Why Does Sex/Gender (Come to) Matter? Researchers' Reasons for Sex/Gender Assessment Illustrate its Context-Dependencies and Entanglements

Somatechnics ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 9 (2-3) ◽  
pp. 264-287
Author(s):  
Diana Schellenberg
Keyword(s):  
Social Class ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Institutional Constraints ◽  
Human History ◽  
Social Categories ◽  
Research Topics ◽  
Ethical Problems ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
Methodological Considerations ◽  
Default Assumption

The simultaneous artificiality and reality of social categories such as (dis)abilities, ethnicity, gender, race, sex, sexuality, or social class can pose methodological and ethical problems that can be obscured and aggravated by a lack of transparency about the categories' operational definitions. In the case of sex/gender, for example, theoretical and empirical evidence suggests that mutually exclusive categories such as ‘female’ and ‘male’ can fail to adequately represent human and nonhuman variability and may not meet the standards of scientific measurement. A lack of information about what these or similar labels mean, how they were derived, or what prompted their inclusion in a study can therefore make it difficult to evaluate not only the operationalizations themselves but also the data they yield. In this article, I argue for the consideration of context in the development and evaluation of sex/gender-related assessment methods by exploring the phenomenon's instrumental and abstract roles in research. In an online survey, sixty-four international researchers from various disciplines shared the reasons why they assess or report sex/gender and which purpose sex/gender variables serve in their research. The findings indicate that although researchers' motivation can stem from research topics or general methodological considerations, it is also possible that structural conventions or institutional constraints lead to default inclusions of sex/gender variables. The findings also indicate that sex/gender is attributed with various forms of agency and spatio_temporal (non)locations, ranging from concrete physiological (e.g. hormones) to abstract social concepts (e.g. human history), which could be seen as potential precursors for definitions. The results demonstrate that science is both affected by and contributes to societal constructions of social categorisations, and that sex/gender in research is an entangled, multifaceted, unstable phenomenon. I conclude by proposing to engage in the default assumption that sex/gender is not one thing that can be measured and that the dissonances that surround its assessment could be addressed by identifying and operationalizing aspects of sex/gender that are meaningful in the context of a study.

scholarly journals Patient advocacy group involvement in health technology assessments: an observational study

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ann Single ◽  
Ariana Cabrera ◽  
Simon Fifer ◽  
Jane Tsai ◽  
Jin-Young Paik ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Patient Involvement ◽  
Patient Advocacy ◽  
Health Technology ◽  
Access To Medicines ◽  
Evidence Base ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
Local Setting ◽  
Patient Advocacy Group

Abstract Background In some jurisdictions, patients and patient groups may be invited to provide input when Health Technology Assessment (HTA) is used to inform decisions about which medicines should be subsidised or funded. This input can help frame the evidence from a patient perspective, address uncertainties in the evidence and interpret it for the local setting. However, there is currently no evidence linking patient involvement with positive reimbursement decisions. Aim We aimed to understand the expectations of patient involvement in the reimbursement process, especially among cancer patient advocacy groups (PAGs) in New Zealand (Aotearoa), South Korea and Taiwan. Methods We developed an online survey to help understand the role that cancer PAGs play in reimbursement processes and identify knowledge gaps about the processes that might impact the efforts of PAGs. The survey elicited the views of staff and patients affiliated with PAGs (n = 43) on current practices and how the assessment and reimbursement of new cancer drugs might be improved. Results There was variability in knowledge of the HTA assessment processes and in experience of being involved in them. Those with HTA experience were more likely to have confidence in the process. Those who had not been involved tended to have little awareness of, or frustration with, decision-making processes. Most identified cost, finances and economic assessments as key considerations in current processes. Some respondents had clear ideas about how their knowledge and involvement could improve processes to determine the value of new medicines. However, for many, a lack of information about the basis for decision making and opportunities to be involved was a barrier to identifying process improvement. Conclusions HTA is implemented primarily in countries seeking to have fair and equitable processes for funding medicines. PAGs often recognise the financial challenges of funding new medicines and share the desire for procedural fairness. The connection PAGs make between patient involvement and improved access to new medicines may be based on the belief they can add information to the evidence base, help solve problems, ensure fairness through transparency and/or influence the culture towards increased access to medicines they value.

scholarly journals Social class and wise reasoning about interpersonal conflicts across regions, persons and situations

2017 ◽  
Vol 284 (1869) ◽  
pp. 20171870 ◽  
Author(s):  
Justin P. Brienza ◽  
Igor Grossmann
Keyword(s):  
Social Class ◽  
Cognitive Abilities ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Levels Of Analysis ◽  
Ecological Framework ◽  
Ecological Constraints ◽  
Interpersonal Conflicts ◽  
Class Differences ◽  
Interpersonal Situations ◽  
Different Levels

We propose that class is inversely related to a propensity for using wise reasoning (recognizing limits of their knowledge, consider world in flux and change, acknowledges and integrate different perspectives) in interpersonal situations, contrary to established class advantage in abstract cognition. Two studies—an online survey from regions differing in economic affluence ( n = 2 145) and a representative in-lab study with stratified sampling of adults from working and middle-class backgrounds ( n = 299)—tested this proposition, indicating that higher social class consistently related to lower levels of wise reasoning across different levels of analysis, including regional and individual differences, and subjective construal of specific situations. The results held across personal and standardized hypothetical situations, across self-reported and observed wise reasoning, and when controlling for fluid and crystallized cognitive abilities. Consistent with an ecological framework, class differences in wise reasoning were specific to interpersonal (versus societal) conflicts. These findings suggest that higher social class weighs individuals down by providing the ecological constraints that undermine wise reasoning about interpersonal affairs.

The Ethics of Suicide Research

Crisis ◽  
2009 ◽  
Vol 30 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-19 ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard Lakeman ◽  
Mary FitzGerald
Keyword(s):  
Content Analysis ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Ethics Committees ◽  
Ethics Committee ◽  
Ethical Practice ◽  
Potential Harm ◽  
Ethical Problems ◽  
Formidable Challenge ◽  
Population Potential ◽  
Research Findings

Background. Good quality, ethically sound research is needed in order to better understand, appropriately respond to, and reduce the incidence of suicide. There is, however, a lack of clarity around the nature of ethical problems associated with suicide research and how to resolve them. This is a formidable challenge for ethics committee members in approving and monitoring research. Aims. To describe the views that members of health research ethics committee hold regarding ethical problems and ethical practice in research involving people who are, or who have, been suicidal. Methods. Ethics committee members were invited to complete an online survey addressing the risks, benefits, and ethical problems associated with suicide research. Findings were aggregated into themes using an inductive form of content analysis. Results. Concerns of ethics committees centered on accessing the population, potential harm to participants or the researcher, researcher competency, maintaining confidentiality, providing support to participants, and responding sensitively to the needs of family. Conclusions. Ethical research involving suicidal people requires both procedures to protect participants, and consideration of ethics as an ongoing negotiated process. The findings of this research provide a snapshot of views held by a number of ethics committee members.

scholarly journals Teenage mothers: a long-term view on their well-being

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (Supplement_4) ◽  
Author(s):  
A M G van Tintelen ◽  
S H Bolt ◽  
D E M C Jansen
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Teenage Mothers ◽  
Long Term Results ◽  
Teenage Childbearing ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
The Social

Abstract Background This study aims to address the lack of information about teenage mothers in different stages of their lives by exploring how they are doing in the long term and the social support they receive. Methods From December 2018 to February 2019 teenage mothers in the Netherlands were recruited by Fiom (an expert centre for unintended pregnancy), via social media and a website for teenage mothers (n = 248). Using an online survey, data were obtained to assess various outcomes, such as well-being, education, work, income, housing and social support. Respondents were divided into three groups: 0-3 years after teenage childbearing (short-term), 4-12 years (medium-term), >12 years (long-term). Results were analysed using univariate and bivariate descriptions in SPSS. Results Almost 80% of the respondents reported that they were doing well and were satisfied with their life. 63.3% had a job, and 17.0% was enrolled in education. Short-term mothers worked fewer hours per week compared to long-term mothers (p < 0.001). 85.1% of the respondents reported that they received benefits, short-term mothers receiving more benefits than long-term mothers (p < 0.001). The majority (78.2%) was satisfied with their living conditions; short-term mothers were less satisfied than long-term mothers (p = 0.031). 36.3% of the respondents smoked cigarettes. Most support was given by family (83.1%), mainly from female relatives. About 24% of the respondents received formal support. Conclusions This study shows that teenage mothers, on average, were doing well and were satisfied with their life, in both the short and long term. Regarding income and housing, short-term mothers were in a less favourable position. These results suggest that as the years pass, teenage mothers overcome difficulties. Since the association between well-being and social support on the long term is unknown, we advise investigating the effect of social support on the outcomes of teenage childbearing. Key messages Both in the short-term and the long-term, most teenage mothers were doing well and satisfied with life. Regarding housing and income, short-term mothers function less well compared to long-term mothers.

Fertility preservation cost and use: Results from the LIVESTRONG survey.

2013 ◽  
Vol 31 (31_suppl) ◽  
pp. 59-59 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ruth Rechis ◽  
Stephanie Nutt ◽  
Carla Bann
Keyword(s):  
Fertility Preservation ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Survey Methods ◽  
Sperm Banking ◽  
Current State ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
Important Quality ◽  
Embryo Banking ◽  
Median Amount

59 Background: Each year nearly 70,000 adolescents and young adults (AYAs) are diagnosed with cancer. Recently, steps have been taken to address infertility, which is an important issue experienced by AYAs. For example, ASCO QOPI includes fertility standards and Walgreens and the LIVESTRONG Foundation provide financial assistance for fertility preservation medications. To better understand the current state of fertility preservation, eight questions on this topic were included on the LIVESTRONG Survey. Methods: From June to December 2012, LIVESTRONG conducted an online survey (N = 6,313). Analysis here includes the 1,333 AYA respondents who were diagnosed since 2002. Results: Only 24% of respondents (42% of males, 12% of females) indicated they took steps to preserve their fertility before beginning treatment. Top reasons for not preserving their fertility were not receiving information about options (19%) and/or information about the risks to their fertility (14%). For the AYAs who did preserve their fertility, the median amount spent on fertility expenses was between $1,000 and $2,499 (Table) with males spending significantly less than females (p < 0.001). Mostly commonly, males used sperm banking (97%) while females used egg and embryo banking (each 35%). The majority all who attempted to become pregnant were successful (58% and 68% respectively). Conclusions: Results from this analysis indicate that few survivors took steps to preserve their fertility before starting treatment. Yet for those who were interested in preserving their fertility and starting a family, the majority of individuals were successful. Many individuals reported not preserving their fertility due to a lack of information or resources. While a relatively small number of survivors will have fertility concerns, this is an important quality of life issue for those who do. [Table: see text]

You Are What You Listen To: Young People's Stereotypes about Music Fans

2009 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 329-344 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter J. Rentfrow ◽  
Jennifer A. McDonald ◽  
Julian A. Oldmeadow
Keyword(s):  
Young Adults ◽  
Social Class ◽  
Young People ◽  
Intergroup Relations ◽  
Group Processes ◽  
Psychological Characteristics ◽  
Current Work ◽  
Social Categories ◽  
Personal Qualities ◽  
Musical Genres

Research suggests that young people use music to express themselves and to make claims about their identities. The current work considered the possible consequences of using music in this way. Using a sample of 80 British young adults, we aimed to replicate and extend previous research on the stereotypes that young people have about fans of various musical genres. It was hypothesized that individuals attribute similar psychological characteristics and social categories to fans of certain styles of music and that those distinct associations are generalizable. Results indicated that judges agreed on both the psychological (personality, personal qualities and values) and social (ethnicity and social class) characteristics of music fans, that the content of the music-genre stereotypes varied between genres, and that the stereotypes are geographically robust. The implications of this work for group processes and intergroup relations are discussed.

scholarly journals Age differences explain social class differences in students’ friendship at university: Implications for transition and retention.

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mark Rubin
Keyword(s):  
Social Class ◽  
Middle Class ◽  
Working Class ◽  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Age Differences ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Policy Implications ◽  
Class Differences ◽  
Working Class Students ◽  
Social Class Difference

The present research tested the hypotheses that (a) working-class students have fewer friends at university than middle-class students, and (b) this social class difference occurs because working-class students tend to be older than middle-class students. A sample of 376 first-year undergraduate students from an Australian university completed an online survey that contained measures of social class and age as well as quality and quantity of actual and desired friendship at university. Consistent with predictions, age differences significantly mediated social class differences in friendship. The Discussion focuses on potential policy implications for improving working-class students’ friendships at university in order to improve their transition and retention.

scholarly journals A SURVEY OF PHARMACY STAFF KNOWLEDGE RELATED TO ANTIBIOTICS IN SIDOARJO, INDONESIA

2020 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 142-149
Author(s):  
Ilil Maidatuz Zulfa ◽  
Fitria Dewi Yunitasari
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Good Knowledge ◽  
Antibiotics Resistance ◽  
Minimum Length ◽  
Pharmacy Staff ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Developed Country ◽  
Lack Of Information ◽  
Antibiotics Use ◽  
Infection Disease

Antibiotics resistance still remains the problem in treating infection disease both in developing and developed country. One of the factor contribute to the increase of antibiotics resistance is irrational antibiotics use without prescriptions. There is still lack of information about factors related to the antibiotics dispense by pharmacy staff. This study was aimed to observe pharmacy staff knowledge about the pharmacology and the regulation of antibiotics. A cross sectional online survey using questionnaire was conducted to pharmacy staff who work for service in Sidoarjo from February to April 2020. The knowledge of antibiotics was classified into lack, enough, and good knowledge. A total of 233 respondents from 56 pharmacy recruited in this study. Of them, 17,17% were pharmacist; 10,73% were pharmacy technician; 52,36% were pharmacy assistant and 19,74%  non pharmacy worker. Overall the majority of respondents had a good knowledge about antibiotics (48,93%). However, most of them did not know that only pharmacist who had responsible to dispense antibiotics based on prescriptions (58,37%), fail to describe antibiotics indications (46,35%) and had poor knowledge about the minimum length of antibiotics course (58,37%). Educating and upskilling pharmacy personel about antibiotics will minimize the irrational use of antibiotics which lead to the increase of antibiotics resistance caused by the lack information received by patients.

scholarly journals Ομοφυλοφιλία, ουσιοποίηση και ταυτότητα στο λόγο ομοφυλόφιλων και ετεροφυλόφιλων ανδρών

2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 71
Author(s):  
Ιωάννης Μίχος ◽  
Λία Φίγγου
Keyword(s):  
Social Psychology ◽  
Intergroup Relations ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Homosexual Men ◽  
Discursive Psychology ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Social Categories ◽  
Research Topics

Essentialism of social categories and its consequences on intergroup relations constitute one of the most popular research topics in social psychology. Drawing upon the relevant literature, the present study explores essentialist and de-essentialist representations about homosexual men and their identity functions in discourse. Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight men who identified themselves as homosexual and eight men who identified themselves as heterosexual. Interviews were analyzed by the use of the principles of discursive psychology and rhetoric. Analysis indicated the coexistence of essentialist and de-essentialist representations of homosexuality in the discourse of both groups as a result of the negotiation and reconceptualization of naturalness, historical stability and normality of social categories. However, similar essentialist representations –suchas the historical stability of homosexuality– perform different intergroup functions, whereas different entitative representations perform common intergroup functions in the discourse of homosexual and heterosexual participants.

scholarly journals Analytical and Methodological Considerations for the Use of Social Categories in Identity Research

2016 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-27 ◽  
Author(s):  
Saija Benjamin ◽  
Arniika Kuusisto
Keyword(s):  
Critical Reflection ◽  
Complex Nature ◽  
Third Culture ◽  
Social Categories ◽  
Third Culture Kid ◽  
Methodological Considerations

This paper examines the limitations of measuring identities as based on pre-selected categories, such as ‘immigrant' or ‘Third Culture Kid', within which the individuals are placed according to particular criteria. Simplified, etic categories fail to mirror the complex identifications of the contemporary individual and strengthen essentialism related to ethnicities, cultures and religions. This paper discusses the problematic related to categorization at both analytical and methodological levels. The need for critical reflection on the use of social categories to portray identities is highlighted in general. The adequacy of surveys to measure and examine identities is questioned in particular. This paper illustrates the need to approach identities from emic-etic perspectives and multiple angles in order to grasp a more multilayered view into the complex nature of identity.

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