Journal of Population and Social Studies [JPSS]

Subjectivities of Older Spousal Caregivers in Rural Northern Thailand: A Qualitative Study on Sociocultural Influences

Uthaikan Thanapet, Penchan Pradubmook-Sherer — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0700

The aging society and changes in living arrangements significantly impact family caregiving patterns, particularly in older spousal caregivers. This study examined how the subjectivities of older spousal caregivers have been shaped by social discourse and practices. A qualitative research approach was adopted in rural northern villages in Thailand. Data collection included 1) narrative interviews with eight older primary spousal caregivers and eight family members and neighbors, 2) in-depth interviews with ten healthcare providers, and 3) participatory observation. Both thematic and inductive methods of data analysis were applied. The finding demonstrated three distinct subjectivities regarding caregivers: older persons, medical, and sociocultural discourse. Medical and older people’s discourses influenced negative subjectivity on older caregivers regarding their physical decline with age; however, positive subjectivity of being a compassionate and capable caregiver was regarded as a valuable role. The findings reflected the changing sociocultural discourse in the northern region of Thailand. A caregiver is perceived as kon jàa, which refers to the committed role of both wife and husband, who care for their spouse for the rest of their lives. The implications of this study can benefit community-based care systems by enhancing the understanding of social and cultural discourse on caring and couplehood and incorporating caregiver needs into the care plan of older people with chronic illnesses.

Beyond Tradition: Exploring Alternative Marital Strategies for Belis in the Southwest Sumba Regency

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0700

In Southwest Sumba, the belis tradition, or bride price, is a crucial aspect of marriage practices. While the system is intended to honor and show appreciation for the bride and her family, symbolizing the groom’s commitment and respect, it often results in substantial financial burdens, causing social dilemmas and prompting alternative practices. Based on this fact, this paper investigates the influence of the belis tradition and the emergence of alternative marriage practices in Southwest Sumba. Through qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews and participatory observations in the Southwest Sumba Regency, the experiences and perspectives of individuals involved in belis practice are explored. The result showed that financial constraints and the burden of belis obligations prompt some couples to seek alternatives such as dowo koro [entering the room], pregnancy out of wedlock [pakabu ulu], and elopement [pakodong], or softer approaches like paying belis and postponing marriage [kahaya ulu mata]. They go beyond tradition. These alternatives reflect shifting social norms regarding financial considerations, independence, and relationship equality. The study contributes to understanding the complexities of marriage and belis traditions in Southwest Sumba, particularly among young people in the Perono community of the Buku Bani site. It emphasizes the evolving nature of marriage within changing cultural contexts and underscores the importance of recognizing individual values and aspirations.

Fertility Decline in Egypt: From Overpopulation Fears to Below-Replacement Fertility and Policy Challenges

Antar A. Aboukorin — Sat, 22 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Although Egypt’s fertility rate has rapidly declined since 1950, fears of overpopulation are mounting in media outlets and government agendas. This paper argues that these fears are exaggerated and unjustifiable and could pose demographic & development challenges for Egypt. Therefore, the paper aims to statistically examine the projected fertility rates in Egypt until 2100. According to United Nations data, three significant results have been reached. First, Egypt is projected to go below the replacement fertility of 2.32 by 2045 and the replacement fertility of 2.11 by 2058. According to the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) data, these dates are projected to be 13 to 21 years earlier, in 2032 and 2037, respectively. Second, by 2100, Egypt’s fertility rate will go as low as 1.85 (United Nations data) and only 1.59 (JRC data). Third, by 2100, Egypt will almost have the same fertility level as France, Germany, Japan, and Italy, all currently suffering acute demographic problems. These results demonstrate that fertility rates in Egypt are projected to continue declining; thus, fears of overpopulation are exaggerated and unjustifiable. However, Egyptian governments since 1976 viewed the fertility level as “Too High.” This situation could be inappropriate for Egypt and pose many demographic and development challenges.

Clustering of Communicable Diseases in Indonesia and the Factors that Affect Them: 2018 Basic Health Research Data Statistical Review

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0700

The prevalence of communicable diseases in Indonesia is still high and causes morbidity and mortality in several Indonesian provinces. This cross-sectional study classified provinces based on the prevalence of seven communicable diseases: acute respiratory infections (ARI), pneumonia, diarrhea, filariasis, malaria, hepatitis, and tuberculosis (TB). The study analyzed the 2018 Indonesian Basic Health Research data. It is essential to categorize these diseases to identify regions with low, moderate, and high prevalence and the factors that affect them to facilitate the treatment of these diseases. Grouping provinces and influenced factors were analyzed using K-means, ANOVA, and stepwise regression. The results revealed that Group 1 shows a high prevalence, except for hepatitis and diarrhea. Group 2 demonstrates a moderate prevalence, excluding hepatitis and diarrhea, while Group 3 has a low prevalence. Improved access to primary healthcare services reduced the prevalence of pneumonia and TB, while using insecticide-treated mosquito nets for less than three years increased the prevalence of ARI and pneumonia. Adequate bedroom lighting reduced the prevalence of ARI, whereas being underweight in individuals over 18 increased it. In individuals aged 16–18 with short stature, there was an increase in the prevalence of hepatitis and malaria. Regularly draining the bathtub once a week and ensuring proper bedroom ventilation reduced the incidence of diarrhea. Using improved long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) for mosquitos led to a decrease in filariasis cases. Specific factors influence each communicable disease and necessitate a multisectoral approach for effective treatment.

The Cultural Remittance and Hybridization of Confucian Practices: Placemaking of Vietnamese Migrants Working in Thailand

Le Van Ton, Achariya Choowonglert — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0700

The impact of remittances on development extends beyond economic growth for families and communities. This paper explores the cultural practices of Vietnamese migrants working in Thailand through a multi-sited ethnographic research methodology done in two countries – Thailand and Vietnam, including accompanying Vietnamese workers to Thailand. Specifically, it focuses on the influence of Confucian practices of cultural remittance and hybridization on placemaking within the migrant community in Vietnam. The study highlights the profound impact of remittances on development and the positive transformations they bring to the migrants' place of origin. It examines how Confucian practices shape the identities of the places of origin and Vietnamese migrants employed in Thailand. The authors argue that migrants involved in the informal economy have the annual opportunity to return home and contribute to the economy and culture of their homeland. For three decades, this process of transculturality has occurred as cultural remittances gradually hybridized with the local culture, enabling individuals to construct new identities and actively participate in placemaking. Consequently, the meaning of place of origin changes significantly from a negative place to a prominent, modern, and civilized community. This shift broadens the definition of what it means to be ‘good people,’ firmly rooted in the ideals of Confucianism.

Community Care Strategies for Older Adults Facing Hardships: Insights from Central Thailand

Bualun Hinkaew, Khanitta Nuntaboot — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0700

The focus of the study is to analyze the community care approach for older adults facing hardships in the social and cultural context of the central region of Thailand. To obtain insightful information, a qualitative research study was performed using observation methods, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, secondary data, and field notes. A group of 85 key informants consisting of local administrative organizations (LAO), public sector officers from health service units, community leaders, civil groups, older adults facing hardships, and family caregivers participated in the study. There are nine approaches employed in the community care practices for older adults facing hardships as follows: 1) providing social welfare; 2) preparing and using information; 3) developing a service system; 4) developing potential in caring for older adults; 5) adjusting the environment to ensure its contribution to the living conditions; 6) rules, regulations, agreements, and policies; 7) creating job opportunities; 8) building food security; and 9) building and strengthening community networks. Understanding in-depth information regarding the nature of older adults, community strategies, and community involvement assists nurses in health management and increasing skills and knowledge on providing care for older adults.

Trend and Factors Associated With Unintended Pregnancy Among Currently Married Women in Nepal

Rita Devi Karki, Naba Raj Thapa, Govind Subedi, Tek Mani Karki — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Unintended pregnancy, a critical concern in both human rights and public health, emphasizes women’s fundamental right to make decisions about their fertility, which is vital for their reproductive choices. The study aimed at examining the trends and factors related to unintended pregnancy, an area that has received less focus in previous research. This study analyzed 15 years of data (2001–2016) from four national surveys in Nepal, focusing on currently married women aged 15–49 who were currently pregnant or had the last birth experienced within five years before the survey. The sample included 4,694, 4,006, 4,104, and 3,966 females from the 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016 surveys respectively. This study used bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis to examine unintended pregnancy. In 2001, 39.4% of women experienced an unintended pregnancy, but over 15 years, this rate decreased by almost half, reaching 19.9% in 2016. Age, number of household members, wealth index, age at first birth, children ever born, fertility preference, unmet need for family planning, and husband’s desire for children were significantly associated with unintended pregnancy in all the survey years. The results suggest a need for policies that ensure all pregnancies are intended, promoting reproductive rights and justice for women.

Drivers of Food Waste Reduction Intention Among Indonesian Young Generation

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Solid waste management presents a significant challenge in Indonesia, with food waste accounting for 40.8% of all solid waste generated. The young generation is the largest producer of food waste compared to adults. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that consumer behavior is the main factor causing food waste in middle-income countries. Considering that the younger generation occupies 24.34% of Indonesia's population, this study aimed to analyze the determinants of food waste reduction intention among the young generation in Indonesia. The Extended Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) with four new introductory variables was used as a theoretical framework to understand the intentions of the young generation in Indonesia regarding food waste reduction. Data was collected from the young generation spread across Indonesia through an online survey using questionnaires, which resulted in 340 respondents. Data were then analyzed using descriptive analysis and partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the conceptual model and hypotheses proposed. The results showed that perceived behavioral control (PBC), food consumption, level of religious knowledge, and level of knowledge significantly influence food waste reduction intention. Religious knowledge was the most influential predictor. This is in line with the nature of the Indonesian community, which is highly religious, and religion profoundly guides daily lives. Based on the results, this study recommended three practical implications for reducing food waste and is expected to contribute to ensuring food security and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.