Socio-cultural Beliefs Research Articles

Awareness & perceptions about organ donation among patient attendants in a tertiary-care hospital in South India: An observational study

Background & objectives Numerous barriers like lack of awareness, fear of misuse and sociocultural beliefs contribute towards low rates of organ donation. In 2019, India had a donation rate of only 0.52 per million. Hence, this study was undertaken to determine the awareness levels and perceptions about organ donation among patient attendants in a tertiary-care hospital in South India. Methods This cross-sectional study, ‘passing on the torch of life’, with a sample size of 110 was conducted in a tertiary care hospital from June to October 2022. Beds across were selected by simple random sampling and the attendants of patients were interviewed using a face-validated structured interview schedule. Data was analysed using SPSS v.20 using the independent sample t test and ANOVA. Results The majority of the participants were Hindus (62%), married (68%), living in urban areas (62%) and gainfully employed (60%). The mean awareness score was 7.86±2.64 (out of 13). About 70 per cent of the participants were regarded to have adequate knowledge. The mean perception score was 67±9.41 (out of 86). A total of 95 per cent of the participants supported organ donation, however only 51 per cent were willing to donate. Males, participants with higher education and income and those residing in urban areas had significantly higher awareness scores (P<0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher education levels was a predictor of increased awareness (P=0.036). Interpretation & conclusions The majority of participants had adequate awareness, positive perceptions and supported organ donation, however, only 51 per cent were willing to donate their organs. Education levels was a significant predictor of awareness levels. A further qualitative study is recommended to explore the reasons behind the unwillingness to donate, despite strong support for organ donation.

Exclusive breastfeeding practices and factors affecting them in urban areas of Uttar Pradesh

ABSTRACT Background: Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months is the recommended infant feeding practice, with established benefits. In India, exclusive breastfeeding rates have seen some improvement, but Uttar Pradesh has experienced a decline. Various factors influence breastfeeding practices, such as socio-cultural beliefs, maternal knowledge, and support. Considering urbanization, industrialization, and a significant migrant population, it is crucial to understand the determinants of breastfeeding practices in urban Uttar Pradesh. This study aimed to fill these knowledge gaps by examining factors influencing breastfeeding practices in the region. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Sharda Hospital’s Pediatrics Outpatient Department (OPD) in Uttar Pradesh over 1.5 years from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020. The minimum sample size of 96 was determined for the study. Study participants included 200 mothers with children aged 6 months to 2 years attending the Pediatrics OPD. Data were collected through a 42-item questionnaire administered by trained interviewers who ensured privacy and comfort. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences, including descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test for categorical variables (P < 0.05). Results: The study involved 200 mothers with children aged 6 months to 2 years attending a Pediatrics OPD in Uttar Pradesh. Mothers aged 21–30 years (78%) were predominant. Among the children, 62.5% were male. Colostrum was given by 86% of mothers, and 40% introduced pre-lacteal feeds. Exclusive breastfeeding was practiced by 60% of mothers. The analysis did not show statistically significant differences based on socio-economic status, maternal education, or occupation (P > 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, the findings from this study provide a comprehensive understanding of feeding practices among mothers in urban areas of Uttar Pradesh. While many mothers adhere to recommended practices, there is room for improvement in reducing pre-lacteal feeding and promoting exclusive breastfeeding.

Exploring barriers to accessing treatment for Lymphatic Filariasis through a socio-ecological lens in Buvuma and Napak districts, Uganda.

The World Health Organization launched the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis in 2000, which aimed at eradicating the disease by 2030. This goal depends on community mass drug administration and essential care. Despite these efforts, many rural communities still face untreated lymphatic filariasis and lack access to treatment and self-management. Using a socioecological model, this study examined barriers to treatment and support for people living with lymphatic filariasis in Uganda's Buvuma and Napak districts. We conducted 12 key informant interviews with health facility officials, district health officers, and village health team members. Additionally, 19 focus group discussions were held with community members, and nine in-depth interviews were conducted with people living with lymphatic filariasis. This study explored knowledge gaps among those living with lymphatic filariasis and health providers that affect morbidity management and disability prevention, as well as challenges in accessing treatment. Audio recordings were transcribed and managed via ATLAS ti software version 6. Thematic analysis was conducted via the socioecological model framework. This study identified multiple complex factors affecting healthcare providers and individuals living with lymphatic filariasis, spanning individual, interpersonal, organisational, community, and policy levels. The key themes included stigma and social isolation, healthcare disparities, and healthcare dynamics. Stigma and social isolation result in emotional distress, neglect, exclusion, and self-isolation, which are influenced by community beliefs. Health systems and policy barriers included poverty, inadequate personnel, and insufficient equipment. Structural factors such as geographical remoteness, environmental harshness, and lack of healthcare infrastructure were prominent obstacles to seeking care for lymphatic filariasis management. This study provides insights into the multilevel factors influencing the understanding and availability of treatment for lymphatic filariasis in Uganda. Addressing sociocultural beliefs, social and interpersonal dynamics, and healthcare disparities is crucial for improving the outcomes and well-being of these rural communities. These findings can aid in managing lymphatic filariasis in Uganda and similar low-resource settings.

The burden of generational harm due to alcohol use in Tanzania: A mixed method study of pregnant women.

Rates of prenatal alcohol use in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are increasing despite regulatory bodies urging pregnant women to abstain from alcohol. Tanzania has minimal policies, interventions, and educational programs addressing prenatal alcohol exposure. Consequently, a considerable number of mothers and their fetuses are exposed to alcohol, leading to serious health consequences like fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Our study aims to understand the alcohol use practices of pregnant women, the knowledge and attitudes related to prenatal alcohol exposure among different genders and generations, and how these may be influenced by community perceptions and cultural beliefs among patients at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center (KCMC). A total of 676 individuals seeking care at the KCMC Emergency Department (ED) or Reproductive Health Center (RHC) met our inclusion criteria, were approached for participation using a systematic random sampling method, and were enrolled. Of those, 541 women and 114 men completed the survey. The quantitative analysis focused exclusively on survey data from 533 women who reported their pregnancy status and age. Descriptive frequencies were used to compare sociodemographic factors and alcohol use practices across three female groups stratified by pregnancy status and age. Nineteen survey participants-both men and women-were purposively selected for qualitative semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) exploring knowledge, attitudes, and cultural beliefs surrounding alcohol use during pregnancy. A grounded theory approach was used to analyze IDIs in NVivo. A large percentage of pregnant women reported consuming alcohol at least once per week (42.2%). Older non-pregnant women exhibited the highest rate of alcohol use per week (66.0%). Many older non-pregnant women (28.7%) perceived alcohol use as acceptable during pregnancy. Younger non-pregnant women had the highest prevalence of harmful or hazardous drinking (HHD) at 16.4%. This group also reported the highest weekly alcohol expenses, with 18.1% spending over 10,000 Tanzanian shillings (TZS) per week. Median [IQR] DrInC scores were 0 [0-0] for pregnant women, 0 [0-7] for younger non-pregnant women, and 0 [0-1] for older non-pregnant women. Older non-pregnant women exhibited the highest prevalence of depression (31.4%). Median [IQR] PHQ-9 scores were 4 [3-6.25] for pregnant women, 5 [2-8] for younger non-pregnant women, and 6 [3-10] for older non-pregnant women. Qualitative analyses demonstrated that (1) cultural beliefs are intricately tied to perceived benefits of prenatal alcohol exposure, (2) a history of alcohol use preceding pregnancy largely influences prenatal alcohol use, and (3) community views of PWCA are negative. Our findings demonstrate high rates of prenatal alcohol use in Moshi, Tanzania, with pre-pregnancy alcohol use as a significant predictor. Despite generally negative views of pregnant women who consume alcohol (PWCA), some sociocultural beliefs and limited knowledge about the dangers of prenatal alcohol exposure encouraged alcohol use during pregnancy. To improve health outcomes and reduce alcohol-related pregnancy complications for current and future generations, community-wide health messaging and pre-pregnancy interventions may prove beneficial for pregnant women and women of reproductive age who consume alcohol.

Indonesian midwives’ experiences in delivering childbirth services: A qualitative study

Background: Quality healthcare services during childbirth are essential for the safety of mothers and newborns. Despite global efforts to improve maternal and neonatal health, many challenges remain, particularly in low-resource settings. Midwives play a vital role in ensuring safe childbirth and improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to explore midwives’ experiences in delivering childbirth services in Ungaran City, Central Java Province, Indonesia. Methods: A descriptive phenomenological was employed. Data were collected in June 2021 through semi-structured interviews with six midwives. Colaizzi’s methods were used to analyze the data. Results: The findings revealed two main themes: 1) Challenges commonly faced in childbirth services, which include subthemes of economic and pragmatic concerns, socio-cultural beliefs and traditions, perceived necessity of midwifery services, access to services, and public perception of the knowledge and skills of childbirth providers; and 2) Reasons for choosing home childbirth, with subthemes of economic factors, cultural and ritualistic perceptions, access to health facilities, and comfort. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of addressing economic and socio-cultural factors to improve maternal healthcare in rural areas. Collaboration between midwives and traditional birth attendants can enhance trust and ensure safer outcomes. Future studies are needed to explore how to integrate these practices for improved healthcare delivery.

Exploring Pre-Service Teachers’ Beliefs and Experiences during Emergency Remote Teaching

Little is known about pre-service teachers' (PSTs) content-specific pedagogical beliefs and what causes alignment or misalignment, particularly when it comes to technology integration in emergency remote teaching (ERT). This study looked at the use of technology in teaching practice, content-specific pedagogical views held by PSTs, and the factors influencing these beliefs. The study employed multiple case studies with fifteen PSTs from Indonesian teacher education programs and employed a variety of instruments, including a questionnaire, a teacher belief inventory, a checklist for observations, an interview, and artifacts. The study highlights several crucial findings. First, the PSTs exhibit distinct belief orientations toward their teaching activities. Second, the findings show both alignment and misalignment between EFL content-specific pedagogical beliefs and technological integration, which is driven by three major socio-cultural belief changes. Furthermore, alignment and misalignment were attributed to internal and external causes, as evidenced by the PSTs' technology-supported content-specific pedagogical attitudes and practices during Emergency Remote Teaching (ERT). Due to its importance in teacher development, this study suggests that a greater understanding of the dynamic shift in pre-service teachers' content-specific pedagogical views is required. In a nutshell, this study endorses the alignment and misalignment of pre-service teachers' experiences and content-specific pedagogical beliefs as positive elements in teacher preparation during ERT situations.

Views and experiences of young people on using mHealth platforms for sexual and reproductive health services in rural low-and middle-income countries: A qualitative systematic review.

In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), reproductive health programs use mobile health (mHealth) platforms to deliver a broad range of SRH information and services to young people in rural areas. However, young people's experiences of using mobile phone platforms for SRH services in the rural contexts of LMICs remains unexplored. This review qualitatively explored the experiences and perceptions of young people's use of mobile phone platforms for SRH information and services. This qualitative evidence synthesis was conducted through a systematic search of online databases: Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo and Scopus. We included peer reviewed articles that were conducted between 2000 to 2023 and used qualitative methods. The methodological quality of papers was assessed by two authors using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) and Confidence in Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research (CERQual) approach with the identified papers synthesized using a narrative thematic analysis approach. The 26 studies included in the review were conducted in a wide range of LMIC rural settings. The studies used seven different types of mHealth platforms in providing access to SRH information and services on contraception, family planning, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) education. Participant preferences for use of SRH service platforms centred on convenience, privacy and confidentiality, as well as ease and affordability. High confidence was found in the studies preferencing text messaging, voice messaging, and interactive voice response services while moderate confidence was found in studies focused on phone calls. The overall constraint for platforms services included poor and limited network and electricity connectivity (high confidence in the study findings), limited access to mobile phones and mobile credit due to cost, influence from socio-cultural norms and beliefs and community members (moderate confidence in the study findings), language and literacy skills constraints (high confidence in the study findings). The findings provide valuable information on the preferences of mHealth platforms for accessing SRH services among young people in rural settings in LMICs and the quality of available evidence on the topic. As such, the findings have important implications for health policy makers and implementers and mHealth technology platform developers on improving services for sustainable adoption and integration in LMIC rural health system.

Shaping Space: The Impact of Socio-cultural Practices on the Spatial Organization of Kharanaq Fort, Yazd, Iran

Kharanaq Fort, a historic castle in Yazd, Iran, stands as a testament to the adaptive evolution of spatial organization shaped by centuries of socio-cultural transformation. This study aims to identify the impact of socio-cultural configuration of the community on the formation of the physical structure and the spatial organization of the fortress of Kharanaq village. From this perspective, the study questions whether social construct, cultural patterns and financial conditions have been effective in shaping the physical character of the fort or not, and if so, to what extent it has influenced the architectural characteristic of the fort; A fort that, in addition to its long history, it is also considered as one of the few completely inhabited forts (without a governing system) in Yazd and even Iran. The aim of this research is to introduce a unique example of vernacular architecture in Iran and delve into its deeper socio-cultural context, while addressing the mutual influence of the residents' socio-cultural behaviours and beliefs on the spatial organisation and the architectural characteristics of the fort. The data presented in this study is the result of extensive field works and visits of the village and the fort as well as, historical recourses available about the fort. Drawing on insights from archaeological excavations, field research, historical studies, and critical analysis of available texts, this article concludes that the fort's physical structure—shaped historically through a coherent design centred around a core nucleus—was essentially influenced by underlying social, cultural, and religious principles. Therefore, fully understanding its architecture requires a deep awareness of these guiding concepts, as the physical and conceptual elements are inseparably intertwined.

Healthcare Practitioners’ perspectives on paediatric burns management at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana

BackgroundPaediatric burns pose significant challenges in healthcare management. Paediatric burns require specialized care due to the distinct anatomical and physiological characteristics of children, which make them more vulnerable to complications. In resource-limited settings like Ghana, the absence of adequate supplies and standardized protocols can exacerbate these challenges, necessitating the need for a comprehensive understanding of the perspectives of healthcare practitioners involved in their care.Study Objective.To explore healthcare practitioners’ perspectives on paediatric burns management at a tertiary hospital, Ghana, covering current practices, barriers, impacts on patients and families, and recommendations for improvement. MethodologyThis study employed a qualitative research approach utilizing Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with 15 participants from various disciplines, including Plastic Surgery, Medicine, Anaesthetics, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Dietetics, Nursing, Pharmacy, Clinical Psychology, Public Health Nursing and. Laboratory Scientist. Participants were recruited through a convenience sampling technique. The discussion lasting approximately 90 min, were audio recorded, and facilitated by a discussion guide based on existing literature. The audio recordings were transcribed verbatim, and the transcripts were compared with handwritten notes for accuracy. The final transcribed data were coded and analyzed using thematic content analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. ResultsFindings revealed four primary themes: strengths of current practices (multidisciplinary approach, experienced practitioners), barriers (lack of formal protocols, infrastructure limitations, financial burdens), contextual factors influencing burn care (psychological trauma, inadequate support, socio-cultural beliefs and socioeconomic status), and recommendations for enhancing burns care (improved social welfare, facility upgrades, staff training and mental health support). ConclusionWhile burns care has improved in Ghana, there are clear opportunities for improvement. A move towards more integrated care, the development of locally adapted protocols, better financial support, and enhanced caregiver education are essential next steps in elevating the quality of paediatric burn management in Ghana.

Determinants of Gynaecological Morbidities and Treatment-Seeking Behaviour among Women in Eastern India: A Study Based on NFHS 4 And 5

Background: Gynaecological morbidities are key components of reproductive health and contribute considerably to the disease burden among women in eastern India. Societal stigma and socio-cultural beliefs often prevent women from reporting and seeking treatment for these morbidities. The objective was to explore the scenario and associated factors of gynaecological morbidity and treatment-seeking behaviour among women in eastern India. Methodology: The analysis is based on two rounds of National Family Health Survey (NFHS 4 and NFHS 5), including women from 15-49 years who reported or sought treatment for any gynaecological morbidity. Bivariate and binary logistic regression analysis were used to analyse regional variations and the factors associated with gynaecological morbidity treatment-seeking behaviour. Results: The prevalence of gynaecological morbidities India increased from 25.68% in NFHS 4 to 28.74% in NFHS 5, having the highest prevalence in Bihar. Women seeking treatment increased from 35.05% to 38.16, with more preference for private healthcare facilities than the public. Socioeconomic factors like wealth index, age, age at marriage and first birth, educational attainment, working status, awareness about STI significantly influences gynaecological morbidities and treatment-seeking. Conclusion: The findings of the study emphasised the need of awareness, health education and economic support to overcome the barriers of treatment seeking behaviour of gynaecological morbidities.

Sociolinguistic study of kilba personal names

This paper delves into the sociolinguistic factors and semantic implications of Kilba names and naming systems. It explores how names are given in Kilba community, explaining the cultural and social meanings attached to names .The research method involves primary data collection from aged parents in the Hong local government of Adamawa State, as well as secondary sources such as books, journal articles, and online materials. Contextual and conventional theories of meaning were used as guide for the study. The analysis categorizes Kilba names names into five main groups based on their significance and origins. The findings highlight the importance of names as identifiers of individual personalities and reflect the unique circumstances or situations surrounding a child’s birth. This study concludes that the significance of names to Kilba people is beyond mere labels, but a reflection of socio-cultural values, beliefs, and experiences.

Conceptualising maternal mental health in rural Ghana: A realist qualitative analysis.

In low-and-middle income countries, maternal mental health needs remain neglected, and common mental disorders during pregnancy and after birth are routinely associated with hormonal changes. The psycho-social, and spiritual components of childbirth are often downplayed. A qualitative study was conducted as part of a wider realist evaluation on health systems responsiveness to examine the interrelationships between pregnant and postnatal women, their families, and their environment, and how these influence women's interactions with healthcare providers in Ghana. Data collection methods combined six qualitative interviews (n= 6) and 18 focus group discussions (n= 121) with pregnant and postnatal women, their relatives and health care providers (midwives, community mental health nurses) at the primary healthcare level. Data analysis was based on the Context-Mechanism-Outcome heuristic of realist evaluation methodology. A programme theory was developed and iteratively refined, drawing on Crowther's ecology of birth theory to unpack how context shapes women's interactions with public and alternative health care providers. We found that context interacts dynamically with embodiment, relationality, temporality, spatiality, and mystery of childbirth experiences, which in turn influence women's wellbeing in three primary areas. There is an intricate intersection of pregnancy with mental health impacting women's expectations of temporality, which does not always coincide with the timings provided by formal healthcare services. Societal deficiencies in social support structures for women facing economic challenges become particularly evident during the pregnancy and postnatal period, where women need heightened assistance. Socio-cultural beliefs associated with the mystery of childbirth, support the role of private providers in offering women a feeling of protection from uncertainty. Co-production of context specific interventions, including the integration of maternal and mental health policies, with relevant stakeholders can help formal healthcare providers accommodate women's perspectives on spirituality and mental health, which can subsequently help to make health system responsive to maternal mental health conditions.

Assessment of Married Men Involvement in Family Planning Practices: A Qualitative Study of Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria

The non-accommodation of men in the family planning programs has been identified as one of the contributory factors for the low utilization of FP methods in this male-dominated society like Nigeria. Male involvement can lead to uptake in acceptance and prevalence rate of family planning methods and practices in Nigeria.This paper aimed to study the involvement of married men in the family planning practices in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State, Southwestern Nigeria. The primary data were collected from 250 married informants who satisfied the eligibility criteria and were assessed througha self-administered questionnaire and selected from the sample population across 11 political wards in the Akure South Local government area using a multi-stage random sampling technique. The secondary data were generated from government publications, journals, newspapers, and relevant internet materials. The presentation and analyses of data were done using descriptive statistics (frequency table, percentage and numbers). The study’s findings revealed that married men’s knowledge about family planning practices is high while exhibiting low involvement in FP and low utilization of the FP methods. However, the number of children, socio-cultural beliefs, financial status, education and religion are discovered to be among conditional factors that influence contraceptive use among married partners. The study therefore recommended increased health promotion and education of family planningprogrammes among the residents and involvement of men as a target in all FP programmes and introduction of family planning services in National Health Insurance Scheme in order to reduce associated misconceptions about contraceptives methods and increase the usage.

Geographic distribution of single motherhood in Nigeria: 2003 – 2018

The prevalence of single motherhood, associated with adverse maternal and child health outcomes, is now increasing rapidly across Nigerian states. The distribution of single mothers could vary widely across geographical settings in highly heterogeneous Nigerian states with diverse sociocultural, religious, and ethnic beliefs, which are some of the drivers of parenting styles. Using cross-sectional data from four waves of the Nigeria Demographic Health Survey, we analyzed the spatiotemporal patterns of single motherhood across Nigerian states. Within a Bayesian context, we considered a binomial likelihood for the single motherhood variable and included the categorical variables as linear effects. The metrical covariate, the age of the women, was modeled assuming a second-order random walk prior, while the state random effect was modeled using a Gaussian intrinsic conditional autoregressive prior. The findings indicate strong spatial clustering that shows a North-South divide over time, with high chances of single motherhood recorded in most southern states. These spatial distributions persisted after accounting for the observed covariates, indicating that the clustering serves as a proxy for other indicators that exert an unmatched influence on the prevalence of single motherhood across geographic settings. We found that Christian women are more prone to single motherhood compared with Muslim women. Similarly, educational attainment, household wealth index, urban residency, and ethnicity are predictors of single motherhood in Nigeria. Interventions to ease the burden of single motherhood in Nigeria could be more impactful if states in the southern fringe are given priority.

Acceptability of an online peer support group as a strategy to improve antiretroviral therapy adherence among young people in Kampala District, Uganda: qualitative findings.

Introduction Peer support groups may contribute to adherence and play a role in decreasing stigma to antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among young people living with HIV (YPLHIV). However, peer support activities usually occur face-to-face in Uganda and elsewhere in Sub-Saharan Africa, and thus have structural limitations and may not be readily available when young people need them. Online peer support has the potential to help YPLHIV access regular psychosocial support without significant effort or cost. We assessed the acceptability of a WhatsApp-based peer support group as a strategy to improve ART adherence among Ugandan YPLHIV. Methods We conducted a formative qualitative study in three health facilities in Kampala, Uganda, between July and August 2022. We held four focus group discussions with twenty-six YPLHIV seeking services at the study facilities. We also conducted six key informant interviews with health providers attached to adolescent HIV care clinics. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis guided by the acceptability framework to understand socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions towards utilizing WhatsApp-based peer support groups for HIV care. Results Overall, the peer support group on WhatsApp was acceptable for use among YPLHIV. The young people regarded it as convenient because it would save time and would be more cost-effective compared to the transport costs of in-person meetings. Health providers revealed that the WhatsApp peer support group could reduce the stigma associated with community follow-up for non-adhering young people and empower YPLHIV to overcome stigma. Both the young people and health providers suggested that online peer support could provide accessible emotional support, which could improve YPLHIV's psychosocial well-being and enhance adherence to ART. However, participants raised concerns about privacy, the cost of internet bundles, and smartphones, especially for younger adolescents. Conclusion Online peer support groups are acceptable to Ugandan YPLHIV and hold promise in enhancing psychosocial support and improving treatment adherence in this sub-population. In implementing online support groups, due consideration should be given to software tools with high privacy standards and zero-rated data use for new apps. Research is needed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of this peer support model in Uganda.

Design and Validation of the Gender-Based Violence Stereotypical Beliefs Scale.

Gender-based violence is a public health issue influenced by culture and social values, which is why its comprehensive prevention requires addressing distorted beliefs and legitimising myths present in society. The aim of this study was, on the one hand, to design and validate the Gender-Based Violence Stereotypical Beliefs Scale (GBVSBS), and, on the other, to analyse the differences between men and women regarding these beliefs. The sample consisted of 404 university students from the Community of Madrid and Castilla-La Mancha (Spain), aged between 18 and 53 years. This study is based on a quantitative methodology and a cross-sectional design. The judgement of four specialists in the field supported the content validity of the items. Factorial analyses provided evidence for a two-factor model: myths about male perpetrators and myths about gender-based violence and female victims. The fit indices and reliability coefficients were adequate. Stereotypical beliefs about gender-based violence correlated with victim-blaming attitudes, and different levels of acceptance were found depending on gender. In conclusion, this study offers a valid and reliable instrument with which to analyse the sociocultural beliefs surrounding gender-based violence today, promoting the implementation of socio-educational interventions.

Participant and group facilitator perspectives on a novel culturally tailored diabetes self-management program for African Americans

BackgroundAfrican Americans with type 2 diabetes experience disparities in their care and diabetes health-related outcomes. Diabetes self-management programs such as Healthy Living with Diabetes (HLWD) are important but do not account for the unique cultural experiences of African Americans. Also, a culturally tailored program focused on addressing sociocultural beliefs and providing race-congruent peer support, Peers LEAD (Peers Supporting Health Literacy, Self-Efficacy, Self-Advocacy, and Adherence) was implemented in two midwestern cities to improve medication adherence but does not include diabetes self-management topics included in HLWD. In an attempt to fill the gaps from both HLWD and Peers LEAD, Peers EXCEL (Peers’ Experience in Communicating and Engaging in Healthy Living) was designed to integrate both programs.MethodsOur study explored the perceptions of African American participants and facilitators of the separate HLWD and Peers LEAD programs, on the proposed new Peers EXCEL program using focus groups and interviews. Findings were analyzed by research assistants trained in qualitative research using deductive and inductive open coding approaches.ResultsParticipants appreciated the cultural fit of Peers EXCEL for African American communities which is a feature that was lacking in HLWD. They shared the need to include topics such as the relationships between systemic racism and diabetes.ConclusionParticipants’ feedback of Peers EXCEL reveals the importance of including various community members’ perspectives in the design of new diabetes self-management programs tailored for African Americans.

Culture, community, and cancer: understandings of breast cancer from a non-lived experience among women living in Soweto

BackgroundIndividual perceptions, socio-cultural beliefs and health system factors are key determinants of people’s health seeking behavior and are widely cited as the causes of delayed breast cancer diagnosis among women from structurally vulnerable settings. Asking: “how do women with a non-lived experience of cancer understand the disease and, what informs their health seeking behaviors?”, we qualitatively explored, individual, sociocultural and health system elements from a conceptual model derived from the Socioecological, Health Belief and Cancer Stigma Frameworks, to understand perspectives of breast cancer in a South African urban community setting.MethodsUsing a deductive approach and allowing new themes to emerge inductively, we investigated phenomenologically, breast cancer perceptions among 34 women from Soweto, Johannesburg (aged 35–74 years) in 6 Focus Group Discussions. We then conducted 20 follow-up semi-structured in-depth interviews to explore novel themes and suggestions for increasing breast cancer screening.ResultsFindings revealed some awareness of breast and other cancers, but confusion and gaps in understanding of the disease, resulting in socio-culturally influenced misperceptions of risks, causes, and outcomes following treatment of breast cancer. This fueled perceptions of profound fear and stigma against people with breast and other cancers. These findings together with participant perceptions of primary healthcare providers being unwelcoming, under-resourced, and insufficiently trained to deal with breast cancer, resulted in women reporting being reluctant to participating in screening/early detection care seeking behavior. Women only accessed primary care when experiencing extreme pain or ill-health. Participants suggested as solutions for future interventions, the need for sustained community engagement, harnessing existing clinic and community stakeholders and resources to provide clear and understandable breast cancer information and encouragement for screening uptake.ConclusionsHealth literacy gaps surrounding breast cancer fuels socio-culturally influenced misperceptions, fear, stigma, and fatalism among women from Soweto. Women perceive primary care providers of having insufficient knowledge, skills, and resources to provide effective breast cancer screening services. Participants suggested the need for greater community engagement involving primary clinics and existing community stakeholders working collaboratively. Clear, understandable, and consistent information about breast cancer must be regularly disseminated and communities must be regularly encouraged to utilize breast cancer screening services.

Factors influencing the ability of family caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients within Iranian families to continue and persist in their caregiving roles: a qualitative study

BackgroundUnderstanding the motivations driving family members to continue caring for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease is crucial for enhancing social support programs within community health systems. This study specifically explores the factors influencing Iranian family caregivers’ ability to persist in their caregiving roles.MethodsThis qualitative study was conducted using conventional content analysis with 22 participants in 2022 in Babol (a city in northern Iran). The inclusion criteria for the study included caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients who had been the primary caregivers for at least one year for patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. The sampling method was purposive, ensuring maximum variation in social position, demographic status, and stages of Alzheimer’s disease after the onset of symptoms. In this research, data were collected from caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients through semi-structured interviews and in-depth individual interviews. The data were analyzed using MAXQDA software.ResultsOne category and four subcategories were identified to explain the continuity of the caring role in family caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients. The category was “on the Fence of the Caring Role.” The subcategories included Commitment to Care (Being Determined, Being Indebted, Feeling Dutiful), Coercion to Care (Giving in to the Caring Role Due to Family Requirements, Patient Care Due to Financial Problems), Socio-Cultural Beliefs and Concerns (Spiritual and Religious Tendencies, Social Stigma and Social Fears), and Attachment and Love for the Patient (Feeling Pity, Feeling Nostalgia for Kinship).ConclusionFamily caregivers are deeply engaged in their roles, often feeling trapped by various pressures. Recognizing these dimensions can inform policymakers and health practitioners in developing targeted interventions, such as respite care programs, financial support, and community resources, aimed at alleviating caregiver burden and enhancing the quality of care for patients. By addressing the complexities of the caregiver experience, effective strategies can be implemented to support both patients and their caregivers, ultimately improving health outcomes within the community.

How Migrants Experience Information Uncertainty and Vulnerability: Lessons for (Dis)information Studies

This article develops a phenomenological approach to examine the intersection of global migration and rising concerns about disinformation. Drawing on interviews with Venezuelans en route to the United States-Mexico border through Central America, the article analyzes how undocumented migrants live amid information precarity, how they relate to disinformation, and how disinformation affects their decisions. We demonstrate the centrality of information and communication practices in managing (dis)information during the migration experience. This includes distrusting traditional media, using various platforms like social media and messaging apps, and exchanging both information and disinformation with others. By adopting a phenomenological approach, the article demonstrates that migrants’ relationship with (dis)information is shaped by their conviction that each person has unique life experiences and a profoundly religious view of life and destiny. The article thus advocates for a deeper exploration of migrants’ sociocultural beliefs rather than focusing solely on issues such as information accuracy, accessibility, flows, and platforms when accounting for disinformation. In addition to valuable lessons for (dis)information studies, this approach could enrich communication interventions tailored to migrant communities in vulnerable conditions.