Behavioral Sciences

11 pages, 710 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Do Progressive Intensities of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation with and Without 40 Hz Binaural Beats Change Pre-Frontal Cortex Hemodynamics? A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Maria de Cassia Gomes Souza Macedo, Kariny Realino do Rosário Ferreira, Paula Almeida Meira, Arthur Ferreira Esquírio, Michelle Cristina Sales Almeida Barbosa, Gabriela Lopes Gama and Alexandre Wesley Carvalho Barbosa

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14111001 - 27 Oct 2024

Abstract

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is often reported to have positive effects on brain hemodynamics as well as cognitive performance. Binaural beats (BBs) have also shown the potential to improve cognitive performance. However, we could not find any studies assessing prefrontal hemodynamics using [...] Read more.

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is often reported to have positive effects on brain hemodynamics as well as cognitive performance. Binaural beats (BBs) have also shown the potential to improve cognitive performance. However, we could not find any studies assessing prefrontal hemodynamics using a combination of these techniques or assessing the effects on hemodynamic response at different intensity levels of tDCS (two and three mA). This study aimed to compare the immediate hemodynamic responses to tDCS at different intensities (two and three mA) with and without 40 Hz BBs. Sixty-eight healthy young individuals of both sexes were split into four groups: the tDCS 2 mA group; tDCS 3 mA group; tDCS 2 mA + BB group; and tDCS 3 mA + BB group. All groups received 20 min tDCS (F3-Fp2) alone or combined with BBs. The hemodynamic effect was assessed using a functional near-infrared intracranial spectroscope (fNIRS) positioned on the left supraorbital region (Fp1). The mean values of rates of oxygen saturation (SatO₂) were recorded at baseline, during the intervention period, and post-stimulation. The oxygenated hemoglobin rates (HbO) were also extracted. No between-group differences were observed. The within-group analysis did not show significant differences in terms of the time×groups factor. However, the time factor showed significant within-group differences. No differences were found for the HbO rates. The present findings showed that two and three mA tDCS had effects on pre-frontal cortex SatO₂; however, the use of additional BBs did not change the SatO₂ levels compared to the use of tDCS alone. Full article

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

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13 pages, 1501 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Temporary Group Identity on Adolescent Social Mindfulness Decisions: An Empirical Study Using Team Sports Contexts

by Tao Tao, Wei Guo and Biye Wang

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 999; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110999 - 27 Oct 2024

Abstract

Social mindfulness entails the consideration of the interests of others while respecting their autonomy. Although long-term group identity generates in-group favoritism in social mindfulness decisions, the effect of temporary group identity on social mindfulness remains to be validated. This study examined this effect [...] Read more.

Social mindfulness entails the consideration of the interests of others while respecting their autonomy. Although long-term group identity generates in-group favoritism in social mindfulness decisions, the effect of temporary group identity on social mindfulness remains to be validated. This study examined this effect by recruiting a convenience sample of 74 adolescents from a youth basketball club, who were randomly assigned to either an in-group or out-group decision-making condition. A basketball game scenario was used to establish temporary group identities, referencing the Minimal Group paradigm for grouping while applying the SoMi paradigm in a real-world context. The results showed that adolescents exhibited higher social mindfulness (χ² = 22.774, df = 1, p < 0.001) and preference-adjusted social mindfulness (χ² = 6.861, df = 1, p < 0.01) toward in-group compared to out-group members. Conversely, they displayed higher levels of preference-adjusted social hostility toward out-group members (χ² = 11.291, df = 1, p < 0.01). These findings suggest that even temporary group identities, formed in a sports setting, can lead to intergroup bias in adolescents’ social decision-making, promoting goodwill toward the in-group while restricting the autonomy of out-group members. Full article

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23 pages, 1912 KiB

Open AccessReview

Growing Greener: Cultivating Organisational Sustainability Through Leadership Development

by Sarah Lily Resanovich, Tim Hopthrow and Georgina Randsley de Moura

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110998 - 26 Oct 2024

Abstract

Organisations significantly contribute to climate change, making them essential targets for climate mitigation strategies. There is an opportunity to curb organisations’ environmental impact by increasing the amount of pro-environmental behaviour (PEB) among employees. Many social and psychological factors impact an employee’s likelihood of [...] Read more.

Organisations significantly contribute to climate change, making them essential targets for climate mitigation strategies. There is an opportunity to curb organisations’ environmental impact by increasing the amount of pro-environmental behaviour (PEB) among employees. Many social and psychological factors impact an employee’s likelihood of performing PEBs. Among social–psychological factors influencing employee PEB, leadership is unique as it is a social–psychological factor that can control or influence other factors. Leadership makes performing PEBs at work and home different. Due to its unique position, leadership has garnered attention from practitioners and researchers for how it can affect organisational environmental sustainability. There is limited research focusing on how leadership development can promote employee PEB, thereby increasing organisational environmental sustainability. Researchers conducted a narrative review that provided an overview of how leadership uniquely affects employee PEB, bringing together findings from various fields. Through this review, the authors propose the ICERR model for leadership development, which outlines five key capability areas and three desired outcomes for leadership development related to environmental sustainability. This model consists of 14 proposals that provide a framework for future research and identify critical areas for leadership development programmes looking to impact environmental sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rethinking Leadership Development: Contributions from Theory and Research)

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17 pages, 779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Latin Transgender and Gender-Diverse Individuals’ Perceptions of Well-Being During the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Hector J. Peguero, Dionne P. Stephens, Jacqueline Duong and Averill Obee

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110997 - 25 Oct 2024

Abstract

Latin transgender and gender-diverse (LTGGD) individuals experienced the public health measures mandated during the COVID-19 pandemic in unique ways. Intersecting ethnic and gender-identifying frameworks contributes to differing access, support, and well-being observations. The aim of this study was to examine emerging adult LTGGD [...] Read more.

Latin transgender and gender-diverse (LTGGD) individuals experienced the public health measures mandated during the COVID-19 pandemic in unique ways. Intersecting ethnic and gender-identifying frameworks contributes to differing access, support, and well-being observations. The aim of this study was to examine emerging adult LTGGD individuals’ perceptions of their health and well-being experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Florida. Interviews were conducted with nine self-identifying LTGGD individuals. Using a thematic analysis, a total of three major themes were identified as shaping the participants’ experiences and perceptions of health during COVID-19, including (a) healthcare interactions, (b) challenges, and (c) opportunities. Some of the participants were mixed in their perceptions of their well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic; negative concerns included the inability to access general and transgender/gender-diverse specific health services. However, others note that they were happy that the pandemic allowed them to avoid contexts where they regularly experienced microaggressions due to their identities. Additionally, various participants were able to use this time of isolation to identify providers with greater knowledge about LTGGD health needs. These findings highlight the importance of providing culturally competent and humility-centered skills to healthcare providers and others supporting the LTGGD population’s well-being. Full article

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15 pages, 266 KiB

Open AccessReview

Amplifying School Mental Health Literacy Through Neuroscience Education

by Peter J. Vento, Steven B. Harrod, Brittany Patterson, Kristen Figas, Tucker Chandler, Brooke Chehoski and Mark D. Weist

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 996; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110996 - 25 Oct 2024

Abstract

Children and adolescents face a wide variety of developmental changes and environmental challenges, and it is estimated that at least one in five children aged 3–17 will experience behavioral or mental health issues. This period of life coincides with major changes in brain [...] Read more.

Children and adolescents face a wide variety of developmental changes and environmental challenges, and it is estimated that at least one in five children aged 3–17 will experience behavioral or mental health issues. This period of life coincides with major changes in brain structure and function that have profound long-term consequences for learning, decision-making (including risk taking), and emotional processing. For example, continued development of the prefrontal cortex in adolescence is a sensitive period during which individuals are particularly susceptible to risky behaviors, environmental stressors, and substance use. While recent advances in mental health literacy programs have paved the way for increased awareness of the benefits of mental health curricula in schools, these efforts could be greatly bolstered with support in basic neuroscience education in developmentally appropriate and area-specific content. Here, we provide a discussion on the basic structural and functional changes occurring in the brain throughout childhood, how this contributes to changes in cognitive function, and the risk factors posed by early life adversity, stress, and drug use. Finally, we provide a perspective on the benefits of integrating findings from the field of neuroscience and suggestions for tools to better equip students, teachers, administrators, and school mental health staff to provide new directions for addressing the mental health crises faced by millions of children and youth each year. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

20 pages, 915 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Entrepreneurial Intention and Student Engagement of Youth Living in Poverty

by Rasha Mahmoud Khodor, Oliver Valero Coppin and Isabel Alvarez Canovas

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110995 - 25 Oct 2024

Abstract

Graduating from secondary education for adolescents living in poverty is challenging. Strong entrepreneurial intention and student engagement among youth living in poverty often play a protective role in reducing school dropout and fostering school completion, which results in improved educational attainment. However, research [...] Read more.

Graduating from secondary education for adolescents living in poverty is challenging. Strong entrepreneurial intention and student engagement among youth living in poverty often play a protective role in reducing school dropout and fostering school completion, which results in improved educational attainment. However, research on this topic is scarce. A total of 1135 adolescents took part in this cross-sectional study, 50.9% of which were females. On average, they were 16.4 years old. They were all upper secondary school students from ten public and private schools in Lebanon. They completed instruments measuring entrepreneurial intention and student engagement. This study explored the covariate associations between risk and promotive factors through four dimensions of entrepreneurial intention and two components of student engagement (cognitive and psychological engagement). It shows positive associations for entrepreneurial intention with both individual factors (age) and social factors (working mother and private school). Negative associations for student engagement were found in all (individual and social) factors with the exception of the father’s job, which did not present any association. The findings provide insight for policymaking to empower schools to promote school completion and educational attainment among these youth by providing policy initiatives and school-based interventions that target entrepreneurial exposure and engagement strengthening, hence meeting young people’s individual, family, and school community needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Positive Psychology Interventions in Schools)

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18 pages, 535 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Navigating Time-Inconsistent Behavior: The Influence of Financial Knowledge, Behavior, and Attitude on Hyperbolic Discounting

by Aliyu Ali Bawalle, Sumeet Lal, Trinh Xuan Thi Nguyen, Mostafa Saidur Rahim Khan and Yoshihiko Kadoya

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110994 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

Hyperbolic discounting is a psychological phenomenon in which individuals prioritize smaller immediate rewards over larger future rewards. Time-inconsistent behavior is deemed irrational as it negatively impacts savings and investment, investment in financial knowledge, and long-term financial and personal well-being. This study hypothesizes that [...] Read more.

Hyperbolic discounting is a psychological phenomenon in which individuals prioritize smaller immediate rewards over larger future rewards. Time-inconsistent behavior is deemed irrational as it negatively impacts savings and investment, investment in financial knowledge, and long-term financial and personal well-being. This study hypothesizes that improving financial knowledge, promoting positive financial behavior, and fostering a future-oriented financial attitude can mitigate hyperbolic discounting bias and that these three components of financial literacy enable investors to make long-term economic decisions maximizing utility. We analyzed the responses of 114,170 active investors in Japan to examine the interactions between financial knowledge, behavior, and attitude. Our findings reveal a strong negative relationship between these dimensions and hyperbolic discounting, underscoring their crucial role in shaping individuals’ intertemporal preferences. For researchers, our results highlight the need to integrate multidimensional aspects of financial literacy into investigations of intertemporal discounting behaviors. Policymakers should implement holistic financial education programs that improve knowledge, transform behavior, and shape attitudes. Financial institutions and advisors should prioritize programs that mitigate hyperbolic discounting tendencies among clients. This study represents a significant advancement in the research on financial literacy, offering a comprehensive framework for future studies and practical applications aimed at improving financial decision-making outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Behavioral Economics)

14 pages, 296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Allocation to Telehealth and In-Person Prolonged Exposure for Women Veterans with Military Sexual Trauma: A Precision Medicine Approach

by Evangelia Argyriou, Daniel F. Gros, Melba A. Hernandez Tejada, Wendy A. Muzzy and Ron Acierno

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110993 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

Military sexual trauma-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly prevalent and costly among women veterans, making the need for effective and accessible treatment of critical importance. Access to care is a key mechanism of mental health disparities and might affect differential response to [...] Read more.

Military sexual trauma-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly prevalent and costly among women veterans, making the need for effective and accessible treatment of critical importance. Access to care is a key mechanism of mental health disparities and might affect differential response to treatment. The goal of this study was to estimate an individualized treatment rule based on readily available individual characteristics related to access to care to optimize allocation to in-person vs. telehealth delivery of prolonged exposure for PTSD in military sexual trauma survivors. The following variables were used as prescriptive factors: age, race, disability status, socioeconomic status, rural vs. urban status, and baseline PTSD level. The rule was estimated using a machine-learning approach, Outcome Weighted Learning. The estimated optimal rule outperformed a one-size-fits-all rule where everyone is universally assigned to telehealth; it led to markedly lower mean PTSD levels following 6 months from treatment (

V

d_opt −

V

_Telehealth = −14.55, 95% CI: −27.24, −1.86). However, the rule did not significantly discriminate for in-person therapy (

V

d_opt −

V

_In-person = −11.86, 95% CI: −25.83, 2.12). Upon further validation with larger and more diverse samples, such a rule may be applied in practice settings to aid clinical decision-making and personalization of treatment assignment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations for Addressing Posttraumatic Stress and Co-occurring Conditions)

16 pages, 740 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Problematic Use of Video Games in Schooled Adolescents: The Role of Passion

by José María Faílde Garrido, María Dolores Dapía Conde, Manuel Isorna Folgar and Fátima Braña Rey

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110992 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

The present study aims to determine the predictive value of sociodemographic, academic, educational clinical psychological variables—ADHD diagnosis, emotional self-regulation, passion and emotional and behavioural symptoms—and modality of use of video games in adolescents who either make potentially problematic or severely problematic use of [...] Read more.

The present study aims to determine the predictive value of sociodemographic, academic, educational clinical psychological variables—ADHD diagnosis, emotional self-regulation, passion and emotional and behavioural symptoms—and modality of use of video games in adolescents who either make potentially problematic or severely problematic use of video games. This is a descriptive cross-sectional study in which 2.533 Galician students (region located in the northwest of Spain) aged between 11 and 20 years participated, who were selected through multistage random sampling. The mean age was 14.78 years (SD = 1.76). The analysis of the data seems to indicate that in the prediction of the problematic use of video games, different variables are combined, among which passion plays a capital role. In addition, the problematic use of video games is related to poor parental control, poor academic performance, use of addictive substances or to an earlier onset, as well as with the diagnosis of ADHD and with greater negative emotional and behavioural symptoms. The results of this study may be of interest for the design and implementation of preventive and corrective actions aimed at reducing the problematic or addictive use of video games. Full article

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

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18 pages, 315 KiB

Open AccessArticle

School Social Workers’ Reports of Differences in Policies and Practices in Trauma-Informed and Non-Trauma-Informed Schools

by Kate R. Watson, Ron Avi Astor, Gordon P. Capp and Rami Benbenishty

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 991; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110991 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

This study explored trauma-informed schools from the perspective of social workers, documenting the reported practices and policies associated with trauma-informed approaches in U.S. schools. Survey data from 538 school social workers were analyzed to investigate the differences in policies and practices between schools [...] Read more.

This study explored trauma-informed schools from the perspective of social workers, documenting the reported practices and policies associated with trauma-informed approaches in U.S. schools. Survey data from 538 school social workers were analyzed to investigate the differences in policies and practices between schools identified as trauma informed and not. Logistic regression analyses examined whether the presence of specific school practices and policies was associated with the identification of a school as trauma informed. Of a wide array of programs and policies that may be present in trauma-informed schools, only the presence of trauma training and resources for secondary traumatic stress were key predictors of social workers’ identification of a school as trauma informed. The implementation of trauma training has long been the primary focus of trauma-informed approaches in schools. Should commitment to trauma-informed approaches endure, we recommend moving beyond training and secondary traumatic stress resources to deepen the field’s focus on implementing trauma-informed practices and policies at all organizational levels. We also recommend that future research looks carefully at how some school safety and trauma-informed approaches may be incompatible and the extent to which trauma-informed approaches improve or detract from children’s educational experiences and outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Violence in the School Community: Students, Parents, Teachers, and Staff Members)

19 pages, 3202 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dimensions of Job Demands Among New-Generation Employees Based on Online Reviews by Employees

by Yanrong Hu, Lixin Zhou, Ping Huang, Qingyang Liu and Hongjiu Liu

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110990 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

Based on employees’ online reviews, this article analyzes the dimensions of job demand for new-generation employees, using a combination model of Latent Dirichlet Allocation, decision-making trials and evaluation laboratory, interpretative structural modeling, and cross-impact matrix multiplication (LDA—DEMATEL—ISM—MICMAC). The results show that job demand [...] Read more.

Based on employees’ online reviews, this article analyzes the dimensions of job demand for new-generation employees, using a combination model of Latent Dirichlet Allocation, decision-making trials and evaluation laboratory, interpretative structural modeling, and cross-impact matrix multiplication (LDA—DEMATEL—ISM—MICMAC). The results show that job demand is composed of 10 dimensions, and there is significant interdependence between the dimensions. Changing one dimension will quickly affect the other dimensions. The dimension with the greatest influence degree is leadership and team atmosphere (s₁), while the dimension with the highest affected degree and centrality degree is welfare and promotion (s₃). Leadership and team atmosphere (s₁), company culture and industry (s₄), overall environment and platform (s₅), and platform and technology (s₇) were identified as the key factors. They play a causal role in job demand and have a significant impact on other dimensions. Dimensions such as working relationship and intensity (s₂), welfare and promotion (s₃), opportunity and resources (s₆), business and industry development (s₈), corporate prospects and personal development (s₉), and work stress and position (s₁₀) are affected by other dimensions and require special attention. The underlying need is present for the dimension of leadership and team atmosphere (s₁), which has a direct or indirect impact on other dimensions in different ways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Psychology)

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18 pages, 1031 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Users’ App-Switching Behavior During the Mobile Search: An Empirical Study from the Perspective of Push–Pull–Mooring Framework

by Shaobo Liang and Ziyi Wei

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110989 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

With the rapid development of mobile applications (apps), various types of mobile apps have become the main channels for smartphone interaction. The user’s app switching behavior in mobile search tasks has also received attention from academia. This article uses the push–pull–mooring (PPM) theoretical [...] Read more.

With the rapid development of mobile applications (apps), various types of mobile apps have become the main channels for smartphone interaction. The user’s app switching behavior in mobile search tasks has also received attention from academia. This article uses the push–pull–mooring (PPM) theoretical model to determine the three influencing factors of push, pull, and mooring that affect user’s app switching behavior in mobile search. Data were collected from 374 respondents using a structural equation model. This study can deepen the understanding of app switching in user mobile search from the perspectives of information source selection, user information search path, etc. This study found that in terms of pushing factors, the complexity of search tasks positively affects users’ willingness to switch apps. In terms of pulling factors, the attractiveness of alternative products and users’ follow-up activities will positively affect their switching willingness. Meanwhile, inertia serves as a mooring variable to regulate the relationship between push-pull factors and user switching intentions. This research highlights key insights on user behavior, follow-up activities, and the role of switching costs and inertia, contributing to the broader literature on information-seeking behavior. It also provides actionable recommendations for app developers to enhance search experiences and retain users by integrating personalized, multi-modal features. Full article

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5 pages, 164 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Recent Advances in Prevention and Recovery in People with Schizophrenia and Related Disorders

by Ashley M. Schnakenberg Martin and Kelsey A. Bonfils

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110988 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

People with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders often experience a combination of psychological symptoms and functional impacts, such as difficulty in social relationships, finding or maintaining employment, and attending school [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevention and Recovery in People with Schizophrenia and Related Disorders)

18 pages, 1607 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cooperativeness as a Personality Trait and Its Impact on Cooperative Behavior in Young East Asian Adults Who Synchronized in Casual Conversations

by Xiaoqi Deng, Sarinasadat Hosseini, Yoshihiro Miyake and Takayuki Nozawa

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110987 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

Cooperation is essential in social life, involving collaborative efforts for mutual benefits. Individual differences in the cooperativeness trait are pivotal in these interactions. A single-group pretest–posttest design was used in this study to determine if Duchenne smiling with gaze and inter-brain synchrony (IBS) [...] Read more.

Cooperation is essential in social life, involving collaborative efforts for mutual benefits. Individual differences in the cooperativeness trait are pivotal in these interactions. A single-group pretest–posttest design was used in this study to determine if Duchenne smiling with gaze and inter-brain synchrony (IBS) during conversation mediates the relationship between cooperativeness and cooperative behavior. The relationships among the variables were examined using mediation analysis and path analysis. We hypothesized that Duchenne smiling with gaze would mediate cooperativeness’ impact on cooperative behavior, while expecting IBS in the left prefrontal region to predict cooperative behavior. The results demonstrated that cooperativeness significantly predicted Duchenne smiling with gaze and cooperative behavior; however, Duchenne smiling with gaze did not mediate the relationship between them. Additionally, IBS during conversation did not predict successive cooperative behavior. These results suggest dispositional factors like cooperativeness may play a more decisive role than momentary expressional cues or neural synchrony in naturalistic unstructured communication in shaping cooperative behavioral outcomes after the communication. The study highlights how personality traits like cooperativeness shape nonverbal communication and social interactions, implying that interventions aimed at developing cooperativeness could lead to more effective collaboration in social settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Influencing Factors of Prosociality: How Humans Cooperate with Others)

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20 pages, 1768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Social Media and Infection Perception on the Intentions of Recreational Vehicle Tours: An Extended Model of Goal-Directed Behavior

by Chao Zeng, Zihan Yang, Yufan Zhai and Li Yu

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110986 - 24 Oct 2024

Abstract

Despite the rapid expansion of China’s RV (recreational vehicle) tourism industry, research on RV tourist behavior remains limited. This study develops an extended model of goal-directed behavior (EMGB) that more comprehensively explains the formation of tourists’ intentions to engage in RV tourism. The [...] Read more.

Despite the rapid expansion of China’s RV (recreational vehicle) tourism industry, research on RV tourist behavior remains limited. This study develops an extended model of goal-directed behavior (EMGB) that more comprehensively explains the formation of tourists’ intentions to engage in RV tourism. The EMGB incorporates critical factors, including the perception of infection (PI), social media influence (SM), infrastructure perception (IP), and perceived advantages of drive tourism (PAD), into the original goal-directed behavior model (MGB). Results from a survey involving 545 RV tourists reveal that the EMGB achieves a satisfactory fit with the data and explains a larger proportion of variance in behavioral intentions. Notably, all variables within the original MGB remain significant predictors of both desire and intention. Furthermore, this study identifies factors such as Time and Economy capability, age, and region as significant moderators of the decision-making process for RV tourists. These findings offer valuable insights to marketers and governmental bodies, empowering them to make more reasonable decisions and devise strategies that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of RV tourists in the future. Full article

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31 pages, 366 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Illusion of Competence: A Qualitative Deep Dive into Workplace False Performance

by Marie Frances Dunnion, Gbolahan Gbadamosi and Jan Francis-Smythe

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110985 - 23 Oct 2024

Abstract

This qualitative paper develops an understanding of False Performance as a negative form of workplace behaviour which has received scant attention. According to the quantitative literature, which measures False Performance using the Organisational Charlatan Scale (OCS), false performers are incompetent employees who deliberately [...] Read more.

This qualitative paper develops an understanding of False Performance as a negative form of workplace behaviour which has received scant attention. According to the quantitative literature, which measures False Performance using the Organisational Charlatan Scale (OCS), false performers are incompetent employees who deliberately portray themselves as better able to perform in a job role than they know themselves to be capable. In this study, False Performance was explored in United Kingdom public-sector organisations for the first time, using novel focus-group methodology and grounded theory. Eight focus groups (n = 51) were conducted to explore employees’ perceptions and experiences of False Performance, with a focus on job interviews and performance appraisals. Using NVivo for analysis, five categories emerged: Co-Worker Perceptions of False Performance in the Workplace, False Performance in Interview/Appraisal Settings, The Impact of Trust on the False Performer, The Effect of False Performance on Co-Worker Morale, and Preventing False Performance in the Workplace. The results support the literature review that False Performance is a new and negative addition to the taxonomies of job performance. Human resources (HR) managers are, therefore, urged to prevent and reduce False Performance via well-designed selection processes and performance appraisals, thereby improving co-worker trust amongst employees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventing and Addressing Negative Behaviors in the Workplace)

23 pages, 1281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Moral Believer or Moral Problem-Solver? Moral Pragmatism Fosters Tolerance Without Impeding Moral Behavior

by Li Zhang, Song Tong and Kaiping Peng

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110984 - 23 Oct 2024

Abstract

Many previous studies in moral psychology have described people as moral believers, who treat morality as universal sacred beliefs and show moral outrage and social exclusion toward people with different opinions. At the same time, moral relativism tends to make people more tolerant [...] Read more.

Many previous studies in moral psychology have described people as moral believers, who treat morality as universal sacred beliefs and show moral outrage and social exclusion toward people with different opinions. At the same time, moral relativism tends to make people more tolerant but also makes them question their own beliefs and leads to more immoral behavior. We propose moral pragmatism as an alternative, which treats morality as a tool for solving specific problems, thus making morality situational instead of universal, practical instead of sacred, and tolerant instead of exclusive. Through four empirical studies, we demonstrate that when moral issues are presented as practical problems rather than abstract beliefs, people consider morality to be less universal, treat dissidents with more tolerance and less outrage, and do not perform more immoral behavior at the same time. These findings highlight moral pragmatism as a flexible and culturally sensitive moral approach, promoting diverse moral perspectives and constructive cross-cultural discourses. Full article

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

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23 pages, 952 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The “Emorality” of Caring: Validation of an Empirical Model of the Moral Feelings of Affective Care in Teaching Communities

by Antonio Rodríguez-Hernández, Joaquín Sepúlveda-Aravena, Mariela Melgarejo-Coronel and Isabel Duarte Lores

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110983 - 23 Oct 2024

Abstract

This article presents a study that addresses the challenge of establishing a relationship between the axiological and the affective, by validating a structural model through an assessment instrument (SEMORCUNA) that isolates the moral feelings associated with ‘affective care’. The research sample consisted of [...] Read more.

This article presents a study that addresses the challenge of establishing a relationship between the axiological and the affective, by validating a structural model through an assessment instrument (SEMORCUNA) that isolates the moral feelings associated with ‘affective care’. The research sample consisted of 222 teachers, all of whom were either in training or were active professionals in the teaching field. To achieve the research objectives, a group of experts selected a total of 11 moral sentiments, based on which Principal Component Analysis was conducted. Subsequently, Cronbach’s alpha was calculated to determine the internal consistency of the factors obtained. Confirmatory factor analysis was also performed. The results indicate that the selected feelings are part of a single factor. We conclude that all the emotional–moral experiences included in the test are empirically associated with the value of affective care. This work provides a tool to study the degree of teacher identification with the moral feelings that characterize the school as a ‘learning caring institution’, which is a fundamental condition for ensuring ‘resilient educational communities’. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Educator Well-Being and Resilience: Paradigms, Pathways, and Possibilities)

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10 pages, 1139 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Longitudinal Effects of Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity in Physical Education Classes on Attention and Academic Achievement

by Kyulee Shin, Sukkyung You and Mihye Kim

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14110982 - 22 Oct 2024

Abstract

Previous studies showed moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and aerobic fitness in adolescents are significant factors for cognitive and academic performance. Most previous studies have employed a cross-sectional design; consequently, the evidence on the longitudinal effect of physical education classes (PECs) on [...] Read more.

Previous studies showed moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and aerobic fitness in adolescents are significant factors for cognitive and academic performance. Most previous studies have employed a cross-sectional design; consequently, the evidence on the longitudinal effect of physical education classes (PECs) on cognitive performance and academic achievement is limited. Therefore, the current study utilized a longitudinal design to examine the longstanding effect of MVPA during PECs on cognitive and academic performance across gender groups. Structural equation modeling analyses were employed to understand how MVPA influences youth academic achievement in a nationally representative sample (n = 2092). Study findings indicated that (a) MVPA exerted a direct effect on initial academic achievement as well as an indirect effect, which is mediated by middle school students’ attention in both gender groups; (b) MVPA had both long-term direct effects on academic achievement as well as indirect effects on attention, which ultimately affected the subsequent academic achievements of female middle school students. Full article

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

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