Behavioral Sciences

18 pages, 785 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Electronic Performance Monitoring on Employees’ Job Performance: A Social Information Processing Perspective

by Na Zhang, Xiang Sun and Chunhua Jin

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030256 (registering DOI) - 23 Feb 2025

In the digital era, to enhance performance and achieve high-quality development, an increasing number of enterprises have begun to implement electronic performance monitoring. However, existing studies have yielded inconsistent conclusions regarding the impact of electronic performance monitoring on employees’ job performance. To clarify [...] Read more.

In the digital era, to enhance performance and achieve high-quality development, an increasing number of enterprises have begun to implement electronic performance monitoring. However, existing studies have yielded inconsistent conclusions regarding the impact of electronic performance monitoring on employees’ job performance. To clarify the overall relationship between these variables and explore the underlying causes of the discrepancies, this study, grounded in social information processing theory, examines the effects of two kinds of electronic performance monitoring (e.g., developmental and preventive) on employees’ job performance, as well as the mediating role of self-efficacy. On the basis of data collected at two time points from 223 employees in China, we test the mediation models. The findings indicate that both developmental and preventive electronic performance monitoring positively affect employees’ job performance, with self-efficacy serving as a partial mediator in this relationship. This study offers practical management strategies and establishes a foundation for the effective implementation of electronic performance monitoring in enterprises aimed at enhancing employees’ self-efficacy and job performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behaviors)

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20 pages, 991 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Chinese Consumers’ Attitudes Towards Pet Nutritional Products and Their Continuous Purchase Intentions: A Dual-Phase Analysis Using SEM and ANN

by Jiexiang Jin and Binbin Yang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030255 (registering DOI) - 23 Feb 2025

Abstract

As the role of pets evolves, they are increasingly regarded as members of the family. Although incapable of making independent decisions, pets become unique consumer groups through the purchases of specific products and services made by their owners. In China, the pet economy [...] Read more.

As the role of pets evolves, they are increasingly regarded as members of the family. Although incapable of making independent decisions, pets become unique consumer groups through the purchases of specific products and services made by their owners. In China, the pet economy has developed into a novel economic sector. With the growing concern for pet health, the demand for pet nutritional products continues to rise. This study aims to explore Chinese consumers’ attitudes and intentions towards pet nutritional products in this burgeoning market. A survey was carried out on 600 Chinese consumers who had purchased pet nutritional products in 2024. A two-stage analysis using structural equation modeling and artificial neural network examined the correlation within the research model across 506 samples. The results indicate that perceived benefits, perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, and health consciousness positively influence attitudes towards pet nutritional products, while perceived barriers, health risks, and economic risks negatively impact attitudes. The attitudes of consumers significantly enhance their continuous purchase intentions. This study lays an essential groundwork for advancing pet food products, refining marketing approaches, and conducting future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Behavioral Economics)

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16 pages, 1190 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Recipients’ Inter-Group Relations and Routine Behaviors in the Development of Children’s Sharing Behavior

by Hang Liu, Zhengmei Ma, Shiyin Chen, Lijie Zhang and Lu Wang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030254 (registering DOI) - 23 Feb 2025

Abstract

Sharing with others is an important prosocial behavior, which is widely developed in early childhood. Numerous studies have demonstrated that single characteristics (routine behaviors or inter-group relations) of the recipient impact children’s sharing behavior. However, there is still a lack of understanding of [...] Read more.

Sharing with others is an important prosocial behavior, which is widely developed in early childhood. Numerous studies have demonstrated that single characteristics (routine behaviors or inter-group relations) of the recipient impact children’s sharing behavior. However, there is still a lack of understanding of the factors that influence sharing decisions in children with dual characteristics. In Experiment 1, 112 children aged 4–6 years (M_age = 5.55, girls account for 50%) participated in a sticker-sharing task, and the results indicated that older children (aged 5 and 6 years) were more willing to share and shared more stickers. Additionally, children shared more stickers with recipients who exhibited good routine behaviors compared to those who had poor behaviors. In total, 134 children aged 4–6 years (M_age = 5.47, girls account for 50.1%) participated in Experiment 2. The results indicated that children share more stickers with a friend than with a stranger. When recipients possessed dual characteristics, they shared more stickers with a stranger who had good routine behaviors than with a friend who had poor ones. Therefore, children are selective in their sharing, and when confronted with a recipient with dual characteristics, children prioritize the recipient’s prior performance of moral norms over interpersonal distance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Psychology)

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19 pages, 367 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mental Health and Lifestyle Factors Among Higher Education Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Raquel Simões de Almeida, Andreia Rodrigues, Sofia Tavares, João F. Barreto, António Marques and Maria João Trigueiro

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030253 (registering DOI) - 23 Feb 2025

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the lifestyle factors and mental health levels among higher education students and identify their predictors. A cross-sectional study with a sample of 745 students was conducted with students from the Polytechnic of Porto using the Depression Anxiety Stress [...] Read more.

This study aimed to describe the lifestyle factors and mental health levels among higher education students and identify their predictors. A cross-sectional study with a sample of 745 students was conducted with students from the Polytechnic of Porto using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation (CORE)-18, and FANTASTICO Lifestyle Questionnaire. The findings indicate that while students generally exhibited a positive lifestyle, they also experienced mild levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, nearing the moderate threshold. The DASS-21 Depression subscale was a significant predictor of both CORE-18 and FANTASTICO scores, underscoring the strong relationship between depression and overall well-being. Anxiety and stress were also predictors of CORE-18 scores, reflecting the negative impact of stress on students’ psychological well-being. Perceived health status and the male sex were associated with better outcomes on the DASS-21 and CORE-18, while the female sex predicted a healthier lifestyle, as measured by FANTASTICO. These findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions that address mental health and promote healthy lifestyle choices in educational settings. Full article

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

17 pages, 701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Choosing One’s Words: Conversational Indirectness and Humor Style in Two Distinct Cultural Groups

by Tanisha Y. Berrios, Dun-Ya Hu and Jyotsna Vaid

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030252 (registering DOI) - 23 Feb 2025

Abstract

We investigated cultural differences in the relationship between conversational indirectness and styles of humor use. Our study compared responses of English first language (L1) users (n = 56) and Korean first language users studying in the US (n = 32) on [...] Read more.

We investigated cultural differences in the relationship between conversational indirectness and styles of humor use. Our study compared responses of English first language (L1) users (n = 56) and Korean first language users studying in the US (n = 32) on the conversational indirectness scale) and the humor styles questionnaire. We found no overall group differences in conversational indirectness. Instead, higher indirectness for interpretation than for production was noted, but only in the English L1 group. This group also showed a positive correlation between interpretation and production scores; no such association was found in the Korean sample. On the humor style measure, scores for affiliative and self-enhancing humor were significantly higher in the English L1 group compared to the Korean group; the English L1 group also showed a positive correlation between these two dimensions, and between self-enhancing and self-defeating humor. Both groups showed low identification with self-defeating and aggressive humor styles. There was a significant positive correlation in the Korean group between these two styles. Finally, an association between conversational indirectness and humor style was noted in each group: in both groups, a significant positive correlation was found between indirectness in production and aggressive humor. Additionally, for the English L1 group a significant positive correlation was found between self-defeating humor and indirectness in production and interpretation. These findings demonstrate cultural differences in humor uses and an intriguing relationship between the tendency to produce linguistic meanings indirectly and uses of humor considered to be less positive. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Humor Use in Interpersonal Relationships)

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16 pages, 652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Alcohol and Cannabis Perceived Descriptive and Injunctive Norms, Personal Use, and Consequences Among 2-Year College Students

by Jennifer C. Duckworth, Kristi M. Morrison and Christine M. Lee

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030251 (registering DOI) - 22 Feb 2025

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Abstract

Two-year college students represent 35% of U.S. undergraduates, yet substance use among them is understudied. Grounded in Social Norms Theory, the present study examined alcohol and cannabis use prevalence and associations between perceived peer use (descriptive norms), approval of use (injunctive norms), and [...] Read more.

Two-year college students represent 35% of U.S. undergraduates, yet substance use among them is understudied. Grounded in Social Norms Theory, the present study examined alcohol and cannabis use prevalence and associations between perceived peer use (descriptive norms), approval of use (injunctive norms), and personal use among 2-year students. We also explored whether identification with the reference group or age moderated associations. Data were collected from May through August of 2020 from 1037 2-year college students in Washington State (screening sample) aged 18–29. Of these, 246 participants who reported recent, moderate alcohol and/or cannabis use completed a follow-up survey. Screening survey participants reported past-month alcohol and cannabis use and demographics, while follow-up participants provided data on perceived peer descriptive and injunctive norms and group identification. Screening participants reported drinking an average of 3.32 (SD = 7.76) drinks weekly and being high for 8.18 h (SD = 20.95). Follow-up participants overestimated peer alcohol and cannabis use. Regression analyses showed perceived descriptive alcohol and cannabis norms were positively associated with personal use, and perceived injunctive alcohol norms were positively related to alcohol-related consequences. Differences by student age were also observed. Findings suggest perceived peer norms are risk factors for substance use behaviors among 2-year college students. Tailored normative feedback interventions may reduce high-risk use in this underserved population. Full article

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18 pages, 756 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sexual and Agency Norms: Effect on Young Women’s Self-Perception and Attitude Toward Sexual Consent

by María del Mar Sánchez-Fuentes, Antonio Rafael Hidalgo-Muñoz, Nieves Moyano and Carmen Gómez-Berrocal

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 250; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030250 (registering DOI) - 22 Feb 2025

Viewed by 92

Abstract

Background: The sexual double standard (SDS) governs behaviors related to sexual activity and abstinence, promoting negative evaluations of sexually assertive women. Conversely, the sexual agency norm encourages young women to express their sexuality freely. This study explores how this complex normative context, combining [...] Read more.

Background: The sexual double standard (SDS) governs behaviors related to sexual activity and abstinence, promoting negative evaluations of sexually assertive women. Conversely, the sexual agency norm encourages young women to express their sexuality freely. This study explores how this complex normative context, combining SDS and sexual agency norms, impacts young women’s self-concept and attitudes toward sexual consent. Methods: A total of 154 Spanish university women (M_age = 19.69 years; SD = 2.23) participated in a 2 × 2 quasi-experimental design [Personal Reputation Threat: Sexual Activity vs. Sexual Abstinence × Agency Belief Affirmation: High vs. Low]. Participants completed a self-perception measure and the Spanish Adaptation of the Sexual Consent Scale-Revised. Results: Personal Reputation Threat influenced positive self-evaluation, with higher scores in the Sexual Activity (vs. Abstinence) condition. Agency Belief Affirmation also affected self-evaluation, with higher scores in the low-agency (vs. high-agency) condition. An interaction effect emerged on attitudes favoring sexual consent: participants showed greater support for sexual consent when devalued for sexual assertiveness rather than abstinence, but only under low-agency belief affirmation. These findings highlight identity conflicts and inconsistent sexual attitudes that young women may experience within the complex normative frameworks of contemporary Western societies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sexual Double Standard: Prejudice in Gender and Sexual Orientation)

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21 pages, 791 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Effect of Artificial Intelligence Anxiety on Turnover Intention: The Mediating Role of Quiet Quitting in Turkish Small and Medium Enterprises

by Selen Uygungil-Erdogan, Yaşar Şahin, Aşkın İnci Sökmen-Alaca, Onur Oktaysoy, Mustafa Altıntaş and Vurgun Topçuoğlu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030249 (registering DOI) - 22 Feb 2025

Viewed by 57

Abstract

The concept of artificial intelligence (AI) refers to technologies that imitate human-like thinking, learning and decision-making abilities. While integrating AI into the workforce offers the potential to increase efficiency in organizational activities, it can lead to negative effects such as anxiety, uncertainty, and [...] Read more.

The concept of artificial intelligence (AI) refers to technologies that imitate human-like thinking, learning and decision-making abilities. While integrating AI into the workforce offers the potential to increase efficiency in organizational activities, it can lead to negative effects such as anxiety, uncertainty, and distrust among employees which results from not being able to understand these technologies, regarding them as alternatives for themselves, and the possibility of losing their organizational position. These effects can reduce employees’ commitment at work and trigger negative organizational behaviors such as quiet quitting and turnover intention. Starting from this point, the present study aims to investigate the effect of AI anxiety on turnover intention and the mediating role of quiet quitting in this relationship. The study was conducted using a cross-sectional design with 457 people working in SMEs in Kırıkkale province. AI Anxiety, Quiet Quitting, and Turnover Intention Scales were utilized during the data collection process. The obtained data were analyzed through structural equation modeling. In addition to detecting significant relationships between concepts as a result of the analysis, it was realized that AI anxiety did not have a considerable effect directly on turnover intention; however, this effect occurred indirectly through quiet quitting. Accordingly, it is predicted that integrating AI technologies into business processes will increase the concerns about job security in employees, and this anxiety triggers the turnover intention by leading to a tendency toward quiet quitting for reasons such as loss of motivation and low organizational commitment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Employee Behavior on Digital-AI Transformation)

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20 pages, 754 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship Between Anti-Transgender Experiences (A Proxy for Minority Stress) and Heavy Alcohol Use Among Transgender Adults

by Hugh Klein and Thomas Alex Washington

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030248 - 21 Feb 2025

Viewed by 149

Abstract

Purpose: Although several studies have shown a relationship between anti-transgender experiences and binge drinking and/or hazardous drinking, very little research has examined how these experiences relate to heavy drinking. That is the focus of this study. Methods: This paper uses data from the [...] Read more.

Purpose: Although several studies have shown a relationship between anti-transgender experiences and binge drinking and/or hazardous drinking, very little research has examined how these experiences relate to heavy drinking. That is the focus of this study. Methods: This paper uses data from the 2015 National Transgender Survey, and is based on a sample of 17,367 transgender adults residing in the United States. Analyses compare three groups: current “regular” drinkers (drank at least some alcohol during the previous month but no days consuming five or more drinks) (n = 10,496), binge drinkers (consumption of five or more drinks on at least one occasion during the previous month) (n = 4977), and heavy drinkers (five or more drinks per day on five or more days during the previous month) (n = 1894). The paper focuses on how anti-transgender experiences with harassment, discrimination, and/or violence (a 20-item scale measure, Cronbach’s alpha = 0.76) are related to people’s classification as current drinkers versus binge drinkers versus heavy drinkers. Results: 13.8% of the participants met the criteria for heavy drinking; 26.4% more were classified as binge drinkers. The more anti-transgender experiences people had, the more likely they were to engage in heavy drinking. Multivariate analyses revealed that this relationship was a robust one, holding up even when numerous other potentially confounding control measures were included in the analyses. Conclusions: Anti-transgender experiences are a strong predictor of heavy drinking. This type of minority stressor is an important consideration when understanding what leads many transgender individuals to become heavy drinkers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress and Drinking)

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25 pages, 804 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Overlooked and the Overstudied: A Scoping Review of Qualitative Research on Pursuing Sexual, Romantic, and Loving Relationships Through Online Dating

by Plata S. Diesen, Lene Pettersen and Faltin Karlsen

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030247 - 21 Feb 2025

Viewed by 327

Abstract

This paper presents a scoping review of the qualitative research (N = 125) on the use of online dating sites and applications for adults pursuing relationships, including sex, love, and romance, from 2014 to 2023. Our review supports previous literature reviews’ findings, which [...] Read more.

This paper presents a scoping review of the qualitative research (N = 125) on the use of online dating sites and applications for adults pursuing relationships, including sex, love, and romance, from 2014 to 2023. Our review supports previous literature reviews’ findings, which reveal that research on the topic is predominantly focused on young, well-educated, ethnic-majority, and primarily female heterosexuals or men seeking men in Western societies. Hence, a sample-selection bias shapes our scientific understanding of online dating, leaving other user groups underrepresented. Despite the diversity of scientific fields involved in qualitative research, the methods used are notably similar, indicating a relatively narrow scope in both demographic variables and research approaches. Although the researched themes and perspectives appear diverse at first glance, the research often centers on problem-oriented topics, such as the risks and emotional aspects of online dating, insecurities in self-presentation, negative technological communication traits, and the de-romanticization of society. We conclude that, despite the growing body of research on online dating, significant areas of the topic remain unexplored. There is a need for broader, more inclusive research to fully understand the complexities of online dating in the digital age. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychology of Mate Choice, Romantic Relationships and Sexuality)

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12 pages, 243 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Mistrust to Malice: Examining the Influence of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Reactive and Appetitive Aggression in Male Forensic Psychiatric Patients with a History of Drug Abuse Through the Lens of Psychodynamic Personality Structures

by Michael Fritz, Sylvia Flad, Judith Streb and Manuela Dudeck

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030246 - 21 Feb 2025

Viewed by 132

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) represent one of the most critical factors contributing to the manifestation of psychiatric disorders later in life. Furthermore, such experiences are often associated with deficits in interpersonal relationships, manifesting as mistrust and violent behaviors, and are indicative of a [...] Read more.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) represent one of the most critical factors contributing to the manifestation of psychiatric disorders later in life. Furthermore, such experiences are often associated with deficits in interpersonal relationships, manifesting as mistrust and violent behaviors, and are indicative of a fragmented personality. This study aimed to analyze the correlative relationships between personality deficits influenced by ACEs and the expression of reactive and appetitive aggression using self-report questionnaires in 53 male forensic psychiatric patients with a drug dependency background detained under §64 of the German Criminal Code between 2019 and 2022. Instruments included the Operationalized Psychodynamic Diagnosis Structure Questionnaire (OPD-SF), the Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology of Exposure Scale–German Version (KERF), and the Appetitive and Facilitative Aggression Scale (AFAS). Specifically, the OPD-SF used the following subscales: self-perception, self-regulation, the regulation of object relations, emotional communication inward/outward, internal/external attachment, and total score. The results demonstrate a significant relationship between childhood traumatic experiences, personality structure, attachment capacity, self-perception, and regulation and the expression of both reactive and appetitive aggression. While the association with reactive aggression is intuitively plausible, the findings notably reveal that the propensity to derive pleasure from violence is also associated with personality deficits caused by adverse childhood experiences. These findings have important implications for the treatment of offenders with personality disorders and should be considered in therapeutic interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Challenges and Developments in Personality Disorders: New Theories and Models, Testing and Psychosocial Interventions in Special Settings)

9 pages, 711 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Need for Better Attachment Bonds Between Institutional Caregivers and Children in Residential Care: A Systematic Review

by María-Jesús Martínez-Usarralde, Raquel Conchell, Mónica Villar and Lucía Pérez-Tabernero

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030245 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 210

Abstract

Attachment is an emotional bond based on the first relationships formed between people. In the case of institutionalized children, it is more difficult to establish a secure attachment bond with an adult. The figure of the institutional caregiver is key to promoting secure [...] Read more.

Attachment is an emotional bond based on the first relationships formed between people. In the case of institutionalized children, it is more difficult to establish a secure attachment bond with an adult. The figure of the institutional caregiver is key to promoting secure attachment and emotional support for these vulnerable children. This paper examines children in residential care (0–17 years), their relationship with attachment, and the figure of the institutional caregiver in relation to attachment. We conduct a systematic review of the scientific literature (SLR) carried out using the PRISMA method. The results suggest that institutionalized children are more likely to have behavioral problems because of the type of attachment they develop, and that institutional caregivers mediate attachment through their competence. In conclusion, institutional caregivers are an essential support figure in the life of residential care centers; because of this, these professionals must have adequate working conditions and receive ongoing training and support. Also, it would be necessary to analyze the appropriate skills of institutional caregivers to make appropriate intervention with the minors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Attachment Behavior and Relationships in Lifespan Development)

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20 pages, 516 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychological Resilience and Future Anxiety Among University Students: The Mediating Role of Subjective Well-Being

by Alper Bahadır Dalmış, Emrah Büyükatak and Lütfi Sürücü

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030244 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 221

Abstract

Future anxiety is the worry and concern individuals experience regarding uncertainties and potential negative outcomes in their future. This emotional state can manifest at different stages of students’ academic lives and can impact their academic performance and social relationships. In the process of [...] Read more.

Future anxiety is the worry and concern individuals experience regarding uncertainties and potential negative outcomes in their future. This emotional state can manifest at different stages of students’ academic lives and can impact their academic performance and social relationships. In the process of coping with negative experiences and overcoming challenges, psychological resilience plays a crucial role. Students who struggle to manage stress and have high levels of anxiety tend to experience future anxiety more intensely. The aim of this study is to determine the mediating role of subjective well-being in the relationship between psychological resilience and future anxiety among university students. The study was conducted with a total of 483 university students, including 280 females and 203 males. Data were collected using the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10), Subjective Well-Being Scale (SWB-7), and Future Anxiety (Dark Future) Scale (Short Form). Analyses were performed using AMOS 22.0 and SPSS 27.0 software. The findings indicate that psychological resilience has a significant negative effect on future anxiety, a significant positive effect on subjective well-being, and that subjective well-being has a significant negative effect on future anxiety. Additionally, the study found that subjective well-being mediates the relationship between psychological resilience and future anxiety. Full article

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24 pages, 602 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Pornography Consumption to Sexually Violent Practices: Uncovering the Hidden Influence of Sexual Norms

by Carmen M. Leon, Tatiana Quiñonez-Toral and Eva Aizpurua

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030243 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 268

Abstract

Understanding the dynamics of sexually violent behavior is essential for developing effective interventions and policies that promote safe and respectful sexual relationships. An important area of research in this context is examining the influence of pornography on sexual behavior, which can inform these [...] Read more.

Understanding the dynamics of sexually violent behavior is essential for developing effective interventions and policies that promote safe and respectful sexual relationships. An important area of research in this context is examining the influence of pornography on sexual behavior, which can inform these efforts. This study explores how sexually permissive attitudes and acceptance of the sexual double standard mediate the relationship between pornography consumption and engagement in violent sexual practices among a sample of the general population in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain (N = 1003; 50.7% men). The sexual double standard refers to the societal belief that men and women should be judged differently for the same sexual behaviors, with men often praised or excused for promiscuity, while women face stigma and shame. The findings reveal gender differences in engagement in sexually violent practices during sexual relationships. Men are more likely to perpetrate these behaviors, while women are more likely to experience them. Importantly, both lifetime and last year pornography consumption are associated with an increased involvement in such practices. This relationship is partially mediated by sexually permissive attitudes, with a stronger mediation effect observed in men. Practitioners can leverage these insights to develop comprehensive strategies that mitigate the risks associated with pornography consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychological Research on Sexual and Social Relationships)

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15 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Neuropsychophysiological Effects of a Single Functional Neurology Intervention on Semicircular Canals Stimuli Dysfunction

by Guillermo Escribano-Colmena, Jorge Rey-Mota and Vicente Javier Clemente-Suárez

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030242 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 168

Abstract

This exploratory observational study analyzed the neuropsychophysiological effects of Functional Neurology interventions on semicircular canal dysfunction, with a focus on enhancing neuromuscular responses and pain perception. A cohort of 45 healthy volunteers, comprising both males and females with an average age of 26.5 [...] Read more.

This exploratory observational study analyzed the neuropsychophysiological effects of Functional Neurology interventions on semicircular canal dysfunction, with a focus on enhancing neuromuscular responses and pain perception. A cohort of 45 healthy volunteers, comprising both males and females with an average age of 26.5 years, participated in this controlled, experimental study. The methodology involved baseline assessments of their psychophysiological state and physical abilities, followed by specific tests to analyze semicircular canal dysfunction. Participants then received customized Functional Neurology treatment aimed at correcting detected neuromuscular imbalances. The effects of Functional Neurology treatment were evaluated comparing variables such as hand strength, blood oxygen saturation, heart rate, and the Critical Flicker Fusion Threshold before and after the intervention. The study found a significant increase in the tolerance to semicircular canal stimuli, from an average of 1.0 ± 0.0 stimuli tolerated before intervention to 21.0 ± 14.0 post-treatment, suggesting that Functional Neurology can markedly improve neuromuscular responses in the context of vestibular dysfunction. However, no significant changes were observed in blood oxygen saturation or cortical arousal, indicating that these specific interventions may not affect all psychophysiological parameters. In conclusion, Functional Neurology interventions show promise in treating vestibular disorders by significantly enhancing neuromuscular response and pain tolerance, despite not impacting other psychophysiological measures. This research underscores the potential of Functional Neurology in improving the quality of life for individuals with vestibular dysfunctions and advocates for further exploration into its comprehensive neurophysiological effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neurophysiological and Behavioral Responses to Stressful Situations, Training, Therapies or Illness)

17 pages, 910 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Roles of Problematic Internet Use and Emotional Regulation Self-Efficacy on the Relationship Between Digital Game Addiction and Motivation Among Turkish Adolescents

by Öner Çelikkaleli, Rıdvan Ata, Muhammet Mustafa Alpaslan, Zafer Tangülü and Özgür Ulubey

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030241 - 20 Feb 2025

Viewed by 304

Abstract

Digital game addiction and problematic internet use have emerged as significant issues, attracting growing attention from educators, psychologists, and policymakers. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of emotional regulation self-efficacy and the moderating role of problematic internet use in the effect [...] Read more.

Digital game addiction and problematic internet use have emerged as significant issues, attracting growing attention from educators, psychologists, and policymakers. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of emotional regulation self-efficacy and the moderating role of problematic internet use in the effect of digital game addiction on academic motivation in Turkish adolescents. A correlational research method was utilized to address research questions. A total of 1156 high school students voluntarily participated in the study. Self-report questionnaires (the Short Academic Motivation Scale, Digital Game Addiction Scale, Regulatory Emotional Self-Efficacy Scale and Young’s Internet Addiction Scale Short Form) were used to collect data in 2024. In the analysis of the data, Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient, mediator and moderator analyses were conducted using statistical software. The analysis provided evidence of the negative effect of digital game addiction on academic motivation. Additionally, emotional regulation self-efficacy was found to partly mediate the relationship between digital game addiction and academic motivation. Furthermore, problematic internet use moderated the relationship between digital game addiction and academic motivation in adolescents. The results suggested enhancing adolescents’ emotional regulation self-efficacy and reducing problematic internet use are crucial steps towards mitigating the negative effects of digital game addiction on academic motivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Educational Psychology)

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