Research using surveys to study people and society. Covers consumer studies, dietary change, social-media and mood links, and public opinion.
In Canada, contraband cigarettes are a significant concern among adolescent daily smokers, accounting for 17% of total consumption. The study found that cigarettes from First Nations reserves were particularly popular among adolescents, leading to higher smoking levels compared to other brands.
A new study finds that chronic job insecurity has a stronger negative impact on worker health than smoking or hypertension. Persistent job insecurity weakens bonds between employers and employees, fueling perceptions of insecurity.
A new study by University of Illinois finance professors reveals that unexpected inheritances significantly increase the likelihood of early retirement. Nearly a quarter of workers who received a surprise inheritance retired early compared to 18% of total workers surveyed.
A new study reveals that mental disorders beyond depression, such as anxiety and impulse-control issues, are strong predictors of suicidal thoughts and attempts, especially in developing countries. The researchers found that these disorders were equally predictive of suicidal behavior in both developed and developing countries.
Research shows that temporary workers are susceptible to declining mental health due to unstable employment. Contingent workers report more symptoms of depression and psychological distress than similarly employed workers in stable positions.
A new study by Michael Hout and Claude S. Fischer of the University of California, Berkeley, suggests that the growth in number of Americans citing no religion may be slower than previously reported. The researchers found that the trend continued through 2008, with a possible stagnant growth period in late 90s and early 2000s.
A University of Michigan researcher suggests that parents who acquire higher education can significantly boost their children's academic achievement. The study found a strong correlation between parental education and language ability in children, with the impact remaining significant even after controlling for other factors.
A widely publicized analysis found a near tripling in reports of Americans' social isolation between 1985 and 2004. However, sociologist Claude S. Fischer questions the findings, citing anomalies in the data and contrary results from other studies. Researchers defending their work argue that Fischer's proposed artifact is not credible ...
A majority of healthcare leaders support a public health care option and innovative provider payment reform to control costs and ensure access to quality care. They also favor a national insurance exchange with standard-setting authority to standardize benefits and set rating rules.
A survey of 1,835 public health workers found that 16% would not report to work regardless of the severity of an outbreak. Belief in the importance of one's work was strongly associated with willingness to respond, with those who believed their role could have a positive impact being 31 times more likely to respond.
A Michigan State University study suggests that social norms significantly impact Chinese citizens' decisions to participate in conservation programs like Grain to Green. The research found that when neighbors enroll in the program, it encourages others to do so as well.
Researchers found that Antarctic species are already near their upper temperature limit, making them vulnerable to ecological imbalances. Smaller individuals can tolerate higher temperatures, while active predators fare better than sessile species, potentially disrupting the food chain and leading to greater ecosystem damage.
A new study found that US seniors performed significantly better than their English counterparts on standard tests of memory and cognitive function. The advantage was greatest among the oldest old, with 75-year-olds in the US exhibiting cognitive abilities comparable to those of 65-year-olds in England.
A new study by University of Arizona professor Alexandra Kalev shows that employee involvement programs can increase both quality and diversity at the same time. Self-directed work teams and cross-training programs are found to give women and minorities more opportunities for career advancement.
A nationwide survey found that nearly nine out of ten adult Americans obtain weather forecasts daily, placing a value of 10.5 cents on each forecast, resulting in an annual value of $31.5 billion.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that less frequent participation in social activity is associated with a more rapid rate of motor function decline in older adults. The research, which analyzed data from 906 participants, suggests that this association may be related to the risk of disability and mortality.
A new study by Leveson Consulting estimates NOAA's National Spatial Reference System (NSRS) provides over $2.4 billion in annual economic benefits. Refining the system could net an additional $522 million in annual economic benefits, mainly due to improved accuracy of position and elevation data.
Researchers conducted three studies across different countries, age groups, and approaches, finding a strong correlation between playing prosocial games and increased helpful behavior. The studies suggest an upward spiral of prosocial gaming leading to improved prosocial behavior.
The study analyzed 184 research studies and found that the Implicit Association Test has significant predictive validity in social behavior, especially in areas like interracial behavior. The test's greater validity than self-reports suggests its value in understanding the roots of discrimination.
A pioneering study found that over half of certified nursing assistants (CNAs) incurred work-related injuries, while nearly half received means-tested public assistance. The survey also revealed a significant disparity in wages, with experienced CNAs earning only $2 more per hour than new hires.
A recent survey of healthcare workers in the UK reveals that up to 85% may stay off work if an influenza pandemic occurs. Factors such as family and caring responsibilities, as well as concerns about training and work environment, significantly impact their willingness to work during a pandemic.
A study by the Commonwealth Fund found that elderly Medicare beneficiaries have higher ratings for consumer satisfaction, access to care, and quality of care compared to those with ESI. Many adults under age 65 would likely choose a public health insurance option if it were offered as part of health reform.
A new study reveals that adult children and parents generally experience tension and irritation, with parents generally reporting more intense tensions than children. The study found that parental perceptions of tension increase with the adult child's age, particularly about personality differences.
The survey found that nearly half of Americans are concerned about contracting the H1N1 virus, with over half taking precautions such as washing hands or wearing face masks. Beliefs about transmission, prevention, and treatment vary, with some Americans unsure about the effectiveness of medicine or vaccines.
A recent survey conducted by a University of Missouri professor reveals that the U.S. public supports several voting reforms, including early voting and photo identification requirements. Americans expressed strong approval for these measures, with less support for vote by mail and election day registration.
A national survey of 1,178 American youths aged 8-18 found nearly one in 10 to be pathological players, causing harm to their functioning. Pathological gamers exhibited symptoms such as excessive playing, poor grades, and health issues.
The study found that people with ecologically-friendly attitudes are more likely to actively commute, while a lack of bike racks, showers, and supportive office culture hinder active commuting. The researchers emphasized the importance of designing communities that facilitate physical activity and eco-friendliness.
A study found no correlation between hospital safety scores and in-hospital mortality rates, suggesting that self-reported safety practices may not be an effective measure of quality care. The researchers concluded that further research is needed to establish valid methods for assessing adherence to safe practices.
A survey of wholesale and retail nursery owners reveals that while customer interest in native plants is increasing, market demand and public education play a key role in its growth. Nursery professionals suggest providing better information sources and marketing campaigns to promote native plants.
David Wald's work has advanced seismic data analysis, enabling efficient dissemination of earthquake information to first responders and the public. His programs, such as ShakeMap and 'Did You Feel It?', have become invaluable tools in humanitarian disasters.
A national survey conducted by Duke University found that half of Americans believe another country will emerge as the world's leading technological power. The majority of respondents also prioritize developing better medicines, clean water, and environmentally friendly energy sources over other engineering challenges.
A new study reveals that socially desirable responding, where people present a more favorable image of themselves, affects the accuracy of surveys globally. Cognitive busyness and cultural orientation play a significant role in this phenomenon.
A recent survey found that six in ten Americans have taken precautions to reduce their risk of getting sick from contaminated peanut products. Many are mistakenly believing major national brands of peanut butter are involved, while others are unaware of the range of products affected.
Mass transportation ranks 10th with a positive score of +40.8, up from 2002. Education remains top priority, followed by health care. Support for infrastructure spending increases following the Minneapolis bridge collapse in 2007. The General Social Survey found growing public support for mass transit and infrastructure spending.
A study by Durham University and the University of Reading found that loneliness has doubled from 16% to 30% among Chinese people aged 60+, with urbanization and nuclear family structures contributing to the issue. To tackle this problem, the authors suggest involving local communities in social activities and providing financial support.
Researchers at Iowa State University used NCSS data to create a detailed Quaternary geologic map of the Des Moines Lobe, achieving strong agreement with existing maps. The map showcases finer detail and user-controllable scale, making it suitable for various disciplines.
Despite positive attitudes towards STEM fields, many US teens lack mentorship and role models, which can discourage them from pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The Lemelson-MIT Invention Index survey found that nearly two-thirds of teens indicated a lack of knowledge about professionals in STEM fields.
A recent FAS survey found that scientists are hesitant to collaborate with law enforcement agencies due to concerns over misinformation and mistrust. The survey suggests that clearer communication and understanding between the scientific community and law enforcement are essential for improving their working relationship.
Researchers found that most respondents reported improved mood after a good cry, but some felt worse or no improvement. Criers who received social support experienced the most significant improvements in mood. The study highlights the complexities of crying behavior and its physical and emotional effects.
A new analysis finds that state policies meant to limit minors' indoor tanning use have had little impact, with the practice increasing in states without such policies. The study reveals five factors associated with indoor tanning use: age, gender, social attitude, parental involvement, and permission.
A new study reveals that nanotechnology is perceived as less morally acceptable in the United States and certain European countries with stronger religious traditions. The survey found that levels of religiosity are a strong predictor of views on nanotechnology, highlighting a paradox in a country known for its technological advancements.
The SIM-sponsored survey found that businesses are using IT to reduce costs and increase productivity, with CIOs spending most of their time on non-technical issues. Organizations with higher IT business alignment maturity scores tend to have better overall company performance.
A University of Michigan study found that older people who spent at least 14 hours a week caring for a disabled spouse lived longer than others. Providing care can have beneficial health effects and may reduce stress related to witnessing a loved one suffer.
A new study finds that racial prejudice in Britain has been declining since the 1980s, with younger generations showing greater tolerance towards ethnic minorities. The study also reveals significant generational changes in attitudes, with women and more educated individuals expressing less prejudice.
A Kansas State University study found that educating nursing home staff about residents' sexual needs can lead to a significant shift in attitudes, allowing for more privacy and intimacy. The researchers also highlighted concerns around HIV transmission, family dynamics, and the impact of Alzheimer's on consent.
A study found that non-white medical students are less likely to adopt complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, while white students view these therapies more positively. The survey of medical students measured attitudes towards CAM during four years of medical training.
A new study by University of Maryland sociologists finds that unhappy people watch significantly more TV than very happy individuals, who prefer reading and socializing. The study analyzed 30 years of national data and found that TV viewing can provide short-term pleasure but has less positive effects in the long run.
A national survey by North Carolina State University and Arizona State University found significant public support for nanotechnology applications improving human health. However, there was little support for non-health research endeavors, highlighting the need for differentiated views on public policies and research funding.
A nationwide study on the interactions of genes, environment and lifestyle has received widespread public support, with 84% of respondents in favor and 60% willing to participate. The study's findings suggest that factors such as individual research results and compensation play a significant role in increasing willingness to participate.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health are leading a $24 million national survey on older Americans' disability patterns. The study aims to understand how people's ability to function independently changes over time, influenced by social environment and medical care.
A study by University of Illinois economist Darren Lubotsky found that immigrants' earnings growth is slower than expected, with only a 10-15% annual increase over their first 20 years in the US. This challenges widely used census-based projections and highlights the need for more accurate data on immigrant earnings.
The UK's Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC) has launched the world's largest household longitudinal study, Understanding Society. The ambitious project will collect data from 100,000 individuals across 40,000 households to explore the long-term effects of social and economic change on the well-being of the UK population.
A new UC Berkeley study reveals that terror warnings could reduce support for Sen. John McCain among moderate voters. The research suggests the war on terror is a growing concern, but economic issues are a priority.
A survey of US consumers reveals that many have limited knowledge and consumption habits around Asian vegetables. Most participants had not tried over 9 different Asian veggies, but expressed interest in learning more about them.
A new study by Rice University sociologists defines the evangelical movement and its effects on polling, revealing varying percentages based on operationalization strategies. The research found that depending on how one defines an evangelical, the percentage of Republicans among them varies significantly.
A study by University of Michigan psychologist Ethan Kross found that processing emotions from a distanced perspective can facilitate coping and reduce negative moods. By taking a step back and reviewing the situation from afar, individuals can rationalize their feelings and work through negative experiences over time.
A recent national survey by the Society for Information Management found that IT executives identify lack of alignment between information technology and business as their top concern, leading to lower revenue. To achieve better alignment, experts recommend effective communication, governance, understanding of IT value, collaboration w...
A new study found that campus racial and ethnic diversity is a key predictor of interracial friendships. The study controlled for prior experiences and attitudes, showing that exposure to greater diversity leads to more cross-group friendships across all students.
Research suggests that college freshmen can make their roommate relationships better by adopting an 'eco-system' approach, focusing on genuine caring and compassion. By doing so, they can reduce loneliness and build close relationships with their roommates.
A survey of trauma professionals and the general public reveals differing opinions on end-of-life care following severe injuries. While both groups prefer palliative care, there are disparities in views on patients' rights to demand care and the role of divine intervention.