Behavioral Sciences

15 pages, 299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptation and Validation of the Compassionate Capacity Scale for Portuguese Healthcare Students (CCS-PHS)

by María Dolores Ruiz-Fernández, Andrea Alcaraz-Córdoba, Irma Brito, Maria Jacinta Dantas, Tania Alcaraz-Córdoba and Angela María Ortega-Galán

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1039; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081039 (registering DOI) - 31 Jul 2025

Abstract

Compassion is a critical competence for university students in the healthcare field when dealing with the suffering of patients and relatives. However, there are no tools that measure compassionate capacity during students’ training. Recently, the Compassion Capacity Scale (CCS) was developed for health [...] Read more.

Compassion is a critical competence for university students in the healthcare field when dealing with the suffering of patients and relatives. However, there are no tools that measure compassionate capacity during students’ training. Recently, the Compassion Capacity Scale (CCS) was developed for health professionals, exhibiting good psychometric properties. The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the CCS for Portuguese university students in the healthcare field. The study was divided into two phases: (1) translation and adaptation of the CCS for Portuguese university students in the healthcare field; (2) validation and analysis of psychometric properties. The CCS-PHS showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.886), temporal stability (rho = 0.703), and content validity (CVI-i = 1). Criterion validity analysis showed strong correlations between all of the CCS-PHS’s dimensions and the chosen reference criteria scale. Construct validity analysis revealed that the CCS-PHS is composed of 17 items, classified into four factors. The differences found in the exploratory factor analysis in relation to the original scale may be due to the differences in the life experiences of healthcare professionals when compared to those of students. Our psychometric analysis suggests that the CCS-PHS is a reliable and valid tool to assess compassionate capacity in healthcare students. Knowing the compassionate competence of students is vital for guiding educational strategies, implementing compassion training programs and evaluating their effectiveness, as well as reinforcing key attitudes and behaviors for humanized and ethical healthcare. Full article

30 pages, 1038 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Permissibility, Moral Emotions, and Perceived Moral Agency in Autonomous Driving Dilemmas: An Investigation of Pedestrian-Sacrifice and Driver-Sacrifice Scenarios in the Third-Person Perspective

by Chaowu Dong, Xuqun You and Ying Li

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1038; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081038 (registering DOI) - 30 Jul 2025

Abstract

Automated vehicles controlled by artificial intelligence are becoming capable of making moral decisions independently. This study investigates the differences in participants’ perceptions of the moral decision-maker’s permissibility when viewing scenarios (pre-test) and after witnessing the outcomes of moral decisions (post-test). It also investigates [...] Read more.

Automated vehicles controlled by artificial intelligence are becoming capable of making moral decisions independently. This study investigates the differences in participants’ perceptions of the moral decision-maker’s permissibility when viewing scenarios (pre-test) and after witnessing the outcomes of moral decisions (post-test). It also investigates how permissibility, ten typical moral emotions, and perceived moral agency fluctuate when AI and the human driver make deontological or utilitarian decisions in a pedestrian-sacrificing dilemma (Experiment 1, N = 254) and a driver-sacrificing dilemma (Experiment 2, N = 269) from a third-person perspective. Moreover, by conducting binary logistic regression, this study examined whether these factors could predict the non-decrease in permissibility ratings. In both experiments, participants preferred to delegate decisions to human drivers rather than to AI, and they generally preferred utilitarianism over deontology. The results of perceived moral emotions and moral agency provide evidence. Moreover, Experiment 2 elicited greater variations in permissibility, moral emotions, and perceived moral agency compared to Experiment 1. Moreover, deontology and gratitude could positively predict the non-decrease in permissibility ratings in Experiment 1, while contempt had a negative influence. In Experiment 2, the human driver and disgust were significant negative predictor factors, while perceived moral agency had a positive influence. These findings deepen the comprehension of the dynamic processes of autonomous driving’s moral decision-making and facilitate understanding of people’s attitudes toward moral machines and their underlying reasons, providing a reference for developing more sophisticated moral machines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Picturing Morality from Multidisciplinary Perspectives—Second Edition)

14 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Teens, Tech, and Talk: Adolescents’ Use of and Emotional Reactions to Snapchat’s My AI Chatbot

by Gaëlle Vanhoffelen, Laura Vandenbosch and Lara Schreurs

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081037 (registering DOI) - 30 Jul 2025

Abstract

Due to technological advancements such as generative artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models, chatbots enable increasingly human-like, real-time conversations through text (e.g., OpenAI’s ChatGPT) and voice (e.g., Amazon’s Alexa). One AI chatbot that is specifically designed to meet the social-supportive needs of [...] Read more.

Due to technological advancements such as generative artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models, chatbots enable increasingly human-like, real-time conversations through text (e.g., OpenAI’s ChatGPT) and voice (e.g., Amazon’s Alexa). One AI chatbot that is specifically designed to meet the social-supportive needs of youth is Snapchat’s My AI. Given its increasing popularity among adolescents, the present study investigated whether adolescents’ likelihood of using My AI, as well as their positive or negative emotional experiences from interacting with the chatbot, is related to socio-demographic factors (i.e., gender, age, and socioeconomic status (SES)). A cross-sectional study was conducted among 303 adolescents (64.1% girls, 35.9% boys, 1.0% other, 0.7% preferred not to say their gender; M_age = 15.89, SD_age = 1.69). The findings revealed that younger adolescents were more likely to use My AI and experienced more positive emotions from these interactions than older adolescents. No significant relationships were found for gender or SES. These results highlight the potential for age to play a critical role in shaping adolescents’ engagement with AI chatbots on social media and their emotional outcomes from such interactions, underscoring the need to consider developmental factors in AI design and policy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Protective Factors and Mechanisms of Mental Health in Children and Adolescents)

29 pages, 342 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Intersection of Giftedness, Disability, and Cultural Identity: A Case Study of a Young Asian American Boy

by Tammy Jean Byrd, Ty’Bresha Ebony Glass, Ophélie Allyssa Desmet and F. Richard Olenchak

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1036; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081036 - 30 Jul 2025

Abstract

The present research examines the intersections of giftedness, disability status, and cultural identity through the case of Kent, a nine-year-old Asian American boy who is not only profoundly gifted but has also been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [...] Read more.

The present research examines the intersections of giftedness, disability status, and cultural identity through the case of Kent, a nine-year-old Asian American boy who is not only profoundly gifted but has also been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and possibly developmental coordination disorder (DCD). This study offers a comprehensive exploration of how these overlapping factors shape Kent’s early talent development and educational experiences, while also highlighting the challenges faced by his family and their need for a personalized, holistic support system tailored to his unique combination of abilities and disabilities. While Kent’s case is not generalizable, it underscores the critical importance of understanding the dynamic interplay among giftedness, disability status, and cultural identity in developing effective educational strategies. Furthermore, we advocate for personalized interventions that extend beyond conventional approaches, such as applied behavior analysis (ABA), to adequately address the complex needs of multi-exceptional individuals like Kent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social and Emotional Development of Gifted and Talented Individuals in a Rapidly Changing World)

12 pages, 584 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spontaneous vs. Strategic Guilt: Guilt Communication in Repairing Trust with Different Severities of Violations

by Binghai Sun, Chuanyu Yang, Yuqi Feng, Shang Jin, Ningmeng Cao and Guoan Yue

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081035 - 30 Jul 2025

Abstract

Previous research has predominantly focused on the impact of emotions on trust repair, yet has largely neglected how the manner of emotional communication influences this process. Centering on guilt—the emotion most commonly experienced by transgressors following a trust breach—this study examines whether spontaneous [...] Read more.

Previous research has predominantly focused on the impact of emotions on trust repair, yet has largely neglected how the manner of emotional communication influences this process. Centering on guilt—the emotion most commonly experienced by transgressors following a trust breach—this study examines whether spontaneous versus strategic guilt communication exerts differential effects on trust repair, and explores how the severity of the trust violation moderates this relationship. Study 1 compared the trust repair efficacy of spontaneous and strategic guilt communication. Study 2 tested the moderating role of violation severity. Results from Study 1 indicated that spontaneous guilt communication facilitated significantly greater trust repair than strategic communication. Study 2 further revealed that this advantage emerged only when the trust violation was severe. These findings advance theoretical understanding of guilt as a trust repair strategy and offer practical guidance for nurturing and restoring trust in interpersonal contexts, thereby promoting relational harmony. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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13 pages, 596 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Altruism Prioritization Engine: How Empathic Concern Shapes Children’s Inequity Aversion in the Ultimatum Game

by Weiwei Wang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1034; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081034 - 30 Jul 2025

Abstract

Children are not only concerned about fairness but also care for others. This study examined how experimentally induced empathic concern influences children’s responses to inequity, particularly when fairness considerations may conflict with empathy-driven motivations. A sample of 10- to 12-year-old children (N [...] Read more.

Children are not only concerned about fairness but also care for others. This study examined how experimentally induced empathic concern influences children’s responses to inequity, particularly when fairness considerations may conflict with empathy-driven motivations. A sample of 10- to 12-year-old children (N = 111, 62 boys, 49 girls) from China were randomly assigned to an empathic or non-empathic condition and completed multiple rounds of ultimatum and dictator games, acting as recipients and proposers. The results showed that children in the empathic concern condition were more likely to accept disadvantageous offers (F (1, 109) = 10.723, p = 0.001) and reject advantageous offers (F (1, 109) = 11.200, p = 0.001) than those in the non-empathic condition. Furthermore, in the dictator game, children in the empathic condition shared significantly more resources with the same protagonist (F (1, 109) = 110.740, p < 0.001). These findings suggest that empathic concern affects children’s inequity aversion and that empathic concern takes priority in guiding children’s inequity aversion when it conflicts with the fairness criterion. Moreover, our findings suggest that altruistic motivations potentially play a role in children’s responses to their inequity aversion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Children’s Cognitive Development in Social and Cultural Contexts)

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15 pages, 1150 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Potential Benefits of Affirming Values on Memory for Educational Information

by Karen Arcos, Rebecca Covarrubias and Benjamin C. Storm

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1033; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081033 - 30 Jul 2025

Abstract

First-generation students can experience a cultural mismatch between their values and those that colleges and universities tend to prioritize. This mismatch can increase cognitive load, leaving fewer resources available for learning. Effective and long-lasting learning requires actively processing new information and connecting it [...] Read more.

First-generation students can experience a cultural mismatch between their values and those that colleges and universities tend to prioritize. This mismatch can increase cognitive load, leaving fewer resources available for learning. Effective and long-lasting learning requires actively processing new information and connecting it to existing knowledge—an effort that demands significant cognitive resources. Value affirmation exercises, where students select and reflect upon values that are important to them, have shown promise in reducing cultural mismatch and improving performance on cognitive tasks. However, the impact of these exercises on the learning and recall of new information is less clear. The current study investigated whether a value affirmation exercise, completed before reading an educational passage, would improve memory recall for that passage in a sample of 400 first-generation and continuing-generation young adults, as compared to not affirming. Our results failed to provide evidence that value affirmation exercises impacted recall performance, regardless of whether participants affirmed independent values, interdependent values, or both. Given the importance and implications of this outcome for student learning, we discuss possible explanations for these null findings and suggest future directions in affirmation research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educational Applications of Cognitive Psychology)

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25 pages, 2743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reading Ability and Mental Health: Mediating Roles of Depressive Symptoms and Behavior Problems in Chinese School-Age Children

by Xinle Yu, Kusheng Wu, Xuanzhi Zhang, Jiayu Liu, Qianfei Gu, Menghan Yu and Yanhong Huang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081032 - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background: Developmental dyslexia (DD) affects reading ability and exacerbates mental health challenges among children. This study examines the relationships between reading ability, depressive symptoms, and internalizing and externalizing behavior problems in Chinese school-age children, focusing on potential mediating effects. Methods: A case–control study [...] Read more.

Background: Developmental dyslexia (DD) affects reading ability and exacerbates mental health challenges among children. This study examines the relationships between reading ability, depressive symptoms, and internalizing and externalizing behavior problems in Chinese school-age children, focusing on potential mediating effects. Methods: A case–control study was conducted with 44 dyslexic children and 81 controls from Shantou, China. Assessments included phonological processing tasks for reading ability, the Depression Self-Rating Scale for Children (DSRS) for depressive symptoms, and the Child Behavior Checklist/6–18 (CBCL/6–18) for behavior problems. Mediation analyses were performed using the PROCESS macro 4.1 for SPSS. Results: Dyslexic children showed significantly poorer reading ability (all phonological tasks, p < 0.001), higher prevalence of depressive symptoms (40.9% vs. 17.3%, p < 0.01), and greater behavior problems (internalizing and externalizing, both p < 0.001) compared to controls. Both depressive symptoms and behavior problems significantly mediated the effects of reading ability on each other, forming a feedback loop that further impairs reading skills. Externalizing behavior problems showed the strongest mediation effect, explaining up to 33.53% of the relationship between depressive symptoms and reading ability. Conclusions: The study reveals a complex interaction between reading ability, depressive symptoms, and internalizing and externalizing behavior problems in Chinese school-age children, suggesting the need for integrated interventions targeting educational and psychological aspects. Further longitudinal research is needed to clarify causal relationships and refine intervention strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Learning Disabilities in Reading and Writing: Current Issues in Assessment and Intervention)

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37 pages, 1852 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Effectiveness of Compassion Focused Therapy for the Three Flows of Compassion, Self-Criticism, and Shame in Clinical Populations: A Systematic Review

by Naomi Brown and Katie Ashcroft

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081031 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

Compassion Focused therapy (CFT) is designed to reduce shame (internal and external) and self-criticism while enhancing the three flows of compassion (compassion to others, from others, and for the self). This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of CFT on these core theoretical constructs [...] Read more.

Compassion Focused therapy (CFT) is designed to reduce shame (internal and external) and self-criticism while enhancing the three flows of compassion (compassion to others, from others, and for the self). This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of CFT on these core theoretical constructs in adult clinical populations. A systematic search of three databases (2000–2024) identified 21 studies (N = 450) meeting the inclusion criteria. The studies were narratively synthesised, and quality was assessed using the EPHPP tool. Consistent improvements in self-compassion (g = 0.23–4.14) and reductions in self-criticism (g = 0.29–1.56) were reported. Reductions in external shame were also observed (g = 0.54–1.22), though this outcome was examined in fewer studies. Limited and inconsistent evidence was found for internal shame and interpersonal compassion flows (compassion to and from others), with only a small number of low- to moderate-quality studies addressing these outcomes. Follow-up effects were rarely assessed, and comparator groups were limited. Most interventions were group-based and of variable methodological quality, with frequent selection bias, small sample sizes, and limited demographic diversity. Overall, CFT shows promise for targeting self-directed processes in clinical populations, though stronger evidence is needed to understand its effects on relational components of compassion. Future research should adopt standardised measures, improve methodological rigour, and recruit more diverse samples. Full article

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13 pages, 1885 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Arts in Medicine Partnerships: Interdisciplinary Collaborations to Support Behavioral Health

by Gaelynn Patricia Wolf Bordonaro, Julie Galliart, Kate Van Steenhuyse, Haoyu Huang and Ash Tamzin

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081030 (registering DOI) - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

The Emporia State University (ESU) /Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) Arts in Medicine Partnership exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration and the capacity of art therapy to impact mental health and well-being. Through the partnership, art therapy services were offered to medical agencies across the state of [...] Read more.

The Emporia State University (ESU) /Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) Arts in Medicine Partnership exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration and the capacity of art therapy to impact mental health and well-being. Through the partnership, art therapy services were offered to medical agencies across the state of Kansas. Participants included medical patients, families, caregivers, staff, and professionals. The article introduces (1) the profession of art therapy and the subspecialty of medical art therapy, (2) the ESU/KAC Arts in Medicine Partnership, (3) examples of positive psychology-informed arts-based experiences, and (4) a pilot study designed to explore the impact of group art therapy sessions with medical teaching faculty. Full article

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

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16 pages, 570 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intergenerational Parenting Styles and Children’s Problem Behaviors: The Mediating Role of the Grandparent–Parent Relationship

by Furong Lu, Feixia Zhang, Rong Lyu, Xinru Wu and Yuyu Wang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081029 - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

In China, grandparents play a significant role in childrearing. This study aims to identify latent profiles of intergenerational parenting styles and explore their impact on grandchildren’s behavioral outcomes. A total of 1432 Chinese children (M_age = 12.58 years; 45.25% boys) completed [...] Read more.

In China, grandparents play a significant role in childrearing. This study aims to identify latent profiles of intergenerational parenting styles and explore their impact on grandchildren’s behavioral outcomes. A total of 1432 Chinese children (M_age = 12.58 years; 45.25% boys) completed questionnaires assessing perceived grandparenting styles, while fathers and mothers independently reported their own parenting practices. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) identified three distinct parenting profiles: “Grandparents Positive–Parents Negative” (GP–PN, 18.37%), “Grandparents Positive–Parents Positive” (GP–PP, 59.15%), and “Grandparents Negative–Parents Positive” (GN–PP, 22.48%). Regression analyses revealed that the number of siblings, grade level, and grandparent type could significantly predict profile membership. Notably, consistent and positive intergenerational parenting styles were associated with fewer problem behaviors in children. Furthermore, the relationship between parenting profiles and problem behaviors was mediated by the quality of the grandparent–parent relationship. These findings suggested that grandparents and parents should coordinate their parenting styles when raising grandchildren together. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Parenting and Positive Development for Children and Adolescents)

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13 pages, 986 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Cross-Audiovisual Perception in High-Level Martial Arts Routine Athletes Stems from Increased Automatic Processing Capacity

by Xiaohan Wang, Zeshuai Wang, Ya Gao, Wu Jiang, Zikang Meng, Tianxin Gu, Zonghao Zhang, Haoping Yang and Li Luo

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1028; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081028 - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

Multisensory integration is crucial for effective cognitive functioning, especially in complex tasks such as those requiring rapid audiovisual information processing. High-level martial arts routine athletes, trained in integrating visual and auditory cues for performance, may exhibit superior abilities in cross-audiovisual integration. This study [...] Read more.

Multisensory integration is crucial for effective cognitive functioning, especially in complex tasks such as those requiring rapid audiovisual information processing. High-level martial arts routine athletes, trained in integrating visual and auditory cues for performance, may exhibit superior abilities in cross-audiovisual integration. This study aimed to explore whether these athletes demonstrate an expert advantage effect in audiovisual integration, particularly focusing on whether this advantage is due to enhanced automatic auditory processing. A total of 165 participants (81 male, 84 female) were included in three experiments. Experiment 1 (n = 63) used a cross-audiovisual Rapid Serial Visual Presentation (RSVP) paradigm to compare the martial arts routine athlete group (n = 31) with a control group (n = 33) in tasks requiring target stimulus identification under audiovisual congruent and incongruent conditions. Experiment 2 (n = 52) manipulated the synchronicity of auditory stimuli to differentiate between audiovisual integration and auditory alerting effects. Experiment 3 (n = 50) combined surprise and post-surprise tests to investigate the role of automatic auditory processing in this expert advantage. Experiment 1 revealed that martial arts routine athletes outperformed the control group, especially in semantically incongruent conditions, with significantly higher accuracy at both lag3 (p < 0.001, 95% CI = [0.165, 0.275]) and lag8 (p < 0.001, 95% CI = [0.242, 0.435]). Experiment 2 found no significant difference between groups in response to the manipulation of auditory stimulus synchronicity, ruling out an alerting effect. In Experiment 3, martial arts routine athletes demonstrated better performance in reporting unexpected auditory stimuli during the surprise test, indicating enhanced automatic processing capacity. Additionally, a significant improvement in working memory re-selection was observed in the martial arts routine group. The expert advantage effect observed in martial arts routine athletes is attributable to enhanced cross-audiovisual integration, independent of an auditory alerting mechanism. Long-term training improves the efficiency of working memory re-selection and the ability to inhibit conflicting information, suggesting that the expanded capacity for automatic auditory processing underpins their multisensory integration advantage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)

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14 pages, 1209 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Visual Attention Patterns Toward Female Bodies in Anorexia Nervosa—An Eye-Tracking Study with Adolescents and Adults

by Valeska Stonawski, Oliver Kratz, Gunther H. Moll, Holmer Graap and Stefanie Horndasch

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081027 - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

Attentional biases seem to play an important role in anorexia nervosa (AN). The objective of this study was to measure visual attention patterns toward female bodies in adolescents and adults with and without AN in order to explore developmental and disease-specific aspects. Female [...] Read more.

Attentional biases seem to play an important role in anorexia nervosa (AN). The objective of this study was to measure visual attention patterns toward female bodies in adolescents and adults with and without AN in order to explore developmental and disease-specific aspects. Female adult and adolescent patients with AN (n = 38) and control participants (n = 39) viewed standardized photographic stimuli showing women’s bodies from five BMI categories. The fixation times on the bodies and specific body parts were analyzed. Differences between participants with and without AN did not emerge: All participants showed increased attention toward the body, while adolescents displayed shorter fixation times on specific areas of the body than adults. Increased visual attention toward areas indicative of weight (e.g., hips, thighs, abdomen, buttocks) and a shorter fixation time on unclothed body parts were observed in all participants. There is evidence for the developmental effect of differential viewing patterns when looking at women’s bodies. The attention behavior of patients with AN seems to be similar to that of the control groups, which is partly consistent with, and partly contradictory to, previous studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cognition)

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16 pages, 646 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychometric Properties of the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey—Revised in Arab Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes: A Cross-Cultural Validation Study

by Abdullah M. Alguwaihes, Shuliweeh Alenezi, Renad Almutawa, Rema Almutawa, Elaf Almusahel, Metib S. Alotaibi, Mohammed E. Al-Sofiani and Abdulmajeed AlSubaihin

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1026; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081026 - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this manuscript is to translate, adapt, and validate an Arabic version of the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey—Revised (DEPS-R) questionnaire to assess disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) in adolescents with T1D in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the study sought to estimate the [...] Read more.

Objectives: The objective of this manuscript is to translate, adapt, and validate an Arabic version of the Diabetes Eating Problem Survey—Revised (DEPS-R) questionnaire to assess disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) in adolescents with T1D in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the study sought to estimate the prevalence of DEBs and analyze its associations with glycemic control and diabetes-related complications. Methods: A cross-cultural validation study was conducted following the COSMIN guidelines. The DEPS-R questionnaire was translated into Arabic through forward and backward translation involving expert panels, including psychiatrists, diabetologists, and linguists. A sample of 409 people with type 1 diabetes (PwT1D) (58.4% females) aged 12–20 years was recruited from outpatient diabetes clinics in the five main regions of Saudi Arabia. Participants completed the Arabic DEPS-R and the validated Arabic version of the SCOFF questionnaire. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and biochemical data were collected, and statistical analyses, including confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and internal consistency tests, were conducted. Results: The Arabic DEPS-R exhibits strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.829) and high test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.861), with a CFA supporting a three-factor structure, namely body weight perception, disordered eating behaviors (DEBs), and bulimic tendencies. Notably, higher DEPS-R scores are significantly linked to elevated HbA1c levels, increased BMI, and more frequent insulin use. Alarmingly, 52.8% of participants show high-risk DEB, which is directly associated with poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 8.1%) and a heightened risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Conclusions: The Arabic DEPS-R is a valid and reliable tool for screening DEBs among Saudi adolescents with T1D. Findings underscore the necessity for early identification and intervention to mitigate the impact of EDs on diabetes management and overall health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)

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23 pages, 471 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Moralizing Consent: Three Field Studies Testing a Student-Led Intervention at University Parties

by Ana P. Gantman, Ajua Duker, Jordan G. Starck, Alex Sanchez and Elizabeth Levy Paluck

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081025 - 29 Jul 2025

Abstract

Moralization is the process by which preferences become moral values. We investigated a practice that is changing its moral status on college campuses in the United States: affirmative consent to sexual activity. We tested whether messages given to students just before they entered [...] Read more.

Moralization is the process by which preferences become moral values. We investigated a practice that is changing its moral status on college campuses in the United States: affirmative consent to sexual activity. We tested whether messages given to students just before they entered a party impacted their thinking about consent in moral terms—i.e., as a clear issue, with broad consensus, and an imperative to action. At two social clubs on a college campus in 2017, we randomly assigned moralistic vs. informational messages about consent, delivered at the party’s door. At the club that had pre-existing messaging about consent, the moralistic (vs. informational) message increased students’ thinking about consent in moral terms. By contrast, in the club without prior consent messaging, the informational (vs. moralistic) pledge increased students’ thinking about consent in moral terms. We then investigated and found weak evidence for a small reduction in administrative-level student conduct complaints compared to prior and subsequent years as a result of a one-night consent message treatment unique to each of the 12 clubs hosting a party. Theoretically, our findings make progress toward understanding processes of moralization. Pragmatically, they suggest the importance of locally tailored messages that reflect and shape the values of social groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Cognition and Cooperative Behavior)

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22 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Mechanisms Linking Digital Leadership to Employee Creativity: A Moderated Mediation Model

by Mengxi Yang, Muhammad Talha, Shuainan Zhang and Yifei Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1024; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081024 - 28 Jul 2025

Abstract

Employee creativity is essential for navigating digital disruption and maintaining organizational competitiveness; however, the mechanisms through which digital leadership fosters creativity remain underexplored. This study investigates the psychological and social processes through which digital leadership influences workplace creativity. Grounded in social cognitive and [...] Read more.

Employee creativity is essential for navigating digital disruption and maintaining organizational competitiveness; however, the mechanisms through which digital leadership fosters creativity remain underexplored. This study investigates the psychological and social processes through which digital leadership influences workplace creativity. Grounded in social cognitive and social exchange theories, the proposed model incorporates innovation self-efficacy and knowledge sharing as mediators and technology readiness as a moderator. Data were collected using a three-wave, time-lagged, multi-source survey design from 234 matched respondents, including employees and supervisors, across 20 business units in seven regional branches of a large Chinese organization undergoing digital transformation. The findings indicate that digital leadership significantly enhances employee creativity through the partial mediation of both innovation self-efficacy and knowledge sharing. Notably, the indirect effect through knowledge sharing was stronger, underscoring the critical role of collaborative processes in driving creativity. Furthermore, technology readiness positively moderates the effects of digital leadership on both mediators and amplifies the indirect effects on creativity. These findings provide valuable insights into how organizations can leverage digital leadership more effectively by aligning leadership strategies with employees’ psychological readiness and fostering a digitally supportive work environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behaviors)

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13 pages, 699 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of the YFAS 2.0 for Assessing Food Addiction in the Mexican Adult Population

by Haydee Alejandra Martini-Blanquel, Indira Rocío Mendiola-Pastrana, Rubí Gisela Hernández-López, Daniela Guzmán-Covarrubias, Luisa Fernanda Romero-Henríquez, Carlos Alonso Rivero-López and Geovani López-Ortiz

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081023 - 28 Jul 2025

Abstract

Food addiction is characterized by compulsive consumption and impaired control over highly palatable foods, with neurobiological mechanisms analogous to substance use disorders. The Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 (YFAS 2.0) is the most widely used instrument to assess these symptoms; however, its psychometric [...] Read more.

Food addiction is characterized by compulsive consumption and impaired control over highly palatable foods, with neurobiological mechanisms analogous to substance use disorders. The Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 (YFAS 2.0) is the most widely used instrument to assess these symptoms; however, its psychometric properties have not been validated in Mexican adults. This study aimed to perform the cross-cultural adaptation of the YFAS 2.0 and validate its psychometric properties for the identification of food addiction in the Mexican adult population. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 500 Mexican adults aged 20 years or older. Participants completed the cross-culturally adapted YFAS 2.0. Exploratory and hierarchical factor analyses were conducted. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and omega coefficients, and model fit was evaluated through global fit indices. The scale showed high internal consistency (α = 0.88; ωt = 0.87; ωh = 0.89). The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin index was 0.815 and Bartlett’s test was significant (χ² = 4367.88; df = 595; p < 0.001). Exploratory factor analysis supported a unidimensional structure, with the first factor explaining 21.3% of the total variance. In the hierarchical model, all items loaded substantially onto the general factor. Fit indices indicated excellent model fit (CFI = 0.99; TLI = 0.98; RMSEA = 0.001; RMR = 0.004). The YFAS 2.0 is a valid and reliable instrument for identifying food addiction symptoms in Mexican adults. It may be useful in clinical practice and research on eating disorders. Full article

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14 pages, 483 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Silence as a Quiet Strategy: Understanding the Consequences of Workplace Ostracism Through the Lens of Sociometer Theory

by Jun Yang, Bin Wang, Yijing Liao, Feifan Yang and Jing Qian

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1022; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081022 - 28 Jul 2025

Abstract

Existing research has predominantly framed defensive silence as an avoidance response to interpersonal mistreatments. Moving beyond this view, this study theorizes defensive silence as a proactive strategy for managing interpersonal relationships through the lens of sociometer theory. We posit that workplace ostracism will [...] Read more.

Existing research has predominantly framed defensive silence as an avoidance response to interpersonal mistreatments. Moving beyond this view, this study theorizes defensive silence as a proactive strategy for managing interpersonal relationships through the lens of sociometer theory. We posit that workplace ostracism will reduce employees’ organization-based self-esteem (OBSE), which in turn increases their subsequent defensive silence to avert further damage to relationships. In addition, we also expect a moderating role of the sense of power in mitigating the negative impact of workplace ostracism on OBSE. Based on the multi-wave, multi-source data of 345 employees and their 82 immediate supervisors, we tested all the hypotheses. Results from multilevel modeling indicated that OBSE mediated the indirect effect of workplace ostracism on defensive silence, and also supported the moderation role of sense of power. Our theoretical model provides a novel perspective that deepens the understanding of defensive silence and suggests implications for managerial practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behaviors)

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31 pages, 2262 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strike a Pose: Relationships Between Infants’ Motor Development and Visuospatial Representations of Bodies

by Emma L. Axelsson, Tayla Britton, Gurmeher K. Gulhati, Chloe Kelly, Helen Copeland, Luca McNamara, Hester Covell and Alyssa A. Quinn

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15081021 - 28 Jul 2025

Abstract

Infants discriminate faces early in the first year, but research on infants’ discrimination of bodies is plagued by mixed findings. Using a familiarisation novelty preference method, we investigated 7- and 9-month-old infants’ discrimination of body postures presented in upright and inverted orientations, and [...] Read more.

Infants discriminate faces early in the first year, but research on infants’ discrimination of bodies is plagued by mixed findings. Using a familiarisation novelty preference method, we investigated 7- and 9-month-old infants’ discrimination of body postures presented in upright and inverted orientations, and with and without heads, along with relationships with gross and fine motor development. In our initial studies, 7-month-old infants discriminated upright headless postures with forward-facing and about-facing images. Eye tracking revealed that infants looked at the bodies of the upright headless postures the longest and at the heads of upright whole figures for 60–70% of the time regardless of the presence of faces, suggesting that heads detract attention from bodies. In a more stringent test, with similarly complex limb positions between test items, infants could not discriminate postures. With longer trials, the 7-month-olds demonstrated a familiarity preference for the upright whole figures, and the 9-month-olds demonstrated a novelty preference, albeit with a less robust effect. Unlike previous studies, we found that better gross motor skills were related to the 7-month-olds’ better discrimination of upright headless postures compared to inverted postures. The 9-month-old infants’ lower gross and fine motor skills were associated with a stronger preference for inverted compared to upright whole figures. This is further evidence of a configural representation of bodies in infancy, but it is constrained by an upper bias (heads in upright figures, feet in inverted), the test item similarity, and the trial duration. The measure and type of motor development reveals differential relationships with infants’ representations of bodies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Early Sensorimotor Experiences in Cognitive Development)

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