Social Sciences

17 pages, 866 KB

Open AccessArticle

The European Union’s Response to Bullying and Cyberbullying: An Educational Policy Analysis

by Adrián Neubauer and Abel Gonzalez-Garcia

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 505; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080505 - 21 Aug 2025

Viewed by 660

The objective of this paper is to analyze the European Union’s response to school bullying and cyberbullying through its educational policies. For this purpose, a search of European policies was carried out in EUR-Lex, including all dates, to get a complete picture of [...] Read more.

The objective of this paper is to analyze the European Union’s response to school bullying and cyberbullying through its educational policies. For this purpose, a search of European policies was carried out in EUR-Lex, including all dates, to get a complete picture of this phenomenon. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 16 policies were selected. These were analyzed, according to Content and Documentary Analysis, using MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2024 through a codebook composed of two dimensions: one legal and one specific to bullying and cyberbullying. The results showed that most of these policies are soft policies, especially recommendations, issued by the Council of the European Union. At the same time, there is an interest on the part of the European Union to prevent bullying by addressing the contextual and cultural risk factors and improving teacher training and emotional education. In conclusion, European policies have a largely technological, preventive, and contextual and cultural approach. Finally, this paper also offers some policy recommendations to prevent school bullying and cyberbullying in political terms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revisiting School Violence: Safety for Children in Schools)

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16 pages, 308 KB

Open AccessArticle

Social Representational Analysis as an Alternative Approach to Exploring Cultural Values

by Lucian Mocrei Rebrean and Nicu Gavriluță

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 504; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080504 - 21 Aug 2025

Viewed by 226

Abstract

Values remain notoriously difficult to “capture” because they cannot be directly observed. Attitudes and opinions are the only known indicators of their presence. The relationship between values and attitudes or opinions is that between latent and manifest, so that values can be justifiably [...] Read more.

Values remain notoriously difficult to “capture” because they cannot be directly observed. Attitudes and opinions are the only known indicators of their presence. The relationship between values and attitudes or opinions is that between latent and manifest, so that values can be justifiably inferred from observed attitudes and expressed opinions. Nevertheless, this is an epistemological limitation to reckon with. So, the alternative we propose is to explore cultural values as an integral part of social representations. We want to show that social representation theory can help with identifying values in an accurate and reliable manner. It is only due to the fact that we already have a common representation of social reality that we can develop attitudes that can then be manifested by expressing opinions. If values directly intervene in the formation of attitudes, they will surely be part of the representations that triggered that formation in the first place. Using a mixed-method approach, professionals’ representations of their professional role were explored in order to identify the values associated with it. As cognitively processed cultural constructs, values can be identified as elements of the central node of professionals’ representation of their profession. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Social, Cultural, and Psychological Dimensions of Lived Experiences)

15 pages, 521 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mining Extractivism, Climate Stress, and Water Injustice: A Case Study of the Proposed Jindal Iron-Ore Mine in Melmoth, KwaZulu-Natal and Hydrosocial Justice

by Llewellyn Leonard

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080503 - 21 Aug 2025

Viewed by 299

Abstract

In water-stressed regions of South Africa, the expansion of extractive industries is compounding the effects of climate change and poor governance, threatening local water security and socio-ecological resilience for hydrosocial justice. This chapter examines the proposed Jindal iron-ore mine in Melmoth, KwaZulu-Natal and [...] Read more.

In water-stressed regions of South Africa, the expansion of extractive industries is compounding the effects of climate change and poor governance, threatening local water security and socio-ecological resilience for hydrosocial justice. This chapter examines the proposed Jindal iron-ore mine in Melmoth, KwaZulu-Natal and its anticipated impact on water availability, quality, and governance. Drawing on in-depth interviews with farmers, residents, and environmental stakeholders, the findings reveal a region already suffering from recurrent droughts, El Niño-related climate variability, and over-allocated water resources. Findings reveal concern that the mine would further strain surface and groundwater systems, especially given the industrial demands already placed on the Goedertrouw dam. Other concerns about potential water contamination from tailings, dust, and runoff echo experiences from neighbouring mining areas, where degraded water quality has affected both domestic use and cultural practices. The study also uncovers governance gaps, including weak regulatory oversight, non-compliance with environmental safeguards, and flawed consultation processes that overlook downstream impacts. By situating Melmoth within wider debates on extractivism, climate stress, and environmental justice, the paper calls for an urgent reconsideration of extractive approvals in ecologically vulnerable regions that threaten water security, livelihoods, cultural practices, and sense of place. Ignoring interconnected dimensions risks reinforcing existing vulnerabilities, undermining resilience, and entrenching long-term injustices. Full article

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25 pages, 1852 KB

Open AccessArticle

Child Development Accounts in Jordan: Towards Innovative Social Policies for Economic Development

by Rasha Istaiteyeh

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080502 - 20 Aug 2025

Viewed by 487

Abstract

This paper examines a prospect scenario of adopting Child Development Accounts (CDAs) as a social welfare innovation in Jordan. CDAs are considered as an asset-building policy aimed at enhancing financial inclusion and socio-economic well-being. This paper discovers the feasibility of CDAs that have [...] Read more.

This paper examines a prospect scenario of adopting Child Development Accounts (CDAs) as a social welfare innovation in Jordan. CDAs are considered as an asset-building policy aimed at enhancing financial inclusion and socio-economic well-being. This paper discovers the feasibility of CDAs that have proven successful in several countries, as their potential in Middle Eastern countries, particularly in Jordan, remains unexplored. The application of CDAs in the social welfare system aims to support sustainable asset accumulation and improve the living standards of diverse segments in Jordan by integrating CDAs within the efforts made by Jordan to achieve financial inclusion, alleviate poverty, and supplement household income through asset development. There are opportunities to implement the program in Jordan, including expanding the scope of microfinance, public–private partnerships, and targeted programs for women, youth, and refugees. However, several challenges may hinder its application, including limited financial literacy, high unemployment rates, income inequality, regulatory obstacles, and difficulties in implementing social reforms. The paper contributes to the debate on social welfare policies adopted in developing countries by providing solutions based on global practices in CDA execution and has implications and recommendations for decision makers to achieve economic development. Future research in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries should target pilot projects and comparative studies to refine CDA strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Policy and Welfare)

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19 pages, 308 KB

Open AccessArticle

Heritage in the Social Media Age: Online Genealogy Communities and Their Managers as Knowledge Hubs in the Genealogical Ecosystem

by Dorith Yosef and Azi Lev-On

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080501 - 20 Aug 2025

Viewed by 249

Abstract

Genealogy is the study of family history and ancestral lineage, tracing relationships across generations through records and narratives. The digital revolution has shifted genealogical research from traditional archives to online platforms. Grounded in knowledge co-creation theory, this study examined the role of social [...] Read more.

Genealogy is the study of family history and ancestral lineage, tracing relationships across generations through records and narratives. The digital revolution has shifted genealogical research from traditional archives to online platforms. Grounded in knowledge co-creation theory, this study examined the role of social media communities and their managers as knowledge hubs within the genealogical ecosystem. Its central innovation lies in identifying two emerging actors in modern genealogical knowledge ecology: the online community as a hub of expertise and the community manager as a key figure in knowledge creation. Drawing on interviews with fifteen Facebook managers of genealogical communities from diverse Jewish backgrounds worldwide, the study explored their perceptions of online genealogical spaces and their roles as facilitators of knowledge. Participants demonstrated a high level of professionalism and thoughtful engagement with sources; however, verifying the accuracy of genealogical claims was not within the scope of this study. Interviews were conducted in English and Hebrew based on participant preference. Thematic analysis revealed five key areas: two focused on the community’s role as a knowledge hub for both members and outsiders, and three on the manager’s role through self-perception, member engagement, and strategic initiatives. As part of a broader dissertation, this chapter deepens understanding of collaborative, community-driven genealogical knowledge in the age of social media. Full article

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2 pages, 131 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: noor (2025). Bi⁵: An Autoethnographic Analysis of a Lived Experience Suicide Attempt Survivor Through Grief Concepts and ‘Participant’ Positionality in Community Research. Social Sciences 14: 405

by amelia elias noor

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080500 - 20 Aug 2025

Viewed by 182

Abstract

Van Orden, Kimberly A [...] Full article

26 pages, 660 KB

Open AccessPerspective

Integrating Open Science Principles into Quasi-Experimental Social Science Research

by Blake H. Heller and Carly D. Robinson

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 499; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080499 - 19 Aug 2025

Viewed by 280

Abstract

Quasi-experimental methods are a cornerstone of applied social science, answering causal questions to inform policy and practice. Although open science principles have influenced experimental research norms across the social sciences, related practices are rarely implemented in quasi-experimental scholarship. In this perspective article, we [...] Read more.

Quasi-experimental methods are a cornerstone of applied social science, answering causal questions to inform policy and practice. Although open science principles have influenced experimental research norms across the social sciences, related practices are rarely implemented in quasi-experimental scholarship. In this perspective article, we describe open science research practices and discuss practical strategies for quasi-experimental researchers to implement or adapt these practices. We also emphasize the shared responsibility of external stakeholders, including data providers, journals, and funders, to create the circumstances and incentives for open science practices to proliferate. While individual quasi-experimental studies may be incompatible with some or most practices, we argue that all quasi-experimental work can benefit from an open science mentality and that shifting research norms toward open science principles will ultimately enhance the transparency, accessibility, replicability, unbiasedness, and credibility of quasi-experimental social science research. Full article

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36 pages, 604 KB

Open AccessArticle

“I Feel Like a Lot of Times Women Are the Ones Who Are Problem-Solving for All the People That They Know”: The Gendered Impacts of the Pandemic on Women in Alaska

by Marya Rozanova-Smith and Andrey N. Petrov

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080498 - 19 Aug 2025

Viewed by 252

Abstract

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic recovery in urban communities in the Arctic have been substantial, but their gendered aspects remain largely unknown. The goal of this study was to enhance the understanding of the gender-based impact on women in the [...] Read more.

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic recovery in urban communities in the Arctic have been substantial, but their gendered aspects remain largely unknown. The goal of this study was to enhance the understanding of the gender-based impact on women in the urban areas of Alaska by exploring strengths and constraints to resilience in the social and economic domains of gender equality during and in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on grounded theory methodology, this study is based on 29 in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The study methodology utilized a conceptual framework that integrated deficit-based and strength-based analytical perspectives. The paper implemented a voice-centered approach that drew on thematic interviews conducted with women in Anchorage and Nome. Alaska’s urban women demonstrated resilience rooted in self-empowerment and community caregiving. This was reflected in their critical re-evaluation of social and economic gendered structures, a reassessment of priorities in family and social relationships, and the mobilization of support networks. These acts of reflection and care transformed into processes of constructing new meanings of life during dramatic events and became a source of personal strength. The crisis also enabled a re-evaluation of entrenched gender dynamics and women’s ability to challenge gendered divisions in both the workplace and at home. Despite signs of resilience, the pandemic signified a setback for gender equality. It exacerbated pre-existing gender disparities within households, disrupted established pre-pandemic social support networks, increased unpaid domestic labor and a motherhood penalty, and deepened unemployment and income gaps. To further adapt to post-pandemic conditions, women need empowerment and greater representation in decision-making roles, which are critical to strengthening resilience in both the social and economic domains of gender equality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gender Studies)

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18 pages, 342 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Portuguese Prison Population: The Relation Between Childhood Trauma, Mental Health, and Emotional Dysregulation

by Mariana Salafranca-Alves, Gabriela Martinho, Patrícia Correia-Santos, Sofia Barros, Cláudia Oliveira, Raquel Flor and Anita Santos

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 497; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080497 - 19 Aug 2025

Viewed by 300

Abstract

Childhood trauma has been associated with criminal behaviour and a variety of psychopathologies. Furthermore, it is known that emotional dysregulation (ED) predicts anxiety and depression and can be a product of traumatic experiences. In order to develop effective interventions for offenders’ rehabilitation and [...] Read more.

Childhood trauma has been associated with criminal behaviour and a variety of psychopathologies. Furthermore, it is known that emotional dysregulation (ED) predicts anxiety and depression and can be a product of traumatic experiences. In order to develop effective interventions for offenders’ rehabilitation and prevent recidivism, it is essential to fully understand their mental health and its relation with previous child trauma experiences and ED. This study involved a sample of 100 male inmates incarcerated in seven different prisons in the northern region of Portugal. The following measures were used: the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form (CTQ-SF), the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the Difficulties in Emotional Regulation Scale (DERS). Our findings suggest that individuals who experienced physical and sexual abuse are more likely to perpetrate violent crimes and that ED increases anxiety and depressive symptoms in individuals with traumatic symptoms. In conclusion, it is imperative to provide psychological support to this population, and interventions need to be adapted according to trauma exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Intervention with Victims and Offenders)

14 pages, 1129 KB

Open AccessArticle

Collective Bargaining in Post-Memoranda Greece: Could It Guarantee Decent Work by Greek Employees?

by Theodore Koutroukis

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080496 - 16 Aug 2025

Viewed by 456

Abstract

The aim of this work was to assess the developments in the Greek collective bargaining system and the wage policy after the period of the Memoranda of Understanding with the lenders. Moreover, it discusses the critical role of collective bargaining (CB) in the [...] Read more.

The aim of this work was to assess the developments in the Greek collective bargaining system and the wage policy after the period of the Memoranda of Understanding with the lenders. Moreover, it discusses the critical role of collective bargaining (CB) in the Greek economy and society and its contributions to forging a new balance between capital and labor in the post-memoranda era. Finally, it provides a number of proposals that could improve the state of play in the field. Firstly, a comprehensive approach to the current debate on the key issues of collective bargaining was portrayed. Secondly, the main developments in the Greek case of collective bargaining and the wage policy were recorded. Thirdly, an effort to interpret the pertinent developments that could lead to the diffusion of a decent work status in the domestic labor market was made. Finally, this work examined whether the current situation of collective bargaining threatens Greek employees’ living and working conditions, which were regarded as being at stake during the memoranda period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Precarious Work to Decent Work)

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12 pages, 425 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Child Development Accounts on Adolescent Behavior Problems: Evidence from a Longitudinal, Randomized Policy Experiment

by Yingying Zeng, Jin Huang and Michael Sherraden

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080495 - 15 Aug 2025

Viewed by 362

Abstract

Theory and empirical examination have shown ways in which households’ asset building for children may affect child well-being, including behavioral and emotional health. Previous research found that Child Development Accounts (CDAs), a universal and lifelong asset-building policy designed to encourage society and families [...] Read more.

Theory and empirical examination have shown ways in which households’ asset building for children may affect child well-being, including behavioral and emotional health. Previous research found that Child Development Accounts (CDAs), a universal and lifelong asset-building policy designed to encourage society and families to accumulate assets for children, have positive effects on social-emotional development at around 4 years of age. Using data from a unique longitudinal experiment of the CDA policy in the United States, this study examined the impacts of CDAs on adolescent behavior problems. Adolescent behavior problems were indicated by eight items from a 28-item Behavior Problems Index, focusing on children’s anxiety and disobedience. In the pre-COVID sample (n = 676), results from the regression analysis show that the sum score of child behavior problems is about 0.12 standard deviations higher than that of counterparts in the control group, indicating less frequent behavior problems among children in the treatment group. Regression analyses on two latent measures of anxiety and disobedience showed that CDAs primarily affected children’s anxiety. However, there were no statistically significant differences in the full sample (N = 1712); this could be related to the data-collection disruptions caused by the COVID pandemic. This study provides the first longitudinal follow-up evidence on the effects of CDAs on adolescent behavior problems. The findings show that universal asset building for adolescents reduces behavior problems. Policy implications are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Childhood and Youth Studies)

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15 pages, 678 KB

Open AccessArticle

Semiotic Fracturing of Rural Cultural Symbols in Short Video Ecosystems: A Critical Discourse Analysis of “Tǔ Wèi” Labeling and Cultural Subjectivity Construction

by Xinrong Qiu, Wenjun Qu, Tongyue Feng and Xiaoxia Zhu

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080494 - 13 Aug 2025

Viewed by 426

Abstract

This study interrogates the semiotic destabilization of rural cultural symbols in China’s burgeoning short video sphere, with particular focus on the discursive reconstruction of “tǔ wèi” labeling. This paper, through semantic tracing and content analysis, combined with empirical data from over 130,000 “tǔ [...] Read more.

This study interrogates the semiotic destabilization of rural cultural symbols in China’s burgeoning short video sphere, with particular focus on the discursive reconstruction of “tǔ wèi” labeling. This paper, through semantic tracing and content analysis, combined with empirical data from over 130,000 “tǔ wèi” videos on Douyin (Tik Tok), categorizes the “tǔ wèi” content into two major styles: the novelty-hunting and ugliness-seeking style and the rural original ecological style. It also compares the differences in popularity, quality, and value orientation between the two. The research finds that the semantic segmentation of the “tǔ wèi” label is rooted in clash of civilizations and the urban–rural dichotomy, as well as the promotion of the traffic logic and symbol abuse of short video platforms. This segmentation has exacerbated the stigmatization of Chinese farming culture and weakened cultural confidence. It is suggested that efforts should be made from three aspects: deep exploration of indigenous “tǔ” cultural resources, optimization of algorithm recommendation mechanisms, and reconstruction of discourse contexts, to promote the semantic return of the “tǔ wèi” label and consolidate cultural subjectivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digitally Connected: Youth, Digital Media and Social Inclusion)

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23 pages, 892 KB

Open AccessReview

Social Impacts of Shale Oil Extraction: A Multidisciplinary Review of Community and Institutional Change

by Hannah Z. Hendricks, Elizabeth Long-Meek, Haylie M. June, Ashley R. Kernan and Michael R. Cope

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080493 - 13 Aug 2025

Viewed by 421

Abstract

The global expansion of shale oil and gas extraction has generated widespread attention for its environmental, economic, and political implications. However, its social consequences remain less systematically assessed. This review synthesizes interdisciplinary research on how shale energy development affects communities, particularly in rural [...] Read more.

The global expansion of shale oil and gas extraction has generated widespread attention for its environmental, economic, and political implications. However, its social consequences remain less systematically assessed. This review synthesizes interdisciplinary research on how shale energy development affects communities, particularly in rural and resource-dependent regions. While extraction activities may generate economic opportunities and strengthen national energy security, they are also associated with population influx, pressure on infrastructure, housing shortages, public health risks, and increased political polarization. These impacts can alter social relationships, institutional trust, and access to essential services. By organizing and analyzing key themes in the social science literature, this review offers a structured overview of how shale energy development shapes local experiences and social systems. The goal of the present paper is to support researchers, policymakers, and community stakeholders in understanding the civic, communal, and public dimensions of energy transitions and in developing more equitable and sustainable policy responses. Full article

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6 pages, 152 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Special Issue: “Gender Equality in the Workplace: Theory and Practice for Decent Work and a Climate of Inclusion”

by Silvia Platania

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080492 - 12 Aug 2025

Viewed by 351

Abstract

This Special Issue arose from the desire to explore, through a multidisciplinary and international approach, the complex dynamics—often invisible but deeply entrenched—that continue to hinder the achievement of gender equality in the workplace [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender Equality in the Workplace: Theory and Practice for Decent Work and a Climate of Inclusion)

30 pages, 1944 KB

Open AccessArticle

Confiscated Assets as an Opportunity for Internship on Construction Sites Aimed at Professional Qualification and Social Integration of Vulnerable People

by Serena Giorgi, Andrea Parma, Chiara Bernardini, Oscar Eugenio Bellini, Giancarlo Paganin and Andrea Campioli

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080491 - 12 Aug 2025

Viewed by 497

Abstract

In Italy, the management of built assets confiscated from organized crime groups is particularly relevant. Returning these assets to the community is becoming increasingly important for Italian municipalities, thanks to the many social benefits that can be generated (e.g., new spaces to provide [...] Read more.

In Italy, the management of built assets confiscated from organized crime groups is particularly relevant. Returning these assets to the community is becoming increasingly important for Italian municipalities, thanks to the many social benefits that can be generated (e.g., new spaces to provide community services, a visible and tangible symbol of legality, etc.). The process of redeveloping confiscated buildings, due to procedural complexity and a lack of resources, is currently characterized, on one hand, by a limited number of projects actually implemented compared to the potential of the total number of buildings available and, on the other hand, by the lengthy duration of the redevelopment process (12 years on average), which significantly increases the time it takes for the asset to return social value to the community. The objective of this research was to study, develop, and describe a mechanism that (i) enables an increase in the number of redevelopment actions of confiscated assets, (ii) accelerates the attribution of social value to these assets over time and (iii) extends the social impact of the requalification interventions that provide an opportunity for the professional training of students and the professional qualification of vulnerable people. There are two main tasks of the research shown in this article: (i) to highlight the main critical issues and needs in the management of confiscated assets by Italian municipalities, through a survey conducted among key informants; (ii) to build and test an innovative ‘win–win model’ for the requalification process of confiscated buildings, aimed at overcoming obstacles and anticipating the delivery of social benefits to a large group of stakeholders, including vulnerable people, tested in a pilot project. This “win–win model” combines building requalification and training through the activation of a “construction site school”. All original contributions are derived from the research “Co-WIN”, funded by the “Polisocial Awards 2021”, which developed methods, strategies, and tools capable of reducing social imbalances, with an equity and sustainability perspective. The results illustrated the drivers and challenges for the renovation and reuse of confiscated built assets; the necessary changes in documents and procedures to activate and replicate the “Co-WIN model”; and a training program for the construction-site school based on the social categories involved. Finally, the discussion highlights the network and the mutual benefits for stakeholders, focusing on the social relevance and social impact achievable through applying the Co-WIN model to the requalification process of confiscated buildings. Full article

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15 pages, 324 KB

Open AccessArticle

Perceived Parental Emotional Availability, Emotion Regulation, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents

by Sofia Simão, Eva Diniz, Alessandra Babore and Tânia Brandão

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080490 - 12 Aug 2025

Viewed by 371

Abstract

This study examines differences in perceived parental emotional availability, emotion regulation (ER), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among adolescents, considering gender, age, and family structure. It also assesses contextual differences in ER (at home vs. at school) and investigates the mediating role [...] Read more.

This study examines differences in perceived parental emotional availability, emotion regulation (ER), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among adolescents, considering gender, age, and family structure. It also assesses contextual differences in ER (at home vs. at school) and investigates the mediating role of ER in the relationship between perceived parental emotional availability and HRQoL. The sample consisted of 202 Portuguese adolescents (M age = 13.44 years, SD = 1.01; 52.5% girls) who participated in this cross-sectional study. Self-report scales were used to assess perceived emotional availability, ER, and HRQoL, with data collected during classes using a paper-and-pencil procedure. The results showed that girls’ perceptions of mother and father emotional availability were smaller than perceptions reported by boys; girls reported lower HRQoL. Also, adolescents from divorced/separated families reported higher levels of expressive suppression at home and lower HRQoL. Both maternal and paternal perceived emotional availability were positively associated with better HRQoL in adolescents. Furthermore, expressive suppression (within the home context) and cognitive reappraisal (within the school context) partially explained these associations. These findings have important implications for both practice and research, highlighting the significance of perceived parental emotional availability and the role of ER in enhancing adolescents’ HRQoL. Full article

15 pages, 238 KB

Open AccessArticle

Accessible Educational Material for Higher Education Students with Disabilities: Knowledge and Skills of Teaching Staff

by Konstantinos Papadopoulos, Eleni Koustriava, Elena Chronopoulou, Rafael Molina-Carmona, Flavio Manganello, Lisander Isaraj, Christina Fountouki and José María Fernández Gil

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080489 - 11 Aug 2025

Viewed by 410

Abstract

Students with disabilities in higher education often encounter challenges that hinder their graduation rates and impede their fundamental right to quality education. One significant barrier is the lack of accessible educational materials, which restricts their ability to acquire knowledge. University faculty respond positively [...] Read more.

Students with disabilities in higher education often encounter challenges that hinder their graduation rates and impede their fundamental right to quality education. One significant barrier is the lack of accessible educational materials, which restricts their ability to acquire knowledge. University faculty respond positively to inclusive teaching practices, but they lack the relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. The study aimed to examine the knowledge of the higher education teaching staff regarding the types and forms of accessible educational materials, as well as their experience in using and developing such materials. Additionally, it explored their involvement in distance education programs and courses for students with disabilities and their related needs. Thirty-six members of the teaching staff, from Italy, Germany, Greece, and Spain, participated in interviews, and 131 members of the teaching staff in questionnaire-based research. The results showed that participants may present limited knowledge of accessible materials used by students with disabilities and appear to be even less experienced in developing and utilizing such materials. Teaching staff tend to be familiar only with the types of educational materials they regularly use in their teaching practice. Overall, the findings suggest that teacher training and upskilling initiatives remain the foundation of progress, but more massive approaches should be implemented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Belonging and Engagement of Students in Higher Education)

22 pages, 586 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cultural, Ideological and Structural Conditions Contributing to the Sustainability of Violence Against Women: The Case of Bulgaria

by Georgi Petrunov

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080488 - 8 Aug 2025

Viewed by 523

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the conditions that contribute to the sustainability of violence against women in Bulgaria, an EU member state with high rates of this phenomenon. The analysis is based on data obtained through qualitative and quantitative methods, including in-depth interviews [...] Read more.

This article aims to analyze the conditions that contribute to the sustainability of violence against women in Bulgaria, an EU member state with high rates of this phenomenon. The analysis is based on data obtained through qualitative and quantitative methods, including in-depth interviews and focus groups with experts from state institutions (the police, prosecutors, courts, and social services), politicians, journalists, and from non-governmental organizations working with victims, as well as a nationwide sample survey of the adult population of Bulgaria. The qualitative data were analyzed through thematic analysis. The article demonstrates that cultural, ideological, and structural conditions in Bulgarian society facilitate the sustainability of violence against women. These include patriarchal norms prevailing in the family, specific characteristics of the popular culture, the neoliberal ideology of extreme individualism, the withdrawal of the state from its obligations, and ineffective institutional response. These conclusions point to the need to enhance the state’s capacity to counteract the phenomenon as well as the need to address ingrained cultural norms of conduct. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Family Studies)

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22 pages, 686 KB

Open AccessArticle

Embedding Critical Thinking in Global Virtual Exchange—Teaching Sociology Across National Borders in Virtual Classrooms

by Heying Jenny Zhan and Jing Liu

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080487 - 8 Aug 2025

Viewed by 396

Abstract

Global virtual exchange is a mode of teaching that can reach classrooms beyond national borders and across disciplines. This paper utilizes students’ online conversations and learning projects as primary data to demonstrate experiential learning and critical thinking processes in a global virtual classroom [...] Read more.

Global virtual exchange is a mode of teaching that can reach classrooms beyond national borders and across disciplines. This paper utilizes students’ online conversations and learning projects as primary data to demonstrate experiential learning and critical thinking processes in a global virtual classroom between students in the U.S. and China. Findings reveal that guided weekly online conversations between American and Chinese students provided experiential learning about personal and familial experiences as well as deep insights into healthcare and pension policies affecting individuals and societies. Furthermore, collaborative learning projects on healthcare and pension systems among international students embedded critical thinking in the learning process. These learning projects are comparative and thought-provoking, offering students a chance to apply a critical and global lens to the understanding of social policies and services in different social and cultural contexts. The expansion of global virtual exchange may be a byproduct of COVID-19 distant learning; it may have opened new channels for breaking geographic boundaries of learning sociology in global and critical perspectives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global and Virtual Sociological Teaching—Challenges & Opportunities)

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14 pages, 229 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Silence, Secrecy, and Coded Language: Ethnographic Encounters with Cisgender Women and Trans Women Involved in Sex Work in Kolkata, India

by Sunny Sinha and Satarupa Dasgupta

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080486 - 7 Aug 2025

Viewed by 722

Abstract

Gender-neutral terms such as “sex work” and “sex worker” have gained prominence in academic, activist, and policy discourses. Unlike terms such as ‘prostitutes’ and ‘prostitution,’ these terms serve to reduce stigma and emphasize the labor involved in sex work. However, numerous studies suggest [...] Read more.

Gender-neutral terms such as “sex work” and “sex worker” have gained prominence in academic, activist, and policy discourses. Unlike terms such as ‘prostitutes’ and ‘prostitution,’ these terms serve to reduce stigma and emphasize the labor involved in sex work. However, numerous studies suggest that these terms carry different meanings across cultural contexts, and their impact is experienced differently by various sub-groups of sex workers. Although originally coined by American activist Carol Leigh to unify sex workers across genders and sectors, these terms are, in some settings—including Kolkata, India—met with silence, coded language, or secrecy, particularly among transient sex workers, including cisgender and transgender women. As researchers with two decades of ethnographic research with 46 cisgender and 37 transgender women engaged in sex work in Kolkata and Eastern India, the authors argue that such silence and non-verbal forms of communication should not be interpreted merely as ignorance or disengagement but rather as strategic/willful acts of agency or resistance. These practices enable sex workers situated in different contexts to navigate unequal power dynamics within NGOs, manage respectability, mitigate structural violence, and foster communal identity. By examining how diverse groups of sex workers employ silence and secrecy, this study contributes to a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of the complexities surrounding the former’s lives and their agency. The study results indicate that it is essential for scholars, advocates and activists to employ strengths-based, context-specific language and research practices to be able to hear the stories of subaltern groups like commercial sex workers. It is also suggested that training of service providers and helping professionals focus on accepting and honoring the language people use to identify themselves in varied spaces and contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gender Studies)

16 pages, 369 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Addressing Sleep Health in Refugee Populations: A Systematic Review of Intervention Effectiveness and Cultural Adaptation

by Jaclyn Kirsch, Christine E. Spadola, Kabir Parikh, Kristen Kerr and Hrayr Attarian

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080485 - 7 Aug 2025

Viewed by 441

Abstract

Refugees experience disproportionately high rates of sleep disturbances due to trauma, displacement, and resettlement stressors. Sleep health is critically linked to both physical and mental well-being, yet remains an underexplored area of intervention for refugee populations. This systematic review aimed to (1) identify [...] Read more.

Refugees experience disproportionately high rates of sleep disturbances due to trauma, displacement, and resettlement stressors. Sleep health is critically linked to both physical and mental well-being, yet remains an underexplored area of intervention for refugee populations. This systematic review aimed to (1) identify interventions implemented to improve sleep health among refugees, (2) assess their effectiveness, and (3) evaluate the extent of cultural adaptation in their design and implementation. A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed literature from 2004 to 2024 identified nine studies focused on adult refugees in high-income countries. Interventions included psychoeducation, music-assisted relaxation, guided imagery, and nightmare-focused therapies. Several demonstrated improvements in sleep quality, insomnia severity, and nightmare frequency. Music-based interventions and sleep health education stood out as accessible, non-stigmatizing strategies that may be particularly well suited to refugee contexts. However, cultural adaptation emerged as the most significant gap. Using the 4-Domain Cultural Adaptation Model (CAM4)—which assesses adaptation across context, content, delivery, and engagement—most studies showed only surface-level modifications. Few incorporated community voices, and none validated sleep assessment tools for cultural relevance. Future research should prioritize co-creation with refugee communities to ensure interventions are not only evidence-based, but also culturally grounded, trusted, and sustainable across diverse refugee populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section International Migration)

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18 pages, 310 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Voluntary Sector’s Contribution to Integrated Care: The Case of Cyprus

by Despina Cochliou and Olivia Patsalidou

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080484 - 6 Aug 2025

Viewed by 887

Abstract

At a time when globalisation and the economic crisis have forced a reduction in public expenditure at all levels, social policy and social welfare systems’ efforts for sustainable development are focused on identifying alternative ways to provide integrated services and achieve balanced social [...] Read more.

At a time when globalisation and the economic crisis have forced a reduction in public expenditure at all levels, social policy and social welfare systems’ efforts for sustainable development are focused on identifying alternative ways to provide integrated services and achieve balanced social development. Post-colonial Cyprus has experienced radical socio-political changes that have demanded rapid responses to address its needs. This paper aims to discuss the role of the Cypriot voluntary sector in the national integrated care. Within the spectrum of ensuring social rights and social justice, the voluntary sector has emerged as a key factor of social policy implementation. Through the exploration and analysis of this context, an in-depth insight is given into socio-political and economic factors, dimensions, relationships, processes, patterns, and critical junctures that, under the influence of history, have shaped the voluntary sector’s path, formed its major stages of transformation, and defined its relationship with structures and institutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Work and Social Policy: Advances in Theory and Practice)

24 pages, 338 KB

Open AccessArticle

State-by-State Review: The Spread of Law Enforcement Accountability Policies

by Hossein Zare, Danielle R. Gilmore, Khushbu Balsara, Celina Renee Pargas, Rebecca Valek, Andrea N. Ponce, Niloufar Masoudi, Michelle Spencer, Tatiana Y. Warren and Cassandra Crifasi

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080483 - 5 Aug 2025

Viewed by 757

Abstract

Purpose: Following George Floyd’s death, the push for law enforcement accountability policies has intensified. Despite robust legislative action, challenges in enacting and implementing meaningful reforms persist. This study analyzes police accountability policies (PAP) in the U.S. from 2020 to 2022, identifying barriers and [...] Read more.

Purpose: Following George Floyd’s death, the push for law enforcement accountability policies has intensified. Despite robust legislative action, challenges in enacting and implementing meaningful reforms persist. This study analyzes police accountability policies (PAP) in the U.S. from 2020 to 2022, identifying barriers and facilitators through expert perspectives in enforcement oversight, policy advocacy, and community engagement. Methods: The study used a dual approach: analyzing 226 police accountability bills from all 50 U.S. states, D.C., and Puerto Rico via the National Conference of State Legislatures database, and categorizing them into six key areas such as training, technology use, and certification. Additionally, a survey was conducted among experts to identify the challenges and drivers in passing police accountability legislation. Findings: A legislative analysis showed that although 35 states passed police accountability laws, California, New Jersey, Oklahoma, and Colorado have made significant strides by passing multiple pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing law enforcement accountability and ensuring better policing practices. The most common policies focused on training and technology, enacted by 16 and 12 states, respectively. However, crucial certification and decertification policies were adopted in just 13 states, highlighting the inconsistent implementation of measures critical for police accountability and transparency. The survey identified several barriers to passing PAP, including inadequate support from local governments (72.7%). Structural exclusion of poor and minority communities from policing resources was also a significant barrier (54.5%). Facilitators included community support (81.8%) and a cultural shift in policing towards viewing officers as “guardians” rather than “warriors” (63.6%). Conclusions: While some progress has been made in passing PAP, considerable gaps remain, particularly in enforcement and comprehensive reform. Resistance from law enforcement institutions, lack of community support, and structural inequalities continue to impede the adoption of effective PAP. Full article

22 pages, 338 KB

Open AccessArticle

Configuration of Subjectivities and the Application of Neoliberal Economic Policies in Medellin, Colombia

by Juan David Villa-Gómez, Juan F. Mejia-Giraldo, Mariana Gutiérrez-Peña and Alexandra Novozhenina

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080482 - 5 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1191

Abstract

(1) Background: This article aims to understand the forms and elements through which the inhabitants of the city of Medellin have configured their subjectivity in the context of the application of neoliberal policies in the last two decades. In this way, we can [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This article aims to understand the forms and elements through which the inhabitants of the city of Medellin have configured their subjectivity in the context of the application of neoliberal policies in the last two decades. In this way, we can approach the frameworks of understanding that constitute a fundamental part of the individuation processes in which the incorporation of their subjectivities is evidenced in neoliberal contexts that, in the historical process, have been converging with authoritarian, antidemocratic and neoconservative elements. (2) Method: A qualitative approach with a hermeneutic-interpretative paradigm was used. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 41 inhabitants of Medellín who were politically identified with right-wing or center-right positions. Data analysis included thematic coding to identify patterns of thought and points of view. (3) Results: Participants associate success with individual effort and see state intervention as an obstacle to development. They reject redistributive policies, arguing that they generate dependency. In addition, they justify authoritarian models of government in the name of security and progress, from a moral superiority, which is related to a negative and stigmatizing perception of progressive sectors and a negative view of the social rule of law and public policies with social sense. (4) Conclusions: The naturalization of merit as a guiding principle, the perception of themselves as morally superior based on religious values that grant a subjective place of certainty and goodness; the criminalization of expressions of political leftism, mobilizations and redistributive reforms and support for policies that establish authoritarianism and perpetuate exclusion and structural inequalities, closes roads to a participatory democracy that enables social and economic transformations. Full article

22 pages, 1410 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Positive Psychology Interventions in Workplace Settings

by Kevin Martínez-Martínez, Valeria Cruz-Ortiz, Susana Llorens, Marisa Salanova and Marcelo Leiva-Bianchi

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080481 - 4 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1421

Abstract

Job stress and burnout are major challenges in today’s workplaces. While most interventions adopt a clinical or deficit-based approach, this meta-analysis takes a positive perspective by examining the effectiveness of Positive Psychological Interventions (PPIs). A total of 24 studies conducted in workplace settings [...] Read more.

Job stress and burnout are major challenges in today’s workplaces. While most interventions adopt a clinical or deficit-based approach, this meta-analysis takes a positive perspective by examining the effectiveness of Positive Psychological Interventions (PPIs). A total of 24 studies conducted in workplace settings were analyzed to assess the impact of PPIs on psychological well-being, subjective well-being, and job performance. The results showed significant and sustained improvements across all three outcomes, with moderate effect sizes: subjective well-being (g = 0.50, 95% CI [0.18, 0.81]), psychological well-being (g = 0.46, 95% CI [0.15, 0.78]), and performance (g = 0.42, 95% CI [0.21, 0.62]). Higher effects were found for in-person interventions and those conducted in Western contexts. No significant moderation was observed for structural factors (e.g., implementation level: Individual, Group, Leader, or Organization [IGLO]) or sample characteristics (e.g., gender), among other variables examined. These findings highlight the relevance of PPIs for promoting well-being and sustaining performance, which may reflect the preservation of personal resources in the face of occupational stressors. Regardless of type, well-designed interventions may be key to fostering healthier workplace environments—especially when delivered face-to-face. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Job Stress and Burnout: Emerging Issues in Today’s Workplace)

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16 pages, 448 KB

Open AccessEssay

The Application of a Social Identity Approach to Measure and Mechanise the Goals, Practices, and Outcomes of Social Sustainability

by Sarah Vivienne Bentley

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080480 - 4 Aug 2025

Viewed by 621

Abstract

Today, ‘social sustainability’ is a key feature of many organisations’ environmental, social, and governance strategies, as well as underpinning sustainable development goals. The term refers to the implementation of targets such as reduced societal inequalities, the promotion of social well-being, and the practice [...] Read more.

Today, ‘social sustainability’ is a key feature of many organisations’ environmental, social, and governance strategies, as well as underpinning sustainable development goals. The term refers to the implementation of targets such as reduced societal inequalities, the promotion of social well-being, and the practice of positive community relations. Building a meaningful, accountable, and quantifiable evidence-base from which to translate these high-level concepts into tangible and achievable goals is, however, challenging. The complexities of measuring social capital—often described as a building block of social sustainability—have been documented. The challenge lies in measuring the person, group, or collective in interaction with the context under investigation, whether that be a climate goal, an institution, or a national policy. Social identity theory is a social psychological approach that articulates the processes through which an individual internalises the values, norms, and behaviours of their contexts. Levels of social identification—a concept capturing the state of internalisation—have been shown to be predictive of outcomes as diverse as communication and cognition, trust and citizenship, leadership and compliance, and health and well-being. Applying this perspective to the articulation and measurement of social sustainability provides an opportunity to build an empirical approach with which to reliably translate this high-level concept into achievable outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Policy and Welfare)

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18 pages, 871 KB

Open AccessArticle

Social Innovation and Social Care: Local Solutions to Global Challenges

by Javier Castro-Spila, David Alonso González, Juan Brea-Iglesias and Xanti Moriones García

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080479 - 31 Jul 2025

Viewed by 570

Abstract

This paper presents a case study of the Local Care Ecosystems developed by the provincial government of Gipuzkoa (Basque Country, Spain) to strengthen coordination between social services, health services, and community-based initiatives at the municipal level. The initiative seeks to personalize care, enhance [...] Read more.

This paper presents a case study of the Local Care Ecosystems developed by the provincial government of Gipuzkoa (Basque Country, Spain) to strengthen coordination between social services, health services, and community-based initiatives at the municipal level. The initiative seeks to personalize care, enhance service integration, and support community-based care with the overarching goal of improving the quality of life for older adults living at home. These ecosystems incorporate social, institutional, and technological innovations aimed at supporting individuals who are frail or vulnerable throughout the care cycle. At present, 18 Local Care Ecosystems are active, providing services to 1202 people over the age of 65 and 167 families. The model addresses a growing global challenge linked to population aging, which has led to increasing demand for care and support services that are often fragmented, under-resourced, and constrained by outdated regulatory frameworks. These structural issues can compromise both the quality and efficiency of care for dependent individuals. Based on the findings, the paper offers policy recommendations to support the transfer and adaptation of this model, with the aim of improving the well-being of older adults who wish to remain in their own homes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Innovation: Local Solutions to Global Challenges)

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27 pages, 973 KB

Open AccessArticle

New Risks in Hybrid Work and Teleworking Contexts—Insights from a Study in Portugal

by António R. Almeida, Glória Rebelo and João P. Pedra

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080478 - 31 Jul 2025

Viewed by 711

Abstract

With the development of information and communication technologies, analysing new risks of moral harassment at work is becoming increasingly pertinent, especially with the expansion of teleworking and hybrid working (a mix of remote and face-to-face work per week) in the wake of the [...] Read more.

With the development of information and communication technologies, analysing new risks of moral harassment at work is becoming increasingly pertinent, especially with the expansion of teleworking and hybrid working (a mix of remote and face-to-face work per week) in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. In an attempt to respond to the new issues of labour regulation, this study places special emphasis on new risks of moral harassment in hybrid work and teleworking contexts, considering both the international and European framework and the legal regime in Portugal, identifying its specificities. With the rise in teleworking in the post-pandemic period, the online monitoring of workers has accentuated the difficulty in drawing the line between managerial power and harassment. Moral harassment at work is a persistent challenge and organisations must recognise, prevent and respond to inappropriate behaviour in the organisation. The results of this study—based on the results of an online survey completed by employees (with employment contracts)—show that teleworking employees recognise that they have been pressured, above all, both to respond to messages quickly and pressure to work beyond hours and suggest possible gender differences in the way harassment in hybrid work and teleworking contexts is reported. Full article

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19 pages, 408 KB

Open AccessArticle

Gender Leadership Imbalance in Academia: An Etiological Approach

by Maria Krambia Kapardis, Petroula Mavrikiou and Loizos Symeou

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080477 - 31 Jul 2025

Viewed by 480

Abstract

Whilst there has been an increasing trend of women holding academic positions in European Higher Tertiary Institutions (HTIs), leadership positions are held predominantly by men. The study draws on radical feminism theory with which its methodology is aligned by investigating the perceptions of [...] Read more.

Whilst there has been an increasing trend of women holding academic positions in European Higher Tertiary Institutions (HTIs), leadership positions are held predominantly by men. The study draws on radical feminism theory with which its methodology is aligned by investigating the perceptions of both genders. To that end, the study categorizes the impediments holding women back from breaking the glass ceiling into endogenous and exogenous factors. By doing so, the authors are in a better position to recommend the implementation of policies and procedures to address this inequality and navigate towards achieving sustainable gender equality. The research was conducted using an online survey questionnaire administered among all academic and administrative staff of universities in the Republic of Cyprus, the country with the highest glass ceiling in the EU. The authors found that the binary genders differ in their perceptions of what keeps women from breaking the glass ceiling and that this is attributable to exogenous factors, namely, (a) the walls created by male leaders, reinforcing a feeling of marginalization and mansplaining; and (b) family obligations enhancing women’s experiencing a lack of time and burnout. Furthermore, the exogenous factors and the extremely gendered higher echelons of HTIs underpin the endogenous factor of self-sabotage, making women feel they would rather avoid the toxic leadership environment with its lack of professional credit, a view supported by radical feminism theory. The authors suggest practical policy implications to rectify the gender imbalance in leadership in HTIs and suggest directions for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender Equality in the Workplace: Theory and Practice for Decent Work and a Climate of Inclusion)

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13 pages, 248 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fake News: Offensive or Defensive Weapon in Information Warfare

by Iuliu Moldovan, Norbert Dezso, Daniela Edith Ceană and Toader Septimiu Voidăzan

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(8), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14080476 - 30 Jul 2025

Viewed by 577

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Rumors, disinformation, and fake news are problems of contemporary society. We live in a world where the truth no longer holds much importance, and the line that divides the truth from lies, between real news and disinformation, becomes increasingly blurred [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Rumors, disinformation, and fake news are problems of contemporary society. We live in a world where the truth no longer holds much importance, and the line that divides the truth from lies, between real news and disinformation, becomes increasingly blurred and difficult to identify. The purpose of this study is to describe this concept, to draw attention to one of the “pandemics” of the 21st-century world, and to find methods by which we can defend ourselves against them. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted based on a sample of 442 respondents. Results. For 77.8% of the people surveyed, the concept of “fake news” is important in Romania. Regarding trust in the mass media, a clear dominance (72.4%) was observed among participants who have little trust in the mass media. Although 98.2% of participants detect false information found on the internet, 78.5% are occasionally deceived by the information provided. Of the participants, 47.3% acknowledged their vulnerability to disinformation. The main source of disinformation is the internet, as 59% of the interviewed subjects believed. As the best measure against disinformation, the study group was divided almost equally according to the three possible answers, all of which were considered to be equally important: imposing legal restrictions and blocking the posting of certain news (35.4%), imposing stricter measures for authors (33.9%), and increasing vigilance among people (30.5%). Conclusions. According to the statistics based on the participants’ responses, the main purposes of disinformation are propaganda, manipulation, distracting attention from the truth, making money, and misleading the population. It can be observed that the main intention of disinformation, in the perception of the study participants, is manipulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Disinformation and Misinformation in the New Media Landscape)

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Soc. Sci., Volume 14, Issue 8 (August 2025) – 59 articles

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