Support Framework Research Articles

Experiences of mothers of children with and without Special Educational Needs (SEN) in England during the COVID-19 lockdowns: a qualitative study

AbstractThe present study qualitatively examined the experiences of caregivers of primary school children with and without SEN in relation to their socioemotional wellbeing and how they coped during the COVID-19 pandemic in England. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 22 London-based mothers of 5–12-year-old children, half of whom had children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). The interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, allowing for a comparative exploration of the experiences of mothers with children with SEN and those without. The analysis generated four themes: (1) opportunities (2) challenges (3) post-pandemic considerations (4) coping strategies. Findings showed that caregivers of both SEN and non-SEN children experienced several opportunities or challenges after the initial lockdown in 2020. Both groups of caregivers reported similar long-term experiences in terms of opportunities. However, almost all caregivers in SEN group reported distinctive challenges about support services and mental health decline. In terms of coping strategies, SEN mothers placed a greater emphasis on the importance of adapting to change and establishing new routines. They also used more mental health services for themselves and their children during lockdowns compared to non-SEN mothers. Regarding the post-pandemic considerations, almost all caregivers, regardless of their children’s SEN status, expressed significant concerns about future uncertainties. This study highlights the unique challenges and opportunities experienced by caregivers, particularly emphasizing the nuanced needs of SEN families. The findings underscore the necessity for robust mental health support frameworks and tailored support strategies to address these needs. Implications for future research include further exploration of long-term support mechanisms for SEN families and a broader investigation into the diverse coping strategies across different caregiver populations.

An Evaluation of the Nature and Extent of Challenges Encountered by Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in Botswana During COVID-19

This study sought to identify and evaluate the nature and extent of challenges faced by SMMEs in Botswana during the COVID-19 pandemic. It found that SMMEs in Botswana encountered several challenges but the most important were financial (75.4%), technological (74.4%), and human resource (68.8%) challenges. Specifically, these were drop in sales/business (89.2%), need for accelerated digitisation (45.8%), and capacity to ensure the well-being of employees (58.4%). Also, there were challenges with accessing and utilising government programmes despite a high level of awareness among SMMEs. Some challenges may be more important in some sectors than others as there was a significant association between challenges and SMME industry sector. The dominance of financial, technological, and human resource challenges underscores the central role of they play in SMME operations. It is not enough for governments to avail resources, programmes, policies and frameworks in support of SMMEs. Effort needs to be expended promote uptake.

The Role Of Mental Health Education In Mitigating Pandemic-Related Psychological Distress In Children

Children with pre-existing conditions, such as ADHD and anxiety, are particularly vulnerable to the mental health consequences of the pandemic. Disruptions to routine and social interactions have exacerbated their symptoms, leading to increased stress and depression. This article examines the role of mental health education in schools as a critical tool for mitigating these challenges. Mental health education equips children with essential stress-management skills through evidence-based interventions such as coping skills training, emotional regulation practices, and resilience-building. The article features case studies that detail the effectiveness of programs like the Los Angeles Unified School District's teletherapy initiative, which provided virtual mental health support to over a million students, significantly reducing stress and anxiety levels during the pandemic. Programs such as the Comprehensive School Mental Health Systems (CSMHS) employ a multitiered approach, addressing prevention, early intervention, and support for severe mental health concerns in collaboration with community health professionals. The Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework also highlights successful integration into U.S. school systems, ensuring a supportive environment through behavioral reinforcement and targeted mental health education

Decision Support Framework for Sustainable and Fire Resilient Buildings (SAFR-B)

AbstractBuildings of all types are increasingly becoming complex ‘systems of systems.’ They are subject to evolving societal objectives, new and innovative materials, and in many countries, regulatory ecosystems are having difficulty keeping pace with rapidly changing societal, environmental and technological changes. Two evolving objectives that are stimulating changes to buildings and communities are the desire for a more environmentally sustainable built environment and the need to become more resilient to the many increasingly hazardous impacts of climate change. Unfortunately, in some building designs these objectives are in conflict. As a first step toward a more integrated, holistic tool to aid in the design of sustainable and fire resilient buildings (SAFR-B), this paper develops and applies a first-order decision framework for a midrise apartment building. The SAFR-B framework is built on an analysis of design and regulatory objectives for fire safety and sustainability for buildings, and of risk and decision methods that can support design decisions. It makes use of risk indexing and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), with initial scoring and weighting of attributes and strategies derived from international experts in the field of fire safety and sustainability through a Delphi process.

In situ growth of MnO2 on graphitized cellulose nanocrystal: A novel coaxial heterostructures with unblocked conductive networks as advanced electrode materials for supercapacitor

Manganese dioxide (MnO2) with high theoretical capacitance and natural abundance has attracted great attention but is still challenging for use in supercapacitors, due to the limited conductivity and lower electron and ion migration. Here, a facile in situ growth strategy is developed to prepare heterostructural graphitized cellulose nanocrystal (GCNC)/MnO2 with unblocked conductive networks through a hydrothermal reaction. The GCNC with highly ordered graphitic carbon layers as conductive support framework solves the agglomeration problem of MnO2 and increases effective specific surface areas in contact with electrolyte ions. Meanwhile, the stable connection of MnOC covalent bonds enhances the interface bonding, which effectively reduces the contact resistance at the interface of heterostructural GCNC/MnO2 and enhances the interface firmness. The resulting GCNC/MnO2 electrode shows a remarkable specific capacitance of 528.2 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1. Furthermore, the symmetric supercapacitor based on GCNC/MnO2-15 mM exhibits high rate capability and excellent cycle stability of 100 % capacitance retention after 3000 cycles. This work provides a new path to designing high performance electrode material for sustainable energy technologies.

Prioritizing public resources for riverbank erosion protection: A decision support framework

Riverbank erosion poses a significant threat to communities, particularly in flood-prone regions. Protecting riverbanks along large rivers is challenging due to limited public funding allocated by the government to address erosion points. This creates an urgent need for an efficient resource management strategy. This research aims to develop a decision-support framework for the optimal allocation of public resources to protect vulnerable areas affected by erosion along the Sinu River in Colombia. The optimization model prioritizes interventions at affected erosion points based on various factors such as community vulnerability, erosion severity, available budget, and intervention effectiveness. The model is validated through a case study on the Sinu River, demonstrating its potential to minimize risks and improve resource allocation efficiency. The study concludes that the developed framework can significantly enhance decision-making processes in riverbank erosion protection, providing a decision-support tool for managing limited public resources.

Examining local action groups as territorial development polities: CLLD in Lisbon Metropolitan Area

ABSTRACT Over the past three decades, Local Action Groups (LAGs) have gained significant relevance as territorial development polities. Initially established in the 1990s under the LEADER programme, EU-funded LAGs were lauded for their ability to engage local stakeholders, promote proactivity, and build capacity for designing and implementing Local Development Strategies (LDS). With the introduction of the Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) policy initiative in the 2014–2020 Community Support Framework, the geographical scope of LAGs expanded beyond rural and coastal to include urban areas. However, there is a standing critique regarding the role and impact of LAGs in creating spatial-temporal fixes, addressing local issues through innovative governance arrangements, and facilitating multi-level interaction and territorial rescaling. This paper focuses on the Lisbon Metropolitan Area to critically examine these aspects amidst ongoing Europeanisation dynamics and a soft turn in planning theory and practices. Specifically, we scrutinize LAGs’ strategic territorial rationale, cultural adherence, institutionalization, and the intra – and inter-politics of their governance arrangements. The findings indicate limitations in governance rescaling due to the instrumentalization, over-centralization, and standardization of LAGs by external powers, which hinder their potential role and impact as territorial development polities and agents of state re-articulation.

The role of renewable energy in achieving sustainable development goals

Renewable energy is a critical enabler of global efforts to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), serving as a foundation for addressing social, economic, and environmental challenges. This review explores the multifaceted role of renewable energy in driving progress across several SDGs, particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), while also contributing to goals such as poverty alleviation (SDG 1), improved health outcomes (SDG 3), economic growth (SDG 8), and sustainable cities (SDG 11). The transition to renewable energy sources—such as solar, wind, hydropower, and geothermal—offers pathways to reduce global carbon emissions, mitigate climate change, and ensure universal access to clean energy. In addition, renewable energy projects promote economic empowerment through job creation and rural electrification, driving inclusive growth in underserved communities. The integration of renewable energy in urban planning also supports sustainable development in cities. However, the adoption of renewable energy faces barriers such as high initial investment costs, technological limitations, and regulatory challenges. This review discusses strategies to overcome these obstacles, emphasizing the importance of supportive policy frameworks, international cooperation, and public-private partnerships. It highlights successful case studies from countries that have leveraged renewable energy to make significant strides toward the SDGs, offering valuable insights for global implementation. As the world approaches the 2030 deadline for the SDGs, renewable energy remains a vital driver of sustainable development, providing innovative solutions to complex global issues while fostering a cleaner, more equitable future.

The impact of digital transformation on financial reporting and accountability in emerging markets

Digital transformation is reshaping the landscape of financial reporting and accountability in emerging markets, fostering greater transparency and efficiency. This evolution is driven by the integration of advanced technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain, which are revolutionizing traditional financial practices. In emerging markets, where challenges such as limited access to capital, regulatory inconsistencies, and underdeveloped infrastructures persist, digital transformation offers a pathway to enhance financial reporting and accountability mechanisms. The adoption of digital tools facilitates real-time data collection and analysis, enabling organizations to generate timely and accurate financial reports. This capability not only improves decision-making processes but also strengthens stakeholder trust by enhancing transparency. Additionally, technologies like blockchain provide immutable records, reducing the risks of fraud and financial misreporting, thereby fostering a culture of accountability. Emerging markets are witnessing an increasing demand for accountability, driven by stakeholders, including investors, regulators, and consumers. Digital transformation empowers businesses to meet these expectations by adopting automated reporting systems that ensure compliance with international financial reporting standards (IFRS). Moreover, the integration of AI in financial analytics allows for predictive modeling, enabling organizations to anticipate market trends and make informed strategic decisions. However, the journey towards digital transformation is not without challenges. Factors such as limited digital literacy, inadequate infrastructure, and resistance to change can hinder the effective implementation of new technologies. To maximize the benefits of digital transformation in financial reporting, emerging markets must prioritize investments in digital literacy programs, infrastructure development, and supportive regulatory frameworks. In conclusion, digital transformation significantly impacts financial reporting and accountability in emerging markets, offering opportunities for enhanced transparency, efficiency, and stakeholder trust. By addressing existing challenges and leveraging advanced technologies, organizations can achieve a more accountable financial reporting landscape that aligns with global standards and meets the evolving needs of stakeholders.

Large scale utility solar installation in the USA: Environmental impact and job creation

Large-scale utility solar installations in the United States have gained momentum as a key component of the nation's renewable energy transition. This review examines the environmental impact and job creation associated with these projects, focusing on their contribution to decarbonizing the energy sector and stimulating economic growth. Utility-scale solar installations offer significant environmental benefits, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and displacing fossil fuel-based energy sources. They also contribute to improving air quality and mitigating climate change. However, challenges such as land use, habitat disruption, and water usage in arid regions present potential environmental concerns. To address these, mitigation strategies such as dual-use projects and siting solar farms on degraded lands are becoming more common. In addition to environmental advantages, utility-scale solar installations play a pivotal role in job creation and economic development. These projects generate a wide range of employment opportunities, particularly in construction, operations, and maintenance. The solar energy sector has grown rapidly, creating tens of thousands of jobs across various regions, including economically disadvantaged and rural areas. The economic ripple effect of solar job creation extends to local communities and related industries, further boosting economic activity. Workforce training and development initiatives are crucial for preparing workers to meet the demands of this growing sector, ensuring that job creation benefits are widespread and inclusive. Despite the positive impacts, challenges related to regulatory barriers, grid integration, and financing remain. This review underscores the importance of supportive policy frameworks and continued innovation to overcome these obstacles and maximize the potential of large-scale solar installations. Looking ahead, advancements in technology, energy storage, and grid infrastructure will be essential for sustaining the environmental and economic gains from utility-scale solar energy in the U.S.

Comparative Analysis of Marine Alternative Fuels for Offshore Supply Vessels

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of alternative fuels, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuels, assessing their feasibility based on operational requirements, availability, safety concerns, and the infrastructure needed for large-scale adoption. Moreover, it examines hybrid and fully electric propulsion systems, considering advancements in battery technology and the integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, to further reduce SOV emissions. Key findings from this research indicate that LNG serves as a viable short- to medium-term solution for reducing GHG emissions in the SOV sector, due to its relatively lower carbon content compared to MDO and HFO. This paper finally insists that while LNG presents an immediate opportunity for emission reduction in the SOV sector, a combination of hydrogen, ammonia, and hybrid propulsion systems will be necessary to meet long-term decarbonisation goals. The findings underscore the importance of coordinated industry efforts, technological innovation, and supportive regulatory frameworks to overcome the technical, economic, and infrastructural challenges associated with decarbonising the maritime industry.

Towards safer general aviation operations using a vision-based decision support system for weather threat avoidance

The commercial aviation sector has achieved significant advancements in safety owing to robust Air Traffic Management technologies and rigorous regulatory measures. In contrast, General Aviation (GA) operations present unique safety challenges that demand focused attention. This study proposes an innovative decision support system tailored for GA pilots to augment their situational awareness. Our approach leverages on-board camera data in conjunction with semantic weather descriptors to construct an uncertainty-aware neural network model. The model provides predictions with quantified uncertainties while handling multiple labels and categories across diverse weather conditions. To validate the effectiveness of our framework, extensive experiments were conducted utilizing a flight simulator as a data collection platform. The results demonstrate that our model showcased significant improvements over the multiple baselines. We also found that a cost-sensitive learning approach can provide more conservative predictions while yielding performance improvements. Ultimately, our decision support framework aims to complement existing weather data sources, such as Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) data and Meteorological Aerodrome Reports (METAR) from airports, without imposing the burden of mounting expensive and bulky on-board weather radar systems.

Responding to Trauma: A Critical Review of Mental Health and Psychosocial Interventions for Refugee Women.

This is a critical review of English language literature (January 2023-June 2024) on psychological trauma amongst forcibly displaced migrant women. The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Framework was used to organize multi-layered mental health interventions. Findings indicate many promising community-based interventions, often delivered by trained lay facilitators. Interventions address: upstream drivers of mental health such as empowerment and economic security, group-based care focused on social connection and well-being, and trauma focused treatment such as Mindfulness Based Interventions, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Culturally Adapted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The variety of (primarily short-term) interventions must be complemented by longitudinal evaluation. Clinicians and care systems should partner with those delivering psychosocial interventions outside of clinical settings. Continued research on the impacts of cumulative and intergenerational trauma amongst refugee women, and intervention research that centers the experiences of marginalized groups (e.g., sexual and gender minority refugees) is needed.

Transforming Public Policy in Developing Countries: A Comprehensive Review of Digital Implementation

This article discusses the process of digitization in the implementation of public policy within developing countries, its critical success factors, challenges, and lessons learned from case studies. Public administration can improve efficiencies, transparency, and effectiveness through the infusion of digital technologies into processes implicated in the making, execution, and evaluation of public policies. Key success factors identified include robust digital infrastructure, clear strategic vision and leadership, effective stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and a supportive regulatory framework. In light of these potential benefits, developing countries experience enormous challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, political instability, socio-political resistance, and gaps in digital literacy. Through a review of empirical case studies from countries such as Estonia, South Korea, China, Bangladesh, and Rwanda, the article identifies key lessons that can inform the digital strategies of other developing nations. The discussion addresses the challenges of sustaining digital infrastructure, including ongoing maintenance costs, the need for continuous technology updates, and the risks of obsolescence. Furthermore, the article explores the significance of capacity building, public-private partnerships, and evolving regulatory frameworks in ensuring the long-term viability of digital policies. The future directions proposed underscore the necessity of adopting adaptable, resilient, and well-governed digital infrastructures to fully realize the benefits of digital public policy in the context of developing countries.

Integrating Traditional Knowledge and Modern Technologies for Renewable Energy Adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa: Advancing Climate Resilience and Carbon Reduction Strategies

This paper explores the potential of reducing carbon footprints and greenhouse gas emissions in climate-sensitive regions of Sub-Saharan Africa by integrating traditional knowledge with modern renewable energy technologies. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative energy data and qualitative insights from expert interviews and policy reviews, the study analyzes the implementation of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydro. Data from global organizations, including the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the World Bank, supports the investigation. The findings highlight renewable energy's transformative potential for emissions reduction, energy security, and economic growth, with solar energy demonstrating exceptional promise for rural electrification. Despite its benefits, adoption is hindered by financial constraints, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory challenges. The study underscores the need for climate resilience strategies such as energy storage integration and grid upgrades to support reliable access to renewable energy. By linking renewable energy with sustainability and resilience theories, the research emphasizes the role of adaptive infrastructure in fostering economic development and environmental health. Key recommendations include improving financing mechanisms, enacting supportive policy frameworks, strengthening regional partnerships, and prioritizing energy storage and grid modernization. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers, energy stakeholders, and development organizations, emphasizing that overcoming barriers to renewable energy adoption is critical for achieving sustainable energy access, reducing emissions, and aligning with global climate goals.

Project Coordinate: Impact of Content-Focused Lesson Study on Teacher Knowledge, Collaboration, and MTSS Instruction

General and special educators often do not have the needed knowledge and skills or collaborative opportunities to implement coordinated, evidence-based instruction within a multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS) framework. As such, the authors used a randomized control design to examine the impact of Project Coordinate (PC), a professional development approach incorporating online content modules and lesson study, on fourth-grade general and special education teachers’ knowledge, collaborative planning, and instructional practice in reading. The authors used multilevel modeling, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), and multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) analyses to examine differences in teacher knowledge, changes in the frequency of tiered instruction, teachers’ perceptions of collaborative planning, changes in treatment teachers’ use of evidence-based practices (EBPs), and effective implementation of EBPs. Results showed that PC teachers did not make significant gains in knowledge; however, these teachers did make significant gains on collaborative and instructional practice though findings are complex. The authors discuss the implications of findings for future research and practice.

Risk-return trade-offs in diversified cropping systems under conservation agriculture: Evidence from a 14-year long-term field experiment in north-western India

Conservation agriculture practices are promoted to increase productivity, profitability, and sustainability across diverse cropping systems. Many studies have used these goals in decision support frameworks to identify the most effective treatment among those examined. While this approach is valuable, it lacks actionable guidance for farmers regarding maximizing return, while minimizing risk. It does not provide specific recommendations on how to allocate land across various cropping systems and tillage practices to achieve such objectives. This would require another long-term experiment exploring various combinations of treatments. To address this challenge, we propose the application of modern portfolio theory, specifically leveraging mean-variance and conditional value at risk optimization models. Using these models has enabled us to identify the optimal cropping system combinations with different tillage practices that maximized yield and net returns with minimal associated risk. The proposed approach allows for recommendations involving combinations of treatments that may not have been previously tested in a geography. In a 14-year long-term conservation agriculture study involving twelve combination of tillage and cropping systems, we showed how different combination of treatments differ in risk-return profile using mean-variance and conditional value-at-risk models that trace out a frontier of options—combinations of treatments that give highest returns at minimal risk. For example, we find that across risk neutral (most profitable) and most risk averse (lowest risk) farmers, the optimal treatments on the frontier encompass of maize-mustard-mungbean (MMuMb) under zero tillage and maize-wheat-mungbean (MWMb) under bed planting (which offer high returns and associated risk), maize-maize-Sesbania (MMS) under zero tillage (providing a balance of moderate returns and risk), and MMS under conventional tillage (yielding lower returns and risk). Additionally, risk-averse farmers stand to gain by diversifying their land allocation. For instance, they could allocate 54 % of their land to MMuMb under zero tillage and 46 % to MWMb under bed planting to target net returns of INR 1,32,000, with downside risk of INR 56,000, otherwise they can allocate 44 % and 56 % of their land to MMS under zero tillage and MWMb under bed planting, respectively, with a targeted net return of INR 1,22,000 and downside risk of INR 43,540. This highlights the nuanced trade-off between risk and return in maize based diversified cropping systems under different tillage practices. Leveraging mean-variance and conditional value at risk optimization models in the analysis of long-term experiments can yield novel treatment combinations that hold promise and can be recommended to farmers for implementation.

Green Monetary Policy Measures and Central Bank Mandates: A Comparative Political Economy Analysis

Climate change and the political pressure for urgent policy responses have stirred an intense debate as to whether central banks should adjust their monetary policy frameworks in support of the transition to a greener economy. Despite the seriousness of environmental issues and the seeming existence of monetary policy tools to address them, some economists and central bank officials argue that monetary authorities cannot, or should not, be responsible for making policies that act upon the source of those problems. Among other reasons, the adoption of green monetary policy measures can conflict with the primary monetary policy goals, compromise the political independence of central banks, and raise questions about the legitimacy and increased power of some of these banks. Yet, evidence shows that a number of monetary authorities have already adopted environmental criteria in their policymaking, resulting in an expansion of monetary policy toolkits and areas of responsibility. This article undertakes a comparative political economy analysis of the green monetary policy measures and legal mandates of 20 central banks, covering the period between January 2010 and January 2024. This article then examines the monetary policy decisions of two case study central banks, whose green strategies appear not to be fully aligned with their mandates. The empirical findings aim to contribute to the growing political economy literature and international debate on how central banks address pressures related to environmental concerns which, although vital to society and the planet, may pose challenges to conventional goals and established mandates.

A Post-Fellowship Support Framework for Rural Doctors: the Queensland experience

Background International workforce shortages have prompted many initiatives to recruit, train and retain rural doctors, including Australia’s emerging National Rural Generalist Pathway. This project explored an important component of retention, rural doctors' post-Fellowship support needs, to develop and validate a post-Fellowship support framework. There has been considerable international attention on social accountability in medical education and how medical schools and other institutions can address the needs of the communities they serve. The recognition that rural and remote communities globally are underserved has prompted numerous educational approaches including rurally focused recruitment, selection, and training. Less attention has been paid to the support needs of rural doctors and how they can be retained in rural practice once recruited. Methods The project team reviewed international and Australian rural workforce and medical education literature and relevant policy documents to develop a set of guiding principles for a post-Fellowship support framework. The project utilised a mixed methods approach involving quantitative and qualitative methodologies; this paper focuses on the qualitative aspects. A range of rural doctors, administrators, and clinicians, working in primary and secondary care, across multiple rural locations in Queensland were invited to participate in interviews. Thematic analysis was undertaken. Results The interviews validated ten interconnected guiding principles which enabled development of a grounded, contextually relevant approach to post-Fellowship support. This framework provides a blueprint for a retention strategy aiming to build a strong, skilled, and sustainable medical workforce capable of meeting community needs. Four themes emerged from the inductive thematic analysis: connecting primary and secondary care; valuing a rural career; supporting training and education; and valuing rural general practice. Conclusions The ten principles were designed in the real-world context of a mature Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway. The four themes will facilitate engagement and consultation with rural stakeholders to develop appropriate retention and support strategies.

Career Choices Among Individuals with Disabilities in the Gulf Region: Cultural, Religious, Policy, and Socio-Economic Influences: A Literature Review

This study explores the multifaceted factors influencing career decisions among individuals with disabilities (IWDs) in the Gulf region, emphasizing the interplay between health and cultural/religious contexts. To examine these complex influences, this review adopts Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory as a guiding framework. This theoretical lens facilitates an in-depth analysis of how personal attributes, religious and cultural beliefs, disability-specific challenges, systemic and environmental barriers, gender-related issues, social networks, transition and teachers’ attitudes, work environment, and government policies interact across multiple levels to shape career choices for IWDs in the Gulf region. Cultural and religious beliefs critically shape both the perceptions and opportunities available to IWDs, reflecting the broader macrosystem influences. By applying this multi-layered approach, this review highlights the need to integrate religious and spiritual considerations into support frameworks to enhance the mental and physical well-being of IWDs as they navigate their career paths. The findings suggest actionable implications for policymakers and practitioners dedicated to improving inclusion and equity in the workforce for individuals with disabilities.