bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
College Students' Perceptions of Helpful Responses to Bereaved Persons: Effects of Sex of Bereaved Persons and Cause of Death
Authors: Knight Kim H. , Elfenbein Morton H. , Messina-Soares Julie A.
Published: August 2011

The present study examined whether the Sex of the participant, Cause of death (natural causes or suicide) and Sex of the bereaved were related to the perceived helpfulness of the behaviors and comments of support providers. After reading one of four scenarios in which a parent's cause of death and the sex of the grieving child were varied, 198 college students (112 women, 86 men) rated the helpfulness of 34 statements. Significant main effects for sex of the participant and cause of death were both found. While no significant main effect for sex of the bereaved was found, this variable did interact with sex of the participant and with cause of death for the variable of Provision of physical comfort. Significant interactions for sex of the participant X cause of death were found for the variables of Provision of physical comfort and Identification with the situation. The results underscore the value of multiple providers of support during grieving.
Personality Types of Education Majors in South Africa
Authors: Mwamwenda Tuntufye S.
Published: August 2011

Using Tyrer's categories, 44% of 138 women and 81 men Education majors were classified as a Fussy type of personality described as reliable, conscientious, punctual, authority-oriented, and meticulous. Such expected traits of personality were thought befitting a teacher.
Childhood Trauma and Current Anxiety among College Men
Authors: Daugherty Timothy K.
Published: August 2011

In an examination of the prevalence and effects of childhood trauma among college freshmen, as expected, the majority of 515 youth reported at least one traumatic experience in childhood. When fear of death or serious injury accompanies a traumatic event, posttraumatic symptoms may be more likely. As hypothesized, scores on the Reaction Index by Frederick were elevated for subjects who reported trauma with concurrent fear. The combination of trauma and fear was also associated with elevated scores on trait anxiety. While most adolescents do not develop mental illness following single traumatic events, many may be made more vulnerable to the psychogenic effects of future trauma.
Stress among Seamen
Authors: Agterberg G. , Passchier J.
Published: August 2011

The origin and type of stress among seamen were investigated by means of interviews with three harbor physicians in Rotterdam. The main psychological problems encountered were loneliness, homesickness, and “burn-out” syndrome. The problems were primarily caused by long periods away from home, the decreased number of seamen per ship, and by increased automatization. Quantification of the prevalence and severity of these problems is necessary to elucidate preventive and therapeutic measures.
Acculturation as a Determinant of Greek-American Family Values
Authors: Harms Allen C. , Verven Renee
Published: August 2011

A Greek Family Values questionnaire along with the Greek-American Acculturation Scale was administered to 338 Greek-American subjects. Based on responses to the Greek-American Acculturation Scale, subjects were placed into Traditional and Acculturated groups. The 64 items of the Family Values Scale were factor analyzed and a scree analysis produced four interpretable factors. Subjects in both the Traditional and the Acculturated groups tended to agree with items comprising the factors' Traditional Values and Family Honor. The groups tended to differ on most items comprising the Hierarchical Family Values factor and on some items comprising the Parental Control factor. The Acculturated subjects tended to reject the constructs rooted in Greek family values more than the traditional subjects, while women tended to be more rejecting of the values than were men. Evidence presented here also suggests that the Greek-American Acculturation Scale has sufficient validity and reliability to be used by researchers as an accurate measure of Greek-American acculturation.
Age Differences in Death Anxiety among African-American Women
Authors: Thorson James A. , Powell F. C. , Samuel V. T.
Published: August 2011

Samples of 83 younger and 52 older African-American women completed a death anxiety scale; the younger women had significantly higher scores on the total scale, principally on items dealing with pain, loss of bodily integrity, and decomposition.
A Scale for Assessing Sleep Hygiene: Preliminary Data
Authors: Blake Dudley David , Gómez Marcella Hurtado
Published: August 2011

No reliable measure exists for assessing the nature and scope of adherence or nonadherence to effective sleep hygiene practices. This report details the creation and empirical validation of the Sleep Hygiene Self-test. 52 combat veterans, patients in a treatment program for PTSD, completed the 30-item self-test prior to and after their participation in 5 wks. of group therapy for sleep hygiene. Analysis indicated good internal consistency and suitability as a pre-posttest measure.
Brain Fag Symptoms in Rural South African Secondary School Pupils
Authors: Peltzer Karl , Cherian Varghese I. , Cherian Lily
Published: August 2011

The study investigated brain fag symptoms in rural South African Secondary School pupils. The sample included 622 Grade 11, Secondary School pupils in the age range of 17 to 24 years (M age 19.3 yr., SD = 2.6) chosen at random from schools throughout the Northern Province of South Africa. A Cultural Orientation Scale, a Student Stress Scale, a General Self-efficacy Scale and Self-reporting Questionnaire were administered to collect data on socioeconomic status, cultural orientation, stress events, self-efficacy, perceived stress, “neurotic” disorder, and brain fag symptoms. Analysis indicated that 25% of the pupils suffered from the brain fag symptoms. There were positive significant relations for collectivism, socioeconomic status, female birth order, depression score on the Self-reporting Questionnaire, total score but not the anxiety score of the questionnaire with brain fag symptoms. This suggests the brain fag syndrome is basically a depressive disorder and to some extent an anxiety and depressive disorder. The findings are discussed in relation to the nature of brain fag symptoms, precipitating factors, and socioeconomic status.
Fear of Fat and the Dream Process: A Correlational Investigation
Authors: Kroth Jerry , Yoneda Dawn , Hammond Anne
Published: August 2011

Dream characteristics of 27 women from a graduate counseling program were correlated with the Goldfarb Fear of Fat Scale. Significant positive correlations were obtained for scores with recurrent nightmares (.38) and dreaming one is dreaming (.40). An inverse relationship was noted between sexual content of dreams and scores for fear of fat (−.41). Results were discussed in terms of associations among dissociation, body image, and the dream process.
Coping Styles, Anxiety, and Depression in Children
Authors: Muris Peter , Van Brakel Anneke , Meesters Cor
Published: August 2011

Associations among scores on scales of anxiety and depression and a coping styles questionnaire were examined for 71 children. In general, correlations were positive, that is, high scores on anxiety and depression were accompanied by more frequent employment of all types of coping strategies.
Effects of Serial Position on Bender-Gestalt Errors Using Koppitz's Criteria
Authors: Nyfield Bruce , Patalano Frank
Published: August 2011

The validity of the Koppitz Developmental scoring system in identifying organic impairment among functionally impaired adolescents was challenged in the current study. It was proposed that there are two distinct subtypes of errors in this system: those that are valid indicators of organic impairment (Category A) and those which are not but occur as a function of specific emotional factors (Category B). 46 male adolescents with a primary diagnosis of Conduct Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, or Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder were administered the Bender-Gestalt once using the standard order of administration and once in reverse order. It was hypothesized that more errors would be committed on cards presented later than those presented earlier in sequence for Category B but not Category A errors. Analysis provided partial support for this hypothesis.
Early Science Experiences of Northern Sotho-Speaking South African Pupils and Their Attitude towards Science
Authors: Cherian Lily , Cherian V. I.
Published: August 2011

A questionnaire was administered to 793 randomly chosen Standard ten Northern Sotho-speaking pupils whose ages ranged from 17 to 24 years. Pearson product-moment correlation of .7 suggested the association of early science experience with scores on attitudes towards science.
Ranking of Romantic Acts among Cape Verdean and Portuguese Students
Authors: Neto Félix , Barros José
Published: August 2011

College students, 119 men and 116 women, from Cape Verde and Portugal ranked the importance of romantic acts. Comparisons between men and women and between Cape Verdean and Portuguese students showed no significant differences. An interesting finding was that “making love” was ranked the most important romantic act by men but only fifth by women in Portugal (behind cuddling, gazing, love letters, and kissing), whereas it was ranked third for both sexes in Cape Verde.
Vulnerability and Attitudes toward Intrusive Marketing
Authors: Brown Daniel J. , Browne Beverly A.
Published: August 2011

An exploratory study of 138 young adults examined the relationship between personal vulnerability and attitudes toward intrusive direct marketing practices. Analyses indicated that perceived inability to prevent direct marketers from obtaining and using personal information was related to negative attitudes toward such solicitations. Resentment about intrusive marketing was positively related to the perceived need to protect vulnerable populations from such tactics.
Economists' Perceptions of Their Own Professional Research
Authors: Davis William L.
Published: August 2011

A recent survey of 1,000 professional economists indicates they believe their research does afford spillover benefits for various audiences. A majority believe, however, that those benefits are limited and unevenly distributed.
Comparing Optimism and Pessimism of Students in Distance-Learning and on Campus
Authors: Mills Brett D.
Published: August 2011

To assess whether distance-learning students scored more optimistic or less pessimistic than students on campus the Optimism and Pessimism scale was given to 73 distance-learning and 75 graduate students on campus. The mean differences between groups on both subscales were significant on a t test.
Reliability of the Arabic Obsessive-Compulsive Scale in Kuwaiti and American Students
Authors: Abdel-Khalek Ahmed M. , Lester David
Published: August 2011

The Arabic Obsessive-Compulsive Scale was administered to 204 Kuwaiti and 132 American college students. The Spearman-Brown reliabilities were, respectively .77 and .82. while Cronbach alphas were .76 and .82, denoting acceptable values for the two samples.
Scaling Issues in Faculty Evaluations
Authors: Landrum R. Eric
Published: August 2011

148 students were asked to evaluate particular survey questions with scales that varied in number of scale points, type of labeling, and labeling of anchors only vs all scale points. No significant difference was found between variations on 4-and 5-point scales, so these data were collapsed. Analysis indicated that students generated scale-point exemplars significantly better for 4-point scales (96.7%) than for 5-point (87.8%) and 10-point (79.3%) scales. These results are discussed with respect to the administration of student evaluations and the care required in selecting a scale type and interpreting the subsequent outcomes.
Role Models of Urban Minority Students
Authors: Drummond Robert J. , Senterfitt Heather , Fountain Cheryl
Published: August 2011

Role models identified by 1,300 Afro-American students in Grades 1 through 8 showed athletes, mothers, and musical performers were the top three role models, but there were differences by grade and sex.
Intelligence Test Scores from Infancy to Adulthood for a Craniopagus Twin Pair Neurosurgically Separated at 4 Months of Age
Authors: Lansdell Herbert
Published: August 2011

Long-term effects in a neurosurgically separated twin pair were illuminated by standard psychological test scores obtained over a period from 2 to 38 years of age. Interdigitation of the gyri of their right frontal lobes had necessitated separation in two stages at 4 months of age. One twin clearly suffered some brain injury and showed some impairment during the testing at 5 years of age. The scores of both twins rose at the adult testing. The brighter twin has an IQ comparable to that of the mother. The unique data set is a kind of model for long-term assessment of early brain surgery, particularly with craniopagus twins.
Birth Order and Two Marketing-Related Measures of Aggression
Authors: Claxton Reid P.
Published: August 2011

Several bodies of research link birth order and aggression. With a sample of 144 women and 225 men business students, the present study investigated birth order and aggression using two measures from academic marketing. Neither measure detected significant influence of birth order. Implications are discussed regarding marketing and consumers' behavior.
Progressive Catatonia
Authors: Brasić James Robert , Zagzag David , Kowalik S. , Prichep Leslie , John E. Roy , Liang Howard G. , Klutchko Bruce , Cancro Robert , Sheitman Brian Barry , Buchsbaum Monte , Brathwaite Carla
Published: August 2011

We present the case of a young man with a diagnosis of a childhood-onset pervasive developmental disorder who developed a progressive neurologic deterioration with persistent catatonia and right hemiparesis. On his initial evaluation approximately three years after the onset of mutism, he manifested right hemiparesis and catalepsy. Two years later, although catalepsy had subsided, motor function had deteriorated so that he could not use his hands to feed or dress himself. Oral-facialbuccal dyskinesia manifested by blepharospasm and grimacing were present constantly during waking hours. Quantitative electroencephalography demonstrated markedly decreased amplitude, a finding associated with catatonia. Left sural nerve biopsy indicated large axon cylinder degeneration. Left deltoid biopsy demonstrated perimysial fibrosis and type II fiber predominance. Although magnetic resonance imaging of the head without contrast was normal, positron emission tomography indicated hypometabolism of the right cerebral and the right cerebellar hemispheres. The patient continues to deteriorate despite a course of 25 electroconvulsive treatments. He continues to manifest criteria for catatonia including motoric immobility, mutism, and peculiarities of voluntary movement such as prominent grimacing. We suspect an inherited neurodegenerative disorder. Since catatonia is a treatable condition frequently associated with medical and neurological diseases, examination for the features of catatonia must be included in the assessment of patients with progressive brain degeneration. This report is an attempt to clarify the traits of a serious variant of progressive brain degeneration.
Health-Related Correlates of Gambling on the British National Lottery
Authors: Reid S. , Woodford S. J. , Roberts R. , Golding J. F. , Towell A. D.
Published: August 2011

The National Lottery has been estimated as being played by 65% of the adult British population. This study investigated whether higher average weekly spending on the Lottery is associated with various health-related variables. Results from a survey of 482 British adults (mean age = 33.3 yr.), consisting of 107 students and 375 people in employment, indicated that those who spent more on the Lottery had significantly poorer social functioning (Social Functioning scale of the SF-36 Health Survey), higher weekly alcohol and cigarette consumption, and lower frequency of social support (Emotional and Social Interaction scales of the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey). By contrast, higher lottery spending was not associated with poorer general mental health (General Health Questionnaire). Manual workers spent over twice the weekly amount on the Lottery compared to nonmanual workers. Consumption of alcohol and cigarettes was lower than recently published UK norms. Results suggest that higher Lottery spending among the general adult population possibly may be linked specifically to restrictions in social activity. The association of Lottery spending with alcohol and cigarette use among a sample whose consumption was relatively low appears to require explanation within psychological theories of addiction. The over-all pattern of results is discussed in relation both to addiction theory and to the Lottery's widespread appeal and availability.
Executive Functioning and Compliance in HIV Patients
Authors: Mann Lee S. , Westlake Tracy , Wise Thomas N. , Beckman Amy , Beckman Peggy , Brodeur Sherry , Poretz Donald
Published: August 2011

25 adult HIV patients were evaluated in a study of appointments, medication, and compliance with restrictions on sexual activity. The Executive Interview (EXIT) was useful in assessing these patients for cognitive difficulties; compliance with medication and countertransference issues were negatively correlated with EXIT scores.
Sex, Competitiveness, and Intimacy in Same-Sex Friendship in Hong Kong Adolescents
Authors: Cheng Sheung-Tak , Chan Alfred C. M.
Published: August 2011

One of the alleged reasons that males report lower intimacy in same-sex friendships than females is that males tend to be more competitive than females, but this assumption has not been empirically tested. In the current study, 121 Hong Kong adolescents filled out Chinese versions of the Intimate Friendship Scale and the Competitiveness Index. As predicted, females reported having more intimate same-sex relationships than males, and they scored lower on competitiveness than males. However, the correlations between scores on the Competitiveness Index and the Intimate Friendship subscales were small and nonsignificant, suggesting that the sex difference in intimacy was not a function of competitiveness.
Should People with Nocturnal Leg Cramps Drink Tonic Water and Bitter Lemon?
Authors: Brasić James Robert
Published: August 2011

A literature search from 1993 to 1997 using MEDLINE and keywords beverages muscle cramps, and quinine was performed. Three beverages containing quinine were examined in grocery stores. Analysis indicated that leg cramps are a common phenomenon associated with many comorbid disorders especially peripheral vascular and neurologic disorders. Thus, evaluation of a patient's complaining of leg cramps appropriately includes vascular, neurologic, and musculoskeletal examinations. Laboratory investigation of the symptom of leg cramps warrants as a minimum, assessment of thyroid function and determination of platelet counts and serum levels of electrolytes, calcium, and magnesium. A few small studies suggest that quinine is effective in decreasing the frequency of nocturnal leg cramps but not their severity or duration. Quinine consumed in commercial beverages has been reported to cause potentially fatal immunologically mediated hypersensitivity reactions. The concentration of quinine in commercial beverages varies greatly. Although commercial beverages containing quinine generally are labeled “Contains quinine,” they typically lack both nutritional information about the amount of quinine and warnings of the health risks. It appears that 325 milligrams of quinine taken by mouth at bedtime typically relieves nocturnal leg cramps, but lower starting doses are appropriate for senior citizens and individuals with impaired renal function. In general, quinine in any form should be avoided by pregnant women and people with hepatic failure. Quinine consumed for the treatment of leg cramps should be prescribed and monitored by physicians, and people who consume quinine in commercial beverages must be warned of the health risks.
A Regression Model of Subjective Probability
Authors: Dixon Mark R. , Aban Immaculada B. , Hayes Linda J. , Harrington Scott
Published: August 2011

The present study was conducted to examine if the cognitive representation of subjective probability could be better objectified. Subjects were required to play a commercial slot machine and afterwards make an estimation as to the machine's percentage of payback. A linear regression analysts indicated that such a subjective probability estimation is developed by a combination of the number of coins played, the number of coins won, and the number of winning games. These findings suggest that examining such environmental variables may provide an explanation for the development of subjective probabilities.
Association of Heart Rate and Heart-Rate Variability with Scores on the Emotion Profile Index in Patients with Acute Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Čatipović-Veselica Katija , Amidžić Vjekoslav , Durijanček Josip , Kozmar Damir , Šram Miroslav , Glavaš Blanka , Čatipović Branimir
Published: August 2011

We investigated the link between the eight basic emotions named by Plutchik and heart rate, heart-rate variability in the 114 patients, 86 men and 28 women ( M = 53.8 yr., SD = 8.0) with acute coronary heart disease during the initial 24-hr. stay in the coronary care unit and again at hospital discharge. Variability in heart rate was significantly positively associated with scores on Trust (the emotional state acceptance) at hospital admission and discharge in the patients with unstable angina and non-Q-wave infarction, on Aggression in the patients with unstable angina at hospital discharge and at hospital admission in the patients with non-Q-wave infarction. There was inverse relation on Timid (the emotional state fear) and Gregarious (joy) at hospital admission and on Distrust (disgust or rejection), Depressed (sadness), and Dyscontrol (impulsiveness) at hospital discharge in the patients with non-Q-wave infarction. There was no significant association between heart-rate variability and the scores on the Emotion Profile Index in the patients with anterior and posterior myocardial infarction. There was no statistically significant association between heart rate and scores on the Emotion Profile Index in the patients with acute coronary disease at hospital admission and discharge. Our results suggest psychological interventions that enhance emotional states represented by the Trust and Aggression scales and minimize those represented by Depressed, Dyscontrol, Timid, and Distrust scales could have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular function in the patients with unstable angina and non-Q-wave infarction in a hospital setting.
Next Stage of Burnout Research and Applications
Authors: Golembiewski Robert T.
Published: August 2011

This note introduces a holistic estimate of burnout, which can be used to extend bivariate designs such as that of Turnipseed. The “phase model” builds on but also transcends the widely accepted approach to burnout via three separate subdomains. Here, these subdomains generate eight progressively intense phases that covary regularly with differences in a wide range of variables. Also, the phase model permits diagnoses on which ameliorative designs have been based.
Psychology of the Scientist: LXXIX. Visibility of Psychological Research and the Fickleness of Audiences: A Case Study
Authors: Coleman S. R. , Norman Dennis A.
Published: August 2011

An analysis of citations shows that the “visibility” of a productive experimental psychologist (Isidore Gormezano of the University of Iowa) differed substantially across four different “audiences.” These audiences were literature-users whose citations to his work were identified in the following sources: classical-conditioning chapters in psychology-of-learning textbooks; instrumental/operant-conditioning chapters in the same; publications scanned by the Social Science Citation Index; and those scanned by the Science Citation Index. Aspects of this audience-specific visibility are described and then are discussed in regard to the presumptive unitariness of scholarly reputation.
Correcting the Corrections
Authors: Tucker William H.
Published: August 2011

This article is a comment on recent statements that the work of early IQ testers and other scientists has been distorted. It also argues that the Pioneer Fund, a major source of support for studies of racial differences, should release the full record of its grants to support statements made about the fund's purpose and history.
Understanding Cognitive Changes in Intimacy in Long-Term Romantic Relationships
Authors: Schwebel Andrew I. , Moss Barry F. , Fine Mark A.
Published: August 2011

Individuals in Western societies generally look to their romantic partner to meet most of their intimacy needs. However, the level and the nature of the intimacy that partners share varies over the years and over the significant events they experience. Drawing from the literature, this is a review that integrates two approaches to understanding the cognitive changes in intimacy that occur over the course of long-term romantic relationships. It may be helpful for practitioners to teach partners how to identify their relationship-related cognitions and how to translate this greater awareness into the acquisition of new behavioral skills.
Assessing Multiple Facets of Gender Identity: The Gender Identity Questionnaire
Authors: Willemsen Tineke M. , Fischer Agneta H.
Published: August 2011

314 men and 451 women participated in a study to assess the reliability and validity of the multifaceted Gender Identity Questionnaire. Reliability coefficients of the (sub)scales varied between .67 and .80; content, criterion, and construct validity were satisfactory.
Do Students Studying Therapy Have More Problems?
Authors: McClure Robert F.
Published: August 2011

This study examined several questions on whether graduate students studying therapy reported more personal counseling or traumas than other students. The 66 students studying therapy did not report significantly different experiences or attitudes than 52 students in other areas, indicating that they did not seem to have more emotional problems or traumas than others.
Overgeneralization of Validity Generalization in Personality Inventories: Applied Issues in Testing
Authors: Tiffany Donald W. , Tiffany Phyllis G.
Published: August 2011

Generalization of validity asserts that a predictor or criterion generalizes across studies and will continue to show similar parameters when the situation changes. Kurt Lewin explored situation-behavior relationships, and Mischel examined the situation-behavior association showing predictive accuracy between behaviors and contexts. Investigators have critically reproached the assumed generalization of assessment instruments that ignore contextual variance. The validity hypothesis confirmed that using nonsituation-specific scales does not focus on the contextual effects relevant to the criterion measured and consequently has no practical application for focused evaluation in clinical and employment settings. This study describes a model and technique for the measurement of contextual variance in personality dimensions thereby introducing situation-specificity in evaluation for more focused research, treatment, and a more specific job fit in employment settings.
Defining Elder Care
Authors: Lee Jo Ann
Published: August 2011

This study was a beginning effort to clarify the different types of elder care and to understand which type of elder care, i.e., giving time or giving money, might be more closely associated with employed persons' health. Giving time, compared to giving money, to provide care may be weakly associated with emotional health ( r = .05) and physical health ( r = .04) as N = 2,269 (cf. rs of .00, .01); giving money may not be associated with either. Investigations of elder care and its consequences should be very specific when measuring this construct.
Hope and Humor: Using the Hope Scale in Outcome Studies
Authors: Westburg Nancy G.
Published: August 2011

Hope has been identified as a factor measured by the Hope Scale to evaluate effectiveness of treatment in outcome studies. Hope is defined as a goal-oriented cognitive construct comprised of two components, (a) the Pathways component is the individual's sense of planning strategies to reach goals and (b) the Agency component is the individual's determination to implement these goal-focused strategies. Using a Solomon Four-Group design, the relationship of the Hope Scale pretest to the posttest scores was evaluated. This study also explored the use of humor (a source of hope) in elevating total Hope Scale scores, the Agency component scores, and the Pathways component scores. 80 undergraduate students (57 women, 23 men) were ran domly assigned to one of four groups. Analysis indicated that administering the Hope Scale prior to treatment was not significantly associated with posttest scores, and the one-time 15-min. exposure to the humor intervention of reading Far Side comics was not sufficient to elevate scores on the Hope Scale.
Sex Roles and Body Image
Authors: Braitman Keli A. , Ramanaiah Nerella V.
Published: August 2011

The hypothesis chat women scoring as Sex-typed have less favorable body image than women scoring as Androgynous or Cross-sexed was tested using the Personal Attributes Questionnaire of Spence and Helmreich and the Body Esteem Scale of Franzoi and Shields. These were completed by 121 Euro-American female undergraduates in psychology. Analysis indicated that women classified as Sex-typed and Undifferentiated scored significantly lower than women classified as Androgynous and Cross-sexed on Sexual Attractiveness, Weight Concern, and Physical Condition subscales of the Body Esteem Scale, and the two groups had a significantly different mean profile. In addition, the Sex-typed group had a significantly different mean profile based on the three body-image subscales from that of women scoring as Androgynous but not those classed as Cross-sexed. As expected, there were no differences on body image between women classed as Sex-typed and Undifferentiated.
Updating the Debate on One- versus Two-Tailed Tests with the Directional Two-Tailed Test
Authors: Leventhal Les
Published: August 2011

For half a century, methodologists have debated when to use one-and two-tailed tests. But they conducted the debate with scarcely a mention of the little known directional two-tailed test—the only hypothesis test that, properly used, provides for a decision in either direction. In contrast, the traditional two-tailed test assesses nondirectional statistical hypotheses and does not provide for a directional decision. A directional two-tailed test with unequal rejection regions can have virtually the same power as a one-tailed test and, unlike one-tailed tests, it provides for deciding in the unpredicted direction. However, a problem unresolved for one-tailed tests remains for the directional two-tailed test, namely, whether one should create unequal rejection regions just because one has grounds to predict an outcome's direction. Nevertheless, the directional two-tailed test will satisfy research needs much more frequently than will traditional tests and should be adopted as the primary, general-purpose hypothesis test.
Pilot Study on the Relationship between Personality Traits and Skin Conductivity of Specific Surface Points as Measured by Motoyama's Apparatus
Authors: Livesay Jerry R. , Chevalier Gaetan
Published: August 2011

This pilot study used Motoyama's electrodermal response-measuring apparatus to test resting skin conductivity from 28 extremity digit surface coordinates of 33 subjects who also were administered the Eysenck Personality Inventory on an alternatively assigned basis for the dimensions of extraversion and neuroticism. Correlations show significant relationships between neuroticism and extraversion raw scores on two of the 14 bilateral finger surface coordinates.
Comparison of MMPI–A, Marks and Briggs, and MMPI–2 Norms for Juvenile Delinquents
Authors: Gumbiner Jann , Arriaga Tara , Stevens Alicia
Published: August 2011

A study was conducted to compare scores of juvenile delinquents on the new MMPI–A to previous research and to compare 3 sets of norms for adolescents: the MMPI–A, the Marks-Briggs adolescent norms, and the MMPI–2 adult norms. Subjects, 11 boys and 11 girls, were hospitalized adolescents, aged 14 to 17 years, with a history of conduct problems. Analysis of MMPI–A scale scores for boys indicated elevated T-score means on scales F (64), Hs (64). Pd (65), Pa (68), Pt (68), Sc (70), and Ma (66). Mean T scores for girls on the MMPI–A were elevated on scales of F (62), Pd (64), and Sc (62). The finding that the mean T score for scales Pd, Sc, and Ma are elevated for this population is consistent with previous research on juvenile delinquents. In general, the MMPI–A scale elevations were lowest, followed by the Marks-Briggs norms. The MMPI–2 T-score means were the most elevated. One of the limitations of the present investigation is an extremely small sample. Until further research is conducted on larger samples, clinicians concerned about the different norms are encouraged to plot MMPI–A scores on both adolescent and adult norms. It is also recommended that the MMPI–A be included as part of an assessment battery with other objective tests, clinical observation, and patient report.
Self-Schemas in Social Phobia and Panic Disorder
Authors: van Niekerk Jan K. , Möller André T. , Nortje Charl
Published: August 2011

A modified Stroop color-naming task was used to investigate whether social phobia and panic disorder are associated with a hypervigilance to social and physical threat-related cues, respectively, as predicted by Beck's cognitive theory of anxiety disorders. Color-naming latencies of 13 individuals with social phobia and 15 with panic disorder for words representing social and physical threats, respectively, were compared to matched neutral control words. The results did not support the hypothesis that the self-schemas of individuals with panic disorder are hypersensitive to information association with physical threat and that persons with social phobia are overly concerned with social threat.
Does Communicating Nonverbal Disagreement during an Opponent's Speech Affect the Credibility of the Debater in the Background?
Authors: Seiter John S.
Published: August 2011

Compared to televised debates using a single-screen format, those using a split screen presenting both debaters simultaneously show viewers the nonverbal reactions of a debater's opponent. This study examined the effect of such nonverbal reactions on viewers' ratings of the nonverbal communicator's credibility. Students watched one of four versions of a televised debate. One version used a single-screen format, showing only the speaker, while the other three versions used a split-screen format in which the speaker's opponent displayed constant, occasional, or no nonverbal disagreement with the speaker. After watching the videos, students rated the opponent's credibility using the Source Credibility Scale of McCroskey, et al. Analysis indicated that nonverbal disagreement by the nonspeaking debater, especially when constant, lowered his ratings of competence, composure, and sociability, while constant disagreement decreased his ratings of character while increasing his ratings of extroversion. These results and their implications are discussed.
Belief in Life after Death, Religiosity and Fear of Death
Authors: Shadinger Mary , Hinninger Kim , Lester David
Published: August 2011

In a sample of 34 undergraduates, belief in life after death was associated with religiosity but not with the fear of death.
The Blame Attributed to Rape Victims
Authors: Pascale Melissa , Lester David
Published: August 2011

Holding the rape victim more responsible was associated with femininity scores of both 21 male and 53 female college students.
Assessing the Multidimensionality of the 12-Item General Health Questionnaire
Authors: Martin Andrew J.
Published: August 2011

The present study assessed a variety of factor structures identified by various authors as underlying the 12-item General Health Questionnaire and proposed an alternative structure based on an analysis of item content. Using confirmatory factor analytic techniques (LISREL), the data indicated that the presently proposed factor structure, comprising three factors (Self-esteem, Stress, and Successful Coping), fits better than structures previously identified. The findings contribute to understanding of the 12-item General Health Questionnaire by separating Self-esteem and Stress, two dimensions often treated as one factor, and by identifying a third dimension of Successful Coping which is proposed to reflect individuals' perceived efficacy in interacting with the environment.
Factor Structure and Subtest Differences on the Preschool Behavior Questionnaire in a Latino, African-American, Euro-American, and Asian Preschool Population
Authors: Johnson Ronn , Gomez Francisco C. , Sanders-Phillips Kathy
Published: August 2011

This study examined the factor structure of the Preschool Behavior Questionnaire in a sample of African-American, Euro-American, Asian, and Hispanic children. The sample consisted of 304 children (141 boys, 163 girls) 3- and 4-yr.-old and enrolled in Head Start. A principal component analysis with a varimax rotation was conducted and two- and three-factor solutions were extracted. A two-factor solution produced a clear interpretive structure representing Fowler and Park's 1979 Aggressive-Hyperactive-Distractible and Anxious-Fearful factors. Even though a three-factor solution was statistically appropriate, extracting more than two factors yielded dimensions difficult to interpret. Examination of subscale differences among ethnic groups indicated significant group effect for ethnicity. Further examination showed that Euro-American children are rated significantly higher on the Anxious subtest than Latino, African-American, and Asian children, but there were no other subscale differences. Clinical and research implications ate discussed.
Use of Humor at Work: Predictors and Implications
Authors: Decker Wayne H. , Rotondo Denise M.
Published: August 2011

This study examined 359 business school graduates' self-reported sense of humor, the use of humor at work, and perceptions of their supervisors' use of humor. Regression analyses indicated subordinates' reported use of positive (unoffensive) humor was best predicted by Multidimensional Sense of Humor Scale scores, while reported use of negative (sexual and insult) humor was best predicted by their supervisors' use of negative humor. Negative humor may stimulate responses-in-kind more than does positive humor. Alternatively, respondents may have exhibited self-serving bias, blaming others for their use of negative humor but crediting themselves for use of positive humor. The results suggest supervisors' use of humor is associated with subordinates' use of humor and with various attitudes toward the work setting.
Urban Traffic Noise and Self-Reported Health
Authors: Gómez-Jacinto Luis , Moral-Toranzo Félix
Published: August 2011

This paper analyzed urban traffic noise effects on health at two different levels: intense noise and moderate noise. 42 residents of the area responded to questions on perceived noise and psychological and behavior disturbance before and after acoustic insulation was constructed. Analysis of self-reports indicated that perceived noise was associated with lower health. Also these perceived effects on health did not decrease after the acoustic isolation work was finished.
The Junior Temperament and Character Inventory: Preliminary Validation of a Child Self-Report Measure
Authors: Luby Joan L. , Svrakic Dragan M. , McCallum Kimberli , Przybeck Thomas R. , Cloninger C. Robert
Published: August 2011

A preliminary effort to validate the Junior Temperament and Character Inventory with a convenience sample of 322 children ages 9 to 12 years is described.
Correlations between Scores for Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test—III and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—III
Authors: Hodapp Albert F. , Gerken Kathryn C.
Published: August 2011

The Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test–IIIA and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—III were given to 35 elementary students ranging in age from 7 to 11.5 years ( M = 8.6 yr.). Correlations of .56 to .88 (corrected for restriction of range) were found between the standard scores of the two tests. The highest correlation (.88) was between the WISC–III Verbal IQ and the PPVT–III, while the lowest (.56) was between the WISC–III Processing Speed and the PPVT–III. More research is needed on the magnitudes of correlation between these tests. As previously noted in the literature, scores of receptive language tests and cognitive tests are not interchangeable.
Career Decision-Making in College Students: Cross-Cultural Comparisons for Japan and Korea
Authors: Yamashita Toshiyuki , Youn Gahyun , Matsumoto Junpei
Published: August 2011

The purpose of the present study was to examine and compare Japanese (580 men and 494 women) and Korean (577 men and 436 women) college students' awareness and views related to occupation. Surveys regarding vocational motives, college performance and experiences, and perspective on timing of life events were conducted on 1,074 Japanese and 1,013 Korean college students. Analysis shows that, although Japanese and Korean students have similar occupational views, there are also several cross-cultural differences, which can be explained mainly by the conscription system in Korea.
Personality and Negotiation Revisited
Authors: Mintu-Wimsatt Alma , Lozada Hector R.
Published: August 2011

Previous studies on the relationship of individual personality differences to the negotiation process have yielded mixed findings. This inconsistency has made researchers skeptical of such relationships. In this study, personality variables conceptually related to negotiation and bargaining were investigated in an actual business setting using a questionnaire which 53 of 335 exporters returned. The relationship of four individual personality variables with the problem-solving approach in negotiation was evaluated using regression analysis. Results provide inconclusive support for the relationship between the personality variables of conciliatory predisposition, trusting nature, risk propensity, and equity sensitivity with problem-solving approach.
Effects of Humor on Test Anxiety and Performance
Authors: Perlini Arthur H. , Nenonen Roger G. , Lind David L.
Published: August 2011

The present study evaluated the moderating effects of humor in test items on the hypothesized relationship between test anxiety and performance. Subjects initially completed anxiety scales, as well as coping-humor and sense-of-humor scales. 34 women and 26 men received achievement tests under one of three test conditions: (1) nonhumorous, (2) low-humor (15% of test items), or (3) moderate-humor (30% of test items). These test versions were administered under both low, i.e., short quiz, and high, i.e., examination, outcome-value conditions. Humor frequency did not improve the test performance of highly test-anxious subjects under either outcome-value condition. Together with other previous disconfirmatory findings, the present results suggest that the hypothesized moderating role of item humor in the anxiety-performance relationship may be overstated. Ancillary analyses suggest that individual differences in the use of humor as a coping strategy significantly predict examination scores.
Predictive Validity of the Young Offender Level of Service Inventory for Criminal Recidivism of Male and Female Young Offenders
Authors: Ilacqua Giorgio E. , Coulson Grant E. , Lombardo Diana , Nutbrown Verna
Published: August 2011

164 male and female young offenders were given the Young Offender Level of Service Inventory. Scores from this 76-item risk assessment were used to produce a matched sample of 82 female and 82 male young offenders. Sex did not influence the 1-yr. criminal recidivism rate, a result consistent with other findings.
Parents' and Adolescents' Perceptions of a Strong Family
Authors: Greeff Abraham P. , le Roux Marieanna C.
Published: August 2011

Perceptions of family strengths of 40 parents and 20 adolescents were investigated by means of semistructured interviews and Likert-type ratings on commitment, appreciation, spending time together, communication patterns, religious values, and crisis management. Significant differences were found between the perceptions of parents and adolescents for the family characteristics of commitment, time spent together, and crisis management. Although family strength correlated positively with all six identified characteristics, time spent together and appreciation for each other had the highest correlation with family strength. This result supports the notion that sufficient quality time together may be a prerequisite for well-being in family relationships.
Use of Tests and Measures in Marital and Family Research
Authors: Piotrowski Chris
Published: August 2011

Measures from the marital and family literature were rank ordered by frequency of appearance in the PsycINFO database from 1974–1997. The Family Environment Scale, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales were the instruments found to be most used in research.
Locus of Control, Job Satisfaction, and Job Complexity: The Role of Perceived Race Discrimination
Authors: Valentine Sean , Silver Lawrence , Twigg Nicholas
Published: August 2011

Scores on perceptions of racial discrimination, locus of control, job satisfaction, and job complexity in a national sample of 3,054 indicated that perceived racial discrimination is associated with an individual's disposition, job attitude, and perceived job characteristics. Respondents with an external locus of control perceived racial discrimination more frequently than did those with an internal locus of control. Conversely, job satisfaction and job complexity were also associated with perceived discrimination because of race.
Dysphoric Mood and Preference for Immediate versus Delayed Monetary Reinforcement
Authors: Gaynor Scott T. , Thomas Ashley P. , Lawrence P. Scott
Published: August 2011

It has been proposed that depression is the product of deficits in self-management skills: self-monitoring, self-evaluation, and self-reinforcement. While interventions based on this theory have shown promise, some of the basic tenets upon which the theory is based lack empirical support. The present experiment tested one such tenet—the claim that depressed individuals select smaller more immediate reinforcers (an impulsive choice) at the expense of larger more delayed reinforcers (a self-control choice). Currently, empirical support for this notion is sparse and contradictory. This study addressed several methodological problems in earlier studies by creating divergent groups based on Beck Depression Inventory scores, employing a task requiring multiple responses and applying a quantitative model to determine reinforcer value. Analyses indicated no systematic difference between participants in the dysphoric and nondysphoric groups in ability to delay reinforcement. Thus, the current results provide no support for the hypothesis that the 36 dysphoric individuals were unable to delay reinforcement relative to the 21 nondysphoric individuals. Because respondents across the sample as a whole showed a self-control preference, however, the data are consistent with findings in the experimental study of choice responding with adult human subjects. Interpretations in terms of sensitivity and pseudosensitivity to the experimental contingencies are explored.