Monthly Archives: October 2024

Children’s Welfare: The Primary Motive Behind Advertising Grievances

Recent research findings show that the well-being of children is frequently mentioned as a crucial factor motivating individuals to lodge formal complaints about advertisements.

The study revealed that the portrayal of children and the potential harm they could suffer from being exposed to offensive advertisements constitute 46 per cent of the reasons for complaints submitted to the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

The analysis examined thousands of consumer complaints associated with advertisements from the non-profit sector. It found that graphic representations—such as depictions of violence, sexual content, or disease—were also highly problematic, contributing to an additional 20 per cent of complaints.

Moreover, certain representations involving crime, weapons, and drugs were also identified as sources of offence. A research team from the University of Edinburgh analysed 9,055 complaints received over six years concerning advertisements from the not-for-profit, third, and public sectors, which include charities, government entities, and advocacy groups.

The study mainly focused on the non-commercial sector, where using shock tactics to garner attention or connect with audiences is more common and tends to provoke more complaints. Advertisements from this sector might also be perceived by consumers as more acceptable due to the perceived nobility of the organisations’ causes, as suggested by experts.

The complaints pertained to advertisements across various media, including television, print, and online platforms. Charities had the highest number of complaints, at 38 per cent, followed by government organisations, at 29 per cent. Campaigns by medical and children’s charities notably triggered numerous complaints based on offence or harm.

The dataset spanned from 2009 to 2015, including the regulatory responses manifested in the ASA’s adjudications. Researchers noted a higher prevalence of offence and harm-based complaints in the non-commercial sector, with 62 per cent of all complaints falling under this category, in contrast to the commercial sector, where complaints often centred around misleading content.

The portrayal of children emerged as the most frequent issue, garnering 4,157 complaints during the six years. Of the 9,055 complaints, only 138 (1.5 per cent) were fully upheld, and 629 (7 per cent) were partially upheld. This led researchers to question the potential biases of the advertising regulator and its effectiveness in safeguarding the public, particularly in the non-profit context where the rationale behind the messaging might be deemed justifiable.

The study advocates for advertisers to test their advertisements with both intended and unintended audiences, including relevant vulnerable groups and parents, and to carefully schedule and place their advertisements to target audiences to minimise the risk of offence and harm, especially to children.

It also calls for the advertising regulator to consider adapting its approach to managing the non-commercial sector, differing from its methods in commercial contexts. Dr Kristina Auxtova, from the University of Edinburgh Business School and the study’s lead researcher, emphasised the importance of understanding the broad range of sources of offence and harm in non-profit and public sector advertising. She highlighted the need for advertisers and regulators to grasp public perceptions of what is offensive or harmful and for regulators to be equipped to address and manage contemporary concerns effectively.

More information: Kristina Auxtova et al, Offensive and Harmful Advertising: A Content Analysis of Official Complaints, Journal of Nonprofit & Public Sector Marketing. DOI: 10.1080/10495142.2024.2345908

Journal information: Journal of Nonprofit & Public Sector Marketing Provided by University of Edinburgh

Permission to Pause: How Bond’s ‘Regressive Nostalgia’ Risks Freezing Its Brand’s Progress

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The iconic James Bond film series, known globally for over seven decades, has become a focal point for a study highlighting the concept of ‘regressive nostalgia’ within consumer groups. This phenomenon illustrates how specific audiences cling to an idealised, historical portrayal of brands, resisting efforts to modernise in line with evolving societal values. The study, detailed by researchers at the University of Birmingham and ESCP Business School in London, points out that some dedicated ‘super-consumers’ prefer Bond’s more exclusive, traditional depiction, closely mirroring author Ian Fleming’s portrayal from the 1950s and 1960s. This version of Bond is often seen as an embodiment of an arrogant, misogynistic, and racially insensitive British imperial figure.

This inclination towards a racially and culturally homogenous past, combined with a celebration of ‘heroic masculinity’, is described in the study as harbouring exclusionary and even aggressive behaviours, posing a substantial threat to brands’ future. These findings were published in the International Journal of Research in Marketing, where the research team also introduced a toolkit designed to assist marketers in safeguarding their brand’s modern positioning against the adverse effects of such nostalgia, thus enabling a brand evolution that does not alienate their main consumer base.

Professor Finola Kerrigan from the University of Birmingham noted that the James Bond franchise is a prime example of how ‘regressive nostalgia’ can manifest within a fanbase. Although the franchise has adeptly adapted over time, a small yet disproportionately vocal segment of its followers remains firmly rooted in the past. This group champions Fleming’s original characterisation to justify their resistance to modern updates, including dismissals of recent films like ‘No Time to Die’ as ‘woke nonsense’.

Professor Chloe Preece of ESCP Business School, London, discusses how these super-consumers idealise Bond as a heroic, white male figure, providing a refuge for those unsettled by the current societal push towards inclusivity. The character’s portrayal as a ‘man of action’ allows these predominantly male fans to identify with what they perceive as Bond’s ‘heroic masculinity’, showcased through his interactions with the ‘Bond girls’.

While the study primarily examines the James Bond series, the researchers draw parallels with other brands that have seen their symbols co-opted by groups with anti-social agendas. Independent scholar Dr Daragh O’Reilly emphasises the double-edged sword of using nostalgia in branding. While it can deeply engage and connect with consumers, drawing them to a glorified past can also foster a sense of loss that intertwines a cherished history with a resented present. O’Reilly advocates for brand stewards to remain firm and not succumb to the nostalgia embraced by a minority of super-consumers, thereby preventing the brand from becoming exclusionary.

The study underscores marketers’ need to be vigilant of the potential pitfalls of regressive nostalgia. The researchers have developed a series of questions as part of their toolkit to help brand managers evaluate the threat posed by such nostalgia, ensuring that they can navigate their brand’s legacy without compromising its relevance and inclusivity in contemporary society.

More information: Chloe Preece et al, Theorizing regressive nostalgia: Understanding exclusionary consumers as a brand threat, International Journal of Research in Marketing. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijresmar.2024.09.006

Journal information: International Journal of Research in Marketing Provided by University of Birmingham

Launching a New Biomaterials Startup is More Challenging Than Expected

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Entrepreneurship has permeated various sectors, including science, where engineers and scientists are increasingly translating their research into marketable products or services, leading to the inception of new startups. A prime area for such ventures is bioproduction, which utilises living cells and organisms to develop products. Biomaterials, especially crucial in the pharmaceutical and vaccine industries, also find applications in diverse sectors such as packaging, textiles, agriculture, and food production.

Spider silk, renowned for its exceptional strength and elasticity, has particularly captivated the biomanufacturing industry. The material’s potential for scaling production economically has piqued interest for applications ranging from medical sutures to textiles. However, a comprehensive study by diverse students, including Ghita Guessous from the University of California San Diego, reveals numerous challenges within the spider silk sector. Their collaborative research, undertaken remotely and facilitated by the nonprofit Nucleate, was published in the ACS Biomaterials and Engineering journal.

Their methodical approach combined academic literature, patents, market analysis, and expert insights to form a nuanced understanding of the spider silk industry. Ghita Guessous, who spearheaded the study and recently earned a PhD in physics, mentioned that the team’s thorough literature review and market data analysis provided a clear picture of the industry’s landscape, far removed from the prevalent hype.

During their research, the team analysed over 2,400 patents related to spider silk, uncovering a treasure trove of scientific data. They also engaged with various experts, including scientists, industry veterans, and venture capitalists, which enriched their understanding of the sector’s dynamics. The initial buzz around spider silk as a revolutionary biomaterial gave way to a more grounded view as they delved deeper, learning from the diverse experiences of those entrenched in the industry.

A significant challenge identified was the difficulty of scaling spider silk production due to spiders’ territorial and cannibalistic nature, which makes large-scale farming unfeasible. The researchers explored alternative production methods, such as heterologous expression, where genes responsible for silk production are introduced into other organisms like goats, alfalfa, silkworms, yeast, and bacteria. Despite the innovative approach, toxicity issues in host organisms continue to be a significant hurdle needing further research.

The study aimed to assess the feasibility of various host organisms for spider silk production, seeking an optimal balance between cost and quality. This mirrors approaches in the pharmaceutical industry, where unicellular organisms are increasingly used for production in controlled lab environments or bioreactors. Despite some discouraging findings, the researchers highlighted that uncovering these challenges was vital, outlining areas where academic research could significantly contribute to resolving prevailing issues in the industry.

Their final discussion focused on the potential markets for spider silk, noting the tough competition it faces in the fashion industry from cheaper materials like polyester. However, the potential for spider silk in high-performance materials, such as bulletproof vests and automotive components, is promising. The cosmetic industry also shows potential for incorporating spider silk to enhance product textures.

Reflecting on their comprehensive study, the team remains cautiously optimistic about the future of biomanufacturing in spider silk. While their initial excitement has tempered, the insights gained have equipped them with a realistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the field. Their research sheds light on the complexities of spider silk production and serves as a valuable model for future scientific inquiry and entrepreneurial ventures in this cutting-edge area.

More information: Ghita Guessous et al, Disentangling the Web: An Interdisciplinary Review on the Potential and Feasibility of Spider Silk Bioproduction, ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering. DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00145

Journal information: ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering Provided by University of California – San Diego

Research at Penn Engineering Uncovers Significant Security Flaws in AI-Powered Robots

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In technological advancement, industries such as healthcare, technology, and finance are experiencing rapid growth, presenting new opportunities and challenges. The School of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Engineering) is committed to spearheading the development of cutting-edge solutions aimed at forging a brighter future. To this end, Penn Engineering has convened a gathering of eminent leaders from the realms of engineering, academia, industry, and policy at the Penn Washington Center in Washington, D.C. This assembly is part of a broader discourse focused on responsibly steering the course of future innovations.

As part of its initiative on Responsible Innovation, Penn Engineering’s research team has made a significant discovery regarding the security of AI-operated robots. These findings, supported by grants from the National Science Foundation and the Army Research Laboratory, reveal previously undetected vulnerabilities and weaknesses in AI-driven robots. The primary objective of this research is to enhance the security measures surrounding the deployment of large language models (LLMs) in robotic applications.

George Pappas, the UPS Foundation Professor of Transportation in Electrical and Systems Engineering (ESE), Computer and Information Science (CIS), and Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics (MEAM), expressed concerns about the current state of safety in the integration of large language models with physical systems. According to Professor Pappas, who also holds the position of Associate Dean for Research at Penn Engineering, caution is needed as these AI-controlled robots are susceptible to manipulations and hacks.

One of the noteworthy outcomes of this research is the development of RoboPAIR, an algorithm capable of achieving a 100% “jailbreak” rate within just a few days. This algorithm was successful in bypassing the safety mechanisms governing three distinct robotic systems: the Unitree Go2, a quadruped robot utilised in various settings; the Clearpath Robotics Jackal, a wheeled vehicle frequently used in academic research; and the Dolphin LLM, a self-driving simulator developed by NVIDIA. Notably, the AI governors for the first two systems are based on OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which demonstrated vulnerabilities to these jailbreaking attacks. Such breaches can lead to serious safety risks, such as manipulating a self-driving system to behave recklessly at pedestrian crossings.

Before releasing their findings to the public, the Penn Engineering team was responsible for informing the affected companies about the vulnerabilities in their systems. They are now collaborating with these companies to leverage their research to improve the testing and validation of AI safety protocols used by these manufacturers. Despite the challenges, the research team, including Hamed Hassani, Associate Professor in ESE and CIS at Penn Engineering and Statistics and Data Science at Wharton, acknowledges that eliminating LLMs from these systems may not be feasible. Professor Hassani emphasised the complexity of addressing such vulnerabilities, particularly in the context of chatbots.

Alexander Robey, a recent Ph.D. graduate from Penn Engineering and a current postdoctoral scholar at Carnegie Mellon University, highlighted the importance of identifying system vulnerabilities to enhance safety. He pointed out that this principle applies to cybersecurity and AI safety. Engaging in AI red teaming, a method that involves testing AI systems for potential threats and vulnerabilities, is crucial for protecting generative AI systems. Identifying these weaknesses allows for testing and training these systems to avoid possible threats.

The researchers argue that addressing these vulnerabilities requires a comprehensive reevaluation of the regulatory framework governing the integration of AI into physical systems rather than merely applying software patches. Vijay Kumar, the Nemirovsky Family Dean of Penn Engineering and coauthor of the study stressed the importance of adopting a safety-first approach to foster responsible innovation. He affirmed that their research is instrumental in developing a verification and validation framework that ensures robotic systems only perform actions that align with social norms, thereby paving the way for the safe deployment of AI-enabled robots in real-world applications. This holistic approach underscores the need to confront intrinsic vulnerabilities to ensure that integrating AI into our daily lives is safe and beneficial.

More information: Alexander Robey et al, Jailbreaking LLM-Controlled Robots. DOI: 10.48550/arXiv.2410.13691

Workers Should Not Be Solely Responsible for Training in Remote Work Settings

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As technology progresses and remote working becomes more mainstream, the demands for competence in the workplace are escalating rapidly. Simultaneously, work-related formal education increasingly takes place through online platforms. However, undergoing online courses while managing other work duties is far from straightforward, and informal learning online often faces similar challenges. The inadequacy in the pedagogical execution of online training, coupled with unrealistic expectations of participation and productivity, may result in the mere acquisition of completion certificates rather than genuine professional enhancement, with informal online learning usually marginalised by content-dense meetings and impersonal interactions.

These insights are from a study by Postdoctoral Researcher Soila Lemmetty from the University of Eastern Finland, which examines obstacles in remote learning and innovation within police and technology sector organisations. In police organisations, for instance, online education is often synonymous with multitasking, requiring employees to fit learning into their already packed schedules. The lack of pedagogical support means that online lectures might be attended amidst other tasks or completed during the quieter hours after long shifts, often described as a lecture-heavy transfer of information that is irrelevant or applicable to the employee’s work.

Lemmetty points out that mere participation in training does not guarantee a profound learning experience and may foster a performance-oriented perspective where competence development is superficially addressed through courses measured by certificates of participation. This can diminish the true essence of learning, pushing individuals towards a performance orientation that overshadows genuine educational processes.

In the technology sector, remote work is seen as challenging, innovative and communal learning. The shift towards online interaction increases ambiguity and reduces opportunities for observations and sensory experiences, weakening community social bonds and trust over time. Lemmetty notes that, while structured, content-heavy meetings are ordinary, they often overshadow spontaneous and informal interactions, vital for sparking new, innovative ideas.

The erosion of trust and weakening of social bonds due to remote work are significant concerns. A thriving community and mutual trust are essential for experts to engage in critical discussions, make mistakes, and learn from them, all of which are crucial for fostering innovation. Without these elements, the innovative process can be severely hampered, underscoring the importance of maintaining solid interpersonal connections even in remote settings.

Organisations should align training with their personnel’s competence needs to support learning better. This involves allocating time for reflection, experimentation, and discussions during training sessions and everyday work. Promoting diverse, multi-channel interactions and informal encounters, engaging educational methods, and sufficient time resources help develop innovation and competence, even in remote work settings.

Lemmetty also considers the increase in online learning and whether it signifies a regression to a behaviourist approach to education, where passive receipt of information is mistaken for learning. She advocates for a constructivist approach, emphasising active engagement, reflection, and social interaction as the hallmarks of effective adult learning.

Despite the challenges identified, Lemmetty sees the value in online learning and remote work but emphasises the need for careful pedagogical implementation. While focused on identifying challenges, her study also recognises the potential benefits of these modern educational and work arrangements, suggesting that with proper attention to their pedagogical aspects, they can significantly meet the evolving needs of the workforce.

More information: Soila Lemmetty, Real-Time and Long-Term Challenges of Remote Learning and Innovation: Cases from Police and Technology Organisations, Vocations and Learning. DOI: 10.1007/s12186-024-09354-1

Journal information: Vocations and Learning Provided by University of Eastern Finland

Political Beliefs Could Shape Gift-Giving Decisions More Than Individual Buying Choices

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Research conducted by the University of New Hampshire reveals that while political leanings might not significantly affect everyday purchases for individuals, these affiliations could significantly influence choices when buying gifts for friends, family, and co-workers. This insight into consumer behaviour suggests that political considerations could be more prominent in gift selections during the holiday season.

Justin Pomerance, an assistant professor of marketing at UNH’s Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics, who led the research, explained that the study comprised five distinct investigations, each focusing on the purchase of different products. Participants were tasked with selecting items both for themselves and as gifts for acquaintances. It was observed that political inclinations had a more substantial impact on gift choices, presumably because gift-givers consider the perceived preferences of the recipients. This finding underscores the influence of political identity in scenarios where people are making choices on behalf of others.

The study, recently published in the International Journal of Research in Marketing, highlighted that the political affiliations of a gift recipient play a more crucial role than the nature of the product itself. In one of the experiments, participants were asked to create music playlists. When selecting songs for themselves, only 58% of their choices were from artists matching their political ideologies. However, this figure rose to 64% when the same individuals created playlists for someone else, indicating a stronger inclination to align gift choices with the recipient’s political views. Similar trends were observed in other scenarios, such as choosing artworks, where participants favoured pieces that were politically congruent with the recipient’s views more than their own.

The research further examined the impact of political cues compared to other identity markers like gender and race. Participants were informed about a museum’s major donor’s political leanings or demographic background in one instance. Findings showed that political cues had a more pronounced effect on the participants’ choices than gender or race, suggesting that political identity is perceived more as personal choice and preference. Therefore, it’s more socially acceptable to base likes or dislikes on politics.

Pomerance pointed out several reasons for this phenomenon. He suggested that because political identity is seen as a choice, it reflects an individual’s values and preferences more. This aspect makes it a more significant factor in decision-making, especially when choosing gifts to resonate with the recipient’s identity.

Moreover, this research sheds light on the broader implications for businesses. While companies might assume that taking a political stance or signalling political affiliations through their products or branding could sway consumer purchasing decisions, the findings indicate that this is less likely to impact individual purchases directly. However, the insights gained are crucial for understanding consumer behaviour, mainly when purchases are made on behalf of others. This is especially relevant in professional and social contexts where gifts are often exchanged among co-workers, friends, and family members.

While political polarization remains a dominant theme in public discourse, this research suggests that politics does not always play a central role in personal consumer decisions. This could be seen as a positive sign, indicating that despite society’s heightened political awareness, everyday consumer behaviour remains relatively unaffected by political divides.

More information: Justin Pomerance et al, Party Over Product: People Exaggerate the Influence of Political Cues on Others’ Consumption Preferences, International Journal of Research in Marketing. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijresmar.2024.07.007

Journal information: International Journal of Research in Marketing Provided by University of New Hampshire

Show and Explain: Uncovering the Inner Mechanisms and Assembly of Your Products

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Researchers from the University of New Hampshire, Singapore Management University, and the University at Buffalo have recently published a compelling new study in the Journal of Marketing, exploring how anatomical depictions in advertisements can enhance consumer confidence in a product’s performance and elevate perceived value. The study is forthcoming under the title “Anatomical Depiction: How Showing a Product’s Inner Structure Shapes Product Valuations” and is the work of Seo Yoon Kang, Junghan Kim, and Arun Lakshmanan.

Envision yourself browsing online and encountering two distinct images of noise-cancelling headphones. One image presents the headphones as they would typically appear in a retail box, while the other lays out the internal components such as ear pads, speakers, and batteries. This form of marketing, known as “anatomical depiction”, demystifies how products function and instils confidence that they will deliver on their core promises, thus potentially increasing what consumers are willing to pay.

This technique is not new; it harks back to the innovations of Leonardo da Vinci, a pioneer in illustrating the interiors of machines. Over the years, this method has found applications across various industries, including DIY furniture kits from companies like IKEA, car repair manuals from Haynes, and even the marketing of toys and consumer electronics from brands like LEGO and Meccano.

The recent study asserts that anatomical depiction not only reassures consumers of product quality in the face of increasing market scepticism caused by high-profile product failures but also addresses the escalating costs and inefficiencies of traditional assurance strategies like warranties and money-back guarantees. In today’s market, where conveying complex product information can often result in consumer confusion, anatomical depiction offers a clear and effective alternative.

The research team conducted nine experiments across various platforms, such as online peer-to-peer selling sites, social media ads, and controlled lab studies, exploring a range of products, including tech gadgets, wearables, home appliances, and furniture. These studies consistently demonstrated that anatomical depiction significantly influences consumer behaviour, particularly during the initial product adoption phase.

Seo Yoon Kang noted that anatomical depictions could be a potent tool for building consumer trust more efficiently. Meanwhile, Junghan Kim highlighted the dual nature of this approach. While it generally boosts purchase intentions among tech-savvy consumers, it can sometimes diminish confidence among those apprehensive about technology. Arun Lakshmanan advised that anatomical depictions are most effective for products marketed for functional benefits rather than aesthetic qualities.

The implications of this study are profound for business leaders and marketers. For example, Apple’s successful 2009 launch of the unibody Mac leveraged anatomical depiction to highlight its novel design and manufacturing process, setting it apart from competitors and underscoring its unique selling points through visual storytelling. This study posits that anatomical depiction is a subtle yet powerful persuasive technique that can be effectively utilised across various communication mediums, including digital, print, and multimedia campaigns.

Moreover, the research provides insights into consumer segmentation, suggesting that while specific demographics, mainly those more receptive to new technologies, are likely to respond positively to anatomical depictions, others more technology-anxious might require different approaches.

The broader implications of this research could lead to further studies on how anatomical depiction can be adapted for products that lack a clear internal structure, such as food items. For instance, the study speculates on the impact of anatomical depiction on perceived taste and food valuation, presenting a fertile ground for future research into consumer perception and marketing strategies.

More information: Seo Yoon Kang et al, Anatomical Depiction: How Showing a Product’s Inner Structure Shapes Product Valuations, Journal of Marketing . DOI: 10.1177/00222429241257911

Journal information: Journal of Marketing Provided by American Marketing Association

Revolutionary Mental Health Education May Reshape Work Environments in Uganda

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The study focuses on adapting an acceptance-based mental health intervention known as Acceptance and Commitment Training (ACT-W), initially crafted by Dr. Paul Flaxman and Ross McIntosh at City St George’s. The aim is to tailor this programme to fit the unique socio-cultural and economic landscape of Uganda, where a significant portion of the workforce suffers from mental health issues due to unstable employment conditions. This adaptation is vital, as there is a pressing need for accessible and effective mental health promotion programmes in the region. The programme promises to fill this gap by equipping employees with the necessary tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other common mental health issues at work, with its findings published in the journal PLOS Mental Health.

Globally, mental health challenges affect 15% of working adults, leading to substantial economic losses estimated at US$1 trillion and 12 billion working days annually. The burden is hefty in low and middle-income countries (LAMICs), which house 75% of the global labour force. In Uganda, a typical LAMIC, the situation is exacerbated by a scarcity of resources, with studies showing that 68% of Ugandan workers face mental health challenges. Moreover, over 78% of Ugandan employers provide no formal mental health support, a situation worsened by societal stigma which prevents many workers from seeking help. As a result, employees are often left to manage stress, anxiety, and other issues without adequate support, adversely impacting their productivity and overall quality of life.

Initially developed and tested in high-income countries like the UK, the ACT-W programme has been widely adopted in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) to improve mental health among healthcare staff. The training promotes psychological flexibility, encouraging participants to endure uncomfortable internal states while engaging in actions that align with their values. This approach has proven effective in high-income settings, helping individuals focus on meaningful activities despite experiencing complex thoughts and emotions.

However, Uganda’s cultural and economic context necessitated adjustments to make the programme relevant to its workforce. Recognising the importance of communal values in Uganda, the researchers modified the programme to emphasise group well-being alongside individual goals. This involved collaborating with mental health providers in Kampala to adapt the programme’s content, incorporating more community-based values and adjusting the language and metaphors to align with Ugandan cultural views, which often interpret mental health through spiritual and traditional beliefs.

A significant challenge highlighted in the research is the stigma surrounding mental health in Uganda, where many are reluctant to discuss such issues openly, especially in the workplace. To combat this, the ACT-W programme includes elements that promote mental health awareness and education, aiming to reduce stigma by demonstrating that mental health can be improved through learning psychological and behavioural skills.

The benefits of the adapted ACT-W programme for Ugandan workers are considerable. It teaches employees how to skillfully relate to their emotions and remain mindful of their values even in challenging circumstances, potentially leading to enhanced mental well-being, increased job satisfaction, and improved productivity. The programme offers clear advantages for employers: healthier employees are more likely to perform well, take fewer sick days, and contribute to a more positive workplace atmosphere. In a country with limited mental health support, such interventions could be cost-effective to boost employee well-being and business performance.

Dr Khamisi Musanje, lead researcher from Makerere University, stressed the importance of improving mental health to create a more productive workforce for Uganda’s future. Dr. Paul Flaxman, co-researcher at City St George’s, echoed this sentiment, expressing enthusiasm about the study’s findings, which show that evidence-based mental health training like ACT-W can be adapted to diverse cultural contexts. The team is optimistic about expanding this initiative, planning to roll out the programme across Ugandan workplaces and evaluate its effectiveness. If successful, this could serve as a model for enhancing workplace mental health in other low-resource environments, improving lives and economic outcomes.

More information: Khamisi Musanje et al, Social validity of acceptance-based workplace mental health training for use in a low resource setting. A qualitative study with Ugandan mental health providers, PLOS Mental Health. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmen.0000127

Journal information: PLOS Mental Health Provided by City St George’s, University of London

Underserved Entrepreneurs Carve Out Their Own Niches

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In 2014, Whitney Wolfe Herd resigned from her position at the dating app Tinder, having encountered workplace sexism, and set out to establish her dating platform to empower women within the dating sphere. As Bumble approaches its tenth anniversary, Herd’s initiative stands as a testament to how entrepreneurship can serve commercial objectives and assist marginalised groups in overcoming systemic barriers. This insight comes from a recent study by Rowena Crabbe, an assistant professor of marketing at Texas McCombs.

Marginalised groups are defined by their frequent disenfranchisement due to prevailing social and economic frameworks. Such groups include people of colour, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, those with disabilities, older adults, and low-income individuals. In the specific case of Bumble, the focus was on women navigating the dating world. Crabbe highlights that Wolfe crafted a product that addressed the needs of this group, allowing her to sidestep the discrimination she faced and leverage her social connections.

Despite Whitney Wolfe Herd’s challenges with sexism in the tech industry, she utilised her intersecting identities—her race, socioeconomic background, and educational attainment—to navigate her entrepreneurial journey. As Crabbe points out, marginalised groups are not homogeneous; their experiences and resources can vary significantly within the group.

Crabbe’s research emphasises entrepreneurship as a potential avenue for liberating women, people of colour, and other low-status individuals from underpaid and undervalued labour. She defines emancipation as breaking free from or mitigating structural limitations. However, societal and economic hurdles can frequently impede this progress. The research conducted by Crabbe, alongside co-author Alexander Lewis from the University of Texas at San Antonio, identifies factors enabling marginalised entrepreneurs to achieve their business aspirations and emancipation.

Although the paper is theoretical and refrains from offering explicit advice, it incorporates startup narratives to exemplify conditions conducive to success. Crabbe notes that real-world stories enhance the theoretical foundations of their study.

The research also explores self-employment as a more fitting alternative for some individuals than organisational employment. Chris Tidmarsh, an environmental scientist with autism, found that his condition affected his ability to function in traditional work settings. By founding his aquaponic farm, he could operate beyond these constraints. Similarly, Collette Divitto, who has Down syndrome, faced challenges in the job market but managed to harness her resources, including her degree from Clemson University, to open her bakery.

Moreover, the paper discusses how marginalised consumers often require innovative products. For instance, Robert Braun, who suffered from spinal muscular atrophy, invented a wheelchair lift in 1970, founding Braun Corporation (now BraunAbility), which pioneered vehicular mobility solutions for others with similar disabilities.

Additionally, entrepreneurship can transform barriers into opportunities. Tony Aguilar, a Mexican American entrepreneur in financial technology, used his personal experience with student debt to develop Chipper, an app designed to assist graduates in managing and refinancing their loans. He also advises other marginalised entrepreneurs on engaging with potential investors.

However, as Crabbe notes, not every business endeavour leads to emancipation. Market pressures and resource shortages can pose significant obstacles. A business is deemed emancipatory when it aligns more closely with the entrepreneur’s interests and values than a traditional employer, offering autonomy, financial resources, or an escape from discrimination.

Crabbe categorises the outcomes that can promote emancipation into three groups: businesses that reflect the entrepreneur’s values, products that address the unique needs of disadvantaged consumers, and processes that reduce barriers for other entrepreneurs.

In summary, by outlining a structured approach to understanding startups and overcoming challenges, Crabbe hopes her research will prove valuable and practical, particularly for policymakers aiming to enhance entrepreneurship among marginalised groups.

More information: Alexander Lewis et al, The entrepreneurship of marginalized groups and compatibility between the market and emancipation, Journal of Business Venturing. DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusvent.2024.106408

Journal information: Journal of Business Venturing Provided by University of Texas at Austin

Tackling Climate Change and Inequality: A Dual-Benefit Policy Approach

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Climate change and economic disparity are intricately linked, posing a mutual risk of escalating one another if not effectively managed. A recent study in Nature Climate Change illuminates this essential connection, utilizing data from eight comprehensive Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) to explore how climate policies and climate risks affect distribution. The research offers compelling evidence that climate strategies consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement can simultaneously combat climate change and diminish long-term inequality.

Johannes Emmerling, a senior scientist at the Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change (CMCC), spearheaded the study, which projects an increase in internal national inequalities due to climate change, with the Gini index expected to rise by an average of 1.4 points by the year 2100. Nonetheless, the adoption of ambitious climate measures, such as carbon pricing, could substantially decrease this rise in inequality over time. The findings indicate that an equitable redistribution of carbon revenues among the populace could balance the short-term economic burdens and lower the Gini index by almost 2 points.

Emmerling articulates that this research underscores the dual potential of well-crafted policy measures to address climate change and economic inequality among contemporary society’s foremost challenges. He expresses optimism that demonstrating the immediate advantages of redistributing carbon revenues to poorer households while promoting a stable climate trajectory will equip policymakers with a strategic guide for crafting more equitable and politically viable climate policies.

This pioneering comparison of multiple models reveals that although initial climate policies might trigger a temporary increase in inequality, thoughtfully designed redistributive mechanisms have the potential to counteract this effect and enhance social justice.

Emmerling further notes the study’s timeliness as nations globally strive to achieve climate objectives without worsening inequality. He highlights the critical role of intelligent policy formulation in ensuring that the dividends of climate initiatives are distributed fairly.

Concluding the discussion, Massimo Tavoni, the study’s co-author and the director of the European Institute on Economics and the Environment at CMCC, emphasizes the significance of aligning climate safety with climate justice. He points out that this project addresses a vital research area and proves collaborative research’s impact on guiding decisions in high-stakes arenas.

More information: Johannes Emmerling et al, A multi-model assessment of inequality and climate change, Nature Climate Change. DOI: 10.1038/s41558-024-02151-7

Journal information: Nature Climate Change Provided by CMCC Foundation – Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change

Implementing a Comprehensive Physical Activity Initiative for Remote Employees in Japan

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The transition to remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the physical activity levels of office workers, leading to increased sedentary behaviours and associated health risks. Research has consistently shown that remote workers are less active than their office-based counterparts. However, effective interventions tailored to increase physical activity among remote workers are scarce, highlighting a critical gap in current health promotion strategies.

In response, a research team from the University of Tsukuba initiated a pilot study to explore the effectiveness of a structured physical activity program targeted at remote workers. This study employed an open-label randomized controlled trial design involving 52 remote workers randomly assigned to either an intervention or a control group. The intervention group participated in an eight-week, multicomponent physical activity promotion program delivered remotely. This comprehensive program included individual strategies such as lectures, printed materials, goal setting, feedback, and motivational posters; sociocultural strategies aimed at team-building and creating a supportive environment; and organizational strategies featuring company executives’ encouragement.

Conversely, the control group received only a minimal intervention, consisting of posters promoting physical activity. Despite the disparate intervention levels, the trial’s final analysis revealed no significant differences in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels between the two groups over the eight weeks. This outcome suggests that while the program was robust in content, its impact on intense physical activity was limited.

However, the intervention group showed considerable improvements in less vigorous forms of physical activity. Notably, there was an increase of 14 minutes per day in light physical activity and a significant rise of 9.4 minutes per day in moderate-to-vigorous activity during working hours. Furthermore, the intervention led to an increase of 984 steps per working day. Intriguingly, even the control group, which had less interactive intervention, showed an increase of 895 steps per working day.

These results demonstrate the feasibility and potential benefits of a multicomponent physical activity program for remote workers. They suggest that such interventions can effectively enhance various physical activity levels, even if they do not significantly alter the most vigorous forms of activity. The findings provide a foundation for developing future strategies and action plans to promote physical activity among the increasingly common demographic of remote workers in Japan and potentially in other regions.

More information: Jihoon Kim et al, Effectiveness of a multicomponent intervention to promote physical activity among Japanese remote workers: a pilot open-label randomized controlled trial, Journal of Occupational Health. DOI: 10.1093/joccuh/uiae052

Journal information: Journal of Occupational Health Provided by University of Tsukuba

Greater Efforts Needed: Non-Indigenous Companies Face Challenges in Increasing Indigenous Employment

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A recent study by The Australian National University (ANU) has revealed that Indigenous-owned businesses in Australia employ Indigenous staff at a rate twelve times higher than that of non-Indigenous-owned businesses. This significant disparity underscores the urgent need for non-Indigenous companies to adopt more inclusive employment practices.

Christian Eva, the lead researcher and a PhD candidate at ANU, emphasised that the findings indicate a clear requirement for non-Indigenous-owned businesses to integrate Indigenous knowledge and cultural practices more fully into their workplaces. He pointed out that these businesses should also consider the broader responsibilities of Indigenous peoples within their communities by offering more flexible working arrangements and cultural leave entitlements. By doing so, they increase Indigenous employment numbers and foster a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture, which can lead to improved productivity and innovation.

Eva explained that the superior Indigenous employment rates in Indigenous-owned businesses could be attributed to their unique workplace practices. He suggested that these practices drive Indigenous employment outcomes rather than local labour market conditions alone. He highlighted the national significance of this issue, noting that Indigenous employment is a crucial aspect of Australia’s Closing the Gap framework aimed at reducing disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. However, he said, the employment gap remains stubbornly wide, signalling a clear call to action.

In their research, the team analysed data from Supply Nation on 2,291 Indigenous-owned businesses and compared this with data from 680 non-Indigenous-owned companies across Australia. They investigated whether non-Indigenous businesses had a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), offered cultural competence training, or had other Indigenous-focused workplace policies and practices.

Eva pointed out that despite a heightened focus on Indigenous employment, the national Indigenous employment rate has not seen significant improvement, and many Australian businesses are still not meeting their Indigenous employment targets. To address these issues effectively, he stressed the importance of incorporating Indigenous-led strategies in organisational governance, human resource management, and recruitment.

Furthermore, another ANU study led by Eva found that businesses with Indigenous staff in management positions employed over three times as many Indigenous workers compared to those with no Indigenous managers. This finding suggests a vital strategy for non-Indigenous-owned businesses to boost Indigenous employment and highlights the potential of Indigenous leadership in driving positive change. Creating pathways for Indigenous employees to ascend into senior management roles and ensuring equitable advancement opportunities within organisations can significantly impact Indigenous employment rates.

Eva also noted that managers from Indigenous backgrounds are particularly well-placed to understand the unique cultural and personal nuances of their Indigenous colleagues, enhancing the overall workplace environment. This comprehensive approach fosters excellent employment opportunities for Indigenous individuals and enriches the organisations’ cultural competency.

More information: Christian Eva et al, Closing the employment gap: Estimations of Indigenous employment in Indigenous- and non-Indigenous-owned businesses in Australia, The Economic and Labour Relations Review. DOI: 10.1017/elr.2024.37

Journal information: The Economic and Labour Relations Review Provided by The Australian National University