Behavioral Sciences

23 pages, 1378 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Radicalization Processes and Transitional Phases in Female and Male Detainees Residing in Dutch Terrorism Wings

by Gaby Thijssen, Jelle Sijtsema, Stefan Bogaerts, Lys van de Voorde and Erik Masthoff

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100877 - 23 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1923

Background: Radicalization, violent extremism, and terrorism are risks to societal security. Although research on terrorism-related behaviors is increasing, thorough empirical studies are rare. Methods: This study investigates radicalization processes and transitions in a matched sample of female and male terrorist suspects and convicts [...] Read more.

Background: Radicalization, violent extremism, and terrorism are risks to societal security. Although research on terrorism-related behaviors is increasing, thorough empirical studies are rare. Methods: This study investigates radicalization processes and transitions in a matched sample of female and male terrorist suspects and convicts (N = 26) residing in Dutch penitentiary terrorism wings. Results: Results show that both men and women often experienced discrimination. A subgroup of women grew up in a stressful family environment and lacked emotional support from their family, whereas the other women did not experience such circumstances. The majority of the study sample was susceptible to connecting with radicalized friends or family members. Interestingly, factors that initially led to radicalization (e.g., a utopian image of the Islamic State) could later turn out to be factors associated with abandoning extremism. Conclusions: In this study, differences in radicalization processes and transitional phases between women and men emerged. Men more often had police contact prior to a terrorism-related offense. Making an effort to right old mistakes seemed important in the radicalization processes of men, whereas women had a stronger desire for emotional support and were more driven by experienced trauma and feelings of loneliness. This study provides input for gender-specific prevention and disengagement interventions. Full article

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16 pages, 726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Role of Parent‒Child Relationships in Conscientiousness and Neuroticism Development among Chinese Middle School Students: A Cross-Lagged Model

by Xiaojie Cao and Xinqiao Liu

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 876; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100876 - 23 Oct 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2676

Abstract

The parent‒child relationship is a crucial factor in promoting adolescent mental health. However, the current evidence on the relationship between parent‒child relationships and adolescent conscientiousness and neuroticism, as well as the directionality of these relationships, remains limited. In particular, there is a lack [...] Read more.

The parent‒child relationship is a crucial factor in promoting adolescent mental health. However, the current evidence on the relationship between parent‒child relationships and adolescent conscientiousness and neuroticism, as well as the directionality of these relationships, remains limited. In particular, there is a lack of analysis focusing on Chinese middle school students. Based on a sample of 8437 students from the China Education Panel Survey (CEPS) database, this study empirically examined the bidirectional relationships between parent‒child relationships, conscientiousness and neuroticism among Chinese middle school students, with specific emphasis on the significant role of parent‒child relationships in the development of conscientiousness and neuroticism. Descriptive statistical results indicated that during the seventh and eighth grades of Chinese middle school students, the closeness of their parent‒child relationships with both parents decreased, while the level of conscientiousness showed a slight decrease, and neuroticism showed an increasing trend. Correlational results demonstrated a significant positive correlation between parent‒child relationships and conscientiousness and a significant negative correlation between parent‒child relationships and neuroticism. Further analysis using cross-lagged models revealed that parent‒child relationships significantly positively predicted subsequent conscientiousness development, and conscientiousness significantly positively predicted subsequent parent‒child relationships. Parent‒child relationships significantly negatively predicted subsequent neuroticism development, and neuroticism levels also significantly negatively predicted subsequent parent‒child relationships. Based on these findings, we believe that there is a need to strengthen parent‒child relationships and to recognize the important role that both mothers and fathers play in the healthy development of their children. Both parents should actively contribute to their children’s upbringing and take responsibility for their family education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic The Causes, Counseling and Prevention Strategies for Maladaptive and Deviant Behaviors in Schools)

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15 pages, 902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thinking Styles and Creativity: The Mediating Role of Psychological Adjustment in College Students

by Zheng Liu, Huihui Yu, Minxuan Feng and Yubo Hou

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 875; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100875 - 23 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1753

Abstract

The observation and cultivation of university students’ creativity have always been of enormous concern to the Chinese government. The present research delved into the influence of three dimensions of the Chinese thinking style (Interconnection, Change, and Contradiction) on creativity and the mediating role [...] Read more.

The observation and cultivation of university students’ creativity have always been of enormous concern to the Chinese government. The present research delved into the influence of three dimensions of the Chinese thinking style (Interconnection, Change, and Contradiction) on creativity and the mediating role of psychological adjustment in college students. Specifically, Study 1 investigated the relationship between university students’ thinking styles and creativity through self-reported questionnaires. The results revealed that the thinking style of interconnections had a significant positive effect on creativity among university student groups, while the change dimension significantly negatively affected creativity. The relationship between the dimension of contradiction and creativity did not show significance. Study 2 manipulated thinking style by priming techniques, priming university students’ thinking styles of interconnections (Study 2a) and change (Study 2b), and verified the mediating role of psychological adjustment between thinking styles and creativity. Aside from replicating the findings of Study 1, the results showed that university students’ psychological adjustment mediated the positive effect of interconnections on fluency and the negative effect of change on fluency. These results and findings can provide a theoretical and practical reference for our government to cultivate university students’ creativity. Full article

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20 pages, 1095 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mediating Role of Innovative Behavior on the Effect of Digital Leadership on Intrapreneurship Intention and Job Performance

by Murat Sagbas, Onur Oktaysoy, Ethem Topcuoglu, Erdogan Kaygin and Fahri Alp Erdogan

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100874 - 23 Oct 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3387

Abstract

Depending on technological developments, digital transformation represents an inevitable reality for organizations. Based on this reality, digital leadership, which is a new understanding of leadership, has emerged. In accordance with the literature, digital leaders are expected to transform organizations under the leadership of [...] Read more.

Depending on technological developments, digital transformation represents an inevitable reality for organizations. Based on this reality, digital leadership, which is a new understanding of leadership, has emerged. In accordance with the literature, digital leaders are expected to transform organizations under the leadership of innovation, thus encouraging high performance and efficiency. The present study aimed to measure the mediating effect of innovative behavior on the effect of digital leadership on job performance and intrapreneurship intention using data collected from 390 people working in the IT sector in Istanbul and a structural equation modeling method. The data obtained in this structural equation modeling study were analyzed in the Smart-PLS program. It is anticipated that the present study, in which the relationship between the variables is supported by various theories, will contribute to the extant literature. The results of this study indicate that innovative behavior has a fully mediating impact on the effect of digital leadership on intrapreneurship intention. Furthermore, it is observed that innovative behavior has a partially mediating impact on the effect of digital leadership on job performance. Considering the results, this study proves that digital leaders need to adopt innovative behavior so as to ensure performance and intrapreneurship in an organization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behaviors)

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14 pages, 928 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Processing Speed throughout Primary School Education: Evidence from a Cross-Country Longitudinal Study

by Tatiana Tikhomirova, Yulia Kuzmina, Artem Malykh and Sergey Malykh

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100873 - 23 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1453

Abstract

This cross-country four-year longitudinal study investigated the development of processing speed throughout primary school education. The analyses were conducted on data accumulated from 441 pupils in grades from 1 to 4 (aged 6.42 to 11.85 years) in Kyrgyzstan and Russia. Mixed effects growth [...] Read more.

This cross-country four-year longitudinal study investigated the development of processing speed throughout primary school education. The analyses were conducted on data accumulated from 441 pupils in grades from 1 to 4 (aged 6.42 to 11.85 years) in Kyrgyzstan and Russia. Mixed effects growth modeling was applied to estimate average and individual growth trajectories for processing speed in two cross-country samples. Latent class growth modeling was conducted to describe various types of growth trajectories for processing speed and to compare the distribution of the types within the analyzed samples. According to the results, processing speed significantly increases across primary school years. The trajectory is described by nonlinear changes with most dynamic growth between grades 1 and 2, which slows down until grade 4. No significant cross-country differences were found in the initial score of processing speed or developmental changes in processing speed across primary school years. The development of processing speed is described by a model including three quadratic growth types but this minimally differs. It is concluded that in both samples, the development of processing speed may be characterized by homogeneity, with the most intensive growth from grade 1 to grade 2 and subsequent linear improvement until grade 4. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Psychology)

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27 pages, 1069 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dispel the Clouds and See the Sun: Influencing Factors and Multiple Paths of User Retention Intention Formation

by Hongjin Zhang, Longying Hu and Yeom Kim

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100872 - 23 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1623

Abstract

To achieve user retention through multifactor synergy, Internet enterprises must reduce costs and increase efficiency and sustainable development. In response to the dilemma that Internet companies are experiencing increasingly high user acquisition costs and serious user churn, this paper investigates a sample of [...] Read more.

To achieve user retention through multifactor synergy, Internet enterprises must reduce costs and increase efficiency and sustainable development. In response to the dilemma that Internet companies are experiencing increasingly high user acquisition costs and serious user churn, this paper investigates a sample of 46,695 user reviews of nine product series from Xiaomi Ecological Chain. Case studies and qualitative comparative analysis are used to explore the influence mechanisms of quality of experience, brand trust, and brand attachment on users’ retention intentions. Our findings are as follows. (1) Brand attachment alone is not necessary for high user retention intention, but user perception, cognition, and brand trust are necessary. (2) Quality of experience positively impacts brand trust, attachment, and user retention intention. Therefore, improving user perception and cognition is critical in generating high user retention intention. (3) Five configuration paths can achieve high user retention intention, while three configuration paths lead to low user retention intention, and there is an asymmetric relationship between these paths. Among them, the role of quality of experience-driven configuration paths in generating user retention intention is the most prominent. (4) User perception and cognition can substitute with brand trust and attachment in the substitution relationship between configuration paths. Our findings have important theoretical and practical implications for revealing the realization paths of high user retention intention in Internet companies and provide a new perspective for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Employee Quality of Life, Well-Being and Wellness: A Pathway to Organizational Performance, Efficiency, and Sustainability)

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13 pages, 614 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Socioeconomic Status and Students’ Mental Health during the COVID-19 University Closure: Mediating Roles of Perceived Social Support and Self-Efficacy

by Liang Huang and Dongsheng Wang

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100871 - 23 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4322

Abstract

Despite the need for urgent actions in response to the exacerbated inequalities in mental health resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, there remains a significant gap in research into the relationships and underlying mechanisms between socioeconomic status (SES) and various mental health outcomes among [...] Read more.

Despite the need for urgent actions in response to the exacerbated inequalities in mental health resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, there remains a significant gap in research into the relationships and underlying mechanisms between socioeconomic status (SES) and various mental health outcomes among students during the COVID-19 university closure. With a sample of 839 students from a university in Lanzhou, the capital city of China’s Gansu Province, which was closed during the 2022 autumn semester due to the COVID-19 outbreak, this study examined the relationships between SES and both the negative and positive mental health outcomes, with a particular inquiry into the mediating roles of perceived social support and self-efficacy. The results show that SES had significant and negative total associations with psychological distress (β = −0.119, p < 0.001) and loneliness (β = −0.132, p < 0.001), while having significant and positive total associations with life satisfaction (β = 0.90, p < 0.01) and affective well-being (β = 0.108, p < 0.01). Moreover, perceived social support and self-efficacy independently and sequentially mediated the associations between SES and various mental health outcomes. Research implications for the design and improvement of university measures to reduce the socioeconomic inequalities in students’ mental health are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellbeing and Mental Health among Students)

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19 pages, 770 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Mental Health Implications of Corporate Social Responsibility: The Significance of the Sense-Making Process and Prosocial Motivation

by Byung-Jik Kim, Min-Jik Kim and Dong-gwi Lee

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100870 - 23 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3067

Abstract

As corporate social responsibility (CSR) has progressively ascended to prominence among academics and industry professionals, numerous studies have embarked on examining its impact on employees’ perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. Notwithstanding, the current body of research has predominantly overlooked the influence of CSR on [...] Read more.

As corporate social responsibility (CSR) has progressively ascended to prominence among academics and industry professionals, numerous studies have embarked on examining its impact on employees’ perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. Notwithstanding, the current body of research has predominantly overlooked the influence of CSR on employees’ mental health, encompassing depression, anxiety, and burnout. In order to acknowledge the critical role of employee mental health within an organization, our exploration is focused on discerning the effect of CSR on depressive states. Furthermore, our paper undertakes a thorough analysis of the link between CSR and depression, probing its underlying processes and potential contingent factors. We posit that CSR can alleviate the incidence of employee depression by amplifying the sense of meaningfulness that work provides. Moreover, the element of prosocial motivation among employees may act as a positive moderating variable that intensifies the beneficial effect of CSR on the sense of meaningfulness derived from work. By relying on data obtained through a tripartite online survey involving 214 South Korean workers, this paper scrutinized the proposed hypotheses via the application of moderated mediation analysis with structural equation modeling. We contend that the insights yielded by this study bear significant theoretical and practical implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Navigating the Crossroads of Technology and Social Responsibility of Firms)

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12 pages, 633 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Loneliness and Memory Function through White Matter Hyperintensities in Older Adults: The Moderating Role of Gender

by Hyeyoung Park, Hairin Kim, Seyul Kwak, Yoosik Youm and Jeanyung Chey

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 869; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100869 - 23 Oct 2023

Viewed by 2003

Abstract

Loneliness has an important impact on memory function in late life. However, the neural mechanism by which loneliness detrimentally influences memory function remains elusive. Furthermore, it remains unclear whether the association between loneliness and memory function varies by gender. The current study aimed [...] Read more.

Loneliness has an important impact on memory function in late life. However, the neural mechanism by which loneliness detrimentally influences memory function remains elusive. Furthermore, it remains unclear whether the association between loneliness and memory function varies by gender. The current study aimed to investigate the neural mechanism underlying the association between loneliness and episodic memory function and explore whether it varies with gender among cognitively normal older adults. A total of 173 community-dwelling adults aged 60 years or older from the Korean Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (KSHAP) study (mean age = 71.87) underwent an assessment of loneliness, neuropsychological testing, and structural magnetic resonance imaging. The association between loneliness and episodic memory function was mediated by the volume of white matter hyperintensities (WMHs), but not by hippocampal or gray matter volumes. In addition, the association between loneliness and memory function through WMHs was significantly moderated by gender; specifically, the indirect effect was significant among men but not among women. The study suggests that WMHs may be a potential neurological mechanism that causes late-life memory dysfunction associated with loneliness in older men. The findings underscore the need for gender-specific interventions to mitigate memory impairment associated with late-life loneliness, with significant public health implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognitive, Emotional, and Psychological Changes in Healthy and Pathological Aging)

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13 pages, 466 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Subjective Experiences of Driving Cessation and Life Satisfaction

by Young-Sun Kim, Hyeri Shin and Sarang Um

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 868; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100868 - 23 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1394

Abstract

Compared to the driving group, the driving cessation group in this study was found to be a high-risk population in terms of their life satisfaction. This study evaluated data from 315 older adults, aged 55 or older, using the 2018 Korean Older Adults [...] Read more.

Compared to the driving group, the driving cessation group in this study was found to be a high-risk population in terms of their life satisfaction. This study evaluated data from 315 older adults, aged 55 or older, using the 2018 Korean Older Adults Driving and Mobility Service Trend Survey. These data were collected from 17 representative cities and provinces in South Korea. To minimize the potential for selection bias and the confounding factors inherent in observational studies, this study employed the propensity score matching (PSM) method. Following the matching, multivariate regression analyses were conducted to compare the driving cessation group (n = 65) with the driving group (n = 50) in terms of their life satisfaction. After adjusting for demographic and health-related variables, the older adults who had ceased driving were found to have lower life satisfaction (Coef. = −1.39, p-value = 0.018). Our results highlight the importance of establishing preliminary evidence to guide the development of tailored programs for older adults—especially for those likely to experience diminished life satisfaction and heightened risk—to address the mobility challenges stemming from driving cessation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Health: Social Psychology Perspective)

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18 pages, 728 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Path Model Analysis of the Effects of Perceived Formalism, and Fear of COVID-19 on Police Officers’ PTSD and Insomnia

by Frank Fu-Yuan Huang and Hsiang-Te Liu

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100867 - 23 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1699

Abstract

This study examines whether law enforcement officers’ fear of COVID-19, job burnout, and job stress have increased their PTSD and insomnia during the epidemic. This article introduces the perceived formalism of police agencies into the causal model to explore whether perceived formalism increases [...] Read more.

This study examines whether law enforcement officers’ fear of COVID-19, job burnout, and job stress have increased their PTSD and insomnia during the epidemic. This article introduces the perceived formalism of police agencies into the causal model to explore whether perceived formalism increases the job burnout and job stress of police officers. The formalism of administrative agencies is rarely included in epidemic research. This study collected 306 Taiwanese police officers as research subjects. We used confirmatory factor analysis and SEM for hypothesis testing. The study found that perceived formalism positively affects the job burnout and job stress of police officers. Job stress, fear of COVID-19, and job burnout positively affect PTSD and insomnia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emotional Well-Being and Coping Strategies during the COVID-19 Crisis)

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12 pages, 561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Positive Thinking Ideology on Physician Representations of Cancer

by Luis Felipe Higuita-Gutiérrez, Diego Alejandro Estrada-Mesa, Walter Alfredo Salas-Zapata and Jaiberth Antonio Cardona-Arias

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 866; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100866 - 23 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1734

Abstract

To understand the influence of positive thinking ideology on cancer representations among physicians in the city of Medellín. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted on the basis of the theoretical and methodological elements of Corbin and Strauss’s grounded theory. Fourteen physicians were included [...] Read more.

To understand the influence of positive thinking ideology on cancer representations among physicians in the city of Medellín. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted on the basis of the theoretical and methodological elements of Corbin and Strauss’s grounded theory. Fourteen physicians were included and selected according to the criteria of maximum variation for education, years of study, and personal and family history of cancer. The information was collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed with open, axial, and selective coding. Results: the ideology of positive thinking has managed to permeate the medical discourse and the representations that they form about the etiology and treatment of cancer. Physicians place the mind, emotions, attitude, and positive thinking as determinants of the origin of the disease and the response to therapy. To argue this link, they use two strategies: (i) a sophisticated and specialized discourse that involves relationships among thoughts, genetics, the neurological, immune and endocrine system and (ii) a mystical and less rational discourse that emphasizes the omnipotence of the mind and thoughts. In no case was the idea of positive thinking rejected or in disagreement with this style of thinking expressed. Conclusion: The fact of linking the disease with mental factors refers to the mind–body dualism and generates a responsibility of the patients on the etiology and therapeutics of the disease, as well as an erasure of the social and political determinants of cancer. The technical discourse and the symbolic capital of physicians offer scientific legitimacy to these ideas and can become performative for patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

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18 pages, 400 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Profiles and Antecedents of Supervisor-Directed Emotional Labor Strategies: The Role of Self-Identity and LMX Orientations in Emotional Labor Strategy

by Ranran Wang, Sang-Joon Kim and Insu Kwon

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 865; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100865 - 22 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1552

Abstract

This study has two purposes. The first is to determine whether subordinates employ alternative combinations of emotion regulation strategies toward their supervisors beyond merely using surface and deep labor from the person-centered perspective. The second purpose is to understand why such acts of [...] Read more.

This study has two purposes. The first is to determine whether subordinates employ alternative combinations of emotion regulation strategies toward their supervisors beyond merely using surface and deep labor from the person-centered perspective. The second purpose is to understand why such acts of emotion regulation occur in interactions between employers and employees in the typical workplace. Utilizing latent profile analysis on data from 232 office employees in Beijing, China, collected using a two-stage sampling technique, four distinct supervisor-directed emotional labor profiles (i.e., deep actors, non-actors, moderators, and regulators) are identified. We find that these profiles are differentiated by several factors (i.e., individual identity, relational identity, and LMX orientations). Moreover, our findings suggest that employees exhibiting high levels of relational identity are more predisposed to act as deep actors, whereas individuals with high levels of individual identity are prone to being regulators as opposed to becoming deep actors, non-actors, or moderators. In addition, our results also suggest that LMX orientations have moderating effects on the relationships between self-identities and supervisor-directed emotional labor strategies. Overall, the results of this study expand the potential dimensionality of supervisor-directed emotion regulation strategies (e.g., regulating and non-acting) and bridge a gap in our understanding of the factors impacting supervisor-directed emotional labor. Full article

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12 pages, 549 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Physical Activity on Depressive Symptoms among Urban and Rural Older Adults: Empirical Study Based on the 2018 CHARLS Database

by Xueyu Jin, Huasen Liu and Eksiri Niyomsilp

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 864; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100864 - 21 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2311

Abstract

Using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2018, we employed the propensity score matching method to examine the effect of physical activity on depressive symptoms among older adults across rural and urban areas. The study sample consisted of 5055 participants, [...] Read more.

Using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2018, we employed the propensity score matching method to examine the effect of physical activity on depressive symptoms among older adults across rural and urban areas. The study sample consisted of 5055 participants, with urban and rural populations representing 31.3% and 68.7%, respectively. This study found that rural older adult individuals exhibited a greater incidence of depressive symptoms and lower physical activity levels when compared to their urban counterparts. Engagement in high-intensity physical activity was identified as an effective method for mitigating depressive symptoms among older adults. However, the moderating effects of physical activity were only observed among urban older adult individuals. Our findings revealed a cross-sectional correlation between physical activity and depressive symptoms among older adult Chinese individuals, and this link differed between urban and rural areas. Although high-intensity physical activity has a positive effect on depressive symptoms among older adults, physical activity interventions should sufficiently consider the variations in older adults’ living conditions and environments due to urban–rural differences so that interventions can be customized to improve the mental health of older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Aging)

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11 pages, 482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Materialism on Adolescents’ Prosocial and Aggressive Behaviors: The Mediating Role of Empathy

by Meijing Lv, Mengyuan Zhang, Nianhui Huang and Xinyuan Fu

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 863; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100863 - 21 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3516

Abstract

Materialism plays a critical role in adolescent behavioral development, yet whether it affects prosocial and aggressive behaviors and the internal mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, this longitudinal research examined the relationships between adolescent materialism and prosocial and aggressive behaviors, and tested the mediating effect [...] Read more.

Materialism plays a critical role in adolescent behavioral development, yet whether it affects prosocial and aggressive behaviors and the internal mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, this longitudinal research examined the relationships between adolescent materialism and prosocial and aggressive behaviors, and tested the mediating effect of empathy. In 2015, we recruited 543 adolescents from four junior high schools in Beijing, China (284 girls, 259 boys; M = 11.27 years, SD = 0.51). The participants completed the measures of materialism and demographic information at the initial time point, completed the measure of empathy about one year later, and completed the measures of prosocial and aggressive behaviors after about another year. The hypotheses were tested using a structural model using maximum likelihood estimation. The mediating effects were estimated by taking 1000 bias-corrected bootstraps. The results revealed that materialism was associated with aggressive behavior directly and positively, but had no significant correlation with prosocial behavior. Materialism had an indirect and negative correlation with prosocial behavior via empathy, while no indirect effect of materialism on aggressive behavior was found. The findings add to our knowledge of the dehumanizing nature of materialism by revealing its effect on adolescent behavioral development, as well as the underlying mechanism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Individual Factors in Promoting Adjustment across Development)

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20 pages, 339 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptation, Academic Performance and Support: Students with and without Disabilities and Future Considerations for Counselling Psychology

by Panagiotis Parpottas, Yianna Christofi and Ioanna Ioannou

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 862; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100862 - 20 Oct 2023

Viewed by 2664

Abstract

The transition to university is a process that presents young adults with several challenges in adaptation, especially students with disabilities. The current study investigated the differences in adaptation and academic performance between students with and without disabilities and further examined these differences among [...] Read more.

The transition to university is a process that presents young adults with several challenges in adaptation, especially students with disabilities. The current study investigated the differences in adaptation and academic performance between students with and without disabilities and further examined these differences among students with disabilities. Additionally, we explored the role of academic support for students with disabilities’ adaptation and academic performance, as well as their perceptions of a proposed specialised package of counselling psychology interventions. The sample consisted of 127 students with disabilities and 127 without disabilities, aged 18–24 years. Results revealed that students with disabilities reported a lower GPA and adaptation than students without disabilities. Additionally, differences among students with disabilities were observed only in terms of GPA, according to their disability type, existence of comorbidity and type of exam accommodations. Interestingly, no differences were found in GPA or adaptation between students with disabilities who utilised psychological therapy and those who did not. Finally, adaptation scores, but not GPA, were higher for students with disabilities who were positive in receiving a specialised package of counselling psychology interventions. The findings are discussed in relation to the existing literature and future considerations of counselling psychology’s role in support of students with disabilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances of Counselling Psychology for Children and Youth)

14 pages, 988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Sleep Quality on Anxiety and Depression Symptoms among College Students in China’s Xizang Region: The Mediating Effect of Cognitive Emotion Regulation

by Yingting Wang, Zixuan Guang, Jinjing Zhang, Lixin Han, Rongqiang Zhang, Yichun Chen, Qi Chen, Zhenjia Liu, Yuan Gao, Ruipeng Wu and Shaokang Wang

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 861; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100861 - 20 Oct 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3396

Abstract

Background: While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, there are significant links between sleep quality, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and cognitive emotion regulation. This research examines how sleep quality affects anxiety and depressive symptoms, as well as the potential of cognitive emotion regulation [...] Read more.

Background: While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, there are significant links between sleep quality, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and cognitive emotion regulation. This research examines how sleep quality affects anxiety and depressive symptoms, as well as the potential of cognitive emotion regulation strategies (CERS) to moderate the impact of sleep quality on these symptoms. Methods: The Chinese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (CPSQI), the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7) were all completed online by students from two colleges in China’s Xizang region. Results: The study included 4325 subjects. The prevalence of poor sleep quality, anxiety symptoms, and depression symptoms was 45.69%, 36.81%, and 51.86%, respectively. We observed significant direct effects on poor sleep and severity of anxiety/depression: c’1 = 0.586 (0. 544–0.628), and c’2 = 0.728 (0.683–0.773). Adaptive CERS only had a mediating effect on the relationship between sleep quality and depression symptoms, with a1b3 = −0.005 (−0.011–−0.001). The link between poor sleep quality and the intensity of anxiety and depression was significantly affected by the indirect effects of maladaptive CERS: effect a2b2 = 0.126 (0.106–0.147), and effect a2b4 = 0.145 (0.123–0.167). Conclusions: Individuals who experience poor sleep quality are more likely to have increased levels of anxiety and depression. However, enhancing sleep quality led to a decrease in anxiety and depression levels. Adaptive CERS did not predict anxiety, but they did predict depression. Multiple maladaptive CERS could increase levels of anxiety and depression. To prevent mental stress, it is crucial to examine sleep problems among college students, understand their cognitive strategies, promote the adoption of adaptive CERS, and reduce the reliance on maladaptive CERS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

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17 pages, 1587 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Effects of Theory of Mind and Social Skills Training on Social Competence in Adolescents with Autism

by Weina Ma, Jieyu Mao, Yu Xie, Simeng Li and Mian Wang

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100860 - 20 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2744

Abstract

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have impairment in interpreting emotional communication and the mental states of others, which limits their social competence. Mounting evidence has suggested that theory of mind (ToM) is a vital strategy to enhance social communication and interaction skills [...] Read more.

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have impairment in interpreting emotional communication and the mental states of others, which limits their social competence. Mounting evidence has suggested that theory of mind (ToM) is a vital strategy to enhance social communication and interaction skills of children with ASD. However, very little research has looked at how ToM and social skills training affect social competence in adolescents with autism. This study examined the effectiveness of an intervention program, ToM-SS, which integrated the ToM and social skills training to improve the social competence of three adolescents with autism. A multiple baseline across behaviors design was adopted to evaluate the participants’ learning outcomes and demonstrated a functional relationship between intervention and skill mastery. Results show that the intervention produced substantial improvements in students’ acquisition of ToM (e.g., seeing leads to knowing and identifying desire-based and context-based emotions) and targeted social skills (e.g., praising others, expressing emotion and seeking help). Feedback and comments from teachers and parents also indicate good social validity of the intervention program. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Training and Education in Children with Autism)

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22 pages, 1946 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pilot Studies on Empathy and Closeness in Mutual Entrainment/Improvisation vs. Formalised Dance with Different Types of Rhythm (Regular, Irregular, and No Rhythm) and Coupling (Visual, Haptic, Full Coupling): Building a Case for the Origin of Dance in Mutual Entrainment Empathic Interactions in the Mother–Infant Dyad

by Tudor Balinisteanu

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 859; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100859 - 20 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1815

Abstract

This paper employs a novel research design to examine changes in empathy and closeness in partnered face-to-face dance, considering both different types of rhythm (regular, irregular, and no external rhythm, or ‘mutual entrainment only’) and different types of coupling (visual only, haptic only, [...] Read more.

This paper employs a novel research design to examine changes in empathy and closeness in partnered face-to-face dance, considering both different types of rhythm (regular, irregular, and no external rhythm, or ‘mutual entrainment only’) and different types of coupling (visual only, haptic only, and full visual and haptic coupling). Two studies were undertaken to pilot the design. In both studies, the Interpersonal Reactivity Index and Inclusion of Other in the Self were used to measure empathy and closeness, respectively. Study 1 employed 24 participants (12 pairs) distributed across two rhythm conditions, external regular rhythm, and no external rhythm, with full coupling in both conditions. Closeness increased similarly in both conditions. Empathic concern (EC) was significantly affected in the ‘no rhythm’ condition. Study 2 employed 54 participants assigned to form pairs and distributed across all combinations of rhythm and coupling types. Closeness decreased with irregular rhythm. EC increased in the ‘no rhythm’ conditions relative to regular rhythm. Fantasy (F) decreased with haptic coupling only (no visual coupling) while personal distress (PD) increased. In addition, the analyses suggest that perspective taking (PT) increases with irregular rhythm and in the condition without rhythm (mutual entrainment only). The discussion gauges the value of the designs and results for capturing changes in empathy and closeness with different rhythm and coupling types. Capturing such changes is important for research on the origins of dance in empathic mutual entrainment in the mother–infant dyad. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 2023 Neuroaesthetics Conference: Universality of Aesthetic Experience in Individual Contexts)

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9 pages, 1310 KiB

Open AccessOpinion

Looking for the Edge of the World: How 3D Immersive Audio Produces a Shift from an Internalised Inner Voice to Unsymbolised Affect-Driven Ways of Thinking and Heightened Sensory Awareness

by Sadia Sadia and Claus-Christian Carbon

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100858 - 19 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2577

Abstract

In this practice-based case study, we investigate the subjective aesthetic and affective responses to a shift from 2D stereo-based modelling to 3D object-based Dolby Atmos in an audio installation artwork. Dolby Atmos is an infinite object-based audio format released in 2012 but only [...] Read more.

In this practice-based case study, we investigate the subjective aesthetic and affective responses to a shift from 2D stereo-based modelling to 3D object-based Dolby Atmos in an audio installation artwork. Dolby Atmos is an infinite object-based audio format released in 2012 but only recently incorporated into more public-facing formats. Our analysis focuses on the artist Sadia Sadia’s 30-channel audio installation ‘Notes to an Unknown Lover’, based on her book of free verse poetry of the same title, which was rebuilt and reformatted in a Dolby Atmos specified studio. We examine what effect altered spatiality with an infinite number of ‘placements’ has on the psychoacoustic and neuroaesthetic response to the text. The effectiveness of three-dimensional (3D) object-based audio is interrogated against more traditional stereo and two-dimensional (2D) formats regarding the expression and communication of emotion and what effect altered spatiality with an infinite number of placements has on the psychoacoustic and neuroaesthetic response to the text. We provide a unique examination of the consequences of a shift from 2D to wholly encompassing object-based audio in a text-based artist’s audio installation work. These findings may also have promising applications for health and well-being issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 2023 Neuroaesthetics Conference: Universality of Aesthetic Experience in Individual Contexts)

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13 pages, 1899 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Associations between Obsessive Compulsive Personality Traits, Self-Efficacy, and Exercise Addiction

by Catherine So Kum Tang, Kai Qi Gan and Wai Kin Lui

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 857; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100857 - 19 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2338

Abstract

Exercise addiction refers to maladaptive exercise patterns involving compulsivity and addiction-like behaviors. Exercise addiction has been found to relate to negative physical and mental health outcomes such as heart abnormalities, physical injuries, and interpersonal conflicts. Based on the social cognitive theory, this study [...] Read more.

Exercise addiction refers to maladaptive exercise patterns involving compulsivity and addiction-like behaviors. Exercise addiction has been found to relate to negative physical and mental health outcomes such as heart abnormalities, physical injuries, and interpersonal conflicts. Based on the social cognitive theory, this study investigated the extent to which the interplay of obsessive compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) traits and self-efficacy beliefs would influence the development and maintenance of exercise addiction. A total of 1228 college students in the United States responded to an online survey. Based on cut-off scores of the Revised Exercise Addiction Inventory, the prevalence estimates of exercise addiction were 4.0% for males and 1.8% for females. Results showed that males are more prone to exercise addiction than females. Also, OCPD traits and self-efficacy significantly predicted exercise addiction after controlling for age and sex. Self-efficacy acted as a moderator in influencing the relationship between OCPD traits and exercise addiction, especially for females. At high levels of self-efficacy, more OCPD traits were significantly associated with a higher risk of exercise addiction. However, at low levels of self-efficacy, there was no association between OCPD traits and exercise addiction. The findings suggest that public education and intervention for exercise addiction should attend to the interplay between personality factors and sex. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Individual Factors in Promoting Adjustment across Development)

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10 pages, 834 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Remembering Sets: Capacity Limit and Time Limit of Ensemble Representations in Working Memory

by Chaoer Xu, Yingzhu Qian, Hui Chen, Mowei Shen and Jifan Zhou

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 856; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100856 - 19 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1606

Abstract

In a constantly changing visual environment, the ability to extract and store ensemble representations plays a crucial role in efficiently processing and remembering complex visual information. However, how working memory maintains these ensemble representations remains unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate [...] Read more.

In a constantly changing visual environment, the ability to extract and store ensemble representations plays a crucial role in efficiently processing and remembering complex visual information. However, how working memory maintains these ensemble representations remains unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the limits and characteristics of ensemble representations in working memory using a change detection paradigm. Participants were presented with multiple sets of circles grouped by spatial proximity and were asked to memorize the mean diameter of the circles in each set. Results showed that working memory could stably maintain mean sizes of approximately two sets for at least four seconds. Moreover, the memory performance of ensembles was not affected by the number of circles within a set, suggesting that individual details were not stored in working memory. These results suggest that the visual system can effectively store ensembles in working memory without preserving detailed individual information. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)

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24 pages, 1866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intercultural Friendships with International Students in China: Examining the Role of Intergroup Contact, Intercultural Communication Competence, Host Country Nationals’ Attitudes, and Perceived Intergroup Threats

by Lingjie Tang and Chang’an Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 855; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100855 - 18 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3793

Abstract

International students studying and living in a foreign context often complain about difficulties establishing friendships with host nationals. This study investigates host country nationals’ (HCNs) willingness to develop intercultural friendships with international students who are sojourning in China by exploring the effects of [...] Read more.

International students studying and living in a foreign context often complain about difficulties establishing friendships with host nationals. This study investigates host country nationals’ (HCNs) willingness to develop intercultural friendships with international students who are sojourning in China by exploring the effects of face-to-face and online intergroup contact, HCNs’ attitudes, intercultural communication competence (ICC), and perceived intergroup threats. Survey data from 469 HCNs indicate that (a) face-to-face and online contact are indirectly and positively related to their willingness to form intercultural friendships, (b) face-to-face contact can moderate the relationships of online contact with HCNs’ intergroup attitudes and perceived intergroup threats, and (c) both ICC and intergroup attitudes can positively predict friendship formation whereas perceived intergroup threats act as a negative predictor. The implications of our findings for future research and practice are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intergroup Relations and Social Cognition: Promoting Social Harmony)

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21 pages, 925 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Promoting Low-Carbon Purchase from Social Norms Perspective

by Dapeng Liang, Yang Fu, Mengting Liu, Jiayin Sun and Hongyan Wang

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 854; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100854 - 18 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1735

Abstract

The importance of individual consumption behavior in a low-carbon economy is gradually recognized. Social norms have a significant effect on individual purchase behavior. However, the influence mechanism of social norms still needs more research. We conducted two behavioral experiments to explore the specific [...] Read more.

The importance of individual consumption behavior in a low-carbon economy is gradually recognized. Social norms have a significant effect on individual purchase behavior. However, the influence mechanism of social norms still needs more research. We conducted two behavioral experiments to explore the specific factors: first, the effect of descriptive norms on personal low-carbon consumption behavior through feedback information, and second, a comparison with injunctive norms, focusing on the impact of the normative focus shift brought by punishment represented by the policy implementation. The results show that social norms can effectively promote individual low-carbon consumption through feedback and high policy implementation efficiency. In particular, after effective policy implementation becomes an inherent element of injunctive norms, injunctive norms are activated and become the focus of norms, significantly improving the purchase rate of low-carbon goods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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16 pages, 1011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Does Secure-Base Leadership Affect Employees’ Taking-Charge Behavior: The Role of Psychological Availability and Independent Self-Construal

by Huanhuan Li and Yanbo Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100853 - 18 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1899

Abstract

Under the VUCA background, enterprises need to actively change to meet the requirements of internal and external environmental changes. This article surveyed 250 employees. Using statistical software SPSS 27.0 and Process 4.1, we address the outcome of secure-base leadership on employees’ taking-charge behavior [...] Read more.

Under the VUCA background, enterprises need to actively change to meet the requirements of internal and external environmental changes. This article surveyed 250 employees. Using statistical software SPSS 27.0 and Process 4.1, we address the outcome of secure-base leadership on employees’ taking-charge behavior by considering the influencing mechanisms and boundary conditions. The results indicate that secure-base leadership positively shapes employees’ taking-charge behavior, and psychological availability plays a mediating role in the relationship between secure-base leadership and such employee behavior. Independent self-construal positively moderates the impact of psychological availability on employees’ taking-charge behavior and positively moderates the indirect impact of secure-base leadership on such behavior through psychological availability. Our findings could enrich the empirical research on employees’ taking-charge behavior by secure-base leadership, thereby promoting the sustainable development of organizations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behaviors)

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11 pages, 961 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hardiness and Expectations for Future Life: The Roles of Perceived Stress, Music Listening for Negative Emotion Regulation, and Life Satisfaction

by Alexander Park and Kyung-Hyun Suh

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100852 - 18 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1968

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between hardiness and Korean adults’ expectations for future life, and verified the multiple mediating effects of perceived stress, music listening for negative emotion regulation, and life satisfaction on that relationship. The participants were 412 Korean adults aged 20–65 [...] Read more.

This study investigated the relationship between hardiness and Korean adults’ expectations for future life, and verified the multiple mediating effects of perceived stress, music listening for negative emotion regulation, and life satisfaction on that relationship. The participants were 412 Korean adults aged 20–65 years. PROCESS Macro 3.5 Model 80 was used to examine the multiple mediating effects. Correlational analysis showed that hardiness was positively correlated with music listening for negative emotion regulation, life satisfaction, and expectations for future life, whereas it was negatively correlated with perceived stress. Perceived stress was negatively correlated with life satisfaction and expectations for future life, whereas music listening for negative emotion regulation was positively correlated with life satisfaction and expectations for future life. In the multiple mediation model, the relationships between hardiness and expectations for future life, the sequential mediating effect of perceived stress and life satisfaction, and the sequential mediating effect of music listening for negative emotion regulation and life satisfaction were significant. The direct effect of hardiness on expectations for future life was also significant, indicating that perceived stress, music listening for negative emotion regulation, and life satisfaction only partially mediated the relationship between hardiness and expectations for future life. It seems, thus, that perceived stress, music listening for negative emotion regulation, and life satisfaction play an important role in Korean adults’ expectations for future life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

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14 pages, 634 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Caring for Dementia Caregivers: Psychosocial Factors Related to Engagement in Self-Care Activities

by Xinyao Lin, Jerad H. Moxley and Sara J. Czaja

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 851; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100851 - 18 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2053

Abstract

Caregivers often prioritize the needs of the care recipient and neglect their own health needs. It is imperative to understand the factors related to their self-care practices and engagement in self-care activities. The present study examined the extent to which dementia caregivers engaged [...] Read more.

Caregivers often prioritize the needs of the care recipient and neglect their own health needs. It is imperative to understand the factors related to their self-care practices and engagement in self-care activities. The present study examined the extent to which dementia caregivers engaged in self-care activities, how this varied depending on caregiver characteristics, and whether self-care engagement mediated the relationship between social support and caregiver outcomes. The study utilized baseline data from a diverse sample of dementia caregivers (N = 243) who participated in a randomized trial evaluating a psychosocial technology-based caregiver intervention. Results showed that the dementia caregivers engaged in low levels of self-care activities and that their engagement varied based on the caregivers’ background characteristics (age, gender, race/ethnicity, relationship to the care recipient, and employment status). Less caregiver involvement (e.g., less ADL/IADL help provided and more caregiver preparedness) and more social support predicted higher self-care activity engagement. Self-care activity engagement served as a mediator, such that more social support predicted more self-care activities, which, in turn, were associated with more positive perceptions of caregiving and less caregiver burden and depression. The findings suggest a need for interventions that promote self-care engagement among dementia caregivers and underscore the importance of social support and caregiver preparedness to caregivers’ well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellness and Well-Being of Older People)

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18 pages, 6921 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Social Comparisons More Related to Ability vs. More Related to Opinion on Well-Being: An Instagram Study

by Phillip Ozimek, Gabriel Brandenberg, Elke Rohmann and Hans-Werner Bierhoff

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 850; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100850 - 17 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2530

Abstract

Social networks are gaining widespread popularity, with Instagram currently being the most intensively used network. On these platforms, users are continuously exposed to self-relevant information that fosters social comparisons. A distinction is made between ability-based and opinion-based comparison dimensions. To experimentally investigate the [...] Read more.

Social networks are gaining widespread popularity, with Instagram currently being the most intensively used network. On these platforms, users are continuously exposed to self-relevant information that fosters social comparisons. A distinction is made between ability-based and opinion-based comparison dimensions. To experimentally investigate the influence of these comparison dimensions on users’ subjective well-being, an online exposure experiment (N = 409) was conducted. In a preliminary study (N = 107), valid exposure stimulus material was selected in advance. The results of the main study indicated that the exposure to ability-related social comparisons in the context of social media elicited lower well-being than exposure to opinion-related social comparisons. The theoretical and practical implications of this study consist of including the findings in clinical settings, e.g., affective disorder therapy, and the identification and reduction of ability-related content on social networking sites (SNSs). Future work should include assimilation and contrast effects which might interact with social comparison orientation and well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Living in a Time of Change and Uncertainty—New Developments in Applied Social Psychology)

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13 pages, 334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Maternal and Toddler Appetitive Traits in a Mexican Population

by Jocelyn González-Toribio, Claudia Hunot-Alexander, Edgar Manuel Vásquez-Garibay, Alfredo Larrosa-Haro, Erika Casillas-Toral and Carmen Patricia Curiel-Curiel

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100849 - 17 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1553

Abstract

The Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire for toddlers (CEBQ-T-Mex) and the Adult Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (AEBQ-Esp) measure appetitive traits (ATs) in children and adults, respectively, both validated for use in Spanish. ATs are inherited variations in appetite, present from birth, that are reasonably stable [...] Read more.

The Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire for toddlers (CEBQ-T-Mex) and the Adult Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (AEBQ-Esp) measure appetitive traits (ATs) in children and adults, respectively, both validated for use in Spanish. ATs are inherited variations in appetite, present from birth, that are reasonably stable throughout childhood and can explain why some infants over- or undereat in response to environmental exposures. “Food approach” traits predispose to overweight while “food avoidance” traits provide protection, but little is known about the relationships between parents’ and their toddler’s ATs. The aim was to examine the associations between maternal and toddler appetitive traits, using the AEBQ-Esp and CEBQ-T-Mex, and to examine the associations between ATs and Body Mass Index z-scores (BMIz). Sociodemographic data and the weights and heights of mothers and toddlers (aged 12–36 months) were collected from a teaching hospital in Guadalajara, Mexico. Mothers completed both the AEBQ-Esp and the CEBQ-T-Mex. Direct correlations were found between the ATs of toddlers and their mother (p < 0.005), except for “Slowness in Eating” (SE), and only an inverse correlation was found between the “Satiety Responsiveness” (SR) of toddlers and their BMIz (r = −0.147; p = 0.007). These results suggest that ATs could potentially run in families. These may be useful targets for family-wide interventions to support the development and maintenance of healthy eating behaviours in childhood. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

27 pages, 840 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cross-Level Influence of Group-Focused Transformational Leadership on Organizational Citizenship Behavior among Chinese Secondary School Teachers

by Zhuotao Fang and Shun-Chi Yu

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 848; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100848 - 16 Oct 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2099

Abstract

The organizational citizenship behavior of teachers holds paramount significance in elevating school organizational effectiveness and sustaining competitive advantage. To address this, this study examines the cross-level influence of group-focused transformational leadership on organizational citizenship behavior among secondary school teachers. This exploration includes investigating [...] Read more.

The organizational citizenship behavior of teachers holds paramount significance in elevating school organizational effectiveness and sustaining competitive advantage. To address this, this study examines the cross-level influence of group-focused transformational leadership on organizational citizenship behavior among secondary school teachers. This exploration includes investigating the mediating role of individual-level psychological contract fulfillment and the moderating impact of group-level collectivism. An empirical investigation involving 1162 secondary school teachers in China was designed for this purpose. The results demonstrate that group-focused transformational leadership significantly positively impacts teachers’ organizational citizenship behavior. Moreover, this relationship is positively moderated by collectivism at the group level, suggesting a stronger effect of transformational leadership on organizational citizenship behavior in more collective-oriented groups. Additionally, the findings reveal that psychological contract fulfillment at the individual level mediates this cross-level relationship, providing evidence for its role in translating leadership’s influence to organizational citizenship behavior. The findings underscore the significance of concentrating on group-focused transformational leadership, cultivating a collectivist atmosphere, and guaranteeing the fulfillment of psychological contracts as pivotal strategies for bolstering organizational citizenship behavior among teachers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Educational Psychology)

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