Societies

20 pages, 784 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Generativity and Psychological Well-Being in Primary and Secondary Teachers: A Systematic Review

by Eduardo Sandoval-Obando, Cristián Barros-Osorio, Luis Castellanos-Alvarenga, Marco Villalta Paucar and Alejandro Vega-Muñoz

Societies 2025, 15(11), 320; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110320 - 19 Nov 2025

Viewed by 468

Abstract

Background: Teaching represents a highly demanding profession in emotional, social and cognitive terms, demanding a genuine interest in contributing to the development of future generations. Precisely for this reason, generativity, understood as the genuine interest in contributing to the care and development of [...] Read more.

Background: Teaching represents a highly demanding profession in emotional, social and cognitive terms, demanding a genuine interest in contributing to the development of future generations. Precisely for this reason, generativity, understood as the genuine interest in contributing to the care and development of future generations, and psychological well-being, defined as the integration of autonomy, life purpose and positive relationships, are key variables to understand the integral development of teachers. However, the relationship between both constructions in primary and secondary school teachers emerges as an emerging theme that is scarcely researched in the local context. Method: Following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, this exploratory review used WOS, Scopus, ERIC, Scielo, and PsycNet databases to analyze the available literature on the interplay between generativity and psychological well-being in primary or secondary school teachers exploring its manifestations and the contextual factors (rural/urban) that shape this dynamic. We included 11 studies published up to 2025. Results: The studies analyzed show that generativity strengthens the sense of life and teacher commitment, while psychological well-being would modulate resilience to stress and pedagogical effectiveness. However, the literature presents conceptual and methodological heterogeneity. The theoretical gaps and methodological limitations of the findings are discussed, highlighting the importance of moving towards integrative frameworks that strengthen the mental health of teachers in the digital society. Conclusion: Generativity and psychological well-being are deeply interconnected in teaching practice yet remain under-theorized in educational research. This review highlights the need for integrative frameworks that support teachers’ mental health and professional identity, especially in diverse and evolving educational contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emotion and Culture: Mediating Aspects for Teaching and Learning Processes)

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16 pages, 2352 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity on Display: Visual Narratives of Fashionable Bodies in Vogue Italia

by Silvia Mazzucotelli Salice, Eleonora Noia, Michele Varini and Ludovica Carini

Societies 2025, 15(11), 319; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110319 - 19 Nov 2025

Viewed by 719

Abstract

This article explores how fashion, as a cultural system, constructs and circulates dominant imaginaries of the body, focusing on the visual narratives presented on the covers of Vogue Italia. Moving beyond a purely esthetic or biological notion of beauty, this study adopts [...] Read more.

This article explores how fashion, as a cultural system, constructs and circulates dominant imaginaries of the body, focusing on the visual narratives presented on the covers of Vogue Italia. Moving beyond a purely esthetic or biological notion of beauty, this study adopts an embodiment perspective to analyze how socio-cultural contexts shape representations of bodies, identities, and subjectivities within fashion media. Through a qualitative longitudinal analysis of Vogue Italia covers spanning over sixty years, this study explores how visible diversity is mediated through the visual and symbolic codes of fashion, revealing significant changes in esthetic sensibility and editorial strategies throughout the course of time. Rather than interpreting these representations as a straightforward response to growing demands for inclusion, we argue that fashion’s engagement with diversity operates through a mimetic logic that simultaneously displays alterity while reasserting existing hierarchies of power, desirability, and visibility. The results suggest that editorial choices have been decisive in determining the visual trajectory of the magazine, sometimes anticipating broader cultural debates on gender, race, and identity. We contend that Vogue Italia does not simply reflect social transformations, but actively contributes to shaping a cultural script in which inclusion becomes both commodified and contained. Ultimately, this study highlights the ambivalent role of fashion media in negotiating inclusion and exclusion through the visual construction of bodies emphasizing how the language of diversity can either challenge or reproduce hegemonic visual imaginaries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue “In Hard Times, Fashion Is Always Outrageous”: The Political Challenges of Fashion in a Changing World)

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13 pages, 591 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Inequalities and Access to Technology: Analyzing How Digital Tools Exacerbate or Mitigate Social Inequalities

by Elvira Martini and Maria Carmina Sgambato

Societies 2025, 15(11), 318; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110318 - 19 Nov 2025

Viewed by 772

Abstract

This article examines digital inequalities in Italy through a sociological lens, arguing that the digital divide is not merely a technological issue but a manifestation of broader social stratification. Drawing on data from ISTAT (2023–2024), the analysis explores disparities in Internet access and [...] Read more.

This article examines digital inequalities in Italy through a sociological lens, arguing that the digital divide is not merely a technological issue but a manifestation of broader social stratification. Drawing on data from ISTAT (2023–2024), the analysis explores disparities in Internet access and computer use among families with minors and young people aged 6–24. While connectivity has reached near universality, significant territorial, educational, and social gaps persist, reflecting enduring inequalities in resources and opportunities. The study interprets these patterns through the framework of first-, second-, and third-level digital divides, linking them to theory of cultural capital and digital capital. Results indicate that inequalities extend beyond access, encompassing differences in digital skills, motivation, and the capacity to translate online participation into educational or social advantages. Gendered expectations further influence these dynamics, shaping distinct patterns of engagement with technology. The discussion highlights how digitalization acts as a mechanism of social reproduction, where access and competence are mediated by pre-existing disparities in education and culture. From a policy perspective, the paper calls for a shift from infrastructure-oriented strategies toward capability-based digital education that fosters critical, ethical, and future-oriented digital citizenship. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reshaping Social Reality: Digital Societies and the Data-Based Approach)

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21 pages, 1958 KB

Open AccessArticle

Parental Digital Illiteracy and Communication Paradox in Children’s Video Game Practices: Case Study from Malang City, Indonesia

by Dewanto Putra Fajar, Deddy Mulyana, Susanne Dida and Ardini Raksanagara

Societies 2025, 15(11), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110317 - 18 Nov 2025

Viewed by 665

Abstract

The issue of video games has become an important topic in the social sciences, particularly regarding age rating systems and content regulation. While these concerns have been extensively examined in developed nations, they remain underexplored in developing contexts such as Indonesia. This study [...] Read more.

The issue of video games has become an important topic in the social sciences, particularly regarding age rating systems and content regulation. While these concerns have been extensively examined in developed nations, they remain underexplored in developing contexts such as Indonesia. This study identifies a socio-cultural paradox in digital parenting practices in Malang City, Indonesia, where many parents adopt reactive and restrictive supervision strategies while failing to evaluate the actual game content. A descriptive qualitative single-case study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 26 parents and their children. The findings reveal that all participating parents were unaware of existing video game age rating systems and rarely assessed the content of their children’s games. Thematic analysis produced four typologies of parental mediation, with the Paradoxical Mediator Parent emerging as the key finding. This typology reflects the interaction between parents’ low levels of digital literacy and local cultural conceptions, sak karepe and ojo kakean dolanan gem, which together form a culturally embedded, low-cost parenting strategy. The study contributes to the expansion of the parental mediation theory by integrating non-Western cultural scripts and provides practical recommendations to address digital literacy gaps within families and communities. Full article

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17 pages, 2944 KB

Open AccessArticle

Media Narratives of Disaster: Social Representations of the 2024 Megafire in Valparaíso

by Martha Vidal-Sepúlveda, Cristian Olivares-Rodríguez and Luis Cárcamo-Ulloa

Societies 2025, 15(11), 316; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110316 - 18 Nov 2025

Viewed by 328

Abstract

In Chile, human activity is a key factor in the occurrence and impact of wildfires in the wildland–urban interface, as more than 95% of such events are anthropogenic in origin. The 2024 Valparaíso megafire represents the most severe incident in the past three [...] Read more.

In Chile, human activity is a key factor in the occurrence and impact of wildfires in the wildland–urban interface, as more than 95% of such events are anthropogenic in origin. The 2024 Valparaíso megafire represents the most severe incident in the past three decades, with significant consequences for both the affected population and local infrastructure. In disaster contexts, the media play a crucial role in shaping social representations by establishing analytical categories within society. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to describe how Chilean media outlets addressed this megafire during the wildfire management process, considering the agenda during the whole wildfire season in Chile. The methodological approach is based on a multi-stage strategy for news classification based on the wildfire lifecycle: prevention (before), response (during), and recovery (after). We have employed a mixed-method design that integrates manual and computational techniques (topic analysis) as a triangulation technique on the same social network data. This study automatically collects articles related to the Valparaiso megafire, which occurred in 2024, from 140 Chilean media sources, considering print, radio, and television media. The main finding indicates that news coverage predominantly frames the Valparaiso megafire as a particular event in a short period of time. The media coverage does not focus on wildfire concepts such as nature, state management, policy, and the relationship between state and citizen. Finally, the automated analysis of emerging topics in the articles belonging to each manual category provides a consistent description of the social representations identified through manual analysis. Full article

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31 pages, 4881 KB

Open AccessArticle

Time Perspective and ICT Use: A Descriptive Study with Secondary School Adolescents

by Duarte Gomes, Cristina Antunes and Ana Paula Monteiro

Societies 2025, 15(11), 315; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110315 - 17 Nov 2025

Viewed by 345

Abstract

The literature addresses Time Perspective and technology use among adolescents in various ways. However, the existing body of research remains limited, with gaps in both descriptive and comparative dimensions. Accordingly, this study aimed to describe and compare Time Perspective, the Use of ICT [...] Read more.

The literature addresses Time Perspective and technology use among adolescents in various ways. However, the existing body of research remains limited, with gaps in both descriptive and comparative dimensions. Accordingly, this study aimed to describe and compare Time Perspective, the Use of ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) and Social Media, and Attitudes Towards Technology among adolescents, considering sex, type of course, and school year. The sample comprised 433 secondary school students aged between 14 and 19 years. Two instruments were employed: the Time Perspective Inventory (TPI) and the Media and Technology Usage and Attitudes Scale for Portuguese Youth (MTUAS-PY). Participants were generally more oriented towards the past; specifically, greater Future Orientation was observed among male students, while Past Orientation was more prevalent in regular-education courses, and a more Negative View of the Future was found among students in vocational courses. Smartphone Use emerged as the highest-scoring dimension within ICT and Social Media Use, whereas Accessibility and Ease received the highest scores in Attitudes Towards Technology. This study provides a nuanced overview of the secondary school adolescent population and identifies significant differences when considering academic tracks. These findings raise important considerations for future research, both in terms of factorial analysis and comparative approaches. Full article

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20 pages, 293 KB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Who in the World Is Generation Z? The Rise of Mobile Natives and Their Socio-Technological Identity

by Hananel Rosenberg, Menahem Blondheim and Chen Sabag-Ben Porat

Societies 2025, 15(11), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110314 - 13 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1274

Abstract

Generation Z is a widely used term in both public and academic discourse, yet its definition remains ambiguous, particularly regarding the factors distinguishing it from its predecessor, Generation Y. Adopting a socio-technological perspective, this article proposes a clear generational boundary, those born after [...] Read more.

Generation Z is a widely used term in both public and academic discourse, yet its definition remains ambiguous, particularly regarding the factors distinguishing it from its predecessor, Generation Y. Adopting a socio-technological perspective, this article proposes a clear generational boundary, those born after 1995, and introduces the concept of “mobile natives” to define Generation Z as a technologically distinct generation in relation to both its predecessor and successor. Unlike previous cohorts, the formative years of this generation were marked by early and continuous exposure, beginning in childhood, to mobile technologies, making the mobile phone the most influential technological experience shaping their identity. Drawing on statistical surveys and previous research, we demonstrate how this shift in the age of mobile adoption differentiates Generation Z from earlier cohorts in terms of socialization patterns, communication practices, and cultural orientations. By framing Generation Z as mobile natives, the article contributes a conceptual and empirically grounded framework for understanding the socio-technological identity of this generation. These findings have important implications for analyzing digital transformation, as well as for understanding the technological, familial, and social habits and traits that characterize this generation in an increasingly connected world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology and Social Change in the Digital Age)

13 pages, 1610 KB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Skepticism in a University Context: Influences of Gender, Religion, and Political Spectrum

by Ricado Ramos, Maria José Rodrigues and Isilda Rodrigues

Societies 2025, 15(11), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110313 - 11 Nov 2025

Viewed by 338

Abstract

Climate change is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, with consequences that extend far beyond temperature rise. Its impacts include extreme weather events, sea level rise, biodiversity loss, and disruptions to food and water systems, all of which threaten [...] Read more.

Climate change is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, with consequences that extend far beyond temperature rise. Its impacts include extreme weather events, sea level rise, biodiversity loss, and disruptions to food and water systems, all of which threaten ecosystems and human well-being. Addressing this crisis requires a broad understanding and engagement from society. However, climate change denial persists, often amplified through online platforms, slowing down effective action. Universities can play a critical role in this context, not only as spaces where scientific knowledge is produced and shared, but also as institutions that train future leaders to respond to environmental crises. In this study, we examined the prevalence of climate change denial among members of a Portuguese public university and explored its relationship with gender, religion, and political orientation. We collected 89 responses and analyzed the data. The findings indicate that individuals with right-leaning political views, certain religious affiliations, and male respondents were more likely to deny climate change. These results highlight the need for targeted educational approaches that address specific audiences, fostering a better understanding of the scientific and environmental realities of climate change, and ultimately promoting informed action toward sustainability. Full article

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30 pages, 5722 KB

Open AccessReview

Beyond Innovation Niches: A Social Sciences Review of System Building Perspectives in Sustainability Transitions

by Philippe Hamman, Patricia Schneider and Céline Monicolle

Societies 2025, 15(11), 312; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110312 - 11 Nov 2025

Viewed by 615

Abstract

Amid mounting calls for socio-ecological transition, many social sciences studies have been exploring the processes of societal change. The well-known Science Technology Society studies (STS) approach focuses on the diffusion of innovation niches as an open-ended process ultimately leading to the stabilization of [...] Read more.

Amid mounting calls for socio-ecological transition, many social sciences studies have been exploring the processes of societal change. The well-known Science Technology Society studies (STS) approach focuses on the diffusion of innovation niches as an open-ended process ultimately leading to the stabilization of a new regime. Other works have suggested reversing the perspective, i.e., ‘thinking about transitions from the end’. This is a defining characteristic of system building perspectives, which are inherently goal- and sustainability-oriented. This paper presents the state of the art in the social sciences based on a review of international academic journals in English. We use both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Using Web of Science data collected for a period of ten years and the free software IRaMuTeQ (version 2), we have conducted statistical, similarity, and textual analyses of a corpus of 151 texts, following the PRISMA methodology. We discuss the findings of the lexicometric analysis by looking at the content of the article abstracts. While system building is not always mentioned as such, this new perspective is reflected in the literature, especially in research on the energy and food transition, in two main ways: (i) the procedural and substantive dimensions of sustainability transition are both taken into account; (ii) the issue of governance occupies a central place—involving the definition of appropriate instrument mixes and policy mixes—given the need to deal with stakeholders with diverging interests and values rather than only focusing on technological innovations. Full article

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18 pages, 549 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Perception of Others’ Status on Prosocial Behavior Prestige and Domination in Trust

by Edwin Oswaldo Gil-Mateus, Milton Samuel Camelo-Rincón and Jaime Edison Rojas-Mora

Societies 2025, 15(11), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110311 - 11 Nov 2025

Viewed by 563

Abstract

This study examines the link between how people perceive others’ social status and prosocial behavior, viewing the latter as a key aspect of social and cooperative interactions. Due to conflicting findings in previous research, this study investigates how status acquisition strategies—such as prestige [...] Read more.

This study examines the link between how people perceive others’ social status and prosocial behavior, viewing the latter as a key aspect of social and cooperative interactions. Due to conflicting findings in previous research, this study investigates how status acquisition strategies—such as prestige or dominance—impact prosocial choices, particularly when perceptions of others’ status vary. To achieve this, a pre-experimental study was conducted with 261 university students, who participated in a modified trust game where they decided whether to give and expect money back from individuals they perceived as higher, equal, or lower in status. The study also measured perceptions of dominance, prestige, and exposure to life shocks. The main result shows that, unexpectedly, prestige does not directly predict prosocial behavior, while dominance does when interacting with lower-status individuals. Additionally, external shocks have mixed effects on prosocial behavior. These findings suggest that prosocial behavior is not solely determined by status but also depends on strategic perceptions, relational context, and past experiences, which have important implications for understanding leadership, cooperation, and social cohesion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Environmental Factors of anti/Prosocial Behaviour Development: Current Knowledge and Future Challenges)

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12 pages, 239 KB

Open AccessConcept Paper

From Punishment to Purpose: Occupational Therapy and Ethical Challenges in the Spanish Prison System

by Daniel Emeric-Méaulle, Pablo A. Cantero-Garlito and Ana A. Laborda-Soriano

Societies 2025, 15(11), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110310 - 10 Nov 2025

Viewed by 621

Abstract

Occupational therapy (OT) advocates for rehabilitation and social reintegration within prison systems, yet its integration must consider the ethical and institutional constraints of incarceration. This paper critically examines the Spanish penitentiary system to explore the tensions between the punitive logic of imprisonment and [...] Read more.

Occupational therapy (OT) advocates for rehabilitation and social reintegration within prison systems, yet its integration must consider the ethical and institutional constraints of incarceration. This paper critically examines the Spanish penitentiary system to explore the tensions between the punitive logic of imprisonment and the rehabilitative values of OT. The aim is to assess whether the current institutional structure enables socio-health professionals—particularly occupational therapists—to act coherently with their humanistic and ethical principles. A detailed documentary review was conducted using the Triangular Method of Ontologically Grounded Personalism (Sgreccia), which integrates biological/situational, anthropological, and ethical dimensions. Legislative documents, institutional reports, and academic literature were systematically analyzed to identify ethical challenges affecting professional practice within Spanish prisons. Findings reveal a paradoxical reality: Spain maintains one of the lowest crime rates in the EU yet exhibits a high incarceration rate, reflecting a punitive penal culture. The prison population, mostly adult males convicted of property and public health offenses, experiences significant occupational deprivation, mental illness, and social vulnerability. Ethical dilemmas include dual loyalty, loss of autonomy, and institutional priorities that undermine person-centered rehabilitation. The study underscores profound ethical tensions limiting OT practice in prisons. Addressing these challenges requires institutional and professional transformation toward more participatory and dignity-centered correctional models. Future research should incorporate empirical and qualitative approaches to design ethical frameworks that promote occupational justice and sustainable reintegration. Full article

13 pages, 227 KB

Open AccessArticle

Contraceptive Use and Risk of Unintended Pregnancy Among Females in the United States: Trends and Characteristics Between 2019 and 2022

by Iffath Unissa Syed and Jusung Lee

Societies 2025, 15(11), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110309 - 9 Nov 2025

Viewed by 735

Abstract

Background: Little is known about women’s contraceptive use in the United States during the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic and the risk of unintended pregnancy. Methods: We compared the weighted response rates on contraception use for female respondents aged 18–44 from the Behavioral Risk [...] Read more.

Background: Little is known about women’s contraceptive use in the United States during the novel coronavirus (“COVID-19”) pandemic and the risk of unintended pregnancy. Methods: We compared the weighted response rates on contraception use for female respondents aged 18–44 from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) between 2019 and 2022. Results: Our study reveals a significant increase of 16.1% (CI = 0.145, 0.177) in the proportion of women using contraception in 2022 as compared to 2019. The largest increase in the use of non-reversible contraception was seen in the proportion of female sterilization, at 3.0% (CI = 0.017, 0.043), mostly attributed to non-Hispanic Black individuals with a 12% increase (CI = 0.046, 0.198). The largest decrease was seen in the use of condoms, at 7.4% (CI = −0.094, −0.055). This was driven by both non-Hispanic Black and multiracial groups, each experiencing a 19% decrease (CI = −0.251, −0.127; CI = −0.304, −0.068, respectively). The proportion of women at risk of unintended pregnancy increased by 3.7% (CI = 0.010, 0.063). These increases were observed among those with an income of less than USD 15k, showing a 14.9% increase (CI = 0.037, 0.262). Older females and those with Medicaid insurance were more likely to use female sterilization. Hispanics, college graduates, and those with Medicaid insurance were more likely to use condoms. Non-White females and those without annual checkups were more at risk of unintended pregnancy. Conclusions: Contraceptive methods shifted among females with slightly increased sterilization in the years 2019 to 2022. Full article

23 pages, 934 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Adapting to Electoral Changes: Insights from a Systematic Review on Electoral Abstention Dynamics

by Nuno Almeida and Jean-Christophe Giger

Societies 2025, 15(11), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110308 - 7 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1130

Abstract

Electoral abstention has emerged as a critical challenge to democratic legitimacy, with rising rates observed globally. For example, in Portugal, the turnout declined from 91.5% in 1975 to 51.4% in 2022. This systematic review synthesizes multidisciplinary literature to identify key determinants of voter [...] Read more.

Electoral abstention has emerged as a critical challenge to democratic legitimacy, with rising rates observed globally. For example, in Portugal, the turnout declined from 91.5% in 1975 to 51.4% in 2022. This systematic review synthesizes multidisciplinary literature to identify key determinants of voter nonparticipation and their interactions, aiming to inform adaptive strategies to enhance civic engagement amid social, organizational, and technological changes. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched five databases (Academic Search Complete, MEDLINE, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) from 2000 to August 2025 using terms such as “electoral abstention” and “non-voting.” Inclusion criteria prioritized quantitative empirical studies in peer-reviewed journals in English, Portuguese, Spanish, or French, yielding 23 high-quality studies (assessed via MMAT, with scores ≥ 60%) from 13 countries, predominantly the USA and France. Results reveal abstention as a multidimensional phenomenon driven by three interconnected categories: individual factors (e.g., health issues like smoking and mental health trajectories, institutional distrust); institutional factors (e.g., electoral reforms such as biometric registration reducing abstention by up to 50% in local contexts, but with mixed outcomes in voluntary voting systems); and contextual factors (e.g., economic inequalities and urbanization correlating with lower turnout, exacerbated by events like COVID-19). This review underscores the need for integrated public policies addressing these factors to boost participation, particularly among youth and marginalized groups. By framing abstention as an adaptive response to contemporary challenges, this work contributes to the political psychology and democratic reform literature, advocating interdisciplinary approaches to resilient electoral systems. Full article

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23 pages, 761 KB

Open AccessReview

The Early Divide: Access and Impact of ECE in Rural Versus Urban Settings in the USA

by Omar Ebadur Rahman and Yesim Sireli

Societies 2025, 15(11), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110307 - 6 Nov 2025

Viewed by 579

Abstract

Early childhood education (ECE) fundamentally shapes children’s developmental trajectories, significantly influencing lifelong cognitive, socio-emotional, and physical outcomes. Despite considerable policy efforts aimed at enhancing educational equity across the United States, marked disparities persist between rural and urban contexts, reflecting deep-rooted structural inequalities rather [...] Read more.

Early childhood education (ECE) fundamentally shapes children’s developmental trajectories, significantly influencing lifelong cognitive, socio-emotional, and physical outcomes. Despite considerable policy efforts aimed at enhancing educational equity across the United States, marked disparities persist between rural and urban contexts, reflecting deep-rooted structural inequalities rather than mere geographic differences. This integrative review systematically examines disparities in ECE access, quality, workforce conditions, infrastructural resources, and developmental outcomes, specifically comparing rural and urban settings. Utilizing Ecological Systems Theory, Capital Theory, and an Intersectional framework, the study identifies critical systemic determinants reinforcing rural educational inequities, exacerbated further by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The findings reveal chronic underfunding, fragmented governance, workforce instability, infrastructural inadequacies, and intersectional disadvantages disproportionately impacting rural communities. Based on these insights, this study proposes targeted, evidence-based policy recommendations, emphasizing the necessity for increased federal funding, mandated rural representation in policymaking, workforce stabilization incentives, infrastructural enhancements, and robust community partnerships. This research calls for immediate, systemic policy responses to ensure equitable early educational foundations for all children across diverse geographic contexts by bridging a significant research gap through a comprehensive rural–urban comparative lens. Full article

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15 pages, 277 KB

Open AccessArticle

Teachers’ Perspectives on the Impact of Community Violence on the Educational Climate in Arab Society Schools in Israel

by Rafat Ghanamah

Societies 2025, 15(11), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110306 - 5 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 824

Abstract

This qualitative study examines the impact of societal violence on the school climate in Arab society in Israel, focusing on teachers’ perspectives. Violence is conceptualized as an extreme, intentional form of aggression aimed at causing physical, psychological, or emotional harm. In the Israeli [...] Read more.

This qualitative study examines the impact of societal violence on the school climate in Arab society in Israel, focusing on teachers’ perspectives. Violence is conceptualized as an extreme, intentional form of aggression aimed at causing physical, psychological, or emotional harm. In the Israeli context, Arab society, constituting about 21% of the population, experiences disproportionately high rates of violent crime, reflecting historical marginalization, structural inequality, under-policing, and sociocultural transformations. Within schools, these societal dynamics are reported to negatively affect the learning environment, including diminished teacher motivation, concerns about teaching quality, heightened perceptions of unsafety, strained parent–school relationships, and increased parental aggression. Sixteen teachers participated in semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the data revealed that financial pressures, emphasis on personal honor, and erosion of family values are perceived as key drivers of violence in the community. Teachers also reported adverse effects on students’ emotional, social, and behavioral functioning, as well as academic performance. These findings underscore the urgent need for interventions that enhance school safety, provide trauma-informed teacher training, expand psychological services, and strengthen parental collaboration. Future research should include students’ and parents’ perspectives, examine geographically diverse schools, and explore cross-cultural comparisons to better understand the educational consequences of societal violence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section The Social Nature of Health and Well-Being)

21 pages, 779 KB

Open AccessConcept Paper

The Bell Tolls for Folk Psychology: Are Societies Ready for a Public Health Quarantine Model of Criminal Justice?

by Alan C. Logan, Gregg D. Caruso and Susan L. Prescott

Societies 2025, 15(11), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110305 - 5 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 997

Abstract

Criminal laws and their deserts-based punishments, particularly in Anglo-American systems, remain grounded in folk psychology assumptions about free will, willpower, and agency. Yet advances in neuropsychiatry, neuromicrobiology, behavioral genetics, multi-omics, and exposome sciences, are revealing how here-and-now decisions are profoundly shaped by antecedent [...] Read more.

Criminal laws and their deserts-based punishments, particularly in Anglo-American systems, remain grounded in folk psychology assumptions about free will, willpower, and agency. Yet advances in neuropsychiatry, neuromicrobiology, behavioral genetics, multi-omics, and exposome sciences, are revealing how here-and-now decisions are profoundly shaped by antecedent factors. This transdisciplinary evidence increasingly undermines the folk psychology model: some argue it leaves “not a single crack of daylight to shoehorn in free will”, while others suggest the evidence at least reveals far greater constraints on agency than currently acknowledged. Historically, courts and corrections have marginalized brain and behavior sciences, often invoking prescientific notions of monsters and wickedness to explain harmful behavior—encouraging anti-science sentiment and protecting normative assumptions. Earlier disciplinary silos, such as isolated neuroscience or single-gene claims, did little to challenge the system. But today’s integrated sciences—from microbiology and toxicology to nutrition and traumatology, powered by omics and machine learning—pose a threat to the folk psychology fulcrum. Resistance to change is well known in criminal justice, but the accelerating pace of biopsychosocial science makes it unlikely that traditional assumptions will endure. In response to modern science, emergent concepts of reform have been presented. Here, we review the public health quarantine model, an emergent concept that aligns criminal justice with public health principles. The model recognizes human behavior as emergent from complex biological, social, and environmental determinants. It turns away from retribution, while seeking accountability in a way that supports healing and prevention. Full article

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16 pages, 1339 KB

Open AccessReview

Money Matters: A Contemporary Review of Young Adults’ Financial Behavior

by Sheela Sundarasen, Usha Rajagopalan and Izani Ibrahim

Societies 2025, 15(11), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110304 - 5 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1352

Abstract

This study intends to examine the intellectual discussion on the financial behavior of young adults between the ages of 18 and 29. Research on the financial behavior of this demographic group is critical as they are transitioning from parental guidance to independently managing [...] Read more.

This study intends to examine the intellectual discussion on the financial behavior of young adults between the ages of 18 and 29. Research on the financial behavior of this demographic group is critical as they are transitioning from parental guidance to independently managing their finances. Vosviewer and Biblioshiny R-package were used to examine a total of 364 peer-reviewed articles from 1993 to March 2025. The results of the study underwrote three dominant themes: (1) Red Cluster—Financial literacy, Financial Capability, and Financial Behavior among Young Adults; (2) Green Cluster—Psychosocial, Demographic (gender), and Financial Behavior among Young Adults; and (3) Blue Cluster—Socialization and Financial Behavior among Young Adults. The outcome of this study provides valuable insights to all stakeholders, i.e., parents, educational institutions, employers, and regulatory bodies, in terms of the importance of the financial behavior of young adults and thus the design of appropriate intervention strategies and tools that stakeholders could use at every stage of an individual’s life to ensure proper financial management and well-being, ultimately contributing to a sustainable economy. Full article

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13 pages, 306 KB

Open AccessArticle

Women in Engineering at a Regional Public University: Trends, Barriers, and Retention Strategies

by Jessica Janina Cabezas-Quinto, Lenin Ernesto Chagerben Salinas, Mariuxi Vinueza Morales, Jennifer Quintanilla Castellanos and Cristian Vidal-Silva

Societies 2025, 15(11), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110303 - 31 Oct 2025

Viewed by 389

Abstract

This article examines patterns of enrollment, academic performance, and dropout among women in engineering programs at the State University of Milagro (UNEMI), Ecuador, between 2016 and 2023. Using a quantitative approach that combines descriptive statistics with exploratory factor analysis, the study identifies critical [...] Read more.

This article examines patterns of enrollment, academic performance, and dropout among women in engineering programs at the State University of Milagro (UNEMI), Ecuador, between 2016 and 2023. Using a quantitative approach that combines descriptive statistics with exploratory factor analysis, the study identifies critical obstacles affecting the academic persistence of female students. Results show a 291% increase in female enrollment following the implementation of institutional policies focused on inclusion and the expansion of virtual education, reflecting the cumulative growth rate in female enrollment from 296 students in 2016 to 1158 in 2023. However, this growth coincided with a decline in pass rates and an increase in dropout levels. Among the main factors influencing student attrition are financial limitations associated with transportation, access to technology, and study materials. Additional elements include motivational aspects and insufficient academic preparation. The findings highlight the importance of strengthening institutional strategies that promote academic equity, create inclusive learning environments, and respond effectively to the personal and structural challenges that women face in engineering education. This study contributes empirical evidence that can inform university policies and public initiatives aimed at fostering greater participation and success for women in science and technology fields. Full article

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19 pages, 300 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Weak Engagement Paradox: Public Support and Pro-Environmental Behavior in Bulgaria

by Boris Popivanov and Dimitar Ganev

Societies 2025, 15(11), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110302 - 30 Oct 2025

Viewed by 504

Abstract

This article analyzes the determinants of public support for environmental policies in Bulgaria—a post-socialist context marked by low salience of ecological issues, socio-economic pressures, and fragile institutional trust. Based on descriptive statistical analysis of a nationally representative face-to-face survey conducted in 2023 ( [...] Read more.

This article analyzes the determinants of public support for environmental policies in Bulgaria—a post-socialist context marked by low salience of ecological issues, socio-economic pressures, and fragile institutional trust. Based on descriptive statistical analysis of a nationally representative face-to-face survey conducted in 2023 (N = 1002), it explores environmental awareness, motivations, and readiness for pro-environmental behavior (PEB). The findings reveal a distinctive pattern—a weak engagement paradox—where low awareness nonetheless coexists with high declared willingness to act. This readiness is mainly shaped by financial motives, local contexts, and generational differences, while trust remains concentrated in scientific expertise rather than political institutions. The study argues that declarative support, even when influenced by social desirability, can serve as a policy resource. Low-cost behavioral interventions, such as nudging, could leverage this latent willingness by making sustainable choices more visible and socially rewarding, gradually strengthening trust and engagement. Full article

17 pages, 1610 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Trap of Social Media Algorithms: A Systematic Review of Research on Filter Bubbles, Echo Chambers, and Their Impact on Youth

by Mukhtar Ahmmad, Khurram Shahzad, Abid Iqbal and Mujahid Latif

Societies 2025, 15(11), 301; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110301 - 30 Oct 2025

Viewed by 8410

Abstract

This systematic review synthesizes a decade of peer-reviewed research (2015–2025) examining the interplay of filter bubbles, echo chambers, and algorithmic bias in shaping youth engagement within social media. A total of 30 studies were analyzed, using the PRISMA 2020 framework, encompassing computational audits, [...] Read more.

This systematic review synthesizes a decade of peer-reviewed research (2015–2025) examining the interplay of filter bubbles, echo chambers, and algorithmic bias in shaping youth engagement within social media. A total of 30 studies were analyzed, using the PRISMA 2020 framework, encompassing computational audits, simulation modeling, surveys, ethnographic accounts, and mixed-methods designs across diverse platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, Twitter/X, Instagram, TikTok, and Weibo. Results reveal three consistent patterns: (i) algorithmic systems structurally amplify ideological homogeneity, reinforcing selective exposure and limiting viewpoint diversity; (ii) youth demonstrate partial awareness and adaptive strategies to navigate algorithmic feeds, though their agency is constrained by opaque recommender systems and uneven digital literacy; and (iii) echo chambers not only foster ideological polarization but also serve as spaces for identity reinforcement and cultural belonging. Despite these insights, the evidence base suffers from geographic bias toward Western contexts, limited longitudinal research, methodological fragmentation, and conceptual ambiguity in key definitions. This review highlights the need for integrative, cross-cultural, and youth-centered approaches that bridge empirical evidence with lived experiences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Algorithm Awareness: Opportunities, Challenges and Impacts on Society)

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16 pages, 615 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Media and Political Engagement: Shaping Youth Environmental Attitudes and Behaviors in Four European Societies

by Tyler Hansen, Chloe K. Taylor and Ryan T. Knowles

Societies 2025, 15(11), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110300 - 30 Oct 2025

Viewed by 837

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between students’ political engagement, civic knowledge, socioeconomic status, gender, and digital media use and their pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors in Denmark, Sweden, Spain, and Romania. To do this, we use data from the International Civic and Citizenship Study [...] Read more.

This study investigates the relationship between students’ political engagement, civic knowledge, socioeconomic status, gender, and digital media use and their pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors in Denmark, Sweden, Spain, and Romania. To do this, we use data from the International Civic and Citizenship Study (ICCS:22) and employ hierarchical level modeling. We found that students with higher civic knowledge and greater confidence in their ability to be active citizens were more likely to report both pro-environmental behaviors and positive attitudes in every country studied. Socioeconomic status also showed positive links with environmental engagement. Digital media use was linked to more pro-environmental behaviors in all countries, but to less positive attitudes in Spain. These results demonstrate the need for context-specific strategies that teach students how to engage collectively towards a more sustainable future. Full article

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19 pages, 921 KB

Open AccessArticle

Inclusive Education in Higher Education: A Comparative Analysis of Faculty Attitudes, Knowledge, and Practices in Colombian Universities

by Sandra Milena Carrillo-Sierra, Jorge Eliecer Manrique-Julio, Julián David Cerón-Bedoya, Leydin Carolina Vásquez-Henao, Zulgenis Ester Fornaris-Parejo, Yulineth Gómez-Charris and Diego Rivera-Porras

Societies 2025, 15(11), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110299 - 30 Oct 2025

Viewed by 820

Abstract

Background: This study analyses the pattern of development of the dimensions of inclusive education in different academic and disciplinary profiles in teachers from selected higher education institutions in Colombia, identifying strengths and areas of improvement for inclusive education. Methods: A quantitative approach, non-experimental [...] Read more.

Background: This study analyses the pattern of development of the dimensions of inclusive education in different academic and disciplinary profiles in teachers from selected higher education institutions in Colombia, identifying strengths and areas of improvement for inclusive education. Methods: A quantitative approach, non-experimental design and descriptive–comparative scope were used. The research is a cross-sectional field study, with data collection using a self-administered CEI questionnaire adapted to Colombia and to higher education institutions. The sample included 222 professors from the participating Colombian universities. Descriptive analyses and hypothesis testing were conducted with the support of R software. Results: The findings indicate notable differences in teachers’ attitudes, knowledge, practices, and educational contexts. Conclusions: The variability in knowledge about inclusive strategies suggests the need for more targeted training interventions to reduce the knowledge gap and build teachers’ confidence in implementing inclusive practices. Full article

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19 pages, 381 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Multi-Foci Intervention for Empowering Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Low-Socio-Economic Areas: A South African Perspective

by Enock Zibengwa, Sabastain Gunda and Sipho Sibanda

Societies 2025, 15(11), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110298 - 30 Oct 2025

Viewed by 368

Abstract

Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in South Africa remain disproportionately affected by HIV due to a complex interplay of structural, social, and gender-based vulnerabilities. This study explored the experiences of AGYW who participated in a group-based HIV prevention intervention in three low-socio-economic [...] Read more.

Adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in South Africa remain disproportionately affected by HIV due to a complex interplay of structural, social, and gender-based vulnerabilities. This study explored the experiences of AGYW who participated in a group-based HIV prevention intervention in three low-socio-economic communities—Soweto, Alexandra, and Orange Farm—in Gauteng Province, South Africa. The intervention integrated economic strengthening with HIV prevention education, delivered through structured, mentor-led group sessions. Using qualitative methods, in-depth interviews were conducted with 18 AGYW aged 15–24 to examine how participation empowered them to reduce HIV-related risks. The findings reveal that the intervention significantly enhanced participants’ self-awareness, assertiveness, and knowledge of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH), while fostering personal independence, goal setting, and agency. The group-based format also facilitated peer connection and created a safe space for challenging harmful gender norms, improving health-seeking behaviours, and navigating access to SRH services. Mentorship emerged as a critical enabler of impact, providing emotional support and trusted guidance. The study underscores the value of community group-based HIV prevention models that empower AGYW through social, economic, and gender-responsive approaches, offering practical insights for policy and programme design in resource-constrained settings. Full article

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33 pages, 2942 KB

Open AccessArticle

(Un)invited Assistant: AI as a Structural Element of the University Environment

by Valery Okulich-Kazarin and Artem Artyukhov

Societies 2025, 15(11), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110297 - 30 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1213

Abstract

In the digital age, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) development has brought about structural transformations in higher education. This study examines how students’ regular use of artificial intelligence tools brings a new active player into the educational process. This is an “uninvited assistant” that [...] Read more.

In the digital age, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) development has brought about structural transformations in higher education. This study examines how students’ regular use of artificial intelligence tools brings a new active player into the educational process. This is an “uninvited assistant” that changes traditional models of teaching and learning. This study was conducted using the following standard methods: bibliometric analysis, student survey using an electronic questionnaire, primary processing and graphical visualization of empirical data, calculation of statistical indicators, t-statistics, and z-statistics. As the results of the bibliometric analysis show, the evolution in the perception and integration of artificial intelligence within higher education discussions, as evidenced by the comparison of network visualizations from 2020 to the present, reveals a significant transformation. Based on a quantitative survey of 1197 undergraduate students in five Eastern European countries, this paper proposes a conceptual shift from the classic two-dimensional (2D) model of higher education services based on university teacher–student interactions to a three-dimensional (3D) model that includes artificial intelligence as a functional third player (an uninvited assistant). Statistical hypothesis testing confirms that students need AI and regularly use it in the learning process, facilitating the emergence of this new player. Based on empirical data, this study presents a hypothetical 3D model (X:Y:Z), where the Z-axis reflects the intensity of AI use. This model challenges traditional didactic frameworks and calls for updating educational policies, ethical standards, and higher education governance systems. By merging digital technologies and social change, the results provide a theoretical and practical basis for rethinking pedagogical relationships and institutional roles in the digital age. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology and Social Change in the Digital Age)

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21 pages, 256 KB

Open AccessArticle

Gendered Relationships Between Sports Participation and Spectatorship

by Adam Gemar and Sarah Harding

Societies 2025, 15(11), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110296 - 27 Oct 2025

Viewed by 813

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between sports participation and spectatorship, two dimensions of sports engagement that have significant policy implications, by analyzing data from a 2016 nationwide UK survey (N = 1105). Scholarly research into this connection is relatively limited, especially when examined [...] Read more.

This study investigates the relationship between sports participation and spectatorship, two dimensions of sports engagement that have significant policy implications, by analyzing data from a 2016 nationwide UK survey (N = 1105). Scholarly research into this connection is relatively limited, especially when examined through a gendered lens. Discussing theoretical considerations of gender and the interrelations between direct sports participation and spectatorship, we utilize statistical techniques, including latent-class analysis (LCA), which enable us to uncover patterns in spectatorship and participation in the UK (two classes for women; three classes for men). We further operationalize capital by drawing on Bourdieu’s framework—encompassing economic, cultural, social, and symbolic forms of capital—to assess the resources that shape individuals’ (gendered) access to and engagement with sport. We find strong evidence for links between sport participation and spectatorship (r = 0.194 for women; r = 0.360 for men). While men exhibit a diverse range of engagement profiles, our findings indicate that women must overcome additional barriers, requiring significantly higher levels of capital and a higher degree of personal engagement to participate, suggesting that women are still disproportionately challenged in accessing this socially salient cultural form. Full article

17 pages, 261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Traumatic Symptoms Among Syrian Refugees in Host Countries: A Comparative Study of Jordan and Spain

by Dalia Al-Hourani, Mahmoud Al-Wriekat, Rocío Llamas-Ramos and Inés Llamas-Ramos

Societies 2025, 15(11), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110295 - 27 Oct 2025

Viewed by 765

Abstract

Background: Displaced individuals endure challenges, including conflict, forced migration, family separation, human rights violations, limited access to essential services, and increased exposure to violence and abuse. These hardships significantly impact their mental health, often leading to heightened trauma-related symptoms. Methods: We used a [...] Read more.

Background: Displaced individuals endure challenges, including conflict, forced migration, family separation, human rights violations, limited access to essential services, and increased exposure to violence and abuse. These hardships significantly impact their mental health, often leading to heightened trauma-related symptoms. Methods: We used a cross-sectional correlational design in refugee camps, homes, and centers across Jordan and Spain. 200 refugees with confirmed status in the past ten years were recruited. Demographic data were collected via a demographic form, the PTSD-8 Inventory assessed traumatic symptoms, and data analysis included descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Chi-square tests. Results: Most participants had a secondary education, were unemployed, and had low incomes. PTSD symptoms were prevalent, with rates of recurrent thoughts (63.5%), re-experiencing events (57.5%), nightmares (50.5%), sudden reactions (56.5%), activity avoidance (53.5%), avoidance of specific thoughts or feelings (56.5%), jumpiness (53.5%), hypervigilance (53.5%), feeling on guard (41.5%), and general avoidance (43.5%) rated from rarely to most of the time. All symptoms were significantly more frequent among refugees in Jordan than in Spain. Conclusions and Recommendations: Intrusive thoughts were more frequent among females, urban residents, and unemployed individuals. Avoidance behaviors were higher in married and unemployed individuals. Hypervigilance was more prevalent among females, married individuals, and those with lower incomes. Regionally, females and married individuals in Jordan exhibited more intrusive thoughts and avoidance. In Spain, intrusive thoughts and hypervigilance were more common among females and the unemployed. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted mental health interventions, particularly in refugee camps like those in Jordan, where PTSD symptom rates were significantly higher. Programs should prioritize trauma-focused therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while adopting gender-sensitive approaches to address the heightened vulnerability of women and unemployed individuals. Given the strong link between unemployment and symptom severity, livelihood support and vocational training should be integrated into psychosocial care. Policymakers in host countries like Jordan could benefit from adopting integration strategies similar to Spain’s, which may contribute to lower PTSD prevalence. Additionally, community-based awareness initiatives could improve early symptom recognition and access to care. Future research should explore longitudinal outcomes to assess the long-term impact of displacement and resettlement conditions on mental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Migrants, Refugees and Labor Markets: International Perspectives on Inclusion and Exclusion in the New Millennium)

25 pages, 1251 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Digital Inclusion to Digital Symbiosis: Intergenerational Pathways for Humanistic AI and Social Cohesion

by Feng-Chueh Chen, Yuan-Hsun Chang and Chien-I Lee

Societies 2025, 15(11), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110294 - 24 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1175

Abstract

This study addresses the dual sociological challenges of the silver digital divide and intergenerational estrangement in aging societies. Through a Participatory Action Research project, it explores and evaluates the AI-Enhanced Intergenerational Digital Inclusion (AI-IDI) framework as a mechanism for fostering social cohesion. Findings [...] Read more.

This study addresses the dual sociological challenges of the silver digital divide and intergenerational estrangement in aging societies. Through a Participatory Action Research project, it explores and evaluates the AI-Enhanced Intergenerational Digital Inclusion (AI-IDI) framework as a mechanism for fostering social cohesion. Findings indicate that socio-emotional scaffolding from students, rather than technical instruction, was instrumental in reducing older adults’ technology anxiety, while students’ civic responsibility increased in line with the quality of collaboration. Interpreting these findings through the lens of Digital Symbiosis highlights how youth’s digital fluency and elders’ life wisdom can function as mutually reinforcing assets. Positioned as conceptual development and exploratory empirical research, this study reframes AI not as a mere tool but as a mediating resource for dialogue and solidarity. It contributes to sociological debates on technology and intergenerational relations while offering a transferable model for advancing digital equity and community cohesion. Full article

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20 pages, 632 KB

Open AccessArticle

Livelihood Strategies for Adolescent Girls Transitioning out of Residential Childcare Facilities: A Zimbabwean Perspective

by Sipho Sibanda and Pamhidzayi Berejena Mhongera

Societies 2025, 15(11), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15110293 - 22 Oct 2025

Viewed by 406

Abstract

Effective transition of youth out of care has been a concern for social workers, policymakers, residential facilities, and other related stakeholders. This paper reports on the livelihood strategies and transition experiences of adolescent girls in and out of two institutions in Harare, Zimbabwe. [...] Read more.

Effective transition of youth out of care has been a concern for social workers, policymakers, residential facilities, and other related stakeholders. This paper reports on the livelihood strategies and transition experiences of adolescent girls in and out of two institutions in Harare, Zimbabwe. Using the sustainable livelihood approach, this qualitative research explored and compared the livelihood strategies of 16 girls still in care with 16 who had exited. Framework analysis was used to interpret the data. The findings show that girls in institutions mainly rely on institutional support for their livelihoods, while those who leave employ a wider range of strategies including support from relatives, foster parents, institutions, and spouses. Social networks emerged as a key strategy for both financial and social security. However, differences in the resources available through these networks significantly impacted the girls’ livelihood outcomes, either positively or negatively. Overall, many adolescent girls remained unable to sustain themselves or cope with the challenges of transitioning to adulthood and life beyond institutional care. The study recommends that transition programmes that address early marriage as a means of security, expanding family and fostering care options, reducing institutional dependency, tackling economic exclusion and unemployment be developed. Full article

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Societies, Volume 15, Issue 11 (November 2025) – 28 articles

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