Behavioral Sciences

16 pages, 398 KB

Open AccessArticle

Psychometrics of Drawmetrics: An Expressive–Semantic Framework for Personality Assessment

by Larry R. Price

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010135 (registering DOI) - 17 Jan 2026

This study examines whether Drawmetrics (DM), an expressive–semantic personality system, can be linked with the Five-Factor Model (Big Five) through an embedding-based mapping approach and network psychometric methods. A total of 185 participants completed both the DM assessment and the IPIP-NEO 120 Big [...] Read more.

This study examines whether Drawmetrics (DM), an expressive–semantic personality system, can be linked with the Five-Factor Model (Big Five) through an embedding-based mapping approach and network psychometric methods. A total of 185 participants completed both the DM assessment and the IPIP-NEO 120 Big Five inventory. DM term outputs were embedded using a miniLM sentence-transformer and aggregated into 30 facet composites, with six composites per domain. Big Five facet composites were extracted from standardized reports and harmonized to canonical facet names. Analyses focused on the overlap sample (N = 148) with valid scores on both instruments. DM composites demonstrated strong internal structure and high stability indices. Substantial semantic-space alignment was observed between DM term language and Big Five facet language, supporting interpretable linking. However, person-level correlations between DM and Big Five domains were modest (mean |r| ≈ 0.07; Spearman similar), with the largest facet-level association at |r| ≈ 0.26. DM appears to represent a coherent expressive–semantic trait space that is related to, but not isomorphic with, Big Five traits. These findings support a linking rather than equivalence interpretation and highlight the need for future research on scaling, reliability, range restriction, and criterion validation. Full article

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

34 pages, 3909 KB

Open AccessArticle

Technology Empowers Emotions: How AR Technology Triggers Consumers’ Purchase and Spread Behavior Towards Intangible Cultural Heritage Brands

by Yi Sheng, Jiajia Zhao and Euitay Jung

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010134 (registering DOI) - 17 Jan 2026

Abstract

In recent years, the application of augmented reality digital technology in brands has transformed the way consumers interact with brands. This study focuses on the impact of augmented reality (AR) technology on consumption behavior and brand communication related to intangible cultural heritage products, [...] Read more.

In recent years, the application of augmented reality digital technology in brands has transformed the way consumers interact with brands. This study focuses on the impact of augmented reality (AR) technology on consumption behavior and brand communication related to intangible cultural heritage products, integrating the TAM and UTAUT2 theories to construct a research model. This study employed a time–location sampling method, utilizing SPSS and AMOS software for data analysis based on valid questionnaires completed by 305 AR-experiencing consumers in Changsha City, Hunan Province. Results indicate that the presence and novelty of AR technology significantly and positively influence consumers’ attitudes toward using AR technology, which in turn affects their purchase intent, social media sharing behavior, and brand attitudes. The study confirms that emotional factors and consumer perceptions play a guiding and decisive role in the new consumption reality enabled by AR technology. These research findings have practical significance and value for ICH brand building and AR marketing, demonstrating that AR is an effective means to enhance the visibility and influence of the ICH brand. They inject new vitality into promoting more sustainable ICH protection and popularization, as well as the development of the digital creative industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Affective Shifts: Emotion, Identity, and Consumer Behavior in a Changing Digital World)

16 pages, 548 KB

Open AccessReview

Analogue Play in the Age of AI: A Scoping Review of Non-Digital Games as Active Learning Strategies in Higher Education

by Elaine Conway and Ruth Smith

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010133 - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Non-digital traditional games such as board and card formats are increasingly recognised as valuable tools for active learning in higher education. These analogue approaches promote engagement, collaboration, and conceptual understanding through embodied and social interaction. This scoping review mapped research on the use [...] Read more.

Non-digital traditional games such as board and card formats are increasingly recognised as valuable tools for active learning in higher education. These analogue approaches promote engagement, collaboration, and conceptual understanding through embodied and social interaction. This scoping review mapped research on the use of traditional, non-digital games as active learning strategies in tertiary education and examined whether the rise in generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) since 2022 has influenced their pedagogical role. Following the PRISMA-ScR framework, a systematic search of Scopus (October 2025) identified 2480 records; after screening, 26 studies met all inclusion criteria (explicitly using card and/or board games). Whilst this was a scoping, not a systematic review, some bias due to using only one database and evidence could have missed some studies. Results analysed the use and impacts of the games and whether AI was a specific driver in its use. Studies spanned STEM, business, health, and social sciences, with board and card games most frequently employed to support engagement, understanding, and collaboration. Most reported positive learning outcomes. Post-2023 publications suggest renewed interest in analogue pedagogies as authentic, human-centred responses to AI-mediated education. While none directly investigated GenAI, its emergence appears to have acted as an indirect catalyst, highlighting the continuing importance of tactile, cooperative learning experiences. Analogue games therefore remain a resilient, adaptable form of active learning that complements technological innovation and sustains the human dimensions of higher-education practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Game-Based Learning)

15 pages, 1339 KB

Open AccessArticle

Accounting the Role of Prosociality in the Disjunction Effect with a Drift Diffusion Model

by Xiaoyang Xin, Bo Liu, Bihua Yan and Ying Li

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010132 - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

The disjunction effect in the prisoner’s dilemma game shows that humans tend to cooperate more under uncertain condition (U) than under the two complementary known conditions—one being competitive (D) and the other being cooperative (C)—a well-known violation of the classical decision principle. Our [...] Read more.

The disjunction effect in the prisoner’s dilemma game shows that humans tend to cooperate more under uncertain condition (U) than under the two complementary known conditions—one being competitive (D) and the other being cooperative (C)—a well-known violation of the classical decision principle. Our study explores the potential role of prosociality in the disjunction effect. We measured prosocial trait via the SVO Slider Measure, and prosocial bias via the drift diffusion model (DDM). By using the SVO Slider Measure (for prosocial trait) and the DDM starting-point bias parameter (for prosocial bias), we found that the variation in prosocial bias between uncertain and certain conditions substantially contributes to the disjunction effect. At the aggregate level, prosocial bias significantly decreased from U to D (competitive) but did not differ between U and C (cooperative). At the individual level, participants showed heterogeneous bias changes across prosocial-trait groups: intermediate participants had the largest bias shifts. This heterogeneity underlies the observed inverted U-shaped relationship between prosocial trait and effect size of the disjunction effect. Our study fills a critical gap by clarifying how prosocial inclination influences the disjunction effect. Full article

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14 pages, 556 KB

Open AccessArticle

Up to You and up to Them—Achievement and Power Motives as Building Blocks of Leadership Potential and Overall Reputation

by Antun Palanović, Nataša Trojak and Zvonimir Galić

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010131 - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Building on socioanalytic theory and signaling theory, this study examined whether self-reported motives—representing individuals’ identities—translate into reputational outcomes. Furthermore, drawing on role congruity theory, the study examined whether gender would moderate the strength of the relationship between the self-reported motives and reputational [...] Read more.

Background: Building on socioanalytic theory and signaling theory, this study examined whether self-reported motives—representing individuals’ identities—translate into reputational outcomes. Furthermore, drawing on role congruity theory, the study examined whether gender would moderate the strength of the relationship between the self-reported motives and reputational consequences. Methods: We used a large sample of management students (N = 349) on which we collected self-reported achievement and power motives, and peer ratings (N = 508) of overall reputation and leadership potential. Results: We found that (a) achievement motive was positively associated with leadership potential and overall reputation (including trustworthiness and competence); (b) power motive was positively associated with leadership potential; and (c) both motives were equally strong predictors of leadership potential, but only achievement motive was a significant predictor of overall reputation. Finally, in line with role congruity theory, we observed that the positive associations between both motives and leadership potential were stronger for male than for female students. However, for overall reputation, this applied only to the power motive, suggesting that gender affects how motivational signals are socially interpreted. Conclusions: These findings offer implications for future research and provide practical insights into talent identification, leadership development, and performance evaluation processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behaviors)

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22 pages, 1188 KB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Maritime Safety Through Needs Analysis: Identifying Critical English Communication Skills for Pre-Service Maritime Students in a Chinese University

by Xingrong Guo, Mengyuan Zhen and Yiming Guo

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010130 - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Effective communication in English is a critical behavioral competency for seafarers in a multilingual maritime environment, directly impacting operational safety. However, a gap exists between current Maritime English (ME) training in China and the actual communication demands of global seafaring. This study aims [...] Read more.

Effective communication in English is a critical behavioral competency for seafarers in a multilingual maritime environment, directly impacting operational safety. However, a gap exists between current Maritime English (ME) training in China and the actual communication demands of global seafaring. This study aims to identify the specific ME skills including linguistic, behavioral, and sociolinguistic dimensions that are most important for on-board performance and safety management from the perspective of pre-service maritime students at Shanghai Maritime University. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining structured questionnaires (n = 313) with in-depth follow-up interviews (n = 10). The results identified 24 highly needed ME skills, particularly focused on areas governing safety-critical behaviors, such as wireless communication, security protocols, and emergency procedures. In addition, based on learner profiling, the study depicts two different learner characteristics: exam-focused and work-focused students, each with different views on the importance of skills. Work-focused students place greater emphasis on the practicality of their skills. The interview data confirms and enriches these quantitative research results. The research findings emphasize that ME courses must be more closely aligned with real-world communicative scenarios and behaviors, prioritize scenario based teaching and practical operations, and tailor differentiated teaching based on learner psychology and behavioral preference. This study offers references for maritime education institutions with similar learner profiles to optimize ME curricula, prioritize secure communication skills, and strengthen industry-education collaboration, thereby enhancing pre-service maritime students’ safety behavior and professional competitiveness in China. Full article

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18 pages, 596 KB

Open AccessReview

Navigating the Paradox of Creativity: Pathways to Fostering Talent and Innovation

by Lin Huang, Yan Sun, Chenchen Zhang, Yong Shao, Yuan Yuan and Wangbing Shen

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010129 - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Creativity serves as a fundamental driver of human learning, personal development, and societal progress. This study synthesizes recent empirical and theoretical advances in educational psychology and creativity neuroscience to characterize the paradoxical nature of creative processes. We conceptualize creativity through three interdependent dimensions—novelty [...] Read more.

Creativity serves as a fundamental driver of human learning, personal development, and societal progress. This study synthesizes recent empirical and theoretical advances in educational psychology and creativity neuroscience to characterize the paradoxical nature of creative processes. We conceptualize creativity through three interdependent dimensions—novelty with usefulness, persistence alongside flexibility, and divergence in convergence—illuminating both its cognitive architecture and neurophysiological dynamics. By integrating evidence across levels, we bridge individual cognitive mechanisms with group dynamics and cultural contexts to propose actionable strategies for cultivating creativity. These findings offer critical insights into how these dimensions operate synergistically, informing the design of educational and applied interventions that promote sustained, adaptive creative development. Full article

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

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24 pages, 1302 KB

Open AccessArticle

Do You Fail to Recognize Me with a Mask on? The Impact of Voice on Mask-Occluded Facial Identity Recognition

by Min Gao, Wenyu Duan, Tianhang Liu, Yulin Gao and Xiaoyu Tang

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010128 - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

This research sought to examine differences in the cross-modal facilitation effect of voice on facial identity recognition under mask occlusion for both oneself and others. Employing a facial recognition paradigm, we examined the influence of voice on facial identity recognition under static and [...] Read more.

This research sought to examine differences in the cross-modal facilitation effect of voice on facial identity recognition under mask occlusion for both oneself and others. Employing a facial recognition paradigm, we examined the influence of voice on facial identity recognition under static and dynamic mask occlusion through two eye-tracking experiments. The behavioral results from Experiments 1 and 2 indicate that mask occlusion interfered with recognition for both static and dynamic faces, with greater interference observed for others’ faces than for self-faces. In addition, voice exerts cross-modal enhancement effects on faces, with greater enhancement observed for masked faces than for no mask. Furthermore, voice provides stronger enhancement for others’ dynamic faces than for their self-dynamic faces. Eye-tracking data from both experiments revealed that the difference in dynamic facial recognition between self-faces and others’ faces due to voice emerged in the early stages of dynamic facial recognition and persisted into later stages. However, regardless of whether they were in the early or late stages of static facial recognition, the facilitation effect of voice did not differ between themselves and others. This study revealed that the cross-modal facilitation of visual stimuli by voice is influenced by the self-advantage effect. Full article

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19 pages, 292 KB

Open AccessArticle

Professional Development to Inspire, Support, and Extend STEM-Related Learning

by Somayeh Ba Akhlagh, Asma Hulayyil Aljohani, Maryam Jamal Alharthi, Nahla Mahmoud Gahwaji, Nouf Mohammed Albadi and Marianne Knaus

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010127 - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

The success of STEM education in early childhood education is reliant on the pedagogical practices of teachers. Effective teaching of STEM requires specific knowledge of the four disciplines of STEM, appropriate teaching and learning methods and relevant experiences. In Saudi Arabia the teaching [...] Read more.

The success of STEM education in early childhood education is reliant on the pedagogical practices of teachers. Effective teaching of STEM requires specific knowledge of the four disciplines of STEM, appropriate teaching and learning methods and relevant experiences. In Saudi Arabia the teaching of STEM is a relatively new field, and this paper outlines a research project to promote the teaching and learning of STEM through professional development workshops. The research is informed by Vygotsky’s cultural-historical/socio-cultural theory, acknowledging the crucial role of social interaction and cultural context in a collaborative learning environment. To evaluate the project, a mixed methods approach was used involving the collecting, analyzing, and interpreting of quantitative and qualitative data. Surveys were conducted before and after professional development as well as semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate positive shifts in attitudes and enthusiasm among early childhood educators to teach STEM following the professional development program. However, the practical implementation remains a challenge due to the perceived lack of suitable resources, support from school leadership and the need for ongoing coaching and mentoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Young Children’s Learning and Development in STEM: The Role of Digital Media, Tools and Resources for a Postdigital Generation)

17 pages, 1002 KB

Open AccessArticle

Redefining Loyalty: How Political Deviants Maintain Positive Self-Views Amid Ingroup Rejection

by Trystan Loustau and Liane Young

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010126 - 16 Jan 2026

Abstract

Deviance poses a fundamental challenge for groups: while it can threaten cohesion and invite moral condemnation, it can also express deep commitment to shared principles. The present research examines how loyalty shapes perceptions of constructive deviance through the case of Republicans for Harris [...] Read more.

Deviance poses a fundamental challenge for groups: while it can threaten cohesion and invite moral condemnation, it can also express deep commitment to shared principles. The present research examines how loyalty shapes perceptions of constructive deviance through the case of Republicans for Harris (RHs) during the 2024 U.S. presidential election. Across three time points, we compared how deviants (RHs, N = 89) perceived themselves to how they were viewed by mainstream ingroup members (Republicans for Trump; RTs, N = 340) and outgroup members (Democrats; N = 294). Results revealed marked asymmetries: RTs viewed RHs as less loyal, less prototypical, and more likely to defect than RHs saw themselves. All groups, including mainstream ingroup members, outgroup members, and deviants themselves, felt warmer toward deviants they perceived as more loyal and prototypical. These findings suggest that constructive deviants maintain positive self-views by construing their actions as expressions of fidelity to, rather than rejection of, the group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Cognition and Cooperative Behavior)

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14 pages, 486 KB

Open AccessArticle

Perfectionism Mediates the Relationship Between Parental Expectations and Adolescent Depressive Symptoms

by Tolulope S. Aworefa and Kathryn L. Fletcher

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010125 - 15 Jan 2026

Abstract

A significant body of research worldwide has examined how parents who set high expectations may increase adolescents’ risk of developing perfectionistic traits. However, studies exploring this relationship in the Global South are almost nonexistent. This study investigated how adolescents perceived parental expectations related [...] Read more.

A significant body of research worldwide has examined how parents who set high expectations may increase adolescents’ risk of developing perfectionistic traits. However, studies exploring this relationship in the Global South are almost nonexistent. This study investigated how adolescents perceived parental expectations related to perfectionism and depressive symptoms among Nigerian adolescents. Participants completed the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (FMPS), the Living Up to Parental Expectation Scale—Academic (LPE), and Beck’s Depression Inventory. Parental academic expectations were positively associated with personal standards and concern over mistakes, but parental expectations were negatively associated with depressive symptoms. Further analysis revealed that personal standards fully mediated the negative relationship between parental academic expectations on adolescents’ depressive symptoms. In contrast, concern over mistakes partially mediated the relationship between parental academic expectations and depressive symptoms. In contrast to previous research, parental academic expectations were associated with fewer depressive symptoms among Nigerian adolescents through indirect relationships with perfectionistic traits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Global Mental Health Trends)

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23 pages, 12917 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Educational LLM Agent Use on Teachers’ Curriculum Content Creation: The Chain Mediating Role of School Support and Teacher Self-Efficacy

by Huifen Xu, Minjing Chen, Minjuan Wang and Jijian Lu

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010124 - 15 Jan 2026

Abstract

The application of social cognitive theory has expanded to the boundaries of human-computer interaction research. However, existing research has scarcely addressed mutual cognitive facilitation between humans and personalized educational large language model (LLM) agents. This study explored how educational LLM agents influence teachers’ [...] Read more.

The application of social cognitive theory has expanded to the boundaries of human-computer interaction research. However, existing research has scarcely addressed mutual cognitive facilitation between humans and personalized educational large language model (LLM) agents. This study explored how educational LLM agents influence teachers’ curriculum design and content creation, based on a sample of 464 teachers from coastal regions of China, along with semi-structured interviews with 23 participants. Quantitative analysis of the survey data revealed that the involvement of educational LLM agents positively predicts teachers’ ability to create content in curriculum design. Additionally, teachers’ self-efficacy mediated this relationship, while both school support and self-efficacy together created a chain mediation effect. Qualitative findings from the interviews supported the quantitative results and further highlighted individual differences and contextual nuances in teachers’ use of educational LLM agents. In summary, the findings indicated that educational LLM agents positively impact teachers’ curriculum design and content creation, with school support and teachers’ self-efficacy acting as a chain mediator in this process. Full article

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20 pages, 460 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Assessment as a Self-Regulation Strategy in the Acquisition of Textual Revision

by Olga Arias-Gundin, Celestino Rodríguez and Raquel Fidalgo

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010123 - 15 Jan 2026

Abstract

Textual revision is a recursive process integral to writing. However, less experienced writers often struggle to select effective strategies, underuse self-regulation, and evaluate their work without metacognitive control. This study examined the effectiveness of instructional programs focused on textual revision, incorporating dynamic assessment [...] Read more.

Textual revision is a recursive process integral to writing. However, less experienced writers often struggle to select effective strategies, underuse self-regulation, and evaluate their work without metacognitive control. This study examined the effectiveness of instructional programs focused on textual revision, incorporating dynamic assessment as a means to promote self-regulation. A total of 88 secondary school students (aged 13–15) participated, randomly assigned by class group to one of four conditions: mechanical revision, substantive revision, combined revision, or rewriting. A quasi-experimental design with repeated measures was used to assess the revisions carried out by the students Each intervention focused on distinct revision strategies: surface-level corrections, content and structure, or a combination of both. The rewriting group received no specific instruction beyond the weekly practice of rewriting the text that the other groups worked on. Findings revealed that students in the substantive revision group achieved the greatest gains in their revisions. The study concludes that instructional approaches focused on deep, content-oriented revision are particularly effective in improving students’ writing performance and fostering self-regulatory skills. These findings highlight the value of embedding metacognitive support in revision-focused instruction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Promotion of Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) in the Classroom)

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14 pages, 508 KB

Open AccessArticle

Retention on Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorder in Justice-Involved Individuals: A Retrospective Cohort Study

by Andrea Yatsco, Francine R. Vega, Audrey Sarah Cohen, Marylou Cardenas-Turanzas, James R. Langabeer and Tiffany Champagne-Langabeer

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010122 - 15 Jan 2026

Abstract

Criminal justice system (CJS) involvement is common among individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD), yet limited research examines retention in medications for OUD (MOUD) within community settings. This study assessed whether CJS involvement predicted retention on buprenorphine/naloxone and explored related demographic and clinical [...] Read more.

Criminal justice system (CJS) involvement is common among individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD), yet limited research examines retention in medications for OUD (MOUD) within community settings. This study assessed whether CJS involvement predicted retention on buprenorphine/naloxone and explored related demographic and clinical factors. A retrospective cohort included adults (n = 367) enrolled in a low-barrier outpatient MOUD program in Texas (January 2022–April 2024). CJS involvement was identified from program records. Retention was measured as the number of continuous days with buprenorphine/naloxone prescriptions. Analyses used univariate tests, logistic regression, and nonparametric kernel regression. Nearly one-quarter (24.8%) were CJS-involved. Retention at 180 days was similar between CJS and non-CJS groups (38%). CJS participants initiated substance use earlier and reported higher heroin and injection drug use. Behavioral health sessions were associated with both CJS involvement (OR = 1.10, p ≤ 0.001) and longer retention (β = 10.81 days/session, p = 0.001). With comprehensive, low-barrier services, individuals involved with CJS achieved MOUD retention comparable to their peers. Early behavioral health engagement was a strong predictor of retention, suggesting a key intervention point to enhance outcomes and advance equity for justice-involved populations. Full article

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17 pages, 587 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Association Between Parental Phubbing and Preschoolers’ Excessive Electronic Media Use: The Chain Mediating Role of Parent–Child Attachment and Self-Control

by Qiong Zhao, Yanrong Fan, Kuai Song, Zhengyi Wang and Zongkui Zhou

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010121 - 15 Jan 2026

Abstract

In the current digital age, children are exposed to electronic media at an increasingly early age. The issue of excessive electronic media use has become a significant risk factor affecting the healthy development of young children. To examine the association between parental phubbing [...] Read more.

In the current digital age, children are exposed to electronic media at an increasingly early age. The issue of excessive electronic media use has become a significant risk factor affecting the healthy development of young children. To examine the association between parental phubbing and preschoolers’ excessive electronic media use, as well as the underlying mechanism—mediating roles of parent–child attachment and self-control, 758 parents of preschoolers were recruited to complete a set of scales. The results show that: (1) Parental phubbing was positively associated with preschoolers’ excessive electronic media use; (2) Parent–child attachment and self-control significantly mediated this relation, which contains three mediating pathways—the mediating effects of parent–child attachment and self-control, as well as their chain mediating effect. The study revealed the psychological mechanisms between parental phubbing and preschoolers’ excessive electronic media use, providing suggestions for the prevention and intervention of excessive electronic media use among preschoolers. Full article

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13 pages, 248 KB

Open AccessArticle

Meaning in Life Is Associated with Differing Motivations to Use Social Networking Sites

by Roshan Rai, Mei-I Cheng and Jonathan Farnell

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010120 - 15 Jan 2026

Abstract

Research often emphasises dysfunctional Social Networking Site (SNS) usage. In contrast, the current research examined a more positive element of human functioning, specifically how motivations to use SNSs may be associated with meaning in life, which can help give purpose and direction to [...] Read more.

Research often emphasises dysfunctional Social Networking Site (SNS) usage. In contrast, the current research examined a more positive element of human functioning, specifically how motivations to use SNSs may be associated with meaning in life, which can help give purpose and direction to people’s lives. A sample of 384 undergraduate students (aged 18 to 50; M = 20.95; SD = 4.95; 81.5% females) completed questionnaire-based measures of motivations to use SNSs, self-reported time spent on SNSs, and meaning in life (coherence, purpose, and mattering). Multiple regressions showed that models for coherence, purpose, and mattering explained 5.8–8.8% of the variance (R² = 0.058–0.088). Self-expression was positively associated with coherence (β = 0.128), purpose (β = 0.16), and mattering (β = 0.137). Following/monitoring others predicted higher coherence (β = 0.158), and using SNSs to find information predicted higher purpose (β = 0.12). Academic purposes were positively related to mattering (β = 0.12). By contrast, using SNSs for new friendships predicted lower coherence (β = −0.197) and mattering (β = −0.154), entertainment predicted lower coherence (β = −0.178), and greater time on SNSs predicted lower purpose (β = −0.186). Overall, different motivations for using SNSs are associated with different facets of meaning in life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Values and Motivations in Behaviour: Implications for Individual and Societal Well-Being)

12 pages, 333 KB

Open AccessArticle

Writing the Past, Present, and Future: The Impact of Positive Psychology Expressive Writing on Adolescents’ Time Attitudes

by Xiangling Tu, Bo Wu, Xiaobin Ding, Qixuan Huo and Min Chen

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010119 - 14 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the interventional effects of positive psychology expressive writing (PPEW) on adolescents’ time attitudes and mental health. A total of 285 adolescents from Northwest China (M = 14.13, SD = 1.075; 53.3% female) were randomly assigned to either [...] Read more.

This study aimed to examine the interventional effects of positive psychology expressive writing (PPEW) on adolescents’ time attitudes and mental health. A total of 285 adolescents from Northwest China (M = 14.13, SD = 1.075; 53.3% female) were randomly assigned to either a PPEW group (n = 148) or a control group (n = 137). The PPEW group completed a six-week positive psychology expressive writing intervention, while the control group engaged in neutral writing tasks. All participants were assessed on time attitudes, positive affect, and depressive symptoms before and after the intervention. The results showed that, compared to the control group, the PPEW group scored significantly higher on Past Positive, Present Positive, and Future Positive, and significantly lower on Present Negative at post-test; however, a significant improvement in Past Negative was observed only within the PPEW group itself. Regarding mental health, depressive symptoms were significantly reduced in the PPEW group relative to the control group at post-test, but no significant change was observed in positive affect. In conclusion, positive psychology expressive writing can effectively foster the positive development of time attitudes in adolescents and may serve as a feasible approach to alleviating depressive symptoms. Full article

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17 pages, 813 KB

Open AccessArticle

Building and Repairing Trust in Chatbots: The Interplay Between Social Role and Performance During Interactions

by Yi Mou, Xiaoyu Ye and Wenbin Ma

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010118 - 14 Jan 2026

Abstract

Trust (or distrust) in artificial intelligence (AI) is a critical research topic, given AI’s pervasive integration across societal domains. Despite its significance, scholarly attention to process-based learned trust in AI remains limited. To address this gap, this study designed a virtual non-fungible token [...] Read more.

Trust (or distrust) in artificial intelligence (AI) is a critical research topic, given AI’s pervasive integration across societal domains. Despite its significance, scholarly attention to process-based learned trust in AI remains limited. To address this gap, this study designed a virtual non-fungible token (NFT) investment task, featuring seven rounds of risk decision-making scenarios, to simulate an investment/trust game to explore participants’ multifaceted trust under the influence of different chatbots’ social role. The findings suggested the chatbot’s social role had a significant impact on participants’ trust behaviors and perceptions over time. Trust in the two chatbot types diverged until the system-induced failures occurred. The friend-like chatbot elicited a higher level of behavioral trust than the servant-like counterpart. During those trust-damaging moments, the friend-like chatbot proved more effective in mitigating trust erosion and facilitating trust repair, as evidenced by relatively stable investment behaviors. The findings reinforce the notion that friendship with AI can function as a relational buffer, softening the impact of trust violations and facilitating smoother trust recovery. Full article

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15 pages, 680 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Empowering Leadership on the Job Crafting of Knowledge Employees: A Moderated Mediating Effect Model

by Yu Mao, Quan Fang, Chunyan Jiang and Huabin Wu

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010117 - 14 Jan 2026

Abstract

Empowering leadership can provide more resource support for organizations and better match the characteristics of current knowledge employees, such as a high demand for autonomy and pursuit of value diversification. However, existing literature has not fully clarified the specific cognitive transmission mechanisms linking [...] Read more.

Empowering leadership can provide more resource support for organizations and better match the characteristics of current knowledge employees, such as a high demand for autonomy and pursuit of value diversification. However, existing literature has not fully clarified the specific cognitive transmission mechanisms linking empowering leadership to knowledge workers’ job crafting, nor has it sufficiently examined the boundary conditions of this relationship under specific individual traits. This study aimed to explore the impact of empowering leadership on knowledge employees’ job crafting by constructing a moderated mediation model. This study introduces role breadth self-efficacy as a mediating variable and learning goal orientation as a moderating variable and collects questionnaire data to investigate the underlying mechanisms among 338 knowledge employees. Empowering leadership has a positive effect on knowledge employees’ job crafting. Role breadth self-efficacy mediates the relationship between empowering leadership and job crafting. Learning goal orientation positively moderated the impact of empowering leadership on role breadth self-efficacy. Building an empowering leadership model with empowerment and psychological safety at its core can stimulate employees’ job crafting. Role breadth self-efficacy can be improved by challenging tasks and systematic training. The implementation of differentiated management based on learning-goal orientation strengthens the empowerment effect. These measures provide feasible paths for organizations to drive adaptive changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Shaping Workplace Behavior: Leadership, Communication and Office Politics)

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