Social Problems
Articles tagged with Social Problems
Nature loss brings catastrophic risks – new report
A new report highlights the catastrophic risks of nature loss on food systems, economies and societies. Chronic pressures like soil degradation and water scarcity are already reducing crop yields and increasing food prices.
Landmark study improves adolescent mental health in India’s urban slums
A scalable digital mental health care model and anti-stigma campaigns reduced depression, self-harm, and suicide risks among Indian adolescents. The ARTEMIS project reached over 70,000 adolescents and showed significant improvements in knowledge, attitude, and behavior toward mental health.
Study reveals century-long cycles in U.S. suicide rates and a long-term crisis among youth
Researchers found striking, decades-long cycles in US suicide rates, influenced by broad social forces. Suicide risk has been rising steadily for over half a century among young people, affecting each new generation earlier in life.
Unveiling a ‘conspiracy of silence’ surrounding Johnny Kitagawa’s crimes of sexual abuse
A recent study examines the mechanisms behind Japan's prolonged silence on Johnny Kitagawa's crimes, characterizing it as a 'conspiracy of silence.' The research reveals that structural factors, including media networks and government policies, contributed to this silence. Key findings include the avoidance of negative coverage by tele...
Spousal loss linked to higher risk of dementia, mortality among men, but not women
A new study finds that widowed men experience poorer physical and mental health, while widowed women show resilience and improved well-being after losing their spouse. The study highlights the need for gender-specific strategies to support recovery after spousal loss.
New research-based approach updates welfare states to times of austerity
A new approach for welfare states updates policies to prioritize social investments and effectiveness, combining theoretical contributions and comparative studies. The approach aims to generate long-term benefits for individuals and society, with a focus on targeted solutions and systematic monitoring.
Why March Madness is a perfect storm for betting
A new study found that people are more likely to place bets during weeks with major sporting events when they believe their friends are doing the same. Researchers say early intervention is key to preventing harmful betting patterns, as it can be associated with depression, anxiety, and increased substance use. The study, led by Univer...
New research warns charities against ‘AI shortcut’ to empathy
A new report from the University of East Anglia warns that charities using AI-generated images risk breaking the fundamental bond of trust with the public. The study found that when AI images are used, the humanitarian cause disappears from the conversation, and the public engages with charity rather than the cause itself.
When safety starts with a text message
A study by the University of Texas at Arlington found that digital hotlines are providing anonymity, easy access, and a lower-pressure way for survivors to seek help. Advocates tailor their guidance to each person's situation, building a plan together while ensuring the survivor is in a safe space.
New book captures hidden toll of immigration enforcement on families
A new book chronicles the impact of immigration enforcement on young adult families, revealing a geography of deportability where no space feels safe. The research highlights the pivotal role of young adults in coping strategies, including emotional labor and navigating legal processes, amidst rising mental health concerns.
Pay gap among academics does not stop at university
A new study by Radboud University and the University of Groningen found that PhD graduates, particularly women, experience a persistent pay gap outside academia. Women earn an average of 171 euros less per month immediately after obtaining their doctorate, with this disparity increasing over time.
People from low-income communities smoke more, are more addicted and are less likely to quit
Research found that people experiencing economic disadvantages are more likely to smoke cigarettes, have higher levels of tobacco addiction, and find it harder to quit. Electronic cigarettes were the most common aid to help people quit, but those who rented or owned their houses had lower odds of quitting successfully.
Media coverage of Asian American Olympians functioned as 'loyalty test'
A new University of Michigan study found that Asian American Olympians Chloe Kim and Eileen Gu were subjected to
British redcoat’s lost memoir reveals harsh realities of life as a disabled veteran
Shadrack Byfield's autobiography offers insight into the suffering and resilience of Britain's homecoming soldiers. The new evidence shows Byfield's tenacious pursuit of veterans' benefits, struggles with pain, poverty, and police, and his determination to design a custom prosthesis after losing his arm.
Dental shame stops people seeking help for oral health issues, study warns
A new study warns that dental shame can lead to lower self-worth and unfavourable oral health care behaviours, exacerbating existing oral health inequalities. Researchers emphasize the need for non-judgmental environments where patients feel empowered to prioritize their oral health.
Instability in foster care doubles the risk of mental health problems, UK study shows
A UK study finds that frequent placement changes in foster care increase the risk of mental health problems by more than two-fold. The research highlights the need for early, accessible support and closer collaboration between local authorities and mental health services to address this issue.
Halting COVID-related SNAP benefits left families struggling to afford food, household expenses
A new study reveals that states ending emergency SNAP benefits during the pandemic led to increased difficulty affording food and household expenses, especially for households with children. This reduction in funding threatens the health and well-being of millions of families reliant on the program.
Preventing recidivism after imprisonment
A Norwegian researcher has identified key factors contributing to recidivism after imprisonment, including mental health, relationships, motivation, and support systems. The study found that 'soft' factors are equally important as 'hard' variables in predicting reoffending risk.
How stress and social struggles fuel America’s obesity crisis
A new scientific review reveals that stress, hardship, and social challenges reshape a person's gut bacteria and brain performance, making it harder to keep weight off. Social determinants of health play a key role in obesity risk, and addressing these conditions is crucial for long-term solutions.
Veterans experiencing homelessness who secure housing more likely to get cancer health screenings
A study of over 100,000 veterans found that those who secured housing were twice as likely to receive cancer screenings. This improvement in care underscores the importance of sustained investment in supportive housing and person-centered care models.
Study finds veterans experiencing homelessness who gain housing are more likely to get colorectal and breast cancer screenings
A study of US veterans finding that those gaining housing are more likely to undergo colorectal and breast cancer screenings. Housing is associated with increased screening rates due to improved access, reduced competing priorities, and decreased vulnerability.
New study links power outages, social vulnerability in Gulf Coast
Researchers identified counties with vulnerable populations susceptible to longer-term power outages in the five-state region. Findings showed that hurricanes/tropical storms and heat waves were associated with the longest power outages, clustering in coastal and riverside counties.
Global study of more than 100,000 young people latest to link early smartphone ownership with poorer mental health in young adults
A global study of over 100,000 young people found that owning a smartphone before age 13 is associated with poor mind health and wellbeing in early adulthood. The study found correlations between early smartphone ownership and symptoms such as suicidal thoughts, aggression, detachment from reality, and low self-worth.
Pusan National University researchers reveal middle-class families hit hardest by South Korea's cost-of-living crisis
A new study by Pusan National University researchers found that middle- and upper-income households in South Korea are disproportionately affected by inflation, challenging conventional views. The study suggests that policy responses need to evolve to address the unique needs of different household types.
Can social media predict teen health risks?
A study at UT Arlington will explore how social media interactions shape teen mental health and behavior, capturing daily surveys over six weeks. The research aims to identify short-term and long-term predictors of serious health problems.
Almost half of people in poverty feel lonely compared to only 15% of high earners, and it could be harming their health
A new study from Oxford University finds that people in poverty are more likely to feel lonely than those with higher incomes, despite similar socialization patterns. Strong social connections were shown to have the greatest symptom-reducing effects for those living in poverty.
Landmark report reveals key challenges facing adolescents
The landmark report highlights poor mental health, rising obesity rates, exposure to violence, and climate change as major challenges for adolescents. The report urges targeted actions, including early intervention and partnerships with young people, to improve their health and wellbeing.
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.
Sexism in the City traces history of forgotten pioneers
A new book by Lancaster University historian James Taylor highlights the lives of pioneering female stockbrokers who challenged societal beliefs about women and money. The study reveals how these women fought against exclusion and ultimately won the right to join the London Stock Exchange in 1973.
Children poisoned by the synthetic opioid, fentanyl, has risen in the U.S. – eight years of national data shows
Fentanyl poisoning among US children has surged by 924% and 1,506% for teens aged 13-19 over the past eight years. Parents are advised to be vigilant about hidden fentanyl risks and know the signs of overdose symptoms to save their children.
Violent crime is indeed a root cause of migration, according to new study
A new study from Texas A&M University's Mosbacher Institute found that reducing violent crime in El Salvador significantly decreased Central American emigration to the US. Homicide rates dropped by 87% after President Nayib Bukele implemented a crackdown, resulting in a 45-67% reduction in border apprehensions.
At your service: How older adults embrace demand-responsive transportation
A study found that social influence and trust play key roles in older adults' adoption of demand-responsive transportation. The research, conducted in Senboku New Town, Osaka, revealed significant relationships between behavioral intention and performance expectancy among older people.
Poll: Most U.S. workers with chronic conditions manage them at work, haven’t told employer
A national poll found that three-fourths of employees with chronic conditions need to manage their health during work hours, but a majority have not told their employer. The poll highlights challenges such as missed opportunities and stigma, as well as difficulties in caring for family members with chronic conditions.
Cold-related deaths in the US
A study published in JAMA found that cold-related deaths increased by over 100% in the US between 1999 and 2022, with factors such as homelessness, social isolation, and substance use playing a role. The authors suggest that further research is needed to understand the underlying drivers of this trend.
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.
Switching planes for trains to decarbonise the great British getaway
A new study suggests that a significant proportion of UK holiday flights could be replaced with rail travel, resulting in substantial reductions in carbon emissions. The researchers found that most British people do not travel far for their holidays, making rail a viable alternative for short-haul flights.
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.
Gift to UCR clinic aims to assist local unhoused population
The Hulen Place Clinic, serving 3,725 homeless individuals in Riverside County, has received a $500,000 funding boost from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. The clinic provides primary care, mental health services, and preventive care to low-income residents.
Food insecurity is significant among inhabitants of the region affected by the Belo Monte dam in Brazil
A study of 500 households in Altamira found that 61% experienced food insecurity and malnutrition. The poorest group, with low educational attainment and unemployment, was most affected.
How much trust do people have in 45 different types of scientists?
A study of 2,780 participants found that people generally trust scientists, but levels vary depending on the field. Trust is driven by perceptions of competence and morality, with controversy sparking greater importance of morality.
Can the bias in algorithms help us see our own?
A new study by Carey Morewedge and colleagues found that people are more likely to recognize bias in algorithmic decisions than their own. This is because algorithms can codify and amplify human bias, but also reveal structural biases in society. The research suggests ways to increase awareness of biases and correct them.
Study shows background checks don’t always check out
A new study by University of Maryland researchers found that background checks can produce inaccurate results due to flawed data and algorithmic errors. The study showed that over half of participants had false-positive errors and nearly 90% had false-negative errors on both regulated and unregulated background checks.
Study IDs ways to better help children experiencing homelessness
Researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 47 parents experiencing homelessness to understand accessibility challenges of social-emotional health services for their children. Key findings include the importance of acknowledging parental strengths and positive interactions with support people in promoting child development.
Disadvantaged children’s struggles at school have “little to do” with character, attitude or a lack of ‘growth mindset’
A global study of 240,000 students challenges the widespread policy conviction that bridging the academic gap hinges on improving socio-emotional skills. Despite high levels of socio-emotional skills among disadvantaged children, their relative underperformance at school remains largely unchanged.
Stalled progress toward eliminating child marriage in India
Child marriage declined nationally in India, but one in five girls and nearly one in six boys remain married as children. The practice has become more prevalent in some states/union territories, with a significant increase observed between 2016 and 2021.
Tulane researchers pioneer new strategy to help low-income patients control blood pressure
A new strategy that trains healthcare providers to deliver team-based care has been found to significantly lower blood pressure in low-income patients compared to usual care methods. Patients treated by the multi-faceted approach saw a mean systolic blood pressure drop of 16 mmHg, while those in the usual care group saw a 9 mmHg drop.
Millennials aren’t all worse off than Baby Boomers, but the rich-poor gap is widening
A study of over 12,000 people in the US compares Baby Boomer and Millennial financial outcomes. Millennials with typical middle-class life trajectories accumulated substantially more wealth than their Baby Boomer counterparts, while those with low-skilled service jobs or living with parents struggled financially.
People with advanced breast cancer are forced out of work with a cost to themselves and the economy
A study finds that people with advanced breast cancer are more likely to stop working, leading to significant economic losses. The research estimates a loss of €28,676,754 in productivity over three years in Portugal.
Smartphone data shows which neighborhoods police spend most time patrolling
Using anonymized smartphone data, researchers found that police spend more time patrolling non-white neighborhoods, with disparities linked to socioeconomic and crime-driven demand for policing. The study reveals a strong correlation between racial composition of a neighborhood and police presence.
How racism shapes Black motherhood in the U.S.
A new study from North Carolina State University explores how racism shapes Black motherhood in the US, revealing distinct challenges and stresses faced by Black mothers. The study categorizes these effects into three areas: protective mothering, resistance mothering, and encumbered mothering.
Focus on state as ‘problem parent’ rather than care-experienced mothers – new research
Mothers with a criminal record and care experience face negative judgements and excessive scrutiny due to their 'known' status. The study emphasizes the need for supportive dialogue across disciplinary boundaries to break cycles of stigma and social care involvement, focusing on safe spaces and trust-building for care-experienced mothers.
U.S. consumers judge morality of armed self-protection on case-by-case basis, OSU research shows
Research from Oregon State University shows that Americans judge the morality of armed self-protection on a case-by-case basis, considering factors like perceived threat and background of the person carrying the gun. The study highlights the complexity of consumer views on gun rights and Second Amendment rights.
Substantial racial inequalities despite frequent health care contact found in treatment for opioid use disorder
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found significant racial inequalities in treatment for opioid use disorder, with White patients receiving medication up to 80% more frequently than Black and Hispanic patients. Despite similar numbers of healthcare visits, disparities persist.
Persuading conservatives in pro-environmentalism not as easy as we thought
A recent study found that conservatives are not easily persuaded by traditional pro-environmental messages, even when framed in terms of their own moral values. Instead, messages emphasizing loyalty, authority, or purity were equally effective in promoting pro-environmental behavior among conservatives.
Harsh discipline increases risk of children developing lasting mental health problems
A study of 7,500 Irish children found that harsh discipline increases the risk of developing lasting mental health problems. Children exposed to 'hostile' parenting at age three were 1.5 times likelier to have high-risk mental health symptoms by age nine.
Deepfakes: has the camera always lied?
Research highlights centuries-old manipulation of photos and videos, raising questions about the social problems behind deepfakes, including the objectification of women and dehumanization of marginalized groups. Dr. Joshua Habgood-Coote argues for media reform and institutional change to combat these issues.
Want to be influential and drive change? Be a woman (on a farm in Indonesia)
A new study finds that women and young people are more influential than older men in influencing others to implement sustainable practices. Women's recommendations often led to real action, despite being less likely to be identified as opinion leaders.
Communities that suffered rapid manufacturing job losses fare worse on sustainability
A study found that communities experiencing sudden and significant job losses in manufacturing are less likely to engage in sustainability planning and meet sustainability-related goals. This is attributed to deep-rooted connections between industry and community identity, making it difficult for these communities to transition.
Real time reporting of racial discrimination is associated with salivary cortisol changes in Black adults, on both the same day and the next day, illuminating the stress response to microaggressions over time
A recent study found that reporting racial discrimination leads to increased salivary cortisol levels in Black adults on the same day and next day. This highlights the long-term impact of microaggressions on stress response, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions.