https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/23187 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:11:45 GMT 2026-04-09T20:11:45Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/142089 Title: Surrounded by predators : the lived experiences of online harassment by male public figures Authors: Bezzina, Malcolm; Sammut, Francesca; Scerri, Josianne Abstract: Online harassment is a pervasive threat to public figures, with journalists and politicians facing heightened exposure due to their visibility and engagement in public discourse. While international research has explored the gendered nature of cyberharassment, little is known about the lived experiences and coping strategies of male public figures. This study focuses on the lived experiences of cyberharassment among male journalists and Members of Parliament (MPs) in Malta. Online semi-structured interviews were conducted with three MPs and three journalists, aged between 28 and 70 years. Data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings reveal substantial commonalities between journalists and MPs in both the impact of harassment and the coping mechanisms employed. Two superordinate themes emerged: “A gladiator among tigers”, which captures a range of adverse physical, psychological, and emotional effects, as well as concerns for others and about the changing online environment; and “From ‘standing the heat’ to firefighting”, which examines the problem-solving, emotion-focused, and avoidance coping strategies used to manage cyberharassment. Notably, participants described unique coping methods, such as seeking reconciliation with perpetrators and deriving meaning from public service through investigative journalism. These findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by male public figures in the digital sphere. A series of individual and structural strategies are recommended to support individuals experiencing online harassment. Further research is needed to explore intersectional factors and to inform policy and practice recommendations for safeguarding the wellbeing of public figures against online harassment. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/142089 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/139543 Title: Procedural ethics for participatory research : field-specific dilemmas and recommendations from researchers, co-researching community partners and the rec overseeing a community-academic ADHD research project Authors: Cilia Vincenti, Sarah; Grech, Paulann; Galea, Michael; Briffa, Vince; Borg Spiteri, Sarah; Cachia, Maria; Del Bene, Sharon; Briffa Desjardins, Jennifer; Galea McKay, Naomi; McElhatton, Mel; Privitera Brightwell, Herma; Saliba, Marie Claire; Schembri, Erica Abstract: Philosophical assumptions of the participatory worldview collide with the biomedical framework on which procedural ethics have been grounded. Consequently, obtaining or approving ethical clearance for participatory research can be challenging. Researchers may resent being pressed to water down participatory features to suit institutional requirements. Co-researching community partners’ trust towards academia may be compromised at the outset if the REC comes across unappreciative of their tacit knowledge or is insensitive to their self-determination appeals. REC members may be conflicted over unfamiliar dilemmas. A report detailing effective collaboration during design and approval of a protocol for a photovoice study aimed to empower ADHD women is provided. This collaboration culminated in study plans which satisfied one and all’s requirements. In an attempt to include co-researcher voice in publications and promote more positive perceptions of REC oversight in participatory scholarship, recommendations by academic and community partners and the REC chair who is overseeing this project are advanced. Many lessons were drawn from this positive experience by those who engaged in it. Ethicality, in the context of participatory research is certainly not straightforward, but its pursuit need not be a battlefield. It requires the mobilization of values embedded in the participatory worldview and, akin to the research itself, holds transformative potential. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/139543 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/137180 Title: Emergence of a new me : experiences of women diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer Authors: Scerri, Josianne; Agius, Janice; Galea, Michael Abstract: Breast cancer subtypes vary in prevalence, prognosis, treatment protocols, and side-effect profiles, that may impact patients’ lived experiences. Despite this, studies often group the experiences of persons with breast cancer together. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of non-metastatic women diagnosed with Herceptin2-positive breast cancer, from diagnosis to the completion of treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 women who had undergone treatment for HER2 + breast cancer within the past two years. Their ages ranged between 32–79 years. Data collected were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four experiential themes emerged: ‘My world came crashing down,’ ‘The countdown,’ ‘To do or not to do, that is the question,’ and ‘Nearing the end of my journey.’ These themes correspond to four phases of the participants’ experiences: (i) the diagnostic phase, (ii) the neoadjuvant chemotherapy phase, (iii) the surgical phase, and (iv) the post-surgery adjuvant phase. The diagnosis elicited strong emotional reactions due the particularly aggressive nature of this type of cancer. However, the availability of targeted treatment and having a relatively common subtype of breast cancer provided hope for recovery. Throughout the neoadjuvant phase, participants experienced a range of emotions, including anxiety over missing any treatment, distress about changes in body-image, and concerns for their families. As treatment approached its end, they felt relieved but also anxious about the possibility of a recurrence. Understanding the narratives of women having Herceptin2-positive breast cancer, allows health professionals to better address their unique needs, concerns, and values, leading to the development of personalised care plans that target their lived experiences. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/137180 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/136074 Title: Targeting the beast along my illness trajectory : a qualitative study of females with triple-negative breast cancer Authors: Scerri, Josianne; Agius, Janice; Galea, Michael Abstract: Breast cancer subtypes differ in prevalence, aggressiveness, and availability of targeted therapies. However, research often examines the lived experiences of individuals with breast cancer collectively. One subtype, Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive form of cancer that lacks targeted therapy and has higher recurrence and mortality rates. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of individuals diagnosed with TNBC, from diagnosis through active treatment. Audio-recorded interviews were conducted with 11 women who had completed treatment for TNBC. Ages ranged between 26 and 63 years. Data collected were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four group experiential themes were extracted: “Living in shellshock,” “Fighting the aggressive beast,” “Pulling out the beast,” and “Facing the unknown.” Participants described substantial emotional distress stemming from the aggressive progression of TNBC and its earlier onset. The rarity of TNBC further intensified perceptions of reduced survival odds. This study underscores the importance of comprehensive care for TNBC patients, incorporating ongoing engagement with TNBC survivors, access to mental health services, and inclusive screening that includes younger women. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/136074 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z