bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defense mechanisms in individuals with depressive and anxiety symptoms: a network analysis
Authors: Di Giuseppe Mariagrazia , Lo Buglio Gabriele , Cerasti Erika , Boldrini Tommaso , Conversano Ciro , Lingiardi Vittorio , Tanzilli Annalisa
Published: November 2024

Background

Defense mechanisms play a crucial role in depression and anxiety. The current study aimed at estimating the network structure of defense mechanisms in individuals with symptoms of depression and anxiety to understand the most central defenses and relevant connections. Moreover, we aimed at examining the associations between defense mechanisms and symptoms.

Methods

We employed the Symptom Checklist-90 to recruit 655 individuals with depressive and anxiety symptoms during the first wave of the COVID-2019 Pandemic in Italy. Defense mechanisms were assessed with the DMRS-SR-30.

Results

Results showed a main component in the network graph featuring 16 defense mechanisms. Self-assertion was the most central node in the network, displaying positive and negative connections with an array of mature and immature defenses, respectively. Among immature defenses, passive aggression was the most interconnected node. Some mature defenses (i.e., humor, affiliation, and sublimation) were not connected to other nodes. A range of defense mechanisms were associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

This is the first research effort supporting the conceptualization of defense mechanisms as a complex system. Results suggest that defense mechanisms of the same cluster (e.g., mature defenses) play different roles in the network. Central defenses (i.e., self-assertion and passive aggression) detected in this study may be promising intervention targets.
Does higher endorsement with collaboration lead to better performance on collaborative problem solving? An explanatory item response approach to cross-cultural comparisons
Authors: Lu Chang , Bulut Okan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Collaborative problem solving (CPS) is an essential competency in the 21st century. However, the understanding of how cultural background shapes individuals’ collaboration awareness and its relationship with collaborative problem-solving skills are underexplored by psychometrics.

Methods

This study employs Explanatory Item Response Modeling to examine the impact of cultural orientations on students’ endorsement with collaboration in PISA 2015.

Results

Results show that students endorsed valuing teamwork more than valuing relationships. Western countries with individualist cultures generally demonstrated higher endorsement with collaboration than Eastern countries with collectivist cultures. China has the highest collaboration endorsement, followed by the US, Canada, Korea, and Japan. In contrast, Japan has the highest CPS assessment scores, followed by Korea, Canada, the US, and China.

Discussion

Findings revealed that students from collectivist cultures do not have higher endorsements of collaboration compared with students from individualist cultures. Also, higher endorsement of collaboration does not necessarily lead to better success in the CPS assessment. Further research is needed to understand the gap between students’ attitudes towards collaboration and their achievement based on cultural values and schools’ CPS training.
The impact of health literacy on health-promoting lifestyle among community residents: the chain-mediating role of family health and physical activity
Authors: Ma Yunxia , Huang Li , Tian Haodong , Liu Haowei , Yu Hanglin , Li Hansen , Guo Liya
Published: November 2024

Background

Adopting health-promoting lifestyle (HPL) is crucial for improving overall well-being and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. The relationship between health literacy (HL) and HPL among Chinese community residents is complex, with potential mediating factors yet to be fully understood. Family health and physical activity (PA) may play significant roles in this relationship. This study aims to construct a chain mediation model to explore whether family health and PA mediate the effects of HL on HPL in Chinese community residents.

Methods

Using the convenient sampling method, 1,072 Chinese community residents were selected for a cross-sectional study. All participants completed a self-report questionnaire that collected demographic information, as well as data from the Health Literacy Scale Short-Form (HLS-SF12), Family Health Scale Short-Form (FHS-SF), Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), and Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile-II Revise (HPLP-II R). Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0, with mediation analysis performed using the SPSS PROCESS macro.

Results

There were significant pairwise correlations between HL, family health, PA, and HPL (p < 0.01). HL was directly linked to HPL (effect = 0.442; SE = 0.025; 95% CI: 0.392, 0.491). Additionally, three indirect pathways were identified: family health independently mediated 6.02% of the effect (effect = 0.032; SE = 0.010; 95% CI: 0.013, 0.051), PA also independently mediated 9.02% of the effect (effect = 0.048; SE = 0.010; 95% CI: 0.030, 0.068), and a combined chain mediation through both family health and PA accounted for 1.88% of the effect (effect = 0.010; SE = 0.003; 95% CI: 0.005, 0.017).

Conclusion

HL not only has a direct impact on promoting HPL but also influences it indirectly through the mediating roles of family health and PA. These insights elucidate the mechanisms by which HL affects HPL, providing valuable theoretical guidance for the development and implementation of effective strategies to encourage healthy lifestyle practices.
Study on anxiety, depression, and sleep conditions and their interrelations among vocational college students during the COVID-19 pandemic management normalization
Authors: Gao Ru , Wang Hailian , Liu Shan , Wang Xia , Song Siyuan , Wang Yi
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study investigates the sleep patterns among vocational college students and examines their association with anxiety and depression amidst the ongoing normalization of COVID-19 management strategies.

Methods

In the period of January to February 2022, a comprehensive survey was conducted involving a random sample of 3,300 students. By employing face-to-face interviews, data on general demographics, along with levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep quality, were meticulously gathered and analyzed.

Results

Out of the 3,049 questionnaires deemed valid for analysis, the prevalence rates for anxiety, depression, and insomnia were found to be 9.7, 14.1, and 81.9%, respectively. Through regression analysis, several factors were identified as significant predictors of insomnia: female gender, a self-perceived average or poor family economic status over the last year, moderate psychological stress due to the pandemic and its associated restrictions, extended daily screen time during the pandemic, absence of a routine physical exercise regime, significant disruption or alteration of daily life routines due to the pandemic, presence of anxiety and depression symptoms during the pandemic, and only partial restoration of normal life routines post-pandemic control measures (p < 0.001, p < 0.005, or p < 0.050). A strong correlation was observed among the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia (all p < 0.001). The correlation between stress and depression, depression and insomnia, and anxiety and insomnia were 0.824, 0.714, 0.620, respectively, (all p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Given the substantial impact of abrupt or prolonged crisis events, it is imperative to develop and implement specific intervention strategies aimed at safeguarding the psychological well-being of college students.
Effects of Kinesio tape on individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Chen Wei-Han , Chou Willy , Hsu Min , You Yu-Lin , Wang Yu-Lin , Cheng Yuan-Yang , Lui I-Ting , Liu Chuan-Ching , Guo Lan-Yuen
Published: November 2024

Objective

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common neuromuscular disorder with an incidence rate of 4.9%. Research on the impact of Kinesio taping (KT) on electroneurography in individuals with CTS is limited, highlighting a significant gap in the literature. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of KT on palm numbness, pain intensity, hand grip strength, and median nerve electroneuromyography in individuals with mild to moderate CTS.

Method

This was a randomized, controlled, parallel design study. Twenty-seven participants diagnosed with CTS through hospital outpatient clinics were randomly assigned to either the control or KT group. The outcome measurements included hand grip strength, the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ), and electroneurography, assessed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. The statistical method used was non-parametric analysis, comparing differences with the median and interquartile range (IQR).

Results

Both the KT and control groups significantly improved the numbness grades, hand grip strength, and the BCTQ. The kinesio-taping group demonstrated an improvement in grip strength with a median increase of 2.21 kg (IQR: 0.65–3.79 kg), compared to the control group, which showed a median increase of only 0.70 kg (IQR: 0.22–1.45 kg). Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.039), with an effect size of r = 0.33.

Conclusion

This study suggested that KT can be a supplementary treatment to relieve pain intensity, enhance hand grip strength, and improve sensory conduction velocity, motor latency, and motor amplitude.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN82192319, ISRCTNregistry (No. ISRCTN82192319).
What Can Insects Tell Us About Crimes?
Authors: Costa-Silva Vinícius da , Souza Carina Mara de , Lira Luiz Antonio , Sole Catherine , Thyssen Patricia Jacqueline
Published: November 2024

Have you ever considered how important insects are in almost all of Earth’s ecosystems? Beyond their well-known roles as pollinators, decomposers, and control of other insect pests, did you know that insects can also play a vital role in solving crimes? In this article, we explore fascinating examples of how entomologists (scientists who study insects) can assist law enforcement and the justice system by using insects to crack real criminal cases. By studying the life cycle, ecology, and behavior of insects found at crime scenes, entomologists can provide critical information on the timing and circumstances of a person’s death, determine when a food became contaminated, or figure out how and when a home insect infestation occurred. Prepare to delve into the world of forensic entomology, where you will discover how these tiny creatures contribute to the pursuit of justice.
The development of carbon nanostructured biosensors for glucose detection to enhance healthcare services: a review
Authors: Ambaye Abera Demeke , Mamo Melaku Dereje , Zigyalew Yaschelewal , Mengistu Wondimagegne M. , Fito Nure Jemal , Mokrani Touhami , Ntsendwana Bulelwa
Published: November 2024

In this review, the forefront of biosensor development has been marked by a profound exploration of carbon nanostructured materials for the specific application of glucose detection. Moreover, this progressive line of inquiry capitalizes on the distinctive attributes of carbon nanostructured materials such as carbon nanotubes, carbon quantum dots, and graphene which exhibit unique characteristics in the development of biosensor engineering design. It also enhanced analytical performances regarding the limit of detection, selectivity, sensitivity, and reproducibility towards glucose detection in biological samples. Most importantly, the strategic integration of carbon nanostructured-based biosensor architectures has played a significant role in advancements, characterized by heightened sensitivity, exquisite selectivity, and augmented stability in glucose detection processes. Furthermore, utilizing these advanced materials has engendered a transformative impact on electrochemical properties, propelling the biosensors to achieve rapid and precise glucose-sensing capabilities. The confluence of carbon nanostructures with biosensor technology has not only elevated the scientific understanding of glucose detection mechanisms. Still, it has also paved the way for miniaturized and portable biosensors. This transformative shift holds great promise for the realization of point-of-care diagnostics, representing a pivotal step towards durability and efficient glucose monitoring in health/medical care. These advancements emphasize the crucial role of carbon nanostructured-based biosensors in opening the way to a new avenue of superiority and effectiveness in diabetes management. Conclusively, the challenges and, in a forward-looking stance, the prospective futures of glucose biosensors anchored on carbon nanostructured frameworks were considered.
Promoting Awareness of Data Confidentiality and Security During the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Low-Income Country—Sierra Leone
Authors: Kanu Joseph Sam , Vandi Mohamed A. , Bangura Brima , Draper Katherine , Gorina Yelena , Foster Monique A. , Harding Jadnah D. , Ikoona Eric N. , Jambai Amara , Kamara Mohamed A. M. , Kaitibi Daniel , Moffett Daphne B. , Singh Tushar , Redd John T.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

World Health Organization issued Joint Statement on Data Protection and Privacy in the COVID-19 Response stating that collection of vast amounts of personal data may potentially lead to the infringement of fundamental human rights and freedoms. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development called on national governments to adhere to the international principles for data security and confidentiality. This paper describes the methods used to assist the Ministry of Health in bringing awareness of the data ownership, confidentiality and security principles to COVID-19 responders.

Methods

The Sierra Leone Epidemiological Data (SLED) Team data managers conducted training for groups of COVID-19 responders. Training included presentations on data confidentiality, information disclosure, physical and electronic data security, and cyber-security; and interactive discussion of real-life scenarios. A game of Jeopardy was created to test the participant’s knowledge.

Results

This paper describes the methods used by the SLED Team to bring awareness of the DOCS principles to more than 2,500 COVID-19 responders.

Conclusion

Similar efforts may benefit other countries where the knowledge, resources, and governing rules for protection of personal data are limited.
Exploring Suicidal Ideation among Psychiatric Patients: Predictive Role of Personality Traits and Religiosity
Authors: Musharraf Sadia , Sultan Sarwat , Mubashar Tahira , Khan Soulat
Published: November 2024

Background. Suicidal behavior is among one of the leading causes of death which may be aresult of suicidal ideations. Biological and environmental factors are said to influence thespectrum of suicidal ideation from passive thoughts about death to active plans to take life.Therefore, the present research aimed at examining the predictive association of personality traitsand religiosity with suicidal ideation among patients diagnosed with different psychiatricdisorders.Method. The sample consisted of 210 psychiatric patients diagnosed with Substance AbuseDisorder (n = 88), Major Depression (n = 84), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (n = 38) with amean age of 26.84 years. The participants filled in Urdu-version of the Sahin-Francis Scale ofAttitude toward Islam, the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire, and the Beck Scale for SuicidalIdeation.Results. The results divulged positive relation of suicidal ideation with neuroticism andpsychoticism and negative relation of suicidal ideation with extraversion, social conformity, andreligiosity. Further, neuroticism emerged as significant predictor of suicidal ideation followed byextraversion and psychoticism. The direction of prediction was in line with correlation.Conclusion. The findings provide substantive implications for suicide prevention through theidentification and evaluation of individuals with a higher risk for engaging in suicide ideation aswell as highlighting the role of personality and religious attitudes for consideration in futurestrategies for the prevention of suicide.
Moderating Role of Physical Activity for the Psychological Determinants of Eating Behaviors Affecting BMI Among Young Adolescents
Authors: Shaheed Syeda Rabia , Malik Jamil A , Hafsa Saba Zer Naz
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The study is aimed to investigate the moderating role of physical activity affecting BMI, relationship between psychological factors eating habits and BMI, and mainly the overall interaction between study variables. Method: The sample comprises of 366 young adolescents between the age ranges of (18-25) years. Sample was collected from colleges and universities. Data was collected on Three factor eating questionnaire (TEFQ), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). BMI values are estimated by given heights and weights of individuals. Results: Results revealed a positive relationship between BMI positively relates with depression (r=.27, p <.01) anxiety (r=.23, p <.01) stress, (r=.27, p <.01) DASS total, (r=.34, p <.01) uncontrolled eating, (r=.19, p <.01) emotional eating (r=.43, p <.01) cognitive restraint (r=.32, p <.01) and sitting (r=.24, p <.01) whereas it negatively relates with walk (r= -.34, p <.01) vigorous activity, (r= -.25, p <.01) moderate activity (r= -.32, p <.01) and total Physical activity. (r= -.42, p <.01). Results also revealed that depression, anxiety and stress total score significantly and positively relates with uncontrolled eating (r=.32, p <.01) emotional eating (r=.26, p <.01) cognitive restraint, (r=.21, p <.01) sitting (r=.32, p <.01) whereas negatively and significantly relate with walk, (r= -.14, p <.01) moderate activity(r= -.15, p <.01) and total physical activity (r= -.20, p <.01). Results revealed that sitting moderates relationship between emotional eating and BMI (?=.13, p=.00), cognitive restraint and BMI (?=.16, p=.00) and uncontrolled eating and BMI (?=.16, p=.00). Results also revealed that vigorous activity moderates relationship between emotional eating and BMI (?= -.08, p=.05). Finally study revealed that Physical activity did not moderate relationship between distress and BMI. Sitting did not moderate relationship between distress and BMI.
Conclusion: Present study highlights the importance of physical activity and psychological factors which directly or indirectly affects eating behaviors and BMI.
Role of Perceived Ethical Leadership and Integrity in Willingness to Report Ethical Problems Among Police Employees
Authors: Zubair Aisha , Mujeeb Arooj
Published: November 2024

Objective. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between perceived ethical leadership, integrity, and willingness to report ethical problems among police employees. It was also intended to determine the role of demographic factors (gender, education, and job experience) in relation to studyvariables.Method. The sample comprised of 450 police personnel including both men and women with age range from 25-52 years. Measure of Ethical Leadership Scale (Brown, Trevino, & Harrisson, 2005), Integrity and Code of Silence Questionnaire (Klockars, Ivkovich, & Haberfeld, 2007), and Willingness to Report Ethical Problems (Hassan, Wright, & Yukl, 2014) were used. Results showed that perceived ethical leadership and integrity positively predicted willingness to report ethical problems. Results. Findings of multivariate analysis based on 2x2x3 MANOVA along gender, education, and experience indicated that women police personnel being highly educated, and having extended job experience indicated favorable perceptions of ethical leadership, higher level of integrity and more willingness to report ethical problems as compared to their counterparts. However, male police personnel with extended job experience reflected inverse relationship with study variables.Implications. Findings of the present study might bear fundamental basis in augmenting understanding about ethical leadership practices in law enforcing personnel so as to maximize enhanced built-in checks for regulating malpractices in police system.
Effect of Sexual Harassment on Suicidal Ideation: Moderating role of Interpersonal Support and Resilience
Authors: Khan Mussarat Jabeen , Batool Fauzia , Mukhtar Amal , Amjad Hira , Naseer Mehmoona , Naz Sana
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background:Recently, there has been numerous cases of sexual harassment reported by Pakistani female university students. Among the consequences of harassment, suicidal ideation is the most prominent one. However, interpersonal support or resilience among the survivors might act as protective factors against suicidal ideation. This study examines the effect of sexual harassment on suicidal ideation and role of interpersonal support and resilience as moderators among female university students of Pakistan.
Methods:This study is a cross-sectional correlational research. A convenient sample of 180 female university students who scored high on sexual harassment are selected from different institutions of Pakistan.Sexual Experiences Questionnaire, Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12, Brief Resilience Scale, and Suicidal Ideation Scale are used to assess sexual harassment, suicidal ideation, interpersonal support, and resilience.
Results:Inter-correlations provided significant relationships between the study variables. Sexual harassment predicted suicidal ideation. While, regression analysis proved that both interpersonal support and resilience did not act as moderators between sexual harassment and suicidal ideation.
Conclusions:Findings of this study underscores the importance of conducting more researches on harassment and suicidal behaviors in order to predict both protective and risk factors.
Reliability and Validity Estimation of Job Stressor Measures Interpersonal Conflict at Work Scale, Quantitative Workload Inventory and Organizational Constraints Scale in Urdu Language
Authors: Rasul Faiza , Masood Sobia
Published: November 2024

Objective. The major objective of the present research study was to translate, reliability and validity estimation of three self-report measures of job stressor in Urdu language, namely, the Interpersonal Conflict at Work Scale (ICAWS), the Organizational Constraints Scale (OCS) and the Quantitative Workload Inventory (QWI) (Spector & Jex, 1998).Method. This process was completed in three phases.Phase-I comprised of the translation of measures through forward-backward translation method. To establish the cross-language validity, Urdu translated versionsand the English versionswere administered on bilingual respondents (N = 100)(men = 74 and women = 26).In Phase-II, reliability estimation of ICAWS, OCS and QWI including Chronbach’s alpha reliability and test–retest reliability was done. In Phase-III, validity estimation of ICAWS, OCSand QWI was done. Analysis were carried on the sample of 546employees(men = 334 and women = 212) of public service sector organizations (WAPDA, NADRA, Sui Gas, PIA, Railways, PTCL, OPF and Postal Services) of Pakistan, taken from Rawalpindi and Islamabad with age range of 22 to 60 years. Results. All indexes calculated were found to be significant.The one-dimensional structure of three measures was confirmed. The three scales have acceptable fit to the data. The one-factor structures and other psychometric properties of the Urdu version of the scales seem to be similar to those found in the US version of the original scales.Conclusion. The translated Urdu versions of the scales are reliable instruments that can be used in Pakistani organizational settings to measure job stress.
Exploring Attention Deficient and Hyper Activity Disorder and Social Stigma: An Associational Perspective
Authors: Khan Farooq Ahmad , Ahmad Nizar , Khan Younas
Published: November 2024

Background and Objective. Attention Deficient and Hyper Activity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral disorder prevailed among child (below 18 years) is confined to children affect child in all aspects of life including developmental, social, educational and cognition. The present endeavor was designed to explore the association between social stigma (independent variable) and ADHD (dependent variable) patients in Peshawar city through quantitative methods i.e. Chi square test statistics through cross tabulation and indexation.Method. This study was conducted in three major hospitals of Peshawar city. Data was collected through a well-structured interviewed schedule from 127 sampled respondents. Further the collected data was analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics.Results. A highly significant (P=.00) association was found between ADHD and social stigma attributes i.e. sampled respondents were highly stigmatized due to the prevalence of ADHD; normal interaction with own family members were prevailed in terms of eating, however, Parents give ADHD patient less concentration than normal kids were explored from the study findings through associational (chi-square) test statistics.Implications. It could be concluded from the study findings that, a social repercussions of ADHD was considered as stigma-provoking agent of inferiority complex with prone personality disorder/ resulting into a state of social exclusion of ADHD patients from all walk of life.
Psychological Issues among Individuals with Chronic Illnesses: A Multi-Informant Perspective
Authors: Yusuf Shazia , Hanif Rubina , Rahna Tasnim
Published: November 2024

Background and Objective. Individuals with chronic illnesses exhibit number of psychological issues, but their significance in worsening the situation is always ignored. It has been highlighted that psychological issues are deteriorating the quality of life of individuals with chronic illness (Awopetu, Omadu & Abikoye, 2017). Current study was conducted to discover the psychological issues of individuals with chronic illnesses (i.e., cardiac, diabetes and cancer).
Method. Focus Group discussions were conducted by using multi-informant approach to provide a broader picture. The focus group guides were prepared following the Self-determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 2004), the Diathesis–stress model (Ingram & Luxton, 2005), and the Disability-Stress-Coping Strategy (Wallander & Varni, 1998).  Twenty-four focus group discussions (1-6 focus groups with individuals having chronic illnesses, six with caregivers of the individuals having chronic illnesses, six with the doctors treating these patients and six were conducted with nurses and paramedical staff) comprised of 6-9 members each.
Analyses. After the collection of data, it’s organization and coding was done after which themes were generated by using the content analysis approach (Berelson, 1952). Generated themes have provided the major indicators of psychological issues and these are crying spells, sleeping difficulty, sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in life, appetite problems and loss of interest in everything, aggression (physical and verbal).
Implications. Findings have implications for caregivers and professionals working with the patients i.e. the doctors, nurses, paramedical staff etc. It may also help the doctors to consider the psychological condition of the patients while treating their physiological problems.
Mediating Role of Tawakkul between Religious Orientation and Anxiety among Muslim Adults
Authors: Gondal Muhammad Usama , Adil Adnan , Ghayas Saba
Published: November 2024

Purpose. Being an important Islamic concept, tawakkul is a fundamental and core value in the Islamic belief system. The present research intended to investigate its role in the relationship between religious orientation and anxiety.
Method. Sample of (N = 350) Muslim adults with the age of 25 years and above (M = 31.92, S.D = 8.72) were included in the study. A cross-sectional survey research design was used in the present study. Tawakkul Scale (Gondal, 2020), Urdu version of Anxiety subscale of DASS-21 (Aslam, 2018), and Urdu version of Religious Orientation Scale (Khan, et al., 2016) were used in the present study.
Results.  Results indicated that tawakkul had a negative relationship with anxiety and extrinsic social religious orientation. On the other hand, it had a positive relationship with intrinsic religious orientation and extrinsic personal religious orientation. Findings of the structural model indicated that tawakkul mediated the relationships of intrinsic and extrinsic personal religious orientations with anxiety.
Conclusion. Tawakkul helps reduce anxiety. The findings of the present study indicated that individuals who are sincere with their religion have a high degree of tawakkul, which in turn may prevent them from developing symptoms of mental health issues. Hence, in the present age with a high prevalence of these mental issues, particularly anxiety, there is a dire need to create awareness in society about the importance of tawakkul. Tawakkul is also beneficial in the field of clinical and counseling psychotherapy as it may help alleviate clinical disorders and other daily routine life problems.
Personal Relative Deprivation, Altruistic behaviour and Reciprocity Towards Strangers: Mediating Role of Belief in Just World
Authors: Ameer Iqra , Rauf Nelofar , Saleh Warda , Bashir Nadia
Published: November 2024

Background. The present study was conducted to explore the role of personal relative deprivation as a predictor of altruistic behavior and reciprocity towards strangers. Moreover, the mediating role of belief in just world about others was also assessed.
Method. The sample (N = 510) comprised of students (male = 144; female = 366) with ages ranging from 18 to 42 years (M = 22.9; SD = 4.2) from different universities of Pakistan.
Results. Results revealed that personal relative deprivation and belief in just world about others positively predicted altruistic behavior and reciprocity towards strangers. Furthermore, it was also discovered that belief in just world about others mediates the relationship between predicting variable i.e. personal relative deprivation and outcome variables i.e. altruistic behavior and reciprocity.
Conclusion. Inculcating altruistic behavior can aid communities and governments in developing more effective campaigns centered on encouraging prosocial behavior towards strangers.
Reliability and Validity of Urdu Children Anxiety Sensitivity Index (CASI) Scale
Authors: Khan Anowra , Malik Tamkeen Ashraf
Published: November 2024

Objective. Anxiety sensitivity has been implicated as a trans-diagnostic risk factor for variouspsychopathologies. Childhood anxiety sensitivity index (CASI) is an eighteen-item self-reported measure ofanxiety sensitivity. The present research aimed to translate and adapt CASI into Urdu language, analyze thepsychometric properties, factor structure and assess it as a screening scale for anxiety disorders in children.
Method. A cross-sectional research design was used to collect data from 658 participants (age 6 to 17 years;M=13.24, SD=2.51) by using CASI and Screen for anxiety and emotional related disorders (SCARED)self-report and parent-report.
Results. Exploratory factor analysis yields four factor structure explaining 32.98% accumulative variance.Confirmatory factor analysis supported a three-factor hierarchical factor (?2 = 152.52, df= 87, ?2/ df= 1.75RMSEA= .05, CFI= .92, SRMR= .05, AIC= 218.52). ROC Curve analysis indicated CASI as a potentialscreening measure for anxiety disorders with a sensitivity of >.80 and specificity of >.58 at a cut score of 20to 23.
Conclusion. Study findings indicate that Urdu CASI may be used as a screening tool of anxiety disordersin children. Suggestions for further research are proposed in the light of the present research findings.
A Predictive Study of Psychological Capital and Its Relationship with Demographics Factors, Attachment Styles, Peer Relations, and Quality of Friendship among Adolescents in Islamabad
Authors: Altaf Maryum , Aftab Raiha
Published: November 2024

Objecives. The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between attachment styles, friendship quality and psychological capital in adolescents.  Moreover, different demographics variables like age, birth order, number of siblings, number of close friends, time spent with friends were also studied along the study variables.
Method. A sample of 300 students (aged 12-20) were selected belonging to different schools and colleges in Islamabad. Relationship Questionnaire (Bartholomew & Horowitz, 1991), Inventory of Parent and Peer attachment (Armesdon & Greenberg, 1987), McGill Friendship Questionnaire- Friendship Functions (Mendelson & Aboud, 2014) and Psychological Capital Scale (Afzal, 2013) were employed to measure the research variables.
Results. Results of the study showed that Peer attachment, secure attachment style, fearful attachment style, age and number of close friends significantly predict psychological capital. Furthermore, friendship quality, secure attachment style, fearful attachment style, age, no of close friends significantly predict psychological capital. correlation analysis showed that peer attachment, friendship quality and psychological capital have significant positive relationship with for psychological capital and peer attachment, for psychological capital and friendship quality and for peer attachment and friendship quality. Results show that there is a statistically significant difference on attachment styles for psychological capital, peer attachment and friendship quality. However, hope showed non-significant difference.
Keywords. Attachment styles, friendship quality, psychological capital, adolescents
Dark Triad Personality Traits, Locus of Control and Workplace Deviance among Lawyers: Mediating Role of Moral Disengagement
Authors: Fatima Rabat , Naqvi Dr Irum
Published: November 2024

Background.  This study is conducted to investigate the role of moral disengagement as mediator between dark triad personality traits (machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy) and workplace deviance among lawyers. Additionally, the mediating role of moral disengagement between internal locus of control which is dimension of LOC (locus of control) and external control locus (powerful others and chance locus of control dimensions) among lawyers were also explored.
Method.   This is a cross-sectional research design, in which, purposive sampling technique is used. The sample comprised of 300 lawyers working under supervision of senior lawyers as their junior advocates/associates including genders, men and women, with age ranging from 22 to 46 years. The Measure of Short Dark Triad Scale by Jones & Paulhus, 2014, Propensity to Morally Disengage Scale by Moore et al., 2012, Multidimensional Locus of Control Scale by Levenson, 1981 and Workplace Deviance Scale modified for lawyers by Bennett & Robinson, 2000 were used.
Results.   Results of this study showed that moral disengagement acted as mediator between dark triad personality traits and workplace deviance. As well as moral disengagement has showed mediation between subscales of dark triad personality traits which include machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy. Furthermore, results revealed that moral disengagement did not play role as a mediator in internal locus of control and workplace deviance, showing a negative relationship, but moral disengagement positively mediated the relationship between powerful others and chance locus of control which are external control locus dimensions.
Associations between Behavioral, Emotional, Cognitive Self-Regulation and Adolescent Mental Health and Psychosocial Strengths
Authors: Khan Anowra , Malik Tamkeen Ashraf , Morawska Alina
Published: November 2024

Background. Self-regulation is an essential developmental asset during adolescence related to the prevention and promotion of mental health. This research aimed to analyze how various domains of self-regulation (behavioral, emotional and cognitive) were associated with mental health (internalizing and externalizing problems) and psychosocial strengths (interpersonal strengths, intrapersonal strengths and family involvement) among adolescents. A secondary aim was to analyze gender differences in these effects and in self-regulation. 
Method. A cross-sectional survey research design was used to collect data from 373 adolescents (age range = 10 – 18 years; 188 boys, 215 girls) through a convenient sampling technique from the five provinces of Pakistan. Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functions (BRIEF-2), Strength and Difficulty Questionnaire (SDQ), and Behavior and Emotional Rating Scale (BERS-2) were used to measure the study variables.
Results. Results indicated that ineffective behavioral, emotional, and cognitive regulation were significant predictors of externalizing problems while ineffective emotional and cognitive regulation significantly predicted internalizing problems. Ineffective behavioral and cognitive regulation significantly negatively predicted interpersonal strengths. Only cognitive regulation appeared as a significant predictor for intrapersonal strengths and family involvement. Multigroup analyses revealed no significant gender differences.
Conclusion. The findings highlight the differential relationship of self-regulation with mental health and psychosocial strengths which can inform practices in the prevention and promotion of mental health in adolescents.
Measuring Body Image Guilt and Shame: Gender and Disordered Eating Behaviors in Perspective
Authors: Zaman Kashmala , Jami Dr Humaira , Kamal Dr Anila
Published: November 2024

Objectives. The goal of the current study was to investigate the association between bodily perception guilt together with shame, and aberrant eating patterns in adolescents. Differences across gender in the proposed relationship were also studied. Moderating role of gender between the study variables was also explored.
Method. Disordered Eating Behavior Scale (Muazzam & Khalid, 2011), Body Image Guilt and Shame Scale (Thompson et al., 2003), with a demographic table was employed for collecting data among 316 teenagers using convenience sampling method that included educational institutes of District Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Phase I of the study's four phases comprises the conversion and modification of Body Image Guilt and Shame Scale (Thompson et al., 2003). Results. The results in the present study indicated that aberrant eating behaviors are importantly positively connection to bodily perception guilt and shame. According to the results, boys experience more bodily perception guilt and shame as compared to girls.
Conclusion. The present study concluded that body satisfaction should be promoted among adolescents in order to prevent them from body related guilt and shame, and disordered eating behaviors that consequently enhances their psychological well-being.
Gender Roles and University Adjustment among Undergraduate Students: Coping as Mediators
Authors: Siah Poh chua , Yap Han Jet , Linganathan Kalesh , Ang Zi Xuan , Siew May Cheng
Published: November 2024

Background. Some undergraduates face problems in academic adjustment thus are unable to continue their studies.  By using the theory of gender schema and the transactional model of stress and coping, this study aims to explore the relationships among gender roles, coping strategies and academic adjustment, and to examine whether coping strategy is a mediator for the effects of gender roles on academic adjustment.
 
Method. The descriptive predictive survey method was used in this study. Altogether 196 undergraduate participants were selected through the purposive sampling method. They were asked to fill in a questionnaire consisting of three measurements: Academic Adjustment Scale, Bem Sex Role Inventory, and Brief COPE.
 
Results. The findings of the study showed that different gender roles are associated with different coping strategies and academic adjustment, and that different coping strategies are associated with academic adjustment differently. In addition, positive thinking is a statistical mediator for the effects of femininity on academic adjustment while avoidance is a statistical mediator for the effects of masculinity on academic adjustment.
 
Conclusion. The findings indicate the importance of considering gender roles in the transactional model of stress and coping, besides creating awareness among undergraduates about the importance of using different coping strategies corresponding to their gender roles while facing problems in academic adjustment.
Childhood Maltreatment and Behavior Problems: Exploring the Mediating Role of Parental Attachment
Authors: Fatima Zaryab , Sadia Rayna , Khan Saira , Naeem Nimra
Published: November 2024

Background. Childhood maltreatment occurred to be the significant risk factor for development of number of adverse mental and many behavioural problems in adolescents. Seemingly, strong parental attachment provides a positive basis to overcome the harms of childhood maltreatment. The present study aimed to examine the mediating role of parental attachment between childhood maltreatment and behaviour problems.
Method. The study utilized the correlational research design and the data was collected through purposive and convenient sampling from adolescents (N = 200) with the age range of 12-18 (M = 14.70, SD = 1.74) years.
Results. Significant positive association between childhood maltreatment and behaviour problems was observed. Non-significant association was found between the two subscales of parental attachment with all variables of the study except for the negative association of goal corrected partnership with childhood maltreatment and behaviour problems. Goal corrected partnership further mediated the association between childhood maltreatment and behaviour problems. The present study yielded the significance of goal corrected partnership (indicating child empathy with parents) in avoiding the adverse childhood experiences.
Conclusion. The findings of the present research could be beneficial both for theory building as well as for intervention-based programs. These findings could further be utilized to spread awareness among young adolescents to modify and minimize behaviour problems.
Personality Inventory for DSM-V-BRIEF FORM (PID-V-BF): Translation and Validation
Authors: Naz Nida Falak , Aslam Dr. Naeem
Published: November 2024

Background. DSM-5 proposes a new trait model of personality for the diagnosis of personality disorders. This model constitutes five major domains encompassing maladaptive personality traits that are considered as pathological ends of famous five factor model. There domains were named as antagonism (agreeableness), detachment (extraversion), disinhibition (conscientiousness), negative affectivity (neuroticism), and psychoticism (openness).  Inventory used to operationalize this model is called Personality Inventory for DSM-V. This study utilizes brief form of the inventory with twenty-five items for having culturally comparable and lexically valid version of this inventory to use with Pakistani population.
Method
Items of the scale were translated by bilingual exerts into the targeted language through standardized procedures and Confirmatory factor analysis was then run on the sample of 300 adults (M = 27.36, SD = 9.32).
Results
CFA revealed the satisfactory fit of the model after adding for covariance. The obtained value for  chi square was 616.86 (df = 267) which indicates adequate fit of the model. RMSEA =.06 also meet the criteria and specifies good fit of the model. Similarly, fit indices for the model also meet the minimum criteria (IFI=.91, TLI, .90, CFI = .91).  Hence, All the five domains of trait model were confirmed into local culture and depict good reliability coefficients.
Conclusion
It was concluded that Urdu version of the PID-V was proved to be satisfactory and acceptable for further use in the Pakistani context.
Keywords. Personality inventory for DSM-V, DSM. translation, validation, confirmatory factor analysis.
Meta-Analysis of the NICHD Investigative Interview Protocol for Child Sexual Abuse Cases
Authors: Nusrat Rohia , Nawaz Sumbal , Masood Sumara
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background: Forensic interviews are pivotal to the investigation of child sexual abuse cases. Following best practice, evidence-based guidelines when conducting such interviews is essential in obtaining a credible and reliable testimony. The investigative interview protocol developed by the National Institute for Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) incorporates these guidelines into a structured interview procedure. An integral part of the NICHD protocol is to promote open-ended, invitational interviewer prompts. The current research was conducted to observe the impact of the NICHD Protocol in encouraging invitational prompts and discouraging suggestive prompts when compared to non-protocol interviews.
Method: A systematic review and meta-analysis on the impact of the NICHD protocol was conducted, including 11 studies selected following inclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria were determined through the PICO framework. The included literature were experimental studies comparing the NICHD protocol with other structured or unstructured interview methods in interviews conducted with children in suspected cases of child sexual abuse (CSA), with a focus on assessing the quality of investigation using interviewer prompts as a dependent measure.  Electronic online databases and Registers/websites including PubMed, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, Web of Science, Wiley Online Library, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Google Scholar, OSF, Dissertation Abstracts International, and ProQuest Dissertations and These were searched for both peer-reviewed articles and grey literature. The analysis used a random effect model that computed separate weighted mean of the effect sizes shown in independent studies for prompts namely: Directives, Option-posing, Suggestions, and Invitations.
Results: Results of the analysis indicated that overall, interviews with the NICHD protocol had less directives (g= -0.9106), option-posing (-0.9178) and suggestive prompts (g= -0.5516), and more invitational (g= 1.9859) prompts than non-protocol interviews.
Conclusion: These results corroborate with the findings of previous studies. However, these findings should be considered with caution due to the detection of high levels of heterogeneity.
Keywords: Eyewitness testimony, Investigative interviewing, Meta-analyses, Child sexual abuse, NICHD protocol, Interviewer prompt