Socio-cultural Norms Research Articles

Complexity of the legal nature of the right to reproduction

This article examines reproductive health as an important component of physical and mental well-being in modern society. It focuses on a wide range of services and information covering sexual and reproductive health, contraception, family planning, STD treatment, pregnancy and childbirth. It is indicated that the effectiveness of reproductive health protection is supported by international norms, including the Sustainable Development Goals No. 3, and is based on the principles of dignity, equality and the right to free choice. It is emphasized that reproductive health is a fundamental human right, which is directly related to the right to life and health. Research in this area helps to clarify the effectiveness of legal norms and protection measures, the article also highlights the problem of discrimination, particularly on the basis of gender, in the context of reproductive health, and emphasizes the importance of combating this inequality. In addition, the article points to the importance of access to information about reproductive health as a key aspect of human rights that contributes to public education and awareness. The article also considers the complex nature of the right to reproduction, which includes biological, legal, ethical and social aspects that interact with each other and require a careful balance between human rights, ethical principles and social needs. It is motivated that the right to reproduction implies the right of each individual to make free choices regarding sexual behavior, family planning and access to quality reproductive health services, but the realization of these rights may face ethical and moral dilemmas, as well as different approaches to legal regulation in different countries. Also important is the social aspect, which includes the availability and quality of reproductive health services, as well as taking into account socio-cultural norms and values. It was found that all these aspects require a careful balance between human rights, ethical principles and social needs, in order to ensure adequate protection and support of the reproductive health of each person.

Role Of Cities in NCD Prevention and Management: A Qualitative Research Study among Doctors

Background: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are major global health concerns, surpassing the mortality rates of communicable diseases. These conditions pose significant challenges to global development, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where two-thirds of NCD-related deaths occur. In Pakistan, NCDs account for nearly 25% of all fatalities. The prevention of NCDs requires continuous lifestyle modifications, and evidence suggests that the physical environment and urban design play crucial roles in influencing health behaviors and outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to assess doctors' perspectives on the role of cities in the prevention and management of NCDs in Pakistan, and to identify barriers and enablers to the development of healthy city policies. Methods: This descriptive exploratory study employed a qualitative approach, conducted at various private hospitals in the Twin Cities. A purposive sample of approximately 20 doctors from medical units and outpatient departments participated in focus group discussions (FGDs). Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide, and the FGDs were audio-recorded with participants' consent. Thematic analysis was performed to identify major themes and subthemes related to the role of urban environments in NCD prevention and management. Results: Participants recognized the importance of physical activity, healthy environments, and lifestyle modifications in preventing NCDs. Key barriers to physical activity included socio-cultural norms, environmental limitations, and political/legislative challenges. Facilitators included individual willpower, health-seeking behavior, supportive policies, and perceived benefits. Poor air quality and the lack of green spaces were significant contributors to the increased prevalence of NCDs. Participants emphasized the need for government intervention to improve urban infrastructure, promote physical activity, and enhance public health initiatives. Conclusion: Well-planned cities can significantly reduce the burden of NCDs by addressing modifiable risk factors. Governments must prioritize the development of infrastructure that promotes physical activity, improves air quality, and increases access to green spaces. Comprehensive multisectoral strategies are essential to combat the rising threat of NCDs, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas.

Translating global evidence into local implementation through technical assistance: a realist evaluation of the Bloomberg philanthropies initiative for global Road safety

BackgroundTraffic-related crashes are a leading cause of premature death and disability. The safe systems approach is an evidence-informed set of innovations to reduce traffic-related injuries and deaths. First developed in Sweden, global health actors are adapting the model to improve road safety in low- and middle-income countries via technical assistance (TA) programs; however, there is little evidence on road safety TA across contexts. This study investigated how, why, and under what conditions technical assistance influenced evidence-informed road safety in Accra (Ghana), Bogotá (Colombia), and Mumbai (India), using a case study of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS).MethodsWe conducted a realist evaluation with a multiple case study design to construct a program theory. Key informant interviews were conducted with 68 government officials, program staff, and other stakeholders. Documents were utilized to trace the evolution of the program. We used a retroductive analysis approach, drawing on the diffusion of innovation theory and guided by the context-mechanism-outcome approach to realist evaluation.ResultsTA can improve road safety capabilities and increase the uptake of evidence-informed interventions. Hands-on capacity building tailored to specific implementation needs improved implementers’ understanding of new approaches. BIGRS generated novel, city-specific analytics that shifted the focus toward vulnerable road users. BIGRS and city officials launched pilots that brought evidence-informed approaches. This built confidence by demonstrating successful implementation and allowing government officials to gauge public perception. But pilots had to scale within existing city and national contexts. City champions, governance structures, existing political prioritization, and socio-cultural norms influenced scale-up.ConclusionThe program theory emphasizes the interaction of trust, credibility, champions and their authority, governance structures, political prioritization, and the implement-ability of international evidence in creating the conditions for road safety change. BIGRS continues to be a vehicle for improving road safety at scale and developing coalitions that assist governments in fulfilling their role as stewards of population well-being. Our findings improve understanding of the complex role of TA in translating evidence-informed interventions to country-level implementation and emphasize the importance of context-sensitive TA to increase impact.

Threatening as a sociocultural–conceptual communicative act

AbstractThe present article revisits threatening discourses from the perspectives of anthropological linguistics, Cultural Linguistics, speech act theory and pragmatics. On the basis of linguistic data from 11th‐century Britain (Old English), 14th‐century Norway (Old Norse), 19th‐century Ireland (Early Modern Irish English and Modern Irish), 20th‐century Hong Kong (Hong Kong English) as well as 21st century South Africa (Black South African English), the discussion establishes verbal threats as socio‐pragmatic modes of action, that is, commissives that come as both illocutionary and perlocutionary acts. The main aim of the article is to elaborate on the central role that sociocultural norms and conventions play in the enregisterment of threat in a speech community at a given point in time. The article contributes to the development of forensic–linguistic threat assessment through a stronger focus on the sociocultural embeddedness of threatening discourses.

"He'll come with some sugar." A qualitative study exploring the drivers and consequences of schoolgirls transactional sex behaviours.

Transactional sex (TS) is common in areas of sub-Saharan Africa, motivated by reasons beyond financial support. Through this qualitative study we sought to understand the motivation driving TS among adolescent schoolgirls in rural western Kenya where rates are reportedly high. Identifying and understanding drivers within the local context is necessary for implementation of successful public health policy and programming to reduce the associated harms impacting health and wellbeing. To understand the drivers of sexual behaviors, individual views, and socio-cultural norms, we spoke with schoolgirls, male peers, parents and teachers. The three latter groups may influence, encourage, and shape girls' views and behaviors and thus contribute to the perpetuation of cultural and societal norms. One hundred and ninety-nine participants took part across 20 FGDs; 8 comprised of schoolgirl groups, and 4 each of schoolboy, parent or teacher groups. Through thematic analysis, poverty emerged as the key driver of TS and a normative behaviour amongst secondary school girls. Subthemes including parental influence, need for menstrual pads, pressure from boda boda drivers, peer pressure, and blame were part of a complex relationship linking poverty with TS. We conclude that whilst TS is perceived as inevitable, normal and acceptable it is not really a choice for many girls. Exploring ways to encourage communication between families, including around menstruation, may help enable girls to ask for help in acquiring essential items. In addition, education at a community level may shift social norms over time and decrease the prevalence of age-disparate TS among schoolgirls and older, wealthier men in the community.

“I have not been doing it because of my fear of something happening.” Exploring perspectives on healthy dietary behaviors and physical activity in Mexican pregnant women and health care professionals: A qualitative study

ObjectivesMexico exhibits one of the highest prevalence rates of overweight and obesity globally, accompanied by a surge in non-communicable diseases, which in turn leads to elevated mortality rates. Existing efforts to address rising obesity rates have shown limited effectiveness. Maternal weight, diet, and physical activity (PA) during pregnancy affect the mother's and offspring's health. Despite the importance of establishing and engaging in healthy behaviors during pregnancy, little is known about which factors impact these behaviors among pregnant women in Mexico. This study explored perspectives on factors impacting healthy dietary behaviors and PA in pregnancy from pregnant women and health care professionals in Mexico. MethodsWe conducted semistructured interviews with 11 pregnant women and 12 health care professionals working in prenatal care. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis in a stepwise inductive approach. ResultsClassifying factors at the 1) individual level, 2) relational level, and 3) health care system level, three overall themes emerged. At the individual level, challenges with lack of time and competing priorities as well as knowledge of healthy dietary behaviors and PA were identified. At the relational level, influencing factors encompassed financial, social, and emotional support along with descriptive norms. At the health care system level, guidelines for PA during pregnancy and the quality of care were noted. ConclusionsThis study identified factors impacting healthy dietary behaviors and PA in pregnancy in Mexico. Important considerations for future interventions include addressing sociocultural norms around healthy dietary behaviors and PA in pregnancy and involving pregnant women's families, closest social networks, and health care professionals working at the prenatal care unit.

Youth inclusion in value chain development: a case of the aquaculture in Nigeria

Many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) have made youth inclusion a top priority in their development agendas. This is aimed at overcoming social, technical, and institutional obstacles and providing fair and significant opportunities for the growth of young people. Inclusive agricultural value chain development (VCD) is being used to address youth unemployment in the region. The Nigerian government and its partners have invested in aquaculture VCD to create employment opportunities for young men and women, but the participation rate is low, at around 2%. Further, research and practices focusing on rural youth inclusion in VCD is scant, with biases towards urban youth inclusion. This study explored youth engagement in the aquaculture value chain and how the chain features and context shape inclusive mechanisms/patterns of youth inclusion in VCD processes. We used the integrated livelihood asset framework, access approach, and VCD approaches to present an analysis of conditions influencing the inclusion of young men and women in the aquaculture VCD in Nigeria. Accordingly, two youth inclusion strategies were identified: investment and risk management strategies. Young men and women from better-off households adopt investment strategy and dominate the production function. They use their resources, social networks and support from youth-focused aquaculture projects to invest in production functions. Those adopting a risk management strategy dominate the processing, distribution, and marketing functions. They dominantly use social networks, support from aquaculture projects, and Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) to mitigate risks. The high demand for fresh and processed fish, supportive policies, and youth-centered aquaculture projects encourages the engagement of young men and women to adopt either of the strategies. However, they face challenges such as high-cost and low-quality inputs, lack of tailored services, inadequate infrastructure, and sociocultural norms. This study contributes to youth inclusion literature, provides a comprehensive theoretical lens for understanding youth inclusion in VCD, and offers insights into the specific case of young men and women’s engagement in the aquaculture sector in Nigeria.

Health Care Utilization and Care-seeking Behavior Among Vulnerabilized Sexual Minority Women: A Social-ecological Approach

Abstract: Sexual minority women (SMW) experience worse health than their heterosexual counterparts but have largely been omitted from health services research. To address this gap, we conducted 25 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with SMW. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis, and findings were organized using a modified socioecological framework. Key themes at each socioecological level include (1) structural: stigma, sociocultural norms, health infrastructure; (2) organizational: stigma, patient-provider relationship, hours and location, linkage to care and co-location of services; (3) interpersonal: stigma and social support; (4) individual: internalized stigma, self-efficacy, socioeconomic status, health literacy, and intersecting identities. Stigma is the central theme affecting vulnerabilized SMW's experiences accessing care. Anti-stigma initiatives and factors that lead to personal resilience and can mitigate care access barriers were identified at each level. Interventions should focus on building inclusive policies/infrastructure and using SMW's unique social networks to empower and improve care access and health outcomes among vulnerabilized SMW.

Lived experiences of mothers with postnatal anxiety: a qualitative phenomenology study from Pakistan

ObjectiveThe prevalence of postnatal anxiety is high among women during the first year of childbirth globally. Rates are higher in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), that is, 24%. Existing literature...

Factors related to the low-risk perception of driving after cannabis use

IntroductionModifying risk perceptions related to driving after cannabis use (DACU) could deter individuals from enacting this behavior, as low-risk perception is associated with DACU engagement. This study identified sociodemographic characteristics, substance use, other driving behaviors, peer norms, and psychological characteristics that are associated with lower risk perception regarding DACU. MethodsCanadian drivers aged 17–35 who have used cannabis in the past year (n = 1,467) completed an online questionnaire. A multivariate linear regression model allowed for identifying variables associated with the low-risk perception of DACU (i.e. believing it to be safe as one's driving ability is not impaired by cannabis or by being high). ResultsLower risk perception of DACU was associated with identifying as male, weekly to daily cannabis use, engagement in DACU, general risky driving behaviors, being a passenger of a driver who engages in DACU, number of friends who engage in DACU, and peer approval of DACU. Having driven under the influence of alcohol, living in urban areas, having received traffic tickets in the past three years, and declaring past-week irritability and cognitive problems were associated with holding a higher risk perception related to DACU. DiscussionRoad education and prevention programs should target attitudes and perceptions regarding risks shaped by sociocultural norms and past risky driving experiences. They need to reach out more specifically to drivers with the identified characteristics associated with the low-risk perception of DACU. These interventions can potentially help reduce the rate of individuals who engage in this behavior.

Housing Norms and Standards: The Design of Everyday Life

<div><p>This editorial introduces the articles in this thematic issue, which bridge the gap between technical housing standards, design practices, and socio-cultural norms.</p></div>

Formation of philosophical and legal ideas of Taoism

The article examines the philosophical trend of Taoism, which arose in ancient Chinese philosophy around the VI-V centuries BC. e. The founder of Taoism is Lao-Tzu, who formulated the system based on the principle of knowing the Tao as the only true path. The purpose of this article is to analyze the evolution of philosophical and legal concepts that arose within the framework of Taoism. The interaction between the key principles of Taoist philosophy and the legal system is highlighted, as well as the impact of this interaction on the formation of socio-cultural norms and values is evaluated.
 Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching defines the key concepts and ideas of Taoism. Attention is drawn to the important statements of Lao Tzu, which reveal the relationship between Taoism and life, morality and nature.
 The article examines the views of various scientists on the principles of Taoism. The text also analyzes the main principles of Taoism, expressed in the «Tao-De-Ching». The Tao is considered as the ruling law of all that exists, inaccessible to the senses, associated with natural chaos. The principle of «u-wei» is defined as a return to the original nature.
 Special attention is paid to the principle of non-intervention, which means a unique approach to state management. According to the opinion of one of the scientists identified in this work, the ruler, following the principles of Taoism, should not intervene by force in natural processes, but should act in accordance with the natural properties of things.
 Emphasis is placed on the fact that with the help of such principles, the state, according to the teachings of Lao Tzu, develops in its own way, without artificial intervention. Criticism of the government that uses force and artificial methods shows the ineffectiveness of such an approach from the point of view of Taoism. The article also examines the concept of the culture of law in the context of Taoism, where adherence to the principles of this teaching ensures legitimacy and legalization, the expression of the will of society, not the state. Emphasizes the perceived need for citizens to adhere to Taoist principles in order to achieve spiritual and physical self-improvement in relation to Taoism.
 Overall, the article reveals the key aspects and development of Taoism as an important philosophical direction in the ancient Chinese context.

Community Response to Internet Addiction among Minors: An Overview, Findings, Challenges

Purpose: The article aims to explore the nature and characteristics of minors' Internet addiction behavior, and analyze the comprehensive factors as well as the diverse effects based on the deviant behavior theory. The deviant behavior theory, integrating misconduct with sociocultural concepts, social values, and norms, can provide new insight into the existing theoretical research on this issue.

Experiences from Running a Participatory Media Platform for Women and Led by Women in Rural North India

Patriarchal practices and other socio-cultural norms in rural North India often prevent women from participating in digital platforms. In this paper we present a voice-based participatory community media platform that runs over simple voice-based phone calls. The platform is meant for women users and is led by women and has been used by 12,222 women users over the course of 20 months. We conduct a qualitative study and present several innovations, such as creating a safe space for women, which have contributed to more participation of women on the platform. We present a framework which can serve as a guidance for researchers and practitioners who want to set up digital platforms for women users.

Examining the Social Aspects of Pregnancy Tracking Applications

Pregnancy is a significant but stressful life transition, requiring effort from multiple stakeholders including expectant parents, family members, and friends to navigate. Existing work has primarily focused on understanding and supporting the technology use of pregnant people, neglecting other stakeholders' needs and participation. We therefore consider how pregnancy tracking apps both improve and interfere with the reconfiguration of social relationships caused by pregnancy, drawing on insights from family sociology to examine how these relationships evolve over pregnancy and the transition to parenthood. We reviewed the features of 20 pregnancy tracking apps, and analyzed 4,709 public reviews of them, finding that stakeholders used apps to bond with one another around the excitement of pregnancy, build a prenatal relationship with the fetus, and co-manage pregnancy-related logistical tasks. We find that not accounting for fetal demographics and users' identities, along with socio-cultural norms around gender and parenting roles, often inhibit these collaborative practices. We therefore suggest designing collaborative pregnancy tracking technology that considers both inclusiveness and specificity regarding stakeholders' different roles and relationships to pregnancy.

“We Don’t Need to Worry Because We Will Find Food Tomorrow”: Local Knowledge and Drivers of Mangroves as a Food System through a Gendered Lens in West Kalimantan, Indonesia

Indonesia is home to the greatest area of mangroves globally, which provide an essential source of livelihoods and food for millions of people. Despite this, there is a gap in the empirical evidence on the role mangroves play as a food system and the diversity of species they provide. This study aimed to examine mangroves as a gendered food system through the knowledge of community mangrove resource users in West Kalimantan. The research applied a case study approach, using gendered focus group discussions and a participatory seasonal food mapping method in two villages. The research identified participants’ extensive local knowledge of 276 species across 12 food groups sourced seasonally from mangroves primarily for food and as a source of income. Barriers to utilizing mangroves for women were influenced by socio-cultural norms, including but not limited to gender roles and access to fishing infrastructure, while men alone faced political and institutional challenges to mangrove utilisation. This study found that mangroves are an important local food system in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, and argues for greater consideration of the contribution mangroves make to local food and nutrition security. This study contributes to a growing global discourse of gendered food systems and inclusion of local knowledges in natural resource management.

Narratives of Japanese nuclear immigrants in New Zealand: (in)(di)vesting in L2 and identity

ABSTRACT This article reports on a study that investigated the language learning and identity negotiation experiences of Japanese adults, nuclear immigrants, who left Japan and arrived in New Zealand after the 2011 Fukushima nuclear accident. Drawing on theories of investment, capital and communities of practice, the study explores how the nuclear immigrants negotiate their identities as L2 English learners and users within their New Zealand communities, both the L2 community and the L1 Japanese immigrant community infused with its own cultural and political ideologies. The study also asks why and how they invest or divest in English language learning and using practices. Data was collected via biographical narrative interviews from eight participants. Thematic narrative analysis identified themes which were interpreted in relation to dimensions of social activity represented by micro, meso, and macro levels. The findings indicate that the valuing and acceptance of the participants’ pre-existing capital serve as affordances to affirm and expand their identity, while rejection of their competence by sociocultural norms resulted in their withdrawal from the L2 communities, which eventually caused divestment in L2.

Factors affecting Changing Gender roles among farm families in Osun State, Nigeria

Gender roles are assumptions that individuals, and the general public have of people based on their biological characteristics. These assumptions are usually as a result of values and beliefs of the society. In spite of the global war against gender inequalities, many societies in Africa are structured in a way that socio-cultural norms form the basis of gender roles. This reflects on many households where men are typically favoured than women in gender roles. However, changing trends across the world has impacted on many areas of society. Therefore, the study assessed the key factors influencing changing gender roles among farm families in Osun State, Nigeria. Data were collected through interview schedule. Multi-stage sampling technique was used to select twenty (20) rural farming households from eight Local Government Areas in the State. Data were described and analyzed using percentage, mean and Pearson product moment correlation. Findings revealed a mean age of 43.5 ± 11.73 years. The mean household size was 6.9±1.7 persons. Access to education and resources (p =0.001) and economic opportunities (p = 0.002). Likewise, environmental factors generally had significant influence on changing gender roles (p = 0.01). This study points to the importance of ensuring that the fair share of responsibilities with regards to gender roles in society is constantly promoted and highlights of their contributions is well recognized.

Assessing the Classroom Participation of Female Students in EFL Speaking Sessions in the Course of Communicative Skills I at Debark University, Ethiopia

This study investigates the participation of female students in EFL speaking sections in the course of Communicative Skills I at Debark University, Ethiopia. Classroom observation, questionnaire and semi-structured were data gathering instruments. Using descriptive survey methods, the study identifies socio-cultural norms, confidence issues, classroom dynamics, and pedagogical practices as key factors contributing to this phenomenon. Recommendations focus on promoting gender-equitable classroom practices, creating supportive learning environments, utilizing diverse teaching methods, and improving teacher training on gender-inclusive strategies. Further research is encouraged to explore the effectiveness of interventions and the intersection of gender with other identities in language learning.

IJCM_53A: Association between women’s autonomy and unintended pregnancy in India using NFHS- 5

Background: Numerous research studies conducted in low- and middle- income nations have suggested that women’s autonomy can be a major factor in lowering the rate of unwanted pregnancies. In the Indian setting, where patriarchy is prevalent and women’s participation in crucial choices is restricted by sociocultural norms, there is limited data on women’s autonomy. The National Family Health Survey 2019-2021 (NFHS-5) provides information on population, health, and nutrition for India and each state/union territory (UT). Data of 4,00606 women aged 15-49 years who reported their reproductive intentions were extracted and analysed in which 3,70,691 had a birth in the last five years and were not pregnant, and 29,915 women were pregnant at the time of the survey. Objective: To determine the association between women’s autonomy and unintended pregnancy in India. Methodology: The National Family Health Survey-5 conducted in 2019-21 was used for the analysis. Information on ever-married women was extracted from women aged 15-49 years. Bivariate logistic regression was used to examine the association of unintended pregnancy with women’s autonomy, demographic, socio-economic, and social context variables. Results: The highest proportion of unintended pregnancies 12.82% were found in the women with low autonomy. A significant difference was seen between the pregnancy intention of respondents and their demographic, economic and social covariates. The prevalence of unintended pregnancy was higher among women who were in the age group 15-24 years, in the poorest wealth quintile, lived in rural areas, had more than three children, and who married before the age of 18 years. Conclusion: Improvement in women’s autonomy can reduce unintended pregnancy in India. Women with higher autonomy will be able to regulate their fertility and can appropriately limit their family size.