Social Groups
Articles tagged with Social Groups
Rich more likely to use AI study finds, as experts warn these burgeoning technologies are increasing social inequality
A recent study reveals that individuals with higher education or income are more aware of and use AI tools, exacerbating social inequalities. The researchers recommend increasing engagement with AI-related topics through outreach campaigns, educational programs, and community workshops to reduce this new digital divide.
A physics explanation of why US elections keep ending 50:50 – and why more spending won't change that
A physics-inspired model suggests that spending above $1.8 million in US House races leads to increased polarization without changing the election outcome. Below this threshold, social dynamics shape outcomes, while higher spending only deepens polarization.
Could your housemates be changing your gut bacteria?
A new study from the University of East Anglia found that living with friends may alter your gut bacteria, with social closeness driving the exchange of anaerobic microbes. The research suggests that daily interactions at home, such as hugging and sharing food prep spaces, may encourage the transfer of beneficial gut bacteria.
Social support, sleep, and pain management linked to mental health in later life
A national Canadian study found that older adults who are socially connected, physically healthy, and spiritually engaged are significantly more likely to experience complete mental health. Social support emerged as one of the strongest predictors, doubling the odds of achieving complete mental health.
Counting the silence: How years of data crunching led to female artists making up majority of Brit Award nominees
A decade-long analysis reveals a significant gap in solo female Irish artists reaching number one on charts, but data-driven intervention has led to a shift in Brit Awards nominations. The study highlights the impact of commercial mechanisms like airplay on public recognition and industry trends.
New book explores small talk, big silence in Evangelical communities
A new book by sociologist Amy McDowell examines how small talk can be used to block meaningful conversation in evangelical churches, leaving members feeling isolated and alienated. The study reveals that enforced 'biblical sameness' stifles diverse discourse and convinces minorities to conform to a restrictive majority view.
Rethinking Europe’s nature reserves
Researchers propose incorporating local knowledge into nature conservation through a biocultural approach. This involves collaborating with local people, considering traditional land-use practices and their impact on protected areas.
People in need of disability benefits are facing new barriers – and government cuts and overhauls are to blame
The federal disability benefits system has become more difficult to navigate due to staffing reductions and administrative changes. Researchers found that 16 million people, including those in severe medical crises or on the edge of homelessness, are facing increased barriers to accessing desperately needed cash assistance. The report ...
New study identifies key factors supporting indigenous well-being
A large representative study found that 3 in 10 Indigenous adults meet criteria for healthy functioning, highlighting the importance of addressing structural barriers and promoting culturally meaningful pathways to wellness. Financial security, physical activity, and reduced chronic illness were key predictors of healthy functioning.
As a whole, LGB+ workers in the NHS do not experience pay gaps compared to their heterosexual colleagues
A study published in PLOS found that LGB+ workers in the NHS do not experience pay gaps compared to their heterosexual colleagues. However, those who have disclosed their sexual identity tend to receive higher pay, while those who have not disclosed are at risk of a pay penalty.
Black Americans face increasingly higher risk of gun homicide death than White Americans
A new analysis across 45 years suggests that the disparity in firearm homicide deaths between Black and White Americans has grown, with many thousands of Black lives lost. The study found that Black males faced an eight to nine times higher likelihood of firearm homicide death than White males from 1988 to 2010.
Stronger together: How social connections and physical activity team up to boost older adults’ health
A comprehensive literature review by Texas A&M University researchers finds strong social networks and physical activity are deeply intertwined, reducing feelings of loneliness and improving well-being. The study suggests treating these factors as linked, with a focus on designing interventions that use connections to encourage movement.
Social environment impacts sleep quality
Researchers found that mice higher in their social hierarchy benefited from isolation, while those lower did not. The team also discovered that being alone can disrupt the brain's ability to stabilize its internal rhythms during sleep, which may be relevant to human mental health.
Learning about public consensus on climate change does little to boost people’s support for action, study shows
A new study based on data from Germany found that learning about widespread public support for climate action policies initially makes people think such policies are more politically feasible, but these effects are small and short-lived. The study challenges common expectations about the power of public consensus to drive climate action.
LGBTQ+ adults may be around twice as likely to be unemployed or to report workforce non-participation compared to heterosexual adults, per large representative Australian survey
A large Australian survey reveals that LGBTQ+ adults are twice as likely to be unemployed or report workforce non-participation. The study highlights the need for targeted support and policies to address these disparities.
8 in 10 Irish people identifying as LGBTQI+ report having experienced at least one form of identity abuse, and more than half have experienced multiple forms of abuse within their lifetime
A study published in PLOS One reveals that 8 in 10 Irish people identifying as LGBTQI+ have experienced at least one form of identity abuse. Over half have faced multiple forms of abuse within their lifetime. The Being LGBTQI+ in Ireland study highlights the need for improved support and protection for these vulnerable communities.
The UJI advances knowledge on social segregation and the construction of the nation-state in Latin America and the Hispanic Caribbean
A new database on Brazil's domestic slave trade is part of a larger study on social segregation and the nation-state in Latin America. The research has shed light on racial hierarchies, labour conditions, and the consolidation of citizenship.
Majority of 117 surveyed Georgia women would support abortion at 14 weeks, beyond current legal limit
A new study published in PLOS One found that 76% of surveyed Georgia women supported abortion access at six weeks and 60% at 14 weeks. The study suggests that most women in the sample generally support abortion access, with more consensus emerging around 24 weeks gestation.
Study finds Kansas City fare-free bus policy attracted new riders, increased overall use
A study by the University of Kansas found that Kansas City's zero-fare bus policy attracted 17% of respondents who started using bus service, particularly among younger people and white residents. The policy also increased overall bus use, with new users without vehicle access making more trips per week than those with access.
Double disadvantage hurts more than twice as much
A new study from the Complexity Science Hub finds that belonging to more than one marginalized group can significantly harder forming social connections. The researchers developed a mathematical model and tested it using friendship data from around 40,000 U.S. high school students, revealing how overlapping disadvantages can interact.
1 in 3 university students surveyed from a Parisian suburb report being unable to access desired food, with this food insecurity associated with academic dropout
A cross-sectional study in a socioeconomically disadvantaged Parisian suburb area found that 1 in 3 university students reported being unable to access desired food. This food insecurity was significantly associated with academic dropout, highlighting the need for targeted support.
Data Protection is transforming humanitarian action in the digital age, new book shows
The book highlights the risk of 'scope creep' and emphasizes the need for strong data protection frameworks to preserve trust. It argues that collaboration between humanitarian actors, academics, regulators, and affected populations is crucial to ensure technology serves humanity.
‘Slums’ of Victorian Manchester housed wealthy doctors and engineers, new study reveals
A new study reveals that middle-class Mancunians, including doctors and engineers, lived alongside working-class residents in the same buildings and streets. The research found that over 60% of buildings housing wealthy occupational classes also housed unskilled laborers.
Most users cannot identify AI bias, even in training data
A recent study found that most users cannot identify AI bias in training data, unless it affects their own group. Researchers created 12 versions of a prototype AI system to detect facial expressions and tested how users might detect bias in different scenarios.
Project unearths voices from one of the world’s first HIV/AIDS service organizations
A team of researchers and students interviewed 120 former GMHC volunteers, gaining insight into the organization's work at the height of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. The project broke rules of traditional oral history by conducting group interviews, which worked surprisingly well due to the intergenerational connection.
Housing associations more effective than government in supporting unemployed in deprived areas
A new study by University of East Anglia finds that housing associations are more effective than government work programmes at helping the long-term unemployed in deprived areas. The research suggests a person-centred approach with strength-based and long-term support is key to success.
Global refugee sponsorship scheme could improve perceptions of refugees in the UK – research
A new research project found that a global sponsorship programme would improve perceptions of refugees in the UK, providing equal rights and entitlements. The existing three main schemes, Community Sponsorship, Homes for Ukraine, and Communities for Afghans, have shown success despite disparities in scale and approach.
Shared genetic mechanisms underpin social life in bees and humans
A recent study found that genetic variants associated with social behavior in honey bees are also linked to social behavior in humans. Researchers used genome sequencing, brain gene expression analysis, and behavioral observations to investigate the genetic mechanisms underpinning variation in social behavior in western honey bees.
New screener offers empirical insights to improve veteran transitions
A new online assessment tool, developed by Penn State, assists veteran-serving organizations in identifying individualized risks and providing targeted support. The tool, called the Veteran Transition Screener (VTS), uses predictive models to match a veteran's demographic profile with risk factors linked to poor transition outcomes.
Stalking, obtaining restraining order linked with increased cardiovascular disease risk in women
Women who experienced stalking and/or obtaining a restraining order had a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, according to a new study. The study found a 41% increase in CVD risk among women who experienced stalking and a 70% increase among those with restraining order history.
Gender disparities in Italian medical academia have persisted or worsened since 2014, with a continued "leaky pipeline" of women not progressing to senior roles
A study examining Italian medical academia over the last decade reveals a persistent 'leaky pipeline' of women not advancing to senior roles. The research highlights significant gender disparities in academia, affecting women's career prospects and opportunities.
The psychological and neurological parallels between sports fandom and religious devotion
A comprehensive analysis shows that sports fandom stems from evolutionarily ingrained tendencies which enhance social unity and therefore survival. The study highlights the role of cognitive biases, emotional connections, and heuristics in sustaining fans' beliefs.
Individual merit, not solidarity, prioritized by early childhood education policies
A study published in PLOS One finds that early childhood education policies worldwide favor competition, individualism, and talent over cooperation, solidarity, and luck. Only four countries acknowledge uncontrollable factors like health and climate disasters as contributors to success.
Turning social fragmentation into action through discovering relatedness
A new approach to intersectional learning prioritizes individual diversity and promotes collective emergence. By understanding the degree of relatedness between individuals and issues, stakeholders can be involved in a wider range of themes, leading to increased community engagement and learner transformations.
Seeing men as the “default” may be tied to attitudes to politicians, Black people
A study analyzing data from over 5,000 students found that participants' attitudes toward politicians and Black people were more strongly related to their attitudes toward the men than the women of each group. The research suggests that 'man' is often seen as the default for attitudes towards these groups, but this varies by region and...
Bilbao's urban elements determine the physical activity of its inhabitants
A University of the Basque Country study found that Bilbao's urban elements significantly impact physical activity levels. Citizens prioritized green areas, multi-purpose facilities, and accessibility, highlighting the importance of proper management and maintenance. The research also emphasized the need for pedestrian-friendly infrast...
Yes, social media might be making kids depressed
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that as preteens used more social media, their depressive symptoms increased by 35%. The research team tracked changes over time in each child to accurately assess the link between social media and depression. Experts suggest using digital habits tools to create healthier online behavior...
Survey: Does someone with alcohol use disorder deserve a new liver?
A comprehensive study found that the public generally supports individuals with black lung disease and genetic kidney disease over those with COVID-19 and alcohol use disorder. However, a lingering stigma surrounding alcohol use disorder led to it being considered least deserving of a transplant.
African genetic ancestry, structural and social determinants of health, and mortality in Black adults
This study examines associations between structural and social determinants of health with mortality in Black adults, finding that African genetic ancestry persists as a factor despite adjustment. The findings support the hypothesis that addressing these factors is crucial for eliminating health disparities.
How could artificial intelligence be used globally to increase fairness in the distribution of public social services?
The AI FORA project analyzed how AI-based social assessment varies across nine countries and four continents, highlighting the need for flexible, dynamic, and adaptive systems that reflect social stakeholders' perspectives. The research aims to improve AI in addressing fairness and discrimination issues in public social services.
Lebanon multidimensional crisis diminishing trust in public education and worsening inequality, study shows
A study by the University of Exeter finds that Lebanon's dual education system exacerbates social inequalities, with parents favoring private schools over public ones. The economic crisis has led to reduced government funding, causing school days to be shortened and curricula to be rushed.
Despite high employment rates, Black immigrants in the United States more likely to be uninsured, USC study shows
A recent USC study found that Black immigrants in the United States have a 9% higher likelihood of being uninsured compared to U.S.-born white adults, despite having a 70.2% employment rate. The disparity is attributed to wage penalties and systemic barriers related to race and immigration status.
Narcissists more likely to feel ostracized
Individuals with grandiose narcissism are more sensitive to exclusion cues, leading them to perceive ostracism frequently. This can contribute to escalating tensions in workplaces or social groups.
How job ads shape gender and racial segregation in the UK workforce – new study
A new study by Lancaster University reveals that language in job ads can unintentionally reinforce or disrupt labour force gender/racial composition. Workforces with more women tend to use family-friendly policies in ads, while racial minority workers' ads lack impact, the research shows.
Wildlife monitoring technologies used to intimidate and spy on women, study finds
Researchers found that remote monitoring devices were being misused by local governments and men to intimidate and humiliate women in northern India. The study highlights the need for conservationists to consider the social implications of using surveillance technologies and explore less invasive methods.
Racial disparities in receipt of guideline-concordant care in older adults with early breast cancer
Non-Hispanic Black patients are more likely to receive inadequate care and experience poor survival outcomes due to delays in treatment initiation. Guideline-concordant care is crucial in improving survival rates among these patients.
How social structure influences the way people share money
A new study shows that belonging to age-based groups affects finances and health, with kin-based societies experiencing significant improvements in child nutrition. Researchers analyzed cash transfer programs in East Africa, finding that pension payments to seniors reduced malnourishment by 5.5% in kin-based households.
Race, social determinants of health, and the quality of diabetic eye care
This study found that certain social determinants of health affect monitoring for diabetic retinopathy differently for Black and white patients with diabetes. Patients living in rural communities, including Black patients with preexisting diabetic retinopathy, are not receiving eye care in accordance with clinical practice guidelines.
Colorful traits in primates ease tensions between groups
A new study reveals that primate ornamentation plays a crucial role in communication between groups, reducing intergroup aggression. The research found that species with overlapping home ranges display more vibrant colors, which enable quick assessments of potential rivals.
Women at risk of ‘digital overload’ – new research reveals
A new study by Lancaster University highlights that women are more likely than men to experience 'digital overload' and burnout due to their greater use of digital technologies in both work and family lives. The research emphasizes the need for gender-egalitarian work-from-home arrangements and policies to address this issue.
Researchers discover how nerve cells in bat brains respond to their environment and social interactions with other bats
Nerve cells in the hippocampus region of the bat brain encode information on multiple characteristics of other individuals, including sex and dominance hierarchy. This study sheds light on how the brain operates and generates thinking processes and behavior.
First case of Down syndrome in Neandertals documented in new study
A new study published in Science Advances documents the first case of Down syndrome in Neandertals, named 'Tina', and reveals that they provided extensive care for a young child with severe hearing loss. The discovery sheds light on the existence of true altruism among Neandertals.
For Republican men, environmental support hinges on partisan identity
A recent study found that Republican men's environmental support varies greatly depending on the party affiliation of the proposal's sponsors. While Democratic support for environmental legislation remains consistent across parties, Republican men's support drops significantly when a bill is sponsored by Senate Democrats.
Swiss study of Portuguese immigrants looks into the impact of citizenship on identity
A Swiss research team surveyed 400 Portuguese immigrants to understand how their desire for citizenship influences their attachment to home and host cultures. The findings suggest that acquiring citizenship can lead to a decrease in attachment to the immigrant's original group, while increasing identification with the host culture.
I’ll have what she’s having!
A new study from Flinders University found that feeling connected to a social group can lead people to make healthier food choices. The research tested the idea that people are more likely to adopt healthy eating habits if they feel like they belong to the same group as those promoting healthy eating.
Cardiovascular burden of the V142I transthyretin variant
The V142I transthyretin variant is associated with substantial risk for heart failure hospitalization and death in Black individuals, particularly those with reduced ejection fraction. Further investigation into the complex interplay between the variant, ancestry, social determinants of health, and biological factors is warranted.
Bonobos aren’t as peace-loving as we thought
A new Harvard study reveals that male bonobos engage in more acts of aggression than chimpanzees, contrary to their peaceful reputation. The researchers found that bonobos exhibit less sexual coercion and violence towards females, but more frequent 'squabbling' among males.
Tourism planning as a social practice in times of change and uncertainty: views from a troubled Latin American country
This study examines tourism planning practices in Ecuador using social practice theory, revealing traditional and emerging approaches. The findings highlight the importance of considering the knowledge, experience, and context of consultants in shaping tourism planning processes.
Vervet monkeys follow different social “norms” and respond to “peer pressure,” new long-term study shows
A new long-term study has found that vervet monkeys in neighboring groups have distinct social traditions, with some exhibiting more affiliative behaviors than others. The researchers observed that males adapted their social style to match their new group, suggesting a phenomenon akin to social conformity driven by peer pressure.