Determinants of Modern Contraceptive Uptake among the Youth in Akuse Township in the Lower Manya Krobo Municipality, Ghana

Background: Access to safe and effective contraception is crucial for sexual and reproductive health to be at its best. This allows improved pregnancy results and the avoidance of unintended births. Teenagers’ views on using contraceptives are influenced by the information available at their disposal. The study assessed the influential factors affecting the utilization of modern contraceptives among the youth in Akuse in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Methods: The data for the study were gathered from 378 consented youth aged 15 - 24 years using a quantitative cross-sectional study design and a well-structured questionnaire. Person’s Chi-Square test was adopted to measure the association between the outcome variable and selected independent variables. Logistic regression models were utilized to measure the odds of the factors influencing modern contraceptive use among the respondents. Results: The results of the study suggested a high knowledge level of contraceptives;however, the prevalence of utilization was low. The level of education and age were factors found to influence the uptake of contraceptives. A bivariate analysis to examine the association between selected socio-demographic variables revealed that educational level (p = 0.044), religious affiliation (p = 0.002), and ethnicity (p = 0.016) were statistically associated with modern contraceptive use among the respondents. All other tested demographic variables including the age groups, gender, marital status, and residential status proved otherwise at the observed p-values greater than the 0.05 threshold. Respondents who indicated staying with partners were 6.79 times more likely to use contraceptives compared to their counterparts staying with a parent, after controlling for all other covariates. Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, it was concluded that high contraceptive knowledge influences the choice of contraceptive preferred by the youth, and contraceptive use is also influenced by the advancement in age and educational level of the youth. It is however recommended that parents, guidance, and teachers be entreated to offer relevant and timely sexual information or education as these will most likely improve the uptake of modern contraceptives among the targeted population.

Does Parental Migration Affect Left-Behind Children’s Social Anxiety?A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Social anxiety is a common psychological problem among left-behind children(LBC)and has been a popular issue in recent years.Children with higher levels of social anxiety have more emotional and behavioral problems and are prone to negative life events.Although several studies have explored the differences in social anxiety between LBC and non-left-behind children(N-LBC),the findings have not been consistent.In this study,a systematic review and meta-analysis method was used,with 411 papers retrieved on October 01,2023,from Pubmed,Embase,Web of Science,and Chinese databases(CNKI,VIP,and Wanfang)(PROSPERO registry number:CRD42023472463).Twenty-one studies met the research criteria and included 11,254 LBC and 13,096 N-LBC.LBC scored significantly higher for social anxiety([WMD(95%CI):0.35[0.23,0.48],p<0.001])and social avoidance and distress([WMD(95%CI):0.35[0.23,0.48],p<0.001]).Subgroup analyses showed significant differences in effect sizes for the overall proportion of children left behind(p=0.02).In addition,different types of parental migration may influence the social anxiety of LBC,double-parent migration was associated higher social anxiety than father migration(p<0.001).Future research should focus on treatments to decrease social anxiety of left-behind children.These findings suggest that due to the long-term absence of parental migration,LBC are more vulnerable to negative emotional experiences and behaviours such as anxiety,distress,and avoidance during social interaction,especially for those with both parents absent from the home.Future research should focus on treatments to reduce social anxiety in LBC.

Linking 24-h Movement Behavior Guidelines to Cognitive Difficulties,Internalizing and Externalizing Problems in Preterm Youth

Background:Given the heightened risk of developmental challenges associated with preterm birth,it is crucial to explore interventions that may ameliorate potential adverse outcomes.This study aimed to examine whether meeting the 24-h movement behavior(24-HMB)guidelines,which include recommendations on physical activity(PA),screen time(ST),and sleep(SL),is related to indicators of cognitive difficulties,internalizing problems(e.g.,depression and anxiety),and externalizing problems(e.g.,difficulties in making friends and arguing)in a sample of preterm youth(children and adolescents born preterm).Methods:In this cross-sectional study,data from 3410 preterm youth(aged 6 to 17 years)were included for data analyses.Multivariable logistic regression was used to investigate associations between meeting the 24-HMB guidelines and the above-mentioned health outcomes,while controlling for sociodemographic and health-related factors.Results:The prevalence of meeting 24-HMB guidelines varied across independent and integrated components of the 24-HMB guidelines.Meeting the ST guideline alone(p<0.05)and integrated guidelines(i.e.,ST+SL and ST+SL+PA)were associated with fewer cognitive difficulties and reduced internalizing and externalizing problems(p<0.05).Specifically,meeting the SL guideline alone and integrated guidelines(i.e.,SL+ST)were associated with lower odds of depression and anxiety(p<0.01).Additionally,meeting independent,and integrated(PA and/or ST)guidelines were associated with less pronounced difficulties in making friends and arguing(p<0.05).Meeting 24-HMB guidelines in an isolated and integrated manner are linked to better cognitive performance and fewer internalizing and externalizing problems in preterm youth.Conclusion:Results suggest that advocating for the implementation of the 24-HMB guidelines may reduce cognitive challenges and behavioral issues,which is of high relevance for improving public health.Future longitudinal studies in preterm youth should investigate how modifying specific 24-HMB behaviors,especially ST,influence cognitive difficulties,internalizing and externalizing problems in this vulnerable population.

Exploring the Reasons for Selfie-Taking and Selfie-Posting on Social Media with Its Effect on Psychological and Social Lives:A Study among Indian Youths

‘Selfie’taking was introduced to the common people by smartphones and has become a common practice across the globe in no time.With technological advancement and the popularity of smartphones,selfie-taking has grown rapidly within a short time.In light of the new trend set by the generation,this study aimed to explore reasons for selfie-taking and selfie-posting on social media and their effects on the social and psychological lives of young adults.A purposive sampling method was adopted to select 20 Indian citizens,between 18 and 24 years.The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis.Selfie-taking and posting on social media give positive feelings,and it acts as a mood modifier dependent mostly on the favourability and feedback about the post which in turn affects emotions and self-satisfaction.

The Youth’s View of Marriage in Chinese Mainstream Media Discourse-A Corpus-assisted Three-dimensional Discourse Analysis

The rising of aging and the declining of birth rates have forced the public to focus on the youth’s view on marriage.Based on critical discourse analysis and combined with Fairclough’s three-dimensional discourse analysis model,this paper builds a“Chinese media News Report Corpus on the topic of‘marriage’”whose news are collected from China Daily.It is found that the discourses are neutral and objective with regard to the advantages and disadvantages of marriage,but in general,it is still a traditional view of marriage that is inevitable and closely related to fertility.Although this is controlled by the policies and the social reasons including declining fertility rate,it deviates from the current view of the youth towards marriage,resulting in many serious consequences such as young people’s rejection.In addition,this research found that male and female have great differences in their views on marriage,and men’s resistance to marriage is far greater than that of women,which is departure from the public’s cognition.The reasons behind this need to be explored in order to solve the marriage and love problems of young people in today’s era and realize the healthy development of young marriage.

Cultivating Youth Interest in Badminton

Conducting an investigation and analysis using literature review methods,the current state of interest cultivation among young badminton players was examined.The findings indicate a less optimistic situation regarding interest development among these young athletes:the initial interest motivation of young badminton players is significantly influenced by parents,with parental focus more on sporting achievements than the child’s happiness,neglecting the emotional well-being of children;coaches prioritize fundamental technical skills over interest cultivation,and the methods used to stimulate interest still exhibit traditional tendencies,overlooking the application of game-based and competitive approaches;there is a lack of practical implementation in interest cultivation;the majority of coaches create an unfavorable classroom atmosphere,easily overlooking students’emotional experiences.Understanding the current development status and trends in interest cultivation for youth badminton,this study analyzed data on interest cultivation methods.It was found that the majority of badminton teaching tends to focus on scientific technical training and physical fitness for young players.While many coaches and parents express affirmation for interest cultivation methods,they are not widely applied in practice at present.Incorporating game-based teaching into badminton instruction has the potential to enhance students’interest in badminton learning,especially for novice young players,facilitating the early establishment of a love for badminton.

Challenges and Countermeasures of Youth Moral Education in the Era of Big Data

Youth moral education is an extremely important work,which is related to the inheritance of traditional virtues of the Chinese nation,the fundamental plan of“successor,”and the construction of modern Chinese spiritual civilization.In the era of big data,the moral education of youth is facing new challenges and opportunities.The wide application of big data technology has brought about an information explosion,exposing young people to more diverse and complex social information.It not only brings opportunities for positive moral education but also many challenges.The main problems of youth moral education in the era of big data are neglected youth subjectivity,insufficient youth moral practice,and utilitarian youth value orientation.We should develop personalized moral education programs,strengthen the integration of moral knowledge and action,and pay more attention to moral practice to improve the pertinence and effectiveness of moral education for young people in the era of big data.

Research on Localized English Education for Transnational Left-behind Children in the Context of English Global Localization: A Case Study of Wenzhou Overseas Chinese Hometown

With the increasing development of English globalization,the trend of combining English with local cultures has become more evident.This research focuses on five schools in the Wenzhou overseas Chinese hometown to investigate the current status of English education from the perspectives of teachers,students,and textbooks.The aim was to propose bilingual education strategies for the education of transnational left-behind children(TLC).By examining the situation of English education in this specific context,this study sought to address the unique challenges faced by TLC and provide effective educational approaches.Interviews,observations,and document analysis were employed to gather data by means of questionnaire research methods.The findings of this study settled on the improvement of bilingual education for TLC and insights into enhancing English education in multicultural settings.

Research on the Integration of Lingnan Culture into“Four Histories”Education for Hong Kong Youth

This study focuses on Hong Kong youth,recognizing them as a vital subject within the context of“four histories”education.From the perspective of the integration of Lingnan culture,it explores the rich resources of Lingnan culture,innovates the narrative system,and explores the path of positive guidance in history education.Responding to the demands of the times,it seeks to alleviate the pressing concerns of Hong Kong society,help Hong Kong youth break down prejudices,gain a comprehensive understanding of China,grasp the development context of modern China,recognize historical trends,undertake national responsibilities,and take on the mission of the times.

The moderating effect of physical activity on the relationship between bullying and mental health among sexual and gender minority youth

Background:Sexual and gender minority youth frequently experience bullying,which often contributes to higher depressive symptoms and lower self-esteem.Given that physical activity(PA)can mitigate depressive symptoms and improve self-esteem,we examined the moderating effect of PA on the relationship between bullying and mental health among sexual and gender minority youth.Methods:Data from the Lesbian,Gay,Bisexual,Transgender,and Queer National Teen Survey(n=9890)were analyzed.Hierarchical regression analyses examined the influence of history and frequency of being bullied,PA,and the interaction of these variables on depressive symptoms and self-esteem.Simple slopes analyses were used to probe significant interactions.Results:Results indicated the importance of accounting for bullying history when examining effects of PA on mental health.PA was negatively related to depression(t=-4.18,p<0.001)and positively related to self-esteem(t=12.11,p<0.001).Bullying frequency was positively related to depression(t=19.35,p<0.001)and negatively related to self-esteem(t=-12.46,p<0.001).There was a significant interaction between bullying frequency and PA for depression(t=4.45,p<0.001)and self-esteem(t=-4.69,p<0.001).Post hoc analyses suggested that the positive effects of PA on mental health may be limited to those not bullied because it had a negligible effect on those who were bullied.Conclusion:Results suggest that sexual and gender minority youth exercise interventions aiming to improve mental health should first address bullying history;otherwise,their effectiveness may be limited to those who have been bullied.

Predictors of antenatal health service utilization among left-behind wives of male outmigrants:Evidence from Patna District,India

Objective:To analyze the sociological support system available for left-behind wives of male outmigrants and develop a model that predicts the antenatal care(ANC)services utilization.Methods:A cross-sectional survey was conducted in rural regions of the Patna district,India.The sample size(n=328)was estimated using Cochran’s formula.Five parameters of the social support system were identified(autonomy,spousal support,family support,social circle support,and government support).The score for each was calculated as a composite score using multiple variables;these served as independent variables.The respondents were categorized as efficient and non-efficient users of ANC service based on established criteria.Results:The regression results showed that four out of five social parameters had a significant effect on ANC behavior.Spousal support was the strongest predictor(standardized regression coefficient β=0.57,OR 1.16,95%CI 1.08-1.79,P=0.007).Government support was found to be the second strongest predictor(β=0.40,OR 1.49,95%CI 1.04-2.14,P=0.027),followed by family support(β=0.31,OR 1.36,95%CI 1.23-2.57,P=0.034)and autonomy(β=0.11,OR 1.32,95%CI 1.11-2.26,P=0.030).The social circle support was found to be non-significant in predicting ANC behavior(P>0.05).Conclusions:The policymakers could focus on the identified predictors to strengthen and modify the existing policies for leftbehind wives of male outmigrants.The need of the hour is a strategic intervention for behavioral modification of not only the left-behind wives but also their family members along with reinforcement of the existing social-security net.One strategy we suggest is to launch an awareness campaign focusing on husbands(male outmigrants)and family members.

The Relationship between Rural Left-Behind Children’s Physical Activity and Hope:The Mediating Effects of Perceived Social Support

It has been confirmed in previous studies that there is a positive correlation between physical activity and hope.In this study,rural left-behind children in China was taken as the participants to investigate the impact of physical activity on hope in rural left-behind children and examine the mediating role of perceived social support in the relationship between physical activity and hope.797 valid copies of the questionnaire were collected from China.Pearson correlation coefficient was employed to analyze the relationship between physical activity and hope;SEM and Bootstrap were used to test the mediating effect of perceived social support.The results show that physical activity can not only directly and positively predict the level of hope in rural leftbehind children but can also predict the level of hope through perceived social support;perceived social support plays a mediating role in the relationship between physical activity and hope.These results highlight the necessity to pay more attention to the physical activity of left-behind children and the possibility to improve the level of hope by increasing their physical activity;at the same time,the acquisition of more material,emotional and psychological support from teachers and guardians is more conducive to improving the sense of hope in left-behind children.These findings can deepen the understanding of the sense of hope in left-behind children,and provide new methods for and enlightenments on improving the level of hope in left-behind children.

SCO Forum on Youth Development Kicks Off in Qingdao

Sponsored by All-China Youth Federation and coorganised by China International Youth Exchange Centre,Shandong Youth Federation,Qingdao Youth Federation,the Management Committee of China-SCO Local Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Zone and People's Government of Jiaozhou City,the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO)Forum for Youth Development was held in Qingdao,Shandong Province on September 11th.Nearly 100 young delegates from 11 member states and observer states of scO participated in the forum.Participants from various youth organisations and agencies in countries such as China,India,Iran,Kazakhstan.

The International Youth Friendship Gathering at China Three Gorges Corporation was Held in Beijing

On May 18,the International Youth Friendship Gathering at China Three Gorges Corporation was held in Beijing,co-hosted by All-China Youth Federation and China Three Gorges Corporation and organised by Beijing branch of Three Gorges Corporation.Dong Xia,Deputy Secretary-General of All-China Youth Federation,Zhou Lin,Deputy Secretary of Youth League Working Committee for Central Enterprises,and Hua Mei,Employee Director of China Three Gorges Corporation.

TONIGHT,WE ARE YOUNG--‘New Youth,New Future’Asian Youth Music Festival rocks Nanjing

The“New Youth,New Future”Asian Youth Music Festival kicked off in Nanjing,capital of east China’s Jiangsu Province,on October 28.Talented young artists,bands,and singers from China,Japan,the ROK,and ASEAN countries gathered to share a stage and be part of a youth musical and cultural feast dedicated to peace and friendship.The festival attracted more than 20,000 spectators.

2023 China International Youth Cultural Exchange Camp A Platform for Chinese and Foreign Youths to Carry out International Cultural Exchanges

"China International Youth Cultural Exchange Camp"aims at building a platform for international cultural exchanges between Chinese and foreign youth,cultivating a group of young people around the world who pay attention to China's development.

Youth Cultural Exchanges Promoting People-to-People Ties On 2023 China International Youth Cultural Exchange Camp

From July 3 to 13,2023,"China International Youth Cultural Exchange Camp"was held in Beijing,Shandong etc.,which was sponsored by the China International Culture Association,and co-organized by Network of International Culturalink Entities,the Shandong Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism,and the Jining Municipal People's Government.

Beijing People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries Held 2022"Colourful World"International Youth Painting Invitational Exhibition——Mauritian Exhibition and Award Ceremony

On January 7,the 2022"Colourful World"International Youth Painting Invitational Exhibition——Mauritian Exhibition and"Chinatown Light"Award Ceremony was held at the Chinatown Art Centre in Mauritius.The exhibition was co-organised by Beijing People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and other organisations.

青年强则国强:青年人口学前瞻与优化青年人口发展

从当年梁启超发出历史呼号“少年强则国强”、李大钊提出“青春中华之创造”到如今党的二十大报告发出时代强音“青年强,则国家强”,显示了一脉相承的青少年与国家发展联系紧密的认识逻辑。本文回顾和界定了青年及青年人口学的内涵,认为青年可定义为“风险型人口”和“资源型人口”两大类,继而讨论了“青年强”的三重含义,即青年人口储备充足、青年人口素质卓越和青年人口红利丰厚,充分诠释了“青年强,则国家强”时代命题的深刻内涵。概言之,人尽其才则“青年强”,才尽其用则“国家强”。本文从国际比较的视角阐述了我国青年人口发展面临的问题和挑战,突出表现为:中国未来青年人口数量将长期处于缩减状态;青年人口的科学文化素质、身体健康素质和思想素质都有待“提质增效”;就业不充分,青年人口红利没有被充分释放。因此,要优化青年人口发展、进一步增强青年力量,采取相应的对策来强化青年人口储备、优化青年人口素质、极化青年人口红利、激发全人口活力。在人口负增长时代,建设适宜青年生存与发展的青年友好型社会极为必要,把解决青年问题作为解决低生育率等社会人口问题的重要突破口迫在眉睫。

The Triadic Dimension of The Communist Manifesto:Its Implications for Scientific Education in a New Era’s Youth Talent

The Communist Manifesto,as the initial comprehensive exposition of scientific socialist theory,encapsulates the scientific spirit of Marxism.As socialism with Chinese characteristics enters a new epoch,and the world is in the throes of an unprecedented century-long transformation,the importance of young talent in bolstering national scientific and technological progress grows ever more apparent.It is of paramount significance to profoundly understand and elucidate the theoretical heritage,practical guidance,and directional leadership that The Communist Manifesto provides to scientific education for the young talent of this new era from three perspectives:theory,practice,and history.This understanding is vital for young talents to further deepen their accurate comprehension of the governing laws of the Communist Party,the construction laws of socialism,and the development laws of human society.The nurturing of scientific spirit and scientific literacy in young talents has critical implications for providing talent support in building a world scientific and technological powerhouse.