The Global Demographic and Epidemiological Transition of Social Media Use: Patterns, Health Implications, and Digital Literacy
Paul Andrew Bourne, PhD, Vocational Training Development Institute, Jamaica, West Indies
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Bulletin | Page 01 to 21
Abstract
The rapid global expansion of social media has fundamentally transformed communication, information dissemination, and health-related behaviours across populations. This paper examines the demographic and epidemiological transitions associated with social media use worldwide, highlighting patterns across age, gender, socioeconomic status, and geographic regions. Using a mixed-methods design, quantitative data from global surveys were integrated with qualitative insights from peer-reviewed literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of trends and implications. Findings reveal that as of 2025, approximately 65.7% of the global population is active social media users, with younger age groups displaying higher engagement levels while older adults are increasingly adopting these platforms. Socioeconomic and educational factors significantly influence usage patterns, suggesting persistent disparities in digital access and literacy. Epidemiologically, social media has a dual impact on health: it promotes awareness and access to health information, yet contributes to the dissemination of misinformation and mental health challenges. These transitions highlight the importance of targeted public health interventions, policies regulating health content, and initiatives designed to enhance digital literacy across diverse populations. The paper concludes that understanding demographic and epidemiological patterns is crucial for effectively leveraging social media as a tool for promoting equitable health globally.
Keywords: Social Media, Demographic Transition, Epidemiological Transition, Global Health, Digital Literacy, Public Health
Rethinking Knowledge Production: Moving Beyond the Quest for Authentic Epistemology
Ashiraf Mugalula, Research Fellow, Makerere University |Al-Mustafa Islamic College.
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Bulletin | Page 01 to 21
Abstract
This paper engages with the ongoing debate on decolonization, focusing on the dynamics of knowledge production. Decolonization scholars in the post-colonial era critique the dominance of Western epistemology, which has historically been positioned as the sole authentic, objective, and universal form of knowledge across time and space. This hegemonic perspective elevates Western knowledge as superior, relegating other epistemologies to inferior or peripheral status, thereby failing to appreciate the richness of epistemic diversity. The critique within the decolonization discourse takes two primary directions. One approach advocates for the establishment of alternative epistemologies to challenge the dominance of Western knowledge, as exemplified by Senghor’s proposal of an African epistemology. The other approach calls for integrating diverse epistemologies, emphasizing that no single knowledge system should dominate, as doing so perpetuates existing power imbalances. The central argument presented here is that decolonization should not aim to marginalize any epistemology but rather create a space where diverse knowledge systems are valued and allowed to interact on equal footing. Instead of rejecting specific knowledge streams, the focus should be on recognizing their relevance, fostering mutual learning, and preventing the subalternisation of any epistemology. By embracing epistemic diversity, decolonization can promote an inclusive and pluralistic framework for knowledge production.
Keywords: Decolonization, Knowledge Production, Western Epistemology, Epistemic Diversity, Pluralism in Knowledge Systems.
Intimate Life Experiences and Leadership Behaviour: A Theoretical and Empirical Review
Paul Andrew Bourne, PhD, Adjunct Professor, Northern Caribbean University (NCU), Manchester, Jamaica, West Inies
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Bulletin | Page 01 to 17
Abstract
Leadership behaviour is shaped not only by organisational structures and professional training but also by personal and relational experiences across the life course. This paper examines the role of sexual experiences and sexual relationship transitions in influencing leadership behaviour and competencies. Drawing on leadership theory, attachment theory, and life-course perspectives, the study conceptualises sexual experience broadly to include intimacy, attachment, power negotiation, and relational change. A narrative literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed sources from psychology, leadership studies, and social science, focusing on emotional regulation, identity formation, ethical reasoning, and interpersonal competence. The findings indicate that healthy, consensual, and emotionally supportive sexual relationships can enhance leadership-relevant competencies such as emotional intelligence, empathy, confidence, and transformational leadership behaviour. Conversely, relational instability or unresolved relational trauma may temporarily constrain leadership effectiveness, though such experiences can also foster long-term growth and adaptive leadership capacity. Relationship transitions, including partnership formation and dissolution, are shown to influence leadership behaviour through their impact on self-concept, resilience, and decision-making processes. The analysis challenges compartmentalised models of leadership that separate professional competence from personal relational development. Instead, it advances a holistic framework recognising sexual and relational experiences as developmental influences on leadership behaviour. Implications are discussed for leadership development, organisational support, and future research, particularly the need for longitudinal and intersectional approaches that integrate personal life experiences into leadership theory and practice.
Keywords: Leadership Behaviour, Sexual Experience, Attachment Theory, Emotional Intelligence, Transformational Leadership, Life-Course Development
A Review on the Design of Vapour Compression Air-Conditioning systems for Mini Auditorium Applications in Nigeria
Engr. Okoro chibuzo, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michael okpara university of agriculture, Umudike,Abia State, Nigeria.
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Bulletin | Page 01 to 17
Abstract
The increasing demand for thermal comfort in small to medium-sized public indoor spaces, particularly mini auditoriums, necessitates the development of efficient air-conditioning systems tailored to the environmental and socio-economic conditions of Nigeria. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the design principles, component selection, and thermodynamic considerations involved in vapour compression air-conditioning (VCA/C) systems for mini auditorium applications. Emphasis is placed on the climatic peculiarities of Nigeria, including high ambient temperatures and humidity levels, which significantly influence load estimation and system performance. Central to this review is the work of Madu (2018), whose design of a 10-ton capacity VCA/C plant for a Nigerian mini auditorium offers a localized framework for system development. His design approach is analyzed in terms of compressor selection, refrigerant type, evaporator-condenser configurations, and coefficient of performance (COP) outcomes. Madu’s methodology is critically compared with global best practices, emerging innovations in hybrid systems, and alternative refrigerants such as R-290 and R-717. The review synthesizes over fifty scholarly and technical sources to identify design trends, challenges, and opportunities, with particular focus on energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and economic feasibility. Findings underscore the importance of context-sensitive designs that integrate local climate data, regulatory frameworks, and maintenance realities. The paper concludes with a set of recommendations for practitioners and researchers, highlighting future directions in simulation modeling, refrigerant transition, and solar-assisted VCA/C integration for small-scale public buildings in Nigeria.
Keywords: Vapour Compression Air-Conditioning, Mini Auditorium, Nigeria, Design Review, COP, Refrigerants, HVAC Systems