European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education

16 pages, 577 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Academic Goals and Attitudes Towards Institutional Authority: A Relationship Mediated by Life Satisfaction and Sense of Belonging to the School

by Laura Giaquinto, Roberto Sanz and Pau García-Grau

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050088 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

Academic success is conditioned by different factors, related to academic goals, life satisfaction, and feelings of belonging to the school. This article aims to assess whether beliefs, attributions (academic goals), and feelings (life satisfaction and sense of belonging to the school) do or [...] Read more.

Academic success is conditioned by different factors, related to academic goals, life satisfaction, and feelings of belonging to the school. This article aims to assess whether beliefs, attributions (academic goals), and feelings (life satisfaction and sense of belonging to the school) do or do not influence attitudes towards school authority (school, teachers, learning, norms, and families). A total of 510 students from six secondary schools participated and four questionnaires were used: academic goals, life satisfaction, attitude towards institutional authority, and sense of belonging to school. The focus was on the description of academic goals and negative attitudes towards authority, focusing on the mediating role of school belonging and life satisfaction. Descriptive, variance, and mediation analyses were conducted. The questionnaire with the highest scores was sense of belonging to school. The dimension with the least influence on negative attitudes within academic goals was social reinforcement. Males showed more negative attitudes towards authority, and an indirect and significant relationship was observed between academic goals and negative attitudes towards authority, mediated by life satisfaction and sense of belonging to school. In conclusion, the role of the school as a protective agent is confirmed. Therefore, intervening in negative attitudes towards authority would solve coexistence problems and increase life satisfaction, expectations of academic performance, and the feeling of belonging to the school. Full article

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16 pages, 529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Association Between Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and Mental Health Status in the US

by Farhana Faruque, Gulzar H. Shah and Robert M. Bohler

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050087 - 17 May 2025

Abstract

Social determinants of health (SDoH) are considered significant determinants of mental health. This study examines the association between SDoH and mental health status in the United States. We analyzed 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 183,318 U.S. adults using multinomial [...] Read more.

Social determinants of health (SDoH) are considered significant determinants of mental health. This study examines the association between SDoH and mental health status in the United States. We analyzed 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 183,318 U.S. adults using multinomial logistic regression. Several SDoH were significantly linked to the frequency of poor mental health days. After adjusting for all covariates, individuals facing difficulty paying utility bills had lower odds of experiencing episodic (vs. chronic) poor mental health (AOR = 0.47, p = 0.031). Transportation challenges were associated with lower odds of episodic distress rather than chronic mental health issues (AOR = 0.35, p = 0.026). Individuals who were unable to afford a doctor or who experienced employment loss had significantly lower odds of reporting no poor mental health days compared to reporting chronic poor mental health, with adjusted odds ratios of 0.37 and 0.84, respectively. Non-Hispanic Whites and males were more likely to report chronic poor mental health. Policies that prioritize economic stability and job security, reliable transportation, and equal access to education and healthcare are crucial for promoting mental health equity across diverse populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health and Adaptation in Chronic Illness: Risky Factors and Resilience)

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22 pages, 1586 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Neuroscience Exposure as a Predictor of Teaching Self-Efficacy

by Ana Julia Ribeiro, Rafael Lima Dalle Mulle and Fernando Eduardo Padovan-Neto

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050086 - 16 May 2025

Abstract

Teaching self-efficacy refers to a teacher’s confidence in their ability to engage students and foster learning, directly influencing their instructional planning, strategies, and student assessment practices. Neuroscience education for teachers has been shown to increase enthusiasm and support professional growth by introducing essential [...] Read more.

Teaching self-efficacy refers to a teacher’s confidence in their ability to engage students and foster learning, directly influencing their instructional planning, strategies, and student assessment practices. Neuroscience education for teachers has been shown to increase enthusiasm and support professional growth by introducing essential brain-related principles. This study investigated whether prior exposure to neuroscience predicts teaching self-efficacy among Brazilian basic education teachers. A total of 1120 teachers completed online surveys, providing sociodemographic information, educational background, teaching experience, and data regarding their previous neuroscience exposure. Participants’ neuroscience knowledge was assessed through a questionnaire designed to measure familiarity with fundamental neuroscience concepts, and teaching self-efficacy was evaluated using the Teacher Sense of Efficacy Scale (TSES). The results indicated that teachers with prior exposure to extracurricular neuroscience courses demonstrated significantly higher neuroscience knowledge. Additionally, those with previous neuroscience exposure exhibited a marginally significant increase in self-efficacy for instructional strategies and a significant increase in classroom management, while no significant differences were observed in student engagement. Regression analyses confirmed that neuroscience exposure significantly predicted self-efficacy in instructional strategies and classroom management. These findings reinforce the connection between neuroscience education and enhanced teaching self-efficacy, underscoring the importance of neuroeducation programs as valuable tools for supporting teachers’ professional development and well-being. Full article

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27 pages, 12260 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Technology-Driven Assistive Learning Tool and Framework for Personalized Dyscalculia Interventions

by Dipti Jadhav, Sarat Kumar Chettri, Amiya Kumar Tripathy and Manob Jyoti Saikia

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050085 - 15 May 2025

Abstract

Recognizing the impact of mathematical learning difficulties on student achievement, this research focuses on developing adaptive, technology-based solutions for those struggling with learning mathematics, including individuals with dyscalculia. Dyscalculia, a difficulty in understanding numbers and mathematics, can profoundly affect a child’s academic progress [...] Read more.

Recognizing the impact of mathematical learning difficulties on student achievement, this research focuses on developing adaptive, technology-based solutions for those struggling with learning mathematics, including individuals with dyscalculia. Dyscalculia, a difficulty in understanding numbers and mathematics, can profoundly affect a child’s academic progress and self-confidence. Many interventions aim for broad effectiveness but often struggle to address individual learning differences. This research addresses this gap by employing Dynamic Bayesian Networks (DBNs) within intelligent tutoring systems to develop a personalized, gamified approach for improving mathematical skills in children with dyscalculia. We assessed 158 children aged 6–10 years using the Smartick Dyscalculia Assessment Tool to identify specific numerical cognition deficits. Based on these assessments, we have developed EDSense (Early Detection and Intervention for Insufficient Number Sense), an adaptive web-based learning tool. EDSense provides personalized support and targets skill refinement in mathematics learning. A pre-test and post-test design evaluates EDSense’s effectiveness and demonstrates significant improvements in numerical abilities. The findings highlight the crucial role of adaptive learning platforms in addressing dyscalculia. The EDSense platform demonstrates gamified, self-directed learning environments to enhance both engagement and learning outcomes by accommodating individual cognitive differences. We have proposed a technology-driven framework for personalized dyscalculia interventions, emphasizing early detection to support mathematical skill development. Full article

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17 pages, 3105 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Arithmetic Proficiency Across Adulthood: Cognitive and Subjective Influences

by Elisabeth Goettfried, Katharina Thaler, Margarete Delazer, Demis Basso, Manuela Piazza, Michael Knoflach and Laura Zamarian

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050084 - 15 May 2025

Abstract

Arithmetic competence is crucial for navigating modern society and maintaining independence. It relies on domain-general and domain-specific cognitive skills, as well as subjective factors. Given its importance, understanding how these factors shape adult arithmetic proficiency is essential. This study investigated demographic, cognitive, and [...] Read more.

Arithmetic competence is crucial for navigating modern society and maintaining independence. It relies on domain-general and domain-specific cognitive skills, as well as subjective factors. Given its importance, understanding how these factors shape adult arithmetic proficiency is essential. This study investigated demographic, cognitive, and subjective influences on various arithmetic skills throughout adulthood, including both younger and older individuals. In total, 134 adults aged 20–68 completed computerized tasks assessing simple calculations, exact and approximate complex calculations, and arithmetic principles, alongside neuropsychological testing and self-ratings on math anxiety, math self-concept, attitudes toward mathematics, and the frequency of engagement with numbers. The results indicate that accuracy varied by task, with approximate calculations being the most challenging. Self-ratings showed low math anxiety but moderate-to-high math self-concept, positive attitudes, and moderate engagement with numbers. Age correlated only with arithmetic principles; however, interference inhibition and engagement with numbers, not age, best predicted performance. Executive functions correlated solely with approximate calculations and arithmetic principles, while subjective measures were related to all arithmetic tasks. The regression analyses indicate strong interrelationships, particularly among calculation tasks. The findings highlight the multifaceted nature of arithmetic competence and suggest it remains stable in adulthood, with age-related declines only evident in arithmetic principles, likely due to declining executive functions. Full article

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19 pages, 702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Social Capital on Depression in University Students

by Mario Eduardo Castro Torres, Pablo Marcelo Vargas-Piérola, Aarón Marco Layme Mamani, Andrea Katerine Murillo Toro, Aneydith Ribera Domínguez and Carlos F. Pinto

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050083 - 15 May 2025

Abstract

This study examines how bonding social capital (BSC) is related to depression symptoms (Dsym) in university students, focusing on the mediating roles of socio-emotional support, instrumental support, self-efficacy, self-esteem, and academic stress. A cross-sectional design was employed, with data collected from 217 undergraduate [...] Read more.

This study examines how bonding social capital (BSC) is related to depression symptoms (Dsym) in university students, focusing on the mediating roles of socio-emotional support, instrumental support, self-efficacy, self-esteem, and academic stress. A cross-sectional design was employed, with data collected from 217 undergraduate students (from an initial sample of 250) using validated questionnaires. Data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to evaluate direct and indirect relationships. The key findings indicate that BSC has an indirect, relevant, and significant negative effect on Dsym (H5) (β = −0.201, 95% CI [−0.266, −0.216]) through six routes, involving enhanced self-esteem and reduced academic stress. The model highlights self-esteem as a critical mediator between social capital and mental health outcomes. With strong predictive validity (R² ≥ 0.1, Q² > 0, PLS-SEM RMSE < LM), the study provides a framework for potential interventions. The theoretical contributions include distinguishing social capital from support and prioritizing self-esteem over self-efficacy in depressive pathways. Although the cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, the model advances systemic approaches to student mental health, highlighting the need for longitudinal validation in diverse contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Diversity, Educational Inclusion, Emotional Intelligence, Coping, and Other Factors That Influence Psychological Health and Well-Being)

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12 pages, 311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bullying and Cyberbullying Are Associated with Inappropriate Use of the Internet, Cell Phones, and Video Games in Children and Adolescents

by José Enrique Moral-García, Alba Rusillo-Magdaleno, Fredy Alonso Patiño-Villada and Emilio J. Martínez-López

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050082 - 15 May 2025

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to analyze the association of bullying and cyberbullying with the level of Internet, cell phone, and video game use in children and adolescents. In total, 677 Spanish students (53.03% girls) aged 10 to 16 years (13.81 [...] Read more.

The aim of the present study was to analyze the association of bullying and cyberbullying with the level of Internet, cell phone, and video game use in children and adolescents. In total, 677 Spanish students (53.03% girls) aged 10 to 16 years (13.81 ± 1.56) participated. The association between variables and risk of exposure was carried out by analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and binary logistic regression (odds ratio = OR), respectively. The effects of both victimization and perpetration in bullying and cyberbullying were analyzed separately to identify differences by role. All analyses were performed separately for boys and girls and adjusted for age, body mass index, mother’s education, and average weekly physical activity. The results showed that both victims and perpetrators of bullying and cyberbullying present a significant increase in and risk of abusive and inappropriate use of the Internet, cell phones, and video games. Girls involved in bullying/cyberbullying behaviors reached the highest levels of inappropriate use of the Internet, cell phones, and video games with respect to peers not affected by bullying behaviors. In all cases, girls, both victims and perpetrators of bullying and cyberbullying, multiplied the risk of harmful use of these devices by at least 3 times. It is suggested to implement educational policies to prevent situations, especially cyberbullying, in both victims and perpetrators, prioritizing student safety. Full article

13 pages, 281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cumulative Incidence of Mental Disorders Among German Military Personnel Deployed to Iraq 2015–2018—An Epidemiological Study

by Ulrich Wesemann, Karl-Heinz Renner, Harald Hofmann, Nils Hüttermann and Gerd-Dieter Willmund

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050081 - 14 May 2025

Abstract

Background: There is currently no study examining the mental health consequences of deployed German service members in Iraq. The aim is, therefore, to determine the cumulative incidence and latency period until the first diagnosis of deployment-related mental disorders. We hypothesized a lower rate [...] Read more.

Background: There is currently no study examining the mental health consequences of deployed German service members in Iraq. The aim is, therefore, to determine the cumulative incidence and latency period until the first diagnosis of deployment-related mental disorders. We hypothesized a lower rate than for Afghanistan with 2.4%. Methods: All registered N = 1635 German military personnel who were deployed to the mission “Training support contingent Northern Iraq” between 2015 and 2018 were included. Individuals with mental disorders attributed to this deployment were identified in a central database. Differences in latency between diagnoses were calculated by t-tests for independent samples. Results: By January 2024, n = 55 (3.4%) individuals had been recorded who developed a mental disorder as a result of this deployment. Most of them (54.5%) had a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as the main or comorbid diagnosis. There were no gender differences in the cumulative incidence (male 3.6%; female 2.9). The latency period between the onset of disease and initial diagnosis was, on average, 1.0 years (standard deviation 1.1 years; Q₂₅ < 1 year, Q₅₀ = 1 year and Q₇₅ = 2 years). With 1.3 vs. 0.6 years, the latency was significantly longer for individuals with PTSD. Conclusions: The cumulative incidence appears to be higher after the Iraq deployment than after most other Bundeswehr deployments. This is attributed to particular threats. The latency period is higher for those affected with PTSD than with other disorders. This could be due to a higher degree of stigmatization. It is, therefore, worthwhile to compare the different deployments in order to be able to derive better preventive and aftercare measures as well as destigmatization programs to prevent chronification. Full article

20 pages, 315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Validation of the Pain and Sensitivity Reactivity Scale in Neurotypical Late Adolescents and Adults

by Agustín Wallace, Lidia Infante-Cañete, Agustín Ernesto Martínez-González, José Antonio Piqueras, Silvia Hidalgo Berutich, Tíscar. Rodríguez-Jiménez, Pedro Andreo-Martínez, Beatriz Moreno-Amador and Alejandro Veas

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050080 - 13 May 2025

Abstract

Background: In recent years, there has been an increased interest in studying sensory responses to stimuli in both clinical and non-clinical populations. Sensory reactivity has been linked to restrictive and repetitive behaviors. However, few instruments have been designed to assess the dimensions of [...] Read more.

Background: In recent years, there has been an increased interest in studying sensory responses to stimuli in both clinical and non-clinical populations. Sensory reactivity has been linked to restrictive and repetitive behaviors. However, few instruments have been designed to assess the dimensions of sensory hyporeactivity and pain in the general population. Methods: The psychometric properties of the Pain and Sensitivity Reactivity Scale (PSRS) were analyzed in a non-clinical sample of 1122 adolescents and adults (mean age = 22.39, SD = 7.32). Results: The PSRS exhibited excellent psychometric properties, and three first-order factor models were confirmed. The sensory hyperreactivity subscales were highly correlated with the sensory over-responsivity scales, whereas a moderate correlation was found between sensory hyperreactivity measured via the PSRS and OCI-R subscales. Furthermore, sensory hyporeactivity and hyperreactivity appear to be moderately and positively correlated. Differences were observed as a function of gender and age. Conclusions: PSRS may be a reliable measure for analyzing pain and sensory reactivity in neurotypical populations. Future research should include clinical samples and multiple informants. Full article

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14 pages, 536 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Eveningness and Procrastination: An Exploration of Relationships with Mind Wandering, Sleep Quality, Self-Control, and Depression

by Richard Carciofo and Rebecca Y. M. Cheung

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050079 - 13 May 2025

Abstract

While morningness (a preference for rising earlier in the day) is associated with positive affect and life satisfaction, eveningness is correlated with negative emotionality, poor sleep, less self-control, and more procrastination. The current study investigated inter-relationships between morningness–eveningness; bedtime, academic, and exercise procrastination; [...] Read more.

While morningness (a preference for rising earlier in the day) is associated with positive affect and life satisfaction, eveningness is correlated with negative emotionality, poor sleep, less self-control, and more procrastination. The current study investigated inter-relationships between morningness–eveningness; bedtime, academic, and exercise procrastination; mind wandering; sleep quality; self-control; and depressive symptoms. An online survey including questionnaire measures of these variables was completed by 306 university students (aged 18–51 years; mean = 20.36, SD = 4.001; 34 male). Morningness correlated with more self-control and better sleep quality—eveningness correlated with more bedtime, academic, and exercise procrastination; depressive symptoms; and mind wandering. All forms of procrastination negatively correlated with self-control and sleep quality, and positively correlated with depressive symptoms and mind wandering, although more strongly with spontaneous than deliberate mind wandering. Mediation effects were found—bedtime procrastination (BP) between eveningness and spontaneous mind wandering (MW); spontaneous MW between BP and sleep quality; sleep quality between BP and depressive symptoms; self-control between depressive symptoms and academic procrastination. A path model of these inter-relationships was developed. This study adds to a growing body of research indicating that interventions to reduce bedtime procrastination may bring about improvements in wellbeing and academic achievement. Full article

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27 pages, 619 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationships Between Self-Esteem and Personal Attributes, Income, Consumption, and Assets: Japanese Panel Study

by Makoto Nakakita, Sakae Oya, Naoki Kubota, Tomoki Toyabe and Teruo Nakatsuma

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050078 - 12 May 2025

Abstract

Self-esteem is a key topic in psychology and health research. It influences well-being, happiness, and even medicine. However, existing studies on self-esteem have yielded conflicting results, suggesting that a global consensus remains elusive. This study examines how demographic and socioeconomic factors influence self-esteem [...] Read more.

Self-esteem is a key topic in psychology and health research. It influences well-being, happiness, and even medicine. However, existing studies on self-esteem have yielded conflicting results, suggesting that a global consensus remains elusive. This study examines how demographic and socioeconomic factors influence self-esteem in Japan. We analyzed panel data sampled from the entire Japanese population, with separate estimates performed for marital status and gender to account for potential differences in the impact of these factors. Using a Bayesian panel logit model with the Markov chain Monte Carlo method and the ancillarity–sufficiency interweaving strategy for efficient estimation, we found similarities and differences compared with studies from other countries. Furthermore, when comparing the overall data with data stratified by marital status and gender, we observed significant differences in how these factors influenced self-esteem, even among the same individuals. These findings underscore the importance of considering such variations when incorporating self-esteem into medical and healthcare contexts. Full article

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17 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Problematic Use of Video Games, Social Media, and Alcohol: Exploring Reciprocal Relations with the Big Five Personality Traits in a Longitudinal Design

by Lutz Wartberg, Steffen Zitzmann, Silke Diestelkamp, Katrin Potzel, Sophia Berber and Rudolf Kammerl

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050077 - 12 May 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The problematic use of video games (PG), social media (PSMU), and alcohol (PAU) is widespread from adolescence onwards. According to theoretical models, personality traits are relevant for these problematic behavioral patterns; however, only very few longitudinal studies are available. The aim of [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The problematic use of video games (PG), social media (PSMU), and alcohol (PAU) is widespread from adolescence onwards. According to theoretical models, personality traits are relevant for these problematic behavioral patterns; however, only very few longitudinal studies are available. The aim of this longitudinal study was to investigate for the first time whether Big Five personality dimensions (BFPD) are predictors for the development of PG, PSMU, or PAU, or conversely, whether these behavioral patterns are predictive of the BFPD. Methods: Surveys were conducted over three measurement time points (t1 to t3) using standardized instruments on PG, PSMU, PAU, and BFPD. A total of 492 young people (average age: 16.83 years, 44.1% female and 55.9% male) were investigated at t1, 475 persons (mean age: 17.93 years, 44.8% female, 55.2% male) at t2, and 443 cases (average age: 20.11 years, 45.1% female, 54.9% male) at t3. We calculated cross-lagged panel analyses over three measurement points (structural equation modeling). Results: Of the BFPD, lower Conscientiousness and lower Extraversion were predictors of PG, higher Negative Emotionality (Neuroticism) predicted PSMU, and lower Agreeableness was a predictor of PAU. Only PAU was a predictor of a Big Five dimension (lower Agreeableness). Conclusions: The findings were not consistent across the measurement points (t1 to t2 vs. t2 to t3) with one exception in an explorative analysis: problematic gaming was a predictor for both problematic social media use and problematic alcohol use in youth (t1 to t2 and t2 to t3). The influence of lower Conscientiousness was confirmed for PG and initial longitudinal results for PSMU and PAU were observed. These novel findings could be considered when developing or revising preventive measures. Full article

17 pages, 1298 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond the Workplace: How Psychological Empowerment Influences Employee Creativity in the Saudi Hotel Sector—The Mediating Role of Affective Commitment and the Moderating Role of Psychological Safety

by Ahmed Mohamed Hasanein and Musaddag Elrayah

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050076 - 9 May 2025

Abstract

Businesses in the hotel and hospitality sectors face significant challenges when they lack originality and creativity. Creativity and innovative behavior are both necessary to increase employee effectiveness. This study aims to investigate how psychological empowerment (PEMP) directly affects employee creativity (EC) and affective [...] Read more.

Businesses in the hotel and hospitality sectors face significant challenges when they lack originality and creativity. Creativity and innovative behavior are both necessary to increase employee effectiveness. This study aims to investigate how psychological empowerment (PEMP) directly affects employee creativity (EC) and affective commitment (AC) in the Saudi hotel industry. Additionally, this study examines the moderating function of psychological safety (PS) and the mediating role of affective commitment. Data were collected through an online cross-sectional survey of a purposive sample of 536 operational staff at hotels in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. Structural equation modeling was used to test the proposed framework (PLS-SEM). Surprisingly, these findings revealed no significant direct effect of PEMP on EC. However, AC has emerged as a crucial mediating mechanism through which PEMP indirectly fosters creativity. Furthermore, psychological safety (PS) is found to moderate the PEMP–EC relationship, enhancing its impact under favorable conditions. These results highlight the theoretical and practical significance of emotional commitment as a conduit for empowering employees to engage in creative behavior. This study offers new insights into how psychological and organizational factors interact to shape creativity in the hospitality context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Health Challenges: Mapping Psychosocial Factors Driving Healthy Organizations)

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18 pages, 2326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cross-Sectional Analysis of Psychological Mediators Between Occupational Trauma and PTSD in Metropolitan Firefighters

by Ahmet Erhan Bakirci, Vedat Sar and Ali Cetin

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050075 - 9 May 2025

Abstract

Objective: The present investigation sought to examine the interrelationships between early-life adverse experiences, dissociative symptoms, suicidal ideation, and depressive manifestations among metropolitan firefighters screened with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and to elucidate the potential mediating effects of these psychological variables on both the [...] Read more.

Objective: The present investigation sought to examine the interrelationships between early-life adverse experiences, dissociative symptoms, suicidal ideation, and depressive manifestations among metropolitan firefighters screened with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and to elucidate the potential mediating effects of these psychological variables on both the presence and severity of PTSD symptomatology in this high-risk occupational cohort. Methods: A cross-sectional investigation was performed to assess psychological conditions among 760 metropolitan male firefighters, employing conditional process analysis with multiple mediation modeling (PROCESS macro Model 6). The investigative protocol employed validated psychometric instruments including the PTSD Checklist (PCL-5); the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ-33); the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES); the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire (SBQ-4); and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Bootstrap resampling (n = 5000) generated bias-corrected 95% confidence intervals, enabling interrogation of complex trauma response mechanisms. Results: Conditional process analysis demonstrated that childhood trauma functions as a significant mediator (indirect effect = 0.142, 95% CI [0.086, 0.198]), with emotional abuse pathways revealing significant mediational effects (β = 0.285, p < 0.001). Stratifying participants using a PCL-5 ≥ 33 threshold (non-PTSD: n = 543, 71.5%, median PCL-5: 22; PTSD: n = 217, 28.5%, median PCL-5: 39), the investigation elucidated serial mediation mechanisms, particularly through childhood trauma to dissociative experiences (serial indirect effect = 0.168, 95% CI [0.092, 0.244]), collectively explaining nearly half of PTSD variance through complex psychological interaction pathways. Conclusions: Conditional process analysis revealed childhood trauma as a pivotal mediator, with emotional abuse pathways demonstrating significant mediational effects, while dissociative experiences emerged as a significant secondary mechanism, collectively explaining a substantial portion of PTSD variance through interactions between occupational trauma exposure and intrinsic psychological vulnerabilities. Full article

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18 pages, 854 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Phone in the Room, Mind on the Roam”: Investigating the Impact of Mobile Phone Presence on Distraction

by Andrea Christodoulou and Petros Roussos

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050074 - 8 May 2025

Abstract

In the digital age, mobile phones significantly impact human cognition and behavior. This experimental study examined the effects of passive mobile phone presence on attentional control in young adults aged 18–25. Participants were randomly assigned to a control (no phone) or an experimental [...] Read more.

In the digital age, mobile phones significantly impact human cognition and behavior. This experimental study examined the effects of passive mobile phone presence on attentional control in young adults aged 18–25. Participants were randomly assigned to a control (no phone) or an experimental group (phone present). Attention control was measured using the Attention Network Test (ANT). In contrast, smartphone nomophobia and addiction were measured with the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) and the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV). Contrary to previous literature, the presence of a mobile phone did not significantly distract participants or impair attentional performance. No significant relationship emerged between self-reported levels of distraction or nomophobia and actual attentional performance, although smartphone addiction seemed to have a weak effect on the errors made by those who performed in the presence of their mobile phone. Significant gender differences were found in terms of nomophobia, with women reporting higher levels than men. This study suggests that the relationship between mobile phone presence and attentional processes is more complex than previously hypothesized, bringing the existing literature under further consideration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Technology's Impact on Mental Well-Being: The Emerging Insights in the Digital Age)

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19 pages, 1864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Psychosocial Factors on Mental Health and Turnover Intention Among Health Workers at Different Occupational Statuses: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study in China

by Fuyuan Wang, Min Zhang, Yiming Huang, Yuting Tang, Chuning He, Xinxin Fang, Xuechun Wang and Yiran Zhang

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050073 - 7 May 2025

Abstract

Workplace psychosocial hazards pose significant risks to the well-being of health workers (HWs). This study aimed to explore the levels of psychosocial factors experienced by Chinese and international workers and examine associations between psychosocial factors, health-related outcomes (mental problems and general health), and [...] Read more.

Workplace psychosocial hazards pose significant risks to the well-being of health workers (HWs). This study aimed to explore the levels of psychosocial factors experienced by Chinese and international workers and examine associations between psychosocial factors, health-related outcomes (mental problems and general health), and turnover intention across various occupational stages. A cross-sectional study was conducted using stratified cluster sampling methods at four hospitals in southern China. Psychosocial factors, mental health, general health, and turnover intention were assessed using the Chinese version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire III. Multivariate linear and logistic regression analyses were conducted. A total of 1054 HWs participated in this study (response rate: 80.21%). Compared to international samples, Chinese HWs showed significant differences in nine psychosocial dimensions, particularly interpersonal relations, leadership, and the work–individual interface. Senior hospital managers reported significantly higher stress (51.09 ± 23.88, p < 0.001), sleep troubles (53.26 ± 24.92, p = 0.003), and poorer general health (57.61 ± 37.26, p = 0.035) than other occupational stages. Work–life conflict (β = 0.172), emotional demands (β = 0.132), and role clarity (β = −0.132) were the strongest predictors of mental health issues. Hiding emotions demands (β = −0.141) and leadership quality (β = 0.130) most strongly predicted general health. The turnover intention rate was 11.01%, with job satisfaction (OR = 0.964) being the strongest negative predictor. Reducing psychosocial stressors, particularly in work–life balance, role clarity, emotional demand, and leadership quality, could improve HWs’ well-being and reduce turnover intention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Health Challenges: Mapping Psychosocial Factors Driving Healthy Organizations)

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12 pages, 885 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Social Functioning Between Vitality and Mental Distress in Hypertension: A Partial Mediation Model

by Sara Guidotti, Francesca Giordano and Carlo Pruneti

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050072 - 7 May 2025

Abstract

(1) Background: Patients with hypertension face a relevant reduction in health-related quality of life. Specifically, the vitality domain is significantly impaired. This research aims to explore the association between quality of life and mental distress in patients with hypertension, explicitly emphasizing the mediating [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Patients with hypertension face a relevant reduction in health-related quality of life. Specifically, the vitality domain is significantly impaired. This research aims to explore the association between quality of life and mental distress in patients with hypertension, explicitly emphasizing the mediating factor of social functioning above vitality. (2) Methods: This observational study consecutively recruited a hundred hypertensive patients (49% were males and 51% were females) aged between 23 and 82 years old (M_age = 56.04, SD_age = 12.04). The Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) were administered to assess mental distress and quality of life, respectively. Two biological measures (i.e., cortisol levels and heart rate) were also collected. (3) Results: In total, 50% of participants indicated higher mental distress and reduced quality of life. Correlation analyses demonstrate various negative relationships between clinical features. Moreover, positive associations were found between mental distress and vitality and between vitality and physical and social functioning along with heart rate. Notably, it was determined that vitality negatively predicted mental distress directly and indirectly by mediating social functioning. (4) Conclusions: Despite these promising findings, this study’s cross-sectional nature does not allow for the definition of the causal relationship between the investigated variables. These results emphasize the importance of a comprehensive and multidisciplinary evaluation in understanding hypertensive patients’ psychophysical well-being and lifestyles, which social support may significantly modulate. Full article

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16 pages, 1211 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Turkish Adaptation of the Ghosting Questionnaire and Its Impact on Relationship Satisfaction: Serial Mediation Effects of Negative Affect and Loneliness

by Mehmet Özalp, Waqar Husain, Kamile Gamze Yaman, Achraf Ammar, Khaled Trabelsi, Seithikurippu R. Pandi-Perumal and Haitham Jahrami

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050071 - 7 May 2025

Abstract

Background: Ghosting is a prevalent phenomenon in contemporary relationships, impacting all individuals involved. A measurement tool, the Ghosting Questionnaire, has recently been developed to assess experiences of ghosting. The objective of this study was to adapt the Ghosting Questionnaire for use in Turkish. [...] Read more.

Background: Ghosting is a prevalent phenomenon in contemporary relationships, impacting all individuals involved. A measurement tool, the Ghosting Questionnaire, has recently been developed to assess experiences of ghosting. The objective of this study was to adapt the Ghosting Questionnaire for use in Turkish. Methods: The adaptation process involved applying confirmatory factor analysis, measurement invariance analysis by gender, and item response theory, as well as reliability, criterion-related validity, and predictive validity analyses. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis affirmed the unidimensional, eight-item structure of the Ghosting Questionnaire. Measurement invariance analysis by gender indicated that the scale assesses the same constructs for both males and females. The results from the item response theory analysis demonstrated that the Ghosting Questionnaire possesses robust discriminatory power. Reliability coefficients indicated a high level of internal consistency for the scale. Additionally, ghosting was found to have significant correlations with various variables, including personality traits, positive affect, negative affect, loneliness, and relationship satisfaction. Notably, our findings revealed that negative affect and loneliness serve as serial mediators in the relationship between ghosting and relationship satisfaction. Conclusions: The analyses confirm that the Ghosting Questionnaire is a measurement tool with strong psychometric properties. Full article

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13 pages, 1238 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Loneliness, Social Support and Income on Mental Well-Being

by Eider Egaña-Marcos, Ezequiel Collantes, Alina Diez-Solinska and Garikoiz Azkona

Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(5), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15050070 - 6 May 2025

Abstract

Mental well-being is a multifaceted concept that reflects emotional stability, psychological resilience and social connectedness. This study examines how demographic factors, perceived loneliness, and social support influence mental well-being in Spain. Participants were surveyed online and provided personal information along with responses to [...] Read more.

Mental well-being is a multifaceted concept that reflects emotional stability, psychological resilience and social connectedness. This study examines how demographic factors, perceived loneliness, and social support influence mental well-being in Spain. Participants were surveyed online and provided personal information along with responses to the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale, the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey (MOS-SSS), and the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS). Our findings support previous research on mental well-being in Spain and again show significant associations between income, loneliness, social support and overall mental health. In particular, perceived loneliness was found to be a strong predictor of mental well-being. Furthermore, income and social support were found to partially mediate the relationship between loneliness and mental well-being. These findings highlight the critical role of social connections and financial stability in promoting mental health. Overall, this research contributes to the growing understanding of the factors influencing mental well-being and provides valuable insights for improving mental health outcomes. Full article

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European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education

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