Supportive Environment Research Articles

STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF FEEDBACK IN REDUCING SPEAKING ANXIETY

This study investigates the levels of speaking anxiety and the perceptions on the different types of feedback on reducing speaking anxiety on Grade 10 students in the Visayas region, using a mixed-methods approach, specifically an explanatory sequential design. Data were gathered by simple random sampling from 50 students in Bohol, Biliran, and Cebu for the survey questionnaires and 20 students for the interview, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, ordinal regression, and thematic analysis. Findings reveal that many students experience moderate to high levels of speaking anxiety, indicating that current teaching strategies may be insufficient. Positive feedback boosts learners' confidence, while constructive feedback helps improve their speaking skills. However, negative feedback increases stress and self-doubt, leading to avoidance of speaking activities. The study also highlights how learners use feedback to build confidence, apply it practically, perceive its potential, and experience its impact. Strategies to mitigate speaking anxiety include fostering a supportive environment, reducing performance pressure, focusing on practical speaking skills, providing clear guidance and feedback, and implementing anxiety-reduction techniques. The study underscores the need for more tailored strategies in teaching to reduce speaking anxiety and improve language skills among English learners in the Visayas.

The correlation between parental education level and emotional disorders among female adolescents in high schools in Surabaya

According to WHO data (2022), in 2019, 1 in every 8 people, or approximately 970 million individuals worldwide, lived with mental disorders, including anxiety and depression. Poor emotional conditions can affect an individual's physical health, with one of the impacts on female adolescents being irregular menstrual cycles. Female adolescents can detect emotional disorders early, which highlights the importance of environmental support, particularly the role of parents. Mothers with higher education levels are likely to play a significant role in family decision-making. This study aimed to examine the correlation between parental education levels and emotional disorders among female adolescents in high schools in Surabaya. The study employed a quantitative analysis method with an observational design and a cross-sectional approach. Data were collected from female adolescents aged 15–17 years in high schools in Surabaya using cluster random sampling. The data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test. The results showed p-values of 0.174 and 0.350 (p-value > 0.05), indicating no significant correlation between parental education levels and emotional disorders among female adolescents aged 15–17 years in high schools in Surabaya. Future research should further explore factors related to emotional disorders to reduce the prevalence of such cases.

How Are Dehumanizing Perceptions of Homelessness Associated with Age?

Increasing numbers of unhoused older individuals in the U.S. underscores the urgency for tailored services and support. Previous studies demonstrate prevalent negative attitudes and dehumanizing perceptions towards unhoused people. Additionally, past research highlights the influence of ageism and dehumanization on the care older adults receive. However, limited work addresses the layered dehumanization faced by unhoused aging individuals. This study investigated how dehumanizing perceptions of homelessness were associated with age. In this experimental study, participants (N = 399; M age = 23) were randomly assigned to scenarios depicting unhoused individuals who were discernibly either older or younger. Participants were prompted with different empathy tasks and assessed on dehumanization levels. Results revealed older unhoused individuals faced significantly higher levels of dehumanization compared to their younger counterparts. Findings also indicated that older participants and male participants demonstrated stronger dehumanization towards unhoused adults. Dehumanization may be intensified for unhoused aging individuals due to their intersecting identities. In turn, this may affect willingness to provide care and the quality of services offered, impacting care settings, medical facilities, and policies focused on homelessness. This research sheds light on the complexities of dehumanization, emphasizing the urgency to address these linked biases to create more inclusive and supportive environments for unhoused aging individuals.

Women leadership in higher education: exploring enablers and challenges from middle-level academics’ perspective

The scarcity of literature in higher education addressing the enablers or challenging factors influencing the progression of women academics from middle-level to senior leadership roles is noteworthy. This study aims to explore the factors that enable or impede the advancement of middle-level women academics and identify recommendations for promoting women leadership in higher education institutions. This qualitative study has collected interview data from 17 informants from five Malaysian public universities. The thematic analysis revealed four enablers and three challenges faced by women in academic leadership. The thematic analysis revealed four enabler factors - gender-neutral policies, management of multiple roles, core personal competencies, and the presence of mentors and role models. Conversely, traditional women’s roles, social stigma, and personal factors were identified as factors that hinder women’s leadership in universities. The findings underscore the importance of implementing gender-neutral policies to foster inclusivity, the establishment of formal mentorship programmes, and cultivating multitasking skills among women. Understanding the dynamics from the perspective of middle-level women academics is essential for crafting a more equitable and supportive institutional environment to equip them with the necessary resources and support to transition into senior leadership positions smoothly, ultimately strengthening the leadership pipeline within the institution.

Transforming Healthcare Delivery: Strengthening Nurse Engagement in Patient-Centered Care Practice

The evolving landscape of healthcare delivery necessitates a robust commitment to patient-centered care (PCC), with nurse engagement playing a pivotal role in achieving this goal. This study explores strategies to enhance nurse engagement in PCC practices by employing qualitative research methods, including a comprehensive literature review and library research. The analysis draws on scholarly articles, case studies, and frameworks that underscore the importance of empowering nurses in clinical decision-making, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and integrating holistic approaches to patient care. Findings reveal that nurse engagement significantly contributes to improved patient outcomes, satisfaction, and care efficiency. Furthermore, institutional support, continuous professional development, and a culture of shared leadership are critical enablers of nurse engagement in PCC. By synthesizing existing evidence, this study offers actionable recommendations for healthcare policymakers, practitioners, and educators to foster a supportive environment for nurses. These recommendations emphasize the need for targeted interventions to address barriers such as workload, resource constraints, and organizational hierarchies that impede effective engagement. This research underscores the transformative potential of engaged nursing practices in advancing healthcare systems toward a more compassionate and patient-centered future.

Unraveling Intrinsic Motivation: The Key to Empowering Teacher Professional Growth

Purpose of the Study: This study explores the pivotal role of intrinsic motivation in driving the professional development of early childhood education (ECE) and kindergarten teachers, focusing on how it influences their teaching practices, adaptability, and overall job satisfaction. Methodology: A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed, involving purposively selected ECE and kindergarten teachers from multiple schools. Participants had at least five years of teaching experience and demonstrated active engagement in professional skill development. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews and participatory observations and then analyzed using thematic analysis to uncover recurring patterns and insights. Main Findings: The study reveals that intrinsic motivation significantly shapes the professional growth of ECE teachers. Motivated teachers are likelier to adopt innovative teaching methods, integrate new technologies into their classrooms, and demonstrate resilience in managing challenges. They display a heightened sense of responsibility for their students’ holistic development and report greater job satisfaction. Moreover, intrinsic motivation fosters creativity and adaptability, enabling teachers to craft engaging learning experiences. This, in turn, positively impacts student outcomes, as intrinsically motivated teachers create dynamic, supportive environments that enhance student engagement and facilitate social-emotional growth. Novelty/Originality of the Study: Underexplored connection between intrinsic motivation and professional development in early childhood education. The study underscores the need for fostering intrinsic motivation in teacher training programs by linking teacher motivation to innovation, resilience, and student engagement. Furthermore, it provides actionable insights into designing interventions and policies prioritizing intrinsic drivers, contributing to sustainable teacher development and improved educational quality.

Which factors influence the transition towards a healthy and sustainable food environment in Dutch hospitals? A qualitative view from stakeholders

BackgroundHospitals fulfill an important exemplary role in promoting health and well-being. It is therefore crucial to have a supportive food environment that stimulates healthy and sustainable food choices of patients, staff, and visitors. This qualitative study aimed to identify factors influencing the implementation of long-lasting actions to enhance the healthiness and sustainability of the food environment in the hospital setting in the Netherlands, from the perspective of different stakeholders.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted in hospitals realizing a healthy and sustainable food environment. Verbatim transcripts were thematically analyzed, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Data were organized and interpreted per theme as well as stakeholder group.ResultsIn three hospitals, 29 semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 stakeholders from a wide spectrum of stakeholder groups (i.e., facility professionals, healthcare professionals, project coordinators, and board of directors). Identified themes and subthemes were: 1 the outer setting, with momentum for change, government-established policies and guidelines, collaboration and networks outside the hospital, and caterers’ and suppliers’ food offerings, interests, and contracts; 2 the innovation domain, with familiarity and compliance with the TEH program; 3 support at all levels, achieving organizational buy-in with communication as a strategy, and end user interests; 4 the inner setting, with key priority in policy and having a vision, available resources, infrastructure within the hospital, ambassadors, and gradual process with continuous effort; and 5 the individual domain with personal drive.ConclusionsThe results revealed an interplay of perceived factors that influence the enhancement of a healthy and sustainable food environment and underscored the importance of addressing various facilitators and barriers across multiple domains within and outside the hospital setting. To ensure successful integration of a healthy and sustainable food environment in hospitals, throughout the entire organization it is crucial to engage diverse stakeholders at all levels and address their barriers with tailored implementation strategies. We suggest verification of our findings in more hospitals.

Under the world of AI-generated feedback on writing: mirroring motivation, foreign language peace of mind, trait emotional intelligence, and writing development

While over the last couple of years, there has been a growing investigation into the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within language learning, very little has been written regarding how such AI feedback influences the complex experiences of EFL learners in terms of motivation, foreign language peace of mind (FLPoM), trait emotional intelligence (EI), and writing proficiency. Therefore, this mixed method research inspected the impacts of AI-generated feedback on various aspects of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners’ experiences and skills, specifically focusing on motivation, FLPoM, EI, and writing proficiency in College of Languages, Nawroz University, Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. The research employed a quasi-experimental design with two groups: an experimental group (EG) engaged in online writing development with AI-generated feedback and a control group (CG) participating in the same online writing development without AI-generated feedback. Relevant and reliable scales were used as the pretest and posttest to measure changes in motivation, FLPoM, trait EI, and writing skills to assess the effects. The quantitative outcomes demonstrated that AI-generated feedback significantly improved EFL learners’ motivation, FLPoM, and trait EI while enhancing their writing skills. The qualitative findings (interview) showed that integrating AI-generated feedback into online writing instruction can substantially benefit EFL learners, offering a more supportive and effective learning context. The implications of the study point to the potential for AI to provide more personalized and supportive learning environments, matching a wide range of needs in language learners, thus encouraging further research into AI’s role in language education.

UPAYA GURU MENGEMBANGKAN BUDAYA LITERASI DALAM PEMBELAJARAN DI KELAS AWAL SDN 12 ANGGREK

This study aims to describe: (1) Teachers' efforts in developing a culture of literacy, (2) Supporting and inhibiting factors of a culture of literacy. This study uses a qualitative approach with data collection techniques used, namely interviews, observations, and document studies. The data analysis process is carried out using data collection, data condensation. Data presentation, and drawing conclusions. Testing the validity of the data using triangulation of methods and sources. The results of this study include: (1) Teachers' efforts in developing a culture of literacy that is applied include the creation of a supportive literacy environment, such as attaching pictures and texts in the classroom, and providing literacy facilities such as reading corners and libraries that make it easier for students to access reading., (2) Supporting and inhibiting factors of a culture of literacy, literacy facilities and an environment that supports a culture of reading. The active involvement of teachers in literacy activities, both before and after learning, also strengthens these efforts. However, the main challenges faced are student laziness and lack of parental support in supporting literacy activities at home. In addition, students tend to prefer digital information.

Identification of The Relationship Between Behavioral Theory And Nurses' Intention in Documenting Nursing Care Using The Theory Of Planned Behavior in The Integrated Inpatient Care Unit Building A RSCM

Nursing documentation is an important aspect of health services. This study aims to analyze the perception of nurses in RSCM regarding the importance of documentation, attitudes towards documentation, and factors that affect documentation practices. This study used a quantitative descriptive design with a cross-sectional approach. The research sample is all nurses at RSCM. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires. The results of the study show that most of the nurses in Building A RSCM strongly agree with the importance of nursing documentation and realize that good documentation can improve the quality of patient service. This is indicated by the r-table ≥ calculation with 15 items that have been declared valid. With KMO values of 0.772, 0.696, and 0.624 above 0.5 with a significance value (Sig.) of 0.000. In addition, there is a positive correlation between subjective norms and attitudes. The relationship between attitudes and subjective norms is quite strong. The majority of nurses also have a positive attitude towards documentation, such as being confident, consistent, and having good intentions. Factors that influence documentation practices include: a supportive work environment, availability of assistive devices, sufficient time, and support from colleagues. Integrated inpatient nurses in Building A of RSCM have a high awareness of the importance of nursing documentation. Positive attitudes and support from the work environment are important factors in improving the quality of documentation. However, there are still several obstacles that need to be considered, such as limited time and lack of priority in documentation.

Gender Dynamics in Educational Leadership: Challenges Faced by Female School Principals

Women are breaking the social norm of being led by men, due to persistence of stereotypical cultural practices, socialization and biases against women that may explain the poor representation of women in leadership roles. The objectives of the study were to determine: challenges faced by female administrators and strategies used to resolve the challenges. The study adopted the interpretivist paradigm and used a sequential exploratory design through a qualitative research approach. A purposive and convenience sampling strategy was employed to select 12 female administrators for participation in semi-structured interviews. This study employed thematic analysis to uncover recurring patterns and themes within the interview data. This study explored the challenges faced by female school administrators, who battle gender stereotypes, a confidence gap, and opposition from some teachers. Despite these hurdles, female leaders can persevere through hard work, clear vision, and emotional intelligence. The research also identified strategies like adhering to guidelines, achieving academic results, and maintaining composure to further empower female administrators. Additionally, open communication, collaboration, and a strong track record can help build trust with teachers and pave the way for aspiring female leaders. This research recommend that clear Ministry guidelines, leadership development programs, and a deeper understanding of gender bias are crucial to creating a more equitable and supportive environment for female school administrators.

Violence Perpetrated by Learners and Management Towards Early-Career Educators in South African Township Schools

The reality in South Africa is that township school environments are not safe for early-career educators. According to South Africa’s Constitution in the Bill of Rights, every learner has the right to a free, reputable education. Although educators are obligated to facilitate this free education, the right to education does not supersede the right to safety because, without protection, more rights will be violated. This study aimed to explore forms of violence perpetrated by school management teams and learners against early-career educators in township schools in Soshanguve, South Africa. A qualitative research method was used to access deeper information on the topic. Clarke’s six steps of thematic analysis were used to analyse the data. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather information. The major findings of this study revealed four forms of violence experienced by early-career educators, which included physical and verbal violence, financial violence and sexual violence. This study recommends that parents should make a habit of checking their children’s schoolwork. This will hold learners accountable for their work. Parents should minimise engaging in conflict in the presence of their children, as this can have adverse emotional and psychological effects on them. They should provide a supportive environment for their children, which can foster a positive parent–child relationship. In addition, the community should play a proactive role in combating substance abuse by ensuring that substances are not accessible to children.

Earthquake effects on youth: understanding psychological challenges and support needs

The aim of this study is to examine the effects of the earthquake on the psychological symptoms of high school students, and to understand the readiness of school counseling services based on the available data. In this context, the research was designed within the scope of two different studies: Study 1: The views of school counselors, and students on the difficulties experienced due to the earthquake. Study 2: The effects of the earthquake on students’ psychological symptoms. In accordance with the purpose of the Study 1, phenomenological design, one of the qualitative research methods, was used. Findings of Study 1 signified that the students experienced academic, psychological, social, and physiological difficulties due to the earthquake. It was concluded that the students coped with the effects of the earthquake by receiving environmental support, and using optimistic thinking. School psychological counselors stated that they observed difficulties such as loss, and mourning, and absence from school in students due to the earthquake during their meetings with them. They also expressed that the students needed more academic, and psychological help after the earthquake, and they planned to deal with psychological, and academic issues in the coming period. Results of Study 2 pointed out that 246 individuals (43.3%) scored 37 or above on the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). This indicated that these individuals had severe impact of the event/trauma symptoms. SEM analysis revealed that IES-R scores had a total effect of 0.67 on anxiety, 0.69 on depression, 0.68 on negative self-concept, 0.68 on somatisation, and 0.63 on hostility scores. In addition, the scores of the female students related to the variables such as anxiety, depression, negative self-concept, somatisation, hostility, and impact of events were significantly higher than the male students. Also, the students who lost their relatives due to the earthquake had significantly higher scores than those who did not lose their relatives in all the variables except somatisation. Besides, the students who had to change their locations after the earthquake had significantly higher scores than those who did not have to change their locations in terms of the impact of events.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Professional Scepticism

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect professional scepticism, a critical aspect of effective auditing. This study examines the impact of ADHD, assessed using the Integrated Visual and Auditory‐2 Continuous Performance Test, on the professional scepticism of external auditors. Results indicate a negative association between ADHD and professional scepticism, suggesting that higher levels of ADHD reduce sceptical tendencies. However, the study finds that job satisfaction significantly mitigates the adverse effects of ADHD on professional scepticism. Specifically, findings from the Johnson‐Neyman analysis reveal that high job satisfaction mitigates the adverse impact of ADHD on scepticism. This study highlights the need for audit firms to consider ADHD‐related challenges. It emphasises the importance of creating a supportive work environment to sustain professional scepticism, which is vital for enhancing audit quality and effectively managing cognitive diversity in the workforce.

Resonances of Feeling Alone: A Systematic Review Unveiling Older Persons' Loneliness and Its Mechanisms in Residential Care Facilities.

To review older persons' lived experiences and perceptions of loneliness in residential care facilities and characterise mechanisms underlying their experiences through a comprehensive loneliness model. A systematic review synthesising qualitative research on the experiences of loneliness among older people living in residential care facilities. This review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines with quality appraisal conducted using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Articles published in English (2014-2024) from CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science. Sixteen articles met inclusion criteria, representing 357 participants across 10 countries and regions. Three core themes of loneliness were identified: relational and individualised loneliness experiences, perception and emotional distress and the influence of context and cognitive processes in modulating loneliness. A conceptual model delineating the mechanisms of older residents' loneliness in residential settings was developed. This review highlights the influence of older persons' residential context and cognitive processes, particularly their perceptions, in triggering loneliness. The perceptions of reduced social control and insufficient social connections in residential settings exacerbate older persons' loneliness, precipitating distressing emotional responses and diminished quality of life. Residential care facilities have a crucial responsibility in establishing a supportive atmosphere conducive to positive social engagement for older residents. Future research must explore strategic transformations of older persons' perceptions through mechanistic targets and tailored care plans to reshape their social expectations within the context of residential care facilities, potentially mitigating loneliness. This review addresses the problem of understanding the mechanisms and experiences of loneliness among older persons in residential care facilities. The findings highlight the critical need for supportive social environments and targeted interventions in residential care settings to improve residents' well-being and quality of life globally. Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research statement. No patient or public contribution.

Assessment and driving factor analysis of eco-environmental security for the Qinghai‒Tibet Plateau

ABSTRACT Eco-environmental security reflects a region’s capacity to mitigate threats posed by ecological degradation and resource scarcity, thereby sustaining its environmental support for economic development. Monitoring and evaluating changes in eco-environmental security are essential for promoting regional sustainability. However, existing ecological security indices predominantly focus on vegetation resources and often overlook critical factors, such as water and soil resources. This study develops an integrated eco-environmental security index that encompasses water, soil, life, and air components. Using the Qinghai‒Tibet Plateau as a case study, we assess changes in eco-environmental security between 2000 and 2020. The results show that (1) the eco-environmental security situation in the Qinghai‒Tibet Plateau region decreases from southeast to northwest, with climate and terrain being the dominant factors shaping this spatial pattern. (2) Influenced by the warming and humidification of the climate, the interannual trend is gradually improving, but extreme climate events have caused certain disturbances. (3) The Hurst index indicates that the eco-environmental security conditions in the Qinghai‒Tibet Plateau region are expected to improve in the future. The index developed in this study accounts for the unique geographical and climatic conditions of the plateau, offering both methodological and theoretical insights for assessing ecological security in ecologically vulnerable areas and supporting regional sustainable development.

Exploring the Socio-Economic Challenges and Daily Life of Persons with Disabilities Insights from Mehendiganj Upazila: A Case Study Approach<b></b>

This study explores the experiences, challenges, and aspirations of persons with disabilities in Mehendiganj, Barisal, Bangladesh. This study uses a qualitative approach, including in-depth, case-based interviews to gather detailed insights from a group of participants who were persons with disabilities. Key findings of this research show that people with disabilities in a particular region encounter significant barriers, including limited access to financial resources, inadequate access to education and vocational training, and a breakdown of society. A lack of infrastructure and support services exacerbates these challenges. Despite the challenges, the research reflects the core strengths and knowledge of the participants in different fields. Many of them strongly desire to overcome adversity and pursue aspirations of life through better education, employment opportunities, and social acceptance. The research also replicates the importance of the role of family support and social networks in reducing some of the difficulties faced by persons with disabilities. This research highlights the insistent need for comprehensive policies designed to address the unique needs of persons with disabilities. Recommendations include developing vocational and educational programs addressing the need, improving access to public services based on the requirements, and social awareness programs to combat discrimination and create social acceptance. This study will provide valuable insight for policymakers, social activists, and development professionals to create an inclusive and supportive environment for persons with disabilities in Bangladesh.

Impact of Leadership Style on Employee Green Behavior: The Mediating Role of Employee Over-Qualification Perception

This study examines the impact of Leadership Style on Employee Green Behavior and the mediating role of Employee Over-Qualification Perception. The findings reveal that Transformational Leadership significantly enhances Employee Green Behavior, while leadership support reduces Employee Over-Qualification Perception, thereby promoting pro-environmental actions. It is recommended that organizations focus on developing leadership capabilities and creating supportive environments to encourage Employee Green Behavior. The effect of leadership style is more pronounced for employees with high self-efficacy, indicating that companies should design incentive programs tailored to individual employee characteristics. The study also identifies that the influence of leadership style on pro-environmental behavior varies by company size, with larger enterprises needing to adjust strategies to effectively promote green behavior. Continuous training and cultural development are essential for building sustainable green organizations. Companies should establish dynamic evaluation systems to regularly update strategies and ensure the sustainability of pro-environmental behavior. Leaders should act as role models for green behavior, enhancing employees’ sense of belonging and fostering a culture of environmental participation across the organization. Evaluation systems should include multiple indicators to ensure the effectiveness and specificity of strategies. Through diversified training and cultural initiatives, companies can strengthen environmental awareness, maintain the continuity and stability of green behavior, and ultimately achieve harmony between corporate development and environmental sustainability.

Gambut Muslim Community and Their Environmental Conservation; Intertwin among Fiqh, Economy, and Policy Factors

Islamic eco-theology doctrines encourage believers to care for the environment and forbids destructive actions that could harm or degrade the environmental condition. However, in recent years, many paddy fields and peatlands in Banjar Regency, which should have been preserved for environmental restoration, have been transformed into residential areas. Therefore, this research aims to explore factors influencing the conversion in the Gambut Subdistrict, Banjar Regency, ranging from a religious perspective or fiqh, the economic situation of local people, and relevant regulation enforcement. The research is a field study with a mixed-method approach. Data collection involved 120 respondents residing in the Gambut Subdistrict. Additionally, interviews were conducted with community leaders, organizational representatives, and local government officials. Using a multiple regression approach, the study found that since 2000, 55 new residential complexes have been constructed in the region. The research findings reveal that although economic factors have a minimal impact on environmental conservation variables, fiqh perspectives, and policy variables do affect significantly. These three factors, namely fiqh perspectives, economic factors, and policies collectively exert a significant influence on environmental conservation. Qualitatively, the primary cause of the conversion of paddy fields and peatlands into residential areas is the lack of environmental fiqh literacy. This deficiency has resulted in low awareness of the importance of preserving paddy fields and peatlands as environmental support areas, leaving them vulnerable to encroachment by capital owners eager to develop residential areas. Furthermore, weak oversight by authorities and policymakers has exacerbated this situation.

What Women Intercollegiate Coaches Say

To address misconceptions about the lack of women in sport coaching, factors influencing intercollegiate women coaches' career decisions, including their choices to leave positions, apply for new ones, and accept or deny job offers were explored. Utilizing a multi-level analysis underpinned by critical feminist theory, a comprehensive understanding of the systemic and structural barriers women coaches faced, as well as the strategies they employed to navigate their careers were illuminated. Key findings revealed that unequal pay, lack of administrative support, insufficient resources, and pervasive gender biases significantly impacted women's career choices. The importance of supportive workplace environments, flexible working conditions, professional development opportunities, and organizational commitments to diversity and inclusion emerged as crucial for attracting and retaining women coaches. By gathering women coach’s perspectives (n = 118, NCAA Division I, II, and III), data refuted common ‘blame the women’ narratives and emphasized the need for systemic change within intercollegiate sports. This research contributed to the ongoing dialogue on gender equity and practical strategies for athletic departments to create more inclusive and supportive environments, thereby enhancing the recruitment and retention of women coaches are offered.