Search Results (158)

Background: Nurses’ motivation is essential for ensuring the quality of care and workforce retention. Understanding the underlying psychological mechanisms is essential, particularly through Self-Determination Theory (SDT). This approach clarifies how work environments influence work engagement and performance. Existing research has explored SDT in various contexts. However, little is known about how contextual and organizational factors specifically impact nurses’ motivation in low- and middle-income countries such as Morocco. This study contributes to addressing this gap. Objectives: This study explores how organizational factors within a Moroccan university hospital influence the BPNs’ satisfaction in a Moroccan teaching university hospital. Methods: An exploratory qualitative case study was used. Purposive sampling was used to select 26 participants, including nurse managers (n = 7), rehabilitation therapists (n = 5), pharmacy technicians (n = 4), nurses at the Hematology Department (n = 4), nurses at the Emergency Department (n = 4), and nurses in the outpatient consultation unit of the Otorhinolaryngology Department (n = 2). Data collection was conducted from March to June 2023, following ethical approval. Data analysis followed Yin’s five-step process, incorporating deductive and inductive coding, within- and cross-case thematic analysis, and iterative explanation-building. Results: Identified motivation emerged as the most frequently reported type, although BPNs’ satisfaction varied. Rehabilitation therapists consistently reported high levels of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, which were attributed to transformational leadership, task specialization, and a supportive organizational culture. In contrast, nurses experienced role ambiguity, transactional leadership, excessive workloads, and limited autonomy in decision-making, all of which contributed to unmet BPNs. Performance evaluations and financial incentives were widely perceived as unjust. Conclusions: This study shows that in LMIC hospital settings, nurses’ motivation depends on organizational support for their BPNs, especially in resource-constrained environments. The significant disparities between professions within hospitals indicate that supportive environments with autonomy-supportive leadership, clear roles, fair evaluation, and adequate staffing are both achievable and essential for motivating and retaining nurses. Full article

The teaching profession plays a central role in shaping educational quality and student development, yet it is increasingly characterized by high job demands and increasing pressures. Against this backdrop, this study examines how individual proactive behaviors (i.e., structural and social job crafting) interact with relational resources (i.e., LMX), to foster teachers’ emotional well-being and professional functioning, drawing on the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) model and LMX theory. Using cross-sectional survey data from 374 Flemish public secondary school teachers, we investigated the relationships between job crafting, well-being, and performance outcomes, as well as the mediating role of LMX. The results indicate that both forms of job crafting are significantly associated with lower emotional exhaustion and higher teacher enthusiasm and creative performance. Moreover, LMX emerged as a key, yet underexplored, mediating mechanism linking job crafting to teacher well-being and enthusiasm. These findings advance theoretical understanding of how proactive work behaviors translate into positive outcomes in educational contexts and highlight the importance of high-quality leader–teacher relationships. From a practical perspective, the results suggest that encouraging teachers’ job crafting behaviors alongside supportive school leadership may be crucial for fostering sustainable well-being and performance in education. Full article

Journalism is an inherently fast-paced and pressure-filled profession with features such as industry competition and reporting on traumatic events that can cause mental health issues for journalists. However, little work has examined the extent to which rapid implementation of new technologies might also contribute to the stress that journalists experience. In this study, I carried out qualitative interviews with working journalists to understand how they manage technostress in their work. The journalists’ experiences indicated that they approach technostress based on different levels within the decision-making process to adopt, reinvent, or reject an innovation. At the individual professional level, journalists used the strategies to adapt and alter technology for their needs and implement new tools when meeting timeliness, not just deadlines; at the social connection level, journalists built off educational encouragement through personal experimentation and engaged with mentors, coworkers, and audience for support; and at the foundational meaning level, journalists took breaks from technologies while acknowledging their downsides and kept humanity at the center of journalistic work. These findings contribute to diffusion of innovations theory by focusing on the ongoing decisions made to manage adverse impacts of a new tool being adopted. Further, the findings showcase that humanity remains central to the journalistic enterprise even in the technology-saturated digital age. Full article

This study examines the possible points of connection between crime and reading on the basis of genre-typical roles and motifs in detective fiction. I aim to identify characteristic reading methods, strategies, locations, events, and professions with regard to the detective, the perpetrator and the victim. Following a general introduction with a focus on genre theory and thematic concerns, I proceed with an analysis of P. D. James’s crime novel Original Sin. This novel not only offers the posing and solving of a criminal puzzle, but also reflects powerfully on moral questions about sin, original sin and violent death. In my analysis, I follow the method of close reading, and as part of this approach, I also explore traces of biblical intertextuality. As a result of theoretical reflection and interpretation, I draw two important conclusions: (1) For investigators, reading texts constitutes an effective and indispensable instrument for reconstructing the past, thus uncovering the truth and revealing the perpetrator. (2) The reading events depicted in the novel refer to experiences and conceptual connections that justify discussing a kind of theology of reading: reading appears in the story as an intellectual activity that forms part of certain religious practices (penance, prayer, confession). Full article

Background/Objectives: Identification of tools to minimize opioid-related harms is critical in the U.S. The purpose of this study was to better understand community responder and healthcare provider perceptions and preferences regarding the design and function of a potential new opioid sensor device (OSD). Methods: Adults aged ≥ 18 years employed as community responders or healthcare providers in Alabama were recruited via email to participate in an anonymous online cross-sectional survey informed by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Primary outcomes were assessed via multiple-choice and 7-point Likert-type scales (1 = strongly disagree, 7 = strongly agree) and included the following topics: (1) past OSD utilization (4 items); (2) perceived importance of OSD design elements (15 items); (3) OSD function and cost preferences (3 items); and (4) UTAUT measures including perceived usefulness of OSDs (3 items), ease of use (4 items), social factors (4 items), resources (4 items), concerns (3 items), and intentions (3 items). Differences in UTAUT measures across professions were assessed via Mann–Whitney U tests, and predictors of OSD utilization intention were analyzed via multiple linear regression. Results: Respondents (N = 145) included pharmacists (40.0%), nurses (23.4%), physicians (14.5%), behavioral health (4.8%), social work (4.8%), and law enforcement (0.7%). Availability in hospital emergency departments was rated as the most important device element (mean [SD] score: 6.66 [0.80]), followed by sensitivity and specificity of the test (6.42 [0.98]), rapid detection time (6.42 [0.88]), ability to detect opioids in a broad range of substance (6.42 [0.93]), and availability in law enforcement offices (6.33 [1.08]). A 2–5 min detection time was rated as reasonable by 32.6% of respondents, with 53.0% preferring to pay <USD 15 per test. There were no statistically significant differences in UTAUT scale scores across professions. Perceived usefulness (β = 0.493; p < 0.001), social acceptance (β = 0.281; p = 0.023), and resource availability (β = 0.708; p = 0.002) were positive predictors and perceived ease of use was a negative predictor (β = −0.472; p = 0.007) of intention to use an OSD. Conclusions: Newly developed OSDs should consider prioritizing accessibility in hospital emergency departments and law enforcement offices, ability to detect a broad range of opioids, detection time between 2 and 5 min, and cost less than USD 15 per test. Future research may explore perspectives from a more diverse sample across multiple states and different professional roles. Full article

The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) coaching challenges the professional roles and identities of human coaches, yet empirical research on this transformation remains scarce. This qualitative field study investigates how professional coaches navigate their roles following the organizational adoption of AI coaching. Drawing on the automation-augmentation paradox, occupational role identity, and role ambiguity theories, we analyzed 15 semi-structured interviews with 12 professional coaches in an Asian coaching firm, contextualized by pre- and post-interviews with the company CEO and the AI provider. Findings reveal that top-down AI implementation triggered significant role ambiguity, catalyzing both protective and expansive identity work. Coaches defended their unique human value (e.g., empathy), while simultaneously experimenting with AI, shifting their perception from threat to collaborative tool. This adaptive process enabled the emergence of distinct AI functions and new “blended” human–AI coaching models. Our resulting conceptual framework demonstrates that resolving the automation-augmentation paradox in relational professions is fundamentally an identity-driven process rather than a technical task reallocation. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that organizationally induced role ambiguity can serve as a catalyst for professional renewal and vocational adaptation, particularly when supported by participatory leadership, thereby advancing theory and contributing new insights to the literature on technological and vocational transformation in organizational contexts. Full article

What are the working conditions of freelancers in national media organizations? To answer this question, this study investigates the working conditions of freelance journalists in the Emirati media ecosystem. It focuses on the labor situation of freelancers in the national media organizations while exploring issues such as motivations for freelancing, their routines, contractual elements and income, professional challenges, and future opportunities. Self-determination theory (SDT) is used to analyze four dimensions of global freelance journalism. Additionally, SDT interprets the motivations of freelancers for adopting this profession, which are closely linked to their work conditions, the challenges they face, and their choices regarding self-determination in relation to future desires, opportunities, or the realities they must confront. The study uses semi-structured interviews with 15 journalists working in the U.A.E. and applies a thematic analysis to this data. The paper finds that comparatively, freelancers’ working conditions in the U.A.E. are as precarious as those of their Western peers, especially in contracts held with the national media organizations. The overall results also highlight other challenges encountered by freelancers in this profession. Finally, the paper offers a set of recommendations to enhance freelancing work conditions within the U.A.E. Full article

Background/Objectives: The Thriving at Work model proposes that organisations have a responsibility to provide supportive work environments that identify individual health outcomes, which organisations can use to determine where workforce support is needed. The aims of this study are to (1) identify and compare the predictors of early-career nurses’ thriving at work in New Zealand and Australia and (2) provide innovative and theory-informed recommendations to improve organisational support of early-career nurses to increase retention in the profession. Design: A multinational cross-sectional study design was followed. Methods: The methods include a sub-study of an international action research programme to support the thriving of early-career nurses, which evaluates and compares results from surveys of nurses at approximately three months post-registration in 2024 and 2025. A theory-informed survey assesses predictors and outcomes of thriving at work. Results: Early-career nurses (N = 320) from New Zealand (n = 277) and Australia (n = 43) completed the survey. New Zealand early-career nurses experience greater quality of care and authenticity at work; however, they also report greater burnout. For Australian early-career nurses, authenticity at work is the greatest predictor of thriving. In New Zealand, thriving is linked to burnout and colleague support. Conclusions: New Zealand must focus on reducing burnout and fostering workplaces that value social connection if it wants to mitigate early-career nurse attrition to Australia for better working conditions. In Australia, the value of authenticity at work highlights the importance of organisational cultures that enable nurses to express their true selves and professional identity. The findings highlight the need for tailored approaches in each country to strengthen workforce sustainability and improve nurse wellbeing. Implications for the Profession: In New Zealand, additional funding to bolster the recruitment and retention of the nursing workforce is crucial to improve patient ratios and reduce workloads. The remuneration of nurses must also remain competitive with Australia. Additionally, workplaces should incorporate Māori values and practices into workplace policies to strengthen social connections. Australian organisations should include authentic management training, psychological safety initiatives, and policies that value diversity and encourage open communication. Full article

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming medical practice, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, personalisation, and clinical efficiency. However, this transition raises complex ethical challenges related to transparency, accountability, fairness, and human oversight. This study examines how the literature conceptualises and distributes ethical responsibility in AI-assisted healthcare. Methods: This semi-systematic, theory-informed thematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Publications from 2020 to 2025 were retrieved from PubMed, ScienceDirect, IEEE Xplore databases, and MDPI journals. A semi-quantitative keyword-based scoring model was applied to titles and abstracts to determine their relevance. High-relevance studies (n = 187) were analysed using an eight-category ethical framework: transparency and explainability, regulatory challenges, accountability, justice and equity, patient autonomy, beneficence–non-maleficence, data privacy, and the impact on the medical profession. Results: The analysis revealed a fragmented ethical landscape in which technological innovation frequently outperforms regulatory harmonisation and shared accountability structures. Transparency and explainability were the dominant concerns (34.8%). Significant gaps in organisational responsibility, equitable data practices, patient autonomy, and professional redefinition were reported. A multilevel ethical responsibility model was developed, integrating micro (clinical), meso (institutional), and macro (regulatory) dimensions, articulated through both ex ante and ex post perspectives. Conclusions: AI requires governance frameworks that integrate ethical principles, regulatory alignment, and epistemic justice in medicine. This review proposes a multidimensional model that bridges normative ethics and operational governance. Future research should explore empirical, longitudinal, and interdisciplinary approaches to assess the real impact of AI on clinical practice, equity, and trust. Full article

The importance of Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) is recognised by Australian governments and significant reforms are being implemented to increase access to high-quality ECEC. Whilst increased recognition and access are vital, so are strategies to support a high-quality and sustainable workforce. One strategy is for governments to partner with universities to support Diploma-qualified educators to upskill to become teachers. Providing support for Diploma pathway students to be successful in their studies and motivated and to stay in the profession post-graduation is vital. The aim of this study was to investigate a specific design element within one innovative initial teacher education programme for Diploma pathway students—the role of the teaching coach. The teaching coach role was designed to support Diploma pathway students to complete their degree and help create the professional networks needed to sustain them in the profession long term. Using a single site case study approach, qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews with teaching coaches. Using the theory of practice architectures to the analyse data, we interrogated the practices of the teaching coaches, how teaching coaches perceived they supported student success and the arrangements that enabled and constrained these practices. From the perspective of the teaching coaches, their role supported student learning and professional networks. The role also provided unanticipated benefits for the teaching coaches themselves. The study highlights the importance of universities going beyond traditional practices to contribute to professional learning and networks for ECEC professionals throughout their careers. Full article

This study investigates the factors that influence the acceptance of 3D concrete printing technology in South Africa. The purpose is to provide evidence-based insights to guide regulators in developing clear standards and certification pathways for 3DCP in South Africa. In a mixed-method research design, the study gathered data from professionals including architects, civil engineers, quantity surveyors, project managers, contractors, regulators, and local municipalities using a modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology framework, adapted to the institutional and infrastructure contextual nuances of South Africa. The findings indicate significant variability in awareness, exposure, and openness to 3DCP across professions and regions. Regulatory actors express caution due to the absence of national standards but also recognize the potential alignment with sustainable construction goals. Major enablers of acceptance include access to demonstrable case studies, technical training, and policy incentives. Barriers include a lack of local performance benchmarks, cost perceptions, and uncertainty regarding compliance pathways. By incorporating institutional variables such as regulatory clarity and policy maturity, the study advances a theoretical understanding of construction technology diffusion in the global south. The study offers a robust, context-specific model that can be adapted in similar economies seeking to balance innovation with regulatory oversight. Full article

This study analyzes the profile of candidates enrolling in Alternative Certification Programs (ACP) in Bosnia and Herzegovina—specialized programs in pedagogical, psychological, didactic, and methodological education for graduates of non-teaching faculties to obtain a teaching qualification. Using the Dual Labor Market Theory (DLMT) as a framework, the research examines structural factors and systemic challenges shaping these career paths. It explores whether teaching in Bosnia and Herzegovina serves as a “safe haven” or an alternative career for highly educated individuals, and considers implications for the feminization of the profession and education quality. The study is based on demographic and educational data of ACP participants, including age, gender, previous academic background, and institution attended. Findings indicate that the typical participant is a woman under 30, often graduating from a public university in technical or social sciences. Results suggest that teaching is frequently chosen for employment stability and security rather than vocational calling, consistent with DLMT. These insights offer a better understanding of labor market dynamics and have implications for teacher recruitment, retention, and professional development policies in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Full article

The present study employed stigma theory to devise a scale measuring public occupational stigma towards morticians and subsequently analyzed its impact. In Phase 1 (n = 575), the researchers developed the Public Occupational Stigma toward Morticians Scale (POSMS) and conducted item analysis and exploratory factor analysis. Phase 2 (n = 536, n = 466) conducted confirmatory factor analysis and retest reliability testing for the scale. Phase 3 (n = 1111) validated construct validity, measurement invariance across genders, and criterion-related validity. In summary, these results supported the reliability and validity of the POSMS and confirmed that public occupational stigma toward morticians had negative consequences. This study fills a gap in research on occupational stigma within the funeral industry and offers practical insights for addressing stigma-related issues in other professions. Full article

Teaching is among the most fulfilling yet psychologically demanding professions. Expanding administrative responsibilities, technological adaptation, and increasingly diverse student needs have intensified workloads and contributed to widespread burnout and attrition. For arts educators, these pressures are compounded by the challenge of sustaining multiple professional identities as an educator, researcher, and artist (ERA) within institutional systems. Grounded in Structural Symbolic Interactionism and Social Identity Theory, this autoethnographic inquiry examines how integrating these identities within a portfolio career can enhance professional efficacy and personal well-being. Using reflective narrative analysis framed through the perspective of the educator–researcher–artist, this study emphasizes identity security as central to sustaining creativity, engagement, and career longevity. Findings suggest that balanced engagement across artistic, pedagogical, and scholarly domains mitigates identity fragmentation and reduces the risk of vocational burnout. The article concludes with a call for institutional frameworks that legitimize creative and research activity as integral to educational practice. Supporting such multidimensional engagement enables educators to maintain authenticity, motivation, and resilience in contemporary learning environments. Full article

This study examines the readiness of the accounting and auditing profession to adopt disruptive innovations, with a particular focus on sustainable digital transformation. It investigates the factors influencing auditors’ and accountants’ intention to adopt blockchain technology (BT) as a sustainable digital infrastructure that enhances transparency, accountability, traceability, and operational efficiency. The research integrates the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) with the third iteration of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM3), providing a comprehensive framework for understanding the sustainable adoption of emerging technologies. A quantitative research design was employed through an online questionnaire, collecting empirical data from 394 prospective and existing blockchain users within the accounting and auditing professions in Saudi Arabia. Data validation and hypothesis testing were conducted using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Smart-PLS software (version 4.1.0.8). The results reveal a strong and significant positive influence of performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), and social influence (SI) on intention to use (IU). Additionally, PE is positively and significantly associated with job relevance (JR) and output quality (OQ). Conversely, computer self-efficacy (CSE) shows no significant impact on EE, while compatibility (CO) positively influences EE but not IU. Moreover, EE has a substantial effect on PE. These findings contribute to the growing discourse on how disruptive ICTs are reshaping the accounting and auditing profession while supporting sustainable digital transformation. The study provides practical insights for policymakers, regulators, corporate leaders, and blockchain providers seeking to leverage BT not only for technological efficiency but also to advance long-term organizational sustainability and responsible governance. Full article