Behavioral Sciences

14 pages, 1187 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Online Pandemic-Related Information on Prosocial Behavior among Healthcare Students: The Role of Emotional Contagion and Epistemic Motivation

by Shiyu Zhou, Jing Chang, Yang Yang, Yue Han, Chang Liu, Yuchen Jiao, Yao Meng and Yan Ji

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100945 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2024

Abstract

Prosocial behavior is fundamental for healthcare students, shaped by their traits and the external environment. Online information seeking is the most commonly used way for healthcare students to access pandemics; however, it is unclear whether the willingness of healthcare students to help others [...] Read more.

Prosocial behavior is fundamental for healthcare students, shaped by their traits and the external environment. Online information seeking is the most commonly used way for healthcare students to access pandemics; however, it is unclear whether the willingness of healthcare students to help others will be affected by pandemic information via the Internet environment. The current study takes the COVID-19 pandemic as an example, investigating how 81 healthcare students with varying prosocial tendencies behaved helpfully after being exposed to pandemic-related pictures online. Study 1 measured the influence of emotional contagion (positive emotion/negative emotion) from online information on students’ prosocial behavior; Study 2 examined online information’s influence on prosocial behavior by controlling individuals’ epistemic motivation (goal-directed task/no-goal-directed task) to gain pandemic information. The results indicated that negative pandemic information was more likely to influence students with low prosocial tendencies, which would then lead to a decrease in prosocial actions (F = 7.842, p = 0.005). Further, students with low prosocial tendencies were more likely to engage in prosocial behavior when they did not aim goal-directed attention to the pandemic-related information, compared to those with goal-directed attention (F = 9.159, p = 0.003). Participants with high prosocial tendencies did not differ much in helping others (p > 0.05). The results indicated that only healthcare students with limited prosocial tendencies were less inclined to assist others after receiving negative information about the pandemic. Thus, reducing their deliberate approach to online information related to the pandemic will increase their chances of taking prosocial behavior. Full article

13 pages, 662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methodological Variations to Explore Conflicting Results in the Existing Literature of Masking Smile Judgment

by Annalie Pelot, Adèle Gallant, Marie-Pier Mazerolle and Annie Roy-Charland

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100944 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2024

Abstract

Although a smile can serve as an expression of genuine happiness, it can also be generated to conceal negative emotions. The traces of negative emotion present in these types of smiles can produce micro-expressions, subtle movements of the facial muscles manifested in the [...] Read more.

Although a smile can serve as an expression of genuine happiness, it can also be generated to conceal negative emotions. The traces of negative emotion present in these types of smiles can produce micro-expressions, subtle movements of the facial muscles manifested in the upper or lower half of the face. Studies examining the judgment of smiles masking negative emotions have mostly employed dichotomous rating measures, while also assuming that dichotomous categorization of a smile as happy or not is synonymous with judgments of the smile’s authenticity. The aim of the two studies was to explore the judgment of enjoyment and masking smiles using unipolar and bipolar continuous rating measures and examine differences in the judgment when instruction varied between judgments of happiness and authenticity. In Experiment 1, participants rated smiles on 7-point scales on perceived happiness and authenticity. In Experiment 2, participants rated the smiles on bipolar 7-point scales between happiness and a negative emotion label. In both studies, similar patterns were observed: faces with traces of fear were rated significantly less happy/authentic and those with traces of anger in the brows were rated significantly happier/more authentic. Regarding varied instruction type, no effect was found for the two instruction types, indicating that participants perceive and judge enjoyment and masking smiles similarly according to these two instructions. Additionally, the use of bipolar scales with dimensions between a negative emotion label and happiness were not consistently effective in influencing the judgement of the masking smile. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Understanding Facial Expression Processing: New Methods, Measures and Models)

14 pages, 1030 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Is Rejection Sensitivity Linked to Non-Suicidal Self-Injury? Exploring Social Anxiety and Regulatory Emotional Self-Efficacy as Explanatory Processes in a Longitudinal Study of Chinese Adolescents

by Junyan Zhao, Anna Li, Kunlin Li and Fengqing Zhao

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100943 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2024

Abstract

Early adolescents are at high risk for non-suicidal self-injurious behavior (NSSI). Based on the Rejection Sensitivity Model, the Experiential Avoidance Model, and the Affect Regulation Model of Self-Injury, this study aimed to explain how rejection sensitivity was related to NSSI among adolescents by [...] Read more.

Early adolescents are at high risk for non-suicidal self-injurious behavior (NSSI). Based on the Rejection Sensitivity Model, the Experiential Avoidance Model, and the Affect Regulation Model of Self-Injury, this study aimed to explain how rejection sensitivity was related to NSSI among adolescents by unraveling the mediating role of social anxiety and the moderating role of regulatory emotional self-efficacy (RESE) in this relationship. A three-wave longitudinal investigation with a three-month interval was conducted among 726 adolescents (M_age = 13.47, SD = 0.95; 46.0% girls) from a middle school in North China. The Cross-Lagged Panel Models (RI-CLPMs) were utilized to estimate the associations among the study variables. The results indicated that the incidence rates of NSSI in the three measurements among adolescents were 33.3%, 30.3%, and 24.1%, respectively. Adolescents’ rejection sensitivity and NSSI showed a declining trend over time. Furthermore, rejection sensitivity predicted NSSI through the longitudinal mediating effect of social anxiety. RESE played a protective role in adolescents’ NSSI, but its moderating effect was not significant. The findings increase our understanding of the association between rejection sensitivity and NSSI in adolescents, and they benefit educators in conducting targeted interventions through improving adolescents’ rejection sensitivity and social anxiety to reduce the risk of NSSI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protective Factors and Mechanisms of Mental Health in Children and Adolescents)

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30 pages, 548 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Conceptualizing Sleep Satisfaction: A Rapid Review

by Cleo Protogerou, Valerie Frances Gladwell and Colin R. Martin

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100942 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2024

Abstract

Good, satisfying, sleep is a key indicator and determinant of health and wellness. However, there is no consensus about how to define and measure good sleep. The present research aimed to define sleep satisfaction through the extant literature and disentangle it from sleep [...] Read more.

Good, satisfying, sleep is a key indicator and determinant of health and wellness. However, there is no consensus about how to define and measure good sleep. The present research aimed to define sleep satisfaction through the extant literature and disentangle it from sleep quality, a conceptually similar construct. Systematic review methods were adapted for a rapid review approach. The entire review was completed in eight weeks. Tabulation coding with content analysis was used to identify key categories and synthesize findings. A systematic process for generating construct definitions was followed. Database search yielded 51 eligible studies (N > 218,788), representing diverse adult populations, in 20 countries. Designs varied in rigour. Sleep satisfaction was defined as a personal, introspective, and global judgment about one’s feelings of contentment with one’s sleep, at a particular point in time. Sleep satisfaction was understood as an indicator of general health, impacted by and varied as a function of one’s sleep environment and individual-level characteristics. This rapid review contributes to the literature by providing the first systematically generated definition of sleep satisfaction, with strong implications for measurement, research, and practice. Full article

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

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16 pages, 1006 KiB

Open AccessReview

Just-World Beliefs, System Justification, and Their Relationship with People’s Health-Related Well-Being: A Narrative Review

by Camilo Silva, Víctor Pedrero, Jaime Barrientos, Jorge Manzi and Katiuska Reynaldos

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100941 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2024

Abstract

Beliefs about a social system help people understand and evaluate their environment and are related to their behavior within a society. When people believe that they live in a just social system and develop positive attitudes about the social and political environment, they [...] Read more.

Beliefs about a social system help people understand and evaluate their environment and are related to their behavior within a society. When people believe that they live in a just social system and develop positive attitudes about the social and political environment, they experience greater satisfaction and well-being. This phenomenon is known as a palliative effect. Two theoretical approaches that explain support for social and political systems are the beliefs in a just world and system justification approaches. The objective of this review was to analyze the literature published between 2019 and 2023 that addressed the associations of beliefs in a just world and system justification with health-related well-being. The search yielded 2064 potentially eligible articles, 26 of which were ultimately selected. The results showed that beliefs in a just world are associated with a more positive perception of the world and better health outcomes. In addition, people with a greater propensity to justify the system experience higher levels of health-related well-being. This positive association is consistently observed across different social groups and contexts. These findings support the phenomenon of palliative effects attributable to beliefs in a just world and system justification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Well-Being and Mental Health)

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15 pages, 307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intimate Partner Violence and Mental Distress, Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms and Life Satisfaction in Colombian Women

by Janneth E. Molina and M. Pilar Matud

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100940 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2024

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) against women is a major global public health and human rights issue, with significant consequences for women’s health and well-being. This study aimed to determine the relevance of IPV on women’s mental distress, post-traumatic stress symptoms and life satisfaction, [...] Read more.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) against women is a major global public health and human rights issue, with significant consequences for women’s health and well-being. This study aimed to determine the relevance of IPV on women’s mental distress, post-traumatic stress symptoms and life satisfaction, and to examine whether age, education, socioeconomic status, social support and self-esteem are associated with mental health and well-being. The sample consisted of 255 women aged 18 to 71 living in Colombia who were assessed using six self-reported questionnaires. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed that more IPV was associated with women’s increased mental distress, post-traumatic stress symptoms and decreased life satisfaction. Although self-esteem and, to a lesser extent, social support were important predictors of women’s mental distress and well-being, psychological IPV was the main predictor of women’s post-traumatic stress symptoms, followed by lower self-esteem and younger age. The most important predictor of women’s mental distress was lower self-esteem, followed by more psychological IPV and lower social support. The main predictor of women’s life satisfaction was high self-esteem, followed by high social support, less psychological IPV and higher age and education. It is concluded that IPV, especially psychological IPV, is a serious threat to women’s mental health and well-being, while high self-esteem and, to a lesser extent, high social support are associated with better mental health and well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intimate Partner Violence against Women)

16 pages, 1185 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Determinants of Fertility Intentions among South Koreans: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Eungyung Kim and Jee-Seon Yi

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 939; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100939 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2024

Abstract

(1) Background/objectives: This study aims to systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis of factors influencing fertility intentions among South Koreans. This research is crucial given South Korea’s lowest-in-the-world fertility rate of 0.72 in 2023, necessitating rapid and effective policies to address this demographic [...] Read more.

(1) Background/objectives: This study aims to systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis of factors influencing fertility intentions among South Koreans. This research is crucial given South Korea’s lowest-in-the-world fertility rate of 0.72 in 2023, necessitating rapid and effective policies to address this demographic challenge; (2) Methods: Articles published from database inception through April 2024 were collected from five Korean databases using keywords based on the PEO (Population, Exposure, Outcome) framework. Following PRISMA guidelines, 35 articles were selected. The effect sizes and network of predictors related to fertility intention were analyzed using the R statistical package; (3) Results: A meta-analysis of the effect sizes of factors influencing fertility intentions revealed that the husband’s involvement in parenting (ESr = 0.131), women’s education level (ESr = 0.127), socioeconomic status (ESr = 0.116), and the expected gender of the child (ESr = 0.068) showed statistically significant positive effects. Conversely, women’s age (ESr = −0.175), parental stress (ESr = −0.146), and household labor ratio (ESr = −0.117) showed statistically significant negative effects. The network analysis further elucidated the complex interrelationships among these factors; (4) Conclusions: This study suggests the need for multifaceted policy approaches to address Korea’s low fertility, emphasizing promoting men’s participation in parenting, supporting women’s education and career development, reducing parenting stress, supporting work–family balance, and ensuring economic stability. These findings provide important insights for policymakers and researchers addressing the complex issue of low fertility in South Korea and may inform more effective interventions to boost fertility rates. Full article

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10 pages, 253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 and University Students’ Well-Being: An Ecological and Multidimensional Perspective on Post-Pandemic Effects

by Ciro Esposito, Barbara Agueli, Caterina Arcidiacono and Immacolata Di Napoli

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 938; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100938 (registering DOI) - 14 Oct 2024

Abstract

In February 2020, the Italian government started to adopt measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. This emergency had a strong impact on people’s lives and daily activities, negatively affecting their well-being. One of the groups of people that suffered the most from [...] Read more.

In February 2020, the Italian government started to adopt measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. This emergency had a strong impact on people’s lives and daily activities, negatively affecting their well-being. One of the groups of people that suffered the most from the pandemic emergency and the related isolation was university students. Based on these considerations, this article analyzes the effects of COVID-19 on Italian students’ well-being during three periods: the first lockdown (March–April 2020), one year later (March–April 2021), and two years after the lockdowns (March–April 2022). Three samples comprising a total of 765 participants (M = 21 years, SD = 2.87) completed an online self-report questionnaire, which included the I COPPE scale (its short form), a tool that measures the perception of present and future well-being, both as an overall evaluation and its six specific domains: interpersonal, community, occupational, physical, psychological, and economic. The results indicated a general trend in the well-being levels of university students from the beginning of the pandemic to 2022. Compared to 2020, in 2021, there was a sharp decline in well-being, whereas in 2022, there was an increase in well-being levels. Practical implications, limitations, and future recommendations arising from the present study are extensively discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Action Research, Methods and Measures in Community Psychology—2nd Edition)

27 pages, 1112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Perils of Perfection: Navigating the Ripple Effects of Organizational Perfectionism on Employee Misbehavior through Job Insecurity and the Buffering Role of AI Learning Self-Efficacy

by Byung-Jik Kim, Hyun-Joo Oh, Min-Jik Kim and Dong-gwi Lee

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100937 (registering DOI) - 12 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the complex interplay between organizationally prescribed perfectionism (OPP), job insecurity, counterproductive work behavior (CWB), and self-efficacy in learning artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of modern organizations. Based on several theories, the current research suggests and tests a moderated mediation [...] Read more.

This study investigates the complex interplay between organizationally prescribed perfectionism (OPP), job insecurity, counterproductive work behavior (CWB), and self-efficacy in learning artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of modern organizations. Based on several theories, the current research suggests and tests a moderated mediation model. Using a three-wave time-lagged design with data collected from 412 workers across various South Korean corporations, we examine how OPP influences CWB both directly and indirectly through job insecurity, and how self-efficacy in AI learning moderates the OPP–job insecurity link. Our results show that OPP is positively linked to CWB, and this association is partially mediated by job insecurity. Moreover, AI learning self-efficacy functions as a moderator in the OPP–job insecurity link, such that the positive link is weaker for members with higher levels of AI learning self-efficacy. These findings extend our understanding of perfectionism in organizational settings and highlight the role of technological self-efficacy in mitigating the negative impacts of perfectionist cultures. This research may contribute to the literature on perfectionism, CWB, and technological adaptation at work, and has important implications for managing high-performance cultures in the period of rapid technological advancement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Employee Quality of Life, Well-Being and Wellness: A Pathway to Organizational Performance, Efficiency, and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Moderating Role of the Five-Factor Model of Personality in the Relationship between Job Demands/Resources and Work Engagement: An Online Cross-Sectional Study

by Toshiki Fukuzaki and Noboru Iwata

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100936 (registering DOI) - 12 Oct 2024

Abstract

When organizations or managers utilize personality assessments for their workers, it is crucial to consider not only personality profiles but also the interaction between these profiles and the psychosocial environmental factors in the workplace. The present study aimed to examine the moderating effects [...] Read more.

When organizations or managers utilize personality assessments for their workers, it is crucial to consider not only personality profiles but also the interaction between these profiles and the psychosocial environmental factors in the workplace. The present study aimed to examine the moderating effects of the five-factor model (FFM) of personality traits on the relationship between job demands/resources and work engagement (WE). A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between November and December 2022, targeting full-time workers in Japan. Data were collected from 1500 participants (757 men and 743 women). The survey included demographic variables, job demands and resources (job control, supervisor, and coworker support), WE, and the FFM. The primary statistical analysis was hierarchical regression analysis, which tested the interactions between job demands/resources and each personality trait. Four significant interactions were found: job demands and neuroticism, control and neuroticism, control and conscientiousness, and supervisor support and extraversion. High conscientiousness was associated with higher WE when job control was abundant. Moreover, low levels of both neuroticism and extraversion were linked to higher WE. The results suggest that managers can enhance WE by aligning workplace factors with employee personality traits. These insights can be applied to organizational staffing decisions. Full article

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13 pages, 1043 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intensity of Physical Activity in Young People: Focus on Emotional, Cognitive, and Healthy Lifestyle-Related Variables

by Adrián S. Elliott, Román D. Moreno-Fernández, Ana Cordellat and Patricia Sampedro-Piquero

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100935 (registering DOI) - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

The college years represent a crucial developmental period in which unhealthy behaviors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, inadequate physical activity (PA), poor sleep quality, and unhealthy nutrition habits are often acquired, influencing the onset or exacerbation of pre-existing mental disturbances such as anxiety, depression, [...] Read more.

The college years represent a crucial developmental period in which unhealthy behaviors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, inadequate physical activity (PA), poor sleep quality, and unhealthy nutrition habits are often acquired, influencing the onset or exacerbation of pre-existing mental disturbances such as anxiety, depression, or difficulties in emotion regulation. Our aim was to analyze the effect of the intensity of physical activity (PA) on the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive variables in a sample of young people. We recruited 103 participants (19.85 ± 0.25) who completed several online questionnaires (IPAQ-SF, STAI-t, DERS, UPPS-P, ISP-20, and Mini-IPIP). Subsequently, face-to-face sessions were conducted to assess the cognitive variables and to collect more details about their lifestyle habits, including drug use, sleep quality, and leisure activities. Based on the IPAQ-SF results, we categorized the sample into three groups: light PA (n = 47), moderate PA (n = 29), and vigorous PA (n = 27). Vigorous PA group showed better emotional regulation, lower impulsivity, fewer prefrontal symptoms and unhealthy behaviors, better sleep quality, and more leisure activities. No significant cognitive differences were found. It seems that young people are a vulnerable group with emotional and impulsivity traits and engaging in intense PA appears to be a promising avenue for managing these symptoms. In conclusion, our study suggests that young people are a vulnerable group with emotional and impulsivity traits that may precipitate in future mental disorders. Nevertheless, engaging in PA, particularly at high intensity, appears to be a promising avenue for reducing and managing these symptoms during this critical period of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity for Psychological and Cognitive Development)

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Graphical abstract

18 pages, 2222 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evolution of Teachers’ Teaching Beliefs About Mathematics in a Teacher Education Program

by Dandan Sun and Qiaoping Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100934 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

Teachers’ teaching beliefs encompass the underlying perspectives that they hold. These beliefs significantly influence teacher actions in complex ways, thereby impacting the implementation of curriculum reform. However, existing research has revealed inconsistencies between teaching beliefs and actual practices. Employing a case study approach, [...] Read more.

Teachers’ teaching beliefs encompass the underlying perspectives that they hold. These beliefs significantly influence teacher actions in complex ways, thereby impacting the implementation of curriculum reform. However, existing research has revealed inconsistencies between teaching beliefs and actual practices. Employing a case study approach, this study adopts a reflective belief model to address this issue and explore the mechanisms of teaching belief formation within the context of a teacher education program in China. The findings indicate that teaching beliefs can evolve and develop through five dimensions: justification, exemplification, consistency, connection, and practicality. By considering these dimensions within the framework of the reflective belief model, we can better comprehend the inconsistencies between belief and practice. Teacher educators can utilize this understanding to foster the cultivation of reflective teaching beliefs for teachers within training programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Educational Psychology)

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13 pages, 441 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of the Parent–Child Communication Quality Scale from the Perspective of Children’s Psychological Needs

by Wenhui Lyu, Xiaohui Shi, Zhiheng Xiong and Yujie Mu

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100933 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

Parent–child communication plays a crucial role in children’s healthy growth. Nevertheless, there is currently a paucity of instruments designed to measure the quality of parent–child communication from a psychological perspective. Accordingly, based on the self psychology theory, this study has developed the Parent–Child [...] Read more.

Parent–child communication plays a crucial role in children’s healthy growth. Nevertheless, there is currently a paucity of instruments designed to measure the quality of parent–child communication from a psychological perspective. Accordingly, based on the self psychology theory, this study has developed the Parent–Child Communication Quality Scale (PCCQS) to assess the quality of parent–child communication in terms of the extent to which children’s psychological needs are met. A total of 1095 urban children (50.9% girls, M = 9.92, SD = 1.15) aged 8 to 12 years in eastern China were surveyed in this study. The measurement structure of the PCCQS was examined using an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The results of the CFA supported the second-order, four-factor structure of the PCCQS, with the 15-item PCCQS consisting of four factors (i.e., mirroring, idealization, empathy, and appropriate response). In conclusion, the PCCQS has good construct and criterion validity, as well as high internal consistency and split-half reliability. The scale is therefore a valuable tool for assessing the quality of parent–child communication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Family Functioning on Adolescent Mental Health)

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16 pages, 765 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examination of Congruity between Subjective and Objective Working Memory in Veterans with Mild TBI and Relation to Psychiatric Symptoms and Childhood Trauma

by Lisa N. Cruz, Nicole C. Walker, Sonia S. Rehman, M. Windy McNerney and Michelle R. Madore

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100932 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

Objectives: There is conflicting evidence regarding congruence between subjective cognitive decline and objective cognitive performance for individuals with a history of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The current study investigated the congruity between subjective and objective cognition, particularly working memory, among veterans with [...] Read more.

Objectives: There is conflicting evidence regarding congruence between subjective cognitive decline and objective cognitive performance for individuals with a history of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The current study investigated the congruity between subjective and objective cognition, particularly working memory, among veterans with an mTBI history, accounting for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and childhood trauma. Methods: Participants included 35 veterans with a history of mTBI sustained during deployment. Participants completed measures of subjective [i.e., Behavioral Inventory Rating of Executive Functioning (BRIEF)] and objective working memory (i.e., WAIS-IV working memory index). Congruity between subjective and objective working memory was examined using linear regression. Bonferroni-corrected correlations were run to explore relationships among working memory, psychiatric symptoms, mTBI severity, and childhood trauma. Results: Among Veterans with mTBI, subjective working memory and objective working memory performance were not significantly related (p > 0.05); however, the overall model was significant (p < 0.0001), and childhood trauma was a notable predictor (p = 0.02). Greater PTSD, depression, and sleep symptoms were significantly related to increased subjective working memory concerns, even after Bonferroni adjustments (ps < 0.0001). Better objective working memory was significantly related to a fewer number of childhood traumatic events; however, this did not sustain corrections. The majority of individuals (67%) endorsed significant working memory complaints, despite objectively performing within normal limits (within 1 SD and above). Conclusions: Subjective-objective working memory congruity among veterans with mTBI was limited. Subjective, but not objective, working memory concerns were associated with greater PTSD, depression, and sleep symptoms. Childhood trauma was a notable factor that contributed to both subjective and objective cognitive concerns. There remains clinical value in assessing subjective cognitive concerns given the strong relationships with psychiatric problems and, hence, a focus for intervention. Full article

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17 pages, 987 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sharing and Allocation in Preschool Children: The Roles of Theory of Mind, Anticipated Emotions, and Consequential Emotions

by Yingdi Shi, Mengnan Zhang and Liqi Zhu

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100931 - 11 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of theory of mind, anticipated emotions before actual behavior, and consequential emotions following the behavior on sharing and allocation behavior in 4–6-year-old children. In Experiment 1, 95 children were randomly assigned to three conditions (external emotion expectancy condition, [...] Read more.

This study investigates the impact of theory of mind, anticipated emotions before actual behavior, and consequential emotions following the behavior on sharing and allocation behavior in 4–6-year-old children. In Experiment 1, 95 children were randomly assigned to three conditions (external emotion expectancy condition, internal emotion expectancy condition, and control condition) to explore the role of cognition and emotions in children’s sharing and allocation behaviors. Experiment 2 employed a dictator game to further validate the influence of theory of mind and consequential emotions on behavior. The findings indicated that both anticipated and consequential emotions influence sharing behavior, but neither serves as a key predictor of allocation behavior. Theory of mind influences children’s sharing behavior and is related to the fairness of allocation. Children with higher levels of theory of mind tend to rate consequential emotions more positively, while those with lower ratings of consequential emotions are more likely to reconsider sharing after reflection. Notably, theory of mind and emotional factors demonstrate distinct motivational effects on children’s prosocial sharing and resource allocation, with negative emotions exhibiting a more pronounced impact on decision-making processes. Full article

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10 pages, 288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Experiential Avoidance and Emotional Disturbances in Coping with Disease in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

by María Cuerda-Ballester, David Sancho-Cantus, David Martínez-Rubio, Belén Proaño-Olmos, María Pilar García-Pardo and José Enrique de la Rubia Ortí

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100930 - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease that presents with both motor and non-motor symptoms, with anxiety and depression being prominent and potentially exacerbated by negative thoughts. Therefore, the experiential avoidance (EA) exhibited by patients post diagnosis is particularly relevant. This study aimed [...] Read more.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurodegenerative disease that presents with both motor and non-motor symptoms, with anxiety and depression being prominent and potentially exacerbated by negative thoughts. Therefore, the experiential avoidance (EA) exhibited by patients post diagnosis is particularly relevant. This study aimed to measure the degree of EA in patients with MS and determine its relationship with emotional disturbances. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using a sample of 64 patients diagnosed with MS. In October 2018, these patients underwent evaluations of functional and cognitive variables, such as anxiety, depression, and avoidant behaviors towards the disease, using the Expanded Disability Status Scale, Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II, Self-Compassion Scale Short Form, Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire-15, prefrontal symptoms inventory, Beck Depression Inventory II, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory to assess coping mechanisms in handling the disease. Higher levels of state anxiety (β = 0.79; p < 0.001), trait anxiety (β = 0.82; p < 0.001), and depression (β = 0.62; p < 0.001) were observed in patients with MS as their EA and psychological inflexibility increased. Participants with high self-compassion/self-acceptance tended to have fewer negative thoughts and exhibited better coping with the disease, which may, in turn, affect patterns of psychological rigidity or inflexibility. Dimensions such as kindness and humility could act as positive factors in coping with the disease, whereas self-judgment and isolation are negative elements often associated with avoidant behaviors that hinder effective coping with the illness. Full article

15 pages, 478 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Well-Being of Doctoral Students in Education: An Ecological Systems Perspective

by Wendan Xu, Yingxiu Li, Ronnel B. King and Junjun Chen

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100929 - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study aims to explore the factors that influence the well-being situation of doctoral students in education from a qualitative perspective and draws on the ecological systems theory as an overarching framework. A total of 18 doctoral students in education from 3 universities [...] Read more.

This study aims to explore the factors that influence the well-being situation of doctoral students in education from a qualitative perspective and draws on the ecological systems theory as an overarching framework. A total of 18 doctoral students in education from 3 universities in Hong Kong were interviewed. In line with the ecological systems theory, individual influential factors may embed and interact with all layers of systems (i.e., the microsystem, the mesosystem, the exosystem, the macrosystem, and the chronosystem) surrounding the doctoral students that hinder or boost their well-being, respectively. These six main areas of concern were identified from a thematic analysis of participants’ responses. The study highlighted several salient influential factors of doctoral students’ well-being, such as coping strategies, social relations, and their living and cultural environment. An interactive effect among specific factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and social movements, was also identified. Findings provide theoretical insights and offer recommendations for improving doctoral students’ well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educator Well-Being and Resilience: Paradigms, Pathways, and Possibilities)

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17 pages, 918 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Does Parental Early Maladaptive Schema Affect Adolescents’ Social Adaptation? Based on the Perspective of Intergenerational Transmission

by Ying Shi, I-Jun Chen, Mengping Yang, Liling Wang, Yunping Song and Zhiyin Sun

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100928 - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

An individual’s social adaptation is affected by their early maladaptive schemas. Previous studies have shown that early maladaptive schemas may be intergenerationally transmitted in families. It is important to explore the intergenerational effect of early maladaptive schemas on adolescents’ social adaptation, as they [...] Read more.

An individual’s social adaptation is affected by their early maladaptive schemas. Previous studies have shown that early maladaptive schemas may be intergenerationally transmitted in families. It is important to explore the intergenerational effect of early maladaptive schemas on adolescents’ social adaptation, as they are in a critical period of growth and development. In this study, a cross-sectional design and questionnaire survey were used to collect data to explore the intergenerational influence of early maladaptive schemas in families and their relationship with adolescents’ social adaptation. The participants were 201 adolescents aged 12 to 16 years and their primary caregivers (father or mother), of whom 125 (62.2%) were boys and 76 (37.8%) were girls. There were 70 fathers (34.8%) and 131 mothers (65.2%). Chinese adolescents and their primary caregivers were surveyed using paired questionnaires, and the Young Schema Questionnaire (short form) and Adolescent Social Adaptation Scale were completed. The results show that adolescents’ early maladaptive schema plays an intermediary role between parents’ early maladaptive schema and adolescents’ social adaptation. Parental mistrust/abuse and insufficient self-control schemas affected adolescents’ social adaptation through the mediating effect of their corresponding schemas. Our results reveal the negative impact path of parents’ early maladaptive schemas on adolescents’ social adaptation and provide a new direction for the clinical practice of adolescent family therapy. Full article

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18 pages, 868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Influencing Public Donation Intention during Major Public Health Emergencies and Their Interactions: Evidence from China

by Minghua Zhao and Beihai Tian

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100927 - 10 Oct 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic is a major public health emergency that has caused significant global devastation. However, it has also fostered unprecedented worldwide solidarity. During this crisis, we have witnessed large-scale donations and assistance both domestically and internationally. In the face of such extensive [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a major public health emergency that has caused significant global devastation. However, it has also fostered unprecedented worldwide solidarity. During this crisis, we have witnessed large-scale donations and assistance both domestically and internationally. In the face of such extensive public engagement, understanding the driving factors behind public donations is crucial in responding to future global shocks like the COVID-19 pandemic. This study proposes an analytical framework and examines the factors influencing public donation intention during major public health emergencies and their interactions. Based on the online and telephone survey data of 11,682 responses collected in China during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, this study employs multiple logistic regression and moderation effect models to analyze these influencing factors and their interactions on public donation intention. The findings reveal a remarkably high level of public engagement, with 79% of respondents expressing donation intention. Further analysis indicates that the hardship level caused by the pandemic, degree of risk perception, community material support, and evaluation of the pandemic response all have a significant and positive impact on public donation intention. Moreover, the evaluation of the pandemic response and community material support significantly and positively moderate the impact of the hardship level caused by the pandemic and degree of risk perception on public donation intention, respectively. This study provides valuable guidance for governments and organizations worldwide. It is helpful for enriching crisis management theory and improving crisis response mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

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