Journal Description
Behavioral Sciences
Behavioral Sciences
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, behavioral biology and behavioral genetics published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SSCI (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Psychology, Multidisciplinary) / CiteScore - Q2 (Development)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 21.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.6 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.2 (2022)
Latest Articles
Factors Influencing the Satisfaction of Second Language Learners of Chinese in Online Courses
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050387 (registering DOI) - 04 May 2024
Abstract
The study aims to investigate the relationship among the key factors affecting second language learners’ satisfaction with online Chinese courses and their willingness to continue utilizing them by constructing a Model of Chinese Learners’ Satisfaction in Online Courses. Additionally, the influence of participants’
[...] Read more.
The study aims to investigate the relationship among the key factors affecting second language learners’ satisfaction with online Chinese courses and their willingness to continue utilizing them by constructing a Model of Chinese Learners’ Satisfaction in Online Courses. Additionally, the influence of participants’ individual differences was also explored. A total of 203 second language learners of Chinese participated in the questionnaire survey, with 5 learners further participating in interviews. Learner expectations, learner perceived quality, and learner perceived value were identified as important factors influencing learner satisfaction and willingness to continue using the online course. The results of the questionnaire survey showed that (1) learner individual differences, such as age, Chinese proficiency, weekly study duration, and offline Chinese course experience, significantly influence learner satisfaction. (2) Learner expectations have a significant positive impact on perceived quality, while perceived quality positively affects perceived value. (3) Learner satisfaction significantly influences the willingness to continue using online courses. (4) The results of the interview revealed that most learners still prefer traditional offline courses, indicating that online teaching has several shortcomings and deficiencies. Overall, this study provides some scientific and reasonable decision-making references for improving online teaching methods, aiming to enhance learner satisfaction and promote the development of online education.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
How Mental Health and Suicidality Changed during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Study in the General and Psychiatric Population Illustrating Risk and Protective Factors
by
Mara Stockner, Barbara Plattner, Marco Innamorati, Alex Hofer, Iuliia Burian, Martin Fronthaler, Giancarlo Giupponi, Markus Huber, Christian Macina, Verena Perwanger, Roger Pycha, Gerd Schaller and Andreas Conca
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050386 - 03 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in psychological distress in the general population, but contrasting results have been shown regarding its impact on psychological symptoms in clinical and non-clinical samples. Consequently, the aim of the present study was to compare in
[...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in psychological distress in the general population, but contrasting results have been shown regarding its impact on psychological symptoms in clinical and non-clinical samples. Consequently, the aim of the present study was to compare in a longitudinal design (September–November 2020 and February–April 2021) the mental health outcomes of a clinical and a control sample and to determine the implications of various risk and protective factors in this regard. A total of 234 participants from the general population and 80 psychiatric patients took part in the present online study using the following measurements: the Brief Symptom Checklist (BSCL); Three-Item Loneliness Scale (TILS); Resilience Scale-13 (RS-13); and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy—Spiritual Well-Being Scale—Non-Illness (FACIT-Sp Non-Illness). The results show an overall decrease in active suicidal ideation as well as “peace”, a subscale of spiritual well-being, as well as increases in passive suicidal activation in the clinical sample, which did not change in the control sample. Psychological symptoms did not significantly change in either group. Significant group effects show an increase in resilience in the clinical sample. Resilience and peace turned out to be protective factors for negative mental health outcomes. However, loneliness, which interestingly increased only in the control sample, was shown to be an overall potential risk factor. Our results highlight the complex implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health outcomes of different groups in the population, demonstrating the necessity of further research, specifically regarding the risk of active and passive suicidal activation. Highlighted protective factors are discussed in regards to spirituality (i.e., peace), which is not strictly related to religion but rather personal spirituality related to the meaning of situations of one’s life, as well as in terms of mental health interventions.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Changes of Solitude Behaviors among College Students: A Latent Transition Analysis
by
Tour Liu, Fuyu Wan and Xurong Lu
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050385 - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Solitude behaviors encompass four types: positive solitude, eccentricity, social avoidance, and loneliness. These four types of solitude behaviors are not entirely independent but can co-occur within individuals. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore latent classes of solitude behaviors, their developmental
[...] Read more.
Solitude behaviors encompass four types: positive solitude, eccentricity, social avoidance, and loneliness. These four types of solitude behaviors are not entirely independent but can co-occur within individuals. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore latent classes of solitude behaviors, their developmental patterns, and relevant influencing factors among college students. The Solitude Behavior Scale—Short Version was administered to a sample of college students. A total of 417 Chinese students completed a three-time longitudinal paper questionnaire. The data analysis was performed using Mplus 8.0 and SPSS 26.0. Harman’s single-factor test, latent class analysis (LCA), and latent transition analysis (LTA) were employed for subsequent analysis. The results revealed three classes: low solitude, moderate solitude, and high solitude, which exhibited temporal changes. Social avoidance and loneliness could facilitate transitions between high solitude and moderate solitude. Females and first-grade students exhibited higher transition probabilities than males and students not in the first grade. The incidence of moderate solitude in the not-first-grade group was significantly higher than that in the first-grade group. Finally, this study offers new insights into the dynamics of solitude behaviors and their association with gender and age.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Positive Psychology Interventions in Schools)
Open AccessArticle
A Test of the Self-Medication Hypothesis Using a Latent Measurement Model: Are Stress and Impaired Control over Alcohol Mediating Mechanisms of Parenting Styles on Heavy Episodic Drinking and Alcohol-Related Problems among University Students?
by
Felix B. Muniz, Elena Kalina, Julie A. Patock-Peckham, Sophia Berberian, Brittney Fulop, Jason Williams and Robert F. Leeman
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050384 - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: The self-medication hypothesis (SMH) suggests that individuals consume alcohol to alleviate stressful emotions. Still, the underlying mechanisms between stress and heavy episodic drinking remain to be explored. Impaired control over drinking (IC) reflects a failure of self-regulation specific to the drinking context,
[...] Read more.
Introduction: The self-medication hypothesis (SMH) suggests that individuals consume alcohol to alleviate stressful emotions. Still, the underlying mechanisms between stress and heavy episodic drinking remain to be explored. Impaired control over drinking (IC) reflects a failure of self-regulation specific to the drinking context, with individuals exceeding self-prescribed limits. Parenting styles experienced during childhood have a lasting influence on the stress response, which may contribute to IC. Method: We examined the indirect influences of parenting styles (e.g., permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative) on heavy episodic drinking and alcohol-related problems through the mediating mechanisms of stress and IC. We fit a latent measurement model with 938 (473 men; 465 women) university students, utilizing bootstrap confidence intervals, in Mplus 8.0. Results: Higher levels of authoritative parenting (mother and father) were indirectly linked to fewer alcohol-related problems and less heavy episodic drinking through less stress and IC. Maternal permissiveness was indirectly linked to more alcohol-related problems and heavy episodic drinking through more stress and, in turn, more IC. Impaired control appeared to be a mediator for stress and alcohol-related problems. Conclusions: Maternal permissiveness contributes to the use of alcohol to alleviate stress. Thus, reducing stress may reduce problematic heavy drinking and alcohol problems among emerging adults with high IC who may also have experienced permissive parenting. Stress may exacerbate behavioral dysregulation of drinking within self-prescribed limits.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Drinking)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Refuting Six Misconceptions about Romantic Love
by
Sandra J. E. Langeslag
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050383 - 02 May 2024
Abstract
Scientific research on romantic love has been relatively sparse but is becoming more prevalent, as it should. Unfortunately, several misconceptions about romantic love are becoming entrenched in the popular media and/or the scientific community, which hampers progress. Therefore, I refute six misconceptions about
[...] Read more.
Scientific research on romantic love has been relatively sparse but is becoming more prevalent, as it should. Unfortunately, several misconceptions about romantic love are becoming entrenched in the popular media and/or the scientific community, which hampers progress. Therefore, I refute six misconceptions about romantic love in this article. I explain why (1) romantic love is not necessarily dyadic, social, or interpersonal, (2) love is not an emotion, (3) romantic love does not just have positive effects, (4) romantic love is not uncontrollable, (5) there is no dedicated love brain region, neurotransmitter, or hormone, and (6) pharmacological manipulation of romantic love is not near. To increase progress in our scientific understanding of romantic love, I recommend that we study the intrapersonal aspects of romantic love including the intensity of love, that we focus our research questions and designs using a component process model of romantic love, and that we distinguish hypotheses and suggestions from empirical findings when citing previous work.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Science of Mating, Love, and Attachment in Romantic Relationships)
Open AccessArticle
The Influence of Personality Type D and Coping Strategies on Cognitive Functioning in Students
by
Alexey N. Sumin, Ingrid Yu. Prokashko and Anna V. Shcheglova
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050382 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Academic and emotional challenges faced by medical students can affect their psychological well-being and health. Personal characteristics may also predispose one to the manifestation of distress reactions. Individuals with type D personality have an increased tendency to develop depressive reactions and somatic
[...] Read more.
Introduction: Academic and emotional challenges faced by medical students can affect their psychological well-being and health. Personal characteristics may also predispose one to the manifestation of distress reactions. Individuals with type D personality have an increased tendency to develop depressive reactions and somatic diseases, including the presence of cognitive dysfunction. In students, the presence of cognitive dysfunction may additionally adversely affect academic and psycho-emotional problems. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of type D personality and coping strategies on cognitive functioning in medical students. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 258 medical students (age 19 ± 1.2 years, 79 men). All participants completed psychological questionnaires (DS-14 to identify type D personality, and The Coping Strategy Indication, CSI—to determine coping strategies), as well as extensive neuropsychological testing of cognitive functions. Results: Among the medical students examined, the frequency of identification of type D personality was 44%. In persons with personality type D, according to psychometric testing, a decrease in the level of functional mobility of nervous processes (FMNP) was noted, which was manifested in an increase in the test completion time (p < 0.001) and an increase in the number of errors (p < 0.001) during the FMNP test, and an increase in the test completion time in the attention concentration test. In addition, in type D participants, an increase in the test execution time during the attention test was noted (p = 0.007). Personality type D was an independent risk factor for cognitive decline in students in multiple linear regression analysis, when type D was analyzed as a dichotomous construct. Conclusions: Assessing personal characteristics and identifying personality type D is advisable for medical students, to develop subsequent programs to increase their resistance to academic challenges, improve cognitive function, and also to prepare for future stress loads during professional activities in the field of healthcare.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellbeing and Mental Health among Students)
Open AccessArticle
Evaluating Two Brief Motivational Interventions for Excessive-Drinking University Students
by
Lee M. Hogan and W. Miles Cox
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050381 - 01 May 2024
Abstract
Objective: Two brief computerized motivational interventions for excessive-drinking university students were evaluated. Method: Participants (N = 88, females = 61.5%, mean age = 21.05 years) were randomly assigned to a control group or one of two experimental groups: Computerized Brief Intervention (CBI)
[...] Read more.
Objective: Two brief computerized motivational interventions for excessive-drinking university students were evaluated. Method: Participants (N = 88, females = 61.5%, mean age = 21.05 years) were randomly assigned to a control group or one of two experimental groups: Computerized Brief Intervention (CBI) or Computerized Brief Intervention-Enhanced (CBI-E). CBI followed the principles of Motivational Interviewing to motivate participants to change their drinking behavior. CBI-E additionally used the principles of Systematic Motivational Counseling to identify and discuss with participants their dysfunctional motivational patterns that were interfering with their attainment of emotional satisfaction. At baseline and a three-month follow-up, the participants completed a battery of measures of alcohol consumption and related problems. Results: At baseline, the participants were confirmed to be heavy drinkers with many drink-related negative consequences. Males and females responded differently to the interventions. During follow-up, males’ alcohol use was ordered: CBI-E < CBI < Controls. The females in all three groups reduced their alcohol use, but there were no significant group differences. Conclusions: Males responded to the interventions as expected. For females, the assessment itself seemed to serve as an effective intervention, and there were no post-intervention differences among the three groups. Suggestions for future research using CBI and CBI-E are discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Promoting Behavioral Change to Improve Health Outcomes)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Developmental Profile in Children Aged 3–6 Years: Down Syndrome vs. Autism Spectrum Disorder
by
Patricia López Resa and Esther Moraleda Sepúlveda
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050380 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
This research aims to compare the developmental profiles of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and children with Down Syndrome (DS) between the ages of 3 and 6 years. The study examines whether these developmental disorders share common developmental milestones or exhibit distinctive
[...] Read more.
This research aims to compare the developmental profiles of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and children with Down Syndrome (DS) between the ages of 3 and 6 years. The study examines whether these developmental disorders share common developmental milestones or exhibit distinctive characteristics. A total of 43 children, 23 with DS and 20 with ASD, participated in the study. Cognitive and language skills were assessed using standardized tools, including the Battelle Developmental Inventory, Reynell Developmental Language Scales III, and NEPSY-II battery. The results indicated that children with ASD outperformed children with DS in the areas of fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and communication. Additionally, children with ASD demonstrated higher scores in language comprehension and expressive language, compared to children with DS. Significant correlations were found between motor skills and communication abilities. Neuropsychological evaluations revealed significant differences between the two groups in various tasks, such as the comprehension of instructions, body part naming and identification, and recognition of emotions. These findings contribute to our understanding of the similarities and differences between ASD and DS, shedding light on the dissociation between cognition and language and its impact on adaptive functioning in these populations.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
“Take It One Dilation at A Time”: Caregiver Perspectives of Postoperative Anal Dilations in Pediatric Patients with Colorectal Conditions
by
Lea A. Wehrli, Merlin Ariefdjohan, Jill Ketzer, Kristina Matkins, Luis De la Torre, Andrea Bischoff and Laura Judd-Glossy
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050379 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Postoperative anal dilations (PAD) are the standard of care for patients after a posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) for anorectal malformation (ARM) or a transanal pull-through (TP) procedure for Hirschsprung disease (HD). This study assessed the psychosocial impact of PAD among caregivers of
[...] Read more.
Background: Postoperative anal dilations (PAD) are the standard of care for patients after a posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) for anorectal malformation (ARM) or a transanal pull-through (TP) procedure for Hirschsprung disease (HD). This study assessed the psychosocial impact of PAD among caregivers of children with ARM or HD, which may inform postoperative care strategies. Methods: Caregivers of patients with ARM and HD who underwent PSARP or TP within five years participated in the online survey. Questions included demographics, patient and caregiver experiences with PAD, and baseline psychosocial functioning. Quantitative results were reported descriptively, while qualitative responses were summarized as major themes. Results: The survey indicated a response rate of 26% caregivers, with most being female (91%) and biological mothers (85%). Patients were mostly male (65%), born with ARM (74%), and were five months old on average when PAD began. Caregivers reported that during PAD, children experienced distress (56%), pain (44%), and fear (41%), while a third noted no negative reactions. Over time, their child’s ability to cope with PAD got easier (38%) or stayed the same (41%). Caregivers reported worry/anxiety (88%), guilt (71%), stress (62%), and frustration (35%), noting that additional coping strategies to manage the emotional and logistical challenges of daily PAD would be helpful. Conclusion: Although PAD is necessary, it can be highly stressful for the patients and their caregivers. Key findings emphasized the need for additional coping strategies and highlighted the importance of integrating psychosocial support into the postoperative care regimen.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)
Open AccessArticle
Positive Body Image and Psychological Wellbeing among Women and Men: The Mediating Role of Body Image Coping Strategies
by
Camilla Matera, Chiara Casati, Monica Paradisi, Cristian Di Gesto and Amanda Nerini
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050378 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the mediating role of body image coping strategies in the relationship between positive body image and wellbeing. Three hundred and seventy-two women and three hundred and seventy-seven men completed a questionnaire assessing body appreciation, body appreciation functionality, body
[...] Read more.
This study aimed to examine the mediating role of body image coping strategies in the relationship between positive body image and wellbeing. Three hundred and seventy-two women and three hundred and seventy-seven men completed a questionnaire assessing body appreciation, body appreciation functionality, body compassion, body image coping strategies (appearance fixing, avoidance, positive rational acceptance), self-acceptance and overall psychological wellbeing. Path analysis showed that avoidance significantly mediated the relationship between body appreciation and overall psychological wellbeing among both women and men; its mediating role was confirmed for men’s but not for women’s self-acceptance. Positive rational acceptance was a significant mediator of the relationship between body compassion and both psychological wellbeing and self-acceptance among men but not among women. These findings show that higher body appreciation is associated with a lower tendency to avoid appearance-related cognitions or thoughts that are interpreted as threatening, with an indirect effect on women’s and men’s psychological wellbeing. Analogously, but only for men, body compassion is associated with mental activities and self-care behaviors that foster rational self-talk and the acceptance of one’s experiences, which, in turn, are linked to higher wellbeing. These findings can help to plan programs aimed at fostering individuals’ wellbeing by focusing on their positive body image considering gender differences.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Challenges in Media Attention toward COVID-19-Preventive Behaviors: Dual Roles of Threat and Perceived Capability for Information Systems and Health Care
by
Suyu Chou and Rebecca Katherine Britt
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050377 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Based on the extended parallel process model, this study investigated the relationship between young adults’ media exposure to COVID-19 and their adoption of protective behaviors. This study surveyed 141 college students and found that increased risk perceptions led to greater intentions to engage
[...] Read more.
Based on the extended parallel process model, this study investigated the relationship between young adults’ media exposure to COVID-19 and their adoption of protective behaviors. This study surveyed 141 college students and found that increased risk perceptions led to greater intentions to engage in COVID-19-preventive behaviors and that these intentions were mediated by normative beliefs. There was no significant difference in risk perceptions between traditional media and social media. The results showed that college students took precautions against COVID-19 because they perceived themselves to be both vulnerable and capable.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Self-Narrative in a Therapeutic Group Pathway for Cancer Patients. Discussion of the Group Narrative Psychotherapy Intervention Initiated at the Veneto Institute of Oncology: IOV IRCCS of Padua
by
Letizia Iannopollo, Grazia Cristaldi and Alessandra Feltrin
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050376 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The following article proposes a reflection on the experience of Narrative Therapy of a group of cancer patients, non-homogeneous for sites and stages of disease, participating to a therapeutic writing path, in order to process the trauma reactive to cancer and to reflect
[...] Read more.
The following article proposes a reflection on the experience of Narrative Therapy of a group of cancer patients, non-homogeneous for sites and stages of disease, participating to a therapeutic writing path, in order to process the trauma reactive to cancer and to reflect on themselves. Taking inspiration from the assumption that “writing helps when people are faced with a stumble”, facilitating the process of distancing from life-events, each writer establishes either context, in a more intimate and true way, or memories and emotions connected to it, in order to express them to the group and to themselves too, and to identify new adaptation styles. The therapeutic path lasted eight meetings, during which some themes were chosen to guide the written reflection, which was carried out at home, and then shared with the group. The therapeutic path is an opportunity to adjust the perspective with which the specialist accompanies patients during the adaptation process to the disease, moving from the “explanation” to “comprehension”; from symptom to “sense”. The group narration is based on a relational perspective of co-construction of the meaning of experiences, highlighting the different roles and relevance of the factors involved.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Even through Cancer—the Use of Narrations in Oncological Settings)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Effects of Live Streamer’s Facial Attractiveness and Product Type on Consumer Purchase Intention: An Exploratory Study with Eye Tracking Technology
by
Rui Shi, Minghao Wang, Tongjia Qiao and Junchen Shang
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050375 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
As a booming branch of online retailing, live-streaming e-commerce can present abundant information dimensions and diverse forms of expression. Live-streaming e-commerce has enabled online retailers to interact with customers face-to-face, resulting in widespread instances of emotional and impulse buying behavior. Prior research in
[...] Read more.
As a booming branch of online retailing, live-streaming e-commerce can present abundant information dimensions and diverse forms of expression. Live-streaming e-commerce has enabled online retailers to interact with customers face-to-face, resulting in widespread instances of emotional and impulse buying behavior. Prior research in live-streaming e-commerce has suggested that live streamers’ characteristics, especially the live streamer’s face, can affect customers’ purchase intentions. The present research used questionnaire surveys and an eye tracking experiment to investigate the impact of live streamer’s facial attractiveness on consumer purchase intention for search-based and experience-based products. The questionnaire survey analyzed 309 valid questionnaires and revealed that attractive faces are the key influencing factor driving consumers’ impulse purchase intentions. Moreover, consumers’ emotional experience plays a partial mediating role in the process of live streamers’ faces influencing purchase intention. The eye tracking experiment further explored the mechanism of a live streamer’s facial attractiveness on consumers’ purchase intentions of search-based products and experience-based products from the perspective of visual attention by analyzing 64 valid sets of data. The results showed that attractive faces attract more consumers’ attention and, therefore, increase their purchase intention. Furthermore, there is a significant interaction between product type, the live streamer’s facial attractiveness, and consumers’ purchase intentions. In the case of unattractive live streamers, consumers are more likely to buy search-based products than experience-based products, while the purchase intention does not vary between search-based products and experience-based products in the case of attractive live streamers. The present study provides evidence for ‘beauty premium’ in live-streaming e-commerce and sheds light on the design of the match between live streamers and different types of products.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Emotional Antecedents and Consequences of Buying and Consuming: A Multidisciplinary Perspective on Consumers’ Emotions)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Negative Emotions Will Be Welcomed: The Effect of Upward Comparison on Counterhedonic Consumption
by
Shichang Liang, Tingting Zhang, Jingyi Li, Yiwei Zhang, Yu Tang, Lehua Bi, Feng Hu and Xueying Yuan
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050374 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
Upward comparisons are prevalent in life and have a significant influence on consumer psychology and subsequent behavior. Previous research examined the effects of upward comparisons on consumption behavior, mainly focusing on behavior that evokes positive emotions (e.g., donation behavior, sustainable consumption) or behavior
[...] Read more.
Upward comparisons are prevalent in life and have a significant influence on consumer psychology and subsequent behavior. Previous research examined the effects of upward comparisons on consumption behavior, mainly focusing on behavior that evokes positive emotions (e.g., donation behavior, sustainable consumption) or behavior that evokes negative emotions (e.g., impulsive consumption, compulsive consumption) and less on behavior that evokes both negative emotions and positive emotions (i.e., counterhedonic consumption). This research examined the effect of upward comparisons on counterhedonic consumption. Five studies (N = 1111) demonstrated that upward comparison (vs. non-upward comparison) leads to counterhedonic consumption, and this effect is mediated by relative deprivation (Studies 2 and 3). In addition, this research showed that the comparison targets moderate the effects of upward comparisons on counterhedonic consumption. Specifically, when the comparison target is a friend, an upward comparison (vs. non-upward comparison) leads to counterhedonic consumption. When the comparison target is a stranger, an upward comparison (vs. non-upward comparison) has no significant influence on counterhedonic consumption (Study 5). Our findings extend the research on upward comparisons, relative deprivation, and counterhedonic consumption.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Pre-Service Teachers’ GenAI Anxiety, Technology Self-Efficacy, and TPACK: Their Structural Relations with Behavioral Intention to Design GenAI-Assisted Teaching
by
Kai Wang, Qianqian Ruan, Xiaoxuan Zhang, Chunhua Fu and Boyuan Duan
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050373 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has taken educational settings by storm in the past year due to its transformative ability to impact school education. It is crucial to investigate pre-service teachers’ viewpoints to effectively incorporate GenAI tools into their instructional practices. Data gathered from
[...] Read more.
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has taken educational settings by storm in the past year due to its transformative ability to impact school education. It is crucial to investigate pre-service teachers’ viewpoints to effectively incorporate GenAI tools into their instructional practices. Data gathered from 606 pre-service teachers were analyzed to explore the predictors of behavioral intention to design Gen AI-assisted teaching. Based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, this research integrates multiple variables such as Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), GenAI anxiety, and technology self-efficacy. Our findings revealed that GenAI anxiety, social influence, and performance expectancy significantly predicted pre-service teachers’ behavioral intention to design GenAI-assisted teaching. However, effort expectancy and facilitating conditions were not statistically associated with pre-service teachers’ behavioral intentions. These findings offer significant insights into the intricate relationships between predictors that influence pre-service teachers’ perspectives and intentions regarding GenAI technology.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessBrief Report
Toward Maximizing Assessment Efficiency: A Synthesized Trial-Based Functional Analysis and Competing Stimulus Assessment
by
Lesley A. Shawler, Gabriella Castaneda-Velazquez and Grace Lafo
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050372 - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Despite the success of the standard functional analysis (FA), some limitations to conducting an FA in practice include time, resources, ecological relevance, and safety, which have led to the development of procedural adaptations such as trial-based and synthesized FA formats. The purpose of
[...] Read more.
Despite the success of the standard functional analysis (FA), some limitations to conducting an FA in practice include time, resources, ecological relevance, and safety, which have led to the development of procedural adaptations such as trial-based and synthesized FA formats. The purpose of this case study was to identify the function(s) of self-injurious behavior (SIB) for a 3-year-old female with developmental disabilities using a brief trial-based FA with ecologically relevant synthesized contingencies, based on caregiver input, to minimize opportunities for SIB. We identified that positive physical attention likely functioned, at least in part, as a reinforcer for SIB, in less than 42 min. Overall harm to the child as a result of the synthesized trial-based FA was minimal, and the caregiver viewed the modified conditions favorably. We then assessed the role of competing stimuli on SIB rates with the child’s mother and identified two potential items that may compete with attention as a reinforcer for SIB. Our findings highlight the utility and importance of individualized assessment as the first step in the safe treatment of severely challenging behavior.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Treatment of Challenging Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Parental Educational Expectations and Academic Achievement of Left-Behind Children in China: The Mediating Role of Parental Involvement
by
Jian Li, Eryong Xue and Huiyuan You
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050371 - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Migrant workers from rural China often leave their children at home to be raised by grandparents or other family members. This study explored the relationship between parents’ educational expectations, parental involvement, and the academic performance of left-behind children in China. A total of
[...] Read more.
Migrant workers from rural China often leave their children at home to be raised by grandparents or other family members. This study explored the relationship between parents’ educational expectations, parental involvement, and the academic performance of left-behind children in China. A total of 19,487 student samples were obtained from the China Education Panel Survey (CEPS), and 5078 of these met the criteria for being considered as ‘left behind’ children. Results indicated: (1) a significant positive correlation between parents’ educational expectations and left-behind children’s academic achievement; (2) parental education involvement plays a partial mediating role between parents’ educational expectations and left-behind children’s academic performance; (3) a significant negative correlation between parental intellectual involvement and educational expectations of left-behind children; (4) parental management involvement was not significantly correlated with parents’ educational expectations and left-behind children’s academic performance; and (5) a significant positive correlation between parental emotional involvement and educational expectations of left-behind children. The findings highlight the important role of parental educational expectations and have implications for the improvement of educational outcomes in China.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wellbeing and Mental Health among Students)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Impact of a Supportive Work Environment on Chinese L2 Teachers’ Emotions: A Partial Least Squares-SEM Approach
by
Yonghong Zeng, Jiaying Yu, Hanwei Wu and Wentao Liu
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050370 - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Second language (L2) teachers’ emotions can influence their well-being and students’ performance. However, most of the existing studies have focused on the role of individual factors in affecting L2 teachers’ emotions, while leaving environmental factors underexplored. To fill this gap, this study aimed
[...] Read more.
Second language (L2) teachers’ emotions can influence their well-being and students’ performance. However, most of the existing studies have focused on the role of individual factors in affecting L2 teachers’ emotions, while leaving environmental factors underexplored. To fill this gap, this study aimed to examine how the four dimensions of a supportive work environment (SWE) (perceived climate, PC; supervisory relationship, SR; peer group interaction, PGI; and perceived organization support, POS) relate to L2 teachers’ emotions (enjoyment, anxiety, pride, and anger). A sample of 406 Chinese L2 teachers completed two valid scales to measure their SWE and emotions. The data were analyzed by Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using Smart PLS 3 software. The results showed that (1) PC, PGI, and POS had a positive and significant effect on enjoyment, while SR had no significant effect; (2) PGI and POS had a negative and significant effect on anxiety, while PC and SR had no significant effect; (3) PGI had a positive and significant effect on pride, while the other three dimensions had no significant effect; and (4) POS had a negative and significant effect on anger, while the other three dimensions had no significant effect. The study concludes with some implications for L2 teachers’ education.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Exploring the Interplay of Psychology and Work-Related Health and Well-Being)
Open AccessArticle
Do Decision-Making Styles Predict Vagal Control? The Role of Resting Heart Rate Variability
by
Adrián Alacreu-Crespo, Raquel Costa, Francisco Molins, Diana Abad-Tortosa, Noemí SanMiguel, Philippe Courtet and Miguel Ángel Serrano
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050369 - 28 Apr 2024
Abstract
Decision-making styles are a habit-based propensity that drive behavior and affect daily life. Rational and intuitive decision-making styles have been associated with good mental health. However, the underlying mechanisms are not clear. In the last decade, high basal levels of heart rate variability
[...] Read more.
Decision-making styles are a habit-based propensity that drive behavior and affect daily life. Rational and intuitive decision-making styles have been associated with good mental health. However, the underlying mechanisms are not clear. In the last decade, high basal levels of heart rate variability (HRV) have been proposed as an index of health and emotional control, and this could be one of the variables involved in the effects of decision making on health. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the capability of decision-making styles to predict resting HRV. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 199 (119 women) young university students, and a resting ECG was recorded to extract frequency domain HRV variables. Subsequently, participants completed sociodemographic data and the General Decision-Making Style questionnaire (GDMS). Results showed that the intuitive style predicted high-frequency HRV, while the avoidant style predicted less low-frequency HRV. This study presents new data on the relationship between decision-making style and HRV, suggesting that the intuitive style has a cardioprotective effect, while the avoidant style is related to lower HRV, which has been associated with health vulnerability. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of HRV and its potential as a biomarker for cognitive styles that may improve health.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)
Open AccessArticle
Maternal Involvement in Education, Bicultural Acceptance, and School Adjustment: An Autoregressive Cross-Lagged Modeling Study among Adolescents from Multicultural Families
by
Yangmi Lim
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 368; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050368 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
This study examined the associations between maternal involvement in education and bicultural acceptance and school adjustment during the first year of middle school among adolescents from Korean multicultural families as well as the reciprocal relationships between bicultural acceptance and school adjustment during the
[...] Read more.
This study examined the associations between maternal involvement in education and bicultural acceptance and school adjustment during the first year of middle school among adolescents from Korean multicultural families as well as the reciprocal relationships between bicultural acceptance and school adjustment during the three years of middle school. The present study used three-wave longitudinal data of 1185 dyads of adolescents (50.8% girls; mean age = 12.96 ± 0.35 years at the first wave) and their immigrant mothers (mean age = 43.54 ± 5.19 years at the first wave), who participated in the Multicultural Adolescents Panel Study. An autoregressive cross-lagged modeling analysis revealed that maternal involvement in education was significantly and positively associated with adolescents’ bicultural acceptance and school adjustment in the first year of middle school. Individual levels of bicultural acceptance and school adjustment among adolescents remained moderately stable over the three years. Whereas the positive effects of school adjustment on bicultural acceptance were significant over time, the effects of bicultural acceptance on school adjustment were not. Finally, this study highlights the roles of intervention programs (e.g., parent and multicultural education) in facilitating maternal involvement in education and school adjustment as well as in increasing bicultural acceptance among minority youths.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of the Interaction of Parenting Practices and Environment on Children’s Outcomes)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Behavioral Sciences Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Behavioral Sciences, Children, Healthcare, IJERPH, Nutrients
Economics of Public Health: Assessment of Health Interventions
Topic Editors: Ce Shang, Amanda J. Quisenberry, Yingning WangDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
AI, Behavioral Sciences, EJIHPE
The Future of AI and Education: Chat GPT on Learning and Teaching Behaviours
Topic Editors: Xuesong Zhai, Andreja Istenic StarcicDeadline: 19 August 2024
Topic in
Algorithms, Behavioral Sciences, Societies, Technologies
Getting Insight into How Different Chatbots Answer the Same Questions and How Reliable They Are
Topic Editors: Eugène Loos, Loredana IvanDeadline: 1 September 2024
Topic in
Behavioral Sciences, COVID, EJIHPE, Societies, IJERPH, Healthcare
Cultural Differences and Migrant Mental Health in the Age of COVID-19
Topic Editors: Vsevolod Konstantinov, Andrés Alexis Ramírez CoronelDeadline: 30 September 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Behavioral Sciences
Psychological Perspectives of Social and Cultural Differences
Guest Editor: Ângela Maria T. LeiteDeadline: 10 May 2024
Special Issue in
Behavioral Sciences
From Neuron to Neuropathology: Innovation in Conceptual Frameworks, Diagnosis, Interventions and Treatment
Guest Editors: Rebecca Denniss, Lynne A. Barker, Nick MortonDeadline: 20 May 2024
Special Issue in
Behavioral Sciences
Understanding Youth Knowledge, Behaviors and Conditions concerning Mental Health
Guest Editors: Joanne Riebschleger, Christine Grove, Ilaria MontagniDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Behavioral Sciences
The Role of Synaptic Plasticity in Animal Behavior and the Development of Psychiatric Disorders
Guest Editors: Jacopo Lamanna, Mattia FerroDeadline: 15 June 2024