Search Results (44)

Background: The Child and Adolescent Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (ChEDE-Q) is a widely used self-report screening instrument for assessing eating disorder psychopathology in young people. Evidence on the psychometric properties of the Polish-language version remains limited. This pilot study evaluated the internal consistency, dimensional structure, and BMI-related convergent validity of the Polish ChE-DE-Q in a regional youth sample. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used, including 200 participants aged 10–18 years. Item characteristics and data quality were examined. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega. Dimensional structure was evaluated with exploratory factor analysis (EFA) based on a polychoric correlation matrix and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) comparing one-factor, four-factor, and bifactor models. Convergent validity was examined using Spearman’s rank correlations with BMI and linear regression analyses with BMI z-scores. Results: The global score showed high internal consistency (α = 0.898; ω = 0.900). Subscale reliability ranged from acceptable to high. EFA supported a multidimensional solution. In CFA, the bifactor model showed the best fit among the tested alternatives (CFI = 0.742; TLI = 0.681; RMSEA = 0.122; SRMR = 0.084), but none of the tested models achieved fully satisfactory absolute fit. The global score correlated positively with BMI (rho = 0.282; p < 0.001) and was significantly associated with BMI z-score in regression analysis (B = 0.334; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The Polish ChEDE-Q global score demonstrated strong internal consistency and preliminary BMI-related convergent validity. The findings provide initial support for a general factor and for using the global score in screening-oriented research; however, the pilot character of the study and the suboptimal absolute fit indices indicate that further validation in larger and more heterogeneous samples is required. Full article

Background: The use of digital media in childhood offers both opportunities and risks. Digital stressors—such as excessive screen time, constant availability, information overload, and social media pressures—affect primary school children but have been rarely studied systematically. Despite growing research, no validated instruments adequately capture how younger children perceive and express digital stress. This study presents the development and validation of a three-dimensional instrument for children under 14: the “Digital Stress in Children” scale (DSS-CH). The DSS-CH is theory-driven and child-appropriate, with three interrelated but distinct dimensions: (1) excessive screen time, (2) compulsive media behavior, and (3) approval anxiety. Methods: In a cross-sectional survey of n = 907 Swiss primary school children (grades 5–6; ages 10–14), participants completed an online questionnaire in class. Latent variable modeling with cluster-robust inference accounted for classroom nesting. Competing models (1-, 2-, 3-factor CFA; ESEM; bifactor-ESEM) were evaluated. Results: The 1-factor CFA fit poorly (CFI ≈ 0.81; RMSEA ≈ 0.15), while the 3-factor CFA showed acceptable fit (CFI ≈ 0.96; RMSEA ≈ 0.07). Allowing cross-loadings improved fit substantially in the 3-factor ESEM and bifactor-ESEM (CFI ≈ 0.999; RMSEA ≈ 0.01), supporting a general digital stress factor alongside facet-specific variance. Subscales showed good reliability (ordinal α ≈ 0.81 − 0.89) and moderate intercorrelations (r ≈ 0.28 − 0.47). Scalar invariance across gender and age was supported (ΔCFI ≤ 0.003; ΔRMSEA ≤ 0.012). Conclusions: The DSS-CH demonstrates good reliability, model fit, and measurement invariance. It provides valid evidence for interpreting children’s digital stress as three related facets and can help identify elevated stress profiles to inform preventive efforts. Full article

Examinations are central to higher education, yet students consistently describe them as detrimental to well-being. Drawing on self-determination theory (SDT), we conducted three studies to examine whether multiple-choice examinations could be redesigned to satisfy students’ basic psychological needs (BPNs) and support well-being. In Study 1 (n = 400), we developed and validated the Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration Scale for Classroom Assessment (BPNSF-CA). Using bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling (bifactor ESEM), results supported a well-defined single global need fulfillment factor (G-factor) alongside six specific factors (autonomy support/frustration, competence support/frustration, relatedness support/frustration) as well as evidence of validity. In Study 2 (n = 387), we conducted a randomized experiment with three versions of a multiple-choice exam serving as the independent variable (flawed items, high-quality items, and high-quality + need-supportive features). Results showed that high-quality items improved performance, while only the addition of need-supportive features satisfied BPNs with differential patterns for the single G-factor and S-factors. In Study 3 (n = 101), we applied the intervention in a real classroom and tested the mediational role of BPN satisfaction. Results showed that redesigned exams (high-quality + need-supportive features) significantly enhanced perceptions of fairness and success via BPNs. We conclude with a discussion of all three studies, including implications and limitations. Full article

Nomophobia is a multifaceted phenomenon characterized by fear and anxiety when individuals feel disconnected from their technological environment. Its assessment remains difficult due to limited tools and lack of empirically supported cut-off points. This study aimed to contribute to the Italian validation of the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q), testing a four-factor structure and establishing normative data by age and gender. Data were collected from 1447 participants. Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (ESEM) assessed different factorial configurations. A bifactor ESEM (B-ESEM) with a four-factor solution showed the best fit (CFI = 0.95; TLI = 0.94; RMSEA = 0.06), offering a more accurate representation than the three-factor model. Scores were computed for the 1st and the 99th percentile and for each ventile; the 80th and 95th percentiles indicate risk and presence of nomophobia, respectively. Females scored highest across age groups, while older adults reported the lowest levels. These findings support the NMP-Q’s reliability and use in the Italian context. Full article

Despite the high similarity of reasoning ability items, research indicates that individuals apply different strategies when solving them. The two distinct strategies are response elimination and constructive matching. The latter, frequently showing a positive correlation with reasoning ability, entails the individual systematically investigating the presented problem matrix of an item before scanning the response alternatives. To further understand the sources of individual differences in strategy use during test taking, three different eye-tracking metrics were investigated in participants (N = 210) solving the Raven’s Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM). Relying on the fixed-links modeling approach, bifactor models were fit to the data. The latent model approach revealed, in line with other research, a positive correlation between reasoning ability and constructive matching. The results further indicated that a change in strategy use was correlated with the item-position effect and not reasoning ability. The former exhibited a different direction of effect, depending on the eye-tracking metric analyzed. When investigating the toggle rate, the participants used more constructive matching towards the end of the APM. The proportional time to first fixation on response alternatives indicated less constructive matching as the test progressed, and the proportional time on the problem matrix exhibited no distinct pattern regarding a change in strategy use. These diverging results point towards the possibility of a more nuanced problem-solving behavior than previously assumed. By including the item-position effect in the analyses, the increasing individuals differences in problem-solving behavior can be taken into account, which could be a necessary step in attaining a more comprehensive understanding of problem-solving behavior. Full article

This study addresses the persistent issue of gender bias in project management by developing and validating a practical survey tool for monitoring gender-related perceptions within project implementation frameworks. Using a Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) approach, a survey instrument was designed to assess awareness of gender equity policies, perceptions of inclusivity, and experiences related to sexual harassment (SASH) within project teams. The tool was piloted in a Horizon Europe project (Healthy Sailing), with responses collected from 66 participants (academics, maritime professionals, researchers, and government stakeholders). Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) revealed a five-factor structure explaining 72.29% of total variance, with the two dominant factors—Perceived Gender Bias and Organizational Safety—demonstrating excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.90). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and bifactor modeling indicated areas for further refinement, with RMSEA values exceeding optimal thresholds. The results underscore the potential of the KAP-based tool to support gender-sensitive quality management practices in project-based environments, while highlighting the need for ongoing psychometric validation. The study contributes a novel, empirically grounded instrument for promoting inclusivity and equity in project management. Full article

The Entrapment Scale was developed to measure the feeling of being trapped by external situations or internal experiences (such as thoughts and emotions) without the possibility of escape. This perception, especially when combined with feelings of defeat, is central to integrated motivational–volitional (IMV) model of suicidal behavior. This study adapts the Entrapment Scale for Spanish adolescents and emerging adults, focusing on its internal structure, reliability, and criterion validity. We assessed 849 participants (48.1% male) aged 12 to 22 and compared three models: a correlated two-factor model, a second-order factor model, and a bifactor model. The bifactor model showed the best fit, indicating that a general entrapment factor influenced all items, while specific internal and external factors captured unique aspects. Importantly, distinguishing between internal and external entrapment can guide the development of more personalized and effective therapeutic strategies, as the relevance of each dimension may vary depending on the behaviors or symptoms present. This approach allows clinicians to target interventions more precisely to the individual’s needs. Theoretical and practical implications for understanding and addressing suicidal behavior are discussed. Full article

Urban morphology’s effects on carbon dioxide reduction and sustainable development have drawn more attention. The county scale is crucial in influencing urban development and is the central element of China’s recent urbanization. To achieve scientific urban planning and fully explore its potential in carbon emission reduction, local governments need to investigate the impact of urban morphology on carbon emissions (CE). However, previous studies have predominantly focused on provincial capitals and urban clusters. To address this gap, this study quantified four aspects of urban form, combined energy consumption, and nighttime light data to estimate CE in Chinese counties from 2000 to 2020 and analyzed the effects of these factors on CE using multiscale geographically weighted Regression(MGWR) models and geographic detectors. The following are the main findings: (1) Total CE at the county scale in China has consistently increased from 2000 to 2020. (2) The largest patch index (LPI) is the most influential urban morphological factor on CE, while the impact of Class Area (CA) has been increasing. (3) Bi-factor enhancement and nonlinear enhancement are the two primary interaction types of urban morphological factors; the most important interaction is between LSI and CA. (4) The urban morphological factors exhibit varying degrees of spatial heterogeneity, with the influencing factors ranked as CA > LPI > path density (PD) > edge density (ED) > patch cohesion index (COHESION), where LPI and CA consistently show a positive effect on CE. This study’s findings establish a scientific foundation for land spatial planning and tailored emission reduction methods at the county scale in China. Full article

Background. Healthy eating habits are essential for preventing chronic diseases and improving quality of life. However, there is a lack of brief and culturally adapted instruments for accurate assessment. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop and validate the Brief Healthy Eating Habits Scale (BHEHS-6B, Version 1.0), based on Harvard’s Healthy Eating Plate, in a sample of young, middle-aged, and older Peruvian adults. Methods. The study followed a psychometric design. A non-probabilistic sample of 223 participants (both sexes; mean age = 41.6, SD = 15.8) was drawn from Metropolitan Lima, Peru. The BHEHS-6B (Version 1.0) was administered. Results. The bifactor model confirmed the unidimensional structural validity of the BHEHS-6B, showing acceptable global fit indices (CFI = 0.987, TLI = 0.937, SRMR = 0.025, RMSEA = 0.081) and an adequate hierarchical omega for the general factor (G = 0.638), supporting the use of a single total score. Finally, internal consistency was adequate for the total scale (α = 0.769, ω = 0.780). Conclusions. The BHEHS-6B is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing healthy eating habits, demonstrating evidence of strong content validity, internal consistency, and an adequate factor structure. Moreover, as a brief instrument, it is particularly useful for studies aiming to evaluate multiple variables and for the implementation of public health policies focused on improving community health. Full article

In this study, we examined the role of intellectual humility (IH) as an antecedent of individual attitude toward sustainable tourism viewed from the lens of personality trait theory, virtue ethics theory, and regenerative tourism principles within a stakeholder framework. Data were collected via Qualtrics in an online survey of 233 adults in the United States. A series of confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were applied to the data to test the measurement model. In addition, a bifactor CFA was found to have acceptable fit and appropriate in controlling for common method variance. A series of covariance-based structural equations models (SEMs) was estimated to test the hypothesized model while controlling for common method variance in addition to individual age and gender. Using the chi-square difference test for nested model comparison, we found that intellectual humility was a significant antecedent of the negative ecological impact of tourism (β = 0.14, p < 0.01) while its relationships with economic and social impacts of travel became non-significant after controlling for common method variance. Pro-social tendency, operationalized as HEXACO Honesty–Humility, was also a significant antecedent of the negative ecological impact (β = 0.17) and positive economic impact (β = −0.34) of tourism, after controlling for common method variance. Despite its limitations due to its cross-sectional design and use of self-report data in the U.S., this study was novel in introducing intellectual humility as an important virtue to be cultivated at the individual level to achieve a holistic approach to sustainable tourism, especially in shaping destination choices. In addition, the study highlights the need to detect common method variance in self-report data via bifactor CFA to avoid erroneous reporting of significant findings, hampering our collective research efforts to address climate change and its impact. Full article

This study aims to explore the impact of the green marketing mix (at the macro and micro level) implemented by outdoor brands on the attitudes and brand loyalty of Millennial and Generation Z (MZ generation) consumers toward these outdoor brands. Additionally, it seeks to examine the moderating effect of MZ generation consumers’ involvement in outdoor activities on the relationship between the green marketing mix (macro level) and brand attitudes. Using a cross-sectional research design, a quota random sampling method was employed to extract a sample of 500 MZ generation consumers who had purchased an outdoor brand at least once in South Korea. To evaluate the reliability and validity of the measurement model, a confirmatory factor analysis was conducted, followed by a bifactor structural model analysis with a moderator of outdoor involvement to test the hypotheses. The results indicate that the green marketing mix implemented by outdoor brands had a significantly positive effect on consumers’ attitudes toward outdoor brands. Specifically, green products, green pricing, and green promotion positively influenced consumers’ attitudes toward outdoor brands. Furthermore, the level of involvement in outdoor activities significantly moderated the effect of the green marketing mix on brand attitudes. Notably, the higher the MZ generation’s involvement in outdoor activities, the stronger the impact of the green marketing mix on their attitudes toward outdoor brands. Finally, brand attitudes were found to have a significant positive effect on brand loyalty. Based on these findings, meaningful theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Full article

Generalizability theory (GT) provides an all-encompassing framework for estimating accuracy of scores and effects of multiple sources of measurement error when using measures intended for either norm- or criterion-referencing purposes. Structural equation models (SEMs) can replicate results from GT-based ANOVA procedures while extending those analyses to account for scale coarseness, generate Monte Carlo-based confidence intervals for key parameters, partition universe score variance into general and group factor effects, and assess subscale score viability. We apply these techniques in R to univariate, multivariate, and bifactor designs using a novel indicator-mean approach to estimate absolute error. When representing responses to items from the shortened form of the Music Self-Perception Inventory (MUSPI-S) using 2-, 4-, and 8-point response metrics over two occasions, SEMs reproduced results from the ANOVA-based mGENOVA package for univariate and multivariate designs with score accuracy and subscale viability indices within bifactor designs comparable to those from corresponding multivariate designs. Adjusting for scale coarseness improved the accuracy of scores across all response metrics, with dichotomous observed scores least approximating truly continuous scales. Although general-factor effects were dominant, subscale viability was supported in all cases, with transient measurement error leading to the greatest reductions in score accuracy. Key implications are discussed. Full article

The Sense of Agency (SoA) refers to the subjective experience of controlling one’s actions and the external events resulting from those actions. This study aimed to critically evaluate the construct validity, robustness, and clinical utility of the Sense of Agency Scale (SoAS) in an Italian-speaking population, using a data-driven approach to explore potential factor structures. A sample of 992 adults completed the SoAS alongside other validated psychological measures, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the scale’s psychometric properties. An iterative process of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA) was implemented to assess both two-factor and bifactor models. A refined 10-item version of the SoAS was established, comprising two distinct factors: Sense of Positive Agency (SoPA, five items) and Sense of Negative Agency (SoNA, five items). The results favored a two-factor solution supported by satisfying fit indices, factor loadings, and stability. The revised scale demonstrated strong internal consistency, with McDonald’s omega values of 0.79 (SoNA) and 0.87 (SoPA). This study extends the literature by providing evidence of the scale’s convergent and divergent validity, with significant correlations in the expected directions with constructs such as sense of self, hopelessness, impulsiveness, psychosis-like experiences, and schizotypal traits. These findings support the revised SoAS as a reliable and valid measure for assessing the Sense of Agency and highlight its broader applicability in understanding psychological and psychopathological constructs. Full article

Father love is recognized as an important factor in personal development. While previous research has extensively examined the adverse effects of father-love absence on subjective well-being, it is important to note that these studies often treated subjective well-being as a singular, overarching construct, potentially limiting validity and comprehensiveness compared to a bi-factor model. Consequently, this study aimed to establish a bi-factor model of subjective well-being and investigate its association with father-love absence, considering the mediating role of hope within the theoretical framework of resilience. The study employed a weekly diary method to explore the dynamic adverse effects of father-love absence on weekly subjective well-being, highlighting hope’s role in mitigating these negative impacts. Utilizing a weekly survey method with 470 participants over seven consecutive weeks, multilevel regression modeling revealed that father-love absence significantly and negatively impacts subjective well-being. Further, multilevel mediation modeling demonstrated the mediating role of hope within the resilience framework. This research has significant theoretical and practical implications for enhancing adolescent well-being through increased father involvement in parenting. Full article

In the Bamen Bay area of the Qinglan Harbor Mangrove Provincial Nature Reserve in Wenchang, Hainan Province, China, mangrove aboveground biomass (AGB) was estimated using high-resolution UAV ortho-imagery and UAV LiDAR data. The spatial distribution characteristics of AGB were studied using global Moran’s I index and hotspot analysis. Optimal geographic detectors and regression models were employed to analyze the relationship between AGB and key environmental factors. The results indicate that (1) the average AGB in the study area was 141.22 Mg/ha, with significant spatial variation. High AGB values were concentrated in the southwestern and northeastern regions, while low values were mainly found in the central and southeastern regions. (2) Plant species, water pH, soil total potassium, salinity, dissolved oxygen, elevation, soil organic matter, soil total phosphorus, and soil total nitrogen were identified as major factors influencing the spatial distribution of AGB. The interaction results indicate either bifactor enhancement or nonlinear enhancement, showing a significantly higher impact compared with single factors. (3) Comprehensive regression model results reveal that soil total nitrogen was the primary factor affecting AGB, followed by soil total potassium, with water pH having the least impact. Factors positively correlated with AGB promoted biomass growth, while elevation negatively affected AGB, inhibiting biomass accumulation. The findings provide critical insights that can guide targeted conservation efforts and management strategies aimed at enhancing mangrove ecosystem health and resilience, particularly by focusing on key areas identified for potential improvement and by addressing the complex interactions among environmental factors. Full article