Strong Sense Of Community Research Articles (Page 1)

BackgroundBuilding decent and sustainable career paths that promote the well-being of individuals and the community is a central challenge in vocational education and training contexts. Based on the life design paradigm, this study investigates the interconnectedness between the sense of community responsibility, decent work, sustainable careers, and overall well-being. Decent work refers to employment that is productive, fairly compensated, safe, inclusive, and socially just, while sustainable career prospects describe an individual’s perceived potential for a fulfilling, healthy, productive, and socially impactful career. We propose that a strong sense of community can shape the key aspects of personal and professional life, significantly influencing individuals’ decent and sustainable career development and their overall well-being.MethodsThe cross-sectional study included a sample of 250 working Italian participants (90 males, 160 females) aged 19 to 65, representing a diverse range of professional roles (employees, self-employed, trainees). The following instruments were administered: the Sense of Community Responsibility Scale, the Decent Work for the Inclusive and Sustainable Future Construction Scale, the Future Sustainable Career Scale, and the Mental Health Continuum–Short Form, assessing emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Two mediation models, total and partial, were tested using structural equation modeling.ResultsThe mediation model’s results demonstrated that a sense of community responsibility predicted individuals’ perceived capacity to undertake decent work and develop future sustainable career prospects. Furthermore, the study found that these factors, in turn, significantly predicted emotional, psychological, and social well-being.ConclusionsThis study highlights the potential of cultivating a sense of community responsibility as a catalyst for individual and societal sustainable development cycles. By fostering a sense of community, career professionals can empower individuals to make career choices that align with decent work and sustainable career principles, ultimately leading to improved well-being for both individuals and communities. The findings underscore the importance of integrating community-focused strategies in vocational education and training, encouraging awareness of the social and environmental impacts of career choices.

Abstract Background Adolescents’ pervasive use of digital tools raises concerns about health outcomes-particularly mental health-due to exposure to harmful online experiences such as inappropriate content, bullying, grooming and scams. Research on online risks has focused on individual behaviors and the roles of adults and peers. Less is known about the broader community context, especially beyond economic indicators of residential areas. Sense of Community (SoC)-encompassing membership, needs fulfillment, influence, emotional bonds, and responsibility within the local area-has been shown to be a protective factor for health and well-being, reflecting the broader social resources individuals can access. However, its role in adolescents’ online risk exposure remains underexplored. This study provides preliminary evidence on this relationship. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2024/25 in seven rural high schools in Tuscany, Italy. Outcomes included exposure to at least one online risk (logistic regression) and the total number of risks experienced (negative binomial regression), using the 4Cs framework (Content, Contact, Conduct, and Commercial risks). Predictors included SoC, social support, loneliness, screen time, online behaviors, social meda use, and parental mediation. Results 829 adolescents participated (54% female; 40% aged ≤15); only 24% had never encountered an online risk. Higher SoC was associated with lower odds of any risk (OR: .50, 95% CI: .25-.97, p<.05) and fewer risks overall (IRR: .78, 95% CI: .61-.99, p<.05). Older age, loneliness, many unknown social media contacts, frequent chats with strangers, engaging in sexting, and using Telegram were linked to greater exposure. Conclusions SoC protects adolescents from online risks, even when adjusting for confounders like social support and loneliness. Reinforcing SoC and routine data collection on online risks and their social determinants should be part of strategies to foster safer online experiences. Key messages • A strong sense of community is associated with lower exposure to online risks among rural adolescents. • Sense of community should be considered a relevant social determinant in strategies to reduce adolescents’ exposure to online risks.

The purpose of this community service program is to improve Arabic language skills while strengthening Islamic values among Indonesian migrant children at Sanggar Bimbingan Gombak Utara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This program was designed to address the problems of low Arabic literacy, limited teaching methods, and weak understanding of Al-Islam and Kemuhammadiyahan (AIK) among diaspora children. Through this initiative, it is expected to foster a young generation with basic Arabic proficiency, strong religious understanding, and confidence in maintaining their Islamic identity within a multicultural environment. The implementation method applied a participatory approach consisting of identification, planning, implementation, evaluation, and reflection stages. Several learning strategies were employed, including Joyful Learning Arabic, Al-Lughah wa Al-Hayah, Pelita Hikmah, Quiz Cahaya Iman, and Sanggar Qur’an. The activities were conducted interactively, involving lecturers, students, local teachers, and PRIM Malaysia to ensure program sustainability. The results show significant improvements both academically and socio-spiritually. Academically, children’s vocabulary mastery, simple conversation skills, and Qur’anic recitation with tajwid improved based on pre-test and post-test results. Socially, the program fostered greater self-confidence, active participation, and a stronger sense of community. Spiritually, the internalization of Islamic values was reflected in children’s daily attitudes and behavior. The program also produced simple teaching modules, online mentoring, and collaborative networks to support sustainability. Thus, this initiative not only addressed short-term needs but also built a relevant, sustainable learning ecosystem that can be replicated in other diaspora communities..

ABSTRACT Francia Elena Márquez Mina has emerged as a key social and political figure for marginalized voices in Colombia, advocating for environmental, gender, social, and racial justice. This research analyses her Facebook and Instagram posts and visuals from April 2021 to November 2022, during her transition from activist to candidate to vice president. The study uses content and visual analysis to explore how Márquez Mina connects her intersectional identities with environmental care, emphasizing cultural heritage, social justice, and connective activism. The findings show she links marginalized groups to environmental activism, highlighting solidarity and calls for empowerment while framing her advocacy through a strong sense of community and shared responsibility.

Aging populations strain health care systems. Assisted Living Technologies (ALTs) emerge as a potential solution for promoting independent living among older adults. However, the real-world effect of ALTs remains unclear.This study explores benefits and challenges (anticipated and unanticipated) of ALTs for older adults and informal caregivers across three aged care settings (residential aged care facilities [RACFs], retirement villages [RVs], and home-dwelling communities [HDCs]) in Australia.Three ALTs (fall detection sensors, sleep monitors, and smartwatches) were deployed across three settings. NASSS framework (Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread, and Sustainability), informed by sociotechnical theories, guided analysis of the interplay between technology, user needs, and caregiving context in ALTs implementation. Semistructured interviews with 14 older adults and 9 caregivers from 19 households explored user experiences. Benefits and challenges of using ALTs for older adults and informal caregivers were categorized using the consequences framework.Setting-specific challenges alongside common benefits and challenges across care settings were revealed. The NASSS framework analysis showed how technology limitations, user needs, and caregiving context influenced these outcomes. In RACFs, where residents receive constant nursing assistance, informal caregivers faced uncertainty regarding who was responsible for monitoring residents. In RVs, with a strong sense of community, informal caregivers (often neighbors) were more prone to overreacting to false alarms. Shared sleeping arrangements among HDCs made interpreting sleep data challenging.Implementing ALTs in elderly care settings requires a context-sensitive approach. In RACFs, clear role definitions for informal caregivers and staff are essential. For RVs, design should support help-seeking aligned with residents' social and geographical contexts. Home-dwelling settings may benefit from advanced sleep monitoring tailored to shared living arrangements. Future ALTs development should focus on real-world contexts to promote successful aging in place.

"Getting in and doing it personally": Engagement strategies for rural school asthma programs.

This study explores how interaction quality in collaborative learning relates to student outcomes and satisfaction in Indonesian high schools, with a focus on cognitive, metacognitive, and relational group activities. Conducted with 117 students across 23 groups in Takalar, Indonesia, the research employed a newly developed and validated questionnaire tailored to capture the nuances of collaborative learning and the integration of Pancasila values. The results demonstrate that high-quality interaction—especially a positive group climate, active participation, and supportive communication—significantly correlates with improved learning outcomes and satisfaction. Furthermore, individual perspective-taking skills were positively linked to interaction quality, while beliefs about learning showed no significant correlation. At the group level, a strong sense of community was associated with better collaboration and higher satisfaction. This study contributes uniquely by embedding Pancasila values, such as gotong royong (mutual cooperation) and social justice, into the assessment of collaborative learning in post-COVID educational settings. While the cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reports limit causal interpretation, the findings offer valuable insights for educators in designing inclusive and culturally grounded collaborative learning environments. The study highlights the importance of relational dimensions and cultural values in enhancing interaction quality and educational resilience in the digital era, especially in Southeast Asian educational contexts. These findings provide a meaningful basis for integrating national philosophical values into pedagogical frameworks that promote both academic and social–emotional development among students.

This study explores the lifelong involvement of older adults in Olympic weightlifting (OW) with the aim of understanding the factors that motivate them to initiate and sustain participation across their lifespan, as well as the challenges they face and the benefits they experience. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 22 participants (18 males, 4 females), aged 50-89, who had over 30 years of training experience in OW. The interviews lasted 40-58 min and were conducted face-to-face or via video call. The data was framed through Stebbins 'serious leisure perspective with an inductive thematic analysis to identify themes. Five themes and four subthemes were identified that shape participants' enduring involvement in OW: lifelong passion and commitment to OW (subthemes: perseverance and serious leisure career development), rigorous training regimens, injury experiences and recovery, self-improvement and personal growth, and social and community building (subthemes: community and camaraderie, coaching and mentorship for athlete development and legacy). These themes reveal the deep dedication, resilience, and strong sense of community that mark participants' enduring involvement in this sport. The results suggest that OW can be utilized as a valuable sport for healthy aging, personal growth, and building supportive networks, which can inform approaches in health promotion, fitness programming, and sport development across different age groups.

Yukon University and the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation (VGFN) explored emerging issues during the COVID-19 pandemic within the community of Old Crow. This community-based participatory research project took place in Old Crow, Yukon and sought to hear the perspectives of citizens of the community during the pandemic. Using a strengths-based approach grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and doing, participants described the impacts of COVID-19 in the northern Village of Old Crow on intergenerational trauma, mental wellness, social divisions created by vaccine uptake, and social isolation in an already isolated community. We also sought to learn how the health and wellness of the Vuntut Gwitchin citizens was impacted, including but not limited to, gender, the effects of COVID-19, vaccine confidence, social divisions generated through personal vaccine decisions, mental health and substance use, and the impact of long COVID. We heard how the community mobilized and reacted to the pandemic through policies and decisions, as well as programs and support offered to citizens. This project identified the lessons learned in the response to COVID-19 that could guide the response to subsequent pandemics or health emergencies that are culturally safe and strengthen the capacity of the community, as well as the health and wellness of the citizens. The participants’ perspectives reflected their resiliency, self-determination, strong sense of community, and traditional ways of knowing and being. The uniqueness of their experiences may provide insights that can support other communities that are Indigenous, rural and remote in dealing with future pandemics.

This article examines the profound impact of Ukrainian migration on the corporate cultures of international companies following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. It focuses on the in-creasing integration of Ukrainian professionals into European labor markets, necessitating significant adaptations in organizational environments. Core principles of corporate culture, such as equality, professional development, and inclusion, are analyzed within the context of integrating Ukrainian employees. The study emphasizes the importance of fostering multicultural cooperation, ensuring equal opportunities, and creating inclusive workspaces to support their smooth adaptation. As companies navigate these changes, they are compelled to reconsider traditional approaches to team management and interpersonal dynamics. Ukrainian workers bring unique cultural values like resilience, teamwork, and initiative, enriching corporate environments. Their adaptability and problem-solving skills make them valuable contributors in fast-paced and diverse workplaces. Furthermore, their ability to quickly integrate into new environ-ments allows them to form meaningful professional relationships, strengthening overall team dynamics. The article also explores differences in work ethics and management styles, stressing the need for a balance between hierarchy and democratic decision-making. It highlights the significance of clear com-munication, mutual respect, and transparent career progression. Ukrainian employees' strong sense of community and willingness to collaborate contribute to a supportive atmosphere. Companies are encour-aged to implement mentorship programs, provide social protection, and promote family-friendly policies. Cultural traditions and shared experiences often influence work habits, shaping the way employees approach problem-solving and teamwork. Recognizing and valuing Ukrainian workers' contributions en-hances team cohesion and overall productivity. Addressing cultural differences through flexible work environments improves employee satisfaction and retention. The article advocates for balancing work-life priorities while acknowledging Ukrainians’ readiness for hard work and personal growth. Integrating Ukrainian employees offers companies the chance to embrace diversity and strengthen corporate values.

Globally, the population of the African continent is increasing at the highest rate, and intracontinental migration is also increasing. Africans are moving more frequently inside their own continent for social, political, medical, and economic reasons and sometimes safety. Given the significance of intracontinental mobility, the African Union has suggestedan open border or borderless Africa with seamless intracontinental migration. Therefore, in this paper, I seek to advance the arguments that question the viability of open border migration in Africa. My task follows two main lines of reasoning. (1) Using Bernard Matolino and Wenceslaus Kwindingwi’s views on Ubuntu, I seek to show how the issue of xenophobia that many Africans encounter on the continent would prevent the goal of openborder mobility from being successful. In light of the various xenophobic atrocities in South Africa, I question the relevance of Ubuntu, which stands for shared, reciprocal humanness and a strong sense of community that is also welcoming to migrants. In response, I question Ubuntu’s significance amid these xenophobic attacks and its utility once the open border policy is put into place. (2) I seek to question the merits and benefits of open borders for immigration to some African nations that are experiencing (ethnic) conflicts and wars. I will show that even if open borders for migration are made possible, many migrants’ lives will be lost and many nations will be in disarray (if not destroyed) if the continent fails to adequately address and provide practical solutions to xenophobic attacks, (ethnic) conflicts, and wars.

In today’s hyperconnected digital landscape, brands cultivate a sense of community among consumers to enhance engagement and loyalty. While such efforts can foster positive brand relationships, they may also lead to unintended negative consequences. This study examines how a strong sense of community among brand consumers can contribute to hostile behaviors, specifically trash talk against rival brands. Drawing on social identity theory, we hypothesize that a sense of community fosters trash talk, mediated by inter-brand and inter-consumer rivalry. A survey of Japanese consumers (N = 310) reveals that while inter-brand rivalry does not significantly drive trash talk, inter-consumer rivalry plays a critical role. Consumers with a sense of community are likely to develop inter-consumer rivalry, which in turn amplifies trash talk. Moreover, a sequential mediation effect is identified, where a sense of community heightens inter-brand rivalry, which subsequently fuels inter-consumer rivalry, leading to trash talk. These findings underscore the risks associated with fostering a sense of community in brand management. While strengthening consumer connections can enhance loyalty, it may also intensify competitive hostility, potentially harming brand equity. This study expands existing research by highlighting the dual nature of a sense of community and its implications for brand strategy.

Men experience a silent crisis of mental health; however, societal stigmas and expectations around masculinity often prevent them from seeking help. This lack of support intensifies the existing problems. This study explores the role of community support in promotion open communication and emotional well-being among men. The study employed an exploratory research design conducted at an institution in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, using purposive sampling to gather data from nine participants. The study reveals that supportive social networks and a strong sense of community are crucial for male students' mental health and personal growth. Themes such as constructive criticism, encouragement, and authentic self-expression highlight how these environments foster emotional fortitude, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging. The findings underscore that feeling connected to a supportive community and having strong social ties helps male students develop resilience, mindfulness, and overall well-being.

Purpose Transgender individuals are more susceptible to psychological distress and mental health issues. The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence and associated factors of depression, anxiety and stress among individuals from the transgender community. Design/methodology/approach This cross-sectional study was conducted from March to December 2022 among the transgender community in Karachi and Hyderabad. A standardized, self-administered DASS-42 questionnaire was used, and a non-probability convenient sampling technique was used. The frequency and percentages of variables were calculated. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used to evaluate the internal consistency of the items within the subscale. The impact of socio-demographic factors on depression, anxiety and stress levels was assessed using multivariate ordinal logistic regression. Findings Out of total 352 transgender individuals, the majority of them were experiencing extremely severe depression with 187 (53.1) affected. Additionally, 267 (75.9) individuals were dealing with extremely severe anxiety and 167 (47.4) facing severe stress. The mean depression score was 26.3 ± 8.6, with stress following closely at 26.2 ± 7.9 and anxiety at 23.5 ± 8.3. The scale had excellent internal consistency, as shown by a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.93. Male sex had a 3.48 (95% C.I: 1.34–9.05) fold higher likelihood of experiencing anxiety compared to females. Research limitations/implications One of the limitations of this study is the use of a non-probability convenient sampling technique and the collection of data exclusively from two cities of Pakistan (Karachi and Hyderabad). Practical implications The study identified specific mental health challenges faced by transgender individuals in Sindh, enabling mental health professionals and policymakers to develop targeted interventions and counseling services. This includes advocating for mental health programs and anti-discrimination laws that address the unique stressors experienced by transgender individuals. Community awareness and support programs aimed at educating the public, reducing stigma and fostering acceptance of transgender individuals should be implemented to achieve better outcomes. Social implications he research can help raise awareness about the challenges faced by transgender individuals, fostering greater empathy and understanding among the general public. This may contribute to reducing societal stigma, prejudice and discrimination against the transgender community. The study can encourage efforts to create a more inclusive society where transgender individuals feel valued and accepted in family, educational and workplace settings. Thich research can also serve as a tool for advocacy, empowering transgender individuals to voice their concerns and demand their rights, which could lead to greater self-confidence and a stronger sense of community among transgender people. Originality/value This study revealed a significant prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among transgender individuals. Regular assessment and implementation of appropriate measures should be conducted to promote their mental well-being. By actively engaging with transgender individuals, we can develop more effective strategies to meet their mental health needs and foster social integration and acceptance.

Abstract Aim: Enhancing student participation, classroom rapport, and diversity continues to be a crucial concern in educational environments. In order to address these problems, the study intended to systematically execute morning circle activities. Methodology: The research investigated the use, difficulties, and sustainability of morning circle routines and socio-emotional interventions using a mixed methods methodology called the Sequential Exploratory Model. Participating instructors ranged across grade levels from kindergarten to twelfth, and they offered their perspectives through questionnaires, focus groups, interviews, and observations. Results: The combined results show that morning circle activities greatly improve classroom atmosphere by encouraging diversity, security, trust, and respect for one another. Pupils were more engaged and participated in class as a result of teachers reporting better relationships with their pupils and a stronger sense of community. Thoughtful decision- making and mindfulness techniques were among the areas the study found that needed improvement. Conclusion: For the purpose of maximizing the execution of morning circle activities, specific interventions and cooperative efforts are suggested. The significance of morning circle practices in promoting holistic student well-being was highlighted by correlation studies, which revealed strong positive connections between them and numerous elements of student development as well as socio-emotional techniques. Keywords: Morning Circle Routines, Social Emotional Strategies, Classroom Rapport, Inclusivity, Student Participation

This study aims to (1) identify the background of the emergence of Monza traders in Melati Market, (2) analyze Monza trading activities in Melati Market, and (3) understand the socio-economic conditions of Monza traders in Melati Market. This research employs a qualitative approach with historical methods. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and document analysis, while data analysis is conducted through data reduction, triangulation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that (1) Melati Market is well known for selling affordable, branded second-hand clothing and has undergone significant growth in recent years. (2) Monza traders’ activities in Melati Market involve preparing merchandise, arranging products, serving customers, and engaging directly in bargaining processes. Traders actively interact with buyers, offering their goods, explaining product quality and pricing, and assisting customers in selecting the best items. (3) The socio-economic conditions of Monza traders are reflected not only in their commercial transactions but also in their daily social interactions. The strong sense of community among traders fosters a harmonious trading environment, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere. Economically, Monza trading serves as the primary livelihood for these traders, enabling them to sustain their daily needs.

ABSTRACT The present study is to understand the potential influence that resilience can exert on the social integration of immigrants by analyzing its effects on related variables such as sense of community, satisfaction with life, social participation and social rejection. 1259 immigrants participated in the study. Results show that more resilient immigrants show higher satisfaction with life and stronger sense of community, as well as higher social participation, although to a lesser extent, and lower perception of social rejection. Results confirm resilience acts as a facilitating element for the social integration of immigrant individuals, serving as a significant and valuable resource.

Ultrarunning, characterized by covering distances beyond the standard 42.195 km marathon, has emerged as a compelling model for exploring the interplay between extreme endurance performance and mental health. Recent ultrarunning psychology research underscores that these athletes often possess remarkable mental toughness, emotional intelligence, and self-efficacy. However, they are also at heightened risk for psychopathological issues such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, disordered eating, exercise addiction, and sleep disturbances. While participating in ultramarathons can yield psychological benefits—enhanced mood regulation, cognitive clarity, flow states, and a strong sense of community—there remain significant concerns about overtraining syndrome, chronic fatigue, and motivational maladjustments. This review synthesizes current scholarly findings, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, to provide actionable insights for clinicians, coaches, and researchers. Understanding the nuanced relationship between ultrarunning and psychopathology is paramount for developing targeted mental health interventions, promoting athlete well-being, and informing evidence-based training practices.

Engaged teachers demonstrate high levels of motivation and commitment to their work, increasing the likelihood of job retention and enabling them to perform at their best, ultimately benefiting both schools and students. Teacher engagement may be fostered by enhancing workplace spirituality and psychological capital. This study aimed to examine the relationships between and effects of workplace spirituality and psychological capital on work engagement, while also comparing demographic differences affecting these variables. A sample of 123 teachers was recruited from various junior high schools in Taiwan. The measured variables were workplace spirituality (including meaningful work, inner life, and sense of community), psychological capital (covering efficacy, hope, optimism, and resilience), and work engagement (comprising vigor, dedication, and absorption). The results indicate that male teachers exhibited higher levels of hope and overall psychological capital, while older teachers displayed greater optimism and a stronger sense of community. Additionally, strong positive correlations were found among workplace spirituality, psychological capital, and work engagement. Particularly, workplace spirituality and psychological capital were identified as significant predictors of work engagement among junior high school teachers. The implication for school organizations is that enhancing workplace spirituality and psychological capital should be prioritized as strategies to promote work engagement among junior high school teachers.

BackgroundIn today’s digital age, virtual Communities of Practice allow pharmacists to connect and collaborate across geographical and professional boundaries. These platforms create opportunities for shared learning and knowledge exchange, fostering innovation and helping pharmacists stay informed about evolving practices.AimThis study aimed to explore the factors that drive engagement in virtual Communities of Practice among Australian pharmacists.MethodA qualitative study was conducted with 24 Australian pharmacists recruited via social media, professional networks, and conferences. Five online focus groups (each with 3–4 participants) were conducted, lasting 45–60 min. Discussions were transcribed verbatim, and data were analysed thematically using the Framework Method. Rigor was ensured through convenience sampling, maintenance of an audit trail, and the use of independent coding and thematic analysis to enhance credibility and confirmability.ResultsFour major themes emerged from the analysis: ‘access to information’, ‘sense of community’, ‘active facilitation’, and ‘platform usability’. Participants appreciated peer-shared knowledge and staying informed about current practices. A strong sense of community was cultivated as participants supported by others within the virtual community of practice. Active facilitation, such as moderators filtering content and engaging participants, was essential for maintaining a constructive environment. Additionally, platform usability, characterised by user-friendly features, the ability to keep personal and professional boundaries, and flexibility in accessing activities, significantly enhanced participant engagement.ConclusionThe study identified four key drivers of engagement in virtual Communities of Practice including accessible information, community support, active facilitation, and platform usability. These findings inform the design of virtual Communities of Practice to enhance professional collaboration and practice. Addressing these factors can enhance virtual Communities of Practice effectiveness in supporting professional collaboration, reducing isolation, and fostering continuous learning, particularly in evolving pharmacy roles.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11096-025-01913-3.