VOLUME 15 | ISSUE 2 | SEPTEMBER, 2025
(The next ISSUE of HRR comes in April 2026)
Agnotology, Trustworthiness, and Uncertainty in the Presentation of Research Findings
Peter V. Paul and Husnija Hasanbegovic
As editors and scholars, we have a few serious concerns about the presentation of research findings in refereed journals. These concerns range from a lack of theoretical, research, or contextual foundation to misinterpretation of information to a misunderstanding of the assumptions or limitations of specific research methods. These concerns are fueled by what we consider to be unethical scientific practices such as plagiarism, confirmation or citation bias, piecemeal or “salami-slicing” presentation, “cherry-picking” statements, and unchecked or, possibly, unread references. The pressures to publish or to obtain research funding, the overwhelming responsibilities of professors in university settings, or even an insufficient understanding of information in manuscripts can lead to the “cutting of corners” in scholarly research endeavors. Subsequently, this can not only cast doubt on the veracity of reported results in professional fields, but also mislead educators and practitioners by taking advantage of their limited understanding of the research process. We discussed these issues with the hope of encouraging scholars to avoid or minimize these pitfalls and to maintain the integrity of published scholarly works.
Keywords: agnotology, bias, plagiarism, trustworthiness, uncertainty, unchecked assumptions
Antibiotic Resistance of Staphylococcus aureus From Nasal and Throat Swabs of Healthy
Individuals from the Tuzla Canton Region
Suad Siranovic, Sanel Deljic, Nermina Omerdic, Aldijana Avdic, Vesna Hadziavdic, Amela
Hercegovac, Selma Palavric
The objectives of this study are to determine the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in nasal and throat swab samples collected from healthy individuals within a population of workers and students, analyze its frequency in relation to the gender distribution of partici- pants, and assess the antibiotic susceptibility profile. S. aureus was isolated exclusively from nasal swab samples (111/1403). The findings indicate that nasal carriage is significantly more prevalent in male participants than in females and is independent of age. No statistically significant differences in S. aureus prevalence were observed between the worker and student populations. Resistance was detected for: penicillin, ampicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanate, oxa- cillin, cephalexin, gentamicin, erythromycin, chloramphenicol, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxaz- ole and ciprofloxacin. Further research involving a larger sample size and an extended study period is required to elucidate the influence of geographic and sociodemographic factors on S. aureus carriage, as well as the potential impact of gender on the prevalence of resistant strains.
Keywords: antibiotic resistance, carriage, Staphylococcus aureus
Successful communication requires more than knowledge of words and grammar it requires an understanding of how language is used for social and functional purposes. Collective view has suggested the current comorbidity of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder impacts with the individual social development and that over 50% of children with an inattention hyperactivity diagnosis have a linguistic impairment. Children with poor pragmatic skills often misinterpret another person’s communicative intent and have difficulty responding appropriately either verbally or nonverbally. Mastery of pragmatics is necessary for adequate engagement in different communication environments and language adaptation in accordance with social norms and expectations of the interlocutor. The aim of this research is to see if there is a correlation between hyperkinetic disorder and attention deficit and the use of pragmatic language in social interactions. Studies covered a number of methodologies for assessing pragmatic language, ADHD and ADD symptoms, social skills, school success sociometric status, including reports from teachers, parents, questionnaires, scales, tests… There are comprehensive studies in the country and abroad, on samples of children from 6 to 18 years old. This review is an effort towards provide a description for the pragmatic disorders in children with ADHD and ADD. We compared the pragmatic language profiles of children with ADHd and ADD to those of typically developing and children with ADHD and ADD were found to have higher rates of pragmatic difficulties than their typically developing peers. The results show that pragmatic language closely mediates between ADHD symptoms and social skills, but we did not come across any research examining the impact of pragmatic difficulties on school success. The general hypothesis that children with symptoms of hyperkinetic disorder and attention deficit due to pragmatic deficits have problems in social functioning and development of social skills, has been fully confirmed.
Keywords: ADHD, ADD, pragmatic disorder, communication, interaction, social skills.
The modern lifestyle, characterized by insufficient physical activity, unhealthy diets, excessive screen time, and sedentary pastimes such as video games and television, poses a significant threat to children’s health. This “epidemic of inactivity” has alarming consequences, including malnutrition, obesity, and an increased risk of long-term health conditions. This study examines parents’ attitudes toward physical activity for children in preparatory classes and finds that they generally hold a positive view, recognizing its benefits for health, growth, development, and socialization. Additionally, parents value shared physical activities with their children, seeing them as opportunities to strengthen family bonds while promoting a healthy lifestyle. In the context of modern sedentary habits, physical activity plays a crucial role in safeguarding children’s well-being. It not only satisfies their innate need for movement but also contributes to their mental and emotional health, fostering self-esteem, self-control, and independence. Encouraging an active lifestyle requires a collaborative approach among families, educators, and institutions to establish healthy habits from an early age. Physical education plays a key role in equipping students with essential skills for personal health, social interaction, and academic achievement. Therefore, prioritizing physical activity is fundamental in countering inactivity and promoting children’s overall physical, psychological, and social well-being.
Keywords: Parental Attitudes, physical activity, children, preparatory classes
Motor Planning and Execution in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review
Veselin Medenica and Lidija Ivanovic
This systematic review examines challenges in motor planning and execution among individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Seventeen papers published from 1996 to 2021 were examined, encompassing children, adolescents, and adults with ASD. The findings indicate substantial and enduring deficiencies in motor planning, including impairments in anticipatory movement control, grip selection, and adaptability to fluctuating environmental demands. Challenges in movement execution were discovered, including extended reaction times, heightened movement variability, and dependence on feedback sources. These motor deficits significantly affect everyday functioning and quality of life. Timely evaluation and intervention are crucial, emphasising therapy aimed at enhancing motor coordination and functional autonomy. The review emphasises the necessity for cohesive therapy approaches and additional investigation into the neurological foundations of motor impairments in ASD.
Keywords: autism, motor cognition, movement planning, movement planning execution, praxia
The Role of Higher Education in Promoting Media Literacy in the Age of Digital Disinformation
Suada A. Dzogovic, Blagojka Zdravkovska-Adamova, Zecir Ramcilovic
Media literacy is not just a popular phrase but a necessity in the contemporary information society, particularly in evaluating information and combating disinformation. This article explores the critical role of higher education in improving students’ media literacy, with a particular focus on universities in Kosovo and North Macedonia. The research methodology employs a mixed approach, combining curriculum analysis, focus groups, and semi-structured interviews to examine current educational practices and institutional challenges. The results show that universities play a key role in developing critical thinking but face obstacles. However, they also have the power to overcome these obstacles. Recommendations include reforming curricula to integrate media literacy, improving teacher training, and promoting interdisciplinary approaches to empower students as informed and responsible participants in the media environment. In conclusion, the findings highlight the need for systemic support in education to develop analytical skills and an ethical attitude towards information in a digital context among young people.
Keywords: Media Literacy, Digital Disinformation, Higher Education, Critical Thinking, Educational Curriculum, Interdisciplinary Approach, Media Ethics
This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of Kosovo’s democratic transition, tracing its historical trajectory from the dissolution of the Yugoslav Federation to the present day. The early 1990s marked a significant shift in Southeast Europe, initiating democratic changes that included Kosovo’s struggle against socialist dictatorship. Employing a legal-historical and political framework, this research examines the evolution of democratic processes in the Balkans following the fall of the Berlin Wall, with a focus on Kosovo’s unique challenges and achievements. The study highlights the complexities involved in establishing the rule of law in Kosovo, emphasizing the necessity for legal compliance and the protection of human rights as fundamental components of a thriving democracy. It argues that transforming citizens into active participants in democratic processes is crucial for successful transition and sustainable governance. Furthermore, the paper discusses the profound socio-economic transformations required for this transition, drawing on various scholarly sources, including historical texts, legal analyses, and constitutional studies. This research is a valuable resource for future scholars seeking to understand the intricacies of Kosovo’s democratic transition and the ongoing challenges in building a robust rule of law, ultimately contributing to the broader discourse on state-building and Euro-Atlantic integration. Keywords: Democratic Transition, Rule of Law, Kosovo, Human Rights, Euro-Atlantic Integration
Effectiveness of Individual and Group-Based Exercises on Balance, Gait, and Depression in the Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Furkan Cakir, Hulya Sisli, Mine Gulden Polat
Balance, gait, and mental status are key determinants of health and quality of life in older adults. This randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effects of individual and group-based exercises on these parameters among elderly residents of a private retirement home in Istanbul, Turkey. Twenty-four participants aged over 65 were randomly assigned to either the individual exercise group (IG) or the group-based exercise group (GG). Both groups performed active range of motion, balance, and stretching exercises, three times per week for eight weeks. While IG participants exercised independently, GG participants trained under the supervision of a physiotherapist. Baseline and post-intervention assessments included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Tinetti Balance Test (TBT), Tinetti Gait Test (TGT), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). There were no significant baseline differences. After eight weeks, the GG showed significant improvements in BBS (p=0.013), TBT (p=0.011), and BDI (p=0.039) compared to IG, indicating beneficial effects on balance and mental status.
Keywords: Balance, Depression, Exercise, Gait, Geriatrics.
Impact of Oral Exam Stress on Physiological Parameters in Students: Insights from Smart
Bracelet Monitoring - A Pilot Study
Ana Dzonlic, Lejla Jelovica and Bojan Miletic
Introduction: Stress is an essential element of students’ academic lives, especially as exams approach. Due to academic demands, social pressure, and personal expectations, stress can negatively impact students’ mental and physical health and lead to an increased risk of chronic illness. This study investigated the effects of oral exams on students’ physiological parameters. Material and Methods: The study involved 35 physiotherapy students. The “Smart Bracelet TK 30” monitored heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels before and during the exams. Results: Significant blood pressure and pulse changes were observed between resting and exam conditions. Blood glucose levels were higher in men than in women during the exams. Conclusion: Exam stress significantly impacts students’ physiological responses. Given the potential long-term health risks, preventive health strategies should be developed to help students cope with academic stress.
Keywords: blood glucose, blood pressure, pulse, stress, students
Misalignment of Inter-Curricular Areas in the Second Stage of Education in Kosovo
Esad Kurejsepi, Jasmin Jusufi, Denisa Mujo, Amra Dilji, Esma Pupe and Nahid Skenderi
This research aimed to analyze the misalignment of inter-curricular areas in teaching at the second stage of education in Kosovo. In the context of modern educational theory and practice, inter-curriculum is considered a key approach for improving the quality of teaching and integrating different educational contents. However, in Kosovo, there are certain challenges in implementing inter-curricular learning, which relate to the misalignment between different subjects and educational areas, which can negatively affect the efficiency and quality of teaching. The research was conducted through the analysis of curricula and programs, as well as through surveys of teachers and students, in order to identify existing problems and obstacles in the implementation of the inter-curricular approach. The results of the research indicate several key factors contributing to the misalignment, including the lack of professional training of teaching staff, unfavorable organization of teaching, as well as a non-systematic approach to the implementation of different areas in the educational process. Based on the obtained results, the research provides recommendations for improving the inter-curricular approach in Kosovo, including enhancing teacher training, reviewing curricula and programs, and strengthening collaboration among subject teachers. Through these recommendations, the research advocates for the creation of a more aligned educational system that will enable more efficient integration of different areas and better educational outcomes for students.
Keywords: overload of teaching topics, number of classes, curriculum, didactic triangle, and teaching efficiency
Beyond the Screen: Understanding Technology as a Tool for Learning, not a Teacher
T. Darvenkumar, Rajeshwari S, Kiruthiga E., W. Christopher Rajasekaran
In the digital age, the integration of technology into education has transformed learning environments, raising important questions about its role in the classroom. This paper explores the concept of technology as a tool for learning rather than a replacement for traditional teaching. Although technology offers innovative ways to access information, enhance engagement, and foster personalized learning experiences, it cannot replicate the critical pedagogical functions provided by teachers, such as guidance, mentorship, and contextual understanding. Through a comprehensive review of the current literature and case studies, this study highlights the limitations of over-reliance on technology in education and emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that combines the strengths of digital tools with human instruction. This study uses quantitative analysis with SPSS and a survey study to support its findings. By positioning technology as a supportive resource rather than as a standalone educator, this paper argues for the continued importance of human teachers in fostering deep learning and critical thinking in students.
Keywords: Technology in Education, Balanced Learning, Personalized Learning, Human Instruction, Pedagogical Functions
Assessment of the Inclusion of Children with Special Needs in Primary Education
Voglushe Kurteshi and Edlirë Zymberi
This research aims to assess the inclusion of children with special needs in primary education in the region of Gjilan. For this purpose, statistical data from institutions supporting children with special needs have been collected, and a survey with teachers was used to examine the inclusion of students in their classrooms. The survey method was employed to analyze the opportunities for integrating these children into schools and to assess the connection between the support and the specific needs they have. The research also includes official statistics gathered from the Directorate of Education in Gjilan, the Center for Social Work, and HENDIKOSI, which provide valuable insight into the inclusion and support that children with special needs receive. The research results show that in the region of Gjilan, the inclusion of children with special needs in schools varies, with 13.8% having intellectual disabilities, 2.1% with hearing impairments, 6.4% with visual impairments, 4.3% with multiple disabilities, 4.3% with autism, and 8.5% with hyperactivity. These data offer valuable insight into the inclusion of these children in the educational system and emphasize the importance of the necessary support to ensure they have the opportunity for a quality and equal education.
Keywords: inclusion, statistics, special needs, teachers
The Use of Computers by Students with Disabilities in Primary Schools
Refik Ramadani and Arsim Avdiu
The aim of this study is to identify and establish the technological needs of primary school children with disabilities and how assistive technologies can place them on an equal footing with their peers in the learning experience. Technology use is geared towards achieving an inclusive setting where all learners, regardless of physical or developmental limitations, can meaningfully engage. The article is based on the premise that computer technology has great potential for improving educational quality and fostering inclusion of children with special needs. The article identifies applications and tools that enable equal access to education. It also emphasizes teacher awareness and training since teachers play a basic role in the use of such technologies. Without proper preparation and collaboration with parents, technology alone is not enough to achieve full inclusion. A comprehensive approach is needed, where technology is one of several factors creating a more equitable and supportive learning environment.
Keywords: Assistive Technology, Inclusive Education, Students with Disabilities, Teacher Training, Educational Accessibility
The Effect of Explicit Writing Instruction on EFL Students' Writing Performance: A Case Study
Edina Rizvic-Eminovic, Mersad Dervic, Alma Bilic
Academic writing is a crucial skill for university students, with argumentative essays being a fundamental form of written expression. Despite various instructional approaches, students, particularly those with lower foreign language proficiency, continue to struggle with essay writing. Grounded in the socio-cognitive theoretical framework and metacognitive strategies, this study examines the impact of explicit writing instruction on English major students. It explores the effectiveness of strategies such as modelling, practice with feedback, and independent practice in enhancing students’ essay-writing performance. A total of 110 argumentative essays, produced by experimental and control groups over one semester, were analysed. The findings reveal a statistically significant improvement in overall writing performance across seven assessed criteria, though not all elements improved equally. The results underscore the necessity of teaching essay writing explicitly, demonstrating that explicit instruction is an effective approach to enhancing academic writing skills among university students.
Keywords: Academic Writing, Argumentative Essays, Explicit Writing Instruction
Teachers' Attitudes from Experience Regarding Formative Assessment in Achieving Curricular
Outcomes in Primary Education
Mensur Neziri, Veli Kryeziu and Shqipe Avdiu-Kryeziu
This research aimed to obtain teachers’ views from their experience on formative assessment in achieving curricular outcomes in primary education. To conduct the research, we used qualitative methodology, through which we collected data from 20 primary education teachers in Kosovo, with the research instrument a semi-structured interview. The research focuses on the benefits of formative assessment, its effects on the achievement of curricular outcomes, as well as the shortcomings and difficulties that teachers face when implementing formative assessment. We also reviewed various literature related to this issue by making comparisons with the findings from qualitative research, where useful results for formative assessment were obtained. Participants in the research are teachers with experience and special training in formative assessment, providing valuable information on this topic. Data analysis was conducted by coding the participating teachers, the responses were grouped into four sub-themes, which were broken down about the literature reviewed, the purpose of the research, and the research questions. This study contributes to the understanding of formative assessment practices and helps identify opportunities for its improvement in primary schools by providing recommendations for the development of effective teaching and assessment methods.
Keywords: formative assessment, students, teachers, results, curriculum
Exploring A Decade of Research Trends on Laboratory Assistants in Education: A Global
Bibliometric Analysis
Nyoto Suseno, Purwiro Harjati , Achyani and Agus Sujarwanta
Laboratory assistants play a vital role in supporting laboratory-based education through hands-on learning and the proper use of equipment. This study examines global research trends on laboratory assistants in education through a bibliometric analysis of 316 Scopus-indexed documents from 2015 to 2024. Metadata were retrieved on February 9, 2025, using the query: (“laboratory assistant” OR “lab assistant” OR “laboratory technician” OR “laboratory staff” OR “technical assistant” OR “scientific assistant”) AND education. Analysis was conducted using R-Biblioshiny and VOSviewer. Findings indicate a significant increase in publications after 2018, with a peak in 2021, followed by fluctuating citation impact. Productive authors include Fisher, Garcia, and Woodward, with Tweed having the highest citations. Major journals are Biochemia Medica, Malaria Journal, and PLOS ONE. Thematic clusters include epidemiology, workforce training, and AI-driven learning, with emerging topics in policy, certification, and global health. The study highlights growing scholarly attention and calls for further research on technology-based training and policy development.
Keywords: Bibliometric analysis, laboratory assistants, laboratory education, workforce training, science education, education
Self-Esteem as Mediator Between Family Communication, Peer Support, Emotional Intelligence, and Adolescent Social Competence
Juli Maini Sitepu, Partino, and Abd. Madjid
Social competence is a crucial aspect of adolescent development, influenced by intrapersonal and interpersonal factors. This study examines the direct and indirect effects of family communication, peer support, and emotional intelligence on social competence, with self-esteem as a mediator, among students in Full-Day Islamic secondary schools. Using an ex post facto quantitative design and survey method, data were collected from 700 students across four Islamic schools in Indonesia implementing the Full-Day School program. Analysis was conducted with SEM (AMOS 23.0) and the Sobel test. Results show that family communication, peer support, and emotional intelligence significantly and positively influence self-esteem and social competence, with self-esteem partially mediating these effects. The findings highlight the importance of family support, positive peer relationships, and emotional regulation in developing adolescents’ social skills. The study recommends promoting emotional intelligence programs and increasing parental involvement to enhance communication and strengthen students’ self-esteem and social competence.
Keywords: Social competence, family communication, peer support, emotional intelligence, self-esteem
Effective Classroom Strategies for Teachers: Managing Inappropriate Student Behaviors
Luljeta Shala, Arafat Shabani, Demush Bajrami
Managing inappropriate student behavior is crucial for effective teaching and a positive learning environment. Teachers frequently face challenges such as disruptions, bullying, and attention-seeking behaviors, which impact classroom dynamics and academic performance. Addressing these issues requires understanding their root causes and implementing effective management strategies. This study examines teachers’ and students’ perceptions of inappropriate behavior in primary and secondary schools in Kosovo. Teachers identified bullying, offensive language, cheating, and disruptions as major concerns, often attributing them to social media influence, family dynamics, and socio-economic instability. They also highlighted the need for better professional support and training. Students emphasized attention-seeking tendencies, low self-confidence, and peer interactions as key factors influencing behavior. They stressed the importance of engaging teaching methods and positive reinforcement in reducing misconduct. The findings suggest that a multifaceted approach combining structured classroom management, enhanced teacher-student communication, family collaboration, and psychological support is essential for fostering a supportive school climate. By implementing proactive strategies, schools can mitigate behavioral challenges and improve student outcomes.
Keywords: inappropriate behavior, teachers, students, classroom management, school
Predicting Probabilities of Getting a High Grade in Mathematics: Probability Analysis Based on
Previous Scores using Machine Learning Techniques
Senad Orhani, Esma Canhasi-Kasemi, Ismet Temaj
This paper examines the possibilities of predicting high mathematics scores by analyzing likelihood and probability, based on students’ previous scores, and using advanced machine learning techniques to optimize predictions. The main purpose of the study is to create a model that can predict the likelihood that a student will achieve a high grade on future math tests, based on their performance history and other influencing factors, such as frequency of preparation, grade point average, class participation, as well as socio-economic data. The methodology used in this study is the quantitative approach with a predictive and analytical study design. In this research, data from previous test results are analyzed and statistical models and machine learning algorithms are used, such as logistic regression, random forests, and neural networks, to build a predictive model. To train and test the model, the data is divided into a training group and a test group, while the efficiency of the model is evaluated using the measures of accuracy, positive precision (precision), care (recall), and f1-score. This process helps identify the factors that most influence math outcomes and provides important insights for educators on ways to predict student success. The results show that machine learning models, based on previous performance data, have a high accuracy in predicting high grades and can be used as support tools to personalize teaching. By providing a more accurate estimate of the probability of success, this study contributes to the field of mathematics education and creates a basis for further development of methods for adapting teaching content and support to students to improve mathematics results.
Keywords: Academic performance, grade prediction, machine learning, mathematics education, probability analysis
From Classroom to Test Score: How Proactive Behaviors and Anxiety Shape the Effects of
Cognitive Activation in Mathematics
Vedat Bajrami, Fatmir Mehmeti, Bajrama Çekan, Fetie Rexhbeqaj, Mimoza Bytyqi, Nota Kabashi, Samire Karavidaj
This study aims to examine the mediating role of proactive mathematics study behavior and mathematics anxiety in the relationship between cognitive activation in mathematics teaching and mathematics achievement. A quantitative research design was employed, and data analysis was conducted using Mplus 8.11. The representative sample for this study consists of a total of 6,027 students from Kosovo who participated in the PISA 2022 assessment. The dependent variable in this study is the mathematics score earned by Kosovar students in PISA 2022. The independent variable is cognitive activation in mathematics, while the mediators are proactive mathematics study behavior and mathematics anxiety. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to test the hypothesized relationships, and indirect effects were assessed using bootstrapping with 10,000 resamples. The results indicate that cognitive activation has both a direct positive impact on mathematics achievement and indirect effects by increasing proactive behaviors and decreasing anxiety. Furthermore, the relationship between cognitive activation and mathematics achievement is mediated by both proactive study behavior and mathematics anxiety, with a sequential mediation pathway involved.
Keywords: Cognitive activation; Proactive mathematics study behavior; Mathematics anxiety; mathematics achievement; SEM
Audiologic Assessment of Preschool Children with Hearing Loss in a Secondary Health Care
Setting
Lidija Ristovska, Zora Jachova, Jasmina Kovacevic, Husnija Hasanbegovic
The study aimed to evaluate the audiologic profile of preschool children with hearing loss, i.e., to determine the type, degree, and configuration of hearing loss, amplitude of otoacoustic emissions, and word recognition performance. This retrospective study included 260 children examined in a secondary healthcare setting. For statistical data analysis, we used the Chi-square test with a level of significance p < 0.05. Conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing loss was present in 93.1%, 4.6%, and 2.3%, respectively. Mild hearing loss was present in 96.1%, moderate in 2.3%, and severe hearing loss in 1.6%. Type B tympanogram was the most common (p = 0.00001). The mean amplitude of otoacoustic emissions was -7.6 dB in sensorineural hearing loss and 12.3 dB in normal hearing. The maximum word recognition score was frequently obtained at presentation levels of 25-40 dB SL (p = 0.009). The majority of children had mild conductive hearing loss with normal word recognition ability.
Keywords: audiologic assessment, children, hearing loss
Addiction Risks in First-Generation Learners: Evaluating Rehabilitation as an Intervention
Strategy
Subhana Azmi and Purabi Baishya
Socio-economic conditions play a crucial role in increasing the risk of addiction, particularly among first-generation learners. These individuals, often the first in their families to pursue education, face significant challenges arising from illiterate parents, limited educational exposure, and financial constraints. These barriers, along with the psychological pressure of being pioneer of their families and communities, increase the vulnerability to substance abuse. This study investigates how the socio-economic conditions, mainly poverty and lack of educational awareness of first-generation learners contribute to risks of addictions and evaluates the role of rehabilitation centers in mitigating these risks. A survey and interview-based approach were used to assess addiction vulnerability and the support by rehabilitation centers. The study involved 80 first-generation learners and examined rehabilitation centers situated in Kamrup District of Assam. This study highlights the effectiveness of rehabilitation centers as support system for vulnerability, especially for first-generation learners. The findings aim to inform strategies that address addiction risks through targeted socio-economic interventions and improved rehabilitation services.
Keywords: Addiction, first-generation learner, rehabilitation centers, socio-economic condition
A Qualitative Investigation of Adversities Experienced by Non-Alcoholic Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOAs) in an Indigenous Community
Lalhriatpuii Fanai, Smitha A G, Thaddeus Alfonso
This study explores the distinctive adversities encountered by non-alcoholic adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs) within the Mizo indigenous culture. Despite the abundance of literature on the adverse consequences of ACOAs, there is a dearth of global literature on the unique lived experiences of adversity among non-alcoholic ACOAs. Analysis of 13 in-depth interviews using the grounded theory approach identified that non-alcoholic ACOAs experienced a multitude of adversities across cognitive, affective, behavioral, and somatic domains. These adversities manifested as challenges in sustaining attention, lack of proficiency in problem-solving, distorted beliefs and negative emotions concerning relationships, skewed attachment styles, difficulty in managing oneself and adhering to rules, flawed relationship praxis, and somatic complaints such as fatigue, heightened psychomotor activity, and various aches and pains. These findings emphasize that parental alcohol misuse has lasting impacts on non-alcoholic ACOAs. Tailored early intervention and support programs are necessary to address these challenges.
Keywords: adult children of alcoholics, adversities, Indigenous community, India, lived experience, Mizo
