Behavioral Sciences

Research

Jump to: Review

15 pages, 1205 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Different Traditional Chinese Mind–Body Exercises on Learning Abilities, Executive Functions, and Brain Connectivity in Children with Learning Difficulties

by Xiaoyan Wang and Haojie Li

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030303 - 4 Mar 2025

Viewed by 230

Abstract

This study examines the effects of three traditional Chinese mind–body exercises—Tai Chi (TC), Baduanjin (BD), and Health Qigong Yijinjing (YJJ)—on learning abilities, executive functions, and prefrontal brain connectivity in children with learning difficulties. Seventy-two children (aged 9–11) with learning difficulties were randomly assigned [...] Read more.

This study examines the effects of three traditional Chinese mind–body exercises—Tai Chi (TC), Baduanjin (BD), and Health Qigong Yijinjing (YJJ)—on learning abilities, executive functions, and prefrontal brain connectivity in children with learning difficulties. Seventy-two children (aged 9–11) with learning difficulties were randomly assigned to TC, BD, YJJ, or a control group (CON). Intervention groups practiced for 12 weeks (45 min, three times per week), while the control group maintained their regular physical education. Assessments included Academic Performance Ranking (APR), Pupil Rating Scale (PRS), and executive functions. Granger causality analyses were conducted on the functional near-infrared spectroscopy data to derive the effective connectivity at the brain region levels. Post-intervention, all intervention groups showed significant improvements over the control group in PRS and APR scores (p < 0.05), with the TC group achieving higher PRS scores than the BD group. The TC group also demonstrated superior improvements in executive functions, particularly in inhibition and working memory. Additionally, the TC group exhibited significantly enhanced effective connectivity from the left and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex to Brodmann area 8, indicating improved brain communication. Traditional Chinese mind–body exercises, particularly Tai Chi, improve academic performance, executive functions, and prefrontal cortex connectivity in children with learning difficulties. Tai Chi demonstrates superior outcomes, supporting its potential as an effective intervention for cognitive and academic development. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 367 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mental Health and Lifestyle Factors Among Higher Education Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Raquel Simões de Almeida, Andreia Rodrigues, Sofia Tavares, João F. Barreto, António Marques and Maria João Trigueiro

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030253 - 23 Feb 2025

Viewed by 530

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the lifestyle factors and mental health levels among higher education students and identify their predictors. A cross-sectional study with a sample of 745 students was conducted with students from the Polytechnic of Porto using the Depression Anxiety Stress [...] Read more.

This study aimed to describe the lifestyle factors and mental health levels among higher education students and identify their predictors. A cross-sectional study with a sample of 745 students was conducted with students from the Polytechnic of Porto using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation (CORE)-18, and FANTASTICO Lifestyle Questionnaire. The findings indicate that while students generally exhibited a positive lifestyle, they also experienced mild levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, nearing the moderate threshold. The DASS-21 Depression subscale was a significant predictor of both CORE-18 and FANTASTICO scores, underscoring the strong relationship between depression and overall well-being. Anxiety and stress were also predictors of CORE-18 scores, reflecting the negative impact of stress on students’ psychological well-being. Perceived health status and the male sex were associated with better outcomes on the DASS-21 and CORE-18, while the female sex predicted a healthier lifestyle, as measured by FANTASTICO. These findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions that address mental health and promote healthy lifestyle choices in educational settings. Full article

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

14 pages, 1432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Family Functioning and Adolescent Mental Health: The Mediating Role of Bullying Victimization and Resilience

by Juan Zhang, Xiang Duan, Yiwen Yan, Yuxin Tan, Taimin Wu, Yaofei Xie, Bing Xiang Yang, Dan Luo and Lianzhong Liu

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 664; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14080664 - 1 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4350

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the current state of adolescent mental health, explore the mediating effect of bullying victimization and resilience in the relationship between adolescent family functioning and mental health, and investigate gender differences in this association. A total of 4319 students [...] Read more.

This study aimed to understand the current state of adolescent mental health, explore the mediating effect of bullying victimization and resilience in the relationship between adolescent family functioning and mental health, and investigate gender differences in this association. A total of 4319 students (2347 boys and 1972 girls) completed the questionnaire. Mediating effects were analyzed using the framework of structural equation modeling and bootstrapping. The results revealed that family functioning is significantly associated with adolescent mental health, and that bullying victimization and resilience have significant independent and chain mediating effects on this relationship. Multiple group analysis revealed that the independent mediating role of resilience was more significant for male adolescents. Furthermore, the chain-mediated effects of bullying victimization and resilience were observed only in the relationship between family functioning and mental health in male adolescents. To improve the mental health of adolescents, special attention should be given to the impact of family life on adolescents’ school life. Early detection and intervention for adolescents with poor family functioning are also important to effectively prevent bullying victimization and reduce the emergence of mental health problems. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 870 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Research Pressure on Depression Tendency among Chinese Doctoral Students: The Mediating Effect of Familial Financial Support

by Xiaoqing Xu, Guandong Song, Bin Xiao and Shuangjia Lin

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 662; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14080662 - 1 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1420

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to explore the impact of research pressure on depression tendency among Chinese doctoral students and analyze the mediating effect of familial financial support in this relationship. Methods: Based on the ecological systems theory, this study employs a mediating effect [...] Read more.

Objective: This study aims to explore the impact of research pressure on depression tendency among Chinese doctoral students and analyze the mediating effect of familial financial support in this relationship. Methods: Based on the ecological systems theory, this study employs a mediating effect model and OLS regression model for empirical analysis. Through an online questionnaire, 2815 valid data from Chinese doctoral students were successfully collected. Conclusion: The study finds that research pressure has a significant positive impact on depression tendency among doctoral students (t = 18.347, p < 0.01). Married doctoral students show relatively lower depression tendency, indicating a negative impact of marital status on depression tendency (t = 12.579, p < 0.01). In terms of gender, female doctoral students are more prone to depression compared to their male counterparts (t = −2.921, p < 0.01). Additionally, as the doctoral year progresses, depression tendency also tends to increase (t = 3.690, p < 0.01). Importantly, familial financial support is proven to be a significant mediator between research pressure and depression tendency, explaining 32.116% of the relationship. Suggestion: This study not only provides a multi-dimensional perspective for understanding the mental health issues of doctoral students but also offers a scientific basis for universities and related educational departments to formulate more precise mental health intervention strategies. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Psychoeducation on Attitudes toward Violence and Risky Behaviors among Refugee Adolescents

by Derya Atik, Ayşe İnel Manav and Edanur Tar Bolacalı

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070549 - 28 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1070

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the effect of psychoeducation on attitudes toward violence and risky behaviors among refugee adolescents. This was a randomized controlled experimental study conducted with refugee adolescents (n = 101) studying in a high school in southern Turkey. After [...] Read more.

This study was conducted to examine the effect of psychoeducation on attitudes toward violence and risky behaviors among refugee adolescents. This was a randomized controlled experimental study conducted with refugee adolescents (n = 101) studying in a high school in southern Turkey. After psychoeducation, it was determined that there was a significant decrease in the prevalence of antisocial behaviors, alcohol use, suicidal thoughts, unhealthy eating habits, and school dropout thoughts among adolescents according to the subdimensions of the risky behavior scale. Psychoeducation was found to be effective in reducing attitudes toward violence and preventing risky behaviors among refugee adolescents. Full article

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

10 pages, 263 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Comparison of Lifestyles, Mental Risks, and Physical Indices among Individuals with Ultra-High Risk of Psychosis, Patients with Schizophrenia, and the General Public

by Ching-Lun Tsai, Chi-Ming Chu, Hsien-Yuan Lane, Shiah-Lian Chen, Cheng-Hao Tu and Wei-Fen Ma

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 395; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050395 - 9 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1879

Abstract

(1) Background: Early interventions may effectively reduce the risk of mental disorders in individuals with ultra-high risk. Specifying the health needs of individuals with ultra-high risk is crucial before the implementation of successful early intervention. This study aimed to explore the differences in [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Early interventions may effectively reduce the risk of mental disorders in individuals with ultra-high risk. Specifying the health needs of individuals with ultra-high risk is crucial before the implementation of successful early intervention. This study aimed to explore the differences in lifestyles, mental risks, and physical indices among individuals with ultra-high risk, patients with schizophrenia, and healthy subjects. (2) Methods: A cross-section design applying seven questionnaires with physical examinations for 144 participants aged 13–45 years old was conducted in this study. The questionnaires included one about personal data, four on mental risks, and two for lifestyles. (3) Results: The individuals with ultra-high risk scored similarly in many dimensions as the patients with schizophrenia, but they displayed lower positive symptoms, lower negative symptoms, lower prodromal symptoms, higher interpersonal deficits, lower nutrition intake, and higher levels of exercise than the patients with schizophrenia. Female individuals with ultra-high risk had lower self-esteem, higher positive symptoms, lower nutrition intake, and higher exercise levels than male ones. (4) Conclusions: The study pinpointed specific health needs with interpersonal deficits, nutrition intake, and physical activity for the individuals with ultra-high risk. Future interventions targeted on improving social function, dietary pattern, and exercise will be beneficial. Full article

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

20 pages, 1995 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Coparenting Is Linked to Depression among Chinese Young Girls and Boys: Evidence from a Network Analysis

by Demao Zhao, Xin Gao, Wei Chen and Quan Zhou

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040297 - 4 Apr 2024

Viewed by 1496

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the relationship between parental coparenting and depression among Chinese young adolescents and potential gender differences via network analysis. Thus, 793 fourth-grade students (girls: 281 (35.40%), Mage = 9.99 years, SD = 0.59 years) were recruited from three primary [...] Read more.

This study aimed to explore the relationship between parental coparenting and depression among Chinese young adolescents and potential gender differences via network analysis. Thus, 793 fourth-grade students (girls: 281 (35.40%), Mage = 9.99 years, SD = 0.59 years) were recruited from three primary schools in Northern China. The young adolescents rated their depression and perceived paternal and maternal coparenting. Network analysis was used to detect the central nodes and bridge mechanisms among coparenting and depressive components. The results indicated that paternal and maternal consistency as well as maternal conflict were the most central components in the coparenting–depression network. Paternal consistency, maternal conflict and paternal disparagement in coparenting, as well as somatic complaints and positive affect in adolescents’ depression, exhibited high bridge strengths, suggesting those constructs served as vital bridges to connect the two subnetworks. Moreover, paternal consistency showed a higher bridge strength in the boys’ network than the girls’ one, whereas the edge linking adolescents’ positive affect to paternal disparagement and integrity was stronger in the girls’ network. This study contributes to the understanding of associations between parental coparenting and young adolescents’ depression and offered insights into targeted interventions for early adolescent depression by enhancing parental coparenting. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

15 pages, 670 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

Viewed by 1913

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)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Assessment and Intervention for Mental Health in Teenagers and Young Adults

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (8 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI