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Soc. Sci., Volume 14, Issue 6 (June 2025) – 49 articles

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19 pages, 1147 KiB  
Review
Exploring the Impact of Lived Experience Contributions to Social Work and Healthcare Programmes: A Scoping Review
by Rathna Bharathi Seetharaman, Joanna Fox and Gavin Millar
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 367; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060367 - 11 Jun 2025
Abstract
The integration of lived experience educators (LEEs) in social work and healthcare educational programmes has evolved to recognise its potential to enhance learning, empathy and professional development among students. This scoping review explores the level of LEEs’ engagement in academic models and the [...] Read more.
The integration of lived experience educators (LEEs) in social work and healthcare educational programmes has evolved to recognise its potential to enhance learning, empathy and professional development among students. This scoping review explores the level of LEEs’ engagement in academic models and the different perspectives of LEEs, academic staff and students on lived experience education, analysing both the merits and challenges of this pedagogical approach. A systematic search was conducted across multiple academic databases and identified 37 articles on lived experience education. Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation was used as an evaluation tool to assess the levels of engagement described in the studies. The common themes across studies were analysed and synthesised for each perspective of the stakeholders. The findings of this review evidence that while lived-experience-led education enhances students’ performance, the depth of participation of LEEs varies widely. The ladder-level analysis found that many educational programmes are designed at the higher rungs of “co-production”, where LEEs collaborate equally with academics. However, some practices are at the lower rungs of “tokenism”, where LEEs are consulted but have limited decision-making power. This may be due to challenges such as a lack of structured support systems, emotional labour for LEEs and inconsistencies in practice. Therefore, greater efforts are needed to move beyond tokenistic involvement towards meaningful co-production in education for people-centred services. By embedding lived experience contributions, education becomes a synergistic practice, continuously shaping and enriching the professional development of both students and the communities they serve. Full article
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17 pages, 509 KiB  
Article
Service Quality Barriers Encountered in Urban Public Transport by People with Disability in South Africa
by Babra Duri and Rose Luke
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060366 - 10 Jun 2025
Abstract
With rapid urbanisation and population growth, transport equity has become a critical issue, especially when considering the mobility gap among people with disability. Understanding the dynamics between the quality of public transport services and the mobility of people with disability is critical to [...] Read more.
With rapid urbanisation and population growth, transport equity has become a critical issue, especially when considering the mobility gap among people with disability. Understanding the dynamics between the quality of public transport services and the mobility of people with disability is critical to fostering transport equity and inclusivity. This research investigated service quality barriers encountered by people with disability in the City of Tshwane while navigating the city’s public transport system. A quantitative research method was employed, using a structured questionnaire to collect primary data from people with mobility, vision, and hearing disability. The responses were analysed using descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and multiple comparison tests to uncover trends and differences among the groups. The findings reveal that people with all types of disability experience considerable service quality challenges. Long travel and waiting times are major concerns amongst people with mobility disability, which lead to heightened inconvenience. The research also found a pervasive lack of transport information, which aggravates the difficulties faced by people with disability. Lastly, the absence of announcements of stops further compounds the challenges experienced by people with a vision disability. The study emphasises the need for high quality public transport services that prioritise accessible and inclusive public transport that caters to all. Addressing service quality barriers in public transport promotes participation in socio-economic life among people with disability. This study contributes to the broader goal of transport equity and highlights the importance of inclusive transport policies and the priority areas that require consideration in a typical developing country. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Community and Urban Sociology)
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21 pages, 296 KiB  
Article
“What Is the Alternative Then?” Affective Challenges in Citizenship Education for Sustainable Intercultural Societies
by Juhwan Kim
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060365 - 9 Jun 2025
Abstract
This study explores the ways in which Canadian teachers construe the complexity of citizenship education, utilizing the key concepts of affect and difficult knowledge to examine the challenges to democratic citizenship within increasingly diverse intercultural societies. The findings from the semi-structured qualitative interviews [...] Read more.
This study explores the ways in which Canadian teachers construe the complexity of citizenship education, utilizing the key concepts of affect and difficult knowledge to examine the challenges to democratic citizenship within increasingly diverse intercultural societies. The findings from the semi-structured qualitative interviews with six social studies teachers reveal how affective dynamics emerge prominently as they grapple with tensions between idealized conceptions of multi- and intercultural citizenship and ongoing challenging issues (e.g., social inequality and exclusion). The findings reveal a problematic pattern of antinomical attitudes as a dilemma—where teachers outwardly acknowledge ethical obligations to address ongoing injustices while simultaneously resisting the deeper structural changes necessary for sustainable intercultural societies. In doing so, this study illuminates how affective dynamics function as an onto-epistemological power behind social production that shapes our cognitive rational deliberations on citizenship and undergirding ideology(ies). These findings offer critical insights into the ethical challenges of education for sustainable intercultural societies amid a global landscape where extreme nationalism intertwines with neoliberal market-driven imperatives. This study thus provides implications for critical pedagogical approaches for citizenship that embrace myriad affective dynamics to create transformative learning spaces for citizenship education, particularly in addressing systemic inequalities. Such approaches could pave pathways toward acts of citizenship to disrupt already defined orders, practices, and statuses so integrally as to make claims for justice. Full article
19 pages, 332 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Effectiveness of Diversion Programs for Women Involved in Commercial Sex: A Comparison of Sex-Trafficked and Non-Trafficked Individuals
by Noam Haviv and Dominique Roe-Sepowitz
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060364 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2025
Abstract
Diversion programs are increasingly used as alternatives to criminal penalties for women involved in commercial sex, yet limited research has examined how such programs support behavior change across diverse subgroups, particularly between sex-trafficked and non-trafficked participants. This study evaluates changes in readiness for [...] Read more.
Diversion programs are increasingly used as alternatives to criminal penalties for women involved in commercial sex, yet limited research has examined how such programs support behavior change across diverse subgroups, particularly between sex-trafficked and non-trafficked participants. This study evaluates changes in readiness for change among 131 women who participated in a court-ordered diversion program led by survivors of sex trafficking. Participants were classified as sex-trafficked or non-trafficked based on self-reported age of entry and experiences of third-party control. The program offered a range of trauma-informed services aimed at fostering holistic well-being and facilitating a pathway out of sex trafficking and prostitution. Participants engaged in group classes focused on job interview skills, emotion regulation, substance use awareness, and psychoeducation related to trauma. Life skills workshops addressed financial literacy, relationship dynamics, and conflict resolution. In addition, participants received referrals to GED programs, career training, mental health services, and emergency housing as needed. Program duration typically ranged from 12 to 16 weeks, adjusted for individual needs. Results from a repeated-measures Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed a significant increase in readiness for change (p < 0.05) from program entry to completion. However, women with trafficking histories demonstrated smaller gains than their non-trafficked peers, suggesting that trauma-related and systemic barriers may limit the impact of short-term interventions. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring diversion programs to address the complex needs of sex-trafficked individuals and support the development of differentiated trauma-responsive strategies within diversion frameworks. Full article
18 pages, 275 KiB  
Article
Inequalities in Self-Assessments of Mental and Physical Wellbeing Among Workers in the Tech Industry
by Cristen Dalessandro and Alexander Lovell
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060363 - 9 Jun 2025
Abstract
Although the technology (tech) industry has historically had a reputation for being supportive when it comes to wellbeing initiatives, research has found persistent disparities among the tech industry workforce. Therefore, using an original survey of tech workers worldwide (n = 1207), this paper [...] Read more.
Although the technology (tech) industry has historically had a reputation for being supportive when it comes to wellbeing initiatives, research has found persistent disparities among the tech industry workforce. Therefore, using an original survey of tech workers worldwide (n = 1207), this paper explores whether gender and identification with racial “minority” status have an impact on self-reported levels of mental and physical wellbeing measures. Controlling for additional demographic variables, our regression model found that workers identifying as racial minorities at work (OR: 2.49; 95%CI 1.80–3.43) were significantly more likely to report lower mental wellbeing scores. Additional analyses found that compared to men who did not identify as a racial minority, minority-identified women (OR: 3.48; 95%CI 2.10–5.76) and men (OR: 2.10; 95% CI 1.40–3.15) were significantly more likely to report worse mental wellbeing, and minority-identified men were significantly more likely to report that work had a negative impact on their physical health as well (OR: 1.78; 95%CI 1.18–2.68). Due to the international scope of our project, our research suggests that demographic disparities in physical and mental wellbeing among tech workers is an ongoing problem on a global scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Job Stress and Burnout: Emerging Issues in Today’s Workplace)
18 pages, 510 KiB  
Article
Cultural Identity and Virtual Consumption in the Mimetic Homeland: A Case Study of Chinese Generation Z Mobile Game Players
by Shiyi Zhang, Zengyu Li and Xuhua Chen
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060362 - 9 Jun 2025
Abstract
In the digital age, mobile games have become a new frontier for cultural identity and virtual consumption among Chinese Generation Z youth. With the development of the internet, users have gradually adapted to the coexistence of virtual and real identities, enriching the “small [...] Read more.
In the digital age, mobile games have become a new frontier for cultural identity and virtual consumption among Chinese Generation Z youth. With the development of the internet, users have gradually adapted to the coexistence of virtual and real identities, enriching the “small society” within games. However, virtual consumption and its underlying driving mechanisms have not received sufficient attention. Through interviews with 20 young people of Chinese Generation Z, this study argues that virtual consumption is not only about material consumption but also serves as a link between emotions and identity. In China’s increasingly atomised society, the idea of the “mimetic homeland” has become an essential interactive domain for Generation Z in the digital age. It offers individuals a dynamic space to engage with their cultural identity and sustain emotional resonance amid fragmented social conditions. In the “mimetic homeland”, game content, broadcaster charm, symbolic consumption, and player creation intertwine, allowing mobile games to create a diverse cultural identity mechanism. This mechanism rekindles players’ recognition of cultural identity and provides them with spiritual support. In mobile games, players continuously produce and consume cultural identity, using digital means to shape and spread spiritual consciousness symbols, ultimately achieving cultural identity commodification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digitally Connected: Youth, Digital Media and Social Inclusion)
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16 pages, 248 KiB  
Perspective
‘They Get It, They’ve Been Through It’: How Lived Experience Can Shape Understandings of Peer Parent Advocacy
by Harriet Lloyd, Cerys Harris, Leanne Cook, Jennifer Williams, Layla Roderick, Zoe Price and Clive Diaz
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060361 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 212
Abstract
Parent advocacy is increasingly being adopted as a means of encouraging parents to understand and engage with child protection professionals. Current research suggests that it is highly valued by parents and professionals alike, but the focus of data collected thus far has largely [...] Read more.
Parent advocacy is increasingly being adopted as a means of encouraging parents to understand and engage with child protection professionals. Current research suggests that it is highly valued by parents and professionals alike, but the focus of data collected thus far has largely been on services that have been received, which may make positive assessments more likely. As part of an ongoing project evaluating parent advocacy services across England, researchers consulted a public involvement group consisting of parents with experience of child protection services. The group provided a set of considerations for designing advocacy services by reflecting on the forms of support they would have liked to receive. This represented a subtle but important change in the balance of power, which means that their considerations differed in some ways from what our research participants had said. The group’s participation prompted researchers to adapt their developing logic model and to consider how the data collection might have excluded some important perspectives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Parental Participation in Child Protection)
20 pages, 315 KiB  
Article
On the Strength of Weak Ties: Barriers to Political Expression Online
by Limor Ziv and Gal Yavetz
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060360 - 5 Jun 2025
Viewed by 279
Abstract
This study explores how the structure of social networks (homogeneous/heterogeneous) and the quality of connections (strong/weak ties) are perceived to shape motivations and barriers to civic and political participation. Contrary to the prevailing view of the power of weak ties (as argued by [...] Read more.
This study explores how the structure of social networks (homogeneous/heterogeneous) and the quality of connections (strong/weak ties) are perceived to shape motivations and barriers to civic and political participation. Contrary to the prevailing view of the power of weak ties (as argued by Granovetter), this research highlights the opposite phenomenon, where weak ties are described by participants as inhibiting young adults from expressing their political identity online. Through an analysis of data from in-depth interviews with 50 Tel Aviv University students, the study reveals that, while participants feel unrestricted in discussing political issues offline with their strong ties, they actively avoid explicit political expression on Facebook. Thematic analysis of interview data further shows that the key reason for this avoidance is the presence of weak ties in online networks, where participants fear social disapproval or lack of validation. These findings offer new insights into the role of weak ties in political communication, suggesting that instead of fostering movement, these connections can lead to a stagnation effect in online political expression. Full article
24 pages, 287 KiB  
Article
Between Innovation and Tradition: A Narrative Inquiry of Students’ and Teachers’ Experiences with ChatGPT in Philippine Higher Education
by Alma S. Espartinez
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060359 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
This study investigates the integration of ChatGPT in Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs) through narrative inquiry, employing Clandinin and Connelly’s three-dimensional framework (temporality, sociality, place) to explore the lived experiences of 18 participants (10 students, 8 faculty). The research identifies three global themes: [...] Read more.
This study investigates the integration of ChatGPT in Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs) through narrative inquiry, employing Clandinin and Connelly’s three-dimensional framework (temporality, sociality, place) to explore the lived experiences of 18 participants (10 students, 8 faculty). The research identifies three global themes: (1) the need for strong ethical guidelines amid widespread but tacit “silent acceptance” of AI use, (2) faculty efforts to adapt traditional pedagogy while addressing concerns about critical thinking erosion, and (3) strategies to optimize ChatGPT’s utility without exacerbating inequities. Participant narratives reveal divergent adoption patterns: urban stakeholders leverage ChatGPT for efficiency and learning augmentation, while rural counterparts face infrastructural barriers that deepen the urban–rural divide. Students report evolving ethical engagement, from initial dependency to reflective use, whereas faculty grapple with academic integrity and assessment redesign. The findings underscore how cultural resistance, institutional policy gaps, and technological disparities shape ChatGPT’s uneven adoption, reinforcing existing educational inequalities. This study contributes to the literature on AI in education by proposing context-sensitive strategies for equitable integration, including offline AI tools for rural areas, faculty training programs, and transparent policy frameworks. By centering stakeholder narratives, the research advocates for culturally grounded AI adoption that balances innovation with pedagogical integrity, offering a model for Global South contexts facing similar challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Stratification and Inequality)
26 pages, 699 KiB  
Article
Barriers to Success: How U.S. Newspapers Frame the Challenges of Immigrant Students in Public Education
by Kerri Evans, Jiyoon Lee, Josue Rodriguez and Sarah Gawens
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060358 - 4 Jun 2025
Viewed by 131
Abstract
One in four students in the United States is part of an immigrant family. The purpose of this study is to enhance our understanding of the barriers that immigrant students experience in US public schools by critically analyzing how newspapers portray barriers to [...] Read more.
One in four students in the United States is part of an immigrant family. The purpose of this study is to enhance our understanding of the barriers that immigrant students experience in US public schools by critically analyzing how newspapers portray barriers to success, as the goals and processes used in media differ from those of peer-reviewed research. The authors used a document analysis, a qualitative research methodology, and reviewed 67 newspaper articles on immigrant children struggling in US schools. The results show that immigrant students struggle with language barriers, discrimination, mental health, financial stress associated with higher education in the US, lack of preparedness and resources to provide education, lack of familiarity with policy, lack of cultural knowledge about the US, lack of parent involvement, and work and familial obligations. Results also indicate that newspapers published more articles about immigrant struggles during certain time periods, such as Spring 2015 through Winter 2016 and again Summer 2020 through Spring 2021. The paper provides implications for (1) research, suggesting a need for more qualitative primary data collection, (2) practice, including enhanced training, improved mental health referrals and collaborations, and (3) policy, which could include welcoming policies at the school level and advocacy efforts for immigrant student rights under the incoming presidential administration. Full article
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15 pages, 724 KiB  
Article
Psychosocial Resources (Social Support and School) and Physical Activity During Free Time Among High-School Students
by Ilona Karácsony and Gabriella Hideg-Fehér
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060357 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 158
Abstract
Background: During childhood and adolescence, personality development is continuous. Younger people—defined in this study as high-school students aged 14 to 18—are particularly receptive to change. The health behaviors formed during this period can significantly influence health in later life. Therefore, families and schools [...] Read more.
Background: During childhood and adolescence, personality development is continuous. Younger people—defined in this study as high-school students aged 14 to 18—are particularly receptive to change. The health behaviors formed during this period can significantly influence health in later life. Therefore, families and schools play a crucial role in promoting a healthy lifestyle. In our research, we examined the relationship between psychosocial resources (social support and school resources) and the regularity and intensity of physical activity. Methods: In this study, “appropriate physical activity” refers to the level and intensity of activity recommended by the World Health Organization—namely, at least 60 min per day of moderate- to vigorous-intensity aerobic activity for adolescents. We conducted our cross-sectional research in Hungary, Western Transdanubia, using convenience sampling among high-school students (n = 331). Data collected with a self-edited and standardized questionnaire (MSPSS, HBSC school resources and school social support) were analyzed using the SPSS Statistics 22 program with a t-test, ANOVA and χ2 test (p < 0.05). Results: In the case of the time spent on physical activities per week, boys (p < 0.05) and younger people (p < 0.05) showed a much more favorable picture. Examining the intensity of regular physical activity among students who belonged to the appropriate range, the average values of family social support were significantly higher (p < 0.05), but this association was not observed for social support from friends or significant others (p > 0.05). The amount of movement was not differentiated by support from others (p > 0.05). The level of attitude towards their school was higher among students who performed physical activity of the appropriate quality and quantity (p < 0.05). Teachers’ assessment of school performance and the quality of the relationship with teachers showed a correlation with physical activity performed at the appropriate intensity (p < 0.05). Conclusions: We found a positive effect of family and school resources on the regularity and intensity of physical activity, which draws attention to strengthening the partnership between family and school, improving the school atmosphere and social support within the school, increasing students’ attachment to their institution. The combination of these resources can help children lead a more active and healthier life, which has a beneficial long-term impact on their physical and mental well-being. The cooperation between parents and schools is crucial in supporting young people in adopting a healthy lifestyle. Full article
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10 pages, 220 KiB  
Perspective
Structural Competency and the Medical Learning Environment—An Overdue Paradigm Shift in Medical Education
by Iman F. Hassan, Rebecca Leeds, Ijeoma Nnodim Opara, Thuy D. Bui, Sharon E. Connor, Sejal Shah and Shwetha Iyer
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060356 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 477
Abstract
Structural competency (SC) is a framework that assists clinicians in naming and analyzing the structural drivers that fundamentally contribute to morbidity and mortality. Undergraduate and graduate medical education is grounded in the experiential learning model where trainees learn through supervised, hands-on, real-world training [...] Read more.
Structural competency (SC) is a framework that assists clinicians in naming and analyzing the structural drivers that fundamentally contribute to morbidity and mortality. Undergraduate and graduate medical education is grounded in the experiential learning model where trainees learn through supervised, hands-on, real-world training and caring for patients within hospital and clinic settings. However, our present-day clinical settings fail to create a learning environment in which SC skills can be effectively taught and operationalized. The SC framework is designed to engender praxis, but to make this move upstream, healthcare institutions and medical education leaders need to do more to adapt their learning environment. We posit five elements and associated key actions that are essential to an SC learning environment: (1) the structural analysis of institutional policies and practices; (2) academic freedom and interdisciplinary discourse; (3) redefining medical education standards and metrics; (4) collective action to drive effect change; and (5) community integration and accountability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health and Social Change)
23 pages, 1353 KiB  
Article
Artificial Intelligence Adoption Amongst Digitally Proficient Trainee Teachers: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach
by María Belén Morales-Cevallos, Santiago Alonso-García, Alejandro Martínez-Menéndez and Juan José Victoria-Maldonado
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060355 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 205
Abstract
The present study examines how pre-service teachers’ digital competence influences their acceptance and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational settings. Employing a quantitative approach via Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), the authors analyzed self-reported data from Early Childhood and Elementary Education students in [...] Read more.
The present study examines how pre-service teachers’ digital competence influences their acceptance and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational settings. Employing a quantitative approach via Structural Equation Modelling (SEM), the authors analyzed self-reported data from Early Childhood and Elementary Education students in Andalusian (Spain) universities. The findings indicate that professional engagement is associated with a critical assessment of AI, focusing on pedagogical and ethical considerations, whereas digital content creation skills promote a more positive and proactive attitude toward AI adoption. These results underscore the importance of teacher education programs that combine technical skills with critical thinking to foster responsible AI integration. This study acknowledges limitations, including its regional scope and cross-sectional design and recommends future longitudinal and comparative research to validate and expand these insights. By addressing these gaps, future studies could enhance our understanding of AI adoption in diverse educational contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Technology for a Multimodal Society)
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15 pages, 248 KiB  
Essay
Writing Inquiry in a Post-Truth World: An Essay in Voice, Method, and Meaning
by Jacqueline Fendt
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060354 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 239
Abstract
In the wake of post-truth politics, neo-oral media, and epistemic fragmentation, qualitative researchers face intensified pressure to justify the legitimacy of our methods. This essay explores the idea that writing itself can be a form of research—not merely an act of representation, but [...] Read more.
In the wake of post-truth politics, neo-oral media, and epistemic fragmentation, qualitative researchers face intensified pressure to justify the legitimacy of our methods. This essay explores the idea that writing itself can be a form of research—not merely an act of representation, but an epistemic, institutional, and affective method. Structured in two voices—one stylized and poetic, the other scholarly and conceptual—the piece moves through five acts to examine writing as a form of border-crossing. It argues that voice-rich, situated writing is not indulgent; it is a way of thinking, navigating complexity, and holding space for uncertainty. Drawing on traditions of performative autoethnography, collective biography, data feminism, and more-than-human inquiry, the essay considers how writing can generate insight, foster civic resonance, and resist epistemic conformity. A heuristic table offers readers practical entry points for approaching writing as method. This essay is for those moments when something in the sentence feels off, but we write it anyway. It asks what becomes possible when we write not to comply, but to inquire. Full article
29 pages, 1740 KiB  
Article
Disparities in Design for a Youth Audience: “Digital Native” Versus “Digital Migrant” Newspapers in Saudi Arabia
by Eman Alkhomees and Nasya Bahfen
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060353 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 244
Abstract
This study investigated how the front-page designs of digital newspapers differ based on institutional origin—comparing platforms that were born-digital with those that have transitioned from print—focusing specifically on their appeal to Generation Z audiences. Grounded in Media Richness Theory, this research employed a [...] Read more.
This study investigated how the front-page designs of digital newspapers differ based on institutional origin—comparing platforms that were born-digital with those that have transitioned from print—focusing specifically on their appeal to Generation Z audiences. Grounded in Media Richness Theory, this research employed a mixed-methods approach that combined a quantitative visual content analysis with qualitative semi-structured interviews. In the quantitative phase, the front pages of ten Saudi digital newspapers (five digital-native and five digital-migrant) were systematically analyzed to identify differences in their layouts, typography, multimedia usage, and interactivity. The qualitative phase then explored Generation Z users’ perceptions of the design clarity, visual engagement, and interactive affordances, as well as their suggestions for improving interface usability. The results indicate that digital-native newspapers more closely adhere to contemporary digital design standards and demonstrate significantly higher levels of media richness. This study contributes to digital journalism scholarship by offering both theoretical insights into interface-centered richness and practical design recommendations for enhancing user experience and engagement among younger audiences. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digitally Connected: Youth, Digital Media and Social Inclusion)
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1 pages, 133 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Lavie and Mayer (2025). Navigating Emotional Labor and Social Exchange in Hospitality: A Comparative Study of Food and Beverage Workers in Tel Aviv and New Orleans During COVID-19. Social Sciences 14: 143
by Noa Lavie and Vicki Mayer
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060352 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 138
Abstract
Deleting and Replacing Citation [...] Full article
27 pages, 2161 KiB  
Article
Human Capital Development and Public Health Expenditure: Assessing the Long-Term Sustainability of Economic Development Models
by Ngesisa Magida, Thobeka Ncanywa, Kin Sibanda and Abiola John Asaleye
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060351 - 2 Jun 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
This study investigates the role of public health expenditure on human capital development in South Africa to promote economic development. Despite extensive public health investments and economic reforms, persistent socioeconomic challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality impede sustainable economic growth. This study [...] Read more.
This study investigates the role of public health expenditure on human capital development in South Africa to promote economic development. Despite extensive public health investments and economic reforms, persistent socioeconomic challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality impede sustainable economic growth. This study uses an autoregressive distributed lag model, a vector error correction model (VECM), quantile regression, and Granger causality analysis to assess the relationship between fiscal health policies and human development. The findings confirm that government health spending significantly enhances human development in the short and long run, while unemployment and population growth exert adverse effects. VECM variance decomposition results indicate that the influence of public health expenditure remains persistent, though diminishing over time, with growing contributions from unemployment. Quantile regression shows the heterogeneous impact of health spending across different levels of economic development, emphasising its greater effectiveness at higher development stages. Causality analysis reveals a unidirectional relationship from public health expenditure to human development; this shows the need for sustained healthcare investment. The study calls for policies combining health spending with economic strategies to boost productivity, reduce inequality, and promote inclusive growth. Strengthening institutional efficiency and ensuring macroeconomic stability are crucial for maximising long-term human capital to promote sustainable development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Work, Employment and the Labor Market)
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4 pages, 158 KiB  
Editorial
Introduction to the Special Issue: Feminist Solidarity, Resistance, and Social Justice
by Manijeh Daneshpour
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060350 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 267
Abstract
This Special Issue of Social Sciences, titled “Feminist Solidarity, Resistance and Social Justice”, brings together critical perspectives and original scholarship illuminating how feminist resistance and solidarity are theorized and practiced across geopolitical, cultural, and institutional contexts [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feminist Solidarity, Resistance, and Social Justice)
18 pages, 1374 KiB  
Article
The Mediation (Emotional Self-Control) and Moderation (Fun) of the Relationship Between Receiving and Perpetrating Hate Speech Among Boys and Girls in Almeria (Spain)
by Francisco Villegas Lirola and Pilar Rodriguez Martinez
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060349 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 381
Abstract
This article presents an analysis of the mediation and moderation of the suffering and perpetration of hate speech among adolescents in Almería (Spain), taking into account gender differences. For this purpose, data from a questionnaire completed by secondary school students (N = 535) [...] Read more.
This article presents an analysis of the mediation and moderation of the suffering and perpetration of hate speech among adolescents in Almería (Spain), taking into account gender differences. For this purpose, data from a questionnaire completed by secondary school students (N = 535) in four schools in Almería (Spain) was analyzed. For the analysis, an index of emotional self-control was constructed and introduced as a mediator between receiving hate speech and perpetrating it. In addition, the moderating role of revenge and fun motives in this relationship was analyzed, finding that the revenge motive is not significant and the fun motive is significant (for boys). The results suggest that receiving hate speech does not mean that one commits hate speech. It occurs when there is a low level of self-control and increases (for boys) when hate speech is perceived as fun. Therefore, we can say that for both boys and girls, it is necessary to improve emotional self-control. In addition, toxic masculinity is related to low emotional self-control, but is loaded with the view that hate speech is funny. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Childhood and Youth Studies)
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17 pages, 3203 KiB  
Article
Use of Space and Safety Perceptions from a Gender Perspective: University Campus, Student Lodging, and Leisure Spots in Concepción (Chile)
by José Prada-Trigo, Paula Quijada and Gabriela Varela
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060348 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 199
Abstract
This paper explores the different perceptions of safety of male and female university students, analyzing the gendered construction of space across three key settings of student life. The study employs a qualitative methodology based on 20 in-depth interviews conducted with both male and [...] Read more.
This paper explores the different perceptions of safety of male and female university students, analyzing the gendered construction of space across three key settings of student life. The study employs a qualitative methodology based on 20 in-depth interviews conducted with both male and female students on the main campus of the Universidad de Concepción (Chile). The results show that female students adopt avoidance and precautionary strategies when navigating university and leisure spaces. These strategies limit their freedom of movement and contrast with the more unconstrained spatial behaviors reported by male students. The findings also reveal a perceived loss of safety as spaces become more communal and less private, particularly for female participants. This research underscores the need to better understand how gendered perceptions of safety shape everyday spatial practices within academic environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gender Studies)
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24 pages, 649 KiB  
Article
A Collaborative Response to Addressing Family Violence with Racialized and Diverse Communities During Pandemic Recovery in Peel Region
by Sara Abdullah, Serena Hong, Michelle Vinod, Hasha Siddiqui, Cília Mejía-Lancheros, Uzma Irfan, Angela Carter, Ian Spencer Zenlea and Dianne Fierheller
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060347 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 225
Abstract
Family violence is a social issue that impacts families and communities every day in Canada and around the world. As family violence rates continue to increase there is an urgent need for cross-sectoral collaboration to codesign social work and social service systems, in [...] Read more.
Family violence is a social issue that impacts families and communities every day in Canada and around the world. As family violence rates continue to increase there is an urgent need for cross-sectoral collaboration to codesign social work and social service systems, in partnership with those experiencing family violence. This article will share learnings from a two-year community-based participatory research study that worked alongside survivors and witnesses of family violence, community partners from diverse social service agencies, and researchers, to understand experiences of family violence in racialized communities in Peel region, Ontario, Canada. An intersectional-trauma-informed approach guided the work that included establishing a community advisory board, hiring peer research assistants, Photovoice, and holding a knowledge exchange event (KEE) with survivors and witnesses of family violence, researchers, and community partners to rapidly generate ideas for intervention areas through a 25/10 crowdsourcing activity and codesign preliminary solutions through a mini hackathon. Key findings from the photovoice highlighted systemic failures and gaps experienced by those facing family violence. As we shifted into ideation, this preliminary focus on systems solidified and top ideas identified included barrier-free, culturally aware provision of services ranging from mental health supports, safe housing, financial independence, and accessing wrap-around services. Our work concluded with the collaborative development of preliminary solutions to these ideas and emphasized the need for cross-sectoral partnerships and lived experience engagement to change systems. Centering the voices of those who have experienced FV in system-level change and advocacy is necessary to ensure services and supports meet the needs of service users. Full article
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13 pages, 465 KiB  
Article
Democratizing Quantitative Data Analysis and Evaluation in Community-Based Research Through a New Automated Tool
by Jonathan Bennett, Mehdi Hajilo, Anna Paula Della Rosa, Rachel Arthur, Wesley James and Karen Matthews
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060346 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 261
Abstract
Data from community-based research offer crucial insights into community needs, challenges, and strengths, informing effective decision making for development strategies. To ensure efficient analysis, accessible and user-friendly tools are necessary for quick and accurate results. While successful tools and programming languages exist, many [...] Read more.
Data from community-based research offer crucial insights into community needs, challenges, and strengths, informing effective decision making for development strategies. To ensure efficient analysis, accessible and user-friendly tools are necessary for quick and accurate results. While successful tools and programming languages exist, many social science researchers struggle with complex analytical tools due to limited exposure during their education, as such tools are often not required. Developing an automated, user-friendly tool for community research can support students, researchers, and data centers by bridging gaps in analysis capabilities and enhancing the accessibility of valuable insights. We developed a new automated tool using the Shiny framework in R designed primarily for analyzing data in community research, which often involves pre- and post-analysis tests. While the tool is specifically tailored for pre- and post-survey data, it can also be easily adapted to provide other statistical information. The findings presented in this paper highlight the efficiency of using this tool for community-based research and emphasize the need for further development to address its shortcomings. Furthermore, this paper is considered the groundwork for developing more accessible, user-friendly, and free tools in the future, especially in an era of advanced and complex technologies. Full article
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17 pages, 265 KiB  
Article
Adapting and Validating DigCompEdu for Early Childhood Education Students Through Expert Competence Coefficient
by Juan Silva-Quiroz, José González-Campos, José Garrido-Miranda, José Lázaro-Cantabrana and Roberto Canales-Reyes
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060345 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 315
Abstract
Digital teaching competence (DTC) is key for the teaching profession at any educational level. In early childhood education, DTC poses an important challenge due to the particularities of integrating digital technologies into work with infants. This article proposes an adaptation of DigCompEdu for [...] Read more.
Digital teaching competence (DTC) is key for the teaching profession at any educational level. In early childhood education, DTC poses an important challenge due to the particularities of integrating digital technologies into work with infants. This article proposes an adaptation of DigCompEdu for early childhood education. The construction of this proposal was based on international collaboration, an in-depth literature review, and the expert mediation of the authors, resulting in the adaptation of DigCompEdu’s 22 competency descriptors to the field of initial teacher training in early childhood education. Expert competence coefficient K was applied to select 22 experts for the validation process to establish its pertinence, importance, and clarity, who positively evaluated the 22 descriptors of the proposal. The results consist of a DTC proposal in accordance with the DigCompEdu framework for early childhood education students validated by experts, as a starting point for future research for assessing or self-assessment of DTC, and as a guide to define strategies in initial teacher training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Technology for a Multimodal Society)
17 pages, 297 KiB  
Article
Validation of Perceived Stress Scale-10 Among Greek Middle Adolescents: Associations Between Stressful Life Events and Perceived Stress
by Ntina Kourmousi, Kalliopi Kounenou, Christos Pezirkianidis, Antonios Kalamatianos and George P. Chrousos
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060344 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 300
Abstract
Stress significantly impacts adolescents’ health. Therefore, its measurement is of critical importance. This study aims to assess the psychometric properties of a Greek adolescent version of PSS-10 among middle adolescents. This study’s questionnaire, which was completed by 169 adolescents aged 15–18, included a [...] Read more.
Stress significantly impacts adolescents’ health. Therefore, its measurement is of critical importance. This study aims to assess the psychometric properties of a Greek adolescent version of PSS-10 among middle adolescents. This study’s questionnaire, which was completed by 169 adolescents aged 15–18, included a Greek linguistic, cultural, and age-appropriate version of the PSS-10 and the validated Greek ASQ version. Confirmatory factor and exploratory factor analyses were conducted. Convergent validity was tested through Pearson’s r intercorrelations among PSS-10 scales and ASQ and PSS-10 scales. Discriminant construct validity was determined by the association between PSS-10 scales and gender, grade, diploma grade, and following daily routines using Student’s t-tests or analysis of variance (ANOVA). Confirmatory factor analysis was not satisfactory. Exploratory factor analysis revealed two factors: perceived coping and perceived control, which explained 25.8% and 23.8% of the variance, respectively. Internal consistency reliability was satisfactory (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.70). Positive and significant correlations were found between ASQ and PSS-10 scores, indicating satisfactory convergent validity. Concerning discriminant validity, students who followed daily routines appeared to have less perceived stress. The Greek version of the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) for adolescents is a valid instrument and can be used by professionals to rapidly screen perceived stress in adolescent populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Childhood and Youth Studies)
17 pages, 254 KiB  
Review
The Motivations of Recreational Hunters Who Violate Wildlife and Game Hunting Regulations: Implications for Crime Prevention
by Andrew Day, Stuart Ross, Jason Flesch and Simon J. Toop
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060343 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
Recreational hunting is a highly regulated activity, in part because it can give rise to a variety of deleterious social, environmental, and economic harms. It provides an interesting area for those interested in community safety because of the way in which both formal [...] Read more.
Recreational hunting is a highly regulated activity, in part because it can give rise to a variety of deleterious social, environmental, and economic harms. It provides an interesting area for those interested in community safety because of the way in which both formal (e.g., enforcement officers, proscribed areas and times for hunting, licensing, etc.) and informal (e.g., community awareness and education, conservation) methods of crime prevention are applied. And yet, the criminological literature on effective regulation is not only limited but diverse in terms of scope, types of behavior considered (e.g., poaching, wildlife trading, recreation, etc.), and the context that is considered (e.g., geographical, cultural, etc.). In this paper, we present how a crime prevention and compliance response can be used to understand the nature of the issue and the individual and socio-political processes that result in non-compliance with hunting regulations. We present an overview of the status of recreational hunting in an Australian jurisdiction and locate the regulatory issues that arise within the research literature that explores the various motivations that are known to drive illegal hunting. These are then considered in relation to how community-oriented and non-coercive measures might be employed to improve prevent criminal behavior at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Full article
18 pages, 249 KiB  
Article
Refugee-Inspired Ethical Guidelines from Kakuma: Moving Toward Decolonising Research Practice
by Neil Bilotta and Hadijah Mwenyango
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060342 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 436
Abstract
Scholarship addressing research ethics with forcibly displaced communities has gained heightened attention in the recent past. While critical, this scholarship has remained largely theoretical and has not included the voices of those who face forced displacement. This manuscript contributes to a more comprehensive [...] Read more.
Scholarship addressing research ethics with forcibly displaced communities has gained heightened attention in the recent past. While critical, this scholarship has remained largely theoretical and has not included the voices of those who face forced displacement. This manuscript contributes to a more comprehensive discussion on ethical research with refugees and forcibly displaced populations by providing recommendations from refugees in the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya. Based on focus group discussions in the Kakuma Refugee Camp, this article offers practical refugee-inspired research recommendations when working in the contexts of forced displacement. The paper categorizes these recommendations into three categories: (a) pre-research, (b) data-collection, and (c) post-research. By framing the analysis in and advocating for a decolonising research ethics prism, we illustrate the broad implications for maintaining the holistic well-being of research participants in forcibly displaced contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Migration Challenges for Forced Migrants)
15 pages, 238 KiB  
Article
Migrant Perceptions of Criminal Justice Systems: A Comparative Study of U.S. and Home Country Systems
by Fei Luo and John C. Kilburn, Jr.
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060341 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 257
Abstract
Background: The United States has the highest number of immigrants in the world, with over 46 million foreign-born residents as of 2022. A growing number of migrants originate from Latin America, driven by factors such as economic instability, food insecurity, and crime. This [...] Read more.
Background: The United States has the highest number of immigrants in the world, with over 46 million foreign-born residents as of 2022. A growing number of migrants originate from Latin America, driven by factors such as economic instability, food insecurity, and crime. This study explores their experiences and perceptions regarding trust in the criminal justice system (CJS) in both their home countries and the United States. Methods: This study surveyed 500 migrants at a transitional institution in a U.S.–Mexico border city in the summer of 2023. The survey assessed confidence in law enforcement, immigration officers, courts, and government institutions using a 5-point Likert scale. Results: Migrants reported significantly higher confidence in the U.S. CJS compared to that of their home countries. Multivariate analysis revealed that satisfaction with border officials, documentation status, English proficiency, and health were positively associated with confidence in the U.S. CJS, while employment status, traveling with family, and fear of crime correlated with lower confidence. Conclusions: This study highlights the stark contrast in migrants’ confidence levels between their home countries and the U.S. criminal justice system. While migrants view the U.S. system as more legitimate, challenges such as fear of crime and legal uncertainties persist. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crime and Justice)
22 pages, 268 KiB  
Project Report
Community Based Participatory Research and Peer Mentorship in Higher Education: Supporting a Sense of Belonging Among Independent Students
by Erin Boyce, Miguel Huerta, Payge Wyman and Mildred Sandoval
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 340; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060340 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 344
Abstract
Students who enter higher education as independent students do not bring with them the financial and familial support that their dependent counterparts experience. When these needs are not met, their likelihood of graduating is decreased. One method that has shown promise for addressing [...] Read more.
Students who enter higher education as independent students do not bring with them the financial and familial support that their dependent counterparts experience. When these needs are not met, their likelihood of graduating is decreased. One method that has shown promise for addressing support that promotes belonging and well-being is peer mentorship. The following study presents data collected from students at a western, urban, Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) who participated in a program designed for supporting financial, academic, and emotional needs of independent students. A community based participatory research (CBPR) framework was implemented to design the peer mentorship model, develop the evaluation plan, complete data collection and analysis, and guide dissemination. We used a mixed methods design collecting both survey and listening tour data simultaneously regarding students’ support networks, sense of belonging, and perspectives of the peer mentoring model. While the evidence for the efficacy of peer mentorship is abundant, the inclusion of a CBPR framework in higher education has not been well explored. Key findings demonstrated that the use of a CBPR framework for development and evaluation of peer mentoring increased the mentor’s sense of belonging and increased engagement with their community. Similarly, mentees identified that peer mentorship increased their sense of belonging, particularly when their mentor had a shared identity, beyond that of student, that allowed for an unspoken understanding of lived experience. Recommendations for higher education to support the emotional well-being and sense of belonging among independent students will be presented. Full article
14 pages, 313 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Effects of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-Based Intervention Course on University Students’ Well-Being—A Mixed-Method Study
by Ronja Ruuska, Nina Katajavuori and Henna Asikainen
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060339 - 27 May 2025
Viewed by 275
Abstract
A decline in university students’ well-being is a serious concern internationally. The present study explores how university students benefit from an eight-week online acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)-based intervention course. This course aims to improve psychological flexibility and organised studying skills. A total [...] Read more.
A decline in university students’ well-being is a serious concern internationally. The present study explores how university students benefit from an eight-week online acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)-based intervention course. This course aims to improve psychological flexibility and organised studying skills. A total of 189 university students participated in the mixed-method study in the spring of 2021 comprising both quantitative and qualitative data. Students’ pre- and post-intervention burnout risk was measured, and students were divided into four groups based on their burnout-risk scores. In addition, students’ reflective reports were analysed using abductive content analysis to identify students’ experiences of the benefits of the course. These categories were further quantified and compared across different burnout-risk groups. The results showed that the burnout risk decreased during the course. Qualitative content analysis revealed seven main categories of benefits from the course: (1) improved general well-being, (2) improved self-knowledge, (3) increased psychological flexibility, (4) improved study practices and study motivation, (5) increased self-compassion, (6) peer support, and (7) improved organised studying. There were no statistically significant differences in these experiences between the burnout-risk groups. The study highlights the potential of ACT-based intervention courses to improve university students’ well-being and studying skills, suggesting a need for further exploration of burnout prevention through such measures. Full article
26 pages, 502 KiB  
Article
Trade Risk Society—Understanding Trade Policymaking in the 2020s
by Christopher M. Dent
Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060338 - 27 May 2025
Viewed by 199
Abstract
Profound changes in trade policymaking are taking place in the 2020s in response to a complex set of increasingly salient risks shaping the international trade system. Drawing upon the influential theory of risk society, this study develops a new trade risk society framework [...] Read more.
Profound changes in trade policymaking are taking place in the 2020s in response to a complex set of increasingly salient risks shaping the international trade system. Drawing upon the influential theory of risk society, this study develops a new trade risk society framework providing original insights and new conceptual thinking on the subject. This analytical approach extends beyond merely a topical evaluation of current risks to one embedding trade in deeper underlying developments in our contemporary world and challenges facing it. Key elements of risk society theory are deployed to this end across four risk domains: 1. Economic security. 2. Geopolitical volatility. 3. Climate–environmental. 4. Technology control. Close interconnections exist between these domains, as shown in the framework’s applied analysis of the 30 or so most significant trade policymaking initiatives introduced thus far this decade up to and including US President Trump’s aggressive tariff protectionism. It is argued this pattern of initiatives are indicative of a paradigm shift in trade policy norms emerging in an increasingly volatile and contested world that can be best understood in a trade risk society context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Economics)
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