Search Results (301)

The university period is a transitional stage during which students develop heterogeneous interpersonal styles to navigate complex social demands. While prior studies have linked interpersonal functioning to adaptability and mental health, structural differences across interpersonal style groups remain underexplored. Therefore, the current research was designed to examine whether and how adaptability is differentially related to mental health symptoms when considered within the framework of distinct interpersonal style profiles. Using K-means clustering, we identified three distinct interpersonal profiles: the withdrawn and avoidant type, the overinvolved and compliant type, and the well-adjusted interpersonal type. Based on this classification, network analyses were conducted to examine how six dimensions of adaptability related to three core mental health symptoms within each group. The results showed a consistent pattern across all profiles, with emotional adaptability negatively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. Subsequent network comparison analyses demonstrated that the withdrawn and avoidant group differed significantly in structure from the well-adjusted interpersonal group, particularly in the connections involving emotional, interpersonal, and economic adaptability. By uncovering meaningful differences in adaptability-mental health associations across interpersonal style, this study provides a foundation for designing targeted strategies that address the unique adaptabilities and mental health problems of distinct interpersonal profiles. Full article

The present study examined the relationship between sleep duration and eating behaviours, stress symptoms, and burnout in healthcare professionals. Objective: The present study aimed to examine whether sleep duration influenced the psychosocial well-being of healthcare personnel, as well as to identify possible predictors and patterns of vulnerability in this population. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 194 public healthcare workers (mainly women and nursing staff). Validated questionnaires were used: the EAT-40, the EDI, the MBI, and a stress symptom scale. The participants were classified into two groups according to their sleep duration (fewer than six hours of sleep and six hours or more of sleep). Results: A sleep duration of fewer than six hours was associated with higher levels of depersonalisation (burnout), physical and emotional symptoms of stress (fatigue, tachycardia, memory loss, crying easily), dysfunctional coping strategies (self-medication, isolation), and more restrictive eating behaviours. A regression analysis identified seven predictors of sleep duration: allergies, marital status, hours worked, depersonalisation, alcohol consumption, interpersonal distrust, and skipping meals, which together explained 18% of the variance. A network analysis showed positive correlations between these variables in the group with a shorter sleep duration, indicating a pattern of cumulative psychosocial vulnerability. Conclusions: Although the cross-sectional design limits causal inference, the results underscore the importance of sleep as a key factor in the emotional and functional well-being of healthcare personnel. Organisational interventions focused on promoting rest, emotional management, and stress prevention are suggested, considering sleep not only as a biological need, but also as a relevant indicator of psychosocial health for healthcare quality. Full article

Machiavellianism and borderline personality are known for influencing interpersonal dynamics through manipulative behaviors. Machiavellianism is characterized by calculated, egotistic, and callous manipulation, while borderline personality involves emotionally driven impulsive manipulation due to instability and fear of abandonment. In this study, we explored the relationships of the two constructs with respect to broader personality constructs. Adult participants (N = 1011; Mage = 49.08 years, SD = 17.15) completed two measures each for Machiavellianism and borderline personality and a single inventory measuring the Big Five personality traits. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was used to investigate subgroups within the data. Machiavellianism was more strongly negatively associated with agreeableness and conscientiousness, while borderline personality traits were more strongly linked to neuroticism (more positively), agreeableness, and conscientiousness (both more negatively). Two distinct latent profiles emerged. Based on these findings, we suggest that Machiavellianism can align with either adaptive or maladaptive functioning, whereas a combination of Machiavellianism and borderline personality traits underscores a tendency towards manipulative behaviors with emotional instability. We suggest that future research build upon our findings by investigating concrete manipulative acts predicted by borderline personality and Machiavellianism. Full article

Objectives: To theorize the work-related dimension involved in the process of reconciling work and personal roles among nurses working in Intensive Care Units. Methods: Constructivist grounded theory was employed to conceptualize the phenomenon of interest from the perspectives of nurses, their families, and administrative staff. Data were derived from 202 h of non-participant observation in two high-complexity hospitals in Chile (one public and one private), 57 institutional documents, and 51 in-depth interviews. Data analysis followed the constant comparative method and multilevel coding. To ensure methodological rigor, the study adhered to the 13 criteria for constructivist grounded theory research proposed by Charmaz and Thornberg and was approved by a scientific ethics committee. Results: Work-related roles are defined as the set of behaviors associated with the professional context, which are shaped by nine sources of interaction: (1) Job content; (2) Workload and pace; (3) Work schedule; (4) Control; (5) Environment and equipment; (6) Organizational culture; (7) Interpersonal relationships; (8) Function within the organization; and (9) Career development. Conclusions: The study presents the theorization process of the work-related dimension involved in the reconciliation of work and personal roles among nurses in Intensive Care Units. Work-related roles are essential to understanding this reconciliation process. The findings provide evidence for the existence of nine sources of interaction, which are influenced by institutional strategic planning and, in turn, by national and international public policies. Full article

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is marked by emotional dysregulation, instability in self-image and relationships, and high impulsivity. While functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies have provided valuable insights into the disorder’s neural correlates, electroencephalography (EEG) may capture real-time brain activity changes relevant to BPD’s rapid emotional shifts. This review summarizes findings from studies investigating resting state and task-based EEG in individuals with BPD, highlighting common neurophysiological markers and their clinical implications. A targeted literature search (1980–2025) was conducted across databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane. The search terms combined “EEG” or “electroencephalography” with “borderline personality disorder” or “BPD”. Clinical trials and case reports published in English were included if they recorded and analyzed EEG activity in BPD. A total of 24 studies met the inclusion criteria. Findings indicate that individuals with BPD often show patterns consistent with chronic hyperarousal (e.g., reduced alpha power and increased slow-wave activity) and difficulties shifting between vigilance states. Studies examining frontal EEG asymmetry reported varying results—some linked left-frontal activity to heightened hostility, while others found correlations between right-frontal shifts and dissociation. Childhood trauma, mentalization deficits, and dissociative symptoms were frequently predicted or correlated with EEG anomalies, underscoring the impact of adverse experiences on neural regulation—however, substantial heterogeneity in methods, small sample sizes, and comorbid conditions limited study comparability. Overall, EEG research supports the notion of altered arousal and emotion regulation circuits in BPD. While no single EEG marker uniformly defines the disorder, patterns such as reduced alpha power, increased theta/delta activity, and shifting frontal asymmetries converge with core BPD features of emotional lability and interpersonal hypersensitivity. More extensive, standardized, and multimodal investigations are needed to establish more reliable EEG biomarkers and elucidate how early trauma and dissociation shape BPD’s neurophysiological profile. Full article

Background: Binge eating disorder (BED) frequently arises during the transitional age (18–25 years), a critical developmental period characterized by challenges in autonomy, identity formation, and interpersonal functioning. This study investigated psychopathological predictors of BED risk in this age group, with particular focus on parental bonding, attachment style, body dissatisfaction, alexithymia, and depressive symptoms. Methods: A total of 287 participants aged 18–25 years completed the Binge Eating Scale (BES), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ), and Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI). Sociodemographic information and body mass index (BMI) were also collected. Results: Compared with non-BED risk groups, individuals at risk of BED exhibited significantly higher BMI, greater alexithymia, higher body dissatisfaction, more insecure attachment patterns, and lower recalled paternal and maternal care. Hierarchical binary logistic regression revealed that the final model explained 56.1% of the variance (Nagelkerke R²) and correctly classified 92.1% of cases. Significant predictors of BED included body dissatisfaction, elevated BMI, low maternal care, and low maternal protection. Conclusions: This study is the first to examine BED risk factors specifically during the transitional age. Findings indicate that body image dissatisfaction, higher BMI, and inadequate maternal emotional care and protection are salient predictors at this life stage. Preventive interventions should integrate parental psychoeducation, nutritional guidance, and therapeutic strategies addressing both eating disorder symptoms and attachment-related difficulties to reduce BED onset and improve psychosocial outcomes in emerging adults. Full article

Introduction. Chronic pain (CP) is a multidimensional condition that exerts a considerable impact on individuals’ quality of life and presents a wide range of clinical and psychological expressions. This study sought, firstly, to identify distinct clinical profiles among individuals with CP based on clinical indicators, and secondly, to examine the differences in psychological vulnerability and pain-related coping strategies according to the clinical profiles. Methods. A total of 251 adults diagnosed with CP and residing in Spain participated in the study. Participants completed the Purpose in Life Test, the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire, the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, the Beck Hopelessness Scale, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, and the Pain Coping Questionnaire. A two-step cluster analysis was performed to identify subgroups within the sample, followed by independent samples t-tests to assess psychological differences between clusters. Results. This study identified two clinical profiles among individuals with CP, distinguished by diagnostic delay, disease progression, and functional impact. Cluster 1 exhibited greater functional impairment, lower quality of life, and higher emotional distress (uncertainty, perceived burdensomeness, emotional dysregulation, and hopelessness). In contrast, Cluster 2 showed lower functional impairment, better quality of life, greater use of distraction strategies, and a higher meaning in life. Discussion. These findings suggest that both medical and psychological aspects appear to be associated with each other and may influence the perception, evolution and adaptation to CP. Full article

The increasing prevalence of smartphone use has raised concerns about its impact on human psychological functioning. This literature review provides a comprehensive overview of the psychological dimensions influenced by smartphone use, spanning health psychology, individual differences, social psychology, and cognitive functioning. The review draws on findings from numerous studies, primarily conducted in highly developed Western and Asian countries, where cultural factors may influence usage patterns and psychological outcomes. Key limitations in the current body of research include geographical biases and methodological challenges such as sample homogeneity and reliance on self-report measures. Evidence suggests that excessive smartphone use can lead to addiction and is associated with negative psychological and health consequences. The review also highlights how individual differences—such as personality traits, age, and gender—affect smartphone usage. Social implications, both positive (e.g., increased connectivity) and negative (e.g., interpersonal conflict), are explored in depth. Cognitive effects are considered, particularly in relation to attention and memory, where findings suggest potential impairments in sustained focus and information retention. While the literature often emphasizes risks, this review also points to the need for further exploration of the potential benefits of smartphone use. In summary, the review offers valuable insights into the complex psychological effects of smartphones and underscores the importance of future research to better understand their nuanced impact on well-being. Full article

Background: Functional disability is a growing concern in aging populations with chronic health conditions, yet few studies have compared disability profiles across diagnostic categories using standardized tools. Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the functional profiles of adults with neurological, musculoskeletal, and chronic pain conditions using the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) and to examine differences by age and sex. Methods: A total of 419 participants (median age = 73 years; 73% female) completed the 36-item WHODAS 2.0. Diagnoses were classified into three groups: neurological (n = 134), musculoskeletal (n = 230), and pain-related (n = 55). Domain-level scores were analyzed using non-parametric tests and Spearman correlations. Results: revealed that neurological conditions were associated with the highest disability levels, particularly in cognition, interpersonal relations, and participation. Musculoskeletal conditions showed greater impairments in mobility and self-care, while pain-related conditions demonstrated variable disability, especially in participation. Women reported higher disability scores in the neurologic group, with significant differences observed in the cognition domain among neurological cases (p = 0.048). Age was positively correlated with disability in self-care and mobility, especially in musculoskeletal conditions. Conclusions: These findings highlight the utility of WHODAS 2.0 in identifying domain-specific limitations across clinical populations. They support the need for individualized, diagnosis- and gender-sensitive rehabilitation strategies, and suggest that WHODAS 2.0 can inform targeted care planning and resource allocation in rehabilitation settings. Future research should incorporate longitudinal designs and explore contextual factors influencing functional outcomes. Full article

Background and Objectives: Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a complex psychiatric condition characterized by emotional instability, impulsivity, a fluctuating self-image, and persistent difficulties in maintaining close interpersonal relationships. Among university students, these traits may be associated with social adjustment and academic functioning difficulties. The present study aimed to examine the prevalence of borderline traits within a Romanian student population and to investigate the associations between these traits and interpersonal difficulties encountered in family life, romantic relationships, and academic environments. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included a total of 151 undergraduate students enrolled in higher education institutions across Romania. Data were gathered through an online questionnaire available between March and May 2025. The instrument comprised items addressing socio-demographic characteristics, diagnostic criteria for borderline personality traits according to the DSM, as well as self-reported social behaviour patterns. Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 9, version 9.3.1 for Windows, employing Fisher’s exact test and the odds ratio (OR), with a significance threshold set at p < 0.05. Results: Most participants reported experiencing affective instability (71.5%) and distorted self-image (58.9%). Fear of abandonment was present in 29.4% of the respondents, while impulsivity was identified in 37.7%. Borderline personality traits were significantly associated with a range of social difficulties, including relational anxiety, outbursts of anger, peer conflicts, social withdrawal, and dissociative symptoms. Individuals who exhibited impulsivity, self-injurious behaviours, or dissociative episodes demonstrated a markedly increased risk of social dysfunction, with odds ratios ranging from 3 to 10 (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The findings reveal a high prevalence of borderline traits within the analysed sample, along with statistically significant associations with social and emotional difficulties. These results underscore the importance of implementing psychological screening programs in universities, as well as early intervention strategies focused on the mental well-being of young adults. Establishing a supportive academic environment and fostering collaboration between faculty members and mental health professionals may play a key role in preventing symptom escalation and in promoting healthy personal and relational development. Full article

The aim of this paper was to evaluate health, psychological distress, and functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic among Danish adults with and without a history of mental illness. Data were drawn from three online surveys conducted in May 2020 (n = 3134), January 2021 (n = 1170), and January 2022 (n = 1174) as part of the Danish contribution to the Collaborative Outcomes study on Health and Functioning during Infection Times (COH-FIT). The prevalence of mental and physical health issues, psychological distress (stress, sleep problems, loneliness, and boredom) and levels of functioning (self-care, interpersonal relationships, hobbies/leisure, and work/education) were evaluated at four different time points stratified by history of mental illness. Findings indicated that physical health was not differentially affected between people with and without prior mental illness. However, mental health declined significantly more among respondents with a history of mental illness. While levels of stress did not differ between the two groups, boredom was more pronounced in May 2020 among those with prior mental illness. Loneliness was significantly higher in this group in January 2021. Sleep disturbances were more pronounced for respondents with former mental illness during the whole period. A decline in functioning was observed in people both with and without a former mental illness. It seemed a little more pronounced for people with mental illness but seldom reached statistical significance. For all measures of health, distress, and functioning, 10–20% of respondents reported improvements in health, distress, and functioning during the pandemic, with stress showing the most improvement—one third of participants reported feeling less stressed. In most of the parameters measured, the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic seemed to decrease with time. However, the effects were not uniform, and more investigations are needed to understand the whole picture. Full article

Background: Eating disorders (EDs) and self-harm (SH) are both associated with distress, poor psychosocial functioning, and increased risk of mortality. Much of the literature discusses the complex interplay between SH and ED behaviours where co-occurrence is common. The onset of both is typically seen during teenage years into early adulthood. A better understanding of the functions of these behaviours is needed to guide effective prevention and treatment, particularly during the crucial developmental years. An earlier review has explored the functions of self-harm, but an equivalent review for eating disorder behaviours does not appear to have been completed. Objectives: This evidence synthesis had two objectives. First, to identify and synthesise published first-hand accounts of the reasons why people engage in eating disorder behaviours with the view to develop a broad theoretical framework of functions. Second, to draw comparisons between the functions of eating disorder behaviours and self-harm. Methods: A qualitative evidence synthesis reporting first-hand accounts of the reasons for engaging in eating disorder behaviours. A ‘best fit’ framework synthesis, using the a priori framework from the review of self-harm functions, was undertaken with thematic analysis to categorise responses. Results: Following a systematic search and rigorous screening process, 144 studies were included in the final review. The most commonly reported functions of eating disorder behaviours were distress management (affect regulation) and interpersonal influence. This review identified significant overlap in functions between self-harm and eating disorder behaviours. Gender identity, responding to food insecurity, to delay growing up and responding to weight, shape, and body ideals were identified as functions more salient to eating disorder behaviours. Similarly, some self-harm functions were not identified in the eating disorder literature. These were experimenting, averting suicide, personal language, and exploring/maintaining boundaries. Conclusions: This evidence synthesis identified a prominent overlap between psychological functions of eating disorder behaviours and self-harm, specifically in relation to distress management (affect regulation). Despite clear overlap in certain areas, some functions were found to be distinct to each behaviour. The implications for delivering and adapting targeted interventions are discussed. Full article

Improving occupational health and safety (OHS) in the construction industry can contribute to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Yet, workers’ risk-taking behaviors (RTBs) remain a persistent challenge. Drawing on Social Cognitive Theory and Social Information Processing Theory, this study develops and tests a social influence model to examine how foremen’s safety attitudes (SAs) shape workers’ RTBs. Drawing on survey data from 301 construction workers in China, structural equation modeling reveals that foremen’s SAs significantly and negatively predict workers’ RTBs. However, the three dimensions of SAs—cognitive, affective, and behavioral—exert their influence through different pathways. Risk perception (RP) plays a key mediating role, particularly for the cognitive and behavioral dimensions. Furthermore, interpersonal trust (IPT) functions as a significant moderator in some of these relationships. By identifying the micro-social pathways that link foremen’s attitudes to workers’ safety behaviors, this study offers a testable theoretical framework for implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (particularly Goals 3 and 8) at the frontline workplace level. The findings provide empirical support for organizations to move beyond rule-based management and instead build more resilient OHS governance systems by systematically cultivating the multidimensional attitudes of frontline leaders. Full article

Background/Objectives: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) involves emotional dysregulation, interpersonal instability and impulsivity. Although treatments have advanced, evaluating the latest innovations remains essential. This rapid review aimed to (1) identify and classify recent therapeutic innovations for BPD, (2) assess their effects on clinical and functional outcomes, and (3) highlight research gaps to inform future priorities. Methods: Employing a rapid review design, we searched PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Embase for publications from 1 January 2019 to 28 March 2025. Eligible studies addressed adult or adolescent BPD populations and novel interventions—psychotherapies, pharmacological agents, digital tools, and neuromodulation. Two independent reviewers conducted screening, full-text review, and data extraction using a standardised form. Results: Sixty-nine studies—predominantly from Europe and North America—were included. Psychotherapeutic programmes dominated, ranging from entirely novel models to adaptations of established treatments (for example, extended or modified Dialectical Behavior Therapy). Pharmacological research offered fresh insights, particularly into ketamine, while holistic approaches such as adventure therapy and digital interventions also emerged. Most investigations centred on symptom reduction; far fewer examined psychosocial functioning, mortality, or social inclusion. Conclusions: Recent innovations show promise in BPD treatment but underserve the needs of mortality and societal-level outcomes. Future research should adopt inclusive, equity-focused agendas that align with patient-centred and recovery-oriented goals, supported by a coordinated, integrated research strategy. Full article

This paper introduces the concept of degenerative affordances to explain how social media can unintentionally destabilise family-run influencer businesses. While affordance theory typically highlights the enabling features of technology, the researchers shift the focus to its unintended, risk-laden consequences, particularly within family enterprises where professional and personal identities are deeply entangled. Drawing on platform capitalism, family business research, and intersectional feminist critiques, the researchers develop a theoretical model to examine how social media affordances contribute to role confusion, privacy breaches, and trust erosion. Using a mixed-methods design, the researchers combine narrative interviews (n = 20) with partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) on survey data (n = 320) from family-based influencers. This study’s findings reveal a high explanatory power (R² = 0.934) for how digital platforms mediate entrepreneurial legitimacy through interpersonal trust and role dynamics. Notably, trust emerges as a key mediating mechanism linking social media engagement to perceptions of business legitimacy. This paper advances three core contributions: (1) introducing degenerative affordance as a novel extension of affordance theory; (2) unpacking how digitally mediated role confusion and privacy breaches function as internal threats to legitimacy in family businesses; and (3) problematising the epistemic assumptions embedded in entrepreneurial legitimacy itself. This study’s results call for a rethinking of how digital platforms, family roles, and entrepreneurial identities co-constitute each other under the pressures of visibility, intimacy, and algorithmic governance. The paper concludes with implications for influencer labour regulation, platform accountability, and the ethics of digital family entrepreneurship. Full article