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Masters rowing has seen a measurable increase in participation, with masters rowers engaged in the sport for competition, health, and recreation reasons. Unlike other masters sports, masters rowing has a unique high level of synchronous, cooperative, and interdependent elements. To better understand the benefits and challenges of participation in competitive masters rowing, the purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of competitive masters rowers. Twelve competitive masters rowers were recruited and interviewed. Utilizing an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach to guide data collection, analysis, and interpretation, the analysis revealed four major themes: navigating community relationships, finding a reason to row, growing opportunities, and seeking considerate coaches. Utilizing self-determination theory as a framework for interpreting the findings, the identified themes illustrate the varying motivations, needs, and preferences of competitive masters rowers, as well as how their experiences are influenced by their coaches and peers. Efforts should be made by masters rowing coaches and administrators to better understand the needs of their athletes to ensure the maximum benefits of participation, commitment, and enjoyment of the sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nautical environment has been challenging for women. However, interviewing experienced female sailors, we noticed that despite the adversity they face, they consider the experience of sailing as something profoundly impactful and powerful in their lives. This research discusses the power of the aesthetic experience of sailing for women, thus adding to the gender discussion. In order to do so, we make use of a theoretical framework that addresses the relationship between being and the materiality of the world. In describing these aesthetic experiences lived in the body, Bachelard's phenomenology of the image stands out. By productive imagination and poetic images found in the field research and characterized as powerful by the sailors, the social construction of gender and the images between adventure and delicacy appears. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Race car drivers not only face high-speed challenges but also need to manage complex team dynamics and sponsor relations and are exposed to unique fan access while competing. This study examines the unique psychological aspects of motorsports and how race car drivers currently train psychological skills to match these distinctive demands. Adopting a phenomenological approach, this study involved semistructured interviews with 11 professional race car drivers. The interviews focused on drivers' psychological experiences during racing and their psychological preparation. Thematic analysis of the interview data revealed key psychological factors impacting performance. These included concentration, confidence, anxiety, managing emotional states, unique social aspects, and motivation. Drivers also had an interest in psychological-skills training but reported a lack of resources and consistent application. This study highlights the unique psychological challenges presented in motorsports, and the findings underscore the need for targeted psychological-skills training and resources for race car drivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multi-scale simulation framework for ion–solid interactions in plasma-exposed materials provides crucial insight into advancing fusion energy and space electric propulsion. Leveraging binary-collision approximation (BCA) simulations, the framework uniquely predicts sputter yields and analyzes material transport within volumetrically complex materials. This approach, grounded in the validated BCA code TRI3DYN, addresses key limitations in existing models by accurately capturing ion–solid interaction physics. A case study is presented, highlighting the framework's ability to replicate experimental sputter yield results, underscoring its reliability and potential for designing durable materials in harsh plasma environments. Insights into sputtering transport phenomenology mark a significant advancement in material optimization for improved resilience in plasma-facing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teacher librarians (TLs) play a central role in developing students' information literacy capabilities, which are vital for effective participation in formal education and active engagement in society. This research enhances insights into information literacy instruction in Australian secondary schools, by investigating the perceptions of practicing TLs regarding the information literacy needs of teachers and students. This article presents the groundwork for this investigation, employing a phenomenological approach and discussing findings from an initial survey. The study will inform TL education and improve current information literacy education practices, addressing the demand for nurturing 21st century skills embedded in the Australian Curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior studies indicate that the reaction wave can propagate from the impact surface, but the possibility and the influencing factors of the reaction wave formation are still unclear. This work investigates the propagation behavior of the shock-induced reaction wave for Ni/Al clad particle composites with varying stoichiometry (from 0.5 to 0.75 of the Ni mole fraction) through molecular dynamics simulations. It is found that the solid-state reaction processes with or without wave propagation strongly depend on the conjunction of stoichiometry and shock intensity. Within the cases of wave propagation, the calculated propagation velocity (in the range of 135–170 m/s) increases linearly or exponentially with the Ni mole fraction. Furthermore, the thermodynamic criteria for the reaction wave formation, including Al melting at the collision surface and higher temperature gradient, are established by analysis of the shock-induced high-entropy layer. In addition, microstructural characterization reveals the intrinsic mechanisms of the propagation of the reaction wave and the formation of additional reaction wave, namely, the dissolution of Ni into Al and the coalescence of reaction zones. Apart from the propagation behavior, the initial stoichiometry influences the crystallization–dissolution of B2–NiAl during reaction processes, notably through an exponential growth relationship between maximum crystallinity and the Ni mole fraction. These findings may provide a physical basis for improving traditional reaction rate models to break through phenomenological understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Belousov–Zhabotinsky (BZ) gel is a unique biomimetic system that undergoes autonomous volume oscillations induced by the redox oscillation of the BZ reaction. In a previous study, researchers reported that the oscillations of two BZ gels coupled by compression were synchronized by a mechanical interaction. They mathematically explained the synchronization behavior using a phase oscillator model. As a different approach to the previous study, a physicochemical investigation of the phenomenon will lead to a better understanding of the functional biological rhythms essential for life. In this study, we construct a simple phenomenological model to understand the synchronization of BZ gels. The model consists of two parts. One is the dynamics of the chemical reactions in the BZ gels. We use a phenomenological model based on the Oregonator for the BZ reaction. The other is the dynamics of the mechanical deformation of the BZ gel. Using approximations, we extract the parameters essential for the synchronization of a mechanical interaction. Thus, we can derive a novel equation for the deformation dynamics of mechanically coupled BZ gels. By combining these two parts, we perform numerical calculations. This allows us to find that the synchronization of the two BZ gels is less likely to occur under stronger compression. We explain this trend through one physicochemical parameter in our model: the volume fraction of the BZ gel in the reduced state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Customer success (CS) management is being implemented across global business markets. CS management is unique, as it exists within a broader CS community of professionals who actively support the new customer management practice. However, academic research has yet to investigate nonfirm epistemic communities (i.e., knowledge communities related to a specific domain) that support CS management and how they differ across geographic settings in ways that may affect the overall practice of CS management. To address this gap, the authors investigate how the CS community is implemented across countries that vary in their levels of uncertainty avoidance. The authors focus on the CS community and its impact on CS management operational factors that represent people, process, and performance factors of CS management. Following a phenomenological approach, interviews from the United States, Brazil, and Portugal drive the findings and indicate different levels of reliance on the external CS community to guide internal CS management operational factors. This research contributes by establishing the importance of the CS community and by uncovering insights based on CS managers' perceptions of the CS community and its effect on CS management operational factors. The authors offer salient insights into how managers can optimize CS management operational factors, and they provide a discussion of future research topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Phenomenology and Pedagogy in Physical Education" by Oyvind Standal is a book that addresses the lack of studies on phenomenology and pedagogy in the context of physical education in schools. The book consists of 10 chapters that cover topics such as the role of practical knowledge in physical education, the teacher's role in the skills model, and the ethical dimensions of physical education. Standal argues that phenomenology can contribute to physical education by promoting critical movement literacy and accommodating marginalized groups. The book is intended for sports and education academics and provides a new perspective on understanding physical education. However, the discussion could benefit from more real-life examples. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Although continual professional development is required of all midwives, evidence suggests that a lack of opportunities to develop is contributing to midwives choosing to leave the profession. With a national shortage of midwives, it is imperative to explore factors relating to the retention and job satisfaction of midwives. This study explored the development opportunity experiences of Band 6 midwives, who make up over half of the United Kingdom midwifery workforce. Methods: This study is aligned with interpretivism and the qualitative approach, embracing a relativist ontology and subjectivist epistemology. The chosen methodology was interpretative phenomenology and an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach was used. Seven Band 6 midwife participants, all early career midwives, were recruited from the study setting of NHS England using purposive non-probability sampling via professional networks. Data collection was performed using one-on-one in-depth semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was performed using a seven-stage interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) process and six themes were interpreted and identified: Stagnation or Adventure, A Basic or Higher Need, Awareness and Access, Interpersonal Relationships, Overlooked, Development for the Individual and the Service. Results: The early career Band 6 midwives perceived there to be few development opportunities, limited by a lack of awareness and access, and development opportunities were reported to strongly relate to the participants’ job satisfaction and career progression. Participants discussed that their appraisals, their relationships with their managers or midwifery leaders, and their midwifery professional status were key factors affecting their access to development opportunities. Development opportunities were seen to be beneficial to the development of their own practice, the quality of their patients’ care and the effectiveness of the wider maternity service. Conclusions: Midwives are highly motivated by the prospect of accessing development opportunities for their personal and professional growth but also to improve the service they can provide birthing families. Meeting the ‘development needs’ of midwives could be seen not only as a way to advance the ability and capability of the workforce, but also improve job satisfaction, mitigate staff attrition and aid retention of skilled practitioners in the challenging context of United Kingdom maternity services. Further research on the experience, barriers, benefits and implementation of midwifery professional development should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HIV is still an incurable disease, causing many problems in the daily lives of patients and affecting their overall quality of life. Previous studies have shown that advanced AIDS patients have more serious physical, psychological, social, and economic problems than HIV patients and that advanced AIDS patients have more unmet needs at this time. The main objective of this study is to better understand the needs of late-stage AIDS patients and to develop targeted palliative care services for them. Method: Descriptive phenomenological methods were used. Advanced AIDS patients were selected using purposive sampling in a tertiary infectious disease hospital. Participants (n = 15) were interviewed in one-to-one semi-structured interviews between March and May 2024. Data saturation was reached after the 15th interview, as no new themes emerged. A phenomenological thematic analysis method was used to analyze the interviews. Results: The following four themes emerged and are reported in this study: (1) Physiological needs: Participants often reported that chronic pain and fatigue were the main concerns and needed help from daily activities. (2) Information needs: Patients emphasized the gap in understanding treatment plans and drugs, hoping to get clear guidance from medical service providers. (3) Psycho-spiritual needs: Participants expressed their desire for respect, friendship, and dignity, as well as their fear of future uncertainty and humiliating experiences. (4) Social support needs: economic burden, limited nursing continuity, and social discrimination are the outstanding challenges faced by participants. Conclusion: This is the first study to comprehensively examine the palliative care needs of advanced AIDS patients in China. The findings underscore the urgent need for culturally sensitive, policy-driven interventions to address these multifaceted needs. Tailored strategies can significantly enhance the quality of life for this vulnerable population and provide actionable insights for healthcare policymakers to bridge existing care gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amputation in children is rare. However, in recent times, amputation in children has increased and trauma is the leading cause in Ghana. Few studies on the effects of amputation on caregivers particularly of children are available. This study aimed to explore the effects of trauma-related amputations in children on caregivers using qualitative descriptive phenomenological approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with semi-structured interview guide. Ten (10) informal caregivers were purposively selected from the trauma registry of a tertiary facility in Ghana. Data were analyzed manually using the thematic approach described by Collaizi. The findings revealed that trauma-related amputations in children affect the work-role, social life, finances and mental health of the caregivers. Provision of counselling services to address the mental health needs of caregivers and decentralization of orthopaedic and rehabilitation services would lessen the burden of caregiving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sickle-cell disease is a common genetic red blood cell disorder with global concern. Sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana, is most predominantly affected. Improvement in medicine has enhanced children's survival into adulthood; hence the need to transition them into adult care services. Well-transitioned patients manage the condition without undue disruptions in their quality of life. Aim: To explore the challenges faced by nurses in transitioning pediatric patients to adult care. Method: The study adopted a phenomenological descriptive qualitative design to describe and interpret the difficulties nurses encounter when providing transition care to adolescent patients. Purposive sampling and convenience sampling methods were used to select 15 professional nurses from the pediatric department. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze the data. The interview transcripts were read to identify emerging themes and sub-themes and exported into Nvivo 12 software. Results: Nurses working at the pediatric department of the regional health facility had no education on how to transition children from pediatric to adult care, leading to poor evidence-based transition care. In addition, there was a lack of transitional care protocol, staff training, care collaboration, transition planning, follow-up initiatives to track and monitor progress, difficulty in tracking the transition process, increased workload, and transition resource constraints. Conclusion: Nurses at the regional health facility have inadequate education on transitional care of adolescent patients, in-service training and workshop on transitional care on the management of patients, and formulating a policy on transitional care to guide nurses at the pediatric unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic and often severe mental illness. Yet despite the well-documented complexities in its diagnosis and treatment, little research has been dedicated to understanding the complex inner landscape experienced by those living with BD. Even as qualitative research has explored the lived experience of BD across a variety of perspectives, i.e., what BD looks like , there is a lack of research exploring what BD means to those living with the condition. We conducted individual, semi-structured interviews with 20 adults with clinically stable BD to explore their perceptions of the condition, their construction of meaning of their illness, and their view of BD in relation to their sense of self. We coded the transcripts according to the principles of thematic analysis and analyzed the data using an interpretative phenomenological analysis approach. Results: We identified three overarching domains: (1) Benefit or burden: a dialectic through which participants weighed the valence of their illness over time; (2) Self or other: the internal or external locus through which they experienced BD; and (3) From ineffability to meaning making: the process of naming, understanding, and incorporating BD into their life's whole. Within each domain, themes and subthemes outline nuanced and often conflicting perspectives of participants' illness experiences. Conclusions: Across the varied and nuanced perspectives uncovered, our work provides a framework of three domains central to the inner reality of lived bipolar experience. Thoughtful understanding of patients' experiences, perspectives, and desires within these three domains may aid clinicians and loved ones alike in more sensitively and effectively addressing the unique individual needs of those living with BD. It may also be informative for individuals living with BD themselves. By exploring patients' perspectives in each of the three domains we identified, those with or at risk for BD as well as those caring for people with BD may be better positioned to help identify the inner work and practical interventions (such as finding bipolar community, or pathways to occupational thriving) needed to achieve a rich, meaningful life with BD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Available research suggests autistic mothers experience greater dissatisfaction with maternity care compared to non-autistic mothers. Limited research exists exploring autistic mothers' experiences of maternity care, and no research to date has considered maternity care professionals' experiences of delivering care to autistic mothers. This qualitative study aims to explore the experiences of receiving and providing maternity care for autistic mothers. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with four autistic mothers and four midwives. Data were analysed using Multi-perspectival Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Three overarching themes emerged: 'challenges faced within maternity care, 'the importance of the caring relationship', and 'the challenge of navigating competing demands and priorities'. Findings highlight the unique challenges experienced by autistic mothers during labour and birth, the need for increased autism awareness in midwifery, and further suggest universal changes to the delivery of maternity care which would benefit autistic women. Autistic mothers may experience unique challenges when accessing maternity care. A better understanding of the experience of autistic mothers and maternity care professionals would help to create opportunities to support better maternity care. In this study, we interviewed autistic mothers and professional midwives, living and working across the United Kingdom and Ireland. In the interviews, the autistic mothers recalled challenges they faced in the hospital settings, difficulties in communicating their needs, and distress when being physically examined. The midwives we interviewed brought their personal experiences of autism (some were autistic themselves, while others had autistic family members) and made efforts to accommodate autistic mothers where possible. This included paying attention to potential sensory issues, trying to establish a relationship with the mothers and communicating what was going on without medical jargon. However, the midwives were limited in their ability to fully attend to the needs of autistic mothers due to time and resource restraints. Both the midwives and autistic mothers felt that midwife-led births were more attentive to the needs of mothers. Based on our findings, we recommend further training and awareness on autism in midwifery and suggest that changes relating to sensory and communication challenges would benefit both autistic and non-autistic. Our study provides important insight into this experience of maternity care from two perspectives and emphasises the need for greater inclusivity in maternity care services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing number of studies are investigating the links between autism and borderline personality disorder. Studies report overlapping differences and the challenges in differentiating between these two diagnostic labels. In practice, there are many people, especially autistic women, who feel that they were misdiagnosed with borderline personality disorder. This study aimed to explore the experiences of autistic adults who were previously diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. This is an interpretive phenomenological study. Data were collected using one-to-one, semi-structured interviews. Interview audio-recordings were transcribed and analysed using an interpretive phenomenological analysis. Ten people participated. All recalled autistic differences since childhood that went unnoticed. In most cases, borderline personality disorder was felt to have been a misdiagnosis. This misdiagnosis carried stigma, introduced diagnostic overshadowing and led to harmful experiences for our participants. While they did not identify with the diagnosis, they felt powerless to challenge it. In contrast, receiving an autism diagnosis was 'life changing'. While this did not solve everything for them, it was deeply validating. It also allowed them to be their true authentic selves, shifting the focus away from 'treatment' and changing who they are to suit others, towards acceptance of their differences and neurotype. This significantly improved their mental health. Autistic people face many barriers to receiving an autism diagnosis. Often, they may be misdiagnosed with borderline personality disorder instead. For our study, we interviewed 10 autistic adults who had previously been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. This helped us to better understand their experiences. They explained how borderline personality disorder is quite stigmatised and may suggest that people are to blame for their differences in behaviour. They found the treatments they had to try for borderline personality disorder to be harmful. For example, these treatments promoted 'masking'. Previous research showed that masking can be harmful for autistic people, linking it to risk of suicide. This diagnosis also led to healthcare professionals neglecting them and discounting their beliefs. Once they were diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, it was hard to access an autism assessment. When they did receive their autism diagnoses, this was much more positive. This diagnosis was validating. It also improved their mental health, as they were no longer expected to mask – their differences were now accepted. They still felt that autism was stigmatised in society. However, this was very different to the stigma around borderline personality disorder. They felt autism stigma was more about their competence as people, whereas borderline personality disorder stigma was about how they were broken and might be harmful to others. This study is important because it allows their stories to be heard by researchers and healthcare professionals alike. Adding their voices helps to humanise them, promoting positive change in mental health services. More research is now needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the narrative perspective, this paper studies the spatial characteristics and cultural significance of the Shike Ancestral Hall in En Village, Guangdong, as a sacred building. By drawing on Lefebvre's theory of spatial production, the physical space, cultural value, and community sentiment of the Shike Ancestral Hall are linked to explore its role in the sense of place, clan memory, and cultural identity. The study found that the combination of perceived, conceived, and lived space gives the Shike Ancestral Hall profound social, cultural, and religious significance. The ancestral hall is not only a material existence but also a vital link to maintain the emotional and cultural identity among clan members. Through the multi-sensory experience of the building, including light, sound, touch, and smell, the unique atmosphere of the sacred space is revealed, further deepening the need for sustainable development and protection of cultural heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual Assertiveness (SA) is important as it fosters healthy sexual and intimate relationships as it enables the individual to directly express sexual needs, limits and desires. This study aimed to promote an in-depth understanding of women's experiences in their day-to-day negotiation of sexual activity. Six young women in the city of Cuenca (Ecuador) participated in semi-structured interviews that focused on women's experiences with SA. Data were analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Data analysis led to the construction of four themes: (1) SA is experienced as a dynamic process: (2) relationship quality is an indicator for SA; (3) women's struggles with SA; (4) SA is beneficial within a partner relationship. Findings are discussed in light of the literature addressing issues of women's SA and social discourse covering gender scripts that drive women's behavior. LAY SUMMARY: With the aim to promote an in-depth understanding of women's experiences with their sexual assertiveness, a qualitative study was conducted. The Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis led to understand women's struggles with sexual assertiveness, the changes that occurred with different partners, and the importance of sexual assertiveness for women's (sexual) life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a world with existential issues, inequalities/injustice are (re)emerging in varying degrees around the globe, and yet, each of us strives to sustain our life with our own disappointments/griefs and desires/hopes. Then, identity formation research should elucidate how a human being makes sense of multifaceted voices/dimensions ('selves' and '(social) identities') and what propels each to sustain/envision one's desires/hopes in the future. Thus, based upon the legacy of identity-related research in applied linguistics, we present longitudinal research by a phenomenological approach focusing on 'international students' in Japan. In developing the approach, we utilized translanguaging as a holistic conceptualization of human communication and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis as methodology (interview analysis contextualized with observation and on/off line correspondence data). As a result, the first author interpreted that each student's life theme/moral aspiration served as a pivot around which various categories/features revolved (solidified/loosened). In such dynamic relationalities, perceptions/ideologies towards named language(s)/identity categories transformed. We argue it is important to interpret why and how each uses/creates categories/labels/binaries as reference points in expressing oneself—not as objective/scientific but as (inter)subjective evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systematic reviews aim to use formalised and explicitly described methods. However, studies show that systematic reviews pose challenges which can only be resolved using expert judgement that is resistant to explicit formulation. The expertise required to make such judgements can be understood as practical knowledge or phronesis, and is based on lived experiences rather than following clearly defined rules. This study used qualitative methods to investigate the phronesis of expert searchers in the development and conduct of searches for studies for systematic reviews. In particular, the study focused on two 'supplementary' search methods: forward citation searching and web searching. Data collection used semi-structured interviews with 15 expert searchers and the analysis used a hermeneutic phenomenological approach. The findings describe five habits of phronesis when searching for studies: Outcome-oriented; persistent; adaptive; critically engaged and holistic. The study brings attention to the use of expert judgement when searching for studies for systematic reviews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silence has been a relatively neglected phenomenon despite its significance in psychiatric research. Acknowledging this oversight, there has been a recent move towards systematically describing the first-personal experience of silence in mental disorders within the field of philosophy of psychiatry. This paper contributes to this research effort by highlighting the underexplored interpersonal aspect of silence crucial for both psychopathological and therapeutic research. More specifically, I develop the interpersonal aspect of distressing silence associated with depression, recently coined as ‘empty silence’. Complementing its original analysis, I argue that this distressing silence not only involves the loss of linguistic agency but also the loss of social agency. Having established this claim, I situate it within the wider research context and open an ethical dimension to the current analysis. I explore this by identifying a therapeutic silence others can establish for an individual undergoing a severe depressive episode. I provisionally term it ‘undemanding silence’ and argue that this form of silence can help restore the loss of social agency by providing a distinct form of social affordance that depressed individuals can easily realise at their own pace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adult Protective Services (APS) practitioners play an essential role in supporting older adults experiencing elder abuse and self-neglect (EASN), however, very little research has examined their experiences, from their perspectives. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of APS practitioners responding to allegations of EASN. Qualitative interviews were conducted with APS practitioners (n = 14) from the state of Maine. A descriptive phenomenological approach involving two independent assessors was used to code transcripts into themes. Two domains, each with various subthemes, were identified: (1) rewarding elements of role and (2) challenging aspects of role. The findings of this study emphasize how APS practitioners are motivated by their capacity to help elicit positive change in the lives of their clients and support the well-being of older adults experiencing EASN. However, APS practitioners must navigate numerous challenges and barriers in their role, including time constraints, high and complex caseloads, limited resources, and broader misconceptions on APS. These findings highlight the importance of addressing these stressors to support the well-being of APS practitioners, which, in turn, can help support the vulnerable older adults they serve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A core issue of embodiment is the question of how phenomenal and agentive consciousness relates to external forms of behavior. Instead of biasing the question in terms of the "hard problem" as to why and how consciousness arises from brain processes (D. Chalmers), it is suggested to ask for psychophysical correlations in a metaphysically neutral way. This, however, demands (1) to explore both sides of the problem with equivalent precision and depth—not only the physical—and (2) to develop a metaphysically neutral tool to formalize them in a consistent way. Concerning (1), the basic structure of mental micro-activities found in first-person studies on cognitive processes suggests extending the scope of qualia as a mark of consciousness. In the context of Structure Phenomenology (H. Witzenmann), functionally negative phenomenality experienced in ambiguous or meaning-deprived situations and inner agentive qualia of mental activities are correlated with the decompositional signature of sensory-neural processing and synchronized neural oscillations. Concerning (2), G. Günther's Transclassical Logic is briefly introduced and deployed to integrate the mental, psychophysical, and physical contextures in a three-valued formal framework which also includes enacted and embodied aspects. The emerging picture rebalances first-person and third-person aspects of cognition by functionally separating and dynamically integrating them, thus revitalizing the neurophenomenological research agenda with new experimental proposals and concrete hypotheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand for skilled personnel and the challenges faced by home healthcare (HHC) underscore the significance of these issues for nurses' job satisfaction and daily experience of working in this field. The aim of the study was to explore the lived experience and job satisfaction of HHC nurses working in Greece. A qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was conducted. The data were collected from November to December 2021. The analysis was based on thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke. Data were organized with Atlas.ti v8. The sample consisted of 9 nurses (8 female and 1 male), with mean value of 10.22 years of working experience in the field of HHC. Four main themes emerged during the thematic analysis: "Nurse as a guest" "Understanding the world of home healthcare," "Walking along a difficult path towards reward," and "Looking forward to a better tomorrow." Nurses' descriptions gave the framework of working conditions in HHC and the uniqueness of this working environment, highlighting at the same time the factors that positively or negatively affect their job satisfaction. This valuable knowledge could act as a basis for the development of new targeted strategies, with the goal of creating a healthy, productive environment that would strengthen the desire of nurses to work in HHC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What Is Known on the Subject?: The COVID‐19 pandemic has brought new sources of stress and challenges for people dealing with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). What the Paper Adds to Existing Knowledge?: The study uncovered the unique experiences of Jordanian patients with OCD during the COVID‐19 pandemic, revealing three main themes: Navigating Constraints: The Dual Pathways of Social Engagement and Avoidance, estranging family attachments and shifting OCD landscapes.Family dynamics played a significant role, with some families unintentionally exacerbating OCD symptoms through excessive accommodation, while others openly expressed irritation, both contributing to worsened symptoms.The research unveiled a notable deficiency in the availability of professional mental health support for individuals with OCD throughout the pandemic. What Are the Implications for Practice?: Accessible and culturally appropriate e‐mental health interventions can bridge the gap in mental health support, especially during crises like the pandemic.It is crucial to involve family members in the treatment process to address family dynamics that may either support or hinder recovery among patients with OCD. Introduction: Pandemics, like COVID‐19, can significantly harm the mental well‐being and overall quality of life for individuals and their families. Those with pre‐existing mental conditions, especially obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), are more vulnerable to negative psychosocial effects since the fear of being infected or transmitting infection to others are some of the main characteristics of the illness. There is a need for a nuanced understanding of the personal, social and cultural experiences of people with OCD within their specific psychosocial context. Aim: To explore how Jordanian patients with OCD experienced their illness during COVID‐19. Method: A descriptive phenomenological design using semi‐structured interviews with a purposive sample of 12 patients diagnosed with OCD and experiencing different types of OCD symptoms. Data were analysed thematically, and reported based on the critical appraisal skills programme (CASP) checklist for qualitative studies. Results: Three main themes emerged: (1) Navigating Constraints: The Dual Pathways of Social Engagement and Avoidance (seeking solace through social interaction and embracing quarantine as an opportunity for social avoidance); (2) Estranging family attachments (enforcing proximity and struggling with intimacy); and (3) Shifting OCD landscapes (transforming existing obsessions and escaping to new compulsions). The interviews documented a complete lack of references to receiving professional mental health support throughout the pandemic. Discussion: This study aligns with previous research indicating a surge in OCD severity during the pandemic, fuelled by distressing news and heightened hygiene measures. Notably, it underscores the strain on familial relationships, with some cases showing protective effects but many demonstrating worsening symptoms due to excessive family accommodation. The absence of professional mental health support during the pandemic raises questions about the quality and accessibility of mental health services in Jordan. Implications for Practice: The findings underscore the need for continued mental health support and intervention, particularly during times of heightened stress and isolation. Integrating e‐mental health resources and cultural adaptation can play a vital role in providing accessible and effective support for individuals with OCD, including those in the Jordanian Arab culture. As we navigate future challenges, it is crucial to prioritize the well‐being of individuals with OCD and ensure they have access to appropriate and tailored mental health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: In daily psychiatric practice, understanding individuals often involves formulating the clinical case, which may lead to viewing them solely as symptoms to be solved. Consequently, it can be challenging to see the individual beyond their symptoms. However, trying to understand the individual by his/her writings about narratives can offer broader perspectives and extend beyond being a medium for patients to express their experiences. On understanding writing, hermeneutics will be a resourceful method. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: This study aims to propose a reevaluation of the nature of therapeutic communication among individuals with schizophrenia, psychiatrists, and psychiatric nurses by interpreting their writings on the same written narratives through a hermeneutic analysis. Our study has unique features compared to previous studies on communication between mental health professionals and patients. We directly investigated the act of understanding through the writings of the three groups of participants. The participants were also engaged in reading and writing about the narratives instead of relying on clinical interviews or self‐report questionnaires. To the best of our knowledge, our study is the first hermeneutic study to examine the nature of reflection while all three groups encounter the same narratives as readers. implications for practice?: The results point to the need for psychiatrists/psychiatric nurses to develop new perspectives and skills in understanding/interacting with individuals with schizophrenia. Our study could be a pioneer sample in applying hermeneutics as a prevailing method to mental health nursing practice. Introduction: Understanding individuals with schizophrenia is an essential but challenging phenomenon in psychiatry. Aim/Question: This study proposes a reevaluation of the nature of therapeutic communication among individuals with schizophrenia, psychiatrists and psychiatric nurses by interpreting their writings on the same written narratives through a hermeneutic analysis. Method: In this study, employing a qualitative descriptive methodology utilising hermeneutic analysis, participants read the five narratives, wrote down their opinions on each narratives and answered nine questions to express their own personal writing experiences. Results: Participants from each group acted as both 'readers' and 'authors' while rewriting the selected five short narratives based on their own sense of readings. The expression, rewriting refers to the act of reading and written interpretations of participants and researchers in this study. While individuals with schizophrenia primarily focused on the text (narrative) in their readings and writings, psychiatrists and psychiatric nurses tended to focus on reader (themselves) in their interpretations. Discussion: Although reading should be approached as a process of discovery rather than merely seeking predetermined knowledge, psychiatrists and psychiatric nurses read the narratives as if the author were a patient or as the signs of an illness. Implications for Practice: The results point to the need for psychiatrists/psychiatric nurses to develop new perspectives and skills in understanding and interacting with individuals with schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: Family resilience is an important determinant of family caregivers' coping with difficulties of life and stress effectively.Family resilience factors contribute to the family's adaptation to difficulties. From the perspective of the individual living with schizophrenia and family, family resilience focuses not on the losses experienced but on the strengths. What does this paper adds to existing knowledge?: Many factors such as routines, positive cognitions, intra‐family communication, family support and love as a healing force that contribute to family resilience were identified from the common perspective of the individual diagnosed with schizophrenia‐family caregiver dyads.The climate of love within the family is an important strength both for the patient diagnosed with schizophrenia and for the family caregivers.Mutual support between family members, their listening to each other and sharing experiences with each other during this disease process are therapeutic for both parties and make them resilient. What are the implications for practice?: Family resilience factors should be considered in planning psychosocial interventions to be applied to individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and family caregivers.The clinical use of psychosocial support interventions in family resilience which help both the individual diagnosed with schizophrenia and the family caregivers to gain a positive perspective, to improve their problem‐solving skills, and to support each other within the family should be expanded.Displaying approaches aimed at increasing the climate of love and strengthening correct communication techniques within the family towards both the individual diagnosed with schizophrenia and the family caregiver should be supported.Psychiatric nurses' focusing on family resilience from a systemic perspective in chronic mental illnesses such as schizophrenia strengthens the patient and the family. This perspective focuses on functional dimensions and protects mental health despite existing problems. Introduction: Family resilience is one of the important concepts that should be addressed in chronic mental illnesses. Aim: This study was aimed at investigating family resilience experiences from the perspective of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia‐family caregiver dyads. Method: The study was conducted in the Adult Psychiatry inpatient and outpatient unit of a university hospital in a province in western Turkey using the phenomenological method. By using the purposeful sampling method, 20 participants were selected in the study. Of them, 10 were family caregivers and 10 were patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. The results of the study were analysed with a dyadic approach within the framework of key processes of Walsh family resilience model. The directed content analysis method was used to analyse the data obtained from the study. COREQ checklist was used to report the research. Results: After the analysis, the following five main themes emerged: positive cognitions, routines, family support, intra‐family communication and love as a healing force. Discussion: Family resilience is a structure shaped by the relationship between family members. The factors that contribute to the individual diagnosed with schizophrenia‐caregiver dyads' ability to overcome difficulties in family resilience are discussed in line with the relevant literature. Implications for Practice: Intervention programs should be implemented to create an environment of love by improving relationships and communication in the family, improving problem solving and increasing support resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this qualitative study conducted at a public mental health outpatient clinic in Norway, the integration of patients' social network in treatment was examined. The aim was to explore the experiences of patients and their network during dialogical network meetings and discuss any similarities and differences between the two participant groups. Reflexive thematic analysis was performed on data obtained from fifty-three meetings, resulting in the development of five themes. For patients, there were two themes: "Enhanced trust within our relationships" and "Providing us a safe space to talk openly," and for network members there were three: "Empowered through participation," Being welcomed and taken seriously," and "Provide more clarity to enhance our ability to contribute." Mattering was employed as a conceptual framework to discuss the similarities and differences between the themes of the two participant groups. Both patients and network members placed strong emphasis on the freedom of expression and acknowledged the crucial role of the meeting leaders in facilitating discussions on important and challenging topics. Differences included network members' emphasis on feeling welcome and their need to add value, while patients emphasized strengthened relationships and feeling valued and empowered by being trusted to control the discussion content. Overall, mattering appears to be a valuable tool for understanding the relational dynamics within network meetings.\. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional medical models have given way to recovery-oriented approaches over the years in the management of individuals with serious mental illnesses. However, very little is known about such recovery-based models in the Indian context. This qualitative study used a phenomenological approach to explore the experiences and meanings of recovery among individuals with serious mental illness in southern India. Purposive sampling with maximum variation was used to recruit participants. In-depth interviews were conducted with ten participants, using a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic analysis resulted in three themes: "The illness journey," "Life minus illness = Recovery," and "It takes a village to recover,". Illness and recovery seemed to be two sides of the same coin with the context playing an influential role in the perceptions of recovery. The term "recovery" seemed to be a misnomer giving the impression that one is expected to return to an illness free state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the ethical implications of discontinuing antipsychotic medication for individuals with schizophrenia, examining the challenges clinicians face in balancing risks and benefits. Topics include the concept of epistemic injustice in psychiatric care, the trend of patients choosing to discontinue medication, and the shift from expert recommendations to shared decision-making in mental health care.

We know much about people's problematic reactions—such as distressing intrusions—to negative, stressful, or traumatic past events. But emerging evidence suggests people react similarly to negative and potentially-traumatic future events. Given similar processes underlie remembering the past and imagining the future more generally, we wondered how similar involuntary memories, or intrusions, are for experienced vs. anticipated events. We focused primarily on intrusions because they are a transdiagnostic reaction to traumatic events. We asked subjects to report either a very stressful event they had experienced in the past 6 months, or one they anticipated they could experience in the next 6 months. We measured the frequency of intrusions about these reported events, and intrusions' phenomenological characteristics (such as emotional intensity), negative appraisals about their meaning, and reactions to them more generally. Overall, we found intrusions about experienced vs. anticipated autobiographical events were similarly troubling. This pattern supports the idea that anticipating the future can be aversive and elicit post-traumatic-stress-like symptoms, just as remembering the past can. Our findings have implications for theoretical models of traumatic-stress and treatment of traumatic-stress symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at determining spiritual/religious coping strategies of nursing students dealing with the first experience of witnessing death during clinical practices. One of the qualitative research approaches, a descriptive phenomenological study was designed. The study was carried out with 14 nursing students studying at a state university in Turkey. The students' first experiences of witnessing death were examined by the personal in-depth interviewing method. Data were analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The following five main themes were identified by the analysis: Perception of death; Witnessing death for the first time; Coping with death experience; Needs and recommendations; Impact of spirituality and religion. The obtained findings were presented according to the COREQ criteria. The findings showed that witnessing death for the first time is a difficult experience that affects students in various ways and students prayed and performed their prayers frequently to cope with the death experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal Comfort Systems (PCS) are equipments that heat and/or cool occupants without affecting surrounding environments, ranging from commonly used devices to innovative technologies, and that tend to be controlled by people. These systems aim to address energy consumption and occupant satisfaction issues related to centralised air-conditioning. Although there are systematic studies on these systems, there is a lack of documentation regarding mediation characteristics between people and the built environment. This article presents a systematic review of PCS using a search of academic literature and patents, classifying PCS based on thermal categories and device typologies while introducing post-phenomenological mediation categories. The results show that most PCS fall into the thermal categories of 'Heating' and 'Cooling and ventilation'. The review also presents a view of the PCS territory based on mediation attributes and technological complexity. Finally, the PCS' characteristics are discussed based on the post-phenomenological concepts of Embodiment, Hermeneutic, and Background providing insights for future research opportunities and PCS development. Practitioner summary: This study presents a systematic review of Personal Comfort Systems (PCS) found in patents and academic databases, integrating post-phenomenological concepts into PCS discussion. It visualises the PCS territory using a matrix based on mediation relations and technological complexity, providing insights into PCS development and research opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, an ecological ethic is developed from the ethical philosophy and environmental phenomenology of the Japanese ethicist Watsuji Tetsurō. More specially, it is illustrated that reading Watsuji's ethics and concept of fūdo (風土) in tangent and drawing out the implications of his ontology of emptiness, provides the means to overcome the ecological issue of anthropocentrism. The ecological ethic developed here also goes beyond Watsuji's account by criticising his focus on land and advocates the importance of the sea for environmental ethics. Not only is it argued that a fully functional ecological ethic must account for all habitats, but that the sea can be seen to be more fundamental than the land in the formation of Watsuji's concept of fūdo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study reported the experiences of New Zealand caregivers of children with language and literacy difficulties in having their child's needs identified. Method: The participants were 14 mothers of children with idiopathic language and literacy difficulties, recruited through social media language and literacy difficulties support groups. Two mothers identified as Māori and 12 New Zealand European. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. A phenomenological approach using reflexive thematic analysis was used. Result: These mothers had learned about language, literacy, and the education system to advocate for their child and perceived a lack of knowledge on the part of schools. Nearly all had sought a diagnosis, with understanding and access to support reported as positive consequences and stigma as a negative. Some preferred labels emphasising difference rather than disorder, consistent with traditional Māori and neurodiversity views. The mothers described their experience as a fight, due to their concerns being ignored, the need to pay for private diagnostic assessments and difficulty accessing services. They appreciated assessors who gave useful, comprehensible information and supported school liaison. Conclusion: These mothers wanted improved teacher training and publicly funded diagnostic assessment services to improve access to best practice language and literacy instruction for their children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Descriptive phenomenological research is crucial in nursing for understanding individuals' experiences, perceptions, and relationships, which are essential for person-centered healthcare. However, a common critique is that researchers often use phenomenological methods without fully comprehending their historical and philosophical foundations. Existing literature highlights discrepancies in the application of phenomenological principles by nurse researchers, particularly in their presentation of philosophical underpinnings and methodological details. Aim: This article aims to provide a comprehensive methodological framework for descriptive phenomenological research in nursing, addressing both theoretical and practical aspects to guide novice researchers. Data Sources: This framework synthesizes existing scholarship on descriptive phenomenology. Discussion: Starting from Husserl, this article provides a detailed overview of the history, foundations, and philosophical assumptions of the methodology. It also includes key terms and a comprehensive detailing of all aspects of the research process. Conclusion: This framework enriches existing scholarship by offering a streamlined, step-by-step methodological guide for researchers embarking on descriptive phenomenological studies. It emphasizes the importance of establishing minimum, yet critical criteria for publishing research employing this methodology. Implications for Research: Future nurse researchers are encouraged to enhance methodological transparency in their descriptive phenomenological studies to facilitate rigorous evaluation of method effectiveness and study quality. This framework aims to alleviate potential apprehensions and provide clarity and structure to novice researchers in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Chinese community constitutes the largest demographic and faces the highest rates of cancer incidence in Singapore. Given this, palliative care plays a crucial role in supporting individuals, particularly those nearing the end of life, with family serving as their primary source of support. Many Chinese family caregivers in Singapore reported significant unmet needs in cancer care provision, with studies indicating that they often bear the brunt of caregiving responsibilities. Despite this, there has been a lack of research exploring the needs and perspectives of Chinese Singaporean family caregivers caring for terminally ill cancer patients at home. Thus, this study seeks to address this gap by investigating the lived experiences of Chinese Singaporean family caregivers providing end-of-life cancer care in a home setting. Methods: This study employed a hermeneutic phenomenological approach, guided by the framework developed by van Manen (1990), to uncover the essential meaning of each participant’s lived experience. In-depth, semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted face-to-face with ten Chinese Singaporean family caregivers. These caregivers shared their personal journeys of caring for a loved one with advanced cancer during their final stage of life at home. The interviews were audio recorded, and open-ended questions were used to facilitate discussion. Each interview lasted between 30 and 60 min. The principal investigator manually transcribed all audio recordings. Additionally, an external transcriber translated the interviews into written form to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The interview texts were then analyzed and interpreted using the philosophical underpinnings rooted in phenomenology. Results: The attempts to identify meanings and make sense of the Chinese Singaporean’s lived experience led to the development of two main themes and eight sub-themes. Under the primary theme of “experiences from caregiving” comprises the sub-themes “being a caregiver,” “suffering,” and “well-being,” and the major theme of “expectations in caregiving” encompasses the sub-themes “caregiving support,” “decision-making,” “communication,” “spirituality,” and “being a Chinese Singaporean”. Conclusion: In conclusion, addressing family caregivers’ needs requires culturally sensitive nursing education, peer support initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and enhanced training for domestic helpers. These measures, coupled with further research into diverse cultural caregiving needs and male caregivers’ experiences, will improve support systems and empower caregivers in their essential roles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at understanding and investigating the lived experiences of early childhood teachers' observation practices as a professional tool. Interpretative phenomenological approach was utilized to investigate participants' experiences deeply from their lived experiences. The current study's participants consisted of five early childhood teachers selected through purposive sampling. The three-interview series involving three separate interviews with each participant was used for data collection and the data was analyzed by interpretative phenomenological analysis. The findings describe participant teachers' observation practices that provide data, how teachers convert data into information, and how they use observational data for decision-making. This study aims to draw attention to the critical role of observation in data-based decision-making and pinpoints practical implications for early childhood teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the process experienced by youth who started out as volunteering beneficiaries in treatment settings and became volunteers for at-risk youth themselves. Using the phenomenological approach, the study included 10 Israeli interviewees aged 20 to 30 who were regular volunteers. The findings suggested three themes related to the process experienced by the volunteers: (1) perceived altruism—the altruism attributed to the volunteers who had benefited the participants as youths; (2) the identity transformation from beneficiary to benefactor; and (3) acquired altruism—the acquisition of that trait by the participants. Applying the principles of positive criminology, this study shows how attributing altruism to the behavior of the volunteer can serve as fertile ground for acquiring altruism oneself, in a process that eventually results in volunteering for the benefit of others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper offers an overview of the philosophical work on epistemic injustices as it relates to psychiatry. After describing the development of epistemic injustice studies, we survey the existing literature on its application to psychiatry. We describe how the concept of epistemic injustice has been taken up into a range of debates in philosophy of psychiatry, including the nature of psychiatric conditions, psychiatric practices and research, and ameliorative projects. The final section of the paper indicates future directions for philosophical research of epistemic injustices and psychiatry, concerning neurocognitive disorders, identity prejudices in psychiatric illness, concepts of epistemic privilege in psychiatry, and the prospects for combining phenomenological psychopathology and epistemic justice. We argue that much remains to be done in the conceptualization of these epistemic injustices and suggest that this future work should be multidisciplinary in character and sensitive to the phenomenology of psychiatric conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses a potential contradiction between the two primary philosophical traditions that inform Gibsonian ecological psychology: the phenomenological and pragmatist traditions. These two traditions exhibit potentially contradictory intuitions about the epistemic role of direct perception. This epistemic role of direct perception was famously problematized by Sellars' critique of the myth of the given (1956; 1997), and we draw on it here to serve as a test case for the Gibsonian synthesis of phenomenology and pragmatism. While ecological psychology's emphasis on the firstperson perspective of organisms shares in the legacy of the phenomenological tradition, it also tends to assume direct experience as a given, something basic and foundational to knowledge. Pragmatism, on the other hand, is generally suspicious of experience as a foundational given. We argue that Gibson's successful synthesis of these two traditions is also what makes his theory of affordances less susceptible to the myth of the given than some phenomenological approaches to perception. Namely, on the Gibsonian account of perception is always part of an action-perception cycle that takes place in and through embodied action and therefore no one act of perception functions as an epistemic given [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enactive theory seems to be reaching a critical juncture in its evolution, as it expands beyond cognitive science to include a project that Shaun Gallagher has called "new naturalism": a "phenomenologized" reconstruction of nature, directed by a distinctive view of experience that is itself a product of "naturalized phenomenology." This article aims to contribute to conversations about how to move forward with this project by highlighting important parallels between the trajectory of enactive theory and the early history of pragmatism. Pragmatism was first developed by Peirce, James, and Dewey out of a distinctive view of experience that strongly resembles that of enactive theory. Then, during the first third of the twentieth century, pragmatism evolved into a philosophy of nature and played a leading role in a reconstructive project much like the "new naturalism" proposed by Gallagher and others. Around midcentury, however, this project was largely abandoned as philosophers turned to problems of more limited scope. This history raises crucial questions for proponents of enactive "new naturalism": Why did the pragmatist version of this project fail to achieve its aims? And how will it be different this time? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For enactivists and pragmatists alike, sense-making is a systemic process of bringing the organism and environment into reciprocity. Steiner (2023) distinguishes enactivism from pragmatism by arguing that intention is compatible with enactivism but not pragmatism. After reviewing Steiner's analysis, I consider its ontological consequences and phenomenological implications which I suggest cause problems for both enactivism and pragmatism, but in two different ways. Intention is consistent with the idea of an autonomy of sense-making but reveals its latent subjectivity – which sits uncomfortably with an enactivist account. The absence of intention implies the existence of states of supra-subjective consciousness but lack of such accounts is troublesome for pragmatism. Next, I introduce Material Engagement Theory. I emphasise its affinity to pragmatism and describe its role in developing clayful phenomenology, an experiential way of investigating creative practice from the perspective of the process. A case-study of a sculptural project illustrates how action, creating a construction-site atmosphere as it goes, gathers diverse materials and elements to itself: wood, clay, plaster, steel, a sculpted skull, a painting, a wall, tree trunks, scaffolding, neolithic sculptures etc. These elements draw themselves into rhythmical associations that resonate with others that are formed through and by sculptural gestures and these go onto form further gestural patterns. The project shows how a creative situation creates a sense of affective purpose by and through the act of creating itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enactivism does not have its primary philosophical roots in pragmatism: phenomenology (from Husserl to Jonas) is its first source of inspiration (with the exception of Hutto & Myin's radical enactivism). That does not exclude the benefits of pragmatist readings of enactivism, and of enactivist readings of pragmatism. After having sketched those readings, this paper focuses on the philosophical concept of intentionality. I show that whereas enactivists endorse the idea that intentionality is a base-level property of cognition, pragmatism offer(ed) us some reasons not to proceed this way. It is therefore doubtful to hold that pragmatists and enactivists would converge in the defence of a common, non-representational conception of intentionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While team learning within engineering classrooms has been studied, minimal work has been done examining out-of-classroom collaboration to complete individual deliverables. However, such informal peer collaboration (IPC) is common among engineering undergraduates, and some evidence exists that low levels of IPC are associated with poorer learning outcomes. We aimed to explore beliefs, perceptions and actions toward IPC among engineering science instructors. We used a descriptive phenomenological approach to explore the instructors' experiences of IPC. Data from semi-structured interviews was analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Instructors identified positive (e.g. gaining confidence) and negative (e.g. overconfidence) outcomes of IPC. They believed that students used IPC for a range of needs and identified factors (e.g. language spoken) influencing IPC groupings. Most instructors only defined academic misconduct in syllabi, despite using implicit strategies (e.g. withholding solutions) to promote/inhibit IPC. Specific IPC policies were rarely connected to instructors' understanding of student motivations. Instructors view IPC as unavoidable and recognise that IPC may meet student needs while increasing or bypassing learning. Despite both using IPC as students and observing students now, instructors showed limited understanding of who participates. IPC may be an opportunity to increase learning among students; further research on barriers and pedagogy is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strong or Pure Intentionalism is the view that the phenomenal character of a conscious experience is exhaustively determined by its intentional content. Contrastingly, impure intentionalism holds that there are also non content-based aspects or features which contribute to phenomenal character. Conscious attention is one such feature: arguably its contribution to the phenomenal character of a given conscious experience are not exhaustively captured in terms of what that experience represents, that is in terms of properties of its intentional object. This paper attempts to get clearer on the phenomenal contribution of conscious attention. In doing so it considers and sets aside two prominent impure intentionalist accounts, namely the Phenomenal Structure view of Sebastien Watzl, and the Demonstrative Awareness view of Wayne Wu. As an alternative I outline a Modification view, which draws on ideas in Husserlian phenomenology. On this view, we should think of the phenomenal contribution of conscious attention in terms of attentive modifications of what I call a 'pre-attentive phenomenal field'. I develop this view and highlight its benefits over alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cognitive experience view of thought holds that the content of thought is determined by its cognitive-phenomenal character. Adam Pautz argues that the cognitive experience view is extensionally inadequate: it entails the possibility of mix-and-match cases, where the cognitive-phenomenal properties that determine thought content are combined with different sensory-phenomenal and functional properties. Because mix-and-match cases are metaphysically impossible, Pautz argues, the cognitive experience view should be rejected. This paper defends the cognitive experience view from Pautz's argument. I build on resources in the philosophy of mind literature to show that cognitive-phenomenal properties are modally independent from sensory-phenomenal and functional properties. The result is that mix-and-match cases, though modally remote, are metaphysically possible. The possibility of mix-and-match cases allows us to move from defensive posture to a critical one: it poses problems for any theory of content that imposes rationality constraints, including Pautz's positive view, phenomenal functionalism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many Black women experience worsening abuse; however, there is a significant number of women experiencing non-physical forms of abuse, what I term hidden abuse. In one in five domestic violence cases, the fatal or life-threatening event was the first episode of physical violence the woman experienced from their partner, suggesting that some Black women die before they receive help. Violence against Black women requires a systems approach that redresses resource inequities. I attempt to expand upon fundamental cause theory, a systems theory used by social science researchers, to show that intimate partner violence is a social determinant of health. I apply this theory to an autoethnographic case study of hidden abuse. Implications for social work research, practice, and policy include developing, advocating for, and evaluating programs and policies that increase financial instability, affordable housing, and access to community networks and social support for victims of violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We argue, drawing on the work of Didier Fassin, that the right to health can be understood as an essential part of a radical politics of life. Since the right to health implies fostering the well-being of individuals in a way that is structural, progressive and non-discriminatory, the right not only problematises the 'governmentality' approach to power but allows push-back against statist and market discourses through a specific phenomenology of right. The discourse of rights – like the pandemic itself – oscillates between general and particular in a way that makes normative responses unstable. Nonetheless it is this dialectic that is characteristic of human rights discourse and allows a right to health to be the proper response to pandemic without it being subsumed within neoliberal logic. A politics of life is a multi-focussed analysis of life, health and society potentially resisting the appropriation of biological life by neoliberalism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) face the challenges of a rare condition impacting their motor neurons, placing substantial caregiving burdens on their mothers. Despite being primary caregivers, mothers of children with SMA in Ghana often find their voices unheard, with restricted access to vital interventions like counselling, support groups, and respite care designed to aid them. This study aimed to explore the experiences of mothers caring for children with SMA in Ghana, where the diagnosis is often delayed and support systems are limited. Methods: We conducted an interpretative phenomenological study with a purposive sample of seven mothers whose children, aged between 8 and 24 months, were diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and registered with the Rare Disease Ghana Initiative (RDGI). Individual interviews were conducted between August and September 2023 using semi-structured interview guides. The data were manually analysed using a pen-and-paper method. The study adhered to ethical guidelines, including informed consent procedures and confidentiality measures to protect participants' rights and privacy. Results: This study explored mothers' experiences caring for children with SMA, revealing a spectrum of challenges that impact their physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. The findings identified five dominant themes and thirteen subcategories, encompassing issues such as sleep deprivation, mental health concerns, emotional turmoil, practical difficulties, and social isolation. It was also found that mothers tend to have a deep connection to their faith and a sense of closeness to God during challenging times, which provides them with strength and comfort. This collectively identifies the difficult journey of these mothers as they seek diagnosis and treatment for their children. Conclusion: The study identified challenges faced by mothers in caring for their children with SMA. These challenges are reported to significantly impact their physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being. To support these mothers effectively, it is recommended that the Ministry of Health, Ghana Health Service, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and non-governmental organisations in Ghana should consider community engagement and education, integration of spiritual care, and psychosocial support programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]