Behavioral Sciences

11 pages, 1939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Cyclical Patterns of Behavior Using a Moving-Average, Data-Smoothing Manipulation

by Billie J. Retzlaff, Andrew R. Craig, Todd M. Owen, Brian D. Greer, Alex O’Donnell and Wayne W. Fisher

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1120; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14121120 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

For some individuals, rates of destructive behavior change in a predictable manner, irrespective of the contingencies programmed. Identifying such cyclical patterns can lead to better prediction of destructive behavior and may allow for the identification of relevant biological processes. However, identifying cyclical patterns [...] Read more.

For some individuals, rates of destructive behavior change in a predictable manner, irrespective of the contingencies programmed. Identifying such cyclical patterns can lead to better prediction of destructive behavior and may allow for the identification of relevant biological processes. However, identifying cyclical patterns of behavior can be difficult when using traditional methods of visual analysis. We describe a data-manipulation method, called data smoothing, in which one averages the data across time points within a specified window (e.g., 3, 5, or 7 days). This approach minimizes variability in the data and can increase the saliency of cyclical behavior patterns. We describe two cases for which we identified cyclical patterns in daily occurrences of destructive behavior, and we demonstrate the importance of analyzing smoothed data across various windows when using this approach. We encourage clinicians to analyze behavioral data in this way when rates vary independently of programmed contingencies and other potentially controlling variables have been ruled out (e.g., behavior variability related to sleep behavior). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenging Behavior of Individuals with Autism and/or Other Neurodevelopmental Disabilities)

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17 pages, 819 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Role Models on Sexual Minority Women: A Qualitative Interview Study

by Khushi Mann, Salina Tesfamichael and Katharine A. Rimes

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1119; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14121119 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

Sexual minority women (e.g., lesbian, bisexual, pansexual) have increased risk of experiencing various mental health problems compared to sexual minority men and heterosexual individuals. Sexual minority women (SMW) have also been found to have lower self-esteem than heterosexual women, which could contribute to [...] Read more.

Sexual minority women (e.g., lesbian, bisexual, pansexual) have increased risk of experiencing various mental health problems compared to sexual minority men and heterosexual individuals. Sexual minority women (SMW) have also been found to have lower self-esteem than heterosexual women, which could contribute to poorer mental health. Previous findings suggest that role models could potentially be used to improve LGBTQ+ wellbeing. The current exploratory study investigated SMW’s experiences about the impact of role models or the lack of them and their views about how role models could be used to increase the self-esteem of SMW in potential interventions. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 17 SMW. Using thematic analyses, four themes about characteristics of role models were developed: “Similar to me”, “Self-confident about being different”, “Strong and kind”, and “Source of learning and support”. Three themes about the impact of role models were identified: “Increased self-esteem”, “Inspiring personal growth”, and “Lack of role models: I don’t belong”. Content analyses indicated a wide range of ideas about how role models could be used within individual or group self-esteem interventions. Future research could apply these findings to develop or enhance interventions to increase the self-esteem of SMW. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contemporary Perspectives on LGBTQ Psychology and Health)

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13 pages, 618 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Forced-Choice Personality Inventory via Thurstonian Item Response Theory (TIRT)

by Ioannis Tsaousis and Amjed Al-Owidha

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1118; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14121118 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study had two purposes: (1) to develop a forced-choice personality inventory to assess student personality characteristics based on the five-factor (FFM) personality model and (2) to examine its factor structure via the Thurstonian Item Response Theory (TIRT) approach based on Thurstone’s law [...] Read more.

This study had two purposes: (1) to develop a forced-choice personality inventory to assess student personality characteristics based on the five-factor (FFM) personality model and (2) to examine its factor structure via the Thurstonian Item Response Theory (TIRT) approach based on Thurstone’s law of comparative judgment. A total of 200 items were generated to represent the five dimensions, and through Principal Axis Factoring and the composite reliability index, a final pool of 75 items was selected. These items were then organized into 25 blocks, each containing three statements (triplets) designed to balance social desirability across the blocks. The study involved two samples: the first sample of 1484 students was used to refine the item pool, and the second sample of 823 university students was used to examine the factorial structure of the forced-choice inventory. After re-coding the responses into a binary format, the data were analyzed within a standard structural equation modeling (SEM) framework. Then, the TIRT model was applied to evaluate the factorial structure of the forced-choice inventory, with the results indicating an adequate fit. Further suggestions for future research with additional studies are provided to justify the scale’s reliability (e.g., test–retest) and validity (e.g., concurrent, convergent, and divergent). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring New Frontiers in Psychometrics: Advancing Measurement of Skills and Behaviors)

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12 pages, 597 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Burnout and Personality Profiles Among Chinese Nurses

by Sijun Zhang, Ke Xiao and Zhen Tian

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1117; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14121117 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

Although many studies have examined the relationship between the five dimensions of personality and nurse burnout, few studies have examined the relationship between nurse burnout and the overall personality profile. In addition, nurses’ demographic characteristics have been found to be related to nurses’ [...] Read more.

Although many studies have examined the relationship between the five dimensions of personality and nurse burnout, few studies have examined the relationship between nurse burnout and the overall personality profile. In addition, nurses’ demographic characteristics have been found to be related to nurses’ burnout level, but the results have been inconsistent. This study aimed to determine personality profiles based on the Big Five personality model in a sample of Chinese nurses then analyze the relationship between burnout and personality profiles and demographics. A total of 1423 nurses were sampled and assessed using the Big Five Inventory and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory. A k-means cluster analysis was used to divide participants into different personality profiles. Multivariate analysis of variance and binomial logistic regression were used to examine the relationship of burnout with personality profiles and demographics. Cluster analysis identified three personality profiles among nurses: resilient, ordinary, and distressed. For each dimension of the Big Five Inventory and Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, there was a significant difference between different personality profiles, with effect sizes being from 0.37 to 0.57. Nurses with a distressed personality profile were 4.52 times more likely to be diagnosed with burnout than nurses with an ordinary profile, while nurses with a resilient personality profile had a 55% reduction in burnout compared to nurses with an ordinary profile. The results suggested that hospital administrators should focus on nurses with a distressed personality profile to identify potential burnout nurses as early as possible. The findings also enabled hospital administrators to consider the different personality profiles of nurses and the specific requirements of the job to select suitable candidates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress, Anxiety, and Depression among Healthcare Workers)

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15 pages, 1167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patient Safety Incidents in Inpatient Psychiatric Settings: An Expert Opinion Survey

by Sophia Russotto, Andrea Conti, Kris Vanhaecht, José Joaquín Mira and Massimiliano Panella

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1116; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111116 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Patient safety in psychiatric inpatient facilities remains under-researched despite its crucial importance. This study aims to address this gap by using expert opinion to estimate the frequency of diverse patient safety incidents (PSIs) in psychiatric settings and to compare it with the existing [...] Read more.

Patient safety in psychiatric inpatient facilities remains under-researched despite its crucial importance. This study aims to address this gap by using expert opinion to estimate the frequency of diverse patient safety incidents (PSIs) in psychiatric settings and to compare it with the existing literature. Utilizing a seven-step approach, a questionnaire based on the World Health Organization’s International Classification for Patient Safety was developed and deployed. A total of 33 expert opinions were collected. Results showed a higher estimated incidence of PSIs in psychiatric settings compared to general healthcare, highlighting categories such as patient behavior, medication, and infrastructure as significant contributors. Experts emphasized the prevalence of incidents related to behavioral issues and inadequate infrastructure, areas often overlooked in the existing literature. Unlike general settings, psychiatric facilities appear more vulnerable to specific PSIs, such as those related to medication and building safety, underscoring the need for targeted safety measures. Our study suggests the existence of significant discrepancies between expert opinion and available research, with several underexplored domains in psychiatric patient safety. Full article

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20 pages, 583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Narcissistic Chief Executive Officers and Their Effects on R&D Investment and Firm Performance: The Moderating Role of Managerial Discretion

by Qingzhu Gao, Liangmou Gao and Guangyan Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1115; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111115 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

The impact of the chief executive officer (CEO) narcissism on a firm’s performance has gained attention from the academic community. However, the extant literature has largely ignored the mediating mechanism of research and development (R&D) investment and the moderating roles of managerial discretion. [...] Read more.

The impact of the chief executive officer (CEO) narcissism on a firm’s performance has gained attention from the academic community. However, the extant literature has largely ignored the mediating mechanism of research and development (R&D) investment and the moderating roles of managerial discretion. Additionally, the measurement of CEO narcissism is rarely disclosed in the public database. Compiling a CEO narcissism index from a video survey, we systematically explore the effect of CEO narcissism on firm performance, the mediating role of R&D investment, and the moderating role of managerial discretion. Based on the upper echelons theory, using a sample of 183 Chinese A-share listed manufacturing firms from 2011 to 2019, we found that CEO narcissism positively and significantly impacts R&D investment and firm performance, and then R&D investment mediated the relationships between CEO narcissism and firm performance. In addition, we found that managerial discretion could affect the relationship between CEO narcissism and R&D investment. Specifically, CEO duality and CEO ownership will strengthen the positive influence of a CEO’s narcissism in corporate R&D investment. Our results suggest that CEO narcissism appears to be a stimulus to corporate R&D investment; thus, in recruiting top executives, their psychological traits, especially narcissism, should be given special consideration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behaviors)

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17 pages, 620 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Associations Among Beliefs Supporting Patriarchal Principles, Conflict Avoidance, and Economic Violence in Intimate-Partner Relationships of Ultra-Orthodox Jews

by Ruth Berkowitz, David Mehlhausen-Hassoen and Zeev Winstok

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1114; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111114 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Beliefs that uphold patriarchal principles may influence individuals’ willingness to avoid conflict in their intimate-partner relationships, which can, in turn, increase the likelihood of intimate-partner economic violence. However, these associations remain underexplored in current research. This study examines these dynamics within a sample [...] Read more.

Beliefs that uphold patriarchal principles may influence individuals’ willingness to avoid conflict in their intimate-partner relationships, which can, in turn, increase the likelihood of intimate-partner economic violence. However, these associations remain underexplored in current research. This study examines these dynamics within a sample of 321 adults from the Ultra-Orthodox Jewish community—a patriarchal and traditional culture. Specifically, it examines associations among beliefs supporting patriarchal principles at the micro (gendered domestic roles), meso, and macro (institutional power of men and the inherent inferiority of women) levels; conflict avoidance; economic violence; and sex differences in these factors. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze sex differences in the study variables, and path analysis was used to examine the correlations between research variables for men and women. The findings indicate that beliefs in patriarchal ideologies were moderate across all levels but slightly higher among men. Men were significantly more likely than women to avoid conflict with their intimate partners. Beliefs in support of patriarchal ideologies were predictive of conflict avoidance, particularly among women. Contrary to prior research, this study revealed nonsignificant sex differences in the prevalence of economic-violence victimization. These findings, however, do not negate the role of sex-based dynamics in economic-violence victimization. We discuss the findings and the meanings assigned to conflict avoidance by men and women, while considering gender disparities of power and control. We suggest that men’s tendency to avoid conflict likely moderated their likelihood of perpetrating economic violence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Research on Sexual and Social Relationships)

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11 pages, 3180 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can the Ability to Play Steady Beats Be Indicative of Cognitive Aging? Using a Beat Processing Device

by Hyun Ju Chong, Jin Hee Choi and Ga Eul Yoo

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1113; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111113 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to examine whether different rhythm idioms significantly affect the reproduction accuracy of older adults and whether the participants’ age and personal current engagement in music affect their ability to reproduce rhythm. A total of 79 older adults participated in the [...] Read more.

This study aimed to examine whether different rhythm idioms significantly affect the reproduction accuracy of older adults and whether the participants’ age and personal current engagement in music affect their ability to reproduce rhythm. A total of 79 older adults participated in the study. Participants were required to reproduce six different rhythm idioms, and their accuracy in rhythm reproduction was measured using the R index. The data were analyzed considering the participants’ age sub-group and current engagement in music. The findings showed differences in reproduction accuracy across various rhythm idioms, particularly in relation to steady recurring notes and dotted notes with different intervals. The highest reproduction accuracy was found for the isochronous beat pattern, while the rhythm idiom starting with longer intervals yielded the lowest accuracy. Age and current personal engagement in music did not significantly affect rhythm performance. However, the study identified a significant correlation between decreased accuracy in reproducing a steady rhythm and diminished general cognitive ability. This study indicates that rhythm performance can be indicative of cognitive abilities related to temporal information processing. The findings support the potential use of rhythm tasks to evaluate cognitive performance in older adults with varying cognitive levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

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14 pages, 239 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Illness Narrative Master Plots Following Musculoskeletal Trauma and How They Change over Time, a Secondary Analysis of Data

by Andrew Soundy, Maria Moffatt, Nga Man (Nicole) Yip, Nicola Heneghan, Alison Rushton, Deborah Falla, Lucy Silvester and Nicola Middlebrook

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1112; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111112 - 19 Nov 2024

Abstract

Introduction; to the best of the authors knowledge, no past research has established how illness narrative master plots are expressed initially and then if and how they change longitudinally following musculoskeletal trauma. The aim of the present research was to consider how specific [...] Read more.

Introduction; to the best of the authors knowledge, no past research has established how illness narrative master plots are expressed initially and then if and how they change longitudinally following musculoskeletal trauma. The aim of the present research was to consider how specific master plots were expressed, interact, and change across time following musculoskeletal trauma. Methods: A narrative analysis was undertaken that included individuals who had experienced a musculoskeletal traumatic injury. Individuals were included if they were an inpatient within 4 weeks of the first interview, had mental capacity to participate, and were able to communicate in English. Three interviews were undertaken (within 4 weeks of injury, then at 6- and 12-months post-injury). A 5-stage categorical form—type narrative analysis was performed. Results: Twelve individuals (49.9 ± 17.5 years; 7 male, 5 female) completed interviews at three time points following the trauma event (<4 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months). Three main narrative master plots appeared to work together to facilitate a positive accommodation of the trauma event into the individual’s life. These included the resumption narrative, the activity narrative, and the quest narrative. Finally, less often regressive narratives were identified, although these narratives were, at times, actively avoided. Discussion: The current results provide important consideration for how narratives are used within clinical practice, in particular the value of how these three narratives could be accessed and promoted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Narrative Approaches and Practice in Health Psychology)

12 pages, 279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Emotional Risk Factors, Rumination, and Self-Criticism in Relation to Suicidal Ideation Among Chinese Depressive Outpatients

by Barbara Chuen Yee Lo and Sophie Kai Lam Cheng

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1111; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111111 - 19 Nov 2024

Abstract

Previous studies indicated that individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) are at high risk of suicide, making the identification of risk factors in suicidal depressive outpatients essential for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. This study aims to (1) identify emotional risk factors [...] Read more.

Previous studies indicated that individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) are at high risk of suicide, making the identification of risk factors in suicidal depressive outpatients essential for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. This study aims to (1) identify emotional risk factors and (2) examine the relationship between cognitive markers—including rumination and self-criticism—and suicidal ideation among depressive outpatients. A total of 165 Chinese clinical outpatients with depression were recruited from local hospitals in Hong Kong. In our sample, 68% of patients with moderate depression and 87.5% of patients with severe depression reported experiencing suicidal thoughts. The results from the logistic regression revealed a significant interaction between rumination and self-critical thoughts in relation to suicidal ideation. Specifically, the ruminative patients with self-critical thoughts were more likely to have suicidal thoughts than those without self-critical thoughts. These findings align with the cognitive model of suicide, suggesting that maladaptive information processing and negative cognitive content are associated with an increased risk of suicide. The current findings have clinical implications for the future development of more specific and accurate mental health assessment, preventive programs, and psychotherapies for depressive outpatients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Illnesses and Related Self-Injury Behavior)

16 pages, 599 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adolescent Depressive Symptoms and Peer Dynamics: Distorted Perceptions in Liking and Disliking Networks

by Diego Palacios, Silvia Caldaroni, Christian Berger, Daniele Di Tata and Davide Barrera

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111110 - 19 Nov 2024

Abstract

Depression in adolescents has been linked to poor life outcomes, including suicidal ideation, peer victimization, and fewer friendships. Less is known about how depressed adolescents perceive their peer interactions. Based on the depression-distortion model, we expected that adolescents with depressive symptoms misperceive their [...] Read more.

Depression in adolescents has been linked to poor life outcomes, including suicidal ideation, peer victimization, and fewer friendships. Less is known about how depressed adolescents perceive their peer interactions. Based on the depression-distortion model, we expected that adolescents with depressive symptoms misperceive their social ties by being less likely to like some peers, and more likely to dislike other peers. An Italian dataset about adolescent relationships was used, including 275 first-year secondary school students (M age = 11.80, 46% female) in 12 classrooms across nine schools. Adolescents were asked to nominate classmates they liked and disliked. Longitudinal social network analyses (stochastic actor-oriented models) were conducted, including structural network effects (reciprocity, transitivity, indegree-popularity) and covariates such as gender, immigrant origin, and highest parents’ education level. The results indicated that adolescents with depressive symptoms were less likely to send liking nominations, and conversely, they were more likely to send disliking nominations than non-depressed classmates. Interestingly, adolescents with depressive symptoms were not more disliked or less liked by their peers. These findings seem to support the depression-distortion model by suggesting that, compared to non-depressed peers, adolescents with depressive symptoms misperceive their relationships by overstating negative relationships and underestimating positive ones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Peer Relationships in the Development of Minority Children)

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12 pages, 498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anxious Thoughts and Well-Being in University Students with Anxiety in the Two Years After the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Mediational Relationship of Physical Symptoms and Sadness Rumination

by Elena Ioana Fratea, Manuela Mihaela Ciucurel and Geanina Cucu Ciuhan

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111109 - 18 Nov 2024

Abstract

Objective: This study examines the relationship between anxious thoughts and well-being, with physical symptoms and sadness rumination as mediators, in young people who suffer from anxiety in the first two years after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A community sample of 198 participants, 94 [...] Read more.

Objective: This study examines the relationship between anxious thoughts and well-being, with physical symptoms and sadness rumination as mediators, in young people who suffer from anxiety in the first two years after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A community sample of 198 participants, 94 males and 104 females, aged between 19 and 35 years, all of them experiencing an anxiety disorder in their past, answered an online survey during the years 2022–2023. The instruments were the Rumination of Sadness and Anger Questionnaire, The Burns Inventory, and Ryff’s Psychological Well-being Scale. The data analysis used hierarchical regression. Results: The results show that the conditional indirect effects of anxious thoughts on well-being are statistically significant (β = −0.29, SE = 0.08, p < 0.001) for high physical symptoms of anxiety (β = 0.25, SE = 0.11, p < 0.001) and for high sadness rumination (β = −0.82, SE = 0.04, p < 0.001). Physical symptoms of anxiety (β = 0.25, SE = 0.11, p < 0.001) and sadness rumination (β = 0.05, SE = 0.07, p < 0.001) have a partial serially mediating effect on the relationship between anxious thoughts and well-being (β = −0.74, SE = 0.02, p < 0.001). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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14 pages, 1226 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Personal Relative Deprivation and Online Aggression in College Students: A Moderated Mediation Model of Revenge Motivation and a Violent Attitude

by Wenfeng Zhu, Yuguang Yang, Xue Tian, Yongchao Huang and Xuejun Bai

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111108 - 18 Nov 2024

Abstract

While personal relative deprivation (PRD) is recognized as a potential risk factor for aggression, the mechanisms underlying this relationship are not well understood. This study investigates how revenge motivation mediates the link between PRD and online aggression, as well as how a violent [...] Read more.

While personal relative deprivation (PRD) is recognized as a potential risk factor for aggression, the mechanisms underlying this relationship are not well understood. This study investigates how revenge motivation mediates the link between PRD and online aggression, as well as how a violent attitude moderates this connection. A total of 1004 college students completed self-reported measures on demographic factors, PRD, online aggression, revenge motivation, and violent attitudes. The findings revealed a positive correlation between PRD and online aggression, with revenge motivation serving as a mediating factor. Additionally, a violent attitude was found to moderate the relationship, indicating that PRD had a stronger association with online aggression in individuals with higher violent attitudes compared to those with lower attitudes. Full article

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27 pages, 955 KiB

Open AccessReview

Interoceptive Ability and Emotion Regulation in Mind–Body Interventions: An Integrative Review

by Alessandro Lazzarelli, Francesca Scafuto, Cristiano Crescentini, Alessio Matiz, Graziella Orrù, Rebecca Ciacchini, Gaspare Alfì, Angelo Gemignani and Ciro Conversano

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1107; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111107 - 18 Nov 2024

Abstract

It is increasingly recognized that interoceptive ability, the capacity to detect, interpret, and consciously integrate signals related to the physiological condition of the body, is central to emotion experience and regulation. Interoceptive ability can be trained and improved through mind–body interventions. This article [...] Read more.

It is increasingly recognized that interoceptive ability, the capacity to detect, interpret, and consciously integrate signals related to the physiological condition of the body, is central to emotion experience and regulation. Interoceptive ability can be trained and improved through mind–body interventions. This article attempts to provide an integrative review of the link between interoceptive ability and emotion regulation in mind–body interventions. To this aim, (1) we address the constructs of interoceptive ability and mind–body interventions in relation to the double pathway of emotion regulation, and (2) we include a review of selected empirical and qualitative studies. These show that mindfulness meditation affects the brain–body axis through top-down processing, improving both interoceptive ability and emotion regulation. Interventions based on bottom-up processing through body movement and emotional expression are illustrated, but it is argued that they are still under-investigated. In light of the literature reviewed, we contend that interoceptive ability is a crucial aspect associated with the effects of mind–body interventions on emotion regulation. Additionally, we suggest that if studied through both quantitative and qualitative methods, interoceptive ability may serve as a general construct that allows a more integrated view of the polarities related to the spectrum of embodied experience: top-down and bottom-up emotion processing, observational and non-observational body awareness, conscious and unconscious level of interoception. Full article

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11 pages, 425 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Teacher Violence and Student Wellbeing in Rural Sierra Leone: Longitudinal Dynamics Across Primary Schooling

by Giulio D’Urso, Jennifer Symonds, Seaneen Sloan, Daniel Capistrano, Elena Samonova, Dympna Devine and Ciaran Sugrue

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1106; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111106 - 18 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study explored the longitudinal dynamics of teacher violence and student wellbeing in rural Sierra Leone, West Africa. The participants, totaling 3170 children with an age range of 5 years to 11 years, were cluster-sampled from a large geographic area to ensure gender [...] Read more.

This study explored the longitudinal dynamics of teacher violence and student wellbeing in rural Sierra Leone, West Africa. The participants, totaling 3170 children with an age range of 5 years to 11 years, were cluster-sampled from a large geographic area to ensure gender balance and representation from diverse linguistic backgrounds and religious affiliations. They were drawn from the Safe Learning Study, which spanned over 5 years and involved 100 schools in rural Sierra Leone. Data collection took place in four waves from November 2018 to May 2021. Participants completed self-report questionnaires pertaining to psychological wellbeing and experiences of violence from teachers. The study employed a random intercept cross-lagged panel model (RICLPM) to examine the relationship between violence and mental health across waves. Across children, a relationship between teacher violence and student wellbeing was observed over time. However, for individual children, higher wellbeing predicted lower instances of violence, and vice versa, although to a weak extent. These findings highlight the complex interplay between violence and wellbeing within the cultural sample. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of the social dynamics surrounding violence and wellbeing, informing targeted interventions and policy initiatives aimed at creating safer and healthier environments for at-risk populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Research on Sexual and Social Relationships)

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13 pages, 787 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Self-Transcendence on Anxiety Among Chinese College Students: The Moderating Roles of Self-Enhancement and Dominant Self-Construal

by Hong Wang, Tong Yue and Huajun Luo

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1105; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111105 - 17 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study explores the role of self-transcendence values in reducing anxiety among Chinese undergraduates, with a particular focus on how self-enhancement values and self-construal styles moderate this relationship. A total of 567 undergraduate students were assessed using the Portrait Values Questionnaire (PVQ-21), the [...] Read more.

This study explores the role of self-transcendence values in reducing anxiety among Chinese undergraduates, with a particular focus on how self-enhancement values and self-construal styles moderate this relationship. A total of 567 undergraduate students were assessed using the Portrait Values Questionnaire (PVQ-21), the Trait Anxiety Inventory (T-AI), and the Self-Construal Scale (SCS). Hierarchical regression and moderated moderation analyses were conducted to test the interactions between the variables. The findings suggest that self-enhancement moderated the association between self-transcendence and anxiety, particularly in individuals with low self-enhancement. Furthermore, the moderating effect of self-enhancement was influenced by dominant self-construal. These findings have practical implications for integrating value-based interventions in educational and public health strategies aimed at improving mental well-being among university students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

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17 pages, 909 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Metacognition About Collaborative Learning: Students’ Beliefs Are Inconsistent with Their Learning Preferences

by Yunfeng Wei, Nicholas C. Soderstrom, Michelle L. Meade and Brandon G. Scott

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111104 - 16 Nov 2024

Abstract

Collaboration plays an important role in educational contexts. However, little is known about students’ metacognitive beliefs about collaboration. The present study used an online survey to investigate students’ beliefs toward group study/recall, their studying preferences, strategies they use when studying individually and in [...] Read more.

Collaboration plays an important role in educational contexts. However, little is known about students’ metacognitive beliefs about collaboration. The present study used an online survey to investigate students’ beliefs toward group study/recall, their studying preferences, strategies they use when studying individually and in groups, and important characteristics of their group members. Results indicate that, although students generally perceive collaboration as beneficial, they prefer individual study, indicating that their beliefs are inconsistent with their learning preferences. Students report social learning as the primary reason for collaborative benefits but prefer to study alone to minimize distraction and increase personal accountability. Further, they use different strategies when studying individually or in a group. When studying individually, students most frequently report re-reading their notes. However, when studying in groups, students most frequently use strategies emphasizing collaboration and interaction, such as quizzing each other. Also, students prefer to work with group members who are focused, motivated, and hard working. Students’ beliefs, preferences, and favored characteristics of group members are related to their frequency of using study groups. Students’ metacognitive beliefs about collaboration have implications for theories of self-regulated learning and better use of collaboration in educational contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Applications of Cognitive Psychology)

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14 pages, 233 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intensive Treatment of Chronic Pain and PTSD: The PATRIOT Program

by John D. Otis, Jonathan S. Comer, Terence M. Keane, Erica Checko (Scioli) and Donna B. Pincus

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1103; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111103 - 16 Nov 2024

Abstract

Military combat can result in the need for comprehensive care related to both physical and psychological trauma, most commonly chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions tend to co-occur and result in high levels of distress and interference in everyday life. [...] Read more.

Military combat can result in the need for comprehensive care related to both physical and psychological trauma, most commonly chronic pain and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions tend to co-occur and result in high levels of distress and interference in everyday life. Thus, it is imperative to develop effective, time-efficient treatments for these conditions before they become chronic and resistant to change. We developed and pilot-tested the Pain and Trauma Intensive Outpatient Treatment (PATRIOT) Program, a brief, intensive (3 weeks, six sessions) integrated chronic pain and PTSD treatment. An overview and session-by-session outline of the PATRIOT Program is provided, followed by results from the first pilot evaluation of the PATRIOT Program’s feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy in a sample of eight participating Veterans with comorbid chronic pain and PTSD. There were no treatment dropouts. At post-treatment, there were significant reductions in PTSD symptoms based on the Clinician-Administered Assessment of PTSD (CAPS). Pain and catastrophic thinking also decreased from pre- to post-treatment. With continued investigations and support, the PATRIOT Program may offer a brief, cost-effective, and more easily accessible treatment option for individuals who could benefit from learning skills to manage pain and PTSD more effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations for Addressing Posttraumatic Stress and Co-occurring Conditions)

9 pages, 399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Post-Warm-Up Active and Passive Rest Periods on a Vigilance Task in Karate Athletes

by Rui Miguel Silva, Francisco González-Fernández, Alba Rusillo-Magdaleno, Vânia Loureiro, Dinis Pires, Filipe Ferreira and Ana Filipa Silva

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1102; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111102 - 15 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze how active versus passive rest periods after a warm-up influence performance in psychomotor vigilance tasks (PVT). Twenty amateur karate athletes participated in a randomized cross-over study consisting of two sessions with either a 20 min active rest involving [...] Read more.

This study aimed to analyze how active versus passive rest periods after a warm-up influence performance in psychomotor vigilance tasks (PVT). Twenty amateur karate athletes participated in a randomized cross-over study consisting of two sessions with either a 20 min active rest involving kata techniques or passive rest. PVT was administered before and after these conditions to assess the changes in reaction time. The results revealed that the active rest condition significantly improved reaction times compared to both the passive rest condition (F(1,31) = 5.34, p = 0.03, η² partial = 0.14) and control condition (F(1,31) = 5.49, p = 0.02, η² partial = 0.15). No significant time-on-task effects were observed, F(4,120) = 2.31, p = 0.06, and there were no significant interactions between effort condition and time-on-task, F(4,120) = 1.89, p = 0.11). Participating in an active rest period post-warm-up improves cognitive performance in karate athletes, as evidenced by quicker reaction times in the PVT. This finding supports the use of active rest strategies (involving kata techniques) to maintain and improve cognitive readiness in young karate athletes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Active Strategies for the Development of Behavior and Cognition in Young People)

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