Search Results (95)

The excessive and inappropriate use of the internet by children and young people increases their exposure to risky situations, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. This study analyzes risky situations on social media among children and adolescents. The objective of this work was to identify the risks associated with the use of social media. A comparative analysis of five clustering algorithms was applied to a dataset developed by eBiz Latin America in collaboration with La Salle University of Arequipa and the Institute of Christian Schools of the De La Salle Brothers of the Bolivia-Peru district. Among the results, it was shown that children around 11 years old display a high prevalence of digital risk behaviors such as adding strangers, followed by pretending to be someone else; adults around 43 years old exhibit a tendency to follow strangers and, even more so, to take photographs without permission; adolescents with an average age of 11 show a heavy use of YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. It is concluded that among digital risks in children and adults, the clusters highlight shared vulnerabilities, such as the addition of strangers and exposure to requests for personal data, which persist throughout the life stages but intensify in early adulthood. These findings emphasize the urgency of preventive policies addressing generational differences in social network use to promote proactive responses to digital harassment. Full article

As a representative case that embodies both the attributes of a Buddhist sacred site and those of a UNESCO World Heritage site, Mount Wutai provides a distinctive research setting for examining behavioral mechanisms in temple tourism. This study aims to construct an integrated model to systematically test the effects of enjoyment, memorability, attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control (PBC) on revisit intention (RI), while incorporating social media exposure as a moderating variable. Based on data collected through a two-wave on-site survey, this study analyzed 617 tourists in Mount Wutai and employed structural equation model to examine the relationships among the variables. The results indicate that all five psychological antecedents exert significant positive effects on revisit intention, among them, PBC demonstrating the most substantial impact. Further analysis reveals that social media exposure significantly moderates the relationships among enjoyment, memorability, attitude, subjective norm, and revisit intention, most notably in the “memorability–RI” relationship, whereas its moderating effect on the “PBC–RI” relationship is not significant. These findings not only enrich the theoretical framework by integrating emotional attribution, behavioral cognition, and digital media engagement but also provide practical implications for sacred tourism destinations, enabling them to enhance visitor loyalty through digital communication and experience optimization. Full article

Digitalization has transformed how young believers in East Asia encounter, interpret, and negotiate Christian teachings. Drawing on four years of ethnographic and digital fieldwork at a large Pentecostal megachurch in Singapore (2019–2022), this article develops the concept of theological tinkering to describe how youth engage diverse Christian ideas through algorithmic exposure, relational discernment, and institutional boundary-work. In an environment where spiritual content circulates through smartphones, social media, livestreams, and peer networks, theological meaning is increasingly assembled through movement rather than inherited through stable structures. The article situates the Singaporean case within broader scholarship on mediatization, hybridity, digital authority, and liquid modernity, showing how theological reasoning is shaped by digital infrastructures, affective-spiritual evaluation, and communal negotiation. Rather than signalling doctrinal instability, theological tinkering reflects a resilient mode of liquid faith: a capacity to remain rooted while navigating plurality. The findings invite a rethinking of theological formation, pastoral leadership, and digital discipleship in East Asia’s rapidly evolving religious landscape. Full article

Background: Social media, especially Instagram, spreads nutrition-related information that often lacks scientific rigor. Many women report feeling inadequately informed about women’s health by healthcare professionals, turning to social media, increasing exposure to misinformation. Objectives: The NutriWomen platform aims to assess the quality, methodological soundness, and credibility of nutritional health claims and dietary recommendations on Instagram targeting women across different life stages. Its goal is to develop a systematic and scientifically grounded evaluation framework to assess Instagram nutrition-related claims and the methodological quality and interpretability of their supporting evidence, and to translate the results into accessible outputs that help women make informed nutrition decisions across life stages. Methods: This study follows a five-stage design Stage 1 involves a retrospective content analysis of Instagram posts containing nutrition-related claims targeted at women, identified through the “Top posts” function and screened using predefined criteria. Stage 2 assesses information quality using a validated 14-item tool. Stage 3 evaluates the scientific accuracy of claims by formulating PI(E)CO(TS) questions, selecting key outcomes, retrieving evidence from PubMed and the Cochrane Database, and appraising systematic reviews with a modified AMSTAR-2 tool incorporating GRADE ratings, when available. Stage 4 develops the NutriWomen website platform to translate assessments into accessible visual summaries. Stage 5 conducts a mixed-methods study with peri-, meno-, and postmenopausal women to explore information needs and evaluate platform usability through focus groups. Conclusions: The NutriWomen platform will be the first website to systematically publish the results of evaluations assessing the scientific quality of nutritional health claims on Instagram targeted at women across different life stages. It will provide a replicable methodology, and a digital tool designed to empower women with trustworthy nutrition information, with the potential to enhance health literacy and promote better health outcomes. Full article

The Big Five Model has been widely applied across various areas for detecting problematic or even antisocial behaviors. This research explores its potential to identify behavior patterns and usage profiles in digital environments, such as social media use, digital gaming, and related activities. This study first conducted a literature review on mobile phone use, video game addiction, and social media overuse through the lens of the Big Five Model. Then, empirical data from 492 participants were analyzed to assess how each personality trait is associated with exposure to excessive internet use. The results shown that individuals with high openness and extraversion are more likely to engage intensively with social media and online entertainment, whereas those with higher levels of neuroticism, agreeableness, or conscientiousness display lower exposure. These findings align with previous research linking personality traits to neuroanatomical patterns that shape behavioral tendencies. This study suggests that specific personality traits, as defined by the Big Five Model, influence the use of digital media and advertising channels, potentially fostering addictive behaviors in users with higher openness and extraversion. Full article

This study examines the determinants of tolerance among higher education students in Montenegro and their implications for educational and societal sustainability. Guided by the framework of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), it investigates how socio-demographic factors, economic insecurity, political orientations, and digital media use shape attitudes toward ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity. Cross-sectional survey data were collected from 469 students in 2021 and analysed using binary logistic regression. Results show that education is the strongest predictor of tolerant attitudes (p < 0.01), highlighting the transformative role of higher education in fostering inclusive and sustainability-relevant competencies. Economic insecurity, particularly unemployment, was associated with more exclusionary views, linking social equity to sustainability outcomes. Gender (p < 0.001), age (p = 0.07), and engagement with human-rights content online (p < 0.01) also emerged as significant predictors. Religiosity showed a modest negative association with tolerance (p = 0.01). The final model explained 37% of the variance in tolerant attitudes (Nagelkerke R² = 0.37). Digital media played an ambivalent role: while it increased exposure to diverse perspectives, it also contributed to polarization, underscoring the need for critical digital literacy within ESD-aligned curricula. Overall, the findings demonstrate that inclusive education, digital competence, and participatory learning environments are central to building tolerant, cohesive, and sustainability-oriented societies. The study contributes to ESD scholarship by linking social inclusion, sustainability competencies, and the role of higher education in post-transition contexts. Full article

Wildlife viewing has long been a central feature of tourism. However, growing concerns over the welfare of animals involved have raised critical questions about human management and the use of wildlife. In response, scholars have developed frameworks to assess and guide the operations of animal-based attractions. This paper applies such a framework to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in China, empirically examining visitor perceptions of animal welfare management practices. Drawing on survey data from over 1000 visitors, the study finds that, overall, tourists hold positive evaluations of the Base’s governance, welfare, and conservation practices. However, these perceptions are influenced by factors such as prior exposure to panda-related social media and individual knowledge of animal welfare, highlighting the role of mediated experiences in shaping visitor judgments. The findings underscore the need for further research on ethical wildlife tourism practices and suggest that engaging and empowering tourists—through education, participatory evaluation, and digital platforms—can enhance both public awareness and the effectiveness of conservation and welfare initiatives. Full article

Background: Generative AI and synthetic media have enabled realistic human Embodied Conversational Agents (ECAs) or avatars. A subset of this technology replicates faces and voices to create realistic likenesses. When combined with avatars, these methods enable the creation of “digital twins” of physicians, offering patients scalable, 24/7 clinical communication outside the immediate clinical environment. This study evaluated surgical patient perceptions of an AI-generated surgeon avatar for postoperative education. Methods: We conducted a pilot feasibility study with 30 plastic surgery patients at Mayo Clinic, USA (July–August 2025). A bespoke interactive surgeon avatar was developed in Python using the HeyGen IV model to reproduce the surgeon’s likeness. Patients interacted with the avatar through natural voice queries, which were mapped to predetermined, pre-recorded video responses covering ten common postoperative topics. Patient perceptions were assessed using validated scales of usability, engagement, trust, eeriness, and realism, supplemented by qualitative feedback. Results: The avatar system reliably answered 297 of 300 patient queries (99%). Usability was excellent (mean System Usability Scale score = 87.7 ± 11.5) and engagement high (mean 4.27 ± 0.23). Trust was the highest-rated domain, with all participants (100%) finding the avatar trustworthy and its information believable. Eeriness was minimal (mean = 1.57 ± 0.48), and 96.7% found the avatar visually pleasing. Most participants (86.6%) recognized the avatar as their surgeon, although many still identified it as artificial; voice resemblance was less convincing (70%). Interestingly, participants with prior exposure to deepfakes demonstrated consistently higher acceptance, rating usability, trust, and engagement 5–10% higher than those without prior exposure. Qualitative feedback highlighted clarity, efficiency, and convenience, while noting limitations in realism and conversational scope. Conclusions: The AI-generated physician avatar achieved high patient acceptance without triggering uncanny valley effects. Transparency about the synthetic nature of the technology enhanced, rather than diminished, trust. Familiarity with the physician and institutional credibility likely played a key role in the high trust scores observed. When implemented transparently and with appropriate safeguards, synthetic physician avatars may offer a scalable solution for postoperative education while preserving trust in clinical relationships. Full article

This study examines how digital nomads act as unintentional brand ambassadors shaping destination image via lifestyle content. Although nomads influence place perceptions through blogs, vlogs, and social media, tourism institutions rarely acknowledge their role. We theorize this diffuse effect as ambient influence—the cumulative, non-promotional impact of lifestyle posts—and test whether nomads operate as unintentional brand intermediaries affecting destination image and travel intention. A multi-method design includes a survey of 487 international travelers modeling links among exposure, perceived authenticity, destination image, and travel intention; an experiment with 210 participants comparing nomad versus influencer videos; and interviews with 14 DMO professionals examining institutional responses. Results indicate that nomad content improves destination image and travel intention via perceived authenticity and relational trust. Relative to influencers, nomads are viewed as more credible and less commercially motivated. However, qualitative evidence shows that DMOs often overlook this influence due to ambiguity, control-oriented branding, and reliance on performance metrics ill-suited to informal media. The study formalizes ambient influence to capture the cumulative, non-promotional impact of nomad content and identifies a strategic blind spot in institutional engagement. It contributes by reconceptualizing influence beyond formal marketing and offers guidance for tourism management, including broader recognition frameworks and updated evaluation of user-generated content. Full article

This study examined the complex interplay of demographic characteristics, behavioral patterns, and technological factors that contribute to digital fraud victimization within the context of a developing economy, focusing specifically on Thailand. Utilizing data collected from 1200 respondents and applying binary logistic regression analysis, the research identified key predictors of fraud exposure, including age, income, student status, use of portable devices, and social media engagement. A paradoxical finding emerged: stronger perceived digital security was associated with higher fraud risk, indicating that overconfidence in platform safeguards may unintentionally increase vulnerability. Interestingly, users’ perceptions of digital security—such as confidence in identity verification and password protocols—were positively associated with fraud victimization, indicating potential cognitive biases and overconfidence in digital environments. The findings revealed a high prevalence of fraud experiences among participants, highlighting the gap between perceived and actual digital safety. These results emphasized the urgent need for user-centered fraud prevention measures, enhanced digital literacy, and targeted public awareness campaigns. The study contributes to the broader understanding of cybersecurity challenges in emerging markets and offers policy-relevant insights for strengthening digital financial resilience. Full article

Background and aim: This study examines the impact of the digital world on the purchasing behaviour of Generation Z, with a specific focus on the Slovak context. While existing literature often analyses global or non-Slovak populations, this work provides a contextually grounded analysis of how digital exposure, online marketing communications and social networks shape the purchasing preferences of Slovak Generation Z consumers. Novelty and contributions: First comprehensive analysis in Slovakia linking digital environment exposure, social media marketing communications, and Generation Z purchase preferences within a clearly defined national context. We integrate context-specific variables (local digital infrastructure, cultural norms, and marketing practices) to identify regionally relevant determinants of online consumer behaviour. We formulate and test hypotheses about the interactions between digital experiences and online marketing channels to produce actionable insights for Slovak marketers and e-commerce platforms. Research problem and uniqueness: Problem: How do specific elements of the digital environment influence the purchasing decisions of Generation Z in Slovakia, and which online channels and content types are most effective for this demographic in the local context? Uniqueness: No prior Slovak study has systematically mapped the interrelations between digital exposure, marketing communication on social networks, and purchasing preferences of Generation Z in a local setting. This work contributes to understanding culturally and economically specific factors shaping digital purchasing behaviour in Slovakia. Methods: Quantitative study based on a questionnaire survey with a representative Slovak sample. Hypotheses are tested using appropriate statistical analyses to explore relationships between digital exposure, social network marketing communications, and Generation Z purchasing preferences. Expected results and practical implications: Identification of the most influential digital channels and content types for Slovak Generation Z consumers. Practical recommendations for local brands and e-commerce platforms to optimise digital campaigns targeting Slovak youth; insights into cultural nuances in consumer behaviour within Slovakia. Full article

Background: Digital devices (DDs) are increasingly present in early childhood, with screen exposure beginning as early as infancy. Despite international and national guidelines discouraging digital media use before age two, many children are exposed to screens far earlier, often mediated by parents and caregivers. Excessive or unregulated screen use has been linked to adverse neurodevelopmental, emotional, and physical outcomes. Objective: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and educational needs of primary care pediatricians (PCPs) regarding digital education (DE) and DD use in preschool-aged children (0–6 years) in two provinces of Northern Italy. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to all 165 PCPs in the Modena and Reggio Emilia provinces between December 2024 and January 2025. The 17-item questionnaire explored PCPs’ knowledge of guidelines, awareness of DD-related risks, current counseling practices, and training needs. Results: Of the 165 contacted PCPs, 93 (56%) completed the survey. While 77% were aware of Italian Pediatric Society recommendations, only 56% correctly identified age two as the threshold for total screen avoidance. 87% of PCPs recognized the risks of excessive DD use, particularly its cognitive, behavioral, and physical consequences. Nearly all participants (95%) reported discussing DE during clinical visits, and 96% expressed a desire for further training. Conclusions: PCPs show strong engagement in promoting healthy digital habits but lack specific knowledge of current recommendations. Structured tools such as digital health check-ups and targeted training programs are needed to strengthen pediatricians’ roles in digital health education and support parental guidance. Full article

From a critical feminist perspective, it is hypothesised that the gender digital divide may be related to new forms of virtual gender-based violence that particularly affect girls and young women. If this is the case, these forms of violence would fall within the dimension of exploitation or quality of use of technologies that characterises the digital divide. To test this hypothesis, a documentary analysis of the phenomenon was carried out by reviewing different cases reported in various media outlets, which show that the well-being of girls and adolescents is at risk when technology is involved. Four categories emerge that reflect situations in which technology becomes a tool for promoting self-harm and suicide among minors through exposure to harmful content, grooming, sexting and/or sextortion; the digital sexual exploitation of underage girls through deepfakes or intimate images generated with artificial intelligence; the consumption of violent and hateful content in mass chats; and the incitement of gender-based violence through video games. The results show the reproduction and perpetuation of gender-based violence in the digital world. To guarantee safe, inclusive and equitable digital environments, various measures are essential, including European policies or plans aimed at guaranteeing digital security and rights, and those related to critical digital literacy with a gender perspective in formal education (school and university) and informal education (parents, carers and guardians). Finally, we urge that the focus be placed on personal digital resilience, since thinking of a completely secure digital world is a naive and unattainable utopia. Full article

The escalating exposure of young children to digital gaming necessitates a critical examination of its behavioral impacts. However, evidence regarding its influence on aggressive behavior remains limited. This study investigated the relationship between digital play addiction tendency and our dimensions of aggression: physical aggression, relational aggression, self-directed aggression, and aggression against objects. This study employed a cross-sectional design, gathering data through parent assessments. The sample consisted of 744 children aged 4 to 6 years. The average age of the participants was 33.5, with 82% of the sample being female. The participants came from a lower (27%), middle (37%), and high (36%) socioeconomic background. The data were analyzed using a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach to test the hypothesized relationships. The main findings from the SEM analysis indicated that a higher digital play addiction tendency was a significant positive predictor of all four dimensions of aggression. These results highlight the potential adverse effects of digital play addiction tendency on the development of maladaptive behaviors in early childhood. This study underscores the urgent need to develop strategies that foster healthier digital media consumption and mitigate the adverse effects of digital gaming on children’s developmental outcomes. Full article

ToM (ToM) and empathy, integral components of children’s social cognitive development, are shaped by multifaceted factors. The developmental trajectories of ToM and empathy in kindergarten children have long been focal points of inquiry for researchers and educators. Among these determinants, environmental factors emerge as significant predictors of children’s ToM and empathetic abilities. In contemporary society, digital screens have transformed into a ubiquitous medium for kindergarten children, deeply embedded in their daily life, learning, and recreational activities. Consequently, screen exposure has become a novel and distinctive environmental context for childhood development, diverging from traditional settings. This shift raises critical questions that have become focal in recent developmental media research: Does screen exposure correlate with children’s ToM and empathy? And how do key dimensions of screen use (e.g., duration, content) influence the development of these social cognitive skills? To address these queries, this study employed a two-phase experimental approach. Initially, a total of 642 parental questionnaires were collected to comprehensively investigate the current status of digital screen usage among Chinese kindergarten children. Subsequently, the ToM and empathy levels of 126 children were systematically evaluated. The findings revealed that the average daily duration of children’s screen time exhibited a significant negative predictive effect on their ToM level, consistent with prior longitudinal studies that linked early excessive screen exposure to poorer later ToM performance. Conversely, engagement with child-friendly content (e.g., prosocial narratives) and parent–child discussions regarding character emotions during screen exposure (e.g., dialogic questioning while co-viewing) emerged as positive predictors of ToM. Notably, no significant predictive relationships were identified between various dimensions of screen exposure and children’s empathy. This research elucidates the impact of screen exposure on crucial aspects of children’s social cognition, offering practical implications for optimizing screen device utilization to foster children’s holistic development. Full article