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Research finds efforts to end child marriage in Malawi leave out local knowledge, culture

Research in Malawi finds that attempts to combat child marriage often neglect local perspectives and cultural norms, leading to challenges in implementing effective solutions. The study proposes an African feminist lens to address the issue, considering relationality, community, and cultural embeddedness to understand the problem.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Human Rights and Social Work·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 13, 2026

Youth in foster care with disabilities may need tailored services that support the transition into adulthood

A recent study by Melissa Villodas and Gilbert Gimm found that youth in foster care with disabilities received special education and mentoring services at higher rates than others. In contrast, those without disabilities used room and board financial assistance more frequently. The researchers' interdisciplinary collaboration aims to i...

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateMar 24, 2026

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...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Gambling Studies·TypeSurvey·DateMar 11, 2026

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 ...

SourceBinghamton University·TypeSurvey·DateMar 9, 2026

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.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateFeb 26, 2026

Why parents turn to social media about kids’ drug use

A study by Harvard Medical School and the University of Texas at Arlington found that parents seeking advice on substance use from online peers can be misled by misconceptions. The research suggests that while social media offers a unique window into parental concerns, it should complement evidence-based guidance rather than replace it.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 3, 2026

Three in four new Australian moms struggle with body image

A new review found that social and interpersonal factors significantly impact Australian women's body image concerns after childbirth. Supportive partners, strong social networks, and clear guidance from healthcare providers are protective factors, while appearance-related comments and sociocultural pressure can worsen issues.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBody Image·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 7, 2026

FAU study finds connection between poor mental health and dark web use

A new FAU study reveals significant mental health differences between dark web users and surface web users, with dark web users reporting substantially higher levels of depressive symptoms and paranoid thoughts. The study also found substantial differences in suicidal thoughts, non-suicidal self-injury, and digital self-harm.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalCyberpsychology Behavior and Social Networking·TypeSurvey·DateDec 3, 2025

Our bodies 'talk,’ listen carefully: College of Public Health researcher helps chronic pain sufferers reduce opioid misuse

Researchers found that mindfulness-based program MORE increased interoceptive awareness, reducing the risk of prescription opioid misuse in individuals with chronic pain. Participants who demonstrated lower trust in their body signals and difficulty regulating attention to bodily sensations were at higher risk for opioid misuse.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateNov 24, 2025

Texting helps UCSF reach more patients with needed care

A UCSF study found that a combination of outreach methods, including texts and live phone calls, significantly improves follow-up care for hard-to-reach patients. The integrated approach increased engagement among African American patients to 76.4% and improved overall reach rate by 3.5%, supporting their recovery and treatment outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateNov 20, 2025

How Ukraine keeps society going despite the war

A study from Linköping University reveals that Ukraine's ability to maintain public services during the war can be attributed to the collaboration between citizens and authorities. The researchers highlight the importance of trust within society in creating a robust and credible response to crises like war.

SourceLinköping University·JournalGovernment Information Quarterly·TypeSurvey·DateSep 22, 2025

Foster care study calls for better training, support

A new study by University of Cincinnati researchers finds that foster caregivers across the US need more accessible, ongoing and community-driven training. They want sustainable learning, consistent support and meaningful connection with peers and experts to help them care for vulnerable children.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalChild and Adolescent Social Work Journal·TypeSurvey·DateSep 17, 2025

Study highlights role of social workers in addressing marginalized communities bearing brunt of climate disasters

A new study highlights the disproportionate impact of climate change on marginalized communities, with residents emitting significantly less carbon than the national average yet suffering disproportionately due to historical and systemic inequalities. Social workers are essential in driving society toward a future that reduces dependen...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalEthics and Social Welfare·TypeSurvey·DateApr 8, 2025

Offering paid time off dramatically cuts odds of employees quitting their jobs

A study published in the International Journal of Manpower found that offering paid time off (PTO) significantly reduces the likelihood of employees quitting their jobs, with a greater reduction for men. PTO does not affect job satisfaction, which independently reduces turnover by 30-40%. Flexible scheduling also reduces turnover, but ...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalInternational Journal of Manpower·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 25, 2025

Researchers uncover surprising link to stroke risk

A new study from the University of Texas at Arlington found that Americans aged 65 and older who experienced parental divorce as children were more likely to suffer a stroke compared to their peers. The study analyzed data from over 13,000 older Americans and found that about 14% had experienced parental divorce during childhood.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalPLOS One·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 18, 2025

Passion to serve others fuels social work graduate

A social work graduate has published her research on cognitive decline among refugees, finding that those who have experienced trauma are more likely to suffer from mild cognitive impairment. The study highlights the need for interventions that address these gaps in care and promote healthier aging.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Gerontological Social Work·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2024

Fayetteville police positive about partnership with social workers

The Fayetteville Police Department has seen a significant improvement in its response to mental health crises thanks to its partnership with the University of Arkansas School of Social Work. The co-response teams, which pair officers with trained social workers, have reduced workload and helped better serve individuals in crisis.

SourceUniversity of Arkansas·JournalJournal of Police and Criminal Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateNov 14, 2024

Anonymous distribution of naloxone via vending machines raises uptake by ex-prisoners, Rutgers researchers find

A new study published in the Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment found that distributing free naloxone via vending machines in county jails can sharply increase the number of doses provided to inmates at release. This may help reduce overdose deaths, as former prisoners are more vulnerable due to lack of accessible support.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment·DateOct 23, 2024

Thinking about the future: Examining the exacerbating and attenuating factors of despair-induced climate burnout

Researchers found that contemplating pragmatic steps and fostering a sense of community can combat climate burnout. People are more likely to experience burnout when feeling despair about tackling climate change, but imagining a positive future where the crisis has been addressed can reduce disengagement.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeSurvey·DateSep 24, 2024

Older adults’ life satisfaction varies by immigrant status, living arrangement and social disposition

A study of 12,000 Canadian respondents aged 65+ found that socially independent older adults born in Canada are most satisfied when living solo, while socially dependent immigrants who live alone experience lower life satisfaction. Personality-based social dispositions play a key role in how older adults feel about their living arrange...

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAging and Human Development·TypeSurvey·DateAug 13, 2024