Behavioral Sciences

21 pages, 476 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unraveling the Longitudinal Relationships Among Parenting Stress, Preschoolers’ Problem Behavior, and Risk of Learning Disorder

by Jie Huang, Dongqing Yu, Xiaoxue Tang, Yili Xu, Xiao Zhong and Xiaoqian Lai

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 785; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060785 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Problem behaviors and the risk of learning disorders in early childhood carry significant implications for children’s future development. Understanding the relationship between parenting stress and these developmental outcomes may inform the design of effective interventions to promote healthy child development. The present longitudinal [...] Read more.

Problem behaviors and the risk of learning disorders in early childhood carry significant implications for children’s future development. Understanding the relationship between parenting stress and these developmental outcomes may inform the design of effective interventions to promote healthy child development. The present longitudinal study investigated the association between parenting stress and preschoolers’ risk of learning disorders, specifically focusing on the mediating role of problem behaviors. Data were collected at two time points, approximately 6 months apart, from 284 preschool-aged children and their parents (mean age of children at Time 1 = 56.64 months; 53.17% of them were girls). Parents completed standardized assessments of parenting stress, children’s problem behaviors, and the risk of learning disorders. An autoregressive cross-lagged panel model within a half-longitudinal framework was employed to test the hypothesized mediation model. Results revealed that parenting stress had a direct effect on both children’s problem behaviors and their risk of learning disorders. Moreover, children’s problem behaviors partially mediated the longitudinal association between parenting stress and learning disorder risk. Specifically, the indirect effect size was statistically significant (β = 0.022, p = 0.025), indicating that increased parenting stress contributed to approximately a 2.2% increase in the risk of learning disorders through elevated problem behaviors. Theoretically, these findings underscore the critical role of child behavioral adjustment as a mechanism through which parenting stress may influence developmental risk. The results highlight the potential benefits of reducing parenting stress and addressing children’s behavioral difficulties to prevent early learning problems. However, the study relied exclusively on parent-reported data, which may introduce shared method variance and reporting bias; future research should incorporate multiple informants and objective behavioral assessments. Full article

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19 pages, 272 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Treating Complex Trauma in Adolescence: A Case Study of Brief Focal Psychotherapy After Vicarious Gender Violence and Child Abuse

by Georgina Rosell-Bellot, Eva Izquierdo-Sotorrío, Ana Huertes-del Arco, María Rueda-Extremera and Elena Brenlla

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060784 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study aims to illustrate the impact of accumulated traumatic experiences in adolescence and to evaluate the potential of brief focal psychotherapy (BFP) as a treatment approach for complex trauma. We present the case of a 14-year-old boy who experienced vicarious gender-based violence, [...] Read more.

This study aims to illustrate the impact of accumulated traumatic experiences in adolescence and to evaluate the potential of brief focal psychotherapy (BFP) as a treatment approach for complex trauma. We present the case of a 14-year-old boy who experienced vicarious gender-based violence, child abuse, early maternal separation without alternative secure attachment figures, and forced sudden migration. The patient exhibited symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex trauma. The culturally sensitive intervention, delivered at a public child and adolescent mental health center, consisted of twenty weekly individual sessions of 45 min each, complemented by three 45 min psychoeducation sessions with the caregiver. The assessment was conducted using a multitrait and multi-informant approach, systematically gathering information across multiple domains of functioning (emotional–behavioral, physical, cognitive, self-perception, and relational) and from different sources (the adolescent, his mother, and the clinician) through clinical interviews, projective techniques, and parental feedback. The primary therapeutic focus was the establishment of a secure therapeutic alliance to facilitate emotional exploration and trauma processing. Following treatment, the patient demonstrated significant improvements in emotional regulation, family relationships, and school performance, as measured by both self-report and parental observations. This case highlights the potential of BFP in addressing complex trauma in adolescents, particularly during a developmental stage marked by increased vulnerability to the effects of chronic trauma exposure. The findings suggest that BFP can effectively reduce both acute symptomatology and broader psychosocial consequences associated with prolonged and cumulative trauma. Further research, particularly controlled studies and longitudinal follow-ups, is needed to refine and optimize the use of BFP by mental health professionals working with adolescents affected by complex trauma. Full article

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

12 pages, 489 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Change in Stress Among Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions and Low Health Literacy Using a Tailored Communication App Promoting Self-Management

by Raymond L. Ownby and Joshua Caballero

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 783; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060783 - 6 Jun 2025

Abstract

Chronic disease self-management (CDSM) is critical for improving health outcomes, particularly for individuals with low health literacy who face barriers in accessing and understanding medical information. This study examined the role of tailored digital health interventions in reducing stress and improving quality of [...] Read more.

Chronic disease self-management (CDSM) is critical for improving health outcomes, particularly for individuals with low health literacy who face barriers in accessing and understanding medical information. This study examined the role of tailored digital health interventions in reducing stress and improving quality of life among individuals with chronic conditions. A multisite randomized controlled trial including 309 participants at baseline aged 40 to 90 years was conducted using a mobile app that provided self-management information at different literacy levels. Latent growth curve modeling (LGM) computed in Mplus was used to assess changes in stress over time and its impact on quality of life. The results indicated that successful tailoring of health information was significantly associated with reductions in perceived stress, which, in turn, predicted improvements in quality of life. These findings suggest that personalized digital interventions may enhance engagement with self-management strategies, alleviate psychological distress, and contribute to better overall well-being. This study highlights the importance of tailoring health content to users’ literacy levels and informational needs, underscoring the potential of mobile health solutions for improving CDSM. Future research should explore additional mechanisms underlying these effects and assess the long-term sustainability of digital interventions in diverse populations. These results provide valuable insights into optimizing mobile health applications to support individuals with chronic conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Providing Emotional Support for People with Chronic Diseases)

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20 pages, 722 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multicultural Interactions Decrease the Tendency to View Any Act as Unambiguously Wrong: The Moderating Role of Moral Flexibility

by Liying Jiao, Ying Yang and Yan Xu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 782; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060782 - 5 Jun 2025

Abstract

In four studies, we tested whether individuals’ multicultural experiences influenced their moral judgment. Study 1 found that people’s moral judgments became more lenient after participating in short-term overseas visiting programs using a longitudinal method. Studies 2 and 3 established both correlational and experimental [...] Read more.

In four studies, we tested whether individuals’ multicultural experiences influenced their moral judgment. Study 1 found that people’s moral judgments became more lenient after participating in short-term overseas visiting programs using a longitudinal method. Studies 2 and 3 established both correlational and experimental evidence that multicultural interactions (in-depth interactions with multiple cultures)—but not multicultural exposure (superficial exposure to multiple cultures)—predicted less harsh moral judgments. Study 4 explored the psychological mechanism and found that individuals’ moral flexibility moderated the effect of multicultural interactions on moral judgment. Specifically, multicultural interactions reduced the tendency to judge behaviors as unambiguously wrong for individuals with high moral flexibility, while for individuals with low moral flexibility, multicultural interactions did not predict moral judgments. Overall, we found that multicultural interactions readily influenced individuals’ moral judgments, and individuals’ moral character (i.e., moral flexibility) moderated this effect. These results shed light on how moral judgments are influenced by globalization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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12 pages, 259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dark Triad Traits, Sex, and Social Desirability as Predictors of Non-Consensual Intimate Media Sharing Proclivity, Enjoyment, and Approval in UK University Students

by Charlotte Kite, Anthony Murphy and Melissa F. Colloff

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060781 - 5 Jun 2025

Abstract

Non-consensual intimate media sharing (NCIMS)—defined as the non-consensual sharing of sexually explicit images or videos—has notably increased in recent years, despite legislative actions to tackle this. This study aimed to investigate whether the Dark Triad traits of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy—as well as [...] Read more.

Non-consensual intimate media sharing (NCIMS)—defined as the non-consensual sharing of sexually explicit images or videos—has notably increased in recent years, despite legislative actions to tackle this. This study aimed to investigate whether the Dark Triad traits of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy—as well as sex and social desirability—predicted NCIMS proclivity, enjoyment, and approval in UK university students. A total of 653 participants were recruited through Prolific, the University of Birmingham survey circle, and social media. All participants completed various measures to assess self-reported levels of Dark Triad traits, social desirability, and NCIMS proclivity, enjoyment, and approval. The results showed that the models for each multiple linear regression (NCIMS proclivity, enjoyment, and approval) were statistically significant, though only certain variables were independent predictors for each regression. For proclivity, only psychopathy independently added to the prediction. For enjoyment, significant predictors were sex, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. For approval, only Machiavellianism added statistically to the prediction. This research adds to the growing literature base around NCIMS, specifically within university students in the UK, and provides strong evidence for the development and implementation of interventions designed to address the likelihood of individuals perpetrating NCIMS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contemporary Developments in Attitudes and Interactions with Victims of Crime)

17 pages, 572 KiB

Open AccessReview

Best Practices for Teaching Psychotherapy to Medical Students: A Scoping Review

by Marie-Hélène Garon, Geneviève Létourneau, David Caron, Léa Renaud-Cloutier, Marie Désilets and Alexandre Hudon

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060780 - 5 Jun 2025

Abstract

Psychotherapy is an essential component of mental healthcare, yet its formal instruction within medical curricula remains underdeveloped. This scoping review aimed to map the best practices for teaching psychotherapy to medical students by examining the types of psychotherapy covered and the teaching strategies [...] Read more.

Psychotherapy is an essential component of mental healthcare, yet its formal instruction within medical curricula remains underdeveloped. This scoping review aimed to map the best practices for teaching psychotherapy to medical students by examining the types of psychotherapy covered and the teaching strategies employed. A systematic search was conducted across the PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and Google Scholar databases without time restrictions, and studies were selected if they focused on psychotherapy education for medical students. Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings revealed that multimodal approaches, combining didactic sessions, experiential learning, clinical exposure and digital content, were the most commonly used and pedagogically effective strategies. Role play and clinical exposition were particularly valued for enhancing communication skills, empathy and therapeutic understanding, while e-learning emerged as a flexible but less frequently used tool. Motivational interviewing was the most frequently taught psychotherapeutic modality, followed by mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychodynamic approaches. Although the overall quality of studies was moderate to high, the heterogeneity in study design and outcome measures limited direct comparisons. These results highlight the need for standardized, experiential and integrated teaching strategies to better prepare future physicians for incorporating psychotherapy principles into clinical practice. Full article

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25 pages, 325 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AI Personalization and Its Influence on Online Gamblers’ Behavior

by Florin Mihai, Ofelia Ema Aleca and Daniel-Marius Iordache

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 779; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060779 - 4 Jun 2025

Abstract

Technological advancements in algorithmic personalization are widely believed to influence user behavior on online gambling platforms. This study explores how such developments, potentially including AI-driven mechanisms, may affect cognitive and motivational processes, especially in relation to risk perception, decision-making, and betting persistence. Using [...] Read more.

Technological advancements in algorithmic personalization are widely believed to influence user behavior on online gambling platforms. This study explores how such developments, potentially including AI-driven mechanisms, may affect cognitive and motivational processes, especially in relation to risk perception, decision-making, and betting persistence. Using ordinary least squares (OLS) and panel regression models applied to behavioral data from a gambling platform, we examine patterns that are consistent with increased personalization between two distinct time periods, 2016 and 2021. The datasets do not contain any direct metadata regarding AI interventions. However, we interpret changes in user behavior over time as indicative of evolving personalization dynamics within a broader technological and contextual landscape. Accordingly, our conclusions about algorithmic personalization are inferential and exploratory, drawn from temporal comparisons between 2016 and 2021. Our findings show that users receiving personalized bonuses or making early cash-out decisions tend to adjust their stake sizes and betting frequency in systematic ways, which may reflect indirect effects of technological reinforcement strategies. These behavioral patterns raise important ethical and regulatory questions, particularly regarding user autonomy, algorithmic transparency, and the protection of at-risk users. This research contributes to the literature on digital behavior influencing gambling by framing the analysis as observational and quasi-experimental and suggests that further studies use experimental and log-level data to more specifically analyze the algorithmic effects. However, no causal claims can be made about AI influence as the temporal contradictions are interpreted as broad phenomena of technological developments, since they are not measured as algorithmic interventions. Further studies should also investigate the development of predictive models aimed at countering gambling addiction; evaluate the long-term ethical implications of algorithmic personalization; and discuss potential solutions codeveloped to foster a responsible gambling climate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Technology on Human Behavior)

17 pages, 864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Promotion of Healthy Habits in Adolescents: An Interdisciplinary Study on Motivation Towards Physical Education, Mediterranean Diet and Physical Activity

by Paula San Martín González, José Enrique Moral García, Mario Amatria Jiménez and Rubén Arroyo del Bosque

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060778 - 4 Jun 2025

Abstract

Adolescence is a key period for the development and consolidation of habits that favour a healthy and active lifestyle. The promotion of healthy habits in this critical period of development is essential to ensure a better quality of life and the prevention of [...] Read more.

Adolescence is a key period for the development and consolidation of habits that favour a healthy and active lifestyle. The promotion of healthy habits in this critical period of development is essential to ensure a better quality of life and the prevention of chronic diseases in the long term. This study aims to analyse how physical activity (PA) and adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) influence motivation towards physical education (PE) in adolescents. It also aims to explore gender differences and provide information that will allow the design of educational strategies to promote healthy lifestyle habits in schools. Method: descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study. An ad hoc socio-demographic questionnaire, the Physician-based Assessment and Counselling for Exercise, the KIDMED Mediterranean diet adherence questionnaire and the motivation in Physical Education questionnaire were administered in the school environment under direct supervision of the researchers to minimise biases in self-perception. Results: Students with higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet showed higher intrinsic motivation towards physical education (F = 5.133, p < 0.01), while those with lower adherence showed higher demotivation (F = 5.507, p < 0.01). Conclusions: The findings suggest the need to reinforce physical activity and nutrition education programmes in adolescents, promoting interdisciplinary approaches to increase adherence to healthy lifestyles. Full article

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

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14 pages, 722 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anxiety in Outdoor Experiential Education: Examining Predictors, Sources, and Implications for Program Design

by Curt Davidson, Hannah McConnell, Kelsie Sibbald, Brian Croft and Ryan Zwart

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 777; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060777 - 4 Jun 2025

Abstract

Pre-trip anxiety is a critical yet understudied factor influencing participation and engagement in Outdoor Experiential Education (OEE) programs. Anxiety can serve as both a motivator and a barrier, shaping participants’ willingness to engage in challenging activities. This study examines the sources, predictors, and [...] Read more.

Pre-trip anxiety is a critical yet understudied factor influencing participation and engagement in Outdoor Experiential Education (OEE) programs. Anxiety can serve as both a motivator and a barrier, shaping participants’ willingness to engage in challenging activities. This study examines the sources, predictors, and temporal progression of pre-trip anxiety among OEE participants, with a focus on experience level, gender differences, and activity type. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from students and staff at two Midwestern universities across three time points leading to an OEE program. Measures included the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and a course-specific worry scale assessing concerns such as physical ability, social dynamics, and environmental risks. Results indicate that experience level can predict anxiety, with less experienced participants reporting higher levels of concern. Gender differences were also observed, with female participants exhibiting greater pre-trip anxiety, particularly in water-based activities. However, anxiety remained relatively stable across time intervals, suggesting that interventions may be effective at multiple stages before a program begins. These findings have practical implications for OEE design, including targeted pre-trip interventions, adjusted program marketing, and tailored support strategies to reduce barriers to participation and enhance student preparedness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and the Natural Environment)

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17 pages, 347 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Dynamic Perspective on Changes in Conscientiousness, Academic Performance and the Role of Parental Academic Expectations in Chinese High School Students: A Longitudinal Study Across 2 Years

by Xing Ma, Guanjun Li, Chunquan Liu and Lei Wang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 776; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060776 - 4 Jun 2025

Abstract

While static conscientiousness is known to predict academic success, personality can be particularly dynamic during adolescence. This study adopted a unique change-oriented perspective to examine the longitudinal relationship between within-person changes in conscientiousness and changes in academic performance among Chinese high school students, [...] Read more.

While static conscientiousness is known to predict academic success, personality can be particularly dynamic during adolescence. This study adopted a unique change-oriented perspective to examine the longitudinal relationship between within-person changes in conscientiousness and changes in academic performance among Chinese high school students, while also exploring the moderating role of changes in parental academic expectations. Four waves of longitudinal data were collected from 453 students (265 males, Mage = 15.42, SD = 0.76), with each wave spaced 6 months apart. Results indicated that the changes in conscientiousness (T2-T1) predicted the changes in academic performance (T4-T3) through the changes in academic engagement (T3-T2). However, the moderating effect of changes in parental academic expectations on the relationship between changes in conscientiousness and academic engagement was not significant. These findings go beyond static trait approaches by illustrating how dynamic changes in personality relate to evolving academic outcomes via engagement during the crucial high school years. The study highlights the importance of a dynamic perspective on personality, particularly within the developmental context of adolescence, and offers implications for interventions targeting both student traits and parental support in the Chinese educational context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Academic Performance: Understanding Complex Student Outcomes Through an Integrative Lens)

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21 pages, 672 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cogito, Ergo Contraho: Think Big or Think Small? How Construal Level Theory Shapes Creative Agreements

by Hyeran Choi

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 775; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060775 - 4 Jun 2025

Abstract

Creativity is a vital element for successful negotiation and positive business outcomes. However, a complete understanding of how different thinking styles shape creative agreements is still developing in research. This study examines how broad and detailed thinking affects the ability to create inventive [...] Read more.

Creativity is a vital element for successful negotiation and positive business outcomes. However, a complete understanding of how different thinking styles shape creative agreements is still developing in research. This study examines how broad and detailed thinking affects the ability to create inventive deals, with a particular focus on construal level theory. While past research has often highlighted abstract thinking as the main way to be creative, this study shows that both abstract and concrete thinking contribute to making creative deals but in different ways. For example, Study 1 looks at how concrete thinking helps in forming creative agreements, tested with 114 undergraduate students in a laboratory experiment. This challenges the common idea that concrete thinking limits new ideas. Study 2 then explores the benefits of thinking that combines different viewpoints, where negotiators can skillfully switch between abstract and concrete ways of thinking, tested with 96 students in another laboratory experiment. Across two experiments, mediation analyses were conducted to examine the hypothesized relationships. Findings indicate that cognitive flexibility—the ability to switch thinking styles—benefits both idea generation and specific problem-solving. This study’s implications span negotiation strategies, fostering organizational creativity, and developing flexible thinking approaches for problem-solving. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue An Interdisciplinary Look at the Psychology and Neuroscience of Creativity)

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25 pages, 443 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Within My Walls, I Escape Being Underestimated: A Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis of Stigma and Help-Seeking in Dementia

by Marco Brigiano, Lara Calabrese, Ilaria Chirico, Sara Trolese, Martina Quartarone, Ludovica Forte, Alice Annini, Martino Belvederi Murri and Rabih Chattat

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 774; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060774 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Dementia-related stigma significantly influences help-seeking and affects the quality of care and support received by people with the condition. This review examines the impact of stigma on help-seeking among people with dementia and identifies key factors influencing this relationship. A systematic search across [...] Read more.

Dementia-related stigma significantly influences help-seeking and affects the quality of care and support received by people with the condition. This review examines the impact of stigma on help-seeking among people with dementia and identifies key factors influencing this relationship. A systematic search across Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Scopus identified seventeen qualitative studies that met the inclusion criteria. These criteria encompassed studies focusing on individuals aged 60 and older addressing public- or self-stigma and exploring help-seeking behaviors and related influencing factors. A thematic synthesis was employed to analyze the findings. The following five major themes emerged: reluctance to disclose the condition, internalization or rejection of stigmatizing beliefs, influence of family and community, attitudes of healthcare professionals, and lack of awareness in the broader society. Factors such as psychological decline, loss of autonomy, limited service access, peer support, and need for policy-level intervention were identified as central in shaping stigma. Findings related to the factors that influence this relationship indicate that stigma delays diagnosis and treatment, restricting access to adequate care. Both individual (e.g., autonomy, psychological well-being) and contextual (e.g., social networks, public policies) factors are crucial in moderating this dynamic. Targeted interventions addressing these dimensions are urgently needed to reduce stigma and facilitate timely help-seeking in dementia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychosocial Care and Support in Dementia)

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17 pages, 295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Analysis of the Factors Associated with the Seasonal Variability of Physical Activity in Natural Environments in a Sample of Lithuanian Adults

by Rasa Jankauskiene and Migle Baceviciene

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060773 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Engagement in physical activity (PA) in natural environments is known to promote physical and psychological well-being, yet little is known about how such activity fluctuates across seasons and how it relates to individual characteristics and quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Engagement in physical activity (PA) in natural environments is known to promote physical and psychological well-being, yet little is known about how such activity fluctuates across seasons and how it relates to individual characteristics and quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess the seasonal variability of PA in nature and examine its associations with sociodemographic factors, nature-related experiences, and overall QoL in a sample of Lithuanian adults. A total of 924 participants (680 women and 244 men) with a mean age of 40.0 ± 12.4 years completed an online survey. The study measures included sociodemographic characteristics, nature proximity, exposure, connectedness, perceived restoration in nature and QoL measured by the WHOQOL. Based on self-reported seasonal behaviour, participants were categorized into three groups: irregular or no PA in natural environments, seasonal variability, and regular year-round PA in natural environments. In the present study, we observed the lowest rates of PA in natural environments in winter and the highest in summer. Comparative analyses revealed that individuals with regular PA in natural environments reported significantly greater financial security, nature exposure and connectedness, proximity to green spaces, and overall QoL compared to less regular PA in nature groups. A multiple regression analysis identified financial security, nature proximity, nature exposure, connectedness, and perceived restoration in nature as significant and positive predictors of QoL. These findings point to the problem of inequity and suggest that inequitable access to PA in natural environments manifests as a higher seasonality of PA in nature. The practical implications of the study highlight the importance of addressing equity and promoting consistent PA in nature throughout seasons. During the dark, wet, and cold periods, it is important to implement targeted interventions that improve access to natural environments for individuals with lower financial security. This could help reduce inequity in physical activity. Promoting access to green spaces and fostering nature connectedness may be particularly valuable strategies in public health interventions aimed at enhancing QoL across diverse populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and the Natural Environment)

13 pages, 290 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationships Between First-Year Student Resilience and Academic Stress

by David W. Nordstokke and Yvonne Hindes

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060772 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Academic stress is a prevalent issue among university students, with significant implications for mental health and academic performance. This exploratory study examined whether academic stress could be predicted from resilience sub-factors based on a three-factor model of resilience. An initial sample of 70 [...] Read more.

Academic stress is a prevalent issue among university students, with significant implications for mental health and academic performance. This exploratory study examined whether academic stress could be predicted from resilience sub-factors based on a three-factor model of resilience. An initial sample of 70 first-year university students completed self-report measures assessing mastery, relatedness, emotional reactivity, and academic stress. After accounting for missing data, 68 participants were female (65%; n = 44) and 35% (n = 24) were male. The mean age of the participants was 18.52 years, with a standard deviation of 1.26. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the sub-factors of mastery, relatedness, and reactivity were significant predictors of academic stress. Specifically, self-efficacy and perceived support were negatively associated with academic stress, and emotional sensitivity was positively associated with academic stress. The results have important implications for interventions aimed at reducing academic stress that focus on these resilience sub-factors could offer an effective approach for improving outcomes in transitioning students. Interventions such as cognitive training and mindfulness-based programs may strengthen students’ executive function difficulties, thereby improving their ability to cope with academic stress and foster resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resilience in Adversities)

28 pages, 3110 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Distributed Practice Effect on Classroom Learning: A Meta-Analytic Review of Applied Research

by Rhys D. Mawson and Sean H. K. Kang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 771; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060771 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

There is extensive evidence that distributed practice produces superior learning to massed practice, predominantly from laboratory studies often featuring decontextualized learning. A systematic review of applied research was undertaken to assess the impact of distributed practice on classroom learning. Inclusion criteria were classroom [...] Read more.

There is extensive evidence that distributed practice produces superior learning to massed practice, predominantly from laboratory studies often featuring decontextualized learning. A systematic review of applied research was undertaken to assess the impact of distributed practice on classroom learning. Inclusion criteria were classroom studies with learning materials and timescales relevant to curriculum-based learning. The screening of over 3000 articles resulted in 22 reports containing 31 effect sizes (N > 3000). A meta-analysis found a moderate effect in favor of distributed over massed practice (d = 0.54, 95% CI [0.31, 0.77]). Although a comprehensive quantitative moderator analysis was not possible due to the number of studies, generally larger effect sizes were associated with studies that featured longer retention intervals, had learners at higher education levels, and had fewer re-exposures to the materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Applications of Cognitive Psychology)

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22 pages, 2459 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Influence of Napping Habits on Job Satisfaction: A Quasi-Natural Experimental Study Based on Longitudinal Data from China

by Xin Liu, Xiaochong Wei and Longxin Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060770 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Sleep behaviors, particularly midday rest periods, represent an often overlooked yet potentially significant factor in workplace attitudes and experiences. Despite their common practice in many cultures, the relationship between these restorative breaks and employees’ evaluations of their work environment remains underexplored in organizational [...] Read more.

Sleep behaviors, particularly midday rest periods, represent an often overlooked yet potentially significant factor in workplace attitudes and experiences. Despite their common practice in many cultures, the relationship between these restorative breaks and employees’ evaluations of their work environment remains underexplored in organizational research. This study investigates this relationship using longitudinal data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS), applying the work, non-work, and sleep framework (WNSF) as our theoretical foundation. Through a quasi-natural experimental approach, we discovered that midday rest periods positively influence workplace evaluations, but in a nuanced manner. Our findings reveal a pronounced inverted U-shaped relationship, suggesting that both insufficient and excessive duration of these breaks might diminish their benefits, while optimal duration maximizes positive outcomes. We strengthened these conclusions through rigorous methodological approaches including instrumental variable techniques, sensitivity analysis, treatment effect models, and matching models. The consistency of results across multiple analytical approaches corroborates our findings. This research both validates and extends the WNSF, highlighting the importance of strategic rest periods in organizational settings and offering practical insights for workplace policy development that can benefit both individuals and organizations in contemporary work environments. Full article

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18 pages, 356 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Resilience in Predicting and Empathy Dimensions in Dental Students: A Cross-Sectional Design

by Victor P. Díaz-Narváez, Nuvia Estrada-Méndez, Jennifer Aldana Salguero, Brenda Alfaro Ortiz, Lindsey Vilca Quiro, Alejandro Reyes-Reyes and Carolina Alzugaray Ponce

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 769; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060769 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Ecological empathy is a complex and multifaceted attribute, a highly relevant human factor in health care. This study aimed to determine the association between individual resilience and empathy in dental students and to assess whether resilience predicted empathy and its dimensions. The study [...] Read more.

Ecological empathy is a complex and multifaceted attribute, a highly relevant human factor in health care. This study aimed to determine the association between individual resilience and empathy in dental students and to assess whether resilience predicted empathy and its dimensions. The study employed a quantitative and descriptive cross-sectional design. The sample, consisting of 397 students from the first to the seventh year of dental surgery, was measured on empathy and resilience. Multiple regression analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, invariance analysis, and methods were employed to ensure the reliability of our measurements. It was established that the measurements of resilience and empathy were valid and reliable in the studied population. Ecological resilience increased the levels of the perspective adoption dimension, and adaptive resilience raised the compassionate threshold. The engineering resilience dimension was not associated with any of the empathy dimensions. While resilience may not fully explain empathy variability, it remains a personal attribute related to empathy. Further investigation of the role of resilience in empathy and its components is required since improving healthcare professionals’ empathy has positive implications for the quality of care and patient satisfaction. Full article

19 pages, 1161 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on the Effects of Embodied and Cognitive Interventions on Adolescents’ Flow Experience and Cognitive Patterns

by Chujie Liang, Jiahao Zhi, Cong Su, Weichun Xue, Zixi Liu and Haosheng Ye

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 768; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060768 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of embodied (breathing exercises) and cognitive interventions on adolescents’ flow experience and cognition patterns. Using a mixed-methods design, 303 vocational high school students were assigned to three groups: Embodied Task Group (N = 108), Cognitive Task Group [...] Read more.

This study investigates the effects of embodied (breathing exercises) and cognitive interventions on adolescents’ flow experience and cognition patterns. Using a mixed-methods design, 303 vocational high school students were assigned to three groups: Embodied Task Group (N = 108), Cognitive Task Group (N = 100), and Mental Health Course Group (N = 95). Experiment 1 employed a 3×2 Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA) design to compare flow experience dimensions, while Experiment 2 used Epistemic Network Analysis (ENA) to analyze diary entries. Results showed that the Embodied Task Group outperformed the Cognitive Task Group in “Unambiguous Feedback” (η_p² = 0.01, a small effect) and had higher “Transformation of Time” (η_p² = 0.01, a small effect) than the Mental Health Course Group. ENA revealed that the Embodied Group developed stronger body-environment interaction patterns, shifting cognition pattern from psychological evaluations to dynamic bodily processes over time. Conversely, the Cognitive Task Group maintained event-focused cognition with weaker mind–body integration. Findings highlight breathing exercises’ potential to enhance flow experience through embodied awareness and multisensory processing, offering practical implications for mental health education by promoting embodied learning tasks to foster flow experience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)

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18 pages, 495 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Screening Hospitalized Pregnant Women and Their Male Partners for Possible Distress: A Comparison of the Clinical Usefulness of Two Screening Measures

by Anna Maria Della Vedova, Chiara Bani, Margherita Capretti, Silvia Lucariello, Rita Simonetti, Serena Pelamatti and Emanuela Beretta

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 767; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060767 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

Pregnancy is a period of great complexity and potential psychological vulnerability which may increase in unfavorable conditions, such as hospitalization. Therefore, early identification of emotional, anxious, or depressive difficulties is important in terms of maternal and fetal well-being. International guidelines recommend the use [...] Read more.

Pregnancy is a period of great complexity and potential psychological vulnerability which may increase in unfavorable conditions, such as hospitalization. Therefore, early identification of emotional, anxious, or depressive difficulties is important in terms of maternal and fetal well-being. International guidelines recommend the use of brief screening tools to identify perinatal women for further investigation, but which of the measures is optimal remains to be clarified. The objective of this study was to compare the Whooley depression questions used together with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 (GAD-2), versus the Matthey Generic Mood Questionnaire (MGMQ), to evaluate their concordance in screening results and their clinical usefulness in the hospital setting. Hospitalized pregnant women, numbering 228, and 55 male partners completed both questionnaires. The women’s results showed high similar screen positive rates on both measures, but the screen positive concordance between the two instruments was low (around 50%). The Whooley/GAD-2 missed a significant percentage of women who, on the MGMQ, wished to talk with a professional, or who expressed moderate to high distress. The data from male partners were too few to be interpretable. Findings suggest that screening is important in hospitalized women, and clinicians should consider the respective merits and possible weaknesses of different screening tools. Full article

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Behavioral Sciences

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