Search Results (656)

Background/Objectives: Physical activity is a cornerstone of diabetes mellitus (DM) management and is strongly recommended in the American Diabetes Association (ADA)’s guidelines. This study aims to investigate the self-reported physical activity levels of individuals with DM in Germany, as well as the barriers and facilitators they encounter. Methods: Individuals with type 1 DM (T1DM) and type 2 DM (T2DM) were asked to fill out an online questionnaire that was partly based on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Results: The questionnaire was completed by 338 persons with either T1DM (57.1%) or T2DM (42.9%) (females: 56.2%, males: 42.0%, gender diverse persons: 1.8%) of all age groups (at least 18 years). In total, 80.5% of respondents were aware of the current physical activity recommendations. Among the respondents, 58% reported meeting the recommendations for endurance-type physical activity, while only 30.5% reported meeting those for strength training. The three most frequently cited barriers to physical activity were lack of time, lack of motivation and current state of health. Supporting factors included coverage of costs, availability of exercise programs in close proximity to the patient’s home and target group specific exercise programs. Conclusions: The results imply that many individuals with DM in Germany do not meet ADA’s physical activity recommendations, especially considering that self-reports often overestimate actual behavior. In particular, the actual number of individuals who regularly engage in strength training may be too low. There is a clear need to better communicate the benefits of different forms of physical training and to provide physical activity programs aligned with patients’ individual needs. Full article

Adolescence is marked by identity formation and moral development, often accompanied by increased transgressive behaviors. While existing research highlights the interplay between moral constructs and transgression in adolescence, the role of kindness remains underexamined. This study conceptualizes kindness as a multidimensional moral construct and investigates the relationship between different stages of kindness (i.e., egocentric, social/normative, extrinsically motivated, authentic) and transgressive behaviors among adolescents, also considering the moderating role of self-importance of moral identity. The participants were 215 Italian adolescents (aged 15–19) who completed a self-report questionnaire. The results showed that egocentric and authentic kindness were positively and negatively associated with transgression, respectively. Moreover, moral identity significantly enhanced the protective role of authentic kindness. These findings suggest that the relationship between kindness and transgression varies based on the stage of kindness and the importance adolescents attribute to their moral identity. They contribute to extending the understanding of kindness during adolescence, offering implications for reducing transgressive behaviors through targeted and innovative interventions. Full article

Self-regulated learning (SRL) has been widely recognized as a critical skill for academic success in online and blended learning contexts. However, many students experience difficulty in effectively applying SRL strategies in the absence of structured instructional guidance. To address this challenge, this study developed and implemented a learning management system integrated with SRL support (SRL-LMS), specifically designed for the online component of a blended learning course. The SRL-LMS consisted of two sections: a conventional course content section and a SRL training section designed to support students in applying SRL strategies. A quasi-experimental design was adopted with 69 college students assigned to either an experimental group, with access to both course and SRL sections, or a control group, which accessed only the course section. Results indicated that students in the experimental group reported higher levels of self-regulation and showed more frequent and diverse application of SRL strategies compared to the control group. In terms of academic performance, the experimental group performed significantly better than the control group on the first exam, though no significant difference was observed on the second exam. These results highlight the effectiveness of structured SRL interventions within digital learning platforms for improving students’ self-regulatory behaviors. Future implementations should address cognitive load and incorporate strategic approaches to sustain student motivation. This study advances current SRL intervention designs and offers valuable insights for educators and instructional designers aiming to integrate targeted SRL supports in online and blended learning environments. Full article

Parental school involvement (PSI) is an important contributor to children’s academic and overall positive development. Such activities as discussing schoolwork and tracking progress can boost children’s motivation and achievements. Although the multifaceted nature of PSI is widely recognized, there are limited reliable measures that comprehensively capture all its dimensions, particularly for children and adolescents. This study aims to develop a measure for assessing children and adolescents’ perceptions of parental involvement based on parent- and teacher-validated self-report measures—the Parental School Involvement Questionnaire—Children’s version (PSIQ-CV). A total of 537 children and adolescents (M_Age = 9.64, SD_Age = 2.43), mainly female (52.8%), from the south of Portugal participated in this study. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA, n = 150) and a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA, n = 387) were carried out. The EFA indicated a three-factor solution (i.e., support in learning activities, parent–school communication, and supervision), supported by the CFA, with good quality-of-fit indices (χ² = 225; df = 101; χ²/df = 2.23; CFI = 0.91; TLI = 0.89; RMSEA = 0.060 [CI: 0.049–0.070]). Our data confirmed that the PSIQ-CV has robust psychometric properties, with acceptable reliability and validity. The PSIQ-CV can be considered a relevant and valid tool for measuring the perception of parental school involvement among children and adolescents, in line with Epstein’s theoretical model, and useful for both researchers and practitioners. Full article

Background: Human activity is recognised as a major contributor to changes in Earth’s climate, land surface, oceans, ecosystems, and biodiversity. These alterations are largely due to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, mass pollution, and land degradation. In light of these environmental challenges, examining the psychological determinants of pro-environmental behaviour has become increasingly important. Study’s Aim: To provide a comprehensive model evaluating the structural relationships among biospheric values, green self-identity, green self-efficacy, and eco-anxiety to investigate the underlying mechanisms relating to the adoption of various pro-environmental behaviours (PEBs). Methods: An online self-report questionnaire was completed by 510 Italian participants (aged 18–55, M = 35.18, SD = 12.58) between November and December 2023. Data analysis was performed using R statistical software, employing Structural Equation Modelling. Results: The results indicate that eco-anxiety, green self-efficacy, and green self-identity are significant positive predictors of PEBs. Furthermore, green self-identity significantly influences eco-anxiety and green self-efficacy, while biospheric values are a major trigger for both green self-efficacy and green self-identity, but not for eco-anxiety. Conclusions: These findings suggest that while eco-anxiety can be an adaptive motivator for PEBs, biospheric values foster a green self-identity and self-efficacy, which in turn drive pro-environmental actions. The study concludes that encouraging biospheric values and strong green self-identity is crucial for promoting sustainable behaviours. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally disrupted assumptions about entrepreneurship, career planning, and professional development. This study explored how the pandemic influenced the entrepreneurial intentions of undergraduate business students in the United States. Using a qualitative methodology based on in-depth interviews with 31 students at a public Midwestern university, the research interpreted student narratives through the lenses of effectuation theory, resilience theory, and the theory of planned behavior. Findings revealed that many participants reframed entrepreneurship as a strategy for navigating economic uncertainty and enhancing personal agency. Students reported valuing adaptability, resourcefulness, and opportunity recognition, often experimenting with side hustles during the pandemic as a means of resilience. Their entrepreneurial thinking shifted from purely economic motivations toward aspirations for flexibility, self-fulfillment, and purposeful work. The study highlights the formative role of crisis contexts in shaping entrepreneurial identity among emerging professionals. It suggests that entrepreneurship education should move beyond traditional models, fostering skills for navigating complexity and building resilience. In doing so, the findings contribute to broader conversations about youth entrepreneurship, post-pandemic career development, and the evolving demands of the labor market in times of disruption. Full article

Data analysis and machine learning have become essential cross-disciplinary skills for engineering students and professionals. Traditionally, these topics are taught through lectures or online courses using pre-existing datasets, which limits the opportunity to engage with the full cycle of data analysis and machine learning, including data collection, preparation, and contextualization of the application field. To address this, we designed and implemented a learning activity that involves students in every step of the learning process. This activity includes multiple stages where students conduct experiments to record their own electroencephalographic (EEG) signals and use these signals to learn data analysis and machine learning techniques. The purpose is to actively involve students, making them active participants in their learning process. This activity was implemented in six courses across four engineering careers during the 2023 and 2024 academic years. To validate its effectiveness, we measured improvements in grades and self-reported motivation using the MUSIC model inventory. The results indicate a positive development of competencies and high levels of motivation and appreciation among students for the concepts of data analysis and machine learning. Full article

The use of augmented reality (AR) tools and innovative learning environments in education have increased over the last few years due to the rapid advancement of technology. In this study, an AR mathematics learning intervention has been proposed which consisted of the creation of 3D multibase blocks to perform AR arithmetic calculations conducted through active methodologies in the future classroom lab (FCL). The aim of this study was to analyze pre-service teachers’ (PSTs) affective domain (emotion, self-efficacy, and attitude), engagement, motivation, and confidence. The sample consisted of 97 PSTs enrolled on the second year of the Primary Education degree, who were attending the “Mathematics and its Didactics” subject. The findings revealed a significant increase in PSTs’ satisfaction, fun, confidence, and pride, and a decrease in uncertainty, nervousness, and concern. Regarding PSTs’ self-efficacy, a significant improvement was observed in knowing the necessary steps to teach mathematical concepts and work in the FCL. No significant differences were found in attitude, engagement, and motivation; however, the PSTs showed a high disposition in all of them before starting the intervention. Additionally, the PSTs reported to be more confident, and it enhanced their knowledge in the use of 3D design and AR applications to create multibase blocks to support the teaching–learning content of arithmetic operations. Full article

Healthcare abuse is a critical human rights and public health issue, particularly impacting medical interns and trainees who are vulnerable to mistreatment during their formative professional years. This cross-sectional study, conducted from February to June 2024, evaluated the prevalence and psychological impact of harassment and discrimination among 463 healthcare interns in Saudi Arabia from various specialties, including medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and dentistry. Using a self-administered online questionnaire, we found that mistreatment was widely reported, with female interns experiencing significantly higher rates of sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination. Common perpetrators included residents, lecturers, professors, nurses, and patients, with incidents most frequently occurring in surgical and internal medicine departments. Despite high prevalence, only 9% of interns reported the abuse due to mistrust in reporting systems or failure to recognize the behavior as abuse. These experiences were associated with significant psychological distress, including frustration, reduced motivation to learn, and higher DASS scores, particularly among female interns. The study underscores the need for institutional reforms, including policy development, cultural change, and effective reporting systems to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for future healthcare professionals. Addressing abuse in medical training is essential for individual well-being and the sustainability and integrity of healthcare systems. Full article

In recent decades, European countries have seen a substantial increase in home cultivation of cannabis. In France, the prevalence of cannabis use continues to increase despite its possession, sale, and cultivation being strictly illegal. The present study aimed to describe the profile and motivations of people in France who cultivate cannabis at home. We separately analyzed data from two convenience samples of people who use cannabis daily in France, based on two online cross-sectional surveys. In the first analysis (N = 3840), we used a multivariable logistic regression model to assess factors associated with home cultivation as the main source of cannabis supply. In the second analysis (N = 574), we described participants’ motivations for home cultivation and their cultivation patterns. In the two samples, 11% and 16% reported home cultivation as their main source of supply, respectively. Age, male gender, stable housing, living with a partner, consuming cannabis in herbal form, smoking joints with little or no tobacco, smoking cannabis from a bong or pipe, non-smoking modes of cannabis administration, and using cannabis exclusively for therapeutic reasons were all positively associated with home cultivation, while urban area of residence and at-risk alcohol use were negatively associated. The main reason reported for home cultivation was to manage quality. Few reported selling some of their crop, and most were self-sufficient. Finally, we interpret this practice as a personal response to cannabis prohibition and the unregulated market. Accordingly, possible harm reduction strategies are discussed. Full article

The changes in adolescents’ visions for the future are important to adolescents’ developmental trajectories, motivation, and educational outcomes, yet understudied. This study examined the change in possible selves and its association with grit during school closure and life interruption during COVID-19. We conducted a school-based longitudinal survey among 1577 students (Mage = 13.05, SD = 0.86) from 12 secondary schools at the start and end of an academic year prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic with a 9-month interval. Demographic, grit, socioeconomic status (SES), self-control, and possible selves were measured. Paired t-tests indicated a significant decrease in academic possible selves and strategies. Hierarchical regression analysis results show that participants with higher grit scores reported higher academic and life possible selves; in particular, the effect of grit–perseverance was stronger than grit–passion after controlling self-control. SES moderated the effect of grit–passion on academic possible selves. The current longitudinal study provides important implications for education and youth social work practice for young people growing up with the influence of the pandemic. Full article

Promoting behavioral change in mobility is essential for sustainable urban development. This study evaluates the effectiveness of gamified challenges in fostering sustainable travel behaviors among high school students and teachers within the High School Challenge (HSC) 2024 campaign in Lecco, Italy. Over a 13-week period, participants tracked their commuting habits via gamified mobile application, Play&Go, that awarded points for sustainable mobility choices and introduced weekly challenges. Using behavioral (GPS-based tracking) and self-report data, we assessed the influence of challenge types, player characteristics (HEXAD Player Types, Big Five traits), and user experience evaluations on participation, retention, and behavior change. The results show that challenges, particularly those based on walking distances and framed as intra-team goals, significantly enhanced user engagement and contributed to improved mobility behaviors during participants’ free time. Compared to the 2023 edition without challenges, the 2024 campaign achieved better retention. HEXAD Player Types were more predictive of user appreciation than Personality Traits, though these effects were more evident in subjective evaluations than actual behavior. Overall, findings highlight the importance of tailoring gamified interventions to users’ motivational profiles and structuring challenges around SMART principles. This study contributes to the design of behaviorally informed, scalable solutions for sustainable mobility transitions. Full article

Aims: To systematically review and synthesize qualitative research exploring the Breast Cancer Survivors (BCSs)’ perception of health promotion interventions and informing strategies to mitigate recurrence risk within five years post-treatment and improve clinical outcomes. Specifically, this study addresses the question: “How do women diagnosed with breast cancer perceive health promotion interventions for recurrence prevention?” Design: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis were performed. Data Sources: A systematic search of scientific databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Scopus) was undertaken in November 2024. The reference list was cross-referenced and hand-searched to identify additional articles. Review Methods: Studies were included if they met the following criteria: they were primary qualitative studies focusing on BCSs within five years post-treatment, involving participants who had completed surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy in the same time frame, as this period is critical for monitoring recurrence and implementing health promotion interventions. Only studies published in peer-reviewed journals and written in Italian, English, French, or Spanish were considered, provided that an abstract and the full text were available. Moreover, eligible studies had to be conducted in high-income or middle-income countries. Studies were excluded if they focused exclusively on advanced or metastatic breast cancer, if they involved mixed cancer populations without reporting separate data for BCSs, or if they were non-qualitative studies or gray literature. The review study protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42024626033). Results: The literature search identified 490 records, 13 articles from databases, and 3 articles identified via other methods (web and citation searching) that met inclusion criteria. A narrative synthesis approach allowed the emerging five themes: (I) Challenges, (II) Self-motivation and empowerment, (III) The relationships as a facilitator, (IV) Barriers to change, and (V) Proactive support strategies. Conclusions: Addressing internal and external factors that influence health behaviors is essential to improve adherence, reduce recurrence risk, and enhance quality of life. Tailored interventions, social support, and healthcare engagement are crucial in this effort. Impact: Our meta-synthesis highlighted significant challenges as well as valuable resources for health promotion among BCSs, suggesting practical and tailored approaches to improving the adoption of healthy behaviors, supported by relationships and targeted support strategies. Full article

Background: Pediatric Crohn’s Disease (CD) affects more than physical health, influencing emotional well-being, social integration, and developmental milestones, with an impact on disease management. This study aimed to explore adolescents’ lived experiences with CD and identify factors influencing their motivation for self-management. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional qualitative study was conducted using a semi-structured, self-administered online questionnaire. Participants (n = 10) were adolescents with CD who had been diagnosed for over three years and were recruited from a tertiary pediatric gastroenterology center. Data included demographics, clinical characteristics, IMPACT-III (HRQOL), and PROMIS short forms. Open-ended responses underwent thematic analysis using the framework developed by Braun and Clarke. Results: Participants (80% female, median age 16.2 years, median disease duration 4.6 years) were all in clinical remission (median PCDAI = 2) and with good quality of life (median IMPACT-III = 80.7). Six themes emerged: (1) disease knowledge, (2) emotional responses, (3) coping and adaptation, (4) social support, (5) daily life and school impact, and (6) transition to adult care. Most participants demonstrated strong disease literacy and reported effective coping strategies. Emotional responses to diagnosis ranged from relief (60%) to distress (40%); relapses commonly triggered anxiety and fear. Therapeutic changes and disease monitoring were perceived as beneficial (100%) but with concern. Diagnostic procedures were viewed as burdensome by 70% of respondents. School performance and extracurricular participation were negatively affected in 40% during flares. Concerns regarding the future were reported by 40% of participants, with 30% believing that CD might limit life aspirations. While 60% managed their disease independently, 30% relied on parental support. All acknowledged the need for transition to adult care, though readiness varied. Conclusions: This study illustrates the overall impact of disease on pediatric CD patients. It reports significant emotional challenges and difficulties, as well as an impact on daily life, despite good disease knowledge. The findings underscore the importance of psychosocial well-being, ongoing mental health assessment, non-invasive monitoring, and holistic care, emphasizing the patient perspective, in managing pediatric CD. Full article

Reinforcement learning (RL), a branch of artificial intelligence (AI), is becoming more popular in a variety of application fields such as games, workplaces, and behavioral analysis, due to its ability to model complex decision-making through interaction and feedback. Traditional systems for personality and behavior assessment often rely on self-reported questionnaires, which are prone to bias and manipulation. RL offers a compelling alternative by generating diverse, objective behavioral data through agent–environment interactions. In this paper, we propose a Reinforcement Learning-based framework in a game environment, where agents simulate personality-driven behavior using context-aware policies and exhibit a wide range of realistic actions. Our method, which is based on the OCEAN Five personality model—openness, conscientiousness, extroversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism—relates psychological profiles to in-game decision-making patterns. The agents are allowed to operate in numerous environments, observe behaviors that were modeled using another simulation system (HiDAC) and develop the skills needed to navigate and complete tasks. As a result, we are able to identify the personality types and team configurations that have the greatest effects on task performance and collaboration effectiveness. Using interaction data derived from self-play, we investigate the relationships between behaviors motivated by the personalities of the agents, communication styles, and team outcomes. The results demonstrate that in addition to having an effect on performance, personality-aware agents provide a solid methodology for producing realistic behavioral data, developing adaptive NPCs, and evaluating team-based scenarios in challenging settings. Full article