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Article
Publication date: 31 May 2024

Judith Terstriep, Susann Schäfer, Alexandra David, Markus Rieger-Fels, Armando García Schmidt, Rosemarie Kay and Theresa Rosenberger

Given the adversity of the COVID-19 pandemic, there remains an incomplete understanding of the gender disparities in the affectedness and recovery of micro-entrepreneurs from the…

Abstract

Purpose

Given the adversity of the COVID-19 pandemic, there remains an incomplete understanding of the gender disparities in the affectedness and recovery of micro-entrepreneurs from the crisis. Consequently, this paper aims to scrutinise gender disparities in the initial repercussions of the crisis and throughout the recovery phase.

Design/methodology/approach

Acknowledging the interconnectedness of micro-entrepreneurs’ professional and private spheres, the study adopts a mixed-methods approach combining a representative quantitative study with qualitative data from 36 semi-structured interviews with self-employed individuals in Germany amidst the COVID-19 crisis.

Findings

The findings indicate a gender gap in the impact and recovery trajectory, particularly affecting female entrepreneurs in caregiving roles beyond immediate financial repercussions. These disparities did not result in more pronounced business measures for recovery but rather involved more experimentation and prosocial behaviours, with a preference for alternatives to state aid, such as personal reserves and social networks.

Originality/value

Unveiling the dual influence of economic and social factors as essential for female entrepreneurs’ recovery from the crisis adds to the literature by providing a comprehensive understanding of gender-specifics.

Details

Gender in Management: An International Journal , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2413

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 January 2023

Ros Ben-Moshe and Freda Gonot-Schoupinsky

The purpose of this paper is to meet Ros Ben-Moshe, a cancer survivor – or rather thriver – and lecturer in positive psychology at La Trobe University, describes how she uses…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to meet Ros Ben-Moshe, a cancer survivor – or rather thriver – and lecturer in positive psychology at La Trobe University, describes how she uses laughter to boost levity and mental health.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study is divided into two parts: an autoethnographic life story of Ros Ben-Moshe, followed by 10 questions and answers.

Findings

Regular laughter is an enjoyable way to stimulate the feel-good chemicals dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins. A laughter mindset is an important tool for overall wellbeing. It can help build connections and re-frame negative situations.

Research limitations/implications

This is a personal narrative and gives the perspective of one person who harnessed the benefits of laughter following a cancer diagnosis.

Practical implications

Laughter can be used strategically to reset our internal mindset and prime ourselves towards optimal mental health and wellbeing, even while struggling with serious health issues. Research into how and when to prescribe laughter for mental health and overall wellbeing is therefore of interest.

Social implications

Social laughter is important and rewarding. For those anxious about social laughter, finding people to laugh with who do not judge you is recommended, as are affirmations to lessen anxiety.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case study and interview with a cancer survivor on the topic of laughter, cancer and mental health.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 July 2024

Wilson Ozuem, Michelle Willis, Silvia Ranfagni, Serena Rovai and Kerry Howell

This study examined the links between user-generated content (UGC), dissatisfied customers and second-hand luxury fashion brands. A central premise of luxury fashion brands is the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study examined the links between user-generated content (UGC), dissatisfied customers and second-hand luxury fashion brands. A central premise of luxury fashion brands is the perceived status and privilege of those who own such items. Despite their marketing logic emphasising exclusivity and rarity, they have broadened their reach by integrating new digital marketing practices that increase access to luxury brand-related information and create opportunities for consumers to purchase products through second-hand sellers.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on an inductive qualitative study of 59 millennials from three European countries (France, Italy and the UK) and by examining the mediating role of UGC and dissatisfied customers, this paper develops a conceptual framework of three clusters of second-hand luxury fashion goods customers: spiritual consumers, entrepreneurial recoverer consumers and carpe diem consumers.

Findings

The proposed SEC framework (spiritual consumers, entrepreneurial recoverer consumers, and carpe diem consumers) illustrates how the emerging themes interconnect with the identified consumers, revealing significant consumer actions and attitudes found in the second-hand luxury goods sector that influence the usage of UGC and its integration into service failure and recovery efforts

Originality/value

This study suggested that the perceptions of consumers seeking second-hand luxury fashion products differ from those who purchase new or never previously owned luxury fashion products. Overall, this research sets the stage for scholars to forge a path forward to enhance the understanding of this phenomenon and its implications for luxury fashion companies.

Details

Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1352-2752

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 July 2024

Ruqin Ren and Bei Yan

Though current literature has started to recognize the significant role that online faith-holders play in the context of brand reputation crises, extant research lacks a…

Abstract

Purpose

Though current literature has started to recognize the significant role that online faith-holders play in the context of brand reputation crises, extant research lacks a theoretical framework to explain the process in which online faith-holders endure the harm in brand reputation while collectively rebuilding the reputation. We propose and test a dual-challenge model for a more systematic understanding of faith-holder communities in brand reputation crises.

Design/methodology/approach

Focusing on collective-level communication activities, we quantitatively compared the volume, valence and variance of a faith-holder community’s communication (441,611 posts by 3,228 fans over 14 days) before and after a brand reputation crisis.

Findings

Our longitudinal data demonstrated that the crisis was a significant threat to group sentiment and cohesion. Nevertheless, the community was highly resilient and adaptive. Their emotions quickly recovered, and they promptly restored group cohesion and coordinated crisis response efforts after the crisis.

Originality/value

This study challenges the traditional assumption that online users are independent, static and reactive during brand crises. Instead, it conceptualizes online faith-holder community as a connected, proactive and dynamically adaptive group in crisis situations. This dual-challenge model highlights the importance of internally fostering collective resilience while externally coordinating crisis responses in a faith-holder community.

Details

Corporate Communications: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-3289

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 April 2024

Elizabeth Hutton, Jason Skues and Lisa Wise

This study aims to use the dual-continuum model of mental health to explore mental health in Australian construction apprentices from the perspective of key stakeholders in the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to use the dual-continuum model of mental health to explore mental health in Australian construction apprentices from the perspective of key stakeholders in the apprenticeship model. In particular, this study explored how construction apprentices, Vocational Education and Training (VET) teachers, industry employers and mental health workers understood the construct of mental health, factors associated with the dimension of psychological distress/symptoms of mental illness, and factors associated with the dimension of mental wellbeing.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an exploratory qualitative research design. Data from 36 semi-structured interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Participants comprised 19 Australian construction apprentices, 5 VET teachers, 7 industry employers and 5 mental health workers.

Findings

In total, 14 themes were generated from the data set. Participants across stakeholder groups reported a limited understanding about mental health. Participants cited a range of negative personal, workplace and industry factors associated with psychological distress/symptoms of mental illness, but only reported a few factors associated with mental wellbeing.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to use the dual-continuum model of mental health to explore the mental health of Australian construction apprentices, and to explore the factors associated with both dimensions of this model from the perspective of key stakeholders in the Australian construction apprenticeship model.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 August 2024

Adam Benkwitz, Esther Ogundipe and Kirsty Spencer

After initially positioning this paper within the broader mental health recovery literature, this paper aims to highlight the role that physical activity can play in promoting…

Abstract

Purpose

After initially positioning this paper within the broader mental health recovery literature, this paper aims to highlight the role that physical activity can play in promoting social inclusion and social recovery for those experiencing mental health challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper draws together the limited, but growing, research on how physical activity can facilitate improved social inclusion and benefit an individual’s recovery.

Findings

For individuals suffering with mental health challenges, not being able to exercise their right to inclusion is concerning from a recovery perspective, because experiencing social inclusion is recognised as a facilitator of recovery. Initial research has demonstrated by embracing community inclusion and supporting initiatives such as physical activity programs, mental health services can better facilitate individuals’ journeys towards social inclusion and social recovery.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should appreciate the interplay between inclusion, recovery and physical activity. Collaborating with individuals with lived experience, peer mentors and social prescribing teams to explore options for physical activity within local communities fosters empowerment, social inclusion and ensures interventions align with individuals’ preferences and needs.

Practical implications

Practitioners in health service and community settings should recognise the wide-ranging benefits of physical activity for individuals with mental health challenges, especially in terms of helping their social inclusion and social recovery.

Originality/value

This paper is unique in synthesising the mental health literature relating to social inclusion, social recovery and physical activity. Initial findings show promise, but more attention is needed to explore the relationship between these elements and how individuals experiencing mental health challenges can be supported using physical activity.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 June 2024

Guangqian Ren, Junchao Li, Mengjie Zhao and Minna Zheng

This study aims to examine the ramifications of corporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing in zombie firms and considers how external funding support may…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the ramifications of corporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing in zombie firms and considers how external funding support may moderate this relationship given the sustainable nature of ESG performance, which often incurs costs.

Design/methodology/approach

Panel regression analyses used data from China’s A-share listed companies from 2011 to 2019, resulting in a data set comprising 6,054 observations.

Findings

Despite firms’ additional financial burdens, corporate ESG investing emerges as a catalyst in resurrecting zombie firms by attracting investor attention. Further analysis underscores the significance of funding support from entities such as the government and banks in alleviating ESG cost pressures and enhancing the efficacy of corporate ESG investing. Notably, the positive impact of corporate ESG investing is most pronounced in non-heavily polluting and non-state-owned firms. The results of classification tests reveal that social (S) and governance (G) investing yield greater efficacy in revitalizing zombie firms compared to environmental (E) investing.

Practical implications

This research enriches the discourse on corporate ESG investing and offers insights for governing zombie firms and shaping government policies.

Originality/value

By extending the domain of ESG research to encompass zombie firms, this paper sheds light on the multifaceted role of corporate ESG investing. Furthermore, this study comprehensively evaluates the influence of external funding support on the positive outcomes of ESG investing, thereby contributing to the resolution of the longstanding debate on the relationship between ESG performance and corporate financial performance, particularly with regard to ESG costs and benefits.

Details

Chinese Management Studies, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-614X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 July 2023

Marta B. Erdos, Tamas Karpati, Robert Rozgonyi and Rebeka Jávor

This paper aims to explore the potential utility of Identity Structure Analysis (ISA) in single-case and group-level outcome and process evaluations.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the potential utility of Identity Structure Analysis (ISA) in single-case and group-level outcome and process evaluations.

Design/methodology/approach

A study was conducted to evaluate mentalization-based therapy by using ISA and its linked framework software, Ipseus. Ten patients with borderline personality disorder and substance use disorder were involved in the study. ISA/Ipseus was administered prior to and at the completion of the treatment. Five-year follow-up data, comprising behavioural indicators, were also collected and compared to ISA/Ipseus results.

Findings

Improvements occurred in the evaluation of stressful, demanding and emotionally burdening situations. Evaluations on concerned others also improved, together with progress in self-reflection. Changes in the evaluation of recovery-related themes were less salient. On a case level, changes in the self-states and role models were consistent with the results of the five-year-follow up data. An initial crisis state seems suggestive of progress, while initial defensive positions with high positive self-regard, of stagnation.

Originality/value

ISA/Ipseus, integrating the benefits of qualitative and quantitative approaches in evaluation, is a potential method to explore the complexity of identity changes during therapy.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 March 2023

Wei Yang, Xiaoyun Lao, Qing Zhou and Jian Liu

This study aims to examine how participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) affects province-level regional economic resilience. In the context of dual circulation – the…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine how participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) affects province-level regional economic resilience. In the context of dual circulation – the new development paradigm proposed by the Chinese Government – participating in the BRI is an important means of connecting both international and domestic circulations and achieving high economic resilience. The complex causal relationship between participation in the BRI and province-level regional economic resilience is investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the complex system view, this study uses fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to examine the impact on regional economic resilience when provinces participate in the BRI through unimpeded trade, infrastructure connectivity, financial integration and people-to-people bonds under the two conditions of attention allocation and buffering capacity. Qualitative textual analysis is applied to analyse provincial work reports, and relevant statistical data are used to measure the economic resilience from 2013 to 2020.

Findings

The authors identified three condition configurations that lead to a high regional economic resilience at province-level and one condition configuration that lead to no high-level regional economic resilience.

Research limitations/implications

In-depth analyses of qualitative materials should be conducted to explain the systematic relationships among the conditions.

Originality/value

This research is of practical significance to the development of the theoretical framework and practices of the BRI in the context of dual circulation.

Details

Chinese Management Studies, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1750-614X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 July 2024

Ray Qing Cao, Silvana Trimi and Dara G. Schniederjans

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of ambidextrous strategy on supply chain resilience and its impact on firm performance, employing the Dynamic…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of ambidextrous strategy on supply chain resilience and its impact on firm performance, employing the Dynamic Capabilities View.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a survey of 215 supply chain professionals, the research employs a structural equation modeling analysis to examine the relationships between ambidexterity, agile operations, resilience, and performance.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that the ambidextrous strategy significantly enhances both agile operations and supply chain resilience. In turn, agile operations and resilience positively impact firm performance. The study also reveals that agile operations and supply chain resilience partially mediate the relationship between ambidextrous strategy and firm performance.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the supply chain management literature by highlighting the importance of an ambidextrous approach in fostering agile operations and resilience, thereby improving firm performance. It extends the dynamic capabilities view framework by elucidating how ambidexterity acts as a pivotal mechanism for adapting to disruptions and securing competitive advantage in volatile markets. Finally, measurements of ambidextrous strategy and resilience are provided to further enhance practitioners’ understanding of building these important components in networks.

Details

The International Journal of Logistics Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-4093

Keywords

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