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Search Results (254)

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Keywords = positive childhood experiences

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13 pages, 252 KiB  
Article
Perspectives of Healthcare Students on Childhood Vaccines: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study in Bulgaria
by Maria Rohova, Nikolay L. Mihaylov, Antoniya Dimova and Rouzha Pancheva
Vaccines 2025, 13(8), 804; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13080804 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 290
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Medical and nursing students, as future healthcare professionals, influence public trust and vaccine acceptance. Knowledge gaps or misconceptions regarding immunization may undermine their confidence and effectiveness in addressing vaccine hesitancy. This study explores perceptions and attitudes toward childhood vaccination among Bulgarian healthcare [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Medical and nursing students, as future healthcare professionals, influence public trust and vaccine acceptance. Knowledge gaps or misconceptions regarding immunization may undermine their confidence and effectiveness in addressing vaccine hesitancy. This study explores perceptions and attitudes toward childhood vaccination among Bulgarian healthcare students and factors shaping these outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2024, using an online self-administered questionnaire completed by 374 medical and nursing students. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze vaccine-related responses, comparing attitudes between healthcare programs and education years. Binomial logistic regression was applied to identify predictors of support for mandatory vaccination, first considering demographic and academic variables, and then adding students’ beliefs and common misconceptions. Results: Medical students showed more positive attitudes toward vaccination than nursing students, with 96.8% of medical students versus 89.4% of nursing students believing vaccines are effective (p = 0.005). Students in advanced years demonstrated stronger belief in vaccine effectiveness (p = 0.038). Additionally, misbeliefs about the measles vaccine causing autism decreased significantly, with most students in higher years rejecting this misconception (p = 0.009). Logistic regression revealed that belief in following the vaccine schedule (OR = 22.71; p < 0.001) and confidence in vaccine effectiveness (OR = 10.20; p < 0.001) were the strongest predictors of support for mandatory vaccination, with attitudinal factors explaining over half of the variance. Conclusions: Healthcare students’ attitudes about vaccination influence public health outcomes, as their perspectives reflect experience and beliefs. Targeted vaccine education helps address misconceptions and improve vaccination rates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acceptance and Hesitancy in Vaccine Uptake: 2nd Edition)
20 pages, 350 KiB  
Review
Impacts of Food Insecurity on Child Development: Strengthening the Role of Childcare
by Emma G. Casey and Adam Winsler
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2427; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152427 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 456
Abstract
In 2023, the USDA reported that 17.9% of U.S. households with children were food insecure, meaning they had limited or uncertain access to adequate food. However, there is evidence that far more children experience food insecurity than is currently being reported, and the [...] Read more.
In 2023, the USDA reported that 17.9% of U.S. households with children were food insecure, meaning they had limited or uncertain access to adequate food. However, there is evidence that far more children experience food insecurity than is currently being reported, and the effects of that insecurity on child health and development are broad and far-reaching. Childcare and early childhood education centers are particularly well-positioned to make a difference yet are often not discussed in the scientific literature. Childcare arrangements provide meals and snacks to the children they serve, buffer the effects of food insecurity by supporting children’s cognitive and social–emotional development, and provide an important point of intervention for food-insecure families. In this report, we unpack the definition of food insecurity and who is considered food insecure, review how food insecurity impacts child health and development across physical, social–emotional, and cognitive domains, and explore the evidence behind childcare’s role in addressing childhood food insecurity. Additionally, we make recommendations for policy and practice, advocating for a multi-stakeholder approach, with a special focus on how childcare providers can change to best combat children’s food insecurity. Full article
19 pages, 428 KiB  
Article
Irisin Concentrations in Children and Adolescent Cancer Survivors and Their Relation to Metabolic, Bone, and Reproductive Profile: A Pilot Case–Control Study
by Despoina Apostolaki, Katerina Katsibardi, Vasiliki Efthymiou, Charikleia Stefanaki, Aimilia Mantzou, Stavroula Papadodima, George P. Chrousos, Antonis Kattamis and Flora Bacopoulou
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 5098; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14145098 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 306
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) experience chronic health problems and significant metabolic burden. Timely identification of CCS at higher metabolic risk requires novel biomarkers. Irisin, a novel myokine/adipokine has been associated with metabolic, bone and reproductive diseases, but its role in the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) experience chronic health problems and significant metabolic burden. Timely identification of CCS at higher metabolic risk requires novel biomarkers. Irisin, a novel myokine/adipokine has been associated with metabolic, bone and reproductive diseases, but its role in the health of CCS is unknown. The aim of this study was to examine irisin concentrations in children and adolescent CCS (vs. controls) and their association with metabolic, bone and hormonal parameters. Methods: Children and adolescent CCS, aged 8–18 years, as well as healthy controls, underwent a detailed physical, body composition, biochemical, hormonal and serum irisin assessment at least 6 months post-treatment. Results: A total of 59 children and adolescents (36 CCS, 23 controls; mean age ± SD 12.8 ± 2.9 years; 10 prepubertal, 49 pubertal) participated in the study. Serum irisin concentrations (ng/mL) were significantly lower in CCS than controls [median (IQR) 6.54 (4.12) vs. 11.70 (8.75) ng/mL, respectively, p < 0.001]. In the total study sample, serum irisin was correlated negatively with LH (rs = −0.314, p < 0.05), CRP (rs = −0.366, p < 0.005), age (rs = −0.323, p < 0.05) and positively with ALP (rs = 0.328, p < 0.05). Serum irisin was also positively correlated with ApoB and Lpa (rs = 0.410 and 0.421, respectively, p < 0.05) in CCS, and with PTH (r = 0.542, p < 0.005) in controls. Multivariate linear regression analysis indicated parathyroid hormone (PTH) as the only independent variable affecting irisin concentrations. Conclusions: Study results reinforce the irisin–PTH interplay hypothesis. Future studies are needed to clarify the potential role of irisin as a bone biomarker of CCS in childhood and adolescence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Pediatrics)
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11 pages, 241 KiB  
Article
The Interplay Between Parental Bonding and Health-Related Quality of Life in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Maria Luisa Pistorio, Concetta De Pasquale, Vittorio Lenzo, Massimiliano Veroux, Magy Martin, Don Martin, Alessia Giaquinta, Martina Giambra, Pierfrancesco Veroux and Maria Catena Ausilia Quattropani
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(13), 4673; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14134673 - 2 Jul 2025
Viewed by 361
Abstract
Background: Few studies have investigated the impact of parental bonding on the quality of life and psychological health in kidney transplant recipients. Exploring these factors could provide valuable insights into the development of psychosocial interventions aimed at improving patients’ psychological adjustment and their [...] Read more.
Background: Few studies have investigated the impact of parental bonding on the quality of life and psychological health in kidney transplant recipients. Exploring these factors could provide valuable insights into the development of psychosocial interventions aimed at improving patients’ psychological adjustment and their overall quality of life. In this perspective, our study aimed to explore how dimensions of parental bonding, particularly maternal care and overprotection, may influence the quality of life and psychological well-being in kidney transplant recipients. By investigating these relationships, the study seeks to understand whether early maternal attachment experiences can predict psychological outcomes in adult transplant recipients. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving a sample of 99 kidney transplant recipients (69.7% males, mean age  =  52  ±  9.93 years) was conducted. Participants were recruited from the outpatient clinic of an Italian transplant center between May 2022 and July 2024. After an initial telephone interview, 1-2 interviews were performed in person to administer the questionnaires of the established protocol: the Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI) to identify the type of parental bond and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) Health Survey to evaluate the quality of life perceived by the patients. Results: Regression analyses revealed that higher perceived maternal care during childhood was positively associated with better psychological health during adulthood (β = 0.290; p < 0.05). Conversely, higher levels of perceived maternal overprotection were negatively associated with psychological health in this population (β = −0.286; p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results suggest that maternal affection and support may serve as a protective factor, while excessive maternal protection could impair the development of emotional coping mechanisms necessary for dealing with the stresses of adult life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advancements in Kidney Transplantation)
14 pages, 311 KiB  
Article
Role of Early Trauma on Defense Mechanisms and Coping Strategies in Personality Disorders
by Fabrizio Turiaco, Fiammetta Iannuzzo, Clara Lombardo, Valentina Clementi, Carmela Mento, Antonio Drago, Antonio Bruno, Maria Rosaria Anna Muscatello and Gianluca Pandolfo
Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071162 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 663
Abstract
Background and Objectives: We investigated whether early psychological trauma can contribute to the development of dysfunctional personality traits and emotional dysregulation. Personality disorders (PDs) are often characterized by using immature defense mechanisms and maladaptive coping strategies. Materials and Methods: We evaluated [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: We investigated whether early psychological trauma can contribute to the development of dysfunctional personality traits and emotional dysregulation. Personality disorders (PDs) are often characterized by using immature defense mechanisms and maladaptive coping strategies. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the relationship between early traumatic experiences, PDs, defense mechanisms, and coping strategies. A total of 90 patients aged between 18 and 70 with PDs were studied to detect different subtypes of early trauma, along with the defensive mechanisms and the prevailing coping strategies. Correlation and regression analyses aimed at establishing if specific trauma subtypes were associated with specific defense mechanisms and coping strategies. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire—Short Form (CTQ-SF), the Defense Style Questionnaire 40 (DSQ-40), and the Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced (COPE) were used as psychodiagnostic tools. Results: Our findings determine emotional abuse, emotional neglect, and physical neglect as the most represented subtypes of trauma and underline the use of immature defense mechanisms in PD patients, while adaptive coping strategies, such as social support and positive aptitude were used. Conclusions: Early trauma, such as abuse and neglect, can be associated with dysfunctional defense mechanisms and coping strategies. This may have significant implications for managing not only pathological areas of the patient but also the functional ones. Moreover, being aware of these aspects can be useful for psychotherapy, reinforcing therapeutic alliance and reducing symptoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatry)
18 pages, 264 KiB  
Article
Belonging in Preschool—An Existential and Political Concern for Children
by Anette Cecilia Emilson and Eva Marianne Johansson
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 808; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15070808 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 534
Abstract
Preschool as a place of learning consists of various communities and belongings created in the intersection between children, teachers, and policy. The very essence of a good life in preschool is characterised by the sort of communities and the opportunities for belonging available [...] Read more.
Preschool as a place of learning consists of various communities and belongings created in the intersection between children, teachers, and policy. The very essence of a good life in preschool is characterised by the sort of communities and the opportunities for belonging available to children. Being able to participate in various communities and to experience belonging is central to the wellbeing of every child in preschool. The aim of this study is to gain knowledge about processes of belonging in preschool peer communities. The following research questions guide the study: What categorisations, positionings, and identifications appear in the interactions between the children? What ethical and political value preferences are at stake? The study applies Nira Yuval-Davis’s theory about the politics of belonging and her analytical framework is used to interpret and understand data, including analytical concepts such as categorisation and social positioning, identifications, and ethical and political value systems. A case study has been used to explore processes of belonging in rich detail. Data consist of video observations of interactions between children in a Swedish Early Childhood Education (ECE) institution. Findings reveal how the children’s categorisations lead to various positions, identifications, and opportunities for belonging. We show how a grounded position is established, and how categorisations are used to justify exclusion. The study also illustrates various approaches used by the children to gain a sense of belonging in peer communities, here conceptualised as confrontation, adaptation, and defence. A conclusion is that children’s categorisations are deeply embedded in the social structures of preschool and that the work with belonging needs to be on every teacher’s agenda. Full article
20 pages, 365 KiB  
Article
Adverse and Positive Childhood Experiences and Emotional Regulation Difficulties in a Sample of Incarcerated Men
by Bárbara Maia, Ana Rita Cruz and Olga Cunha
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 828; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060828 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 696
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are linked to a higher risk of criminal behaviour, while positive childhood experiences (PCEs) may offer a protective effect by mitigating the negative impact of ACEs. Both ACEs and PCEs play a significant role in shaping emotional regulation. However, [...] Read more.
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are linked to a higher risk of criminal behaviour, while positive childhood experiences (PCEs) may offer a protective effect by mitigating the negative impact of ACEs. Both ACEs and PCEs play a significant role in shaping emotional regulation. However, research on the influence of PCEs within incarcerated populations remains limited. This study aimed to examine the associations between ACEs, PCEs, and emotional regulation difficulties in a prison sample, and to explore whether PCEs moderate the relationship between ACEs and emotional regulation difficulties in adulthood. The analysis considered both the overall emotional regulation difficulties score and its specific dimensions—strategies, non-acceptance, impulse, goals, awareness, and clarity. The study included 283 men, with a mean age of 40.03 (SD = 11.64), ranging from 19 to 84 years, who were incarcerated in seven prisons in northern Portugal. Data were collected using the Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale, the Benevolent Childhood Experiences Scale, and the Difficulties in Emotional Regulation Scale—Short Form. The results revealed statistically significant positive correlations between ACEs and overall emotional regulation difficulties, as well as with nearly all subscales (strategies, impulse, goals, awareness, and clarity). Conversely, PCEs were significantly negatively correlated with overall emotional regulation difficulties and most subscales (impulse, goals, awareness, and clarity). However, PCEs did not moderate the relationship between ACEs and emotional regulation difficulties. These findings may be influenced by the characteristics of the sample, highlighting the need for further research—preferably longitudinal studies—to better assess the potential moderating role of PCEs. Such research could enhance the effectiveness of prevention and intervention strategies for incarcerated populations. Full article
21 pages, 552 KiB  
Article
Childhood Sexual Abuse, Adult Attachment Styles, and Involvement in BDSM Practices in Adult Intimate Relationships
by Maja Selič and Vesna Jug
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 813; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060813 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 2999
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the role of childhood sexual abuse in attachment styles and involvement in BDSM (bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, and sadomasochism) practices in adult intimate relationships. A model was built to test the predictive value of factors for involvement in [...] Read more.
This study aimed to examine the role of childhood sexual abuse in attachment styles and involvement in BDSM (bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, and sadomasochism) practices in adult intimate relationships. A model was built to test the predictive value of factors for involvement in BDSM practices. This study included 318 participants. Demographic data were collected and three questionnaires were used: the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) identified past sexual abuse, the Adult Attachment Scale (RSQ) assessed attachment style in adulthood, and the Sadomasochism Checklist (SMCL) assessed interest in masochistic practices. The results show that childhood sexual abuse is associated with practicing and enjoying BDSM, positively with submissiveness, negatively with dominance, and positively with a composite score measuring both submissiveness and dominance. It is also linked to fearful and preoccupied attachment styles in adulthood, but not dismissive attachment. Men exhibit higher levels of submissiveness and dominance in BDSM compared to women. Older individuals are more inclined to engage in BDSM. Urban residents show higher involvement in BDSM compared to those in other environments. Homosexual or bisexual individuals in open relationships are more frequently involved in BDSM. These findings highlight the complexity of connections between past experiences, sexual preferences in BDSM, and secure attachment in intimate relationships. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychology of Sexual and Gender Diversity)
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13 pages, 236 KiB  
Article
Linking System of Care Services to Flourishing in School-Aged Children with Autism
by Wanqing Zhang and Stephanie Reszka
Disabilities 2025, 5(2), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities5020057 - 12 Jun 2025
Viewed by 532
Abstract
Flourishing in children is an indicator of positive development in the areas of emotional, social, and cognitive development. Using a recent dataset from the US National Survey of Children’s Health, this study investigates the association between access to a quality healthcare system and [...] Read more.
Flourishing in children is an indicator of positive development in the areas of emotional, social, and cognitive development. Using a recent dataset from the US National Survey of Children’s Health, this study investigates the association between access to a quality healthcare system and flourishing indicators in school-aged children with autism. The outcome variable describes the proportion of children aged 6–17 with autism meeting the flourishing criteria, which include measures related to learning, resilience, and self-regulation. The main independent variable includes six core indicators for school-aged children and adolescents, which assess whether the family feels like a partner in their child’s care, the child has a medical home, receives regular medical and dental preventive care, has adequate insurance, has no unmet needs or barriers to accessing services, and has prepared for transition to adult healthcare. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the relationships between various independent variables and the outcome of interest. The results show that children with autism who receive comprehensive and coordinated care are more likely to flourish compared to those without such care for five of these six indicators, while controlling for sex, race, parental education, household income, self-reported autism severity, general health status, and the number of adverse childhood experiences. Children with autism are more likely to flourish when their families and healthcare providers work together effectively. Addressing gaps in the quality care system is essential for developing holistic approaches that empower children with autism to thrive and reach their full potential. Supportive health policies and effective coordination between families and healthcare providers are crucial for fostering the flourishing of children with autism, ensuring comprehensive, individualized, and continuous care. Full article
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35 pages, 1221 KiB  
Review
The Range and Impact of Adverse and Positive Childhood Experiences on Psychosocial Outcomes in Children with Intellectual Disabilities: A Scoping Review
by Jessica Vervoort-Schel, Gabriëlle Mercera, Inge Wissink, Janneke Staaks, Peer van der Helm, Ramón Lindauer and Xavier Moonen
Disabilities 2025, 5(2), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities5020055 - 8 Jun 2025
Viewed by 811
Abstract
Children with intellectual disabilities experience unique developmental, social, and environmental challenges that intersect with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs), shaping their psychosocial outcomes. While prior research has mainly examined single adversities or protective elements, the frameworks of ACEs and [...] Read more.
Children with intellectual disabilities experience unique developmental, social, and environmental challenges that intersect with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs), shaping their psychosocial outcomes. While prior research has mainly examined single adversities or protective elements, the frameworks of ACEs and PCEs provide a broader understanding of their cumulative and interactive effects. However, these constructs remain underexplored in children with intellectual disabilities. This scoping review maps the range, conceptualization, and impact of ACEs, PCEs, and related concepts on psychosocial outcomes. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, a search of PsycInfo, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Google Scholar identified studies until October 2024. Two reviewers screened and extracted data using standardized criteria. Findings reveal variability in how ACEs and PCEs are defined and measured. ACE exposure, particularly the cumulative impact of multiple ACEs (polyvictimization), links to adverse psychosocial outcomes, including emotional (e.g., anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), behavioral (e.g., aggression, conduct problems), and developmental (e.g., social and adaptive skill deficits) difficulties. PCEs—such as positive parent–child relationships, teacher–student support, and peer acceptance—mitigate risks, though impact varies by context. Intellectual disabilities severity and socioeconomic adversity shape associations. Further research is needed to inform the adaptation of ACE–PCE frameworks for children with intellectual disabilities. Full article
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11 pages, 341 KiB  
Article
Deficits in Long-Term Vaccine Immunity Among Childhood Cancer Survivors Despite Revaccination Programs
by Alexander Zadruzny, Eva Tiselius, Tiia Lepp, Teodora Aktas, Teghesti Tecleab, Samuel Hellman, Maja Jahnmatz and Anna Nilsson
Vaccines 2025, 13(6), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13060617 - 6 Jun 2025
Viewed by 670
Abstract
Background: Childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) often experience impaired humoral immunity because of cancer treatments that increase their susceptibility to vaccine-preventable diseases. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of tetanus and rubella antibodies in CCSs compared to healthy, age-matched controls. Additionally, we explored [...] Read more.
Background: Childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) often experience impaired humoral immunity because of cancer treatments that increase their susceptibility to vaccine-preventable diseases. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of tetanus and rubella antibodies in CCSs compared to healthy, age-matched controls. Additionally, we explored the impact of cancer treatments on vaccine-induced immunity, examined the extent of revaccination after treatment completion, and evaluated the effectiveness of revaccination on seroprevalence. Methods: This retrospective study included 180 CCSs previously treated at Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Stockholm, between March 2019 and January 2023. Patient data were retrieved from electronic medical records. Seroprevalence data for rubella and tetanus antibodies in the 15–19-year age group were also obtained from a national seroprevalence study conducted by the Public Health Agency of Sweden. Results: CCSs exhibited significantly lower seroprevalence for both tetanus (77.7% vs. 92.7%) and rubella (79.1% vs. 97.5%) compared to age-matched controls. Revaccination with DTP-containing vaccines was more frequently administered than with the MMR vaccine. Tetanus and rubella seroprevalence were the lowest in children who had received intense chemotherapy. Among those who were revaccinated with the DTP vaccine after intensive treatment, 81 out of 98 (82.6%) had tetanus IgG levels above the threshold, compared to 24 out of 48 (50%) unvaccinated CCSs. In contrast, among those revaccinated with MMR, 57 out of 73 (78.1%) had positive rubella IgG, compared to 53 out of 73 (72.6%) unvaccinated CCSs with rubella IgG levels above the cut-off. Conclusions: Our findings highlight that vaccines are underutilized in CCSs with a notable gap in immunity, particularly among those who have undergone intensive treatments. Unexpectedly, MMR revaccination did not significantly affect rubella immunity. Given the increasing number of CCSs, it is essential to better understand how to effectively restore vaccine immunity in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vaccine Advancement, Efficacy and Safety)
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21 pages, 402 KiB  
Article
‘Making a Positive Environmental Impact’: Exploring the Role of Volunteering at a Campus Community Garden
by Dina Izenstark and Barbara Ann Boone
Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4951; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114951 - 28 May 2025
Viewed by 1007
Abstract
Promoting sustainability in higher education is a social and environmental imperative. This paper explores how and why volunteering at a campus community garden (CCG) can serve as a unique context for promoting sustainability. Twenty-five undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 27, [...] Read more.
Promoting sustainability in higher education is a social and environmental imperative. This paper explores how and why volunteering at a campus community garden (CCG) can serve as a unique context for promoting sustainability. Twenty-five undergraduate students between the ages of 18 and 27, who had volunteered at a campus garden, participated in individual semi-structured interviews. A majority of participants identified as female (80%) and Asian American (52%). Using reflexive thematic analysis, we first found students were motivated to volunteer for personal and academic reasons as well as to learn more about gardening. Childhood gardening experiences influenced participants’ re-engagement as adults. Second, building social connections and spending time in nature, especially when living in an urban area, sustained students’ engagement in the garden, whereas time constraints and physical tasks made it challenging to volunteer. Finally, the findings suggest that volunteering promoted pro-environmental behaviors. Students felt that their volunteer work allowed them to make a positive environmental impact. Participants also gained new environmental knowledge and skills, which encouraged them to adopt environmentally friendly lifestyle changes, advocate for environmental and social justice issues, and reflect on how they might integrate pro-environmental behaviors into their future careers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Motivating Pro-Environmental Behavior in Youth Populations)
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16 pages, 511 KiB  
Article
When Parent–Teacher Collaboration Turns Violent: Corporal Punishment in American Schools and Subsequent (Secondary) Trauma
by Da’Shay Templeton, Ruslan Korchagin, Bree Valla and Jesse R. Ford
Children 2025, 12(6), 684; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12060684 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 693
Abstract
Methods. Through the lens of childhood trauma theory, a qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using purposive and snowball sampling methods to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of former students with corporal punishment and how those experiences have shaped their academic and [...] Read more.
Methods. Through the lens of childhood trauma theory, a qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using purposive and snowball sampling methods to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of former students with corporal punishment and how those experiences have shaped their academic and psychological outcomes. Interviews were conducted via Zoom with 19 men and women of different ages and races who attended schools in Mississippi. Results/Conclusions. The study revealed that parents and school personnel collaborated to punish the student corporally both on campus and at home. Related, beaten students did not share their punishment with their parents/caregivers, and if their families did find out, they received another beating at home. There was a general lack of consistency in how and who administered corporal punishment. In addition to the well-documented ways that corporal punishment is administered in school, we also found that students were made to hold painful positions or perform painful tasks. There were also peer effects of trauma, with students experiencing fear or anger following a friend or classmate being beaten in front of them. Race was an influence if the abused students felt that their punishment was racist, with Black American participants feeling there were racial undertones regardless of the perpetrator’s race. The study’s findings align with those of previously conducted research, but also extend them and can be used to create policy to allow schools to address trauma and create instructional practices that eliminate the fear and racial disparities that have been proven to exist in schools with corporal punishment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Children’s Well-Being and Mental Health in an Educational Context)
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20 pages, 719 KiB  
Article
Digital Gamification to Foster Attitudes Toward Science in Early Childhood Teacher Education
by Noëlle Fabre-Mitjans, Gregorio Jiménez-Valverde, Gerard Guimerà-Ballesta and Genina Calafell-Subirà
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 5961; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15115961 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 721
Abstract
Integrating technology-enhanced gamification into teacher education can significantly foster motivation and reshape perceptions toward science learning. This mixed-methods case study explores how a 14-week course for preservice early childhood teachers, supported by the digital gamification platform FantasyClass and enriched with a cohesive narrative [...] Read more.
Integrating technology-enhanced gamification into teacher education can significantly foster motivation and reshape perceptions toward science learning. This mixed-methods case study explores how a 14-week course for preservice early childhood teachers, supported by the digital gamification platform FantasyClass and enriched with a cohesive narrative structure, impacted students’ motivation and attitudes towards science. The course featured structural gamification elements—such as experience points, digital collectibles, and team-based challenges—combined with immersive storytelling that contextualized scientific tasks within a fantasy adventure. Quantitative data from pre- and post-intervention surveys revealed statistically significant improvements in attitudes toward science and perceived teaching competence. Thematic analysis of qualitative feedback highlighted enhanced engagement, enjoyment, and relevance of science learning. These findings suggest that intelligent integration of gamified technologies and narrative design in science teacher initial training can address motivational barriers and foster positive emotional engagement. While context-specific, this study offers insights into how digital gamified learning environments can support the development of positive attitudes towards science among future early childhood educators. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Trends in Technology-Enhanced Learning)
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10 pages, 960 KiB  
Article
Rapid and Unpredictable Shifts in Perceived Pleasantness of Continuous Affective Touch
by Anne Schienle, Carina Schlintl and Arved Seibel
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 712; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060712 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 380
Abstract
Affective touch (stroking the skin at velocities between 1 and 10 cm/s) is generally perceived as pleasant. However, this pleasant sensation diminishes with continuous stimulation over several minutes, with substantial individual variability in the habituation process. This study aimed to identify individual characteristics [...] Read more.
Affective touch (stroking the skin at velocities between 1 and 10 cm/s) is generally perceived as pleasant. However, this pleasant sensation diminishes with continuous stimulation over several minutes, with substantial individual variability in the habituation process. This study aimed to identify individual characteristics associated with the decline in the hedonic value of prolonged affective touch. Eighty-one female participants (mean age = 26 years) received continuous stroking on their forearms for 10 min at two distinct velocities: 3 cm/s (affective touch) and 30 cm/s (nonaffective touch). Every 100 s, participants rated the perceived pleasantness of the stimulation. Regression analyses were conducted to examine whether participants’ age, attitude toward touch by an unfamiliar person, recalled positive touch experiences during childhood, sympathy toward the toucher, reported symptoms of anxiety, depression, or somatization, and order of touch conditions predicted changes in their responses. On average, the perceived pleasantness of touch declined over time. The extent of the decline and individual variability in pleasantness ratings were not significantly associated with the selected predictors. However, higher overall ratings of affective touch pleasantness were linked to greater sympathy toward the toucher, lower levels of depression and somatization, and a lower frequency of recalled positive touch experiences during childhood. Affective touch was perceived as more pleasant when it was preceded by the nonaffective touch condition, compared to when the order was reversed. Order effects, the rapid decline, and substantial individual variability in the perceived pleasantness of prolonged affective touch should be considered in both research and therapeutic applications. Full article
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