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The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of parents engaging in dialogic reading with their children while reading picture books on children's emotional understanding and parent-child relationships. The study also attempted to investigate the potential of picture books as useful instruments for parent-child communication, fostering meaningful parent-child connection and augmenting children's emotional comprehension. The study lasted for 11 weeks. The initial three weeks were focused on a parent-child reading session specifically designed for mothers, and the next eight weeks consisted of a picture book reading program in the participants' homes. Convenience sampling was employed to choose 11 families for participation in the study. Throughout the 8-week reading program, families actively participated in parent-child picture book reading sessions at home, ensuring a minimum frequency of once per week. The study used a combination of multiple case studies and a case study-mixed methods design. The data collection process involved gathering quantitative data through various means, including administering primary background surveys, utilizing the Child-Parent Relationship Scale (CPRS), and employing the Children’s Emotional Development Scale. The qualitative data consisted of interviews conducted before the intervention and records documenting parental reading observations. The analysis methodologies used in this study encompassed thematic and content analysis, which involved combining qualitative and quantitative findings to facilitate comparison. The quantitative data analysis of the Child Emotional Development Scale revealed notable disparities in emotional cognition, comprehension, expression, and overall emotional competence scores between the initial and final examinations. Although the CPRS results did not reveal any notable disparities in family intimacy and conflict; it is worth noting that seven families had higher post-test scores in family intimacy, indicating that mothers perceived an improved level of closeness with their children. Qualitative data analysis revealed that through shared reading of picture books on various emotional themes, children learned more emotional vocabulary and engaged in deeper parent-child conversations beyond daily interactions. This increased children's opportunities for emotional expression and helped mothers better understand their children's emotional needs, reflect on their parenting skills, and foster parent-child interaction and communication. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the significant impact of engaging in dialogic parent-child picture book reading on emotional understanding in preschool children. Furthermore, it is believed to be a valuable parent-child interaction strategy for dual-income families in Macau, enhancing parent-child relationships.

In many studies of social workers, topics such as burnout and job satisfaction are relatively frequently studied and discussed. There are even fewer relevant studies on social workers in Macau. Therefore, research on self-efficacy, burnout, and job satisfaction among social workers in Macau will be a relatively new research topic. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether and to what extent job burnout mediates the effects of self-efficacy and job satisfaction. We explored the relationships between: (1) the positive relationship between self-efficacy and job satisfaction; (2) the negative relationship between self-efficacy and burnout; (3) the negative relationship between burnout and job satisfaction; and (4) burnout has a mediation effect in the relationship between self-efficacy and job satisfaction. Quantitative and cross-sectional design research was applied by using an online self-response survey (N = 100), conducted using a snowball sampling technique among Macau's full-time social workers. Results from simple linear regression showed that the findings demonstrate significant results on the relationship between social workers' self-efficacy, burnout, and job satisfaction in Macau. Overall burnout had a significant negative prediction towards overall self-efficacy (r = -.47, p <.001); overall self-efficacy can significantly positive predict overall job satisfaction (r =.31, p <.01); Burnout can significantly negatively predict job satisfaction (r = -.43, p <.001), so multiple linear regression analysis was performed. The results showed that when burnout was used as one of the predictors, although burnout had a significant negative prediction on job satisfaction, burnout had a significant negative impact on self-efficacy and job satisfaction. The relationship between them has a very complete mediating effect. This means that the relationship between self-efficacy and job satisfaction is fully mediated by burnout. If corresponding resource policies and strategies are developed to improve social workers' self-efficacy, thereby reducing burnout and improving job satisfaction, this may be beneficial to both employees and organizations. Our study contributes to the direction in which positive expectations influence individual turnover intentions of Macau social workers. This study has theoretical implications for organizations and employees, and future research should continue to explore suggestions such as the limits and causal relationships of self-efficacy to help policymakers develop strategies to reduce social worker turnover.

The gaming industry has always been the leading sector in Macau and is one of the main occupations in the region. In 2023, gaming employees accounted for 18.2% of the total employment in Macau, making them a significant portion of the workforce. Research shows that gaming employees experience high levels of work stress, which can directly affect occupational fatigue and may also trigger anxiety and depression. Workplace fatigue and emotional health not only impact individual physical and psychological well-being but also affect their families, work, and interpersonal relationships. Therefore, the emotional health and workplace fatigue of gaming employees deserve public attention. This study aims to explore the work adjustment measures, stress coping methods, emotional health, workplace fatigue, and their relationships among gaming employees. The research focuses on Macau’s gaming employees, employing a quantitative approach. Using non-random sampling, electronic questionnaires were sent to managers of Macau's six major gaming companies from October to December 2023, ultimately collecting 563 valid responses, with males accounting for 45.6% and females for 54.4%. The study utilized SPSS 23 statistical software for quantitative analysis, first conducting descriptive statistics, followed by independent samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and finally Pearson correlation coefficients and regression analysis. The study found differences in coping methods based on gender, age, education level, marital status, shift patterns, and monthly salary among gaming employees. Differences in workplace fatigue were found related to gender, age, education level, marital status, living conditions, years of work experience, job position, and monthly salary. Age, education level, and marital status also showed differences in emotional health. In terms of work adjustments, 67.1% of respondents took parental leave, followed by 54.2% who took unpaid leave, and 9.8% who were transferred. The average score for personal fatigue was 40.90 ± 23.125, while the average score for work fatigue was 40.62 ± 21.405, followed by client-related fatigue at 36.65 ± 21.056, and work over-involvement at 24.22 ± 18.987. The average score for depression was 10.60 ± 8.974, indicating mild to moderate levels; anxiety had an average score of 11.26 ± 8.567, indicating moderate to severe levels; and stress averaged 9.96 ± 8.418, falling within the normal to mild range. Among the respondents, 33.9% exhibited severe to very severe anxiety symptoms, while 16% showed severe to very severe depression symptoms. We also found a positive correlation between workplace fatigue and emotional health among gaming employees: the higher the level of workplace fatigue, the poorer the emotional health, and vice versa. There was no correlation between work adjustment measures and workplace fatigue. However, work adjustment measures were related to emotional health and could predict it, with more adjustments correlating to better emotional health. Finally, in terms of stress coping, the use of emotional expression methods showed a negative correlation with emotional health and workplace fatigue, indicating that the more these methods were employed, the better the emotional health and the lower the workplace fatigue. Leisure activities and online gambling categories can reduce both personal and work-related fatigue. However, online gambling and physical gambling can increase symptoms of depression and anxiety among gaming employees, while online gambling can also increase stress symptoms. The study recommends that gaming companies and relevant departments provide on-the-job training for employees, enhance skills to cope with stress, establish mental health indicators, and regularly evaluate employees to implement individualized measures aimed at improving workplace fatigue and emotional health. The results of this study can provide valuable insights for policymakers and the management of gaming establishments in Macau to formulate relevant policies to reduce workplace fatigue among gaming employees and improve their emotional health, thereby enhancing their working environment and career development. 博彩業一直是澳門的龍頭產業，是澳門主要的職業行業之一， 2023年博彩從業員佔澳門就業人數18.2%，是澳門主要的就業勞動人口。研究顯示博彩從業員的工作壓力很大，而工作壓力會直接影響職業疲勞，也可能引發焦慮和抑鬱。職場疲勞和情緒健康不但影響個人生理和心理問題，還會影響其家庭和工作，以及人際關係，因此，他們的情緒健康和職場疲勞值得社會大眾關注。 本研究旨在探討博彩從業員工作調整措施，壓力應對方法、情緒健康、職場疲勞以及它們的相關性。研究以澳門博彩從業員為研究對象，採用量化方式進行，以非隨機抽樣方法，在2023年10月至12月向澳門六大博企管理人員發送電子問卷，最終回收問卷563份，男性佔45.6%，女性佔54.4%。研究使用SPSS 23 統計軟件進行量化分析，資料首先作描述性統計分析、再以獨立樣本t檢定、其次以單因數變異數（ANOVA）、最後以Pearson相關係數和迴歸分析檢定數據。 研究發現，博彩從業員的性別、年齡、教育程度、婚姻狀況、輪班模式和每月薪酬與壓力應對方法呈現差異。性別、年齡、教育程度、婚姻狀況、居住狀況、工作年資、工作職位和每月薪酬與職場疲勞有差異。年齡、教育程度、婚姻狀況與情緒健康有差異。博彩從業員在工作調整上，放親子假最多佔67.1%，其次放無薪假佔54.2%，被調職佔9.8%。個人疲勞平均數為40.90±23.125分及工作疲勞平均數40.62±21.405分最高，其次是服務對象疲勞平均數為36.65±21.056分，工作過度投入平均數為24.22±18.987分。抑鬱平均數為10.60±8.974分屬於輕度至中度水平；焦慮平均數為11.26±8.567分，屬於中度至重度水平；壓力平均數為9.96±8.418分，屬於正常至輕度範圍。當中有33.9%的人士的焦慮徵狀顯示出嚴重和非常嚴重程度，而有16%的受訪者的抑鬱徵狀呈現嚴重和非常嚴重程度。我們還發現，博彩從業員的職場疲勞與情緒健康存在正相關，職場疲勞程度越高，情緒健康越差，反之亦然。工作調整措施與職場疲勞沒有相關性。然而工作調整措施與情緒健康存在關係，並可以預測情緒健康，工作調整越多，情緒健康越好。最後，在壓力應對上，傾訴類別與情緒健康和職場疲勞呈現負相關，並有預測效果，亦即傾訴類別使用的方法得分越多，情緒健康越好，職場疲勞也越低。休閒類別和網上博彩類別能減低個人和工作疲勞。網上博彩類別、實體博彩類別會增加博彩從業員的抑鬱、焦慮徵狀，而網上博彩類別會增加壓力徵狀。研究建議博企及相關部門為員工提供在職培訓，加強技能應對壓力，制定精神健康指標並定期為員工評估，因應個別化推出措施，改善職場疲勞和情緒健康。 本研究的結果能為政策制定者和澳門幸運博彩娛樂場管理部門提供有價值的見解，制定相關政策，以減低博彩從業員的職場疲勞和改善他們的情緒健康，改善他們的工作環境和職業發展。

The current study aimed to analyse the differences in the internalising problems including anxious/depressed, withdrawn-depressed and somatic complaints, from the perspective of parents and high school students. Considering varying levels of academic achievement. Additionally, the gender differences in the level of internalising problems will also be examined. Finally, we analysed the different perspectives of parents and high school students according to internalising problems. The Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA) was used for data collection in Macao. The sample consisted of 698 high school students (316 males and 382 females). There were no significant differences in internalising problems according to three levels of academic achievement (low, average and high) from the perspective of parents and high school students. Furthermore, from the high school students' perspectives, adolescent females present more interesting problems than males. Finally, the findings indicate a low agreement between parents and students concerning internalising problems. It is suggested that parents should learn and explore different parenting styles in order to reduce their children's internalising problems.

The present study explored the effect of organisational culture on turnover intentions of full-time workers in financial sector in Macao, and the mediating effect of organisational commitment. The following research questions were examined in this study: (1) how do organisational cultural values affect workers’ turnover intentions? (2) what is the role of organisational commitment in the relationships between organisational cultural values and turnover intentions? A cross-sectional design was used by applying a self-response bilingual (Chinese and English) questionnaire to a sample of 123 full-time workers in the financial sector in Macao. Results show that the organisational culture factors with a stronger impact on turnover are entrepreneurial, hierarchical and team cultural values. Entrepreneurial values (ßa=-.323, p=.004), followed by team values (ßa=-.260, p=.011), show the strongest effects and a negative relationship with turnover intentions. Meanwhile, hierarchical values (ßa=.208, p=.012) show the weakest effect and a positive relationship with turnover intentions. Regarding the affective commitment in the relationships between organisational cultural values and turnover intentions, the values with the strongest impact were entrepreneurial, followed by hierarchical and team values. Affective commitment fully mediates the effects of entrepreneurial and hierarchical values and partially mediates the effect of team values on turnover intentions. Regarding theoretical implications, our findings seem consistent with the social exchange theory. Regarding practical implications, we discuss some strategies to promote entrepreneurial and team values and prevent hierarchical values as strategies to increase affective commitment and decrease turnover in the financial sector.

In the era of data, Internet use has become the most forward-looking way of education and interaction for children. How does parental upbringing and Internet cognition in the family education environment affect children's Internet use behavior? The different influences derived from parental intervention. The different influences of parental intervention models are also of concern to parents. Children's Internet use is not only related to personal growth, but also involves family education models and effects. Most of the past research has focused on children rather than parents’ opinions and feelings. Through this research gap, we explore parents’ own opinions and evaluations on their children’s upbringing and Internet cognition. The research aims to expand the attention of policy advocates, social sectors and parents on issues related to parenting in Macao. During the period from April to June this year, quantitative research and statistical analysis will be used to provide targeted and convenient information to primary school students in Macao. Parents of children in high school and high school were taken as targets. Questionnaires were filled out in person and collected on online platforms. A total of 224 samples were collected. The study will further discover the relationship between parental upbringing and Internet cognition and children's Internet behavior. Parents' involvement in their children's Internet behavior may have an impact on these associations. Derived intermediary effects. Through data collection and research analysis, regression analysis is conducted on variables to determine the relationship between variables, explore the family upbringing and Internet cognition factors behind the Internet behavior of Macao children, and increase the theoretical and practical reference basis for parents. Provide reference for practical promotion of education, social services and family relations, and improve parents' insight into their children's online behavior. The research results emphasize that there is a correlation between parenting styles and children's online behavior. Authoritative parenting represents a higher defensive ability of children's online behavior, while authoritarian and permissive parenting represent weak defensive capabilities. The results also show that parents' involvement in online behavior is a pathway in relationships and affects the relationship between parenting and children's online behavior to a certain extent. Since there are not many related studies in Macao, the survey results are conducive to enriching the data on education, Internet cognition and Internet behavior in Macao, and can provide relevant people with beneficial data support to better understand the education methods in Macao. and family relationships. 數據化時代下，網絡使用成為子女最前瞻性的教育和互動方式，在家庭教育環境下的父母教養和網絡認知如何影響著子女網絡使用行為，在父母介入干預下所衍生的不同影響力，當中父母介入模式的不同影響亦是父母所關注的。子女網絡使用不僅關乎個人成長亦牽涉到家庭教育模式和效果。過往研究大多傾向子女身上而非父母觀點和感受上，透過本研究缺口探討父母自身對子女的教養、網絡認知等看法和評價。 研究旨在探討本澳子女網絡行為背後的家庭教養和網絡認知因素，增加父母在理論和實踐上的參考依據，提供教育、社會服務和家庭關係等的實務推動上的參考，提高父母對子女網絡行為的洞察力。本論文透過今年4至6月期間以量化研究。以有目的性和方便性向本澳育有初小至高中子女的父母作為對象，以當面填寫及網絡平台收集問卷，共收取樣本224份，研究將進一步發現父母教養和網絡認知與子女網絡行為的關係，而父母介入子女網絡行為對這些關聯可能衍生之中介效果。透過數據整埋和研究分析等在變數上進行迴歸分析，確定變數之間的關係。 研究結果強調，父母教養方式與子女網絡行為具有相關關係，權威型教養代表著子女網絡行為的防禦能力較高，相反專制型和寬容型教養則呈現防禦力較弱。結果亦顯示，父母介入網絡行為是關係中的途徑，一定程度下影響著父母教養和子女網絡行為的關係。由於本澳相關的研究並不豐富，調查結果有利於本澳在教養、網絡認知和網絡行為上的數據資料豐富，可以為相關人士提供有利的數據支援，更好地瞭解本澳的教養方式和家庭關係。再者，可透過研究結果擴大政策提倡者、社會業界和父母等對本澳父母教養等相關問題的關注。

澳門於1994年頒佈《家庭政策綱要法》，旨在支持家庭提升工作、房屋等的生活條件。澳門特區政府於2020年中修改《勞動關係法》，增加對家庭的支援，以回應澳門的發展需要。回顧有關工作與家庭衝突的文獻，大多針對弱勢家庭作探討，忽略雙職家庭也同樣面對困境。本研究之目的是為探討本澳雙職家庭的工作與家庭衝突情況，並在家庭友善政策推行不足的情況下，雙職家庭為求達致工作與家庭能夠平衡的協調策略。 　　為了作出深入的了解，本研究採用質性研究，邀請了20位雙職家庭的父母作為研究對象，與他們通過半結構式訪談收集資料。獲得資料後，以紮根理論進行編碼及分析。 　　 本次研究發現有利於平衡雙職家庭的工作與家庭，與三大要有密切關係，包括1)家庭協調與資源；2)時間管理及3)社會支持。雙職父母運用自身家庭的資源協調模式，訂立出屬於個別家庭獨有的時間管理模式及分工；工作單位的友善氛圍及相應的彈性工作協調措施，也扶助了雙職家庭，達致家庭與工作中取得較為平衡的狀態。研究者根據以上的研究發現，為優化家庭友善政策作出一些建議，使雙職家庭能減少工作與家庭衝突的發生。

The current quantitative study aims to understand/investigate the perception of Macao society towards couple therapy and therapists and the perception of Macao's professionals working with couples about couple therapy services in Macao. Given the small sample of this study of professionals who work as therapists for couples in Macao, this indicates that there is not a large number of them. The result of the research indicates also a general positive attitude of professionals towards clients but also indicates that couple therapy needs improvement. The sample used to measure the society shows that the society manifested moderate positive attitudes toward couple therapy. However, the findings may reveal that there are still weak points of societal knowledge and contact for couples therapy services. The outcome manifested that Macao has limited literature about Family and Couple Therapy which may be relevant to understand the poor knowledge of the society related to this field. The current study suggests the elaboration of future studies about Couple Therapy services and about the concept of couple therapy to promote therapeutic service to couples and academic researchers that promote governmental support to offer professionals validation.

This study explored the influence of Macao caregivers' interaction with young children on language development, and analyzed the family language environment,sociolect-cultural influence and the current language development support system from the perspective of social work. A qualitative research method was used to analyze the interaction pattern and the progress of language development through in-depth interview and observation. The study found that the overuse of electronics, caregiver interaction and multilingual environment affected language development to different degrees, and made suggestions on how social workers should intervene and improve the support system for language development.

With continuous advancements in technology leading to extended lifespans, a question arises: Are we adequately prepared to face and accept death when it eventually comes? What factors prompt us to proactively plan our end-of-life arrangements? These are important issues that merit understanding and attention. Therefore, this study aims to explore the current status and related factors between life autonomy and quality of life among the elderly in Macau. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, primarily utilizing convenience sampling and snowball sampling. Data were collected through both online and offline methods using questionnaires. The questionnaire consists of three main sections: 1) demographic background information of respondents, 2) the Good Death Inventory (GDI), and 3) the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF Taiwan Version. A total of 512 questionnaires were collected, with 480 valid responses, accounting for approximately 94% of the total. Among the respondents, 61.1% were female, the majority had primary school education, 51.6% were married, but only 36.5% lived with their partners. Nearly 60% of participants rated their physical condition as average, 60% had chronic illnesses, though the prevalence of severe chronic diseases was low. Over 50% of participants had no religious beliefs and did not participate in any elderly services. The results show that 60% of participants exhibited moderate or above levels of attitudes toward a good death and quality of life. Analysis using one-way ANOVA and T-tests revealed significant differences in attitudes toward a good death across all demographic variables. Participants who were ""older,"" had ""lower education levels,"" were ""single"" or ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" had ""no religious beliefs"" or were ""Catholic,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" ""did not receive elderly services,"" or participated in ""elderly daycare centers"" displayed poorer attitudes toward a good death. Additionally, participants considered ""anticipating future conditions,"" ""seeing desired people,"" ""natural death,"" ""living in a peaceful environment,"" and ""independent living"" as key aspects of a good death. Regarding quality of life, differences were observed across various demographic variables. In overall quality of life, participants who were ""older,"" ""never educated,"" ""single"" or ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or were ""using home support services"" reported poorer quality of life. In the physical health domain, those who were ""older,"" ""never educated,"" ""cohabiting,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or were ""using home support services"" had lower quality of life. In the psychological health domain, those who were ""older,"" ""never educated,"" ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" were ""Catholic,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or were ""using home support services"" had poorer quality of life. In the social relationships domain, those who were ""older,"" ""single"" or ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or ""did not receive elderly services"" had poorer quality of life. In the environmental domain, those who were ""older,"" ""never educated,"" ""cohabiting,"" ""lived with friends,"" had ""poor physical condition,"" or were ""using home support services"" had poorer quality of life. Across the four domains (excluding overall quality of life), participants scored highest to lowest in the following order: physical health > social relationships > environment > psychological health, indicating that psychological health was the weakest domain. A positive correlation of varying degrees was found between attitudes toward a good death and different domains of quality of life, meaning that better quality of life was associated with better attitudes toward a good death. However, only the ""environmental"" and ""social relationships"" domains of quality of life showed a linear relationship with the Good Death Inventory, indicating that these domains are predictive of attitudes toward a good death, though their explanatory power is limited.

This qualitative study explored the experiences of 15 Mental Health Professionals in Macau who interact with adults with intellectual disabilities (ID), aiming to understand how these interactions shape perceptions, relationships, and service practices. Using a phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with professionals from government-funded NGOs, including social workers, therapists, and healthcare providers. Data were analysed through thematic analysis, yielding seven key themes: (1) New perception of Service Users with ID (e.g., shifting from deficit-based to strength-based perceptions), (2) bidirectional personal transformations in professionals (e.g., increased patience, resilience, irritable), (3) Relationship Dynamics and Emotional Connections (e.g., familial, collegial, or mentor-like relationships), (4) A professional core service share by the perceived role (5) development of best practices emphasizing rapport and knee observations, (6) creation of safe worry-free spaces fostering mutual emotional support, (7) and Needs to be fulfilled in aging services, learning and community integration. Practical implications highlight the need for the addition of course structures related to people with intellectual disabilities in relevant occupational college courses, expanded staffing ratios, and policy reforms to address care gaps related to aging. By revealing the mutual influence of professional service-user relationships, where interactions foster staff growth and client empowerment, this study contributes to the global discussion on disability support, while providing actionable recommendations for Macau’s upcoming Ten-Year Rehabilitation Plan in 2026-2036. The findings hold value for policymakers, service providers, and educators seeking strategies to enhance workforce well-being and service quality in intellectual disability service.

This study explores the changes in the parent-child interaction experience of different types of parents (single parents and two parents) before, during and after the epidemic. The study adopted qualitative research methods and conducted in-depth interviews with 10 families (5 single-parent families and 5 two-parent families), and analyzed from three levels: educational support, interaction model and emotional support.Research has found that the epidemic has not only changed families' lifestyles, but also affected the pattern and quality of parent-child interaction.Especially during the shutdown of work and school, the time parents spend with their children has increased sharply from the original 2-3 hours to 12-14 hours.This abnormal lifestyle has brought unprecedented challenges and opportunities to the parent-child relationship. The research results show that 14 important themes emerged from the interviews, and there are significant differences between single-parent parents and dual-parent parents in facing the impact of the epidemic.In terms of educational support, two-parent families can provide more comprehensive educational support through the division of labor and cooperation between parents.The father is mostly responsible for tutoring in math and science subjects, while the mother focuses on tutoring in Chinese subjects.In contrast, although single parents face resource constraints, they are often able to develop more innovative educational strategies, such as making good use of community resources and establishing mutual aid networks.In terms of interaction patterns, two-parent families tend to optimize the quality of interaction through role division, while single-parent families focus more on improving the effect of a single interaction.At the level of emotional support, the support methods of two-parent families have experienced a transformation from division of labor and collaboration to overall integration, while single-parent families have developed more direct and in-depth emotional connection strategies. Research has found that both single-parent and two-parent families can maintain the development of parent-child relationships through different strategies and adaptations. Some good interactive habits formed during the epidemic, such as regular in-depth conversations and joint participation in housework, are still retained and developed by many families after the epidemic.This suggests that crises may also be an opportunity to promote the optimization of family relationships.The research results not only help understand the unique needs of different types of families, but also provide an empirical basis for formulating differentiated family support policies.Based on the research findings, it is recommended that the government and social service agencies should pay more attention to the diversity of families when formulating policies and provide more targeted support services for different types of families. 本研究探討疫情前中後不同類型家長（單親及雙親）的親子互動體驗變化。研究採用質性研究方法，通過深度訪談10個家庭（5個單親家庭和5個雙親家庭），從教育支援、互動模式和情感支援三個層面進行分析。研究發現，疫情不僅改變了家庭的生活方式，更影響了親子互動的模式和品質。尢其是在停工停學期間，家長和子女的相處時間從原來的2-3小時急增至12-14小時，這種非常態的生活方式為親子關係帶來了前所未有的挑戰和機遇。 研究結果顯示，在訪談中得出14個重要主題，單親家長和雙親家長在面對疫情衝擊時呈現出顯著差異。在教育支援方面，雙親家庭能夠通過父母分工合作的方式提供更全面的教育支援，父親多負責數理科目輔導，母親則專注於語文學科輔導。相比之下，單親家長雖然面臨資源限制，但往往能發展出更具創新性的教育策略，如善用社區資源、建立互助網絡等。在互動模式方面，雙親家庭傾向於通過角色分工來優化互動質量，而單親家庭則更注重提升單次互動的效果。在情感支援層面，雙親家庭的支援方式經歷了從分工協作到整體融合的轉變，而單親家庭則發展出更直接和深入的情感連結策略。 研究發現，無論是單親還是雙親家庭，都能通過不同的策略和適應方式維持親子關係的發展。疫情期間形成的一些良好互動習慣，如定期深度對話、共同參與家務等，在疫情後仍被許多家庭保留和發展。這表明危機也可能成為推動家庭關係優化的契機。研究結果不僅有助於理解不同類型家庭的獨特需求，也為制定差異化的家庭支援政策提供了實證基礎。基於研究發現，建議政府和社會服務機構在制定政策時應更加注重家庭的多樣性，為不同類型的家庭提供更有針對性的支援服務。

Legalizing gambling has brought numerous advantages to Macau, including employment opportunities, economic growth, improved quality of life, and accelerated urban development. While these macro-level benefits are evident, the industry has also significantly impacted local families and communities. In particular, the initial discovery of a family member's gambling problem inflicts immeasurable harm on the household, and the coping strategies adopted by affected family members critically influence their relationships with the gambler and the overall trajectory of the family unit. This qualitative study, conducted in collaboration between the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) and SKH 24-hour online gambling counseling service (SKH-24H), employed semi-structured interviews to explore the coping strategies of family members of problem gamblers. Nine participants were interviewed, and thematic analysis revealed eight key coping strategies: (1) Bailing out The Problem Gambler, (2) Maintaining Status Quo of the Family, (3) Help Seeking in Macau Community, (4) Coping by Self-Regulation, (5) Coping by Engagement, (6) Coping by Withdrawal, (7) Tolerance and (8) Seeking Psychiatric Consultations. The study aims to enhance the understanding of local gambling counseling professionals regarding the coping strategy employed by Macau families dealing with problem gamblers. By aligning intervention strategies with the lived experiences of these families, the findings can inform more effective, family-focused approaches to service delivery. Furthermore, the research provides insights for government agencies into the real-world challenges faced by families affected by problem gambling, offering evidence-based recommendations for evaluating and revising existing regulations to mitigate the adverse effects of the gambling industry on Macau's households. "

The suicide rate has been increasing these decades. A good mental health could prevent people from committing suicide. Parents are the ones whom we spend most of the time with. How parents treat us does have an impact on both our development and mental health. However, some people can always see the positive side of things and expect things to turn out well. Therefore, the present study aims to examine if resilience would mediate the relationship between parenting styles and mental health in bachelor students. A cross-sectional research method was used in this study. Data were collected through Google Forms. The sample consists of 110 Bachelor students in Macau, with 46 males (42%) and 64 females (58%). According to the findings of the study, the mediating role of resilience in the relationships between parenting styles and mental health were found to be not significant. However, bachelor students who perceived their mothers as authoritative parenting style were found to have better mental health. While higher resilience was found to have less impact on the mental health of bachelor students. This study has pointed out the importance of different parenting styles on bachelor students' mental health and further proves the positive influence of resilience towards mental health. There is a need to cultivate the resilience of bachelor students to help them better equip themselves for stressful situations and cope with crises. Workshops or interventions are also needed for parents to teach them better parenting skills and knowledge, so that the mental health of their children could be enhanced by that.

The present research aimed to assess and compare the perspectives of teachers, parents, and youth regarding the main positive aspects and concerns they have about youth in Macao, namely: (1 and 2) What are the main positive aspects/concerns Macao teachers, parents, and youth focus on? And (2 and 3) How aligned are teachers, parents, and youth in Macao regarding the positive aspects/concerns? We applied a quantitative methodology based on a quantitative content analysis of open-ended questions included in the Macao validation (Simões et al., Unpublished report) of the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (Achenbach, 1991; “what are your concerns regarding your child/your student/yourself”, and “what are the most positive aspects about your child/your student/yourself”). We found alignment regarding positive aspects, with youth, parents and teachers focusing on personality, abilities, and attitudes, and parents additionally on independence. Regarding concerns, there was less alignment. All mentioned academic performance and interpersonal relationships, but parents and teachers also mentioned health, morality, attitudes, and teachers’ class engagement concerns. Teachers and youths mentioned future planning, while only the youth mentioned school activities and facilities, their abilities and character and class rules and assignments. These categories are aligned with development models, including ecological systems theory (Bronfenbrenner, 1994), social learning theory and social cognitive learning theory (Bandura, 1977, 1986), moral development perspectives (Mead, 1928; Gilligan 1933), self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000) and positive youth development perspectives (e.g., Lerner, 2005). The main practical implications are that (1) youth should have a greater awareness of their physical and mental health; (2) parents should build up a support system to enhance autonomy (3) schools play a crucial role in promoting students’ health by creating a supportive environment; (4) counsellors should promote re-connection between youth and their parents or teachers; and (5) decision-makers should invest in mental health education awareness to diminish the stigma, de-emphasise education strategies based on standardised testing, and address broader social and economic inequalities to reduce disparities and academic pressure among youths, parents and teachers.

As individuals reach 35, they often find that others no longer view them as young. Various theories of adult development suggest that the shift into middle age officially begins at 40. This stage is seen as a transitional period leading toward middle age, commonly referred to in our context as the ""35-year threshold"" or ""35-year crisis."" Therefore, the transformations and significant decisions faced by those aged 35 to 40 deserve attention to better understand the support necessary for a smooth transition into middle age. Research on those in the 35 to 40 age bracket is limited in many regions. This study seeks to identify the needs of early adults within this age group in our area, utilizing qualitative methods. By conducting in-depth interviews about the life experience of the interviewees and starting up writing the stories with the dimension of phenomenological pedagogy, we aim to capture participants' subjective experiences, shedding light on the psychological aspects of their decision-making during pivotal life events. In total, 20 participants aged 35 to 40 from our region were invited to contribute to this study. After three months of interviews and five months of analysis, the research identified four key factors influencing their decision-making attitudes toward major life events: a primary focus on family considerations, a perceived urgency to enact changes before turning 40, a pursuit of stability, and a desire for self-actualization while letting go of rigid expectations. Additionally, based on participants’ insights regarding support systems for Macau adults in this age group, five recommendations were proposed: enhancing family welfare policies, regular reviews of housing policies, promoting life education and diversified development for youth, addressing workplace stress and fostering continuous professional development, and increasing awareness of mental health. These measures aim to provide better support for individuals navigating life transitions or challenges. In summary, the insights gathered from participants provide important implications for adults, government bodies, and social workers regarding the services needed. This research underscores the essential support services for those aged 35 to 40 and suggests the creation of more customized programs and resources. 當踏入35歲後在別人眼裡已不再年輕，在許多成人發展理論定義上則認為踏入40歲後才算中年階段，35歲後正要開始步向中年的過渡時期，國內更稱為「35歲門檻」及「35歲危機」，所以35至40歲這個年齡階段的生活遇到的轉變和重大事件決策歷程，從而了解那些支援能讓這個年齡階段能順利過渡至中年階段，亦是值得進行探討及研究。 不同地區亦較少對35至40歲這個年齡人士進行研究，本研究為了解本澳35至40歲成年早期人士的需要，研究會採用質性研究，以深度訪談了解受訪者在研究題目當中有關的生活體驗，並以教育現象學作分析，期望從受訪者主觀表述其經驗，以了解35至40歲成年人士對於生活中重大事件的決策深層心理意涵與其真實想法。 本次研究共邀請20位本澳35至40歲之成年人士為對象，經過3個月的訪談及歷時5個月進行探討及總結，研究分析得出這個年齡階段之人士，他們面對重大事件作出決策取態的結果有以下四大重要元素：本澳35至40歲成年早期人士首先以家庭角度出發，其次認為時間不多需要在40歲前作出轉變並且追求穩定的生活，追求自我價值及放下執着。 另外，從受訪者提及如何支援本澳35至40歲之成年人的生活，共歸納出五項建議：完善家庭福利措施、定期檢視房屋政策、青年生命教育及多元發展、在職人士壓力及持續進修發展、促進心理健康的關注，讓他們能更有支援的情況下應對生活的轉變或挑戰。 最後，從各位受訪者的建議中整理及歸納，為成年人、政府相關單位及社會工作者在服務提供相關啟示，更能補充35至40歲這個年齡階段人士的生活所需之服務，以及作出更合意的支援方案與服務資訊作參考。

Inclusiveness has become a critical topic nowadays, serving as a benchmark of a nation and community’s level of civilization. As a core component of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), inclusiveness underscores its global significance in fostering equitable and justice societies. The changing dynamics of Macao households, characterized by both parents working or engaging in shift work, along with an increasingly aging population, have led to a growing reliance on domestic workers. As a result, these domestic workers often develop deep relationships with the children under their care, becoming integral members of the households. According to statistics from the Labour Affairs Bureau in Macao (2024), Filipino non-resident workers comprise the second-largest ethnic group, totaling 30,267 individuals. Of this group, 48% (14,604 individuals) are engaged in domestic work, highlighting their substantial presence in the sector. This study aims to investigate the experiences of the largest migrant working group in the region—female Filipino domestic workers—focusing on their experiences of inclusiveness within both the workplace and the Macao community. Utilizing a quantitative research methodology, the study conducts interviews with 10 female Filipino domestic workers in Macao. These interviews provide valuable insights into their lived experiences, illuminating their perceptions of inclusion within their employed families and society. Additionally, the research examines whether existing laws and regulations facilitate their inclusion in Macao. The results of this study revealed eight key themes and two new models of Perceived Inclusiveness in Domestic Workplace and Community , contributing to a deeper understanding of the inclusiveness experience of Filipino domestic workers in Macao.

This dissertation investigated the impact of nature exposure, namely access to green elements, and time spent outdoors on well-being, specifically experiences of positive and negative affect and flourishing, in Macao. Drawing on existing literature, the study proposes the following hypotheses: H1: Access to green elements has a positive relationship with positive affect. H2: Time spent outdoors moderates the relationship between access to green elements and positive affect, in that more time spent outdoors will strengthen the relationship. H3: Access to green elements has a negative relationship with negative affect. H4: Time spent outdoors moderates the relationship between access to green elements and negative affect, in that more time spent outdoors will weaken the relationship. A quantitative methodology utilising cross-sectional self-response questionnaires was employed for data collection. The measures used were pre-validated and translated into Chinese through a rigorous translation and back translation process. The final sample consisted of 740 participants from different industries in Macao. The results highlight the significance of integrating natural elements in daily life to promote flourishing and positive affect. The implications of these findings, both in theoretical and practical terms, are thoroughly discussed. The findings offer valuable insights for the implementation of the biophilic practices by counsellors, educators, health professionals, urban planners, employers and other decision makers.

Spiritual beliefs enhance work engagement because religious and spiritual perspectives influence how individuals perceive their daily circumstances and organize their activities, impacting their overall happiness and satisfaction with life and reinforcing their meaning in the workplace. This study examines the impact of spirituality on work engagement and wellbeing among religious sisters, focusing on their unique workplace dynamics and coping strategies. Recognizing that work serves not only as a means of survival but also as a source of social, organizational, and spiritual experiences that create meaning, happiness, and a sense of purpose. Moreover, research indicates that spirituality plays a significant role in enhancing well-being, leading to higher levels of work engagement, life satisfaction, and flourishing. This research aims to fill a gap in existing literature about the well-being of religious workers and offer insights that benefit both individuals and organizations. Understanding how spirituality, work engagement, and well-being interact can help organizations and contribute to personal overall well-being. This study has adopted qualitative research as the research as methodology. Semi-structured interviews allow for an in-depth exploration of personal experiences and perceptions, providing flexibility for participants to elaborate on their thoughts. Thematic analysis was then applied to each interview to identify and interpret key themes emerging from the data, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of the participants’ insights (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Thematic analysis revealed several key findings: spirituality serves as a source of resilience, provides a sense of purpose, and fosters strong community ties, all of V which significantly enhance subjective well-being. The findings highlight that high levels of subjective well-being are linked to active engagement in spiritual practices and supportive community relationships. The findings suggest that religious organizations should create tailored support programs that address the specific needs of individual religious sisters, including mental health resources, opportunities for spiritual growth, peer support groups, and regular retreats. This research contributes to the understanding of the unique challenges faced by religious sisters and underscores the importance of integrating spirituality into workplace practices, offering valuable insights for religious communities and policymakers.

Foul language is a common phenomenon in our daily lives. In the modern time, it is no longer a novelty in using foul language. However, the subjective impression of foul language as uncultured or rude is no longer rare. With the popularity of people speaking foul language in their daily life, especially we are witnessing more and more young people in Macau using foul language to communicate in different context. This study aims to explore the experiences of Macau youth in using foul language. This study adopts semi-structured interviews with study participants, and analyze what they understand and perceive as foul language in different certain situations in the context of Macau. Findings of this study indicate that foul language plays a role in emotional expression and relationship building, which are essential element of counselling service. Even with this factor, participants still felt that the use of foul language was more effective only when the client used than in other situations.