Journal Description
European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education
European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education
is a peer-reviewed, scientific journal that publishes original articles and systematic reviews or meta-analyses related to research on human development throughout the life cycle. The journal is owned by the University Association of Education and Psychology (previously published under the print ISSN 2174-8144) and is published monthly online by MDPI (since Volume 10, Issue 1 - 2020).
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), PMC, PubMed, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Clinical Psychology)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 20.1 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.2 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Associations of Eating Habits with Self-Rated Health and Life Satisfaction in Adolescents: A 42-Country Cross-Sectional Study
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(6), 1501-1513; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14060099 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the associations of eating habits with self-rated health and life satisfaction in adolescents using a multiple-country sample. Methods: Cross-sectional data from the Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC) 2013/2014 wave was used in this
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Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the associations of eating habits with self-rated health and life satisfaction in adolescents using a multiple-country sample. Methods: Cross-sectional data from the Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC) 2013/2014 wave was used in this study. A self-reported questionnaire was used to collect data on independent variables including breakfast on weekdays, breakfast at weekends, and consumption of fruits, vegetables, sweets, and soft dirks. Outcomes included self-rated health and life satisfaction. Regression models were used to assess the associations between the independent variables and the two outcomes, separately, after controlling for covariates. Results were presented using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Of all the study participants (aged 11–15 years), 50.8% were girls. Compared with no consumption of breakfast on weekdays, eating breakfast for five days had 1.22 times greater likelihood for improved self-rated health (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.19–1.25, p < 0.001). Participants who ate breakfast for both days (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.36–1.46, p < 0.001) and one day (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.08–1.17, p < 0.001) were more likely to experience improved self-rated health compared to never eating breakfast at weekends. Five or more days for fruit and vegetable consumption resulted in better self-rated health (all p < 0.001). Similar results were found in terms of the associations of breakfast, fruit, and vegetable consumption with life satisfaction. For example, a higher frequency of fruit intake was associated with enhanced self-rated health (e.g., OR for more than once daily = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.34–1.51, p < 0.001) compared to no fruit consumption. Similarly, a higher-frequency vegetable intake, such as more than once daily (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.26–1.39, p < 0.001), was associated with improved self-rated health. Conclusions: Healthy eating habits, especially regular breakfast and a higher consumption of vegetables and fruit, are associated with better self-rated health and life satisfaction in school-aged children. Of note, the consumption of fruit would have the greatest impact on health and wellbeing outcomes. This study offers evidence that healthy eating habits can play a vital role in school-aged children’s health and wellbeing, highlighting the practical significance of educating adolescents to develop healthy eating habits.
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Open AccessArticle
Associations between Stigma, Depression, and Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy in Brazilian Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV
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Felipe Alckmin-Carvalho, Henrique Pereira, António Oliveira and Lucia Nichiata
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(6), 1489-1500; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14060098 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a complex and multi-determined process that is influenced by psychosocial variables. Although international studies have pointed to the adverse impact of HIV stigma, sexual stigma, and depression on ART adherence among men who have sex with men
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Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a complex and multi-determined process that is influenced by psychosocial variables. Although international studies have pointed to the adverse impact of HIV stigma, sexual stigma, and depression on ART adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV, less is known about this association among Brazilians. We aimed to (a) evaluate indicators of depression, stigma related to HIV and homosexuality, and adherence to ART in a sample of Brazilian MSM living with HIV; (b) assess possible correlations between the variables analyzed, and (c) assess the impact of HIV and sexual stigma and depression on ART adherence. This cross-sectional study comprised 138 Brazilian MSM living with HIV as participants. Scales used included: a sociodemographic/clinical questionnaire, the questionnaire for assessment of adherence to antiretroviral therapy (CEAT-HIV), the Beck depression inventory (BDI-II), the internalized homophobia scale, and the HIV stigmatization scale. The mean adherence score was relatively high (78.83, within a range of 17–89 points). However, we observed inadequate ART adherence (CEAT-HIV < 75) in 28 (20.2%) respondents. Participants reported high scores for internalized sexual stigma, perceived sexual stigma in the community, and HIV stigma. Symptoms of depression were identified in 48.47% of participants. We found negative correlations between depression, HIV stigma, and treatment adherence, but not between sexual stigma and ART adherence. HIV-related stigma and sexual stigma were positively correlated with depression. Our regression analysis indicated that each year of age at diagnosis of HIV increased adherence by 0.22 points, on average. Each additional BDI-II score reduced adherence to ART by 0.20 points. The high prevalence of depression, HIV stigma, and sexual stigma, and their adverse effects on ART adherence and mental health, point to the need to implement evidence-based interventions to reduce sexual and serological stigma in the general population, as well as to mitigate the negative impacts of stigma on MSM living in HIV in Brazil. They also highlight the importance of periodically screening for these variables among MSM treated in Brazilian public health services, especially among those with inadequate adherence to ART.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Disparities in Mental Health and Well-Being)
Open AccessArticle
Technological Perception with Rural and Urban Differentiation and Its Influence on the Quality of Life of Older People with Age-Related Macular Degeneration
by
Angel Parra-Sanchez, Vanessa Zorrilla-Muñoz, Gema Martinez-Navarrete and Eduardo Fernandez
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1470-1488; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050097 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
The past decade has seen a global increase in population age, especially in developed countries, where aging involves visual diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which severely affect quality of life (QoL) and mental health, as well as increase isolation and care
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The past decade has seen a global increase in population age, especially in developed countries, where aging involves visual diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which severely affect quality of life (QoL) and mental health, as well as increase isolation and care costs. This study investigated how persons with AMD perceive the impact of technology use on their QoL, focusing on potential disparities between urban and rural contexts in Spain. Using a cross-sectional observational design, data from the 2020 National Statistics Institute’s Disability, Personal Autonomy, and Dependency Situations Survey were analyzed, focusing on QoL aspects based on the WHO items of the WHOQOL-100 scale. The results revealed a generally positive perception of technology among participants, with urban residents perceiving technology’s positive impact more favorably. Sex discrepancies in technology perception were also observed, as women exhibited a more positive outlook on technology’s influence on QoL. The analysis of QoL aspects, such as ‘Visibility’, ‘Learning’, ‘Mobility’, and ‘Domestic life’, highlighted distinct challenges faced by rural and urban populations, underscoring the importance of context-specific approaches in technology interventions. However, these perceptions were intertwined with comorbidities, which can exacerbate AMD-related issues. Furthermore, this study explored the role of technology in enhancing QoL among older adults with AMD, examining how it influences daily activities and independence, particularly in the context of AMD management. This study concluded that developing more-inclusive policies tailored to the specific needs of persons with AMD, with special attention to environmental and sex differences, is imperative to enhance the positive impact of technology on their QoL.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being among Older Adults: Current Trends and Future Challenges)
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Open AccessArticle
The Use of Anabolic Steroids by Bodybuilders in the State of Sergipe, Brazil
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Josué Cruz dos Santos, Erivaldo de Souza, Daniela Meneses-Santos, Carla Roberta de Oliveira Carvalho, Jymmys Lopes dos Santos, Felipe J. Aidar and Anderson Carlos Marçal
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1451-1469; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050096 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Bodybuilding, as a high-performance sport, requires regular strength and resistance exercises with the principal objective of increasing muscle hypertrophy. However, many bodybuilders resort to the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) to improve their performance in a short period of time. This study employs
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Bodybuilding, as a high-performance sport, requires regular strength and resistance exercises with the principal objective of increasing muscle hypertrophy. However, many bodybuilders resort to the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) to improve their performance in a short period of time. This study employs a survey-type, cross-sectional, descriptive–analytical method to evaluate the profile of bodybuilding athletes in the State of Sergipe, Brazil, and verify the level of knowledge/awareness about the health risks and impacts resulting from the use of such substances. Finite- and convenience-type populations are assessed, including individuals of both sexes, aged older than 18 years, self-declared bodybuilding athletes residing in the State of Sergipe, Brazil, and participating in regional and/or state competitions. As a result, no significant relationships were determined between sex (p = 0.492), age (p = 0.460), family income (p = 0.141), and medical follow-up sessions. For the variables level of education and medical follow-up vs. no follow-up sessions, a significant result was achieved (p = 0.01), with 74.3% of individuals reporting having follow-up treatment and 25.7% responding that they had no follow-up treatment, a percentage representing the group that completed their higher education. The substances most used by the athletes were Sustanon 250 or Durateston, Nandrolone Decanoate (Deca or Deca-Durabolin), and Testosterone. The most-reported acute side effects were acne at 33.8% (n = 20), irritability at 32.1% (n = 19), alopecia (hair loss), and nervousness at 23.7% (n = 14). The most-reported chronic side effects were arterial hypertension at 36.0% (n = 9), liver disease at 28.0% (n = 7), and cancer (non-specific) at 8.0% (n = 2). We concluded that, regardless of the athletes’ socioeconomic profiles, the use of AASs was high, with two or more substances being used in combination and for a prolonged period. Thus, it is necessary to promote awareness campaigns regarding the use of AASs and their effects on high-performance and recreational athletes.
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Open AccessArticle
Profiles of Career Indecision: A Person-Centered Approach with Italian Late Adolescents
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Anna Parola and Jenny Marcionetti
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1437-1450; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050095 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
Choosing career paths in today’s contemporary labor market complexity is becoming more and more challenging for adolescents and young people. Career indecision could take over, and assessing its facets could guide career interventions to support the career decision-making process. To create increasingly tailored
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Choosing career paths in today’s contemporary labor market complexity is becoming more and more challenging for adolescents and young people. Career indecision could take over, and assessing its facets could guide career interventions to support the career decision-making process. To create increasingly tailored career guidance interventions, using a person-centered approach, this study aimed to understand whether profiles of late adolescents based on their career decision-making difficulties might be circumscribed. A total of 776 Italian late adolescents took part in this study. The assessment of career decision-making difficulties was conducted through the Career Decision-Making Questionnaire (CDDQ). To determine the optimal number of profiles, a Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) using the stepwise approach was used. Moreover, a multinomial logistic regression was conducted to study whether school grade and sex predicted profile membership. LPA revealed a four-profile model: “Lower Indecision” (Profile 1, 39%), “High Indecision” (Profile 2, 23%), “Very High Indecision” (Profile 3, 7%) and “Moderate Indecision” (Profile 4, 31%). Being enrolled in the last year of high school significantly predicted belonging to Profile 2 and Profile 3. Practical implications were discussed in light of these findings.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Positive Resources to Promote Well Being in Educational and Work Contexts and in Career Trajectories)
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Open AccessArticle
Quality of Life and Clinical Impairment in Spanish Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa Patients
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Marie-Carmen Neipp, Álvaro Ruiz, Javier Manchón, Eva León-Zarceño, María José Quiles and Yolanda Quiles
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1425-1436; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050094 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
Eating disorders have serious physical, mental and social consequences that can affect the quality of life of the sufferer. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the severity of ED-related psychopathology and clinical impairment in adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) as well
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Eating disorders have serious physical, mental and social consequences that can affect the quality of life of the sufferer. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the severity of ED-related psychopathology and clinical impairment in adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) as well as their perception of health-related quality of life. Eighty-six Spanish young women with AN completed a set of questionnaires assessing eating disorder pathology, clinical impairment, and quality of life. The set included the following instruments: the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, Clinical Impairment Assessment, Short Form-12 Item Health Survey, and the Eating Disorder-Specific Heath-Related Quality of Life instrument. Descriptive and regression analyses were applied to identify associations between variables. Higher scores on clinical impairment domains were associated with greater impairment of mental and physical health. Moreover, clinical impairment domains and concerns due to ED were related to a lower quality of life. In conclusion, adolescents with AN have a poor quality of life. Moreover, the findings suggest that the clinical features of impairment may serve as severity indicators of quality of life.
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Open AccessArticle
Comparative Analysis of Artificial Intelligence Virtual Assistant and Large Language Models in Post-Operative Care
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Sahar Borna, Cesar A. Gomez-Cabello, Sophia M. Pressman, Syed Ali Haider, Ajai Sehgal, Bradley C. Leibovich, Dave Cole and Antonio Jorge Forte
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1413-1424; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050093 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
In postoperative care, patient education and follow-up are pivotal for enhancing the quality of care and satisfaction. Artificial intelligence virtual assistants (AIVA) and large language models (LLMs) like Google BARD and ChatGPT-4 offer avenues for addressing patient queries using natural language processing (NLP)
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In postoperative care, patient education and follow-up are pivotal for enhancing the quality of care and satisfaction. Artificial intelligence virtual assistants (AIVA) and large language models (LLMs) like Google BARD and ChatGPT-4 offer avenues for addressing patient queries using natural language processing (NLP) techniques. However, the accuracy and appropriateness of the information vary across these platforms, necessitating a comparative study to evaluate their efficacy in this domain. We conducted a study comparing AIVA (using Google Dialogflow) with ChatGPT-4 and Google BARD, assessing the accuracy, knowledge gap, and response appropriateness. AIVA demonstrated superior performance, with significantly higher accuracy (mean: 0.9) and lower knowledge gap (mean: 0.1) compared to BARD and ChatGPT-4. Additionally, AIVA’s responses received higher Likert scores for appropriateness. Our findings suggest that specialized AI tools like AIVA are more effective in delivering precise and contextually relevant information for postoperative care compared to general-purpose LLMs. While ChatGPT-4 shows promise, its performance varies, particularly in verbal interactions. This underscores the importance of tailored AI solutions in healthcare, where accuracy and clarity are paramount. Our study highlights the necessity for further research and the development of customized AI solutions to address specific medical contexts and improve patient outcomes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Artificial Intelligence in the Health Field or Education)
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Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Formative and Evaluative Activities on Statistical Graphs in Textbooks for Chilean Rural Multigrade Education
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Matías Bustamante-Valdés, Danilo Díaz-Levicoy and Eduardo Alarcón-Bustamante
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1396-1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050092 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to analyze the formative and evaluative activities involving statistical graphs in the new textbooks for Chilean rural multigrade education. The methodology is qualitative, at a descriptive level and uses the content analysis technique. The sample is made
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The aim of this paper is to analyze the formative and evaluative activities involving statistical graphs in the new textbooks for Chilean rural multigrade education. The methodology is qualitative, at a descriptive level and uses the content analysis technique. The sample is made up of the six primary education textbooks distributed by the Ministry of Education for rural multigrade schools. The results show the predominance of the bar chart, semiotic level 3, the task of calculating and the personal context in both types of activities, although with respect to the reading level, it is evident that level 4 predominates in the formative activities and level 2 in the evaluative ones. According to the results, it is recommended to incorporate graphs proposed by the curricular guidelines of the Ministry of Education, which are absent in textbooks as well as to include evaluative activities that require reflection on the nature of the data, context, representation and conclusions obtained from them.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mathematical Innovations in Education and Psychology: Current Progress and Future Prospects)
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Open AccessArticle
Well-Being and Perfectionism: Assessing the Mediational Role of Self-Compassion in Emerging Adults
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Loredana Benedetto, Stefania Macidonio and Massimo Ingrassia
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1383-1395; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050091 - 15 May 2024
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The study explores how different dimensions of perfectionism influence psychological well-being (PWB) in emerging adults. Literature has deepened the relationships between maladaptive perfectionism (e.g., excessive self-criticism, perceived discrepancy from the standards) and low PWB. Less is known about whether and how adaptive perfectionism
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The study explores how different dimensions of perfectionism influence psychological well-being (PWB) in emerging adults. Literature has deepened the relationships between maladaptive perfectionism (e.g., excessive self-criticism, perceived discrepancy from the standards) and low PWB. Less is known about whether and how adaptive perfectionism (e.g., pursuing personal standards) relates to PWB. Secondly, the study has investigated whether self-compassion (i.e., self-benevolence, seeing personal imperfections as a common condition) may mediate the relationships between adaptive/maladaptive perfectionism and PWB. Participants (N = 217, 18–35 y. o.) completed self-report questionnaires measuring: adaptive/maladaptive perfectionism (Almost Perfect Scale-Revised, APS-R: high standards and order/discrepancy, respectively), PWB, and self-compassion (SCS). Adaptive perfectionism was associated with PWB, particularly a higher presence of purpose in life, environmental mastery, self-acceptance, and personal growth. Conversely, discrepancy resulted in the most robust predictor of low PWB (β = −0.68), followed by high standards with a positive direction (β = 0.23; Rc2 = 0.514, p < 0.001). A strong negative association emerged between discrepancy and SCS (r = −0.67, p < 0.001). A mediation analysis shows that self-compassion has an indirect effect, reducing the strength of the relationship between discrepancy and low PWB. Results suggest focusing on self-compassion as a buffer factor that reduces the negative impact of maladaptive perfectionism on psychological well-being. Implications for education and health psychology are discussed.
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Open AccessArticle
Validation Study of the Spanish Version of the Measure of Happiness (MH) Questionnaire
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Matteo Rizzato, Laura Miraglia, Antonio Francisco Arnau Mollà, Francisco Javier Romero Naranjo, Cinzia Di Dio, Michele Antonelli and Davide Donelli
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1369-1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050090 - 14 May 2024
Abstract
This study aims to validate the Spanish version of the Measure of Happiness (MH), a questionnaire that identifies the specific areas of an individual’s life that are related to experienced happiness. The sample consisted of 458 Spanish native speakers (65.7% women, 34.3% men;
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This study aims to validate the Spanish version of the Measure of Happiness (MH), a questionnaire that identifies the specific areas of an individual’s life that are related to experienced happiness. The sample consisted of 458 Spanish native speakers (65.7% women, 34.3% men; mean age = 24.14, SD = 8.45) and was divided into two groups: Sample 1 (N = 226) underwent Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), and Sample 2 (N = 232) underwent Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). The convergent and discriminant validity of the Spanish version of the MH and its subscales was assessed by calculating Pearson correlations between the MH factors and the Subjective Happiness Scale, the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the WHOQOL-BREF. The EFA and CFA confirmed the original five-factor structure of the MH questionnaire. The only difference in the Spanish version of the MH is that Item 4, which was originally assigned to Factor 2 “Financial Status”, was reallocated to Factor 1 “Psychophysical Status”. The reliability of the Spanish version of the MH questionnaire was also confirmed, and the factors correlated in the expected direction with the constructs of quality of life, happiness, anxiety, and depression. The MH questionnaire demonstrated excellent psychometric properties among Spanish respondents.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Health Questionaries)
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Open AccessArticle
Biofeedback-Based Proprioceptive Training to Improve Functional Prerequisites of Dragon Boating in Breast Cancer Survivors
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Giuditta Carretti, Angela Dabraio, Mirko Manetti and Mirca Marini
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1351-1368; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050089 - 11 May 2024
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC)-related sequelae drastically impact the psychophysical functioning and quality of life of affected women. Adapted physical activity (APA) has proved to effectively counteract these impairments in a non-medicalized framework. In particular, dragon boats are able to promote body functionality, social interaction,
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Breast cancer (BC)-related sequelae drastically impact the psychophysical functioning and quality of life of affected women. Adapted physical activity (APA) has proved to effectively counteract these impairments in a non-medicalized framework. In particular, dragon boats are able to promote body functionality, social interaction, and quality of life in BC survivors, but the literature on specific motor gestures is scarce and practice is still based more on a re-educative perspective than a performative one. In this context, the present longitudinal study investigated the benefits of an adapted biofeedback-based sensorimotor training intervention on upper body functionality in a team of dragon ladies. The 8-week intervention was conceived as integrated dry workout sessions led by an APA kinesiologist and applied a novel sensorized proprioceptive device, such as a Libra board. Post-protocol evaluation revealed a significant improvement in bilateral upper limb mobility, core endurance, and trunk stability along with a distress decrease and quality of life enhancement through validated assessment tools. Our findings suggest that integrating biofeedback-based workout sessions can effectively promote upper body functionality in BC survivors practicing dragon boating. Furthermore, our innovative approach could help spread methodological hints able to boost exercise adherence in this target population, thus counteracting cancer recurrence while promoting overall well-being.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Determinants of Cancer: Implications into the Quality of Life and Daily Life Activities)
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A Method to Explore the Best Mixed-Effects Model in a Data-Driven Manner with Multiprocessing: Applications in Public Health Research
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Hyemin Han
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1338-1350; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050088 - 10 May 2024
Abstract
In the present study, I developed and tested an R module to explore the best models within the context of multilevel modeling in research in public health. The module that I developed, explore.models, compares all possible candidate models generated from a set
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In the present study, I developed and tested an R module to explore the best models within the context of multilevel modeling in research in public health. The module that I developed, explore.models, compares all possible candidate models generated from a set of candidate predictors with information criteria, Akaike information criterion (AIC), and Bayesian information criterion (BIC), with multiprocessing. For testing, I ran explore.models with datasets analyzed in three previous studies in public health, which assumed candidate models with different degrees of model complexity. These three studies examined the predictors of psychological well-being, compliance with preventive measures, and vaccine intent during the COVID-19 pandemic. After conducting model exploration with explore.models, I cross-validated the nomination results with calculated model Bayes Factors to examine whether the model exploration was performed accurately. The results suggest that explore.models using AIC and BIC can nominate best candidate models and such nomination outcomes are supported by the calculated model Bayes Factors. In particular, all the identified models are superior to the full models in terms of model Bayes Factors. Also, by employing AIC and BIC with multiprocessing, explore.models requires a shorter processing time than model Bayes Factor calculations. These results indicate that explore.models is a reliable, valid, and feasible tool to conduct data-driven model exploration with datasets collected from multiple groups in research on health psychology and education.
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Caregiver Burden and Family Quality of Life in Early Intervention: The Role of Mothers and Family Confidence
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Pau García-Grau, Gabriel Martínez-Rico, Rómulo J. González-García, Claudia Tatiana Escorcia-Mora and Margarita Cañadas-Pérez
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1325-1337; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050087 - 8 May 2024
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(1) Background: Because life events when there is a family member with a disability can affect the overall family wellbeing, contributing to enhance family quality of life (FQoL) in the field of early childhood intervention has become a priority. However, it is
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(1) Background: Because life events when there is a family member with a disability can affect the overall family wellbeing, contributing to enhance family quality of life (FQoL) in the field of early childhood intervention has become a priority. However, it is a distal outcome that needs other short-term outcomes to be addressed, some of them under the potential impact of support services. This study examines the relationships between caregiver burden, family confidence, and FQoL, as well as the influence of child and family variables. (2) Method: A total of 58 families with children in early intervention from four Spanish communities participated. Hierarchical regression was conducted to assess the relevance of each predictor. Also, a mediation was performed to investigate the mediating role of family confidence. (3) Results: The family income impacted FQoL scores, and when burden and confidence were added, it was no longer relevant. Mothers with higher levels of confidence predicted a higher FQoL. Finally, we found a complete mediation of family confidence in the relations between severity and caregiver burden on FQoL. (4) Conclusions: Caregiver burden and family confidence affect FQoL. Building families’ confidence contributes to attenuating the impact of burden on FQoL.
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Parental Responses to Online Sexual Grooming Events Experienced by Their Teenage Children
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Michal Dolev-Cohen, Tamar Yosef and Michala Meiselles
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1311-1324; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050086 - 7 May 2024
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Online sexual grooming (a manipulative process in which the perpetrator locates a young person and creates an abusive relationship with the child that involves sexual exploitation) poses significant challenges to parents. This study examined how parents of adolescent victims of online sexual grooming
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Online sexual grooming (a manipulative process in which the perpetrator locates a young person and creates an abusive relationship with the child that involves sexual exploitation) poses significant challenges to parents. This study examined how parents of adolescent victims of online sexual grooming experienced guiding their children through the event. This qualitative study, conducted in Israel, was based on semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 parents who guided their adolescents who had been subjected to online sexual grooming. Results indicate that the parents reported a spectrum of emotions, from insecurity and guilt to a sense of control and satisfaction in managing the situation. Also, the reluctance of some parents to engage with the education system indicates potential trust issues. The study demonstrates the urgent need for targeted interventions to equip parents and educational professionals with the necessary knowledge for prevention and effective response to online sexual grooming. Implications for future research, policy, and practice are discussed.
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Effect of Boxing Exercises on the Functional Ability and Quality of Life of Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review
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Nikolaos Chrysagis, Georgia Trompouki, Dimitris Petropaulis, George A. Koumantakis, Georgios Krekoukias, Georgios Theotokatos, Emmanouil Skordilis and Vasiliki Sakellari
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1295-1310; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050085 - 7 May 2024
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Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra and characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms. Boxing is a type of complementary therapy to improve symptoms in PD. The purpose of the present study
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Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological disorder caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra and characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms. Boxing is a type of complementary therapy to improve symptoms in PD. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of boxing training on the functionality and quality of life of patients with PD. The literature search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, PEDro, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar search engines. The PEDro scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies. This systematic review included three studies that examined disease severity, mobility, physical activity, balance, and quality of life. According to the PEDro scale criteria, the three articles included were of high methodological quality. Statistically significant improvements after the implementation of boxing training was shown for balance and quality of life in contrast to the other variables. Boxing training intervention programs had a positive effect on balance and quality of life in patients with PD; however, the results are conflicting regarding certain functionality variables. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct further research to examine the effectiveness of boxing training on the functionality and quality of life of patients with Parkinson’s disease.
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Open AccessArticle
Associations of eHealth Literacy with Social Activity among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
by
Mamiko Eto and Koji Yamatsu
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1279-1294; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050084 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
Older adults who use digital technology are desired to adapt to digitalization and literacy. One required aspect is eHealth literacy, measured with the eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS). Many studies on eHealth literacy have used the eHEALS to examine the health behaviors of college
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Older adults who use digital technology are desired to adapt to digitalization and literacy. One required aspect is eHealth literacy, measured with the eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS). Many studies on eHealth literacy have used the eHEALS to examine the health behaviors of college students, relatively younger adults, and Internet users. However, the relevance of eHealth literacy to social activity has not yet been studied in older adults. The purposes of this study were to examine the relationship between eHealth literacy and health behaviors and social activities (community, cultural, and sports activities) and to investigate the factors associated with eHEALS scores among community-dwelling older adults. The mean eHEALS score was 12.4 points (SD 8.2), with the majority (73.3%) having the lowest score (the lowest score is 8 points). Males (17.6, SD 10.5) scored significantly higher than females (11.8, SD 7.7). The eHEALS score had a significant relationship with both cultural and community activity. Five factors significantly associated with having the lowest eHEALS score were cultural activity at least once a week, no cultural activity, no community activity, total IADL score, and intellectual activity. These results suggest that eHealth literacy is associated with community activity and cultural activity among older adults.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being among Older Adults: Current Trends and Future Challenges)
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Open AccessArticle
Design and Evaluation of a Collective Preventive Program for Musical Performance Anxiety (ConfiDance)
by
Belén Gómez-López and Roberto Sánchez-Cabrero
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1260-1278; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050083 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
Musical performance anxiety (MPA) is considered a subtype of social phobia and affects musicians who must face musical exposure in public, potentially severely affecting their emotional stability and significantly impairing the quality of their performance. This research has utilized previous scientific knowledge on
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Musical performance anxiety (MPA) is considered a subtype of social phobia and affects musicians who must face musical exposure in public, potentially severely affecting their emotional stability and significantly impairing the quality of their performance. This research has utilized previous scientific knowledge on the issue and a qualitative approach to musicians’ needs through focus groups in order to design a collective preventive program for MPA that could be implemented within the training curriculum of professional musicians. To evaluate the adequacy of the preventive program ‘ConfiDance’, a pilot test was conducted with a sample of 17 professional musicians in training, all post-graduate students in classical music performance. For the pilot test, a quasi-experimental model with a repeated measures methodology (pre-post and one-year follow-up after application) was carried out. The results indicate a significant decrease in MPA after the program implementation, with a notable improvement in effect one year post-application, demonstrating an even greater positive impact over time. These data should be interpreted cautiously due to sample limitations but represent an opportunity for the future implementation of a program that can prevent and treat MPA in music education centers.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interventions to Foster Mental Health and Human Well-Being in Educational Settings)
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Open AccessArticle
Adolescent Mental Health: A Focus on Psychiatric Counseling from the Emergency Room of an Italian University Hospital in the Five Years from 2019 to 2023
by
Maria Giuseppina Petruzzelli, Lucia Marzulli, Giuseppe Colacicco, Fabio Tarantino, Flora Furente, Alessandra Gabellone, Lucia Margari and Emilia Matera
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1248-1259; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050082 - 5 May 2024
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed increasingly worse and more complex mental health conditions in young people, which is reflected in a growing trend in emergency room (ER) visits for acute psychopathological symptoms (APSs). This phenomenon has become exacerbated in recent decades, with a peak
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Recent studies have revealed increasingly worse and more complex mental health conditions in young people, which is reflected in a growing trend in emergency room (ER) visits for acute psychopathological symptoms (APSs). This phenomenon has become exacerbated in recent decades, with a peak in the post-pandemic period. To better characterize the phenomenon, we investigated the change in the rate and type of ER counseling requests provided at the Child Neuropsychiatry Unit of the University Hospital of Bari, Italy over the period between 2019 and 2023 for subjects younger than 18 years old. For this purpose, we retrospectively analyzed a total number of 1073 urgent consultation reports retrieved through the reporting computerized operating system of our hospital. The distribution of the counseling requests provided for APSs and, among these, the distribution of the numbers of APSs and of the male: female ratio were significantly different over the years, with an increasing linear trend identified for APSs (p = 3.095 × 10−7), the average number of APSs (p = 3.598 × 10−7), and female gender prevalence (p = 0.03908), as well as for the patients with a history of psychotropic drug assumption (p = 0.0006319). A significant change in the number of urgent counseling requests received for eating disorders (p = 0.0007408), depression (p = 7.92 × 10−8), somatization (p = 4.03 × 10−6), self-harm (SA) (p = 1.358 × 10−6), and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) (p = 8.965 × 10−6) was found, with a significant increasing trend for anxiety (p = 0.0444), depression (p = 8.06 × 10−6), somatization (p = 0.004616), SA (p = 3.998 × 10−8), and NSSI (p = 5.074 × 10−7). The findings of our study support the hypothesis of an alarming progressive worsening of the mental health of children and adolescents, with an overlapping effect of the pandemic exacerbating the process.
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Gender Asymmetries: An Exploratory Study of Women’s Experiences in Portuguese Football Organizations
by
Maria Helena Santos, António Manuel Marques and Joana Salvador
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1228-1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050081 - 4 May 2024
Abstract
The main objective of this exploratory study is to analyze the negative effects associated with the phenomenon of tokenism for Portuguese women in non-playing football roles, as well as their strategies for integration into a context where they are a minority and the
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The main objective of this exploratory study is to analyze the negative effects associated with the phenomenon of tokenism for Portuguese women in non-playing football roles, as well as their strategies for integration into a context where they are a minority and the social functions are dominated by men. To this end, we carried out semi-structured individual interviews with eight men and eight women, undertaking functions in the fields of coaching, psychology, medical team, planning, refereeing, and management in football organizations, and with their contents then subject to thematic analysis. Our analysis confirms how the football context strongly demarcates gender differences with women being more visible and leads to the stereotypical roles being associated with traditional femininity. The findings also observe how, in order to integrate, women align with the norms imposed by the dominant group (men) and accept being circumscribed to the spaces that hegemonic gender ideologies and practices attribute to them.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Interdisciplinary Approaches to Sports in the 21st Century)
Open AccessArticle
Athlete’s Personal Values and the Likelihood of Alcohol Use and Heavy Drinking during Adolescence
by
Juan Facundo Corti, Isabel Castillo, Agustin Miscusi and Vanina Schmidt
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2024, 14(5), 1214-1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14050080 - 1 May 2024
Abstract
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Sport is considered an exceptional activity for promoting healthy lifestyles, but the relationship between sport and alcohol consumption is inconclusive. Research on personal values may shed light on this issue and thus make it possible to find effective ways to prevent alcohol misuse
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Sport is considered an exceptional activity for promoting healthy lifestyles, but the relationship between sport and alcohol consumption is inconclusive. Research on personal values may shed light on this issue and thus make it possible to find effective ways to prevent alcohol misuse in adolescents. The main objectives of this study were to explore the relationships between personal values and alcohol consumption amongst adolescent athletes and to validate the Portrait Values Questionnaire-21 (PVQ-21) in this population. A total of 914 athletes (aged 11–19; 55.4% female) participated in this study. Confirmatory multidimensional scaling analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were performed. Logistic regression models were fitted to assess the predictive power of personal values on alcohol use. Openness to change values positively predicted high-frequency alcohol use and high-frequency heavy episodic drinking, whereas the opposite occured with athletes who held conservation values. Furthermore, the probability of presenting heavy episodic drinking was negatively associated with conservation values. Finally, the PVQ-21 presented adequate psychometric properties to assess personal values among adolescent athletes. It is crucial to consider the personal values of adolescent athletes when promoting healthy lifestyles through sport.
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