bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alexithymia and Sociocultural Factors in a Japanese Sample: A Study with the Rorschach
Authors: Akimoto Michiko , Fukunishi Isao , Baba Takanobu , Matsumori Motoko , Iwai Masaya
Published: August 2011

We reexamined the Japanese version of the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale, a self-report scale for measuring alexithymic characteristics, by comparing the scores on three factors and the total scores with variables of the Rorschach in a sample of 40 (originally 48) Japanese college students. Based on prior studies, our aims were to further validate the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale by comparing its scores with those on a projective technique. We also investigated whether sociocultural factors, such as repression of hostility, are associated with scores on the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (especially Factor 3). None of the seven Rorschach Alexithymia Variables were significantly related to the factors and total scores of the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale. However, scores for Factor 1 (difficulty identifying feelings) of the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale correlated positively with scores on Sum C' (reserved responses to emotional stimuli) and Adj es (stimulus demand), suggesting that individuals who score high for Factor 1 experience gloomy, depressive feelings but in constricted ways. Scores for Factor 3 (externally oriented thinking) correlated positively with the D scores (stress tolerance) and negatively with m (situational stress) responses, suggesting that Factor 3 may reflect a psychological defense that enhances stress tolerance. There was a nonsignificant negative correlation between Factor 1 and Factor 3 scores, but, unlike our hypothesis, Factor 3 was neither related to AG (aggression) nor S (space responses reflecting oppositional tendency), indices of aggression or hostility in the Rorschach Comprehensive System. It may be that the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale and the Rorschach measure quite different aspects of personality, but further research is necessary.
Revising the Competitiveness Index Using Factor Analysis
Authors: Houston John , Harris Paul , McIntire Sandra , Francis Dientje
Published: August 2011

The Competitiveness Index is a 20-item true-false measure designed to assess the desire to win in interpersonal situations. To develop a more psychometrically sound form of the scale, 213 undergraduates were administered the original form and a modified version containing a 5-point Likert-type scale. An initial principal component analysis using a varimax rotation of the modified version yielded a four-factor solution accounting for 54.5% of the explained variance. Based on a subsequent reliability analysis, six items were dropped from the modified scale. A second analysis produced a two-factor solution accounting for 54.1% of the explained variance. Both factors (Enjoyment of Competition and Contentiousness) formed reliable subscales. The 14-item Revised Competitiveness Index had high internal consistency and was positively correlated with the original Competitiveness Index, the competitiveness subscales of the Work and Family Orientation Questionnaire, the Sports Orientation Questionnaire, and the Nach Naff measure of Need for Achievement.
Voluminous Sucrose Consumption in Female Rats: Increased “Nippiness” during Periods of Sucrose Removal and Possible Oestrus Periodicity
Authors: Galic M. A. , Persinger M. A.
Published: August 2011

In a two-bottle paradigm in which water and 10% sucrose water were always available, female rats drank about 200 cc of the sugar water (about 65 g of sucrose/kg) per day for 4 wk. There were no significant decreases in consumption over this time. In Exp. 2 female rats singly housed were given two bottles containing water for 1 wk. and then a bottle containing water and a bottle containing 15% sucrose for the next week for 6 wk. When sucrose was available, the rats ate 33% more rat chow. When sucrose was removed, the rats displayed more episodes of biting a stimulus when the food cubes were being removed for daily measurements. Some females exhibited a marked 4- to 5-day periodicity in sucrose (7.5%) consumption. The persistent and voluminous consumption of sucrose water and enhanced agonistic-like behavior during periods of withdrawal suggests the presence of a robust phenomenon with potential clinical applications to the challenge of addiction.
A Frequent Misunderstanding Associated with Point Biserial and Phi Coefficients
Authors: Cernovsky Zack Z.
Published: August 2011

The label “Pearson r” is legitimately used both for the standard Pearson r calculated on continuous variables and for its other varieties in the form of the point biserial or the phi coefficient. This fact is often ignored by psychologists and psychiatrists.
Clothing Interest among Chinese Adolescent Girls in Hong Kong in Relation to Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Fung Maria S. C. , Yuen Mantak
Published: August 2011

A sample of 358 girls in senior secondary school completed the measures assessing importance of clothing and socioeconomic status. A principal component analysis indicated a 3-factor solution that explained 51.3% of the total variance in scores on the Creekmore Importance of Clothing Questionnaire. The factors were named Self-enhancement, Experimentation, and Conformity. A series of one-way analyses of variance showed that higher socioeconomic status might account for greater experimentation with clothing.
Taxometric Analysis of Fuzzy Categories: A Monte Carlo Study
Authors: Haslam Nick , Cleland Charles
Published: August 2011

A small Monte Carlo study examined the performance of a form of taxometric analysis (the MAXCOV procedure) with fuzzy data sets. These combine taxonic (categorical) and nontaxonic (continuous) features, containing a subset of cases with intermediate degrees of category membership. Fuzzy data sets tended to yield taxonic findings on plot inspection and two popular consistency tests, even when the degree of fuzziness, i.e., the proportion of intermediate cases, was large. These results suggest that fuzzy categories represent a source of pseudotaxonic inferences, if “taxon” is understood in the usual binary, “either-or” fashion. This in turn implies that dichotomous causes cannot be confidently inferred when taxometric analyses yield apparently taxonic findings.
Media Coverage of Y2K: Content Analysis from a Single Newspaper, 1997 to 2000
Authors: Grobe Deana
Published: August 2011

Content analysis of 258 Year 2000 Y2K-related articles published in a statewide newspaper between 1997 and 2000 indicated topics covered and changes over this three-year period leading up to 2000.
Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: Some Effects on Family Caregivers
Authors: Boyle Gregory J. , Haines Sandra
Published: August 2011

This study assesses the effects of severe traumatic brain injuries on family members and functioning—a topic of interest for those working with survivors and their families. This issue is receiving increased attention as recent findings suggest that family adjustment influences outcome for brain-injured persons. The Family Environment Scale and the Profile of Mood States were completed by 25 individuals who had a family member with a severe traumatic brain injury. These scales were also completed by a comparison group of 32 individuals who had no brain-injured family member. In terms of family functioning, the findings suggest that, when a family member suffers a severe traumatic brain injury, depression may be elevated, along with a decreased ability to express feelings, decreased time and energy for social and recreational activities, and increased control in comparison to families without a brain-injured member. While this might contribute to family isolation which could last for many years, the overall finding of the present study was that caregiver families were coping adequately.
A Comparison of Coping Factors in Western and Non-Western Cultures
Authors: Hwang Chi-En , Scherer Robert F. , Wu Yan , Hwang Chien-Hou , Li James
Published: August 2011

This study presents convergent support for the use of three empirically constructed factors, across four samples, from the Ways of Coping Questionnaire. Planning, Positive Reappraisal, and Distancing factors were congruent for comparisons made between U.S. healthcare workers, Chinese healthcare workers, Chinese teachers, and Taiwanese teachers. Additional evidence of congruency was provided on specific factors between specific pairs of groups. The results support the usage of common factors across languages, cultures, and occupational groups but also highlight the importance of not administering a test in a different cultural setting without assessing its dimensionality.
Self-Concept and Violent Delinquency in Urban African-American Adolescent Males
Authors: Bynum Evita G. , Weiner Ronald I.
Published: August 2011

African-American adolescent males experience a disproportionate rate of victimization associated with and arrest for violent crime. This study examined the relationship between self-concept and violent delinquency within a group of 155 urban African-American adolescent males. Walter Reckless's 1967 containment theory, which suggests that a positive self-concept will insulate a juvenile from delinquency and crime, served as the theoretical frame of reference. The participants included 155 African-American males aged 13 to 19 years who completed the Adolescent Life Survey, developed by the investigators, and the Tennessee Self-concept Scale. Quantitative measurements of self-concept and delinquency were obtained. In general, the findings did not support containment theory. However, the study does present new data regarding serious violent delinquency.
Yoga-Based Guided Relaxation Reduces Sympathetic Activity Judged from Baseline Levels
Authors: Vempati R. P. , Telles Shirley
Published: August 2011

35 male volunteers whose ages ranged from 20 to 46 years were studied in two sessions of yoga-based guided relaxation and supine rest. Assessments of autonomic variables were made for 15 subjects, before, during, and after the practices, whereas oxygen consumption and breath volume were recorded for 25 subjects before and after both types of relaxation. A significant decrease in oxygen consumption and increase in breath volume were recorded after guided relaxation (paired t test). There were comparable reductions in heart rate and skin conductance during both types of relaxation. During guided relaxation the power of the low frequency component of the heart-rate variability spectrum reduced, whereas the power of the high frequency component increased, suggesting reduced sympathetic activity. Also, subjects with a baseline ratio of LF/HF >0.5 showed a significant decrease in the ratio after guided relaxation, while subjects with a ratio ≤0.5 at baseline showed no such change. The results suggest that sympathetic activity decreased after guided relaxation based on yoga, depending on the baseline levels.
The Fisher-Pitman Permutation Test: An Attractive Alternative to the F Test
Authors: Berry Kenneth J. , Mielke Paul W. , Mielke Howard W.
Published: August 2011

The Fisher-Pitman permutation test is shown to possess significant advantages over conventional alternatives when analyzing differences among independent samples with unequal variances.
Leaders' Anticipated and Targets' Self-Reported Resistance to Task Assignments: A Replication
Authors: Barbuto John E. , Fritz Susan M. , Goertzen Brent J.
Published: August 2011

This is a follow up study of Barbuto's 2000 work in which leaders' ratings and targets' self-reported resistance to task assignments are compared. Scores on the Anticipated Resistance Indicator among 650 leader-member dyads measure resistance based on Barbuto's 1997 five concentric zones of Preference, Indifference, Legitimate, Influence, and Noninfluence, examined from both leaders' and targets' perspectives. Responses indicated that leaders tend to underestimate followers' willingness to perform assigned tasks. In addition, leaders tend to overestimate targets' unwillingness to perform undesirable, less enjoyable tasks.
Immune Function and Affective States following a Natural Disaster
Authors: Rotton James , Dubitsky Sorah S.
Published: August 2011

Although natural disasters sometimes strengthen community ties, it was hypothesized that the negative affect following a hurricane would lower evaluations of strangers. This hypothesis was tested by having 105 students evaluate an individual that they had just met following Hurricane Andrew. The hypothesis did not receive support, but students living in storm-damaged neighborhoods expressed more negative affect than those living in less damaged neighborhoods. Regression analyses also disclosed that severity of a disaster predicted concentrations of immunoglobulin A in saliva. The results suggest that salivary immunoglobulin A can be used to assess the health consequence of disaster exposure.
Possible Barnum Effect in the Five Factor Model: Do Respondents Accept Random Neo Personality Inventory–Revised Scores as Their Actual Trait Profile?
Authors: Andersen Pauline , Nordvik Hilmar
Published: August 2011

This study investigated a possible Barnum effect in personality traits, i.e., that persons accept a false trait profile as correct. Having answered the Norwegian translation of the NEO Personality Inventory–Revised, a group of 75 students, 56 (five women) military aviation cadets and 19 (10 women) graduate students, received a random T-score profile and were asked to rate their agreement on a 7-point scale. For all personality traits, i.e., facets and domains measured by the NEO Personality Inventory–Revised, positive correlations ranging from .08 to .64 were found between the agreement ratings and the similarity between the random false scores and the actual scores. The respondents identified and rejected random T scores that deviated far from their actual scores, which works against the Barnum effect. Correct identification correlated negatively with Neuroticism ( r = −.41) and positively ( r = .53) with Conscientiousness.
Stability of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire for a Cross-Sectional Sample
Authors: Artistico Daniele , Laicardi Caterina
Published: August 2011

Factor comparability of the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire–Revised was tested by contrasting three groups of people: young, adult, and eiderly persons. Personality trait factors were significantly invariant among age groups. There was a significant age × sex interaction for Neuroticism scores.
Is Anti-Intellectualism a Personality Trait?
Authors: Howley Aimee
Published: August 2011

In interpreting empirical findings from studies to validate an anti-intellectualism scale, Eigenberger and Sealander suggest that anti-intellectualism might be a heritable trait related to “openness to experience.” This brief article offers a rejoinder, arguing that anti-intellectualism makes sense as a cultural perspective that varies by time and place.
Sex and Developmental Differences by Complexity of Functions of Occupational Aspirations of School Children across Ten Years
Authors: Helwig Andrew A.
Published: August 2011

The present longitudinal study examined the complexity of workers' functions for 65 children's occupational aspirations during a 10-yr. span beginning when the children were 7 yr. old and in Grade 2. Every two years through the senior year in high school, the children were interviewed, for a total of six interviews. Sex and developmental differences in occupational aspirations were examined with respect to the focus on Data, People, or Things. Girls ( n = 31) selected occupational aspirations requiring greater complexity in People functions throughout the study. From Grades 2 to 8 boys chose occupations with greater complexity of Things and girls chose occupations with greater complexity of Data. Developmentally, all children chose increasingly more complex Data occupations from Grades 2 to 12. Occupational aspirations in high school showed a decrease in the complexity of workers' functions involving People and Things. These observations would be expected from social cognitive theory and the 1981 career development theory of Gottfredson.
Self-Control Skills and Negative Emotional State: A Focus on Hostility
Authors: Heiby Elaine M. , Mearig Adela
Published: August 2011

The self-control theory of psychopathology has contributed to the understanding and treatment of unipolar depression. This paper explores the relationship between self-control skills as measured by the Frequency of Self-reinforcement Questionnaire and other negative emotional states, with a focus on hostility. In Study 1, scores on the Brief Symptom Inventory were inversely related to self-control skills among a sample of 53 college students, suggesting potential generalizability of the theory. In Study 2, self-control skills were inversely related to hostility, anger, and aggression among a sample of 68 college students. The role of self-control skills in the regulation of hostility deserves further investigation.
Self and other Ratings of Canadian and Korean Groups of Mental Health Professionals and Their Clients
Authors: Lee Dong Yul , Park Sung Hee , Uhlemann Max R.
Published: August 2011

Taylor and Brown's concept of positive illusions (1988) was examined in two studies. It was predicted that more mentally healthy professional helpers ( n = 103) than less mentally healthy clients ( n = 89) (a) view themselves in more self-aggrandizing, positive terms and (b) hold a more optimistic view of their future. Two groups of participants from two culturally different settings, i.e., Canada and Korea, completed questionnaires assessing self-description of personality and view of their own futures. Analysis supported predictions for both Canadian and Korean samples. Implications of the study are discussed.
Reliability of Estimates of Return Rates as a Measure of Public Attitudes to Violence
Authors: Bridges F. Stephen , Scheibe Jennifer J. , Meyer Lloyd G.
Published: August 2011

An analysis of letters placed in Mobile, Alabama and Sioux Falls, South Dakota ( ns= 500 and 600) showed return rates among the several addresses were essentially uncorrelated ( rs= −.11 to .08) so interpoll reliability is lacking.
Tainted Love: Content Analysis of Documents Written by Accused Spousal Abusers to Their Victims
Authors: Dukes Richard L. , Borega Karoline N. , Clayton Stephanie L. , Dukes Cynthia K. , Fox Carol , McCombs Jerry , Miller Thomas L. , Rodgers Susan E.
Published: August 2011

This study analyzed themes in documents written by 22 male accused spousal abusers to their female victims. Using Pence's Power and Equity model (1998), 86% of the themes denied equity and expressed power and control in the relation. Of these, 28% minimized or denied the abuse, 24% used the children to manipulate the victim, 16% showed disrespect for the victim, and 14% invoked male privilege (including God's ordination of the abusive relation). These hallmarks of tainted love are rooted in the desire of the accused abuser to maintain power and control over the victim.
Relation of Transliminality and Sensation Seeking
Authors: Thalbourne Michael A. , Cochrane Mary
Published: August 2011

The Revised Transliminality Scale and Zuckerman's Sensation Seeking Scale (Form V) were administered to 83 psychology undergraduates. Weak positive correlations suggested that participants scoring high on the Transliminality Scale tended to be more experience seeking and, overall, more inclined to score sensation seeking.
Manic-Depressiveness, Obsessive-Compulsive Tendencies, and Suicidality in Kuwaiti College Students
Authors: Abdel-Khalek Ahmed , Lester David
Published: August 2011

In a sample of 87 Kuwaiti undergraduates (20 men, 67 women), obsessive-compulsive scores were associated with scores on measures of mania, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Multiple stepwise regression indicated that (a) obsession, suicidal attempts, and suicidal threats were predictors of depression, (b) depression, suicidal attempts, and obsession predicted suicidal thoughts, (c) age, doubting, and sex were predictors of suicidal threats, and (d) suicidal thoughts, depression, and obsession were predictors of suicidal attempts.
Exploratory Studies of Classical Conditioning of the Preoral Cavity in Harnessed Carpenter Ants (Camponotus Pennsylvanicus)
Authors: Sauer Dustin L. , Abramson Charles I. , Lawson Adam L.
Published: August 2011

An attempt was made to classically condition the mouthparts of harnessed worker ants ( Camponotus pennsylvanicus) in anticipation of feeding. Experiments were designed to investigate classical conditioning with one CS, discrimination between two CSs, and pseudoconditioning. Analysis indicated a small acquisition effect that could be accounted for by pseudoconditioning. The preparation can be used to study nonassociative learning and some instrumental conditioning situations.
Posttraumatic Stress and Depressive Symptomatology in a Sample of Battered Women from South Africa
Authors: Bean Jacqueline , Möller André T.
Published: August 2011

This study investigated the incidence of depression, posttraumatic stress symptomatology, anger, and guilt in a sample of 40 battered women in a shelter. Analysis indicated that 63% of the 40 scored moderate to severe on depression, 59% manifested high posttraumatic stress symptoms, while 38.4% and 54.5% reported problems with anger and guilt, respectively. Frequency and severity of physical abuse were not correlated with depressive or posttraumatic stress symptomatology.
Profiles of Learning Disability Subtypes in a Retrospective Sampling of Adolescents' Scores on the Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Educational Battery-Revised
Authors: Hurley Gina Ann , Levinson Edward M.
Published: August 2011

This study was an effort to subtype adolescents' learning disabilities using scores on the Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Educational Battery–Revised. A cluster analysis of 88 cases classified as learning disabled and 75 as nonlearning disabled was conducted to characterize subtypes. Two distinct subtypes emerged for the group while one for the nonlearning disabled group was identified. A multivariate analysis of variance to test for differences in scores among the identified subtypes yielded significant differences, suggesting that these students had two specific types of learning disorders. Cross-validation is essential.
Commitment and Exploration as Mechanisms of Identity Formation
Authors: Meeus W. , Iedema J. , Maassen G. H.
Published: August 2011

We report a two-wave longitudinal study of 1,571 Dutch adolescents concerning the role of commitment and exploration in identity development. We used the Utrecht-Groningen Identity Development Scale to measure commitment and exploration in the domains of relational and societal identity. Our results can be summarized in three points. (1) Commitment and exploration are related processes in the development of identity. Adolescents with strong commitments also frequently explore them, and adolescents with low exploration in general have weak commitments. (2) The longitudinal stability of commitment and exploration has a medium effect size. For relational identity the stability of commitment is greater than that of exploration, but this is not the case for societal identity. The explanation we give for the lack of this difference in stability between commitment and exploration in societal identity is that the formative period for societal identity comes primarily at the end of adolescence. In that connection, we conclude that for present-day Dutch adolescents the formation of relational identity probably precedes that of societal identity. (3) In neither identity domain is commitment predictive of exploration three years later, nor is the reverse the case. We conclude that no long-term developmental sequentiality of commitment and exploration was found, but the results do not rule out the possibility of short-term developmental sequentiality.
Extended Lowered Body Temperature Increases the Effective CS-US Interval in Conditioned Taste Aversion for Adult Rats
Authors: Hinderliter Charles F. , Goodhart Mark , Anderson Matthew J. , Misanin James R.
Published: August 2011

Assuming body temperature correlates with metabolic activities, rate of body temperature recovery was manipulated to assess effects on long-trace conditioning in a conditioned taste-aversion paradigm. Following 10 min. access to a .1% saccharin solution and then 10 min. immersion in 0–0.5° C water, two groups of 16 Wistar-derived, 81–113 day-old, male albino rats received either saline or lithium chloride injections 3 hr. later. These two groups were subdivided on basis of warming rate during the 3-hr. inrerval. Half of the rats recovered at room temperature (20° to 21° C), and half recovered in an incubator maintained at 30° C. Maintaining a lowered body temperature between the conditioned stimulus and unconditioned stimulus allowed an association to be made at 3 hr., an interval that normally does not support conditioning. In contrast, lowering body temperature and then inducing a fast warming rate did not produce evidence of an aversion. It is suggested that maintaining a low body temperature over the interval between the presentation of the conditioned stimulus and unconditioned stimulus slows a metabolic clock that extends the measured interval at which associations can be made using conditioned taste-aversion procedures.
Academic Elite in Accounting: Linkages among Top-Ranked Graduate Programs
Authors: Bair Jeffrey H.
Published: August 2011

The 10 top-ranked graduate programs in accounting, based on a national survey of deans and top administrators, were linked to one another by hiring in the programs one another's graduates. Almost one-half (45.9%) of the faculty members in these 10 programs ( N = 172) had graduated from one of these 10 programs. It is suggested that this linkage helps these programs to maintain and enhance their prestige.
Preliminary Validity Data on the Rasch Manic-Depressiveness Scale
Authors: Thalbourne Michael A. , Houran James
Published: August 2011

The 18-item Manic-Depressiveness Scale was revised via a Rasch ‘top-down purification’ procedure to provide a new 12-item scale with no significant age or sex bias. Application of this scale to previously collected data indicated that patients with manic-depression and schizophrenia receive comparable scores, which are significantly higher than those of a control group of students. Moreover, for a subgroup of patients with manic-depression, scores correlated .55 ( p < 001) with number of manic-depression-relevant medications being taken. These findings lend support to the validity of the Rasch Manic-Depressiveness Scale as a general measure of psychoticism and psychiatric status.
Association of Self-Preoccupation and Self-Reported Duration and Severity of Depressive Episodes
Authors: Sakamoto Shinji , Tomoda Atsuko , Kijima Nobuhiko
Published: August 2011

The present study investigated the relation of self-preoccupation, i.e., the tendency to focus more on the self than on external objects and to maintain this self-focused attention, with the duration and severity of depressive episodes. The hypotheses were that, compared with people low on self-preoccupation, people scoring higher on self-preoccupation may experience more long-lasting depressive episodes and during such episodes they may experience a greater number of depressive symptoms. The present study examined association of self-esteem with the severity or duration of depressive episodes. A total of 1,076 undergraduates (361 men, 700 women, 15 unknown) from nine universities in the Tokyo metropolitan area participated. Of the total, 246 undergraduates (55 men and 191 women) reported that they had experienced a depressive episode continuing four or more days; these data were analyzed and are reported here. Self-preoccupation, self-esteem, and depressive episodes within 12 mo. were measured by a self-report questionnaire. The results tentatively supported the hypotheses. Specifically, rated self-esteem was significantly correlated with the number of depressive symptoms reported in a depressive episode but not with the duration of the episode. However, rated self-preoccupation was correlated with the severity and duration of the depressive episode, although the correlation of self-preoccupation scale scores with the duration of the episode was quite weak and requires further research.
Narcissism and Anger: An Exploration of Underlying Correlates
Authors: Witte Tricia H. , Callahan Kelley L. , Perez-Lopez Mark
Published: August 2011

Many have posited that narcissistic individuals are sensitive to insults and prone to react to such criticism with anger and hostility. Given that such anger is provoked by criticism from others, it was hypothesized that narcissistic traits which relate to perceived position of authority or superiority and an inflated sense of entitlement would make it easier for someone to perceive a remark as threatening and feel angry. It was hypothesized that these aspects of narcissism, as measured by the subscales of the Narcissistic Personality Inventory by Raskin and Hall would correlate differentially with anger, as measured by the Novaco Anger Scale in a sample of undergraduate men. Results partially confirmed the hypothesis and indicated that scores on Entitlement and Authority were positively associated with anger scores; however, superiority was not. The results imply that specific narcissistic traits such as a perceived position of authority and an inflated sense of entitlement, but not necessarily the global diagnosis of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, might be important to investigate as correlates of anger.
Effects of Distractor Load and Temporal Target-Distractor Separation on Numerical Comparison Performance: A Stimulus-Competition Approach
Authors: Paas Fred , Adam Jos J.
Published: August 2011

Effects of distractor load and temporal separation between target and distractor onset were studied in a selective attention task. Two experiments required 128 participants to decide as quickly and accurately as possible which of two spatially separated one-digit numerals was larger. Targets were either preceded or succeeded by distractors with intervals of 0, 33, 83, 133, 183, and 233 msec. In Exp. 1, the target digits could appear with 0, 1, 2, or 3 one-digit distractors numerals, representing four levels of distractor load. In Exp. 2, three asterisks were used as distractors. Interference effects of digit distractors varied with distractor load and temporal separation between target and distractor onsets. Moreover, the effects of distractors preceding the target differed from distractors succeeding the target. The pattern of results provided evidence that distractor-interference effects originated from stimulus competition for selection in visual short-term memory. The results were interpreted in terms of attentional engagement theory of Duncan and Humphreys.
Comparison of a Multidimensional and a Global Measure of Job Insecurity: Predicting Job Attitudes and Work Behaviors
Authors: Reisel William D. , Banai Moshe
Published: August 2011

This paper examined the multidimensional formulation of job insecurity theory described by Greenhalgh and Rosenblatt in 1984. They held that job insecurity is multidimensional and is comprised of two principle threats, (1) threat to the job and (2) threat to job features. To date, there has been no empirical test comparing the predictive value of the separate dimensions of job insecurity on the outcome variables commitment, trust, and job search behavior. A total of 276 managers completed surveys of their job insecurity using both multidimensional and global measures of job insecurity. Regression analysis suggested that the job threat dimension better explains outcome attitudes and behaviors than the job features dimension. Further, contrary to earlier reports, the global measure of job insecurity explained more variance in two out of three outcome variables investigated here. Implications for job insecurity measurement and theory are discussed.
An Evolutionary Perspective on the Interaction of Age and Sex Differences in Short-Term Sexual Strategies
Authors: Mathes Eugene W. , King Christina A. , Miller Jonathan K. , Reed Ruth M.
Published: August 2011

Buss and Schmitt's sexual strategies theory (1993) suggests that short-term mating represents a larger component of men's than women's mating strategies. Assuming this sex difference there is potential for conflict. Symons argued that, because men are more interested in copulation than women, this gives women greater power in establishing conditions (short- vs long-term) under which copulation takes place. The result is that the conflict in sexual strategies is resolved in favor of women's relatively greater interest in long-term sexual strategies. This research tested the hypothesis that across ages men would decrease in desire to employ short-term mating strategies in favor of long-term mating strategies. Specifically, in Study I, men and women in their teens, twenties, and thirties or older were given a measure of desire for a committed relationship. It was predicted that women, regardless of age, would score high on desire for a committed relationship. In contrast, teenage boys would score low on desire for a committed relationship while men in their thirties or older would score as high as the women. In Study II both sexes in their teens, twenties, and thirties or older were given measures of desire for promiscuous sex. It was predicted that the women, regardless of age, would score low on desire for promiscuous sex. In contrast, teenage boys would score high on desire for promiscuous sex while men in their thirties or older would score as low as the women. Support was found for both predictions.
Multiscale Nonlinearity in a Time Series of Weekly Alcohol Intake
Authors: Warren Keith , Hawkins Raymond C.
Published: August 2011

Several authors have discussed the possibility that nonlinear dynamics might clarify substance abuse and chemical dependence. Nonlinear dynamical structure implies the possibility of oscillatory dynamics and high sensitivity to external perturbation. In this single-subject case study we analyzed the alcohol intake of a substance-abusing participant over a period of about five years using nonlinear time series analysis. The intake is measured in ounces per week and ounces per four weeks—approximately one month—yielding time series at two different time scales. We present statistical evidence that the participant's alcohol intake is nonlinear on both weekly and monthly time scales. We then discuss the implications of this multiscale nonlinearity for our understanding of substance abuse.
An Easy-to-Use Word Processing Program for Creating Concept Cards in Psychology Courses: A Method for Teachers
Authors: Abramson Charles I. , Robinson Ellen Gray , Rice Jessica , Burley Jami , Bergman Staci , Delougherty Patricia , Reudy Katherine
Published: August 2011

We describe a template to create concept cards in psychology courses using a word processing program. Students create their own individualized cards, which have the look and feel of flashcards and retain the same self-testing and monitoring features. Students report the template is easy to use, that the cards help them focus their study behavior and employ critical thinking skills in learning class material. We offer several suggestions on how to use the cards.
Interrater Agreement on Employees' Job Performance: Review and Directions
Authors: Valle Matthew , Bozeman Dennis P.
Published: August 2011

This paper reviews the literature on interrater agreement in 360° feedback systems. Multirater performance appraisals, e.g., 360° feedback systems, have long been advocated as important mechanisms for enhancing individual and organizational performance. Our review of the empirical literature indicates that interrater agreement is a highly desired but not often accomplished goal in 360° feedback systems. A review of the assumptions concerning interrater agreement suggests avenues for the evolution of assessment scales used for development and evaluation in organizations.
Cloninger's Temperament and Character Inventory and the Neo Five-Factor Inventory
Authors: Ramanaiah Nerella V. , Rielage Jennifer K. , Cheng Yuqiu
Published: August 2011

A principal axis factor analysis was performed jointly for the seven Temperament and Character Inventory scales and the five NEO Five-Factor Inventory scales, using 95 male and 109 female introductory psychology students. The five factors obtained were similar to the five major personality factors of Neuroticism, Extra-version, Openness, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness, and supported the comprehensiveness of the five-factor model of personality.
Dream Characteristics of Stock Brokers after a Major Market Downturn
Authors: Kroth Jerry , Thompson Lisa , Jackson Judy , Pascali Lesa , Ferreira Marie
Published: August 2011

Dream characteristics of 28 stock brokers during the second worst weekly performance of the Dow Jones Industrial Average in the last 11 yr. were measured using the KJP Dream Inventory. Additional measures of powerlessness and stress were administered as well. Significant correlations appeared between the amount of stress brokers reported during this week and the appearance of recurring nightmares (.59), feelings of being chased (.42), and dreams' pleasantness (–.64). The brokers' clients' investment performance was correlated significantly with changes in the brokers' experience of traumatic dreams (–.57) and dreams of falling (–.43). Further, as the brokers' own personal investments deteriorated overall, dreaming increased (.48), suggesting compensatory mechanisms. Results were discussed in terms of the relationship between onset of acute traumatic states and dreaming.
Sex Differences in Mathematics Performance among African University Students
Authors: Mwamwenda Tuntufye S.
Published: August 2011

This research yielded sex differences for first-year undergraduate students (30 men, 43 women) in a mathematics course. Women scored lower than men, as is consistent with other research.
Features in Families and Family Relationships
Authors: Niederhofer H. , Staffen W.
Published: August 2011

Standardized assessment of family features is not used routinely, although these factors may play an important role in the course of children's psychological disorders. The present study investigated the association among relationships within the families of 115 healthy children ( M = 8.2 yr., SD = 2.13; 70 boys, 45 girls). 115 mothers and fathers were asked to complete a standardized questionnaire assessing the family features (Familienklima-Testsystem by Schneewind, et al.) and another asking for their estimation of emotional relationships of the members of the family (Subjektives Familianbild-Test System by Mattejat). Analysis showed that the parents' ratings indicated significantly more empathic fathers as well as significantly more autonomous mothers in well-organized, conflict-free families. Our results indicate an association between families' organization and measured scores for fathers' empathy and mothers' autonomy. Sufficient intrafamilial communication is associated with roles of the parents within the family. Psychotherapeutic interventions might focus on the families' organization.
Sense of Coherence and Smoking in a Sample of Abused Women
Authors: Luszczynska Aleksandra
Published: August 2011

The Antonovsky thesis (1987) of the relationship between sense of coherence and smoking, a health-related behavior, was investigated in a group of 83 raped and battered women. Analysis indicated that the simple model of “sense of coherence-health-related behavior” relationship (the higher the sense of coherence or its components the healthier behaviors, i.e., lower rates of smoking) cannot be accepted for this sample.
Optimism and Psychosocial Functioning in Caring for Children with Battens and other Neurological Diseases
Authors: Labbé Elise E. , Lopez Irma , Murphy Lisa , O'Brien Carol
Published: August 2011

Psychosocial functioning was compared between 32 caregivers of children with Batten's disease, a terminal, neurodegenerative illness, and with 20 caregivers of children with epilepsy or cerebral palsy. Caregivers' optimism was expected to be associated with better psychosocial functioning, regardless of the children's illness. A multivariate analysis of covariance indicated caregivers of children with Battens disease had significantly ( p < .01) higher depression and anxiety scores on the Symptom Checklist-90 and demands on health and time schedule scores measured by the Caregiver Reaction Assessment than the comparison group. Pearson product-moment correlations were significant and ranged from –.52 to –.48 ( p < .01) for scores on Life Orientation Test optimism and psychosocial functioning as measured by the Family Environment Scale and the SCL-90 for all participants. Findings suggest that caregivers of children with Battens disease experience greater psychological distress than the comparison group and that optimism is positively related to better caregivers' psychosocial functioning regardless of the type of illness.
Students Prefer the Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique
Authors: Epstein Michael L. , Brosvic Gary M.
Published: August 2011

Students responded to a questionnaire after completing classroom examinations using either Scantron forms or the Immediate Feedback Assessment Technique. Factor analysis of students' responses yielded six scales unrelated to students' grades and not differing by sex, course, or instructor. Students evaluated on the latter technique scored significantly higher on scales measuring ease of understanding and ease of completing response requirements, perceived fairness of and preference for an answer-until-correct procedure, and enhanced involvement in the test-taking process.
A Meta-Analytic Review of Treatment of Homosexuality
Authors: Byrd A. Dean , Nicolosi Joseph
Published: August 2011

This paper examined and synthesized studies of treatment of individuals identified as homosexual using meta-analytic technique. A large number of studies (146) evaluating treatment efficacy were identified, most published prior to 1975 and 14 of which met inclusion criteria and provided statistics that could be used in a meta-analysis. These 14 outcome studies were published between 1969 and 1982 and used primarily behavioral interventions. Analysis indicated that treatment for homosexuality was significantly more effective than alternative treatments or control groups for homosexuality (ES = .72), and significant differences were found across pre- to postanalysis (ES = .89). In other words, the average patient receiving treatment was better off than 79% of those in the alternative treatments or as compared to pretreatment scores on the several outcome measures. This meta-analysis of 14 studies provides empirical support for a group of 146 studies which have narratively suggested that treatment for homosexuality is effective. Variables related to treatment efficacy are examined.
Anxiety, Attitudes, and Sex Roles of Male College Students in a “Buddy Program” for Persons with Disabilities
Authors: Gaje Gerardo D. , Saylor Conway , DeRoma Virginia
Published: August 2011

This study measured the anxiety, attitudes toward people with disabilities, and sex roles of a sample of undergraduate men attending a military college in the southeast ( n = 58). Students who had voluntarily participated in the college's “Buddy Program,” in which the students interact on a weekly basis with people with mental, physical, and emotional disabilities, were compared with peers who had had limited or no such contact. Data analysis showed no significant differences in androgyny and attitudes toward people with disabilities between the two groups. However, there was a significant difference in anxiety when interacting with persons with disabilities. Correlational analyses showed that scores indicating lower general anxiety and lower anxiety specific to interacting with persons with disabilities were significantly correlated with attitudes toward persons with disabilities. Implications for recruiting and training male volunteers to work with persons who have disabilities are discussed.
An Empirical Examination among Canadian Teachers of Determinants of the Need for Employees' Assistance Programs
Authors: Cohen Aaron , Schwartz Hanit
Published: August 2011

The goal of this study was to propose and test a model of the determinants of the need for employees' assistance programs. The research model proposed six independent variables related to employees' assistance programs: organizational support, personal coping, negative spillover, occupational commitment, job satisfaction, and tenure. The model proposed that the relationship between the independent variables and the need for employees' assistance programs was not direct but was mediated by work-nonwork conflict and job stress. Questionnaires were mailed to employees of a school district in western Canada, and 300 usable questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 42%. The research model received modest support from the data. Some of the fit indices were not as strong as expected. On the other hand, the conceptual model was supported.
Using the Short Subscales of a Questionnaire to Assess Subcomponents with Low Reliabilities: A Cautionary Note
Authors: Abdel-Khalek Ahmed , Lester David
Published: August 2011

Some authors of personality questionnaires use factor analysis with the aim of constructing subcomponents to assess subsidiary traits within the broad domain tapped by the scale. However, these short subscales suffer from low reliabilities in most cases. The findings of using the Maudsley Obsessional–Compulsive Inventory in American ( n = 73) and Kuwaiti ( n = 87) college students justified the caution against using such short subscales with low reliabilities, inasmuch as 7 out of the 8 alpha reliabilities were less than .69, ranged from .35 to .68, and the median was .56.
Gun Availability and Use of Guns for Murder and Suicide in Canada: A Replication
Authors: Bridges F. Stephen
Published: August 2011

Following Lester, the rate of accidental death from firearms was associated with the percentage of firearms used in suicides and on homicide victims except for persons aged 55+ yr.
Individual Personality Characteristics Related to Suggestibility
Authors: Van Hook Cheryl W. , Steele Connie
Published: August 2011

The current study investigated the relationship between suggestibility of memory, personality characteristics identified by the Millon Index of Personality Traits, and tolerance for ambiguity measured by MacDonald's Ambiguity Tolerance-20. 85 female and 16 male college students were assigned to either an experimental group receiving the suggestive information or a control group. Suggestibility was assessed using Lindberg's suggestibility measure consisting of a short video, followed by a questionnaire used to assess memory, and a second administration one week later. Logistical regression analyses were used to construct a model of the personality characteristics predictive of suggestibility and indicated that susceptibility to suggestive information may differ across personalities for variables such as sensing, innovating, agreeing, and low tolerance of ambiguity.