Life Perspective Research Articles

The urban, data, tech feedback loop: A surveillance and development data-walk in South Lake union

In this research article, we employed an autoethnographic data-walk methodology to explore the complex relationship between urban spaces and digital data collection, using the South Lake Union neighborhood as a case study. We examined how major technology companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and various property developers leverage the dual forces of urbanization and data gathering to shape urban environments in ways that serve their interests. Our key contribution lies in uncovering the power dynamics at play, where tech companies exert significant influence over urban planning and governance, reshaping cities into spaces designed for surveillance and commodification. In areas like South Lake Union, the redevelopment into numerous small storefronts enables the granular tracking of consumer behavior, turning everyday activities into data that fuels targeted advertising and capital accumulation. We identify two central insights. First, data-walks offer a way to “story” the influence of tech corporations on urban spaces from the perspective of everyday experiences. While digital data collection is integral to capital accumulation, the process is uneven and must be viewed from various angles—including from the perspective of everyday life—to fully understand the emerging inequalities. Second, we argue that the transformation of urban environments under tech capitalism exacerbates existing social and spatial inequalities while generating new ones. The commodified surveillance of daily activities and consumption not only drives data accumulation but also reshapes the physical and social fabric of the city. This work serves as an initial step in challenging these unequal processes of surveillance-driven urban development.

The Use of Joyce J. Fitzpatrick's "Life Perspective Rhythm Theory" in a Case with Substance Use Disorder Diagnosed with Craving Severity: Case Report

Objective: In this study, it was aimed to plan the patient care of a male patient with craving severity diagnosed with substance use disorder according to Joyce J. Fitzpatrick's "Life Perspective Rhythm Theory". Theoretical Framework: In this study, nursing care was applied based on the Life Perspectives Rhythm theory. Method: A male patient with severe cravings diagnosed with substance use disorder treated in a psychiatric ward was evaluated according to the rhythmic patterns in Joyce J. Fitzpatrick's "Life Perspective Rhythm Theory". Patient care was planned and implemented based on the five main assumptions of the theory. Results and Discussion: Based on Fitzpatrick's Life Perspective Rhythm Theory, it was determined that the 32-year-old male patient with craving severity who was followed up with a diagnosis of substance use disorder had problems in the process of adaptation to life perspectives in the temporal behavior pattern, increased the number of cigarettes smoked daily in the motor behavior pattern, had impulse uncontrol in the cognitive behavior pattern, and had discourses that his parents mistreated him in the perceptual behavior pattern. According to Fitzpatrick, we determined the priority of care of this case as ineffective coping, decreased self-esteem, denial, risk of violence against self or others, anxiety, ineffectiveness in maintaining health, impaired social interaction and impaired family processes. Research Implications: In this study, the planning, implementation and evaluation stages of the patient care of a male patient with craving severity diagnosed with substance use disorder were carried out according to the Life Perspective Rhythm Theory with the priorities determined by using observation and communication skills. At the end of the process, the patient stated that his level of knowledge increased in order to maintain his physical and mental well-being, and that he knew the symptoms of craving severity and the measures to be taken when these symptoms occur. Since there are very few studies based on the theory developed by Fitzpatrick, it is recommended to study with different patient groups in order to obtain precise results by concretizing the usability of the theory in patterns.

The Relation Between Deviation From the Balanced Time Perspective and Quality of Life Among Older People. The Mediating Role of Death Anxiety and the Moderating Role of Awareness of Aging.

Our study aims to identify if the deviation from a balanced time perspective (DBTP) is a predictor of the quality of life among older adults. We also investigated whether awareness of aging moderated and death anxiety mediated the relationship between DBTP and quality of life. A sample of 436 participants was involved in the study (M = 68.27; SD = 6.56; 66.7% female, 33.3% male). They completed scales for measuring the study variables. The results showed that DBTP did not predict quality of life. Awareness of aging did not moderate the relationship between DBTP and quality of life, while death anxiety negatively predicts quality of life, and also mediated the relationship between DBTP and quality of life. Starting from the results obtained, promotion and intervention plans can be developed to improve mental and physical health services.

Posture and Its Influence on Anatomical Structures: A Comprehensive Review

Objective: Posture refers to the alignment and positioning of body segments such as the head, trunk, and limbs in relation to the line of gravity during various activities. In essence, posture represents the body's alignment. In daily life, posture is often overlooked, despite its significant impact on our psychosocial well-being, physical health, activities, and even success. Upon examining the postural structure, it becomes evident that posture is directly related to various anatomical structures, whether we are sitting, standing, or engaged in other activities. Prolonged poor posture can negatively affect numerous anatomical structures, particularly muscles. This often neglected aspect is of considerable importance throughout our lives, and it plays a key role in our overall well-being. Evidence Acquisition: This study was conducted through a review of relevant literature. The findings were derived by compiling studies published between 2014 and 2024 using the keywords "posture and anatomy," "posture and musculoskeletal system" from PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. After screening, nine studies were identified as relevant to the topic and included in the analysis. The study was conducted through a review of research focusing on the relationship between posture and anatomical structures. Studies involving animals, research on posture in individuals with specific disorders, and studies that were repetitive were excluded from the analysis. Results: The studies reviewed examined different sample groups and addressed the relationship between posture and various anatomical structures. In the majority of these studies, it was found that posture has a direct relationship with numerous anatomical structures. Conclusion: The studies reviewed indicate that posture significantly affects anatomical structures, and this relationship is important from multiple perspectives in daily life. Therefore, this review aims to explore the relationship between posture and anatomical structures, clearly articulate this relationship, and emphasize its importance by conducting a comprehensive review of the relevant literature.

Biothermodynamics of Hemoglobin and Red Blood Cells: Analysis of Structure and Evolution of Hemoglobin and Red Blood Cells, Based on Molecular and Empirical Formulas, Biosynthesis Reactions, and Thermodynamic Properties of Formation and Biosynthesis.

Hemoglobin and red blood cells (erythrocytes) have been studied extensively from the perspective of life and biomedical sciences. However, no analysis of hemoglobin and red blood cells from the perspective of chemical thermodynamics has been reported in the literature. Such an analysis would provide an insight into their structure and turnover from the aspect of biothermodynamics and bioenergetics. In this paper, a biothermodynamic analysis was made of hemoglobin and red blood cells. Molecular formulas, empirical formulas, biosynthesis reactions, and thermodynamic properties of formation and biosynthesis were determined for the alpha chain, beta chain, heme B, hemoglobin and red blood cells. Empirical formulas and thermodynamic properties of hemoglobin were compared to those of other biological macromolecules, which include proteins and nucleic acids. Moreover, the energetic requirements of biosynthesis of hemoglobin and red blood cells were analyzed. Based on this, a discussion was made of the specific structure of red blood cells (i.e. no nuclei nor organelles) and its role as an evolutionary adaptation for more energetically efficient biosynthesis needed for the turnover of red blood cells.

Co-creation and recovery in mental health services: a lived experience perspective.

This article explores the shift in mental health recovery from mere symptom management to a holistic approach via the CHIME framework. It delves into the author's experience, beginning with the loss of his father, a war veteran with mental health struggles, at 16, thrusting him into the role of primary caregiver for his mother, who also battled mental health issues and eventually took her own life. These events spotlight the shortcomings of traditional mental health care and the urgent need for empathetic, multifaceted services. Advocating for co-creation in mental health services, the article outlines a transition towards a system that integrates recovery principles through stages from co-ideation to co-evaluation, emphasising holistic, person-centred care. It calls for a reimagined mental healthcare system that respects individual journeys and is rooted in co-creation, signalling a critical move towards systemic change.

Walking and talking for well‐being: Exploring the effectiveness of walk and talk therapy

AbstractDespite the rising trend of integrating nature and movement into talking therapy, the extent of empirical support remains limited. This study explored the effects of a walk and talk intervention on adult mood and well‐being using a multiple baseline design with pre, post and follow‐up assessments. Five adults (3 males and 2 females) from a technology company took part in a walk and talk intervention lasting approximately 6–8 sessions. They completed self‐report measures at baseline, post‐intervention and follow‐up, with semi‐structured interviews conducted at follow‐up. Results showed a reduction in psychological distress and an increase in well‐being for all participants from baseline to follow‐up. Qualitative data from a thematic analysis supported these findings: participants found the natural, calming effect of the outdoors, combined with the movement of walking, facilitated a sense of freedom to express themselves and, in doing so, maximise the benefits of the therapeutic space. These included gaining a broader perspective, heightened self‐awareness and greater acceptance of oneself, others and life's challenges. This study offers real‐world evidence supporting walk and talk therapy as an effective intervention for adult well‐being and mood.

Sacred Naturalism and Cosmic Unity: Seeking Harmony in the Midst of Chaos

Abstract This article argues for a version of sacred naturalism within the framework of a processual metaphysics that characterizes the cosmos as an interplay between Chaos (disunity) and Logos (unity). I argue that although creativity is highly valuable from the perspective of life and humanity, at a cosmic scale it is overshadowed by the universal tendencies toward conservation and destruction. Within this metaphysical picture I develop a naturalist notion of the sacred as a phenomenological object inspiring particularly intense feelings of inner harmony but functioning eudaemonically to strengthen mind, body, and soul against forms of Chaos, whether anomie, stress, or personal conflict. After developing some criteria for a sacred but immanent meta-unity in contrast to the transcendental unities of traditional religion, I describe how the unity of the cosmos might be experienced as a sacred object by emphasizing its heterarchical, aesthetic and life-affirming dimensions.

Applying integrated enhanced cognitive behaviour therapy (I-CBTE) to severe and longstanding eating disorders (SEED) Paper 2: An in-depth case study for clinicians

BackgroundThis case study examines the application of Integrated Enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (I-CBTE) for a patient with severe, longstanding anorexia nervosa and multiple comorbidities, including organic hallucinosis, complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD), and severe self-harm. Such complex presentations often result in patients falling between services, which can lead to high chronicity and increased mortality risk. Commentaries from two additional patients who have recovered from severe and longstanding anorexia nervosa are included.Case studyThe patient developed severe anorexia nervosa and hallucinosis after a traumatic brain injury in 2000. Despite numerous hospitalisations and various psychotropic medications in the UK and France, standard treatments were ineffective for 17 years. However, Integrated Enhanced Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (I-CBTE) using a whole-team approach and intensive, personalised psychological treatment alongside nutritional rehabilitation proved effective.MethodsIn this paper, we describe the application of the I-CBTE model for individuals with severe, longstanding, and complex anorexia nervosa, using lived experience perspectives from three patients to inform clinicians. We also outline the methodology for adapting the model to different presentations of the disorder.OutcomesThe patient achieved and maintained full remission from her eating disorder over the last 6 years, highlighting the benefit of the I-CBTE approach in patients with complex, longstanding eating disorder histories. Successful treatment also saved in excess of £360 k just by preventing further hospitalisations and not accounting for the improvement in her quality of life. This suggests that this method can improve outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.ConclusionThis case study, with commentaries from two patients with histories of severe and longstanding anorexia nervosa, provides a detailed description of the practical application of I-CBTE for patients with severe and longstanding eating disorders with complex comorbidities, and extensive treatment histories. This offers hope for patients and a framework for clinicians to enhance existing treatment frameworks, potentially transforming the trajectory of those traditionally deemed treatment resistant.RecommendationsWe advocate the broader integration of CBT for EDs into specialist services across the care pathway to help improve outcomes for patients with complex eating disorders. Systematic training and supervision for multidisciplinary teams in this specialised therapeutic approach is recommended. Future research should investigate the long-term effectiveness of I-CBTE through longitudinal studies. Patient feedback on experiences of integrated models of care such as I-CBTE is also needed. In addition, systematic health economics studies should be conducted.

“We need to talk”: Recovering conversations from the archive

Dialogue is a prominent feature of creative non-fiction used to reveal character, anchor narratives in a context and present different perspectives. But how can conversation be recovered if your subject has passed from living memory? I faced this challenge in my creative biography of Catherine Helen Spence – Australia’s first female novelist and first woman political candidate. Her public and private lives were complex and many-faceted, which became clear from a close reading of her archival record, containing letters and recollections by friends and family, and her vast literary legacy. Building on Paul John Eakin’s theory – that our lives become stories through our “relational others” – I chose to tell Spence’s life from the perspectives of those around her. I imagined oral history interviews with them, listened for their speech patterns and applied Mikhail Bakhtin’s theory of heteroglossia – many voices in a text – to my investigation. Conversation is frequently cited as a signpost of fictionality, but it can also lend a sense of verisimilitude and empathy. My depiction of Spence demonstrates how life writing at the confluence of history and fiction can illuminate archival evidence to reveal character and present different perspectives of a complex life.

‘Best Mosques Near Me’: American Muslims and Online Mosque-Finding

Abstract This article uses digital and lived religion perspectives to analyze the phenomenon of American Muslims using online tools to search for and rate-and-review mosques. Focusing on four mid-size U.S. cities – Boston, Indianapolis, Denver, and Seattle – it surveys three major online sources for mosque finding: the Muslim-focused Salatomatic, the review site Yelp, and Google’s location-based search. By braiding together site content and user reviews, it shows how this phenomenon connects users’ functional goal of finding a location for daily or community prayer with the goal of a high-quality user experience. User reviews’ migration toward Google echo a broader shift from computer-based website engagement to mobile engagement and suggest the integration of U.S. mosques into the broader sphere of businesses and services. Overall, they point to the central role that online platforms play in contemporary United States Muslim religious life-worlds, extending review behaviors around consumer goods and services to religious ones.

Perspectives of Families with Seriously ill Children and Adolescents in Lower Saxony: Focus on Care and Support - An Analysis of the Current Situation and Possible Support Services

The care of children and adolescents in need of care at home is exacerbated by the shortage of skilled workers in the care sector, which leads to bottlenecks in care and presents caring families with major challenges. The implementation of new care approaches in existing structures in the healthcare system is proving to be a key development task in order to provide targeted support for affected families in the future. Qualitative explorative interview study to record the perspective of families with (seriously) ill children and adolescents on the current care situation and possible helpful support services. The sampling was criteria-driven and the analysis and evaluation was content-analytical. Respondents were given a short questionnaire to record socio-demographic characteristics. In particular, the transmission of the diagnosis, the everyday challenges and the impact on quality of life were named as stress factors by n=10 participating parents. Improved access to information, voluntary structures and central contact points as well as digital services were named as key development needs. The interviews from real life and needs-oriented perspective show that there is a need to expand low-threshold care coordination services, strengthen voluntary structures and use telemedical services. Meeting these needs should enable access to specialized treatment and helpful services, especially in rural areas.

Language and terminology to describe transgender communities; Perspectives from people with lived experience

Background There is no consensus over the meaning of “transgender,” “trans and gender diverse,” and other terminology used to describe people with a gender different from the gender presumed or recorded for them at birth. We aimed to survey transgender (trans) individuals to understand lived experience perspectives on terminology. Methods An online cross-sectional survey of trans people currently living in Australia and aged ≥16 was conducted from June 2021 to April 2022. Demographic data and terminology preferences were ascertained through fixed-option and free-text questions. Results Of 1023 respondents with a median age of 30 years (IQR 24, 41), 37.1% were trans women, 34.9% were trans men, 27.6% were non-binary, and 0.4% had a culturally specific identity. There was no consensus regarding community-level terminology, with “trans/transgender and gender diverse” the most preferred term (21.9%), followed by “trans/transgender” (19.3%), and “gender diverse” (15.1%). The term “trans/transgender” was more preferred by trans women (27.9%), trans men (19.0%), respondents who had a history of or wanted gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT; 20.7%), and gender-affirming surgery (GAS; 20.9%), compared to non-binary respondents (8.2%), and respondents who did not want GAHT (4.9%) or GAS (13.9%). Three themes emerged from free-text responses regarding term preference: (1) Inclusivity, (2) Trans as a binary and medicalized experience, and (3) Societal understanding, accessibility, and destigmatization. Conclusion From Australian trans communities’ perspectives, the term “trans/transgender and gender diverse” was the most preferred community-level terminology to collectively describe people with a gender different from the gender presumed or recorded for them at birth. Further perspectives are needed from other cohorts internationally.

A ‘Back Door’ Exploration of Social Problems in Comic Strip Dialogues With Marginalized Children

ABSTRACTBased on 35 comic strip dialogues with marginalized children in Italy, Norway and Slovenia, as well as three individual interviews with Italian practitioners, this article introduces a methodological approach that offers a ‘back door’ for exploring social problems embedded in the everyday lives of children. The analysis demonstrates the importance of adopting an everyday life perspective as an analytical strategy in conversations with children in marginalized life situations. This means shifting the focus away from solely examining risk factors and instead promoting a contextual understanding of risk, with an emphasis on amplifying the diverse voices of children.

An Exploration of the Relationship Between English Language and Social Identity from an Everyday Life Perspective

This research discusses the relationship between language and identity. In sociolinguistics, the term identity refers to the way in which speakers convey themselves via language. This highlights the dynamic relationship that exists between language and identity.As a result, the link between language and identity will be the primary topic of this article, with a special emphasis placed on Age Gender Ethnicity Class Nationality occupation these six dimensions from the point of view of their application in everyday life. In addition, we will talk about the problem of language alteration in the setting of many identities at the conclusion of the article.

Gerotranscendence as a Life Perspective Among Nursing Home Residents: A Qualitative Study Into Positive Ageing While Dependent on 24/7 Care.

To examine whether and how older nursing home residents recognise characteristics of gerotranscendence, and to contribute to a critical and comprehensive view of gerotranscendence in this particular group. Gerotranscendence is a psychosocial, spiritual development theory within the field of positive ageing that represents: a shift in meta-perspective, from a materialistic and rational vision to a cosmic and transcendent life perspective, followed by an increase in life satisfaction. A qualitative study using a narrative hermeneutical approach. Participants were 20 residents of a nursing home in the Netherlands, aged 77 to 105 (mean age: 90). The semi-structured interviews, conducted in April 2023, were based on Tornstam's 10-item Gerotranscendence Scale. Special attention was paid to the technique of interviewing these frail, older adults, some of them diagnosed with dementia. All respondents recognised several characteristics of gerotranscendence, or signs of it emerged from the research data. There is a larger middle group with respondents who call themselves 'down-to-earth'. They mainly recognise the relational characteristics. Another group appears to be more contemplative and shows more affinity with the abstract, cosmic characteristics. They have developed a gerotranscendent wisdom: there is insight, contextualism and relativism, peace of mind, room for life's paradoxes, a high degree of (self-)acceptance and an ability to 'let go'. The data show considerable heterogeneity in thoughts, perspectives and degrees of gerotranscendence. Respondents found some questions difficult to answer, resulting in a critical assessment of how to understand the responses given. This puts pressure on data quality for this current study and for critical gerotranscendence research in general. Furthermore, interviewing older nursing home residents requires a custom setting and possibly a new interview methodology. This report adheres to the standards for reporting qualitative research (SRQR). No patient or public contribution.

“There is a life before and after cancer”: experiences of resuming life and unmet care needs in stage I and II melanoma survivors

Although the largest increase in melanoma incidence is observed for localised melanoma, little research has been done on its impact. Despite favourable prognoses and relatively short treatment trajectories, diagnosis and treatment may significantly impact life post-treatment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of stage I and II melanoma survivors’ experiences resuming life after treatment and their associated survivorship care (SSC) needs. A qualitative focus group study was conducted with 18 stage I or II melanoma survivors, divided over three focus groups with 6 survivors each. Transcripts were analysed through thorough thematic content analysis, using multiple phases of coding. In resuming life, survivors experienced profound initial impacts of disease and treatment, fed by a perceived lack of knowledge and underestimation of melanoma. They faced unexpected physical and emotional effects post-surgery, experiencing mixed feelings from relief to fear and uncertainty. Survivors felt misunderstood, had to adjust their lives, and managed personal and external expectations while experiencing a positive shift in life perspective, leading to a notable difference in life before and after cancer. In terms of SSC needs, survivors stressed the need for tailored information, accessible resources, patient-centered follow-up, and supportive care addressing the total impact of disease and treatment. These findings highlight the importance of improving melanoma awareness and providing holistic SSC not only to advanced, but also to localised melanoma survivors. A tailored survivorship care plan could facilitate access to information and supportive care, helping patients resume their lives.

"Life mapping" exploring the lived experience of COVID-19 on access to HIV treatment and care in Malawi

Background The COVID-19 pandemic in Malawi exacerbated, existing public health challenges including access to HIV treatment and care services. “Life Mapping,” a component of the Citizen Science community-led project in Malawi, documented the lived experiences and perspectives of people living with HIV in the context of COVID-19. Methods Citizen Science Life Maps is a three-year qualitative, longitudinal project utilizing collaborative and participatory research methods through digital storytelling to document peoples’ daily lives. Twenty participants living with HIV were recruited between 2022 and 2023 in two central regional districts of Malawi and two urban areas. The participants were given mobile smart phones to document the impact of COVID-19 on HIV prevention and treatment services, HIV treatment literacy, mental health and the COVID -19 vaccine. Data was analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Results Access to HIV prevention and treatment slowly recovered yet introducing multi-month anti- retroviral dispensing raised concerns. In the absence of mental health care services, participants were resourceful in seeking alternative ways to deal with mental health. However, state sponsored violence in relation to COVID-19 public health measures impacted negatively not only on mental well-being but also on HIV treatment adherence. Whilst most recognized the importance of the COVID-19 vaccine, especially for people living with HIV, myths, misinformation, and conspiracy theories around the vaccine persisted especially religious themed misinformation. Conclusions The relationship between misinformation and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is complex and medical and scientific approaches may not be sufficient to prevent misinformation. Fear and misinformation are likely attributed to global uncertainty during the pandemic and the speed at which vaccines were developed with minimal opportunity to prepare global communities.

Inclusive measure development: amplifying the voices of adolescents and young adults with spina bifida in a new measure of benefit-finding and growth.

Benefit-finding and growth is an important process across a range of medical populations. However, it has been understudied in the context of lifelong chronic conditions, such as spina bifida (SB). This study aimed to develop a new measure of benefit-finding and growth for youth with SB, confirm its factor structure, and examine its psychometric properties. To generate items for the new measure, 20 adolescents and young adults with SB completed qualitative interviews regarding their experience of living with SB. Interviews were coded for benefits. Questionnaire items were generated from these benefits, and an expert panel refined the wording of these items. The resultant 31-item measure was shared with six of the 20 participants for feedback and then piloted among 251 youth with SB. The factor structure of the measure was confirmed and reliability and convergent validity were assessed. Both a one- and four-factor structure were supported. The four factors include: Life Perspectives and Priorities, Personal Characteristics and Traits, Connections and Opportunities, and Problem Solving. Higher total and factor scores represent greater benefit-finding and growth. The measure demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α = 0.95). The new measure also showed significant positive correlations with optimism, positive affect, and life satisfaction. This study produced a measure of benefit-finding and growth for youth with SB. Clinically, information about what youth with SB perceive to be their areas of strength and growth from their condition provides crucial insight into which factors to enhance in this population.

Assessing Police Technical Efficiency and the COVID-19 Technological Change from the Pact for Life Perspective

Assessing Police Technical Efficiency and the COVID-19 Technological Change from the Pact for Life Perspective