Sociocultural Influences Research Articles

Evaluating socio-cultural influences on the Nubui river quality and utilisation in Ghana

Clean water plays an important role in ensuring good public health and reducing health risks. To ensure population well-being, clear quality guidelines and standard limits are set to protect water re-sources. Drinking water should be free of microbial and chemical contamination, with water quality index values between 70 and 100. Despite meeting these standards, socio-cultural values deeply influence the relationship between rural communities and their water resources. Aesthetic, chemical and microbial water quality parameters including pH, turbidity, colour, TDS, nitrate and phosphate content, Escherichia coli and Salmonella levels were assessed; these parameters were used in computing water quality indices. Field observations were also done throughout the sampling season as water samples were assessed. Key informant interviews were conducted among ten purposively sampled community leaders, using an in-depth interview guide; the results were analysed using the interpretative phenomenological analysis method. Subsequently, a descriptive cross-sectional observational study involving 338 respondents was conducted to assess public perceptions regarding water quality, utilization types and socio-cultural influences. Water quality is compromised by run-off from riparian agricultural activities and domestic, coupled with seasonal aesthetic issues. Cultural norms and history influenced the

Myths About Breastfeeding as Voiced by Lactating Nurses and Midwives: A Qualitative Study at the Greater Accra Region of Ghana.

Breastfeeding has proven over the years to be one of the most effective means to ensure child survival. The advocators and myth busters of breastfeeding myths are supposed to be health professionals. However very little is known about myths surrounding breastfeeding as expressed by these health professionals (nurses and midwives). Hence this study. The study aimed at exploring the myths about breastfeeding as voiced by lactating nurses and midwives. Qualitative exploratory descriptive design was used to investigate the subject matter. Twenty-five nurses and midwives were purposely selected to participate in the study after they had voluntarily opted to be part of the study. Data was audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and inductively analyzed. It was evident that participants believed in myths about breastfeeding. The main themes discovered were breastfeeding myth beliefs and sociocultural myth influences. Six sub-themes identified were green stools/diarrhoea, childhood disease, teeth discoloration, child becoming stupid, culture and close relatives. Health professionals believe in unfounded myths about breastfeeding. Steps should be taken for them to get better lactation support. The outcomes of this study underscore the need for health professionals to address breastfeeding myths, understand the sociocultural context, and support evidence-based practice. Improving lactation support and education for nurses and midwives can lead to better clinical practice and, as a result, help to promote successful and healthy breastfeeding in Ghana.

Study on the Significance of Ethnic Minority Handicraft Inheritance Development for Rural Revitalization in the New Era

Abstract With the acceleration of globalization, the inheritance and development of ethnic handicrafts face unprecedented challenges and opportunities, and it is of great significance to transform ethnic handicrafts into a driving force for rural revitalization. The study constructs a relationship model between ethnic handicrafts and rural revitalization through structural equation modeling and maximum likelihood estimation and explores the impact of ethnic handicrafts on rural revitalization by analyzing and verifying the impact of residents’ perceptions of economic, socio-cultural and environmental influences on their attitudes toward the development of ethnic handicrafts. There are 54.2% males and 45.8% females in the study sample. The age range is between 31 and 40 years, and the education level is concentrated in junior and high school. 54.5% have a monthly income of 2500~3500 RMB, and the occupation distribution is mainly farmers. Except for Hypothesis H5, the remaining five hypotheses were valid. Both economic impact perception and socio-cultural perception have a significant impact on residents’ attitudes towards ethnic handicraft development. Residents’ ethnic handicrafts’ positive perception of environmental impact has no significant impact on their development attitude, while negative environmental impact perception has a significant negative impact on their development attitude.

Exploring the Barriers to Mental Health Care and Mitigation Strategies in Kenya

Barriers to mental health care globally remain a health concern, however, these are more pronounced in low- and middle-income countries. The prevalence of mental illness is approximately 10%. A gap exists between the need or demand for mental health services due to a set of barriers that limit access. Based on this gap, this paper aims to explore barriers to mental health services, treatment and services sought. This might contribute to mitigating them. The barriers include inadequate funds, poverty, stigma attached to mental health conditions, lack of faith in mental health services, high cost of medication, poor awareness, socio-cultural and religious influences and inadequate mental health facilities. These barriers have been shown to affect mental health. After decades of neglect, recent efforts by governments such as in Kenya to address barriers to mental health can demonstrate the growing importance of this issue. Evidence shows that barriers to mental health impacts on mental health in Africa, moreso Kenya and demonstrates that there is need for more contextual awareness and research in this area in Africa to mitigate potential mental health crises in the near future. It is important that institutions and governments in Africa, Kenya to begin paying attention to this emerging threat to the health of the population.

Інформаційна економіка в системі заходів повоєнного відновлення України

The aim of the article is to determine the role and significance of the information economy in the process of reсovery of Ukraine after the war. Nowadays, information has a significant impact on the modern economy through decision-making, organization of production, allocation of resources and consumption. The article discusses practical examples of the use of information technologies and digital tools, as well as illustrates the impact of these technologies on the rapid and effective recovery of the country’s economy after the war’s end. The article highlights such aspects as the use of information systems to coordinate recovery processes, promoting investment opportunities, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, developing innovations and startups in the recovery industry sectors, and improving management and resource efficiency. The carried out research allowed to correlate the concept of information economy with the above categories, which made it possible to identify the interdependence or subordination of the digital economy to these aspects. Currently, the issue of the information economy is studied at an inappropriately low level due to the complexity of the topic, which covers a wide range of aspects – from technology and socio-cultural influences to economic policy. It is proved that increasing the level of research on the information economy can contribute to improving the level of economic recovery of the country. It is defined that the rapid pace of technological progress is constantly changing the economic landscape and requires constant updating of knowledge and research methods. Therefore, it is very important to use all available resources that can help in the post-war recovery of the country: reconstruction and revival of infrastructure, the work of humanitarian organizations, attracting investments, managing crisis situations, creating new businesses, etc.

Do Indian Researchers Consider Functioning Issues of Lower Extremity Osteoarthritis: A Scoping Review

Lower extremity osteoarthritis (LEOA) is a noncommunicable disease with an increasing burden globally, especially the developing countries like India. Understanding the functioning issue is needed to address individuals’ daily problems. Knowing how Indian researchers consider functioning will aid in understanding the current research trend. This scoping review describes the nature and extent to which the Indian researchers considered the functioning issues of LEOA individuals and linked them with the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) categories. We conducted an electronic database search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Pedro for Indian studies related to the functional issue of LEOA. Keeping the standard of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses- extension for scoping reviews (ScR) guidelines, we identified 102 related articles and included 28 that match the selection criteria. We observed a limited focus on functioning issues by Indian researchers. The researchers mainly rely on functional outcome measures while considering the functioning issue of LEOA. Most Western sociocultural influence outcome measures used by the studies were linked with activity limitation and participation restriction of ICF categories only. There is an urgent need for Indian researchers across professions to employ the ICF as a conceptual framework to understand and address the functioning issues associated with LEOA comprehensively.

Suicide bombing and impending mental health disaster in Pakistan

Pakistan grapples with a significant mental health burden, with 10-16% of its population experiencing psychiatric disorders. Depression and anxiety affect 34% of the population, with regional variations. The scarcity of mental health facilities and professionals exacerbates the situation, leading many to seek help from traditional healers. Socioeconomic challenges, terrorism, and internal conflicts contribute to the mental health crisis. Recent suicide bombings, such as the one in Peshawar, highlight the emotional aftermath and challenges faced by survivors. The complex interplay of factors, including sociocultural influences, contributes to the emergence of a martyrdom subculture. Understanding terrorism requires examining the broader sociocultural and political context. The prevalence of mental illness and rising terrorism suggests a potential connection, although causality is complex. Coping with terrorism-induced trauma poses challenges for survivors, necessitating comprehensive mental health support. Recommendations include nationwide studies, school mental health programs, and initiatives to counter misinformation and radicalization through media. Establishing telepsychiatry services and collaboration between mental health experts and religious scholars is crucial for enhancing social cohesion and mental wellbeing in Pakistan.

Педагогические средства формирования личностной готовности подростков к противостоянию негативным влияниям интернет-социализации

The research analyzes the characteristics of adolescence and threats on the Internet, which together allow considering adolescents as the category of schoolchildren most susceptible to destructive influence in the virtual space. It is relevant to prevent victimization of underage users by forming their personal readiness to resist the negative influences of Internet socialization with the help of various pedagogical means. We consider the positions of various scientists regarding the definition of the concept of “pedagogical means” as well as a number of classifications of educational means on various grounds. A description of the functions performed by didactic means is given. Based on the consideration of various approaches to the development, design and use of teaching tools, a proposed set of pedagogical means includes a diagnostic toolkit (essay; questionnaire; methods of observation, role-playing games, analysis of “incident”, etc.), integrated topics of academic subjects that actualize the problem of information and psychological security of the individual, a special course “Fundamentals of Resisting the Negative Influences of Internet Socialization” and a portfolio of personal strategies and methods for counteracting destructive socio-cultural influences on the Network with documents, research, project, art and other works as well as comments of the schoolchild, parents, workers of additional education, teachers and another competent individuals.

'Someone must do it': multiple views on family's role in end-of-life care - an international qualitative study.

Family is a crucial social institution in end-of-life care. Family caregivers are encouraged to take on more responsibility at different times during the illness, providing personal and medical care. Unpaid work can be overburdening, with women often spending more time in care work than men. This study explored multiple views on the family's role in end-of-life care from a critical perspective and a relational autonomy lens, considering gender in a socio-cultural context and applying a relational autonomy framework. It explored patients, relatives and healthcare providers' points of view. This qualitative study was part of the iLIVE project, involving patients with incurable diseases, their relatives and health carers from hospital and non-hospital sites. Individual interviews of at least five patients, five relatives and five healthcare providers in each of the 10 participating countries using a semi-structured interview guide based on Giger-Davidhizar-Haff's model for cultural assessment in end-of-life care. Thematic analysis was performed initially within each country and across the complete dataset. Data sources, including researchers' field notes, were translated into English for international collaborative analysis. We conducted 158 interviews (57 patients, 48 relatives and 53 healthcare providers). After collaborative analysis, five themes were identified across the countries: family as a finite care resource, families' active role in decision-making, open communication with the family, care burden and socio-cultural mandates. Families were crucial for providing informal care during severe illness, often acting as the only resource. Patients acknowledged the strain on carers, leading to a conceptual model highlighting socio-cultural influences, relational autonomy, care burden and feminisation of care. Society, health teams and family systems still need to better support the role of family caregivers described across countries. The model implies that family roles in end-of-life care balance relational autonomy with socio-cultural values. Real-world end-of-life scenarios do not occur in a wholly individualistic, closed-off atmosphere but in an interpersonal setting. Gender is often prominent, but normative ideas influence the decisions and actions of all involved.

Psychoanalytical perspective of shakespeare's characters in love

This paper delves into the intricate realm of Shakespearean characters in love, employing a psychoanalytical lens to unravel the depths of their emotions, desires, and conflicts. Drawing on psychoanalytic theories, particularly those of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung, this paper aims to dissect the subconscious motivations and psychological intricacies of characters such as Romeo and Juliet, Orsino and Viola, and other iconic figures. Through this analysis, the paper seeks to offer a nuanced understanding of how Shakespeare masterfully crafted characters whose emotional journeys resonate with universal human experiences. In addition to exploring the psychoanalytical aspects of Shakespearean characters' love, this paper also investigates the socio-cultural influences shaping their romantic dynamics. By examining the historical context in which these plays were written and performed, it aims to illuminate the ways in which societal norms and expectations intersect with individual psychology to influence characters' behaviors and choices. Furthermore, it analyzes how Shakespeare's portrayal of love reflects broader themes of power, gender, and identity, shedding light on the complex interplay between personal desire and societal constraints in Renaissance England. Through this multidimensional approach, it endeavors to provide a comprehensive examination of Shakespearean love that resonates with contemporary audiences while honoring the timeless brilliance of the Bard's storytelling.

Fab five: pioneering sociocultural influence within the culture of basketball and American society.

Dating back to when the inventor of the game, James Naismith, developed a mentoring relationship with John McClendon one of the African American pioneers in basketball (founder of the "fast-break"), there are countless examples of these intersections. Entering the college basketball culture as the most decorated recruiting class in National Collegiate Athletic Association basketball history, the University of Michigan Fab Five's legacy catalyzes a new era of American basketball culture. Gracefully talented, the Fab Five abruptly disrupted the institution of basketball, the National Collegiate Athletic Association, and the identity of basketball athletes globally. This paper presents a sociocultural exploration of the residual impact of the Fab Five's legacy. As authentic, confident, and culturally competent, the five young men intentionally resisted and acknowledged the intersections of race, culture, and class within the college basketball culture. We critically assess the evolution of basketball culture, grounded by the sociocultural experiences of the Fab Five, imprinting upon contemporary generations of college basketball programs and their player. Through these experiences, the Fab Five's success through conflict, during their short stint in college basketball and beyond their professional careers trailblazed a path for the modern-day basketball athlete. Known for their style of play, their expression of fashion on and off the court, and eagerness to talk smack, the Fab Five backed up their talk with performance. Their performance on and off the court, revolutionized the culture of basketball; Even more, American society. The Fab Five's legacy is the cultural catalyst for basketball culture on all levels.

Суверенитет и территориальная целостность. К дискурсу о российском влиянии на финскую государственность

Introduction: paradigms of modern statehood have specific features that reflect the historical, philosophical, legal values of a particular country. Sovereign statehood is largely formed under the political, economic, sociocultural influence of bordering countries, due to geographical predetermination being neighbors throughout all the history of their existence. The territories of these states are often subject to changes in their political and legal belonging. At the same time, the common history of neighboring countries necessitates a search for models of mutual coexistence based on the principles of respect for their value foundations. The study of modern Russian‐Finnish relations determines the politico‐legal discussion about Russia’s influence on the formation of sovereign Finnish statehood, which in recent years has gained newfound relevance in the light of the ongoing transition from a bipolar world order to a multipolar one. Purpose: basing on historical facts, to develop approaches to the understanding of the significant Russian influence on the creation of modern Suomi statehood. Objective: to study the foundations of Finnish statehood in terms of its sovereignty and territorial integrity as reflected in legal documents. Methods: formal legal, comparative legal, historical legal. Results: the paper substantiates the thesis about the unconditional influence of Russia on the formation of modern sovereign Finnish statehood and its territorial integrity. Conclusions: contrary to the point of view, persistently imposed in recent years within colonial discourse, about the tough position of imperial Russia in relation to Finland, the creation of statehood of this country was predetermined by the influence that Russia had exerted over many centuries.

How do family members influence smokeless tobacco consumption during pregnancy in India? Perspectives of pregnant women.

Smokeless tobacco (ST) use in South Asia is culturally ingrained and socially accepted. A better understanding of these sociocultural influences could inform behavioural approaches to prevent ST use. We sought to understand how family members influence pregnant women's behaviour, attitudes, and perceptions towards ST use. Moreover, we captured the influence of community health workers in this context. A qualitative study using a framework analysis was conducted in selected Indian populations. Eight in-depth interviews among pregnant and postpartum women were conducted in Gujarati, the local language, investigating ST use during pregnancy and the influence of family and peers. All transcripts were transcribed verbatim and translated into English and analyzed in NVivo. The social norms and expectations around ST during pregnancy appeared to have shifted away from promoting towards discouraging its use in the past few years. Women described how their spouses and other family members encouraged them to stop using ST during pregnancy, with some women must hide their ST use from their family members. They also received advice on the harms of ST use from community health workers (Accredited Social Health Activist-ASHA workers). Influenced by the advice received from such workers, several women tried to reduce their ST use during pregnancy. Our findings suggest that the acceptability of ST use in pregnancy may be in decline among families in India. Hence, efforts to promote ST prevention during pregnancy are likely to be "pushing against an open door". Furthermore, community health workers appeared to play an influential role in supporting women to abstain from ST use during pregnancy.

Towards the Exploration of Social Considerations against the Intention to Use the Modern Contraception among Women in Union in Burundi

Burundi, which intends to reduce its fertility from 5.5 to 3 children per woman, has seen the level of intention to use modern contraception decreasing from 66% to 53% between 2010 and 2016-2017. The aim of this study is therefore to explore the social considerations leading to non-intention to use modern contraception among women in union in Burundi. The study proceeds by thematic analysis of the content of the transcripts of 10 focus group discussions conducted in 5 provinces of the country. The results of the analysis show that these include side-effects experienced or feared, the absence of side-effect treatment services, the failure of some methods to prevent pregnancy, and religious opinions. In terms of social interactions, these include religious influences, myths and rumors, and the effects of social cohabitation. Women’s inability to self-determine their contraceptive decisions is also important. These results show that the socio-cultural influence of the community dominates women’s intention to use modern contraception, where the supply of family planning services does not attract users, due to a lack of side-effect treatment. To break down socio-cultural resistance, subsequent interventions would tend to reinsure potential clients of family planning services of the availability of the side-effect treatment package.

Implementation Of Multiliteration Pedagogy in Education: A Socio-Cultural Perspective

This article explains the concept and benefits of multiliteracy in education and the challenges and strategies associated with implementing multiliteracy in education. Multiliteracy is an approach that accommodates different forms of literacy, such as language, text, media, and culture. Using a systematic literature review, this research aims to investigate the implementation of multiliteracy pedagogy in educational contexts from a sociocultural perspective. The literature search will be conducted in several databases, including Scopus, ERIC, and Google Scholar. The study results show that multiliteracies can benefit students by increasing awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity, expanding global horizons, and fostering intercultural communication and collaboration. However, multiliteracies also pose challenges, such as considering socio-cultural influences on learning, integrating varied texts and media, and addressing intercultural gaps and conflicts. This article provides insights into the concept and benefits of multiliteracies in education and the challenges and strategies associated with implementing multiliteracies in education. It also suggests further research on the impact and implications of multiliteracies in education.

Student-centered Learning Approaches in The State Universities of Sri Lanka: Exploring Socio-cultural Impacts through A Conceptual Analysis

This article provides a comprehensive examination of student-centered learning (SCL) in Sri Lanka's state tertiary education sector, focusing on its socio-cultural influences. The study explores the intricate relationship between pedagogical methods and societal dynamics, highlighting how SCL enhances student engagement and independent thinking. Using a literature review of theoretical frameworks and empirical studies, this paper delves into the complex interplay between SCL and socio-cultural factors, including cultural values, social norms, and educational traditions unique to Sri Lanka. The research investigates the impact of SCL on key stakeholders and analyses various aspects of SCL, considering its principles, practices, and outcomes. It also addresses how these align with traditional Sri Lankan values, such as respect for authority, collectivism, and communal harmony, which have historically influenced education in the country. This paper emphasises the need for a pedagogical shift and concrete action plans. It advocates for faculty development programmes and institutional support to effectively implement SCL in Sri Lankan state universities. Additionally, the study anticipates and addresses potential challenges in adopting this modern learning approach in Sri Lanka.The findings have practical implications for policymakers, educational institutions, and educators. They highlight the importance of considering support mechanisms, curriculum design, teacher training, and cultural sensitivities to promote student engagement, empowerment, and holistic development in Sri Lanka's educational landscape.

Socio-Cultural Influence on the Knowledge of Infant Nutrition among Mothers in a Local Council South-East, Nigeria: Implications for Social Work

Infant nutrition is crucial for public health since it aids in the prevention of chronic diseases later in life. The study focused on socio-cultural factors influencing the knowledge of infant nutritional needs among mothers in a local council in Southeast Nigeria. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design with 200 participants who were women of reproductive age (18 and older) selected from communities in a local council. The study’s findings show that mothers’ low educational level contributed to low level of knowledge of nutritional needs of infants. The results indicate that most respondents (80.9%) believed that both parents should be well aware of an infant’s nutritional needs in order to achieve excellent feeding practices. The study revealed various behaviors that do not improve adequate feeding practices for infants based on the respondents’ local knowledge, attitude, and beliefs. The study suggests social workers can help pregnant and parenting women eliminate barriers to breastfeeding by engaging them in prenatal care through therapeutic talks, early intervention programs, both in hospitals, and collaboration with families. The study concludes that there is a link between poor nutrition and family breadwinner roles, literacy level, occupation, and income. There is need for future studies that will involve key community figures including mothers, fathers and other community members. This will help in deeper understanding of social and cultural barriers to proper feeding practices in infants and improve better policy interventions and social work practices.

Mapping Competencies: A Profound Analysis of Semester 1 Cadets at a Premier Maritime Institute

This academic exploration delves into the nuanced competencies and dynamics shaping the academic journey of Semester 1 cadets at a distinguished Maritime Institute. Focusing on computer literacy, technological proficiency, and sociocultural influences, our qualitative descriptive approach seeks to unveil the intricate dimensions of contemporary maritime education. The assessment of computer literacy reveals varying competencies, urging the need for a tailored curriculum. While basics like office software and digital navigation are strong, disparities in data analysis proficiency call for targeted interventions. The implications highlight the necessity for a stratified curriculum, ensuring a comprehensive skill set in line with modern maritime demands. Cadets overwhelmingly endorse technology's role in enhancing education, signalling a paradigm shift. Positive attitudes towards online resources, digital simulations, and e-learning platforms advocate for an institutional embrace of cutting-edge tools. Recommendations focus on faculty development and increased technology integration, promising an enriched pedagogical landscape. The exploration of sociocultural influences uncovers a delicate balance between tradition and the necessity of English proficiency. Nuanced strategies are essential to integrate diverse cultural backgrounds. Recommendations call for cultural awareness initiatives and language support programs, aligning the institution with the global orientation of maritime education. In qualitative insights, cadets express a collective desire for a more intentional curriculum, particularly in incorporating cultural perspectives. This aligns with the broader scholarly discourse advocating for holistic education. Proposed avenues include workshops, seminars, and collaborations with cultural experts, providing a roadmap for curriculum development congruent with the diverse needs of Semester 1 cadets. This research, rooted in rigorous academic inquiry, serves as a guide for the Maritime Institute, steering its trajectory towards producing technologically adept professionals who are equally culturally astute, ready to navigate the complex global maritime landscape.

The role of fathers in child development from preconception to postnatal influences: Opportunities for the National Institutes of Health Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program.

A growing body of literature highlights the important role of paternal health and socioemotional characteristics in child development, from preconception through adolescence. Much of this research addresses the indirect effects of fathers, for instance, their influence on maternal behaviors during the prenatal period or via the relationship with their partner. However, emerging evidence also recognizes the direct role of paternal health and behavior for child health and adjustment across development. This critical review presents evidence of biological and sociocultural influences of fathers on preconception, prenatal, and postnatal contributions to child development. The National Institutes of Health Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program incorporates in its central conceptualization the impact of fathers on family and child outcomes. This critical synthesis of the literature focuses on three specific child outcomes in the ECHO program: health outcomes (e.g., obesity), neurodevelopmental outcomes (e.g., emotional, behavioral, psychopathological development), and positive health. We highlight the unique insights gained from the literature to date and provide next steps for future studies on paternal influences.

Economic, Socio-Cultural and Environmental Influences on Relapse of Drug Abuse at the Pelita Jiwa Insani Padang Foundation

One way to recover from drug abuse is by facilitating free rehabilitation. However, even though they have undergone rehabilitation to get rid of drug addiction, quite a few of them have a tendency to use drugs again. This research was conducted at the Pelita Jiwa Insani Foundation, Padang. This research was conducted in November 2023. This research uses a quantitative and qualitative approach with a descriptive design in the form of a case study. Data were collected using questionnaires and research checklists as well as observation guides. The research results showed that 100% of all informants stated that they had been using drugs for a long time. Their habit of using drugs stems from a process of curiosity and continuing to try drugs. Furthermore, the economic influence shows that of the 10 respondents studied, 6 respondents had high economic status and were working and experienced a relapse and 4 respondents had low status and did not work and experienced a relapse. The socio-cultural influence on the curiosity aspect of using drugs has a percentage of 70%. In the prestige aspect, the percentage is 20%. In the aspect of drug use to increase stamina, the percentage is 80%. Meanwhile, the aspect of eliminating boredom received a percentage score of 70%. Family, community and peer environment factors can cause relapse