Behavioral Sciences

16 pages, 297 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bedouin Adolescents during the Iron Swords War: What Strategies Help Them to Cope Successfully with the Stressful Situation?

by Haled Al-Said and Orna Braun-Lewensohn

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100900 - 4 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study examined the emotional reactions and coping resources of Bedouin teenagers (ages 12–18) following the events of 7 October 2023 and the subsequent Iron Swords War between Israel and Hamas forces in Gaza. This study focused on the relationships between subjective exposure, [...] Read more.

This study examined the emotional reactions and coping resources of Bedouin teenagers (ages 12–18) following the events of 7 October 2023 and the subsequent Iron Swords War between Israel and Hamas forces in Gaza. This study focused on the relationships between subjective exposure, personal sense of coherence, community resilience, and the use of different coping strategies, on the one hand, and anxiety, anger, and psychological distress, on the other. During 2024, 762 participants completed the study questionnaire, which addressed the different study variables. The findings revealed significant differences between the boys and the girls. Specifically, the girls reported higher levels of subjective exposure and emotional reactions. Personal sense of coherence was found to be a significant protective factor. In contrast, the use of nonproductive coping strategies increased distress. This study underscores the need for intervention programs tailored for this society and by gender, as well as training for educational professionals, to help them to identify and treat emotional reactions to stress in ways that take into consideration the Bedouin cultural context. This study enhances our understanding of how Bedouin teenagers cope with stressful situations and crises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Children’s, Adolescents' and Young Adults’ Ways to Cope with It)

17 pages, 796 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Curiosity in Virtual Environments: A Conceptual Integration

by Rogelio Puente-Díaz

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 899; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100899 - 3 Oct 2024

Abstract

Brands need to have a digital strategy. Yet, it is difficult to grab consumers’ attention in virtual environments. We present the Curiosity in Virtual Environment (CVE) model, which integrates empirical and conceptual work on virtual environments, goal content, and curiosity. The model seeks [...] Read more.

Brands need to have a digital strategy. Yet, it is difficult to grab consumers’ attention in virtual environments. We present the Curiosity in Virtual Environment (CVE) model, which integrates empirical and conceptual work on virtual environments, goal content, and curiosity. The model seeks to serve as a guiding framework and tool for research scholars and practitioners working in virtual environments who want to communicate with consumers. To elaborate and present the CVE, we first discuss the main characteristics of virtual environments and types of goal contents, followed by a brief introduction to the theoretical developments of curiosity. The model is then introduced, showing four quadrants in which practitioners should have an easier (more difficult) time grabbing consumers’ attention. We then conduct a selective review of experimental studies on curiosity and consumption, identifying three voids in the field. We finish the article by suggesting directions for future research and acknowledging the limitations of the CVE model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Emotional Antecedents and Consequences of Buying and Consuming: A Multidisciplinary Perspective on Consumers’ Emotions)

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15 pages, 543 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Systematic Review of Resilience in At-Risk Youth for Psychotic Disorders: An Analysis of Protective and Risk Factors from Recent Literature

by Adriana Cojocaru, Adina Braha, Cătălina Mihaela Anastasescu, Roxana Folescu, Meda-Ada Bugi, Maria Puiu, Carmen Lacramioara Zamfir, Lavinia Hogea, Codrina Mihaela Levai, Felix Bratosin, Alexandra Ioana Danila and Laura Nussbaum

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 898; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100898 - 3 Oct 2024

Abstract

Psychotic disorders in youth pose significant challenges for mental health services, necessitating a detailed understanding of the interplay between risk factors and resilience. This systematic review aimed to assess how resilience factors might buffer the adverse effects of risk factors on the development [...] Read more.

Psychotic disorders in youth pose significant challenges for mental health services, necessitating a detailed understanding of the interplay between risk factors and resilience. This systematic review aimed to assess how resilience factors might buffer the adverse effects of risk factors on the development of psychosis among youth, thereby informing targeted interventions. Studies were selected based on criteria including a focus on individuals aged up to 25 years old at risk for psychosis, the examination of both risk factors and resilience, and the use of validated instruments for measuring outcomes. Literature searches were conducted across several databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Data extraction emphasized odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) for risk factors, including familial, developmental, and socio-environmental influences. The review included and analyzed nine studies, encompassing a diverse sample of 140,972 participants. Significant findings indicate that highly supportive familial and community environments significantly reduce the risk of psychosis onset. For instance, children with strong family support and engagement in structured activities demonstrated a 40% lower incidence of developing psychotic symptoms [p < 0.05]. Furthermore, the presence of neurobehavioral deficits, such as impaired verbal memory and attention, emerged as significant predictors of psychosis, with these children exhibiting a threefold increase in risk compared to their peers [OR = 3.2, 95% CI: 2.1–4.8, p < 0.01]. Resilience factors play a critical role in mitigating the impact of psychosocial and neurobiological risks in the development of psychosis among youths. Interventions enhancing resilience could potentially alter the trajectory of psychosis development, emphasizing the need for early and targeted psychosocial interventions to support at-risk populations. This study underscores the importance of fostering resilience through both individual-focused and community-based strategies to prevent the onset of psychotic disorders in vulnerable young populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Intervention for Mental Health in Teenagers and Young Adults)

14 pages, 1467 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Working Memory Necessary for Both Selection and Calculation in Level 1 Visual Perspective Taking? Evidence from Children and Adults

by Guifen He, Wei Song, Peiqi Dong, Canmei Xu, Yanlin Zhou, Haoqin Ye and Qiong Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100897 - 3 Oct 2024

Abstract

Previous research has suggested that there are two modular processes of perspective selection and calculation in level 1 perspective taking. Evidence further showed that verbal working memory is associated with both processes in adults. However, research has not tested whether verbal working memory [...] Read more.

Previous research has suggested that there are two modular processes of perspective selection and calculation in level 1 perspective taking. Evidence further showed that verbal working memory is associated with both processes in adults. However, research has not tested whether verbal working memory may be associated with working memory in children. Moreover, since perspective taking is associated with spatial working memory, it is necessary to investigate whether spatial working memory links to both processes. By recruiting 9-year-old children and college students in the single-task paradigm and the dual-task paradigm, we conducted two experiments to answer these questions. Results in experiment 1 suggested that verbal working memory correlated with adults’ perspective calculation, but with both processes in children’s perspective taking. Results in experiment 2 showed that spatial working memory is associated with adults’ perspective calculation and children’s perspective selection. These findings suggest that different components of working memory play distinct roles in the processing of perspective taking, which is moderated by age. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)

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18 pages, 941 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Interaction and Online Learning Efficiency for Middle School Students: The Mediating Role of Social Presence and Learning Engagement

by Fangfang Gao, Chunzhen Wang, Han Xie and Jianzhong Hong

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 896; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100896 - 3 Oct 2024

Abstract

(1) learning efficiency is recognized as the ultimate goal of online education, as it is related to the quality of online education and the cognitive development of students and is influenced by social interactions. This study explores the mediating roles of social presence [...] Read more.

(1) learning efficiency is recognized as the ultimate goal of online education, as it is related to the quality of online education and the cognitive development of students and is influenced by social interactions. This study explores the mediating roles of social presence and learning engagement in the relationship between social interaction and online learning efficiency, addressing gaps in prior studies that have not yet identified the underlying mechanisms. (2) students from three middle schools (N = 344; M_age = 13.61; 56.68% women) completed self-report questionnaires regarding social interaction, social presence, learning engagement, and learning efficiency. (3) the study findings reveal significant serial mediation effects of social presence and learning engagement in the relationship between learner–instructor and learner–learner interactions and learning efficiency. Specifically, while the indirect effect of learner–instructor interaction through social presence alone (indirect effect = 0.08, 95% CI = [−0.00, 0.17]) was not significant, the pathways through learning engagement (indirect effect = 0.18, 95% CI = [0.11, 0.26]) and the combined mediation through both social presence and learning engagement (indirect effect = 0.06, 95% CI = [0.03, 0.09]) were statistically significant. Similarly, for learner–learner interaction, the indirect effects through social presence (indirect effect = 0.09, 0.17) and learning engagement (indirect effect = 0.17, 95% CI = [0.11, 0.24]) were significant, as was the serial mediation through both mediators (indirect effect = 0.07, 95% CI = [0.04, 0.11]). (4) social presence and learning engagement played crucial mediating roles in the links between social interactions and online learning efficiency, and the predictive efficacy of learner–learner and learner–instructor interactions on online learning efficiency was found to be unequal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Educational Psychology)

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19 pages, 1073 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Residents’ Cognition, Attitudes, and Intentions to Participate in Long-Term Care Insurance: Moderating Effect of Policy Support

by Zhaohui Sun, Yifan Li and Shaokui Gao

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100895 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study took a comprehensive approach to considering residents’ demands and investigated the intentions of residents in Hebei Province to participate in LTCI, exploring the potential for individual participation. By integrating the unique Chinese context and existing literature, this study established a theoretical [...] Read more.

This study took a comprehensive approach to considering residents’ demands and investigated the intentions of residents in Hebei Province to participate in LTCI, exploring the potential for individual participation. By integrating the unique Chinese context and existing literature, this study established a theoretical framework for research hypotheses concerning the influencing factors of residents’ participation intentions. Leveraging a sample of 516 survey responses, we employed structural equation modeling (SEM) and hierarchical regression analysis (HRA) for validation. The research revealed that the heterogeneity of resident attributes has a significant influence on their participation intentions, and a gap exists between residents’ attitudes and intentions, leading to a scenario where attitudes are high but intentions are low. Moreover, perceived usefulness, risk perception, and perceived trust were found to directly affect residents’ intentions and could indirectly affect intentions through the mediating effect of attitudes. Additionally, the moderating role of policy support is instrumental in facilitating the translation of attitudes into actual intentions, bridging the gap between attitudes and participation intentions. These findings will assist researchers in gaining a deeper understanding of Chinese residents’ participation intentions and their underlying influencing factors, ultimately providing a solid foundation for government policy formulation and insurance companies’ strategic adjustments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Behavioral Economics)

21 pages, 698 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Systematic Literature Review of Soft Skills in Information Technology Education

by Farhad Sadik Mohammed and Fezile Ozdamli

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100894 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

This research addresses the importance of the soft skills approach, which encompasses problem-solving, collaboration, interpersonal and communication skills for higher education in the information technology (IT) field. IT graduate students continue to face difficulties in meeting the employability criteria of the global information [...] Read more.

This research addresses the importance of the soft skills approach, which encompasses problem-solving, collaboration, interpersonal and communication skills for higher education in the information technology (IT) field. IT graduate students continue to face difficulties in meeting the employability criteria of the global information technology sector due to mismatching capabilities, such as the discrepancy between the technical knowledge obtained in academia and the practical skills expected by employers. This systematic literature review used PRISMA guidelines for data collection. Papers were examined using the inclusion–exclusion criteria, which included concentrating on full-text studies about soft skills in higher education published in English between 2018 and 2024. The keywords used by the inclusion and exclusion criteria are soft skills, higher education, university, undergraduate, graduate, IT, information technology, software, computer science, programming, information systems and IS. The SCOPUS search engine platform found 2088 documents, and the (WOS) database obtained 1383 documents. To comprehend the significance of soft skills in the field and its effect on graduates’ employability, 69 papers were carefully examined. The rapid change following Industrial Revolution 4.0 has transformed the working environment, challenging new IT graduates to be competent in the working environment. This study highlights the importance of soft skills and self-awareness in university education, revealing that current curricula must adapt to the rapidly changing job market, especially post Industry 4.0. The literature review indicates that despite high technical competence, graduates lack essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, creating a gap between new graduates and industry expectations. Hopefully, this study’s results will contribute to understanding the functionality and necessity of soft skills in the behavioral sciences literature. To bridge the skills gap between industry demands and technical proficiency, academic institutions should incorporate creative teaching approaches prioritizing soft skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and communication. Universities, recent graduates, and companies must work together to modify courses to meet the needs of a job market that is changing quickly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychoeducation and Early Intervention)

14 pages, 1391 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Belief in a Just World Decreases Blame for Celebrity Infidelity

by Ching-Yi Huang, Takashi Arai and Tsuneyuki Abe

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 893; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100893 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

Justice motivation has been considered one cause of celebrity infidelity scandals becoming flaming incidents. Nevertheless, few studies have examined how the belief in a just world (BJW), one motivation for justice, affects people’s attitudes toward these incidents. This study was conducted to identify [...] Read more.

Justice motivation has been considered one cause of celebrity infidelity scandals becoming flaming incidents. Nevertheless, few studies have examined how the belief in a just world (BJW), one motivation for justice, affects people’s attitudes toward these incidents. This study was conducted to identify the relations among BJW, negative emotions toward infidelity (NE), and celebrity infidelity blaming (CIB). Data were collected from 1186 Japanese adults (mean age = 44.9 years, SD = 13.8; 49.4% male). The results of structural equation modeling revealed that NE positively relates to CIB and plays a mediating role between BJW and CIB. However, BJW neither facilitates NE nor positively predicts CIB; on the contrary, it suppresses both NE and CIB. The findings indicate that BJW decreases people’s blame on celebrity infidelity and suggest future directions for mitigating the issues posed by casting blame on celebrities’ cheating scandals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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11 pages, 250 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trauma Exposure Checklist: Preliminary Results Show Promising Psychometric Properties to Assess Subjective Perceptions of Exposure to Potentially Traumatic Events

by Alice Murteira Morgado

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 892; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100892 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

Most individuals in the general population will be exposed to potentially traumatic situations at some point in their lifespan. There is a strong body of research focusing on the clinical implications of exposure to potentially traumatic situations, but less attention has been given [...] Read more.

Most individuals in the general population will be exposed to potentially traumatic situations at some point in their lifespan. There is a strong body of research focusing on the clinical implications of exposure to potentially traumatic situations, but less attention has been given to psychological adjustment following these events. Very few available instruments assess trauma exposure while considering subjective perceptions of both positive and negative features. In this study, 304 adults from the general population, mostly women of middle and high socioeconomic status (mean age = 43), filled in a questionnaire with sociodemographic questions and an adapted version of the Trauma Exposure Checklist, which was originally developed in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that most participants have experienced a potentially traumatic event, most prevalently related to violence and/or criminality and to the severe illnesses and deaths of close relatives. Principal components and reliability analyses lent support to a three-factor structure that considers perceptions of internal and external losses and a positive factor that addresses resources and social support. This study is a first step towards advancing our knowledge on the impact of developmental and sociodemographic factors on subjective experiences of psychological crises and, consequently, psychological adjustment throughout the lifespan. Full article

13 pages, 468 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A French Adaptation and Validation of Retirement Semantic Differential (RSD)

by Laurie Borel, Benjamin Boller, Georg Henning and Guillaume T. Vallet

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100891 - 2 Oct 2024

Abstract

Retirement is associated with numerous representations, some of them being negative and the other positive. Yet, these representations affect the health of individuals in their transition to retirement. However, although the socio-political context in France favors the emergence of numerous representations of retired [...] Read more.

Retirement is associated with numerous representations, some of them being negative and the other positive. Yet, these representations affect the health of individuals in their transition to retirement. However, although the socio-political context in France favors the emergence of numerous representations of retired people, to our knowledge there is no scale validated in French that would allow us to evaluate them. Thus, the objective of this study was to adapt and validate a scale assessing representations of retired people, called the Retirement Semantic Differential (RSD), for a French population. The scale consists of a series of bipolar adjectives related to retirement, such as “active/passive” and “happy/sad”, with participants’ responses indicating the connotative meaning, positive or negative, about representations of retirement. A total of 279 participants aged 18 to 55 years, recruited online, completed the adapted version of the RSD. The results show that the scale has good psychometric properties. The analysis found a three-factor model, and some items were removed, resulting in a reduced version of the scale (11 items). The results will be discussed in terms of cultural and socio-political differences. This scale could contribute to a better understanding of the deleterious effects on health of the transition to retirement and serve to improve the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing the negative effects of these representations upon young retirees or those preparing for retirement. Full article

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14 pages, 410 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preventive Behaviors during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Delaware’s Underserved Communities: A Longitudinal Study (2021–2022)

by Sharron Xuanren Wang, Nicole Bell Rogers, Kylie Trask, Dorothy Dillard and Melissa A. Harrington

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 890; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100890 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic officially started in March 2020 and ended in May 2023. Preventive behaviors have been proven to be one of the most effective strategies for preventing COVID-19 transmission. Common preventive behaviors against COVID-19 include but are not limited to wearing a [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic officially started in March 2020 and ended in May 2023. Preventive behaviors have been proven to be one of the most effective strategies for preventing COVID-19 transmission. Common preventive behaviors against COVID-19 include but are not limited to wearing a face mask, washing and sanitizing one’s hands frequently, avoiding crowds, and avoiding traveling. Underserved communities and racial/ethnic minorities across the U.S. have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a three-wave longitudinal survey conducted from early 2021 to late 2022, the present study investigated changes in the adoption of COVID-19-preventive behaviors among residents living in Delaware’s most underserved communities. We also examined whether changes in COVID-19-preventive behaviors differed by race. Our results indicated that fewer people adopted preventive behaviors as the pandemic progressed, and this finding is applicable to both Black people and White people. However, Black people had a consistently greater likelihood of adopting preventive behaviors compared to White people from early 2021 to late 2022. Scientific and policy implications are discussed. Full article

22 pages, 2447 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge of Learning Strategies and Motivation to Use Them: Similarities and Differences between School Levels

by Eve Kikas, Ita Puusepp, Mikk Granström and Kaja Mädamürk

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 889; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100889 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

Students’ motivation to learn and the strategies they use during learning are two important factors that affect their learning outcomes. Some learning strategies are more effective, and some are less effective (deep and surface strategies). Both the knowledge of and motivation to use [...] Read more.

Students’ motivation to learn and the strategies they use during learning are two important factors that affect their learning outcomes. Some learning strategies are more effective, and some are less effective (deep and surface strategies). Both the knowledge of and motivation to use certain learning strategies depend on students’ individual characteristics (prior knowledge) and the context (classroom practices). The aims of the present study were (1) to examine differences between middle and high school students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of specific learning strategies and motivation to use effective strategies and (2) to explore relations between motivation, learning strategies, and grades in these two subgroups. The participants were 6287 middle school students (aged 13–16) and 5476 high school students (aged 17–20 years). The students completed an electronic questionnaire during school hours. Their perceptions of the effectiveness of specific learning strategies in certain learning scenarios and motivational beliefs (self-efficacy, utility, and cost) concerning the use of effective strategies were assessed with rating scales; additionally, students’ self-reported math and history grades were used. A network analysis was used to examine the relations between constructs. The results show small between-group differences in accordance with the theoretical expectations. The findings are discussed in relation to school level and educational context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Motivation and Cognitive and Metacognitive Strategies in Learning across the Lifespan)

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13 pages, 474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Educational Expectations and Academic Persistence among Rural Adolescents: The Protective Role of High Self-Esteem

by Feng Zhang, Xiaodan Xu, Wei Peng and Cheng Guo

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 888; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100888 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

Rural adolescents are at higher risk of reduced academic persistence due to socioeconomic barriers. Educational expectations are theoretically viewed as important for adolescents’ learning behaviors, and cross-sectional research has supported this assumption. However, few longitudinal studies have investigated the influence of educational expectations [...] Read more.

Rural adolescents are at higher risk of reduced academic persistence due to socioeconomic barriers. Educational expectations are theoretically viewed as important for adolescents’ learning behaviors, and cross-sectional research has supported this assumption. However, few longitudinal studies have investigated the influence of educational expectations on adolescents’ academic persistence. In addition, research has not clearly identified whether self-esteem moderates this link among adolescents who experience greater economic risk. Using data from two time points (i.e., six months apart), this study aims to provide a more complete understanding of whether, and under what conditions, rural adolescents’ educational expectations influence academic persistence. The participants consist of 631 adolescents (M_age = 13.34 years at T1), and all the adolescents are from families with rural household registrations. The results show that the interaction term of educational expectations and self-esteem significantly predicts academic persistence. Specifically, after controlling for baseline academic persistence, educational expectations positively predict later academic persistence for rural adolescents with lower self-esteem, and educational expectations do not significantly predict later academic persistence for those with higher self-esteem. This study reveals the protective role of self-esteem in rural adolescents. High self-esteem benefits rural adolescents by protecting them from the effects of lower educational expectations on academic persistence. This finding also emphasizes the importance of developing self-esteem interventions for rural adolescents with low educational expectations to prevent them from experiencing weaker academic persistence. Full article

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19 pages, 327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work–Family Interface Profiles and Their Associations with Personal and Social Factors among South Korean Dual-Earner Parents

by Yangmi Lim

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 887; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100887 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

The work–family interface literature has focused on a variable-centered approach, and few studies have used a person-centered approach to investigate work–family interface types and their associations with psychosocial factors. This study explored whether distinct work–family interface types could be identified at a dyadic [...] Read more.

The work–family interface literature has focused on a variable-centered approach, and few studies have used a person-centered approach to investigate work–family interface types and their associations with psychosocial factors. This study explored whether distinct work–family interface types could be identified at a dyadic level in dual-earner couples by combining work–family conflict (WFC) and enrichment (WFE) for both parents. It also examined how these couples’ comprehensive types of work–family interface were related to psychosocial outcomes. Conducting a latent profile analysis in a sample of 558 dual-earner couples (M_age: 40.43 ± 4.07 years for fathers, 37.97 ± 3.57 years for mothers) with first-grade children in elementary schools participating in the Panel Study on Korean Children, this study identified three work–family interface profiles: Beneficial fathers/Moderate active mothers (fathers reporting low WFC and high WFE/mothers reporting moderate WFC and WFE), Beneficial (both parents reporting low conflict and high enrichment), and Harmful (both parents reporting high conflict and low enrichment). Fathers’ education, household income, and social support influenced their membership in work–family interface profiles. Overall, members with Beneficial fathers/Moderate active mothers and Beneficial profiles showed more positive personal and family outcomes than those with Harmful profiles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Burnout, Mental Health and Work-Family Interface in Today’s Workplaces)

13 pages, 274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Intention, Behavioral Regulation, and Physical Activity Behavior in the Prediction of Physical Activity Identity across Time

by Colin M. Wierts, Edward Kroc and Ryan E. Rhodes

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 886; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100886 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

Physical activity identity represents an important determinant of sustained physical activity behavior. The purpose of this investigation was to examine whether intention, behavioral regulation, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) behavior explain significant variation in physical activity identity across time. Using a repeated measures [...] Read more.

Physical activity identity represents an important determinant of sustained physical activity behavior. The purpose of this investigation was to examine whether intention, behavioral regulation, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) behavior explain significant variation in physical activity identity across time. Using a repeated measures observational design, lower-active adults new or returning to physical activity participation (N = 66) completed measures of study variables every three weeks over the course of a nine-week period (four assessments total). Based on the results of mixed-effects regression modelling, there was a small, non-significant increase in physical activity identity across time (b = 0.07, p = 0.13). Intention, MVPA, and behavioral regulation mostly had significant (ps < 0.05) bivariate correlations with physical activity identity at the same time point of assessment. Behavioral regulation explained significant variation in physical activity identity across time (b = 0.26, p < 0.0001), but intention and MVPA were non-significant (ps > 0.05) after including a random intercept and controlling for behavioral regulation. Identity was resistant to change among new physical activity initiates in this study and longer time frames of assessment are needed (e.g., six months). Behavioral regulation should be examined as a determinant of physical activity identity in future investigations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Integrated Social Cognition Theories in Predicting and Changing Health Behavior)

17 pages, 3024 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Persuasive Effects of Crisis Communication during Public Health Emergency Outbreaks in China

by Ting Wu and Guang Yu

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100885 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

Major global public health emergencies face unprecedented challenges, such as an infodemic and scientific disputes, and governments especially need to implement fast and effective crisis communication. Firstly, this paper takes the Elaboration Likelihood Model as a framework and constructs a crisis communication persuasion [...] Read more.

Major global public health emergencies face unprecedented challenges, such as an infodemic and scientific disputes, and governments especially need to implement fast and effective crisis communication. Firstly, this paper takes the Elaboration Likelihood Model as a framework and constructs a crisis communication persuasion effect evaluation method with emotion analysis. Secondly, this paper takes the crisis communication at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak in China as an example and examines the persuasive effects of the peripheral route, represented by medical experts, and the central route, represented by mainstream media. This study finds that the peripheral route of persuasive communication can quickly establish communication trust and quickly change the public’s peripheral attitude, but the persuasive effect is unstable. The central route of persuasive communication demonstrates a significantly positive, stable, and anti-interference persuasive effect. Dual-subject persuasion is an important strategy for controlling an outbreak by rapidly establishing communication trust, combating an infodemic, boosting public confidence, and popularizing medical knowledge. This study evaluates the persuasive effects of crisis communication in the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in China, hoping to provide valuable practical references for crisis communication during the outbreak in future global public health emergencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)

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12 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conceptions of Consensual versus Non-Consensual Sexual Activity among Young People from Colombia

by Luis Enrique Prieto and Nieves Moyano

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 884; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100884 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

Conceptions or ideas that couples hold about sexual consent could be a key factor in their communication, mutual respect, and the prevention of sexual violence. The multifaceted nature of sexual consent makes it a complex concept. The aim of the present study was [...] Read more.

Conceptions or ideas that couples hold about sexual consent could be a key factor in their communication, mutual respect, and the prevention of sexual violence. The multifaceted nature of sexual consent makes it a complex concept. The aim of the present study was to explore individuals’ ideas and understanding of sexual intercourse in two distinct contexts: consensual and non-consensual. We used a qualitative approach, adopting the methodology of thematic analysis. In total, 113 surveys obtained from the general population (76.1% women and 23.9% men aged 18 to 59 years) were studied. Two open-ended questions were asked about the general topic of sexual consent, where we distinguished sexual activity in which there is sexual consent vs. no consent. The phases of the thematic analysis approach were applied. For the consensual context, the following themes emerged: mutual reciprocity and respect; open, clear communication and agreements; and awareness and emotional well-being. For the non-consensual context, the following themes emerged: violence and sexual assault, absence and ambiguity of sexual consent, and lack of communication. All of these aspects should be considered in couples’ communication and sexual education to facilitate and improve sexual relationships and, in turn, prevent violence and sexual aggression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Research on Sexual and Social Relationships)

23 pages, 921 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lookism, a Leak in the Career Pipeline? Career Perspective Consequences of Lookism Climate and Workplace Incivility

by Miren Chenevert, Cristian Balducci and Michela Vignoli

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100883 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

Despite strides toward gender equality in the workforce, women continue to face significant challenges, including the “glass ceiling” and the “leaky pipeline”, partially stemming from low occupational self-confidence. This study examined whether a climate of lookism leads to workplace mistreatment, undermining employees’ perceptions [...] Read more.

Despite strides toward gender equality in the workforce, women continue to face significant challenges, including the “glass ceiling” and the “leaky pipeline”, partially stemming from low occupational self-confidence. This study examined whether a climate of lookism leads to workplace mistreatment, undermining employees’ perceptions of job competence and career potential, with a focus on gender differences. Using a cross-sectional design, data from 699 Italian workers (42.8% male, 56.3% female) were analyzed through multi-group structural equation modeling. The model explored relationships between lookism climate, workplace incivility, imposter syndrome, and perceived employability. The results revealed a full serial mediation for women; lookism climate was positively related to workplace incivility, which in turn was related to imposter syndrome, negatively impacting perceived employability. For men, no serial mediation was found; lookism climate was directly related to both incivility and imposter syndrome, with no significant relationship between the two. Like women, men experienced a negative relationship between imposter syndrome and perceived employability, yet this relationship was stronger for men. This study highlights that identifying and addressing workplace climates that foster subtle mistreatment can prevent larger issues like the leaky pipeline, suggesting targeted organizational-level intervention and prevention strategies can enhance job competence perceptions and career potential for both genders. Full article

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

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19 pages, 774 KiB

Open AccessReview

Epigenetic Modifications and Neuroplasticity in the Pathogenesis of Depression: A Focus on Early Life Stress

by Bianca Maria Benatti, Alice Adiletta, Paola Sgadò, Antonio Malgaroli, Mattia Ferro and Jacopo Lamanna

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 882; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14100882 - 1 Oct 2024

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a debilitating mental illness, and it is considered to be one of the leading causes of disability globally. The etiology of MDD is multifactorial, involving an interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors. Early life represents a critical [...] Read more.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a debilitating mental illness, and it is considered to be one of the leading causes of disability globally. The etiology of MDD is multifactorial, involving an interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors. Early life represents a critical period for development. Exposure to adverse childhood experiences is a major contributor to the global burden of disease and disability, doubling the risk of developing MDD later in life. Evidence suggests that stressful events experienced during that timeframe play a major role in the emergence of MDD, leading to epigenetic modifications, which might, in turn, influence brain structure, function, and behavior. Neuroplasticity seems to be a primary pathogenetic mechanism of MDD, and, similarly to epigenetic mechanisms, it is particularly sensitive to stress in the early postnatal period. In this review, we will collect and discuss recent studies supporting the role of epigenetics and neuroplasticity in the pathogenesis of MDD, with a focus on early life stress (ELS). We believe that understanding the epigenetic mechanisms by which ELS affects neuroplasticity offers potential pathways for identifying novel therapeutic targets for MDD, ultimately aiming to improve treatment outcomes for this debilitating disorder. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Experimental and Clinical Neurosciences)

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