Societies

17 pages, 1300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Training and Didactic Proposals for Teaching Floods: A Study Based on the Experience of Trainee Social Science Teachers

by Álvaro-Francisco Morote, Jorge Olcina and Isabel-María Gómez-Trigueros

Societies 2025, 15(6), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060166 - 16 Jun 2025

This study examines the training and didactic proposals used to teach flood-related topics in Primary (5–12 years old) and Secondary Education (13–18 years old). This research employs a survey methodology, gathering responses from 726 trainee teachers across two Spanish universities (582 in Primary [...] Read more.

This study examines the training and didactic proposals used to teach flood-related topics in Primary (5–12 years old) and Secondary Education (13–18 years old). This research employs a survey methodology, gathering responses from 726 trainee teachers across two Spanish universities (582 in Primary Education and 144 in Secondary Education). The findings highlight a significant gap in training, as more than half of the participants reported having received no instruction on floods, either during their school years or university studies. However, Secondary Education trainee teachers demonstrated a higher level of preparedness compared to their Primary Education counterparts. Regarding didactic proposals, two approaches stood out: activities based on real experiences (32.6%) and drills/talks led by experts (21.5%). Notably, Primary Education trainee teachers preferred expert-led sessions (24.7%), suggesting a lack of confidence in teaching these topics independently. This study underscores the crucial role of educators in risk reduction. Given their ethical responsibility to equip students with critical thinking skills, proper training is essential to fostering informed citizens capable of making sound decisions in the face of climate-related challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Education and Interdisciplinary Collaboration for a Sustainable Future)

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18 pages, 475 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Computational Approach for Identifying Keywords Related to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals in a Brazilian Higher Education Institution

by Ana Carolina Estorani Polessa, Gisele Goulart Tavares, Ruan Medina, Camila Martins Saporetti, Tiago Silveira Gontijo, Matteo Bodini, Leonardo Goliatt and Priscila Capriles

Societies 2025, 15(6), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060165 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Over the past few years, there has been a need to discuss the strengthening of academic contributions to the 2030 Agenda as a vital facilitator for planning and evaluating sustainable goals. However, managing information in this field has become an internal institutional challenge [...] Read more.

Over the past few years, there has been a need to discuss the strengthening of academic contributions to the 2030 Agenda as a vital facilitator for planning and evaluating sustainable goals. However, managing information in this field has become an internal institutional challenge for higher education organizations. Identifying the aspects of sustainable development goals within research projects is crucial for developing strategies and policies that promote collaboration in joint projects, ultimately strengthening research in SDGs. Recent advancements in computational methods have emerged as powerful tools to address the difficulties associated with utilizing information related to academic contributions to the 2030 Agenda. These methods offer innovative ways to process, analyze, and visualize data, enabling decision-makers to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions. This paper proposes a computational model to facilitate the identification of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development within teaching, research, and extension projects at a Brazilian University. The model aims to align academic research and institutional actions with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations. The developed model can extract and categorize SDG-related text data by employing keywords and natural language processing techniques. The development of this tool is driven by the need for universities to adapt their curricula and contribute to the 2030 Agenda. The model helps identify the potential impact of projects on the SDGs, assessing the alignment of research or actions with specific goals, and improving data governance. By utilizing the proposed model, educational institutions can efficiently manage their research, organize their work around the SDGs, foster collaboration internally and with external partners, and enhance their internationalization efforts. The model has the potential to increase the capabilities of educational institutes as vital mobilizing agents, reducing costs and streamlining the analysis of information related to the 2030 Agenda. This, in turn, enables more effective academic actions to integrate sustainable goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Education and Interdisciplinary Collaboration for a Sustainable Future)

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16 pages, 660 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cooking Skills and Mediterranean Diet Adherence: Societal Insights from the iMC SALT Trial

by Carla Gonçalves, Patrícia Padrão, Olívia Pinho, Tânia Silva-Santos and Pedro Moreira

Societies 2025, 15(6), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060164 - 14 Jun 2025

Viewed by 17

Abstract

Background: Cooking skills represent an important yet often overlooked form of social and cultural capital, influencing dietary quality and health outcomes. As modern societies face growing challenges related to unhealthy eating patterns and a loss of traditional food practices, understanding the societal role [...] Read more.

Background: Cooking skills represent an important yet often overlooked form of social and cultural capital, influencing dietary quality and health outcomes. As modern societies face growing challenges related to unhealthy eating patterns and a loss of traditional food practices, understanding the societal role of culinary competence becomes critical. This study explored the association between culinary skills, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and nutritional intake. Methods: Baseline data from 111 adults (60 women; mean age 47.6 ± 10.5 years) participating in the iMC SALT randomized controlled trial (Portugal) were analyzed. Culinary skills were assessed using the Cooking Skills Score, while the dietary intake was evaluated with a Food Frequency Questionnaire and adherence to the Mediterranean diet through the alternative Mediterranean Diet (aMED) Score. Food and beverage processing levels were categorized using the NOVA classification, and the sodium/potassium intake was measured via 24 h urinary excretion. Results: Women demonstrated better culinary skills (5.1 ± 0.9 vs. 4.0 ± 1.1, p < 0.001) and greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet (5.1 ± 1.9 vs. 3.8 ± 1.8, p = 0.001) than men. Better culinary skills were associated with younger age, larger households, and increased adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Culinary skills significantly explained 27.2% of the variance in the Mediterranean diet adherence. Better culinary skills were linked to a greater energy and protein intake; but a lower sodium and potassium intake. Conclusion: These findings highlight culinary skills as a key societal factor shaping dietary behavior and nutritional intake. Promoting culinary education may offer a powerful strategy to address dietary inequalities, support cultural food heritage, and foster healthier, more resilient societies. Full article

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23 pages, 3290 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Practical Strategies and Guidance for Contextual Literature Reviews in Urban Studies

by Hisham Abusaada and Abeer Elshater

Societies 2025, 15(6), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060163 - 12 Jun 2025

Viewed by 484

Abstract

This conceptual article introduces an alternative perspective on the notion of the urban context for early-career researchers interested in developing academic writing through literary narratives. It brings together two distinct conceptualizations of context. The first is a philosophical approach rooted in interpretive traditions [...] Read more.

This conceptual article introduces an alternative perspective on the notion of the urban context for early-career researchers interested in developing academic writing through literary narratives. It brings together two distinct conceptualizations of context. The first is a philosophical approach rooted in interpretive traditions within the humanities and social sciences. The second is a spatial–societal approach commonly adopted in architecture, urban planning, and urban design. By bridging these perspectives, our article aims to enrich interdisciplinary discourse and support more nuanced understandings of urban environments in narrative-based research. The question posed by this conceptual article is given as follows: How can adopt a historical–philosophical contextual approach to literary narratives support the development of non-traditional narrative forms and offer a strategic foundation for early-career researchers? This study adopts a qualitative research approach to examine the role of context in knowledge production. A linear snowball sampling was employed to identify relevant sources, followed by qualitative content analysis to extract key insights. The outcomes integrate perspectives from historians, interpretive philosophers, and urban specialists. The findings provide practical strategies to support early-career researchers in developing historically informed, contextually grounded literary narratives, particularly within non-traditional academic formats. Full article

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16 pages, 378 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Barriers Experienced During Fatherhood and the Role of Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Mixed-Methods Approach

by Sravya Gurivireddygari, Samantha Hicks, Elisabeth Hayes, Meera Rao, Sebastian Densley, Sumaita Choudhury, Panagiota Kitsantas, Maria Mejia and Lea Sacca

Societies 2025, 15(6), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060162 - 12 Jun 2025

Viewed by 192

Abstract

Given the critical role of fatherhood in child development and the significant challenges faced by fathers in underserved communities, there is a pressing need to better understand the specific barriers they encounter. This exploratory mixed-methods study examines the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences [...] Read more.

Given the critical role of fatherhood in child development and the significant challenges faced by fathers in underserved communities, there is a pressing need to better understand the specific barriers they encounter. This exploratory mixed-methods study examines the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among fathers, including English, Spanish, and Creole speakers, and explores how social determinants of health exacerbate these barriers. Quantitative data were collected from June 2022–2023 using REDCap survey software. Additionally, three focus groups were conducted with 18 fathers residing in Palm Beach County (PBC), each group based on the primary language spoken at home. The focus groups were conducted in person via the Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Coalition (HMHB) outreach team at community centers within the PBC. Stated barriers to fatherhood were thematically classified according into three main themes: (1) limited access to and knowledge of resources in the community; (2) challenges in navigating new roles, resources, and fatherhood responsibilities; and (3) important values in parenting. Over 40% of the fathers reported barriers to being involved in their child’s life. The most frequent barriers included work (35.4%) and lack of transportation distance (12.5%). Bivariate analysis using the fisher’s exact test showed a significant association between scoring greater than 4 on the ACE criteria checklist and experiencing barriers to being involved in the child’s life (p-value = 0.013). Findings from this study aim to inform the development of culturally tailored interventions that address disparities in fatherhood support, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes for both fathers and their children. Full article

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20 pages, 2376 KiB

Open AccessReview

Scientific Production on Physical Activity, Physical Education, Global Warming and Climate Change: A Bibliometric Analysis

by Antonio Castillo-Paredes, Angel Denche-Zamorano, Mario Fuentes-Rubio, Matias Portela-Estinto, José Carmelo Adsuar and Diana Salas-Gómez

Societies 2025, 15(6), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060161 - 11 Jun 2025

Viewed by 161

Abstract

Physical activity allows people to obtain multidimensional benefits. Regular practice and following the recommendations can provide the benefits mentioned above. However, it has been evidenced that the variability in the environmental temperature is a determining factor to adhere to the regular practice of [...] Read more.

Physical activity allows people to obtain multidimensional benefits. Regular practice and following the recommendations can provide the benefits mentioned above. However, it has been evidenced that the variability in the environmental temperature is a determining factor to adhere to the regular practice of physical activity. From this point of view, it has become evident that researchers have joined criteria to explore the effects of climate change or global warming on physical activity or physical education. This study is the first bibliometric analysis of the scientific literature related to physical activity, physical education, global warming, and climate change. The objective of the present bibliometric review was to examine annual publication trends, identifying the categories, journals, and countries with the highest number of publications on this topic. In addition, the secondary objective was to identify the most productive and prominent authors, highlight the most cited articles, and determine the keywords most used by the authors. We analyzed 261 papers published in journals indexed in the Web of Science, examining the trend followed by annual publications, identifying prolific and prominent co-authors, leading countries and journals, most cited papers, and most used author keywords. The annual publications followed an exponential growth trend (R² = 90%), which means that there is great interest in the scientific community for this object of study. The Journal of Physical Activity & Health was the journal with the most published papers. M.S. Tremblay and E.Y. Lee were the most prominent co-authors, and as reference authors on the subject, M. Nieuwenhuijsen and H. Khreis were the most prominent authors. The three countries with the highest productivity are the USA, the UK, and Canada. Although a total of 29 keywords were identified, only 25 of them were commonly recurrent, with the most used being climate change and physical activity. Full article

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18 pages, 983 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sensory Methodologies and Methods: A Scoping Review

by Kathleen C. Sitter, Carly-Ann Haney, Ana Herrera, Mica Pabia, Fiona C. Schick and Stacey Squires

Societies 2025, 15(6), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060160 - 10 Jun 2025

Viewed by 406

Abstract

This scoping review examines the application of sensory research methodologies and methods in primary research, guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage framework. The scoping review addresses two primary questions: (1) what is the extent and nature of research activities that use multisensory methodologies [...] Read more.

This scoping review examines the application of sensory research methodologies and methods in primary research, guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage framework. The scoping review addresses two primary questions: (1) what is the extent and nature of research activities that use multisensory methodologies and (2) what is the extent and nature of research activities that use multisensory methods? The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) Checklist was used to guide the reporting and mapping process. A total of 80 sources (45 peer-reviewed articles and 35 dissertations) met the inclusion criteria. Findings reveal ethnographic-based methodologies were the most common sensory approach, whereas combined visual and audio methods were the most commonly used techniques. There is the potential for more innovative and inclusive methodologies and methods to expand the use of taste and smell, which remain underrepresented in the literature. Additionally, greater attention is needed to address power dynamics and reflexivity in sensory research to avoid essentializing or misrepresenting participants’ experiences. Future research could improve methodological clarity and consistency while emphasizing accessibility and community engagement. This scoping review contributes to the field of sensory research by synthesizing current practices and identifying gaps that warrant future exploration, particularly in underrepresented sensory modalities. Full article

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20 pages, 1308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rural Education in Colombia: Adapting Quality Policies to Local Realities

by Diego Arturo Jaramillo Neira, Favio Cala-Vitery and Fernando Augusto Poveda Aguja

Societies 2025, 15(6), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060159 - 10 Jun 2025

Viewed by 419

Abstract

This article examines educational quality policies in Colombia’s rural areas, emphasizing the need for approaches tailored to the social, cultural, and economic specificities of these communities. Using a qualitative methodology grounded in Grounded Theory, data on global and national public policies were categorized, [...] Read more.

This article examines educational quality policies in Colombia’s rural areas, emphasizing the need for approaches tailored to the social, cultural, and economic specificities of these communities. Using a qualitative methodology grounded in Grounded Theory, data on global and national public policies were categorized, revealing persistent gaps in infrastructure, teacher training, and student retention. The findings highlight the importance of prioritizing cultural relevance, practical skill development, and community participation in educational policies. The analysis of Colombia’s National Rural Education Plan reveals mixed impacts, underscoring the need for more contextualized and sustainable implementation. This study offers actionable recommendations to transform educational policies, including investments in infrastructure, continuous teacher training, and strategic use of educational technologies, aiming to bridge urban–rural gaps and foster equity in Colombia’s educational system. Full article

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21 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Benefits, Challenges, and Steps Forward on Using Poetry Workshops in Interdisciplinary Migration Research: Reflections from the Field and Methodological Insights

by Nikola Lero, Jasmin Donlic and Marjan Marjanović

Societies 2025, 15(6), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060158 - 6 Jun 2025

Viewed by 535

Abstract

This article offers a critical methodological reflection on the use of poetry workshops in migration research, positioning them as empowering, ethically complex, yet powerful research tools for studying migrant experience. While arts-based methods have gained momentum, their application often lacks critical reflexivity regarding [...] Read more.

This article offers a critical methodological reflection on the use of poetry workshops in migration research, positioning them as empowering, ethically complex, yet powerful research tools for studying migrant experience. While arts-based methods have gained momentum, their application often lacks critical reflexivity regarding their benefits, challenges, and interdisciplinary potential. Drawing on implementing and designing over 50 poetry workshops facilitated by the author across Bosnian/Yugoslav, U.S., and U.K. diaspora contexts, this paper employs an autoethnographic and participatory lens to explore the workshops’ dual role as sites of empowerment and tools for epistemic transformation. Beyond examining their use in participatory action research (PAR), the paper highlights how poetry workshops can serve as interdisciplinary research tools that capture not only emotional and narrative dimensions of displacement but also spatial and material aspects of migrant experience. In doing so, the paper contributes to a broader rethinking of qualitative migration research by integrating methods from the social-oriented to spatial-oriented disciplines. Ultimately, it calls for a shift from viewing poetry as an extractive technique to embracing it as a reflexive, practical research method, capable of producing richly layered, interdisciplinary knowledge about transnational migrant lives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Doing and Critically Evaluating Participatory Action Research in Migration Studies)

19 pages, 784 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Generative AI as a Teaching Tool for Social Research Methodology: Addressing Challenges in Higher Education

by Laura Arosio

Societies 2025, 15(6), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060157 - 5 Jun 2025

Viewed by 353

Abstract

Teaching social research methodology in university courses, whether qualitative or quantitative, presents significant challenges for both instructors and students. These challenges include the availability of empirical datasets, the illustration of data analysis techniques, the simulation of research report writing, and the facilitation of [...] Read more.

Teaching social research methodology in university courses, whether qualitative or quantitative, presents significant challenges for both instructors and students. These challenges include the availability of empirical datasets, the illustration of data analysis techniques, the simulation of research report writing, and the facilitation of scenario-based learning. Emerging AI tools, such as ChatGPT-4, offer potential support in higher education, though their effectiveness depends on the context and their integration with traditional didactic methods. This article explores the potential of AI in teaching social research methodology, with a focus on its benefits, limits and ethical considerations. Furthermore, the paper presents a case study of AI application in teaching qualitative research techniques, specifically in the analysis of solicited documents. Generative AI shows the potential to improve the teaching of social research methodology by providing students with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning, interact with realistic datasets and refine their analytical and communication skills. The integration of AI in education should, however, be approached with a critical mindset, ensuring that AI tools serve as a means to sharpen (not replace) traditional methods of learning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Learning, Ethics and Pedagogies)

23 pages, 264 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wisdom: A Cultural Demand on Older Adults in Rural and Urban Areas

by Angelica García-Mendez, Samana Vergara-Lope, Roberto Lagunes-Córdoba and Sacramento Pinazo-Hernandis

Societies 2025, 15(6), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060156 - 3 Jun 2025

Viewed by 267

Abstract

Culture encompasses, among other things, the ways of living, feeling, and thinking of a social group and is transmitted from one generation to the next. In part, this transmission is accomplished by older adults. Generative cultural demand refers to the perception that older [...] Read more.

Culture encompasses, among other things, the ways of living, feeling, and thinking of a social group and is transmitted from one generation to the next. In part, this transmission is accomplished by older adults. Generative cultural demand refers to the perception that older adults have of what society and their families expect them to contribute to the benefit of younger generations and the communities in which they live. This phenomenological study explores generative cultural demand. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 older adults between the ages of 61 and 89 from urban and rural areas in Mexico. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed through content analysis using the MAXQDA program. The results show that the main category of cultural demand was wisdom, conceived as the transmission of experiences, knowledge, behavior, traditions, and values, which varied by sex and by type of urban or rural area. In rural areas, women emphasized the transmission of experiences about daily life, while men focused on matters of labor; in urban areas, both men and women highlighted the transmission of personal experiences. Participants considered themselves to be appreciated, still capable of contributing to society, and as a reservoir of knowledge, traditions, values, and principles useful to future generations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges for Social Inclusion of Older Adults in Liquid Modernity)

12 pages, 614 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Fighting Disinformation: How to Measure the Impact of Pre- and Debunking on Dutch Primary School Children’s Media Literacy?

by Pascale Verhalle and Eugėne Loos

Societies 2025, 15(6), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060155 - 3 Jun 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 290

Abstract

To empower citizens against disinformation in a sustainable way, teaching media literacy is important, especially among young children, enabling them to use this competence throughout their lifetime. Prebunking and debunking are two different teaching methods to enhance media literacy and fight disinformation. Prebunking [...] Read more.

To empower citizens against disinformation in a sustainable way, teaching media literacy is important, especially among young children, enabling them to use this competence throughout their lifetime. Prebunking and debunking are two different teaching methods to enhance media literacy and fight disinformation. Prebunking is a technique based on teaching people to recognize disinformation in advance so that they are aware of it. Debunking is characterized by refuting disinformation after the target group has been exposed to disinformation. To compare their impact, our empirical study conducted an exploratory experiment at two primary schools in the Netherlands in Spring 2024. One group of primary school children (10–13 years old) was exposed to a prebunking intervention (based on inoculation, a psychological approach directed against the disinformation manipulation techniques) while the other group was exposed to a debunking intervention (based on a traditional media literacy lesson). Both groups were questioned about the reliability of digital information (news items) to measure the effectiveness of prebunking compared to debunking. We addressed the following question: To what extent can the impact of pre- and debunking as an educational method for media literacy among Dutch primary school children be measured by an exploratory experiment? Full article

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16 pages, 580 KiB

Open AccessReview

Disabling Norms, Affirming Desires: A Scoping Review on Disabled Women’s Sexual Practices

by Inês Silva, Ana Cristina Santos and Alexandra Oliveira

Societies 2025, 15(6), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060154 - 2 Jun 2025

Viewed by 441

Abstract

Disabled women have historically been marginalized from sexuality education and discussions due to harmful stereotypes that portray them as asexual or incompatible with cis-heteroreproductive sexual norms. To assess whether these assumptions are supported by empirical evidence, a scoping review was conducted following Arksey [...] Read more.

Disabled women have historically been marginalized from sexuality education and discussions due to harmful stereotypes that portray them as asexual or incompatible with cis-heteroreproductive sexual norms. To assess whether these assumptions are supported by empirical evidence, a scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s proposal and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The protocol is registered with the Open Science Framework. EBSCOhost, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases were searched to map peer-reviewed scientific articles published between 2013 and 2023 on disabled women’s sexual practices. Seven qualitative studies were selected and analyzed through reflexive thematic analysis. Four key themes were identified: Reclaiming Sexuality, Navigating Constraints, Barriers to Awareness, and Building Inclusive Futures. The findings illustrate the diversity of sexual experiences among disabled women and highlight their active role in overcoming the barriers imposed by their bodies and environments. This review contributes to a broader discourse on sexuality and disability, challenges oversimplified narratives of de-sexualization, and provides evidence supporting a paradigm shift towards inclusive, affirmative sexual health education. Further research and policy reforms are essential to ensure recognition of their sexual citizenship, desires, and lived realities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Disabled People/People with Disabilities (Non-Medical Coverage))

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19 pages, 293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Health Behaviors Among Students and Their Association with Stress, Student Burnout and Study Engagement

by Nils Olson, Renate Oberhoffer, Barbara Reiner and Thorsten Schulz

Societies 2025, 15(6), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060153 - 31 May 2025

Viewed by 541

Abstract

The prevalence of stress and burnout in higher education exceeds rates of the general working population, affecting students’ health and increasing university drop-out rates. Study engagement—a positive state of energy, dedication, and absorption—acts as a protective factor. A healthy lifestyle is neglected by [...] Read more.

The prevalence of stress and burnout in higher education exceeds rates of the general working population, affecting students’ health and increasing university drop-out rates. Study engagement—a positive state of energy, dedication, and absorption—acts as a protective factor. A healthy lifestyle is neglected by many students, especially early in their studies. Since habits like diet, physical activity, weight management, and substance use impact mental health and resilience, their role in stress and burnout should be explored. In a cross-sectional online survey of 1955 German university students, sociodemographic data were collected and perceived stress, study engagement, and burnout were assessed. Associations with health habits, including diet, fitness, and tobacco and alcohol use, were examined. Physical activity was measured via the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and alcohol consumption was measured via the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. Among the students, 73.4% experienced moderate to high stress, with females reporting higher levels. Almost one-third had frequent burnout symptoms, while less than half (44.5%) reported high study engagement, with no sex differences. Active lifestyles, healthy diets, and fitness were linked to stress, burnout, and engagement. Perceived fitness and diet had the strongest associations with stress (d = 0.198–0.906), burnout (d = 0.277–0.483), and engagement (d = 0.218–0.272), while BMI (d = 0.089–0.186), sitting hours (d = 0.172–0.203), and physical activity (d = 0.096–0.141) played a comparatively minor role, regarding their small effect size. Personal habits are significantly linked to burnout and engagement, possibly by enhancing resilience. Health literacy regarding study demands is key for effective prevention and targeted student health management. More objective fitness data could further validate these findings. Full article

23 pages, 2100 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The UNESCO Environmental Corridor of Extremadura: Tourism and Governance as Tools for Social Sustainability

by Rocío Blanco-Gregory, Marcelo Sánchez-Oro Sánchez and Margarita Calleja-Aldana

Societies 2025, 15(6), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060152 - 29 May 2025

Viewed by 396

Abstract

Tourism governance evaluates the participation of stakeholders in planning and development decisions within a territory. Understanding who these stakeholders are and their involvement is crucial, as tourism impacts social, economic, and cultural spaces, requiring equitable distribution of its costs and benefits to ensure [...] Read more.

Tourism governance evaluates the participation of stakeholders in planning and development decisions within a territory. Understanding who these stakeholders are and their involvement is crucial, as tourism impacts social, economic, and cultural spaces, requiring equitable distribution of its costs and benefits to ensure sustainability. This study focuses on the UNESCO Environmental Corridor of Extremadura, using data from the Tourism Observatory of Extremadura and visitor surveys to define its tourist scope. A literature review identified dimensions and variables of tourism governance, leading to the design of questionnaires and evaluation scales, as well as the identification of stakeholders based on existing research. Results reveal variability in tourism governance across territories, with a notable lack of management concerning gender and functional diversity. While aligning with existing literature on the underdevelopment of shared governance policies, the study highlights progress in stakeholder participation strategies, particularly in territories with UNESCO designations. The UEC territories stand out for their strategic tourism development plans, stakeholder consultation, sector coordination, and diverse participatory decision-making mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Embodiment and Engagement of Tourism with Social Sustainability)

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18 pages, 1145 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Health Crisis and Labour Markets in Globalised Capitalism: The Spanish Social Labour Intervention Model During COVID-19

by Rafael Martínez Martín and Teresa T. Rodríguez Molina

Societies 2025, 15(6), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060151 - 28 May 2025

Viewed by 244

Abstract

On 14 March 2020, the Spanish Government declared a state of alarm to manage the health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This led to the implementation of measures to confine the population and contain economic activities, with significant socio-labour consequences. Faced with [...] Read more.

On 14 March 2020, the Spanish Government declared a state of alarm to manage the health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This led to the implementation of measures to confine the population and contain economic activities, with significant socio-labour consequences. Faced with this emergency scenario, the labour intervention actions carried out by the Spanish Administration were striking and unique, with the aim of maintaining employment and preventing its massive destruction. At the same time, a new stage of transition began in the Spanish labour market, where the acceleration in the application of new information technologies and the processes of economic globalisation meant changes in the organisation of work in order to face the new economic challenges. The success of the model of labour market intervention and employment protection organised by the Spanish Administration in that unavoidable health crisis is examined here as an effective example for future emergencies, which the WHO is advertising can happen again. Full article

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20 pages, 472 KiB

Open AccessArticle

by Roberto Graziano

Societies 2025, 15(6), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060150 - 28 May 2025

Viewed by 619

Abstract

This research proposes an update of the use of the concept of “habitus”. In continuity with Wacquant, I suggest using habitus not only as an object of investigation, but also as a methodological tool, reintroducing it for qualitative studies of digital sociology. Additionally, [...] Read more.

This research proposes an update of the use of the concept of “habitus”. In continuity with Wacquant, I suggest using habitus not only as an object of investigation, but also as a methodological tool, reintroducing it for qualitative studies of digital sociology. Additionally, it can be used as an analytical tool to guide the selection of cases of analysis in empirical research. The aim of this study is to provide researchers with a methodological tool in their toolbox that can apply categorizations that can guide the entire research process to interpret social differences and, consequently, the positions that subjects occupy in the social field through critical reconstruction. This study intends to use the concept of habitus, taking the following scheme into account: [(habitus)·(capital) + Field] = practice. However, the scheme is updated through the use of new indicators that are suitable for describing and categorizing subjects and their hybrid interaction in digital platforms, as well as in autochthonous contexts. For this reason, this study has provided an integration of new forms of capital with the classic ones identified by Bourdieu. In this study, habitus will be defined as “popular habitus”, i.e., a rigorous effort that is useful for finding the tools capable of determining which subjects are symbolically categorized in a “popular” representation of the self and in their practical predispositions, as well as which are not. Furthermore, through empirical examples, the capacity of the tool to understand the interaction between digital platforms and social subjects is highlighted, as well as the way in which this interaction contributes to shaping identities and social choices. Full article

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

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20 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“They’re Just Children at the End of the Day” How Is Child First Justice Applied to Children Who Commit Serious Crimes?

by Zoe Anne Palmer and Kathy Hampson

Societies 2025, 15(6), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060149 - 27 May 2025

Viewed by 573

Abstract

Child First (CF), the approach to youth justice now endorsed by the Youth Justice Board in England and Wales, centres around seeing children as children and meeting their needs in a child-focused way. CF opposes its predecessor, the risk-based approach, which focused on [...] Read more.

Child First (CF), the approach to youth justice now endorsed by the Youth Justice Board in England and Wales, centres around seeing children as children and meeting their needs in a child-focused way. CF opposes its predecessor, the risk-based approach, which focused on actuarial measurements of risk and led to net-widening, the overuse of custody, and harsher sentencing. As the current strategic approach for youth justice in England and Wales, it is essential to consider its applicability for all offence types, including the most serious. This study aimed to begin the exploration of this under-researched area by identifying the opinions of youth justice professionals on the application of theory to practice. This small-scale exploratory study, comprising five in-depth interviews with youth justice practitioners based in rural Wales, found a consensus amongst respondents that CF should apply to all offences, regardless of their seriousness, but with recognition that some factors centred around the child themselves and their relationship with their youth justice worker and with other services/the public may have an impact on this. Respondents suggested recommendations to counter these problems, leading to recommendations for future research to further embed CF at all levels of youth justice operation. Full article

16 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Talking to Gen Z About Media and Pseudoscience: Trends and Perceptions

by Anna Podara, Theodora Saridou, Ioanna Kostarella, Elissavet Georgiadou and Andreas Veglis

Societies 2025, 15(6), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060148 - 27 May 2025

Viewed by 889

Abstract

This paper explores Gen Z’s understanding of science and pseudoscience, assessing, at the same time, their media literacy skills. Drawing on the relevant literature and elaborating on the findings from five focus groups studies in remote areas of Greece and Portugal, it sheds [...] Read more.

This paper explores Gen Z’s understanding of science and pseudoscience, assessing, at the same time, their media literacy skills. Drawing on the relevant literature and elaborating on the findings from five focus groups studies in remote areas of Greece and Portugal, it sheds light on how young people perceive science. Through a synthesis of the insights garnered from the participants’ personal experiences, this study endeavors to offer valuable advice and recommendations for designing education material that is tailor-made to address the needs of generation Z. By adopting these suggestions, policymakers and educational experts can advance scientific literacy, cultivate critical thinking, and nurture an environment of evidence-based decision-making for young people. Full article

18 pages, 2543 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Practice Guidelines as a Medical Profession Government Technology in Medellín, Colombia

by Diego Alejandro Estrada-Mesa, Luis Felipe Higuita-Gutiérrez and Jaiberth Antonio Cardona-Arias

Societies 2025, 15(6), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060147 - 27 May 2025

Viewed by 430

Abstract

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are essential for current medical professions since they prevent clinical practice from being based on personal opinions, bias, or individual experience. CPGs are technologies used to govern clinical practice because they guide decision making considering the best available evidence [...] Read more.

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are essential for current medical professions since they prevent clinical practice from being based on personal opinions, bias, or individual experience. CPGs are technologies used to govern clinical practice because they guide decision making considering the best available evidence and patients’ values and preferences. In Colombia, studies associated with CPGs and medical professions are scarce; the few available have considered CPGs as a tool for standardization, improving health care efficiency, and quality, and have identified barriers against their implementation. Studies from the medical humanities, sociology, and medical philosophy perspectives are nonexistent. The objective of this study was to analyze the way in which 311 physicians perceive CPGs, the difficulties associated with implementation, the way in which CPGs set and condition individual and collective professional autonomy, and its effect on patient–physician relationships. Our findings revealed that CPGs may be understood as tools used to govern medical judgment and the medical professions with limited implementation in the Colombian health system, but which have become significant mechanisms placing medicine close to the highest scientific, professional, and ethical standards. Full article

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21 pages, 296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

‘Okay, but Which One Is Your Mom?’ Experiences of Lesbian-Parent Families and Assisted Reproduction Techniques

by Daniel Lagos-Cerón, Rodolfo Morrison, Francisca Fuentes-Pizarro, Laura Matthey-Ramírez, Antonia Paredero-Hidalgo, Fernanda Pérez-Ruiz and Cleber Tiago Cirineu

Societies 2025, 15(6), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060146 - 26 May 2025

Viewed by 497

Abstract

In Chile, lesbian-parent families have faced legal and social advancements as well as challenges, generating new dynamics through assisted reproduction. The reproductive justice framework allows for an analysis of the inequities and injustices experienced by LGBTIQA+ people in relation to their reproductive rights. [...] Read more.

In Chile, lesbian-parent families have faced legal and social advancements as well as challenges, generating new dynamics through assisted reproduction. The reproductive justice framework allows for an analysis of the inequities and injustices experienced by LGBTIQA+ people in relation to their reproductive rights. Objective: To analyze the narratives of lesbian-parent families who have accessed parenthood through assisted reproduction techniques within the Chilean healthcare system, identifying barriers and facilitators in the process, as well as possible instances of discrimination. Methodology: This research adopted a qualitative approach with a descriptive scope and was based on a constructivist paradigm, utilizing a narrative design and analysis. Four lesbian-parent families participated, selected through purposive or convenience sampling. Results: The findings revealed that the main barriers were related to health insurance coverage and social and geographical factors. Among the key facilitators were support networks, educational level, and healthcare professionals’ guidance. Discussion: The study highlighted the presence of inequalities affecting the exercise of parenthood and the right to form a family, shaped by institutional and social barriers from a reproductive justice framework. Conclusions: The study underscores the need to advance inclusive public policies and systemic changes that recognize and protect family diversity in Chile. Furthermore, it highlights the role of narratives as a tool to make visible and challenge the inequalities surrounding lesbian parenthood. Full article

18 pages, 628 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Contextual Constraints on the Role of Management Commitment in Safety Culture: A Moderation Analysis

by Viviana S. Pinto, Isabel S. Silva and Daniela Costa

Societies 2025, 15(6), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060145 - 23 May 2025

Viewed by 348

Abstract

Safety culture (SC) can play a key role in workers’ health and well-being, as well as in organizational performance. The literature has demonstrated a positive relationship between SC and organizational indicators such as safety performance. However, there is still a need to understand [...] Read more.

Safety culture (SC) can play a key role in workers’ health and well-being, as well as in organizational performance. The literature has demonstrated a positive relationship between SC and organizational indicators such as safety performance. However, there is still a need to understand the impact of contextual factors and to identify strategies that promote employee well-being and organizational effectiveness. This cross-sectional study aims to analyze the relationship between different components of SC—management commitment, safety management systems (SMS), and worker participation in safety—and to explore the moderating role of perceived barriers to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the physical demands of the job in these relationships. The study involved 473 Portuguese workers from the construction and industrial sectors. Correlation and moderation analyses were performed. The results revealed positive correlations among the main SC components, highlighting their interconnection within the organizational context. A moderating effect—albeit of small magnitude—was also found for both perceived barriers and physical demands in the relationship between management commitment and the other dimensions of SC. The results are discussed in light of their implications for safety management and the promotion of healthier and more sustainable workplaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revitalizing Workplaces: The Intersection of Public Health and Sustainable Wellbeing in Organizations)

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19 pages, 602 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Intelligence Governance in Higher Education: The Role of Knowledge-Based Strategies in Fostering Legal Awareness and Ethical Artificial Intelligence Literacy

by Ionica Oncioiu and Anca Roxana Bularca

Societies 2025, 15(6), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060144 - 23 May 2025

Viewed by 626

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is now part of the daily routine in many universities. It shows up in learning platforms, digital assessments, and even student services. But despite its growing presence, institutions still face the challenge of making sure it is used in ways [...] Read more.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is now part of the daily routine in many universities. It shows up in learning platforms, digital assessments, and even student services. But despite its growing presence, institutions still face the challenge of making sure it is used in ways that respect legal and ethical boundaries. This research explores how university settings that prioritise knowledge—real, shared, and thoughtfully managed—can help students become more aware of these dimensions. A total of 270 students took part in the study. We used a structural equation model to look at the links between knowledge-based practices, institutional governance, and students’ understanding of AI’s legal and ethical sides. The results show that when knowledge is genuinely valued—not just stored or repeated—governance practices around AI tend to develop more clearly. And this, in turn, makes a difference in how students relate to AI systems. Rather than teaching ethics directly, governance shapes the environment where such thinking becomes part of the everyday. When students see that rules are not arbitrary and that transparency matters, they become more cautious, but also more confident in navigating technology that does not always make its logic visible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Participatory Environments: Technologies, Ethics, and Literacy Aspects)

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21 pages, 652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Post-COVID-19 Analysis of Fiscal Support Interventions on Health Regulations and Socioeconomic Dimensions

by Matolwandile Mzuvukile Mtotywa and Nandipha Ngcukana Mdletshe

Societies 2025, 15(6), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/soc15060143 - 22 May 2025

Viewed by 360

Abstract

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has profoundly affected public health and socio-economic structures globally. This research conducted a post-COVID-19 analysis of the role of fiscal support interventions on COVID-19 health regulations such as mandatory non-pharmaceutical interventions like face masks, social distancing, periodic lockdowns which [...] Read more.

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has profoundly affected public health and socio-economic structures globally. This research conducted a post-COVID-19 analysis of the role of fiscal support interventions on COVID-19 health regulations such as mandatory non-pharmaceutical interventions like face masks, social distancing, periodic lockdowns which include restrictions on movement, and socio-economic dimensions. This quantitative research obtained 302 responses from different households in the Eastern Cape, Gauteng, Kwa-Zulu Natal, and Limpopo Provinces in South Africa. The results reveal that the relief fund (R350 unemployment grant, unemployment insurance fund claim, and food parcel distribution, among others) mediated the relationship between COVID-19 health regulations and poverty levels and the relationship between COVID-19 health regulations and health and well-being. The relief fund also mediated the relationship between COVID-19 health regulations and employment levels. Support packages from the R500 billion government support, which included loan guarantees, job support, tax and payment deferrals and holidays, social grants, wage guarantees, health interventions, and municipalities support, moderate the relationship between COVID-19 health regulations and the family and social support. These results validate the impact of the fiscal support intervention by the government in mitigating its emergency intervention with COVID-19 health regulations. This strengthens the theory of intervention, highlighting that multiple dynamics make interventions complex as shown by mediation and moderation results. Furthermore, this study highlights intervention being central to the management of the crisis. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive intervention for future preparedness, thus advancing the crisis–intervention perspective. Advances in these areas are critical to mitigate the impact of the next pandemic or similar major events in society. This can be achieved through improved pandemic timely response with effective economic stimulus, social relief, strong legal framework, and anti-corruption policies. Full article

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Societies, Volume 15, Issue 6 (June 2025) – 24 articles

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