Sustainability

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30 pages, 2916 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Increasing Safety: A Survey of Open Greenspace Usage during and after the Pandemic in Belgrade, Serbia

by Darinka Golubović Matić, Jelena Marić, Jovanka Lili Matić, Ranka Gajić, Biserka Mitrović and Olja Krčadinac

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3141; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083141 - 9 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 605

Abstract

COVID-19 has severely affected almost every aspect of our everyday lives, especially the use of open greenspace (OGS) in urban settings, which has proven to have a significant role in increasing overall public health and well-being. Hence, the restricted usage of these spaces [...] Read more.

COVID-19 has severely affected almost every aspect of our everyday lives, especially the use of open greenspace (OGS) in urban settings, which has proven to have a significant role in increasing overall public health and well-being. Hence, the restricted usage of these spaces should be reconsidered. This research aims to analyze the sensitive nature of OGS usage (1) during the pandemic from the perspective of users’ perceived safety and (2) after the pandemic to assess the possible long-term effects. Additionally, this research proposed that location-tracking mobile applications could lead to an increased frequency of OGS visits. The methodology contains detailed background research and two surveys. One survey was conducted during the pandemic in 2020 (sample size n = 412) and was repeated post-pandemic in 2024 (sample n = 451). The 2020 questionnaire A includes questions about the duration, frequency, and activities of OGS usage while focusing on the perceived safety and possibilities of monitoring OGS visits using mobile apps. The 2024 survey represents the continuation of the 2020 survey, focusing on the post-pandemic state of OGS. The statistical analysis is separated into a descriptive data analysis, various χ² independence tests and a machine learning safety prediction. The results indicate how COVID-19 could affect OGS usage and how app-related physical safety enhancements during the pandemic cannot be statistically distinguished from those in the post-pandemic period. Although the interest in location-tracking mobile applications has statistically decreased in 2024, the majority of the total 863 participants stated that applications could increase their feeling of perceived safety. The added value of this research is that it considers age and gender roles in analyzing OGS usage in the context of a pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Well-Being)

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18 pages, 971 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Discussing the Subjective Well-Being of Hospital Volunteers from a Mental Health Perspective with Health Care System Sustainability during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Kuan-Chieh Tseng, Chun-Hao Yen, Chin-Shyang Shyu, Chih-Hung Tseng, Cheng-Ping Li and Fang-Wei Lin

Sustainability 2024, 16(6), 2404; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16062404 - 14 Mar 2024

Viewed by 541

Abstract

This study explored the subjective well-being of hospital volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic from a mental health perspective using a health care system sustainability perspective, and adopted the purposive sampling method to conduct a questionnaire survey. A total of 520 questionnaires were distributed, [...] Read more.

This study explored the subjective well-being of hospital volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic from a mental health perspective using a health care system sustainability perspective, and adopted the purposive sampling method to conduct a questionnaire survey. A total of 520 questionnaires were distributed, and 500 questionnaires were recovered, with a recovery rate of 96.1%. Of the recovered questionnaires, 43 invalid questionnaires were eliminated, and 457 valid questionnaires were collected, for a valid recovery rate of 91.4%. The data analysis method explored the variable path analysis through descriptive analysis and structural equation modeling. In addition, new data analysis methods have been added to explore the variable path analysis, such as descriptive analysis, discriminant validity, mediation effects, and structural equation modeling. The results show that: (1) the work resources of the hospital volunteers exerted a significant impact on their subjective well-being; (2) the work resources of the hospital volunteers exerted no significant impact on their flow experience; (3) the work resources of the hospital volunteers exerted a significant impact on their leisure involvement; (4) the leisure involvement of the hospital volunteers exerted no significant impact on their subjective well-being; (5) the leisure involvement of the hospital volunteers exerted a significant impact on their flow experience; (6) the flow experience of the hospital volunteers exerted no significant impact on their subjective well-being; and (7) the leisure involvement of the hospital volunteers exerted a mediating effect between work resources and flow experience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Well-Being)

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16 pages, 537 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Navigating Emergencies: A Theoretical Model of Civic Engagement and Wellbeing during Emergencies

by Efrat Blitstein-Mishor, Eran Vigoda-Gadot and Shlomo Mizrahi

Sustainability 2023, 15(19), 14118; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151914118 - 24 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1339

Abstract

The intensity and impact of emergencies on communities and societies are on the rise. They call for better preparedness, responses, and coping strategies by all those who are involved, especially citizens and the government. This paper introduces the concept of emergency-oriented civic engagement [...] Read more.

The intensity and impact of emergencies on communities and societies are on the rise. They call for better preparedness, responses, and coping strategies by all those who are involved, especially citizens and the government. This paper introduces the concept of emergency-oriented civic engagement (EOCE), which includes citizens’ attitudes and behaviors aimed at influencing the community and government during emergencies. A theoretical framework and model that explore these complex relationships are presented. The paper first explains the differences between emergency-oriented civic engagement and civic engagement during peaceful times. Next, an exploration of a set of variables such as interpersonal trust, feelings of threat, the cost–benefit ratio, and trust in government that may influence emergency-oriented civic engagement is introduced. Finally, the model is illustrated in light of the COVID-19 pandemic that underscored the importance of solidarity and wellbeing among citizens during emergencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Well-Being)

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17 pages, 1458 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sometimes Littering Is Acceptable—Understanding and Addressing Littering Perceptions in Natural Settings

by Naama Lev, Maya Negev and Ofira Ayalon

Sustainability 2023, 15(18), 13784; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151813784 - 15 Sep 2023

Viewed by 2083

Abstract

The detrimental impact of visitor-induced litter pollution on ecosystems, wildlife, and overall quality of life emphasizes the urgency of mitigating it. This study uniquely focuses on diverse visitors’ perceptions of littering behavior in open spaces, facilitating comprehensive assessment and targeted mitigation strategies. This [...] Read more.

The detrimental impact of visitor-induced litter pollution on ecosystems, wildlife, and overall quality of life emphasizes the urgency of mitigating it. This study uniquely focuses on diverse visitors’ perceptions of littering behavior in open spaces, facilitating comprehensive assessment and targeted mitigation strategies. This study aimed to analyze attitudes, willingness to act, and responsibility perceptions, considering diverse demographics in Israel’s multicultural context. It sought insights into littering rationales, potential remedies, and the identification of relatively acceptable littering behaviors for focused attention. This profound comprehension is crucial for conserving ecologically sensitive open areas, necessitating optimized management for interface preservation. Leveraging insights from an online survey involving 401 recent open-space visitors, this research reveals a disparity between self-professed and actual littering practices. Intriguingly, 32% of participants who claimed never to litter described instances of doing so. Furthermore, disparities emerged between anti-litter attitudes, willingness to act, and individual accountability, which were influenced by demographic variables. While individuals from various demographic cohorts attested to littering behavior, young ultra-Orthodox Jews possessing solely a high school level of education exhibited a proclivity for increased littering. Perceptions predominantly attribute purposeful and recreational motives to littering, rather than substantial reasons. Participants conceive a diverse range of effective strategies to address the issue, highlighting its intricate and multifaceted nature. Consequently, this study advocates for a multifaceted approach combining enhanced enforcement, educational campaigns, informative initiatives, and infrastructural enhancements. By acknowledging the complexities of littering behavior and embracing multifarious interventions, policymakers can enhance the likelihood of successfully curbing this pervasive challenge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Well-Being)

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13 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Depressive Symptoms among Slovenian Female Tertiary Students before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Analysis of Two Repeated Cross-Sectional Surveys in 2020 and 2021

by Andrej Kirbiš

Sustainability 2023, 15(18), 13776; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151813776 - 15 Sep 2023

Viewed by 871

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the mental health of the general population. This holds true especially for vulnerable groups, including young people, students, and females. Our study examined cross-sectional changes in depressive symptoms from immediately before the COVID-19 pandemic (January/February 2020) to [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the mental health of the general population. This holds true especially for vulnerable groups, including young people, students, and females. Our study examined cross-sectional changes in depressive symptoms from immediately before the COVID-19 pandemic (January/February 2020) to the second wave of the epidemic in Slovenia (January/February 2021) among female tertiary students. A multivariate analysis of two repeated cross-sectional surveys was performed using relatively homogeneous samples. The pooled sample included 418 young adult female students (M_age = 21.21 years). Depressed affect items were used to measure depressive symptomatology. All three feelings indicating depressed affect increased substantially and significantly from 2020 to 2021: feeling depressed (23% vs. 38%), lonely (16% vs. 43%), and sad (21% vs. 49%). In 2021, female students had almost a three-fold increase in the odds of reporting at least two out of three depressed affect symptoms compared to 2020 (19% vs. 43%; aOR 2.97; 95% CI 1.59–5.54; p < 0.001), adjusted for sociodemographic and socioeconomic confounders. Our findings suggest that Slovenian female students’ mental health deteriorated during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health professionals’ efforts to combat the pandemic’s mental health-related negative short-term and potential long-term impacts should thus focus on young people, especially on younger female students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Well-Being)

13 pages, 531 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mental Health in the Post-Pandemic Period: Depression, Anxiety, and Stress in Peruvian University Students upon Return to Face-to-Face Classes

by Marilú Farfán-Latorre, Edwin Gustavo Estrada-Araoz, Willian Gerardo Lavilla-Condori, Nelly Jacqueline Ulloa-Gallardo, Dominga Asunción Calcina-Álvarez, Llen Alin Meza-Orue, Luis Iván Yancachajlla-Quispe and Sheyla Shericza Rengifo Ramírez

Sustainability 2023, 15(15), 11924; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151511924 - 3 Aug 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4658

Abstract

Mental health is considered an indicator of well-being in which people perceive their own potential, can face adverse life situations, function adequately and fruitfully, and are capable of contributing to society. In this sense, the objective of the present investigation was to evaluate [...] Read more.

Mental health is considered an indicator of well-being in which people perceive their own potential, can face adverse life situations, function adequately and fruitfully, and are capable of contributing to society. In this sense, the objective of the present investigation was to evaluate depression, anxiety, and stress in Peruvian university students upon their return to face-to-face classes. The quantitative approach was used, the design was non-experimental, and the type was descriptive of a cross-section. The sample consisted of 746 students who were administered the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, an instrument with adequate psychometric properties. The results indicate that the students presented low levels of depression and anxiety. However, they presented moderate levels of stress. High, direct, and significant correlations were also reported between depression and anxiety (rs = 0.850; p < 0.05), between depression and stress (rs = 0.840; p < 0.05), and between anxiety and stress (rs = 0.836; p < 0.05). It was also determined that depression, anxiety, and stress were significantly associated with some sociodemographic factors such as gender and age group (p < 0.05). It was concluded that the students presented symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Therefore, it is necessary for university authorities to implement strategies for the evaluation and prevention of these symptoms and for the promotion of better mental health in future professionals to promote their personal well-being and quality of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Well-Being)

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21 pages, 330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Compliance with COVID-19 Regulations among Palestinian Citizens of Israel in the Context of Social Norms and Gender Roles

by Mohammad Khatib, Ivonne Mansbach-Kleinfeld, Doaa Zaid, Anneke Ifrah, Malik Yousef and Ahmad Sheikh Muhammad

Sustainability 2023, 15(14), 11354; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151411354 - 21 Jul 2023

Viewed by 1006

Abstract

This paper examines the compliance with official recommendations to restrict COVID-19 contagion during the second wave (August–November 2020) among a sample of Palestinian citizens of Israel (N = 1536), aged 18 or more. The dependent variables included the compliance with keeping social [...] Read more.

This paper examines the compliance with official recommendations to restrict COVID-19 contagion during the second wave (August–November 2020) among a sample of Palestinian citizens of Israel (N = 1536), aged 18 or more. The dependent variables included the compliance with keeping social distance, using masks, washing hands, avoiding social gatherings, and unnecessary shopping. The independent variables included sociodemographic and health-related factors and beliefs regarding the susceptibility to and seriousness of COVID-19. Special attention was paid to analyzing the content of the recommendations and the behavioral changes required vis-à-vis the norms and values of the population studied. Factor and content analyses yielded two distinct sets of recommendations, which were conceptualized as ‘Adopting New Behaviors’ and ‘Renouncing Usual Behaviors’. Compliance rates for the adoption of new behaviors ranged between 80.5 and 90.3% and were higher in women than men (p < 0.002; p < 0.001; p < 0.001). Compliance rates for the renunciation of usual behaviors ranged between 47.1 and 60.4%. Educational level was positively associated with the compliance with recommendations requiring the renouncing of usual behaviors among men but not among women. The particular values and gender norms and the culture-based reasons for noncompliance among minority populations that were proposed using this method must be identified so that they inform authorities’ strategies to increase compliance with recommendations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Well-Being)

19 pages, 557 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Motivations, Relationships, Health and Quality of Life of Older Volunteers in Times of COVID-19 Pandemic

by Marco Socci, Andrea Principi, Mirko Di Rosa, Sabrina Quattrini and Davide Lucantoni

Sustainability 2023, 15(13), 10739; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151310739 - 7 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 893

Abstract

Within the active ageing framework, this study was carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic on older volunteers, in order to explore the possible relation between, on the one hand, changes in their health, social relationships and quality of life due to the pandemic [...] Read more.

Within the active ageing framework, this study was carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic on older volunteers, in order to explore the possible relation between, on the one hand, changes in their health, social relationships and quality of life due to the pandemic and, on the other hand, volunteers’ motivations and (direct or indirect) experience of the COVID-19 contagion. Although various active-ageing-related issues have been studied during the pandemic, the studies did not cover the topic of the present study. Therefore, the results of this study advance the knowledge on the matter. A sample of 240 older volunteers was surveyed in Italy in July–August 2021. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression models were performed. The results highlighted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, for older people, volunteering in order to avoid thinking about personal problems was related to worsened health, while volunteering for social reasons was inversely related to a worsening quality of life. Having indirectly (by acquaintances) experienced the COVID-19 contagion was protective against the worsening physical health of older volunteers. The discussion includes the policy implications of the results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 on Well-Being)

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