Behavioral Sciences

22 pages, 2708 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sex-Based Mechanisms of Stress-Induced Alcohol-Seeking

by Anna C. S. Garrison, Evgeny Jenya Chumin, Mario Dzemidzic, Julia L. Smith, Wei Wu, Ann E. K. Kosobud, David A. Kareken, Sean O’Connor, Martin H. Plawecki and Melissa A. Cyders

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020311 - 23 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1104

Abstract

Sex differences in stress-induced alcohol-seeking are well documented. The overarching goal of this study is to examine how sex may moderate the relationship between depression and anxiety symptoms and stress-induced alcohol-seeking and to identify mechanisms of this relationship. We explore subjective alcohol responses [...] Read more.

Sex differences in stress-induced alcohol-seeking are well documented. The overarching goal of this study is to examine how sex may moderate the relationship between depression and anxiety symptoms and stress-induced alcohol-seeking and to identify mechanisms of this relationship. We explore subjective alcohol responses and the resting-state functional connectivity of the amygdala and the hippocampus, regions implicated in anxiety and depression, as potential sex-dependent mediators. This secondary analysis draws from a recently published trial of 84 adults aged 21 to 55 (54.8% female, mean age = 32, SD = 10.68; 58.3% White, 88.1% non-Hispanic/Latino) who endorsed moderate-to-heavy alcohol use. All participants completed two counterbalanced intravenous alcohol administration sessions, and 54 completed optional neuroimaging. Generalized anxiety symptoms were significantly associated with greater stress-induced alcohol-seeking in women but not in men. Depression symptoms showed a similar pattern, though the results did not reach statistical significance. Across men and women, blunted state stimulation, but not state anxiety, in response to alcohol was associated with greater stress-induced alcohol-seeking. In men, anxiety symptoms were linked with heightened state stimulation effects, which appeared to buffer against stress-induced alcohol-seeking. State stimulation findings may suggest a possible mechanism for sex differences concerning anxiety pathways to alcohol-seeking. Subjective alcohol responses did not mediate the relationship between depression symptoms and stress-induced alcohol-seeking. Resting-state network connectivity findings identified several potential sex-dependent neural mechanisms that warrant further investigation. Although this study was not originally designed as a direct test of competing subjective response and low-level response to alcohol theoretical models, our findings are consistent with Schuckit’s low level of response to alcohol theory. Our findings showed that blunted stimulation may contribute to stress-induced alcohol-seeking among men. Identifying mechanisms that underlie sex-specific relationships with stress-induced alcohol-seeking can inform the development of tailored intervention approaches, ultimately enhancing treatment efficacy for both men and women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Drinking)

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21 pages, 896 KB

Open AccessArticle

Baseline Mood and “Relational Triad” Predict Acute Qualities of Psychedelic Experience

by Joshua Lipson, Hannes Kettner, Robin Carhart-Harris and Lisa Miller

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020310 - 23 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1223

Abstract

Background: The quality and valence of psychedelic experiences are influenced by a range of psychological and contextual factors. This study examines baseline mood and the “relational triad”—comprising social connectedness, mindfulness, and spirituality—as potential predictors of the quality of naturalistic psychedelic experiences. Methods: Data [...] Read more.

Background: The quality and valence of psychedelic experiences are influenced by a range of psychological and contextual factors. This study examines baseline mood and the “relational triad”—comprising social connectedness, mindfulness, and spirituality—as potential predictors of the quality of naturalistic psychedelic experiences. Methods: Data were drawn from the Predicting Responses to Psychedelics dataset, a longitudinal study tracking 654 individuals planning to take a psychedelic substance. Participants completed self-report measures at five time points, before and after ingestion. Baseline mood (depression, anxiety, and wellbeing) and relational triad factors were assessed at Timepoint 1, while acute psychedelic experience quality was measured at Timepoint 3 using validated scales (MEQ-30, CEQ, and ASC). Results: Mystical and challenging experiences were weakly but positively correlated. Baseline depression and anxiety were predictive of more challenging experiences but not of mystical-type experiences, while baseline wellbeing predicted more mystical and less challenging experiences. Mindfulness and spirituality were positively associated with mystical experiences, while social connectedness and mindfulness were inversely associated with challenging experiences. Conclusions: These findings extend previous research by demonstrating that baseline psychological and relational factors shape the nature of psychedelic experiences. Full article

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22 pages, 1672 KB

Open AccessArticle

Pandemic Babies: Developmental Outcomes in Preschool-Aged Children Born During the COVID-19 Era

by Sally Sade, Claudia L. R. Gonzalez and Robbin L. Gibb

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020309 - 23 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1321

Abstract

Early life experiences and the process of exploration play a vital role in shaping brain development and lifelong learning. In March 2020, population-wide restrictions were imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It remains to be determined whether having been raised under the global [...] Read more.

Early life experiences and the process of exploration play a vital role in shaping brain development and lifelong learning. In March 2020, population-wide restrictions were imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It remains to be determined whether having been raised under the global stress and restrictions of COVID-19 has influenced children’s development as they enter formal schooling. The aim of this study was to examine the extent to which having more than 50% of one’s first year of life and/or prenatal period in the COVID-19 era influences the developmental trajectory in preschool. The study compared 3- to 5-year-old children born before the pandemic (n = 63) with those who were five months or younger at its onset (n = 40). Variables assessed included executive function skills, vocabulary, and common developmental domains. Using the BRIEF-P as a standardized measure of executive function, the results demonstrate that the pandemic-born cohort exhibit greater impairments than those born before the pandemic. There was also a significant increase in reports of speech and language therapy enrollment; frequent ear infections; diagnoses of hearing, speech, or language impairments; and delays in reaching developmental milestones. The pandemic-born cohort additionally reported delays in fine motor skills compared to the pre-pandemic cohort. The present study underscores the urgent need for additional resources to better support children in this cohort as they begin formal schooling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developing Cognitive and Executive Functions Across Lifespan)

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21 pages, 1548 KB

Open AccessArticle

Observational Comparison of Outcomes of Sandplay Therapy (SPT-SAFE) Versus Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT-BI) for Elementary School Students with NSSI and Suicidal Ideation: A Retrospective School-Based Study

by Hyeonjeong Kwak and Unkyoung Ahn

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020308 - 23 Feb 2026

Viewed by 609

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among elementary school students represent critical public health concerns that require develop-mentally appropriate, evidence-informed school-based interventions. This study con-ducted a retrospective comparative analysis of two school-based approaches—Sandplay Therapy with Suicidal Ideation and Self-Injury-Focused Engagement (SPT-SAFE) and [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among elementary school students represent critical public health concerns that require develop-mentally appropriate, evidence-informed school-based interventions. This study con-ducted a retrospective comparative analysis of two school-based approaches—Sandplay Therapy with Suicidal Ideation and Self-Injury-Focused Engagement (SPT-SAFE) and a School-based Dialectical Behavior Therapy-informed Brief Intervention (DBT-BI)—for elementary school students presenting with suicidal ideation and NSSI. The objective was to describe pre–post-changes in key outcomes within each intervention and to explore whether outcome trajectories differed between the two approaches in a non-randomized, real-world school-based setting. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed archival clinical records from 109 elementary school students (SPT-SAFE: N = 59; DBT-BI: N = 50) who received services at a school-based suicide prevention center in South Korea between 2022 and 2024. Seven validated outcome measures assessed suicidal ideation, NSSI frequency, depression, anxiety, aggression, impulsiveness, and self-concept at pre- and post-intervention. Pre–post-changes and exploratory between-group differences were examined using 2 × 2 mixed-design ANOVAs (Group × Time interaction), with baseline-adjusted ANCOVAs conducted as complementary analyses. Suicidal ideation was operationalized using the SIQ-JR total score, and NSSI was operationalized using the FASM summed frequency index. Results: Both interventions were associated with significant reductions in suicidal ideation (F = 29.98, p < 0.001, partial η² = 0.219) and NSSI frequency (F = 15.95, p < 0.001, partial η² = 0.130), with large within-group effect sizes and no significant Group × Time interactions. Accordingly, between-group differences were limited and should be interpreted as exploratory rather than comparative–effectiveness evidence. Modest between-group differences favoring DBT-BI were observed for self-concept outcomes (F = 4.14, p = 0.044, partial η² = 0.037; d = −0.39). Conclusions: These findings suggest that both interventions were associated with pre–post-improvements in suicidal ideation and NSSI frequency within a school-based clinical context. Full article

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16 pages, 513 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Interpersonal Insecurity to Disordered Eating: The Mediating Pathway of Appearance-Based Rejection Sensitivity

by Liang Zhang, Yang Zeng, Yanqiang Tao, Xiangping Liu and Shujian Wang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020307 - 22 Feb 2026

Viewed by 669

Abstract

Eating disorders among adolescents have emerged as a significant global public health concern, with attachment anxiety identified as a critical risk factor for anorexia nervosa (AN) symptoms. Individuals with attachment anxiety often exhibit heightened sensitivity to others’ perceptions and an intense fear of [...] Read more.

Eating disorders among adolescents have emerged as a significant global public health concern, with attachment anxiety identified as a critical risk factor for anorexia nervosa (AN) symptoms. Individuals with attachment anxiety often exhibit heightened sensitivity to others’ perceptions and an intense fear of rejection, which may exacerbate their vulnerability to body image concerns. This study investigates the mediating role of appearance-based rejection sensitivity (ARS) and the moderating effect of sex in the relationship between attachment anxiety and AN symptoms among Chinese college students. A total of 826 participants aged 16–25 (M = 18.95, SD = 1.08, 60% females) completed online surveys using three validated scales: the Revised Adult Attachment Scale (RAAS) to assess attachment anxiety, the Appearance-based Rejection Sensitivity Scale (ARSS) to measure sensitivity to rejection related to physical appearance, and the Eating Disorders Inventory (EDI) to evaluate AN symptoms. The results reveal that there was no significant difference in attachment anxiety between males and females, while females experienced significantly higher levels of ARS and severity of AN symptoms than males. Attachment anxiety is positively correlated with AN symptoms, with ARS mediating this association. Sex further moderates the relationship between ARS and AN symptoms, with stronger effects observed in females. Current findings suggest that AN symptoms are closely associated with contemporaneous attachment anxiety, with passive sensitivity to potential rejection acting as a mediating factor. This underscores the importance of addressing attachment styles and communication patterns in interventions targeting adolescent AN symptoms, particularly in females. Full article

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16 pages, 2103 KB

Open AccessArticle

People Are Unwilling to Help Others Pursue a Luxury Life: Egocentric or Other-Centric Motivations?

by Jian Hao, Shiqing Li and Weiran Li

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020306 - 22 Feb 2026

Viewed by 472

Abstract

People are generally willing to help others maintain a basic life, but their willingness to help others pursue a luxury life—and the motivations underlying such decisions—remain unclear. Study 1 examined willingness to help and emotion expectancy in response to demand for necessary versus [...] Read more.

People are generally willing to help others maintain a basic life, but their willingness to help others pursue a luxury life—and the motivations underlying such decisions—remain unclear. Study 1 examined willingness to help and emotion expectancy in response to demand for necessary versus luxury items, taking helpers’ agreeableness and the controllability of the causes of others’ adversity into account. Study 2 further tested whether helpers’ cost of helping or the utilitarian goals of what others wanted would explain willingness to help and emotion expectancy. A total of 308 university students, acting as potential helpers, were randomly assigned to different helping scenarios. Study 1 found that demand for luxury items reduced both willingness to help and expected happiness, regardless of personality or situational factors. Study 2 showed that among participants low in agreeableness, low utilitarian goals consistently reduced willingness to help, suggesting an other-centric motivation. Among participants high in agreeableness, low utilitarian goals reduced willingness to help only when helping costs were high, indicating a trade-off between other-centric and egocentric motivations. These findings reveal that although people tend to be unwilling to help others pursue a luxury life, the motivations guiding this reluctance depend on individuals’ levels of agreeableness. Full article

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23 pages, 280 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Social Media Use on Waste Sorting Intentions: A Cognition–Affect–Conation Model Integration with Social Amplification of Risk Framework

by Yixin Chen, Huiting Tang and Ying Lian

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020305 - 21 Feb 2026

Viewed by 597

Abstract

This study examines the impact of social media use on public behavioral intentions regarding waste sorting in China, integrating the Cognition–Affect–Conation model with the Social Amplification of Risk Framework. The proposed framework explores how social media exposure and gratification influence waste sorting intentions [...] Read more.

This study examines the impact of social media use on public behavioral intentions regarding waste sorting in China, integrating the Cognition–Affect–Conation model with the Social Amplification of Risk Framework. The proposed framework explores how social media exposure and gratification influence waste sorting intentions through anticipated emotions and environmental risk perception. Regression analysis confirms that information gratification primarily activates positive emotions, while information exposure has a stronger effect on negative emotions. Both affective pathways significantly predict waste sorting intentions, with comparable predictive strengths. Mediation analysis further reveals that information gratification and information exposure indirectly influence behavioral intention through dual emotional pathways and environmental risk perception. Qualitative interviews highlight two structural deficiencies: fragmented knowledge dissemination, which weakens environmental norm internalization, and uneven community integration, which limits behavioral translation. These findings underscore the need for diversified communication strategies and community-based policy interventions to enhance public participation in waste sorting. Full article

24 pages, 755 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Generative AI Use on Graduate Students’ Research Competence: The Mediating Role of Critical Thinking and the Moderating Role of Research Self-Efficacy

by Haidong Zhu and Shen Yang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020304 - 21 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1918

Abstract

With the development of the digital intelligence era, generative AI is being widely used in scientific research, and its impact on graduate students’ research competence has attracted much attention from the academic community. Based on cognitive distribution theory and self-efficacy theory, this study [...] Read more.

With the development of the digital intelligence era, generative AI is being widely used in scientific research, and its impact on graduate students’ research competence has attracted much attention from the academic community. Based on cognitive distribution theory and self-efficacy theory, this study classifies AI applications into three levels from basic to advanced—technical support AI use, text development AI use, and transformation AI use—explores their effects on graduate students’ research competence, and examines the mediating effect of critical thinking and the moderating effect of research self-efficacy. The results of the empirical analysis show that all three types of AI use behaviors are significantly correlated with research competence, with the strongest correlation for text development type and the weakest for technical support type. In the relationship between the three types of AI use behaviors and research competence, critical thinking plays a significant positive mediating role, and research self-efficacy plays a significant moderating role. Universities and tutors should guide students to focus on higher-order AI use behaviors in the text development and transformation categories, promoting the use of critical thinking to avoid technology misuse and improving research self-efficacy to help students accumulate confidence and support their research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transforming Student Learning Engagement Through Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI))

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29 pages, 1052 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mapping Emotional Pathways to Social Identity in Hybrid Work: A Computational Model for Organizational Cohesion

by Shuang Li, Jiajia Hao, Yining Chai, Tongyue Feng, Yuxin Liu and Xiaoxia Zhu

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020303 - 21 Feb 2026

Viewed by 546

Abstract

This study develops an integrated computational model to illuminate the micro-dynamics through which transient emotional contagion evolves into stable social identity within organizations, with a specific focus on hybrid work environments. Drawing on organizational psychology and employing an agent-based modeling approach, we formalize [...] Read more.

This study develops an integrated computational model to illuminate the micro-dynamics through which transient emotional contagion evolves into stable social identity within organizations, with a specific focus on hybrid work environments. Drawing on organizational psychology and employing an agent-based modeling approach, we formalize a four-stage process—Emotional Cycle, Emotional Memory Accumulation, Cognitive Formation, and Enhancement Effect—that captures how fleeting affective experiences coalesce into enduring group identification. Our simulations reveal that cognitive heterogeneity moderates this pathway, leading to slower but more robust identity formation. Gender differences emerge as significant, with females demonstrating higher susceptibility to emotional contagion, while males’ identification is more strongly influenced by issue relevance. Crucially, exploratory simulations contrasting high- and low-hybridity configurations demonstrate that dispersed, digitally mediated work attenuates the emotional feedback loop, slows consensus formation, and heightens the risk of sub-group silos, thereby fundamentally reshaping the identity formation pathway. This research provides a mechanistic explanation of the emotional foundations of organizational culture and offers managers an evidence-based, dynamic framework for strategically cultivating collective identity in an increasingly hybrid world. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leadership in the New Era of Technology)

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14 pages, 622 KB

Open AccessArticle

Trait Emotional Intelligence and Children’s Eating Practices

by Caterina Laganà, Eliana De Salvo, Francesco Preiti and Maria Cristina Gugliandolo

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020302 - 20 Feb 2026

Viewed by 574

Abstract

Introduction: Given the growing prevalence of eating-related health problems among children, it is essential to promote well-being and investigate the factors that may underlie these issues. Emotional intelligence has been identified in several studies as a protective factor for children’s psychosocial adjustment, yet [...] Read more.

Introduction: Given the growing prevalence of eating-related health problems among children, it is essential to promote well-being and investigate the factors that may underlie these issues. Emotional intelligence has been identified in several studies as a protective factor for children’s psychosocial adjustment, yet its effects on eating habits remain largely underexplored. This cross-sectional correlational study aims to investigate the relationship between trait emotional intelligence, mindful eating, and emotional over-eating in children. Methods: In the present study, participants were 110 children aged between 8 and 12 years and their parents. Children completed the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire—Children short form (TEIQUE-CSF) and the Mindful Eating Questionnaire adapted for Children (MEQ-C). Parents completed the Emotional Over-eating subscale of Children’s Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ). Results: A regression-based mediation model indicated that children’s trait emotional intelligence is positively related to mindful eating, which in turn is negatively related to emotional over-eating behaviors. The results further revealed that children with lower-than-average levels of emotional over-eating reported greater mindful eating than those with higher levels. Conclusions: These findings highlight trait emotional intelligence as a factor related to children’s eating behavior, suggesting that interventions aimed at enhancing emotional regulation skills and promoting mindful eating practices are particularly warranted in the context of heightened vulnerability to eating disorders among children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emotional Intelligence and Psychological Well-Being in Children and Adolescents)

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21 pages, 1834 KB

Open AccessArticle

Compensatory Health Beliefs as a Double-Edged Sword: A Dual-Path Model of Licensing and Cognitive Erosion in Multiple Health Behaviors

by Xueyi Gu and Yueqin Hu

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 301; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020301 - 20 Feb 2026

Viewed by 516

Abstract

Compensatory Health Beliefs (CHBs) are cognitions that the negative effects of unhealthy behaviors can be offset by healthy ones. While their role in single behaviors is established, their mechanisms in regulating multiple health behaviors remain empirically unclear, particularly whether CHBs facilitate or inhibit [...] Read more.

Compensatory Health Beliefs (CHBs) are cognitions that the negative effects of unhealthy behaviors can be offset by healthy ones. While their role in single behaviors is established, their mechanisms in regulating multiple health behaviors remain empirically unclear, particularly whether CHBs facilitate or inhibit actual cross-behavior compensation between physical activity (PA) and healthy eating (HE). This study tested a dual-path model proposing that CHBs are associated with immediate intention compensation via moral licensing and with long-term cross-behavior inhibition through reduced self-efficacy. A cross-sectional online survey of 366 university students assessed general CHBs, domain-specific social cognitive variables (self-efficacy, intention, planning), and self-reported PA (IPAQ-SF) and HE (calculated from reported food consumption as a dietary guideline adherence score). Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling. We found that CHBs were positively associated with PA intention but negatively linked to HE intention, planning, and behavior. CHBs were also negatively related to HE self-efficacy, which was subsequently associated with lower PA planning, indicating a cross-behavior inhibition pathway. In conclusion, CHBs are linked to lower health behavior engagement through two pathways: short-term intention-based licensing across domains and self-efficacy erosion that inhibits integrated planning. This integrated model highlights the importance of addressing both CHBs and self-efficacy in health interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Mechanisms of Health Behavior in Contemporary Contexts)

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22 pages, 1896 KB

Open AccessArticle

Intrinsic Learning Rather than External Difficulty Dominates Decision Performance: Integrated Evidence from the Drift-Diffusion Model and Random Forest Analysis

by Yanzhe Liu and Qihan Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020300 - 20 Feb 2026

Viewed by 505

Abstract

Previous studies have emphasized the role of task difficulty in decision performance while relatively neglecting the decision maker’s subjective initiative and intrinsic learning process during task execution. This study manipulated the rule hierarchy factor, which reflects external task difficulty, and the block factor, [...] Read more.

Previous studies have emphasized the role of task difficulty in decision performance while relatively neglecting the decision maker’s subjective initiative and intrinsic learning process during task execution. This study manipulated the rule hierarchy factor, which reflects external task difficulty, and the block factor, which reflects the accumulation of intrinsic learning, and used analysis of variance (ANOVA), the drift-diffusion model (DDM), and random forest algorithms to systematically examine how task difficulty and learning jointly influence decision behavior and its underlying mechanisms. A total of 40 participants were recruited, and after strict exclusion criteria were applied, 34 valid datasets were included in the final analysis. The results showed that although rule hierarchy had a significant impact on decision performance in the early stage of the task (the first two blocks), this effect gradually diminished as task repetitions increased. Furthermore, the results revealed a clear dissociation in predictive mechanisms: intrinsic cognitive factors (specifically, evidence accumulation efficiency and decision bias) were the primary predictors of decision accuracy, whereas external task difficulty (rule hierarchy) acted as the dominant predictor for decision speed (reaction time). These findings provide a new perspective for understanding the dynamic relationship between external task demands and intrinsic learning processes, highlighting the necessity of distinguishing between accuracy and speed metrics in personalized education, training, and human–computer interaction design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)

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16 pages, 323 KB

Open AccessReview

Intergenerational Transmission of Family Violence: A Narrative Review of Pathways from Childhood Exposure to Family Violence to Adult Intimate Partner Violence Perpetration

by Sejung Yang, Yangjin Park and Pa Thor

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020299 - 20 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Purpose: A substantial body of research indicates that exposure to violence during childhood is linked to long-term harmful effects. More specifically, child abuse and exposure to parental intimate partner violence (IPV) may increase the likelihood of IPV perpetration in adulthood. This narrative review [...] Read more.

Purpose: A substantial body of research indicates that exposure to violence during childhood is linked to long-term harmful effects. More specifically, child abuse and exposure to parental intimate partner violence (IPV) may increase the likelihood of IPV perpetration in adulthood. This narrative review integrates theoretical and empirical perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of the intergenerational transmission of family violence, while identifying gaps in the literature and suggesting directions for future research. Methods: Relevant peer-reviewed empirical studies were identified through major academic databases and reference searches, with a focus on research addressing pathways from childhood exposure to family violence (CEFV) to adult IPV perpetration. The review synthesizes empirical findings to consolidate current knowledge and identify areas for further investigation. Findings: Existing studies have extensively examined associations between CEFV and adult IPV perpetration based on various theoretical frameworks, such as social learning theory, emotional regulation perspective, and the adverse childhood experiences framework. Collectively, these theoretical perspectives underscore that intergenerational transmission of family violence is shaped by behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and contextual factors. However, most studies have focused predominantly on individual and familial characteristics, with limited attention to community or broader socioecological influences. Furthermore, most of the studies have primarily been grounded in the victim–perpetrator binary framework, which treats IPV perpetration and victimization as distinct phenomena. Multidimensional aspects of violence and abuse, such as duration, severity, context, and frequency, also remain underexplored. Conclusions: This review underscores the need to (1) examine the roles of socioecological factors in the intergenerational transmission of family violence, (2) shift the paradigm beyond the gendered victim–offender binary, (3) account for the multifaceted nature of violence and abuse, and (4) utilize diverse methodological approaches to advance the field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Violence and Bullying: Risks, Intervention, Prevention)

17 pages, 289 KB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond a Single Story: Understanding Cultural Invalidations, Colorism, and Their Impact on Belongingness Among Black College Students

by Jasric J. Bland, Alexandrea R. Golden, Asya T. Miles, Myahkia X. Watson, Júlia F. M. Soares, India J. Montague and Stacy E. Herard

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020298 - 19 Feb 2026

Viewed by 827

Abstract

Peers often serve as sources of support and protection in educational spaces. However, when cultural norms are perceived to be violated, the criticism of peers can create stressful and unwelcoming environments. Presently, little is known about the specific effect cultural invalidations (when the [...] Read more.

Peers often serve as sources of support and protection in educational spaces. However, when cultural norms are perceived to be violated, the criticism of peers can create stressful and unwelcoming environments. Presently, little is known about the specific effect cultural invalidations (when the authenticity of one’s cultural identity is questioned by same-race peers) have on one’s identity development and sense of belonging. To address this gap, the current study qualitatively examined instances of cultural invalidations between Black undergraduate students and their same-race peers that led to feelings of inauthenticity and lack of belonging. Participants included 20 Black undergraduate students (50% female, 50% male) attending a predominantly White institution who participated in individual interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to address two research questions: (a) How do Black undergraduate students perceive and interpret experiences of cultural invalidations within their Black peer groups? (b) How do cultural invalidations experienced from Black peers relate to individuals’ sense of belonging? Two themes were identified regarding participants’ experiences of cultural invalidations: (a) colorism is a source of cultural invalidation, and (b) Blackness is not a monolith. Findings also revealed the negative implications of cultural invalidations on participants’ sense of belonging. Implications for research and practice are discussed. Full article

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

17 pages, 641 KB

Open AccessArticle

Autistic Individuals Are Flexible with Physical and Emotion Gradable Adjectives

by Leo Evans, Peter DeVilliers and Letitia Naigles

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020297 - 19 Feb 2026

Viewed by 529

Abstract

Gradable adjectives (long, happy) differ from absolute adjectives (spotted) in that they are dependent on context and speaker/listener perspective for their interpretation. Such context sensitivity may present challenges for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); however, this has never been investigated for these [...] Read more.

Gradable adjectives (long, happy) differ from absolute adjectives (spotted) in that they are dependent on context and speaker/listener perspective for their interpretation. Such context sensitivity may present challenges for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); however, this has never been investigated for these linguistic elements. In the current study, we asked adolescents with ASD or typical development (TD), who were part of a larger longitudinal study in which autistic characteristics, nonverbal cognition (NVIQ), and standardized language were also assessed, to sort pictures whose properties were either gradable or absolute. Adolescents sorted pictures on two occasions. In the second sorting, we manipulated the context by adding images representing one end of the scale to induce a shift in interpretation. Contrary to prediction, both groups demonstrated sensitivity to the context-specific properties by shifting their cutoffs of what counted as ‘long’ or ‘happy’ when the array was changed. Whereas NVIQ correlated positively with physical property shifts for the TD group, language measures correlated negatively with emotion property shifts for the ASD group. Autistic characteristics were not related to shift patterns in either group. Adolescents with autism are clearly able to take context into account when interpreting gradable adjectives; however, those with better language seem more focused on maintaining their cutoffs more than shifting them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Relationships Between Autistic Traits and Other Psychological Characteristics)

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26 pages, 1981 KB

Open AccessArticle

Critical Thinking in Biology Education: Insights from Kuhn’s Paradigm Shifts

by Chao Chen, Huangdong Ma, Wencheng Liu, Guian Li and Jiyu Yang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020296 - 19 Feb 2026

Viewed by 682

Abstract

Critical thinking (CT) is widely recognized as a central goal of science education, yet its mechanisms within specific disciplinary contexts remain underexplored. This study developed a biology-specific theoretical model of CT through qualitative analysis of high school students’ engagement with contradictory evidence. Data [...] Read more.

Critical thinking (CT) is widely recognized as a central goal of science education, yet its mechanisms within specific disciplinary contexts remain underexplored. This study developed a biology-specific theoretical model of CT through qualitative analysis of high school students’ engagement with contradictory evidence. Data included pen-and-paper responses from 196 students and eight classroom dialogue transcripts, analyzed using Corbin and Strauss’s coding procedures, with sequential batching and external validation. Selective coding identified questioning—transforming multiple criteria—as the core category, supported by four major categories: evolving evaluative criteria, various types of reasoning, analysis without judgment, and the application of empirical knowledge across criteria. This model explains how learners shift between confirmation, falsification, and reconstruction when anomalies disrupt initial assumptions. To extend its theoretical reach, the model was placed in heuristic dialogue with Kuhn’s structure of scientific revolutions. The comparison highlights the cyclical nature of CT development: anomalies destabilize prevailing frameworks and trigger reorganization of evaluative criteria, fostering cognitive growth. By explicating how students engage with contradictory evidence and transform evaluative criteria, this study elucidates the emergence of critical thinking in disciplinary practice. The findings also inform the design of biology learning environments that deliberately incorporate anomalies and cognitive conflicts, and justify the integration of history and philosophy of science (HPS) perspectives to support students’ questioning, analysis, and criteria revision in authentic scientific contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Educational Psychology)

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21 pages, 2400 KB

Open AccessArticle

Psychological Components of Disease Stigma Across Illnesses: Associations with Cultural and Personal Factors

by Shiming Yao, Jiajia Zhu and Yan Mu

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020295 - 19 Feb 2026

Viewed by 2662

Abstract

Understanding public stigma against patients (also known as disease stigma)—negative attitudes or discriminatory responses toward individuals with a disease—is essential for improving health outcomes and fostering inclusive communities. In this study, 279 participants rated their responses toward eight disease groups (e.g., HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, [...] Read more.

Understanding public stigma against patients (also known as disease stigma)—negative attitudes or discriminatory responses toward individuals with a disease—is essential for improving health outcomes and fostering inclusive communities. In this study, 279 participants rated their responses toward eight disease groups (e.g., HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, and depression). Using multiple factor analysis, we identified three components of disease stigma: exclusionary (e.g., avoidance and harmful evaluation), prosocial (e.g., sympathy and helping), and attribution (blame/responsibility). Confirmatory factor analysis supported this three-component structure. Repeated-measures ANOVAs revealed systematic differences across diseases: COVID-19 and schizophrenia elicited stronger exclusionary responses, depression evoked the strongest prosocial responses, and HIV/AIDS was associated with the highest attribution of blame. Linear mixed-effects models further indicated that perceived cultural tightness was positively associated with the attribution component, self-control was positively associated with the prosocial component, and higher self-esteem was linked to greater exclusionary responses. Furthermore, network analysis showed dense within-component clustering (e.g., trust—negative evaluation; sympathy—helping) and a peripheral positioning of attribution within the stigma network. These findings provide insights into the psychological components of disease stigma and its cultural and personal correlates, providing targets for component-specific stigma reduction strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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19 pages, 1695 KB

Open AccessArticle

Cognate Effects on Bilingual Lexical–Semantic Processing in Children: Insights from ERPs

by Chih Yeh, Kathrin Wicinski, Caroline F. Rowland and Sergio Miguel Pereira Soares

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020294 - 19 Feb 2026

Viewed by 658

Abstract

This study investigates whether and, if so, how cognates facilitate lexical–semantic processing during early bilingual development. Additionally, we examine the interaction between the cognate facilitation effect (CFE) and bilingual experience factors, such as language proficiency, exposure, and age. We investigated language backgrounds and [...] Read more.

This study investigates whether and, if so, how cognates facilitate lexical–semantic processing during early bilingual development. Additionally, we examine the interaction between the cognate facilitation effect (CFE) and bilingual experience factors, such as language proficiency, exposure, and age. We investigated language backgrounds and recorded event-related potentials during a semantic priming task in Dutch–German bilingual children. Most participants were Dutch-dominant, characterized by higher exposure and proficiency in Dutch. We compared the N400 response to target words preceded by semantically related cognate versus non-cognate primes. We found a reduced N400 effect (indexing cognate facilitation) only in the non-dominant language (nDL; German). Individual difference analyses further revealed that higher proficiency of nDL and increasing age attenuated the CFE. In contrast, higher cumulative exposure was associated with an amplified CFE. These findings suggest that cross-linguistic activation in lexical–semantic processing may benefit younger children with either lower proficiency or higher exposure to their non-dominant language during language processing. Together, the study offers direct neural evidence for bilingual cognate facilitation effects and highlights the importance of investigating interactions with external factors in early bilingualism. Future longitudinal research should examine whether cognate reliance serves as a temporary scaffolding mechanism for the acquisition of the non-dominant language. Full article

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

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16 pages, 379 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Diagnosis to Behaviour Change: Applying the Health Action Process Approach to Smoking Cessation After Head and Neck Cancer

by Anaëlle Préaubert, Agnès Dupret-Bories, Emilien Chabrillac, Florence Sordes and Patrick Raynal

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020293 - 18 Feb 2026

Viewed by 653

Abstract

Smoking cessation after a cancer diagnosis is a key determinant of prognosis, yet the psychological mechanisms underlying cessation remain poorly understood. Building on a recently validated Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) scale, this study examined whether baseline HAPA constructs predicted short-term smoking cessation [...] Read more.

Smoking cessation after a cancer diagnosis is a key determinant of prognosis, yet the psychological mechanisms underlying cessation remain poorly understood. Building on a recently validated Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) scale, this study examined whether baseline HAPA constructs predicted short-term smoking cessation and tobacco dependence in patients with head and neck cancer. Eighty-nine patients completed assessments at diagnosis (T0) and one-month follow-up (T1). Six HAPA constructs were measured at T0: Risk Perception, Outcome Expectancies, Recovery Self-Efficacy, Behavioral Intention, Coping Planning, and Action Control Efficacy. Smoking outcomes at T1 included cigarette dependence (CDS-12) and smoking status. Hierarchical linear regression showed that sociodemographic and clinical variables did not predict dependence, whereas adding HAPA constructs significantly improved prediction (ΔR² = 0.28, p < 0.001). Higher Risk Perception and Outcome Expectancies were associated with greater dependence, while logistic regression identified Action Control Efficacy as the only independent predictor of smoking cessation. These findings provide the first longitudinal evidence supporting the application of the HAPA framework to smoking cessation after cancer diagnosis and underscore the critical role of volitional processes in early cessation. Targeting action control may therefore enhance the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions in oncology settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Advances in Addiction Behavior)

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16 pages, 268 KB

Open AccessArticle

“Oh, You’ve Come to Visit the Yard?”: Phenotypic Capital, Intragroup Marginalization, and the Gated Sanctuary in Black LGBTQ+ Communities

by Keith J. Watts, Shawndaya S. Thrasher, Nicole Campbell, Laneshia R. Conner, Julian K. Glover, Janet K. Otachi and DeKeitra Griffin

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020292 - 18 Feb 2026

Viewed by 647

Abstract

Identity-based communities that share common characteristics, beliefs, and experiences (e.g., Black LGBTQ+ communities) have historically been conceptualized as protective bubbles that buffer Black LGBTQ+ individuals against the deleterious effects of systemic racism and cisheterosexism. However, this monolithic narrative often masks the internal power [...] Read more.

Identity-based communities that share common characteristics, beliefs, and experiences (e.g., Black LGBTQ+ communities) have historically been conceptualized as protective bubbles that buffer Black LGBTQ+ individuals against the deleterious effects of systemic racism and cisheterosexism. However, this monolithic narrative often masks the internal power dynamics that divide belonging. This study explores the exclusionary dynamics embedded within these safe spaces, examining how internal hierarchies of skin tone, socioeconomic status, and gender performance function as proximal stressors. Guided by a critical constructivist paradigm, this study utilized Reflexive Thematic Analysis to analyze open-ended survey responses from 74 Black LGBTQ+ adults. Data were drawn from a larger mixed-methods study and analyzed using a six-phase recursive process to identify latent patterns of intragroup gatekeeping. The analysis revealed that the sanctuary of the community is restricted. Three primary themes emerged: (1) Phenotypic Capital and the Politics of Authenticity, where lighter skin tone triggered authenticity scrutiny and darker skin tone faced rejection based on physical appearance; (2) Socioeconomic Gatekeeping, where belonging was stratified by the cost of participation and protective insularity within working-class spaces; and (3) Policing the Binary, where rigid adherence to gender archetypes created a landscape of performance surveillance. Access to community resilience is not a universal right but a negotiated status contingent upon the payment of a resilience tax. To promote genuine health equity, researchers and practitioners working with this population must move beyond the uncritical referral to “community” and actively dismantle the internalized systems of oppression that fracture collective survival. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

24 pages, 3315 KB

Open AccessArticle

Motor–Cognitive Associations in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study Toward Self-Assessment Tools

by Hwang Jin, Tianpei Li and Chulwook Park

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020291 - 18 Feb 2026

Viewed by 556

Abstract

Background: This study explored the interrelation between motor coordination abilities and cognitive functions in older adults, aiming to establish a preliminary diagnostic tool that may facilitate early detection of motor–cognitive decline. Methods: Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, we investigated the efficacy of the Stroop [...] Read more.

Background: This study explored the interrelation between motor coordination abilities and cognitive functions in older adults, aiming to establish a preliminary diagnostic tool that may facilitate early detection of motor–cognitive decline. Methods: Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, we investigated the efficacy of the Stroop word test in conjunction with various motor coordination measurements to identify markers of cognitive aging in older adults. Results: The analysis revealed significant correlations between asymmetric spatial coordination (AC) and Stroop error effects (SEEs), indicating that better coordination correlates with reduced cognitive errors. Multiple-regression analysis showed that AC, simple reaction time (SRT), and anticipation time (AT) significantly predicted SEE (R² = 0.635), with AC emerging as the strongest predictor (β = −0.475). These results underscore the significance of asymmetric spatial motor coordination as a predictive factor for executive cognitive abilities affected by aging. We propose a potential tool for individuals to monitor their motor–cognitive health. Conclusions: The findings of this study contribute to the growing body of evidence linking physical coordination to cognitive function, emphasizing the importance of integrated diagnostic approaches in the management of aging-related cognitive impairments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)

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27 pages, 5281 KB

Open AccessArticle

Does Your Hat Speak Your Mind? Personality Traits and Aesthetic Preferences for Hats Among Italian Young Adults

by Elena Capitani, Ivana Bianchi and Roberto Burro

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020290 - 18 Feb 2026

Viewed by 746

Abstract

The relationship between personality and the various aspects of human cognition that influence behavior has long been recognized as central to understanding individual differences. The study investigates the relationship between personality and aesthetic preference, in relation to a specific category of objects (hats). [...] Read more.

The relationship between personality and the various aspects of human cognition that influence behavior has long been recognized as central to understanding individual differences. The study investigates the relationship between personality and aesthetic preference, in relation to a specific category of objects (hats). An online questionnaire showing grayscale images of 34 iconic types of hats (Set 1) and eight types of baseball caps (Set 2) was presented to 539 Italian adults, asking them to rate how much they liked them and how likely they were to wear them. The Big Five Inventory-2 was used to evaluate personality. Significant associations were found between the five personality traits (open mindedness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness and negative emotionality) and the participants’ ratings of both liking and willingness to wear the hats in both Sets 1 and 2. The results of the study are relevant not only for basic research but also, potentially, suggest applicative developments in the domain of design and customized recommendation systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Personality, Emotions, and Emotional Intelligence Assessments: New Applications and Instruments)

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12 pages, 333 KB

Open AccessArticle

Confidence of Pediatric Primary Care Clinicians in Autism Screener Score and Their Own Diagnostic Impressions

by Georgina Perez Liz, Andrea Trubanova Wieckowski, Autumn Austin, Alexia Faith Dickerson, Erika Frick, Ashley Dubin, Ashley de Marchena and Diana L. Robins

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020289 - 17 Feb 2026

Viewed by 670

Abstract

Autism-specific screening and developmental surveillance in primary care aid identification of autism. In this study, we assessed primary care clinicians’ (PCCs’) reported confidence in screening scores from the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (M-CHAT-R) and in their own diagnostic impressions. Four [...] Read more.

Autism-specific screening and developmental surveillance in primary care aid identification of autism. In this study, we assessed primary care clinicians’ (PCCs’) reported confidence in screening scores from the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised (M-CHAT-R) and in their own diagnostic impressions. Four PCCs provided data for 50 children aged 16–36 months for whom they had any developmental concern. PCCs’ diagnostic impressions were “Definitely Autism” for 15 children (30%), “Unsure—Needs Further Evaluation” for 25 children (50%) and “Definitely Not Autism” for 10 children (20%). They reported High Confidence on the screener score in 33 cases (66%). Of the 17 cases for whom PCCs reported having Low Confidence on the M-CHAT-R, 14 children (82.3%) had a Low Likelihood score, with no significant association between M-CHAT-R likelihood and PCC’s confidence in the screening score. PCCs’ diagnostic impressions were concordant with the M-CHAT-R autism likelihood in 42% of cases, with a significantly higher mean in confidence rating when compared to the non-concordant cases. Language development and social engagement were the most frequently endorsed concerns by PCCs, with significant associations between these concerns and M-CHAT-R likelihood. Our results suggest that, when developmental concerns exist, PCCs may place greater confidence in the M-CHAT-R when scores indicate a higher likelihood of autism, and that confidence in their own diagnostic impressions may be associated with concordance with the screener score. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Identification and Intervention of Autism)

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15 pages, 1337 KB

Open AccessArticle

Infant Motor Competence Predicts Executive Functions in Preschoolers: The Role of Sleep

by Chao Liu, Yuzhu Zhang and Xi Liang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 288; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020288 - 17 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1033

Abstract

The theory of embodied cognition suggests that cognitive development in infancy relies on sensorimotor experiences gained through interaction with the environment. Additionally, the need for more sleep in early childhood may be linked to the development of executive functions. This study examined 255 [...] Read more.

The theory of embodied cognition suggests that cognitive development in infancy relies on sensorimotor experiences gained through interaction with the environment. Additionally, the need for more sleep in early childhood may be linked to the development of executive functions. This study examined 255 children in Beijing to investigate these ideas. Motor skills were evaluated at 6 months and 1 year old, cognitive abilities at 2 years old, and executive functions at 3 years old. The results showed that strong motor skills in infancy predicted better executive functions in preschool, and this relationship was fully mediated by cognitive abilities. Furthermore, the mediating effects of cognitive abilities on executive functions were stronger in preschoolers with more and better sleep. In conclusion, motor competence and sufficient sleep are crucial for the development of executive function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Psychology)

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16 pages, 888 KB

Open AccessArticle

The ‘Conceptual Distance Effect’ in the Causal Effects Under Experimental Manipulation Between Attitude and Stereotype

by Yang Yang, Xue Bai, Jiejie Liao, Yujie Chen and Lei Mo

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020287 - 17 Feb 2026

Viewed by 560

Abstract

Understanding how attitudes and stereotypes influence each other is central to social cognition, yet prior findings have been inconsistent, with some indicating strong connections and others suggesting separation. To help explain these discrepancies, we introduce the construct of conceptual distance, defined as the [...] Read more.

Understanding how attitudes and stereotypes influence each other is central to social cognition, yet prior findings have been inconsistent, with some indicating strong connections and others suggesting separation. To help explain these discrepancies, we introduce the construct of conceptual distance, defined as the evaluative proximity between attitude objects and stereotypical trait dimensions (e.g., warmth, morality, competence). Across four experiments, we first measured conceptual distance using a forced-choice task that estimated how closely each trait dimension aligns with positive or negative valence. We then tested whether the strength of causal effects between attitudes and stereotypes corresponds to these distances. Attitudes or stereotypes were manipulated using evaluative conditioning (EC), and their effects were measured through either explicit self-report ratings or Implicit Association Tests (IATs). Results consistently showed stronger causal effects for stereotype dimensions that were evaluatively closer to attitudes (warmth and morality) than for more distant ones (competence). These findings offer initial evidence for a correspondence between conceptual distance and the strength of experimentally induced influence. The study contributes to theories of causal cognition and social representation, and offers implications for designing interventions that aim to reduce stereotype-based bias and promote more flexible social inferences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural and Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Attitudes, Values and Social Axioms)

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27 pages, 1470 KB

Open AccessArticle

Uncertainty as a Gateway to Beauty: The Impact of Uncertainty Reduction on Art Appreciation

by Yan Duan, Yonghui Hou, Tingting Ouyang, Wanyi Chen, Chenjing Wu, Wei Zhang and Xianyou He

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 286; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020286 - 16 Feb 2026

Viewed by 757

Abstract

Art theory suggests that the pleasure of art appreciation stems from resolving uncertainty, yet empirical support for this idea remains limited. To address this gap, we conducted three studies (N = 1127), providing empirical evidence for the Aesthetic of Reception theory. Our [...] Read more.

Art theory suggests that the pleasure of art appreciation stems from resolving uncertainty, yet empirical support for this idea remains limited. To address this gap, we conducted three studies (N = 1127), providing empirical evidence for the Aesthetic of Reception theory. Our findings reveal that reducing uncertainty enhances art appreciation and alleviates boredom, with meaning-making being the most effective strategy (Study 1). Specifically, meaning-making alignment with the artist’s intent leads to more favorable judgments for artworks with low-to-moderate uncertainty. Conversely, highly uncertain paintings are more appreciated when viewers create self-relevant narratives (Study 2). Furthermore, the relationship between uncertainty reduction and aesthetic experience is mediated by the satisfaction of certainty needs (Study 3). These findings suggest that viewers should actively and creatively fill the uncertainty in artworks through meaning-making, fulfilling their need for certainty and transforming uncertainty to a rewarding aesthetic experience while reducing boredom. Overall, our research validates the Aesthetic of Reception theory and offers valuable insights for aesthetic education, encouraging deeper engagement with uncertain artworks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)

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22 pages, 1423 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Expressive Therapies Continuum as a Migratory Journey: A Classroom Experience Through the Lenses of a Teacher, a Special Educator, and Co-Art Therapists

by Maria Riccardi, Pierre Plante and Tamara Vieira

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 285; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020285 - 15 Feb 2026

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Abstract

This phenomenologically informed qualitative study gives voice to the experience of a teacher, a special educator, and co-art therapists in art therapy workshops given to first-generation immigrant adolescents in a welcome classroom in Quebec, Canada. This study uses a constructivist–interpretive paradigm, allowing the [...] Read more.

This phenomenologically informed qualitative study gives voice to the experience of a teacher, a special educator, and co-art therapists in art therapy workshops given to first-generation immigrant adolescents in a welcome classroom in Quebec, Canada. This study uses a constructivist–interpretive paradigm, allowing the exploration of individual and interactional dynamics in artmaking. The objective was to explore the experiences and perceptions of a teacher, a special educator, and two art therapists who participated in art-based workshops in a welcome classroom for adolescents, and to understand the meaning these workshops hold for them as well as their perception of the meaning it holds for the young people. Grounded in the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC), 17 first-generation immigrant adolescents, their teacher, the special educator, and two art therapists participated in nine art therapy workshops and an art exhibition to foster creativity, openness, and reciprocity. The adolescents had experienced trauma, including wars, violence, and separation, as well as uprooting, and acculturation in the host country. Given the limited research on school-based art therapy workshops in high schools, this study seeks to address that gap by examining how students in a welcome class emerge, unfold, and express themselves through the perspectives of the supporting adults. Reflexive thematic analyses revealed that the art workshops were an emancipatory experience, an existential path to crossing barriers, and a lived space for self-expression. These findings highlight the ETC’s potential in helping immigrant adolescents and their classroom community share their stories and they emphasize art therapy’s transcultural value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applying the Expressive Therapies Continuum to the Treatment of Trauma and Emotional Dysregulation)

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11 pages, 1432 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Experience on Motion Information Processing: An ERP Study

by Yinan Xu and Xue Sui

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020284 - 15 Feb 2026

Viewed by 491

Abstract

The purpose is to investigate how sports experience influences the processing of motor-related information. Sixty participants with differing levels of sports experience were recruited: 20 table tennis athletes, 20 athletes from other sports, and 20 non-athletes. A total of 150 images depicting table-tennis [...] Read more.

The purpose is to investigate how sports experience influences the processing of motor-related information. Sixty participants with differing levels of sports experience were recruited: 20 table tennis athletes, 20 athletes from other sports, and 20 non-athletes. A total of 150 images depicting table-tennis scenarios, divided into competitive and non-competitive, were shown to participates and recorded their electroencephalographic responses. We found that both table tennis and ordinary athletes exhibited significantly smaller P3 amplitudes in the parietal region compared with non-athletes. In addition, under competitive conditions, athletes showed larger N2 amplitudes in the central region than non-athletes. However, no significant difference in N2 amplitude was observed between table tennis athletes and athletes from other sports. These findings indicate that greater sports experience reduces the cognitive resources required for processing motor-related information and enhances individuals’ abilities in conflict monitoring and response inhibition. Furthermore, the effects of sports experience appear to be transferable across different athletic domains. Full article

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25 pages, 543 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Latent Profile Analysis of Emotions in AI-Mediated IDLE: Associations with Emotion Regulation Strategies and Perceived AI Affordances

by Zihan Gao and Chenxi Du

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020283 - 15 Feb 2026

Viewed by 911

Abstract

The rapid development and easy accessibility of artificial intelligence (AI) technology have led to a significant rise in informal digital learning of English (IDLE). However, the emotional experiences across different cohorts of learners remain underexplored. Contextualized in AI-mediated IDLE, the present study integrated [...] Read more.

The rapid development and easy accessibility of artificial intelligence (AI) technology have led to a significant rise in informal digital learning of English (IDLE). However, the emotional experiences across different cohorts of learners remain underexplored. Contextualized in AI-mediated IDLE, the present study integrated the control-value theory of achievement emotions and the process model of emotion regulation to investigate the latent profiles of emotions and further examine their relations to emotion regulation strategies (cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression) and perceived AI affordances. Questionnaires were administered to 613 English as a foreign language undergraduates in China. Latent profile analysis revealed three emotion profiles, including moderate positive and moderate negative emotions group (Profile 1, 43%); high positive and low negative emotions group (Profile 2, 21%); and high positive and high negative emotions group (Profile 3, 36%). The Bolck–Croon–Hagenaars (BCH) analysis indicated that students in Profile 2 scored the highest on perceived AI affordances, followed by those in Profile 3 and Profile 1. Additionally, multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that cognitive reappraisal was a stronger predictor of membership in Profiles 2 and 3 compared with Profile 1, while expressive suppression predicted membership in Profile 3 to the greatest extent, followed by Profiles 1 and 2. Pedagogical implications were provided to cultivate learners’ optimal emotional state. Full article

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

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20 pages, 1761 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Parent–Child Intervention on Children’s Exercise Behavior and Psychological Development—A Randomized Controlled Trial Based on Family Perspective

by Yijuan Lu, Shengsheng Li, Zhen Xie, Feijun Meng, Rui Feng, Yijia Zhang, Wu Zhou and Yue Gao

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16020282 - 15 Feb 2026

Viewed by 751

Abstract

Objective: From a family perspective, this study aimed to examine the effects of a 12-week digital platform-based parent–child exercise intervention on children’s behavioral level (physical activity), psychological level (physical exercise attitude), and mental health. Methods: This study included 218 students aged 10–11 years [...] Read more.

Objective: From a family perspective, this study aimed to examine the effects of a 12-week digital platform-based parent–child exercise intervention on children’s behavioral level (physical activity), psychological level (physical exercise attitude), and mental health. Methods: This study included 218 students aged 10–11 years who underwent a 12-week standardized parent–child exercise intervention. The intervention group completed two structured parent–child tasks per week through a digital platform (Ding Talk App) while maintaining regular physical education classes; the control group only maintained their regular physical education classes. Assessments were conducted using the Physical Activity Rating Scale, Exercise Attitude Scale, and mental health scales (The Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale (SCAS) and The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)) at four stages: pre-intervention (T1), mid-intervention (T2), post-intervention (T3), and a 2-month follow-up period (T4). The intervention effects and effect sizes (ηp²) were examined using Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance. Results: At the behavioral level, a significant group × time interaction was found for physical activity volume (F = 17.651, p = 0.04, ηp² = 0.138), indicating the presence of a moderate effect. At the psychological level, significant interactions were observed across exercise attitude dimensions (behavioral attitude: F = 3.699, p = 0.002, ηp² = 0.033; perceived behavioral control: F = 4.189, p = 0.006, ηp² = 0.037; subjective norm: F = 4.616, p < 0.001, ηp² = 0.040) and mental health measures (depression: F = 4.009, p = 0.026, ηp² = 0.044; anxiety: F = 3.1, p = 0.016, ηp² = 0.020), though no significant effect was found for behavioral intention (F = 1.346, p = 0.259, ηp² = 0.012), with all significant effects being relatively weak. Conclusions: The home–school collaborative, digital platform-based parent–child exercise intervention demonstrated positive effects on children’s physical activity volume, exercise attitudes, and mental health, offering a feasible and promising strategy to support more integrated child health promotion initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)

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