Societies

28 pages, 1019 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Experience of Internal Exclusion Within the Context of Education in Africa: A Scoping Review of the Views of Philosophers of Education and Educationists

by Cornelius Ewuoso and Temidayo Ogundiran

Societies 2025, 15(5), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15050116 - 23 Apr 2025

Abstract

Although philosophers of education and educationists in Africa recognize that individuals can experience exclusion while included, the various ways this occurs have not been synthesized. Additionally, little consideration has been given to how the experience of internal exclusion can influence a more targeted [...] Read more.

Although philosophers of education and educationists in Africa recognize that individuals can experience exclusion while included, the various ways this occurs have not been synthesized. Additionally, little consideration has been given to how the experience of internal exclusion can influence a more targeted inclusion work and strategies that respond to the quest to decolonize. This review adopts the scoping review extension of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA-ScR) that fills this gap. Sixty-six articles published between 2000 and 2024 met our inclusion criteria. Our review identifies physical activities, othering, epistemic de-rooting, language of competence or standard, policies, and space as six key sites of internal exclusion within the education setting in Africa. Our review also demonstrates that the inclusion that responds particularly to the quest to decolonize education would be informed by who (or what) is targeted for the inclusion, the site of internal exclusion, and the context and level at which the inclusion work is being undertaken. This review also highlights gaps in the literature and outlines recommendations. Particularly, future studies are required to deeply explore how context can influence individuals’ experience of internal exclusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Diversity Competence and Social Inequalities)

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13 pages, 200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Binge Eating Disorder and Fatphobia: Social Stigma, Exclusion, and the Need for a New Perspective on Health

by Alexandra Ainz-Galende, María José Torres-Haro and Rubén Rodríguez-Puertas

Societies 2025, 15(5), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15050115 - 23 Apr 2025

Abstract

Binge eating disorder (BED) has long been an overlooked mental health condition, making its recognition and treatment more challenging. This study examines the impacts of social stigma and fatphobia on individuals with BED, exploring how these factors influence their well-being and perpetuate cycles [...] Read more.

Binge eating disorder (BED) has long been an overlooked mental health condition, making its recognition and treatment more challenging. This study examines the impacts of social stigma and fatphobia on individuals with BED, exploring how these factors influence their well-being and perpetuate cycles of exclusion and discrimination. Using a psychosocial approach, this research analyzes how societal misperceptions about BED foster harmful stereotypes, such as the belief that being overweight results from a lack of willpower or personal negligence. This study is based on a qualitative discourse analysis of 12 participants diagnosed with BED. The findings highlight the presence of compensatory behaviors, including fasting, excessive exercise, and laxative use, which challenge the conventional understanding of BED. The results reveal that BED affects not only individuals at a personal level, but also deeply impacts their social and family lives, reinforcing shame, guilt, and self-hatred. Diet culture and weight stigma contribute to social exclusion, further hindering access to proper treatment. This study provides a critical perspective on the need for a cultural shift in how society perceives weight and eating behaviors, advocating for a more inclusive health model that prioritizes mental well-being and body diversity over arbitrary aesthetic standards. These findings underscore the need for greater societal understanding, inclusive health narratives, and further qualitative research into the lived experiences of individuals with BED. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative and Multidisciplinary Approaches to Healthcare)

31 pages, 2966 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consumer Boycotts and Fast-Food Chains: Economic Consequences and Reputational Damage

by Ibrahim A. Elshaer, Alaa M. S. Azazz, Sameh Fayyad, Chokri Kooli, Amr Mohamed Fouad, Amira Hamdy and Eslam Ahmed Fathy

Societies 2025, 15(5), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15050114 - 22 Apr 2025

Abstract

The increasing avoidance of international fast-food chains is a widespread phenomenon influenced by economic, social, and political factors. This study examines the risks and implications of restaurant boycotts, focusing on their role in social justice movements and economic shifts. The authors employed the [...] Read more.

The increasing avoidance of international fast-food chains is a widespread phenomenon influenced by economic, social, and political factors. This study examines the risks and implications of restaurant boycotts, focusing on their role in social justice movements and economic shifts. The authors employed the qualitative approach; using an exploratory case study and a critical discourse analysis, we investigated consumer motivations for avoidance, the financial and reputational risks businesses face, and how corporate responses shape brand perception. By integrating political consumerism and social justice theory, we provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the psychological, ethical, and economic drivers of boycotts. The findings highlight that boycott behavior significantly impacted declining sales and profits for McDonald’s and Starbucks and forced the closure of outlets, as well as leading to the loss of consumer trust and long-term brand loyalty. Thus, it forced companies to create strategies for protecting their reputation. Consumer activism, which draws from social justice and ethical consumerism, demonstrates its capability to affect corporate policy choices and business practices in sensitive political situations to fight injustices. This research offers valuable insights for business leaders navigating consumer activism, emphasizing the need for proactive corporate responsibility strategies to mitigate the risks of reputational damage and declining consumer trust. Full article

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21 pages, 2098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vertical Educational (Mis)match and Inclusive Growth: Theoretical Conceptualizations and Evidence from a European Perspective

by Pepka Boyadjieva and Petya Ilieva-Trichkova

Societies 2025, 15(4), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040113 - 21 Apr 2025

Abstract

The concept of inclusive growth highlights that enhancing human development requires ensuring not only sustainable economic growth but also that its benefits are widely shared. In turn, the problem of skills/educational mismatch looms large because of its (negative) consequences for individual and societal [...] Read more.

The concept of inclusive growth highlights that enhancing human development requires ensuring not only sustainable economic growth but also that its benefits are widely shared. In turn, the problem of skills/educational mismatch looms large because of its (negative) consequences for individual and societal well-being. Against this background, this article studies some effects of skills/educational mismatch on inclusive economic growth. More concretely, it focuses on the relationships between vertical educational (mis)match and some macro characteristics, such as the level of unemployment and poverty indices. Theoretically, in searching for a more comprehensive understanding of skills/educational mismatch, the article draws on the heuristic potential of the capability approach. Empirically, this study relies on data from the 11th round of the European Social Survey, carried out in 2023/2024, and official statistical sources and has applied correlations for the analyses. This study’s findings show that the vertical educational match can be viewed as a sign of inclusive growth. They further reveal that the effects of skills/educational (mis)match at the societal level vary among different occupational groups. Finally, the obtained results demonstrate that vertical—either above or below—educational mismatch is related to capability deprivation at a societal level. Full article

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12 pages, 257 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Paradigm of Desistance and Correctional Interventions: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Relapse Risk Reduction in Sexual Offenders

by Maria-Marinela Mihăilă, Cristina Gavriluță, Tiberiu Dughi and Dana Rad

Societies 2025, 15(4), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040112 - 21 Apr 2025

Abstract

The criminological approach to relapse is based, on the one hand, on the theories that explain the risk of relapse, including the risk level assessment tools, and on the other hand, on the rehabilitation theories—the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) Model and The Good Live Model [...] Read more.

The criminological approach to relapse is based, on the one hand, on the theories that explain the risk of relapse, including the risk level assessment tools, and on the other hand, on the rehabilitation theories—the Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) Model and The Good Live Model (GLM), which explain the mechanisms of reducing the risk of relapse in the assisted desistance paradigm. The objectives of this study focus on identifying the predictors of relapse in correlation with relapse inhibitors that combine a number of personal, psycho-emotional factors with psychopathological, socio-economic, and cultural accents. The method used is that of the case study from the perspective of clinical criminology, referring to forensic psychiatry through specific techniques and working procedures of some institutions in the correctional system—territorial structures of probation (TSP) in cooperation with the penitentiary system. The results of the study focus on the impact of standardized programs on the reduction in the risk of relapse after prison (RRR) and on personal and socio-familial factors involved in post-executional surveillance and post-criminal assistance. In conclusion, the current study highlights the need to corroborate the clinical or subjective assessment of relapse risk with the actual or objective assessment, which also includes the risk of violence in the framework of community monitoring from the perspective of community or social psychiatry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interdisciplinary Social Research in Economics, Environment, Education, and Philosophy)

17 pages, 237 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Doctrinal and Newspaper Data Analysis of UK Policy for LGBTQ+ Asylum Seekers Following the Enactment of the Nationality and Boarders Act 2022

by Rachel Saunders

Societies 2025, 15(4), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040111 - 21 Apr 2025

Abstract

The UK government has detailed guidelines for assessing and guiding LGBTQI+ asylum seekers through the asylum process in the UK. This is an explorative paper assessing whether post the enactment of the Nationalities and Boarders Act 2022 the media narrative around queer refugees [...] Read more.

The UK government has detailed guidelines for assessing and guiding LGBTQI+ asylum seekers through the asylum process in the UK. This is an explorative paper assessing whether post the enactment of the Nationalities and Boarders Act 2022 the media narrative around queer refugees has had any influence on UK government policy. It does this by laying out the baseline UK LGBTQ+ asylum seeker legislative and UK civil service guidance and analysing UK newspapers in a media data analysis of mainstream UK media websites to see if there is any media influence on legislation or guidance post-enactment of the NBA 2022. These findings indicate there was no discernible influence on UK government policy towards LGBTQ+ asylum seekers by mainstream UK news media (Mainstream media for this research is defined as national newspapers with large website traffic, such as The Guardian, The Times, and The Daily Mail. These sources were chosen due to their digital footprint and searchability, which enabled textual analysis of the content) post-enactment of the NBA 2022 on 28 April 2022. In addition, the doctrinal analysis shows that the UK government is both opaque about LGBTQ+ asylum statistics and the outcome of Stage 1 asylum decisions, making it difficult to judge what sources influence these decisions and data. This makes it difficult for the UK media to cover these stories with clarity unless a claimant waives their right to anonymity, or a leak happens. Given the available data, it is also apparent that there has been a year-on-year decrease in LGBTQ asylum appeals, suggesting that while the media narrative may not be influencing policy, the New Plan itself may be having a chilling influence on LGBTQ asylum claims. More research over a longer period of time is required to explore this. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender and Class: Exploring the Intersections of Power and Inequality)

18 pages, 870 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mental Health of University Students: A Social Ecology Perspective

by Mabel Segú-Odriozola

Societies 2025, 15(4), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040110 - 21 Apr 2025

Abstract

University students increasingly encounter significant mental health challenges as they navigate a pivotal period of personal and academic transition. Heightened by academic demands, financial insecurity, social isolation, and cultural expectations, these pressures can profoundly affect their emotional well-being. In response to this growing [...] Read more.

University students increasingly encounter significant mental health challenges as they navigate a pivotal period of personal and academic transition. Heightened by academic demands, financial insecurity, social isolation, and cultural expectations, these pressures can profoundly affect their emotional well-being. In response to this growing concern, a qualitative phenomenological study was undertaken to explore the subjective experiences of university students regarding their mental health. Guided by a socioecological framework, the research examined the complex interplay of individual, interpersonal, institutional, and societal factors shaping students’ perceptions and lived realities of mental well-being. The study utilized a phenomenological design and included 56 students from eight degree programs. The data collection methods included semi-structured interviews, reflective diaries, focus groups, ecological mapping, and ethnographic observation. The findings revealed that complex interactions between personal, social, institutional, and structural factors significantly influence students’ mental well-being. The research identified strategies students use to maintain or improve mental health, along with barriers and facilitators they encounter in the university context. The results emphasize the need for universities to adopt comprehensive, student-centered interventions, such as peer mentorship and mutual support programs, supported by updated institutional policies. These measures aim to create inclusive, adaptive, and less stressful environments, providing a model for other universities seeking to address similar challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Holistic Approaches: The Inter-Effect Between Social Ecology and Social Work for Vulnerable Groups)

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17 pages, 4314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Primary School Students’ Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Water Management: Insights from Environmental Education

by Oana Irimia, Claudia Tomozei, Mirela Panainte-Lehadus, Dana Chitimus, Florin Nedeff, Narcis Barsan, Emilian Mosnegutu and Diana Mirila

Societies 2025, 15(4), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040109 - 20 Apr 2025

Abstract

Environmental education is a vital strategy for conservation and protection, creating collaborative spaces for scientists, community members, and other stakeholders. Across various countries, educational curricula include courses aimed at teaching the younger generation about environmental protection. Interactive and practical educational programs, along with [...] Read more.

Environmental education is a vital strategy for conservation and protection, creating collaborative spaces for scientists, community members, and other stakeholders. Across various countries, educational curricula include courses aimed at teaching the younger generation about environmental protection. Interactive and practical educational programs, along with the involvement of parents and the community, enhance learning and create connections between school and daily life. Curriculum changes are influenced by several factors, including children’s understanding and application of these concepts. Various methods, such as questionnaire analysis, have been developed for this purpose. This study assessed the knowledge levels and behaviors regarding the environmental factor “water” among primary school students in Bacău, Romania. Conducted through a questionnaire method, the survey included 308 students from grades 2 to 4. The findings highlight the significance of environmental education in primary schools, preparing children to act responsibly towards the environment. It is recommended to implement interactive educational programs and foster partnerships with the community and local organizations to promote water conservation and reduce consumption, thereby cultivating a long-term sustainable culture. Full article

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16 pages, 231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Immigration Lawyers as Para-State Actors: Deportation of Non-Residents in Aotearoa New Zealand

by Timothy P. Fadgen and Luke D. Oldfield

Societies 2025, 15(4), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040108 - 19 Apr 2025

Abstract

This article considers the role of lawyers and immigration advisers in the deportation process for non-resident visa holders in New Zealand. In the process, this article adds to a small but growing literature on the role of immigration officials in the immigration policy [...] Read more.

This article considers the role of lawyers and immigration advisers in the deportation process for non-resident visa holders in New Zealand. In the process, this article adds to a small but growing literature on the role of immigration officials in the immigration policy space. We use Lipsky’s concept of the street-level bureaucrat and Lakhani’s notion of ‘para-state’ actors—those outside the formal apparatus of the state who nonetheless serve a central role in policy implementation—to advance our understanding of the deportation process. This qualitative study engaged in in-depth interviews with twenty-two (22) immigration lawyers and advisers to explore their experiences. We identify several themes about the importance of formal and informal networks for developing advocacy skills and tactics; how the features of the immigration system, lower levels of judicial scrutiny of decisions, and lower evidentiary requirements create spaces for lawyer advocacy and creativity; and how participants shared a commitment to social justice and camaraderie in their work that was essential to interactions with state officials and others. We contend that these efforts have the potential to reshape the state’s bordering practices yet are an often-overlooked area of study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Borders, (Im)mobility and the Everyday)

18 pages, 486 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Online Gaming and Healthy Lifestyles: A Qualitative Study of Gamers in Saudi Arabia

by Yara Almuhtadi and Samah Alageel

Societies 2025, 15(4), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040107 - 18 Apr 2025

Abstract

Gamers and esports players encounter distinct health challenges that can affect their well-being and performance. Recognising these needs is crucial for developing effective health interventions. This study explored the barriers and facilitators to adopting a healthy lifestyle among gamers and their views on [...] Read more.

Gamers and esports players encounter distinct health challenges that can affect their well-being and performance. Recognising these needs is crucial for developing effective health interventions. This study explored the barriers and facilitators to adopting a healthy lifestyle among gamers and their views on behaviour change interventions. We conducted semi-structured interviews with esports competitors and gamers, using the COM-B model to explore their perceptions. Participants discussed definitions of a healthy lifestyle, emphasising diet and physical activity. There was no consensus on its attainability, as personal, social, and environmental factors influenced perceptions of ease or difficulty. Participants identified key aspects for effective behaviour change interventions, including where, how, and when to implement them, considering these components can help in the design of interventions that are more effective, accessible, and engaging for the target population. This study highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach that considers the unique traits of gamers and their lifestyle. By tailoring health promotion efforts, policymakers can more effectively support this community in reaching its health and wellness objectives. Full article

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17 pages, 1077 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Health Education in Early Childhood Education: A Systematic Review of the Literature

by Anabel Ramos-Pla and Laura Fornons Casol

Societies 2025, 15(4), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040106 - 18 Apr 2025

Abstract

Addressing Health Education (HE) in Early Childhood Education is essential for shaping future responsible citizens who are aware about the importance of caring for their health. The aim of the present article was to conduct a systematic review of the scientific literature on [...] Read more.

Addressing Health Education (HE) in Early Childhood Education is essential for shaping future responsible citizens who are aware about the importance of caring for their health. The aim of the present article was to conduct a systematic review of the scientific literature on Health Education in the Early Childhood Education stage. Through an exhaustive analysis of 21 articles published in the internationally-renowned database Web of Science in a period of 10 years (2014–2024), the text is structured around three dimensions: article data and main areas and topics covered, pertinence and relevance of Health Education in Early Childhood Education, and lastly, the impact of Health Education in child development. The results show an increase in scientific production, although limitations persist, such as the predominance of quantitative approaches, gaps in mixed designs, a fragmented focus on educational actors, and the lack of interdisciplinary integration. It is concluded that HE in Early Childhood Education is fundamental for promoting healthy habits, for the comprehensive development of students, and community well-being, underlining the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, teachers’ training, and health literacy to guarantee its efficacy and sustainability. Full article

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14 pages, 867 KiB

Open AccessArticle

(In)Visible Nuances: Analytical Methods for a Relational Impact Assessment of Anti-Poverty Projects

by M. Licia Paglione

Societies 2025, 15(4), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040105 - 18 Apr 2025

Abstract

In recent social science debates, poverty is seen as a multidimensional phenomenon, not only economic, but also psychological, educational, moral, and relational. The empirical observation and analysis of this latter dimension and its qualities represent a sociological challenge, especially in assessing the integral [...] Read more.

In recent social science debates, poverty is seen as a multidimensional phenomenon, not only economic, but also psychological, educational, moral, and relational. The empirical observation and analysis of this latter dimension and its qualities represent a sociological challenge, especially in assessing the integral effectiveness of social projects. As part of this debate, this article proposes an analytical method—based on Social Network Analysis, according to the egocentric or personal approach—and describes its use during an empirical “relational impact assessment” of a specific anti-poverty project in the Northwest region of Argentina. Analysis of the data—collected longitudinally through questionnaires—highlights the changes in the personal “relational configurations” of small entrepreneurs in the tourist area, i.e., the beneficiaries of the project, while also highlighting the emergence of “relational goods”. In this way, this article offers an analytical method to evaluate the “relational impact” of anti-poverty projects in quali–quantitative terms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Inclusion and Well-Being, How Contemporary Societies Have Transformed)

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15 pages, 1330 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Qualitative Studies of Parents’ Perspectives on Climate Change

by Hilary Graham, Pete Lampard and Su Golder

Societies 2025, 15(4), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040104 - 17 Apr 2025

Abstract

Climate change is opening up new fields of qualitative research, including one focused on parents’ perspectives on climate change. Our scoping review identifies and describes studies in OECD countries in this emerging field. We used recommended search strategies and methods for reviews of [...] Read more.

Climate change is opening up new fields of qualitative research, including one focused on parents’ perspectives on climate change. Our scoping review identifies and describes studies in OECD countries in this emerging field. We used recommended search strategies and methods for reviews of qualitative studies. We located 19 unique studies (22 papers) published between January 2000 and June 2024 which were characterised by distinct foci, study populations and participant profiles. The two major foci were reproductive decision-making and the emotional impacts of climate change on parents and children. Study populations were predominantly those already actively engaged in climate change issues. In studies providing socio-demographic information, most participants were socially advantaged. In developing this important field, we argue for a broader research agenda with respect to foci and for study populations and participant profiles that are more representative of the societies in which the studies are located. Full article

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12 pages, 881 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Sedentary Behavior on School Engagement Among Youth Aged 10 to 18 in Southern Spain

by Pablo Ramírez-Espejo, Jose Luis Solas-Martínez, Rubén Roldán-Roldán and Alba Rusillo-Magdaleno

Societies 2025, 15(4), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040103 - 17 Apr 2025

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of sedentary behavior among adolescents raises concerns about its impact on academic engagement. This study examines the association between negative and positive sedentary behavior and behavioral, emotional, and cognitive school engagement in adolescents. A total of 270 students aged 10 [...] Read more.

The increasing prevalence of sedentary behavior among adolescents raises concerns about its impact on academic engagement. This study examines the association between negative and positive sedentary behavior and behavioral, emotional, and cognitive school engagement in adolescents. A total of 270 students aged 10 to 18 from southern Spain participated. Sedentary behavior was assessed via self-report, and school engagement was measured using the School Engagement Measure (SEM). ANCOVA and binary logistic regression were applied, adjusting for age, BMI, and maternal education level. The findings indicate that low negative sedentary behavior is associated with higher cognitive engagement (p = 0.009), while high positive sedentary behavior correlates with greater behavioral (p = 0.018) and cognitive engagement (p = 0.008). Moreover, high negative sedentary behavior more than doubles the risk of low cognitive engagement, and low positive sedentary behavior significantly increases the likelihood of low behavioral and cognitive engagement. These results suggest that while some sedentary behaviors may hinder academic engagement, structured activities like reading and studying can positively contribute to school performance. Encouraging active learning strategies, structured study habits, and responsible screen use may help to maximize school engagement. Future research should explore longitudinal effects and intervention strategies to optimize adolescent learning and well-being. Full article

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16 pages, 829 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationships and Relationality in Times of Profound Eco-Political Change

by Chris Turner

Societies 2025, 15(4), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040102 - 16 Apr 2025

Abstract

This paper draws out the distinction between relationship and relationality in the context of a time of ecological turmoil and the climate emergency. It does so from an aesthoecological standpoint—a concept initially developed by the author to establish important criteria and characteristics within [...] Read more.

This paper draws out the distinction between relationship and relationality in the context of a time of ecological turmoil and the climate emergency. It does so from an aesthoecological standpoint—a concept initially developed by the author to establish important criteria and characteristics within education. Eco-political issues are stressed as being vital to education across the lifespan, and this paper offers a philosophical backdrop for these crucial issues and some hope for the future. Ideas of transdisciplinarity are foregrounded in both theoretical and practical ways to emphasise that the problems of climate change, biodiversity loss, and other Earth crises are inherently complex and interconnected. Addressing these challenges requires a new way of understanding our relationships with both humans and more-than-humans, which is primarily an eco-political issue, and lifelong education has a significant role to play. The author proposes that aesthoecology has an important role in framing and addressing educational futures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Education Across the Lifespan)

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16 pages, 233 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Vulnerability and Injustices Faced by Young Carers in Developed Societies

by Gottfried Schweiger

Societies 2025, 15(4), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040101 - 16 Apr 2025

Abstract

Around 2–8% of children and adolescents in developed societies are young carers, who provide care for ill, disabled, or addicted family members. This paper investigates the vulnerability and multidimensional injustices faced by young carers, drawing on empirical studies—both qualitative and quantitative—and social theory [...] Read more.

Around 2–8% of children and adolescents in developed societies are young carers, who provide care for ill, disabled, or addicted family members. This paper investigates the vulnerability and multidimensional injustices faced by young carers, drawing on empirical studies—both qualitative and quantitative—and social theory to reveal how young carers navigate their roles within the broader context of social inequality, highlighting the social structures and mechanisms that contribute to their marginalization and the detrimental consequences for their social inclusion, well-being, and personal development. The methodology of this article is a narrative analysis of relevant empirical research on young carers, combined with an analysis of this literature through a normative framework of social justice, which examines four dimensions of justice in order to highlight the vulnerability of young carers. (1) Firstly, young carers are often pushed into their situation because of economic and social constraints, which do not allow the family to find a different solution. Economic inequalities lead to and enforce caring obligations and have a cumulative negative effect on the young carer. Limited resources can be problematic for social inclusion, and when combined with caring obligations, they are corrosive. (2) Secondly, young carers are often victims of moral blackmail, which is that they are trapped in a situation where it would be morally wrong for them to act otherwise. Such moral blackmail can be carried out by those who are cared for, by the family and relatives or even by society, which could, but does not provide alternatives to young carers. (3) Thirdly, young carers are often manipulated to accept their caring obligations through distorted social norms and practices. Other than in the case of moral blackmail, such young carers do not care because they want to do the morally right thing and do have no alternatives available, but because they internalized that it would be normal for them to do so. Two concepts are useful to capture this aspect: adaptive preferences and indoctrination. (4) Fourthly, young people caring is often a form of exploitation, in that it takes unfair advantage of the young carer by receiving something from them, without giving an equivalent in return (and harming them in the process). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vulnerability in Theology, the Humanities and Social Sciences)

16 pages, 926 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Insights into Intimate Partner Violence: Exploring Predictive Factors in Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys 2018

by George Atta, Paul Newton and Tayyab Shah

Societies 2025, 15(4), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040100 - 15 Apr 2025

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) continues to be a serious public health issue, particularly in Ghana. It is crucial to create evidence-based, preventative measures to stop IVP. This study empirically investigated the factors related to married women’s perceptions of male IPV against women. The [...] Read more.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) continues to be a serious public health issue, particularly in Ghana. It is crucial to create evidence-based, preventative measures to stop IVP. This study empirically investigated the factors related to married women’s perceptions of male IPV against women. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (Goal 5.2) advocate for the elimination of male violence against women by governments, hence this study contributes to monitoring the progress being made. This study employed cross-sectional secondary data from Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) conducted in 2018 with a sample of 14,237 women aged 15–49. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions, and the results were presented as odds ratios (ORs) with a confidence interval (CI) of 95%. Women’s justification of male IPV against women was correlated with socio-demographic factors such as education level, marital status, age of the woman, area of residence (rural or urban), ethnic background, and economic disadvantage (wealth status). Higher educated women (OR 0.248 [95% CI 0.185–0.332, p < 0.001]) were less likely to justify male IPV against women than women with no/less formal education. Women who were in the richest quintile (OR 0.766 [95% CI 0.634–0.926, p = 0.006]) were less likely than those in the poorest/lowest quintile to rationalize/justify intimate partner violence. In terms of ethnicity of the household head, the Ga/Dangme (OR 0.86 [95% CI 0.714–1.036, p = 0.112]) had lower odds of justifying male IPV against women compared to the Akan. The government, through the Ministry of Gender and Child Protection and women’s advocacy groups, should devise strategies, programs, and policies to empower women through formal education and economically through job training and employment support for women and victims to help them achieve financial independence and reduce negative attitudes toward women and the prevalence of male IPV against women. Full article

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12 pages, 230 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Teaching Competence Regarding Foreign Languages and Learning Modes at Official Language Schools in Andalusia (Spain)

by María Rubio-Gragera, Antonio Palacios-Rodríguez, Julio Cabero-Almenara and Mª Victoria Fernández Scagliusi

Societies 2025, 15(4), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040099 - 11 Apr 2025

Abstract

Despite the limited academic focus on the context of Official Language Schools (OLSs), these institutions play a crucial role in the formal education system, which are exclusively dedicated to foreign language teaching across various modalities in Andalusia, where ten different languages are taught. [...] Read more.

Despite the limited academic focus on the context of Official Language Schools (OLSs), these institutions play a crucial role in the formal education system, which are exclusively dedicated to foreign language teaching across various modalities in Andalusia, where ten different languages are taught. The main aim of this study is to perform an analysis the following two specific aspects: first, a descriptive analysis of the digital competence of 105 OLS teachers, and, second, a contrastive analysis examining potential differences in digital competence based on the language and teaching modalities (e.g., face-to-face vs. blended learning). This study uses the DigCompEdu framework to evaluate the digital skills of the teachers, revealing that, while they receive some training in digital competence, the overall level is only moderate, indicating a significant need for further professional development. Notably, the study highlights that the teachers’ ability to convey the importance of digital tools for educational purposes is a crucial area, particularly in an environment where digital natives and immigrants coexist, presenting an intergenerational digital divide. The contrastive analysis shows no significant differences in digital competence based on language or modality, pointing to the lack of specialized training for blended learning teachers, who must rely heavily on technology in their work. This study suggests future research should focus on the digital competence of students, considering age as a potential influential factor in language learning, and recommends designing a tailored digital competence training plan for OLS teachers based on the DigCompEdu framework, which could benefit foreign language educators broadly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interdisciplinary Social Research in Economics, Environment, Education, and Philosophy)

17 pages, 265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Re-Constructing “Populism” as a Signifier of the Changing Meanings of the Political World: The Italian Case

by Matteo Antonini, Ambra Achilli, Desirè Gallucci, Maria Sophia Heering, Marika Rullo, Claudio Melacarne and Loretta Fabbri

Societies 2025, 15(4), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15040098 - 9 Apr 2025

Abstract

This paper investigates the concept of “populist attitudes” resulting from the emotional symbolization of the political world. While contemporary scholars link populism to individual attitudes or socio-economic shifts, we argue that understanding populism’s underlying dynamics offers a more nuanced perspective. Addressing these emotional [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the concept of “populist attitudes” resulting from the emotional symbolization of the political world. While contemporary scholars link populism to individual attitudes or socio-economic shifts, we argue that understanding populism’s underlying dynamics offers a more nuanced perspective. Addressing these emotional symbolizations sheds light on how populist attitudes and structural conditions become salient and lead to a global rise. Using data from a nationally representative Italian survey, we studied the interaction between populist attitudes and three concepts often associated with populism, which we ascribed to the domain of the emotional symbolizations of the political world: alienation, powerlessness, and protest voting. Alienation reflects passive estrangement from politics, while powerlessness fuels citizens’ potential resentment, leading to protest voting as a reaction. By emphasizing the relationship between citizens and politics, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the socio-cultural and psychological drivers of populist attitudes, disentangling the concept of “populism” from the risk of reified stances. We underscore that approaching this phenomenon within its broader dynamic can provide an innovative perspective. We call for further contextual approaches to enhance theoretical insights and inform practical strategies to address populism’s disruptive effects. Full article

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