Working Professionals Research Articles

Living with Dementia: exploring the challenges and needs of informal Dementia caregivers in Portugal

Abstract Background Dementia profoundly impacts not only those diagnosed but also their informal caregivers. The Nova Center for Global Health at NOVA-IMS, in collaboration with the Alzheimer Portugal Association, embarked on a comprehensive study to explore the various aspects of daily life that affect informal caregivers of people with dementia in Portugal. Understanding these impacts is important for developing targeted interventions that address the caregivers’ needs effectively, particularly given the current lack of research on informal dementia caregivers. Methods The study utilized a crafted survey developed through initial scripting on key topics identified by informal caregivers and validated by experts on dementia. This phase was followed by a series of in-depth interviews with professionals in neurology, psychology, and social work, as well as with the caregivers themselves. The final survey was distributed among members of the Alzheimer Portugal Association and other volunteers, resulting in 305 valid responses. Results Preliminary findings reveal significant emotional, physical, and financial challenges faced by caregivers, underlining the diverse needs across 14 key areas of their lives. The study highlights specific areas where support is lacking, providing a grounded basis for developing more effective support mechanisms. Conclusions The ‘Living with Dementia’ project underscores the complex reality faced by informal caregivers. It calls for innovative, practical solutions that can alleviate the burden on these caregivers and improve their quality of life. By addressing the specific needs identified through this research, policy-makers and support organizations can better tailor their interventions to help those at the front lines of caregiving in dementia. Key messages • Informal caregivers of people with dementia face challenges that necessitate a comprehensive understanding to tailor effective support systems. • Interventions are needed that address the emotional, physical, and financial hardships caregivers face, improving their overall well-being and capacity to care.

Interactive effects of sustainable HRM, career adaptability and career sustainability on employee well-being

PurposePast research has well-demonstrated the importance of sustainable human resource management practices in augmenting sustainability in careers of individuals and their overall growth and well-being. In this regard, role of career adaptability as a potential resource in harnessing sustainable HRM and career sustainability relationship requires attention. Considering this, the purpose of the current research is to analyze how sustainable HRM practices influence career sustainability, that eventually predicts employee well-being. Besides this, we also examined the role of career adaptability as a potential moderator in governing the linkage between sustainable HR practices and career sustainability.Design/methodology/approachOur study adopted a cross-sectional research design. Data were collected through administration of survey among 620 working professionals. Analysis was conducted deploying statistical techniques such as confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to confirm the factors, and the hypotheses were tested using model 4 and model 7 in PROCESS macro by SPSS 20.0.FindingsResults showed that in the Indian context, career sustainability acts as a potential mediator between the sustainable HRM practices and employee well-being relationship. In addition, we also found the significant moderating role of career adaptability in strengthening the impact of sustainable HRM practices on career sustainability among employees.Practical implicationsThe study offers potential implications for scholars and management practitioners in terms of implementing sustainable HRM practices emphasizing on good values at various levels in organizations. Also, it encourages organizational policymakers and leaders for conducting training programs and workshops on developing career adaptability resources.Originality/valueIt is among one of the few studies that help in advancing the scholarship on sustainable HRM and sustainable careers and their key role in strengthening individuals’ well-being. The findings also extend the application of conservation of resources theory at the intersection of sustainable HRM and vocational psychology literature in the South-east Asian context.

Generative AI is already widespread in the public sector: evidence from a survey of UK public sector professionals

Generative AI has the potential to transform how public services are delivered by enhancing productivity and reducing time spent on bureaucracy. But to what extent is the technology already in use? Our survey of UK public service professionals (in education, health, social work, and emergency services) seeks to answer this question. We find that use of generative AI is widespread: 45% of respondents were aware of colleagues using generative AI, while 22% use it themselves. Respondents were positive about its potential to enhance their efficiency and reduce their bureaucratic workload. For example, those working in the health service thought that time spent on bureaucracy could drop by the equivalent of one day per week, an enormous potential impact. Our survey also found a high amount of trust (61%) in generative AI and a low fear of replacement (16%). However, only a minority of respondents (32%) felt like there was clear guidance on generative AI usage in their workplaces. In other words, it is clear that generative AI is already coming into the public sector, but uptake is happening in a disorganised fashion without clear guidelines. The UK’s public sector urgently needs to develop more systematic methods for taking advantage of the technology.

Does Workplace Spirituality Enhance Employee Well‐Being? The Mediating Role of Workplace Happiness

ABSTRACTWorkplace spirituality and employee well‐being are significant aspects of organizational behavior that greatly influence the success of an organization. While numerous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of workplace spirituality on employee performance, few have delved into its correlation with workplace happiness (WPH). The present research seeks to investigate the direct and indirect effects of workplace spirituality on workplace engagement and employee well‐being, with WPH serving as a mediator. The groundwork for the proposed conceptual model was laid by conducting a survey with 473 working professionals from Indian organizations, employing the structural equation modeling (SEM) method. Results reveal that employees with a strong sense of workplace spirituality tend to have greater attachment to the workplace. WPH, in turn, acts as a mediator in the relationship between workplace attachment (WPA) and employee well‐being. This study sheds light on the significant relationship between workplace spirituality, WPA, and employee well‐being. It underscores the importance for organizations to prioritize WPH of employees which in turn, would enhance their well‐being within the workplace. The study also discusses the theoretical and practical implications of the findings, offering suggestions about directions for future research.

Their stories, our history: Ken Daniels

INTRODUCTION: This article forms part of the “Their stories, our history” series which provides information regarding some of the major contributors to the profession of social work in Aotearoa New Zealand. Ken Daniels is featured in this article. METHODS: A life history methodology is used to document some of the contributions made by Ken Daniels. Life history is a qualitative methodology where various forms of data are used to piece together a narrative. Interviews, documents, articles and other historical artifacts have all contributed to the development of this article. FINDINGS: Ken Daniels has pioneered a number of social work advances in the areas of mental health, social work education and the professionalisation of social work. He has also made outstanding contributions nationally and internationally in the field of assisted human reproduction through a time of rapid change. Using a calm, compassionate and determined approach, Ken has been able to navigate through the complexities of practice, policy and education. CONCLUSIONS: Ken Daniels has exemplified a practice which has centred a generalist social work approach, working in different ways and at different systems levels to achieve desired outcomes.

Effects of Implementing Trauma-Informed Training at Child Protection Professionals

Trauma-informed training is essential for child protection professionals as their support and help to children, young people, and families is a significant factor in overcoming many problems and challenges, including various traumas, from early childhood to adulthood. This article aims to overview the current situation in the implementation of trauma-informed training, analyze studies regarding the effects of the implementation of this training in child protection, and provide evidence-based recommendations that indicate the need to further improve the competencies of child protection professionals for work with children, youth and families with trauma experience. The purpose of this article is to indicate the importance of implementing a trauma-informed approach in working with children and young people who have experienced some trauma, as well as significant challenges, limitations, and possible directions for improving the implementation of trauma-informed training in this area in order to provide them with more adequate and better quality support. The article is based on the analysis of existing scientific literature, and the method of work used is content analysis. The article begins by conceptualizing the trauma-informed approach, advantages, and limitations in implementing this approach in the child protection system. After that, a presentation and analysis of data on trauma-informed training and previous studies findings on the effects of this training on child protection professionals is given. This review showed a lack of more detailed and comprehensive studies on the effects of trauma-informed training in child protection, a lack of studies that deal in more detail with factors, gaps, and challenges in the implementation of this training, and a lack of data of training methods and techniques used for trauma-informed approach transferring to professionals, as well as monitoring. The implications for trauma-informed training for child protection professionals and the gaps to be covered in future studies are discussed.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices for Occurrence of Weight Gain Among the Night Shift Working Professionals in Maharashtra, India: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Introduction: The biological clock or circadian rhythm of an organism is a set of regular oscillations. Working at night or on night shifts disrupts the circadian rhythm. When the circadian rhythm is disrupted, concentrations of adiponectin and leptin (satiety hormones) rise at night, leading to overeating and fat gain, while lack of sleep elevates ghrelin levels of the hunger hormone. Thus, the current study sought to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices about the dietary and lifestyle factors amongst night-shift working professionals and to assess the influence of knowledge and attitudes on their practices. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among individuals working night shifts in Maharashtra. A pre-tested questionnaire consisting of questions related to their knowledge, diet, and lifestyle was recorded and scored. Results: Among the 206 participants, a maximum of them were male (57.1%). Approximately 72.8% of respondents were quite young (25-30 years) and had been working the night shift for a period of 9-12 months. The majority (76.6%) of respondents had no medical conditions. Many (42.7%) of the night-shift working professionals were found to be obese. Significance was observed between knowledge and attitude among the overweight BMI category. Conclusion: The participants had good knowledge in terms of dietary habits and lifestyle-related factors. However, this was not reflected in their attitudes and practices. Therefore, interventional research targeting attitudes and behaviors is required to improve behavioral patterns among overweight/ obese people.

Professionalism of Employee Work at the Public Works and Spatial Planning Office of Gowa Regency

Professionalism of Employee Work at the Public Works and Spatial Planning Office of Gowa Regency

Competency development opportunities and OCB: the fully mediating role of subjective career success

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings In a study of 353 working professionals in Malaysia, researchers found no significant direct link between perceived opportunities for competency development (POCD) and organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs). But the authors did establish that subjective career success (SCS) fully mediated this effect. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Dietary Macronutrient and Micronutrient Intake Among Corporate Employees Aged 30 to 40 Years Residing in Mumbai, India

The rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India necessitates more studies on nutritional intake and dietary behaviour. While data exists on low-income groups, rural populations and the population at large, limited information exists on that of urban, working professionals – a demographic that has the means and access to make informed choices, and yet, have a disproportionately high risk of NCDs. The aim of this study was to investigate nutrient intake in Indian professionals. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 214 working professionals (aged 30-40 years; 69 females and 145 males) in Mumbai. Habitual food intake was investigated by two 24-hour recalls and a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Nutrient adequacy ratios were calculated in comparison to Indian estimated average requirements. Compared to recommendations, a lower total energy and carbohydrate intake, while a higher protein and fat intake was observed among the participants. However, the intake of omega-3 fats, and overall fruit and vegetable intake was poor. A significantly higher energy from proteins and fats was observed among non-vegetarians, while vegetarians consumed more energy from carbohydrates. Insufficient intake of vitamins and minerals was prevalent with over 50% of study participants consuming <50% of their required intake of Vitamin A, B12, folate, riboflavin, zinc and potassium. Intake of copper, pyridoxine and iron were also suboptimal. To conclude, the insufficient intake of micronutrient and macronutrient imbalances in the studied population, highlights the urgency of targeted nutritional interventions and education in urban, corporate populations in India, to mitigate the risk of NCDs.

Paternalistik dan patriarki dalam pemberdayaan perempuan pada pembangunan reformasi birokrasi

Background: Empowerment of women is still a concern both nationally and internationally. Women have not been maximally empowered because of a patriarchal, paternalistic culture and a narrow understanding of religion. Methods: This research was conducted using a qualitative approach. Research is supported by using secondary data, namely data that is not obtained directly from the field but is obtained from documents, for example journals, reference books, and regulations that support research. The data collected was tested for feasibility using source triangulation. The data that has been collected is analyzed using a descriptive approach. Findings: it is necessary to conduct research with the aim of analyzing paternalistic, patriarchal culture in empowering women in the development of bureaucratic reform. Conclusion: Research results: 1) gender equality will be obtained when paternalistic and paternalistic culture is not applied, but must apply equilibrium theory to be able to realize gender equality. 2) bureaucratic reform can be realized if gender equality is implemented, namely by prioritizing work professionalism to improve the quality of public services. 3) the implementation of gender equality is respect for women's rights in development, especially to realize bureaucratic reform.

Pengaruh Kinerja dan Profesionalisme Kerja Pegawai terhadap Kualitas Pelayanan Publik pada Badan Kesatuan Bangsa dan Politik Kota Banjarmasin

This study aims to determine and analyze: (1) Performance affects the quality of public services at the National and Political Unity Agency of Banjarmasin City, (2) Employee Work Professionalism affects the Quality of Public Services at the National and Political Unity Agency of Banjarmasin City, (3) Performance and Professionalism of Employee Work affects the Quality of Public Services Badan Kesatuan Bangsa dan Politik in Banjarmasin. The approach used in this study is using a quantitative approach. The population in this study amounted to 30 people who were sampled in this study using saturated sampling techniques. Data were collected using questionnaires measured using Likert scales. Data processing using the SPSS computer program version 26.0. The results of the study proved that partially (1) performance did not have a positive and significant influence on the quality of public services, (2) work professionalism had a positive and significant influence on the quality of public services and (3) work performance and professionalism had a positive and significant influence on the quality of public services.

Analysis of Employee Work Professionalism at the Satpol PP Bekasi City Office

Analysis of Employee Work Professionalism at the Satpol PP Bekasi City Office

The Effect of Work Ability and Professionalism on Employee Performance Through Additional Income at the Binjai City Tourism Office

The purpose of this study is to find out and analyze the influence of Work Ability and Professionalism on Employee Performance mediated by Additional Income at the Binjai City Tourism Office. This research was carried out at the Binjai City Tourism Office. The type of research is quantitative associative. The sample in this study is 38 employees with ASN and honorary status at the Binjai City Tourism Office. The sampling technique in this study uses a saturated sample where the entire population will be a sample in this study as many as 38 people. The results of the study show that Employability has a significant influence on Employee Performance as shown by a T-Statistic value of 7,311 > 1.96 and a P Value of 0.000 < 0.05. In the effect of Professionalism on Employee Performance, the T-Statistical value data was obtained from 5,570 > 1.96 and the P-Value value was 0.000 < 0.05 or there was an influence of Professionalism on Employee Performance. Workability has a significant effect on Employee Additional Income with a T-Statistic value of 2,401 > 1.96 with a P-Value of 0.002 < 0.05. Professionalism has no effect on Employee Additional Income. This can be seen from the results of the T-Statistic value of 0.668 < 1.96 with a P-Value of 0.548 > 0.05. In the effect of Additional Income on Employee Performance, a T-Statistic value of 3,701 > 1.96 was obtained with a P-Value of 0.009 < 0.05 which means that Additional Income has a significant effect on the Performance of Employees of the Binjai City Tourism Office. In the indirect influence, the results show that Additional Income does not have a role as an intervention variable in explaining the relationship between Work Ability and Professionalism on Employee Performance. This shows that improvements in Workability and Professionalism cannot increase Additional Income, which ultimately does not contribute to the improvement of the Performance of Employees of the Binjai City Tourism Office.Top of Form

PENGARUH DISIPLIN DAN PROFESIONALISME KERJA TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN PT BENTENG PURWA PUTRA CABANG SUKABUMI

This study aims to examine and analyze the Effect of Discipline and Work Professionalism on Employee Performance at PT. Benteng Purwa Putra Sukabumi Branch. This research method uses a quantitative descriptive method, namely by describing and exposing the variables studied and then drawing conclusions. The object of research that becomes the independent variable is Work Discipline (X1) and Work Professionalism (X2) and Employee Performance (Y) is the dependent variable. Data collection techniques carried out in this study were 54 people or respondents and data collection techniques using Likert Scale measurements. The results of this study are used in the determination coefficient test, there is an influence of 47.8% of work discipline and professionalism on employee performance, while the remaining 52.2% is influenced by other factors. Therefore, based on the F hypothesis test, it can be concluded that the hypothesis is accepted, which means that the influence of work discipline and professionalism on employee performance has a simultaneous effect. Where Fcount is 25.223 > 2.79 with a sig. 0.000 < 0.05.

Social Work Ethical Dilemma: Social Workers' Experiences in Handling Children Who Are Involved by Parents in Acts of Terrorism

Objectives: This research aims to explain the ethical dilemmas faced by social workers in handling children whose parents involve them in acts of terrorism.The study is grounded in the principles of values and ethics essential for social work professionalism. It examines ethical dilemmas through the lenses of deontological and teleological ethics, professional codes of ethics, and the balance between confidentiality, communication, and self-determination.A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed to explore natural phenomena in depth. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with four social workers directly involved in handling children whose parents involved them in acts of terrorism.The research found that social workers face significant ethical dilemmas, including balancing confidentiality and accessible communication, navigating professional and personal values, and managing self-determination versus paternalism. These dilemmas create confusion and impact the intervention process.The findings highlight the need for structured support for social workers, including guidance on ethical decision-making and opportunities for professional consultation. It suggests revisiting and reinforcing the professional code of ethics and discussing ethical challenges with colleagues and supervisors to navigate these dilemmas effectively.This study provides valuable insights into the specific ethical challenges encountered by social workers dealing with terrorism-related cases in Indonesia. It contributes to the body of knowledge by offering alternative solutions for ethical dilemmas, enhancing the understanding of the practical application of ethics in social work.

Sports Coaching Education Students' Perspectives on Systems Thinking Models through Mentimeter Media

Leadership is an effort made by someone with all their abilities to influence, encourage, direct, guide and mobilize other people to work with enthusiasm and confidence in achieving common goals. A person's leadership style is something important in human relations and depends on the level of maturity of the members and the goals they want to achieve. This educational activity is carried out online via Google Meet and uses an interactive lecture method to deliver the material. To warm up the media to give their opinions about leadership using the media meter given at the beginning and end of the activity. The results obtained from the initial media were regarding their response when they heard the word leader and in their opinion a leader must be able to be an example, protect and set an example for the people they lead. And in the final media minutes, to the question of what leadership model the participants chose, most of the participants chose a leadership model with a transformational thinking system when becoming a leader, because this leadership model is able to follow technological developments and advances, work professionalism demands, and changes in character. its users. Keywords: Leadership, Mentimeter, Education

Attitude Towards Artificial Intelligence and Tech Anxiety Among Working Professionals in Metropolitan Cities

Our attitudes towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) and our worries about technology are more relevant than ever in the modern world. Professionals in urban areas are at the forefront of the technological transition as AI technologies are progressively incorporated into various facets of professional life, from AIdriven decision-making tools to automated processes. This study investigated the relationship between attitudes towards Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Tech Anxiety among urban millennials. A quantitative research method was employed, utilizing the General Attitude Towards Artificial Intelligence Scale and the Attitude to Abbreviated Technology Anxiety Scale. A sample of 150 responses, predominantly from IT professionals and educators in metropolitan areas, was collected and analyzed. The findings revealed that there was no significant relationship between positive and negative attitudes towards AI and Tech Anxiety among urban millennials. Additionally, no significant differences were found in attitudes towards AI and Tech Anxiety based on profession and age. An interesting observation was made regarding age groups within the urban millennial demographic. While there was no significant difference in attitudes towards AI and Tech Anxiety between younger (25 to 30 years old) and older (31 to 35 years old) participants, it was noted that Tech Anxiety levels were slightly higher among individuals aged between 31 to 35 than 25-30.

Employee Performance Model Through Work Productivity: Work Professionalism and Training in PT Semen Padang

Employee Performance Model Through Work Productivity: Work Professionalism and Training in PT Semen Padang

Factors Associated with Social Workers’ Likelihood to Report Suspected Child Abuse: Findings from a National Survey of Chinese Social Workers

Abstract Whilst there have been recent national surveys about reporting child abuse in several low- and middle-income countries, data from China are lacking. This study examined the prevalence of reporting suspected child abuse and factors associated with having ever reported in a sample of social workers from mainland China. Nationally representative data from the China Social Work Longitudinal Study were used, and responses from 3,510 participants who had completed the children’s social work questionnaire module were analysed. Our results indicate that only 14.4 per cent of social workers from China had ever reported suspected child abuse. Participants who had ever reported were more likely to be female, younger, have higher education levels and social work qualifications, have a higher awareness of abusive behaviours, and have greater working autonomy than social workers who had never reported. We argue that in order to achieve higher levels of reporting suspected child abuse for Chinese social workers, it is necessary to promote the professionalisation of social work through both education and experience gained in practice.