Journal of Cultural Analysis and Social Change
type: channel
description: Journal of Cultural Analysis and Social Change (E-ISSN:2589-1316) is an international, peer-reviewed platform dedicated to exploring the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between culture and processes of social transformation. The journal’s mission is to cultivate a deeper understanding of how cultural systems, values, identities, and practices both influence and respond to social, political, economic, environmental, and technological change. Recognizing that complex societal challenges rarely fit within the boundaries of a single discipline, the journal promotes an interdisciplinary ethos, encouraging collaboration among scholars from across the social sciences, humanities, and related applied fields. We aim to provide a space where theoretical innovation meets empirical rigor, where local experiences can illuminate global trends, and where scholarly work engages critically with pressing contemporary issues. The journal also seeks to challenge Eurocentric and dominant paradigms by including diverse cultural perspectives, voices from the Global South, and research that foregrounds marginalized communities. In doing so, we aspire to contribute to policy debates, cultural understanding, and transformative social change at both local and global levels. Scope The journal welcomes a wide range of scholarly contributions, including original research articles, theoretical essays, critical reviews, methodological papers, and in-depth case studies. Our interdisciplinary scope spans the breadth of the social sciences, often intersecting with the humanities, arts, and applied sciences. Core Areas of Inquiry Cultural Sociology and Anthropology Analysis of cultural production, consumption, and transmission. Exploration of identity, tradition, ritual, and symbolic systems. Comparative and cross-cultural studies of social change. Political Science and International Relations The cultural dimensions of governance, public policy, and political discourse. Social movements, activism…
publisher: Brighteredge Press Resources
language: en-US
publication name: Journal of Cultural Analysis and Social Change
issn: 2589-1316
items: Legal Pluralism and The Rights of Nature in The Fragile Island Ecosystem of The Galapagos Islands
items: Understanding the Roots: Psychological and Societal Factors Contributing to Violent Polarization in College Students
items: Crew Availability Ratio in Indonesian-Flagged Vessels: A Discrete Model Analysis of Sign-On–Sign-Off Cycle Effects on Sustainable Ship Operations
items: Inclusive Development after Reformasi: The Role of Chinese Indonesians in North Sumatra
items: Institutional Analysis of the University of Seville through Service-Learning
items: An Investigation of Social Factors Influencing Mental Health of Part-Time University Students in Malaysia
items: Exploring The Role of AI News Anchors in Content Quality and Continued Audience Engagement in Oman
items: Family Acceptance and Self-Esteem Moderate the Relationship between Sexual Minority Status and Psychological Distress among Men who have Sex with Men
items: Body-Territory, Masculinities and Rural Youth Vulnerability: Embodied Formative Experiences in a Community Organisation in Southern Córdoba, Argentina
items: Validation of a Scale for Measuring Christian Religiosity for Chinese Churches
items: Creativity in Islamic Educational Thought and its Implementation among School Teachers in Al-Koura School District
items: The Alcohol–Jealousy–Anger Triad: Drivers of Intimate Partner Violence Against Men
items: Building Loyalty Through Destination Branding: Understanding Tourist Behavior at Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
items: Revisiting the Determinants of Subjective Well-Being in a Developing Context: Longitudinal Evidence from South Africa
items: The Effect of Green FinTech Platform Transparency on Sustainable Investment Intention: The Mediating Role of Perceived Credibility
items: Eating to Belong: Food Practices, Identity, and Social Structure among Contemporary University Youth. An Approach from the Anthropology and Sociology of Food
items: Obstacles to Using Practical Applications Facing Home Economics Teachers
items: Interdisciplinary Synergy Between Radiologist and ML Engineer for augmented Whole‑Body MRI Interpretation in the AI Era: From Pixels to Decisions
items: Environmental Education and Rural Curriculum: Guidelines from the Caguán Watershed
items: Dynamics of Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth in SADC Countries: A Panel Data Analysis
items: Distributed Leadership and Teacher Performance in Under-Resourced Elementary Schools: Evidence from Eastern Indonesia
items: AI Learning Attitudes and AI Literacy Among Community Adult Learners: Social Implications in the Context of Digital Transformation
items: Developing an Ai News Anchors Engagement Framework: Assessing Content Quality and Continuance Behavior among News Consumers in Oman
items: A Semiotic Approach to the Design Strategy of Stationery Items in Gansu bamboo slips Culture
items: The Political Struggle Over Historical Memory: State Hegemony versus the Territorialization of Archives
items: CRRU “FANG KRU” Model to Promote Thai Language Listening Skills of Ethnic Student Teachers
items: Mapping the Evolution of Interactive Media Arts: A Bibliometric Analysis of Paradigm Shifts and Trends in Technological Convergence (2004–2024)
items: Agro-Ecological Transitions in Malawi: Pathways to Sustainable Food Systems
items: The Influence of Virtual Reality on Marketing Education in Jordan: A Developing Synthesis
items: Social Change in Parenting Practices and Emotional Development of Children
items: The Experience of Reproductive Suffering: An Anthropological and Sociological Approach to Social Pressure Regarding Infertility
items: A Case Study Exploring the Provision for Gifted Learners in China: A Qualitative Study of Primary School Teachers' Practices
items: Internet Use and Subjective Well-Being among Urban Elderly Women: A Quantitative Study from Chengdu, China

Legal Pluralism and The Rights of Nature in The Fragile Island Ecosystem of The Galapagos Islands
type: item
description: This study analyzes legal pluralism and the rights of nature in fragile island ecosystems in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, considering both the national legal framework and customary practices present on the islands. Through a qualitative approach based on the review of normative documents and ethnographic fieldwork, the paper identifies the ways in which customary law interacts with formal governance structures in marine resource management. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with national and local authorities, non-governmental organizations and community actors, as well as focus groups on different islands. The results reveal tensions, synergies, and opportunities for articulation between legal systems, highlighting the need to incorporate intercultural and participatory approaches in the protection of nature in the Galapagos. This study concludes by proposing the strengthening of effective legal pluralism that contributes to the ecological and social sustainability of the region.
creator: Edison Pozo
creator: Rocío Bravo
creator: Marcelo Leon
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-01
publication date: 2026-05-01
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 1
ending page: 11
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4817

Understanding the Roots: Psychological and Societal Factors Contributing to Violent Polarization in College Students
type: item
description: This study examines the effects of familiarity with polarization, religious effects, knowledge polarization, awareness of government efforts, Internet use, security, leadership style, media, education & ideology understanding, tolerance, digital respect, low self-control, and strain on violent polarization in college students. A convenient sample of college students (n=142) was used, of whom 61% were males, 43% were science college students, and 30% were military college students. The scales were highly reliable (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.81) and valid (construct validity: low self-control = 0.465 and strain = 0.351). The independent predictors explain approximately 33.5% of the variance in violent polarization (as indicated by adjusted R-squared scores) using the fitted regression model, and 26% were arts and social college students. A questionnaire was constructed as a research tool. ANOVA specified the above statistical significance of the regression model (F=4.867, p=0.000). They concluded that media exposure and a particular leadership style were key drivers of increasing polarization, whereas knowledge most certainly had little effect. These analyses psychoanalytically explain how violent polarization occurs in a democratic society and suggest ways that intervention may make a contribution to de-escalating polarization in societies. It really emphasizes the importance of being thoughtful about what we consume in the media and our leadership approaches to counter political violence among college students.”
creator: Diab M. Al-Badayneh
creator: Sultan Alnaimi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-04
publication date: 2026-05-04
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 12
ending page: 21
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4821

Crew Availability Ratio in Indonesian-Flagged Vessels: A Discrete Model Analysis of Sign-On–Sign-Off Cycle Effects on Sustainable Ship Operations
type: item
description: This study analyzes the influence of the sign-on–sign-off (SoSo) cycle on sustainable operational continuity of Indonesian-flagged vessels using the Discrete Crew Availability Ratio Model. Grounded in IMO Resolution A.1047(27), SOLAS 1974, MLC 2006, and Indonesia's Ministerial Regulation PM No. 26 of 2022, the research applies a quantitative approach to 26,757 active Indonesian-flagged merchant vessels identified via Vessel Finder (AIS). Vessels are stratified into five gross tonnage (GT) categories—GT >10,000; GT 3,000–10,000; GT 1,500–3,000; GT 500–1,500; and GT <500—and classified as cargo or passenger ships. The discrete model computes crew group allocation using duty-cycle ratios and ceiling functions, incorporating attrition modeling through probabilistic outflow estimation. Under the baseline cycle of T=10 months on board and L=1 month leave, results indicate a total crew requirement of 327,120 seafarers, of whom 297,299 (90.9%) are on board and 29,821 (9.1%) are on leave. Attrition modeling at a rate of 0.30%/month yields an additional buffer demand of approximately 2,899 seafarers/year, increasing total requirements to 330,019 persons. Sensitivity analysis across 14 cycle scenarios (T=6 to T=12; L=1 to L=2) reveals the T10/L1 cycle as the optimal sustainable balance point across three Triple Bottom Line (TBL) dimensions: economic efficiency, seafarer social welfare, and environmental safety compliance. The study delivers evidence-based policy recommendations for regulators, shipping companies, and maritime education institutions aligned with SDGs 8, 9, and 14.
creator: Moejiono .
creator: Agus Dwi Santosa
creator: Lusia Permata Sari Hartanti
creator: Indah Ayu Johanda Putri
creator: Romanda Annas Amrullah
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-05
publication date: 2026-05-05
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 22
ending page: 30
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4827

Inclusive Development after Reformasi: The Role of Chinese Indonesians in North Sumatra
type: item
description: This study explains how Chinese-Indonesian elites in North Sumatra convert long-run economic centrality into formal political incorporation, and under what electoral conditions these advantages yield vote gains. Using an explanatory-sequential mixed-methods design, we combine administrative and electoral records, association and business registries, media/archival sources, and 25–35 semi-structured interviews. Quantitatively, Model A (logit) estimates the probability of incorporation as a function of economic centrality and capital depth; Model B (OLS/fractional logit) evaluates the effect of recruitment signals on vote share and their interaction with cleavage softness; Model C tests whether associational density mediates the effect of economic centrality on incorporation. Results show that economic centrality significantly increases incorporation (β₁>0), that recruitment advantages translate more strongly into votes in mixed/urban areas (θ₃>0), and that associational density provides a small-to-moderate but significant mediating channel (indirect effect; complementary partial mediation). Findings are robust to alternative operationalizations, matching, and instrumental-variable strategies, and placebo tests suggest group-specific mechanisms rather than sectoral artifacts. Theoretically, the evidence integrates Push–Pull legacies (spatial–sectoral selection), Diaspora-based social capital (organizational density and bridging), and Middleman Minority incentives (resource-based institutional embedding). Practically, parties and local governments can enhance pluralistic representation by recruiting community-embedded candidates and investing in multiethnic civic programs that convert private resources into public goods. The framework is portable to other plural democracies featuring commercially central minorities.
creator: Palacheta Subies Subianto
creator: R. Hamdani Harapan
creator: Nurman Achmad
creator: Warjio .
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-05
publication date: 2026-05-05
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 31
ending page: 39
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4828

Institutional Analysis of the University of Seville through Service-Learning
type: item
description: Introduction: Service-Learning (SL) has become established as an innovative pedagogical methodology that combines academic learning processes with community service and social engagement, thereby contributing to the holistic education of students. Despite its expansion within the Spanish university context, the degree of institutionalisation of SL varies considerably across institutions. At the University of Seville in particular, SL initiatives appear fragmented and poorly systematised, which hinders their visibility. This study aims to conduct an institutional diagnosis of SL at the University of Seville by identifying existing experiences, areas of development, gaps, sectors with low representation, and opportunities for improvement, and by proposing recommendations to enhance the visibility, coordination, and promotion of new SL initiatives. Method: The study adopts a qualitative and interpretative approach, combining documentary and institutional analysis. A systematic review of public sources from the University of Seville was conducted, including websites, annual reports, course syllabi, innovation funding calls, collaboration agreements, and documentation from vice-rectorates. Results: The findings reveal an uneven presence of SL, concentrated mainly in the fields of Social and Legal Sciences and Health Sciences, with limited formal curricular integration and a strong reliance on individual initiatives or specific funding calls. No explicit institutional policies or stable monitoring and evaluation systems were identified. Discussion: It is concluded that SL at the University of Seville is at an early stage of institutionalisation, characterised by substantial inequalities between faculties and the absence of shared mechanisms for dissemination. The need for institutional strategies to support recognition, curricular integration, staff training, and sustainability is emphasised. In this regard, the creation of an institutional system for the registration and…
creator: De-Cecilia-Rodríguez, Cristina
creator: Rodríguez-Gallego, MR
creator: Ordóñez-Sierra, Rosario
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-11
publication date: 2026-05-11
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 40
ending page: 54
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4839

An Investigation of Social Factors Influencing Mental Health of Part-Time University Students in Malaysia
type: item
description: The mental health of university students has become an increasing global concern, with growing cases of depression and anxiety among this population. In Malaysia, research attention has primarily focused on full-time students, leaving part-time learners relatively understudied despite their greater exposure to stress arising from the combined pressures of work, study, and family responsibilities. This study examines the influence of key social factors family support, peer relationships, workplace stress, social stigma, and virtual learning environments on the mental health of part-time university students in Malaysia. A quantitative approach was adopted, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered to part-time students from several higher education institutions. Data were analysed through descriptive, correlational, and multiple regression analyses. The results showed that family support and positive peer relationships played a protective role against symptoms of depression and anxiety, whereas workplace stress and social stigma were significant contributors to poor mental health outcomes. The virtual learning environment demonstrated a moderate impact, reflecting its potential to both facilitate and hinder well-being. The study advances theoretical understanding by applying established social and occupational stress frameworks to a non-traditional student group in Malaysia. It also offers practical implications for universities, employers, policymakers, and mental health professionals to develop flexible support systems, reduce stigma, and implement workplace policies that acknowledge the dual commitments of part-time students.
creator: Nurhidayah Hamid
creator: Mohamad Sukeri Abdullah
creator: Shah Rezlan Shajahan
creator: Khairil Rafik Musa
creator: Asad Ur Rehman
creator: Zunirah Mohd Taib
creator: Intan Rohani Endut
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-11
publication date: 2026-05-11
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 55
ending page: 65
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4840

Exploring The Role of AI News Anchors in Content Quality and Continued Audience Engagement in Oman
type: item
description: This paper discusses how artificial intelligence news reporters influence the level of perceived content and viewer interest in Omani media. With increasing adoption of AI anchors, it is now important to learn how audiences perceive and use these technologies. Drawing on expectation confirmation theory, the study suggests a conceptual framework examining perceived intelligence, novelty, information quality, and trust as predictors of continuance intention and consumer interest in AI-based news content. The research used a structured questionnaire to gather the data, which consisted of 465 valid answers, and was analyzed with the help of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that perceived intelligence, perceived novelty and trust are significantly used in the quality of information and continuance intention. The mediating role of continuance intention is also influenced by these factors albeit indirectly on consumer engagement. Information quality and continuance intention are serial mediators between perceived intelligence, perceived novelty and trust to continuance intention. The consumer engagement variance is explained in 70% by the proposed model. The research adds to the growing body of literature on AI-driven media by explaining the processes by which AI anchors impact long-term audience interest in underexplored areas.
creator: Nawal AL Samsami
creator: Tengku Shariman
creator: Fahed Zaqout
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-12
publication date: 2026-05-12
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 66
ending page: 81
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4844

Family Acceptance and Self-Esteem Moderate the Relationship between Sexual Minority Status and Psychological Distress among Men who have Sex with Men
type: item
description: Despite the stressful psychological conditions and social marginalization that men who have sex with men (MSM) experience, surprisingly, some men who identify as sexual minorities report little or no psychological distress. This study analysed the possible moderating effect of family acceptance and self-esteem in the relationship between sexual orientation and mental health. The study sample consisted of 287 MSM aged 18 to 40 years, recruited through online platforms, LGBTQ+ community organizations, and social networks. Indicators of emotional and behavioral difficulties, symptoms of depression, suicidal behavior, well-being, family acceptance, and self-esteem were assessed. Zero-order correlations of all study variables were tested with the study’s dependent variable. Mediating analysis revealed that internalized homonegativity and rejection sensitivity were positively associated with depressive symptoms for those reporting less family acceptance and low self-esteem, but they were not associated for those reporting more family acceptance. Findings further suggest that family acceptance and high self-esteem may be important resilience factors that can shield against psychosocial distress among sexual minorities. Findings of this study highlight the importance of expressing family acceptance and support, which may directly impact self-esteem and well-being and serve as a buffer against minority stress.
creator: Segun Emmanuel Adewoye
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-12
publication date: 2026-05-12
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 82
ending page: 90
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4845

Body-Territory, Masculinities and Rural Youth Vulnerability: Embodied Formative Experiences in a Community Organisation in Southern Córdoba, Argentina
type: item
description: This article analyses how embodied masculine practices are produced and reconfigured among socially vulnerable young men participating in a rural community-based pedagogical organisation in southern Córdoba, Argentina. Drawing on a qualitative ethnographic approach developed between 2021 and 2023, it examines how sport, cooperative labour, and playful practices both render visible and potentially transform the heteronormative norms embedded in dominant masculine models. The findings show that football reinforces hierarchies grounded in bodily endurance and performance, while other practices—such as yoga and cooperative agricultural work—enable relational repertoires linked to care, solidarity, and affective expression. Vulnerability emerges not only as a material condition but also as an embodied and territorially mediated experience. The article proposes understanding masculinities as situated processes configured at the intersection of body, territory, vulnerability, and institutional mediation.
creator: Aída Fernández-Ojeda
creator: Fernando Aguilar-Mancilla
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-18
publication date: 2026-05-18
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 90
ending page: 96
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4852

Validation of a Scale for Measuring Christian Religiosity for Chinese Churches
type: item
description: Religiosity plays a pivotal role in the spiritual journey of Christians, influencing not only their faith but also the development of churches in difficult times. The recent substantial drop in worshippers may have detrimental effects on the religiosity of Christians in Hong Kong. Hence, this study proposes to find out the religiosity of Christians in Hong Kong after the impact of social events and COVID-19 through developing a validated instrument concerning the specific context of churches in Hong Kong. The questionnaire was distributed online to Christians at different time slots in September 2024. Respondents were asked to complete an online version of the questionnaire. A total of 400 completed responses were received and analysed from Christians coming from 150 churches in Hong Kong. There are around 1000 churches in Hong Kong; the sample covers Christians from around 15% of the churches in Hong Kong. The questionnaire was confirmed by Confirmatory Factor Analysis using AMOS version 29 to have validity and reliability. Serving in the Church and the years of service have positive effects on religiosity. There is no significant difference between male and female after controlling for other variables such as experience of serving in the church. Although churches in Hong Kong experienced a substantial drop in members after the social events and COVID-19, the Christians responding to this study show positive perceptions of their religiosity. The results of this study has cast light on what actions should be taken by churches in Hong Kong to fulfill the vision and mission of spreading the gospel and converting more people to Christianity. Importance should be attached to motivating more members to serve and pursue religiosity according to the Bible. The results of such action will have positive effects not only on the Church but also on the wellness of every Christian who follows the Church’s direction.
creator: Hong-Sheung Chui
creator: Fu-Sing Lee
creator: Edmund Sui-Lung Ng
creator: Ivan Wai-Kin Lam
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-19
publication date: 2026-05-19
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 97
ending page: 108
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4854

Creativity in Islamic Educational Thought and its Implementation among School Teachers in Al-Koura School District
type: item
description: This study aims to investigate the creativity in the Islamic educational thought and its implementation among school teachers in schools in Al-Koura district. The study uses a questionnaire as an instrument to collect data. The questionnaire has been tested and proven valid and reliable. A descriptive and analytical approach is employed to study a sample of (405) teachers and (97) school principals, both male and female. The results suggest a positive correlation in statistics between the creativity in the Islamic educational thought and its implementation among school teachers, Showing that the teachers had a moderate level of creativity in the education of Islamic thought, as they vary in their perspective regarding creative skills in Islamic educational thought.
creator: Intikhab Ibsharat
creator: Saleh Alimat
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-19
publication date: 2026-05-19
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 109
ending page: 118
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4855

The Alcohol–Jealousy–Anger Triad: Drivers of Intimate Partner Violence Against Men
type: item
description: This article advances understanding of the drivers of intimate partner violence (IPV) by centering African men’s qualitative experiences as victims within heterosexual unions. It develops the Alcohol–Jealousy–Anger Triad as an integrated conceptual framework to explain the mechanisms that precipitate IPV against men, extending beyond the predominantly female-focused literature. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 25 men in Johannesburg, the study illustrates how alcohol functions as a disinhibitor, reducing cognitive and emotional regulation; jealousy operates as a cognitive–emotional trigger, heightening relational insecurity and perceived threats to exclusivity; and explosive anger serves as the behavioral enactment through which violence is perpetrated. The triad conceptualizes these factors as a dynamic, mutually reinforcing escalation system, highlighting how situational disinhibition, perceived infidelity, and explosive anger converge to generate both physical and emotional abuse. The findings are discussed through the lens of disinhibition theory, alcohol myopia, and anger and I³ models, situating male victimization within broader theoretical frameworks. This article foregrounds men’s victimisation and the interrelated mechanisms driving abuse and offers a theoretically grounded platform for empirical inquiry, policy formulation, and the development of inclusive IPV interventions.
creator: Emmanuel Rowlands
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-19
publication date: 2026-05-19
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 119
ending page: 133
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4856

Building Loyalty Through Destination Branding: Understanding Tourist Behavior at Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
type: item
description: This study investigates the key factors that influence destination branding, focusing on Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, known as the world’s longest sandy beach. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), it examines how factors like attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and destination trust affect tourists’ satisfaction and loyalty. The research involved 20 semi-structured interviews with visitors, analyzed through qualitative content analysis. The findings revealed 58 variables influencing tourist behavior, with major factors including the beach’s natural beauty, trust in safety and reliability, and perceived risks like high costs, traffic, and poor cleanliness. While most visitors were satisfied and likely to revisit or recommend the destination, these challenges need addressing to improve the experience. A loyalty framework is proposed, showing how satisfaction and trust lead to positive tourist behavior. This study contributes to better understanding and improving destination branding in Bangladesh.
creator: Sheikh Shamima Sultana
creator: Md. Enayet Hossain
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-20
publication date: 2026-05-20
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 134
ending page: 147
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4859

Revisiting the Determinants of Subjective Well-Being in a Developing Context: Longitudinal Evidence from South Africa
type: item
description: Maximizing citizens’ happiness and life satisfaction—commonly referred to as subjective well-being (SWB) is a key objective of policy frameworks developed by international organizations. To design effective interventions that enhance SWB, it is essential to identify its main determinants. However, much of the existing empirical evidence is based on non-representative samples and is largely drawn from developed countries, limiting their applicability to developing contexts. Using data from all five waves of the National Income Dynamics Study (NIDS) panel, this study investigates the determinants of subjective well-being among urban and rural populations in South Africa. The analysis employs a random effect ordered probit (REOP) model to control for unobserved individual heterogeneity, while robustness is assessed using a pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) approach. The results show that income, marital status, religious participation, gender, access to electricity and clean water, and age (squared) are significant determinants of SWB in the full sample. Employment is positive but insignificant overall, though it is positive and significant in rural areas and negative and insignificant in urban areas. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of income and basic services in enhancing well-being, as well as important urban–rural differences in the determinants of happiness.
creator: Vanessa Chuma
creator: Talent Zwane
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-20
publication date: 2026-05-20
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 148
ending page: 158
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4860

The Effect of Green FinTech Platform Transparency on Sustainable Investment Intention: The Mediating Role of Perceived Credibility
type: item
description: This study examines the effect of Green FinTech platform transparency on sustainable investment intention, with a focus on the mediating role of perceived credibility. Based on signaling theory, the research proposes that transparent disclosure practices enhance investors’ perceptions of platform credibility, which in turn fosters stronger intentions to engage in sustainable investments. Data were collected from 255 respondents using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results indicate that green fintech platform transparency has a significant positive impact on both perceived credibility and sustainable investment intention. Additionally, perceived credibility partially mediates the relationship between transparency and investment intention. These findings offer important theoretical contributions by demonstrating the dual pathways through which transparency influences sustainable investment behavior. Practically, the study underscores the necessity for Green FinTech platforms to prioritize transparent communication and credibility-building strategies to effectively mobilize capital toward environmentally responsible investments.
creator: Miral R. Samarah
creator: Ali Mustafa Abo Kian
creator: Qais Hammouri
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-22
publication date: 2026-05-22
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 159
ending page: 166
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4861

Eating to Belong: Food Practices, Identity, and Social Structure among Contemporary University Youth. An Approach from the Anthropology and Sociology of Food
type: item
description: This article studies the eating styles and practices of young university students from two interrelated fields: anthropology and sociology. The eating practices and habits acquired during such a crucial stage of life as youth are determinants of health in adulthood. Beyond its biological function, food serves as an instrument of socialization and identity construction among young people. The methodology chosen for this research was a literature review from the perspective of the anthropology and sociology of food, and an in-depth, semi-structured questionnaire administered to 40 young university students between the ages of 18 and 25. The questionnaire was structured around three dimensions: (1) food, identity, and personal trajectory; (2) social, cultural, and media influences on eating choices; and (3) the values and meanings attributed to the act of eating, including health, ethics, and sustainability. The results indicate that young people's dietary choices and eating habits are influenced, among other factors, by their socioeconomic context and the influence of social media, which exerts substantial pressure on their image and eating habits. Furthermore, the results also reflect the coexistence of traditional diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, with newer eating patterns. Finally, it was found that students with knowledge of nutrition or food science are less susceptible to media pressure regarding eating practices.
creator: Cristina Lázaro-Pérez
creator: Piedad Miñarro-Casau
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-23
publication date: 2026-05-23
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 167
ending page: 177
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4862

Obstacles to Using Practical Applications Facing Home Economics Teachers
type: item
description: Vocational education programs and especially home economics education are important because they enable the practical use of the education received for daily living and future practical jobs. However, home economics teachers indeed need practical applications to be implemented in their curriculum frequently. These problems may include a lack of resources, poor training, and his or her own weak supervision in educational institutions. Ramping up efforts to overcome these barriers is important to ensuring the adequate provision of vocational education and the development of well-rounded individuals who would be able to contribute to society. Aim. This study aimed to investigate the obstacles to practical applications in education facing home economics teachers in the secondary stage in Jordan. Method. A questionnaire including (33) items was used to collect data. A descriptive-analytical method was used to analyze the data. The study sample consisted of (25) secondary school home economics teachers who teach in the Amman Education Directorate (2022/2023). Results. The study results indicated barriers to the utilization of practical applications for vocational sciences educators, with a range of (2.84-3.42). They also demonstrated no statistically significant differences (α = 0.05) in the participants' judgements on impediments to adopting practical applications related to the "home economics branch" category. Statistically significant variations (α = 0.05) were observed in participants' ratings of difficulties based on the "years of experience" variable, favoring teachers with less than five years of experience. In response to these findings, the study advised the Jordanian Ministry of Education to conduct training courses for home economics educators, as well as workshops and instructional sessions on workshop management. Scientific Novelty. The scientific originality of this study is the fact that the scientific research emphasizes the specific context of Jordanian …
creator: Hana Mustafa Amin Danaa
creator: Maali M. Al-mzary
creator: Wafa Nayef Khalaf Halasa
creator: Marlain Mansour Ahmad Alfalah
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 178
ending page: 192
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4865

Interdisciplinary Synergy Between Radiologist and ML Engineer for augmented Whole‑Body MRI Interpretation in the AI Era: From Pixels to Decisions
type: item
description: The concept of an AI-assisted comprehensive, accessible, and safe diagnostic modality has gained significant attention in recent years, reflecting the evolving needs and expectations of contemporary society. Current advancements in medical imaging have enabled high-resolution, detailed, non-invasive whole body image reconstruction, allowing for more accurate lesion detection and characterization and, therefore, facilitating more effective, targeted treatment. Practical employment of such solutions can become feasible and clinically useful through several key technologies that leverage state of the art adaptive algorithms. From this perspective, we describe the theoretical principles of a conceptual diagnostic network for ΑΙ-supported whole-body (WB) MRI analysis. We propose a framework that integrates well-established and widely studied AI tools, including Convolutional Neural Networks for image analysis, Natural Language Generation for structured reporting and Federated Learning for decentralized model training, into a multimodal diagnostic tool. These elements are selected for their strong academic maturity, broad validation across medical imaging studies, and proven compatibility with modern WB-MRI scanners. The expert-in-the-loop precept places the radiologist at the helm of this system, where they maintain clinical oversight and accountability for all decision-making, while also contributing to the ongoing readjustment of the functional algorithm. Inherently dependent on actual data availability, the complexity of the process raises issues related to patient psychological burden, as well as legality, fairness, and ethical governance.
creator: Christos B. Zachariadis
creator: Charalampos Z. Patrikakis
creator: George Georgoudis
creator: Helen C. Leligou
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-25
publication date: 2026-05-25
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 193
ending page: 207
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4872

Environmental Education and Rural Curriculum: Guidelines from the Caguán Watershed
type: item
description: This study aims to establish curriculum guidelines for environmental education (EE) in the context of the Caguán River watershed, focused on the perspectives of educators at the Santo Domingo Savio Rural Educational Institution, their teaching practices, and institutional references. A qualitative approach is adopted, based on the administration of questionnaires to teachers at different grade levels and the review of documents such as the PRAE (School Environmental Project), the environmental studies course, and lesson plans. The results revealed a fragmented curriculum that is still in its early stages of methodological development and shows limited integration with other disciplines. Convergences and gaps were identified between what the teachers stated and the reality of their pedagogical practices as reflected in the lesson plans. Nevertheless, a limited approach to problem-based learning was observed, stemming from questions related to territorial dynamics associated with the subject matter, which failed to transcend to a reflective level. Based on these elements, guidelines are proposed from a situated approach, aimed at strengthening the relationship between curriculum, context, and teaching practice, with the goal of fostering a coherent integration of environmental education (EE) into educational processes. These guidelines contribute to the curricular organization of environmental education from a contextualized perspective applicable to other educational settings. This study concludes by affirming that EE is present in schools but requires decisive actions that lead to interdisciplinarity and the mainstreaming of the environmental dimension, guided by the proposed curricular guidelines.
creator: Edwin Giovanni Pérez Osorio
creator: Alba Leonilde Suarez Arias
creator: Nataly Vanessa Murcia Murcia
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-26
publication date: 2026-05-26
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 208
ending page: 221
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4873

Dynamics of Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth in SADC Countries: A Panel Data Analysis
type: item
description: This study investigates the long run and short run dynamic impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) on economic growth in SADC region. Using the Chudik and Pesaran (2013) Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag (P-ARDL) model and an annual data spanning 1970-2023 across SADC countries, the study finds an evidence of a long term impact of FDI on economic growth. It is further observed that despite various short-term impacts, GDP per capita and human capital have a significant long-term effects on economic growth in the region. While both FDI and GDP per capital have a strong positive impact, human capital has a negative impact on economic growth in the region. These results contribute to understanding the roles and relationships of human capital, GDP per capita and FDI in addressing SADC's development challenges. As a policy recommendation, SADC’s policymakers should prioritize FDI attraction, human capital reform, job creation, infrastructure development, and institutional strengthening in order to achieve a sustainable economic growth.
creator: Augustine Adebayo Kutu
creator: Akinola Ezekiel Morakinyo
creator: Segun Emmanuel Kutu
creator: Daramola Joseph Omoyele
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-05-28
publication date: 2026-05-28
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 222
ending page: 230
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4875

Distributed Leadership and Teacher Performance in Under-Resourced Elementary Schools: Evidence from Eastern Indonesia
type: item
description: Distributed leadership is widely recognized for enhancing instructional quality; however, most studies focus on urban and well-resourced schools, leaving limited understanding of how it functions in resource-constrained environments. This study examines the influence of distributed leadership on teacher performance and explores how leadership distribution emerges in an under-resourced public elementary school in Eastern Indonesia. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods design was employed. Quantitative data were collected from 19 teachers using a Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed through simple linear regression. Results show that distributed leadership has a significant positive effect on teacher performance (β = 0.65, p < 0.001), accounting for 52% of the variance. The qualitative phase involved interviews, observations, and document analysis with the principal and five purposively selected teachers. Thematic analysis identified three mechanisms enabling leadership distribution: collaborative decision-making, delegated authority, and collective responsibility for instructional outcomes. The findings reveal that distributed leadership operates as a capacity-building mechanism, allowing schools with limited resources to strengthen teacher professionalism and shared accountability. This study extends distributed leadership theory to developing-country contexts and offers implications for leadership development and the implementation of Indonesia’s Merdeka Belajar reform.
creator: Heryon Bernard Mbuik
creator: Cucu Atikah
creator: Aslam .
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-01
publication date: 2026-06-01
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 231
ending page: 239
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4878

AI Learning Attitudes and AI Literacy Among Community Adult Learners: Social Implications in the Context of Digital Transformation
type: item
description: In the context of rapid population aging and digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping social development, individual learning, and patterns of social participation. The trajectory of social progress and transformation is closely associated with the development of AI applications and related competencies among the general public. However, uneven development of AI capabilities may further exacerbate digital inequalities among adult learners. This study aims to provide a preliminary exploration of AI learning attitudes and AI literacy among community adult learners in Taiwan, and to examine their implications for digital inclusion and future development in an aging society. The study recruited 170 adults from northern Taiwan who participated in community-based AI learning programs. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed through descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation analysis. The results indicate that participants generally demonstrated highly positive AI learning attitudes, while their levels of AI literacy were comparatively lower, revealing a gap characterized by “high motivation but low competence.” In addition, a significant positive correlation was found between AI learning attitudes and AI literacy, suggesting that learning attitudes serve as an important motivational foundation for AI literacy. However, attitudes alone are insufficient to facilitate substantial improvement in competencies. The findings suggest that enhancing AI literacy requires the integration of systematic instructional design and practice-oriented training in order to support the transformation of learning motivation into actual competencies. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of promoting digital inclusion and social participation in aging societies, offering important implications for future community education and social development.
creator: Chen-Chen Lu
creator: Chia-Hui Hou
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-01
publication date: 2026-06-01
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 240
ending page: 246
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4879

Developing an Ai News Anchors Engagement Framework: Assessing Content Quality and Continuance Behavior among News Consumers in Oman
type: item
description: The purpose of this research is the consumers' understanding, dealing, and recognition of the AI-generated news in Oman. The impact of the perception of AI-centric qualities, including intelligence, innovation, trust, and information value in the utilization and engagement of the AI news services in developing the AI Anchor Engagement Framework was also analyzed. For gaining an in-depth insight from the purposively sampled 10 media as well as AI experts, the researcher utilised a qualitative research design. For data collection, semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data underwent thematic analysis where dominant patterns and associations were established to aid in the structuring of the framework. The outcome of the research indicates that the critical elements of consumer engagement and continuance intentions are triggered by trust, intelligence perceptions, and information quality. The respondents indicated that audience trust can be strengthened by credibility, transparency, and connection once the audience witnesses the credentials of knowledge of the AI anchors in terms of novelty and timely response. As expected, the evidence proves that the critical factor leading to the successful implementation of AI newsreaders is their unique capability of meshing technology intelligence and human authenticity and trustworthiness. The successful consumer adaptation is greatly contingent on the trust and engagement rhetoric. In this regard, with qualitative research quality, this paper has emerged as an inspiration for innumerable novel insightful ideas concerning Omani media organizations to develop trust-worthy and user-friendly AI news platforms with the concept of the AI Anchor Engagement Framework.
creator: Nawal AL Samsami
creator: Tengku Shariman
creator: Fahed Zaqout
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-02
publication date: 2026-06-02
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 247
ending page: 260
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4881

A Semiotic Approach to the Design Strategy of Stationery Items in Gansu bamboo slips Culture
type: item
description: This study examines the cultural and design techniques of Han Dynasty bamboo slips from Gansu from a semiotic standpoint, viewing the slips as both administrative tools and cultural emblems. Using Saussure's signifier and signified framework, Barthes' myth theory, and Eco's sign classification, the study deconstructs bamboo slips across visual, material, and semantic dimensions to reveal their layered meanings in clerical calligraphy, binding formats, and narrative inscriptions. Building on this theoretical foundation, the study presents the SFS model, which includes symbol translation, functional adaptation, and scenario integration, as a systematic design approach for translating bamboo slip culture into modern stationery goods. Case studies of a modular pen holder, a calligraphy brush stand, and an ink stone show how symbolic narratives, material metaphors, and technological advancements like CNC carving and AR/NFC interaction can bring historical authenticity to modern user experiences. Mixed-method evaluations integrating eye-tracking research, usability testing, and user interviews reveal that symbolic recognition and narrative intensity greatly improve cultural identity, while digital interaction is more engaging for younger audiences. The findings add to design history, semiotics, and cultural heritage by providing a reusable technique for incorporating traditional symbolism into creative enterprises, supporting sustainable practices, and furthering the living transmission of regional culture in contemporary situations.
creator: Yao Pan
creator: Arkom Sangiamvibool
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-05
publication date: 2026-06-05
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 261
ending page: 270
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4889

The Political Struggle Over Historical Memory: State Hegemony versus the Territorialization of Archives
type: item
description: This article examines places of memory as mechanisms of political contestation in transitional justice contexts, with focus on Colombia. Memory operates not as preservation of the past but as a site of struggle over interpretive authority and political legitimacy. Historical acceleration does not produce uniform temporal experience; in contexts of state violence, the past remains directly constitutive of present conditions. Historical memory operates across three analytical dimensions—material, functional, and symbolic—yet institutional frameworks that reduce memory to territorial fixity exclude ephemeral practices that generate political efficacy through ritual repetition. The central argument is that memory constitutes a mechanism through which marginalized groups exercise political agency by producing alternative historical intelligibility that contest state monopolies on narrative interpretation. This contestation reshapes victims' status: from those to whom violence occurred toward those whose interpretations shape collective understanding. Recognition of contested territorial memories operates as a necessary condition for democratic stability and guarantees of non-repetition, contingent upon whether institutions incorporate victim narratives as valid historical claims and whether victims exercise interpretive authority. Memory proliferation in public discourse expresses emergent subaltern political subjectivities rather than institutional instability.
creator: Camilo Lozano-Rivera
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-11
publication date: 2026-06-11
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 271
ending page: 278
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4900

CRRU “FANG KRU” Model to Promote Thai Language Listening Skills of Ethnic Student Teachers
type: item
description: The purposes of this study were to (1) develop the CRRU “FANG KRU” Model to enhance Thai listening skills among ethnic student teachers, (2) examine the effectiveness of the CRRU “FANG KRU” Model, and (3) evaluate the development process of the model. The participants were 20 ethnic student teachers from the Faculty of Education, Chiang Rai Rajabhat University, who were first- to fourth-year students in the 2025 academic year. The participants were selected through volunteer sampling and consisted of students who experienced difficulties in Thai listening skills: five Lahu, five Akha, five Karen, and five Hmong students. The research instruments included (a) a Thai listening comprehension pre- and post-test, (b) the CRRU “FANG KRU” Model innovation designed to improve Thai listening skills among ethnic student teachers, and (c) a student satisfaction questionnaire regarding the innovation. The findings revealed that the CRRU “FANG KRU” Model comprised four sets of Thai listening exercises: (1) communication primarily through visual elements, (2) communication through equal use of visual and auditory elements, (3) communication primarily through auditory elements, and (4) communication through auditory elements only. The model demonstrated an efficiency of 82.80/86.00. Furthermore, the students’ Thai listening comprehension abilities improved significantly, and their satisfaction toward the development process and the use of the model was at the highest level.
creator: Pongsakorn Sommit
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-11
publication date: 2026-06-11
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 279
ending page: 291
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4901

Mapping the Evolution of Interactive Media Arts: A Bibliometric Analysis of Paradigm Shifts and Trends in Technological Convergence (2004–2024)
type: item
description: This study presents a bibliometric analysis of the evolution of interactive media arts, with the goal of providing academics with a comprehensive reference for understanding research trends over the last two decades. The primary data source was literature indexed in Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus, with bibliometric visualization tools used to track scholarly advances. Scientific knowledge maps were created using software tools such as VOSviewer, Citespace, and Bibliometrix, with an emphasis on publication timelines, burst detection, cooperation networks, and keyword grouping. The study identified four evolutionary stages in the creation of interactive media arts: technical experimentation, tool popularization, social penetration, and ethical reflection. These stages demonstrate not only the field's technological advancements, but also the paradigm shifts that result from the incorporation of artificial intelligence into co-creative art activities. The findings demonstrate how interactive media arts have evolved from initial technical research to broader social and cultural applications, ending in increased focus on ethical considerations in AI-driven creation. The study underlines the role of multidisciplinary collaboration in generating academic inquiry and practical innovation. By mapping these evolutionary paths, the study adds to our understanding of the dynamics of technological convergence, providing valuable insights for artists, technologists, and politicians. It also lays the groundwork for forecasting future trends and tackling the issues brought by rapid changes in media technologies and creative processes.
creator: Chen Yiqian
creator: Arkorm Sangiamvibool
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-11
publication date: 2026-06-11
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 292
ending page: 302
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4902

Agro-Ecological Transitions in Malawi: Pathways to Sustainable Food Systems
type: item
description: This research delves into the agro-ecological transitions occurring in Malawi, emphasizing sustainable agricultural practices that enhance food security and resilience in the face of climate change. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys targeting smallholder farmers across diverse regions in Malawi. Key findings reveal that agro-ecological practices, including intercropping and organic farming, not only bolster soil health and crop yields but also diminish reliance on chemical fertilizers. Additionally, the research underscores the crucial role of local knowledge and community involvement in facilitating these transitions. Ultimately, the study concludes that promoting agro-ecological practices can create more resilient food systems in Malawi, effectively addressing both environmental sustainability and socio-economic challenges.
creator: Samuel McNeil Elias Kayuni
creator: Mohammad Shahidul Islam
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-12
publication date: 2026-06-12
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 303
ending page: 311
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4903

The Influence of Virtual Reality on Marketing Education in Jordan: A Developing Synthesis
type: item
description: This research aims at examining the splendid affordance of virtual reality (VR) in enhancing marketing education in Jordan. The research focusses on the effects of integrating the use of marketing simulations through virtual reality on students’ perceptions of course interestingness, desire to learn, confidence in course contents, and recall ability. What is more, it explores how cultural background and technological skill impact the results of virtual reality. This well-thought-out mixed-methods research incorporates a well-designed quantitative questionnaire with carefully designed semi-structured interviews to gather quantitative and qualitative data in a small, selected sample of Jordanian university students studying in prestigious programs in the field of marketing. It is a clear implication of the study that VR goes a long way in enhancing students’ interest, enthusiasm, and confidence in their capabilities, as well as mastery and knowledge, all crucial attributes towards the development of essential marketing skills. However, due to cultural background and technological literacy, the effectiveness of VR differs, and that is why applications should be culturally sensitive, and people who use VR should receive detailed instructions and support. The findings of the study include a more accurate verification of the contribution of VR within the domain of marketing while stressing the importance of enabling cultural sensitivity and technological skills in the application of VR projects.
creator: Ahmed A. Al-Hammouri
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-13
publication date: 2026-06-13
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 312
ending page: 327
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4904

Social Change in Parenting Practices and Emotional Development of Children
type: item
description: Social change has significantly influenced parenting practices, which in turn affect children's emotional development. These changes reflect evolving societal norms, economic conditions, and cultural landscapes. The goal of this study was to investigate the impact of different parenting styles on the development of children’s emotion regulation capacities. This research is a cross-sectional study on the correlation between parenting styles, Parenting Behavior Inventory (PBI) (Lovejoy et al., 1999), and Child-Parent Relationship Scale (CPRS) (Rinaldi et al., 2023). More than 300 respondents from Hong Kong and Mainland China responded to the survey. Structural Equation Modeling was adopted to investigate the relationships between various parenting practices and children’s emotional development. Parents’ beliefs about children’s emotions and parental stress were identified as the independent study variables. These specific variables were chosen because of the increased potential for these parental factors to influence the way parents emotionally socialize their children, thereby influencing children’s overall emotional development (Root & Denham, 2010), characteristics on the development of children’s emotion regulation capacities. Findings from this study highlighted the significant effect of emotion socialization on children’s emotion regulation and liability.
creator: Susanna C. P. Wong-IP
creator: Hong-Sheung Chui
creator: Caleb S. H. Lin
creator: Nathaniel Tong Bruce
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-15
publication date: 2026-06-15
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 328
ending page: 341
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4907

The Experience of Reproductive Suffering: An Anthropological and Sociological Approach to Social Pressure Regarding Infertility
type: item
description: The problem of infertility is not only medical, but also a social, moral, and political issue. This article aims to analyze the problem of infertility from an anthropological and sociological perspective, focusing on the experiences of women and men who have undergone assisted reproductive treatments in Spain and Latin America in urban and peripheral contexts. The methodology used includes a theoretical review with an ethnographic design, as well as in-depth interviews and life histories. The findings reveal that infertility influences people's identity, altering their family relationships, their experience with their bodies, their daily routines, and their perception of social acceptance. Furthermore, it is shown that the growth in reproductive technology has created, in addition to opportunities for conception, inequalities related to social class, gender, and access to treatment. The research also shows that infertility is a form of suffering produced by society, that it manifests unequally, and that biomedical institutions play a significant role in this regard, acting as both beacons of hope and emotional marketplaces. From a social science perspective, infertility allows for the analysis of contemporary social pressures regarding the body and gender, as well as reproductive neoliberalism and current changes in family and kinship.
creator: Cristina Lázaro-Pérez
creator: Piedad Miñarro-Casau
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-18
publication date: 2026-06-18
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 342
ending page: 350
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4910

A Case Study Exploring the Provision for Gifted Learners in China: A Qualitative Study of Primary School Teachers' Practices
type: item
description: This qualitative case study aims to explore how three Chinese primary school teachers understand, identify and provide for gifted students in ordinary classroom contexts. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with teachers from rural Shandong, an urban public school in Northeast China and an urban school context in Shanghai, the article examines gifted provision as a situated practice shaped by classroom routines, assessment pressure, family resources, school culture and teacher agency. The study uses thematic analysis to compare teachers' accounts of giftedness, identification, differentiation, institutional support and constraints. The findings show that teachers recognize high potential through everyday signs such as rapid comprehension, accurate responses, independence, advanced preparation, wide reading, curiosity, knowledge transfer and subject-specific engagement. However, public recognition of giftedness remains narrowed by examination performance, ranking and visible classroom achievement. Differentiated instruction is valued in principle but is usually enacted informally through questioning, peer sharing, occasional extension, role assignment, after-class suggestions and teacher encouragement rather than through systematic curriculum adaptation. Across the three cases, teachers' professional agency is bound by common pacing, large or mixed-ability classes, workload, safety responsibilities, parental expectations, monitoring, limited training and weak policy guidance. The article argues that the absence of school-based gifted provision is not neutral, because it shifts enrichment opportunities onto families and therefore reproduces uneven access. Building on a comparison with previous case-study work in Madrid, the article recommends a modest, inclusive and sustainable model of gifted support that frames challenge as educational fairness rather than elitism.
creator: Joseph Xhuxhi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-22
publication date: 2026-06-22
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 351
ending page: 366
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4912

Internet Use and Subjective Well-Being among Urban Elderly Women: A Quantitative Study from Chengdu, China
type: item
description: The accelerated digitalisation of everyday life in urban China has reshaped how older citizens sustain social ties, yet older women remain among the least connected groups, and the cultural consequences of their digital participation are poorly understood. Drawing on the competing social compensation and displacement hypotheses, this study examines whether and how internet use is associated with the subjective well-being of urban elderly women. Cross-sectional questionnaire data were collected from 412 women aged 60 years and above residing in urban districts of Chengdu, using a multistage sampling design. Internet use intensity, perceived online social support, loneliness, life satisfaction and psychological well-being were measured with established scales. Hierarchical regression showed that internet use intensity was positively associated with subjective well-being after adjusting for demographic and health covariates. Bootstrap mediation analysis indicated that this association operated through two relational mechanisms, namely greater perceived online social support and reduced loneliness. A small but statistically significant negative association between internet use and the frequency of face-to-face contact provided limited evidence of displacement, yet the compensatory pathways outweighed it, yielding a net positive relationship with well-being. The hypothesised buffering of the internet for the most socially isolated women was not supported. The findings position digital participation as a modest instrument of social inclusion for ageing women, while cautioning against treating online contact as a substitute for embodied community life. Implications for digital inclusion policy in ageing Chinese cities are discussed.
creator: Chen Yifei
creator: Mimi Hanida, Abdul Mutalib
rights: Copyright (c) 2026
date: 2026-06-24
publication date: 2026-06-24
volume: 11
number: 2
starting page: 367
ending page: 378
doi: 10.64753/jcasc.v11i2.4915