Societies

20 pages, 1516 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Socioeconomic Status as a Predictor of the Academic Achievement of Engineering Students in Taiz State, Yemen

by Atef M. Ghaleb, Mokhtar Ali Amrani, Raad Abdo M. Al Selwi, Hanaa A. Hebah, Mogeeb A. Saeed and Sobhi Mejjaouli

Societies 2024, 14(12), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120246 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

Serious concerns have been raised over the consistent academic underperformance of Yemeni students at almost all levels of university studies. This paper investigates the impact of various socioeconomic factors on the academic performance of engineering students in Taiz State, Yemen, an impoverished and [...] Read more.

Serious concerns have been raised over the consistent academic underperformance of Yemeni students at almost all levels of university studies. This paper investigates the impact of various socioeconomic factors on the academic performance of engineering students in Taiz State, Yemen, an impoverished and unstable society. Our quantitative methodology employed a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire and targeted 596 female/male students from three engineering colleges in Taiz State. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and simple and multiple regression models to examine the impact of socioeconomic variables on academic achievement while moderating financial condition and gender. This study measured academic achievement through GPAs, student attendance, and English level. Many socioeconomic influences have been examined against academic performance, such as gender, family income, family stability, family openness, marital status, co-education, part-time jobs, and stimulant use. The results accurately specified that students’ gender considerably impacts the studied variables; moreover, low-income features of families negatively affect students’ academic performance. The outcome of this study indicated that socioeconomic variables matched well with GPA, attendance rate, and English level, but with higher matching to the attendance rate. This study highlights that university students in impoverished and unstable societies, like Yemen, are significantly affected by socioeconomic factors. It recommends coordinated efforts among government authorities, educational institutions, and community leaders to mitigate the negative impact on academic achievement and implement appropriate technologies to enhance performance. Additionally, conducting similar studies in other disciplines and communities within the country is recommended for a deeper understanding of this issue. Full article

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24 pages, 361 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Populism as a Conceptual Problem: Disciplinary Differentiation, Specialization, and the Complex Approach

by Ernesto Dominguez Lopez, Valerian Thielicke-Witt and Nitin Arya

Societies 2024, 14(12), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120245 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

Populism is a global phenomenon that has been widely debated in academia (particularly in political science), the media, and politics for decades. This has led to many different definitions which exclude or include different forms, and focus on different aspects. This article discusses [...] Read more.

Populism is a global phenomenon that has been widely debated in academia (particularly in political science), the media, and politics for decades. This has led to many different definitions which exclude or include different forms, and focus on different aspects. This article discusses and systematizes these different approaches and explains them based on their core logics and empirical support. Their differences are rooted in their disciplinary differentiation and specialization. This process is absolutely necessary to conduct research in modern and complex societies, but it can make grasping complex problems difficult. Especially, if the ontological and epistemological assumptions are not properly supported and classified, this will lead to a cacophony of definitions. To overcome this problem, a new epistemological approach is needed, one that is capable of integrating the different empirically supported perspectives. The paper will point out that embracing the complexity of society is fruitful and necessary as it allows for a new understanding of the phenomenon by integrating the current research into one common framework, based on the concept of cultural complexus. In this approach, populism is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon—thus, the complex approach—with multiple variants that has a set of necessary and sufficient dimensions that identify it and that can be observed empirically. Full article

18 pages, 2109 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Participatory Processes in Public Policy-Making: A Scoping Review

by Teddy Moysan and Francisco Ródenas-Rigla

Societies 2024, 14(12), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14120244 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

The topic of participatory processes in public policy-making is becoming increasingly common, yet their quality remains disputed. There is as yet no reproducible quantitative assessment method that can be generalized to all such processes. This article proposes a scoping review, guided by the [...] Read more.

The topic of participatory processes in public policy-making is becoming increasingly common, yet their quality remains disputed. There is as yet no reproducible quantitative assessment method that can be generalized to all such processes. This article proposes a scoping review, guided by the PRISMA research protocol, to identify key concepts linked with the democratic quality of participatory processes. The key concepts which appear are accountability, comprehensiveness, influence, results, deliberation, inclusiveness, representativeness, transparency and context. We conclude that this scoping review provides a rigorous basis upon which a generalizable quantitative evaluation framework can be developed. Full article

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20 pages, 298 KiB

Open AccessReview

Career Choices Among Individuals with Disabilities in the Gulf Region: Cultural, Religious, Policy, and Socio-Economic Influences: A Literature Review

by Maha Al-Hendawi, Esraa Hussein and Fathia Ismail

Societies 2024, 14(11), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110243 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study explores the multifaceted factors influencing career decisions among individuals with disabilities (IWDs) in the Gulf region, emphasizing the interplay between health and cultural/religious contexts. To examine these complex influences, this review adopts Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory as a guiding framework. This [...] Read more.

This study explores the multifaceted factors influencing career decisions among individuals with disabilities (IWDs) in the Gulf region, emphasizing the interplay between health and cultural/religious contexts. To examine these complex influences, this review adopts Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory as a guiding framework. This theoretical lens facilitates an in-depth analysis of how personal attributes, religious and cultural beliefs, disability-specific challenges, systemic and environmental barriers, gender-related issues, social networks, transition and teachers’ attitudes, work environment, and government policies interact across multiple levels to shape career choices for IWDs in the Gulf region. Cultural and religious beliefs critically shape both the perceptions and opportunities available to IWDs, reflecting the broader macrosystem influences. By applying this multi-layered approach, this review highlights the need to integrate religious and spiritual considerations into support frameworks to enhance the mental and physical well-being of IWDs as they navigate their career paths. The findings suggest actionable implications for policymakers and practitioners dedicated to improving inclusion and equity in the workforce for individuals with disabilities. Full article

20 pages, 323 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gender-Based Violence and 2SLGBTQI+ Groups

by Cara A. Davidson, Tara Mantler and Kimberley T. Jackson

Societies 2024, 14(11), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110242 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive public health issue that affects all Canadians, including Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Inuit, Métis); however, it is well-understood that GBV disproportionately affects certain social groups. An estimated one million Canadians aged 15 and older identify with a [...] Read more.

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive public health issue that affects all Canadians, including Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Inuit, Métis); however, it is well-understood that GBV disproportionately affects certain social groups. An estimated one million Canadians aged 15 and older identify with a sexual orientation other than heterosexual, and approximately 1 in 300 people identify as transgender or non-binary. In Canada, violence rooted in biphobia, homophobia, transphobia, and queerphobia results in disproportionately high levels of GBV experienced by Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (or questioning), intersex, and other individuals who identify outside of cisgender, heterosexual norms (2SLGBTQI+ people). The health impacts of GBV experienced by people who identify outside of gender and sexuality norms are profound, spanning mental and physical dimensions across the life course. This article employs an anti-oppression queer framework to provide a comprehensive overview of current knowledge and understandings of GBV in Canada concerning 2SLGBTQI+ people, emphasizing (1) the disproportionate risk of GBV faced by 2SLGBTQI+ communities within the context of Canadian social politics; (2) key links between the experiences of GBV among 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada and associated health disparities; (3) current orientations to GBV policy, practice, and research, with an emphasis on contemporary, inclusive paradigms that shape equity-oriented health and social services; and (4) future directions aimed at eradicating GBV and addressing health inequities among 2SLGBTQI+ people in Canada. While much work remains to be done, the expansion of 2SLGBTQI+ inclusion in GBV prevention within the past five years points to a promising future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Social Politics of Gender-Based Violence: A Critical Canadian Health Perspective, 2024)

17 pages, 1267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Inclination Towards Innovation”: Deconstructing Neoliberal Educational Discourses from a School Context

by Diego Luna, Jesús Romero Morante, José Antonio Pineda-Alfonso and Coral I. Hunt-Gómez

Societies 2024, 14(11), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110241 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Educational innovation is a key concept for policymakers, school leaders, and families, but its conflicting aspects make it hard to define clearly. This study explores how pro-innovation narratives are created within Spanish educational policies and how these narratives are received in schools. Using [...] Read more.

Educational innovation is a key concept for policymakers, school leaders, and families, but its conflicting aspects make it hard to define clearly. This study explores how pro-innovation narratives are created within Spanish educational policies and how these narratives are received in schools. Using principles of critical discourse analysis, we examined a corpus of ten texts from three different discursive fields with a tailored analytical approach. This paper focuses specifically on findings related to regulations and the private school involved in the study. The results reveal a strong connection between Spanish educational laws and the political environment in which they were developed. Additionally, the study identifies new, economically-driven definitions for key concepts like education, quality, and innovation. A major conclusion is that today’s “innovative” schools align with the principles of educational neoliberalism. In this context, the concept of innovation reflects lawmakers’ goals, which school leaders endorse. At the school level, administrators adopt a self-promotional discourse that often appears contradictory and propagandist. Full article

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23 pages, 1320 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Socio-Cultural Aspects of Diabetic Foot: An Ethnographic Study and an Integrated Model Proposal

by Davide Costa, Giuseppe Gallelli, Enrica Scalise, Nicola Ielapi, Umberto Marcello Bracale and Raffaele Serra

Societies 2024, 14(11), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110240 - 18 Nov 2024

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an ongoing and growing health problem worldwide, with a series of important complications such as diabetic foot that can significatively reduce the quality of life of affected patients. This study aims to explore the socio-cultural aspects of patients [...] Read more.

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an ongoing and growing health problem worldwide, with a series of important complications such as diabetic foot that can significatively reduce the quality of life of affected patients. This study aims to explore the socio-cultural aspects of patients with diabetic foot, analyzing the following research question: “What are the socio-cultural aspects experienced by patients with diabetic foot?” Methods: A qualitative design using an ethnographic approach was applied to study the social and cultural aspects of Italian diabetic foot patients. Results: We included 20 key informants: 13 men and 7 women. Ages ranged from 54 to 71, with an average age of 61.2. The data analysis revealed five main themes: perceptions of diabetic foot, living with diabetic foot, impacts of culture and economic performance, barriers to health and diabetic foot, and home remedies and alternative medicine. Conclusions: This study provides a new perspective on the influence of cultural factors on the health of diabetic foot patients, showing various factors related to a lack of knowledge and training, fear, and acceptance of diabetic foot. This study also presents a new integrated model which will allow patients and practitioners to act on the various critical issues that emerged from our research. Full article

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24 pages, 817 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards a “Social Justice Ecosystem Framework” for Enhancing Livelihoods and Sustainability in Pastoralist Communities

by Charles Fonchingong Che and Henry Ngenyam Bang

Societies 2024, 14(11), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110239 - 18 Nov 2024

Abstract

Aimed at understanding how pastoralist livelihoods are affected within the Northwest Region of Cameroon, this article explores the nexus of social justice, indigenous know-how, livelihoods, social security, and sustainability through a political ecology lens. Through a qualitative case study based on in-depth interviews [...] Read more.

Aimed at understanding how pastoralist livelihoods are affected within the Northwest Region of Cameroon, this article explores the nexus of social justice, indigenous know-how, livelihoods, social security, and sustainability through a political ecology lens. Through a qualitative case study based on in-depth interviews with 59 key informants, this study departs from existing literature by exploring the linkages that exacerbate risks and vulnerabilities for pastoralist livelihoods. We situate the contending issues through emerging data and analysis, which highlight indigenous elements that sustain pastoralist livelihoods (coping strategies and sustenance) and identify diversified barriers that impede pastoralists’ sense of social justice and community-mindedness. Other intersecting pointers identified relate to environmental interactions, social security, sustainability, and decision-making within local and national governance mechanisms that either enhance or impede sustainable development. We proposed a social justice ecosystem framework (SJEF) that uncovers the enmeshments of social justice, social security, indigenous know-how, and livelihoods, with implications for sustainable development. The framework makes a compelling case for co-produced policies; implementing symbiotic social justice-based policies is mandatory, encapsulating thriving aspects of pastoralists’ unique traditions, which are often missed by governments and agencies in social community development planning and sustainable development initiatives. Full article

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18 pages, 548 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can We Measure Social Justice? Development and Initial Validation of a Tool Measuring Social Justice Through Values

by Marina Alexandra Tudoran, Laurențiu Gabriel Țîru and Alexandru Neagoe

Societies 2024, 14(11), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110238 - 15 Nov 2024

Abstract

The Social Justice Values (SJV) scale, as presented in this work, was developed to assess individuals’ attitudes and behaviors towards the values of social justice. Exploratory factor analysis and reliability analysis were employed to ascertain the validity and reliability of the SJV instrument. [...] Read more.

The Social Justice Values (SJV) scale, as presented in this work, was developed to assess individuals’ attitudes and behaviors towards the values of social justice. Exploratory factor analysis and reliability analysis were employed to ascertain the validity and reliability of the SJV instrument. The investigations revealed that the scale consists of 17 items across three factors, namely, instrumental values of social justice, social terminal values of social justice, and personal terminal values of social justice. The Cronbach alpha coefficient for the entire scale was 0.893. The nomological validity of the proposed scale was assessed by testing its association with two relevant scales: Distributive Justice and Multidimensional Belief in A Just World. Although the investigations indicated that this scale is a reliable instrument for assessing social justice through values among university students, further studies are required to confirm its validity with other samples. Full article

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12 pages, 209 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Canadian Strategy Against Gender-Based Violence and Gaps

by Lanyan Chen, Jennifer McCarthy and Miao Chen

Societies 2024, 14(11), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110237 - 13 Nov 2024

Abstract

Promoting the Essential Services Package (ESP) for Women and Girls Subject to Violence has led to an emphasis on legislative commitments to a survivor-centred strategy. Such legislation includes provisions for fiscal planning, standards of services, and official programs to support networks of community-based [...] Read more.

Promoting the Essential Services Package (ESP) for Women and Girls Subject to Violence has led to an emphasis on legislative commitments to a survivor-centred strategy. Such legislation includes provisions for fiscal planning, standards of services, and official programs to support networks of community-based interventions to build capacity, share information, and co-generate knowledge across regions. This study identifies gaps in the Canadian strategy against gender-based violence in the operation of mechanisms for coordinating multi-sectoral trauma-informed “wrap-around” services that prioritize survivors in their distinct and diverse contexts and communities. It also recommends ways to transform the Canadian strategy in a global context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Social Politics of Gender-Based Violence: A Critical Canadian Health Perspective, 2024)

18 pages, 706 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Inherent Shield: Learning-Based Stress Symptoms Among People Diagnosed with Specific Learning Disability and Its Relationship with Dispositional Mindfulness

by Nimrod Polak and Ephraim S. Grossman

Societies 2024, 14(11), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110236 - 12 Nov 2024

Abstract

Background: Past research suggests that individuals with learning disabilities experience higher levels of emotional difficulties. Objective: The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationships between specific learning disabilities (SLDs) and learning-based stress symptoms (LBSSs). Further, this study examines whether dispositional [...] Read more.

Background: Past research suggests that individuals with learning disabilities experience higher levels of emotional difficulties. Objective: The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationships between specific learning disabilities (SLDs) and learning-based stress symptoms (LBSSs). Further, this study examines whether dispositional mindfulness (DM) can be used as a moderating factor for these symptoms resulting from the same stressful learning experience. Methods: The sample consisted of 133 participants (73 male) aged 23–44 years (M = 34.41; SD = 9.69). In this sample, 56 reported that they have been officially diagnosed with a SLD. Participants completed an online survey comprising a demographics questionnaire, self-report SLD questionnaire, school learning-based stress symptoms, and five-facet mindfulness questionnaire (FFMQ-24). Results: Results revealed that participants with an SLD had higher levels of LBSSs compared to the general population. Furthermore, findings revealed that DM significantly predicts LBSS levels. Conclusions: The present study provides further evidence on the impact of learning experiences on stress symptoms among individuals with SLDs, and this phenomenon we have termed as “learning-based stress symptoms”. Additionally, our findings introduce novel evidence that DM may influence the relationship between LBSSs and SLDs, suggesting that a high level of DM can serve as a protective factor against these learning-based stress symptoms. Full article

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33 pages, 1944 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring the Unmeasurable: Decomposing Multidimensional Rural Poverty and Promoting Economic Development in the Poorest Region of Luzon, Philippines

by Emmanuel Azcarraga Onsay and Jomar Fajardo Rabajante

Societies 2024, 14(11), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110235 - 12 Nov 2024

Abstract

Poverty is the oldest social problem that ever existed and is difficult to reverse. It is multidimensional and unmeasurable. Thus, measuring by decomposing rural multidimensional poverty is critical. Most poverty studies are usually generic, exposed to large sampling errors, and intended for macroeconomic [...] Read more.

Poverty is the oldest social problem that ever existed and is difficult to reverse. It is multidimensional and unmeasurable. Thus, measuring by decomposing rural multidimensional poverty is critical. Most poverty studies are usually generic, exposed to large sampling errors, and intended for macroeconomic decisions. Thus, measuring poverty for a specific locality with various configurations (15) is critical for economic development. The paper combines predictive analytics and advanced econometrics to decompose poverty at the micro-level by utilizing the Community-Based Monitoring system at complete enumeration (L = 34, S = 4). Logistic Regression (78) Models with 19 Independent Variables and 12 Intervening Variables were fitted. Headcount Analysis (0.2138–0.9845), Poverty Gap (0.2228–0.0502), Severity statistics (0.0723–0.0168) and Watts Index (0.2724–0.0618) are scrutinized. Poverty levels vary by location; a significant fraction of the population (P_0i = 68.50%, P_0f = 55.80%) and households (P_0i = 63.70%, P_0f = 50.70%) live below the poverty line and food threshold. It has been revealed that poverty is extreme in Isarog (i = 0.7793), moderate in Poblacion (p = 0.4019), intense in Ranggas (r = 0.6542), and severe in Salog (s = 0.6353). Multidimensional variables (13VAR) significantly predict poverty outcomes (p-value = 0.0000, PseudoR2 = 0.75). Moreover, intervening variables have been impacting poverty across all locals. All models tested are significant across all sectors and correctly predicted by the model classifications (Estat = 73.29–74.12%). Poverty is multifaceted; thus, it requires different interventions. Finally, policy proposals (54) were outlined to alleviate poverty and promote local economic development. Full article

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19 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empowerment and Sustainability: Investigating Barriers to Women’s Transition from Higher Education to Empowerment in Brazil

by Muhammad Qasim Rana, Angela Lee, José Fernando Rodrigues Bezerra and Guilherme Hissa Villas Boas

Societies 2024, 14(11), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110234 - 12 Nov 2024

Abstract

Gender equality continues to be a global issue, with significant disparities in attention and action between developed and developing nations. Women, in particular, face unique challenges when transitioning from higher education (HE) to empowerment compared to their male counterparts. In many developing countries, [...] Read more.

Gender equality continues to be a global issue, with significant disparities in attention and action between developed and developing nations. Women, in particular, face unique challenges when transitioning from higher education (HE) to empowerment compared to their male counterparts. In many developing countries, barriers to accessing formal education are prevalent, while, in others, despite access to education, women struggle to leverage their learning for societal advancement. This paper adopts the development theory approach by exploring the role of gender equality in fostering sustainable development, emphasizing how women’s empowerment is integral to overall societal progress. This study focuses on Brazil, where, despite high levels of female educational attainment, women still encounter substantial obstacles in transforming their education into meaningful societal empowerment. These challenges include restricted freedom and mobility, deeply ingrained gender norms, violence and harassment, cultural and societal expectations, economic limitations, and family obligations. Survey data were collated from 192 students, alumni, and staff at three academic higher education (HE) institutions in Brazil, utilizing a range of descriptive and inferential statistical analyses to uncover the most significant barriers. This study concludes with policy recommendations aimed at various stakeholders, including government bodies, employers, and other organizations, to support a smoother transition for women from higher education to empowerment. These recommendations include improving workplace policies, enhancing legal protections, and promoting gender equality in leadership roles, all of which are essential to narrowing the gender gap in Brazil. Full article

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

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13 pages, 248 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceived Parents’ Stigma and Personal Stigma Toward COVID-19 Survivors: A Study Among Emerging Adults in India

by Shanu Shukla, Sushanta Kumar Mishra and Ranu Pandey

Societies 2024, 14(11), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110233 - 11 Nov 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic introduced widespread stigma toward individuals who contracted the virus, impacting social interactions and perceptions within communities. This study aimed to understand personal and perceived parental stigma toward COVID-19 survivors among Indian college students, examining how this stigma varies based on [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic introduced widespread stigma toward individuals who contracted the virus, impacting social interactions and perceptions within communities. This study aimed to understand personal and perceived parental stigma toward COVID-19 survivors among Indian college students, examining how this stigma varies based on the relationship closeness to the survivor (peer vs. best friend) and whether gender differences influence personal stigma levels. A sample of 650 Indian college students (mean age = 20.01 years, SD = 1.43; 501 males) participated in the study. We assessed both personal stigma and perceived parental stigma toward COVID-19 survivors, with additional comparisons made based on the survivor’s relationship to the student (peer vs. best friend) and participant gender. Findings indicated that personal and perceived parental stigma were significantly higher toward peers than toward best friends who had recovered from COVID-19. Additionally, among perceived parental stigmas, stigma attributed to mothers was highest, followed by that attributed to fathers, with participants’ personal stigma being lowest. Notably, no significant gender differences were found in personal stigma among participants. The results highlight nuanced perceptions of stigma toward COVID-19 survivors, with stigma levels varying by relational closeness and perceived parental attitudes, particularly mothers. These findings underscore the importance of targeting stigma reduction efforts, considering family influence and relational factors. Policymakers and mental health professionals could develop age-specific interventions to mitigate stigma toward COVID-19 survivors, potentially enhancing social support systems within college communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Cultural Differences and Migrant Mental Health in the Age of COVID-19)

19 pages, 3374 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Trends of Thought in Response to Post-Pandemic Work Precariousness Among Second-Generation Romanian Citizens in Spain

by Silvia Marcu

Societies 2024, 14(11), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110232 - 11 Nov 2024

Abstract

Drawing on 65 in-depth interviews with young Romanians between 22 and 33 years old, the contribution of this article is to offer an innovative analysis of the work experiences of second-generation young people who, having studied and completed their degrees in Spain during [...] Read more.

Drawing on 65 in-depth interviews with young Romanians between 22 and 33 years old, the contribution of this article is to offer an innovative analysis of the work experiences of second-generation young people who, having studied and completed their degrees in Spain during the pandemic, are developing their skills and creativity in a difficult labour market. I argue that unlike their parents’ generation, who in many cases have returned home or practice mobility, this generation wishes to remain in Spain. Consequently, the (im)mobility experienced by second-generation young people has become a fundamental post-pandemic trend. Three interlinked profiles were identified: (1) young graduates doing work for which they are overqualified, who want to find better jobs; (2) young people who have completed master’s or doctoral degrees and now have their own business, are applying for research funding or are unemployed; and (3) unemployed graduates who are making a living from self-employment or aspire to have their own business. The conclusions highlight new trends of thought among young Romanians educated and trained during the pandemic in terms of how to overcome work precariousness and live in Spain. Full article

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17 pages, 265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Workplace Inclusion Initiatives Across the Globe: The Importance of Leader and Coworker Support for Employees’ Attitudes, Beliefs, and Planned Behaviors

by Cristen Dalessandro and Alexander Lovell

Societies 2024, 14(11), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110231 - 7 Nov 2024

Abstract

Despite the benefits of inclusion at work, organizational inclusivity efforts—such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) trainings—often fail. Thus, there is a need to investigate from an employee point of view which characteristics (including both organizational culture and inclusion training modalities themselves) may [...] Read more.

Despite the benefits of inclusion at work, organizational inclusivity efforts—such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) trainings—often fail. Thus, there is a need to investigate from an employee point of view which characteristics (including both organizational culture and inclusion training modalities themselves) may have the biggest impact when it comes to increasing inclusion in the workplace. Combining “planned behavior” and social constructionist theoretical approaches, this study uses logistic regression and data from an original survey with a diverse, international group of employees who have undergone inclusion training (n = 2043) to understand which factors matter for perceptions of inclusion success in the workplace. Findings indicate that coworker and leader support for inclusion predict employee optimism around the achievability of inclusion. In addition, leader and coworker support for inclusion predict employees’ attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions of how their own actions matter when it comes to inclusion. Despite the difficulty with identifying a “one-size-fits-all” approach, this research finds that globally, employees are more likely to believe in inclusion—and to believe that their own actions around inclusion matter—when they perceive that leaders and coworkers are also committed to the cause. Full article

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

17 pages, 743 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Career Interventions at a Distance: A Systematic Literature Review

by Célia Sampaio, Maria do Céu Taveira, Catarina Carvalho and Ana Daniela Silva

Societies 2024, 14(11), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110230 - 5 Nov 2024

Abstract

Background: Due to global technological advances, psychology professionals have experienced constant changes in their daily routines. The field of career development and vocational psychology is no different. Amplified by the adjustments brought about by the circumstances of the pandemic, there has been an [...] Read more.

Background: Due to global technological advances, psychology professionals have experienced constant changes in their daily routines. The field of career development and vocational psychology is no different. Amplified by the adjustments brought about by the circumstances of the pandemic, there has been an increased demand for and development of various distance intervention methodologies. Methods: This study presents a systematic review of distance career interventions, focusing on (1) rationale, (2) groups of the population, (3) structure, (4) evaluation, and (5) outcomes and recommendations. Eleven keywords, three databases, and five eligibility criteria were defined. Results: Sixteen articles were collected for analysis. The results showed a predominance of (1) career construction theory and social cognitive theory rationales, (2) a sample of university students, (3) group career intervention, (4) pre- and post-test evaluation systems, and (5) effects in different dimensions and recommendations about intervention research design. Conclusions: Although there has been an increase in the number of publications in recent years, few studies evaluate distance career interventions. There are also few studies with different target populations. In this sense, indications for future interventions and studies are given, as well as the implications of these studies for practice. Full article

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12 pages, 265 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Rethinking the Roles of the Social Determinants of Health in Bystander Intervention for Partner Violence Among College Students

by Yok-Fong Paat, Thenral Mangadu, Shawna L. Payan and Stephanie C. Flores

Societies 2024, 14(11), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110229 - 5 Nov 2024

Abstract

Willingness to intervene as an effective bystander is critical in preventing partner violence and fostering safety among college students. Informed by the Social Determinants of Health framework, this conceptual paper provides an overview of the background and historical evolution of bystander intervention and [...] Read more.

Willingness to intervene as an effective bystander is critical in preventing partner violence and fostering safety among college students. Informed by the Social Determinants of Health framework, this conceptual paper provides an overview of the background and historical evolution of bystander intervention and invites a rethinking of how various factors impact bystander intervention for partner violence among college students by highlighting the roles of (1) economic factors and education, (2) sexual beliefs, myths, and media, (3) gender values and norms, (4) environmental factors, (5) college students at risk, (6) social support network and access to services, (7) acculturation and familiarity with the U.S. culture, and (8) cost-benefit analyses. We also discuss potential practice, research, and policy implications. Understanding the Social Determinants of Health is instrumental in addressing the root cause of intersecting health disparities, which is vital in preventing violence, encouraging bystander intervention, and creating a safer community. Full article

19 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Innovative Work Behavior in Small and Medium Enterprises: Integrating Transformational Leadership, Knowledge Sharing, and Psychological Empowerment

by I Nengah Aristana, Ni Made Dwi Puspitawati, Putu Pradiva Putra Salain, Viktor Koval, Oksana Konarivska and Tetiana Paniuk

Societies 2024, 14(11), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc14110228 - 3 Nov 2024

Abstract

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) significantly contribute to society’s growth and welfare. Nevertheless, SMEs often experience challenges, i.e., high levels of competition and market demands. To maintain SMEs’ existence, a competitive advantage is demanded by increasing innovative work behavior. This study explores and [...] Read more.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) significantly contribute to society’s growth and welfare. Nevertheless, SMEs often experience challenges, i.e., high levels of competition and market demands. To maintain SMEs’ existence, a competitive advantage is demanded by increasing innovative work behavior. This study explores and evaluates the relationship between transformational leadership and innovative work behavior and examines the mediating role of knowledge sharing and psychological empowerment on the relationship between transformational leadership and innovative work behavior. This study uses a quantitative approach, where data were gathered from a questionnaire distributed to 190 employees of export SMEs and were further examined using Smart PLS 3.2.9. The findings demonstrate that transformational leadership does not influence innovative work behavior but significantly and positively influences psychological empowerment and knowledge sharing. Psychological empowerment and knowledge sharing significantly and positively influence innovative work behavior. Subsequently, psychological empowerment and knowledge sharing partially mediate the linkage between transformational leadership and innovative work behavior. Full article

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

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