Social Sciences

19 pages, 6861 KiB

Open AccessArticle

STEM, a Non-Place for Women? Evidences and Transformative Initiatives

by Eva Cernadas, Eva Aguayo, Manuel Fernández-Delgado and Encina Calvo-Iglesias

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060384 - 17 Jun 2025

Numerous studies, diagnoses, and projects have been carried out in recent years to analyze the low female presence in STEM studies. However, progress has been limited, and the female presence is still low in certain degrees related to information and communication technologies, physics, [...] Read more.

Numerous studies, diagnoses, and projects have been carried out in recent years to analyze the low female presence in STEM studies. However, progress has been limited, and the female presence is still low in certain degrees related to information and communication technologies, physics, and engineering. Many of the actions have been aimed at attracting women to these fields, but few have tried to change the culture of these disciplines, which make them a non-place for women. This paper analyses the measures carried out in Spanish public universities, and specifically at the University of Santiago de Compostela, to contribute to making these disciplines a place for women. Computer engineering workshops for primary and secondary education are proposed, incorporating a gender perspective. These transformative activities were highly valuated and welcomed by non-university teachers. The ideas inspiring these initiatives might help both to attract girls to STEM degrees and to generate gender equality environments, in order to change the androcentric culture of this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender-Inclusive Education and Teaching in STEM: Strategies, Challenges, and Contradictions)

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16 pages, 578 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Are Undergraduate Students Enrolled in Educational Degrees Concerned About Gender? A Case Study

by Nahia Idoiaga-Mondragon, Inge Axpe Saez and Ainhoa Berciano Alcaraz

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060383 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

Efforts to promote gender-inclusive education must extend beyond STEM fields to encompass all academic disciplines, including those that are traditionally feminized. This study examines how undergraduate students enrolled in Early Childhood, Primary, and Social Education degrees at the University of the Basque Country [...] Read more.

Efforts to promote gender-inclusive education must extend beyond STEM fields to encompass all academic disciplines, including those that are traditionally feminized. This study examines how undergraduate students enrolled in Early Childhood, Primary, and Social Education degrees at the University of the Basque Country address gender issues in their final academic projects. Of the 2708 undergraduate dissertations (UDs) reviewed, only 383 met the criteria for gender-related content and were analyzed using lexical software (the Reinert method via Iramuteq). The analysis revealed a low overall engagement (12–14%) with gender themes, despite the critical role these educators will play in shaping future generations. Thematic clusters emerged around teacher training, gender stereotypes, and women’s empowerment. We argue that the invisibility of gender issues in these programs reflects a systemic problem, and that gender-inclusive reform must span the full spectrum of educational disciplines if broader social transformation is to be achieved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender-Inclusive Education and Teaching in STEM: Strategies, Challenges, and Contradictions)

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18 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Institutional Framing of Local Labor Market Programs by Politicians and Managers in Swedish Municipalities

by Sara Nyhlén and Katarina Giritli Nygren

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060382 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study explores the governance and implementation of local labor market programs (LLMPs) in Swedish municipalities, analyzing the tension between national mandates and local policy practices. Drawing on institutional ethnography (IE), intersectionality, and emotional labor theories, we examine interviews with politicians and managers [...] Read more.

This study explores the governance and implementation of local labor market programs (LLMPs) in Swedish municipalities, analyzing the tension between national mandates and local policy practices. Drawing on institutional ethnography (IE), intersectionality, and emotional labor theories, we examine interviews with politicians and managers from eight municipalities. Politicians frame LLMPs as budget-driven initiatives, depoliticizing local labor market issues to comply with national policies like the January Agreement. This approach prioritizes efficiency, workfare models, and quick labor market entry, often sidelining individualized support. In contrast, managers describe their role as navigating policy constraints while addressing diverse local needs. They emphasize the challenges of aligning “one-size-fits-all” activation strategies with the realities of their participants, advocating for flexibility and adaptation within national frameworks. These contrasting perspectives reveal how LLMPs, although locally implemented, are shaped by textually mediated national policies, which influence local governance practices. Politicians focus on the need to meet national objectives, while managers struggle to reconcile these goals with participant-centered approaches. This study contributes to the understanding of how LLMPs operate within a governance framework that prioritizes efficiency over holistic support, highlighting the limitations of workfare-oriented policies and their implications for labor market integration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inclusion and Exclusion: New Trends in Conditional Welfare and Activation Trajectories)

14 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Gay Networks, Greater Happiness? Associations Between Gay and Heterosexual Social Capital and Subjective Happiness Among MSM in Japan

by Adam O. Hill, Gregory Armstrong, Noriyo Kaneko, Mayumi Imahashi, Stuart Gilmour, Yoji Inoue, Adam Bourne, Michiko Takaku and Benjamin Bavinton

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060381 - 17 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Japan, and globally, face disparities in mental health and well-being, driven by stigma, exclusion, and minority stress. While social capital is known to enhance well-being, no previous research has examined the distinct roles of [...] Read more.

Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) in Japan, and globally, face disparities in mental health and well-being, driven by stigma, exclusion, and minority stress. While social capital is known to enhance well-being, no previous research has examined the distinct roles of gay versus heterosexual social capital in relation to subjective happiness. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey of 1564 MSM in Greater Tokyo, using geosocial networking applications. Social capital was measured using an adapted Resource Generator to assess access to resources from MSM and heterosexual network members. Subjective happiness was assessed using the Japanese version of the Subjective Happiness Scale. Multivariable linear regression identified correlates of happiness. Results: Gay social capital was the strongest predictor of subjective happiness, exceeding the effects of self-rated health, education, employment, and age. High levels of heterosexual social capital were also associated with greater happiness but to a lesser extent. Unemployment, poor health, and attendance at gay cruising venues were negatively associated with happiness. Conclusions: These findings provide the first global evidence of the differential associations between gay and heterosexual social capital on subjective happiness. Community-based interventions that affirm identity and build peer connection may substantially improve well-being among MSM in Japan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Foundational Social Science Research on LGBTQ+ Communities and Populations)

38 pages, 863 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Factors of Workplace Procrastination: A Systematic Review

by Iraida Musteață and Andrei Corneliu Holman

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060380 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Background: Workplace procrastination is associated with a wide range of negative organizational outcomes. Our objectives are to systematically review the factors of workplace procrastination and the instruments used to measure this construct. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched for papers published between 2000 [...] Read more.

Background: Workplace procrastination is associated with a wide range of negative organizational outcomes. Our objectives are to systematically review the factors of workplace procrastination and the instruments used to measure this construct. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched for papers published between 2000 and 2023 through Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Taylor & Francis, using the search terms “workplace procrastination not academic” and “employee procrastination”. Results: After screening, 33 studies were retained for analysis and were also submitted to quality assessment. The factors were grouped into two main categories, i.e., employee-related and external. Several potential factors have been investigated only in a single study, while contradictory findings have been reported regarding the effect of others, especially in culturally diverse samples. Procrastination was measured using ten different instruments, with variations in their conceptual underpinnings. Conclusions: Future advancements in understanding the factors of workplace procrastination would greatly benefit from studies on employee samples from different countries. Moreover, future research should select their workplace procrastination measures based on careful consideration of the specific facets that it aims to investigate. Our findings also suggest that addressing procrastination at work requires a comprehensive approach involving different interventions at both the organizational and individual level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Work, Employment and the Labor Market)

26 pages, 444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Administrative Burden Experienced by U.S. Rural Residents Accessing Social Security Administration Benefit Programs in 2024

by Debra L. Brucker, Stacia Bach, Megan Henly, Andrew Houtenville and Kelly Nye-Lengerman

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060379 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Grounded in the existing literature on administrative burden and using a qualitative and community-engaged research approach, the research examined the administrative burden experienced in accessing disability, retirement, and survivor benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The research team held in person and [...] Read more.

Grounded in the existing literature on administrative burden and using a qualitative and community-engaged research approach, the research examined the administrative burden experienced in accessing disability, retirement, and survivor benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The research team held in person and virtual focus groups and interviews with 40 adults with disabilities, older adults, and family members of people with disabilities who resided in rural areas of the U.S. State of New Hampshire in 2024. The qualitative analysis revealed that rural residents, regardless of type of SSA benefit receipt, were experiencing high levels of administrative burden in their interactions with the SSA and preferred to turn to in-person assistance at local SSA field offices (rather than phone, mail, or web-based service options) to address these concerns. Overall, people living in rural counties that do not have local SSA field offices voiced a distinct disadvantage in terms of knowing where to turn with questions about their benefits. A lack of ready and reliable access to information and advice led to endangering their own economic stability and to increased calls and visits to the SSA. Persons with stronger social networks were better able to overcome these barriers to services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Policy and Welfare)

16 pages, 411 KiB

Open AccessArticle

PROTECT: A Framework to Foster Digital Resilience for Youth Navigating Technology-Facilitated Abuse

by Diana Freed, Natalie Bazarova, Sunny Consolvo, Dan Cosley and Patrick Gage Kelley

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060378 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Youth are increasingly exposed to a broad range of technology-facilitated abuse that challenges their safety and well-being. Building on previous work that examined youth help-seeking behaviors, coping strategies, threats they encounter, and the social support systems around them, we articulate a framework— called [...] Read more.

Youth are increasingly exposed to a broad range of technology-facilitated abuse that challenges their safety and well-being. Building on previous work that examined youth help-seeking behaviors, coping strategies, threats they encounter, and the social support systems around them, we articulate a framework— called PROTECT—Problem recognition, Reaching out, Organizing support, Training, Engaging experts, Continuous support, and Tackling safety measures—which integrates existing models of support, help-seeking, and digital skills to offer a high-level, structured approach to adults who serve as a support system to youth navigate technology-facilitated abuse. The framework unpacks social and contextual dynamics that influence help-seeking behaviors, providing a foundation for educators, advocates, health professionals, developers and other adult stakeholders to design and develop trauma-informed, timely interventions to promote resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Promoting the Digital Resilience of Youth)

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15 pages, 5811 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Impact of Cultural Identity on the Revitalization Benefits of Rural Communities

by Wen-Bor Lu and Po-Hsiang Wang

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060377 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Communities are fundamental to national development, functioning as essential social units where local cultural identity and public participation play a crucial role. However, rapid urbanization has led to a decline in interpersonal interactions, weakened community bonds, and increased social divides, which in turn [...] Read more.

Communities are fundamental to national development, functioning as essential social units where local cultural identity and public participation play a crucial role. However, rapid urbanization has led to a decline in interpersonal interactions, weakened community bonds, and increased social divides, which in turn reduce residents’ engagement in public affairs. This study aims to explore the relationship between cultural identity and community revitalization to promote sustainable community development. We will achieve this by analyzing the implementation experiences of two rural Taiwanese communities: Huanan Community in Gukeng, Yunlin, and Chenggong Community in Dadou, Taichung City. Using exploratory factor analysis and regression analysis as our methodologies, we seek to understand how cultural identity fosters cohesion, enhances participation, and supports sustainable development in community revitalization. Our research findings indicate that cultural identity is composed of cultural engagement, cultural belonging, and cultural integration. Conversely, community revitalization encompasses aspects of daily life, life experiences, personal economic evaluation, community industry development, and residents’ environmental awareness. The overall research framework demonstrates that cultural identity has a strong influence on community revitalization, identifying strategies to improve residents’ quality of life and foster vibrant communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Social Sciences and Intelligence Management, 2nd Volume)

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26 pages, 357 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Caring to Killing: A Typology of Homicides and Homicide–Suicides Perpetrated by Caregivers

by Siobhan T. O’Dwyer, Charlie Bishop, Rachel Gimson, G. J. Melendez-Torres, Daniel Stevens and Lorna Hardy

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060376 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

In the news media, there are regular reports of family caregivers killing the people for whom they care, but scholarly research on this phenomenon is fragmented, and there has been little effort to predict or prevent future deaths. The aim of this study [...] Read more.

In the news media, there are regular reports of family caregivers killing the people for whom they care, but scholarly research on this phenomenon is fragmented, and there has been little effort to predict or prevent future deaths. The aim of this study was to develop a typology of caregiver-perpetrated homicides that could provide a framework for more rigorous research and targeted responses in policy and practice. Ideal Type Analysis was applied to sixty-four homicides and homicide–suicides perpetrated by family caregivers in England and Wales between January 2015 and December 2019. The cases clustered into seven clear types: Ending Suffering; Genuine Burden of Care; Pre-existing Mental Illness; Neglect; Exploitation; Caregiver as Victim of Domestic Violence, Abuse or Coercive Control; and Caregiver as Perpetrator of Domestic Violence, Abuse, or Coercive Control. Each type was characterised by a distinct motive, context, or course of events leading to the homicide. This is the first typology of homicides and homicide–suicides perpetrated by caregivers. The Caregiver-Perpetrated Homicide Typology challenges previous claims that caregiver-perpetrated homicides are isolated events and provides a framework for the development of evidence-based prediction and prevention initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Family Studies)

16 pages, 291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ambazonian or Cameroonian? Perceived Discrimination and National Identification Among Anglophones in Cameroon

by Elvis Nshom

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060375 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study focuses on the ongoing conflict in Cameroon between Anglophone separatist fighters and the predominantly Francophone government over the marginalization and discrimination of Anglophones in Cameroon and the creation of an independent state called the Republic of Ambazonia. This study seeks to [...] Read more.

This study focuses on the ongoing conflict in Cameroon between Anglophone separatist fighters and the predominantly Francophone government over the marginalization and discrimination of Anglophones in Cameroon and the creation of an independent state called the Republic of Ambazonia. This study seeks to understand the extent to which perceived discrimination explains national identification with the Republic of Cameroon and national identification with the so-called Republic of Ambazonia. In a sample of 314 participants, the results showed that there was no significant difference between national identification with the Republic of Cameroon and national identification with the Republic of Ambazonia. In addition, perceived personal discrimination and perceived group discrimination were positively associated with national identification with the Republic of Ambazonia but negatively associated with national identification with the Republic of Cameroon. Lastly, there was a negative correlation between national identification with the Republic of Cameroon and national identification with the Republic of Ambazonia. Implications and opportunities for further research are discussed as well. Full article

20 pages, 607 KiB

Open AccessReview

Payment of Participants with Disability in Research: A Scoping Review and Framework

by Jennifer Smith-Merry and Damian Mellifont

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060374 - 13 Jun 2025

Abstract

Payment of people participating in research is a common practice in research. Research ethics guidelines often require additional scrutiny of payment practices and research practices more generally for groups identified as vulnerable, including people with disability. However, the existing guidelines are vague, and [...] Read more.

Payment of people participating in research is a common practice in research. Research ethics guidelines often require additional scrutiny of payment practices and research practices more generally for groups identified as vulnerable, including people with disability. However, the existing guidelines are vague, and often conflict, meaning that it is difficult for researchers to determine what is appropriate in relation to the payment of participants in research. This situation is addressed in this paper, which provides a review of the existing research on the topic of payment of participants considered ‘vulnerable’ in research. We followed a systematic approach to our scoping review, thematically analysed the data identified and reported our results according to the PRISMA-ScR guide for scoping reviews. Fifteen papers met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Where studies included empirical findings, most studies were based in the US and Canada, with a small number from European, African, and Asian countries. The key ethical concepts identified in the papers were consent, justice, and reciprocity, which were positioned in relation to coercion and concerns about undue influence from payment. The papers consistently identified economic precarity as being a shared factor across the groups identified as vulnerable which placed them at risk of coercion in relation to payment. The papers also strongly identified context as being an important consideration in both mitigating and enhancing risks around the payment of participants. A framework for considering the payment of participants is offered which responds to the areas identified in the papers. It focuses on the research environment, research situation, participant group, risks and benefits of the research, individual context, relational context, and research practices. This framework is provided as a resource for researchers considering the payment of people with disability in research, and those identified as vulnerable in research more broadly. Full article

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18 pages, 270 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Pre-Retirement Occupational Characteristics on Social Participation in Later Life: A Life Course Perspective

by Juanjuan Sun and Kexin Sun

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060373 - 13 Jun 2025

Abstract

Enhancing older adults’ social participation constitutes a critical strategy for actively addressing population aging. From a life course perspective, this study uses data from the 2023 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey to analyze the impact of occupational characteristics of the pre-retirement of Chinese [...] Read more.

Enhancing older adults’ social participation constitutes a critical strategy for actively addressing population aging. From a life course perspective, this study uses data from the 2023 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey to analyze the impact of occupational characteristics of the pre-retirement of Chinese older adults on their social participation in later life through linear probability models and Logit regression analysis. Key findings reveal that the pre-retirement work sector, occupational roles, and job intensity significantly influence older adults’ social participation. Older adults who previously worked in the public sector are less likely to participate in labor and recreational activities than their non-public sector counterparts. Those who held managerial positions before retirement exhibit higher probabilities of volunteering and recreational activity participation than non-managerial retirees. Additionally, greater pre-retirement job intensity correlates with reduced likelihoods of volunteering and recreational activity participation. Thus, this study identifies inadequate social security provisions as the primary endogenous driver for labor participation in later life. In China’s current developmental phase, gradually delaying the legal retirement age could effectively boost labor supply. Ensuring comprehensive labor protections throughout occupational trajectories and developing tailored interventions based on pre-retirement occupational characteristics prove essential for advancing social participation among older adults. Furthermore, improving information accessibility and participation opportunities serves as crucial pathways for transforming older adults’ participation willingness into concrete behavioral outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active Aging Across the Life Course)

18 pages, 556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ten-Year Development of Collaborative Social Work with Families in Complex Problem Situations in Slovenia: Thematic Analysis of Project Documentation

by Nina Mešl and Tadeja Kodele

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060372 - 12 Jun 2025

Abstract

Social work with families has developed in response to the needs of people in the community but has moved away from them over the years of specialisation. The neoliberalisation of social work, with its emphasis on efficiency and procedure, has eclipsed the processes [...] Read more.

Social work with families has developed in response to the needs of people in the community but has moved away from them over the years of specialisation. The neoliberalisation of social work, with its emphasis on efficiency and procedure, has eclipsed the processes of collaboration with people, which are a prerequisite for hearing their voices and establishing a partnership in which we can co-create desired outcomes. In Slovenia, over the last 10 years, we have been looking for ways to bring social work with families in complex problem situations back into the community and to prioritise the processes of co-creating the desired outcomes in national and international projects. The most important milestones of the development, identified by the thematic analysis of the project documentation (58 documents) of seven projects, are presented here. Several themes were interwoven in the development and implementation of change: knowledge development; relevance of the institutional context; (micro-)innovation in social care; development of projects with practitioners and family representatives; broader social context centred on family support. Ten years of development in the field confirms that complex questions require complex answers, which must be (co-)created in collaboration between families, practitioners, policymakers and researchers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Social Work Interventions in Health, Education, and Social Care to Promote Community and Individual Wellbeing)

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31 pages, 650 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Strengthening Family Bonds: A Systematic Review of Factors and Interventions That Enhance Family Cohesion

by Nicolette V. Roman, Tolulope V. Balogun, Letitia Butler-Kruger, Solomon D. Danga, Janine Therese de Lange, Anja Human-Hendricks, Fundiswa Thelma Khaile, Kezia R. October and Olaniyi J. Olabiyi

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060371 - 12 Jun 2025

Abstract

Strong emotional bonds within families are foundational to children’s academic, psychological, and social development. While family cohesion is widely recognized as a protective factor across these domains, there remains a need to understand the specific mechanisms and interventions that foster such cohesion, particularly [...] Read more.

Strong emotional bonds within families are foundational to children’s academic, psychological, and social development. While family cohesion is widely recognized as a protective factor across these domains, there remains a need to understand the specific mechanisms and interventions that foster such cohesion, particularly in diverse socioeconomic and cultural contexts. This systematic review examines global evidence on factors influencing family cohesion and evaluates intervention strategies designed to strengthen familial relationships. Drawing on 41 peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2023, this review adheres to PRISMA guidelines and applies the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) to assess methodological quality. The findings are organized around four core dimensions of family cohesion—emotional bonding, adaptability, communication, and support—and highlight both common patterns and culturally specific mechanisms. Studies were drawn from a range of settings including North America, sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, East and Southeast Asia, and Europe, enabling a cross-cultural analysis of how family cohesion operates under different social, cultural, and economic conditions. Intervention strategies are reviewed separately following the synthesis of correlations, with attention to their effectiveness, cultural relevance, and contextual adaptability. Community-based programs, trauma-informed therapies, and parenting interventions emerge as key approaches, though their success has varied by regional and structural context. Studies consistently demonstrate that higher family cohesion correlates with improved academic outcomes, as supportive home environments promote motivation, reduce stress, and enhance learning. Mental health benefits are also evident, with cohesive and adaptable families mitigating risks of anxiety and depression through open communication and emotional availability. Social competence is fostered through observed and practiced interpersonal skills within family settings. Socioeconomic status emerges as both a challenge and a moderating factor, with lower-SES families facing greater barriers to cohesion but also displaying notable resilience when supported through external interventions. Effective strategies identified include family therapy, parenting education, community-based programs, culturally sensitive approaches, and socioeconomic policy supports. Family cohesion and adaptability are critical to nurturing children’s academic success, emotional well-being, and social development. This review contributes to a more culturally nuanced and policy-relevant understanding of family cohesion by integrating empirical findings across global contexts and identifying both shared and differentiated pathways to resilience. The results inform future program design and suggest priorities for cross-cultural family research and intervention development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Family Studies)

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20 pages, 1697 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cyberbullying and Cybervictimization: The Role of Parental Psychological Control and Dark Triad

by Danilo Calaresi, Valeria Verrastro, Fiorenza Giordano and Valeria Saladino

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060370 - 12 Jun 2025

Abstract

The rising prevalence of cyberbullying in online environments has raised concerns about the well-being and safety of individuals. The objective of this research is to explore if the dark triad traits (Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism) function as mediators in the connections between maternal [...] Read more.

The rising prevalence of cyberbullying in online environments has raised concerns about the well-being and safety of individuals. The objective of this research is to explore if the dark triad traits (Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism) function as mediators in the connections between maternal psychological control, paternal psychological control, cyberbullying, and cybervictimization. A sample of 1016 young adults participated in an online survey, providing self-reported data. The results revealed complex relationships among the variables examined. While most direct and indirect links were statistically significant, the direct connection between maternal psychological control and cyberbullying was significant only when paternal psychological control was not simultaneously included as a predictor. Furthermore, narcissism’s mediating effects were beneficial when Machiavellianism and psychopathy were excluded and negative otherwise. The results highlight that individuals with high degrees of parental psychological control are more prone to engage in manipulative actions and lack empathy, leading to cyberbullying and cybervictimization. Future research should disentangle the distinct roles of maternal and paternal control, investigate the interplay among dark triad traits in different social contexts, and consider how peer dynamics and digital environments may amplify or mitigate these effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Family Studies)

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20 pages, 985 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gender Perspective on the Effects of Husbands’ Post-Infidelity Behaviors on Wives’ Forgiveness: A Longitudinal Study in Taiwan

by Hui Chi Wang

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060369 - 11 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study explores the effects of husbands’ post-infidelity behaviors on wives’ forgiveness from a gender perspective. The study employs a longitudinal research design and hermeneutic phenomenology to investigate the wives’ forgiveness potential paths/experiences after their husband’s infidelity. It involves 15 years of in-depth [...] Read more.

This study explores the effects of husbands’ post-infidelity behaviors on wives’ forgiveness from a gender perspective. The study employs a longitudinal research design and hermeneutic phenomenology to investigate the wives’ forgiveness potential paths/experiences after their husband’s infidelity. It involves 15 years of in-depth interviews with five wives who had encountered their husbands’ infidelity, with three to six interviews per participant. The findings reveal that husbands’ post-infidelity behaviors are associated with power dynamics in the marriage. At the same time, pressures from culture, gender roles, and social expectations lead wives to adopt “pseudo-forgiveness.” The study proposes two pathways to “genuine forgiveness” for wives. The path includes phases of “Her Rethinking,” leading to the “Balance Marital Relationship and Non-Self-Sacrifice stage.” For low-power-in-relationship wives, the path comprises stages such as “Her Awakening,” “Challenge Women’s Roles in Social Expectations,” and “Take Actions to Enhance Her Power/Ability,” ending in “Balance Marital Roles and Self-Realization.” Both pathways emphasize that forgiveness is a personal decision-making process and that empowerment and enhanced wives’ ability are essential for achieving “genuine forgiveness.” These findings can contribute to marriage and family work and welfare services, helping wives and professionals understand the types and processes of forgiveness and better navigate complex challenges related to marital infidelity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Family Studies)

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25 pages, 1058 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Policies: Addressing Unintended Effects on Inequalities

by Gabriele M. Quinti and Federico L. Marta

Soc. Sci. 2025, 14(6), 368; https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci14060368 - 11 Jun 2025

Abstract

It is well known that climate change exacerbates inequalities and vice versa. What is less known is that the most disadvantaged groups are also at risk of becoming non-negligible producers of emissions that cause climate change. Examples include the difficulties disadvantaged micro-entrepreneurs face [...] Read more.

It is well known that climate change exacerbates inequalities and vice versa. What is less known is that the most disadvantaged groups are also at risk of becoming non-negligible producers of emissions that cause climate change. Examples include the difficulties disadvantaged micro-entrepreneurs face in limiting the emissions of their activities, or the need for subsistence farmers to cut down trees to increase the amount of farmland. The above is mainly due to the unintended negative effects of some mitigation and adaptation (M&A) policies on the most vulnerable and their non-inclusion in the deployment of these policies. This paper aims to provide a detailed analysis in this respect, highlighting the significant limitations of some policies, which often exclude/penalise disadvantaged groups and are likely to be strongly resisted by them. The possible anti-equalisation effects of such policies, which tend to protect those who are better off more, are also highlighted. To overcome these limitations, the prospect of combining climate and social justice is emerging. However, this perspective has so far had limited impact on M&A policies, as it is only occasionally applied in practice. Conversely, specific social clauses (including social inclusion, protection of vulnerable groups, and gender mainstreaming) should be defined and applied. Full article

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19 pages, 1147 KiB

Open AccessReview

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

Open AccessArticle

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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