Next Issue
Volume 14, April
Previous Issue
Volume 14, February
 
 

Soc. Sci., Volume 14, Issue 3 (March 2025) – 73 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): This article is about how contact between parents and children under public care is seen as a risk in Norway. Rather than being seen as meaningful and important for a child’s development, contact is seen as an administrative concept where the discourse of the “dangerous child welfare parent” transforms contact into something risky. In this way, parents in child welfare services are given a general identity that is defined in advance. Contact between parents and children under public care thus becomes the result of a political discourse rather than something that is assessed according to the individual situations and needs of children and families. View this paper
  • Issues are regarded as officially published after their release is announced to the table of contents alert mailing list.
  • You may sign up for e-mail alerts to receive table of contents of newly released issues.
  • PDF is the official format for papers published in both, html and pdf forms. To view the papers in pdf format, click on the "PDF Full-text" link, and use the free Adobe Reader to open them.
Order results
Result details
Section
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
24 pages, 768 KiB  
Article
Not All Migrants Are the Same: Decent Work and Pre- and Post-Migration Experiences of Economic Migrants
by Maha Yomn Sbaa, Simone Donati and Salvatore Zappalà
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030189 - 20 Mar 2025
Viewed by 309
Abstract
Grounded in the dual frame of reference theory and a life-course perspective, this study explores how migrants’ past work experiences shape the perceptions of their actual work in the host country. The study examines pre- and post-migration working conditions and life satisfaction and [...] Read more.
Grounded in the dual frame of reference theory and a life-course perspective, this study explores how migrants’ past work experiences shape the perceptions of their actual work in the host country. The study examines pre- and post-migration working conditions and life satisfaction and compares them to perceptions of decent work (DW). Additionally, the study also compares the DW perceptions of migrants with prior work experience in their home country with those of migrants who lack such experience and started to work in the host country. Using the Decent Work Questionnaire (DWQ), the study analyzes responses from 137 participants. A two-step cluster analysis identified three distinct groups of migrants living in Italy with pre-migration work experience in their home country. These clusters have been labeled as follows: (1) “Better Life, Better Work”, (2) “Better Life, Worse Work”, and (3) “Same Life, Worse Work”. ANOVA results showed that the better life, better work group reported significantly higher overall DW perceptions, as well as higher scores on five out of the seven dimensions of the DWQ. Socio-demographic characteristics were further analyzed to explain variations across clusters. These findings highlight the complex interplay between pre- and post-migration experiences and their impact on migrants’ DW perceptions in their current roles. Additionally, such clusters were compared with a control group that does not have prior work experience in the home country. Results suggest that time-sensitive factors but also other factors, such as expectations, may determine those perceptions. Finally, the study offers practical recommendations for improving workplace conditions and provides insights for organizations and policymakers aiming to better support economic migrants’ integration in the workplaces. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Precarious Work to Decent Work)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 447 KiB  
Article
Reproductive Biopolitics, Demographic Anxieties, and Access to Safe Abortion: National Security and Pronatalism in the ‘Family Protection and Youthful Population’ Law in Iran
by Ladan Rahbari
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030188 - 20 Mar 2025
Viewed by 529
Abstract
This paper examines the historical relationship between Shi’i jurisprudence and the Islamic Republic of Iran’s reproductive biopolitics. Using archival methods, the paper looks into the similarities and differences between religious interpretations and Iranian law. It then analyzes the implications of the recent ‘Family [...] Read more.
This paper examines the historical relationship between Shi’i jurisprudence and the Islamic Republic of Iran’s reproductive biopolitics. Using archival methods, the paper looks into the similarities and differences between religious interpretations and Iranian law. It then analyzes the implications of the recent ‘Family Protection and Youthful Population’ law, enacted in 2021 in response to fears of a looming ‘population crisis,’ and how it further restricts women’s access to abortion (care). The paper argues that reproductive policies are influenced not only by religious authorities and pronatalist patriarchal rationales but also by specific anxieties about a population crisis and decline considered a threat to the country’s national security. Reproductive policies exist within a moral framework at the intersection of demographic anxieties, biopolitics, and religious discourses that push women toward unpaid maternal labor and traditional gender roles. Full article
12 pages, 624 KiB  
Article
Media Multitasking Scale: Validation Study with Portuguese Adolescents
by Luísa Campos, Bárbara Nobre, Catarina Morais, Lurdes Veríssimo, Pedro Dias and Jiutong Luo
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030187 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 321
Abstract
The increasing presence of digital media has amplified the need to study media multitasking (both multiple media activities simultaneously and using media while doing non-media activities). Media Multitasking Scale (MMS) has been used to assess this phenomenon, but it is yet to be [...] Read more.
The increasing presence of digital media has amplified the need to study media multitasking (both multiple media activities simultaneously and using media while doing non-media activities). Media Multitasking Scale (MMS) has been used to assess this phenomenon, but it is yet to be validated for a Portuguese population. This study analysed the validity of a Portuguese Version of the MMS (n = 171 Portuguese adolescents) based on inter-item correlations and confirmatory factor analysis. The results suggest changes in the original version to reflect more recent digital media tendencies for a better fit to the Portuguese adolescents’ sample. Additionally, results showed that Multitasking with Media and Non-Media and Concentration Without Multitasking were partially predictors of mental health problems (predictive validity), highlighting the scale’s utility in assessing media multitasking behaviours and their impact on psychological well-being. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 735 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Illness Perception on Emotional Disorders in Perimenopausal Women in Macau: The Serial Mediating Effect of Self-Esteem and Psychological Resilience
by Jiaqi Li, Tulips Yiwen Wang, Jenny C. Lok and Ruiting Shi
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030186 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 259
Abstract
Studying the emotional disorders of perimenopausal women and their influencing factors from a psychological perspective is essential for developing targeted psychological interventions and support strategies. Such efforts can help middle-aged and elderly women better cope with the challenges of perimenopause and improve their [...] Read more.
Studying the emotional disorders of perimenopausal women and their influencing factors from a psychological perspective is essential for developing targeted psychological interventions and support strategies. Such efforts can help middle-aged and elderly women better cope with the challenges of perimenopause and improve their overall quality of life. This study aimed to explore the chain mediating effect of self-esteem and psychological resilience on the relationship between illness perception and emotional disorders in perimenopausal women in Macau. A total of 617 postmenopausal women completed the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Psychological Resilience Scale, Self-Esteem Scale, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Results revealed a significant positive correlation between illness perception and emotional disorders. Illness perception was found to have a significant direct effect on emotional disorders and an indirect effect through the mediating roles of self-esteem and psychological resilience, both independently and sequentially. These findings indicate that illness perception directly influences emotional disorders in postmenopausal women in Macau and indirectly impacts them through self-esteem and psychological resilience, offering valuable insights for psychological intervention strategies. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 745 KiB  
Article
Gender Dynamics of Terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin and Beyond: Systemist Representation and Connections
by Cecilia Idika-Kalu
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030185 - 19 Mar 2025
Viewed by 227
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to present findings, relationships, and value added from research on the experiences of women with terrorism in North-East Nigeria to interdisciplinary spaces and practice by using systemist diagrammatic representations. This work is regarded as worthwhile in both [...] Read more.
The purpose of this article is to present findings, relationships, and value added from research on the experiences of women with terrorism in North-East Nigeria to interdisciplinary spaces and practice by using systemist diagrammatic representations. This work is regarded as worthwhile in both substantive and methodological terms for the following reasons: First, respective research projects with policy relevance will be presented in a visual format, highlighting their connectedness—easily digestible, but without losing the depth and breadth of the work. Second, the article provides a combination of diagrams with text (i.e., background methods and findings), making the contents accessible to different kinds of learners. Third, and finally, the visual approach creates clear interdisciplinary connections that provide a sound basis for further research, policy design, and practice without the loss of academic rigor. This article moves forward in seven sections. Section one provides an overview of the study. The second section introduces the systemist approach that will be implemented herein. Sections three through five use systemist graphics to analyze respective publications that focus on women and terrorism. Section six brings the preceding three studies into engagement with each other and addresses the greater significance of the work in the context of multiple disciplines. Seventh and last is the concluding section, which sums up the contributions of this article and offers some ideas for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systemism and International Studies)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 270 KiB  
Article
Disrupting the Abuse-Prison Nexus: The Gendered Violence of Prosecution and Abolitionist Feminist Approaches to Social Care Work
by Sid P. Jordan, Emily Thuma, Aylaliyah Assefa Birru, Deirdre Wilson, Romarilyn Ralston, Norma Cumpian and Joseph Hankins
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030184 - 18 Mar 2025
Viewed by 417
Abstract
The vast majority of people in U.S. women’s prisons are survivors of interpersonal violence, a pattern that organizers and advocates have referred to as the abuse-to-prison pipeline. This article critically examines criminal prosecution from the perspectives of survivors of interpersonal violence who faced [...] Read more.
The vast majority of people in U.S. women’s prisons are survivors of interpersonal violence, a pattern that organizers and advocates have referred to as the abuse-to-prison pipeline. This article critically examines criminal prosecution from the perspectives of survivors of interpersonal violence who faced long prison sentences in California. In-depth interviews and group discussions were generated through a participatory process at a gathering to launch the University of California Sentencing Project, a partnership with the community-based organization California Coalition for Women Prisoners. The twenty-two formerly incarcerated participants had collectively spent more than 300 years imprisoned. Drawing on their lived experiences spanning several decades and multiple jurisdictions, this article offers an unyielding account of tactics of isolation, intimidation, narrative manipulation, and confinement as definitional to prosecutorial practice and culture. This criminalized survivor-centered analysis of prosecution shows how one of the most robustly funded public interventions for interpersonal violence is not merely failing to protect victims but is protracting patterns of abuse and coercive control. Implications are discussed in terms of social care work and collective defense rooted in abolition feminism. Full article
17 pages, 2109 KiB  
Article
Using WhatsApp in Distance Education: Assessing the Impact on Academic Interaction and Influencing Factors
by Jose Miguel Romero-Saritama, Sandra Espinosa-Tapia and Antonio Palacios-Rodríguez
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030183 - 18 Mar 2025
Viewed by 364
Abstract
WhatsApp has gained relevance in distance higher education due to its accessibility and ease of use, making it a valuable tool for academic support. This study analyzes the use of WhatsApp in this context, considering sociodemographic variables and factors such as subject and [...] Read more.
WhatsApp has gained relevance in distance higher education due to its accessibility and ease of use, making it a valuable tool for academic support. This study analyzes the use of WhatsApp in this context, considering sociodemographic variables and factors such as subject and group size. The sample included 127 students from an Ecuadorian university, belonging to two subjects from different areas. With a multivariate quantitative approach, this study evaluated the dimensions of management, communication and interaction, learning, and the relevance and benefits of using WhatsApp. The data were analyzed using Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis tests and a K-means clustering analysis. The results show a positive assessment of the use of WhatsApp (mean of 4.48/5), highlighting the academic benefits, especially its innovative and practical effect. Smaller groups presented a more favorable assessment, and women reported a greater inclination towards some key dimensions. The clustering analysis identified three groups of students with differentiated assessments. These findings suggest that WhatsApp, as a support tool in distance education, not only facilitates academic interaction, but also responds to the specific needs of students, its effectiveness being dependent on group size and other student characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Technology for a Multimodal Society)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 489 KiB  
Article
Development of Civil Society Organizations—Caught Up in the Framework of Different Welfare Systems
by Tatjana Rakar and Zinka Kolarič
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030182 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 314
Abstract
This article examines the processes of governmentalization and marketization in enabling the development of civil society organizations within different welfare systems. It also attempts to explain how these processes impact volunteerism, distinguishing the service from the expressive roles of the civil society sector. [...] Read more.
This article examines the processes of governmentalization and marketization in enabling the development of civil society organizations within different welfare systems. It also attempts to explain how these processes impact volunteerism, distinguishing the service from the expressive roles of the civil society sector. Theoretical findings are tested and illustrated using data from the Johns Hopkins Comparative Nonprofit Sector Project. Further, data for Slovenia are included as an example of a distinct post-socialist welfare system. The data were collected from a representative sample of Slovenian civil society organizations based on the methodology of the Johns Hopkins Comparative Nonprofit Sector Project. As revealed, in line with institutionalist theories, different welfare systems show path dependency by determining the basis and level of the professionalization of the civil society sector, influencing the approaches of governmentalization and marketization, and indirectly changing the role of volunteerism. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1639 KiB  
Article
Revisiting Psychological Contract Measurement: Validation of the PSYCONES Questionnaire
by Adrián García-Selva, Beatriz Martín-del-Rio and José Ramos-López
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030181 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 439
Abstract
The psychological contract is a fundamental construct for understanding the relationships established between employee and employer. However, the current literature states that there is no validated instrument to measure this construct. The present research aims to validate the psychological contract questionnaire developed by [...] Read more.
The psychological contract is a fundamental construct for understanding the relationships established between employee and employer. However, the current literature states that there is no validated instrument to measure this construct. The present research aims to validate the psychological contract questionnaire developed by the PSYCONES team, providing empirical evidence on its reliability and validity in the current labor context. A sample of 1764 workers in the Spanish labor market was used, and a cross-validation process was applied, in which exploratory factor analysis was performed and various models (CFA, ESEM, CFA bifactor and ESEM bifactor) were tested to evaluate the structure of the questionnaire. In addition, multigroup invariance analyses were performed to examine the stability of the model according to gender and job level. The results indicated that the four-factor ESEM model showed the best fit and representation of the following dimensions of the psychological contract: fulfillment of company promises, fulfillment of employee promises, psychological contract violation, and perception of justice and trust. Likewise, the scale showed significant relationships with job satisfaction and organizational commitment, reinforcing its concurrent validity. This study provides a psychometrically robust instrument to assess the psychological contract in the workplace, offering a basis for future research and practical applications in different organizational contexts. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 730 KiB  
Article
Identifying Active Aging Policy Objectives in Italian Regions
by Davide Lucantoni, Giovanni Lamura, Marco Socci, Francesco Barbabella, Valerio Intraligi and Andrea Principi
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030180 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Background: In light of the main challenges recognized as being linked to the operationalization of the active aging concept at the policy level, the present study aimed to understand whether and to what extent Italian regional governments plan to deal with these challenges, [...] Read more.
Background: In light of the main challenges recognized as being linked to the operationalization of the active aging concept at the policy level, the present study aimed to understand whether and to what extent Italian regional governments plan to deal with these challenges, i.e., implementing inter-sectoral and multilevel cooperation in a mainstreaming aging perspective; creating participatory processes by involving stakeholders in policymaking; and implementing the multidimensionality of active aging. Methods: Interviews with representatives of all Italian regions were conducted, and contributions by regional civil society stakeholders were collected. A framework analysis was conducted to identify and categorize policy objectives. Results: Policy plans to deal with the issues under study are in place in all Italian regions; however, differences across regions depend on two main factors: the presence of a relevant regulatory framework and its degree of implementation. Conclusion: policy recommendations for improving the current state concerned awareness-raising campaigns to strengthen the dialogue between regional governments and civil society stakeholders and the need for provisions issued at the national level to advance and harmonize regional policy tools in this area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Policy and Welfare)
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 251 KiB  
Essay
Customization of U.S. Holidays: Agency and Nonconformity
by Robert M. Carini
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030179 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 481
Abstract
Scholars have long sought to understand the meanings and implications of holidays for societies, groups, and individuals. Normative observances for holidays shift over time, which scholars have explained primarily with macro-level forces such as galvanizing events/trends and priorities of social institutions, but this [...] Read more.
Scholars have long sought to understand the meanings and implications of holidays for societies, groups, and individuals. Normative observances for holidays shift over time, which scholars have explained primarily with macro-level forces such as galvanizing events/trends and priorities of social institutions, but this approach tends to undersell individual and familial agency to customize holidays to their own circumstances, including to reject or resist normative symbols, meanings, and practices, either in part or wholly. Micro-level processes, then, offer insight into what happens when cultural projections about how to observe a holiday collide with an individual’s decision about whether and how to participate, especially with respect to negotiation processes. While the extant literature is robust regarding rituals commonly attached to holidays, there has been much less focus specifically on how agency shapes nonconformity to (or adoption of) normative scripts, including novel expressions. More research would also be helpful for understanding the dynamics of how families and other small groups negotiate shared observances. Finally, micro-level processes may serve—under certain conditions—to promote macro-level change in holiday patterns. To stimulate further research on processes involving agency and perceived constraints to holiday observation, I suggest a preliminary typology of U.S. holiday customization for individuals. Full article
20 pages, 793 KiB  
Review
Building and Eroding the Citizen–State Relationship in the Era of Algorithmic Decision-Making: Towards a New Conceptual Model of Institutional Trust
by Jaana Parviainen, Anne Koski, Laura Eilola, Hannele Palukka, Paula Alanen and Camilla Lindholm
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030178 - 17 Mar 2025
Viewed by 529
Abstract
In liberal welfare states, algorithmic decision-making systems are being increasingly deployed, impacting the citizen–state relationship in a multitude of positive and negative ways. This theoretical paper aims to develop a novel conceptual model—the institutional trust model—to analyse how the implementation of automated systems [...] Read more.
In liberal welfare states, algorithmic decision-making systems are being increasingly deployed, impacting the citizen–state relationship in a multitude of positive and negative ways. This theoretical paper aims to develop a novel conceptual model—the institutional trust model—to analyse how the implementation of automated systems erodes or strengthens institutional trust between policymakers and citizens. In this approach, institutional trust does not simply mean public trust in institutions (though it is an important component of democratic societies); instead, it refers to the responsive interactions between governmental institutions and citizens. Currently, very little is known about policymakers’ trust or distrust in automated systems and how their trust or distrust in citizens is reflected in their interest in implementing these systems in public administration. By analysing a sample of recent studies on automated decision-making, we explored the potential of the institutional trust model to identify how the four dimensions of trust can be used to explore the responsive relationship between citizens and the state. This article contributes to the formulation of research questions on automated decision-making in the future, underlining that the impact of automated systems on the socio-economic rights of marginalised citizens in public services and the policymakers’ motivations to deploy automated systems have been overlooked. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology, Digital Transformation and Society)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 236 KiB  
Article
‘What Are We to Each Other?’: Relational Participation as Processes of Positioning, Confirming and Manifesting Relationships
by Mona Kragelund Ravn
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030177 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 440
Abstract
It is generally recognized in research that participation is lacking in social work and is essential to improve. This article presents findings from qualitative focus group interviews with children and parents in Denmark with supervised contact (SC) after placement focusing on what participation [...] Read more.
It is generally recognized in research that participation is lacking in social work and is essential to improve. This article presents findings from qualitative focus group interviews with children and parents in Denmark with supervised contact (SC) after placement focusing on what participation is for them. Since SC is a context embedded in conflicting perspectives, enabling a sense of participation can be challenging, making SC an interesting case for exploration. The findings show that for both children and parents, participation is about emotionally engaging in, finding, confirming and manifesting their positioning in the relationship, which goes beyond a traditional rights-based understanding. Based on the new empirical knowledge and anchored in the metatheory of agential realism, the article argues for participation as a relational, dynamic and transcendental concept that revolves around three empirical key aspects: positioning, confirming and manifesting, entangled in children’s and parents’ experiences, emotions and thoughts about ‘what are we to each other?’. Children and parents express orientation towards entering relationships, even though these are challenging. Thus, a major point is the need for further research into the relational and emotional processes of participation with awareness of the importance of the specific relationship. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contact between Parents and Children in Child Welfare Care)
2 pages, 119 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Orofino (2024). “Groups Are Still a Problem … but a Different One!”: Reflecting on the Role Played by Non-Violent Extremist Groups in the Radicalisation Pathways of Individuals in the UK. Social Sciences 13: 424
by Elisa Orofino
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030176 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 196
Abstract
The academic editor chose not to show her/his name [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crime and Justice)
15 pages, 699 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Effectiveness of the Parenting Intervention Programme “Intelligent Families”: A Randomised Controlled Study
by Ana Martinez-Pampliega, Antonio Ortuño and Estefania Mónaco
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030175 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1318
Abstract
This study presents and analyses the effectiveness of the programme “Intelligent Families” aimed at promoting the development of parenting skills in parents within the framework of positive parenting. The popularity of attachment- and emotion-based interventions seems to have grown among clinicians, researchers and [...] Read more.
This study presents and analyses the effectiveness of the programme “Intelligent Families” aimed at promoting the development of parenting skills in parents within the framework of positive parenting. The popularity of attachment- and emotion-based interventions seems to have grown among clinicians, researchers and parents. However, in Spain, these programmes are practically non-existent or do not provide evidence of their effectiveness. A randomised experimental study with two groups (experimental and control) and a longitudinal design (pre, post and follow-up) was conducted to test the programme’s impact on parenting skills. The sample comprised 637 Spanish parents. Two moderating variables were considered: the modality (face-to-face or online) and the length of the intervention (2 or 4 sessions). The experimental group significantly increased their empathic authority, established rules with confidence and sensitivity, and could negotiate in everyday family conflicts. There were no differences according to the parent’s gender, the children’s age, or the intervention’s modality or duration. This study verified the effectiveness of the “Intelligent Families” intervention programme. The importance of developing and studying the effectiveness of preventive actions to promote families’ emotional well-being is discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Childhood and Youth Studies)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 222 KiB  
Article
Game Changer: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Sport for Development
by Louis Moustakas
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030174 - 13 Mar 2025
Viewed by 576
Abstract
Sport for Development (SFD) leverages sports as a tool to support broader sustainable development goals, particularly in underserved communities worldwide. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology advances, its application in SFD offers both promising opportunities and significant challenges in areas such as curriculum design, [...] Read more.
Sport for Development (SFD) leverages sports as a tool to support broader sustainable development goals, particularly in underserved communities worldwide. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology advances, its application in SFD offers both promising opportunities and significant challenges in areas such as curriculum design, evaluation, and participant engagement. Through a qualitative survey of experts and practitioners analysed through Thematic Analysis (TA), this paper explores perspectives on the potential of AI to enhance the delivery and management of SFD initiatives, as well as potential risks and needs in the field. Key perceived benefits include compensating for deficient organisational capacities and supporting the performance of both administrative and conceptual tasks. Potential risks include the propagation of increasingly generic approaches to SFD programming, loss of critical thinking skills, and concerns around participant safeguarding. To mediate this, exchange, education, and SFD-specific policies are seen as crucial. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology, Digital Transformation and Society)
14 pages, 252 KiB  
Article
The Discourse on the “Dangerous Child Welfare Parent”—How Contact with Parents Is Constructed as a Risk for Children Under Public Care in Norway
by Hilde Anette Aamodt and Marianne Buen Sommerfeldt
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030173 - 13 Mar 2025
Viewed by 625
Abstract
This article discusses contact and interaction between children, siblings and parents after a care order. We have collected and analyzed audio recordings of discussions between child welfare employees in Norway. In these meetings, the employees discuss and decide the extent and organization of [...] Read more.
This article discusses contact and interaction between children, siblings and parents after a care order. We have collected and analyzed audio recordings of discussions between child welfare employees in Norway. In these meetings, the employees discuss and decide the extent and organization of visits and contact between parents and children under public care. Visitation mainly emerges as a risk in the discussions and thus as something that must be limited. This article shows how this risk can be seen in the context of a political or moral discourse in which these parents are given an identity and a position as “dangerous”. However, there are some exceptions. In these exceptions, parents emerge as significant and important, and contact is seen as an opportunity for the child. Here, it is the risk of not having contact that stands out. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contact between Parents and Children in Child Welfare Care)
22 pages, 2159 KiB  
Article
Discriminated and Violent? The Social Representations of Minorities in the Rise of Radical Right Populist Parties in Portugal and Italy
by Sofia Rebelo, Manuel João Cruz, Cristiano Gianolla, Luciana Sotero and Lisete Mónico
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030172 - 13 Mar 2025
Viewed by 550
Abstract
The rise of radical right-wing parties in Europe brings new dynamics and challenges to western liberal democratic models, particularly in how these parties construct narratives around minorities, often framing them as threats to national identity and security. Given the historical background of populist [...] Read more.
The rise of radical right-wing parties in Europe brings new dynamics and challenges to western liberal democratic models, particularly in how these parties construct narratives around minorities, often framing them as threats to national identity and security. Given the historical background of populist governments in Italy and Portugal being, until recently, an exception in the context of populism in Europe, the comparison between these two countries offers an opportunity to analyse the dynamics and impacts of radical right-wing populism in both countries. The present research aims to address the scarcity of studies on social representations of minorities in Portugal and Italy. To achieve this goal, we conducted a survey (N = 1796) in Portugal and Italy. Using the free word association technique, based on Abric’s Structural Approach to Social Representations Theory, we analyse responses regarding social representations of minorities. Our findings reveal that, while respondents in both nations acknowledge discrimination, the Italian sample includes a wider range of negative terms, such as “violent”—whereas the Portuguese sample largely portrays minorities in positive terms, favouring their inclusion. Respondents in both countries recognise the existence of discrimination against minorities in society, yet the evocation of terms such as “violent”, “profiteers”, and “repugnant” reflects considerable influence from exclusionary and marginalising narratives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Stratification and Inequality)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 5413 KiB  
Article
Social Sustainability, Inclusive Cities and the Legacy of FIFA in Qatar: The Case of Education City
by Shaikha Al-Wadaani, Jessica DuPlessis, Hira Amin, Khansa Chemnad and Evren Tok
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030171 - 12 Mar 2025
Viewed by 566
Abstract
Social sustainability, particularly in the form of inclusive cities, is high on the global agenda. One local manifestation working towards these goals in Qatar is Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development’s Education City: a large campus with multiple schools, universities, communities, [...] Read more.
Social sustainability, particularly in the form of inclusive cities, is high on the global agenda. One local manifestation working towards these goals in Qatar is Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development’s Education City: a large campus with multiple schools, universities, communities, and cultural institutions, as well as home to one of the major stadiums of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tournament, hitherto the most accessible World Cup in history. This study is based on a survey that explores the experiences of people with and without disabilities in their interactions with Education City’s infrastructure, facilities, and services, as well as the legacy of hosting FIFA. It found that people’s experiences of social inclusion and belonging were positive given the multiple inclusive programs hosted by Education City and that hosting FIFA accelerated this shift. Yet, there is still significant room for improvement in the availability and quality of facilities, services with trained staff, clear communication, and advertisement and raising awareness of institutionalizing policies that reduce discrimination and stigma. Designing disability-inclusive cities is a complex grand societal challenge that requires intentional integration and constant monitoring and evaluation in an increasingly urbanized world. This is one of the first studies on Qatar and post-tournament legacy after a World Cup that prioritized accessibility. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1289 KiB  
Article
Social Biases in AI-Generated Creative Texts: A Mixed-Methods Approach in the Spanish Context
by María Gabino-Campos, José I. Baile and Aura Padilla-Martínez
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030170 - 11 Mar 2025
Viewed by 760
Abstract
This study addresses the biases in artificial intelligence (AI) when generating creative content, a growing challenge due to the widespread adoption of these technologies in creating automated narratives. Biases in AI reflect and amplify social inequalities. They perpetuate stereotypes and limit diverse representation [...] Read more.
This study addresses the biases in artificial intelligence (AI) when generating creative content, a growing challenge due to the widespread adoption of these technologies in creating automated narratives. Biases in AI reflect and amplify social inequalities. They perpetuate stereotypes and limit diverse representation in the generated outputs. Through an experimental approach with ChatGPT-4, biases related to age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, physical appearance, and socio-economic status, are analyzed in AI-generated stories about successful individuals in the context of Spain. The results reveal an overrepresentation of young, heterosexual, and Hispanic characters, alongside a marked underrepresentation of diverse groups such as older individuals, ethnic minorities, and characters with varied socio-economic backgrounds. These findings validate the hypothesis that AI systems replicate and amplify the biases present in their training data. This process reinforces social inequalities. To mitigate these effects, the study suggests solutions such as diversifying training datasets and conducting regular ethical audits, with the aim of fostering more inclusive AI systems. These measures seek to ensure that AI technologies fairly represent human diversity and contribute to a more equitable society. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1490 KiB  
Article
Ethnic Divisions Within Unity: Insights into Intra-Group Segregation from Israel’s Ultra-Orthodox Society
by Boris Gorelik
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030169 - 10 Mar 2025
Viewed by 575
Abstract
Ethnic segregation, a global phenomenon shaping social dynamics, urban development, and political behavior, is typically studied between distinct racial or national groups. This study provides insights into internal divisions within seemingly unified populations by investigating intra-group segregation within Israel’s ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Jewish communities. [...] Read more.
Ethnic segregation, a global phenomenon shaping social dynamics, urban development, and political behavior, is typically studied between distinct racial or national groups. This study provides insights into internal divisions within seemingly unified populations by investigating intra-group segregation within Israel’s ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) Jewish communities. By analyzing Knesset voting patterns as a proxy for residential distribution, I quantify segregation between two major ethnic groups within the Haredi community and identify significant segregation across Haredi-majority cities and clusters. Dissimilarity indices reveal distinct voluntary segregation patterns, with the city of Ashdod emerging as a unique case study due to its dynamic segregation trends and an unexplained sharp decline in dissimilarity in 2021. A comparison with Black–White segregation in U.S. metro areas highlights differing drivers of segregation: cultural and religious dynamics in Haredi communities versus structural inequalities in the U.S. Despite relatively lower dissimilarity scores, cultural and institutional factors reinforce residential separation. This research underscores the need for continued exploration of segregation’s underlying drivers and its implications for fostering more cohesive societies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Stratification and Inequality)
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 1890 KiB  
Systematic Review
Fathers, Families, and Society: A Two-Decade Systematic Literature Review on the Contexts and Consequences of Paternity and Parental Leave for Fathers
by Stéfanie André, Nola Cammu and Eline Meuleman
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030168 - 10 Mar 2025
Viewed by 880
Abstract
This systematic literature review assesses two decades of the literature on paternity and parental leave for fathers. We developed a conceptual framework that broadens the understanding of why fathers (do not) use paternity and/or parental leave, and the outcomes of men’s leave uptake [...] Read more.
This systematic literature review assesses two decades of the literature on paternity and parental leave for fathers. We developed a conceptual framework that broadens the understanding of why fathers (do not) use paternity and/or parental leave, and the outcomes of men’s leave uptake for fathers, families, and society. Drawing on Bourdieu’s social reproduction theory, we use social, economic, and cultural capital as sensitizing concepts in our analysis. Regarding contextual circumstances, paternity and parental leave most often appear to be used by fathers with higher levels of economic, cultural, and social capital, and with a stronger father identity. With regard to consequences of taking leave, the literature suggests that fathers are not only affected at the micro level (e.g., in their paternal involvement) but also at the meso level (relationship with partner and children) with (potential) consequences at the societal level. We welcome family researchers to further develop and test our conceptual framework when studying the contexts and consequences of paternity leave and parental leave for fathers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Family Studies)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 299 KiB  
Article
Sexual Exploitation: Professionals’ and Stakeholders’ Perceptions of Prevention, Assistance, and Protection for Victims in Portugal
by Marlene Matos, Jacinta Sousa, Sónia Caridade and Isabel Dias
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030167 - 10 Mar 2025
Viewed by 635
Abstract
Sexual exploitation is a pervasive issue affecting individuals globally, characterized by the abuse of vulnerability, power, or trust for sexual purposes. This study aims to explore the perceptions of professionals and stakeholders in Portugal regarding the prevention, assistance, and protection of victims of [...] Read more.
Sexual exploitation is a pervasive issue affecting individuals globally, characterized by the abuse of vulnerability, power, or trust for sexual purposes. This study aims to explore the perceptions of professionals and stakeholders in Portugal regarding the prevention, assistance, and protection of victims of sexual exploitation. Employing a qualitative research approach, four online focus groups were conducted with 17 participants from various professional backgrounds. The results highlight a comprehensive understanding of sexual exploitation among participants, who emphasized the coercion and exploitation of vulnerabilities as central elements. Significant barriers to addressing sexual exploitation were reported, including underreporting, societal indifference, and the impact of new technologies. Participants called for enhanced training for professionals across sectors, increased societal awareness, and stronger legal and policy frameworks. The study concludes with recommendations for elevating sexual exploitation as a governmental priority, improving professional training, and fostering international cooperation to combat this complex issue effectively. Full article
30 pages, 1592 KiB  
Article
Social Activity in Spanish Banking Foundations: Governance Dynamics
by Carlos Rubio Nieto, José Luis Fernández Fernández and José Manuel Rodríguez Carrasco
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030166 - 10 Mar 2025
Viewed by 521
Abstract
Regulators in Spain transformed the savings bank by dividing each of them into a bank and a foundation. The bank continues lending activity, and the foundation focuses on social work. The aim of this paper is to explore how the governance structures and [...] Read more.
Regulators in Spain transformed the savings bank by dividing each of them into a bank and a foundation. The bank continues lending activity, and the foundation focuses on social work. The aim of this paper is to explore how the governance structures and their dynamics in banking foundations relate to their social work. For this purpose, we use the relevant theoretical framework in the field of governance, focusing on agency, stewardship, and stakeholder theories. To achieve this aim, we perform semi-structured interviews with members of governance bodies, in the framework of a qualitative approach. We find that studied characteristics of governance relate to social work in different ways. Diversity in the governance bodies, through a balance between economic and social logic, and through representation of stakeholders, among other elements, relates positively to the level of social work. Additionally, it shapes the mix of social activity types. We conclude that the chosen theoretical framework helps us understand the phenomenon and interpret the results. The research question is answered but, at the same time, the empirical research reveals the complexity of the relationships and indicates future lines of research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Economics)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1686 KiB  
Article
Mapping American Attitudes Towards Refugees and Immigrants: Insights into Anti-Refugee and Anti-Muslim Sentiments
by Merve Armagan Bogatekin, Ivy Ho and Yan Wang
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030165 - 8 Mar 2025
Viewed by 693
Abstract
The number of refugees across the world is increasing rapidly, as is the prevalence of Islamophobia. This flow of people and changing perceptions of them usually result in negative attitudes and hostility toward Muslims and refugees since they are perceived as the “outgroup”. [...] Read more.
The number of refugees across the world is increasing rapidly, as is the prevalence of Islamophobia. This flow of people and changing perceptions of them usually result in negative attitudes and hostility toward Muslims and refugees since they are perceived as the “outgroup”. This globally prevalent trend is usually attributable especially to refugees being perceived as a social, economic, or security threat. The goal of this paper is to understand Americans’ perception of outgroups and how they are related to anti-refugee and anti-Muslim sentiment by using a data-driven approach. We used latent class analysis (LCA) to determine whether there were any latent classes concerning outgroup attitudes in the US. Our results showed that people fall into four different categories regarding how they perceive Muslims, refugees, and minorities. At the same time, there were five different latent classes regarding how they perceive immigrants. This paper aims to explore this complex issue and help to reduce prejudice and intergroup conflict, ameliorate negative attitudes, and provide these groups with a stable social support system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section International Migration)
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 340 KiB  
Article
The Residential Segregation of the Middle Eastern and North African and South Asian Populations from the White Population in U.S. Metropolitan Areas, 2012–2016
by Sevsem Cicek-Okay and Samantha Friedman
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030164 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1078
Abstract
We examine the residential segregation of the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) population, South and East Asian people, and Black from white people in the U.S. Using data from the 2012–2016 American Community Survey (ACS) and the 2012–2016 Integrated Public Use Microdata [...] Read more.
We examine the residential segregation of the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) population, South and East Asian people, and Black from white people in the U.S. Using data from the 2012–2016 American Community Survey (ACS) and the 2012–2016 Integrated Public Use Microdata Sample (IPUMS) at the metropolitan level, descriptive analyses of segregation reveal that Black–white segregation is significantly greater than the segregation of MENA and East Asian people from white people. South Asian–white segregation is higher than Black–white segregation, but the difference is not statistically significant. Multivariate analyses of average dissimilarity indices show that relative to Black–white segregation, MENA–white, South Asian–white, and East Asian–white segregation are not significantly different after controlling for relevant variables. The results for the isolation index also follow a similar pattern. While MENA and both Asian ancestry groups are significantly less isolated than Black people in the unadjusted results, the differences in average isolation indices between Black people and these groups disappear after controlling for relevant characteristics. The results suggest evidence that supports these hypotheses in terms of spatial assimilation. Full article
17 pages, 260 KiB  
Article
Navigating Identity and Policy: The Afro-Caribbean Experience in Canada
by Karine Coen-Sanchez
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030163 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1304
Abstract
This interdisciplinary study examined the migration, settlement, and identity formation of Afro-Caribbean communities in Canada, with a focus on Haitian and Jamaican diasporas. It explored the historical transitions from racially exclusionary immigration policies to contemporary multicultural frameworks and assessed their impact on the [...] Read more.
This interdisciplinary study examined the migration, settlement, and identity formation of Afro-Caribbean communities in Canada, with a focus on Haitian and Jamaican diasporas. It explored the historical transitions from racially exclusionary immigration policies to contemporary multicultural frameworks and assessed their impact on the socioeconomic integration and cultural identity of these communities. Drawing from archival records, government reports, and sociological literature, this research highlights how Afro-Caribbean populations have navigated systemic barriers while contributing significantly to Canadian society. Using racial capitalism as a theoretical lens, the study critiqued the structural inequalities embedded within Canadian immigration and labour policies, underscoring the persistent challenges of economic marginalization and racial discrimination. Additionally, it engaged with cultural capital theories to examine the resilience and agency of Afro-Caribbean communities in forging new opportunities through cultural knowledge and community networks. Ultimately, this research advocates for policy reforms that foster a more equitable and inclusive society by addressing the systemic exclusions that continue to shape the experiences of Afro-Caribbean Canadians. Full article
16 pages, 235 KiB  
Article
Outcomes of a Virtual Community of Practice with Community Navigators Aimed at Fostering Family–School–Community Partnerships
by Savannah Hobbs, Rashida Banerjee, Gloria E. Miller, Lydia Dumam, Rachel Kamnkhwani, Grace C. Ilori and Clara Cuthbert
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030162 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 550
Abstract
Community navigators (CNs) play critical roles in fostering consultancy between school professionals and newcomer families in the United States. The overarching goal of this project was to enhance CNs’ capability to facilitate collaboration and create an impact in the communities they serve. To [...] Read more.
Community navigators (CNs) play critical roles in fostering consultancy between school professionals and newcomer families in the United States. The overarching goal of this project was to enhance CNs’ capability to facilitate collaboration and create an impact in the communities they serve. To meet this goal, we created the Leading in Newcomer Communities and Schools program to establish a community of practice through the evidence-based, virtual knowledge-sharing ECHO platform. In total, 18 CNs participated in a 10-session ECHO series designed to enhance CNs’ capability by (1) improving knowledge of education policies and laws; (2) enhancing awareness of education resources; (3) increasing self-efficacy; and (4) building skills to promote school and community collaboration. Electronic pre- and post-surveys were collected to assess CN’s learning outcomes, and data were analyzed using descriptive and frequency analyses as well as Wilcoxon Signed-Rank non-parametric tests. Qualitative feedback was collected from post-session feedback and a post-program focus group and analyzed using a deductive content analysis approach. Overall, participants reported greater capability and confidence for consultancy between families and school professionals and high satisfaction with the program. Similar approaches can help transform family, school, and community partnerships into culturally responsive home–school–community policies and practices. Full article
24 pages, 362 KiB  
Review
Three Decades of Digital Media and Journalism in Croatia and Slovenia: A Systematic Review of Empirical Studies Published in Local Languages
by Tijana Vukić and Jelena Jurišić
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030161 - 6 Mar 2025
Viewed by 788
Abstract
Through the lens of the theory of mediamorphosis, the authors intend to demonstrate scientific contributions in the native languages of Croatian and Slovenian scholars to the study of digital journalism. This paper provides an insight into the common points but also similarities and [...] Read more.
Through the lens of the theory of mediamorphosis, the authors intend to demonstrate scientific contributions in the native languages of Croatian and Slovenian scholars to the study of digital journalism. This paper provides an insight into the common points but also similarities and differences in the evolution of interests and approaches of these scientific communities, which are special in that they are the only two members of the European Union that also share the legacy of the socio-political system of the former Yugoslavia. The central goal of this study was to identify, evaluate, and synthesize all the relevant empirical research, categorized only as original scientific papers that had been published from 1994 to 2024, together with scientific monographs on digital media and journalism, in order to contribute to filling the gap in regard to the review of local literature and internationalized local research. The primary search on the following terms and keywords: digital media, digital journalism, electronic publications, Internet, Internet journalism, Internet portals, new media, online media, online journalism, online portals, and web portals was conducted via several local databases (HRČAK, CEEOL, SCIndex, and COBISS). Using a systematic literature review strategy and content analysis methods, this study deeply explored several aspects of the empirical studies (N = 24) it found: metadata, theoretical background, research objects, methodology, and results. The articles were, in principle, published in local journals with high international impact and included in major databases WOS and SCOPUS. The findings show the first articles in Croatia date only from 2007 and from 2010 in Slovenia. With some interruptions, they are published relatively regularly. In the corpus analyzed, two scientific monographs from Croatia and one from Slovenia were included. The research confirms that the topics studied in this region and the methodologies used are characteristic of the contemporary trends in digital journalism studies. Although the thematic focuses are somewhat similar—journalistic texts and writing; editorial protocols; practices; policies; division of labor; organization; platform regulations and preferences; and audience behavior—there is a significant difference in the methodological approach; Croatian scholars rely on output manifestation and the analysis of media content; while Slovenian colleagues mainly research media organizations from the inside; through interviews. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contemporary Digital Journalism: Issues and Challenges)
22 pages, 715 KiB  
Article
Evaluating Medical Students’ Satisfaction with E-Learning Platforms During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis Within a Multimodal Educational Framework
by Gheorghe-Dodu Petrescu, Andra-Luisa Preda, Anamaria-Cătălina Radu, Luiza-Andreea Ulmet and Andra-Victoria Radu
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(3), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14030160 - 5 Mar 2025
Viewed by 678
Abstract
The rapid advancement of digital technologies in education is revolutionizing learning environments and influencing the future of educational methodologies. This study seeks to determine the parameters affecting students’ satisfaction with e-learning platforms utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, within a multimodal educational framework. A [...] Read more.
The rapid advancement of digital technologies in education is revolutionizing learning environments and influencing the future of educational methodologies. This study seeks to determine the parameters affecting students’ satisfaction with e-learning platforms utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic, within a multimodal educational framework. A Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach was used to examine the contributions of different components to students’ views of e-learning tools and the inter-relationships between them. Data were gathered from 314 students via a questionnaire, with the dependent variable being student satisfaction with e-learning platforms and the independent variables comprising the perceived benefits and disadvantages, ease of use, prior experience, perceptions of the platforms, perceived risks, and communication efficiency between students and professors. The results indicated that 78% of the variance in student satisfaction was explained by these parameters (R-squared = 0.78), underscoring the substantial impact of these features on the digital learning experience. This study enhances the comprehension of the influence of e-learning platforms within a multimodal educational framework on students’ learning experiences, especially with the challenges presented by the pandemic. The collected insights can guide the development of more effective, accessible, and user-focused educational tools. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Technology for a Multimodal Society)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Previous Issue
Next Issue
Back to TopTop