Search Results (4)

(1) Background: The Rational-Experiential Inventory (REI-40) is a widely used instrument for assessing individual differences in rational and experiential thinking styles based on Cognitive-Experiential Self-Theory (CEST). Despite its international prominence, no comprehensive validation existed for Brazilian Portuguese populations. (2) Methods: This study validated the REI-40 for Brazilian Portuguese through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) estimated with a robust weighted least squares estimator (WLSMV) appropriate for ordinal items, comparison of competing structural models, internal-consistency and validity testing, and tests of measurement invariance across sex, education, and age, in a sample of 464 legal professionals from Brazil’s Advocacy-General of the Union. (3) Results: The hypothesized four-factor, 40-item model showed acceptable fit (χ²(734) = 1815.8, CFI = 0.902, TLI = 0.896, RMSEA = 0.056, SRMR = 0.080) and clearly outperformed unidimensional and two-factor alternatives. McDonald’s omega indicated good internal consistency for all subscales (ω = 0.79–0.87). Measurement invariance across sex, education, and age was supported at the configural and metric levels. Validity evidence included positive correlations between rational subscales and CRT-7 (r = 0.24–0.31) and weak or negative correlations for experiential subscales. (4) Conclusions: The Brazilian Portuguese REI-40 demonstrates adequate psychometric properties for measuring thinking styles in professional populations. Full article

Background: Cognitive bias may appear in occupational therapists’ interpretation of physical examinations. Since different strategies for decision making have been shown to reduce bias, its quantification is an essential first step towards awareness and bias reduction. Our aims: (1) quantify cognitive bias by testing the differences in occupational therapists’ assessment of lateral pinch force modulation between young and older adults, and between women and men; and (2) to test for a correlation between the tendency to bypass an intuitive response and the degree of cognitive bias. Methods: Occupational therapists (n = 37; age 40.3 ± 11.4 years) used a visual analogue scale to rate pre-recorded simulations of the digital output of lateral pinch modulation videos of different levels of abilities coupled with videos of young/old men/woman pressing the force sensor. They filled out the Cognitive Reflection Test and the Rational-Experiential Inventory-40. Results: Subjects showed higher bias towards old individuals compared to young ones (p < 0.001), but with no sex bias (p = 0.119). Rational ability correlated with cognitive bias of assessment of lateral pinch modulation in old individuals (r = 0.537, p < 0.001). Discussion: Occupational therapists might underestimate the physical abilities of older adults. Biased evaluation might cause assignment of redundant exercises and therefore loss of time, effort, and resources. Full article

This research aimed to find the relationship between thinking styles (rational or experiential) and interpersonal conflict resolution (ICR) in young adults. A sample of 99 females and 103 males, age range 18 to 40 years, was selected via convenient and snow-ball sampling. Thinking styles were assessed using Rational-Experiential Inventory-40, and ICR was measured using Conflict Resolution Questionnaire. Regression analysis was used to predict ICR based on thinking style covariates and several relevant demographic covariates, including gender and family birth order. Rational thinking style (RTS) was most prevalent among young adults and was the strongest predictor of ICR. In addition, gender was a significant predictor. These findings may help in coaching young adults toward a well-integrated personality by using rational thinking for effective ICR. Full article

As the link between psychology and economics has grown, so too has research on the link between personality traits and economic behavior. We build on this previous work, bringing to light the relationship between personality traits and contributions in a one-shot public goods game. We find that contributions to the public good are smaller for rational participants as measured by the Rational-Experiential Inventory—revised 40 (REI-40) item scale. We find no effect on contributions for the measures of the Big Five personality traits or the remaining measures from the REI-40. Full article