Social Cohesion Research Articles

The role of popular culture in urban consumption: urban sustainability and revitalisation proposals in Gaziantep

ABSTRACT Gaziantep is one of Turkey’s most geographically and culturally significant cities and has been home to many civilizations since its foundation. The region faces challenges in terms of environmental, social and economic sustainability due to rapidly increasing urbanisation, migratory movements and consumerist lifestyles. In terms of environmental sustainability, uncontrolled construction activity, the loss of green spaces and air pollution are among the issues to be mentioned. In terms of social sustainability, rapid demographic change has altered the fabric of the neighborhood, leading to problems of social cohesion and security. In terms of economic sustainability, some areas are rapidly being devalued by consumer culture, while investment in new development areas is leading to economic imbalances. The aim of this study is to develop solutions for transforming urban sustainability by analyzing the impact of popular culture on the creation of a consumer society. It also aims to analyses the extent to which the lifespan of buildings can be extended by refunctionalising existing buildings, how awareness-raising efforts can be evaluated, what is feasible for the refunctionalisation of buildings and how transformation scenarios can ensure sustainability. The study focuses on the districts of Bahçelievler, Öğretmenevleri and Kavaklık, which are the first preferred areas of Gaziantep in the transition from the traditional structure to the modern city center. As part of the study, a comprehensive literature review was carried out. In addition, spatial analyses were carried out, the past and present situation of the area was documented with photos, and housing plan diagrams were generated. The analyses were carried out using the scenario writing method and interviews. Surveys were conducted with locals and experts and possible scenarios were examined. This study makes an original contribution to the literature on urban sustainability and the impact of popular culture on urbanization by considering ecological, social and economic dimensions together. The methods and scenarios developed in the study are based on the specific case of Gaziantep and include model proposals that can be applied not only at the local level but also to other cities. The results show that converting buildings into student dormitories and residences would be the most sustainable long-term solution for urban development. In this context, the necessity of controlling the consumerist effects of popular culture is emphasized and a broader sustainability perspective is presented. The study has the potential to be applicable not only to Gaziantep but also to other cities with similar sustainability issues.

Latent motivations in educational technology: projective techniques for AI-driven learning tools

ABSTRACT Emerging educational technologies demand designs that align with users’ deeper, often unspoken needs. This study explores the effectiveness of projective techniques, particularly visual metaphors, in revealing latent motivations within educational technology design. Through a qualitative approach, thirty participants were engaged in semi-structured interviews enriched by projective methods to uncover the subconscious elements shaping their educational experiences. The findings revealed that learners prioritize global identity, personal achievement, social cohesion, and aspirations for the future over purely academic concerns – dimensions often overlooked by traditional design methods. By incorporating these insights, this study presents a framework for improving AI-driven educational tools, making them more sensitive to the socio-emotional dimensions that influence user engagement. The research highlights the potential for a more intuitive, human-centered approach to educational technology design, informed by the deeper psychological and emotional facets uncovered through projective techniques.

Modelling halal tourism as a reflective–reflective second-order construct: linking attributes to tourist outcomes using structural model analysis

Purpose This study models halal tourism as a second-order construct, examining the impact of various attributes on tourist satisfaction (SAT) and loyalty (LOY). This study aims to provide insights into how integrating Islamic principles into tourism can enhance the travel experiences of Muslim tourists. Design/methodology/approach The study uses a quantitative research strategy using structural model analysis. Data were collected from Muslim tourists visiting popular attractions in Kashmir through offline and online questionnaires. The analysis investigates the relationships between halal tourism attributes, perceived trip value (TV), emotional involvement (EI), destination attractiveness (DA) and tourist outcomes. Findings The findings reveal that halal tourism attributes significantly influence SAT and LOY, mediated by TV, EI and DA. Key attributes such as halal food, prayer facilities and non-alcoholic environments play a crucial role in enhancing the travel experiences of Muslim tourists. Research limitations/implications The study’s focus on Kashmir may limit generalizability to other regions. The use of convenience sampling might introduce bias, and the cross-sectional design limits the ability to infer causal relationships. Future research should explore longitudinal studies and diverse geographical contexts. Practical implications The study provides practical insights for policymakers, tourism marketers and service providers aiming to cater to the growing market of Muslim travellers. By investing in and promoting halal tourism attributes, destinations can enhance their attractiveness and competitive edge, contributing to sustainable growth and cultural exchange within the global tourism industry. Social implications Halal tourism promotes cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, fostering mutual understanding and respect among diverse populations. By accommodating the needs of Muslim travellers, destinations can create more harmonious and culturally enriched travel experiences, enhancing social cohesion and global cultural exchange. Originality/value This research offers a comprehensive examination of halal tourism attributes and their impact on tourist outcomes, highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive and inclusive travel experiences. The findings underscore the substantial economic and cultural potential of halal tourism as a mainstream sector within the global tourism industry.

An assessment of the nature and structure of institutions in the char areas of Assam, India

ABSTRACT A region’s institutional structure is crucial in the implementation of policies for its development activities. It is essential for policymakers to be familiar with these institutional frameworks for successful policy implementation. Considering four char villages as representations of the total char area of Assam, we investigate the nature and existing structures of the institutional arrangements in the char areas of Assam. We use a descriptive approach to present the results. In our research, we gathered information from focus group discussions using semi-structured questionnaires. In this study, we explore the differences between formal and informal institutional structures across the char locations of Assam. We conclude that the formation of formal and informal institutions in the char regions of Assam are influenced by physical elements, such as location and environmental circumstances, as well as social aspects, such as social cohesion and related sociocultural practices.

Public spaces in Bologna: mediating social interactions by intercultural placemaking

ABSTRACT This paper examines the role of public spaces in facilitating intercultural interactions among diverse ethnic communities in Bologna, Italy. With over 23.8 million non-EU citizens in the EU and a growing migrant crisis, the need for effective integration strategies has become critical. By employing a combination of behavioural mapping and semi-structured interviews, the study uncovers key spatial attributes that foster meaningful connections and interactions among users. The findings indicate that spatial attributes such as enclosure, safety, and the inclusion of natural elements play a significant role in enhancing social cohesion. The research highlights the importance of semi-enclosed spaces and multifunctional areas that provide privacy and comfort while promoting social engagement. It also proposes design strategies to address the challenges posed by social exclusion and insecurity in public areas, which can hinder interaction. Ultimately, the study aims to inform urban design strategies that support intercultural placemaking, which is essential for improving social integration and community resilience in an increasingly multicultural society.

Educational game for conflict mediation training in wartime conditions using large language models

Interpersonal conflicts increase significantly during wartime, negatively impacting psychological well-being and social cohesion. This research introduces an innovative educational game that teaches mediation skills through interactive dialogue with characters generated by large language models (LLMs). The game features dynamically generated conflicts and personalized responses based on player actions, allowing users to practice mediation strategies in a safe, repeatable environment. We implemented the system using the Gemini 1.5 Flash LLM and conducted experiments to optimize model parameters and evaluate the effectiveness of different mediation strategies. Our results demonstrate that the compensation strategy proves most effective in our generated conflict scenarios. The system provides a quantitative method for evaluating mediation strategies, which has been impossible in real-world settings. This novel approach fills a significant gap in mediation education, offering an accessible tool for training mediators, particularly in conflict-affected regions such as Ukraine.

Community-engaged crime prevention through environmental design and reductions in violent and firearm crime.

In the U.S., crime and violence are concentrated in cities that have lost industry and population due to economic disinvestment andstructurally racist policies. Researchers, practitioners, and policymakers have called for community-level approaches that reduce violence in these cities by improving unsafe physical environments, increasing social equity and cohesion, and engaging community members in neighborhood change. We tested Busy Streets Theory by examining how community-engaged Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) strategies implemented by a community coalition may reduce violent and violent firearm crime incidents in Flint, Michigan, a legacy city in the Midwestern U.S. We used linear mixed effects regression models to examine how the annual aggregate intensity of physical and social CPTED activities from 2015 to 2018 was associated with changes in annual violent crime levels from 2016 to 2019 for 505 street segments in Flint, MI. After adjusting for baseline violent crime density, neighborhood disadvantage, property maintenance, and spatially lagged violent crime density, we observed that higher levels of community-engaged CPTED intensity were associated with steeper declines in violent crime density over time (β = -0.14, p < 0.001). Similarly, higher levels of community-engaged CPTED intensity were associated with steeper declines in violent firearm crime density over time (β = -0.19, p < 0.001). The results suggest the vital role that creating busy streets through community-engaged CPTED may play in community violence prevention.

Sport as a tool for social justice: an analysis of critical pedagogy and community capacity building in Central America

ABSTRACT This study examines the role of sport in promoting social justice within sport-for-development programmes across Central America. Recognising sport's potential as a tool for addressing social issues and fostering equality, the research explores how it can contribute to building equitable and democratic societies when integrated with educational and participatory frameworks. The primary aim is to assess how sport can be effectively used to promote social justice through critical pedagogy and community capacity building. A qualitative approach was employed, focusing on five sport-for-development initiatives in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with young participants, coaches, administrative staff, and community leaders, and analysed using thematic coding to identify key themes. The findings reveal that sport, combined with critical pedagogy, significantly enhances critical thinking, dialogue, and a sense of agency among participants. It also boosts personal development by improving self-esteem, discipline, and teamwork – skills crucial for civic engagement. Additionally, sport fosters social cohesion by uniting individuals from diverse backgrounds and promoting community resilience. However, the study identifies challenges such as inadequate facilities, lack of resources, and cultural barriers, particularly affecting women and girls, which must be addressed to maximise the impact of these programmes.

Association between social capital and mortality among community-dwelling older adults in Myanmar 2018–2022: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundHealthy aging is crucial in Asia given its rapidly aging society. Social capital, which refers to the resources derived from social networks, norms, and trust that facilitate cooperation and collective action within a community or society, has demonstrated health benefits for older adults. However, its impact varies by country. Most research focuses on high-income countries, with little attention on low- and middle-income countries.MethodsThis prospective cohort study examined the effects of social capital on all-cause mortality among older adults in Myanmar from 2018 to 2022, using structured questionnaires based on the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study. Multistage random sampling and face-to-face interviews were conducted with community-dwelling older adults aged 60 and above in Yangon and Bago in 2018. Subsequently, three waves of follow-up telephone surveys were conducted in 2020, 2021, and 2022. The questionnaires evaluated three components of social capital: civic participation, social cohesion, and social support, alongside baseline demographic information. Their impact on all-cause mortality was assessed using the Cox proportional hazards model with multiple imputations, adjusting for potential confounders including age, gender, body mass index, self-rated health, socioeconomic status, lifestyle, illness, and residential area.ResultsA total of 1200 individuals were followed for an average of 2.6 years (3123 person-years), with 143 all-cause deaths observed among 1031 participants. Bivariate analyses showed that participants who died were more likely to be older, underweight, have shorter daily walking times, live in Bago, and have less social support. Higher social support was significantly associated with lower mortality after adjusting for all covariates (HR = 0.80, 95% CI 0.69–0.94). Specifically, instrumental support, defined as the exchange of practical assistance, such as receiving or providing care during illness, was found to be protectively associated with mortality. When stratified by residential area, significant associations were found only in Bago, a rural area. Among older adults in Myanmar, instrumental support was a more prominent protector against all-cause mortality than emotional support, especially in rural areas.ConclusionsOur findings indicate that social support networks play an important role in the survival of older adults in Myanmar, even under unstable social conditions.

Fundamentos de la gestión de bienes públicos

This paper explores the foundations of public goods management, essential for collective welfare and social development. A descriptive non-experimental research design is implemented, gathering information from various academic sources and public policy documents, highlighting fundamental theories such as those of Samuelson and García Arias. Despite recognizing limitations in the variability of sources and the lack of recent empirical data, the documentary analysis facilitates a broad understanding of the topic. The findings highlight that adequate management of public goods directly influences sustainable development, equitable access to resources and services, and social cohesion. It highlights measures implemented, performance indicators, the importance of cooperation among key actors and the use of technologies to improve results. In conclusion, the research underlines that the proper management of public goods is not only vital to guarantee effectiveness and efficiency in the provision of services, but also to promote equity and citizen participation, ensuring that these resources benefit society as a whole in a sustainable and fair manner.

Historical Study on Religious Influence on Social Structures in West Bengal

West Bengal, with its diverse religious traditions, has experienced significant socio-cultural transformations influenced by religious practices and institutions. This study examines how religion has historically shaped social structures, including caste dynamics, economic systems, gender roles, and political alignments. By analyzing historical records, sociological theories, and ethnographic accounts, the study explores the interplay between religion and social hierarchy in the region. The findings reveal that religious beliefs have played a dual role—both as instruments of social cohesion and as catalysts for conflict and reform. The study highlights the ongoing relevance of religion in shaping West Bengal’s social fabric

Moderation of social participation in the relationship between disaster exposure and depression among older adults: evidence from LASI Survey, 2017–18

BackgroundThe two phenomena colliding in this twenty-first century are population ageing and climate change. Moreover, the surge in disaster recurrence, either natural or artificial, poses a challenge to older adults and will further aggravate their health. However, engagement in social participation will be beneficial in diminishing depression among older adults. This study aims to understand the association between disaster-related health impacts and depression. Furthermore, it also attempts to disentangle the role of social participation in moderating the relationship between disaster-related health impacts and depression.Data and methodsThis study utilizes the nationally representative Longitudinal Ageing Study of India, 2017–19 Wave-1 data with an adequate sample size of 31,902 older adults aged 60 years and above. To examine the relationship between disaster-related health impacts and depression, we employed a combination of statistical methods. In addition to descriptive statistics, we conducted a bivariate logistic regression analysis, explored interaction effects, and performed dominance analysis.ResultsOverall, the prevalence of depression was 8.5%; nevertheless, the burden of this depression was higher among females, those who are living alone and have functional disability. Older adults whose health was affected by disasters were more prone to depression. Moreover, in the interaction effect, the risk of having depression in the aftermath of disaster exposure that affected health was diminished among those older adults who engaged in social participation.ConclusionsThese findings emphasize the need for a policy to promote social cohesion and encourage community involvement in helping individuals cope with stress after disasters, especially among older adults, to ensure their overall well-being.

Acculturation of Mataraman Local Wisdom with Islamic Values: Implications for Social and Economic Development

Economic development is often misinterpreted as merely financial growth and infrastructure expansion. However, the real essence of development lies in a multidimensional approach that incorporates social, cultural, and spiritual aspects, particularly within an Islamic context. This study explores the acculturation of Mataraman cultural traditions with Islamic values, focusing on Bersih Desa and Nyadran practices in Mataraman, Indonesia. Employing an ethnographic approach, data were gathered through observations and interviews with local stakeholders. The study examines how these traditions, initially influenced by Hinduism, have evolved to integrate Islamic teachings, thereby fostering community welfare, environmental stewardship, and social harmony. Results reveal that these practices align with Islamic principles of self-development, collective human prosperity, and the earth's stewardship. They demonstrate that local wisdom, when harmonized with religious values, contributes significantly to economic growth, social cohesion, and sustainable development. The findings underscore the importance of cultural preservation and propose that these traditions be promoted as cultural tourism assets, which could further enhance local economies. Future research is recommended to analyze the broader implications of Mataraman wisdom within the maqashid al-shariah framework.

At the Crossroads of Social Inclusion and Exclusion: The Experience of Muslim ‘Adjarians’

ABSTRACTThis study explores the intricate relationship between religious conversion and social inclusion among the Muslim population of Adjara, a region marked by its diverse religious heritage. Amidst the backdrop of post‐Soviet Georgia, where Orthodox Christianity plays a pivotal role in national identity, Muslim Georgians of Adjara encounter unique challenges to social integration. Through comprehensive fieldwork, including interviews conducted in Batumi, Kobuleti and Tbilisi from 2015 to 2018, this research investigates how conversion to Georgian Orthodox Christianity emerges as a pathway to belonging for some in the Muslim community. The findings illuminate the nuanced dynamics of identity, belonging and marginalization, highlighting how religious affiliation influences perceptions of Georgian identity. This study contributes to the broader discourse on the complexities of religious conversion, social cohesion and the quest for inclusion in a rapidly changing sociopolitical landscape.

Examining Green Transformational Leadership, Group Cohesiveness and Organizational Justice in Reducing Turnover Intention and Enhancing Sustainable Employee Performance

This research investigates how green transformational leadership (GTL), group cohesiveness (GC), and organizational justice (OJ) affect employee sustainable performance (ESP), with turnover intention (TOI) acting as an intermediary. The study, conducted at PT Puyo Indonesia Kreasi, emphasizes the significance of sustainable leadership, teamwork, and fairness in boosting employee performance that aligns with environmental, social, and economic objectives. Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the results indicate notable positive correlations between green transformational leadership, group cohesiveness, organizational justice, and employee sustainable performance, while turnover intention negatively mediates these connections. The study emphasizes an integrated approach that combines eco-friendly leadership, cohesive teamwork, and justice driven policies to enhance ESP and minimize TOI. GTL fosters an environmentally conscious workplace by embedding sustainability values into corporate culture, inspiring employees toward sustainable behaviors. GC strengthens collaboration, trust, and shared commitment, creating a foundation for long-term performance. OJ enhances employee motivation and loyalty by ensuring fairness in decision-making and resource allocation. However, high TOI disrupts ESP by reducing engagement and workforce stability. The findings offer managerial insights, advocating for sustainability focused leadership programs, structured team building, and fairness audits. Future research should explore these relationships across diverse contexts using longitudinal methods to capture dynamic changes in sustainable performance.

Individual or Group Signatures? Stereotyped Whistle Contour Types by Free‐Ranging Risso’s Dolphins

ABSTRACTIndividual recognition mechanisms have played a key role in odontocete ecology, maintaining social cohesion and therefore ensuring the maintenance of long‐term social ties. The current study was the first to identify and describe stereotyped whistle contour types by both a visual similarity value judgment task and acoustic and temporal parameters in free‐ranging Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus) in Mexican Pacific waters of the Gulf of the California. In total, 64.1% (118) of all analyzed whistles (184) were classified as stereotyped whistles (STW); 82.2% of them (97) met the SIGID bout criteria and were, subsequently, ascribed into one of the five possible signature whistle (PSW) types. These signature call types accounted for 52.7% (97/184) of the acoustic repertoire. All PSW types were classified as sine (wavering sinusoidal whistles) and showed mean acoustic and temporal variable values similar to other studies of Risso's dolphins that did not differentiate signature whistles (SWs). External naive independent observers who lacked expertise in bioacoustics have confirmed the adopted classification created at high agreement level and near perfect match. Accordingly, the present study provided additional acoustic evidence of individually distinct vocalization in this species, reinforcing the need for further studies to help deepen and broaden the knowledge about the function, production and incidence of individual and “group signatures” and cognitive and recognition processes in the herein investigated species, among others.

Evolutionary history as the main driver of cohesive groups' hierarchical organization in flea-mammal interaction networks.

Evolutionary history as the main driver of cohesive groups' hierarchical organization in flea-mammal interaction networks.

Demographics of genetic admixture and expansion.

Demographics of genetic admixture and expansion.

Socioeconomic Disparities in Cognitive Impairment: The Role of Neighborhood Social Cohesion

Socioeconomic Disparities in Cognitive Impairment: The Role of Neighborhood Social Cohesion

Linking Social Cohesion to Biological Markers of Aging: Evidence From the National Health and Aging Trends Study.

Social cohesion, a measure of community belonging, and inflammatory biomarkers, like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and c-reactive protein (CRP), have emerged as significant factors influencing age-related chronic conditions and functional decline among older adults. Understanding the link between social cohesion and inflammation is particularly relevant in aging populations, as with age, social networks often diminish, and the prevalence of inflammatory conditions increases. Using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), we assessed the relationship between low social cohesion and IL-6 and CRP. We found that low social cohesion was associated with higher levels of CRP and IL-6 after adjusting for the influence of sociodemographic variables. These findings could inform health policies and community-level interventions designed to enhance social cohesion for aging adults.