Quantitative Questionnaire Research Articles

Building Confidence and Well-being: The Power of Coach Communication and Personal Connections in College Basketball

The relationship between coaches and athletes plays a critical role in shaping athletes' confidence, performance, and overall well-being. Effective communication and strong interpersonal connections between coaches and athletes are often key determinants of success in sports, particularly for student athletes who are balancing academic and athletic responsibilities. This research aims to identify and analyze the influence of coach communication skills and personal closeness on self-confidence and well-being of student basketball athletes at Universitas Negeri Jakarta and Riau Islamic University. The research used mixed methods with purposive sampling techniques to select participants who met the criteria, namely athletes and coaches with relevant experience in basketball teams. Data were collected through quantitative questionnaires to measure coach communication quality, personal closeness, confidence, and athlete well-being; as well as in-depth interviews and observations of interactions in training and matches to obtain more in-depth contextual data. Quantitative analysis was conducted using regression techniques, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed to identify key themes and patterns. The results showed that clear, open, and emotionally supportive coach communication had a significant effect on athletes' confidence and well-being. Athletes who perceived emotional support and effective communication from coaches were more motivated and confident in their abilities, which had a positive impact on their performance on the field. In addition, the personal closeness between coaches and athletes also increased athletes' confidence and emotional satisfaction. The implication of this research is the importance of communication skills and interpersonal relationships in the training process.

Turning Trash Into Treasure: The Impact of Recycling on Public Health In Southern Taraba, Nigeria.

This study examines the impact of recycling on public health in Southern Taraba, revealing that most respondents acknowledge the health implications of recycling. Using a cross-sectional survey design and the Health Belief Model as the theoretical framework, 1,200 respondents were sampled through Taro Yamane's formula. Data were collected using quantitative questionnaires. Findings indicate that proximity to recycling bins significantly enhances household recycling behaviors. Despite challenges such as inadequate waste management infrastructure and public awareness, recycling serves as a vital livelihood for scavengers and merchants. The research highlights recycling as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly waste disposal method that reduces air and water pollution and minimizes waste toxicity in landfills. It is recommended that establishing a robust recycling system could improve environmental health and resource allocation, promoting community well-being and sustainable waste management practices in the region.

Public Opinion about European Researchers’ Night on Climate Change and Polar Science in Türkiye

The European Researchers' Night is an annual event held across Europe on the last Friday of September, with the primary goal of promoting public recognition of scientists, disseminating information about the real-world impact of their research, inspiring young people to pursue careers in science, and raising awareness about research and innovation activities. In 2022, European Researcher’s Night focused on climate change and polar science in Istanbul and Gaziantep provinces. The central aim was to enhance public awareness of polar regions and global climate change, as well as to facilitate the acknowledgment of researchers and their work by the general public. This study examined the opinions of participants who attended these events, including 221 primary school students, 687 secondary school students, 525 high school students, and 319 adults. Utilizing a mixed-method approach, participant opinions were collected through both quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews conducted concurrently during the events. The results revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback from all participants regarding the events, with unanimous support for the continuation of such engaging public outreach initiatives. In conclusion, these events serve as effective channels for communicating scientific research with the public and underscore the importance of research extending beyond the confines of research communities.

Examining the relationship between entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial intentions at universities of technology in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

High unemployment levels means that graduates are now encouraged to consider entrepreneurship as a career, and it is necessary to understand how entrepreneurship education influences their career choices. We investigated the relationship between entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial intentions of business management students at selected Universities of Technology (UoT) in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. We used quantitative research questionnaire to survey the entrepreneurial intentions and skills of students of 224 students enrolled in business courses and had completed a module in entrepreneurship at undergraduate level. Regression analysis of entrepreneurial education variables and entrepreneurial intention was conducted. The findings of this study indicated that Entrepreneurial intention is positively affected by entrepreneurial skills, creativity, leadership, and business experience but negatively by financial knowledge. These results show that while higher levels of financial knowledge have a negative impact on entrepreneurial intention of business students. Therefore, the university curriculum must cultivate traits like resourcefulness, leadership, and ambition which encourages beneficial outcomes of entrepreneurial intention amongst students.

A quantitative survey on exposures, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to swine influenza among villagers in different regions of Thailand

This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to determine factors influencing knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward the swine influenza virus (SIV) among pig farm owners, workers, and villagers in selected provinces of Thailand. This study was carried out from February to December 2022 in pig farms and villages across the provinces. A structured and standardized quantitative questionnaire was utilized to collect data on socio-demographic variables and KAP related to SIV from 215 participants. The quantitative data was analyzed in two steps using R software. The study findings showed that the average knowledge score on SIV was 6.92 out of 12, indicating moderate understanding of SIV in study participants. Attitudes towards SIV were generally positive, with an average score of 3.74 out of 5. Practices for SIV prevention averaged a score of 3.63 out of 5. Key factors associated with better SIV knowledge included higher education levels, higher monthly income, and direct involvement in vaccination processes. Moreover, those with higher education, employment on pig farms, and prior vaccination experience showed more positive attitudes towards SIV. Occupations related to pig farming and the availability of vaccination services significantly influenced SIV prevention practices. The findings highlighted that improved education and stronger connections with healthcare professionals and the pig farming sector may significantly enhance KAP regarding SIV among targeted populations. In contrast, participants with limited exposure to health services or pig farming activities, such as nearby villagers, require specialized educational interventions. This study recommends that local health authorities should develop and implement communication strategies and interventions focused on educating pig farm owners, managers, and villagers about SIV to mitigate the risks associated with SIV and other zoonotic diseases.

The role of AI, big data and predictive analytics in mitigating unemployment insurance fraud

The fraudulent claims for Unemployment Insurance (UI) have also risen massively in the United States especially during the onset of COVID-19 pandemic with billions of dollars that were lost. These approaches applied formerly in fraud detection and prevention have been challenged by new and advanced fraud systems. For this reason, AI, Big Data and Predictive Analytics are now crucial for improving fraud mitigation in UI programs. The aim of this research is to understand how far AI, Big Data and Predictive Analytics have been utilized, for how effective they are and the barriers they pose in tackling unemployment insurance fraud in the United States. An online quantitative self-administered questionnaire was administered where 200 participants from the unemployment insurance agencies of the U.S, covering fraud investigators, IT personnel, data analysts and policymakers, were included in the study. Data were analyzed to establish the correlation between technology adoption to application of anti-fraud measures using descriptive statistics, chi-square test and regression analysis. The survey shows that about 42.5% of agencies actively use AI and 34% of them use Big Data very often. However, difficulties like high costs, integration troubles and limited availability of specialized staff are still issues that make adoption a problem. The results of using AI and Big Data were moderate and optimistic but rather elevated, as seen through regression analysis; on the other hand, predictive analytics demonstrated large potential when applied successfully. The study’s results indicate that AI, Big Data and Predictive Analytics present enormous potential for mitigating UI fraud, although broad integration will not be possible without overcoming essential infrastructural and resource limitations.

Impact Of Work Environment Factors On The Mental Health Of Nurses In Psychiatric Settings

Background: The mental health of nurses in psychiatric settings is profoundly influenced by specific work environment factors, including the health profession's culture, excessive workload, and workplace violence (Ugwu, 2020; Neves, 2021). This study explores the impact of workload, bullying, and support mechanisms, uniquely focusing on their effects within mental health nursing. Objective: To identify and analyze how distinct environmental stressors such as workload, role ambiguity, and lack of support affect mental health outcomes among nurses in psychiatric care facilities, aiming to propose targeted interventions. Methods: Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study surveyed 382 mental health nurses using both quantitative Likert-scale questionnaires and qualitative interviews. The methodology, supported by the postpositivist paradigm, was selected for its appropriateness in addressing the complex dynamics of psychiatric nursing settings (Ugwu, 2020). Results: The study found that high workload, frequent exposure to workplace bullying, and insufficient support systems are critical stressors significantly compromising mental health nurses' well-being and job satisfaction. Particularly, nurses with less than two years of experience in mental health settings were most vulnerable to these negative impacts. Conclusion: Addressing these key environmental factors is crucial for improving mental health nurses' working conditions and, consequently, the quality of care provided in psychiatric settings. The study suggests implementing structured support systems and policy reforms aimed at reducing workplace stressors

The Relationship Between Perceived Stress and Aggression Behavior Among Individuals with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

This study examines how perceived stress impacts aggression in individuals diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), specifically looking at the variations between genders. The study utilizes a quantitative questionnaire to investigate the correlation between stress and aggression, as well as the factors that exacerbate this relationship, including the reciprocal linking of stress and aggression. Perceived stress and aggression exhibited a substantial and advantageous correlation (r = 0.62, p < 0.01), suggesting that an increase in aggression was linked to elevated stress levels. 78% of males and 58% of females admitted to frequently exhibiting aggression, while males reported engaging in aggressive behaviors more frequently than females. A reciprocal relationship was discovered, in which escalated aggression led to elevated stress levels and increased stress caused heightened aggression (r = 0.54, p < 0.05), thereby establishing a detrimental feedback cycle. These results indicate that interventions aimed at reducing stress could be especially helpful in decreasing aggression in male MDD patients. This study enhances our comprehension of the dynamics between stress and aggression in MDD and highlights the significance of addressing these aspects in therapy.

Exploring health and social care providers’ perceptions of Roma women and their families in Greece: Mixed-method insights from the REACH project

Introduction: Despite being Greek citizens, Roma people encounter challenges and discrimination in education, employment, accommodation and health. Roma women, in particular, experience heightened discrimination and social exclusion, impacting their sexual and reproductive health. This study, part of the REACH (Roma women's Empowerment and fighting discrimination in ACcess to Health) programme, aims to explore health and social care providers' perceptions and attitudes towards Roma people, especially women, in Greece. Methods: The mixed-methodology utilised both quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews/focus groups with healthcare and other professionals serving Roma communities in various regions of Greece. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of West Attica. Results: Quantitative findings revealed high reported confidence in serving Roma women, yet qualitative insights uncovered deep-seated stereotypes and discriminatory attitudes among professionals. The study highlighted challenges such as official registration issues, communication gaps and gender-specific dynamics within the Roma population. Conclusion: The study identified significant barriers to health and social inclusion of Roma women in Greece. Strategic interventions, guided by the study's insights, are crucial to combat discrimination and establish trust. The knowledge generated served as a foundation for the REACH project, aiming to create a more inclusive healthcare environment and contribute to the broader goal of fostering equality and well-being for the Roma population in Greece.

The Guideline Model for Water Resource Management of the Industrial Sector in the Eastern Economic Corridor for Sustainable Achievement

Water resource management is a key planning adaptation strategy for sustainable achievement. This research aims to compare the invariance of water resource management for the industrial sector in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) for sustainable achievement. The study employs quantitative research questionnaires from 750 experts and qualitative research from focus group discussions with 11 expert industrial business managers working in the EEC. The research applies descriptive, inferential, and multivariate statistics that show overall results. Each of the four high-level components this research focuses on is Resource Management, Data Insight, Innovation and Technology, and Alliance Centric. The hypothesis testing shows the ways that different industries in the EEC prioritize water resource management are significant differently. The analysis of the developed structural equation model (SEM) reveals that it meets the evaluation criteria, being consistent with empirical data. The invariance measurement of the guideline model reveals that the model is appropriate, and the invariance is found from the empirical variance analysis.

Community Leaders’ Financial Literacy Towards Sustainable Community in Malaysia

In the fast-paced world of the 21st century economic landscapes evolve rapidly and financial literacy has become vital for leaders across all sectors. It equips them to navigate complex financial environments, make informed decisions and adapt to economic shifts. In Malaysia, the government has formed the Community Leaders under the rural development program for village development. As a result of that, the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development has allocated resources to assist community programs. Therefore, these community leaders should be equipped with financial literacy to ensure that the financial resources are managed efficiently and effectively. Financial literacy is one of the most important requisites to financial well-being. It is also described as the measurement of how well an individual can understand and use information related to finance to make decisions. The objective of this study is to examine the needs of the Financial Literacy Model for community leaders. Further, it will also determine the components to be included in developing the Financial Literacy Model to enhance the public financial management system among community leaders. A mixed method research design, which combined qualitative (focused group interviews on selected community leaders) and quantitative (questionnaires) data will be employed in this research. Data analysis in qualitative research focuses on the process of systematically searching and arranging the interview transcripts. Interview sessions are crucial for gaining a thorough understanding of financial knowledge and skills among leaders. The research is anticipated to assist policymakers, community leaders and the government in improving sustainable community development.

Pengaruh Kecerdasan Emosional, Intelektual dan Spiritual terhadap Kinerja Pelajar

This study aims to analyze the influence of Emotional, Intellectual, and Spiritual Intelligence on Student Performance at Klabat University using a quantitative approach and questionnaire involving 317 students. The main variables include emotional, intellectual, and spiritual intelligence measured by valid and reliable instruments. Data analysis was carried out using multiple regression and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using SmartPLS, which includes convergent validity, discriminant validity, and reliability tests. The results showed that emotional intelligence was significantly related to student performance (p = 0.002), and intellectual intelligence was also significant (p = 0.044). In contrast, spiritual intelligence did not correlate substantially with performance (p = 0.384). These findings can be used to design more effective learning and mentoring strategies in higher education and increase understanding of psychological factors that influence the student learning process.

Workplace violence against medical students during clinical practice and its relevant factors: a mixed methods study

ABSTRACT Our study aims to describe the status of workplace violence against medical students during clinical practice, which consists of its prevalence, types, perpetrators, students’ responses and influences on them, reasons for workplace violence and to determine some relevant factors of this issue through both quantitative questionnaire and qualitative interview. A descriptive cross-sectional study with mixed methods was conducted on 320 students from the second-year to the sixth-year classes at Hanoi Medical University from August 2022 to February 2023. The questionnaire was based on the WHO questionnaire survey ‘Workplace violence in the health sector – country case studies research instruments – Geneva 2003’. 10 students from quantitative research who completed the questionnaire, experienced at least one type of workplace violence and consented to continue taking part in the research were chosen for in-depth interviews. The prevalence of students witnessing and/or experiencing workplace violence was 35.6% and 19.4% of the sample population had experienced at least one kind of workplace violence. Medical staff were the most common perpetrators. 86.8% of students who were exposed to workplace violence did not report the incidents for a variety of reasons. The major reasons leading to workplace violence related to patients, patients’ relatives and students, among which the first-ranked ones were the patients’ education level and their unsatisfied expectations. Some relevant factors to workplace violence against medical students were determined by quantitative analysis such as students’ grade (OR = 3.09) and region (OR = 3.31) and were explored additionally by qualitative interview such as the student management of the instructors, students’ personality, attitude and appearance as well as hospital environment. Based on the research findings, establishing prevention methods, which require action from both individuals (students, medical staff) and organizations (universities, hospitals) is recommended.

How do different policy instruments influence circular economy implementation in the construction sector?

ABSTRACT The circular economy (CE) is a promising solution to the growing construction waste and the environmental problems it brings, and government policy instruments are vital for promoting CE implementation. Existing research has been focused on the effects of one or two specific policy tools, like subsidies or fines, on construction CE implementation, which lacked comprehensive comparison among policy instruments and overlooked the stakeholders’ consciousness. There are three policy instruments and each has different characteristics and effects. Therefore, based on the Stimulus–organism–response theory, this study comprehensively explored the impact of the three policy instruments on CE implementation, and the mediating role of contractor intentions was considered. The quantitative questionnaire survey and partial least squares structural equation modelling analysis methods were used to study the relationship between the three policy instruments and CE intention and implementation. Then, the qualitative interview method was adopted to validate the results and provide practical advice. The results provide the government with a policy instrument decision-making framework, which gives a theoretical basis and practical implications for the government and contractor companies in CE implementation and gives insight into releasing construction waste and pollution problems.

A new validated instrument to assess sustainability perception among university students

Promoting sustainability within university institutions entails conducting assessments to lay the groundwork for developing educational methodologies. This article presents the validation of a quantitative 36-item scale questionnaire to measure university students' perceptions towards sustainability. A total of 285 university students from different Spanish Universities participated in completing the questionnaire. The reliability and validity of the instrument were statistically assessed through Cronbach’s alpha and confirmatory factor analysis. The questionnaire is of mixed character, combining 6-point Likert scale questions (ranging from “Strongly disagree” to “Strongly agree”), closed and open-ended questions. It was structured into six dimensions: knowledge, attitude, willingness to act, behavior, self-efficacy, and affective. The first five dimensions were confirmed by a confirmatory factor analysis, demonstrating a good fit level in the model (RMSEA = 0.043, CFI = 0.972, SRMR = 0.076, TLI = 0.970 and X2/df = 1.45), while the affective dimension was analyzed using a qualitative approach. Internal reliability, found using Cronbach’s alpha, varies between 0.737 and 0.909. The results show that the instrument meets the validity and reliability criteria. Consequently, a valuable tool for academic utilization is suggested, offering a diagnostic and monitoring mechanism for evaluating sustainability perceptions, a topic that has recently garnered significant attention.

Determinants of pre-conception care awareness among young and middle-aged women in the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh

Pre-conception care pertains to any preventive, promotive, and curative interventions for improving the health outcomes of women. Contrary to the growing burden of intergenerational transmission of chronic diseases, women lacked awareness and access to services for pre-conception care. Considering this, we conducted a cross-sectional study to assess the awareness, perceptions, and practices of pre-conception care among women from young and middle-aged groups in the Morena district of Madhya Pradesh. It was a cross-sectional study conducted with 383 women of reproductive age group (15-40 years) using a structured and pre-validated quantitative questionnaire. Out of 383 women, 171 belonged to the younger age group (15-24 years) and 212 to the middle-aged group (25-40 years). More than 50% of women had not heard of pre-conception care, and more than 90% of women in both groups had low dietary diversity. Middle-aged women had higher pre-conception care compared to younger women (βeta coefficient (95% Confidence Interval); p-value: 0.49 (0.03, 0.95); 0.03).

ICT USAGE IN TESL EDUCATION: INSIGHTS AND OBSTACLES FACED BY TEACHER-TRAINEES IN KOTA KINABALU

This study explores the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in English language learning among TESL teacher-trainees in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Since English is a compulsory subject in Malaysian education, the government has been placing increasing focus on ICT use to improve language learning. In the past two decades, much has changed in policy and practice to create more positive perceptions of ICT as a possible solution; but while these shifts may now make sense on paper, several obstacles remain for making changes effectively simply by introducing yet another new technology. The main objectives are to find out TESL teacher-trainees’ perception towards usage of ICT in classroom and obstacles in using ICT faced by TESL teacher-trainees in classroom. Shortage of technological infrastructure, technology access, and trained teachers on the usage of ICT are some challenges. In addition, different perceptions among teacher-trainees indicate issues such as low self-confidence in ICT usage. This paper uses a mixed-methods approach, using both quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews to capture the trainee experience. Using a purposive sample of 88 TESL trainees, primarily practicum participants in Sabah, this study employed a mixed-methods approach with quantitative questionnaires and qualitative semi-structured interviews. Fifteen trainees were selected for interviews to provide in-depth insights. The significant finding concludes a strong and positive correlation between teacher perception towards ICT usage in the classroom. Nevertheless, lack of resources, and training may hinder the effectiveness of the ICT. The knowledge gained will help to direct policy and curriculum development-informed teacher training aimed at increasing the use of ICT in English instruction.

Determinants of cross-border cultural integration: Case studies of the EU Basque and Upper Rhine cross-border regions

The spatial integration of cross-border regions is a complex multidimensional process. Cultural integration across borders is a crucial element in broader cross-border regionalism and the intensification of economic transactions. While cultural integration has been viewed as a contingent ontological determinant for establishing cross-border integration and cooperation, there is a lack of empirical evidence on cultural integration. This study sets out a new methodological framework to measure the extent of spatio-cultural integration in cross-border regions. A P-ITEMS model containing six determinants of cultural integration was developed using primary data obtained through mixed methods of qualitative perceptual mapping and quantitative questionnaires. Two European Union cross-border regions – the Basque region and the Upper Rhine region – were selected as case studies, representing two different contexts with varied characteristics, to assess the extent to which the methodological framework can enhance understanding of the cultural integration process. The study shows that this new model can provide a range of findings and perspectives depending on the qualitative or quantitative methodological lens applied. The model revealed that the Basque cross-border region is strongly culturally integrated from both a qualitative and quantitative perspective, with high cross-border interactions, and its residents on both sides of the national border share a common perceptual image of the cross-border region despite its difficulty. In contrast, in the Upper Rhine cross-border region, this joint perceptual representation is missing from the qualitative data; however, the quantitative data indicates that considerable cultural interactions and integration take place.

Enhancing medical students’ understanding of end-of-life care ethics and law through video-triggered expert-led debriefing: a two-stage study

BackgroundTaiwan enacted the Hospice Palliative Care Act in 2000 and the Patient Autonomy Act in 2016. However, medical education has emphasized palliative care skills over ethical and legal integration. This study developed a curriculum for pre-clinical students, focusing on applying these issues in end of life care.MethodsThe participants were fourth-year medical students enrolled in a 1-credit medical ethics and law course at a medical school in Taiwan. The study employed a two-stage design, combining quantitative pretests and posttests with qualitative data obtained through the Know-Want-Learn strategy. The curriculum, called the video-triggered expert-led debrief module, included a video scenario on end of life care, insights shared by three interprofessional experts, and students debrief. In 2021, 168 students participated, and a quantitative questionnaire using a pretest-posttest design was applied to assess the curriculum’s impact on students’ knowledge and attitudes toward end of life care. In 2022, 157 students participated, and the survey used open-ended questionnaires (the Know-Want-Learn strategy) to evaluate what students already knew and what they wanted to know before the module, as well as what they had learned afterward.ResultsIn 2021, we collected 166 (98.8%) valid responses in the quantitative questionnaire. Seven of the eight knowledge-based questions and four of the seven learning motivation items showed significant improvement in the posttest (P < 0.05). In 2022, 81 (51.6%) valid responses were obtained from the qualitative questionnaire. Before the module, students’ understanding was superficial and focused on literal meanings. Three themes emerged in what they wanted to know: medical decision-making, ethics and laws, and empathetic communication, with eight subthemes. After the module, three themes and six subthemes were identified in the “what I learned” section. Students reported gaining knowledge related to ethics and laws, and empathetic communication.ConclusionsThe video-triggered expert-led debrief module can effectively teach the application of medical ethics and laws in end of life care. This approach has shown positive results among young medical students. It enhances students’ learning motivation, deepens their understanding of ethics and laws, and empathetic communication. It further encourages them to reflect deeply on the meaning of healthcare.

Video-streamed Intangible Cultural Heritage, Ethnic Perceptions, and Cross-cultural Competence in China

The aim of the present study was to investigate the capacity of video-streamed content related to intangible cultural heritage (ICH) associated with Chinese ethnic minorities to enhance cross-cultural competence and perceptions about ethnic minority communities among users from China’s ethnic majority. Moreover, the research examined how users’ motivations and demographic factors moderate these relations. Utilizing a quantitative online questionnaire to examine video-streaming users in China, the research employed linear regression and hierarchical regression analyses to test these relationships. The findings indicated that cross-cultural attitudes and skills served as positive predictors of participants’ affinity for ethnic minorities, suggesting more favorable cross-cultural attitudes and skills led to more liking of ethnic minorities. However, these factors did not forecast stereotypical perceptions of ethnic minorities. Notably, cross-cultural knowledge was found to have no predictive capability regarding either affinity or stereotypical perceptions. Furthermore, user motivations to use live-streamed ICH content, specifically amotivation and regulation, were found to significantly moderate the connections between cross-cultural competence and attitudes toward ethnic minorities. In other words, participants who perceived the benefits of using live-streamed ICH content contributed to the relationships. These findings provide substantial insight into the complex interrelationship between digital media use, cross-cultural competence, and interethnic attitudes in China’s context. The study highlights the ability of video-streamed ICH content to foster positive interethnic relations while unpacking subtle influences of user motivation in the process. The findings presented here may guide the development of approaches aimed at utilizing digital platforms to enhance cultural comprehension and mitigate stereotypes within multicultural communities internationally, thus enriching the overarching discussion regarding the influence of digital media on the formation of cross-cultural perceptions and interactions.