Behavioral Sciences

15 pages, 695 KB

Open AccessArticle

Following Gastrointestinal Surgery for Cancer: How Patients Pursue Surgical Treatment

by Eleonora Pinto, Gian Piero Turchi, Christian Moro, Alessandra Feltrin, Alessandro Fabbian, Genny Mattara, Pierluigi Pilati, Carlo Castoro and Rita Alfieri

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 842; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16060842 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

Previous studies have shown that, after postoperative recovery from upper and lower gastrointestinal surgery for cancer, patients use peculiar modalities to describe their health. The purpose of this study is to determine how upper and lower gastrointestinal cancer surgery is considered by patients [...] Read more.

Previous studies have shown that, after postoperative recovery from upper and lower gastrointestinal surgery for cancer, patients use peculiar modalities to describe their health. The purpose of this study is to determine how upper and lower gastrointestinal cancer surgery is considered by patients when they set their health. A structured interview was developed and 47 consecutive patients were interviewed postoperatively. Answers were analyzed through M.A.D.I.T., a quantitative and qualitative methodology that allows for the detection of discursive processes comprising the text, beyond thematic analysis. Four dimensions have been analyzed: representation of the postoperative period in daily life; use of resources; participation in achieving the clinical objective after hospital discharge; and continuing to respect the surgeons’ indications. A corpus of 2374 text occurrences was analyzed. Without differences between types of surgery, surgical patients described the time after surgical intervention as a critical scenario. Patients expressed their personal opinions, expecting normality after surgery and having difficulty envisioning the future: their representation of inflexibility in the postoperative period prevented them from finding new coping strategies. Overall, across all four dimensions, participants used stabilization discursive modalities in more than 50% of cases, representative of a situation bound within strict ties and personal theories. When defining their health, cancer surgery patients tend not to consider their condition as a new and different one from before; they imagine that they will be able to fully resume their previous habits. However, this can risk undermining the achievement of the clinical objective. Thus, during early surgical consultations, as well as in surgical recovery, exploring differences after surgery and solutions could help patients in their engagement with surgical outcomes and consequences. Full article

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

24 pages, 1448 KB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Limitation and Favorable Mental-Health Self-Appraisal Among U.S. Adults Aged 50 Years or Older with Multimorbidity: A Behavioral-Science Analysis of the 2023 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey

by Minyang Zhang, Juan Du, Yidan Ding, Yichen Xiao, Yumei Jiang and Jie Liu

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 841; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16060841 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

How older adults psychologically appraise their health while managing multiple chronic conditions is a behavioral-science question as much as a clinical one. This study estimated the weighted prevalence of favorable mental-health self-appraisal, identified its behavioral, social, and functional correlates, and compared the relative [...] Read more.

How older adults psychologically appraise their health while managing multiple chronic conditions is a behavioral-science question as much as a clinical one. This study estimated the weighted prevalence of favorable mental-health self-appraisal, identified its behavioral, social, and functional correlates, and compared the relative salience of diagnosed-condition burden and functional limitation among U.S. adults aged ≥ 50 years with multimorbidity. This retrospective cross-sectional secondary analysis used the 2023 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) Full Year Consolidated Data File (HC-251). Multimorbidity was defined as at least two diagnosed chronic priority conditions. The primary outcome represents favorable mental-health self-appraisal, derived from MNHLTH53 (excellent/very good/good vs. fair/poor). Covariates were organized using Andersen’s Behavioral Model and health-psychology concepts of adaptation, resources, and lived functional burden. Weighted prevalence estimates and survey-weighted logistic regression models were fitted using PERWT23F, VARSTR, and VARPSU. Robustness checks examined a stricter outcome threshold, proxy adjustment/non-proxy restriction, and a physical-health extension model. The analytic sample included 5523 respondents, representing approximately 77.9 million U.S. adults aged ≥ 50 years with multimorbidity. The weighted prevalence of favorable perceived mental-health self-appraisal was 86.6% (95% CI 85.4–87.7). In the fully adjusted core model (complete-case n = 5330), age 65–74 years (aOR 1.52, 95% CI 1.17–1.98) and age ≥ 75 years (aOR 1.79, 95% CI 1.36–2.36) were associated with higher odds of favorable appraisal. Lower odds were observed for Hispanic respondents, non-Hispanic Asian respondents, lower educational attainment, lower income, non-employment, ≥4 diagnosed conditions, and any functional limitation. The strongest inverse association was limitation status (aOR 0.32, 95% CI 0.27–0.39). Sensitivity analyses were directionally consistent. Favorable mental-health self-appraisal remained common in this medically complex older population, but it was socially and functionally patterned. Functional limitation appeared more behaviorally salient than diagnosis count alone. Because the analysis was cross-sectional and based on household-interview reported measures, these results should be interpreted as associations rather than causal effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

25 pages, 1027 KB

Open AccessArticle

Preschool Teachers’ Intentions to Use GenAI: Extending UTAUT

by Chenchen Hao, Zeguo Wang and Ping Wang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16060840 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

Against the backdrop of the rapid development of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), exploring preschool teachers’ willingness to adopt technology is critical for advancing their educational applications. However, this area remains underexplored. To address this gap, this study draws on the Unified Theory of [...] Read more.

Against the backdrop of the rapid development of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), exploring preschool teachers’ willingness to adopt technology is critical for advancing their educational applications. However, this area remains underexplored. To address this gap, this study draws on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) to develop a research model incorporating performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, perceived risks, and tech-savviness. Using a sequential mixed-methods design, we recruited 434 teachers to participate in a GenAI teaching-application workshop, collected 399 valid questionnaires for structural equation modeling, and conducted 15 in-depth interviews. Quantitative results indicate that performance expectancy, social influence, and tech-savviness are positively associated with preschool teachers’ intention to use GenAI, while perceived risk is negatively associated; effort expectancy and facilitating conditions show no significant association. Due to methodological limitations including high inter-construct correlations and potential common method bias, these findings should be viewed as exploratory rather than conclusive. Qualitative interviews support these relationships and provide further explanatory insights. The mixed-methods results offer preliminary hypotheses regarding GenAI adoption among preschool teachers, and future confirmatory research is needed to verify their generalizability, especially in collectivist cultural contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence and Educational Psychology)

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20 pages, 509 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Shared Word Order on Intrasentential Language Mixing in English-Dutch, Polish-Dutch, and Turkish-Dutch Bilingual Children

by Vera Snijders, Ora Oudgenoeg-Paz, Merel van Witteloostuijn and Elma Blom

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16060839 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

Bilingual children commonly mix languages. Their language mixing generally adheres to grammatical constraints, yet it may impose processing and production costs. This study examined how 4-to-7-year-old English-, Polish-, and Turkish-Dutch bilingual children processed and repeated mixed-language sentences. It aimed to (a) determine whether [...] Read more.

Bilingual children commonly mix languages. Their language mixing generally adheres to grammatical constraints, yet it may impose processing and production costs. This study examined how 4-to-7-year-old English-, Polish-, and Turkish-Dutch bilingual children processed and repeated mixed-language sentences. It aimed to (a) determine whether they struggle with mixed-language sentences, (b) study whether shared word order in either the main or subordinate clause facilitates repetition, (c) compare the effects of different types of mixing, i.e., insertion and alternation, and (d) link error rates to daily mixing experience. Fifty-seven children participated in a mixed sentence repetition task. Mixed Dutch sentences with embedded elements from other languages in the task enable the examination of the role of clause and mixing type across four types of sentences: (1) main clause insertion, (2) subordinate clause insertion, (3) main clause alternation, and (4) subordinate clause alternation. In addition, monolingual Dutch sentences with main and subordinate clauses allow investigation of the effects of processing mixed sentences. The results of the generalized linear mixed-effects models with error rates as the outcome variable suggest that mixing may play a limited role. We also found no evidence of a relation between task performance and daily mixing experience. These results provide no support for processing and production costs associated with language mixing. We discuss these results in light of theories on language mixing, previous research and methodological considerations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Language and Cognitive Development in Bilingual Children)

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19 pages, 757 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Coaching Relationships, Teacher Self-Efficacy, and Motivation: Psychological Associations with Teachers’ Acceptability of Coaching and Stress

by Jiayi Wang and Duli Shi

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 838; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16060838 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

Teacher coaching is a widely used approach to support teacher professional development, yet the relational and psychological factors that influence coaching outcomes remain underexplored. Guided by the Expectancy-Value Theory and prior literature, this study examined the role of coaching relationships, teacher self-efficacy, and [...] Read more.

Teacher coaching is a widely used approach to support teacher professional development, yet the relational and psychological factors that influence coaching outcomes remain underexplored. Guided by the Expectancy-Value Theory and prior literature, this study examined the role of coaching relationships, teacher self-efficacy, and teachers’ motivation for coaching in the coaching process, with two key outcomes: teachers’ acceptability of coaching and perceived stress. A sample of 308 K-12 teachers from the United States completed relevant measures. Structural equation modeling revealed that high-quality coaching relationships were significantly associated with greater acceptability, self-efficacy, and motivation, particularly increased perceived benefits and reduced reservations. Coaching relationships and coaching acceptability were indirectly associated via self-efficacy and perceived benefits. The indirect association between coaching relationships and stress was fully explained through self-efficacy. These findings underscore the importance of fostering strong relationships with teachers and addressing motivational components to enhance the effectiveness of coaching interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Promoting Social–Emotional and Academic Support in Educational Settings)

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14 pages, 1167 KB

Open AccessArticle

Iron Fists or Velvet Gloves? Puberty Stress, Parenting Style, and Social Evaluative Distress Among Chinese Adolescents

by Yongqi Xu and Ruining Jin

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 837; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16060837 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Puberty is a period of visible bodily change, heightened self-consciousness, and increased sensitivity to social evaluation. While prior studies have linked pubertal development to broad psychological outcomes, less attention has been given to adolescents’ social evaluative distress, defined here as discomfort when [...] Read more.

Background: Puberty is a period of visible bodily change, heightened self-consciousness, and increased sensitivity to social evaluation. While prior studies have linked pubertal development to broad psychological outcomes, less attention has been given to adolescents’ social evaluative distress, defined here as discomfort when feeling looked at or talked about by others. Parenting style may also be relevant to this outcome. Methods: Using secondary survey data from 3591 secondary-school students in Shenzhen, China, this study employed Bayesian analysis to examine whether puberty stress, authoritarian parenting, and permissive parenting were associated with adolescents’ social evaluative distress, and whether authoritarian and permissive parenting moderated the association between puberty stress and social evaluative distress. Results: Puberty stress was positively associated with social evaluative distress, and authoritarian parenting was also positively associated with this outcome. Permissive parenting did not show a clear direct association. Neither authoritarian nor permissive parenting showed clear evidence of moderating the association between puberty stress and social evaluative distress. Conclusions: Social evaluative distress during adolescence appears to be associated more clearly with puberty stress and authoritarian parenting as direct correlates than with interaction effects between puberty stress and parenting style. The study extends existing literature by focusing on a narrower, socially focused form of adolescent distress in the Chinese context. Full article

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

22 pages, 1829 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Association Between Independent Study Desk Ownership and Borderline Personality Features in Children and Adolescents in Difficulty: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Census in China

by Ling Chen, Mingzi Ma, Jiawen Wu and Changyu Fan

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 836; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16060836 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

Children in difficulty are at heightened risk of developing personality-related problems, partly due to gaps in family care and social protection. This study examines whether (a) the availability of an individual study desk at home—a basic family educational resource—is associated with borderline personality [...] Read more.

Children in difficulty are at heightened risk of developing personality-related problems, partly due to gaps in family care and social protection. This study examines whether (a) the availability of an individual study desk at home—a basic family educational resource—is associated with borderline personality features (BPFs) in this population and (b) perceived social support and school life shape this association. Using survey data from 14,993 children in difficulty in Hubei Province, China, and applying propensity score matching (PSM), we find that children with their own desk report significantly lower levels of BPFs. The protective association between desk ownership and children’s perceptions of social support is stronger when children perceive higher social support, whereas indicators of school life do not significantly moderate this relationship. Heterogeneity analyses further show that the benefit of having a desk is greater for children without siblings. These findings highlight the protective role of physical learning environments and suggest that targeted provision of basic educational resources could serve as a practical entry point for early-intervention programs aimed at reducing the risk of developing BPFs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Behavioral Intervention for Children at Risk)

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47 pages, 753 KB

Open AccessReview

Building School Behavioral Health Capacity: A Scoping Review of Evidence-Based Ingredients Delivered by Paraprofessionals

by Bailey R. Dow, Savannah B. Simpson, Samuel D. McQuillin, Dodie Limberg, Kimberly J. Hills and Eugene S. Huebner

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 835; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16060835 (registering DOI) - 22 May 2026

Abstract

Youth are increasingly struggling with mental health, yet many lack access to formal care. Evidence indicates that building coping skills can improve mental health and wellbeing. School personnel may be well-positioned to help youth build these coping skills by delivering discrete evidence-based ingredients [...] Read more.

Youth are increasingly struggling with mental health, yet many lack access to formal care. Evidence indicates that building coping skills can improve mental health and wellbeing. School personnel may be well-positioned to help youth build these coping skills by delivering discrete evidence-based ingredients in their everyday interactions and relationships with students. This scoping review synthesizes the literature on social-emotional evidence-based ingredients delivered by paraprofessionals and explores their potential application in school behavioral health. We searched PsycINFO and PubMed, screened 200 titles/abstracts and 46 full-texts, and yielded 19 studies from which we synthesized data using the RE-AIM framework. We identified 17 evidence-based ingredients, with the most common being mindfulness, relaxation, psychoeducation, exposure, and cognitive restructuring. These were delivered in various formats and settings by different paraprofessionals (e.g., graduate students, teachers, caregivers), with most paraprofessionals receiving some training and supervision. Thirteen studies showed significant improvements in at least one outcome (i.e., anxiety, depression, suicidality, wellbeing). Six studies examined long-term effects, with mixed findings. Despite variation in delivery and training, paraprofessionals appear to feasibly and effectively deliver evidence-based ingredients. These findings support task-shifting ingredients as a scalable approach for supporting youth mental health within school behavioral health systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Implementation Support for School Behavioral Health Systems to Amplify Positive Student and School Outcomes)

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30 pages, 496 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Psychometric Validation of the Career Identity Questionnaire for Vocational School Students

by Branimir Vukčević, Teodora Safiye, Elvis Mahmutović, Emir Biševac, Nemanja Nenezić, Andreja Kovačević, Aleksandar Stevanović, Zerina Salihagić, Aldina Ajdinović, Velida Zimonjić, Aleksandar Jeremić, Ernad Kahrović, Zana Dolićanin and Draško Dubljanin

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 834; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050834 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2026

Abstract

This study presents the development and psychometric validation of a Career Identity Questionnaire for vocational school students aged 15–19 years. Career identity was conceptualized as comprising career exploration and career commitment, based on theories of identity development and career guidance. Two studies were [...] Read more.

This study presents the development and psychometric validation of a Career Identity Questionnaire for vocational school students aged 15–19 years. Career identity was conceptualized as comprising career exploration and career commitment, based on theories of identity development and career guidance. Two studies were conducted. In Study 1 (N = 188), principal component analysis (PCA) was used to determine the final structure of the questionnaire. From an initial pool of 20 items, 14 items were retained: 8 items for career exploration and 6 items for career commitment. The two scales were positively correlated (r = 0.48, p < 0.01), with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.78 and 0.88, respectively. In Study 2 (N = 293), convergent and structural validity were examined using correlation analysis, canonical correlation, ANOVA, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The CFA supported a three-factor structure consisting of exploration within the educational profile, exploration outside the educational profile, and career commitment. Career exploration correlated with school satisfaction (r = 0.31), subjective well-being (r = 0.26), and school success (r = 0.14), while career commitment showed stronger associations with the same variables (r = 0.56, 0.27, and 0.15, all p < 0.01). Canonical correlation analysis indicated significant relationships between career identity dimensions and mental health, with the strongest weights observed for career commitment (r_s = −0.96) and career exploration (r_s = −0.60), explaining 14% of the variance in mental health, while mental health explained 23% of the variance in career identity. Students with below-average values of commitment and exploration reported lower school success, satisfaction, and well-being. The findings provide evidence for the reliability and validity of the questionnaire, supporting its use in both research and practice in educational settings. Full article

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23 pages, 813 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Mental Health Barriers Among At-Risk Adolescents: An Integrative Analysis of Self-Reports and School Nurses’ Perspectives

by Minjeong Kim and Seolhyang Baek

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 833; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050833 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2026

Abstract

In modern society, adolescents experiencing mental health problems are increasing. This study aims to identify barriers to mental health care at the individual, family, school, and staff levels among at-risk adolescents, employing a mixed-methods approach. Given the ethical and practical constraints of engaging [...] Read more.

In modern society, adolescents experiencing mental health problems are increasing. This study aims to identify barriers to mental health care at the individual, family, school, and staff levels among at-risk adolescents, employing a mixed-methods approach. Given the ethical and practical constraints of engaging at-risk adolescents directly, the study quantitatively analyzed responses to the AMPQ-III-I survey from 47 runaway adolescents, while conducting interviews with eight school nurses serving as proxy informants. The at-risk adolescents were found to be in a state of mental health crisis characterized by somatization, self-harm, excessive digital media use, and peer imitation. Within the family environment, they experienced communication gaps with adults, concerns about mental health stigma, and the risk of disengagement from home and school. Despite experiencing physical and emotional difficulties that hindered their ability to focus on academic work, schools tended to deprioritize mental health, and these adolescents reported notably low utilization of professional counseling. School nurses, although well-positioned to identify at-risk adolescents, expressed barriers such as excessive workload and a lack of communication among teachers. These findings suggest that, to support the growing and intensifying population of at-risk adolescents, an urgent shift in awareness and the alleviation of barriers within the family–school–staff ecosystem is required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Increasing Equitable Access to Efficacious Mental Health Care)

22 pages, 773 KB

Open AccessArticle

Decoding the Generational Digital Divide: Profiles and Predictors of Grandparents’ Attitudes Toward Young Children’s Technology Use

by Wenwei Luo, Huihua He, Ilene R. Berson, Michael J. Berson and Zhiying Wang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 832; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050832 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2026

Abstract

In today’s digital age, child-rearing presents unique challenges that extend across generations, impacting both parenting and grandparenting. This study investigated patterns of grandparents’ attitudes toward their grandchildren’s technology use and identified key predictors of these patterns. Utilizing latent profile analysis (LPA) with a [...] Read more.

In today’s digital age, child-rearing presents unique challenges that extend across generations, impacting both parenting and grandparenting. This study investigated patterns of grandparents’ attitudes toward their grandchildren’s technology use and identified key predictors of these patterns. Utilizing latent profile analysis (LPA) with a sample of 712 grandparents from Shanghai, China, the research identified four distinct attitudinal profiles: positively supportive, cautiously observant, low-involvement reserved, highly concerned and restrictive. Multinomial logistic regression analyses revealed that the age of the grandparent, sibling status, and the frequency of communication between grandparents and parents were significant predictors of profile membership. The findings indicate that grandparents’ attitudes toward their grandchildren’s technology use reflect a combination of acceptance and concern. This study underscores the need for further research and educational supports to help grandparents develop perspectives informed by an evidence base, thereby strengthening guidance strategies for young children’s digital engagement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Educational Psychology)

21 pages, 669 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Preventing Sexual Violence Against Adolescent Girls: Psychometric Validation of the EDR-ESIA Screening Instrument for Early Detection of Exploitation Risk

by Beatriz Benavente, Paola Bully and Lluís Ballester

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 831; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050831 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Sexual violence against women frequently originates during adolescence, when structural inequalities and gendered power dynamics heighten vulnerability, making early identification of risk factors essential to prevent trajectories leading to sexual exploitation. This study presents the psychometric validation of the EDR-ESIA, a screening instrument [...] Read more.

Sexual violence against women frequently originates during adolescence, when structural inequalities and gendered power dynamics heighten vulnerability, making early identification of risk factors essential to prevent trajectories leading to sexual exploitation. This study presents the psychometric validation of the EDR-ESIA, a screening instrument designed to detect vulnerability to Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) in healthcare, education, and social care settings, with particular relevance for prevention strategies targeting adolescent girls. The sample comprised 199 adolescents aged 11–17 years (M = 15.23; SD = 1.59) residing in Spain (58.8% female, 40.2% male, 1.0% unspecified), assessed by trained professionals using case records and reports. The 88-item instrument underwent expert review and pilot testing prior to validation, and its internal structure was examined using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicated that all subdimensions and higher-order constructs showed an adequate fit to the theoretical model, supporting the instrument’s validity. Female adolescents scored significantly higher than males on CSE target indicators, reflecting a medium-to-large gender difference in vulnerability levels. Overall, the EDR-ESIA constitutes an evidence-based instrument for the timely recognition of CSE vulnerability, supporting prevention, education, and intervention efforts aimed at reducing sexual violence against women from early developmental stages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sexual Violence Against Women Across Contexts: Prevention, Education, and Intervention)

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21 pages, 3915 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effects of Painting-Based Art Interventions on Mental Health Outcomes: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

by Xu Song and Jihoon Jang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 830; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050830 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are rising globally, and while conventional therapies like medications and psychotherapy remain common, they face limitations, including side effects and accessibility. This highlights the need for effective non-pharmacological interventions. Painting-based art interventions are a promising [...] Read more.

Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are rising globally, and while conventional therapies like medications and psychotherapy remain common, they face limitations, including side effects and accessibility. This highlights the need for effective non-pharmacological interventions. Painting-based art interventions are a promising non-pharmacological approach for improving scale-assessed mental health outcomes, but quantitative evidence across age groups and outcome types remains limited. This meta-analysis synthesizes data from 45 randomized controlled trials to assess the impact of painting-based art interventions on mental health. The study explores potential moderating factors such as intervention duration, type of art, gender, and age group. A rigorous quality assessment of included studies was performed using Cochrane’s risk of bias tool. The pooled effect size for painting-based interventions on mental health was significant, indicating a large positive impact. Subgroup analyses revealed that interventions of various durations, art forms, and gender compositions produced similar effects. Notably, older adults benefited the most from these interventions. Painting-based art interventions were associated with improved scale-assessed mental health outcomes. These findings should be interpreted as evidence for one visual art-making approach within broader art therapy practice, rather than as defining art therapy solely by painting-based methods. Full article

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25 pages, 638 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Moderated Mediation Model of Mentoring and Coaching and Quiet Quitting Behaviour: The Mediating Role of Work Engagement and the Moderating Role of Job Insecurity

by Samuel Siwela and Cebile Tebele

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 829; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050829 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Quiet quitting is reported to be on the increase in the post-COVID pandemic workplace, especially among early-career Generation Z (Gen Z) employees. This trend poses serious challenges and could negatively affect organisational productivity, performance, and profitability. The purpose of this study is to [...] Read more.

Quiet quitting is reported to be on the increase in the post-COVID pandemic workplace, especially among early-career Generation Z (Gen Z) employees. This trend poses serious challenges and could negatively affect organisational productivity, performance, and profitability. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of mentoring and coaching on quiet quitting among graduate interns. This study also seeks to assess whether work engagement mediates this relationship and job insecurity moderates the mediated relationship between mentoring and coaching and quiet quitting via work engagement. Purposive and snowball sampling were used to recruit participants. Data were collected from 264 graduate interns employed in fixed-term internship programmes in South African organisations. The data was analysed using the SPSS PROCESS macro and SPSS Amos 30 graphics. The results showed that mentoring and coaching was significantly and negatively related to quiet quitting behaviours among graduate interns, and this negative relationship was partially mediated by work engagement. Furthermore, job insecurity moderated the mediated effect of mentoring and coaching on quiet quitting behaviours via work engagement. This study advances our understanding of how organisations can mitigate quiet quitting among graduate interns by integrating the social exchange theory and Job Demands–Resources model (JD-R). The practical implication for organisations is to capacitate line managers with technical, professional, and interpersonal skills to mentor and coach early-career Gen Z employees. Line manager mentoring and coaching will increase early-career Gen Z employees’ work engagement and subdue quiet quitting, which is reported to be on the rise among this generation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Outlooks on Relationships in the Workplace)

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11 pages, 224 KB

Open AccessReview

Addressing Test Anxiety in High-Achieving Schools: A Research-Based Approach

by Benjamin J. Lovett, Sybille Bruun-Moss and Cathy Urinyi

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 828; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050828 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2026

Abstract

Schools with very high academic achievement levels are often beset with high levels of pressure and anxiety around academics and testing in particular. In recent years, research has investigated the mechanisms that make attending high-achieving schools a risk factor for anxiety and related [...] Read more.

Schools with very high academic achievement levels are often beset with high levels of pressure and anxiety around academics and testing in particular. In recent years, research has investigated the mechanisms that make attending high-achieving schools a risk factor for anxiety and related problems. The resulting understanding can inform appropriate strategies for addressing test anxiety. In the present paper, we review relevant research on the features of high-achieving schools that promote anxiety, and present well-established empirical facts about the nature of test anxiety, including its relationships with avoidance behaviors and with test performance. We then discuss how test anxiety manifests at high-achieving schools and present a model of how to apply evidence-based intervention strategies to address test anxiety in high-achieving settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Academic Anxieties and Coping Strategies)

35 pages, 1167 KB

Open AccessArticle

What Fosters Leaders’ Health Role Modeling? Communication and Remote Work as Boundary Conditions

by Lene S. Fröhlich, Annika Krick, Jörg Felfe, Sarah Kirschnereit and Anna Ernsting

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050827 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2026

Abstract

Based on Social Learning Theory, the Health-oriented Leadership Model posits leaders as SelfCare role models. While this modeling influence is established for general SelfCare, its applicability to sensitive behaviors—such as disclosing mental health problems—remains unclear. Additionally, the role of interactional and contextual factors [...] Read more.

Based on Social Learning Theory, the Health-oriented Leadership Model posits leaders as SelfCare role models. While this modeling influence is established for general SelfCare, its applicability to sensitive behaviors—such as disclosing mental health problems—remains unclear. Additionally, the role of interactional and contextual factors is insufficiently understood. The present paper investigates whether leaders’ role modeling extends to disclosure and whether communication aspects and Working from Home (WfH) intensity moderate these effects. Two cross-sectional studies were conducted among employees working partly from home. Employees rated their own and leaders’ SelfCare; Study 2 (pharmaceutical company; N = 198) additionally assessed disclosure. Both studies included communication frequency and WfH intensity; Study 1 (public service; N = 227) measured informal communication, and Study 2 assessed communication barriers. Results confirmed that leaders’ SelfCare and disclosure were related to employees’ corresponding behaviors. Communication frequency and WfH intensity showed no moderating effects. Informal communication was associated with a stronger leader SelfCare role model effect, whereas communication barriers were associated with weaker role model effects. Findings suggest an association between leaders’ and employees’ health behavior, consistent with role modeling processes. Based on these preliminary findings, organizations may raise leaders’ awareness of their impact, while leaders should hold informal check-ins and promote barrier-free communication. Future longitudinal and experimental research should validate these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Workplace Communication: An Emerging Field of Study)

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23 pages, 267 KB

Open AccessArticle

An Examination of Multicultural Parents’ Understanding of Supporting Their Children’s Creativity

by Esra Kantar Muslu and Eda Yazgin

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 826; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050826 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2026

Abstract

This study explores how multicultural parents support their children’s creativity and examines the influence of cultural factors on this process. The study employed a qualitative cultural analysis/ethnography approach to examine in depth the multicultural parents’ perspectives on supporting their children’s creativity and how [...] Read more.

This study explores how multicultural parents support their children’s creativity and examines the influence of cultural factors on this process. The study employed a qualitative cultural analysis/ethnography approach to examine in depth the multicultural parents’ perspectives on supporting their children’s creativity and how they evaluate and encourage creativity within their cultural context. The study group consisted of multicultural parents with children aged 36–72 months living in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Data were collected using the three tools. The first was a researcher-developed form to provide participants’ demographic information. The second was a researcher-developed semi-structured Interview Form. Finally, the researchers conducted home visits, and collected relevant visual and written materials related to the activities, shared by parents to enhance data diversity. Content analysis was used to examine the collected visual and written records. The findings indicated that multicultural parents supported their children’s creativity through various cultural activities both at home and in external social environments. They encouraged their children to assume various roles to promote active engagement in cultural activities. Children were not only spectators but were also active participants. Furthermore, the interaction of diverse cultures contributed to the formation of new ideas and perspectives in children’s minds. Full article

32 pages, 702 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Hidden Drivers of New Employees’ Adaptive Performance in the Context of AI: The Role and Mechanisms of Workplace Fear of Missing Out

by Bingyao Li, Yongyue Zhu, Yuwei Zhang and Lifu Jin

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 825; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050825 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2026

Abstract

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into workplace ecosystems is intensifying adaptation pressure for new employees. This study examines how Workplace Fear of Missing Out (WFMO) influences adaptive performance in this context. Methods: Drawing on Conservation of Resources Theory and the Emotion [...] Read more.

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into workplace ecosystems is intensifying adaptation pressure for new employees. This study examines how Workplace Fear of Missing Out (WFMO) influences adaptive performance in this context. Methods: Drawing on Conservation of Resources Theory and the Emotion Regulation Process Model, a dual-path mediating model was tested using survey data from 442 new employees. Hierarchical regression, the Bootstrap method, and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) were employed. Results: WFMO is positively associated with adaptive performance. Role stress and cognitive reappraisal function as independent mediators in this relationship. Leader empathy positively moderates both direct relationships and indirect mediating pathways. Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis reveals two distinct configurational paths to high adaptive performance. Conclusion: Workplace Fear of Missing Out can be transformed into adaptive behavior through resource mobilization and cognitive reappraisal mechanisms, with leader empathy serving as a critical contextual amplifier. These findings challenge the traditional view of workplace anxiety as uniformly detrimental and provide actionable insights for organizational management in technology-driven environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Employee–AI Collaboration on Work Behavior—Second Edition)

20 pages, 523 KB

Open AccessArticle

How Does Digital Human Resource Management Foster a Sense of Relaxation Among Generation Z Employees?

by Hongyuan Zhang, Xin Hou and Shuming Zhao

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 824; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16050824 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2026

Abstract

In the contemporary digital economy, digital human resource management is reshaping organizational practices and enhancing both operational efficiency and the employee experience. As Generation Z (those born between 1995 and 2009) becomes the core demographic in the workforce, their pronounced emphasis on work–life [...] Read more.

In the contemporary digital economy, digital human resource management is reshaping organizational practices and enhancing both operational efficiency and the employee experience. As Generation Z (those born between 1995 and 2009) becomes the core demographic in the workforce, their pronounced emphasis on work–life balance introduces novel managerial challenges. Drawing on conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study develops and tests a moderated mediation model examining how digital human resource management (HRM) influences sense of relaxation among Generation Z employees. Analyzing survey data from 364 Generation Z employees, we first develop and validate a measurement scale for employee relaxation, identifying four distinct dimensions: work disengagement, work adaptation, emotional regulation, and physical load. The findings reveal that digital HRM significantly enhances employee relaxation, with work autonomy serving as a partial mediator in this relationship. Furthermore, digital self-efficacy positively moderates both the direct effect of digital HRM on work autonomy and the indirect effect on employee relaxation through work autonomy. These findings offer theoretical insights into how digital HRM links to employee well-being and provide practical guidance for organizations managing a Generation Z workforce. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Employee–AI Collaboration on Work Behavior—Second Edition)

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