Social Facets Research Articles

Exploring the role of leisure behaviour in finding identity for Chinese diasporic people: looking through the lens of music

ABSTRACT Identity has both personal and social facets, shaped by authentically answering ‘who I am’. Individual authenticity involves living according to one’s principles, values, and beliefs, influenced by self-awareness, independence, social connections, and reason. Philosophers such as Descartes and Aristotle have contributed to this concept, focusing on human awareness and eudaimonia, respectively. Existentialists like Sartre emphasise personal choice and self-definition, underscoring the role of authentic actions and decisions in shaping identity. Beyond individual authenticity, identity is also socially constructed. Social identity complements individual authenticity as individuals integrate their social roles with their personal self. Leisure activities, including music, offer opportunities for self-exploration, empowerment, and expression, allowing individuals to connect with their true selves while engaging with society. This paper explores how leisure shapes the identity of the Chinese diaspora through the first author’s music performance experiences in New Zealand. It explains how leisure activities facilitate cultural communication and identity expression through Chinese traditional music. Using an autoethnographic approach, it highlights how music helps Chinese diasporic individuals express their identity and navigate the complexities of dual or multiple identities within communities. These identities go beyond Chinese and diaspora communities, prompting individuals to balance their true self with multiple identities.

Staging value creation processes in short food supply chains of Italy

AbstractFarmers’ markets, as a short food supply chain system, are considered schemes that can contribute to local development, producing economic, environmental, and social value. These three facets of value can set the stage for building up the farmers' market value proposition. In the present study, we use the theoretical concept of the territorial staging system to identify farmers’ markets as sociotechnical contexts where producers and consumers interact to provide experiential resources and experiential engagement. This paper focused on the supply side of the proposed framework: by interviewing farmers markets’ directors and producers, an empirical analysis has been carried out with the purpose of identifying how these actors evaluate the three facets of value (economic, social, and environmental). The results show that, while directors emphasize economic value, farmers attribute higher importance to the environmental and, especially, social facet of value. These findings, which represent a primary research step that includes the consumers' contribution to the stage setting, highlight the diverging views of the actors involved. Results suggest that developing a stage that enhances consumer experience is a complex process and requires understanding different viewpoints.

Bibliometric Analysis of Adaptive Behavior Research: Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Children with Disabilities

Introduction: Adaptive behavior refers to the collection of skills and behaviors that individuals use to function independently in their daily lives, it encompasses the ability to meet personal needs and deal with the natural and social demands of one's environment. This includes a wide range of skills, such as communication, self-care, socialization, and practical skills needed to navigate one's environment. This is useful in providing references to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) initiatives, especially to improve access to quality education for children with disabilities. Objective: This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of research on adaptive behavior for children with disabilities from 2014 to 2024. It focuses on identifying patterns, trends, and gaps in the literature to understand the evolution and current state of the field. Theorical Framework: Adaptive behavior is often categorized into different domains, reflecting the various areas of functioning that are essential for independent living and social integration. The three primary domains of adaptive behavior commonly recognized in the literature are conceptual, practical and social domain. Method: The study employs advanced bibliometric techniques, including keyword co-occurrence and citation analysis, to explore the interconnectedness of topics and to forecast future directions in research. It underscores the critical need for reliable and inclusive assessment tools, comprehensive multi-informant evaluations, and interventions that can be integrated into educational settings to support the independence and social integration of children with disabilities. Results and Discussion: The findings of the study through article co-occurrence mapping analysis, four clusters representing adaptive behavior were identified, that is red cluster (psychological and social dimensions), green cluster (developmental and cognitive aspects of disability), blue cluster (adaptive functioning and behavioral outcomes) and yellow cluster (behavioral and diagnostic) portrays an interconnected landscape of research topics, where psychological, developmental, behavioral, and diagnostic themes converge, reflecting the complexity and interdisciplinary nature of research in disabilities. Research Implications: This study contributes practical implications, improving interventions, informing policies, and enhancing community understanding and support for individuals with varying needs in adaptive behavior. This holistic impact underscores the importance of such research in driving both theoretical and practical advancements in the field. Originality/Value: The exploration of adaptive behavior in children with disabilities has emerged as a critical area of study, integrating multifaceted approaches from diagnosis to intervention. The comprehensive review presented in this article not only captures the varied dimensions of adaptive behavior but also underscores the intricate interplay between intellectual, developmental, and social facets of disabilities in children.

Navigating tensions between economic and social integration among immigrant family entrepreneurs: a paradox perspective

ABSTRACT This study explores the intricate dynamics of immigrant family entrepreneurship, examining how immigrant family entrepreneurs navigate tensions between economic and social integration for sustainability through three longitudinal case studies of immigrant family businesses. Utilizing paradox theory, we offer a multi-dimensional perspective that captures the complexity of immigrant family businesses in Sweden. Our research enriches existing theoretical frameworks on immigrant family entrepreneurship by considering both economic and social facets in tandem. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of the family in navigating the tensions of immigrant family entrepreneurship, with family members acting both as facilitators and inhibitors. Our insights can guide policymakers and practitioners in fostering more inclusive and sustainable immigrant entrepreneurial communities in practice. This study contributes to the broader discourse on sustainability challenges in immigrant family entrepreneurship, aligning with the goals of social and economic sustainability.

Community perceptions and socio-economic implications of conservation corridors and networks in the Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa

Social facets linked to conservation corridors and ecological networks have received relatively limited academic attention. This study explores the perspectives of researchers, NGO representatives, and landowners, as well as the community’s ideas of conservation efforts and corridor potential in the Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa. Surveys and interviews were conducted with communities, regional stakeholders, and landowners. The findings revealed that the community participants strongly support corridor implementation. The results indicate that this support is driven by the anticipated socio-economic benefits in the form of jobs. However, the employment opportunities might not align with the resident's expectations. The study identifies several challenges to corridor establishment, including infrastructure and financial constraints. Moreover, the findings revealed a lack of supportive legislation and highlighted concerns over protected area's accessibility. The study contributes to the global academic discourse by emphasizing the importance of community engagement before corridor and network implementation. It also addresses the complex trade-offs inherent in such projects, regardless of location. The methodological approach employed in this research transcends its regional context and offers actionable insights applicable worldwide.

The Impact of Social Cognition Deficits on Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis: A Scoping Review.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease that affects the Central Nervous System by causing demyelination. Social cognition (SC) deficits are common among individuals with MS and can significantly impact their quality of life (QoL) due to difficulties in interpreting social cues and establishing meaningful relationships. This scoping review aimed to investigate SC in subjects with MS and its impact on QoL. Systematic searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases. After reading the full text of the selected studies and applying predefined inclusion criteria, four studies were included based on pertinence and relevance to the topic. The findings highlight significant associations between SC deficits, social support, fatigue, and QoL outcomes. Cognitive decline was identified as a predictive factor for SC impairment in the MS population, which affects daily activities and relationships, thereby reducing QoL. Moreover, emotional impairments such as depression and anxiety exacerbate these challenges. Enhancing social support networks may improve psychological well-being and disease management in MS. Although evidence is limited, assessing SC is crucial in the care pathways for MS to develop tailored psychosocial interventions that address the cognitive, emotional, and social facets of the disease, thereby improving overall outcomes and QoL.

Impact of Digital Literacy, Use of AI tools and Peer Collaboration on AI Assisted Learning- Perceptions of the University students

The technology-supported education systems seamlessly integrated throughout the globe in response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. The swift developments of the digital tools with Artificial Intelligence (AI) support are also readily diffused among the educational communities. This research paper investigates the synergistic impact of digital literacy, the incorporation of AI tools, and Peer Supported Collaborative Learning (PSCL) on the learning perceptions of university students. The research aims to discern the implications of these technological and social facets on students' attitudes towards AI assisted learning process. Structured questionnaire-based survey among the University students were done for this descriptive research. 409 responses collected were analysed with SPSS, Excel and Process Macro. It is found that the students’ Digital Literacy, Use of AI tools and PSCL on AI assisted learning were positively correlated. The partial mediatory path through the PSCL and AI tool usage has a significant positive influence on students learning process. The insights gathered from this study can inform educators, policymakers, and institutions on optimizing the amalgamation of digital literacy, AI tools and PSCL to enhance the contemporary learning environment. As universities navigate the digital age, this research provides a nuanced understanding of the dynamics shaping students' perceptions, offering valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of AI influencing the educational landscape

Factors Influencing the Development of Food Tourism Destinations: Evidence from China

Purpose – This study investigates the critical success factors (CSFs) for Guilin as a food tourism destination, leveraging its rich natural, social, and cultural resources. Methodology/Design/Approach – Employing a comprehensive quantitative approach, this study seeks to uncover the CSFs for the success of a food tourism destination, with Guilin as the case study. The research design incorporates the Delphi method to ensure robust and consensus-driven data collection, laying a solid foundation for empirical analysis. In the quantitative phase, data was collected from a diverse group of stakeholders, including restaurant operators, government officials, service providers, tourists, and residents. The collected data was then analyzed using multiple linear regression (MLR), enabling the identification and hierarchical ordering of the CSFs for Guilin's food tourism sector. Findings – The research unveiled that destination marketing, visitor experience, destination image, stakeholder involvement, core food products, and government support are essential CSFs for the success of a food tourism destination. A conceptual framework specific to Guilin’s food tourism was also developed, offering insights into enhancing food tourism development strategies. Practical Implications – This research distinguishes itself by dissecting Guilin’s natural and social facets through the lens of food tourism, proposing a set of CSFs that influence the success of food tourism destinations. It provides a comprehensive compilation of definitions, driving factors, and challenges in the food tourism sector, aiming to enrich the understanding and perception of the food tourism industry.

When perception is reality: examining perceived accessibility of recreational public spaces through social space production

ABSTRACT Social space production theorizes space as a socially constructed phenomenon, comprising of the expectations of society, technical design decisions, and the physical features that result. This theorization of space is especially relevant to recreational public spaces (e.g. parks, playgrounds, community centres) in low-income settings. This is because, the power linkages between technical decisions and neo-capitalist influence, have in some instances, translated to physical features for recreation that do not meet societal expectations or ideals on use. However, recognized opportunities of use (i.e. perceived accessibility) are yet to be examined through the physical, technical, and social facets that collectively guide considerations, as theorized in social space production. Our study hence adopts social space production as a lens to examine perceived accessibility to public recreational spaces in low-income residential contexts. Participatory mapping interviews with resident leads in a low-income residential context in the United States, revealed three thematic considerations. The themes were namely: physical ease of use, planning and design experiences, and social interactions with and within space. Our findings demonstrate that multifaceted considerations, which are pertinent to physical, technical, and social aspects of social space production, are informative to perceived accessibility.

Effectiveness and safety of Buzzy device in needle-related procedures for children under twelve years of age: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Pain transcends simple physiology, encompassing biological, emotional, psychological, and social facets. Children show pronounced immediate and enduring responses to pain-related procedures. The aim of this meta-analysis is to investigate the efficacy and safety of the Buzzy device for needle-related procedures in children aged twelve years or younger. PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched from inception to July 2023. Only randomized controlled trials utilizing the Buzzy device for needle-related procedures in children under twelve years old were included. Two reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. Random-effects models were utilized, and analyses were performed using mean differences or standardized mean differences as well as risk ratios. A total of 19 studies were included, involving 2846 participants (Buzzy = 1095, Control = 1751). Compared to no intervention, the Buzzy device significantly reduced pain response [self-report SMD = -1.90 (-2.45, -1.36), parental SMD = -3.04 (-4.09, -1.99), observer SMD = -2.88 (-3.75, -2.02)] and anxiety scores [self-report SMD = -1.97 (-3.05, -0.88), parental SMD = -2.01 (-2.93, -1.08), observer SMD = -1.92 (-2.64, -1.19)]. Compared to virtual reality (VR), the Buzzy device reduced self-reported anxiety levels SMD = -0.47 (-0.77, -0.17), and compared to distraction cards, the Buzzy device reduced parental and observer-reported pain [parental SMD = -0.85 (-1.22, -0.48), observer SMD = -0.70 (-1.00, -0.40)] and anxiety [parental SMD = -0.96 (-1.46, -0.47), observer SMD = -0.91 (-1.40, -0.42)]. Subgroup analysis results showed that procedure type, patient age, measurement scales used, and distance of operation were not the reason of heterogeneity. The summarized first puncture attempt success rate did not differ from other interventions. There were no significant adverse events in the included studies. The Buzzy device reduces pain and anxiety in children during needle procedures, ensuring success and safety. Additionally, the effectiveness of the Buzzy device in reducing pain during venipuncture is superior when compared to its effectiveness during intramuscular injections.

Achieving Harmonious Feminine Proportions: A Comprehensive Study on Breast Harmonization with Nanotextured Implants.

The prevalence of breast augmentation as a strategy for achieving idealized feminine proportions, consistent with contemporary beauty standards, has increased notably. This study focuses on the use of nanotextured implants, examining their efficacy in enhancing body symmetry and conforming to current aesthetic ideals. Conducted as a prospective cohort study, this research included women who underwent breast augmentation using nanotextured ergonomic implants from 2017 to 2023. A personalized methodology was applied, incorporating an array of anthropometric measurements and individual motivations to inform the selection of implants. The techniques used aimed at fostering a natural aesthetic, coupled with an extensive postoperative follow-up to evaluate outcomes and identify any complications. The study involved 1000 participants, with findings indicating a marked improvement in breast and overall body proportions, in line with targeted aesthetic principles. High levels of patient satisfaction were observed, with more than 90% reporting favorable aesthetic results and a low incidence of complications. These findings emphasize the effectiveness and safety of nanotextured implants in achieving the desired aesthetic goals. The study underscores the efficacy of nanotextured implants in attaining balanced feminine proportions, aligning surgical results with modern beauty ideals and enhancing personal well-being. It highlights the significance of a tailored approach in breast augmentation, which encompasses not only the physical aspects of aesthetic enhancement but also the psychological and social facets of patient contentment.

Effect of the Occupational Engagement Home Program (MyHOeME©) for Older Persons in the Community

Malaysia faces a pressing issue as its older population is projected to reach 16% by 2030. While global and national initiatives focus on health and independence, there exists a gap in structured activities for older persons. Our study introduces MyHOeME, a 5-week program designed by an occupational therapist, which addresses the physical, cognitive, and social facets of ageing through personalized activities. This quasi-experimental study involved 78 older persons in the community. The results indicate a significantly enhanced health-related quality of life after attending MyHOeME, emerging as a promising solution for the well-being of Malaysia's ageing population.

Gamification aspects affecting mobile app continued use, attitude, and satisfaction

Purpose – The aim of this study is to shed light on the factors influencing continued use, attitude, and satisfaction with gamified mobile app usage. A research model is proposed, featuring achievement, social, confirmation, ease of use, enjoyment, recognition, and social influence as independent variables. Dependent variables encompass continued use, attitude, satisfaction, motivation, and usefulness.Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from 1,633 respondents who use gamified shopping apps. Hypothesis testing was conducted using path analysis, and the Bootstrapping method was used to test the significance level of each relationship.Findings – Results indicate that achievement and social factors have a positive impact on motivation. Motivation, confirmation, and usefulness all positively influence satisfaction. Usefulness is shaped by confirmation and ease of use. Moreover, usefulness, ease of use, and social influence positively correlate with attitude and continued use. Contrarily, neither enjoyment nor recognition appeared to influence attitude or continued use.Research limitations/implications – This study did not incorporate frequency and personal traits into the model. While the results are particularly relevant to shopping apps, their applicability may extend beyond this context. Future research could consider frequency and personal characteristics as moderating variables and sample objects from varied industries.Practical implications – When developing gamification strategies, businesses ought to take into account both utilitarian and social aspects of gamification. It's vital to understand user expectations, prioritize user-friendly gamification interfaces, and promote positive word-of-mouth.Originality/value – This research enriches both the gamification and marketing literature by introducing a model grounded in gamification elements, human motivation theory, and the expectation-confirmation paradigm. It underscores the pivotal role of utilitarian and social facets in shaping usefulness, motivation, satisfaction, attitude, and continued app use. Notably, this work paves the way for further exploration into the roles of enjoyment and recognition.

The contribution of serious leisure qualities to passion in the context of collegiate sport club participation

ABSTRACT This study aims to explore the relationship between dimensions of collegiate sport club experiences and the development of harmonious and obsessive passions. A measure of serious leisure qualities was employed to assess members’ systematic pursuit with both the sporting and social facets of clubs. Dual passions signify contrasting psychological inclinations arising from optimal and excessive engagement, respectively. Online surveys were administered to collegiate sport club members from two universities. Completed responses from 145 individuals were included for analysis. Regression models revealed that identification and personal rewards facilitated harmonious passion. Notably, no serious leisure qualities fostered obsessive passion, but weekly practice hours did. Our results suggest that club members’ development of their identities and meanings to clubs are crucial to foster an optimal club experience. This finding adds knowledge to recent literature concerning club factors and mechanisms enhancing personal development and successful club operations. Moreover, the exploration of obsessive passion also underscores the needs to further examine the factors that drive members to overly engage in sport clubs. Future research utilising the concept of dual passions can help elucidate the psychological processes club members undergo in balancing their club commitments with other aspects of their lives.

The Role of Culinary Tourism in Local Marketplace Business—New Outlook in the Selected Developing Area

Local producers constitute a crucial segment of the local economy, playing a pivotal role in driving rural development and the progress of tourism. Their avenues for showcasing products extend beyond markets, bazaars, or food events, often being integrated into a destination’s tourism offerings. Moreover, they contribute to the culinary progress within tourism. Originating from wider rural areas or nearby villages, local producers significantly impact everyday migrations, services, and financial transactions in relationships spanning suburban–urban, village–town, and cross-border cooperation. This study aims to scrutinize the social facets of the organization and work of local producers, offering insights into contemporary market processes. It also serves to illustrate cross-border cooperation and the role of culinary tourism in local business. Through qualitative data processing, we will delve into the outcomes of cross-border projects, emphasizing ethical and sustainable values rooted in territory, landscape, local culture, authenticity, and the application of culinary elements in tourism. The results will shed light on the economic, social, and cultural ramifications on markets in border regions, influencing daily life and the economy. This study will define key aspects of rural development. These research findings can inform local governments, the economy, and communities in future strategic planning for developing this market segment. Tourism, especially in hospitality, will empower rural communities to enhance financial inflow and create local employment opportunities, such as roles for vineyard tour guides or local chefs. Simultaneously, it will bolster other sectors of the local economy, such as agriculture.

Investigating the Effects of Chinese University Students’ Online Engagement on Their EFL Learning Outcomes

Engagement plays an important role in students’ success in learning. While learner engagement has been widely examined, the degree to which learners engage in online learning and the relationship between online engagement and learning outcomes, particularly in the domain of second/foreign (L2) language learning, still remain under-explored. To bridge the gap, this study examined college L2 English learners’ profiles of online engagement and their learning outcomes. A total of 85 first-year college students participated in this study. The results showed that college students’ online L2 English learning engagement is multidimensional, including behaviroral, cognitive, affective, and social facets. Additionally, students’ actual behavioral (e.g., task engagement time and task completion rate) and self-perceived online engagement (e.g., behavioral, cognitive, and affective online engagement) are significantly correlated. Nonetheless, among the two levels of online engagement measures, only task score in the actual behavioural engagement is a positive predictor of students’ learning outcomes. The study concludes with practical implications for online teaching.

Optimizing Forest-Biomass-Distribution Logistics from a Multi-Level Perspective—Review

Forest and wood biomass represent a sustainable reservoir of raw materials and energy, offering a viable alternative to fossil fuels. These resources find extensive use in producing bioproducts, including solid wood and wood materials. The judicious exploitation of forest and wood biomass can be pivotal in reducing carbon emissions and securing material and energy independence. The business viability of producing valuable goods from woody biomass hinges on ensuring its sustained availability. This necessitates access to high-quality biomass at a minimal cost, demanding the efficient design of wood-biomass-distribution logistics. Furthermore, it is imperative to give equal weight to social and ecological considerations in shaping the forest- and wood-biomass-distribution logistics, thereby ensuring the sustainable utilization of this renewable raw material source. This article presents research focused on the business optimization of distribution logistics for specific forms of forest biomass used in wood material production. While most studies have primarily concentrated on the business or ecological issues of biomass utilization, this article offers a comprehensive insight by addressing business, ecological, and social facets in assessing and optimizing wood-biomass-distribution logistics. Multi-stakeholder life-cycle-assessment optimization takes into account the reduction of greenhouse gases as an ecological metric, with production costs and capital expenditure forming the business metrics. At the same time, the generation of employment opportunities is commonly regarded as the pivotal social criterion. There remains a necessity for further exploration into the potential social impacts of forest biomass utilization. Additionally, developing enhanced methodologies and decision-support tools for scheduling wood-biomass-distribution logistics that holistically consider business, ecological, and social criteria is an essential ongoing task.

The Struggle Is Relative: A Comparative Processing Perspective on Academic Self-Concept and Student Mental Health

Academic self-concept (ASC) is a prominent predictor of educational achievement and student mental health. Although it is widely accepted that ASC is fundamentally comparative, little is known about different comparison types driving students’ ASC construal and its impact on mental health. Therefore, we examined whether self-evaluations relative to criteria-based, social, temporal, dimensional, and counterfactual comparison standards represent independent factors that contribute to general ASC. Next, we assessed the association of general ASC and its comparison-based facets with achievement emotions and psychopathology. University students (N=348) completed an online survey of general ASC as well as subordinate comparison-based ASC facets, positive and negative achievement emotions, psychological distress, and symptoms of student burnout. We further assessed comparison frequency, student task values, and achievement levels. Factor analysis indicated that criteria-based, social, temporal, dimensional, and counterfactual standards reflect mainly distinct yet correlated comparison domains. General ASC construal was most strongly based on the criteria-based and social facets. Favourable general ASC predicted lower learning-related anxiety, psychological distress, and student burnout. Largely similar correlations emerged for all comparison-based ASC facets, whereby the criteria-based and social facets were particularly strong predictors of learning-related anxiety. Our findings support the view that ASC construal relies on comparisons with multiple standards. Criteria-based and social comparisons were particularly dominant and may be the main drivers of learning-related anxiety. Carefully designed follow-up studies with longitudinal designs and interventions are warranted.

GameFi: The perfect symbiosis of blockchain, tokens, DeFi, and NFTs?

GameFi is a portmanteau of “game” and “finance.” The concept involves blockchain games that offer economic incentives to play, otherwise known as play-to-earn (P2E) games. We explain in detail how GameFi differs from traditional games, and carve out its unique value proposition. We also explore how the mechanics of blockchain games influence the social facet of P2E games, where guilds and clans essentially function as profit-sharing organizations. GameFi leverages disparate elements of the crypto space: tokens, DeFi, and NFTs. Lastly, we discuss in detail some of the challenges of GameFi.

Mechanical characterisation of adobe samples from the state of Morelos, Mexico

Properties of adobe are highly dependent on the local soil composition and can vary significantly depending on fabrication techniques, configurations and state of conservation. The effect of the earthquakes that occurred in 2017 in Mexico relaunched discussion regarding the adequacy and safety of adobe-based constructions – a debate that involves many economic, cultural and social facets related to vernacular expressions and ways of life, long-term sustainability and risk management. In an effort to contribute to this, this paper includes and discusses a series of experiments carried out in typologically representative adobe constructions in the municipality of Tepoztlán (state of Morelos, Mexico). A campaign of ultrasonic pulse velocity tests was conducted on 13 historical buildings with the objective of assessing the variability of the adobe material present in those buildings. Some adobe units were then collected and tested in a laboratory to assess their compressive strength and stress/strain behaviour. From these two sets of experiments, it was possible to obtain valuable insights into the mechanical properties of the adobe that constitutes the characteristic housing typology in the region.