FCH - Dissertações de Mestrado / Master Dissertations
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- Nudges given the impact of sensationalism towards search patterns for information goodsPublication . Pereira, Henrique Grossmann Gonçalves; Silva, João Manuel Lourenço Confraria Jorge eThe contemporary environment of media skepticism coexists with the high-speed, high-choice information environment that the development of the internet helped create, in which the systematic evaluation of the quality of information sources is all but impossible. In this context, sensationalistic discourse becomes an attention-grabbing tool effective enough to be employed by traditional and alternative media alike, even while both are derided for the practice by public perception and one another. The association between sensationalism, bias, and mistrust begs the question as to what effect exposure to sensationalistic messages in our media diet might have on our willingness to expose ourselves to contradicting information, and what can be done given the answer. To help elucidate what areas might warrant the focus of research efforts, this study used insights from scientific literature on concepts related to sensationalism and information search to conceptualize sensationalism and a model of our ability and motivation to search for information, providing various avenues through which these could be related. Sources of information named by survey respondents were evaluated using an instrument to identify sensationalistic elements, supplementing it with a second instrument based on factors associated with sensationalism use taken from previous research. The correlation of these two measures with the number of information sources or mediums survey respondents used was studied using polynomial regressions across seven different categories, and the potential influence of other variables related to information search on this relationship using moderation regressions. Evidence was found for a probable influence of sensationalism on information source variety for most categories, strongest for personal interests and the economy, and suggesting that the nature and factors affecting this relationship vary both across categories and as the degree of sensationalism increases.
- Framing sex : the functions of language in shaping sexuality discourses through blog writingPublication . Casique, Natalia Lozano; Pinto, Sofia RodriguesThis internship report examines how language shapes societal discourses on sexuality and focuses on its capacity to reinforce existing power structures while also serving as a medium for resistance and empowerment. Drawing on experiences from an internship with the company Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) in their sexuality-focused blog, this work explores how language influences the organization of sexual identities, categories, and behaviors. By integrating perspectives from sociolinguistics, critical theory, gender studies, and queer theory, the report connects theoretical concepts with practical examples through an analysis of articles written during the internship. These articles serve as case studies that show how language can both uphold dominant narratives influenced by normative ideologies and challenge them by creating space for inclusive and transformational discourses. This report emphasizes the significance of reflective and responsible communication, particularly within the context of online platforms designed to educate and inform on topics related to sexuality.
- Understanding factors affecting sleep, fatigue, social support and the moderating role of job satisfaction among shift workersPublication . Nikishina, Alena; Reis, Cátia Cristina PeixinhoIn today’s 24/7 economy, shift work has become increasingly common across industries, posing significant challenges to workers’ health, well-being, and performance. Disrupted circadian rhythms, sleep disturbances, and chronic fatigue are well-documented consequences of irregular work schedules. However, less is known about the psychosocial factors—such as social support and job satisfaction—that may help mitigate these negative effects. Drawing on Affective Events Theory and the Job Demands-Resources model, this study aimed to deepen understanding of these dynamics in shift-working populations. The study had three main objectives: (1) to examine the relationships between sleep disturbances, chronic fatigue, and social support; (2) to explore whether job satisfaction moderates the relationship between chronic fatigue and sleep disturbances; and (3) to generate insights that could inform workplace interventions to support sleep health and well-being in shift work settings. A cross-sectional, quantitative survey design was employed, collecting data from 74 shift workers—including aircrew (pilots and cabin crew) and non-aircrew personnel (ground staff and office-based workers)—using validated questionnaires measuring sleep disturbances, chronic fatigue, social support (focused on family cohesion and intimacy), and job satisfaction. Data were analyzed using correlation, regression, and moderation analyses with bootstrapping to strengthen reliability. The findings supported the first hypothesis, revealing a significant positive relationship between sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue, with sleep disturbance explaining approximately 33% of the variance in fatigue. The second hypothesis was also supported: higher levels of social support were associated with fewer sleep disturbances, explaining approximately 38% of the variance. Partial support was found for the third hypothesis: job satisfaction moderated the relationship between chronic fatigue and sleep disturbances, but this effect was significant only at lower levels of job satisfaction. At higher levels of job satisfaction, the link between fatigue and sleep disturbance was no longer statistically significant. These findings suggest that social support and job satisfaction can act as protective factors in reducing sleep disturbances and fatigue in shift work environments. While the moderation effect of job satisfaction was only partially supported and limited by measurement constraints, the results align with existing theoretical models that emphasize the role of emotional and social resources in coping with occupational stressors. The results also highlight the potential for workplace interventions aimed at enhancing social support and job satisfaction to improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue. In conclusion, this study provides preliminary but meaningful insights into the complex interplay between shift work, sleep, fatigue, and psychosocial factors. Further research with larger and more diverse samples will be essential to validate these findings and support the development of targeted interventions to promote the well-being of shift-working populations.
- From declaration to perception : the role of the media in corporate social responsibility and human capital communication in the Brunello CucinelliPublication . Fusco, Francesca; Tavares, Patrícia Isabel Ramos Pego NunesThis research examines the processes of constructing, representing, and perceiving corporate ethical identity in the luxury sector, using the Brunello Cucinelli brand as a paradigmatic case study. In a context marked by growing attention to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and high symbolic exposure of brands, the study adopts a qualitative approach aimed at analyzing the narrative consistency between declared, represented, and perceived identities. This approach is embodied in the development of an original analytical matrix that integrates institutional data, media coverage, and user feedback on digital platforms. The results reveal consistency between the humanistic values proclaimed by the company and which they are perceived and recognised by the public. However, interpretative tensions and signs of ambivalence also emerge, highlighting the negotiated and non-linear nature of reputation, especially in participatory digital environments. The Cucinelli case shows how reputation in luxury is the product of sophisticated narrative governance, but also exposed to the risk of ‘rhetorical crystallisation’ and perceptual misalignment. The dissertation contributes to the theoretical debate on CSR as a performative discursive construct, proposing a perspective that interprets business ethics not as a stable attribute, but as a communicative act that requires consistency, openness to dialogue, and continuous renegotiation. Methodologically, the narrative triangulation model developed offers a replicable tool for analyzing corporate identity in highly symbolic contexts. Finally, at the managerial level, the study highlights the importance of systemic integration between storytelling, organizational culture, and monitoring of public perceptions in order to build an authentic, sustainable, and shared reputation.
- Influencer marketing and generation Z : evolution, perception, and analysis of the Balenciaga casePublication . Acella, Elisabetta; Tavares, Patrícia Isabel Ramos Pego NunesIn a communicative landscape where the identity of luxury brands is increasingly played in the digital sphere, influencer marketing has established itself as a central strategic tool to activate trusting relationships with new generations. In particular, Generation Z - native digital, hyper-connected and value demanding - does not just consume content, but acts as a critical interlocutor, asking brands for transparency, inclusiveness and narrative coherence (Francis, 2018). In this scenario, the ability to build and maintain a perceived authenticity becomes crucial for the reputational legitimacy of brands, especially in times of crisis. This dissertation aims to investigate how authenticity in influencer marketing is interpreted and judged by Generation Z, through the analysis of the Balenciaga case and the controversial 2022 "Gift Collection" campaign. The primary objective is to understand how the communicative choices of influencers and brands influence the perception of authenticity and, consequently, the trust and symbolic adherence of younger consumers. To address these issues, the study employs a qualitative approach based on a netnographic methodology, complemented by a thematic analysis of user-generated content and public reactions on TikTok, Instagram, Reddit, and Twitter (Braun, 2006). The corpus analysed focuses on the responses of Generation Z to the Balenciaga campaign, with particular attention to the languages of moral indignation, irony, minimization, value dissociation and strategic role (or failure) of influencers in reputation management. The results show that authenticity, in the public perception, does not correspond to an objective quality but to a relational effect built over time, based on expressive consistency, personal exposure and correspondence between stated values and public behaviour (Lou, 2019). When this balance is broken, as in the Balenciaga episode, dynamics of mistrust, rejection, and symbolic boycott are triggered, often extending to influential figures who choose to remain silent or adopt ambiguous positions (Ackerman, 2021). Generation Z is particularly sensitive to communicative dissonances, interpreting any lack of stance or apparent opportunism as a sign of unauthenticity. The case study analysed highlights the fragility of communication strategies based on aesthetic provocation and performativity without ethical anchoring, demonstrating that engagement cannot be separated from shared values. Finally, dissertation the dissertation proposes an interpretation of the role of influencers not only as channels of visibility but as cultural mediators, whose effectiveness depends on the ability to represent a credible, consistent and recognizable identity (Casaló, 2020). In this framework, perceived authenticity is not a rhetorical attribute, but a structural requirement for building trust, emotional participation and brand defence in high public exposure contexts. The analysis therefore suggests the need for luxury brands to rethink their digital strategies according to logics of transparency, narrative coherence and cultural responsibility, aligning themselves with the expectations of an increasingly critical public, competent and actively involved in the construction of meanings.
- A participação e a voz das crianças e jovens em situação de acolhimento em Portugal : a Casa Maria DrostePublication . Silva, Jéssica Ilma da Costa Farias; Cardoso, Maria Inês Lisboa GuerraThis study analyzes the participation and voice of children and young people in residential care in Portugal, highlighting their role as social actors and their agency in influencing their daily lives. Based on a socio-historical and legal framework, the research discusses the evolution of child protection policies and their impact on the autonomy and rights of young people under residential care measures. Through a study conducted at Casa Maria Droste, the opportunities for young residents to participate in decision-making processes affecting their lives are examined. The findings emphasize the importance of interventions that go beyond the mere management of daily care, ensuring a rights-based approach that values and promotes active participation.
- The integration of mHealth into prenatal and peadeatric care in BrazilPublication . Tibana, Luísa Lopes Lisboa; Afonso, Carla Susana Moiteiro GanitoFrom the rise of telehealth to the larger adoption of wearables and mHealth, the impact of digital health in the healthcare sector can be seen around the world. In this context, tools such as medical apps become increasingly more present in patient’s lives. This study explores the integration of pregnancy and baby apps into prenatal and paediatric care in Brazil, a country where, driven by both public and private initiatives, digital health solutions have found fertile ground to bloom. Through a mixed method approach with a greater focus on its qualitative side, this study dives into seven relevant pregnant and baby apps available for the Brazilian market and, through the lenses of specialists, assesses the challenges and benefits that come with using such digital health solutions. The results suggest that, on the one hand, the apps can complement traditional healthcare practices by promoting the adoption of healthier habits, reducing anxiety and fostering community. On the other hand, these digital health solutions are also subject of concern. The lack of regulation as well as information overload can impact the users in a negative way. This study highlights the importance of dialogue between the various stakeholders as well collaboration, regulations and caution when developing, maintain and guiding patients through these tools.
- E viveram felizes para sempre... : a receção dos remakes live-action da DisneyPublication . Fernandes, Laura Martins; Fonseca, Isadora de AtaídeThis study aims to critically analyze audience perceptions of Disney’s live-action remakes, with a focus on The Little Mermaid (2023) and Peter Pan & Wendy (2023). When Disney began adapting its classic animated films into live-action remakes, the studio followed representation policies, which led the films to become contested objects among audiences. Through a qualitative approach involving the analysis of film narratives, social media comments, and opinion pieces by professional critics, it was found that audience perceptions are polarized. The study found that audience perceptions varied widely—while some sought to separate characters' physical appearance from their core identity, others called for greater diversity. These differing views were shaped by factors such as nostalgia, expectations of faithfulness to the source material, and concerns about representation.
- O financiamento público da imprensa em Portugal : a opinião dos atores mediáticosPublication . Amaro, Duarte Coelho da Silva; Fonseca, Isadora de AtaídePublic funding of the press has been the subject of intense debate, both in Portugal and internationally, in a context of profound transformations in the journalism industry. The crisis of traditional business models, exacerbated by the digital transition and audience fragmentation, has led to a decline in media revenues, jeopardizing the economic sustainability of the sector. In this scenario, public funding is often seen as an essential mechanism to ensure the viability of journalism and informational plurality. However, the way in which this support should be structured remains a controversial issue. This dissertation analyzes the opinions of different media actors on public funding of the press in Portugal, seeking to identify points of consensus and divergence. The research reveals a general consensus on the need for state support to the sector, recognizing its fundamental role in promoting independent and sustainable journalism. However, divergences emerge regarding the modalities of such funding, with debates on direct subsidies versus indirect support, transparency in fund distribution, and the creation of mechanisms to ensure editorial independence. Methodologically, this study adopts a qualitative and quantitative approach, combining content analysis of opinion articles, semi-structured interviews with media directors and political representatives, and a survey of unionized journalists. The results provide insights into the factors hindering the establishment of a consensual public funding model, as well as potential solutions to balance state support with editorial autonomy. The findings of this research highlight the urgency of a balanced approach that ensures the economic sustainability of journalism without compromising its critical and watchdog role. The study contributes to the academic and political debate on the future of the press in Portugal, offering a well-founded analysis of the dynamics at play and suggesting directions for future public policies in the sector.
- O contributo da comunicação interna para a geração de bem-estar nas organizações : o caso de uma organização multinacional do setor industrialPublication . Lagarto, Ana Filipa Ferreira Félix Dias; Brandão, Nuno Manuel Coelho de GoulartInternal communication plays a central and strategic role in contemporary organizations. It is essential not only to ensure the effective flow of information but also to motivate, engage, and align employees with organizational goals. When carried out effectively and strategically, internal communication proves to be a key factor in promoting well-being and happiness in the workplace - elements that translate into higher levels of productivity, happiness, and both professional and personal satisfaction among organizational members. In this context, the present study set out to understand how internal communication contributes to the well-being of employees in a multinational organization within the industrial sector. To meet the defined objectives, the central one being to understand how internal communication within the organization under study fosters employee well-being, a mixedmethods methodology was adopted. This included exploratory interviews with department directors responsible for internal communication and a questionnaire survey administered to the organization’s employees. The analysis of the collected data revealed that, although there is a generally positive perception of internal communication within the organization regarding its channels, content, and role in fostering well-being, dialogue, and interpersonal relationships, significant disparities persist among employees in the factory and those in operational roles. This indicates that internal communication is not yet experienced in a homogeneous way across the organization. Given the current scarcity of studies focused on internal communication in industrial or factory settings, this research highlights the need for further investigation into this context to identify strategies that can enhance engagement, motivation, and well-being among factory employees through more inclusive internal communication.