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
The Impact of the Global Pandemic on Veterans with Serious Mental Illness (SMI): Healthcare Utilization and Mortality
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050356 - 24 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: Individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) experience barriers to accessing and engaging with healthcare, which may have been exacerbated during the emergence of the global pandemic and the rapid shift to telemedicine platforms, substantially decreasing healthcare utilization for non-COVID-19 disorders. Important repercussions
[...] Read more.
Background: Individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) experience barriers to accessing and engaging with healthcare, which may have been exacerbated during the emergence of the global pandemic and the rapid shift to telemedicine platforms, substantially decreasing healthcare utilization for non-COVID-19 disorders. Important repercussions on morbidity and mortality may be seen in the months and years to come, which may disproportionately affect high-risk populations, such as patients with SMI, with reduced access to technology platforms. In this study, we explored the impact of the pandemic on healthcare utilization and all-cause mortality rate in SMI compared to non-SMI individuals for the months of March–September 2020 and the same two quarters in 2019. Methods: Data were obtained from the VA Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW), a data repository from clinical and administrative VA systems. The sample included veterans with ≥1 outpatient clinical encounter nationally between 1 January 2019 and 31 December 2020. Results: The cohort for this study included 1,018,047 veterans receiving care through the Veterans Health Administration between 2019 and 2020. Of those, 339,349 had a diagnosis of SMI. Patients with SMI had a significantly larger pre–post-pandemic decrease in outpatient (49.7%, p < 0.001), inpatient (14.4%, p < 0.001), and ED (14.5%, p < 0.001) visits compared to non-SMI patients. Overall, 3752 (1.59%) veterans without SMI and 4562 (1.93%) veterans with SMI died during our observation period. Veterans without SMI who died during the observation period were more likely to have had a positive COVID-19 test compared to veterans with SMI. Unadjusted analyses showed that veterans with SMI were approximately 2.5 times more likely to die than veterans without SMI during the first 6 months of the pandemic, compared to the same two quarters of the previous year. However, after adjustment by pertinent covariates, the predictors associated with an increased risk of death from SMI were older age, being male, a higher CAN score, more inpatient stays in the pre period compared to post, and a positive COVID-19 test. Discussion: Consistent with our initial hypothesis, all the indices of healthcare utilization, namely the number of outpatient, inpatient, and ED visits, significantly decreased between pre- and post-pandemic and did more so for veterans with SMI, despite having more chronic medical illnesses and being prescribed more medications than veterans without SMI. On the other hand, while mortality was greater post-pandemic, factors such as age, morbidity, and having a positive COVID-19 test predicted mortality above and beyond having an SMI diagnosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevention and Recovery in People with Schizophrenia and Related Disorders)
Open AccessArticle
Visual Field Restriction in the Recognition of Basic Facial Expressions: A Combined Eye Tracking and Gaze Contingency Study
by
Melina Boratto Urtado, Rafael Delalibera Rodrigues and Sergio Sheiji Fukusima
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050355 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Uncertainties and discrepant results in identifying crucial areas for emotional facial expression recognition may stem from the eye tracking data analysis methods used. Many studies employ parameters of analysis that predominantly prioritize the examination of the foveal vision angle, ignoring the potential influences
[...] Read more.
Uncertainties and discrepant results in identifying crucial areas for emotional facial expression recognition may stem from the eye tracking data analysis methods used. Many studies employ parameters of analysis that predominantly prioritize the examination of the foveal vision angle, ignoring the potential influences of simultaneous parafoveal and peripheral information. To explore the possible underlying causes of these discrepancies, we investigated the role of the visual field aperture in emotional facial expression recognition with 163 volunteers randomly assigned to three groups: no visual restriction (NVR), parafoveal and foveal vision (PFFV), and foveal vision (FV). Employing eye tracking and gaze contingency, we collected visual inspection and judgment data over 30 frontal face images, equally distributed among five emotions. Raw eye tracking data underwent Eye Movements Metrics and Visualizations (EyeMMV) processing. Accordingly, the visual inspection time, number of fixations, and fixation duration increased with the visual field restriction. Nevertheless, the accuracy showed significant differences among the NVR/FV and PFFV/FV groups, despite there being no difference in NVR/PFFV. The findings underscore the impact of specific visual field areas on facial expression recognition, highlighting the importance of parafoveal vision. The results suggest that eye tracking data analysis methods should incorporate projection angles extending to at least the parafoveal level.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Music Therapy Assessment for Older Adults: Descriptive Mixed-Methods Study
by
Amy Clements-Cortés
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050354 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: The purpose of this inquiry was to test the new ‘Music Therapy Assessment for Older Adults’ (MTAOA) tool in Canada and the United States, and to establish its content and predictive utility. Methods: A pilot study using an explanatory descriptive methods design
[...] Read more.
Background: The purpose of this inquiry was to test the new ‘Music Therapy Assessment for Older Adults’ (MTAOA) tool in Canada and the United States, and to establish its content and predictive utility. Methods: A pilot study using an explanatory descriptive methods design was chosen; n = 18 music therapists completed an online survey about their experiences in administering the assessment and 50% (n = 9) were invited for a follow-up interview. Results: The results indicated that the MTAOA was a beneficial assessment tool that contained relevant domains (89%) to develop a music therapy treatment plan; 89% of music therapists also noted they would continue to use and recommend the MTAOA. The data produced beneficial information that were used to revise the assessment form to ensure inclusive language and reduce any potential inherent or unconscious biases. Conclusions: Future research is needed to assess the utility of the revised MTAOA in other global regions where music therapists work with older adults.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Music Based Interventions for Psychological Wellbeing)
Open AccessArticle
Understanding and Perception of Automated Text Generation among the Public: Two Surveys with Representative Samples in Germany
by
Angelica Lermann Henestrosa and Joachim Kimmerle
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050353 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Automated text generation (ATG) technology has evolved rapidly in the last several years, enabling the spread of content produced by artificial intelligence (AI). In addition, with the release of ChatGPT, virtually everyone can now create naturally sounding text on any topic. To optimize
[...] Read more.
Automated text generation (ATG) technology has evolved rapidly in the last several years, enabling the spread of content produced by artificial intelligence (AI). In addition, with the release of ChatGPT, virtually everyone can now create naturally sounding text on any topic. To optimize future use and understand how humans interact with these technologies, it is essential to capture people’s attitudes and beliefs. However, research on ATG perception is lacking. Based on two representative surveys (March 2022: n1 = 1028; July 2023: n2 = 1013), we aimed to examine the German population’s concepts of and attitudes toward AI authorship. The results revealed a preference for human authorship across a wide range of topics and a lack of knowledge concerning the function, data sources, and responsibilities of ATG. Using multiple regression analysis with k-fold cross-validation, we identified people’s attitude toward using ATG, performance expectancy, general attitudes toward AI, and lay attitude toward ChatGPT and ATG as significant predictors of the intention to read AI-written texts in the future. Despite the release of ChatGPT, we observed stability across most variables and minor differences between the two survey points regarding concepts about ATG. We discuss the findings against the backdrop of the ever-increasing availability of automated content and the need for an intensive societal debate about its chances and limitations.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Self-Control, Openness, Personal Need for Structure and Compensatory Control Change: A Serial Mediation Investigation
by
Yuan Zhao, Yuying Wang, Liuqing Wei, Yu Ma, Yunyun Chen and Xuemin Zhang
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050352 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous studies have indicated that individuals are confronting a diminished sense of control. Compensatory control theory suggests that individuals strive to mitigate this loss by modifying their behavior. The present study aims to investigate the relationship
[...] Read more.
In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous studies have indicated that individuals are confronting a diminished sense of control. Compensatory control theory suggests that individuals strive to mitigate this loss by modifying their behavior. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between self-control and compensatory control change during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the mediating effects of openness and the personal need for structure. Participants completed an online questionnaire consisting of Personal Need for Structure Scale, Self-Control Scale, Openness Scale and Compensatory Control Change Scale. The results showed that the compensatory control change increased after the outbreak. Moreover, a serial mediation was found: openness and the personal need for structure partially mediated the relationship between self-control and compensatory control change. The results indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in compensatory control behaviors, especially among those with pronounced self-control. High self-control individuals are found to exhibit greater openness, reducing their personal need for structure, in effect enhancing their compensatory control change. These findings highlight the critical role of self-control in sustaining a sense of control, which is vital for understanding psychological health management in the context of public health events.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Healthcare Providers’ Mental Health: Experiences at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya
by
Vallery Ogello, Nicholas Thuo, Phelix Okello, Njeri Wairimu, Paul Mwangi, Gakuo Maina, Harrison Mwenda, Paul Mutua, John Kinuthia, Linnet Ongeri, Nelly Mugo and Kenneth Ngure
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(5), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14050351 - 23 Apr 2024
Abstract
Background: In 2020, healthcare providers were expected to provide care to individuals with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), putting them at risk of acquiring COVID-19. The possibility of acquiring poorly understood infectious diseases while providing care may have an impact on the mental health
[...] Read more.
Background: In 2020, healthcare providers were expected to provide care to individuals with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), putting them at risk of acquiring COVID-19. The possibility of acquiring poorly understood infectious diseases while providing care may have an impact on the mental health of providers. We conducted a study to explore the effects of COVID-19 on the mental health of healthcare providers. Methods: Between April and August 2021, we conducted in-depth interviews with 60 healthcare providers in the infectious disease unit (IDU) and other units of the hospital (non-IDU). The healthcare providers completed an online self-administered survey form with demographic data (age, sex, average income, and known contact with a COVID-19 patient). We used semi-structured interview guides to understand the healthcare providers’ lived experiences of stress, anxiety, depression, and their associated factors. We transcribed the interviews verbatim and coded and analyzed the transcripts to derive thematic concepts related to mental health experiences. Results: The healthcare providers had a median age of 37 years [IQR 20.0–58.0], and 56.7% were female, 30.0% nurses, 18.3% medical doctors, and 11.7% laboratory technologists. The healthcare providers reported increased stress during the pandemic, attributed to the high demand for patient care, changes in social life, and fear of COVID-19 infection. They also reported experiences of anxiety and depression as a result of limited knowledge at the beginning of the pandemic and the perception that “COVID-19 resulted in death”. Testing positive for COVID-19, high exposure to COVID-19 risks, and the death of patients and colleagues reportedly affected the healthcare providers’ mental health. Additionally, the healthcare providers reported mental health support through debriefing meetings, peer-to-peer support, and psychological counseling, with privacy and confidentiality concerns. Conclusions: Healthcare providers faced mental health issues such as stress and anxiety while taking care of COVID-19 patients. An effective mental health response requires institutional practices that address context-specific challenges such as privacy and confidentiality.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)
Open AccessArticle
Adaptation and Validation of the 3 × 2 Achievement Goals Questionnaire in a Population of Athletes
by
Cristina García-Romero, Elkin Eduardo Roldan-Aguilar, Carlos Alberto Hurtado-Castaño, Josune Rodríguez-Negro and Oliver Ramos-Álvarez
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040350 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Sport goals, although widely recognised as crucial for motivation and performance in sport, are multifaceted and can be difficult to measure directly. The present research aims to validate the 3 × 2 achievement goals questionnaire of Mascret in Spanish in a
[...] Read more.
(1) Background: Sport goals, although widely recognised as crucial for motivation and performance in sport, are multifaceted and can be difficult to measure directly. The present research aims to validate the 3 × 2 achievement goals questionnaire of Mascret in Spanish in a population of athletes. (2) Method: By using a latent factor approach, it is possible to identify the underlying dimensions of these goals and to better understand how they are structured. For this purpose, this questionnaire has been translated and compared with the life satisfaction scale. An exploration of the multifaceted nature of sport goals has been carried out using structural equation modelling. A total of 580 athletes (463 males and 216 females, M = 21.5, SD = 2.36) from different sport disciplines and from 12 autonomous communities in Spain participated in the research. (3) Results: The results show that the questionnaire presents a high scale reliability and that all items contribute significantly to the internal consistency of the scale. (4) Conclusions: The adaptation of this scale to the Spanish population of athletes can be a valid and useful tool to measure and understand motivation and goals in the sport context.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity for Psychological and Cognitive Development)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Rest to Promote Learning: A Brain Default Mode Network Perspective
by
Wei Luo, Biao Liu, Ying Tang, Jingwen Huang and Ji Wu
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040349 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
The brain often switches freely between focused attention and divergent thinking, and the Default Mode Network (DMN) is activated during brain rest. Since its discovery, the DMN, together with its function and characteristics, indicates that learning does not stop when the brain “rests”.
[...] Read more.
The brain often switches freely between focused attention and divergent thinking, and the Default Mode Network (DMN) is activated during brain rest. Since its discovery, the DMN, together with its function and characteristics, indicates that learning does not stop when the brain “rests”. Therefore, DMN plays an important role in learning. Neural activities such as beta wave rhythm regulation, “subconscious” divergence thinking mode initiation, hippocampal function, and neural replay occur during default mode, all of which explains that “rest” promotes learning. This paper summarized the function and neural mechanism of DMN in learning and proposed that the DMN plays an essential role in learning, which is that it enables rest to promote learning.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neuroscience and Education: A Fruitful Partnership)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Does the Cognitive Reflection Test Work with Chinese College Students? Evidence from a Time-Limited Study
by
Zhaoxian Li, Shangsong Yan, Jie Liu, Wei Bao and Junlong Luo
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040348 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
The cognitive reflection test (CRT) is an experiment task commonly used in Western countries to test intuitive and analytical thinking styles. However, the validity of this task for Chinese participants has not been explored. Therefore, this study recruited Chinese college students to finish
[...] Read more.
The cognitive reflection test (CRT) is an experiment task commonly used in Western countries to test intuitive and analytical thinking styles. However, the validity of this task for Chinese participants has not been explored. Therefore, this study recruited Chinese college students to finish CRT tasks with various experimental designs. To gauge the accuracy of the CRT tasks, 438 Chinese college students first completed online questionnaires. Participants were then invited to participate in an offline laboratory with the same experimental settings. Finally, time pressure was used to strictly control intuition and analytical thinking to explore the performance of Chinese college students on CRT tasks. The results show that of the three experiments, Chinese college students had the highest accuracy in the offline test, and the CRT’s intuitive conflict problem still applies to Chinese students under the time-limited condition. This study demonstrates the validity of the CRT in China and proves that time pressure is an effective method for identifying individuals with strong logic ability.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Influence of Muslim and Christian Destinations on Tourists’ Behavioural Intentions and Risk Perceptions
by
Rita R. Carballo, Carmelo J. León and María M. Carballo
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040347 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
This paper studies the factors that influence tourists’ risk perceptions of various destinations with different attributes and sociocultural profiles. Factor analysis is utilised to investigate the determinants of risk perceptions, finding that they are influenced both by the type of risk (delinquency, health,
[...] Read more.
This paper studies the factors that influence tourists’ risk perceptions of various destinations with different attributes and sociocultural profiles. Factor analysis is utilised to investigate the determinants of risk perceptions, finding that they are influenced both by the type of risk (delinquency, health, accident, environment and catastrophe) and by the characteristics of the destination regarding the management of risk. Structural equations modelling is conducted to study the relationships between risk perceptions, destination image and visiting intentions across destinations. Multi-group analysis across different destinations proves that tourists’ risk perceptions have different influences on destination image and visiting intentions. The results show that there are significant differences according to the predominant religion at the destinations, i.e., Muslin and Christian. The implication is that different dimensions of perceived risks and destination socio-culture contexts have different influences on the behaviour of tourists.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Research on the Impact of Industrial Policy on the Innovation Behavior of Strategic Emerging Industries
by
Wei Yang, Xueke Wang and Dandan Zhou
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040346 - 22 Apr 2024
Abstract
Cultivating strategic emerging industries (SEIs) is an important strategy for most countries around the world to seize the economic frontier. Academics have not yet reached a unified conclusion on whether the adoption of industrial policy from the government level can effectively promote its
[...] Read more.
Cultivating strategic emerging industries (SEIs) is an important strategy for most countries around the world to seize the economic frontier. Academics have not yet reached a unified conclusion on whether the adoption of industrial policy from the government level can effectively promote its R&D and innovation behaviors and contribute to industrial upgrading. Based on the data regarding 33,425 Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share-listed companies from 2007 to 2020, this article employs the difference-in-difference model (DID) and the mediated effect model to identify the effect and mechanism of how industrial policy affects the innovation behavior of SEIs. The results of this study show that the promulgation and implementation of industrial policies can help stimulate enterprises to carry out R&D and innovation behaviors and improve the innovation level of SEIs. Its promoting effect on state-owned enterprises is more significant than that on non-state-owned enterprises, and its promoting effect on the eastern and central regions is more significant than that on the western region. Further analysis reveals that government subsidies and tax incentives are important transmission mechanisms through which industrial policy affects firms’ innovation, with government subsidies playing a positive facilitating role and tax incentives having a negative impact.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Navigating the Crossroads of Technology and Social Responsibility of Firms)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Teachers’ Emotional Intelligence and Organizational Commitment: A Moderated Mediation Model of Teachers’ Psychological Well-Being and Principal Transformational Leadership
by
Mingwei Li, Feifei Liu and Chuanli Yang
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040345 - 20 Apr 2024
Abstract
Given the global challenge of increasing teacher attrition and turnover rates, the exploration of factors and mechanisms that improve teachers’ organizational commitment has become a pivotal topic in educational research. In this context, the present study examines the influence of teachers’ emotional intelligence
[...] Read more.
Given the global challenge of increasing teacher attrition and turnover rates, the exploration of factors and mechanisms that improve teachers’ organizational commitment has become a pivotal topic in educational research. In this context, the present study examines the influence of teachers’ emotional intelligence on their organizational commitment, with a specific inquiry into the mediating role of teachers’ psychological well-being and the moderating role of principal transformational leadership, as informed by the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions and the trait activation theory. We verified this study’s hypotheses based on 768 valid questionnaires collected from Chinese primary and secondary school teachers. The results reveal that teachers’ emotional intelligence can predict their organizational commitment both directly and indirectly through the mediating role of psychological well-being. Additionally, principal transformational leadership amplifies the positive effect of teachers’ emotional intelligence on psychological well-being and, subsequently, organizational commitment. These findings theoretically deepen our understanding of the psychological pathways and the boundary conditions linking teachers’ emotional intelligence to their organizational commitment, while also offering valuable practical implications for building a stable and effective teaching workforce.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Behaviors in Educational Settings—2nd Edition)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
A Pioneer Tool to Reduce Restrictive Practices toward People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
by
Victoria Sánchez-Gómez, Miguel Ángel Verdugo, Manuela Crespo and Amalia San Román
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040344 - 19 Apr 2024
Abstract
Reducing restrictive practices toward individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is a globally recognized imperative and human rights priority. This paper presents a novel tool called LibRe for assessing and reducing restrictive practices. This tool involved an instrumental multistage design and collaboration between
[...] Read more.
Reducing restrictive practices toward individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities is a globally recognized imperative and human rights priority. This paper presents a novel tool called LibRe for assessing and reducing restrictive practices. This tool involved an instrumental multistage design and collaboration between professionals, individuals with disabilities, family members, and experts from different fields. It addresses diverse restrictive practices in five key domains: physical or mechanical, chemical or pharmacological, structural, relational, and practices related to contexts and supports. It addresses practices that are pertinent to the Spanish context and that existing tools have not covered. Embedded as a step within an organizational approach, LibRe fosters organizational transformation and provides resources to achieve outcomes within reduction plans for restrictive practices. In total, 156 teams comprising 585 professionals, 64 people with disabilities, and 44 family members responded to the tool. In terms of evidence for internal structure validity, the oblique five-factor model exhibited an adequate fit through confirmatory factor analysis, along with satisfactory reliability indices, according to ordinal alpha and omega. Users positively appraised the tool’s usefulness and identified its strengths and challenges. Although further research is needed, preliminary evidence frames LibRe as a useful resource for practice and research.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric, Emotional and Behavioral Disorders)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Recognizing and Looking at Masked Emotional Faces in Alexithymia
by
Marla Fuchs, Anette Kersting, Thomas Suslow and Charlott Maria Bodenschatz
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040343 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Alexithymia is a clinically relevant personality construct characterized by difficulties identifying and communicating one’s emotions and externally oriented thinking. Alexithymia has been found to be related to poor emotion decoding and diminished attention to the eyes. The present eye tracking study investigated whether
[...] Read more.
Alexithymia is a clinically relevant personality construct characterized by difficulties identifying and communicating one’s emotions and externally oriented thinking. Alexithymia has been found to be related to poor emotion decoding and diminished attention to the eyes. The present eye tracking study investigated whether high levels of alexithymia are related to impairments in recognizing emotions in masked faces and reduced attentional preference for the eyes. An emotion recognition task with happy, fearful, disgusted, and neutral faces with face masks was administered to high-alexithymic and non-alexithymic individuals. Hit rates, latencies of correct responses, and fixation duration on eyes and face mask were analyzed as a function of group and sex. Alexithymia had no effects on accuracy and speed of emotion recognition. However, alexithymic men showed less attentional preference for the eyes relative to the mask than non-alexithymic men, which was due to their increased attention to face masks. No fixation duration differences were observed between alexithymic and non-alexithymic women. Our data indicate that high levels of alexithymia might not have adverse effects on the efficiency of emotion recognition from faces wearing masks. Future research on gaze behavior during facial emotion recognition in high alexithymia should consider sex as a moderating variable.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Psychiatric, Emotional and Behavioral Disorders)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Influence of Psychosocial Factors on the Successful Formal Education Trajectories of Young Spanish People in Vulnerable Situations
by
Edgar C. Campos, Susana Fonseca, Deibe Fernández-Simo and Carlos Rosón
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040342 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Young people in vulnerable situations tend to have more difficulties realizing successful formal education trajectories. It is extremely important to conduct studies that explore the key dimensions that can help young people overcome the conditioning of vulnerable situations, assisting in the achievement of
[...] Read more.
Young people in vulnerable situations tend to have more difficulties realizing successful formal education trajectories. It is extremely important to conduct studies that explore the key dimensions that can help young people overcome the conditioning of vulnerable situations, assisting in the achievement of academic success. According to the existing literature, one of these key dimensions is psychosocial well-being. Thus, this qualitative research aims to identify and analyze psychosocial factors that favor successful school pathways among young people in vulnerable situations. Through a case study approach, 12 in-depth interviews were carried out with 12 young Spanish people who not only have a vulnerable background but also successful formal education trajectories. The data were explored through qualitative content analysis—NVivo11. The results revealed that young people generally associate their successful educational trajectory with the positive impact of psychosocial factors, such as the following: positive caregivers’ valuation of formal education and positive school experiences and support networks. Young people also point to many negative school experiences that have been overcome via positive attitudes and individual protective factors. The youngsters suggest changes in the educational system and teachers’ skills in order to improve the levels of psychosocial support in formal education contexts. The study’s implications and limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Smartphone Addiction and Related Factors among Athletes
by
Sultan Sahin Koybulan, Duygu Altin, Gorkem Yararbas and Hur Hassoy
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040341 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Smartphone addiction (SA) is increasing worldwide. The aim of this study is to determine the level of SA in athletes affiliated to the Turkish Handball Federation in Izmir and to examine its relationship with factors such as sociodemographic status, health status, eating attitude,
[...] Read more.
Smartphone addiction (SA) is increasing worldwide. The aim of this study is to determine the level of SA in athletes affiliated to the Turkish Handball Federation in Izmir and to examine its relationship with factors such as sociodemographic status, health status, eating attitude, and body perception. This cross-sectional study was conducted in March–April 2021 in Izmir Province. The sample of the study consisted of 212 licensed handball athletes. The short SA scale, three-factor nutrition scale, and body perception scale were used. A chi-square test was used for bivariate comparisons and logistic regression analysis was used for multivariate comparisons. The study was completed with 202 individuals (the coverage rate was 95.3%). The prevalence of SA was found to be 27.7%. The risk of SA increased 2.49-fold (CI: 1.17–5.31, p = 0.018) in female participants, 2.01-fold (CI: 1.01–4.06, p = 0.048) in participants with alcohol use, 2.17-fold (CI: 1.04–4.58, p = 0.042) in participants with low nutritional scores, 2.65-fold (CI: 1.15–6.10, p = 0.022) in individuals with high-income status, and 2.66-fold (CI: 1.07–6.64, p = 0.036) in individuals with high body perception scale score. In total, 27.7% of the athlete sample had scores above the SA threshold. These results point out that a behavioral addiction such as SA can occur even in professionals of an activity such as sports, known for beneficial effects in terms of healthy life.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bridging Behavioral Sciences and Sports Sciences)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessSystematic Review
Assessing the Psychometric Properties of the Illness Management and Recovery Scale: A Systematic Review Using the Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN)
by
Nuria Martín-Ordiales, María Dolores Hidalgo, María Pilar Martín-Chaparro, Júlia Ballester-Plané and Maite Barrios
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 340; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040340 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
The Illness Management and Recovery Scale (IMR-S) is based on the IMR program, developed to assess the recovery process for people with severe mental disorders by considering the perceptions of clients and clinicians involved in it. The aim of this study was to
[...] Read more.
The Illness Management and Recovery Scale (IMR-S) is based on the IMR program, developed to assess the recovery process for people with severe mental disorders by considering the perceptions of clients and clinicians involved in it. The aim of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of the IMR-S so as to determine the reliability and suitability of its scores for evaluating recovery. Two coders searched five databases for studies, published between January 2004 and May 2023, that describe the psychometric assessment of the IMR-S. Studies were assessed using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) Risk of Bias checklist. Finally, 46 papers were included. Methodological quality was very good for most of the studies that provide information on internal validity, and limited for those that report on responsiveness. Measurement properties were positive for convergent validity and measurement error. The quality of evidence was high for structural validity studies. Although this study only includes research published in English and may have overlooked certain psychometric properties evaluated in studies published in other languages, our findings suggest that the IMR-S is a valid and reliable instrument, demonstrating its potential to offer guidance for clinical practice.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Health Psychology)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Perinatal Loss and Parents’ Grief Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Method Research
by
Ciro De Vincenzo, Loredana Cena, Alice Trainini, Chiara Nieddu, Erika Iacona, Lucia Ronconi and Ines Testoni
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040339 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Losing a child is a traumatic event, disrupting life’s natural cycle, profoundly affecting the family system, and causing enduring grief. Perinatal death, including ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages, stillbirths, and neonatal deaths, exacerbates this distress. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged healthcare systems and supporting
[...] Read more.
Losing a child is a traumatic event, disrupting life’s natural cycle, profoundly affecting the family system, and causing enduring grief. Perinatal death, including ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages, stillbirths, and neonatal deaths, exacerbates this distress. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged healthcare systems and supporting services available to individuals in need. Thus, this research explores experiences of parents facing perinatal loss in 2020–2021, further focusing on the pandemic’s impact. Using a mixed-methods design with self-reports and qualitative interviews, this paper presents results from the quantitative protocol, involving an update and follow-up of a previous study. It compares measurements across scales: COVID-19: The Impact of Event Scale-Revised; The Prolonged Grief-13; The Parental Assessment of Paternal/Maternal Affectivity; The Dyadic Adjustment Scale (short version); The Daily Spiritual Experiences Scale; and The Inventory of Complicated Spiritual Grief. In the baseline measurement, 45 parents participated (37 mothers and 8 fathers), with 20 (13 mothers and 7 fathers) contributing to the follow-up and 9 engaging in interviews. Baseline results showed higher scores for mothers compared to fathers, with effect sizes ranging from small to medium (ranging from −0.02 to 0.29), though statistical significance was limited due to the small sample size. Multiple regression analysis for distress measures at baseline identified two significant predictors: maternal/paternal affectivity and gestational week. Additionally, positive support from healthcare professionals emerged as a mitigating factor, particularly in relation to Avoidance. A significant reduction in stress measures and parental affectivity was observed at the 6-month follow-up. Qualitative analysis revealed three themes: Shifts in Self-Perception and Post-Loss Growth; Conflicted Relationship with One’s Body; and Negative Impact of COVID-19 vs. Unexpectedly Positive Aspects. In conclusion, the findings emphasize the significance of psychological and psychosocial interventions based on meaning-making processes, along with the importance of spiritual care and empowerment for those navigating perinatal loss.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Perinatal Depressive and Affective Disorders: Assessment, Screening and Treatment)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Physical Exercise on Executive Functions Using the Emotional Stroop Task in Perimenopausal Women: A Pilot Study
by
Li-Yu Wu, Hsiu-Chin Hsu, Lee-Fen Ni, Yu-Jia Yan and Ren-Jen Hwang
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040338 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Exercise has beneficial effects on emotional cognitive control for the majority of the population. However, the impact of exercise on cognitive processes in perimenopausal women remains unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of aerobic exercise on the cognitive processes of perimenopausal women
[...] Read more.
Exercise has beneficial effects on emotional cognitive control for the majority of the population. However, the impact of exercise on cognitive processes in perimenopausal women remains unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of aerobic exercise on the cognitive processes of perimenopausal women using an emotional Stroop task (EST). Method: A quasi-experimental pilot study was conducted involving 14 perimenopausal women (Peri-MG) and 13 healthy young women (YG) who completed an EST before and after an aerobic cycling exercise. Mixed-effects models for repeated measures were used to analyze reaction times (RTs) and error rates (ERs) during emotional word processing (positive, negative, and neutral) for both groups. Results: Compared with the YG, the Peri-MG showed significantly shortened RTs for positive and negative emotions (p < 0.05) post-exercise, but not for neutral words. In addition, the Peri-MG exhibited significantly increased ERs for negative words at baseline compared with the YG (p < 0.05), but this difference was not observed during the post-exercise test. Conclusion: The findings suggest that aerobic exercise can enhance executive control performance in perimenopausal women. The Peri-MG exhibited marked behavioral plasticity in the form of reduced bias to salient cues that were significantly more sensitive to alterations due to exercise. This new evidence enhances the understanding of emotional vulnerability and beneficial susceptibility to exercise in perimenopausal women.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity and Aging)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessCommentary
Identifying Consciousness in Other Creatures: Three Initial Steps
by
Alejandro Heredia Cedillo, Dennis Lambert and Ezequiel Morsella
Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(4), 337; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14040337 - 17 Apr 2024
Abstract
Identifying consciousness in other creatures, be they animals or exotic creatures that have yet to be discovered, remains a great scientific challenge. We delineate the first three steps that we think are necessary for identifying consciousness in other creatures. Step 1 is to
[...] Read more.
Identifying consciousness in other creatures, be they animals or exotic creatures that have yet to be discovered, remains a great scientific challenge. We delineate the first three steps that we think are necessary for identifying consciousness in other creatures. Step 1 is to define the particular kind of consciousness in which one is interested. Step 2 is to identify, in humans, the key differences between the brain processes that are associated with consciousness and the brain processes that are not associated with consciousness. For Step 2, to identify these differences, we focus on passive frame theory. Step 3 concerns how the insights derived from consciousness research on humans (e.g., concerning these differences) can be generalized to other creatures. We discuss the significance of examining how consciousness was fashioned by the process of evolution, a process that could be happenstance and replete with incessant tinkering, yielding adaptations that can be suboptimal and counterintuitive, far different in nature from our efficiently designed robotic systems. We conclude that the more that is understood about the differences between conscious processing and unconscious processing in humans, the easier it will be to identify consciousness in other creatures.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)
►▼
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
Domestic Violence during and after the Lockdown: The Shadow Pandemic
Guest Editors: Lisa Chiara Fellin, Arlene Louise VetereDeadline: 30 April 2024
Special Issue in
Behavioral Sciences
From Neuron to Neuropathology: Innovation in Conceptual Frameworks, Diagnosis, Interventions and Treatment
Guest Editors: Lynne A. Barker, Nick Morton, Rebecca DennissDeadline: 20 May 2024
Special Issue in
Behavioral Sciences
Understanding Youth Knowledge, Behaviors and Conditions concerning Mental Health
Guest Editors: Christine Grove, Ilaria Montagni, Joanne RiebschlegerDeadline: 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