Perceptions Of Benefits Research Articles

Perceptions of Benefits and Harms of Electronic Cigarettes among Young Adults: A Qualitative Study

Perceptions of Benefits and Harms of Electronic Cigarettes among Young Adults: A Qualitative Study

Factors Affecting ICT Integration of EFL Teachers at a Vietnamese University

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has increasingly been applied in English teaching, with extensive research on English teachers’ ICT integration and the affecting factors. However, little has been known about the impact of the factors. This study was thus implemented to complete the gap. Employing a sequential mixed methods research design, the study recruited 81 English teachers at a Vietnamese university to complete a questionnaire and seven teachers to participate in a semi-structured interview. Drawing upon the innovation diffusion theory, the study found that the most significant impact factors were English teachers’ perceptions of ICT benefits in English teaching. The least influential factor was students’ prior experience. Other noteworthy factors included the advantage of the teachers’ English knowledge, students' motivation to use ICT, and peer support. The study offers theoretical contributions to confirm some innovations in diffusion theory variables and practical implications for the University.

American Indian women’s perceptions of perinatal cannabis use

ABSTRACT Background: Cannabis use during pregnancy continues to rise, yet research examining cannabis use in perinatal American Indian women is lacking. Structural injustices have led to health inequities for American Indian people, including higher prevalence of past-month cannabis use and lower prevalence of receiving mental health treatment, compared to other racial and ethnic groups. Objective: To describe perceptions of risks and benefits of perinatal cannabis use in a sample of American Indian perinatal women who report regularly using cannabis while pregnant. Method: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 10 American Indian perinatal women who reported using cannabis at least weekly while pregnant or postpartum. Participants were from three states where cannabis use is legal for adults (Washington, Oregon, and California). Themes were generated from implicit and explicit participant responses and principles of Indigenous research frameworks were utilized. Results: Four themes were derived from the data: 1) Perinatal cannabis use as better than other substances, 2) Medicinal use and perceived therapeutic effects of prenatal cannabis, 3) Unsure if cannabis use while breastfeeding impacts the baby, and 4) Minimal responses from healthcare providers perceived as approval. Conclusions: Cannabis was used for health-related issues and was perceived to be a safer option for than use of methamphetamine, heroin, alcohol, and prescription pharmaceuticals. With a focus on other substance use issues within participants’ communities, minimal discussion about cannabis use by healthcare providers was perceived as endorsement of use, highlighting the need for additional training for healthcare providers.

Exploring farmers’ psychological perspectives on multimedia-based agro-advisory services

Agro-advisory through multimedia plays a crucial role for improving farmers’ access to information and serves as a ready reckoner for the stakeholders to make better and informed decisions. Although there is existing research on multimedia-based agro-advisory services (MAS), there remains a significant gap in understanding the psychological factors that affect their usage behaviour (UB), especially among agricultural stakeholders. This demands further investigation through region-specific studies to comprehensively address this gap and devise target-based interventions for their uptake. The current study developed a conceptual model by adapting a well-established framework of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to elucidate the psychological elements that impact agricultural stakeholders’ MAS usage behaviour. The developed model included constructs such as effort expectancy (EE), self-efficacy (SE), credibility (CR), risk perception (RP), and perceived benefit (PB), which was evaluated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis followed by the covariance-based Survey Weighted Structural Equation Modeling (SWSEM) approach from the responses of 225 farmers from Indo-Gangetic plains of India. The findings suggested that EE, SE, and CR of the sources of MAS are the significant determinants of the perceived benefits of MAS with Comparative Fit Index = 0.942, Tucker-Lewis Index = 0.933, and RMSE of Approximation = 0.063 and SRMR = 0.069 and perceived benefit is positively associated with usage behaviour of MAS. The outcomes contribute to the literature on MAS and offer valuable insights for the researchers, policymakers, academicians, and extension advisory service providers.

Designing AI to foster acceptance: do freedom to choose and social proof impact AI attitudes among British and Arab populations?

ABSTRACT This study examines the impact of two key AI modalities – freedom of choice (FoC) and social proof (SP) – on public attitudes toward AI, focusing on cultural differences between UK and Arab participants. FoC refers to the option of selecting a non-AI, possibly human, alternative, while SP means knowing that others have used AI without issues. Four scenarios were designed, combining the presence or absence of these modalities. The context was a customer service chatbot for a telecommunications company, familiar to all participants. A total of 639 participants (316 British and 323 Arab) were introduced to the modalities and then the scenarios in randomised order, then asked about their reactions. Factor analysis grouped their responses into two categories: personal and social good, and risks and ethical concerns. Results indicate that both modalities positively influence perceptions of personal and social benefits of AI while reducing perceived risks and ethical concerns. When one modality was present, FoC had a stronger effect on improving positive perceptions and reducing concerns than SP. Cultural differences were minor but present, suggesting both groups generally respond similarly. Findings highlight the importance of providing a human alternative and avoiding reliance solely on SP or similar strategies to build trust in AI.

Examining the perceived benefits of participation in the sharing economy in Europe: A case study on short-term accommodation

ABSTRACT The discourse surrounding short-term accommodation frequently revolves around economic impacts, regulatory challenges, technological innovations, and environmental considerations. However, it is crucial to underscore that the evolution of this sector is significantly influenced by public perceptions and experiences with shared short-term lodging. This study delves into the repercussions of engaging in short-term rentals on its perceived advantages in Europe, utilising a large and representative sample across 27 European Union countries (N = 25,297, aged 18–100, M ± SD 47.62 ± 16.81; 49.50% males). Methodologically, logistic regression analyses are employed to discern patterns. The findings highlight (1) noteworthy variations in perceived benefits within countries; (2) the perception of benefits varies based on whether respondents have rented such accommodations, offered their existing space for rent, or acquired new properties for rent; (3) Individuals who have acquired real estate for rental purposes tend to perceive more benefits, such as local development, investment opportunities, additional income for hosts, and increased spending by visitors in the surrounding areas. Experienced renters recognize the benefits of affordable travel and staying in non-touristy neighbourhoods. These results underscore the importance of considering diverse perspectives when formulating policies and regulations for the sort-term rental sector.

Unravelling the Effects of Privacy Policies on Information Disclosure: Insights from E-Commerce Consumer Behavior

The aim of this study was to explore the influence of a personal information agreement on customers’ information disclosure behavior. By integrating the existing privacy calculus theory, we sought to understand customer behavior in the context of encountering a personal information agreement and to provide insights into the efficacy of a company’s privacy policy. Our findings reveal that upon encountering a personal information agreement, customers perceive both a privacy retention period policy and privacy information sharing policy. We discovered that both policies significantly influence the perception of privacy benefits, but only the privacy information sharing policy impacts the perception of privacy risk. Furthermore, while privacy benefits were found to dictate information disclosure behavior in the context of a personal information agreement, perceptions of privacy risk did not significantly affect this behavior.

Importance–Performance Map Analysis of the Drivers for the Acceptance of Genetically Modified Food with a Theory of Planned Behavior Groundwork

The revolution in biotechnology at the end of the 20th century has improved agricultural productivity, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced food nutrition. However, genetically modified food (GMF) consumption remains low, particularly in the European Union, including Spain. This study develops a GMF acceptance model based on the Theory of Planned Behavior, incorporating five key variables alongside gender and age as control factors. Attitude-related variables include perceived benefit (PB) and perceived risk (PR). Perceived control factors involve food neophobia (PHOB) and knowledge (KNOWL) about GMFs. Additionally, subjective norm (SN) is considered. Using a sample of 728 Spanish consumers, the model was validated, explaining 70% of the variance and demonstrating strong predictive capability. The results so PB, KNOWL, and SN positively influence GMF acceptance, whereas PR and PHOB have negative effects. PB and SN emerged as the most influential variables, which are also highlighted as priorities in the importance–performance map analysis (IPMA). Based on these findings, strategies have been proposed to enhance perceived benefits and influence subjective norms, potentially increasing GMF acceptance. This study provides valuable insights into consumer behavior and offers guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders to promote the adoption of GMFs.

Professional benefits perception among pediatric nurses: a cross-sectional survey.

The perception of professional benefits is a critical determinant of job stability and work efficacy among healthcare professionals. This perception can directly influence patient care quality, nurse job satisfaction and retention, as well as overall organizational efficiency. The current understanding of how pediatric nurses perceive their professional benefits is limited. This study aimed to elucidate the status and determinants of professional benefit perception among pediatric nurses to inform evidence-based clinical care. We conducted a survey of pediatric nurses at our hospital from September 1, 2024, to November 26, 2024. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling method. The Nurses' Professional benefit perception Scale was employed to assess professional benefit perception. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were utilized to identify factors influencing professional benefit perception. These statistical methods were chosen due to their suitability for examining relationships between continuous variables and for controlling potential confounding factors in the regression model. A total of 366 pediatric nurses participated in the study. The mean score of professional benefit perception was (108.26 ± 17.32). Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant positive associations between professional benefit perception scores and several demographic and professional variables. Specifically, age (r = 0.517), years of experience in pediatric nursing (r = 0.604), educational level (r = 0.564), professional title (r = 0.559), marital status (r = 0.623), and average monthly income (r = 0.647) were all significantly correlated with professional benefit perception scores. Further analysis using multiple linear regression identified these variables as significant predictors of professional benefit perception scores, collectively accounting for 57.20% of the variance (R² = 0.572). This indicates that a substantial portion of the variation in professional benefit perception can be explained by these demographic and professional factors. The perceived level of professional benefits among pediatric nurses is found to be moderate. It is recommended that nursing administrators develop targeted intervention strategies based on the identified influencing factors. Such strategies may include enhancing professional development opportunities, improving financial compensation, and fostering a supportive work environment.

Predictors of stages of adoption of colorectal cancer screening among adults attending primary healthcare centers in Turkey

BackgroundDespite the proven effectiveness of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in reducing mortality, adherence rates for fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and colonoscopy remain low among Turkish adults. This study aimed to assess the stages of adoption of CRC screening behaviors, identify the factors influencing adoption, and examine the perceived benefits and barriers to screening.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in Istanbul’s Anatolian region from May to June 2022, involving 498 adults aged 50–70 years. Multistage cluster sampling was used to select 20 primary healthcare centers. A structured questionnaire was administered to assess sociodemographic characteristics, health perceptions, knowledge of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening, and readiness for screening based on the transtheoretical model. The benefits and barriers to screening were evaluated using the Turkish version of “The Instruments to Measure CRC Screening Benefits and Barriers.”ResultsThe participants (mean age: 59.10 ± 5.71 years) showed greater recognition of colonoscopy (68.7%) than FOBT (39.8%). Most participants were in the precontemplation stage for FOBT (58.6%) and colonoscopy (63.9%). Perceptions of benefits were associated with education, employment, income, health status, familial CRC history, and screening knowledge (p < 0.05). Perceived barriers were linked to lack of knowledge and provider recommendations (p < 0.05). The participants in the precontemplation stage reported fewer benefits and more barriers compared to those in advanced stages (p < 0.05).ConclusionsColonoscopy is more widely recognized than FOBT among the Turkish adult population; however, a significant proportion remains in the precontemplation stage for screening. Perceptions of benefits and barriers are influenced by sociodemographic factors, health status, and CRC knowledge. Interventions addressing these barriers and raising awareness could improve CRC screening uptake and help reduce the disease burden.

Perceptions Of Benefits And Risks Regarding Sukuk Investment Decisions Made By Students

The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of perceived benefits and perceived risks on students' decisions to invest in sukuk. The research was conducted on prospective investors who are students at STTKD Yogyakarta. Data were collected using a closed-ended questionnaire with a Likert scale distributed to 53 respondents and analyzed using multiple linear regression. The results show that perceived benefits have a positive and significant effect on students' sukuk investment decisions. This is evidenced by a t-value of 4.209 &gt; 2.007 and a significance level of 0.000 &lt; 0.05. The perception of sukuk as a more stable investment compared to other capital market products is a key consideration for student investors in making investment decisions. On the other hand, perceived risks do not influence students' decisions to invest in sukuk. This is evidenced by a t-value of 0.748 &lt; 2.007 and a significance level of 0.733 &gt; 0.05. Students do not heavily consider risks when deciding to invest in sukuk as a sharia-compliant capital market product.

Promoting fast-growing species sawlog plantations by smallholder farms: evidence from a choice experiment study in Vietnam

Smallholders’ planting fast-growing trees for pulpwood production has substantially contributed to forest rehabilitation, wood production and rural incomes worldwide. Government incentive programs have attempted to increase the productivity and value of such plantations and enhance sawlog supply to the furniture industry. Designing effective incentive programs to encourage sawlog plantations requires a deeper understanding of smallholder preferences and socio-economic characteristics. This study examines preferences for different designs of incentive programs, including technical support, rotation length, financial subsidy, committed area and timber insurance. A scale-adjusted latent class model is used to investigate preference heterogeneity using data on 300 smallholders in the Central Highland and Northern Upland regions, representing two development stages of plantation forestry in Vietnam. The analysis identified four preference classes, which value attributes differently. Preference for sawlog plantation programs depends on individual characteristics and psychological factors such as perception of benefits, obstacles and risks. The longest rotation preferred by a significant proportion of smallholders for sawlog-oriented plantations is a medium rotation of 8-10 years. Our study further determines feasible incentive programs that meet smallholder preferences and government budget constraints, draws important policy implications for promoting the value of smallholder plantations and livelihoods.

Development of A QR Code-Based Digital Payment System to Enhance Sales at Remu Market, Sorong City

Remu Market in Sorong faces challenges in improving transaction efficiency and easing access for consumers. The preference for fast, secure, and practical payment methods, especially in the midst of a pandemic, highlights the importance of digital payment systems. This study aims to analyze the effect of QR Code-based digital payment systems, with a focus on perceived benefits, convenience, and security, on increasing sales at Remu Market. Descriptive quantitative research method was used, with primary data collection through questionnaires distributed to 100 respondents. The results showed that the three perceptions of benefits, convenience, and security have a positive effect on the intention to use QR Code payments. The regression model shows significant contributions from each perception, with ease of use providing the greatest impact. These findings suggest that the implementation of a QR Code-based digital payment system can increase sales and transaction efficiency at Remu Market. The model explains 99.3% of the variation in intention to use, indicating a strong positive relationship between perceptions and intention to use.

PENGARUH PERSEPSI MANFAAT, PERSEPSI KEMUDAHAN DAN EFEKTIVITAS TERHADAP MINAT MENGGUNAKAN QRIS PADA GENERASI Z DI KOTA MATARAM

This study aims to determine the influence of the perception of benefits, perception of convenience and perception of effectiveness on the interest in using Qris in Generation Z in Mataram City. This study uses a quantitative research method with an associative approach. The sample used in this study is Generation Z aged 12-27 years which is 200 people. The reason for using a sample of 200 people is that the sample of 200 people is large enough to represent the population of Generation Z in Mataram City statistically. The data analysis methods used are multiple linear regression analysis, t-test and determination coefficient. The results of this study show that Perception of Benefits has a positive and significant effect on Interest in using Qris, Perception of Convenience has no significant effect on Interest in Using Qris and Perception of effectiveness has a positive and significant effect on Interest in using Qris. Then the perception of benefits and effectiveness is a factor that affects the interest in using Qris, while the perception of convenience is not included in the factors that affect the interest in using Qris.

Women's perceptions of maternal and fetal health benefits of physical activity during pregnancy and what factors impact them-A cross-sectional study.

Despite the WHO and ACOG's recommendations for at least 150 min of weekly moderate-intensity physical activity during pregnancy, adherence remains low, partly due to concerns about safety and efficacy of specific exercise modalities. To evaluate pregnant women's outcome expectancy for maternal and fetal health regarding specific physical activity modalities and the influence of healthcare provider discussions on these perceptions. A cross-sectional survey, distributed through Qualtrics (a platform to help design and distribute surveys) and word of mouth of 507 pregnant women assessed perceptions of moderate, vigorous, and resistance activities. Provider discussions and past adverse pregnancy experiences were likewise examined for their influence on outcome expectancy. Walking and yoga were perceived as the most beneficial modalities for both maternal and fetal health, with the outcome expectancies being 9.5 ± 2.1 and 8.8 ± 2.9 for maternal health and 9.0 ± 2.5 and 8.2 ± 3.0 for fetal health. Higher intensity and resistance activities were viewed less favorably, especially CrossFit® resistance training with outcome expectancies being 5.2 ± 3.4 for maternal health and 4.8 ± 3.3 for fetal health. All physical activities were viewed as more beneficial for maternal health than fetal health. Discussions with healthcare providers occurred in over 70 % of cases but did not generally relate to these perceptions. Past adverse pregnancy experiences were not related to statistically significant changes in outcome expectancy. Previously being prescribed bed rest had some weak associations with greater maternal and fetal outcome expectancy for a few physical activity modalities. Pregnant women's perceptions of health benefits clearly differ based on modality of activity and dependent on whether maternal or fetal health. Targeted communication strategies from healthcare providers and public health efforts are needed to improve perceptions of physical activity during pregnancy, especially for vigorous and resistance activities.

Bridging gaps in medication therapy management at community health centers: A mixed-methods study on patient perceptions and pharmacists' preparedness.

The primary goals of Medication Therapy Management (MTM) are to avoid pharmaceutical mistakes, facilitate accessible therapy, and encourage patients to actively participate in their health management. This study aimed to determine patients' perceptions of MTM services, evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Community Health Center (CHC) pharmacists regarding MTM services, and develop strategies to improve MTM services in CHCs. A mixed-method approach was designed in three parts. First, a study was conducted with diabetic or hypertensive patients at CHCs around Yogyakarta to assess their perceptions of MTM elements and benefits. Second, a survey was conducted among CHC pharmacists to determine their KAP concerning MTM and the current service provided. In the third part, findings from the second stage were used to establish appropriate MTM services for CHCs through focus group discussions (FGDs) and to explore obstacles to implementation. Qualitative data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Among 117 patient participants, over 60.0% perceived positive benefits from five elements of MTM. Among 37 pharmacist participants, 19 (51.4%) of them did not understand MTM concepts, with 14 (37.9%) pharmacists demonstrating a low level of knowledge. Nearly all pharmacists held a positive attitude towards MTM. Time constraints were identified as barriers to MTM implementation. Based on the FGD with 24 pharmacists, three main themes and ten sub-themes were identified. MTM services have not been fully implemented by pharmacists at CHCs. Future implementation of MTM is expected to be more adaptive to the CHCs condition, integrated with existing systems, standardized in terms of procedures and facilities.

Presaccadic Attention Shifts Up- and Downwards: Evidence From the Pupil Light Response.

Vision is introspectively stable, yet every eye movement moves the image of the world on the retina. The dominant view states that attention must precede saccades to prepare the brain for the postsaccadic retinal input, which ensures a stable visual experience. A recent surge of studies investigated visual asymmetries around the visual field, including asymmetries in presaccadic attention. Such studies demonstrated benefits of presaccadic attention on task performance for horizontal and downward saccades, but strikingly no such benefit was observed for upward saccades. An absence of upward presaccadic shifts would contrast the dominant view and indicate that presaccadic attention may not be necessary to ensure perceptual continuity. Here, we capitalized on the fact that the pupil light response robustly tracks spatial attention to investigate whether presaccadic attention shifts up- and downwards. We manipulated whether the landing brightness of the ensuing saccade could be prepared for prior to the saccade. Specifically, we either presented brightness patches throughout the trial or only presented these upon saccade onset. In two experiments, we observed earlier pupil light responses for both up- and downward saccades when the landing brightness could be prepared for presaccadically. This shows that presaccadic attention shifted prior to up- and downward saccades and agrees with presaccadic attention being instrumental in realizing a stable visual experience. Reconciling previously contradictory findings, presaccadic attention can be shifted without necessarily yielding perceptual benefits for all facets of visual processing at the attended location. Nevertheless, our findings demonstrate presaccadic attention to shift along the vertical meridian.

Consumer Perceived Value and MOOC Subscription Intentions

ABSTRACT This study investigates how learners’ perceptions of the value provided by massive open online course (MOOC) subscriptions influence their assessment of tangible benefits and associated risks linked to subscription behavior. The authors propose that MOOC subscription intention is influenced by learners’ consumption values as well as their perceived benefits and risks associated with subscription services. The authors analyzed survey data collected from 332 users. Findings show that the perceived benefit and perceived risk completely mediate the effects of functional value, epistemic value, and social value on subscription intention. The mediation is partial for conditional value and emotional value, emphasizing the varied pathways through which these dimensions impact learners’ intentions to subscribe. Findings suggest that the distinctive features offered by subscription plans, not present in free MOOCs, significantly contribute to enhanced learners’ perceptions of benefits. This study has explored drivers behind MOOC subscription and their interplay within the context of MOOCs.

Prenatal Dental Visits, Perceived Benefits of Oral Health, and Preterm Birth Outcome, 2009-2021.

Previous studies have demonstrated a significant association between maternal oral health and pregnancy complications, including preterm birth (<37 wk). However, research on the impact of dental care utilization during pregnancy on these outcomes has produced both positive and negative results. The current study investigated the association between preterm birth and dental care utilization, focusing on dental visits for cleaning during pregnancy as well as the perceived benefits of oral health during pregnancy. This secondary data analysis cross-sectional study used data from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System in the United States from 2009 to 2021. Descriptive and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the association between dental variables and preterm birth. The study included 399,847 women with a recent single live birth, representing 21,218,114 women across 48 states and New York City. After adjusting for factors such as race and ethnicity, age, marital status, medical insurance type, education level, adequacy of prenatal care, and other medical variables associated with preterm birth, women who had dental visits for cleaning during pregnancy had a lower odds of preterm birth (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.90, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.86, 0.93], P < 0.001) compared with those who did not. A significant association between prenatal dental cleaning and reduced preterm birth was observed only among women who perceived the benefits of oral health during pregnancy (aOR = 0.93, 95% CI [0.88, 0.97], P = 0.002) and among non-Hispanic White women (aOR = 0.88, 95% CI [0.83, 0.93], P < 0.001). This study revealed an inverse relationship between dental cleaning visits during pregnancy and preterm birth outcomes, notably among women who recognized the benefits of oral health and among non-Hispanic White women. The results emphasize the significance of dental visits and the perception of oral health benefits during pregnancy. The study demonstrated an inverse association between dental visits for cleaning during pregnancy and preterm birth outcomes, with this relationship being significant among women who perceived the benefits of oral health during pregnancy and among non-Hispanic White women. These findings suggest that both the dental visits and the perception of oral health benefits may be important factors linked to preterm birth outcomes, with potential racial and ethnic variations. Policy makers and clinicians could integrate oral health care and prenatal oral health education into prenatal care as essential components of primary health care to improve both oral and overall health outcomes for women.

Strategic factors in SME leadership orientation towards initiating exports: India context

PurposeThis paper aims to examine characteristics of emerging market small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) decision makers in their entry to exporting. What prior experience is significantly related to an export orientation? How influential are factors that would both aid and inhibit exports? What about the decision to not initiate exporting.Design/methodology/approachIn total, 319 surveys were collected from managers in South India for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Structural equation modelling was used to test the model.FindingsFluency in English was the only significant managerial characteristic associated with a positive perception of export benefits. Education and export experience were not significant strategic factors. SMEs who only serve their domestic market were not averse to exporting but were satisfied with the performance of their home markets. Once deciding to export, use of export intermediaries helped them to move towards presence in multiple markets. None of the inhibiting costs or constraints involved with exporting, other than labour, transportation differentials and export controls, were significantly influential in the export decision process. However, exports were favourably influenced by perceptions of the firms’ quality, pricing, selection and business relationships.Practical implicationsThe value of export intermediaries and government agencies is clearly indicated from this study. Such providers could use these findings to target decision makers and assist in overcoming objections to branching out beyond a domestic-only strategy. One strategy option is to establish a strong market presence in the home state and then “export” to adjoining states. The findings might be generalised to other emerging markets as well.Originality/valueExport entry decision-making is an under-researched area in emerging markets.