Behavioral Sciences

14 pages, 2919 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluation of Potential Developmental Precursors to Executive Function in Young Children with Motor Delays: Exploratory Study

by Andrea B. Cunha, Iryna Babik, Regina T. Harbourne, Stacey C. Dusing, Lin-Ya Hsu, Natalie A. Koziol, Sarah Westcott-McCoy, Sandra L. Willett, James A. Bovaird and Michele A. Lobo

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 1201; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14121201 - 14 Dec 2024

Viewed by 1005

Abstract

This study aimed to explore whether early developmental abilities are related to future executive function (EF) in children with motor delays. Fourteen children with motor delays (Mean age = 10.76, SD = 2.55) were included from a larger study. Object interaction and [...] Read more.

This study aimed to explore whether early developmental abilities are related to future executive function (EF) in children with motor delays. Fourteen children with motor delays (Mean age = 10.76, SD = 2.55) were included from a larger study. Object interaction and developmental outcomes (Bayley-III) were evaluated at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months post-baseline. Bayley-III and EF assessments (Minnesota Executive Function Scale) were conducted at 36 months post-baseline. Children with high EF demonstrated advanced early bimanual, visual–bimanual, receptive language, expressive language, and fine motor skills compared to children with low EF. Significant positive correlations between later Bayley-III and EF scores were found for cognitive, expressive language, and fine motor scores. These preliminary results suggest that early developmental skills support the emergence of EF in children with motor delays. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Early Sensorimotor Experiences in Cognitive Development)

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13 pages, 2787 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

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 - 14 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 925

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)

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11 pages, 1454 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Beyond the Whole: Reduced Empathy for Masked Emotional Faces Is Not Driven by Disrupted Configural Face Processing

by Sarah D. McCrackin and Jelena Ristic

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 850; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090850 - 20 Sep 2024

Viewed by 999

Abstract

Sharing of emotional states is reduced for individuals wearing face coverings, but the mechanism behind this reduction remains unknown. Here, we investigated if face occlusion by masks reduces empathy by disrupting configural processing of emotional faces. Participants rated their empathy for happy and [...] Read more.

Sharing of emotional states is reduced for individuals wearing face coverings, but the mechanism behind this reduction remains unknown. Here, we investigated if face occlusion by masks reduces empathy by disrupting configural processing of emotional faces. Participants rated their empathy for happy and neutral faces which were presented in upright or inverted orientation and wore opaque, clear, or no face masks. Empathy ratings were reduced for masked faces (opaque or clear) as well as for inverted faces. Importantly, face inversion disrupted empathy more for faces wearing opaque masks relative to those wearing clear or no masks, which stands in contrast to the predictions generated by the classic configural processing models. We discuss these data within the context of classic and novel configural face perception models, and highlight that studying inverted occluded faces presents an informative case worthy of further investigation. Full article

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

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33 pages, 5154 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

In-Person and Online Studies Examining the Influence of Problem Solving on the Fading Affect Bias

by Jeffrey Alan Gibbons, Sevrin Vandevender, Krystal Langhorne, Emily Peterson and Aimee Buchanan

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 806; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090806 - 11 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1346

Abstract

The fading affect bias (FAB) occurs in autobiographical memory when unpleasant emotions fade faster than pleasant emotions and the phenomenon appears to be a form of emotion regulation. As emotion regulation is positively related to problem solving, the current study examined FAB in [...] Read more.

The fading affect bias (FAB) occurs in autobiographical memory when unpleasant emotions fade faster than pleasant emotions and the phenomenon appears to be a form of emotion regulation. As emotion regulation is positively related to problem solving, the current study examined FAB in the context of problem solving. In-person and online studies asked participants to provide basic demographics, describe their problem-solving abilities, and rate various healthy and unhealthy variables, including emotional intelligence and positive problem-solving attitudes. Participants also completed an autobiographical event memory form for which they recalled and described two pleasant and two unpleasant problem-solving and non-problem-solving events and rated the initial and current affect and rehearsals for those events. We found a robust FAB effect that was larger for problem-solving events than for non-problem-solving events in Study 1 but not in Study 2. We also found that FAB was positively related to healthy variables, such as grit, and negatively related to unhealthy variables, such as depression. Moreover, many of these negative relations were inverted at high levels of positive problem-solving attitudes, and these complex interactions were partially mediated by talking rehearsals and thinking rehearsals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Finding Healthy Coping Mechanisms in Autobiographical Memory)

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15 pages, 1495 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Future Subjective Expectations on Cognitive Decline and Dementia among Middle-Aged and Older Adults

by Minsung Sohn, Xianhua Che and Hee-Jung Park

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 421; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050421 - 17 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1450

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of subjective expectations of the future (e.g., income, life expectancy, and national policies) on the onset of dementia and mild cognitive impairment by sex and age in middle-aged and older adults. The Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA) [...] Read more.

This study investigated the impact of subjective expectations of the future (e.g., income, life expectancy, and national policies) on the onset of dementia and mild cognitive impairment by sex and age in middle-aged and older adults. The Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA) data from 2008 to 2020, comprising 4116 people above 45 years, were used. A time-series analysis and multiple panel logistic regression were conducted to highlight subjective expectation trends and their effect on dementia and mild cognitive impairment, respectively. Low subjective expectations of the future negatively affected cognitive impairment (total: odds ratio [OR] = 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01–1.03) and dementia (total: OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.03–1.06), and those of national policies were the biggest risk factors for cognitive impairment (total: OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.12–1.22) and dementia (total: OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.07–1.13). Individuals about to retire and with low expectations of workability were more likely to develop cognitive impairment (total: OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.02–1.06). Subjective expectations of economic downturn also caused cognitive impairment, especially in women (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01–1.07) and early stage older adults (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.02–1.10). Policymakers must consider the impact of changes in national policies and living environments on cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellness and Well-Being of Older People)

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15 pages, 1334 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceSystematic Review

Is Formal Social Participation Associated with Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Adults? A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Longitudinal Studies

by Cláudia Cunha, Gina Voss, Renato Andrade and Alice Delerue-Matos

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040262 - 22 Mar 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2356

Abstract

This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to explore the association between formal social participation and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults using data from longitudinal studies. A comprehensive search was conducted in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science for longitudinal studies that [...] Read more.

This systematic review with meta-analysis aimed to explore the association between formal social participation and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults using data from longitudinal studies. A comprehensive search was conducted in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science for longitudinal studies that assessed the association between formal social participation and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults published between January 2010 to 19 August 2022. Risk of bias was judged using the RoBANS tool. Meta-analysis using a random-effects model was computed with odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for cognitive decline probability. Sensitivity analyses were made to explore any changes to the pooled statistical heterogeneity and pooled effect size. Certainty of evidence was judged using the GRADE framework. We included 15 studies comprising 136,397 participants from 5 countries. Meta-analyses showed that formal social participation was associated with reduced cognitive decline (OR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.75–0.82, p < 0.001), with very low certainty of evidence. Formal social participation appears to enhance cognition in middle-aged and older adults, but further high-quality research is needed given the very low certainty of evidence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellness and Well-Being of Older People)

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11 pages, 300 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Social Cognition and Mild Cognitive Impairment in Mid-Stage Parkinson’s Disease

by Roberto Fernández-Fernández, Guillermo Lahera, Beatriz Fernández-Rodríguez, Pasqualina Guida, Clara Trompeta, David Mata-Marín and Carmen Gasca-Salas

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(2), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14020101 - 29 Jan 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2546

Abstract

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a relevant non-motor feature in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Social cognition (SC) is a cognitive domain that refers to the ability to decode others’ intentions and to guide behavior in social contexts. We aimed to compare SC performance in [...] Read more.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a relevant non-motor feature in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Social cognition (SC) is a cognitive domain that refers to the ability to decode others’ intentions and to guide behavior in social contexts. We aimed to compare SC performance in mid-stage PD patients compared to a healthy population and according to their cognitive state. Fifty-two PD patients were classified as being cognitively normal (PD-CN) or having mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) following the Movement Disorder Society (MDS) Level II criteria. SC assessment included facial emotion recognition (FER), affective and cognitive theory of mind (ToM), and self-monitoring (RSMS test). Twenty-seven age-matched healthy controls (HC) were enrolled. PD-MCI patients scored worse than HC on affective and cognitive ToM task scores. Only cognitive ToM scores were significantly lower when compared with the PD-MCI and PD-CN groups. We found no differences in FER or self-monitoring performance. There were significant correlations between cognitive ToM and executive functions, memory, language, and attention, whereas FER and affective ToM correlated with memory. Our findings indicates that SC is normal in cognitively unimpaired and non-depressed mid-stage PD patients, whereas a decline in affective and cognitive ToM is linked to the presence of MCI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Geriatric Psychiatry)

10 pages, 457 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Prospective Mental Images: A Transdiagnostic Approach to Negative Affectivity and Mood Dysregulation among Borderline Personality Disorder and Depression

by Julia Kroener, Caroline Schaitz and Zrinka Sosic-Vasic

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(2), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14020081 - 23 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1791

Abstract

There is initial evidence that patients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) experience intrusive prospective mental images about non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). These images, in turn, are associated with the conduct of NSSI. As the negative emotional valence of intrusive images has been established [...] Read more.

There is initial evidence that patients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) experience intrusive prospective mental images about non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). These images, in turn, are associated with the conduct of NSSI. As the negative emotional valence of intrusive images has been established across clinical disorders, negative affectivity might play a key role linking mental imagery and psychopathology. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the possible mediating role of symptoms of depression as a proxy for negative affectivity linking intrusive prospective imagery to psychopathology in patients diagnosed with BPD. A total of 233 participants (84 diagnosed with MDD, 66 diagnosed with BPD, 83 healthy controls) completed questionnaires on negative affectivity (BDI-II) and prospective intrusive imagery (IFES-S). Before controlling for negative affectivity, there was a positive correlation between group and intrusive prospective imagery, indicating that healthy participants displayed lower amounts of intrusive prospective images in comparison to patients diagnosed with MDD or BPD. After entering negative affectivity as a mediator, the variable group was no longer associated with intrusive prospective images; however, negative affectivity showed a strong and positive relationship with the group on one side, and intrusive prospective imagery on the other, indicating that negative affectivity mediates the association between intrusive prospective images and clinical disorders. The presented findings point towards a mediating role of negative affectivity in the manifestation of intrusive prospective imagery, not only within BPD, but also in patients with MDD. The possibility of intrusive images acting as a transdiagnostic feature, where negative affectivity and mood dysregulation are at the core of the clinical disorder, are being discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric, Emotional and Behavioral Disorders)

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22 pages, 1830 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceSystematic Review

Benefits of Enacting and Observing Gestures on Foreign Language Vocabulary Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Luca Oppici, Brian Mathias, Susanne Narciss and Antje Proske

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(11), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13110920 - 10 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3130

Abstract

The integration of physical movements, such as gestures, into learning holds potential for enhancing foreign language (L2) education. Uncovering whether actively performing gestures during L2 learning is more, or equally, effective compared to simply observing such movements is central to deepening our understanding [...] Read more.

The integration of physical movements, such as gestures, into learning holds potential for enhancing foreign language (L2) education. Uncovering whether actively performing gestures during L2 learning is more, or equally, effective compared to simply observing such movements is central to deepening our understanding of the efficacy of movement-based learning strategies. Here, we present a meta-analysis of seven studies containing 309 participants that compares the effects of gesture self-enactment and observation on L2 vocabulary learning. The results showed that gesture observation was just as effective for L2 learning as gesture enactment, based on free recall, cued L2 recognition, and cued native language recognition performance, with a large dispersion of true effect across studies. Gesture observation may be sufficient for inducing embodied L2 learning benefits, in support of theories positing shared mechanisms underlying enactment and observation. Future studies should examine the effects of gesture-based learning over longer time periods with larger sample sizes and more diverse word classes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neurocognitive Foundations of Embodied Learning)

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14 pages, 634 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Caring for Dementia Caregivers: Psychosocial Factors Related to Engagement in Self-Care Activities

by Xinyao Lin, Jerad H. Moxley and Sara J. Czaja

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(10), 851; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13100851 - 18 Oct 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2538

Abstract

Caregivers often prioritize the needs of the care recipient and neglect their own health needs. It is imperative to understand the factors related to their self-care practices and engagement in self-care activities. The present study examined the extent to which dementia caregivers engaged [...] Read more.

Caregivers often prioritize the needs of the care recipient and neglect their own health needs. It is imperative to understand the factors related to their self-care practices and engagement in self-care activities. The present study examined the extent to which dementia caregivers engaged in self-care activities, how this varied depending on caregiver characteristics, and whether self-care engagement mediated the relationship between social support and caregiver outcomes. The study utilized baseline data from a diverse sample of dementia caregivers (N = 243) who participated in a randomized trial evaluating a psychosocial technology-based caregiver intervention. Results showed that the dementia caregivers engaged in low levels of self-care activities and that their engagement varied based on the caregivers’ background characteristics (age, gender, race/ethnicity, relationship to the care recipient, and employment status). Less caregiver involvement (e.g., less ADL/IADL help provided and more caregiver preparedness) and more social support predicted higher self-care activity engagement. Self-care activity engagement served as a mediator, such that more social support predicted more self-care activities, which, in turn, were associated with more positive perceptions of caregiving and less caregiver burden and depression. The findings suggest a need for interventions that promote self-care engagement among dementia caregivers and underscore the importance of social support and caregiver preparedness to caregivers’ well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellness and Well-Being of Older People)

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17 pages, 4469 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Neuroticism on Differences in Symptom Structure of Life Satisfaction and Depression-Anxiety among College Students: A Network Analysis

by Qihui Tang, Xiaoyan He, Liang Zhang, Xiangping Liu, Yanqiang Tao and Gang Liu

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(8), 641; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13080641 - 1 Aug 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4546

Abstract

Object: Numerous studies show that depression and anxiety have an adverse effect on life satisfaction among college students. Moreover, neuroticism affects depression, anxiety, and life satisfaction. Comparing the low-neuroticism and high-neuroticism groups, the current study used network analysis to examine the relationship between [...] Read more.

Object: Numerous studies show that depression and anxiety have an adverse effect on life satisfaction among college students. Moreover, neuroticism affects depression, anxiety, and life satisfaction. Comparing the low-neuroticism and high-neuroticism groups, the current study used network analysis to examine the relationship between depression, anxiety, and life satisfaction among college students. Methods: A sample consisted of 1233 college students from China who completed the Big Five Inventory-2 (BFI-2), Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), and Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS).All students were divided into two groups according to levels of neuroticism. Depression-anxiety symptom networks and flow networks were formed. Results: “Insomnia” (SAS19) and “Sleep disturbance” (SDS4) are bridge symptoms of groups with varying neuroticism. In addition, compared to the group with low levels of neuroticism, the group with high levels of neuroticism showed more depression symptoms in bridge symptoms and greater global strength. Many depression-anxiety symptoms are negatively associated with life satisfaction, and “Emptiness” (SDS18) is an important symptom in the high-neuroticism group’s flow network. Conclusion: This study contributes to our understanding of the connection between depression, anxiety, neuroticism, and life satisfaction. In addition, the current study identified the essential symptoms to target in depression and anxiety intervention and life satisfaction enhancement among college students. Full article

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

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21 pages, 2081 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Microbiome–Gut–Mucosal–Immune–Brain Axis and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A Novel Proposal of the Role of the Gut Microbiome in ASD Aetiology

by Amapola De Sales-Millán, José Félix Aguirre-Garrido, Rina María González-Cervantes and José Antonio Velázquez-Aragón

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(7), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13070548 - 30 Jun 2023

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7128

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by deficits in social interaction and communication, as well as restricted and stereotyped interests. Due of the high prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders in individuals with ASD, researchers have investigated the gut microbiota as [...] Read more.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by deficits in social interaction and communication, as well as restricted and stereotyped interests. Due of the high prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders in individuals with ASD, researchers have investigated the gut microbiota as a potential contributor to its aetiology. The relationship between the microbiome, gut, and brain (microbiome–gut–brain axis) has been acknowledged as a key factor in modulating brain function and social behaviour, but its connection to the aetiology of ASD is not well understood. Recently, there has been increasing attention on the relationship between the immune system, gastrointestinal disorders and neurological issues in ASD, particularly in relation to the loss of specific species or a decrease in microbial diversity. It focuses on how gut microbiota dysbiosis can affect gut permeability, immune function and microbiota metabolites in ASD. However, a very complete study suggests that dysbiosis is a consequence of the disease and that it has practically no effect on autistic manifestations. This is a review of the relationship between the immune system, microbial diversity and the microbiome–gut–brain axis in the development of autistic symptoms severity and a proposal of a novel role of gut microbiome in ASD, where dysbiosis is a consequence of ASD-related behaviour and where dysbiosis in turn accentuates the autistic manifestations of the patients via the microbiome–gut–brain axis in a feedback circuit. Full article

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

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9 pages, 879 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Career Calling, Courage, Flourishing and Satisfaction with Life in Italian University Students

by Anna Parola, Andrea Zammitti and Jenny Marcionetti

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(4), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13040345 - 20 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2461

Abstract

Career calling is defined as a positive resource promoting vocational development and well-being. The present study focuses on the relationships between career calling, courage and two indicators of well-being, i.e., flourishing and satisfaction with life. The sample consisted of 306 Italian university students [...] Read more.

Career calling is defined as a positive resource promoting vocational development and well-being. The present study focuses on the relationships between career calling, courage and two indicators of well-being, i.e., flourishing and satisfaction with life. The sample consisted of 306 Italian university students (118 males and 188 females) ranging from 18 to 30 years of age. A structural equation modeling (SEM) approach with latent variables was adopted. The results showed that courage plays a mediating role between career calling and well-being indicators. In light of these results, suggestions on the practical implications for career interventions to support university students are also addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue External Influences in Adolescents’ Career Development)

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15 pages, 462 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Pain Perceptions, Suffering and Pain Behaviours of Professional and Pre-Professional Dancers towards Pain and Injury: A Qualitative Review

by Andrew Soundy and Ja Yee Lim

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(3), 268; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13030268 - 17 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3175

Abstract

Limited data exist that describe the experiences of pain and injury in dancers. The purpose of the current study was to understand pain perceptions, suffering and pain behaviours associated with pre-professional and professional dancers and to consider the psychosocial factors that influence suffering, [...] Read more.

Limited data exist that describe the experiences of pain and injury in dancers. The purpose of the current study was to understand pain perceptions, suffering and pain behaviours associated with pre-professional and professional dancers and to consider the psychosocial factors that influence suffering, behaviour and perceptions of pain. A thematic synthesis review was undertaken in three stages: (1) A systematic search using pre-defined search terms was conducted until 17 November 2022. Qualitative studies were included if they captured dancers’ perceptions, experiences, or the behaviour of dancers towards pain and injury. (2) Quality appraisal and certainty assessments was performed. (3) A five-phase synthesis generated themes that included a certainty assessment score. Twelve studies with 290 dancers met the inclusion criteria. The aggregated mean age was identified as 28.5 years. No studies were excluded following the quality appraisal stage. Nine studies included professional ballet dancers. Three themes were developed: (1) developing positive and adapted perceptions and behaviours towards pain, (2) the impact and danger of embracing pain and the risk of injury and (3) factors that influenced the response to injury and the ability to perform. This review has highlighted the experiences of pre-professional and professional dancers towards pain and injury. Practical implications for healthcare professionals, employers, choreographers and dancers are provided. Further research is required given the limited evidence base. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Understanding the Experiences of Pharmacological and Non-pharmacological Interventions for Chronic Illnesses)

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18 pages, 656 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Relationship Dysfunction in Couples When One Partner Is Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder: Findings from a Pilot Study

by Julia Kroener, Caroline Schaitz, Alexander Karabatsiakis, Anna Maier, Bernhard Connemann, Elisa Schmied and Zrinka Sosic-Vasic

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(3), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13030253 - 13 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6620

Abstract

Relationship dysfunction—marked by frequent conflicts—is one of the hallmark features of borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, the BPD couple as a dyad and partner-related features have rarely been taken into account. The aim of the present study was to investigate hormonal, personality, and [...] Read more.

Relationship dysfunction—marked by frequent conflicts—is one of the hallmark features of borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, the BPD couple as a dyad and partner-related features have rarely been taken into account. The aim of the present study was to investigate hormonal, personality, and relationship relevant factors, such as relationship satisfaction, attachment, and trauma in both partners within a dyad where one partner is diagnosed with BPD. The total sample consisted of 26 heterosexual couples. All studies were conducted at 2 p.m. Primary outcomes: Neo-Five-Factor-Inventory, Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Experiences in Close Relationships Scale. Secondary outcomes: Problem List, Partnership Questionnaire, Questionnaire for Assessing Dyadic Coping. Upon questionnaire completion, one saliva sample was taken via passive drool to assess baseline cortisol and testosterone levels. Results showed that females with BPD have higher scores on childhood maltreatment, dysfunctional attachment styles, and neuroticism than mentally healthy females. Furthermore, they have more relationship-related problems and are less satisfied in their romantic relationship. Male partners of women with BPD showed lower testosterone levels, higher levels of childhood maltreatment, dysfunctional attachment styles, neuroticism, and openness compared with the healthy control partners. Furthermore, childhood trauma, neuroticism as well as dysfunctional attachment styles displayed a significant positive correlation with relationship-related problems. Traumatic childhood experiences, insecure attachment styles as well as neurotic personality characteristics contribute to increased relationship disruptions in couples. Relevant hormonal and psychosocial parameters in BPD partners should be taken into account when treating females with BPD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric, Emotional and Behavioral Disorders)

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11 pages, 639 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Humor Coping Reduces the Positive Relationship between Avoidance Coping Strategies and Perceived Stress: A Moderation Analysis

by Luca Simione and Camilla Gnagnarella

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(2), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13020179 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 10012

Abstract

Humor is considered an adaptive coping strategy as it could reduce the burden of perceived stress and increase positive emotional states when dealing with stressful situations. Humor has been reported in several models as a rather independent strategy that can be correlated with [...] Read more.

Humor is considered an adaptive coping strategy as it could reduce the burden of perceived stress and increase positive emotional states when dealing with stressful situations. Humor has been reported in several models as a rather independent strategy that can be correlated with both approach-based coping strategies and avoidance-based coping strategies. Humor can be defined as a hedonistic escapism strategy that would work better in the presence of unpredictable or uncontrollable stressors, such as the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and its related confinement measures. Therefore, during such a stressful event, humor would have increased the positive effect of the approach coping style on mental health and reduced the negative effect of the avoidance coping style. Based on this hypothesis, we conducted a cross-sectional study with a moderation analysis in which we assessed the interaction of humor with both approach-based and avoidance-based coping styles on perceived stress in a large sample of Italian participants collected in April and May 2021. Despite some limitations related to sampling and study design, the results obtained partially support our hypothesis, as we observed that humor had a significant moderating effect on the relationship between avoidance coping and psychological distress, with a reduction of perceived stress while using such a coping style in the presence of a medium to high level of humor. On the other hand, we did not observe a significant moderating effect of humor on the relationship between the approach coping style and perceived stress. In general, our results support the beneficial effect of humor on mental health and highlight a special role for humor as a moderator of other coping strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Positive Humor: New Insights and Perspectives)

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17 pages, 488 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Risk Decision Making and Executive Function among Adolescents and Young Adults

by Francisco Marquez-Ramos, David Alarcon, Josue G. Amian, Cristina Fernandez-Portero, Maria J. Arenilla-Villalba and Jose Sanchez-Medina

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(2), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13020142 - 8 Feb 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4196

Abstract

The dual theory establishes that the decision-making process relies on two different systems, the affective system and the executive function (EF), developed during adolescence. This study analyzes the relationship between the decision-making and EF processes in a group of early adolescents (mean age [...] Read more.

The dual theory establishes that the decision-making process relies on two different systems, the affective system and the executive function (EF), developed during adolescence. This study analyzes the relationship between the decision-making and EF processes in a group of early adolescents (mean age = 12.51 years, SD = 0.61), where more affective impulse processes are developed, and in young adults (mean age = 19.38 years, SD = 1.97), where cognitive control processes have already matured. For this purpose, 140 participants in Spain completed the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) to measure their risky decisions and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task (WCST) to measure their EF. Performance on the IGT improves over blocks; however, adolescents received lower mean scores than young adults. However, controlling for age, perseverative errors were negatively associated with the mean net score on the risky blocks of IGT; thus, those who committed more perseverative errors in the WCST were more likely to take cards from the disadvantageous decks on the last blocks of the IGT. The current study shows that adolescents and adults solve ambiguous decisions by trial and error; however, adolescents are more likely to make risky decisions without attending to the long-term consequences. Following the dual theory hypothesis, the maturation of EF with age partly accounts for this difference in risky decision-making between adolescents and adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Psychology)

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10 pages, 812 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Family Functioning and Suicide Attempts in Mexican Adolescents

by Francisco Alejandro Ortiz-Sánchez, Aniel Jessica Leticia Brambila-Tapia, Luis Shigeo Cárdenas-Fujita, Christian Gabriel Toledo-Lozano, María Alejandra Samudio-Cruz, Benjamín Gómez-Díaz, Silvia García, Martha Eunice Rodríguez-Arellano, Edgar Oswaldo Zamora-González and Luz Berenice López-Hernández

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(2), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13020120 - 1 Feb 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3346

Abstract

Suicide is considered a public health problem that affects families worldwide. Family functioning is the capability of the family system to fulfill needs during the stages of its development. In this study, we focused on evaluating family cohesion and adaptability in a group [...] Read more.

Suicide is considered a public health problem that affects families worldwide. Family functioning is the capability of the family system to fulfill needs during the stages of its development. In this study, we focused on evaluating family cohesion and adaptability in a group of adolescents who had attempted suicide and were hospitalized at a hospital for mental health disorders, compared to a control group. Methods: based on Olson’s circumplex model, we used the FACES III scale to gain insights into the family functioning of both suicidal and control groups. Results: The case group presented lower scores in cohesion and adaptability compared to the control group, with moderate effect-size for cohesion (Cohen’s d/r test = 1.217/0.52) and low effect-size for adaptability (Cohen’s d/r test = 0.746/0.35) (p < 0.001 for both variables), and also presented predominantly disengaged families (72.5% in the case group vs. 27.5% in the control group) and structured families (45% in the case group vs. 23.8% in the control group). The type of family described by the adolescents with a history of suicide attempts may explain the presence of low self-esteem and little emotional support usually present in this type of patient. Full article

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

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12 pages, 280 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Application of the COM–B Framework to Understand Facilitators and Barriers for Practising Physical Activity among Pregnant Women and Midwives Participating in the WELL-DONE! Study

by Sofia Marini, Rossella Messina, Alice Masini, Francesca Scognamiglio, Isotta Caravita, Vincenza Leccese, Giorgia Soldà, Dila Parma, Virginia Bertini, Lawrence Matthew Scheier and Laura Dallolio

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(2), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13020114 - 30 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3164

Abstract

Regular physical activity (PA) is protective and reduces disease burden but remains a challenge for pregnant women (PW). According to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, PW without contraindications should practice 150 min of moderate PA per week. Nonetheless, PA levels are concerningly [...] Read more.

Regular physical activity (PA) is protective and reduces disease burden but remains a challenge for pregnant women (PW). According to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, PW without contraindications should practice 150 min of moderate PA per week. Nonetheless, PA levels are concerningly low among PW. The aim of this study was to investigate PW’s and midwives’ perceptions regarding PA and recommended guidelines, and use this information to inform future health promotion strategies. We recruited 10 PW and 10 midwives to participate in online focus groups conducted between July 2020 and April 2021. Focus group probes and data analysis were guided by the COM–B (capability, opportunity, motivation–behaviour) framework. The majority of the sample had already practised PA, recognized the importance of PA during pregnancy, and considered the WHO guidelines reasonable. Notwithstanding, PW wanted more specific instruction on PA and desired opportunities to practice. Additional barriers reported by PW included low self-efficacy and lack of motivation. Midwives considered the lack of specific knowledge and confidence in managing PA as the main obstacles. The current findings suggest that PW and midwives need specific training in PA to overcome both psychological and physical barriers. Midwives play a vital role in educating and encouraging PA among PW. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity, Physical and Psychological Health 2.0)

13 pages, 2492 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Perception of Size and Mass Relationships of Moving and Stationary Object in Collision Events in 10-to-11-Month-Old Infants

by Nilihan E. M. Sanal-Hayes, Lawrence D. Hayes, Peter Walker, Jacqueline L. Mair and James Gavin Bremner

Behav. Sci. 2023, 13(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13010056 - 6 Jan 2023

Viewed by 2035

Abstract

Around 5.5–6.5 months of age, infants first attend to object size and perceive its mass cues in simple collision events. Infants attend to the size of the moving object and expect a greater displacement following a collision with a large object and stationary [...] Read more.

Around 5.5–6.5 months of age, infants first attend to object size and perceive its mass cues in simple collision events. Infants attend to the size of the moving object and expect a greater displacement following a collision with a large object and stationary object, and lesser displacement following a collision with a small object and stationary object. It has been proposed that infants of 6-to-7 months of age can differentiate between sizes of moving objects but do not perceive the size and mass relationships in simple collision events. The present two investigations aimed to investigate whether infants 10-to-11 months of age (N = 16) could perceive this relationship (experiment 1) and the reverse of this relationship (experiment 2) utilising the looking time paradigm. The reverse of this relationship entailed the circumstances in which the moving object size was kept constant, but the stationary object size varied (small or large). Results from these experiments revealed that infants did not differ in their looking times for size congruent and size incongruent distances in both conditions. Infants did not look longer at the incongruent test events that violated expectation. For that reason, we conclude infants of 10-to-11 months of age were unable to perceive size and mass associations in collision events in either direction (moving object or stationary object size). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Psychology)

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12 pages, 275 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Personality as a Possible Intervention Target to Prevent Traumatic Events in Adolescence

by Lucinda Grummitt, Emma Barrett, Erin V. Kelly, Lexine Stapinski and Nicola Newton

Behav. Sci. 2022, 12(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12040090 - 25 Mar 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4165

Abstract

Traumatic events (severe injury, violence, threatened death) are commonly experienced by children. Such events are associated with a dose-response increasing risk of subsequent substance use, mental illness, chronic disease, and premature mortality. Preventing the accumulation of traumatic events is thus an urgent public [...] Read more.

Traumatic events (severe injury, violence, threatened death) are commonly experienced by children. Such events are associated with a dose-response increasing risk of subsequent substance use, mental illness, chronic disease, and premature mortality. Preventing the accumulation of traumatic events is thus an urgent public health priority. Substance use risk personality profiles (impulsivity, sensation seeking, hopelessness, and anxiety sensitivity) may be an important target for preventing trauma exposure, given associations between these personality traits and risky behaviour, substance misuse, and injuries across adolescence. The current study aimed to investigate associations between personality at age 13 and the number of traumatic events experienced by age 18. It also examined associations between traumas before age 13 and personality at age 13. Participants were the control group of a cluster-randomised controlled trial examining prevention of adolescent alcohol misuse. Baseline data were collected at ages 12–13 (2012). Participants were followed-up at ages 18–19 (2017–2018). Personality profiles of hopelessness, anxiety sensitivity, impulsivity, and sensation seeking were measured at baseline using the Substance Use Risk Profile Scale. Traumatic events and age of exposure were measured at age 18–19 using the Life Events Checklist for DSM-5. Mixed-effect regression was conducted on 287 participants in Stata 17, controlling for sex. High scores on hopelessness, impulsivity, and sensation seeking at age 13 were associated with a greater number of traumatic events by age 18. Impulsivity and sensation seeking predicted the number of new traumatic events from age 13 to 18. Prior trauma exposure was associated with high hopelessness at age 13. Adolescents exhibiting high impulsivity or sensation seeking may be at greater risk of experiencing traumatic events. Additionally, early trauma exposure may contribute to the development of a hopelessness personality trait. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personality, Intervention and Psychological Treatment)

11 pages, 460 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Association of the Gut Microbiota with Clinical Features in Schizophrenia

by Annamarie Nocera and Henry A. Nasrallah

Behav. Sci. 2022, 12(4), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12040089 - 25 Mar 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 7485

Abstract

The connection between gut microbiota and schizophrenia has become a fertile area of research. The relationship is bidirectional and quite complex, but is likely to lead to practical clinical applications. For example, commensal microbiota have been shown to produce inflammatory metabolites that can [...] Read more.

The connection between gut microbiota and schizophrenia has become a fertile area of research. The relationship is bidirectional and quite complex, but is likely to lead to practical clinical applications. For example, commensal microbiota have been shown to produce inflammatory metabolites that can cross the blood–brain barrier—a possible neurobiological precursor of psychosis. Antipsychotics that treat these individuals have been shown to alter gut microbiota. On the other hand, life style in schizophrenia, such as diet and decreased exercise, can be disruptive to the normal microbiome diversity. In the present paper, we conduct a review of PubMed literature focusing on the relationship of gut microbiota with clinical symptoms of schizophrenia, which, to our knowledge, has not yet been reviewed. Numerous clinical characteristics were identified correlating to gut microbial changes, such as violence, negative symptoms, treatment resistance, and global functioning. The most consistently demonstrated correlations to gut microbial changes across studies were for the overall symptom severity and negative symptom severity. Although numerous studies found changes in these domains, there is much variability between the bacteria that change in abundance between studies, likely due to the regional and methodological differences between studies. The current literature shows promising correlations between gut microbiota profiles and several clinical features of schizophrenia, but initial studies require replication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Where Are We in Understanding Schizophrenia? From Bench to Bedside and Back)

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12 pages, 246 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Longitudinal Examination of Real-World Sedentary Behavior in Adults with Schizophrenia-Spectrum Disorders in a Clinical Trial of Combined Oxytocin and Cognitive Behavioral Social Skills Training

by Julia Browne, Philip D. Harvey, Robert W. Buchanan, Deanna L. Kelly, Gregory P. Strauss, James M. Gold, Jason L. Holden and Eric Granholm

Behav. Sci. 2022, 12(3), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12030060 - 23 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3853

Abstract

Sedentary behavior contributes to a shortened life expectancy in individuals with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (SSDs), highlighting the need for effective interventions to improve health. This study examined whether reduced ecological momentary assessment (EMA) measures of sedentary activities were observed in individuals with SSDs who [...] Read more.

Sedentary behavior contributes to a shortened life expectancy in individuals with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (SSDs), highlighting the need for effective interventions to improve health. This study examined whether reduced ecological momentary assessment (EMA) measures of sedentary activities were observed in individuals with SSDs who participated in a 24-week randomized trial of cognitive behavioral social skills training (CBSST) and either intranasal oxytocin or placebo (NCT01752712). Participants (n = 57) were prompted with EMA surveys seven times per day for seven days during the baseline, 12-week, and 24-week timepoints to sample sedentary behavior ratings, positive and negative affect, interpersonal interactions, and interpersonal interaction appraisals. Results revealed that sedentary behavior and social interactions did not significantly change over the 24-week clinical trial; however, positive and negative affect and defeatist interaction appraisals improved with treatment, and oxytocin produced modest additional improvements in these EMA outcomes. Greater momentary positive affect was significantly associated with greater activity and greater frequency of interactions. Overall, CBSST was effective at improving functioning, momentary affect, and defeatist interaction appraisals, although it did not reduce sedentary behavior; therefore, targeting these factors is not sufficient to reduce sedentary behavior, and adjunct interventions are needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Behaviors and Outcomes across the Schizophrenia-Spectrum)

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