Research Article
The Impact of Pre-existing Trauma on Professionals in the Field of Social Work
Kimberly Nicole Mudd-Fegett*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
1-12
Received:
11 December 2025
Accepted:
22 December 2025
Published:
25 February 2026
Abstract: Most social work students enter the profession with the noble ambition of changing the world. This ambition is often driven by the desire to help others, right injustices or perhaps due experiencing personal trauma. This article highlights an exploratory mixed-methods research project conducted with undergraduate and graduate alumni from a faith-based university, utilizing both a quantitative survey and qualitative narrative interviews. The purpose of this research was to gain an understanding of the underlying motivation of why research participants entered social work practice. Specifically exploring the existence of the impact of personal trauma on professional practice, to understand self-care, healing and the impact it holds on those served. Additionally, this exploratory study focused on self-care practices that assisted participants sustain their emotional, mental, and overall well-being in practice addressing existing and secondary trauma relating to professional practice. The testimonies provided within this study attest to the experiences, trauma and passion social work professionals hold as they enter the profession. It is imperative these individuals are met with compassion, care, support and trauma-informed supervision to sustain within practice that will meet them secondary-trauma. The conclusion of this study highlights the need for additional education within the social work curriculum to ensure that students develop a deep-rooted understanding of specific self-care practices before entering direct practice.
Abstract: Most social work students enter the profession with the noble ambition of changing the world. This ambition is often driven by the desire to help others, right injustices or perhaps due experiencing personal trauma. This article highlights an exploratory mixed-methods research project conducted with undergraduate and graduate alumni from a faith-ba...
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Research Article
Exploration of Biological and Social Determinants of Mental Health Among Adults Living in the United Kingdom
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
13-28
Received:
25 May 2025
Accepted:
18 June 2025
Published:
25 February 2026
Abstract: Aim: This study investigates the interplay between biological, genetic, and socioeconomic determinants of mental health, focusing on their combined impact on adult mental health outcomes in the United Kingdom. It explores the roles of genetic predisposition, biological aging, social determinants, and adverse childhood experiences in shaping mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted using a Population, Intervention, Outcome framework. After applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, nine studies were selected. These studies were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist and analysed for key themes. Results: Mental health outcomes are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility, biological aging, socioeconomic inequalities, adverse childhood experiences, and social connectivity. Schizophrenia, depression, and cognitive decline are closely linked to genetic predisposition and aging processes, while structural disadvantages, early life trauma, and social isolation significantly heighten vulnerability, particularly among marginalised populations. Strengths and Limitations: This study employs a rigorous systematic review methodology with a comprehensive search strategy and a targeted adult demography in the United Kingdom, ensuring relevance and reliability; however, limitations include potential publication bias, a restricted time frame, subjectivity in study selection, and challenges in translating findings into clinical practice. Recommendations: A multidisciplinary approach integrating public mental health awareness, socioeconomic interventions, research innovation, and improved access to mental health services is essential for reducing disparities, enhancing early detection, and ensuring holistic, inclusive mental health care across diverse populations. Conclusion: Mental health outcomes result from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, biological processes, and socioeconomic conditions. A holistic, interdisciplinary approach integrating healthcare, policy, and community support is essential for reducing disparities and improving mental health outcomes across the United Kingdom.
Abstract: Aim: This study investigates the interplay between biological, genetic, and socioeconomic determinants of mental health, focusing on their combined impact on adult mental health outcomes in the United Kingdom. It explores the roles of genetic predisposition, biological aging, social determinants, and adverse childhood experiences in shaping mental ...
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Methodology Article
The Podcast as a Tool for the Prevention of Gender-based Violence in the University Community
Grecia Alejandrina Alvaro Cardenas*
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
29-44
Received:
1 July 2025
Accepted:
26 January 2026
Published:
4 March 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sdps.20260101.13
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Gender-based violence remains a persistent challenge in higher education institutions, requiring innovative pedagogical approaches that go beyond normative protocols and informational campaigns. In recent years, digital media—particularly podcasting—has emerged as a participatory and accessible format for education, activism, and community engagement. During the COVID-19 pandemic, podcasting experienced significant growth as a tool for non-formal education and feminist communication, yet empirical studies examining its pedagogical impact within local university contexts remain limited. This research was conducted to address this gap by analyzing the use of podcast production as a strategy for gender violence prevention and critical education in a teacher-training university in Mexico City. This article examines the motivations, academic profiles, and participation experiences of individuals involved in a gender-focused podcast scriptwriting rally designed as a formative and intervention-oriented initiative. The study follows a descriptive mixed-methods approach, based on the analysis of a registration form combining closed-ended and open-ended questions. The sample consisted of 22 participants with diverse age ranges and academic backgrounds, primarily in education, pedagogy, educational psychology, social sciences, and gender studies. The findings indicate that participants primarily conceptualize podcasting as an educational, communicative, and social intervention tool, capable of fostering gender awareness, collaborative work, and the development of critical communication skills. Notable differences were identified in participants’ motivations according to age group and academic training, revealing distinct pedagogical and political orientations toward podcast production. Overall, the study highlights the potential of podcasting as a situated pedagogical device that aligns with feminist pedagogies and supports the promotion of gender equity and social justice in educational contexts. This research contributes empirical evidence to an emerging field and offers a documented case study from Mexico grounded in recent academic literature and methodological rigor.
Abstract: Gender-based violence remains a persistent challenge in higher education institutions, requiring innovative pedagogical approaches that go beyond normative protocols and informational campaigns. In recent years, digital media—particularly podcasting—has emerged as a participatory and accessible format for education, activism, and community engageme...
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