scholarly journals Responding to a Radiological Crisis: Experiences of British Foreign Office Staff in Japan After the Fukushima Nuclear Meltdown

2014 ◽  
Vol 8 (5) ◽  
pp. 397-403 ◽  
Author(s):  
Savita Bakhshi ◽  
Rebecca Lynn-Nicholson ◽  
Bryony Jones ◽  
Richard Amlôt ◽  
Neil Greenberg ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Radiation Risk ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Office Staff ◽  
The Public ◽  
Foreign Office ◽  
Mixed Feelings ◽  
British Foreign Office ◽  
British Embassy ◽  
The Impact

AbstractObjectivesTo identify factors that affected well-being among British embassy staff based in Japan after the 2011 earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear meltdown.MethodsIn-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 36 members of staff 8 to 9 months after the earthquake.ResultsParticipants described their crisis work as stressful, exciting, and something of which they were proud. Aside from disaster-specific stressors, factors identified as stressful included unclear roles, handing over work to new personnel, being assigned to office-based work, feeling that work was not immediately beneficial to the public, not taking good-quality breaks, and difficulties with relatives. The radiation risk provoked mixed feelings, with most participants being reassured by contact with senior scientists.ConclusionsInterventions to safeguard the well-being of personnel during crisis work must consider the impact of a broad range of stressors.(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2014;0:1-7)

‘Gentlemen, the Cheese Is All Gone!’ British POWs, the ‘Great Escape’ and the Anglo-German Agreement for Compensation to Victims of Nazism

2008 ◽  
Vol 17 (1) ◽  
pp. 23-43 ◽  
Author(s):  
SUSANNA SCHRAFSTETTER
Keyword(s):  
Public Opinion ◽  
National Socialism ◽  
West Germany ◽  
Political Pressure ◽  
The West ◽  
German Government ◽  
The Public ◽  
Foreign Office ◽  
British Foreign Office ◽  
The Impact

AbstractIn 1964 the West German government agreed to provide £1 million in financial compensation to British victims of National Socialism. The distribution of the money, organised by the British foreign office, turned into a major public scandal, as a number of British POWs, among them survivors of the ‘great escape’, had their claims rejected. By examining the refusal of several British POWs to accept their exclusion from the scheme, the article addresses the interplay of political pressure and public opinion that led to a parliamentary inquiry into what became known as ‘the Sachsenhausen affair’ in 1967. Given that provisions of the agreement with West Germany had precluded indemnification to mistreated POWs, the distribution of the money almost inevitably led to bitterness and discontent. From this perspective, the article explores the impact of the Great Escape on British memory of the war, the public reception of the film The Great Escape (1963), and the way in which public memory influenced the debate on compensation.

scholarly journals The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Working Conditions, Employment, Career Development and Well-Being of Refugee Researchers

Societies ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 71
Author(s):  
Ourania Tzoraki ◽  
Svetlana Dimitrova ◽  
Marin Barzakov ◽  
Saad Yaseen ◽  
Vasilis Gavalas ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Appropriate Technology ◽  
Public Authorities ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Home Setting ◽  
The Public ◽  
Work From Home ◽  
The Impact

The ongoing ‘refugee crisis’ of the past years has led to the migration of refugee researchers (RRs) to European countries. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, RRs often had to work from home and/or to continue their social, cultural and economic integration process under new conditions. An online survey carried out to explore the impact of the pandemic on the refugee researchers showed that RRs found it difficult to adapt their everyday working life to the ‘home’ setting. The majority have had neither a suitable work environment at home nor the appropriate technology. Although they stated that they are rather pleased with the measures taken by the public authorities, they expressed concern about their vulnerability due to their precarious contracts and the bureaucratic asylum procedures, as the pandemic has had a negative impact on these major issues. The majority of RRs working in academia seem not to have been affected at all as far as their income is concerned, while the majority of those employed in other sectors became unemployed during the pandemic (58%). Recommendations are provided to the public authorities and policy makers to assist RRs to mitigate the consequences of the pandemic on their life.

scholarly journals Vision-related quality of life in adults with severe peripheral vision loss: a qualitative interview study

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ryan Lange ◽  
Abigail Kumagai ◽  
Sara Weiss ◽  
Katherine B. Zaffke ◽  
Sherry Day ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Contrast Sensitivity ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Vision Impairment ◽  
Qualitative Interview Study ◽  
Patient Reported ◽  
Related Quality ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Background Existing patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures may not be relevant to the full range of functional and vision-related quality of life (VR-QOL) concerns of individuals with vision impairment due to severe peripheral field loss (PFL). Measurement of VR-QOL in severe PFL is important in order to determine the effectiveness of vision rehabilitation interventions for this population. The purpose of this study was to characterize the impact of severe PFL due to retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and glaucoma on VR-QOL as the initial phase in the development of a novel PRO measure. Methods Individuals with severe PFL due to RP or glaucoma were recruited from the Kellogg Eye Center and the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Participants completed semi-structured qualitative interviews, the Impact of Vision Impairment (IVI) questionnaire and the RAND 36-Item Health Survey. Interviews were analyzed by two coders using thematic analysis. A matrix analysis was conducted to compare VR-QOL by cause of severe PFL. Sample size was determined by thematic saturation. Results The study included 37 participants (19 RP, 18 glaucoma). Median best-corrected visual acuity for those with RP and glaucoma was 20/40 and 20/27.5, while Pelli-Robson contrast sensitivity was 1.2 log contrast sensitivity (logCS) and 1.1 logCS, respectively. Median domain scores on the IVI (reading, mobility, well-being) ranged from a low of − 0.2 to a high of 0.7 logits in those with RP and from 0.5 to 1.2 logits in those with glaucoma. Qualitative interviews identified six VR-QOL themes relevant across participants with both RP and glaucoma, including activity limitations, driving, emotional well-being, reading, mobility, and social function. VR-QOL concerns were largely consistent among those with severe PFL due to RP and glaucoma. These overarching themes contained content relevant to specific challenges related to severe PFL. Conclusions There are commonly occurring VR-QOL concerns among individuals with severe PFL due to RP and glaucoma. The outlined themes will serve as the basis for development of the Low Vision Severely Constricted Peripheral Eyesight (LV-SCOPE) Questionnaire.

Public Sector Employment, Quality of Government, and Well-Being: A Global Analysis

2021 ◽  
pp. 223386592110117
Author(s):  
Robert Davidson ◽  
Alexander Pacek ◽  
Benjamin Radcliff
Keyword(s):  
Public Sector ◽  
Global Analysis ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Subjective Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Political Factors ◽  
The Public ◽  
Employment Quality ◽  
The Impact

While a growing literature within the study of subjective well-being demonstrates the impact of socio-political factors on subjective well-being, scholars have conspicuously failed to consider the role of the size and scope of government as determinants of well-being. Where such studies exist, the focus is largely on the advanced industrial democracies of the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development. In this study, we examine the size of the public sector as a determinant of cross-national variation in life satisfaction across a worldwide sample. Our findings strongly suggest that as the public sector grows, subjective well-being increases as well, conditional on the extent of quality of government. Using cross-sectional data on 84 countries, we show this relationship has an independent and separable impact from other economic and political factors.

scholarly journals International Students’ Perceptions and Experiences of British Drinking Cultures

2018 ◽  
Vol 23 (3) ◽  
pp. 572-588 ◽  
Author(s):  
Thomas Thurnell-Read ◽  
Lorraine Brown ◽  
Philip Long
Keyword(s):  
International Students ◽  
International Student ◽  
Social Space ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Heavy Drinking ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Drinking Habits ◽  
Public House ◽  
The Uk ◽  
The Impact

While the increased scale and importance of international students to the UK Higher Education sector is now well established, little is known about the ways in which students from non-UK countries experience and interact with the heavy drinking culture that predominates on and near many British universities. Drawing on qualitative interviews, this article analyses the perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of British drinking cultures held by international students studying on postgraduate courses at a UK university. Students report prior awareness of alcohol consumption being important to British culture and recount both positive and negative experiences of witnessing and, for many, participating in drinking alcohol. Students make ready comparisons with the drinking habits and attitudes of their own culture. Further still, many made a distinction between the public house, or ‘pub’, as a welcoming and friendly social space, and bars and nightclubs, where a far greater risk of exposure to violence and harassment was perceived. The article provides theoretical insights to support future and more wide-ranging research into mobile drinking cultures and also suggests practical implications to inform stakeholders with interests in the welfare of international students in the UK in relation to the provision of effective and proactive policies which address the impact of British drinking cultures on international student integration and well-being.

Impact of COVID 19 pandemic on psychological wellbeing of oncology clinicians in MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region.

2021 ◽  
Vol 39 (15_suppl) ◽  
pp. e24105-e24105
Author(s):  
Muhammad Farooq Latif ◽  
Faisal Azam ◽  
Syed Hammad Tirmazy ◽  
Shahid Bashir ◽  
Fahad Ibnshamsah ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Sector ◽  
Psychological Stress ◽  
Female Gender ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Average Score ◽  
Mena Region ◽  
The Public ◽  
Medical Oncologists ◽  
Generalized Anxiety Disorders ◽  
The Impact

e24105 Background: Cancer care has been severely affected by covid 19 pandemic leading to medical, ethical and organizational issues. Oncology healthcare professionals face challenges due to reorganization of cancer services and increasing health care requirements resulting in uncertainty and psychological stress. Aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of covid 19 pandemic on psychological well being of oncology clinicians in the MENA region. Methods: We randomly invited 1500 oncology clinicians including medical oncologists, clinical oncologists, radiation oncologists and surgical oncologists from 17 countries in the MENA region to complete a web based survey to determine the level of psychological stress during covid 19 pandemic from October 2020 to January 2021. The questionnaire was based on Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Generalized Anxiety Disorders Scale (GAD-7) and WHO Well-being Index (WHO-5). The data was analyzed using SPSS version 21 and difference between groups was measured by T-test and ANOVA. Results: Overall 520 (35%) oncology clinicians including 368 (71%) males and 152 (29%) females participated in the survey. Most of the participants were medical oncologists (38%) from teaching institutions (76%) and the public sector (84%). 46% (n = 242) participants were 35-45 years of age. Majority of clinicians reported moderate (45.6%) to severe (42.3%) anxiety on GAD-7 scale. Females had statistically higher levels of anxiety (average score;15.46 ±4.87, p = 0.04). On PSS, the majority of participants reported higher stress with average scores (29.64 ±3.83) for males and (30.23 ±4.62) for females. Average score for WHO wellbeing index was 62.95 (±20.52) for males and 74.3 (±20.87) for females denoting a preservation of general well being, even in a higher stress and anxiety situation. Female gender was significantly associated with anxiety level on GAD-7 scale (p = 0.04), but this difference in stress level and well being was not observed on PSS (p = 0.134) and WHO well being index (p = 0.709). Clinicians of ages 25-35 years had significantly higher anxiety levels on GAD-7 scale (p = 0.004) and higher stress on PSS (p = 0.000). Age over 55 years was associated with lower levels of anxiety and stress on GAD-7 and PSS. Oncology clinicians working in public sector experienced significantly lower stress as compared to private sector on PSS scale (p = 0.041) Conclusions: Covid 19 pandemic has significantly increased the anxiety and stress levels among oncology clinicians in the MENA region. Anxiety and stress were higher in females and young clinicians. Clinicians over 55 years of age and oncologists working in the public sector reported less stress and anxiety. General well being of clinicians was well preserved even in a highly stressful and anxious situation.

Impact of Rock Lyrics and Music Videos on Children and Youth

PEDIATRICS ◽  
1989 ◽  
Vol 83 (2) ◽  
pp. 314-315 ◽  
Author(s):  
Keyword(s):  
Role Models ◽  
Rock Music ◽  
Self Regulation ◽  
Music Industry ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Best Interest ◽  
Positive Role ◽  
The Public ◽  
Good Taste ◽  
The Impact

Rock music has undergone dramatic changes since its introduction 30 years ago and is an issue of vital interest and concern for parents and pediatricians. Rock music lyrics have become increasingly explicit during the last two decades—particularly with reference to sex and drugs. Some lyrics communicate potentially harmful health messages. These lyrics are of special concern in today's environment, which poses unprecedented threats to the health and well-being of adolescents, including pregnancy, drug use, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (and other sexually transmitted diseases), accidents, and suicide. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly opposes censorship. According to the Federal Communications Commission, the public owns the airways, which are leased back to radio and television stations that are obligated to produce programming in the public's best interest. Good taste and self-regulation by consumers, media, and the music industry would be appropriate and effective solutions. The AAP, therefore, recommends that: 1. The public, and parents in particular, be made aware of sexually explicit, drug-oriented, or violent lyrics on records and tapes. 2. Broadcasters and the music industry be encouraged to demonstrate good taste and self-restraint in decisions regarding what is produced and allowed to be broadcast. 3. Rock performers be reminded that they can serve as positive role models for children and teenagers. 4. The AAP and other concerned organizations encourage parents to take a more active role in monitoring music to which their children are exposed. 5. Local coalitions of pediatricians, educators, and parents discuss the effects of the media on children and teenagers. 6. Research concerning the impact rock music has on the behavior of adolescents and preadolescents be developed and supported.

scholarly journals Roger Mellor Makins, G. C. B., G. C. M. G., D. L., the 1st Baron Sherfield. 3 February 1904–9 November 1996

1998 ◽  
Vol 44 ◽  
pp. 267-278
Author(s):  
Lord Selborne
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
Nuclear Weapons ◽  
Atomic Energy ◽  
Public And Private ◽  
Policy Issues ◽  
The Public ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Foreign Office ◽  
British Embassy ◽  
The University

In the course of a long and highly distinguished life, Lord Sherfield served in the Foreign Office, becoming Ambassador in Washington, was Joint Permanent Secretary of the Treasury, Chairman of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority, Chancellor of the University of Reading, and held many other posts in the public and private sectors. In 1945, when Minister at the British Embassy in Washington, he took responsibility for advising on policy issues related to the nuclear weapons programme. Thereafter he was to remain an enthusiastic and most effective contributor to the advancement of science and technology.

scholarly journals PROMOTION OF CULTURAL GENERATIVITY TO SUPPORT SUCCESSFUL AGING IN ALASKA NATIVE COMMUNITIES

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S830-S830
Author(s):  
Steffi M Kim ◽  
Jordan P Lewis
Keyword(s):  
Alaska Native ◽  
Successful Aging ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Future Generations ◽  
Cultural Elements ◽  
Native Communities ◽  
School Activities ◽  
Meaningful Engagement ◽  
The Impact

Abstract The psychological construct of generativity encompasses a person’s motivation to leave a legacy for future generations by investing in acts that will outlive the self (Ericson, 1950). Lewis and Allen (2017) outlined the importance of generativity within AN cultures (caring for the future of our youth) and expanded Erikson’s western-based definition by adding the indigenous cultural generativity component to describe and incorporate Alaska Native specific cultural elements. These culturally based elements involve giving back to family and community including guidance and teaching of future generations (Lewis & Allen, 2017). Generativity within western societies accentuates independent achievements and successes more than the notion to care for future generations. This study is part of a larger community-based, exploratory, study between researchers and communities to explore successful aging that included 42 Alaska Native Elders in the Norton-Sound subregion, 21 Alaska Native Elders from the Aleutian Pribilof Islands, and 26 Elders from the Bristol Bay region. Qualitative interviews explored the participant’s life, influences on aging well, and their aging process. Thematic analysis was used to investigate the impact of generativity on successful aging was used to establish codes and main themes based on the three different cultural regions of Alaska. The findings suggest that generativity promotes successful aging. Elders who live in communities that promote community engagement, support family and school activities, and maintain and/or revitalize culture and traditions reported increased emotional well-being. Results can guide communities to incorporate or support cultural activities that promote generative activities and meaningful engagement which fosters successful aging.

The emergence of personal growth amongst healthcare professionals who care for dying children

2017 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 298-307 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laura Beaune ◽  
Barbara Muskat ◽  
Samantha J. Anthony
Keyword(s):  
Compassion Fatigue ◽  
Personal Growth ◽  
Healthcare Professionals ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Secondary Analysis ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Three Dimensions ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Dying Children ◽  
The Impact

ABSTRACTObjective:Compassion fatigue, burnout, and vicarious traumatization are prominent topics in the current literature on the impact of the rewarding but challenging work of healthcare professionals who care for patients with life-limiting illnesses. The positive effects of caregiving constitute a newly emerging outcome that has been relatively unexplored in the pediatric literature, and yet they may play an important role in contributing to the satisfaction and well-being of the healthcare professionals who care for children who have a life-limiting illness.Method:This paper reports the results of a secondary analysis of qualitative interview transcripts that explored the experiences of hospital-based pediatric healthcare providers caring for children with varied life-limiting illnesses. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 25 healthcare professionals (9 social workers, 8 nurses, and 8 physicians). The majority of participants were women (80%), with an age range between 20 and 60 years, and most (84%) had the experience of caring for more than 15 dying children. Thematic analysis was conducted using interpretive description and constant comparison.Results:Every healthcare professional interviewed experienced personal growth as a result of their providing care for dying children. Three dimensions of personal growth were most consistently reported: (1) new or altered life perspectives, (2) enhanced personal resources, and (3) benevolence.Significance of results:A deeper understanding of the phenomenon of personal growth could help healthcare organizations to implement innovative approaches that would counterbalance compassion fatigue, and thereby enhance both healthcare provider well-being and child and family outcomes.

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