European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education

33 pages, 1002 KB

Open AccessArticle

Coping Engagement as the Pathway from Psychological Empowerment to Life Satisfaction: A Mediation and Moderation Independent Analyses Among Women in Northern Peru

by Velia Graciela Vera-Calmet, Haydee Mercedes Aguilar-Armas, Mabel Ysabel Otiniano León, Marco Agustín Arbulú Ballesteros, Lucy Angelica Yglesias-Alva and Cristian Edgardo Alegría-Silva

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060085 - 19 Jun 2026

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Abstract

Psychological empowerment is associated with women’s well-being, yet how it translates into life satisfaction in high-informality Latin American settings remains untested—as does whether empowerment must cross a threshold before any benefit appears. We tested mediation and moderation hypotheses as separate questions with 251 [...] Read more.

Psychological empowerment is associated with women’s well-being, yet how it translates into life satisfaction in high-informality Latin American settings remains untested—as does whether empowerment must cross a threshold before any benefit appears. We tested mediation and moderation hypotheses as separate questions with 251 women aged 18–44 from three northern Peruvian regions using PLS-SEM with 5000 bootstrap resamples. Coping engagement fully mediated the empowerment–life satisfaction relationship (indirect β = 0.134, 95% CI [0.065, 0.213]; VAF = 87.6%; R² [engagement] = 0.070, R² [life satisfaction] = 0.285); the direct path was non-significant (β = 0.019, p = 0.754). Mediation and moderation were examined as separate analytical questions; the formal index of moderated mediation was non-significant, indicating that the indirect effect did not differ significantly across subgroups. In exploratory threshold analyses, empowerment predicted life satisfaction only above a normative cut-point anchored to the IMWE scoring manual (≥136; β = 0.382, p < 0.001); below it, the association was flat (β = 0.047, p = 0.547). This pattern is instrument-anchored rather than empirically derived and should be treated as hypothesis-generating pending replication with an independently optimized cut-point. Age moderated the engagement–satisfaction link (β = −0.239, p = 0.031), with stronger effects among younger women; motherhood amplified the negative impact of disengagement on satisfaction (β = −0.272, p = 0.021). Tentatively, programs that move participants only modestly along the empowerment continuum may under-deliver on well-being outcomes, though firm prescriptions require independent confirmation; tailored design for mothers and younger women is warranted. Full article

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25 pages, 1812 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of a Digital Parent–Child Single-Session Growth Mindset Intervention on Adolescent Depression and Anxiety Symptoms: A Three-Arm Waitlist Randomized Controlled Trial

by Shimin Zhu, Yuxi Hu, Di Qi, An Xi, Shiyun Chen, Ruobing Wang, Paul Lee and Paul Wai Ching Wong

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060084 - 17 Jun 2026

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Abstract

Adolescent depression and anxiety are prevalent, yet brief and scalable parent–child digital interventions remain understudied. This study evaluated the effects of a digital parent–child single-session growth mindset intervention targeting beliefs about intelligence, failure, and emotion on adolescent internalizing of symptoms. In a three-arm [...] Read more.

Adolescent depression and anxiety are prevalent, yet brief and scalable parent–child digital interventions remain understudied. This study evaluated the effects of a digital parent–child single-session growth mindset intervention targeting beliefs about intelligence, failure, and emotion on adolescent internalizing of symptoms. In a three-arm waitlist cluster randomized controlled trial, 390 parent–child dyads from seven secondary schools in Hong Kong were assigned to a parent–child intervention group, a child-only intervention group, or a waitlist control group. Students were assessed at baseline, 2 weeks, and 3 months, and parents at baseline and 3 months. Cluster-adjusted generalized estimating equations were used for intention-to-treat analyses. A significant time-by-group interaction was observed for child-reported depression, whereas the interaction effects for other outcomes were non-significant. However, cluster-adjusted baseline differences across groups limited attribution of changes in depression to intervention effects. Relative to controls, the parent–child intervention descriptively showed short-term improvement in hopelessness and sustained gains in child-reported parent–child relationships over 3 months. Moderation analyses suggested clearer short-term benefits among adolescents with higher baseline symptoms and among girls. Overall, the PC-SMILE intervention in this study did not show statistically significant effect on reducing internalizing symptoms. Improvement on intervention design and implementation would benefit further refinement of brief, scalable parent–child digital interventions. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05493865. Full article

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19 pages, 794 KB

Open AccessArticle

Childhood Family Support as a Protective Factor for Adult Mental Health: Does It Hold Under Cumulative Risk?

by Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan, Kimberly J. Mitchell, Jennifer E. O’Brien and Deirdre Colburn

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060083 - 16 Jun 2026

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Abstract

Childhood family support is widely recognized as a protective factor for mental health, yet it remains unclear whether its buffering role is maintained under conditions of cumulative adversity. This study examined whether perceived childhood family support is associated with adult mental health distress [...] Read more.

Childhood family support is widely recognized as a protective factor for mental health, yet it remains unclear whether its buffering role is maintained under conditions of cumulative adversity. This study examined whether perceived childhood family support is associated with adult mental health distress and whether this association varies across levels of childhood adversity and victimization. Data were drawn from a convenience sample of 1571 adults in the United States who completed an online survey assessing childhood family support, adult mental health distress (PHQ-4), childhood victimization, non-victimization adversity, family substance use, and childhood social determinants of health (SDoH) hardship. Ordinary least squares regression models with interaction terms were used to test main and moderating effects. Greater perceived family support was associated with lower adult mental health distress (β = −0.23, p < 0.001). Childhood adversity (β = 0.11, p = 0.002) and childhood victimization (β = 0.13, p = 0.001) were independently associated with higher distress. Importantly, both adversity and victimization significantly moderated the association between family support and distress, such that the protective effect of family support weakened at higher levels of cumulative risk. Robustness analyses indicated that these patterns did not differ by family structure. These results suggest that while family support is beneficial, its protective effects are context-dependent and reduced under conditions of elevated risk. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of conceptualizing resilience as a multi-system process and underscore the need for interventions that address both relational and structural sources of adversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring How Parent–Child Relationships Shape Child and Adolescent Mental Health over Time)

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21 pages, 319 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Quality of Life and Communication Needs of Deaf Ecuadorians

by Emily Jo Noschese, Alina Engelman, Leah R. Oakes and Lorne Farovitch

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060082 - 13 Jun 2026

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Abstract

Deaf people experience significant barriers to education, healthcare, employment, and information access, resulting in inequities across a myriad of contexts. To better understand these disparities, our all-deaf research team conducted semi-structured interviews with deaf and hearing (parents, caregivers, and educators) adults across Ecuador, [...] Read more.

Deaf people experience significant barriers to education, healthcare, employment, and information access, resulting in inequities across a myriad of contexts. To better understand these disparities, our all-deaf research team conducted semi-structured interviews with deaf and hearing (parents, caregivers, and educators) adults across Ecuador, exploring how structural, institutional, and social factors influence daily life and well-being. Participants (n = 36) described systemic exclusion from education and employment, limited access to interpreters and assistive technologies, and constrained autonomy due to insufficient family support and institutional resources. These barriers compound health risks by restricting access to care, information, and social participation. Participants’ narratives highlighted how political and economic instability, institutional neglect, and discrimination create structural vulnerabilities that extend beyond individual-level factors. Findings underscore the importance of public health interventions that address structural and communicative inequities, including inclusive education, accessible health services, and community-based support, to improve health equity and quality of life for deaf populations in Ecuador. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Combatting Health Disparities Among Diverse Deaf Individuals: Perspectives from Health, Psychology, and Education)

15 pages, 305 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Trait Emotional Intelligence in Youth: A Psychometric Evaluation of the Short Form for the Emotional Quotient Inventory Youth Version

by Colin T. Henning, Emily Storey-Hurtubise, Yelnura N. Autalipova, Samantha M. Van Rens, Laura J. Summerfeldt and James D. A. Parker

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060081 - 12 Jun 2026

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Abstract

The present study examined the psychometric properties of a short form of the Emotional Quotient Inventory Youth Version (EQ-i:YV-S), a 30-item scale developed to be an efficient tool to assess trait emotional intelligence (TEI) in children and adolescents. The 4-factor model of TEI [...] Read more.

The present study examined the psychometric properties of a short form of the Emotional Quotient Inventory Youth Version (EQ-i:YV-S), a 30-item scale developed to be an efficient tool to assess trait emotional intelligence (TEI) in children and adolescents. The 4-factor model of TEI used to develop the measure (also used in the development of the original adult form) consists of intrapersonal, interpersonal, adaptability, and stress management dimensions. Confirmatory factor analysis showed acceptable fit in a large sample of youth and was invariant across gender and education level. The results also showed the EQ-i:YV-S scale to have good internal and 6-month test–retest reliabilities. Relationships between the TEI measure and alexithymia in older adolescents provide additional evidence of convergent validity. Overall, the results suggested that the EQ-i:YV-S is a valid and reliable short, multidimensional measure of core TEI dimensions in youth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emotional Intelligence Development in Youth)

20 pages, 1356 KB

Open AccessArticle

Operationalizing the Construct of the Internal Saboteur: Development and Psychometric Validation of the Internal Saboteur Scale (ISS)

by Vincenzo Caretti, Eleonora Topino, Andrea Fontana, Gianluigi Di Cesare, Clara Mucci, Adriano Schimmenti and Alessio Gori

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060080 - 5 Jun 2026

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Abstract

The internal saboteur may be understood as a multidimensional configuration of maladaptive inner processes involving recurrent negative self-evaluation, distressing relational expectations, repetitive negative thinking, and self-undermining inner experiences. Within this framework, the present study aimed to develop and examine the psychometric properties of [...] Read more.

The internal saboteur may be understood as a multidimensional configuration of maladaptive inner processes involving recurrent negative self-evaluation, distressing relational expectations, repetitive negative thinking, and self-undermining inner experiences. Within this framework, the present study aimed to develop and examine the psychometric properties of the Internal Saboteur Scale (ISS), a self-report measure designed to assess this construct. A sample of 328 Italian adults (women 71.6%; Mage = 37.37, SD = 14.88) completed the survey. Confirmatory factor analyses supported both an eight-factor correlational model and a theoretically meaningful higher-order model, in which the lower-order dimensions were grouped into four broader domains: Negative Relational Expectations (Expected Rejection; Expected Judgment), Self-Devaluation (Negative Self-Appraisal; Interpersonal Unworthiness), Rumination (Retrospective Rumination; Anticipatory Rumination), and Internal Destructiveness (Helplessness; Defensive Relational Withdrawal). Measurement invariance across gender was also supported. All dimensions showed satisfactory-to-good internal consistency. Furthermore, ISS scores were negatively associated with secure attachment, self-reassurance, and mentalizing and positively associated with insecure attachment, self-criticism, shame, and anger. Overall, the ISS appears to be a theoretically grounded and psychometrically promising instrument for the assessment of maladaptive inner dialogue and self-sabotaging internal processes. It may represent a useful tool for both research and clinical practice, particularly in supporting transdiagnostic assessment and case formulation. Full article

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18 pages, 1782 KB

Open AccessArticle

Nature Connectedness and Work Engagement in the Relationship Between Emotional Exhaustion and Life Satisfaction Among Employees

by Soraya Jaime-Jorge, Cristina García-Ael, Garazi Azanza, Ana María Fernández-Fernández and Gabriela Topa

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060079 - 5 Jun 2026

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Abstract

This paper analyses associations between psychological health at work and life satisfaction among employees. Specifically, it investigates the association between work stress and emotional exhaustion and explores whether connectedness to nature and work engagement are involved in the indirect association between emotional exhaustion [...] Read more.

This paper analyses associations between psychological health at work and life satisfaction among employees. Specifically, it investigates the association between work stress and emotional exhaustion and explores whether connectedness to nature and work engagement are involved in the indirect association between emotional exhaustion and life satisfaction. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to analyse data from a final sample of 1851 Spanish workers from diverse professional categories. These included technical and support professionals, administrative employees, middle managers, civil servants and healthcare professionals, unskilled workers, and other occupational groups. SEM analyses were conducted with 1850 valid cases due to one missing or invalid case in the SEM model. The results indicated that work stress was positively associated with emotional exhaustion, whereas emotional exhaustion was negatively associated with life satisfaction. Connectedness to nature and work engagement were involved in this indirect association: higher emotional exhaustion was associated with lower levels of connectedness to nature and work engagement, while higher levels of connectedness to nature and work engagement were associated with higher life satisfaction. The findings suggest that connectedness to nature and work engagement may be relevant psychological and work-related resources in this relationship. Full article

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21 pages, 2093 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Longitudinal Interplay Between Loneliness and Depressive Symptoms During Late Childhood: Cross-Lagged Panel Network Analyses

by Paweł Grygiel, Sylwia Opozda-Suder and Roman Dolata

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060078 - 31 May 2026

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Abstract

Background: Loneliness and depression are interrelated constructs that significantly impact adolescents’ mental health. Understanding their interplay, particularly at the symptom level, is critical for developing effective interventions. Objective: To examine longitudinal relationships between loneliness and depressive symptoms during late childhood, aiming to identify [...] Read more.

Background: Loneliness and depression are interrelated constructs that significantly impact adolescents’ mental health. Understanding their interplay, particularly at the symptom level, is critical for developing effective interventions. Objective: To examine longitudinal relationships between loneliness and depressive symptoms during late childhood, aiming to identify symptom-level interactions and directional effects. Participants and Setting: A total of 4333 children (M_age = 11.06, SD = 0.73; 50.8% girls) from the NLSY79 Children and Young Adults survey participated, with data collected over two years. Methods: A cross-lagged panel network (CLPN) model was employed to analyze symptom-level associations between loneliness and depressive symptoms. This approach combines network analysis and cross-lagged panel modeling, allowing for the estimation of both autoregressive effects (stability of symptoms over time) and cross-lagged effects (directional relationships between symptoms across time points). Results: The longitudinal network suggests the following: (1) a reciprocal link between loneliness and both sadness and parental pressure; (2) a forward effect of loneliness on anxiety and being busy; (3) the loneliness-reducing effect of prior happiness and loneliness-increasing effect of boredom. Conclusions: The findings highlight the complex interplay between loneliness and depressive symptoms, emphasizing reciprocal and unidirectional effects at the symptom level. These insights underscore the need for targeted, symptom-focused interventions to address loneliness and its impact on adolescent mental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Diversity, Educational Inclusion, Emotional Intelligence, Coping, and Other Factors That Influence Psychological Health and Well-Being)

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19 pages, 381 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sexual Knowledge, Attitudes, and Motivational Factors Associated with Sexual Activity in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Verónica Estruch-García, María Dolores Gil-Llario and Encarnación Satorres

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060077 - 30 May 2026

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Abstract

Background: Sexuality remains an important dimension of well-being in later life, yet it is often surrounded by misconceptions and ageist stereotypes. Understanding sociodemographic, cognitive, attitudinal, motivational, and behavioral aspects of sexuality among older adults may contribute to a more comprehensive view of sexual [...] Read more.

Background: Sexuality remains an important dimension of well-being in later life, yet it is often surrounded by misconceptions and ageist stereotypes. Understanding sociodemographic, cognitive, attitudinal, motivational, and behavioral aspects of sexuality among older adults may contribute to a more comprehensive view of sexual well-being in aging. Objectives: This study aimed (1) to describe older adults’ knowledge, attitudes, sexual motivation, behaviors, and satisfaction; (2) to examine differences between individuals who reported engaging in partnered eroto-genital activity during the previous six months and those who did not; and (3) to identify sociodemographic (age, gender, religiosity and health condition), cognitive, attitudinal, and motivational factors associated with engagement in partnered eroto-genital activity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 186 adults aged 65–88 years (M = 73.29). Participants completed the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale (ASKAS) and a Sexual Behavior Questionnaire assessing sexual motivation, sexual behaviors, and sexual satisfaction. Descriptive analyses, group comparisons, and hierarchical logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: Participants showed relatively adequate knowledge and generally favorable attitudes, although several misconceptions persisted. Affective behaviors were more frequent than eroto-genital practices. Individuals reporting partnered eroto-genital activity showed higher knowledge, more positive attitudes, greater perceived importance of sexuality, and higher sexual satisfaction. Regression analyses indicated that age, gender, attitudes toward sexuality, and perceived importance of sex were significant predictors of partnered eroto-genital activity, with perceived importance of sex showing the strongest association. Conclusions: Sexuality in later life reflects diverse patterns shaped by cognitive, attitudinal, and especially motivational dimensions. These findings highlight the central role of subjective importance and attitudes in sexual engagement, suggesting that interventions may benefit from moving beyond information provision to also address motivational and relational aspects of sexuality in aging populations. Full article

19 pages, 495 KB

Open AccessArticle

Psychological Capital and Mental Health in Ecuadorian University Students: The Mediating Role of Negative Stress

by Lucía Quinde, Victor López-Guerra and Sandra Guevara-Mora

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060076 - 28 May 2026

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Abstract

This study examined the mediating role of negative stress in the relationship between Psychological Capital (PsyCap) and psychological distress indicators among Ecuadorian university students. PsyCap was conceptualized as a higher-order construct composed of hope, self-efficacy, resilience, and optimism. A cross-sectional study was conducted [...] Read more.

This study examined the mediating role of negative stress in the relationship between Psychological Capital (PsyCap) and psychological distress indicators among Ecuadorian university students. PsyCap was conceptualized as a higher-order construct composed of hope, self-efficacy, resilience, and optimism. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1732 university students (55% women; M = 20.44, SD = 2.29) from three Ecuadorian universities using validated self-report measures. Structural equation modeling supported the proposed mediational model and demonstrated an adequate fit to the data, χ²(367) = 1732, p < 0.001, CFI = 0.972, TLI = 0.969, RMSEA = 0.061 (90% CI [0.058, 0.063]), and SRMR = 0.041. PsyCap showed a significant negative association with negative stress (β = −0.311, p < 0.001). In turn, negative stress was positively associated with anxiety–depression symptoms (β = 0.785, p < 0.001) and psychological inflexibility (β = 0.774, p < 0.001). Mediation analyses revealed significant indirect effects of PsyCap on anxiety–depression (β = −0.244, p < 0.001) and psychological inflexibility (β = −0.241, p < 0.001) through negative stress. Direct effects remained significant but smaller in magnitude (β = −0.131 and β = −0.107, respectively), supporting a partial mediation model. The model explained 69.7% of the variance in anxiety–depression and 66.3% of the variance in psychological inflexibility. These findings suggest that PsyCap functions primarily as a protective psychological resource through its capacity to reduce maladaptive stress responses, which subsequently influence broader transdiagnostic indicators of psychological distress. The study highlights the relevance of integrating strengths-based approaches and stress-reduction strategies in university mental health interventions. Furthermore, it provides empirical evidence from a Latin American context, contributing to the understanding of mechanisms linking positive psychological resources and mental health among university students. Full article

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14 pages, 450 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Simulation to Sustainability: The Mediating Role of Clinical Self-Efficacy Among Undergraduate Healthcare Students

by Waleed El-Sayed Mohammed Hemaida, Ekram Mohammed Gomaa Geenedy, Mohamed Sayed Abdellatif and Mohamed Ali Nemt-allah

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060075 - 26 May 2026

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Abstract

Despite growing recognition that nurses must be equipped with sustainability competencies to address climate-related health challenges, the psychological mechanisms through which nursing education fosters sustainability attitudes are not yet fully understood. This study examined the mediating role of clinical performance self-efficacy in the [...] Read more.

Despite growing recognition that nurses must be equipped with sustainability competencies to address climate-related health challenges, the psychological mechanisms through which nursing education fosters sustainability attitudes are not yet fully understood. This study examined the mediating role of clinical performance self-efficacy in the relationship between simulation-based learning quality and sustainability attitudes among undergraduate nursing students. A cross-sectional correlational design was employed with a main sample of 679 nursing students from four Egyptian universities. Data were collected using the CHEST, SECP Scale, and SANS_2. Mediation analysis used Hayes’ PROCESS macro with 5000 bootstrap resamples. Simulation-based learning quality significantly predicted both self-efficacy (β* = 0.772) and sustainability attitudes (β* = 0.613). Self-efficacy partially mediated this relationship, accounting for 68.34% of the total effect (indirect β* = 0.419, Boot 95% CI [0.343, 0.494]). Nursing educators should design simulation curricula that deliberately cultivate self-efficacy while embedding sustainability content, producing clinically competent and environmentally responsible graduates. Full article

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18 pages, 497 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Perceived Academic Support and Mental Well-Being Among Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Trainees in Kenya: The Mediating Role of Academic Resilience

by Naomi Odira Owuor and Bettina F. Piko

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060074 - 25 May 2026

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Abstract

Mental well-being has been considered a fundamental contributor to overall academic success and psychological stability. Based on the Transactional Theory of Stress and Coping, this study examined the mediating role of academic resilience in the relationship between perceived academic support and mental well-being [...] Read more.

Mental well-being has been considered a fundamental contributor to overall academic success and psychological stability. Based on the Transactional Theory of Stress and Coping, this study examined the mediating role of academic resilience in the relationship between perceived academic support and mental well-being of Kenyan TVET trainees. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, with a sample of 1933 trainees (M_age = 22.87 years; 57.7% male) from 239 public TVET institutions in Kenya. The following measures were administered: Perceived Academic Support Questionnaire, Academic Resilience Scale, and the Short Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale. Correlation analysis demonstrated that perceived academic support showed a strong positive association with mental well-being, whereas academic resilience indicated a moderate association. Consistent with the hypothesized model, parallel mediation analysis indicated that academic resilience partially mediated the relationship between academic support and mental well-being. The indirect effects observed across resilience dimensions indicated that emotional response was the dominant mediating pathway, while perseverance showed a small positive indirect effect, and adaptive help-seeking demonstrated a small but significant negative indirect effect. These findings contribute to the growing but limited literature on well-being in vocational training and suggest that while academic resilience serves as a key mediating mechanism, perceived academic support may also function as a direct protective factor, underscoring the importance of embedding structured emotional coping support within TVET academic environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Well-Being and Coping Strategies in Educational Psychology)

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17 pages, 369 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Culturally Embedded Inner Strengths as Predictors of Resilience in Emerging Adults Following Childhood Parental Divorce

by Shan Chen, Penkarn Kanjanarat, Tinakon Wongpakaran and Danny Wedding

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060073 - 25 May 2026

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Abstract

Parental divorce, as an adverse childhood experience, may disrupt family systems and exert enduring effects on psychological development, with impacts becoming particularly salient during emerging adulthood, a stage characterized by identity exploration and increasing autonomy. Within the Thai cultural context, inner strengths grounded [...] Read more.

Parental divorce, as an adverse childhood experience, may disrupt family systems and exert enduring effects on psychological development, with impacts becoming particularly salient during emerging adulthood, a stage characterized by identity exploration and increasing autonomy. Within the Thai cultural context, inner strengths grounded in Buddhist values may serve as important resources for resilience. This study examined associations between inner strength dimensions derived from the Ten Perfections (Pāramīs) and resilience among emerging adults who experienced parental divorce in childhood. A cross-sectional design was employed with 160 Thai participants aged 20 to 29 years, who completed the Inner Strength-Based Inventory (I-SBI) and the Resilience Inventory (RI-9). Correlation analysis indicated that equanimity, determination, perseverance, wisdom, meditation, and loving-kindness were positively correlated with resilience. Multiple regression analysis showed that equanimity (β = 0.312, p < 0.001), determination (β = 0.227, p < 0.01) and loving-kindness (β = 0.213, p < 0.01) were significantly associated with resilience. These findings suggest that culturally embedded inner strengths are associated with resilience in a non-Western context. More specifically, among the ten dimensions examined, equanimity, determination, and loving-kindness emerged as being significantly associated with resilience in Thai emerging adults with childhood parental divorce experiences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring How Parent–Child Relationships Shape Child and Adolescent Mental Health over Time)

19 pages, 1021 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Kinesiophobia and Work Disability in Fibromyalgia: Cognitive Mediation in a Population-Based Study of Women

by Giordano Mayer De Freitas, Guilherme Teixeira Lopes, Graziele Borges Bueno, Mariana Lentino Coelho, Julia Gomes, Caroline Leffa Venturini, Maria Eduarda Louzada, Sara Machado Peres, Barbara Regina França, Iraci L. S. Torres Pham, Felipe Fregni, Andrea Cristiane Janz Moreira and Wolnei Caumo

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2026, 16(6), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe16060072 - 24 May 2026

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Abstract

Background: Work disability in fibromyalgia is only partially explained by symptom severity, suggesting a relevant contribution of cognitive–behavioral mechanisms. Objective: This study aimed to determine whether kinesiophobia is associated with fibromyalgia impact and work-related disability and to assess whether pain catastrophizing mediates these [...] Read more.

Background: Work disability in fibromyalgia is only partially explained by symptom severity, suggesting a relevant contribution of cognitive–behavioral mechanisms. Objective: This study aimed to determine whether kinesiophobia is associated with fibromyalgia impact and work-related disability and to assess whether pain catastrophizing mediates these relationships within a hierarchical biopsychosocial framework. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 2096 women with fibromyalgia recruited through a nationwide online survey. Participants completed validated instruments assessing fibromyalgia impact (FIQ), pain catastrophizing (PCS), depressive symptoms (PHQ-9), central sensitization (CSI), and kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale). Pain-related work disability was defined using the Graded Chronic Pain Scale–Revised (GCPS-R). Hierarchical logistic regression models identified factors independently associated with work disability. Mediation was tested using bootstrapped analyses (5000 resamples). Results: Kinesiophobia demonstrated a robust independent association with work disability (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.02–1.05) after adjustment for sociodemographic factors, clinical pain phenotype, systemic burden, pain severity, psychocognitive load, and medication burden. Other relevant contributors included pain severity (OR 1.96; 95% CI 1.70–2.27), psychocognitive burden (OR 1.35; 95% CI 1.15–1.58), use of benzodiazepines (OR 1.74; 95% CI 1.33–2.28), and opioid use (OR 1.29; 95% CI 1.06–1.56). Mediation analysis indicated a significant indirect effect of kinesiophobia on work disability through pain catastrophizing (β = 0.131; 95% CI 0.078–0.188). Conclusions: Kinesiophobia is a proximal determinant of work disability in fibromyalgia, exerting direct and cognitively mediated effects through pain catastrophizing, reinforcing the fear-avoidance framework and the need for psychologically informed rehabilitation. Full article

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Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ., Volume 16, Issue 6 (June 2026) – 14 articles

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