Social Sciences

15 pages, 338 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Are Sporty Sisters Talking About? A Textual Analysis of an All-Female Athlete Reality Show

by Yunjung Kim

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100543 - 13 Oct 2024

This study explores the representation of female athletes cast in a South Korean reality show titled Sporty Sisters (Korean title: Nonun Unni). Though there have been attempts to understand the media representation of female athletes from diverse media landscapes, the analysis of [...] Read more.

This study explores the representation of female athletes cast in a South Korean reality show titled Sporty Sisters (Korean title: Nonun Unni). Though there have been attempts to understand the media representation of female athletes from diverse media landscapes, the analysis of Asian female athletes is limited. Such interpretations have been discussed through geopolitical relations or nationalistic representations, which lack in-depth understanding and exploration of Asian athletes. Therefore, this paper expands the narrative by analyzing the first season (54 episodes) of Sporty Sisters. It is observed that professional athletes who transition to the entertainment industry are identified as “spor-tainers” and implicitly follow norms and rules applied to public figures. In this reality show, female athletes express their opinions on marriage, menstruation, pregnancy, and domestic roles while displaying characteristics of a girl crush, manifesting a variety of the female attributes of sportswomen. Despite the social expectations to fulfill their roles as sports celebrities and Korean women, Sporty Sisters is an outlet for female athletes to an extent to freely expose and describe their experiences as athletes and individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sport, Gender and Stereotypes)

11 pages, 595 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Communicating Social Cohesion in Forced Displacement: A Framework for Protracted Situations of Encampment

by Valentina Baú

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100542 - 12 Oct 2024

Abstract

This paper addresses the role that communication and media interventions can play in fostering social cohesion among displaced populations in camp settings through a review of both practical and theoretical notions in this area. The multiple definitions available in the literature on social [...] Read more.

This paper addresses the role that communication and media interventions can play in fostering social cohesion among displaced populations in camp settings through a review of both practical and theoretical notions in this area. The multiple definitions available in the literature on social cohesion do not come to a consensus on what this concept means. Yet, despite this lack of substance, reflecting on social cohesion in contexts of displacement has been a prevalent topic. Horizontal social cohesion, which is critical in protracted situations of encampment, is defined by UNHCR as the bond that ‘hold(s) people together within a community’. While a number of studies have focused on the social connection between host and displaced people, scarce attention has been paid to the dynamics and social fractures among displaced communities themselves. Yet, tensions both within and between groups of displaced people may be equally, if not more important to social cohesion than relationships with other groups. In order to begin to address this gap, a communication-based framework for humanitarian and development work on social cohesion in refugee camps is presented. Ultimately, the aim of this article is to offer a starting point for humanitarian agencies working in refugee camps to articulate the adoption of a communication-driven approach in their social cohesion programming. Full article

10 pages, 268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dating Applications versus Meeting Face-to-Face: What Is Better for Romantic Relationship Quality?

by Mickey Langlais, Lyra Toohey and Arielle Podberesky

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100541 - 12 Oct 2024

Abstract

The use of dating applications has increased over time, as recent data illustrate that meeting online is one of the most popular ways for couples to meet in the United States. Yet, the perceptions of using dating applications and how the applications were [...] Read more.

The use of dating applications has increased over time, as recent data illustrate that meeting online is one of the most popular ways for couples to meet in the United States. Yet, the perceptions of using dating applications and how the applications were developed may hinder the quality of relationships that form using dating applications. The goal of this study is to examine the difference in relationship quality based on whether a relationship is initiated in person or using a dating application. Data for this study come from 233 college students who completed an online survey. Of the coupled participants (n = 120), 34 met their current partner through a dating application, and of the participants who had previous dating experience (n = 169), 29 met their last partner on a dating application. Conducting independent-samples t-tests, the means of relationship quality were not significantly different for those who met their current or former partner online compared to in person. Although previously stigmatized, the results of this study illustrate that forming relationships on dating applications may be similar in quality to those that are formed in person. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Family Studies)

18 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Someone Who Is Going to Preserve Your Surname and Clan Name”: A Sesotho Cultural Perspective on Male Partner Involvement in Maternal and Newborn Care in the Free State, South Africa

by Ngwi N. T. Mulu and Michelle Engelbrecht

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100540 - 12 Oct 2024

Abstract

In the global public health discourse, involving men in maternal and neonatal health is regarded as crucial for positive outcomes in both health and development. In South Africa, health interventions designed to promote male partner involvement among low-income indigenous populations have been framed [...] Read more.

In the global public health discourse, involving men in maternal and neonatal health is regarded as crucial for positive outcomes in both health and development. In South Africa, health interventions designed to promote male partner involvement among low-income indigenous populations have been framed within social constructivist notions of masculinities and have produced mixed outcomes. This has necessitated calls to explore alternative approaches, including the need to decolonise men and masculinities studies in Africa. As part of one phase of formative research for a mixed-method project aimed at adapting a male involvement intervention for the context of Sesotho-speaking men and women in the Free State, we applied a multi-site case study research design and collected qualitative data using focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Verbatim-recorded transcripts were translated, transcribed, and thematically analysed with NVIVO 14. The results indicate that customary practices in pregnancy, delivery, and newborn care are not static and vary between families based on belief systems, socioeconomic status, geographical setting (peri-urban/rural), and kinship networks of care. Therefore, these practices and beliefs should be understood, affirmed, and contested within the complex African-centred material and immaterial worldviews on personhood in which they were generated, transmitted, rejected, or adopted. It is recommended that a decolonised approach to male partner involvement in this context must be cognisant of the intersections of racial and gendered power relations, contestations in beliefs and practices, the resilient effect of colonialism on indigenous gender systems, as well as contemporary global entanglements that inform North–South power relations on the best practices in maternal and newborn health in the public health sector in South Africa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender Differences and Inequalities in Social and Health Sciences Research)

12 pages, 240 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Return to Black Codes: How the Dobbs Decision Debilitated the 14th Amendment

by Timothy Elijah Lewis

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100539 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

Substantive due process, drawn from the 14th Amendment, has been a consistent judicial doctrine for establishing and protecting the rights and liberties of Black citizens in the face of systemic racism. This prompts a question for political consideration and investigation: if the 14th [...] Read more.

Substantive due process, drawn from the 14th Amendment, has been a consistent judicial doctrine for establishing and protecting the rights and liberties of Black citizens in the face of systemic racism. This prompts a question for political consideration and investigation: if the 14th Amendment is a constitutional equilibrium for rights Black citizens would otherwise not enjoy, could the rescission of a right decided and sustained by the 14th Amendment that is not racially explicit have negative racial implications for Black Americans? This study answers this question through an atheoretical case study on the ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade. This study finds that the ruling in Dobbs weakened the 14th Amendment by allowing parameters to be placed on substantive due process. Though the question before the Court was the constitutionality of Mississippi’s abortion law, the implications of weakening the 14th Amendment are that it allows for the legal and cultural revitalization of Black exclusion that existed under the Black Codes, which has already come to fruition in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College and the end of affirmative action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from 54th NCOBPS Annual Conference: Democracy on the Brink: Are We Headed into an Era of Authoritarianism?)

11 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship of Ambivalence towards Lecturers with University Students’ Psychological Distress and Mental Health

by Raphael M. Herr, Wendy C. Birmingham, Veronika M. Deyerl and Katharina Diehl

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100538 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

Social interactions that are simultaneously characterized by positive and negative aspects—i.e., ambivalent relationships—have been found to be related to distress and poor mental health. As the university setting is also characterized by several social interactions, this study aimed to investigate for the first [...] Read more.

Social interactions that are simultaneously characterized by positive and negative aspects—i.e., ambivalent relationships—have been found to be related to distress and poor mental health. As the university setting is also characterized by several social interactions, this study aimed to investigate for the first time to what extent objective and subjective ambivalence towards lecturers or instructors are linked to university students’ distress levels and mental health indicators. A notable relationship of ambivalence with the outcomes was found in 1105 students from Germany. The association with psychological distress was more pronounced for objective than for subjective ambivalence (adjusted betas = 0.342 vs. 0.261, p-values < 0.001), while both also had an independent association. The association with mental health was comparable for both types (adjusted beta = −0.206 vs. −0.191, p-values < 0.001). For paradoxical emotions, the relationship with objective ambivalence was stronger, and only this remained significant in the mutually adjusted model (adjusted beta = 0.376, p-value < 0.001). This study provided evidence of a previously unconsidered stressor at the university—ambivalence towards lecturers—associated with negative health effects among students. Future studies are needed to establish this connection and to create the basis for preventative measures. Full article

20 pages, 2677 KiB

Open AccessArticle

On the Periphery of the European Social Sciences—A Scientometric Analysis of Publication Performance, Excellence, and Internal Bias in Social Sciences in the Visegrad Countries

by Péter Sasvári and Gergely Ferenc Lendvai

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100537 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study examines the publication performance of the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia across 24 social science disciplines indexed by Scopus from 2019 to 2023. Using data from Scopus, SciVal, and Scimago, we analyzed regional journal statuses, disciplinary backlogs, journal biases, and [...] Read more.

This study examines the publication performance of the Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia across 24 social science disciplines indexed by Scopus from 2019 to 2023. Using data from Scopus, SciVal, and Scimago, we analyzed regional journal statuses, disciplinary backlogs, journal biases, and publication excellence. Our results show that Poland and the Czech Republic lead in journal and publication counts, whereas Hungary and Slovakia lag behind significantly. Four disciplines—e-learning, human factors and ergonomics, life-span and life-course studies, and social work—had minimal or no publications, highlighting their marginalization. We found a high internal bias in publication practices, notably in Poland and Hungary, which raises concerns considering the Norwegian list standards. While Poland and the Czech Republic show a higher proportion of excellent publications, the overall number of high-quality articles remains low, and publications by the Big Five publishers are exceedingly limited. This analysis underscores the need for strategic policy interventions to enhance research quality and international collaboration to improve the scientific standing of the Visegrad countries. Full article

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18 pages, 1285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Blood Donation during Times of Crises: The Mediating Role of Meaning in Life for Undergraduate Medical Students

by Iuliana-Raluca Gheorghe, Ovidiu Popa-Velea, Consuela-Mădălina Gheorghe and Liliana Veronica Diaconescu

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100536 - 9 Oct 2024

Abstract

Blood donation is a prosocial act driven by mechanisms related to altruism. While altruism plays a significant role, the processes behind blood donation behavior are complex, with altruism being just one factor. This research aimed to investigate the influence of altruism and meaning [...] Read more.

Blood donation is a prosocial act driven by mechanisms related to altruism. While altruism plays a significant role, the processes behind blood donation behavior are complex, with altruism being just one factor. This research aimed to investigate the influence of altruism and meaning in life on the willingness to donate blood among Romanian undergraduate medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample consisted of 319 Romanian undergraduate medical students. Structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used for statistical analysis. Our findings reveal that altruism did not significantly impact the willingness to donate blood directly; however, this relationship was mediated by meaning in life. In practice, blood donation could be increased through a more substantial connection between altruism and a sense of meaning in life, especially during health crises. Utilizing social marketing campaign messages that actively encourage altruism and connect it to a sense of meaning in life may increase blood donor recruitment and retention among undergraduate medical students. Full article

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6 pages, 157 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for the Special Edition—Contemporary Local Governance, Wellbeing, and Sustainability: Integrating Digital Innovations and Societal Trust for Future Resilience

by Pedro Miguel Alves Ribeiro Correia

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100535 - 9 Oct 2024

Abstract

In the evolving landscape of local governance, the intersection of digital technology, citizen engagement, and sustainability presents unique opportunities and challenges [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contemporary Local Governance, Wellbeing and Sustainability)

16 pages, 277 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“We Realized That Institutions Are Not Prepared”: Strategies and Challenges in the Filiation Processes of Lesbian-Parent Families in Chile

by Rodolfo Morrison, Maite Alvarez Navarro, Javiera Arias Riquelme, Betsabe Barrios Fuentes, Anays Hernandez Gavilan, Rocio Queupuan Donoso, Daniel Lagos-Ceron and Cleber Tiago Cirineu

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100534 - 7 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study examines the experiences of lesbian-parent families in Chile regarding the civil registry and the registration of their children, highlighting how heteronormative structures persist despite significant legislative advancements. Through semi-structured interviews with lesbian mothers, it explored how the policies and practices occurring [...] Read more.

This study examines the experiences of lesbian-parent families in Chile regarding the civil registry and the registration of their children, highlighting how heteronormative structures persist despite significant legislative advancements. Through semi-structured interviews with lesbian mothers, it explored how the policies and practices occurring at the civil registry affect their rights and legal recognition. The qualitative data analysis revealed significant barriers in the filiation processes due to outdated forms and lack of training among officials, reflecting a disconnect between progressive legislation and its practical implementation. The findings indicate that while there is growing social recognition of family diversity, lesbian-parent families face institutional discrimination, limiting their full participation in society. These barriers not only perpetuate occupational injustices but also negatively affect the emotional and social well-being of these families. This study underscores the need for legislative and administrative reforms to ensure effective inclusion and recognition of lesbian-parent families, recommending policies that update administrative processes to reflect the realities of all families adequately. The research highlights the importance of continuous education and awareness for civil registry workers, ensuring that existing laws are applied fairly and equitably. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gender Studies)

19 pages, 1647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Opinion of Ecuadorians on Migration in the Target Country: Benefits and Challenges

by Angel Torres-Toukoumidis, Andrea De-Santis and Diego Vintimilla-León

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100533 - 6 Oct 2024

Abstract

Migration plays a crucial role in shaping destination countries’ social and economic landscapes, including in Ecuador. This study aims to explore the benefits and challenges of migration by analyzing the perceptions of Ecuadorians who have directly or indirectly encountered its effects. Using a [...] Read more.

Migration plays a crucial role in shaping destination countries’ social and economic landscapes, including in Ecuador. This study aims to explore the benefits and challenges of migration by analyzing the perceptions of Ecuadorians who have directly or indirectly encountered its effects. Using a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed 1048 Ecuadorians and conducted 27 in-depth interviews to capture various viewpoints. The findings reveal a complex perspective: 47% of respondents view migration positively, emphasizing economic opportunities and cultural enrichment, while 53% express concerns about issues such as employment mismatches and barriers to social integration. These insights highlight the need for further research, e.g., to explore tailored policy solutions and deepen the understanding of migration’s multifaceted impact on Ecuador’s society and economy. The results highlight the need to investigate how media perceptions of migration influence the attitudes and decisions of migrants and host communities to design more balanced and realistic information campaigns for informed decision-making. Full article

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12 pages, 2274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Psychotropic Substance Seizures Occurring in 2017–2022 in Tamaulipas, a Mexican Border State with USA

by Ignacio Hernández-Rodríguez, Israel Estrada-Camacho and Sergio Montes

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100532 - 4 Oct 2024

Abstract

The trafficking of illegal substances is a global issue. Tamaulipas, a northeastern state in Mexico, is strategically located for drug trafficking to the United States by organized crime. In this study, drug seizure events conducted by the Mexican government in the main cities [...] Read more.

The trafficking of illegal substances is a global issue. Tamaulipas, a northeastern state in Mexico, is strategically located for drug trafficking to the United States by organized crime. In this study, drug seizure events conducted by the Mexican government in the main cities of Tamaulipas between 2017 and 2022 are analyzed. It was noticed that there was a decrease in events from 2017 to 2020, followed by a slight increase in 2021. Marijuana was the most seized drug, with cocaine and amphetamines following behind. The frequency of drug seizure events was higher in the border cities of Nuevo Laredo, Reynosa, and Matamoros due to their international commercial bridges with the USA. Nuevo Laredo and Reynosa showed a high amount of marijuana seized. In Matamoros, a coastal city, the quantity of cocaine seized was the highest. Results suggest that substances seized were intended to be illegally transported to the USA through Mexican border cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Contemporary Politics and Society)

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25 pages, 341 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Public–Private Partnership (PPP) Strategy to Development

by Walnshak Alheri Danfulani and Enver Gülseven

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100531 - 4 Oct 2024

Abstract

Many countries around the world have leveraged the potential of partnerships to counter collective challenges and foster development. ECOWAS has looked to partnerships to tackle shared challenges to infrastructural development in its member countries. This study sought to understand ‘how partnerships could foster [...] Read more.

Many countries around the world have leveraged the potential of partnerships to counter collective challenges and foster development. ECOWAS has looked to partnerships to tackle shared challenges to infrastructural development in its member countries. This study sought to understand ‘how partnerships could foster sustainable development in ECOWAS member nations.’ Using a qualitative method, both primary and secondary data were sourced to mainstream the ECOWAS multilateral Public–Private Partnership (PPP) strategy to foster sustainable development in implementing its 2045 Infrastructure Master Plan. This study finds that such development plans that were hitherto a challenge to implement by ECOWAS member states have received a boost through the World Bank Public Private Infrastructure Advisory Facility (PPIAF). This partnership provided effective diagnostics to improve efficiency, build capacity, identify PPP possibilities, and revamp policy and legal frameworks for PPPs, resulting in better access to more financing, proper implementation, monitoring, and sustainability of infrastructural projects. The ECOWAS PPP framework has been able to allow its member states to leverage the advantages that the private sector has to foster sustainable development. This has poised ECOWAS to be on track to implementing its infrastructure master plan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section International Relations)

23 pages, 360 KiB

Open AccessReview

Delivering Culturally Competent Care to Migrants by Healthcare Personnel: A Crucial Aspect of Delivering Culturally Sensitive Care

by Lampros Theodosopoulos, Evangelos C. Fradelos, Aspasia Panagiotou, Angeliki Dreliozi and Foteini Tzavella

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100530 - 3 Oct 2024

Abstract

The increasing cultural and ethnic diversity within global migrant populations necessitates the provision of culturally competent care by healthcare personnel. This narrative literature review critically analyzes existing literature on the delivery of culturally competent care to migrants, highlighting key theoretical frameworks, empirical findings, [...] Read more.

The increasing cultural and ethnic diversity within global migrant populations necessitates the provision of culturally competent care by healthcare personnel. This narrative literature review critically analyzes existing literature on the delivery of culturally competent care to migrants, highlighting key theoretical frameworks, empirical findings, and practical strategies to enhance cultural competence in healthcare settings. The review identifies significant health disparities faced by migrants, including barriers to accessing healthcare, communication challenges, and systemic issues within healthcare institutions. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive training programs, supportive organizational policies, community engagement, and the innovative use of technology and telemedicine. Furthermore, it addresses the future directions and research gaps, calling for longitudinal studies, the development of robust metrics, and targeted strategies to overcome the digital divide and ensure data privacy. By addressing these areas, healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers can improve healthcare delivery, reduce health disparities, and ensure equitable access to care for migrant populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Migration, Labour and Health: Unravelling the Links between Labour Exploitation and Health Disparities of Migrant Workers)

19 pages, 675 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Criminalising Migration: The Vicious Cycle of Insecurity and Irregularity

by Matilde Rosina

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100529 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

Recent years have witnessed growing emphasis on exceptional measures to address unauthorised arrivals. This article unpacks the relationship between migration policies, irregularity, and insecurity, by examining the consequences of a specific, yet often neglected, measure: the criminalisation of irregular migration (namely, the introduction [...] Read more.

Recent years have witnessed growing emphasis on exceptional measures to address unauthorised arrivals. This article unpacks the relationship between migration policies, irregularity, and insecurity, by examining the consequences of a specific, yet often neglected, measure: the criminalisation of irregular migration (namely, the introduction of the “crime of irregular migration”). Investigating the cases of Italy and France, two of the countries with the most severe sanctions in Europe, it argues that criminalisation led to a two-fold feedback loop. On the one hand, by exceptionalising migration and constructing a continuum between migrants and criminals, criminalisation enhanced a sense of insecurity among the domestic public. On the other hand, by giving foreigners in irregular situations a criminal record, it increased their reliance on underground networks to stay and work in destination countries. Overall, this fostered demand for restrictive, yet counterproductive, policies, creating a vicious cycle of insecurity and irregularity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Globalization and International Migration to the EU)

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14 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

When Avoiding Chemicals Means Avoiding Others: Relational Exposures and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

by Isabella Clark

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100528 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a contested environmental illness that can be debilitating and life limiting. Those with MCS develop an array of physical symptoms to doses of chemicals in everyday life that are currently considered safe for human health by scientific and [...] Read more.

Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a contested environmental illness that can be debilitating and life limiting. Those with MCS develop an array of physical symptoms to doses of chemicals in everyday life that are currently considered safe for human health by scientific and political actors. (1) Background: The purpose of this project is to understand how people with MCS practice chemical avoidance, describe MCS as a “relational illness”, and understand the interactional strategies for navigating relational chemical exposures. (2) Methods: This is an ethnographically embedded interview project that consists of two field trips, thirty-three interviews, and content analysis of MCS materials such as newsletters, books, and websites. (3) Results: This article finds that personal protection strategies for chemical avoidance are insufficient in the case of MCS. By redefining the hazards posed by spaces and other people’s bodies, those with MCS transform chemicals into an object of relational concern. This creates opportunities for other people to reevaluate their own chemical relationships and accommodate those with MCS, but it can also lead to denial, dismissal, and social exclusion. (4) Conclusions: This work on demonstrates that chemical contamination is an issue of interactional concern and adds to the literature on contested illness and relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chronic Health Conditions and Bodies: Methods, Meanings, and Medicine)

7 pages, 165 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Gender, Work and Family in Turbulent Times: Varied Responses to COVID-19 and Future Directions for Research

by Jerry A. Jacobs

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100527 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted lives and social routines world-wide, with enduring implications that are continuing to unfold [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Work and Family in Turbulent Times: COVID-19, Remote Work and Diversity)

20 pages, 815 KiB

Open AccessReview

Experiences of Digital Transitions in Health and Social Care Services in Later Life: Findings and Reflections from a Collaborative, Interdisciplinary Exploratory Review

by David Alejandro Vaca-Benavides, Sumetha Uthayakumar, Emilie McSwiggan, Kayla Ostrishko, Godfrey Wanok, Clare Halpenny and Elisa Cardamone

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100526 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

Health and social care services are increasingly shaped by the emergence of new digital developments. Research suggests that older adults are less likely to use digital devices and, therefore, risk missing out on essential health and social care services as these become more [...] Read more.

Health and social care services are increasingly shaped by the emergence of new digital developments. Research suggests that older adults are less likely to use digital devices and, therefore, risk missing out on essential health and social care services as these become more digital by design. We carried out an exploratory literature review using the terms ‘onboarding’ and ‘offboarding’ within the design, engineering, health, and social science literature to understand how researchers are currently thinking about older adults’ digital service needs, informed by discussions of stakeholder engagement with older adults in Edinburgh to explore their own experiences of digital transitions. The review process was implemented based on the methodology of Arksey and O’Malley for scoping reviews, and the findings were reported according to the PRISMA-ScR checklist. The databases used were Web of Science, PubMed, CINAHL Plus, IEEE Xplore, Engineering Village, PsycINFO, ASSIA and ACM. In total, 18 studies were finally included. Our findings show different interpretations of onboarding across disciplines and a lack of use of offboarding in the design of digital interventions. Additionally, our findings reveal inequalities in digital onboarding, as evidenced by the limited number of studies. Finally, we share a snapshot of our findings, together with reflections on interdisciplinary and collaborative processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Connecting Older Adults to the Digital World)

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14 pages, 3376 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Living Conditions of Children with Disabilities in Rural Thailand: Factors Leading to Life Change through Interventions

by Yukiko Kumazawa, Kyoko Terada, Ayako Satonaka, Michio Wachi and Noriyuki Kida

Soc. Sci. 2024, 13(10), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci13100525 - 30 Sep 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the characteristics and challenges faced by children with disabilities and their families living in rural Thailand, and understand the factors that bring changes in their lives through intervention. In a 2021 online survey on the quality of life [...] Read more.

This study aimed to identify the characteristics and challenges faced by children with disabilities and their families living in rural Thailand, and understand the factors that bring changes in their lives through intervention. In a 2021 online survey on the quality of life of school-aged children with disabilities, approximately half of the respondents indicated that they were not enrolled in school. However, the factors responsible were not identified. Therefore, in 2023, we interviewed three children with disabilities in one of the target areas for the abovementioned survey to explore the correlation between the level of independence in the activities of daily living (ADL) and educational and rehabilitation opportunities. This study did not identify a clear correlation between the two factors. Furthermore, a hypothesis emerged that the changes in their lives are influenced more by environmental factors, especially personal factors such as social group awareness and attitudes, caregivers’ understanding and support, and individual relationships within the community. Further research is needed to develop environmental factor assessment tools for problem-solving in accordance with the regional characteristics of rural areas, assess the degree of functional independence of children with disabilities in daily life, and build regional support models. Full article

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