as guanxi and Confucianism may require further adaptation to remain relevant in the modern business context.

UNIQUENESS OF THE MATRILINEAL SYSTEM AMIDST THE DIVERSITY OF CULTURE AND CUSTOMS OF THREE MAJOR TRIBES IN MEGHALAYA: A SOCIOLOGICAL APPROACH

This research explores the unique matrilineal practices of Meghalaya, India, home to the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintiya tribes, known for their matrilineal culture where inheritance and family titles are passed through the maternal line. This study aims to document and analyze these practices to understand their role in female empowerment and their implications for social, political, and economic domains. Key research questions include the uniqueness of matrilineal practices, their interplay with cultural diversity and comparisons with the major tribes of Meghalaya. Meghalayan matrilineal systems are distinguished by their flexibility and robustness, promoting social cohesion and economic stability by retaining property within the maternal lineage and enhancing family wealth. These systems afford women significant social standing and control over family and community affairs, challenging traditional gender roles and power dynamics. They shape social structures, influence marriage customs, and kinship networks, and foster community cohesion through matrilocality, which strengthens extended family bonds and maternal ties. However, contemporary socio-economic changes pose challenges to maintaining these cultural traditions. Despite these pressures, Meghalayan matrilineal societies continue to offer valuable insights into social structures, women’s roles, and inheritance systems within indigenous communities. This study contributes to sociological theories on gender roles and family structures, highlighting the adaptability and diversity of kinship systems across different cultural contexts. Policy recommendations include funding for community-led projects, integrating indigenous knowledge systems in education, and safeguarding matrilineal inheritance rights. Empowering women within this framework is crucial for enhancing broader social structures and community cohesiveness. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, comparative analyses, policy advocacy, and interdisciplinary approaches to further understand and support these matrilineal societies. By examining the matrilineal practices in Meghalaya, this research provides important insights that could inform policies aimed at advancing women’s rights and gender equality in other regions of India and beyond.

The catch-up growth follow-up management system use and need for the parents of premature infants after discharge based on a WeChat mini program: A cross-sectional survey in China.

Preterm birth is a significant public health concern. To achieve a growth trajectory consistent with the genetic law, a catch-up growth strategy must be adopted for these infants to achieve normal growth and development. The aim of this study is to investigate the use requirements of a WeChat mini program-based post-discharge catch-up growth follow-up management system for the parents of preterm infants. A cross-sectional survey method was used to collect data from 417 parents of preterm infants in the child health unit of a hospital in Sichuan Province, China, between December 1, 2021 and August 23, 2022. This study used a questionnaire composed of 2 sections, including basic information of parents of preterm babies and their functional requirements for a WeChat mini program-based post-discharge catch-up growth follow-up management of preterm infants (content validity was 0.921 and Cronbach alpha coefficient was 0.891). The 417 parents who completed the questionnaire were between 22 and 46 years old, with an average age of 32.54 ± 3.92 years. The factors that influence the demand for WeChat mini program functions for managing the catch-up growth of preterm infants after discharge include occupation, education level, family structure, number of births, residential area, and frequency of using WeChat (P < .05). The demand for the WeChat mini program for post-discharge catch-up growth management among parents of preterm babies is high. The contents and functions of the WeChat mini program can be further enriched and improved to meet the needs of parents of preterm infants of different birth ages.

DIVÓRCIO NO BRASIL NO PERÍODO PRÉ E PÓS PANDEMIA DA COVID-19: UM ESTUDO ACERCA DA JUDICIALIZAÇÃO DO DIVÓRCIO NESSE PERÍODO

Divorce in Brazil reflects changes in family, social, and legal relations over time. This study explores the judicialization of divorce, highlighting its increase during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. Pandemic challenges such as mobility restrictions drove the adoption of digital solutions to facilitate legal procedures, although logistical challenges arose. The study's qualitative approach seeks to understand the factors influencing divorce and its implications, aiming to contribute to more effective policies. Research findings indicate a significant decrease in the number of divorces in Brazil in 2020, totaling 331.2 thousand cases, followed by a significant increase in 2021, reaching a record of 386.8 thousand divorces. In 2022, there was a decrease to 68,703 cases until November, reflecting fluctuations influenced by social and economic conditions during the pandemic. The transition to the virtual environment during the pandemic facilitated divorce processes, with virtual hearings and digital document signatures, overcoming logistical challenges and delays in legal procedures. The analysis reveals significant variations in the number of divorces during and after the pandemic, reflecting social and economic changes. The transition to the virtual environment facilitated legal procedures, while changes in family structures demand supportive policies. Future studies can further explore the impact of technological adaptations on the divorce process, including the effectiveness of virtual hearings and the security of online communications.