https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/120853 2026-05-23T14:14:10Z 2026-05-23T14:14:10Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146260 2026-05-08T11:56:24Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The mystic youth : how spirituality helps young people overcome their own existential wounds : a thematic analysis amongst the Maltese mixed gender scouts group Abstract: This research investigates the intricate relationship between spirituality and the existential challenges faced by young individuals within the Maltese Mixed Gender Scouts. The study aims to highlight the capacity of spirituality as a means of coping and resilience. A qualitative method was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with six scouts aged 18 to 23. Thematic analysis was used to examine the narratives and uncover recurring patterns. Key findings reveal that scouting provides a significant support system through emotional and practical assistance, fostering leadership, self-reliance, and instilling core values such as teamwork, empathy, and responsibility. Spiritual practices within scouting, including meditation and reflection during nature activities, help manage stress and foster inner peace, contributing to personal well-being. The study concludes that spirituality within scouting offers a framework for young individuals to navigate existential challenges, promoting resilience and personal growth. This research adds to the growing body of literature on youth development and the role of supportive communities, particularly in unique communal contexts like scouting. The findings underscore the importance of structured activities and community support in managing stress and enhancing emotional and psychological resilience. Recommendations for scouting organizations include integrating spiritual practices more deeply into their programs to further support holistic youth development. Future research should explore the long-term impact of spirituality within scouting on individual development and well-being. Description: B.A. (Hons) YCS (Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146171 2026-05-06T06:36:05Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Perceptions of mental health professionals about male survivors of maternal emotional abuse Abstract: During these last few years, research has focused on emotional abuse perpetrated by female caregivers. In this dissertation, an attempt has been made to understand better how mental health professionals perceive their clients, more specifically, the male adult survivors of maternal abuse. This study delves into the attitudes, beliefs, challenges, and training needs of mental health professionals working within this sector. Data gathered from semi-structured interviews with six mental health professionals revealed insights into different aspects related to their profession. Research highlighted the mental health professionals’ perceptions, shedding light on the type of theoretical guidelines that these professionals follow during their therapy sessions, what type of therapeutic methods they work with, and what type of barriers are encountered during the healing process. During the interviews, discussions revolved around the potential gaps in understanding, what service provision authorities offer, and the professional training mental health professionals are equipped with when working in such an intimate environment. The conclusions contribute to a better and faster understanding of the complexities surrounding maternal emotional abuse and offer implications for enhancing support and interventions for male survivors within mental health practice and education. Description: B.A. (Hons) YCS (Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/146170 2026-05-06T06:32:46Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The impact of unspoken peer pressure on young people in Malta : an exploratory study Abstract: This study shall attempt to unravel the social phenomenon of unspoken peer pressure and its impact on the longitudinal patterns of behaviour, cultural values and norms. In a rapidly evolving society, it is pivotal to comprehend the implications of this phenomenon, particularly on young people. This social inherent pressure can be imposed by various social groups, and has the potential to shape people’s behaviours. This social pressure urges youth to conform to certain behaviours due to the subtle influence exerted by peers within a social framework and milieu. Drawing from the insights gained through qualitative analysis, the study shall investigate the underlying factors causing unspoken peer pressure and its impacts on young people’s lifestyle. Through the participants’ direct experiences, the research determines whether this concept exerts positive of negative influence on young people and how it is being reflected on their overall wellbeing. The researcher also sought to understand the primary coping strategies employed by young people when confronted with this phenomenon. Description: B.A. (Hons) YCS (Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/141934 2025-12-04T11:15:45Z 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Sentencing in Maltese courts : a gender based analysis Abstract: This thesis is set to explore whether discrepancies exist between male and female offenders who appear in front of the Court of Magistrates (Criminal Judicature) and to explore the reasons why this occurs. Another aim of this study is to identify which types of crimes are mostly committed by females in Malta and whether aggravating factors and/or mitigating factors as well as sympathetic life circumstances can influence the type of sentence meted out. In order to answer the research questions a comparison and analysis between similar crimes committed by females and males was performed. The theoretical framework used in this research is that of the Focal Concerns Theory which attributes the more lenient sentences received by female offenders to the fact that the judiciary see female offenders as less blameworthy, less dangerous to society and to practical constraints both on an individual level as well as on a logistical level. The other theory to be tested is the Paternalism/Chivalry Theory which states that the judiciary views female offenders as naïve and therefore in need to protection. Hence they are meted out lenient sentences. This theory also includes the Evil Woman Hypothesis which states that when female offenders commit a crime which is usually perpetrated by males, the female offender will be met with harsher penalties because she is breaking the law and most importantly, she is going against socially accepted gender norms. The research method used in this thesis is that of a Mixed Methods approach. The quantitative research method consisted of gathering data of female offenders who were found guilty of a crime from criminal court sentences published online from the year 2005 to the year 2020. Subsequently the crimes were compared with similar crimes committed by males in the years 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020. The factual information gathered through the quantitative approach helped in formulating the semi-structured interview guide which was used to interview ten professionals working/or used to work in the criminal justice field. A thematic analysis was used as a qualitative research method to place the author in a better position to answer the research questions while portraying exactly the participants’ opinions and experiences on the subject matter. The results of the quantitative approach clearly showed that there are gender discrepancies in Maltese criminal sentencing. Other results include the facts that Females are associated with Assault, Financial crimes, Sexual offenses, and Threats and that Assault is more common among EU and Non-EU Females and that Females are consistently associated with non-incarceration sentences, while males are associated with incarceration sentences. Different themes emerged after an in-depth analysis of the information gathered from participants; Female Offenders’ Demeanor in Court; Societal Views and Gender Stereotypes influencing the Criminal Court’s View of Female Offenders; the Validity of the Evil Woman Hypothesis, Sentencing Practice Outcomes between Male and Female Magistrates and finally the Introduction of Sentencing Guidelines in the Maltese Criminal Court Context. This research highlights the importance of the introduction of sentencing guidelines in the Maltese Criminal Court system. Another policy recommendation is to provide training in relation to stereotypical attitudes to the Judiciary. Description: Ph.D.(Melit.)

2024-01-01T00:00:00Z