Societal Influences Research Articles

Fostering Sustainable Female Participation in STEM Through Ecological Systems Theory: A Comparative Study in Three African Countries

This study explores factors influencing female engagement in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields in Mozambique, Nigeria, and Uganda through Urie Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. The research collected qualitative data from 81 women across these countries through open-ended surveys. Using content analysis, the results demonstrate the critical role of personal interests nurtured by family, showing how direct interactions with family influence STEM engagement at a microsystem level. The mesosystem level reveals the supportive influence of community and school interactions, emphasizing the importance of relationships between different microsystems, such as family–school collaborations, in fostering female participation in STEM. The exosystem level identifies the impact of positive media portrayals and role models, illustrating how external environments indirectly affect perceptions and aspirations in STEM through media and societal influences. The macrosystem level underscores the persistent cultural norms shaping gender roles, reflecting broader societal and cultural values that influence gender diversity in STEM fields, with 63% of respondents in Mozambique, 57% in Nigeria, and 67% in Uganda indicating that societal views on gender roles discouraged participation. Lastly, the chronosystem level captures the temporal changes and progress in gender diversity in STEM, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and policy reforms to address longstanding gender imbalances. Despite progress, significant gender imbalances remain, necessitating targeted interventions and policy reforms. The study proposes a sustainable, collaborative model to foster early interest and sustained participation of females in STEM, emphasizing the importance of seamless cooperation among families, educational institutions, communities, and government bodies. The findings aid in creating supportive environments for sustaining female STEM participation, promoting economic and social development in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The contribution of tourism experiences to eudaimonic well-being: insight from Generation Z

ABSTRACT Despite the growing interest in exploring the tourism experiences of Generation Z and their significant influence on the tourism industry, there is a dearth of investigation into the eudaimonic consequences of tourism among this cohort. Eudaimonic well-being refers to understanding yourself, having a meaningful life, and actively pursuing excellence. Drawing on the psychological well-being approach, this study explores how Generation Z describes the long-term eudaimonic effects of tourism experiences in their lifetime. The qualitative findings reveal seven key themes that elucidate the eudaimonic dimensions of travel experiences among Generation Z, categorised into three more general and interconnected groups: individual characteristics, interpersonal experiences, and societal influences. The seven central themes include authentic self-development, mastery of challenges, interpersonal bonds, spirituality and mindfulness, future professional advancement, conscientiousness, and hedonic happiness. This study advances existing eudaimonic well-being frameworks and contributes to ‘tourism and well-being’. Additionally, implications for tourism academics and practitioners are provided.

Factors influencing sport persistence still represent a knowledge gap – the experience of a systematic review

Investigating sport persistence can make a significant contribution to a thorough examination and understanding of the factors underlying an athlete’s activity, integrating physical activity, sports motivation and commitment. This systematic review aimed to detect the papers focusing on the factors influencing sport persistence following the levels of Bronfenbrenner’s and Bauman’s ecological models. Following the PRISMA guidelines, by the EBSCO Discovery Service Search Engine, 512 records were detected, of which 21 met the criteria. Factors influencing sport persistence show a huge variety. Individual factors and micro-system level were overrepresented. Meso- and macro-level factors are underrepresented and measured only with other (individual or micro-system level) factors. Most factors detected at the individual (e.g. gender, age, career-related variables and positive psychological factors), micro- (e.g. family, peers and coaches), meso- (e.g. climate), and macro-level (cultural, societal, and institutional influences) were positively correlated with sport persistence, i.e. supporting the persistent behaviour of the athletes regarding participating in one’s sporting activity. In conclusion, there is still room for further research concerning sport persistence. Including variables belonging to the meso- and macro-system and conducting longitudinal research should be considered which would allow us to better understand the nature of sport persistence.

An Exploration of the Knowledge and Current Practices of Frontline Workers Regarding Elder Abuse.

Annually, approximately 16% of adults aged 60 and older are victims of abuse in community settings. A critical first step toward effectively intervening and reducing the prevalence of elder abuse is to better understand the current state of knowledge, beliefs, and practices. This qualitative descriptive study explored the perceptions of US frontline community workers regarding elder abuse through focus groups and interviews conducted in the spring and summer of 2021. Participants represented various aging and victim services (n = 9), healthcare (n = 7), and law enforcement (n = 8). Thematic data analysis led to the emergence of three major themes in our data: societal influence, individual circumstances, and nature of abuse. Our findings point out several directions in which researchers and policymakers can begin moving the field forward. These include the need to focus on prevention strategies as well as the need to reduce ageist beliefs and attitudes.

Factors Influencing Girls' Education in Nepal: History and Perceptions of Participants

This study aims to explore the various ways in which gender discrimination reveals itself within the realm of education for girls, both within the school environment and at home. Additionally, the study seeks to identify the various factors that influence gender-related disparities in girls' education and examine the history of schooling for girls. In our society, socio-cultural norms and values that are biased towards gender are deeply ingrained, and this has prompted the Nepal government to initiate several measures aimed at fostering a gender-friendly environment within schools. Despite these interventions, the study finds that achieving gender parity in education remains elusive. As such, the study has prioritized examining how gender-based societal influences impede girls' education. The study is based on field data collected through direct interaction with participants to obtain insights grounded in real-world experiences.

Adolescent risk behaviours are associated with educational attainment in early adulthood: results from the Raine Study cohort

BackgroundHigher educational attainment is important for economic wellbeing and associated with better health and longevity. Previous research focused on intelligence, socioeconomic status and mental health or individual risk behaviours as predictors of educational attainment, but the role of multiple domains of adolescent risk behaviours is less clear. This study examined the association between multiple domains of risk behaviour in adolescence and educational attainment by 22 years-of-age.MethodsYoung people (Generation 2, Gen2) and their parents (Generation 1, Gen1) participating in the Raine Study completed questionnaires at years 1, 5, 8, 10 (Gen1 only), 14, 17 (both) and 22 (Gen2 only). The Raine Study is an ongoing longitudinal study initiated in Perth, Western Australia, between 1989 and 1991. The 1,102 Gen2 participants who responded to questions about highest educational attainment were included in this study. The association between Gen2 self-reported risk behaviours (including age at commencement of drinking alcohol, smoking, sexual intercourse and drug use) and educational attainment (defined as self-reported years of completed high school: ≤10, 11, 12 or tertiary education (> 12)) at year 22, after adjusting for mother’s age and combined parental education level, participant sex, and family income, educational performance and adolescent mental health, was explored using ordinal regression models and presented as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).ResultsOrdinal models suggested that never smoking or starting older than 18 compared with smoking before age 15 (OR 2.02, 95%CI: 1.28–2.14); first drinking alcohol between 15 and 17 years compared with younger than 15 (OR 1.52, 95%CI: 1.08–2.14); and, first sexual intercourse aged ≥ 18 years compared with under 15 (OR 1.67, 95%CI: 1.08–2.57) were associated with higher levels of educational attainment at 22-year follow-up. Additionally, lower (“better”) behavioural scores increased the odds of higher levels of attainment.ConclusionsAbsence of health risk behaviours at a younger age or later commencement was associated with higher educational attainment. Evidence-based interventions that address the societal influences underpinning risk behaviours in adolescents may support longer school retention.

The role of involution on Chinese youth pursuit of postgraduate education abroad: examine through the lens of normative social behaviour

ABSTRACT Involution has gained significant traction in China in recent years, particularly in the realms of education and employment. With the economic slowdown, more individuals opt for postgraduate studies to enhance their skills and remain competitive. The keen competition in China has prompted some to pursue further studies abroad, while others leverage academic qualifications obtained from prestigious overseas universities to engage in job involution upon returning home. This phenomenon has been examined by a qualitative research, employing the Theory of Normative Social Behaviour (TNSB) as a lens for analysis. Through the TNSB, the study explores how involution functions as a social norm, influencing the pursuit of postgraduate education abroad among young individuals as a normative social behaviour. The research involved in-depth interviews with 15 mainland Chinese postgraduate students, focusing on three key norms. Descriptive norms shed light on the influence of peers and family members on students’ decisions regarding further education. Injunctive norms reveal how young individuals’ perceptions of external rewards and intrinsic benefits impact their pursuit of postgraduate studies. Collective norms explore the societal influences that shape their choices. Based on the findings, suggestions have been put forward to utilize involution as a driving force for healthy societal progression.

Preface

Introduction Under the patronage of H.E. Prof. Mahad Said Ali Baawain, Minister of Labour, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) - Suhar, Oman, has hosted the Second International Conference on Environmental Science and Engineering for Sustainable Development (ESESD 2024) on March 6th and 7th, 2024, continuing the event’s successful first iteration, which was held in March 2022. The conference provided an excellent forum for exchanging knowledge and findings in the theory, methodology, and applications among academicians, industry professionals, researchers, and students, who have presented their latest research outcomes, as well as solidifying networks. Prominently, the attendees have discussed how to use scientific ideas and cutting-edge technology to explore potential novel, sustainable solutions to pressing environmental problems and to foster new partnerships in various fields include, but not exclusive to: Carbon Neutrality, Pollution and Carbon Emission Management, Renewable Energy, Circular economy, Applications of Nanotechnology to Serve Environmental Issues, Materials Science and its Applications for Sustainability, Engineering Design to Serve Sustainability Purposes, AI and IoT Applications in Environment and Sustainable Development, Biological and Environmental Sciences in Sustainable Development, Human Behaviour and Societal Influences on Environmental Sustainability. The conference was organized in hybrid modes of both physical and virtual via online, in a way that enabled a broad spectrum of participation from more than 8 countries and different regions of the Sultanate of Oman. 146 abstracts were submitted to the conference. 71 abstracts were accepted for oral presentation in addition to 25 accepted for poster presentation, cf. the figures below. Furthermore, the conference privileged to have informative five plenary lectures, and three invited Speeches in its programme, as detailed below. List of Figures, Conference Programme, Conference Committee and Sponsors are available in this Pdf.

'Is It Safe? Is it not?' A Youth-Led Photovoice Study of Youth Perspectives of COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence.

Youth have been uniquely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite high rates of COVID-19 infection, youth had one of the lowest vaccine uptake rates. Certain characteristics can affect vaccine uptake, such as mental health and substance use, but it is important to understand uptake for an effective response to pandemics. This study examined the perspectives of youth with mental health or substance use concerns on COVID-19 vaccine confidence, hesitancy and overall COVID-19 vaccine perspectives. Using photovoice, a community-based participatory research method, a sample of 27 youth aged 14-24 years participated in a series of photography workshops and focus groups. Participants submitted final photographs for discussion. Focus groups were recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. Four themes were generated: (1) Youth deciphered the vaccine discourse in a changing information landscape; (2) mixed perspectives of families, friends and loved ones influenced the vaccine journey; (3) complex societal influences affected views and decisions around the COVID-19 vaccine; and (4) youth navigated their vaccine journeys through first- and second-hand experiences. The four themes and subthemes highlight the evolution of youth's journeys with the COVID-19 vaccine over the course of the pandemic and into the late-pandemic period. Youth with mental health or substance use challenges navigated a complex environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The wide variety of factors influencing vaccine perspectives should be taken into account in public health messaging and future research on youth vaccine uptake. Youth-led and youth-engaged research can help solicit rich and meaningful perspectives of young people on important public health issues. This was a youth-led study. A youth research analyst conducted the study activities together with the support of a youth advisory group, an adult photographer with lived experience, and a scientific team.

A Qualitative Study Exploring Experiences in Caregiving for Patients With Advanced Wilson Disease.

BACKGROUND: Wilson disease (WD) is a rare disease characterized by impaired copper metabolism. It is usually diagnosed in children and has several distinct attributes that can make the caregiving experience different. The advanced stage of the illness is quite challenging, and caregiver experiences during this phase of the disease are underexplored. METHODS: The present study is an exploratory qualitative investigation with in-depth interviews aiming to understand the experiences of family caregivers of children with advanced WD receiving neuropalliative care services at a tertiary care hospital. Interviews from 7 family caregivers were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using an inductive and interpretive approach. RESULTS: Family caregivers in the study were predominantly mothers. The major themes that emerged are: being a parent and the caregiver, uncertainty related to illness, financial implications, understanding the disease dynamics, constructive coping strategies, and extended family networks and societal influences. CONCLUSION: The experiences and the encounters of family caregivers of children with advanced WD are multifaceted. Their challenging experiences underscore the need for extended supportive services and neuropalliative nursing care to assist the caregivers and families, and navigate the process of treatment and rehabilitation for the child.

Unveiling The Lived Experiences of School Heads in Managing Intergenerational Diversity among Proficient Teachers

This transcendental phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of school heads in managing intergenerational diversity among proficient teachers in public elementary schools in Noveleta, Cavite. Through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, the study revealed how generational differences impacted school management practices. Seven key themes emerged: Intergenerational Dynamics and Work Culture, Leadership and Adaptive Management Strategies, Technological Evolution and Pedagogical Adaptation, Communication, Collaboration, and Team Cohesion, Coping with Change and Navigating Resistance, Personal Well-being and Professional Growth, and Cultural and Societal Influences. The findings highlighted that school heads faced distinct challenges when managing generational gaps in work ethics, discipline, and professional values. Older generations of teachers, such as Baby Boomers and Generation X, exhibited stronger work ethics and commitment, often working through breaks to ensure student learning. In contrast, younger generations, particularly Generation Y and Z, were perceived to prioritize work-life balance and demonstrated less initiative. These differences posed significant challenges in fostering collaboration and innovation within schools. School heads employed adaptive strategies, such as empathetic leadership, fostering open communication, and promoting flexible solutions to bridge these generational divides. Moreover, the study emphasized the need for school management to address stereotypes and biases associated with different generations, creating inclusive environments that promoted cohesion and mutual respect. The implications extended to educational policies and professional development programs aimed at fostering intergenerational understanding and improving staff relations.

Examining Dropout Among Graduate and Undergraduate Public Affairs and Political Science Students

Within the domain of public affairs and political science (PAPS), student dropout emerges as a critical concern. This study delves into the factors influencing the decisions of undergraduate and graduate PAPS students to discontinue their programs. Employing a comprehensive mixed-methods approach, we surveyed 384 at-risk undergraduates and conducted in-depth interviews with 18 former graduate students. Thematic analysis of these interviews revealed six pivotal factors influencing graduate student dropout: the financial burden of study (including tuition and limited financial aid), program curricular challenges (such as demanding thesis requirements and inadequate practical components), the delicate balance of multiple responsibilities (work, study, and family), health-related issues (including anxiety and stress), poor academic performance, and personal difficulties (such as lack of family support). At the undergraduate level, descriptive analyses indicated that 38% of PAPS students contemplated dropping out, with 30% considering changing their major. Exploratory Factor Analysis and Multiple Regression highlighted the significance of factors such as family and societal influences, economic considerations, program and curriculum structure, institutional dynamics, academic performance, personal attitudes, and student health in shaping these contemplations. This research not only expands the application of integration and engagement theory and the pull, push, and failing out theory but also validates their effectiveness in predicting dropout within PAPS programs. The study offers valuable insights for both researchers and policymakers, underscoring the imperative for more supportive, flexible, and financially viable educational structures to enhance student retention in the realm of public affairs and political science.

What do men and women envy each other for?

IntroductionThis study explores the phenomenon of envy directed towards the opposite sex. Envy is a complex emotion that can manifest in various forms, often reflecting societal and biological influences. Previous research suggests a potential imbalance in the domains where men and women experience envy.MethodsThe research was conducted in the Czech Republic using a demographically representative sample of 1,769 individuals (867 men and 902 women). Respondents were asked what they envied about the opposite sex, and qualitative analysis was performed on their answers. A total of 32 distinct categories of envy were identified.ResultsThe analysis revealed significant differences between men and women in the nature of their envy. Women expressed envy towards men in domains linked to biological conditions and social advantages, such as salary, prestige, physical strength, and the absence of menstruation, childbirth, and menopause. Men, on the other hand, envied women for their physical attractiveness, ease of seduction, ability to perform traditionally female tasks, and motherhood. Some categories, such as safety and tolerance, were shared by both genders, but the underlying reasons differed. For instance, women envied men for not having to fear being alone, while men envied women for being protected by men.DiscussionThese findings confirm existing evidence of a gender imbalance in envy. The study also uncovered a novel form of envy, termed “ablative envy”, which refers to the desire for the absence of an unpleasant quality. This suggests that envy between the sexes is deeply rooted in both biological and social factors, offering new insights into gender dynamics.

Private art collectors on motivations to donate, deposit, or lend out artworks in Norway

ABSTRACT Based on interviews with twelve art collectors, the following paper investigates the motivations driving art collectors to engage in donations, deposits, and short-term loans to publicly funded art museums, using Norway as an example. Additionally, it delves into the reasons behind their reluctance to contribute. It also probes deeper into the role of price as an objective valuation. This study’s findings reveal personal, economic, and societal influences on art collectors’ decisions to contribute, including the joy of seeing their art exhibited, making art publicly accessible, storage considerations, promoting Norwegian artists internationally, and fulfilling social responsibility. The rationale behind not donating is closely tied to art collectors’ demands and preferences for their artworks or collections, as well as personal and financial reasons.

Sibling Bereavement Among Young Indian Adults.

This qualitative study explores the bereavement experiences of 12 surviving siblings in India, focusing on familial, societal, and cultural influences. Six themes emerged: "The Demanding Familial Role," "Isolation That Accompanies the Grief," "Damaging Impact of Society," "Positive Role of Friends and Family," "Support Systems," and "Continuing Bonds." Participants often felt the burden of supporting their parents, leading to personal grief suppression and isolation, exacerbated by societal stigmas. Conversely, empathetic friends, supportive extended family, and professional resources like therapy provided crucial coping mechanisms. Continuing bonds with the deceased offered comfort and connection. The study highlights the need for comprehensive support systems tailored to cultural and societal contexts. It emphasizes the importance of public awareness and education to foster a supportive response to bereavement. Further research with larger, more diverse samples is recommended.

Outcome‐Based Typology of Social Enterprises: Interlacing Individual Transformation, Capital Provision, and Societal Influence

Outcome‐Based Typology of Social Enterprises: Interlacing Individual Transformation, Capital Provision, and Societal Influence

Understanding the motivations behind deliberate lightening of skin among burkinabe women through a socio-anthropological analysis

Deliberate lightening of skin among African women is a complex phenomenon that intersects with cultural identity, health, beauty, and societal influence. The scientific literature has scarcely explored a comprehensive approach by interviewing users of skin lightening products. This article aims to analyze, through a comprehensive approach, the motivations underlying the deliberate lightening of skin among Burkinabe women. The research encompasses a narrative literature review and a qualitative field study in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. It targeted 59 women, categorized into current users, former users, and non-users of skin lightening products. Individual interviews and focus groups were utilized to gather qualitative data. The comprehensive approach enabled contextualization of the phenomenon, focusing on personal and collective motivations, while adhering to ethical principles. Participants gived various motivations for deliberate lightening of skin, including the pursuit of beauty, seduction, and social valorization. The majority used fairthese products to achieve a lightly pigmented, equating it with beauty and allure. Some aimed to enhance their seductive capital or improve their social status. Reasons for discontinuing the practice included awareness of health risks, societal pressure, and unmet objectives. Non-users cited reasons such as attachment to their natural skin tone, health concerns, and financial constraints. Deliberate lightening of skin can be viewed as a strategy to increase various forms of capital: aesthetic, seductive, social, and symbolic. This practice reflects socio-cultural dynamics and environmental influences, emphasizing the role of the body as capital in contemporary society. The findings reveal a heightened awareness among women of their body as a multifaceted capital, convertible into other forms of capital under certain conditions.

Does the Media’s Partisanship Influence News Coverage on Artificial Intelligence Issues? Media Coverage Analysis on Artificial Intelligence Issues

This study aims to analyze news coverage on artificial intelligence (AI) issues and highlight the characteristics and differences in reporting based on media partisanship. By examining AI-related news in the South Korean media, this study reveals how conservative and progressive outlets frame the issue differently. The analysis found that conservative media coverage predominantly focuses on positive aspects, emphasizing development value frames such as the benefits and societal progress brought by AI. In contrast, progressive media often highlight crisis value frames, focusing on issues like side effects, ethical concerns, and legislation surrounding AI. These partisan differences reflect fundamental societal priorities and influence public discourse and policy agendas. Understanding media framing is crucial for fostering informed public dialogue on the societal significance of AI and promoting evidence-based decision-making. By recognizing partisan biases and critically evaluating media coverage, citizens can engage in constructive discourse beyond ideological divides. This study underscores the role of the media in promoting interdisciplinary discussions about the future trajectory of AI and in preparing society for its impacts. Ultimately, evidence-based public discourse is essential for shaping responsible AI policies and mitigating potential risks in the digital age.

Comparative analysis of COVID-19 vaccine booster dose (VBD) acceptance among trainees and students of health professions in Bangladesh

BackgroundDespite the proven therapeutic potential of bivalent vaccine primer doses against COVID-19, acceptance of vaccine booster doses (VBD) varies among various subgroups of the global population. This study investigated the acceptance of COVID-19 VBD among trainees and students of health professions in Bangladesh and compared the potential factors influencing their VBD decisions. MethodsThe questionnaire was deployed in an online-enabled layout and conveniently sent to encounters between 10th June 2023 and 10th September 2023. Data from 501 trainees and 501 students were compared (response rate 80.8% vs.78.3%) to explore the study objectives. ResultsThe pooled COVID-19 VBD acceptance rates were 90.2% (95% Confidence Interval [CI]:87.6─92.8) vs. 93.2% (95% [CI]: 91.2─95.2) between trainees and students. The binary logistic analysis revealed that out of twelve factors “equal safety” (Adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 4.476 vs. 6.459), “efficacy” ([aOR]:3.673 vs. 2.913), “repeated immunity” ([aOR]: 1.729 vs. 2.247), and “self-priority” ([aOR]:3.108 vs. 4.645) had a significant positive association (p<0.01 and p<0.05) with VBD acceptance in both groups. There were varied effects on several predictors. Among trainee professionals, "communication" and "booster mandate" were associated significantly ([aOR]:1.534 and 1.748, respectively; p<0.05) with VBD acceptance, whereas "information source" and "culture" were associated ([aOR]:3.692 and 3.151, respectively; p<0.05) significantly with VBD acceptance in the student cohort. ConclusionsThere was a satisfactory acceptance level of COVID-19 VBD among healthcare participants, and several multidimensional factors influenced their VBD decisions in different ways. For enhancing public booster immunization decisions against COVID-19, individual health expectations must be linked to wider societal influences.

Multistakeholder Perspectives on the Determinants of Family Fundamental Movement Skills Practice: A Qualitative Systematic Review.

Childhood obesity is a significant public health crisis that is exposing children to associated morbidities and premature mortality. However, parents can positively influence physical activity trajectories and improve health outcomes by nurturing fundamental movement skills (FMS) in children. This is the first study to explore the determinants of family FMS practice via a systematic synthesis of qualitative evidence. Keyword searches were completed in SPORTDiscus, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Studies that offered perspectives relating to influences on the FMS of 2-6-year-old children in the family context via qualitative approaches, including visual methodologies that provided an important voice to children, were included. A thematic analysis was used to establish key themes. The emergent themes included parent knowledge and beliefs, self-efficacy of parents to teach, and the home environment. Parents often undervalued FMS and lacked the self-efficacy to teach due to poor understanding, conflicting priorities, and multifaceted societal influences. Children preferred autonomous play and socialisation but were negatively influenced by technology and restrictive household rules. Greater knowledge exchange between stakeholders is necessary to empower parents and enhance FMS application at home. More community initiatives could facilitate greater access to outdoor spaces, facilities, and equipment, which may improve family engagement with FMS.