Behavioral Sciences

14 pages, 609 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Testing in a Heterogeneous Clinical Sample: A Feasibility Study

by Ynès Hendriks, Bart Vogelaar, Roos van Heeswijk, Jochanan Veerbeek, Wilma Resing, Loes van Aken and Jos Egger

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1342; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101342 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study evaluated the feasibility of including a computerized dynamic test of analogical reasoning in standard neuropsychological assessments in a heterogeneous psychiatric population. The participants were 40 adult patients (M_age = 33.15 ± 12.27, range 19–68; 60% male) enrolled in specialized [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the feasibility of including a computerized dynamic test of analogical reasoning in standard neuropsychological assessments in a heterogeneous psychiatric population. The participants were 40 adult patients (M_age = 33.15 ± 12.27, range 19–68; 60% male) enrolled in specialized mental health and forensic care programs in The Netherlands, who were randomly assigned into either a training, a passive, or a control group. A pretest–training–posttest paradigm was used for the training group, and the dynamic test consisted of 26 items of the A:B::C:? type. In terms of practical use, it was found that the administration time varied largely, and 22% of the data was lost due to drop out or technical malfunctions. Test–retest reliability was acceptable for the training group (r = 0.61) and good for the practice and control groups (resp. r = 0.88 and 0.80). A statistical trend was observed for the training vs. practice group (Z = −1.598, p = 0.055), but not for the training vs. control group (Z = −0.839, p = 0.201). It was concluded that an indication of training effectiveness was found; however, in this clinical sample, the applicability of the current form of the dynamic test is still limited. Several modification options are discussed. Full article

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15 pages, 371 KB

Open AccessArticle

Individuals with High Mindfulness Are Better at Metacognitive Ability: A Latent Profile Analysis Approach

by Lan Jiang, Shang Zhang, Jinglin Li, Yuhong Gong, Na Sun, Haihong Wang, Tao Xiao and Xinfa Yi

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1341; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101341 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study systematically examines the relationship between mindfulness and metacognition among Chinese college students through a person-centered analytical approach. Using latent profile analysis (LPA) of Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) responses, we identified four distinct mindfulness profiles: (1) High Observation/Low Non-reactivity, (2) High [...] Read more.

This study systematically examines the relationship between mindfulness and metacognition among Chinese college students through a person-centered analytical approach. Using latent profile analysis (LPA) of Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) responses, we identified four distinct mindfulness profiles: (1) High Observation/Low Non-reactivity, (2) High Awareness/Judging, (3) Moderately Mindful, and (4) Highly Mindful. Gender differences were observed across profiles, with female students more represented in the Highly Mindful group. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that mindfulness profiles significantly predicted metacognitive ability, with the Highly Mindful group demonstrating superior metacognitive self-regulation and learning strategy application. These findings contribute to the literature by identifying distinct mindfulness subtypes and their differential relationships with metacognition. The results suggest that educational interventions emphasizing non-judgmental present-moment awareness may be particularly effective for fostering students’ metacognitive development, while highlighting the importance of considering individual differences in mindfulness training approaches. Full article

17 pages, 572 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Older Adults’ Interest in Virtual Volunteering: Evidence from a Multi-Theoretical Model Combining TAM, Self-Efficacy, and Digital Divide Perspectives

by Longyu Sui, Jennifer A. Crittenden and Mark A. Hager

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1340; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101340 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

The digital transformation of civic life has created new opportunities for older adults to engage in virtual volunteer activities. However, their participation still remains limited. This study investigates the factors that influence older adults’ interest in virtual volunteering. It integrated theoretical framework combining [...] Read more.

The digital transformation of civic life has created new opportunities for older adults to engage in virtual volunteer activities. However, their participation still remains limited. This study investigates the factors that influence older adults’ interest in virtual volunteering. It integrated theoretical framework combining the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Self-Efficacy, and Digital Divide Theories to examine the drivers of virtual volunteerism interest among this target population. This study presents ordered logistic regression models with data on 814 adult volunteers in multiple imputation procedures. The final reduced model identifies two key predictors: a preference for virtual activities and interest in technology training, respectively, representing TAM and the Digital Divide Theory. While the self-efficacy-related variable showed statistical significance in earlier models, its explanatory power diminished when controlling for other factors. The findings indicate that older adults’ interest in virtual volunteering is primarily shaped by perceived usefulness of digital tools and their willingness to improve technical competence. This study confirms the relevance of the TAM and Digital Divide theories regarding virtual volunteerism. In practical terms, the findings indicate that program design should combine usability-focused platform features and targeted support that lower both technological and motivational barriers for older adults interested in virtual volunteering. Full article

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14 pages, 378 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Language Recovery Pattern in Persons with Aphasia Across Acute and Sub-Acute Stages

by Deepak Puttanna, Nova Maria Saji, Mohammed F. ALHarbi, Akshaya Swamy and Darshan Hosaholalu Sarvajna

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1339; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101339 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

Recovery from aphasia is a complex process involving restoring language ability to a level comparable to an individual’s pre-aphasia state. This recovery extends beyond linguistic functions such as improved quality of life and functional communication. Understanding language recovery in PWAs is a key [...] Read more.

Recovery from aphasia is a complex process involving restoring language ability to a level comparable to an individual’s pre-aphasia state. This recovery extends beyond linguistic functions such as improved quality of life and functional communication. Understanding language recovery in PWAs is a key area in aphasia research. Thus, the current study aimed to understand the pattern of language recovery in the acute and sub-acute stages of persons with aphasia (PWAs). A total of 11 PWAs aged between 40 and 80 were recruited. The study was conducted in two phases. In the acute stage (within one week post-stroke), participants were assessed using the Western Aphasia Battery-Kannada (WAB-K). In the sub-acute stage (between seven and fifteen days post-stroke), a similar test battery was repeated. The findings of the study showed auditory verbal comprehension scores were pronounced in the acute and sub-acute stages of recovery. Further, language quotient (LQ) scores were higher in the sub-acute stage compared to the acute stage, though these differences failed to evince statistical differences. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive correlations between LQ and spontaneous speech, repetition, and naming, with moderate correlations for auditory verbal comprehension. The study’s findings highlight the importance of targeted therapeutic interventions for PWAs, emphasizing an early focus on auditory verbal comprehension to enhance overall language recovery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Experimental and Clinical Neurosciences)

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18 pages, 451 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Mediating Role of Mattering in the Relationship Between Perceived Islamophobia and Well-Being in a Group of Muslim Women Residing in Italy

by Cristian Di Gesto, Elisa Guidi, Giulia Rosa Policardo, Amanda Nerini and Camilla Matera

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1338; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101338 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study examined the associations between perceived Islamophobia and social well-being among Muslim women living in Italy, focusing on the potential mediating role of societal mattering and interpersonal mattering with respect to family and friends. Drawing from community and social psychology perspectives, we [...] Read more.

This study examined the associations between perceived Islamophobia and social well-being among Muslim women living in Italy, focusing on the potential mediating role of societal mattering and interpersonal mattering with respect to family and friends. Drawing from community and social psychology perspectives, we hypothesized that perceived Islamophobia would be negatively associated with social well-being, and that this relationship would be mediated by perceived mattering. In total, 120 Muslim women completed validated measures of perceived Islamophobia, mattering, and social well-being. Generalized Linear Modeling indicated that the direct association between perceived Islamophobia and social well-being was marginally significant. However, significant indirect associations emerged through societal mattering and mattering to friends. Higher perceived Islamophobia was associated with lower societal mattering and mattering to friends, which in turn were positively associated with social well-being, whereas mattering to family did not mediate the association. These findings underscore the role of different forms of mattering in shaping social well-being among women belonging to a minority religious group. Results have implications for the development of interventions aimed at promoting perception of being important to one’s society and significant others among Muslim women, particularly in national contexts where anti-Muslim sentiments may threaten their well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Community Resilience and Migrant Wellbeing)

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18 pages, 756 KB

Open AccessArticle

Differences in Experiencing Well-Being in Youth Choir Singers Regarding (In)Formal Participation

by Jovana Blagojević, Katarina Habe and Boštjan Bajec

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1337; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101337 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

Choral singing is a widely practiced form of group music-making that has been associated with various positive well-being outcomes. While existing research highlights its benefits for adults and clinical populations, how choir participation affects healthy youth is explored to a lesser extent. This [...] Read more.

Choral singing is a widely practiced form of group music-making that has been associated with various positive well-being outcomes. While existing research highlights its benefits for adults and clinical populations, how choir participation affects healthy youth is explored to a lesser extent. This quantitative study examined differences in well-being between informal (extracurricular) and formal (school) youth choir singers in Slovenia and Serbia. A total of 274 choir members aged 15–24 completed an online questionnaire, including extracurricular (n = 77) and school (n = 197) singers. Standardized instruments tested general well-being (WHO-5), life satisfaction (SWLS), positive mental health (MHC-SF), emotional states in choir and in life (PANAS), social support (SPS-10), and perceived benefits from choral singing (CAPBES). Findings revealed that extracurricular choir singers reported significantly higher social connectedness and overall well-being subscales related to perceived benefits from choir participation, and passion in life, compared with school choir singers. School members had higher scores in subscale self-disgust within the negative affect in life scale. Positive and negative emotions within choir were similar for both groups. No significant differences were observed in life satisfaction, mental health, and social support in life. These results indicate that voluntary, informal (extracurricular) choir participation is associated with enhanced well-being, stronger social benefits, and higher positive emotions in life, compared with formal (school) choir participation. Integrating more voluntary choir opportunities into educational and community programs may increase inclusion and provide positive youth development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Music on Individual and Social Well-Being)

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8 pages, 433 KB

Open AccessOpinion

Caregiver Self-Regulation as a Key Factor in the Implementation Potential of Caregiver-Mediated Interventions

by Sarah R. Edmunds, Maya Renaud, Nada M. Goodrum, Jessica Bradshaw, Daniel K. Cooper and Brooke Ingersoll

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1336; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101336 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

Caregiver self-regulation may be a critical component of caregivers’ effective delivery of caregiver-mediated interventions (CMIs). CMIs are a highly evidence-based group of interventions that target a broad range of challenges, including social communication, emotion regulation, and externalizing behaviors, for autistic and neurotypical children. [...] Read more.

Caregiver self-regulation may be a critical component of caregivers’ effective delivery of caregiver-mediated interventions (CMIs). CMIs are a highly evidence-based group of interventions that target a broad range of challenges, including social communication, emotion regulation, and externalizing behaviors, for autistic and neurotypical children. CMIs teach caregivers to be “coaches” to help their children learn and practice skills in daily life. However, being a good “coach” likely requires caregivers to optimally self-regulate their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors when working with their children in moments that are often emotionally heightened. Caregiver self-regulation is a set of skills that promote parenting autonomy and confidence: self-sufficiency, self-efficacy, self-management, personal agency, and problem solving. This conceptual paper will briefly discuss the literature on the role of caregiver self-regulation in CMIs and argue that future implementation research on CMIs should measure caregiver self-regulation because, in line with recent expansion of the theory of planned behavior, caregiver self-regulation may predict more effective implementation of CMIs. We also argue, in line with CFIR 2.0, that supporting caregiver self-regulation could ultimately improve the implementation of CMIs with regard to each implementation outcome in the Implementation Outcomes Framework. For example, enhancing caregiver self-regulation may improve CMI appropriateness (by increasing alignment with each caregiver’s values and culture), adoption (by increasing engagement to finish the full CMI protocol), and even CMI sustainability (by increasing caregivers’ ability to problem-solve and generalize to new child challenges independently, freeing up provider time to work with new caregivers and allowing the agency to provide the CMI for a reduced relative cost). Should future research demonstrate that caregiver self-regulation is an implementation determinant, future implementation strategies may need to include support for caregiver self-regulation, because it may explain or enhance the implementation of CMIs across early intervention and community mental health systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Early Identification and Intervention of Autism)

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1 pages, 118 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Pohlman et al. (2025). Interconnecting District and Community Partners to Improve School-Level Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Health. Behavioral Sciences, 15(9), 1225

by Kathryn B. Pohlman, Kayla Jones, Juan R. Lira, Jennifer Norton and Kelly Perales

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1335; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101335 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

In the original publication (Pohlman et al [...] Full article

25 pages, 6414 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dependency Grammar Approach to the Syntactic Complexity in the Discourse of Alzheimer Patients

by Zhangjun Lian and Zeyu Wang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1334; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101334 - 29 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the syntactic complexity in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by conducting a comprehensive analysis that incorporates mean dependency distance (MDD), fine-grained grammatical metrics, and dependency network structures. A total of 150 adults with AD and 150 healthy controls [...] Read more.

This study aims to investigate the syntactic complexity in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by conducting a comprehensive analysis that incorporates mean dependency distance (MDD), fine-grained grammatical metrics, and dependency network structures. A total of 150 adults with AD and 150 healthy controls (HC) responded in English to interview prompts based on the Cookie Theft picture description task, and the results were compared. The key findings are as follows: (1) The primary syntactic change is a strategic shift from hierarchical, clause-based constructions to linear, phrase-based ones, a direct consequence of working memory deficits designed to minimize cognitive load. (2) This shift is executed via a resource reallocation, where costly, long-distance clausal dependencies are systematically avoided in favor of a compensatory reliance on local dependencies, such as intra-phrasal modification and simple predicate structures. (3) This strategic reallocation leads to a systemic reorganization of the syntactic network, transforming it from a flexible, distributed system into a rigid, centralized one that becomes critically dependent on the over-leveraged structural role of function words to maintain basic connectivity. (4) The overall syntactic profile is the result of a functional balance governed by the principle of cognitive economy, where expressive richness and grammatical depth are sacrificed to preserve core communicative functions. These findings suggest that the syntactic signature of AD is not a random degradation of linguistic competence but a profound and systematic grammatical adaptation, where the entire linguistic system restructures itself to function under the severe constraints of diminished cognitive resources. Full article

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24 pages, 888 KB

Open AccessReview

A Dynamic Approach to Compulsive Fantasy: Constraints and Creativity in “Maladaptive Daydreaming”

by Jennifer I. Burrell, Emily Lawson and Kalina Christoff Hadjiilieva

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1333; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101333 - 28 Sep 2025

Abstract

Compulsive fantasy, often called “maladaptive daydreaming,” involves frequent engagement with immersive fantasies that can sometimes interfere with everyday life and cause distress. This paper expands on Christoff and colleagues’ Dynamic Framework of Thought (DFT) to offer a process-based analysis of compulsive fantasy as [...] Read more.

Compulsive fantasy, often called “maladaptive daydreaming,” involves frequent engagement with immersive fantasies that can sometimes interfere with everyday life and cause distress. This paper expands on Christoff and colleagues’ Dynamic Framework of Thought (DFT) to offer a process-based analysis of compulsive fantasy as it relates to other mental phenomena such as daydreaming and creative thought. Drawing on the existing literature and posts on online forums by self-identified maladaptive daydreamers, we also propose an account of how compulsive fantasy episodes may unfold in terms of the oscillating dynamics of various constraints on thought, and how these dynamics may be related to a perceived struggle with agency. Automatic constraints, including affective salience and mental habits, may bring about a fantasy episode. During a fantasy episode, automatic constraints may be relatively high throughout, whereas deliberate constraints may be intermittently engaged to influence the fantasy. Our analysis supports the use of “compulsive fantasy” as a more accurate designation than “maladaptive daydreaming” for this phenomenon: compulsive fantasies are not daydreams, because they are more constrained in their mental dynamics. We show that fantasy and daydreaming are not inherently harmful but can become so when they are accompanied by relatively strong and sustained automatic constraints on thought. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue An Interdisciplinary Look at the Psychology and Neuroscience of Creativity)

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13 pages, 659 KB

Open AccessArticle

Retrieval Competition in Proactive Interference: Effects of Encoding Strength and Consolidation in the Modified Modified Free Recall Paradigm

by Yahui Zhang, Weihai Tang and Xiping Liu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1332; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101332 - 28 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study investigated how encoding strength and consolidation shape proactive interference (PI) in associative memory. Using a Modified Modified Free Recall (MMFR) paradigm, participants studied overlapping (A-B, A-C) and non-overlapping (E-F, G-H) pairs. The encoding strength of List 1 was manipulated (one vs. [...] Read more.

This study investigated how encoding strength and consolidation shape proactive interference (PI) in associative memory. Using a Modified Modified Free Recall (MMFR) paradigm, participants studied overlapping (A-B, A-C) and non-overlapping (E-F, G-H) pairs. The encoding strength of List 1 was manipulated (one vs. three study repetitions), while List 2 was held constant. Cued recall was tested immediately and after a 24-h delay. Results showed that increasing List 1’s encoding strength enhanced overall recall for both overlapping and non-overlapping pairs, indicating more effective learning, but did not alter the magnitude of PI. Instead, PI was strongly modulated by retention interval. At immediate test, robust PI emerged across conditions, reflecting cue-based retrieval competition. After a 24-h delay, PI was reduced or absent when List 1 was weakly encoded but persisted in attenuated form when List 1 was strongly encoded, suggesting differential consolidation trajectories for overlapping and non-overlapping associations. Co-retrieval analyses further revealed reliable associative dependency between B and C across all conditions, consistent with representational linkages that promote cooperative retrieval. These findings highlight the dual influence of cue overlap: at the representational level, overlapping pairs form integrated structures that foster co-retrieval, whereas at the retrieval-processing level, cue overload induces competition and PI. Taken together, the results indicate that although initial encoding strength enhances overall recall of List 2, the persistence of proactive interference is influenced by consolidation processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)

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20 pages, 492 KB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding How Social Media Use Relates to Turnover Intention Among Chinese Civil Servants: A Resource Perspective

by Min Hua and Yuanjie Bao

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101331 - 28 Sep 2025

Abstract

The rise in social media has blurred work–life boundaries, and concerns have been raised about its impact on employee well-being. This study examines how excessive social media use at work (ESMU) and social media use for work during non-work hours (SMUNW) affect turnover [...] Read more.

The rise in social media has blurred work–life boundaries, and concerns have been raised about its impact on employee well-being. This study examines how excessive social media use at work (ESMU) and social media use for work during non-work hours (SMUNW) affect turnover intention. Social media exhaustion is tested as a mediator, and resilience is tested as a moderator. Survey data were collected from 453 civil servants in Shandong Province, China. Hierarchical regression and the PROCESS MARCO were used for analysis. The results indicate that ESMU (β = 0.42, p < 0.001) and SMUNW (β = 0.14, p < 0.01) both significantly increase turnover intention. Social media exhaustion mediates these relationships, while resilience reduces their negative impact. Our findings contribute to technostress research by clarifying how digital demands influence public employees. For managers and organizations, the results highlight the need to set boundaries for work-related social media use; monitor employees’ digital exhaustion; and foster resilience through recruitment, training, and organizational support. Full article

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22 pages, 2174 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Emotional Congruency on Multimedia Learning: An Eye Movement Study

by Lei Cui, Yuwei Zheng, Xiaoyu Song, Junfei Wang, Chengwei Liu, Ziyi Wang, Xiaofeng Zhang and Tingzhen Wang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1330; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101330 - 28 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study employed eye-tracking technology to examine the emotional congruency effect of multimedia learning. The emotional congruency refers to the congruency of emotional valence between learning material and the emotional design in multimedia learning. With the internal emotional design, conducted positive and negative [...] Read more.

This study employed eye-tracking technology to examine the emotional congruency effect of multimedia learning. The emotional congruency refers to the congruency of emotional valence between learning material and the emotional design in multimedia learning. With the internal emotional design, conducted positive and negative emotional designs for both positive and negative learning materials, thereby manipulating the emotional congruency between the emotional valence of learning material and the emotional design. Experiment 1 adopted positive learning materials and Experiment 2 adopted negative learning materials. The results showed that the congruent condition exhibited superior learning outcomes and eye-tracking performance compared to the incongruent condition, no matter whether the learning materials were emotionally positive or negative, and provided empirical evidence for the Cognitive-Affective Theory of Multimedia Learning and the emotional congruency effect. However, this results pattern did not appear regarding subjective perception. The emotional congruency effect and its implications to educational practice were discussed. Full article

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18 pages, 386 KB

Open AccessArticle

Do Perceived Values Influence User Identification and Attitudinal Loyalty in Social Robots? The Mediating Role of Active Involvement

by Hua Pang, Zhen Wang and Lei Wang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1329; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101329 - 28 Sep 2025

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, the deployment of social robots has significantly broadened, extending into diverse fields such as education, medical services, and business. Despite this expansive growth, there remains a notable scarcity of empirical research addressing the underlying psychological mechanisms [...] Read more.

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, the deployment of social robots has significantly broadened, extending into diverse fields such as education, medical services, and business. Despite this expansive growth, there remains a notable scarcity of empirical research addressing the underlying psychological mechanisms that influence human–robot interactions. To address this critical research gap, the present study proposes and empirically tests a theoretical model designed to elucidate how users’ multi-dimensional perceived values of social robots influence their attitudinal responses and outcomes. Based on questionnaire data from 569 social robot users, the study reveals that users’ perceived utilitarian value, emotional value, and hedonic value all exert significant positive effects on active involvement, thereby fostering their identification and reinforcing attitudinal loyalty. Among these dimensions, emotional value emerged as the strongest predictor, underscoring the pivotal role of emotional orientation in cultivating lasting human–robot relationships. Furthermore, the findings highlight the critical mediating function of active involvement in linking perceived value to users’ psychological sense of belonging, thereby elucidating the mechanism through which perceived value enhances engagement and promotes sustained long-term interaction. These findings extend the conceptual boundaries of human–machine interaction, offer a theoretical foundation for future explorations of user psychological mechanisms, and inform strategic design approaches centered on emotional interaction and user-oriented experiences, providing practical guidance for optimizing social robot design in applications. Full article

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26 pages, 3553 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Pre-Service Training on STEM Teachers’ Attitudes Toward ICT-Enhanced Teaching: Mediating Roles of Perceived Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness

by Yingqian Zhang and Jiabin Zhu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1328; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101328 - 28 Sep 2025

Abstract

Integrating information and communication technology (ICT) into STEM education enhances instructional quality and cultivates students’ interdisciplinary problem-solving. STEM teachers’ attitudes—driven by perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU)—are pivotal in ICT adoption, and pre-service training offers a vital opportunity to shape [...] Read more.

Integrating information and communication technology (ICT) into STEM education enhances instructional quality and cultivates students’ interdisciplinary problem-solving. STEM teachers’ attitudes—driven by perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU)—are pivotal in ICT adoption, and pre-service training offers a vital opportunity to shape these attitudes. Yet, empirical studies investigating how specific training strategies influence ICT attitudes via PEOU and PU remain scarce. Using a mixed-methods approach combining questionnaires and interviews, the results indicate that pre-service training significantly improved STEM teachers’ attitudes toward ICT-enhanced teaching. Socially interactive strategies (role models and collaboration) enhanced attitudes via PEOU by boosting confidence and reducing technology-related anxiety, cognitive design strategies (reflection and instructional design) operated through PU by emphasizing ICT’s pedagogical value, and experiential feedback strategies (authentic experience and feedback) influenced attitudes through both PEOU and PU, fostering integrated technical and pedagogical development. These findings support an integrated SQD–TAM framework and provide practical guidance for designing pre-service STEM teacher programs to promote sustained ICT adoption in China, and meanwhile highlights the importance of strategically sequencing training to cultivate both technological competence and pedagogical insight among future STEM educators. Full article

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22 pages, 2053 KB

Open AccessArticle

Contextualization, Procedural Logic, and Active Construction: A Cognitive Scaffolding Model for Topic Sentiment Analysis in Game-Based Learning

by Liwei Ding, Hongfeng Zhang, Jinqiao Zhou and Bowen Chen

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1327; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101327 - 27 Sep 2025

Abstract

Following the significant disruption of traditional teaching by the COVID-19 pandemic, gamified education—an approach integrating technology and cognitive strategies—has gained widespread attention and use among educators and learners. This study explores how game-based learning, supported by situated learning theory and game design elements, [...] Read more.

Following the significant disruption of traditional teaching by the COVID-19 pandemic, gamified education—an approach integrating technology and cognitive strategies—has gained widespread attention and use among educators and learners. This study explores how game-based learning, supported by situated learning theory and game design elements, can boost learner motivation and knowledge construction. Using 20,293 user comments from the Chinese video platform Bilibili, the study applies sentiment analysis and LDA to uncover users’ sentimental tendencies and cognitive themes. The analysis identifies four core themes: (1) The application of contextual strategies in language learning, (2) Autonomous exploration and active participation in gamified learning, (3) Progressive enhancement of logical thinking in gamified environments, and (4) Teaching innovation in promoting knowledge construction and deepening. Building on these findings, the study further develops a cognitive scaffolding model integrating “contextualization–procedural logic–active construction” to explain the mechanisms of motivation–cognition interaction in gamified learning. Methodologically, this study innovatively combines LDA topic modeling with sentiment analysis, offering a new approach for multidimensional measurement of learner attitudes in gamified education. Theoretically, it extends the application of situated learning theory to digital education, providing systematic support for instructional design and meaning-making. Findings enrich empirical research on gamified learning and offer practical insights for optimizing educational platforms and personalized learning support. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Benefits of Game-Based Learning)

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17 pages, 400 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Strength of Vulnerability: How Does Supervisors’ Emotional Support-Seeking Promote Leadership Influence?

by Haoyu Wu and Hongjiang Lv

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1326; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101326 - 27 Sep 2025

Abstract

Most academic work concludes that supervisors are typically viewed as providers rather than seekers of emotional support, as emotional support-seeking may be seen as a threat to their status in the workplace. However, this conclusion is incomplete due to two limitations in prior [...] Read more.

Most academic work concludes that supervisors are typically viewed as providers rather than seekers of emotional support, as emotional support-seeking may be seen as a threat to their status in the workplace. However, this conclusion is incomplete due to two limitations in prior studies: (1) the tendency to interpret emotional support-seeking by high-status individuals as a lack of task-oriented competence, overlooking the relational dimension inherent in such behavior; and (2) neglecting subordinates’ expectations of authentic and approachable leadership prototypes. This study focuses on how and when supervisors’ emotional support-seeking enhances their leadership influence, from a leadership perspective that integrates relations-oriented and task-oriented dimensions. Drawing on a social network approach and regression analysis, we tested our hypotheses using data from 93 teams in 51 Chinese organizations, comprising 150 supervisors and 525 direct subordinates. The results reveal that supervisors’ emotional support-seeking is positively associated with their leadership influence via LMX efficiency. Furthermore, managerial competence moderates the relationship between supervisors’ emotional support-seeking and their LMX efficiency. This study challenges the prevailing assumption that emotional support-seeking undermines status, highlighting the positive impact of supervisors’ emotional support-seeking on their relationship and leadership in the workplace. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Outlooks on Relationships in the Workplace)

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16 pages, 2094 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Mobile Phone Addiction in College Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Laikang Yu, Zhuying Chen, Xiaorui Huang, Xifeng Tao and Yuanyuan Lv

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1325; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101325 - 27 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between physical activity (PA) and mobile phone addiction (MPA) in college students. Five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane) were searched up to 20 January 2025. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to calculate [...] Read more.

This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between physical activity (PA) and mobile phone addiction (MPA) in college students. Five databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane) were searched up to 20 January 2025. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to calculate combined Pearson correlation coefficients (r) with 95% confidence intervals. A total of 29 studies were included in the analysis. A significant negative correlation was found between PA and MPA (r = −0.349; p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses revealed a larger effect size in alleviating MPA after the COVID-19 pandemic (r = −0.340; p = 0.008). Additionally, PA demonstrated a large effect size in improving sleep quality (r = −0.365; p < 0.001) and reducing depression and anxiety (r = −0.356; p = 0.024). The effect of PA on self-control was moderate (r = −0.267; p < 0.001), as was its effect on procrastination (r = −0.330; p = 0.016). In contrast, the effect of PA on academic burnout was small (r = −0.141; p < 0.001). In conclusion, increasing PA may reduce MPA by alleviating depression and anxiety and enhancing self-control. PA’s benefits for MPA extend to improving sleep quality and reducing academic burnout and procrastination. Full article

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

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21 pages, 577 KB

Open AccessArticle

Financial Status of Model, Target, and Observer Modulates Mate Choice Copying and the Mediating Effect of Personality

by Guomei Zhou, Shaxiao Ma and Di Wu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15101324 - 26 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the phenomenon of mate choice copying, wherein an individual (the observer) utilizes the assessments of peers of the same sex (the models) regarding a potential partner of the opposite sex (the target), thereby emulating the mate selection preferences of those [...] Read more.

This study investigates the phenomenon of mate choice copying, wherein an individual (the observer) utilizes the assessments of peers of the same sex (the models) regarding a potential partner of the opposite sex (the target), thereby emulating the mate selection preferences of those peers. We examine how the financial status of female models, male targets, and female observers influences mate choice copying, along with the underlying social learning mechanisms. The findings reveal that mate choice copying occurs in the presence of high-financial-status models but is absent when models have low financial status. Mate choice copying, regulated by the financial status of the models, only manifests with targets of low financial status; it does not occur when the target’s financial status is high. Observers with low financial status engage in mate choice copying, irrespective of the models’ financial status. In contrast, observers with high financial status are unaffected by models with a low financial status and only exhibit mate choice copying if the models possess high financial status. Moreover, the study indicates that mediators such as personality traits exert disparate influences on the mate choice copying of observers from different economic backgrounds, suggesting the operation of distinct social learning mechanisms. Full article

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

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