Behavioral Sciences

18 pages, 810 KiB

Open AccessReview

Empathy Changes Among Chinese College Students in the Context of Marketization

by Xiaofei Liu and Ziqiang Xin

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 597; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050597 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2025

China’s marketization refers to the systemic reform process of transitioning from a planned economy to a market economy, which has significantly contributed to the country’s economic development. However, the interest-oriented nature of marketization may also somewhat erode social morality. Given that empathy is [...] Read more.

China’s marketization refers to the systemic reform process of transitioning from a planned economy to a market economy, which has significantly contributed to the country’s economic development. However, the interest-oriented nature of marketization may also somewhat erode social morality. Given that empathy is the basis of morality and prosocial behavior, the present study produced a cross-temporal meta-analysis of 89 studies using the Chinese version of the Interpersonal Reactivity Index as a measuring instrument and outlined the empathy changes among 48,400 Chinese college students from 2009 to 2019. Then, this study tested the conjecture that empathy is weakening in marketization process. The results reveal that Chinese college students’ empathy level declined over time and was negatively correlated with the marketization level. This finding contributes to understanding the relationship between the marketization reform and moral psychology change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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17 pages, 301 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Overcoming Sexual Harassment at University: The Case of the Training Intervention in the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

by Olga Serradell and Lidia Puigvert

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050596 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2025

Abstract

The social and behavioral sciences have contributed enormously to our understanding of societies and the relationships between individuals within them. Sexual harassment is a universal social problem that is reproduced in different contexts and societies. However, institutions such as universities have made it [...] Read more.

The social and behavioral sciences have contributed enormously to our understanding of societies and the relationships between individuals within them. Sexual harassment is a universal social problem that is reproduced in different contexts and societies. However, institutions such as universities have made it invisible, contributing to the impunity of harassers and the vulnerability of victims. This has been the case for decades in countries such as Spain. Today, universities are implementing training measures to prevent such behavior. This article analyzes, from a dialogic sociological perspective, one of these interventions in terms of its success and impact on the academic community: the “Training for the Prevention of Gender-Based Violence at the University”, implemented by the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (Spain) between 2021 and 2024. The article defines and analyzes its main characteristics: (1) the contents based on scientific evidence; (2) the human commitment of the trainers; and (3) the dialogue with the solidarity network World MeToo Universities. The article concludes that the positive impact of this pioneering intervention in the academic community constitutes a universal and transferable successful action to overcome gender-based violence in universities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perspectives on Violence and Sexual Harassment)

20 pages, 618 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Music and Language in Williams Syndrome: An Integrative and Systematic Mini-Review

by Jérémy Villatte, Agnès Lacroix, Laure Ibernon, Christelle Declerq, Amandine Hippolyte, Guillaume Vivier and Nathalie Marec-Breton

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 595; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050595 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2025

Abstract

Individuals with Williams syndrome (WS) are known for their interest in language and music. As producing and comprehending music and language usually involve a set of similar or comparable cognitive abilities, the music–language relationship might be of interest to better understand WS. We [...] Read more.

Individuals with Williams syndrome (WS) are known for their interest in language and music. As producing and comprehending music and language usually involve a set of similar or comparable cognitive abilities, the music–language relationship might be of interest to better understand WS. We identified, analyzed, and synthesized research articles on music and language among individuals with WS. Three different databases were searched (SCOPUS, PubMed, PsycInfo). Eight research articles were identified after screening, based on title, abstract and full text. In this integrative–systematic review, we assess methodologies, report findings and examine the current understanding of several subdimensions of the relationship between music and language. The findings suggest that basic musical abilities such as tone, rhythm and pitch discrimination are correlated with several verbal skills, particularly the understanding of prosody. Musical practice seems to benefit individuals with WS, in particular for prosody understanding and verbal memory. A correlation was also observed between emotional responsiveness to music and verbal ability. Further studies are needed to better characterize the relationship between music and language in WS. The clinical use of musical practice could be of interest in improving prosodic skills and verbal memory, which deserves extended experimental investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Psychology)

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14 pages, 1493 KiB

Open AccessArticle

When Regular Education Is Not Effective and Conflicts Arise Between Systems: The Importance of Independent Educational Evaluations

by Dudley J. Wiest, Deven I. Landeros and Grahamm M. Wiest

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050594 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2025

Abstract

Addressing the educational needs of children with learning challenges is often a complex issue, with few clear-cut accommodations that lead to high levels of interventional efficacy. This is especially true within the context of the child’s own developmental change, a dynamic school setting, [...] Read more.

Addressing the educational needs of children with learning challenges is often a complex issue, with few clear-cut accommodations that lead to high levels of interventional efficacy. This is especially true within the context of the child’s own developmental change, a dynamic school setting, and numerous family considerations. As a result, it is not uncommon for there to be disagreements among the school’s and the family’s perspective on how to best address the child’s educational, socio-emotional, and general developmental needs. This paper addresses this common occurrence in the United States public school system and discusses a model for how independent educational evaluations can be conducted to best inform the process that is intended to lead to appropriate and effective educational support for a student. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Academic Performance: Understanding Complex Student Outcomes Through an Integrative Lens)

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20 pages, 1005 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reasons for Swearing as a Form of Self-Talk in Sport and Exercise: Development and Validation of a New Questionnaire

by Noam Manor and Gershon Tenenbaum

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 593; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050593 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Swearing is a powerful and emotionally charged form of language that has recently gained increased scholarly attention. While commonly used for emotional release, its role in sport and exercise ‘self-talk’ remains understudied. Prior evidence suggests that swearing may aid in pain management, emotion [...] Read more.

Swearing is a powerful and emotionally charged form of language that has recently gained increased scholarly attention. While commonly used for emotional release, its role in sport and exercise ‘self-talk’ remains understudied. Prior evidence suggests that swearing may aid in pain management, emotion regulation, and performance enhancement, yet research in athletic contexts has largely focused on conventional self-talk. To address this gap, the present study developed and validated the Reasons for Swearing in Sport and Exercise Questionnaire (RSSEQ), a novel tool assessing reasons motivating swearing among competitive athletes, coaches, and recreational exercisers. A total of 513 participants completed the RSSEQ. Exploratory (n = 333) and confirmatory (n = 180) factor analyses supported a three-factor structure: Stress and Emotional Catharsis, Mental Strength Enhancement, and Coping with Physical Discomfort and Pain. Males reported greater use of swearing for mental strength and pain-related coping, while no gender differences were observed for emotional catharsis. Athletes reported more swearing for emotional catharsis than did coaches, but no differences emerged in motivational or pain-related use. No significant differences were found between competitive and recreational athletes or between team and individual sport participants. These findings establish a foundation for future research on the psychological functions of swearing in sport and exercise, encouraging further exploration of its effectiveness and potential integration into mental training strategies, alongside more traditional self-talk approaches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Behavioral and Psychosocial Dynamics of Sports and Exercise)

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25 pages, 1889 KiB

Open AccessReview

Twenty-Four-Hour Movement Behaviors and Social Functions in Neurodiverse Children: A Scoping Review

by Chengwen Fan, Pan Liu, Zongyu Yang, Liqin Yin and Shuge Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050592 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Research on how an active lifestyle impacts the social functions of neurodiverse children, particularly within the context of twenty-four-hour (24 h) movement behaviors (i.e., physical activity, sedentary behaviors, sleep), has been emerging but has yet to receive a systematic synthesis. In this scoping [...] Read more.

Research on how an active lifestyle impacts the social functions of neurodiverse children, particularly within the context of twenty-four-hour (24 h) movement behaviors (i.e., physical activity, sedentary behaviors, sleep), has been emerging but has yet to receive a systematic synthesis. In this scoping review, we aimed (1) to synthesize current knowledge in the field of 24 h movement behaviors and social functions in neurodiverse children; and (2) to offer insights into implications for future research and practices. Specifically, we conducted a systematic search via four databases, namely the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCOhost, through 31st December 2024, and followed scoping review guidelines for results synthesis. The initial search returned 2342 articles, of which 50 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria following a robust selection and screening process. These retained studies were published between 2004 and 2024, primarily focused on children with neurodiversity of autism spectrum disorder, or ASD (70%), and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD (23%), and using quantitative methods (84%). Only 6% of studies considered the combined effects of different 24 h movement behaviors, with most examining physical activity alone. Longer group exercise interventions were found to be more effective in improving social functions in neurodiverse children. Overall, the findings support the position that 24 h behaviors have a positive influence on the social functioning of neurodiverse children. However, current research tends to focus primarily on ASD, uses quantitative methods, and often overlooks the combined effects of physical activity, sleep, and sedentary behavior. Future studies should address these limitations and examine 24 h movement behaviors in children with a broader range of neurodiverse characteristics. Research and practices should also consider qualitative approaches as a complement to quantitative measures for monitoring and evaluation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity for Mental Health: The Diverse Evidence and New Avenues)

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8 pages, 185 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

From “Mental/Psychological Disorder” and/or “Individual Pattern of Adaptation” Toward “Developmental Trajectories During the Lifespan”

by Donatella R. Petretto, Alessandro Mura, Mattia Vacca, Gian Pietro Carrogu, Luca Gaviano, Riccardo Atzori and Carmelo Masala

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 591; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050591 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

A general and still open question in clinical psychology is the crucial one: “What is a psychological/mental disorder?”. In the second half of the 20th century and now, the question has been addressed along two different parallel paths/approaches: one path aimed to classify [...] Read more.

A general and still open question in clinical psychology is the crucial one: “What is a psychological/mental disorder?”. In the second half of the 20th century and now, the question has been addressed along two different parallel paths/approaches: one path aimed to classify those disorders, also thanks to the development of the international classification manuals (DSM and ICD); another path aimed to describe in what ways those “disorders” manifest themselves in the life of each individual. While the first path used explicitly the word “disorder”, the second one mainly preferred to use the words “pattern of adaptation/maladaptation”. In this brief perspective paper, we will discuss both paths and approaches, according to the perspective of clinical psychology and as a result of a narrative review. We discuss some differences between the two paths, some points of contact between them, and some critical issues. Moreover, we will briefly discuss a third integrative path that may integrate the first two. We then discussed if the third integrative path may increase the strength of both previous ones and overcome their limits, with the aim to support individual patterns of adjustment, prevent “mental/psychological disorder” and empower individuals in coping with adverse life events during all the phases of lifespan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Psychopathology and Developmental Trajectories)

19 pages, 935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Perceived Overqualification on Workplace Procrastination: The Role of Public Service Motivation and Perceived Prosocial Impact

by Wenzheng Qiu, Xinyu Dong and Chenhui Liu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050590 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Workplace procrastination is widespread in the public sector and has severe negative implications. However, research specifically focusing on workplace procrastination among civil servants remains scarce. Drawing on the person–environment (P–E) fit theory and the public service motivation (PSM) fit perspective, this study examines [...] Read more.

Workplace procrastination is widespread in the public sector and has severe negative implications. However, research specifically focusing on workplace procrastination among civil servants remains scarce. Drawing on the person–environment (P–E) fit theory and the public service motivation (PSM) fit perspective, this study examines the relationship between perceived overqualification (POQ) and workplace procrastination through job boredom, and further explores how PSM and perceived prosocial impact moderate this relationship. Based on a survey of 363 Chinese civil servants, the findings reveal a positive correlation between POQ and workplace procrastination through job boredom, and this correlation is weaker for civil servants with high PSM than for those with low PSM. A three-way interaction analysis indicates that perceived prosocial impact enhances the ability of PSM to reduce job boredom caused by POQ, which in turn weakens the association between POQ and workplace procrastination. Moreover, when civil servants with high PSM perceive their work as having a high prosocial impact, the association between POQ and workplace procrastination becomes nonsignificant. This study introduces a person–environment interaction perspective for understanding the antecedents of workplace procrastination, underscores the costs of POQ in public organizations, and offers valuable insights for preventing workplace procrastination among civil servants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventing and Addressing Negative Behaviors in the Workplace)

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11 pages, 711 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rejection Sensitivity and Problematic Internet Use Among Medical Students: A Moderated Mediation Model Involving Loneliness and Self-Control

by Cheng Xu, Meiling Liao and Youjuan Hong

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 589; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050589 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025

Abstract

The internet has evolved into an integral facet of the life and educational experience of college students. However, the driving force behind problematic internet use in medical students remains largely unexplored. Based on the cognitive–behavioral model and the affect regulation model of vulnerability, [...] Read more.

The internet has evolved into an integral facet of the life and educational experience of college students. However, the driving force behind problematic internet use in medical students remains largely unexplored. Based on the cognitive–behavioral model and the affect regulation model of vulnerability, the present study seeks to investigate the underlying mechanism of the association between rejection sensitivity and problematic internet use among medical students. A total of 435 undergraduate medical students were investigated using the Tendency to Expect Rejection Scale, Loneliness Scale, Self-control Scale, and Problematic Internet Test. The results revealed that rejection sensitivity could positively predict loneliness and problematic internet use. Mediation analyses revealed that loneliness served as a mediator in the link between rejection sensitivity and problematic internet use. Additionally, self-control moderated the second stage of the indirect effects in the relationship between rejection sensitivity and problematic internet use. These findings theoretically deepen our understanding of the psychological pathways and the boundary conditions linking medical students’ rejection sensitivity to their problematic internet use, while also offering valuable practical implications for decreasing problematic internet use. Full article

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19 pages, 398 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Longitudinal Analysis of the Relationship Between Self-Determined Motivation and Prosocial Orientation of Volunteer Tourists: The Mediating Role of Identity Processing Styles in Young Adults

by Liyuan Zhang and Anmin Huang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 588; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050588 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025

Abstract

The motivational dimensions of volunteer tourists have been a focal point of scholarly debate, closely aligning with their prosocial orientations. Limited attention has been given to examining these relationships through the lens of identity formation among young tourists. To address this gap, this [...] Read more.

The motivational dimensions of volunteer tourists have been a focal point of scholarly debate, closely aligning with their prosocial orientations. Limited attention has been given to examining these relationships through the lens of identity formation among young tourists. To address this gap, this study conducted a two-wave longitudinal investigation into the linkage between volunteer tourists’ self-determined motivation and their prosocial orientation, with identity processing styles serving as a mediator. The sample (n = 291) consisted of freshmen and sophomores participating in a volunteer teaching program during the summer of 2024. We measured the variables of interest both before and after their attendance. In addition to direct effects, our findings observed two significant indirect pathways: (1) Wave 1 autonomous motivation was positively associated with an informational identity style at Wave 1, which predicted Wave 2 other-oriented helping tendency; and (2) Wave 1 controlled motivation was positively related to a normative identity style at Wave 1, which accounted for self-oriented helping propensity at Wave 2. Furthermore, the first relationship was uni-directional, as the coefficient for the reverse pathway (i.e., Wave 1 other-oriented helping → Wave 1 informational identity style → Wave 2 autonomous motivation) was not significant. In contrast, the second relationship was bi-directional, wherein Wave 1 self-oriented helping was positively associated with a normative identity style at Wave 1, which subsequently predicted Wave 2 controlled motivation. Taken together, our study contributes to the literature on altruistic motives, prosocial behavior, identity development, and volunteer tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Influencing Factors of Prosociality: How Humans Cooperate with Others)

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17 pages, 889 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Usage of AI in Teaching and Students’ Creativity: The Mediating Role of Learning Engagement and the Moderating Role of AI Literacy

by Min Zhou and Song Peng

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050587 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025

Abstract

With the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, the application of AI in the field of education has gradually become one of the key factors in improving teaching quality and student abilities. Based on the conservation of resources theory, this study explores [...] Read more.

With the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, the application of AI in the field of education has gradually become one of the key factors in improving teaching quality and student abilities. Based on the conservation of resources theory, this study explores how the usage of AI in teaching impacts students’ creativity, exploring the mediating role of learning engagement and the moderating role of AI literacy. The research finds that the usage of AI in teaching significantly enhances students’ creativity, with learning engagement playing a mediating role in this process, thereby promoting creativity improvement. In addition, AI literacy moderates the relationship between the usage of AI in teaching and learning engagement. The results of this study not only expand the application of the conservation of resources theory in the field of education but also emphasize the important role of AI literacy in AI teaching, providing valuable policy suggestions for educational practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Employee Behavior on Digital-AI Transformation)

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17 pages, 493 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating the Moderating Effect of Language Attitude in the Interplay Among Social Media Addiction, Social Pain and Internet Trolling in College Students

by Qingshu Xu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050586 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the moderating effect of language attitude on the relationships among social media addiction, social pain, and internet trolling among college students. A sample of 891 students from various colleges and universities completed validated measures assessing their levels of social media [...] Read more.

This study investigates the moderating effect of language attitude on the relationships among social media addiction, social pain, and internet trolling among college students. A sample of 891 students from various colleges and universities completed validated measures assessing their levels of social media addiction, social pain, internet trolling, and language attitude. Using a latent variable approach within a multigroup structural equation modeling (SEM) framework, participants were divided into three groups (high, medium, and low language attitude) based on their language attitude scores. The SEM analysis revealed distinct patterns across groups. In the high language attitude group, both social media addiction and social pain significantly predicted internet trolling, with standardized regression coefficients of 0.564 and 0.728, respectively. In the medium language attitude group, the predictive effects remained significant; however, the magnitude of the coefficients decreased markedly (0.264 for social media addiction and 0.562 for social pain). In contrast, in the low language attitude group, neither social media addiction nor social pain emerged as significant predictors of internet trolling. Interestingly, the covariance between social media addiction and social pain remained consistent across the three groups, suggesting a stable interrelationship irrespective of language attitude level. These findings imply that language attitude plays a crucial moderating role in the interplay among social media addiction, social pain, and internet trolling. Specifically, higher levels of language attitude appear to amplify the effects of social media addiction and social pain on internet trolling behavior, while lower levels attenuate these associations. The results underscore the importance of considering individual differences in language attitudes when developing intervention strategies aimed at mitigating problematic online behaviors among college students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Deep Links: Emotional Regulation, Psychological Symptomatology, and Addictions)

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24 pages, 1100 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diversity? Great for Most Just Less So for Me: How Cognitive Abstraction Affects Diversity Attitudes and Choices

by Claudia Toma, Ashli B. Carter and Katherine W. Phillips

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050585 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025

Abstract

Individuals’ decisions to promote or limit diversity in the workplace are ambivalent and may be influenced by their cognitive focus. Drawing from construal level theory, we test across five studies whether individuals are more supportive of diversity when diversity is thought of more [...] Read more.

Individuals’ decisions to promote or limit diversity in the workplace are ambivalent and may be influenced by their cognitive focus. Drawing from construal level theory, we test across five studies whether individuals are more supportive of diversity when diversity is thought of more abstractly versus concretely. Furthermore, we examined the salience of diversity pros and cons as the underlying mechanisms, as well as the role of egalitarian beliefs as a boundary condition for this discrepancy. We tested these hypotheses in five studies, which varied in samples, cognitive focus manipulation, and measures. Dutch and American individuals indicated more positive attitudes toward diversity (Studies 1 and 2) and made more choices that enhanced diversity (Studies 2 and 5) when they considered diversity abstractly (for most companies and teams) rather than concretely (for their own company and teams). Furthermore, the discrepancy in diversity attitudes by construal level was more pronounced among individuals with egalitarian beliefs (Study 3) and was driven by the heightened salience of diversity pros at more abstract versus concrete levels of construal (Study 4). This research contributes to further understanding the ambivalent view of diversity and provides concrete recommendations for diversity management in organizations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Diversity, Identity, and Inclusion in Education, Health, and Work: Ensuring No One Is Left Behind)

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15 pages, 577 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interplay Among Classroom Environment, Grit, and Enjoyment in Shaping Feedback-Seeking Behavior in L2 Writing

by Wenqian Luan and Jianqiang Quan

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050584 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025

Abstract

The interplay among classroom environment, grit, and enjoyment in shaping the feedback-seeking behavior (FSB) of Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners remains underexplored. This study investigates how the classroom psychological environment and L2 grit influence FSB, categorized as feedback monitoring (FM, [...] Read more.

The interplay among classroom environment, grit, and enjoyment in shaping the feedback-seeking behavior (FSB) of Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners remains underexplored. This study investigates how the classroom psychological environment and L2 grit influence FSB, categorized as feedback monitoring (FM, the passive observation of feedback) and feedback inquiry (FI, proactive requests for clarification), in the context of L2 writing. This study also focuses on the mediating role of foreign language enjoyment (FLE) in this process. A mixed-methods design was utilized to study 612 Chinese junior secondary students aged 13–15 with over five years of formal English instruction. Structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that perseverance of effort (POE) and consistency of interest (COI), as two dimensions of L2 grit, directly predicted FM (β = 0.19 and 0.27, respectively) but not FI. The classroom environment indirectly enhanced both FM (β = 0.05) and FI (β = 0.09) through FLE. Qualitative interviews highlighted cultural constraints: 83.3% of participants prioritized FM over FI due to face-saving norms, despite high grit levels (M = 3.61 on a 5-point scale), underscoring cultural barriers to proactive feedback-seeking in Chinese collectivist classrooms. These findings validate the tripartite framework of positive psychology in L2 learning and propose strategies to balance institutional support, grit cultivation, and cultural sensitivity in fostering adaptive FSB. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psycho-Affective Processes and Their Role in Development, Learning, and Well-Being Throughout Life)

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12 pages, 704 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Path Out: Using Video Games to Reduce Prejudice Towards Refugees

by Liam Cross, Gray Atherton and Chris Stiff

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050583 (registering DOI) - 26 Apr 2025

Abstract

Historically, research on video games has centred on their potentially adverse effects, though more recently, work has started to explore the benefits. Here, we investigate whether playing a video game portraying a refugee’s plight in escaping war-torn Syria could affect implicit and explicit [...] Read more.

Historically, research on video games has centred on their potentially adverse effects, though more recently, work has started to explore the benefits. Here, we investigate whether playing a video game portraying a refugee’s plight in escaping war-torn Syria could affect implicit and explicit attitudes towards that social group. We show that after 30 min of game play embodying a Syrian refugee, participants showed reduced prejudicial attitudes and increased empathy towards Syrian refugees compared to those playing a mechanically similar but contextually unrelated game. While implicit attitudes followed the same direction, this difference was not statistically significant. Potential theoretical underpinnings of these findings, including perspective taking, embodiment, and contact perspectives for prejudice reduction, are discussed. Full article

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22 pages, 1226 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Collectivism and Virtual Idol Characteristics Influence Purchase Intentions: A Dual-Mediation Model of Parasocial Interaction and Flow Experience

by Yang Du, Wenjing Xu, Yinghua Piao and Ziyang Liu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050582 - 25 Apr 2025

Abstract

With the rise of virtual idols in marketing, especially in collectivist cultures, their impact on consumer behavior warrants further exploration. This study applies social identity theory, flow theory, and the SOR model to examine how collectivism and virtual idol characteristics (external characteristics, content [...] Read more.

With the rise of virtual idols in marketing, especially in collectivist cultures, their impact on consumer behavior warrants further exploration. This study applies social identity theory, flow theory, and the SOR model to examine how collectivism and virtual idol characteristics (external characteristics, content features, and homophily) influence Chinese consumers’ purchase intentions through parasocial interaction (PSI) and flow experience. A survey of 496 respondents, analyzed via structural equation modeling (SEM), shows that collectivism and virtual idol characteristics positively affect PSI, with homophily having the strongest impact. PSI enhances flow experience, and both PSI and flow experience drive purchase intention. PSI and flow experience serve as dual mediators in the model. This study advances research by empirically validating collectivism’s role in PSI, differentiating virtual idol characteristics, and modeling dual mediation. The key contributions of this study are as follows: (1) treating culture as an independent variable to empirically examine its impact on psychological mechanisms, and (2) deconstructing virtual idol characteristics into three dimensions—external, content, and homophily—to reveal their distinct influence on consumer psychology. Findings offer strategic insights for brands, recommending a dual-track approach integrating cultural adaptation and feature design to enhance consumer engagement and purchasing behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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28 pages, 1263 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of UI Design Attributes and Users’ Uncertainty Avoidance on Stickiness of the Young Elderly Toward mHealth Applications

by Zibin Chen and Jaehwan Lee

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050581 - 25 Apr 2025

Abstract

The advantages of mHealth applications have been widely recognized. However, the existing literature rarely explores how user interface (UI) design and individual cultural values influence elderly users’ mHealth application stickiness, particularly among the young elderly. This study examines how two UI design attributes [...] Read more.

The advantages of mHealth applications have been widely recognized. However, the existing literature rarely explores how user interface (UI) design and individual cultural values influence elderly users’ mHealth application stickiness, particularly among the young elderly. This study examines how two UI design attributes (usability and aesthetics) and individual uncertainty avoidance (from Hofstede’s cultural dimensions) influence elderly users’ stickiness to mHealth applications. The study used PLS-SEM to analyze survey data from 492 elderly people in China. The research results indicate that uncertainty avoidance cultural values are negatively correlated with psychological engagement. The UI design attributes (aesthetic and usability) are positively correlated with psychological engagement, with learnability (usability sub-attributes) having the most significant impact. Furthermore, the study also reveals the serial mediation role of psychological engagement and user internal experiences (satisfaction and attachment). Notably, this study enriches the current literature on user behavior regarding mHealth applications by elucidating the process of user stickiness, incorporating UI design attributes and individual uncertainty avoidance cultural values. These findings offer valuable theoretical and practical insights. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Technology on Human Behavior)

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24 pages, 809 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Applications of Behavioral Change Theories and Models in Health Promotion Interventions: A Rapid Review

by Areti-Dimitra Koulouvari, Artemis Margariti, Evanthia Sakellari, Anastasia Barbouni and Areti Lagiou

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050580 - 25 Apr 2025

Abstract

Health behavior change is considered to be central in health promotion, as it can amplify disease prevention and reduce morbidity and mortality at the individual, community, or population level. Behavioral epidemiology, an emerging field of epidemiology, emphasizes the development of integrated, theory-grounded, and [...] Read more.

Health behavior change is considered to be central in health promotion, as it can amplify disease prevention and reduce morbidity and mortality at the individual, community, or population level. Behavioral epidemiology, an emerging field of epidemiology, emphasizes the development of integrated, theory-grounded, and evidence-based health promotion interventions. In this context, the present rapid review aims to explore and identify the application of behavioral change theories and models in health promotion interventions, which may address a wide range of topics and may target diverse population groups. The search was conducted in the PubMed and Scopus databases, following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines for scoping reviews. The selected studies were published between 2014 and 2024. A total of forty-five studies met the inclusion criteria. Most of the selected studies employed a combination of behavioral theories and/or models. Some studies were grounded in specific behavioral theories or models, while others developed emerging models. The results of this rapid review suggest that health promotion interventions grounded in behavioral theories/models indicate significant promise. However, further research is needed to pave the way for more effective and efficient health promotion interventions targeting in behavior change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rapid Reviews for Behavioral Health)

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19 pages, 1880 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Spectrum of Internet Use in a Healthy Sample: Altered Psychological States and Intact Brain Responses to an Equiprobable Go/NoGo Task

by Dovile Simkute, Povilas Tarailis, Evaldas Pipinis and Inga Griskova-Bulanova

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050579 - 25 Apr 2025

Abstract

Problematic internet use (PIU) is linked to psychological distress and cognitive alterations, yet its early pre-clinical effects remain unclear. This study explored the psychological, behavioral, and neurophysiological correlates of PIU in a healthy, non-clinical population, focusing on response inhibition and execution within internet [...] Read more.

Problematic internet use (PIU) is linked to psychological distress and cognitive alterations, yet its early pre-clinical effects remain unclear. This study explored the psychological, behavioral, and neurophysiological correlates of PIU in a healthy, non-clinical population, focusing on response inhibition and execution within internet use patterns. A total of 133 participants (74 females, aged 18–35) were assessed using PIUQ-9 and DPIU questionnaires, along with measures of anxiety, depression, and obsessive–compulsive symptoms. An auditory equiprobable Go/NoGo task was used and event-related potentials (ERPs; N1/N2/P2/P3) were analyzed in relation to PIU severity and different online activities engagement. Additionally, behavioral, psychological, and neurophysiological profiles of individuals with high and low PIU levels were compared. PIU severity correlated with anxiety, depression, and obsessive–compulsive symptoms, while Go/NoGo task accuracy was unaffected. N1 amplitudes negatively correlated with PIU severity and gaming engagement, suggesting altered early sensory processing. NoGo-P3 latency positively correlated with information search engagement, indicating delayed inhibitory processing in frequent online searchers. High and low PIU groups differed in psychological measures but not in ERP or behavioral measures. Our findings confirm psychological distress in PIU alongside subtle neurophysiological alterations, suggesting that ERP measures in the equiprobable Go/NoGo task may not be highly sensitive PIU risk biomarkers in non-clinical populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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