Behavioral Sciences

12 pages, 305 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Bullying in Physical Education: Descriptive Study of Spanish Adolescents

by Juan de Dios Benítez-Sillero, Diego Corredor-Corredor, Álvaro Morente-Montero, Javier Murillo-Moraño and José Manuel Armada-Crespo

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 555; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070555 (registering DOI) - 30 Jun 2024

Abstract

Physical education classes can be a place where both bullying and harassment take place, and a powerful strategy is needed to prevent it. The present study analyses bullying and students’ behaviour as active or passive observers in a general educational context and physical [...] Read more.

Physical education classes can be a place where both bullying and harassment take place, and a powerful strategy is needed to prevent it. The present study analyses bullying and students’ behaviour as active or passive observers in a general educational context and physical education lessons. A sample of 958 adolescents aged 12 to 18 was studied. A questionnaire was used to analyse the victimisation and the bullying and behaviour observed. The results showed a lower incidence rate than that observed in other studies in physical education classes with a higher level of perpetration by boys than by girls and a more active rejection of aggression by victims and girls. On the other hand, passive attitudes were greater among perpetrators and boys. The observers’ attitudes were similar in both contexts. The scenario in which this subject takes place could reduce the risk of these phenomena occurring. Therefore, physical education teachers should analyse these behaviours and intervene, especially when creating awareness in boys. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity for Psychological and Cognitive Development)

13 pages, 330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Association between Active Commuting and Lifestyle Parameters with Mental Health Problems in Chilean Children and Adolescent

by Felipe Caamaño-Navarrete, Indya Del-Cuerpo, Carlos Arriagada-Hernández, Cristian Alvarez, Anelise Reis Gaya, Cézane Priscila Reuter and Pedro Delgado-Floody

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070554 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Background: Little is known about the association between active commuting (i.e., walking or cycling to school) with lifestyle parameters and mental health in youths. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between mental health problems and symptoms of depression, [...] Read more.

Background: Little is known about the association between active commuting (i.e., walking or cycling to school) with lifestyle parameters and mental health in youths. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between mental health problems and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress with lifestyle (i.e., food habits, screen time, physical activity, and sleep quality), active commuting, and gender. Methods: A total of 511 children and adolescents (boys, n = 249; girls, n = 262) aged 10 to 17 years participated in the study. Lifestyle parameters and mental health were evaluated using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Results: Girls reported higher levels of anxiety (p = 0.001), depression (p = 0.001), and stress (p = 0.001). Mental health problems showed a positive association with gender (girls, β = 3.06, p < 0.001) and a negative association with food habits (β = −0.65, p = 0.019). Anxiety was positively associated with gender (β = 7.88, p < 0.001) and negatively associated with food habits (β = −0.23, p = 0.019). Gender (girls) and food habits were also associated with symptoms of depression (β = 2.29, p < 0.001 and β = −0.27, p = 0.005, respectively). Finally, active commuting was inversely associated with stress (β = −1.24, p = 0.008), and stress was positively linked to gender (β = 2.53, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Active commuting, lifestyle parameters, and gender were associated with mental health in children and adolescents. Moreover, girls reported higher levels of anxiety, symptoms of depression, and stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effects of Sports on Individual Cognition, Motivation and Mental Health)

10 pages, 514 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sandplay Therapy and Active Imagination: What Are the Similarities and Differences? Reflections about Jung’s Writings on Active Imagination

by Yura Loscalzo

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070553 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024

Abstract

Jung stated that active imagination is a fundamental component of the second phase of an analysis that can continue even outside the analytic setting. Since it can be conveyed through various expressive techniques, such as writing, drawing, and painting, it is possible to [...] Read more.

Jung stated that active imagination is a fundamental component of the second phase of an analysis that can continue even outside the analytic setting. Since it can be conveyed through various expressive techniques, such as writing, drawing, and painting, it is possible to argue that all forms of psychotherapy based on art (e.g., poetry, dance, and theater) originate from Jung’s contribution about active imagination. This paper focuses on Sandplay Therapy as one of the forms of expression rooted in active imagination. Apart from some critical differences between the two analytic processes (e.g., active imagination is usually prompted in the last phase of the analysis, while Sandplay Therapy might be used since the first sessions), there are several convergences. Among the principal analogies, consciousness lends its expressive means to the unconscious, which decides what to depict. Also, the resulting image is determined from both the consciousness and the unconscious and is related to the person’s conscious situation. Finally, I suggest that Sandplay Therapy—aside from contributing to the subsequent development of active imagination itself (as suggested by Dr. Carducci)—might also be used to practice active imagination in a “facilitated” and protected setting. It would help let the unconscious come up while creating the image in the sandtray, and it fosters the confrontation between the unconscious and the consciousness through the contemplation of the image in the sandtray. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Creative Methods, Images and Dreams in Psychotherapy: Methods, Processes and Results)

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20 pages, 690 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Navigating Purchase Intentions: The Influence of Reviewers’ Comments Moderated by Risk and Trust

by Sabina Kwakye, Ahmet Ertugan and Laith Tashtoush

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070552 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

Despite previous research on the impact of social media reviews on purchase intention, it is still unclear how individual reviewers' comments impact purchase intentions. To fill in the gap, this study examines the impact of product-related comments on purchase intentions. In terms of [...] Read more.

Despite previous research on the impact of social media reviews on purchase intention, it is still unclear how individual reviewers' comments impact purchase intentions. To fill in the gap, this study examines the impact of product-related comments on purchase intentions. In terms of contributions, this study evaluates people's dependence on social media for product information and purchase intention while considering risk and trust as moderating factors. The data were collected quantitatively using surveys. The sample consisted of 384 academically advanced adults with high social media engagement. The study hypotheses were tested using the PROCESS macro after exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and correlation analysis were conducted. Among those surveyed, it was confirmed that most people sought product-related comments on social media when seeking information about a product they might be interested in purchasing. It was also observed that the risk factor reduced the impact of other variables in the model presented in this study. In conclusion, this investigation is more reliable, and its outcomes benefit scholars, supervisors, merchants, and webmasters, for instance, in establishing a study for future research efforts and providing practical guidance that could boost promotional efforts and marketing activities, especially in this era of artificial intelligence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Behavioral Economics)

17 pages, 520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Intergenerational Trends on Parental Child-Rearing Gender Role Attitudes (PCGAs) in Single-Parent Families: A Relative Mediation

by Yun** Song, Meng** Yang, I-Jun Chen, Saba Ponam and Ying Shi

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070551 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

Family structures are diverse, with single-parent families being special. Single-parent families have garnered interest regarding their impact on their children’s development in relation to gender roles and social adaptation. This study investigated 532 children from single-parent families (mean age = 14.81, SD = [...] Read more.

Family structures are diverse, with single-parent families being special. Single-parent families have garnered interest regarding their impact on their children’s development in relation to gender roles and social adaptation. This study investigated 532 children from single-parent families (mean age = 14.81, SD = 1.62) and their parents. We collected data on the parental child-rearing gender role attitudes (PCGAs) of grandparents and parents, as well as the gender role and social adaptation of the children. The results revealed four intergenerational trends in PCGAs: progression between generations, undesirability in both generations, desirability in both generations, and retrogression between generations. An ANOVA showed that families with intergenerational desirability tended to have children with the highest gender role and social adaptation scores among the four intergenerational trends, while families with intergenerational undesirability had the lowest. A relative mediation analysis showed that compared to intergenerational undesirable PCGAs, intergenerational progress and intergenerational desirable PCGAs are beneficial for children’s gender traits, and their social adaptation development is also better. The results confirm the positive effect of children’s gender roles on their social adaptation, which suggests that parents should pay attention to children’s gender role education, transform their PCGAs, and create a nurturing environment for children’s gender role development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Psychology)

17 pages, 665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of State Authenticity on the Sense of Meaning in Life of Middle School Students: Evidence from a Daily Diary Investigation and an Authenticity Enhancement Experiment

by Shan Yan and Weihai Tang

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070550 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

Authenticity is a positive force for adolescent development. Taking middle school students as the main research objects, this paper examines the causal mechanism between state authenticity (SA) and sense of meaning in life through two studies: the diary method and authenticity level increase [...] Read more.

Authenticity is a positive force for adolescent development. Taking middle school students as the main research objects, this paper examines the causal mechanism between state authenticity (SA) and sense of meaning in life through two studies: the diary method and authenticity level increase experiment. In study 1, through the daily diary data tracking investigation of 130 middle school students in daily life situations, the basic psychological needs (BPNs) and satisfaction with life (SWL) play a chain mediating role between state authenticity and sense of daily meaning in life. State authenticity has a one-way prediction effect on sense of meaning in life. In study 2, 140 participants were randomly divided into two groups (experimental group and control group). Middle school students in the experimental group were activated to recall the authenticity experience events to enhance the level of personal authenticity, and it was found that the subjects reported a higher sense of meaning in life. This study reveals the causal mechanism between authenticity and sense of meaning of life, which has positive practical significance for exploring ways to enhance the sense of meaning of life of middle school students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Positive Psychology Interventions in Schools)

12 pages, 385 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Psychoeducation on Attitudes toward Violence and Risky Behaviors among Refugee Adolescents

by Derya Atik, Ayşe İnel Manav and Edanur Tar Bolacalı

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070549 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the effect of psychoeducation on attitudes toward violence and risky behaviors among refugee adolescents. This was a randomized controlled experimental study conducted with refugee adolescents (n = 101) studying in a high school in southern Turkey. After [...] Read more.

This study was conducted to examine the effect of psychoeducation on attitudes toward violence and risky behaviors among refugee adolescents. This was a randomized controlled experimental study conducted with refugee adolescents (n = 101) studying in a high school in southern Turkey. After psychoeducation, it was determined that there was a significant decrease in the prevalence of antisocial behaviors, alcohol use, suicidal thoughts, unhealthy eating habits, and school dropout thoughts among adolescents according to the subdimensions of the risky behavior scale. Psychoeducation was found to be effective in reducing attitudes toward violence and preventing risky behaviors among refugee adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Intervention for Mental Health in Teenagers and Young Adults)

13 pages, 434 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Reconsidering Leadership Development: From Programs to Developmental Systems

by David V. Day and Laura Dannhäuser

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070548 - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

We argue for reconsidering leadership development based on open systems theory and systems design principles. A primary advantage of open systems thinking is that it encourages holistic approaches to development and avoids episodic program-based training and piecemeal thinking. The latter approaches are both [...] Read more.

We argue for reconsidering leadership development based on open systems theory and systems design principles. A primary advantage of open systems thinking is that it encourages holistic approaches to development and avoids episodic program-based training and piecemeal thinking. The latter approaches are both limited and limiting yet tend to be the preferred approach to leadership development in organizations. Open systems approaches to development offer numerous advantages both conceptually and pragmatically, especially through the incorporation of ongoing feedback cycles. Core practices that define a leadership development system are presented and implications are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rethinking Leadership Development: Contributions from Theory and Research)

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17 pages, 747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Effects of Self-Monitoring of Performance with a Peer Component on Disruptive Behavior and Task Completion of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

by Isabella Gural, Catia Cividini-Motta, Marissa L. Del Vecchio and Madeline R. Risse

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070547 - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

Self-monitoring (SM) is a widely used intervention to address a myriad of problem behaviors exhibited by individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other disabilities (e.g., specific learning disability). SM of performance (SMP) interventions have been effective in increasing task completion and on-task [...] Read more.

Self-monitoring (SM) is a widely used intervention to address a myriad of problem behaviors exhibited by individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other disabilities (e.g., specific learning disability). SM of performance (SMP) interventions have been effective in increasing task completion and on-task behaviors in the general education setting. However, most of the research on SM interventions has been completed in a school setting, and few have evaluated the inclusion of a peer mediator component within a SM treatment package. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a SMP intervention on disruptive behavior and task completion in three children with ASD. This study extends previous research by incorporating a peer mediator component, including children with ASD, and implementing the intervention in a clinic setting. The results show that the SM treatment package was effective, as the level of disruptive behavior and task completion improved for all three participants compared to baseline levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Treatment of Challenging Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder)

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16 pages, 1876 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Reinforcement without Extinction: An Assessment of Sensitivity to and Effects of Reinforcer Parameter Manipulations

by Hannah MacNaul, Catia Cividini-Motta and Kayla Randall

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070546 - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

Although functional communication training (FCT) usually includes extinction, withholding reinforcement is not possible or ethical with certain individuals, for some topographies of problem behavior, or in certain contexts. The current study evaluates the effects of two variations of FCT, both without extinction, on [...] Read more.

Although functional communication training (FCT) usually includes extinction, withholding reinforcement is not possible or ethical with certain individuals, for some topographies of problem behavior, or in certain contexts. The current study evaluates the effects of two variations of FCT, both without extinction, on problem behavior and communication. Further, the intervention procedures were designed to evaluate participant reactivity to reinforcer parameters (e.g., magnitude, delay, and quality) in the context of the FCT variations. The parameter sensitivity assessments were effective at identifying relevant reinforcer parameters for each participant and both FCT interventions were effective in decreasing problem behavior and increasing communication for all participants. The results demonstrated that FCT was effective regardless of which reinforcer parameter was manipulated. Moreover, all sessions were conducted in participants’ homes and caregivers reported high degrees of social validity for the intervention procedures and outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Treatment of Challenging Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder)

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10 pages, 561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Psychological Flexibility on Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Multiple Mediation Role of Mindfulness and Co**

by Thiago Paiva, Ana Nunes da Silva, David Dias Neto, Maria Karekla, Angelos P. Kassianos and Andrew Gloster

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070545 - 28 Jun 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic involved a complex set of stressors affecting the health and well-being of the population. The understanding of the psychological processes that influence well-being in response to the pandemic and their interrelation is vital. A promising process in understanding the emotional [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic involved a complex set of stressors affecting the health and well-being of the population. The understanding of the psychological processes that influence well-being in response to the pandemic and their interrelation is vital. A promising process in understanding the emotional impacts of these stressors is psychological flexibility. This study investigated the effect of psychological flexibility on well-being, both directly and indirectly, via mindfulness and co** strategies. A total of 334 Portuguese adults participated in this cross-sectional study. Participants were asked to complete an online questionnaire, including measures of psychological flexibility, well-being, mindfulness, and co** strategies. A multiple mediation model studied whether there are conditional indirect effects of mindfulness and co** strategies on well-being. The results showed statistically significant correlations between psychological flexibility, well-being, mindfulness, and co** strategies. Furthermore, we found that mindfulness and co** strategies partly mediate the relationship between psychological flexibility and well-being. Understanding the processes through which psychological flexibility influences well-being in a stressful context is important in comprehending the processes involved in an emotional reaction to a pandemic-like societal event. Mindfulness and co** are shown to be important processes to consider in understanding this phenomenon and designing future responses. Full article

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15 pages, 1902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Case Study Investigating the Relational Well-Being of International Students at Hohai University Nan**g, Jiangsu Province of China

by Haihua Ying, Abdul Rasool Khoso and Shahnaz Bhutto

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070544 - 27 Jun 2024

Abstract

This study acknowledges the growing importance of international student mobility and examines the relational well-being of international students at Hohai University in Nan**g, China. Understanding the complexities of interactions among international students is essential for their well-being and the university’s overall success, since [...] Read more.

This study acknowledges the growing importance of international student mobility and examines the relational well-being of international students at Hohai University in Nan**g, China. Understanding the complexities of interactions among international students is essential for their well-being and the university’s overall success, since this tendency continues to increase. By examining the distinct possibilities and problems faced by international students at Hohai University and considering elements including cultural distinctiveness, the campus environment, interpersonal dynamics, and support networks, the study fills a research void. For this purpose, 150 international students at Hohai University participated in semi-structured interviews and 10 participants participated in unstructured interviews as part of the mixed-methods approach to obtain in-depth information. Hence, the descriptive data were analyzed using SPSS and qualitative analyses were performed using NVIVO. According to preliminary findings derived from quantitative data, important results emphasize the significant impact of homesickness (0.143, T value: 5.931) and the positive correlation of relational well-being (0.146), highlighting their significance. The effect of the language barrier is also significant (0.125, T value: 4.378), whereas loneliness has little bearing (0.011, T value: 0.847). Additionally, the highest concern of the international students (M = 8.35; SD = 1.43) was making connections with local students. Additionally, (M = 8.21; SD = 1.15) international students favored Hohai University, which provided a welcoming atmosphere for intercultural dialogue. The Foreign Student Office, social events, cultural exchange programs, counseling services, and peer support networks are just a few examples of the support structures and networks crucial to international students’ general well-being. At the same time, the cultural hurdles, including the language barrier and loneliness, seemed to be the challenge. The study concludes by shedding light on the relational well-being of international students at Hohai University and highlighting the importance of community-building and supporting actions. The results provide insightful information that will help the institution better respond to the particular difficulties that international students encounter, creating a more welcoming and stimulating atmosphere. This study establishes the foundation for further research in comparable contexts and advances our understanding of relational well-being in the context of experiences for overseas students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellbeing and Mental Health among Students)

17 pages, 530 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Substance Use among School-Going Adolescents and Young Adults in Rural Mpumalanga Province, South Africa

by Tabeho Godfrey Mmethi, Perpetua Modjadji, Mmampedi Mathibe, Ntevhe Thovhogi, Machoene Derrick Sekgala, Thomas Khomotjo Madiba and Olalekan Ayo-Yusuf

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070543 - 27 Jun 2024

Abstract

The ongoing public health crisis of substance use among school adolescents and young adults (AYAs) in South Africa is not new in research parlance, amidst the national policy of drug abuse management in schools. In view of no tangible progress to reduce substance [...] Read more.

The ongoing public health crisis of substance use among school adolescents and young adults (AYAs) in South Africa is not new in research parlance, amidst the national policy of drug abuse management in schools. In view of no tangible progress to reduce substance use in high schools in the country, we conducted a cross-sectional quantitative study aimed at investigating substance use among adolescents and young adults in the four public high schools selected through multi-stage sampling in rural Mpumalanga province, South Africa. Data on substance use, demographics, household socio-demographics, and related factors were collected via a validated self-administered questionnaire. Hierarchical logistic regression was performed using STATA 18. The study included 402 AYAs aged between 14 and 23 years (18 ± 1 years), and 45% reported substance use in the last twelve months. Alcohol was the most used substance (74%), followed by cigarettes (12%) and cannabis (11%). AYAs used substances out of social influence, curiosity, to find joy, and to eliminate stress, especially in social events, on the streets, and at home, and reported negative physical health outcomes, mainly hallucinations, slee** disorders, body weakness, and dry mouths. Hierarchical logistic regression showed that the likelihood of substance use was three times in a particular high school (S4) (AOR = 3.93, 95%CI: 1.72–8.99), twice among the grade 12s (AOR = 2.73, 95%CI: 1.46–5.11), over twenty times in the communities with substance availability (AOR = 22.45, 95%CI: 2.75–183.56), almost ten times among AYAs participating in recreational/sports activities (AOR = 9.74, 95%CI: 4.21–22.52), and twice likely to happen in larger households (AOR = 2.96, 95%CI: 1.57–5.58). Prevention and intervention efforts should consider these specific health concerns to develop targeted strategies for mitigating substance use and its adverse consequences in this vulnerable population towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal Target 3.5, which aims to strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and the harmful use of alcohol. Full article

16 pages, 455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Playfulness in Children with Low Executive Functions: The Role of Parental Playfulness and Parental Playtime with Their Child

by Isabelle Duss, Cornelia Ruedisueli, Corina Wustmann Seiler and Patricia Lannen

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070542 - 27 Jun 2024

Abstract

Children with low executive functions (EFs) are described as having lower levels of playfulness, the quality of children’s play, compared to children with EFs within the normal range. However, how playfulness in children with low EFs develops over time remains unclear. Additionally, little [...] Read more.

Children with low executive functions (EFs) are described as having lower levels of playfulness, the quality of children’s play, compared to children with EFs within the normal range. However, how playfulness in children with low EFs develops over time remains unclear. Additionally, little is known about how parental playfulness and parental playtime with their child affect these developmental trajectories in children with low EFs. To address these research gaps, we measured playfulness in 62 children with low EFs and 62 children with EFs within the normal range aged 3 to 6 years at three time points over 2 years. We used the Children’s Playfulness Scale, which captures multi-informant perspectives from parents and teachers. Moreover, the parents of children with low EFs reported their own playfulness and their playtime with their children at T1. Repeated-measures hierarchical linear models indicated significantly lower levels of playfulness in the children with low EFs than in the controls, with no significant changes observed over 2 years in either group. In the children with low EFs, we found a significant positive relationship between parental playfulness at T1 and children’s playfulness 2 years later but a significant negative relationship between parental playtime at T1 and children’s playfulness 2 years later. These results prompt a broad discussion on potential implications for the enhancement of playfulness in children with low EFs within the family environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Psychology)

19 pages, 304 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Participation in Extracurricular Arts and Sports Activities and Adolescents’ Social and Emotional Skills: An Empirical Analysis Based on the OECD Social and Emotional Skills Survey

by Weihao Wang, Wenye Li and Jijun Yao

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070541 - 27 Jun 2024

Abstract

In light of the ‘double reduction’ policy, which affords adolescents increased time for extracurricular pursuits, the strategic organization of these activities’ form and content is imperative. Prior research has established a robust correlation between adolescent participation in extracurricular arts and sports and the [...] Read more.

In light of the ‘double reduction’ policy, which affords adolescents increased time for extracurricular pursuits, the strategic organization of these activities’ form and content is imperative. Prior research has established a robust correlation between adolescent participation in extracurricular arts and sports and the enhancement in their social and emotional skills. Nevertheless, the relationship between extracurricular arts and sports activities and the various dimensions of social and emotional skills, as well as the connection between participation in different types of these activities and the enhancement in social and emotional skills, requires further investigation. Utilizing the Theory of Multiple Intelligence and data from the OECD-SSES2019 Suzhou (China) student survey, this study employs Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and coarsened exact matching (CEM) methodologies to address these gaps. In China, participation in extracurricular arts and sports activities is significantly positively associated with various dimensions of social and emotional skills, with a synergistic effect observed between these activities in enhancing these skills. Additionally, this study finds age-related heterogeneity in the relationship between participation in extracurricular arts and sports activities and the improvement in social and emotional skills. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emotional and Cognitive Perspectives in Physical Activity and Sport)

18 pages, 1444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Connecting Environmental Perception, Awe, Face Consciousness, and Environmentally Responsible Behaviors: A Mediated-Moderated Analysis

by Youxu Yan, Xueji Wang, Serene Tse and Lei Wang

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070540 - 27 Jun 2024

Abstract

Tourists’ environmentally responsible behavior (TERB) is one of the key areas in tourism as it concerns tourism sustainability that further influences a destination’s competitiveness and image. This study sought to deepen the formation of TERB through tourists’ degree of environmental perception, mediated by [...] Read more.

Tourists’ environmentally responsible behavior (TERB) is one of the key areas in tourism as it concerns tourism sustainability that further influences a destination’s competitiveness and image. This study sought to deepen the formation of TERB through tourists’ degree of environmental perception, mediated by their feeling of awe towards the environment, and moderated by their level of face consciousness. Data were collected from tourists in Tibet and the findings indicated that awe exerted partial mediation on the tourists’ perception-behavior relationship. Furthermore, face consciousness moderated the mediated relationship of humanistic environmental perception, awe, and TERB. This study adds value to existing tourism studies by revealing the influences of awe on constructing tourists’ attitude in sustainable tourism. From a practical perspective, the findings offer insights for destination management organizations (DMOs) in promoting tourists’ environmentally responsible behavior that fosters sustainable tourism development. Full article

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23 pages, 698 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adolescent Female Users’ Avatar Creation in Social Virtual Worlds: Opportunities and Challenges

by Chaeeun Ko and Seongcheol Kim

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070539 - 26 Jun 2024

Abstract

Many adolescent females are active online, finding creative ways to express themselves through evolving social media technologies. Social virtual worlds (SVWs), distinguished by extensive avatar customization features, provide them with unique opportunities to craft virtual identities and explore diverse facets of self-presentation. This [...] Read more.

Many adolescent females are active online, finding creative ways to express themselves through evolving social media technologies. Social virtual worlds (SVWs), distinguished by extensive avatar customization features, provide them with unique opportunities to craft virtual identities and explore diverse facets of self-presentation. This study investigates adolescent females’ construction of avatars in Zepeto, a South Korea-based global SVW platform. Employing social representation theory (SRT) as a theoretical framework, this study conducted in-depth interviews with adolescent female Zepeto users to uncover their perceptions of and motivations behind avatar creation in SVWs, as well as to explore how the interplay of virtual and real worlds presents them with various opportunities and challenges. While the prospects of SVWs remain uncertain, examining how these young users interpret and experience SVWs contributes to identifying potential strategies to enhance the sustainability of these platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Emergence of Cyberpsychology as an Essential Framework for Social Science Research)

12 pages, 529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Negative Self-Evaluative Emotions Enhance Healthier Food Choices? Exploring the Moderating Role of Self-Affirmation

by **gwen Li, Yu Chen, Mingcong Tang and Shuangmiao Wang

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070538 - 26 Jun 2024

Abstract

Negative self-evaluative emotions arise when an individual engages in behavior that is perceived as inadequate or inconsistent with personal or societal norms and values, leading to feelings of inadequacy, shame, and dissatisfaction with oneself. These emotions are a central motivating force for changing [...] Read more.

Negative self-evaluative emotions arise when an individual engages in behavior that is perceived as inadequate or inconsistent with personal or societal norms and values, leading to feelings of inadequacy, shame, and dissatisfaction with oneself. These emotions are a central motivating force for changing unhealthy behaviors. However, negative evaluative emotions may also direct individuals towards defensive reactions such as reactance and avoidance. This can cause negative self-evaluative emotions to be less effective in reducing unhealthy behavior. More importantly, empirical evidence is needed to explore strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of interventions. In this study, we used an online experiment with 100 student participants to examine if increasing self-affirmation can increase the effectiveness of negative self-evaluative emotions in reducing unhealthy food consumption. We found that negative self-evaluative emotions can significantly increase healthy food consumption. However, our analysis did not reveal a significant moderating impact of self-affirmation on the effectiveness of negative self-evaluative emotions in reducing unhealthy consumption. This is the first study to explore the moderating impact of self-affirmation on the effectiveness of negative self-evaluative emotions on health behavioral change, which opens new avenues for studying how to apply the combination of stimulating negative self-evaluative emotions and increasing self-affirmation to induce behavioral change regarding healthy diets and even a broader range of fields. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Behavioural Science in Improving Public Health)

14 pages, 550 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between Stress and Academic Self-Efficacy among Students at Elite Colleges: A Longitudinal Analysis

by **nqiao Liu, Chen Zhu, Zifei Dong and Yunfeng Luo

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(7), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14070537 - 26 Jun 2024

Abstract

Stress and academic self-efficacy are crucial factors in the psychological health of college students. Previous research has shown that stress is associated with academic self-efficacy, but their longitudinal relationships among students at elite colleges remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the longitudinal [...] Read more.

Stress and academic self-efficacy are crucial factors in the psychological health of college students. Previous research has shown that stress is associated with academic self-efficacy, but their longitudinal relationships among students at elite colleges remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the longitudinal relationships between stress and academic self-efficacy among students from five elite colleges in China. Descriptive statistics indicated that students experienced a slight reduction in stress accompanied by a marginal increase in academic self-efficacy from the junior year to the senior year. Correlation analysis revealed that stress was negatively correlated with academic self-efficacy. According to cross-lagged models, heightened stress significantly predicted lower levels of academic self-efficacy. However, greater academic self-efficacy did not significantly predict lower stress. In conclusion, stress exhibited a unidirectional negative prediction on academic self-efficacy over time among students at elite colleges. The results of this study suggested that elite colleges should pay more attention to the mental health of students and provide appropriate guidance, such as establishing a positive mental health atmosphere in the educational environment and employing advanced technological means. Full article

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