Browse Our Latest Psychology and Behavioral Science Journals
Psychological journals are peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journals that publish original work in some areas of psychology. The most common publications include cognitive, health and clinical psychology, applied, developmental, biological, social, experimental, and educational psychology, and psychoanalysis.
Behavioral Sciences
Abstract
Background and Aims
There is growing evidence regarding the overlap between trading behaviors and gambling. However, problematic trading behaviors are often assessed using gambling-related instruments, which may not fully capture the nuances of trading. The present study developed and evaluated the psychometric properties of the Trading Disorder Scale (TDS), grounded in in the research criteria proposed by Guglielmo et al. (2016), based on DSM-5 criteria for gambling disorder and internet gaming disorder.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was administered to 403 Spanish amateur traders. The TDS was tested for reliability, validity, and factorial structure. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify patterns of disordered trading.
Results
EFA and CFA supported a one-factor solution for the TDS, which showed strong internal consistency (ω u-cat = 0.938, KR-20 = 0.877). The scale showed good concurrent validity with PGSI (r = 0.559) and good convergent validity with trading-related variables. LCA identified three classes: non-disordered trading (72.2%), at-risk trading (17.6%), and disordered trading (10.2%). Individuals in the disordered trading group scored higher on TDS, traded more frequently, monitored markets more intensively, and exhibited higher rates of problem gambling (PGSI≥5), impulsivity, and substance use. Guglielmo's cut-off point (≥5 criteria) effectively differentiated individuals with disordered trading behaviors from those at-risk and those without disordered trading.
Conclusions
The TDS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing disordered trading among amateur investors. Further research is needed to explore the scale's predictive validity.
A magyar Versenyszorongás Skála (CSAI-2HR) validitás- és reliabilitásvizsgálata, valamint standard értékeinek meghatározása
Validity, reliability and standardization of the Hungarian Competitive Anxiety Scale-2 (CSAI-2HR)
Háttér és célkitűzések: A sportpszichológia egyik leggyakrabban kutatott jelensége a versenyszorongás, amely nemcsak a tudományos kutatásokban, hanem a gyakorlati munkában is gyakran megjelenő pszichológiai probléma. A legnépszerűbb elméleti teória ezen a területen a multidimenzionális szorongás modell, amely a versenyszorongás három komponensét emeli ki: kognitív szorongás, szomatikus szorongás és önbizalom. Korábban már lefordították és adaptálták magyar nyelvre a versenyszorongás mérésére alkalmas Versenyszorongás Skálát (CSAI; Competitive State Anxiety Scale), amelyben már akkor is felhívták a figyelmet a szerzők bizonyos tételek nem megfelelő illeszkedésére. Következésképpen jelen tanulmány célja megvizsgálni a magyar nyelvre adaptált CSAI-2H pszichometriai jellemzőit, tehát érvényességét, megbízhatóságát és standard értékeit. Módszer: Kutatásunkban 407 sportoló vett részt: amatőr és profi, egyéni és csapatsportolók egyaránt megtalálhatók a mintában. Tanulmányunkban a magyar nyelvre adaptált 27 tételes Versenyszorongás Skálát (CSAI-2H) használtuk. A validitás feltárásához megerősítő faktorelemzést alkalmaztunk, a reliabilitást belső konzisztencia és teszt-reteszt elemzésekkel vizsgáltuk, valamint különbségvizsgálatok segítségével elemeztük az esetleges életkori és nemi különbségeket a három skála esetében. Eredmények: Az eredeti 27 tételes CSAI-2H illeszkedési mutatói nem mutatnak megfelelő értékeket a mintánkon, ezért 9 item kizárása mellett döntöttünk. A skálánként 3–3 tétel kizárása után a megerősítő faktorelemzés eredményei elérik a validitáshoz szükséges szintet. A módosított magyar Versenyszorongás Skála belső konzisztenciája és teszt-reteszt eredményei megerősítik a mérőeszköz reliabilitását, továbbá eredményeink alapján meghatározhatók a skálák standard értékei, ahol fontos figyelembe venni a nemek és életkorok közötti különbségeket. Következtetések: Összességében eredményeink alapján kijelenthető, hogy sikerült egy olyan módosított Versenyszorongás Skálát létrehozni, amely megfelelő pszichometriai jellemzőket mutat magyar mintán, tehát egyaránt alkalmas a tudományos kutatásokban és a gyakorlati munkában való felhasználásra.
Abstract
Background and Aims
Recent taxonomies propose that pornography-related problems may arise from problematic pornography use (PPU) and/or moral incongruence (MI). Although religiosity is often viewed as a key factor in MI, religious-based MI has not yet been explicitly examined within these taxonomies, which we address herein.
Methods
Using latent profile analysis of self-report data obtained, we examined distinct and overlapping profiles of PPU and religiosity-based MI in two online samples of male pornography users from the United States (N = 1,356, M age = 36.86, SD = 11.26) and United Kingdom (N = 944, M age = 38.69, SD = 12.26).
Results
Three classes (15–25% of each sample) showed elevated PPU and/or religiosity-based MI: ‘At risk for religiosity-based MI’ (4–8%), ‘At risk for PPU’ (6–10%), and ‘At risk for co-occurring PPU and religiosity-based MI’ (6–8%). Unlike the two groups with elevated PPU, the group with religious-based MI group did not report heightened psychological distress or treatment-seeking tendencies. Respondents were otherwise classified as “not at risk” (40–47%) “low risk” (27–28%), or moderate-severity PPU (14%, Sample 2 only).
Discussion and Conclusions
Although the observed heterogeneity validates a taxonomy of PPU and religiosity-based MI, our findings challenge the assumption of elevated psychological distress and treatment-seeking tendencies among individuals with religiosity-based MI. Future research should further examine the clinical relevance of religiosity-based MI and extend these findings to broader (e.g., clinical, culturally diverse) samples.
Abstract
Introduction
Problematic pornography use (PPU) affects some individuals, causing distress and impaired functioning, and while psychotherapy is considered a first-line intervention, its efficacy remains understudied and unknown to many therapists. This review aimed to comprehensively synthesize the available evidence on psychotherapy for PPU and related problems (i.e., craving).
Methods
For this meta-analytic systematic review, we conducted a systematic literature search, followed by study selection, coding, and data extraction. We then meta-analyzed the resulting studies using a random-effects model with subgroup analyses, meta-regressions, and risk of bias assessments.
Results
20 studies with 2,021 participants met the inclusion criteria. Most studies included cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy interventions. Participants receiving psychotherapy improved significantly more than controls on PPU, frequency/duration of pornography use, and sexual compulsivity, with large effect sizes, that were small for craving. Within-subject effects were also large and stable at follow-up. In addition, single-case designs meta-analyses showed clinically significant reductions in PPU, craving, and frequency/duration. We identified moderate effects for related depression symptoms. Most subgroup and meta-regression analyses adjusting for treatment and sample characteristics were not significant.
Discussion
These results supports the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy in treating PPU and related problems. This has relevant implications for clinical practice (e.g., treating these problems with evidence-based interventions). However, these findings are limited by methodological issues, including the high risk of bias identified. To address these limitations, future research should use more rigorous methods (e.g., randomized controlled trials) and include more diverse groups.
Abstract
Background and aims
Problematic mobile phone use can disrupt social interaction and well-being, potentially influencing cognitive processes. This study investigated whether mobile phone use problem severity is associated with alterations in the topological organization of brain networks.
Methods
Rs-fMRI and DTI data were collected from 81 healthy participants. Graph theory analyses were applied. The Mobile Phone Problem Use Scale-10 (MPPUS-10) was used to assess mobile phone use problem severity. Correlation analyses were conducted between each graph metric and questionnaire scores.
Results
MPPUS-10 scores correlated with global fMRI metrics: higher scores linked to longer shortest path length (reduced integration) and lower global efficiency (reduced information transfer). Conversely, higher MPPUS-10 scores were correlated with a greater clustering coefficient and higher local efficiency, which reflect increased local connectivity. Furthermore, higher MPPUS-10 scores were associated with a higher sigma value from DTI, indicating altered structural network properties. Some specific brain regions also showed significant correlations with MPPUS-10 scores.
Discussion and conclusion
These findings indicate that higher mobile phone use problem severity is associated with decreased integration and increased segregation of functional networks, alongside enhanced small-worldness in structural networks. Reduced integration aligns with addiction theories suggesting digital overload worsens network dysfunction, disrupting brain connectivity. Additionally, higher severity was correlated with altered connectivity in multiple regions, such as the precentral gyrus, supplementary motor area, and postcentral gyrus. These regions are associated with motor control, sensorimotor processing, and memory function. Further research is needed to explore whether these findings reflect shifts in the integration and integrity of brain information-processing modules.
Abstract
Background and aims
Gambling disorder (GD) is a behavioral addiction often co-occurring with various mental health concerns, such as problematic pornography use (PPU). The specific impact of the co-occurrence of GD and PPU on treatment outcome remains underexplored. This study aimed to compare the treatment outcomes of individuals actively receiving treatment for GD (n = 172; 3.49% females), distinguishing between those without PPU (n = 146) and those with co-occurring GD and PPU (n = 26).
Methods
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) was administered in 16 weekly sessions, with assessments of GD severity, impulsivity, emotion regulation, psychopathology, and personality. Dropout, relapses, number of sessions attended, number of relapses, and amount of money spent during relapses were assessed as the main treatment outcomes.
Results
Patients with co-occurring GD and PPU showed greater GD severity, psychopathology, impulsivity, and difficulties in emotional regulation compared to those with GD and without PPU. Moreover, the presence of PPU appeared to be mainly associated with higher likelihood of treatment dropout, and, consequently, fewer CBT sessions attended.
Discussion and Conclusions
It is important to evaluate GD/PPU co-occurrence and strengthen the CBT approach for GD patients with PPU by using supplementary strategies to improve treatment adherence.
Entity and environment relationships in psychedelic experiences resulting from inhalation of N,N-dimethyltryptamine
DMT entities and their environments
Abstract
Aim
Gaining a more detailed understanding of the patterns of relationship of the content of psychedelic experiences can help build a deeper understanding of the nature of consciousness and assist in navigating those extraordinary experiences for therapeutic, spiritual, exploratory and creative purposes. To help achieve this goal, this study examines the patterns of relationship between Entities and Environments found in narratives of complex psychedelic experiences resulting from smoking N,N-dimethyltryptamine.
Methods
The narrative accounts examined in this study were drawn from a variety of online sites and were analyzed in order to examine the patterns of relationships between different types of Entities and Environments encountered during psychedelic experiences resulting from inhalation of N,N-dimethyltryptamine. In this study different types of Entities were identified and charted in relation to the frequency of the different Environments they appeared within.
Results
Some consistency was found in encounters described with Entities and the Environments they appeared within. Various types of Entities were encountered with greater frequency in some Environments and various Environments had unique mixtures of dominant and less common varieties of Entities.
Conclusions
This study helps advance our understanding of the subjective psychedelic experiences resulting from ingestion of DMT. It reveals some of the distinct relationships between Entities and the Environments in which they appeared and provides a framework for developing a predictive model of those relationships and the progression of those psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
Background and Aims
Digital media have become a fundamental aspect of daily life for children and adolescents, influencing cognitive, emotional, and social development. The present work explores the dual nature of digital media use, identifying both positive and negative impacts on well-being and development.
Methods
A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to explore the interplay between digital media use and its effects on child and adolescent well-being. The study employs the Digital Media-use Effects (d-MUsE) model to analyze psychological mechanisms and contextual factors mediating these effects.
Results
Functional media use promotes positive mental, physical, and social outcomes, while dysfunctional use is linked to negative psychological consequences, such as increased anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The proposed d-MUsE model highlights the interplay of psychological mechanisms and contextual factors—both proximal and distal—that mediate the effects of digital media on short- and long-term well-being.
Discussion
The present work endeavours to refine our existing comprehension of the intricate interplay of elements and mechanisms underpinning functional and dysfunctional employment of digital media. Prospective research trajectories, which spotlight factors that hitherto remained at the periphery of investigative scrutiny, find discourse in this synthesis.
Abstract
Background and aims
The Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution (I-PACE) model of behavioral addictions is used relatively often as a scientific framework to specify research hypotheses and to interpret empirical findings in behavioral addiction research. There are, however, controversial interpretations in the literature regarding some specific elements of the model, which may require a more precise definition of specific constructs and processes that are central to the I-PACE model.
Methods
This is neither a comprehensive literature review nor a proposal for a new version of the I-PACE model. We aim to provide a selective, critical evaluation of some interpretations of the model and to include recent developments regarding addiction theories and controversial debates.
Results
The role of gratification and compensation and therefore positive and negative reinforcement are specified. The concepts of cue-reactivity and craving are considered in the context of desire thinking and permissive beliefs. The relationships between impulsive, habitual, and compulsive behaviors in behavioral addictions are discussed. The effects of general self-control and situation-specific executive functions are elaborated. Punishment (in)sensitivity is discussed as a further important process potentially involved in behavioral addictions. These constructs and processes (through their interactions) are considered in the context of changes over time in the course of addictive behaviors.
Conclusion
This viewpoint article aims to provide greater precision and clarity regarding some specific elements of the I-PACE model, which may help stimulate research and theory building and advance clinical care in the behavioral addiction field.
Abstract
Background and aims
Despite the inclusion of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) in the ICD-11, there are many open questions on its neuronal pathogenesis, especially regarding the role of the amygdala. In this study, we aimed to further unravel this issue via a parcellation method based on Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA).
Methods
The RQA pipeline was applied to resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 45 heterosexual males with CSBD and 26 Healthy Controls. Each amygdala was divided into two subdivisions in each group. In the CSBD group, the scores of psychological questionnaires were used as covariates in a second-level seed-to-voxel connectivity analysis with the amygdala as a region of interest.
Results
Obtained parcellations revealed bilateral differences in the sizes of dorsomedial (DM) and ventrolateral (VL) amygdala between groups. Mean values of Shannon's Entropy in the left DM and right VL amygdala correlated negatively with depression level, anxiety, and impulsivity, which might represent a vulnerability to CSBD, but only the right VL was implicated in the severity of CSBD symptoms. Multiple correlations between resting-state functional connectivity of the amygdala subdivisions and CSBD severity were observed, especially between the left VL amygdala and several default mode network nodes.
Discussion and Conclusions
This is the first attempt to explore the role of the amygdala in CSBD by a parcellation method. Our results suggest the importance of the right VL amygdala in understanding the pathogenesis of the severity of CSBD symptoms, which highlights the rising need to explore the amygdala as a complex structure with diverse functions.
Abstract
Behavioral addictions share symptomatological features with substance addiction. From the associative learning perspective, these characteristics include excessive and unregulated self-administration of sensory and other reinforcers, potentially reflecting the transition from goal-directed actions (action → outcome associations) to habitual responses (stimulus → response associations). In laboratory mice, light stimulation at an optimal intensity possesses some incentive properties and a brief light pulse represents an effective reinforcer for persistent operant responding. The operant light self-administration paradigm with clearly defined sensory reinforcers and reinforcement schedules may be utilized to elucidate the general mechanisms of excessive habitual responding to seek non-drug and non-feeding cues in mice. This cross-species approach can shed light on some maladaptive habits that have emerged recently in our modern society, including digital technology-based disorders.
Abstract
Background and aims
Problematic smartphone use are prevalent worldwide, particularly among adolescents, and it is strongly linked with aggressive behavior. However, the understanding of how PSU may contribute to the emergence of aggressive behavior remains incomplete.
Methods
The purpose of this study was to examine the bidirectional links between aggressive behavior and PSU among adolescents, utilizing data from a two-wave longitudinal study (the time interval is 15 months) conducted among 2,650 students in middle and high school.
Results
The cross-lagged models revealed that: (1) PSU at Time 1 (December 12) positively predicted aggressive behavior at Time 2 (March 2023, 15 months apart) among older adolescents (15–19 years), but this was not the case for younger adolescents (11–14 years); (2) aggressive behavior at Time 1 positively predicted PSU at Time 2 for both younger and older adolescents. Our findings have identified PSU as a risk factor for aggressive behavior among older adolescents, with those perceiving higher PSU may be particularly vulnerable to developing aggressive behavior over time.
Discussion and Conclusions
These results not only enhance our understanding of the links between PSU and aggressive behavior but also provide significant theoretical perspectives for developing future prevention strategies and intervention measures to tackle aggressive behavior among adolescents.
Abstract
Background and aims
Despite a previously reported connection between compulsive sexual behaviors (CSB), such as problematic pornography use, and heightened cue-reactivity, empirical evidence of the alteration of processes responsible for increased salience attribution to erotic cues remains sparse. Drawing on similarities with addiction models, this study explores the neuronal mechanisms of CSB through the use of appetitive conditioning and extinction with erotic and monetary rewards.
Methods
Thirty-two heterosexual males struggling with CSB (age: 28.9 ± 7.1), and 31 healthy matched participants (age: 27.8 ± 5.6) underwent active appetitive conditioning and extinction tasks in fMRI. The effects of conditioning and extinction towards cues of erotic and monetary rewards were measured via self-assessment (valence and arousal rating towards cues), behavior (reaction times), and brain reactivity.
Results
In conditioning, subjective ratings increased, and reaction times were faster for both erotic and monetary cues among participants with CSB, along with altered activity in ventral striatum (vStr), dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), and anterior orbitofrontal cortex (aOFC). In extinction, self-assessment ratings remained elevated in the CSB group for both cues in a non-reward-specific fashion, accompanied by altered activity of dACC and vStr.
Discussion and conclusions
These findings suggest enhanced incentive salience attribution to conditioned cues, highlighting a generalized motivational and value-related transfer from rewards to the cues in participants with CSB. Additionally, despite the absence of rewards, the persistence of arousal and valence towards cues underscored the maladaptive extinction process. These insights advance the understanding of CSB's neurobiological underpinnings and its relation to addiction frameworks.
Abstract
Background and Aims
The digitalization of gambling provides unprecedented opportunities for early identification of problem gambling, a well-recognized public health issue. This study aimed to advance current practices by employing advanced machine learning techniques to predict problem gambling behaviors and assess the temporal stability of these predictions.
Methods
We analyzed player account data from a major Swedish online gambling provider, covering a 4.5-year period. Feature engineering was applied to capture gambling behavior dynamics. We trained machine learning models, XGBoost, to classify players into low-risk and higher-risk categories. Temporal stability was evaluated by progressively truncating the training dataset at various time points (30, 60, and 90 days) and assessing model performance across truncations.
Results
The models demonstrated considerable predictive accuracy and temporal stability. Key features such as loss-chasing behavior and net balance trend consistently contributed to accurate predictions across all truncation periods. The model's performance evaluated on a separate holdout set, measured by metrics like F1 score and ROC AUC, remained robust, with no significant decline observed even with reduced data, supporting the feasibility of early and reliable detection.
Discussion and Conclusions
These findings indicate that machine learning can reliably predict problem gambling behaviors over time, offering a scalable alternative to traditional methods. Temporal stability highlights their potential for real-time application in gambling operators' Duty of Care. Consequently, advanced techniques could strengthen early identification and intervention strategies, potentially improving public health outcomes by preventing the escalation of harmful behaviors.
Abstract
Background
While the empirical data on the role of environmental factors in work addiction (WA) is steadily growing, little is known about the extent to which the workaholic environment contributes to the increased risk of WA and what are the relative contributions of direct supervisor's and colleagues' WA to one's own workaholism.
Methods
The Perceived Coworkers' Work Addiction Scale (PCWAS) assessing perceived direct supervisor's and colleagues' WA, defined as an addictive disorder, was administered alongside measures of WA, job stress, and job satisfaction in a total sample of 33,222 employees from 85 cultures across six continents (63.2% females, mean age 39.35 years).
Results
The PCWAS showed scalar measurement invariance between genders and job positions, and approximate measurement invariance across cultures. In most cultures, the perceived supervisor's and colleagues' WA correlated with one's own WA, job stress (positively), and job satisfaction (negatively). In structural equation models, perceived colleagues' rather than supervisor's WA was more strongly related to one's own WA and job stress in most cultures.
Discussion and conclusions
These findings suggest that the PCWAS is valid and reliable for assessing the workaholic environment, and it can be used globally to provide comparable and generalizable results. The present study is the first to show that WA may considerably depend on environmental factors in different cultures worldwide and that perceived colleagues' WA may play a particularly important role in this context. These findings may guide organizational interventions to decrease WA risks among employees and improve their well-being and productivity.
Abstract
In this article, we provide a genealogy of the concept of integration and a discussion of the multiplicity of practices it encompasses in the field of psychedelic medicine. Reflecting on our observations of psychedelic integration practices, we make three key observations. The first is that integration services tend to focus on the individual, at the expense of considering how societal factors lead to dis-ease. The second observation is that integration is increasingly rendered in formulaic checklists, at the expense of remaining an open-ended praxis, which runs the risk of emptying it of their potential to bring context-dependent change for people. Our third observation is that integration services are increasingly rendered as marketable services. Understanding how we got here and what is at stake requires a genealogical analysis of integration within the field of psychedelics. This critical review of psychedelic integration discusses the divergence between psychedelic practices in traditional or Indigenous contexts and contemporary psychedelic practices in Western industrialized, capitalist societies. We suggest that this divergence has to do with the degree to which psychedelic experiences are contiguous with everyday sociality and the cosmology that dominates in a given social context. Offering a viewpoint grounded in the Global South, our perspective aims to denaturalize some of the assumptions that prevail in research settings where highly individualized approaches and technological solutionism prevail, such as the USA or Western Europe. We highlighted the dangers of integration becoming too formulaic, commodified, and disconnected from the therapeutic or ceremonial contexts in which psychedelic experiences were carefully curated for millennia. Furthermore, we underscored the importance of critically examining the assumptions underlying the infrastructures of digital psychedelia and app-based integration practices.
Abstract
Background and aims
Despite the last decade's significant development in the scientific study of work addiction/workaholism, this area of research is still facing a fundamental challenge, namely the need for a valid and reliable measurement tool that shows cross-cultural invariance and, as such, allows for worldwide studies on this phenomenon.
Methods
An initial 16-item questionnaire, developed within an addiction framework, was administered alongside job stress, job satisfaction, and self-esteem measures in a total sample of 31,352 employees from six continents and 85 cultures (63.5% females, mean age of 39.24 years).
Results
Based on theoretical premises and psychometric testing, the International Work Addiction Scale (IWAS) was developed as a short measure representing essential features of work addiction. The seven-item version (IWAS-7), covering all seven components of work addiction, showed partial scalar invariance across 81 cultures, while the five-item version (IWAS-5) showed it across all 85 cultures. Higher levels of work addiction on both versions were associated with higher job stress, lower job satisfaction, and lower self-esteem across cultures. The optimal cut-offs for the IWAS-7 (24 points) and IWAS-5 (18 points) were established with an overall accuracy of 96% for both versions.
Discussion and conclusions
The IWAS is a valid, reliable, and short screening scale that can be used in different cultures and languages, providing comparative and generalizable results. The scale can be used globally in clinical and organizational settings, with the IWAS-5 being recommended for most practical and clinical situations. This is the first study to provide data supporting the hypothesis that work addiction is a universal phenomenon worldwide.
Abstract
This commentary explores public priorities in psychedelic research, drawing insights from extensive conversations between the author and the general public during lectures and seminars across the UK. Two primary themes emerged from this exchange: areas where further research is desired and concerns about the current direction of psychedelic research. Key topics of interest include psychedelics' effects on neurodivergent individuals, ageing, pain management, cognitive enhancement, psychosis, and interactions with the female menstrual cycle. Areas of concern pertain to the involvement of pharmaceutical companies in psychedelics research, the potential medicalisation of psychedelics, and the growing interest in psychedelic tourism. The commentary emphasises the need for a constant dialogue between scientists and the public, critical engagement with research and the integration of diverse perspectives in order to foster a broader understanding of psychedelics and their potential applications in this rapidly evolving field.
A szervezeti adaptabilitás és az otthoni munkavégzés lehetőségének hatása az észlelt stressz, magányosság és általános jóllét kapcsán
The impact of organisational adaptability and the ability to work from home on perceived stress, loneliness and general well-being
Háttér és célkitűzések: A 21. századi szervezeteket a folyamatos és rendkívül gyors változás jellemzi. A világjárvány idején a szervezeti rugalmasság kérdésköre még nagyobb prioritást élvezett, amely a szervezet működésének kulcskritériumát is jelentette egyben. A rugalmasság nemcsak a munkavégzés módjára (online, távmunka, munkaidő-kedvezmények), hanem a szervezeti tanulásra és a változásokra való fogékonyságra is kiterjed. Mindezzel szorosan összefonódva a munkavállalói egészségvédelem és a mentális jóllét is előtérbe került. A korábbi szakirodalmi eredményeket alapul véve jelen kutatás célja volt, hogy feltárjuk a szervezeti rugalmasság különböző aspektusait a munkavállalói jóllét szempontjából. A változásra és tanulásra fókuszáló szervezeti kultúrát, valamint egy rugalmas szervezeti intézkedést, a távoli munkavégzés hatásait vizsgáltuk meg részletesebben. Módszer: Kutatásunk 203 fő magyar munkavállaló bevonásával zajlott, amely során a pandémia után tapasztalt megváltozott munkavégzési sajátosságokat és a munkavállalói jóllét aspektusait vizsgáltuk. Az adatgyűjtéshez a Denison Organizational Culture Profile (OCP) adaptabilitás skáláját, valamint a munkavállalói észlelt stressz kérdőívet (PSS), a WHO általános jóllét kérdőívét (WHO10) és az UCLA Loneliness Scale (Magányosság Skála) 8 itemes verzióját használtuk. Emellett rákérdeztünk arra, hogy a kitöltő az elmúlt két hónap során milyen gyakran végezte a munkáját otthonából. Eredmények: Az adatelemzés során Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) eljárást alkalmaztunk egy elméleti modell felállítása céljából, amely a szervezeti adaptabilitás és az otthoni munkavégzés hatásainak mechanizmusait tárja fel a munkavállalói jóllét látens változói kapcsán. Ezen belül egy multigroup elemzést is végeztünk a nemi különbségek feltárására. Következtetések: A SEM elemzés során erős modellilleszkedést találtunk, illetve kimutatható volt, hogy a szervezeti adaptabilitás pozitívan hat a munkavállalói jóllétre, míg az otthoni munkavégzésnek nincsenek szignifikáns hatásai. A multigroup elemzés során feltárult az otthoni munkavégzés nőkre és férfiakra nézve eltérő hatása. Míg a nők esetében nem találtunk szignifikáns hatást (nem szignifikáns fordított korrelációt igen), addig a férfiak esetében egy közepes erősségű pozitív kapcsolat rajzolódott ki a munkavállalói jóllét kapcsán, amely eredmény illeszkedik a korábbi nemzetközi kutatások eredményeihez is.
Abstract
Aim
This study aimed to examine the influence of state boredom on craving for smartphone use, as well as the potential moderating effect of individual differences - fear of missing out (FoMO).
Methods
A total of 112 undergraduate students were randomly assigned to either low or high state boredom groups. Participants completed a reference copying task along with assessments for state boredom, craving for smartphone use, and FoMO.
Results
The results indicated that: (1) Participants in the high state boredom group reported higher levels of background craving for smartphone use; (2) The FoMO moderated the association between state boredom and background craving for smartphone use significantly, which was stronger for individuals with a higher level of FoMO.
Discussion
This study broadened the research by focusing on the influences of boredom and the mechanism of smartphone use craving and problematic phone use, which could provide guidance for the intervention of craving, and healthy smartphone use.
Abstract
Background
Emotion regulation strategies are central in models of gambling disorder. However, findings regarding the association between gambling-related problems and these strategies are mixed and mostly based on case-control studies with self-report measures.
Methods
This study examines associations of gambling problems' severity (SOGS) and gambling-related craving with strategic emotion-regulation (the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire [ERQ], an experimental reappraisal task, and task-related vagally-mediated heart rate variability [vmHRV]) in community gamblers. Bayesian correlations between all constructs of interest were computed; Bayesian ANOVAs were used to examine the course of vmHRV over time-on-task, and its sensitivity to predictive constructs; and Bayesian regressions to investigate whether gambling problems' severity predicted the use of ERQ strategies, and to determine if the effect of emotion regulation demands on vmHRV could be predicted from the SOGS score.
Results
Correlations did not show reliable relationships of SOGS scores and craving with intentional emotion regulation. The dispositional use of reappraisal and suppression (ERQ) did not predict differences in gambling problems' severity or craving. SOGS and craving scores predicted neither performance in the cognitive reappraisal task, nor task-related vmHRV. However, SOGS and craving correlated with urgency, and suppression and positive urgency predicted a stronger impact of time-on-task on vmHRV, independently of severity.
Discussion
These results show no reliable evidence of differences in emotion regulation strategies or their vmHRV correlates traceable to gambling problems' severity or craving, and thus challenge the widespread role of intentional emotion regulation in gambling-related problems. Implications regarding the prevalence of neurocognitive alterations in non-clinical gamblers are discussed.
Az Ötfaktoros Jelentudatosság Kérdőív rövidített, 15 tételes verziójának pszichometriai elemzése magyar mintán
Hungarian adaptation of the 15-item Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ-15)
Elméleti háttér: A mindfulness (tudatos jelenlét, jelentudatosság) olyan kognitív és érzelmi szempontból összetett jelenség, amely magában foglalja a jelen pillanatra irányuló fenntartott figyelmet, vala-mint a tapasztalatok felé mutatott nyitott, kíváncsi és elfogadó attitűdöt. A mindfulness alapú terápiák rámutatnak arra, hogy a tudatos jelenlét nemcsak egy önmagán belül zajló folyamatot jelöl, hanem egyfajta képességként is definiálható, ennek értelmében pedig gyakorlással fejleszthető. Az egyik leggyakrabban alkalmazott mindfulness képességet vizsgáló mérőeszköz az Ötfaktoros Jelentudatosság Kérdőív (Five Factor Mindfulness Questionnaire, FFMQ). Az eredeti, 39 tételes FFMQ öt dimenzió – Megfigyelés, Leírás, Tudatos cselekvés, Ítélkezésmentesség, Reakciómentesség – mentén ragadja meg a mindfulness jelenségét. Célkitűzés: A kérdőívnek rövidített változatai is születtek, amelyek közül jelen vizsgálat a legrövidebb, az eredeti kérdőív szerzők által leírt 15 tételes változatának (FFMQ-15) adaptációját tűzte ki célul hazai mintán. Módszerek: Az FFMQ-15 magyar nyelvű változatát 117 résztvevő töltötte ki egy kérdőívcsomag részeként. A kérdőívcsomag az FFMQ-15 mellett demográfiai kérdéseket, illetve a konvergens és diszkriminációs validitás mérésére alkalmazott kérdőíveket (Mentális Egészség Kontinuum Skála [MHC-SF], Depresszió, Szorongás és Stressz Skála [DASS-21], Big Five Kérdőív [BFI], Fehér Medve Gondolatelnyomási Kérdőív [WBSI], Érzelemszabályozási Nehézségek Skála [DERS], Kognitív Érzelem-Reguláció Kérdőív [CERQ], Torontói Alexitímia Skála [TAS-20]) tartalmazott. Eredmények: Az FFMQ-15 hierarchikus faktorstruktúrája (5 elsőrendű és 1 másodrendű faktor) konfirmatív faktorelemzéssel megerősítésre került (CFI = 0,976; TLI = 0,967; RMSEA = 0,047; SRMR = 0,084). Az FFMQ-15 konvergens és diszkriminációs érvényességét vizsgálva megállapítható, hogy a tudatos jelenlét képessége a várt irányú kapcsolatot mutatta a mentális egészség (MHC-SF), a depressziós, szorongásos és stressz tünetek (DASS-21), a tapasztalatokra való nyitottság és neuroticizmus (BFI), gondolatelnyomási tendenciák (WBSI) és érzelmi működés (DERS, TAS-20, CERQ) mutatóival. Követ- keztetések: Összességében kijelenthető, hogy az Ötfaktoros Jelentudatosság Kérdőív rövidített 15 tételes verziója alkalmas a mindfulness-képesség egyéni különbségeinek megragadására hazai mintán is.
Abstract
Background
Most problematic pornography use (PPU) research relies on cross-sectional designs. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) studies are needed to better understand PPU correlates. We evaluated how daily PPU and pornography use ratings were correlated with baseline PPU, pornography use frequency (over 12-months), alcohol problems, and depression in a community sample of men living in the United States.
Design
Participants (n = 113, mean age 37.95 [11.09]) completed a baseline survey battery followed by daily EMAs over 14 days (k = 1,240 observations). Data were gathered on the Prolific panel.
Findings
Screener thresholds suggested 32%, 25%, and 24% of sample were at-risk for PPU, depression, and alcohol use problems respectively. Baseline estimates suggested PPU to be weakly correlated with depression (r = 0.29) and past 12-month pornography use (r = 0.27), but not alcohol problems (r = 0.08). Multilevel modeling indicated aggregated pornography use amount as a robust correlate of aggregated pornography control problems over the observation period. Baseline PPU and pornography use indicators were significant predictors of aggregated control problems and pornography use amount respectively. Baseline depression and alcohol problem predictors were non-significant. Past 12-month pornography use frequency and depression scores exacerbated the relationships between daily pornography use amount and aggregated control problems. Sensitivity analyses specific to only those who used pornography across all observations were consistent with full model results (though effect strength changed).
Conclusions
With exception to the PPU and pornography use indicators, cross-sectional baseline estimates (e.g., alcohol problems and depression) were generally not predictive of aggregated pornography use and control problems in the following 14 days.
Kovács József: A modern orvosi etika alapjai – Bevezetés a bioetikába
Fundamentals of modern medical ethics. An introduction to bioethics
A policisztás ovárium szindrómával élő nők szexuális elégedettsége
Sexual satisfaction of women living with polycystic ovary syndrome
A policisztás ovárium szindróma (PCOS) egy genetikai prediszpozícióval rendelkező, multiszisztémás endokrin betegség, amely a nők közel egynegyedét érintheti. A tünetegyüttes természetéből adódóan a PCOS-sel élő nők számos pszichés szövődménnyel szembesülhetnek, ami a betegek közel háromnegyedénél okoz pszichológiai problémákat. A közlemény célja, hogy bemutassa a PCOS-sel élő nők pszichés nehézségeit, kiemelten elemezve a kevésbé kutatott szexuális elégedettséget. Bronfenbrenner ökológiai elméletét alapul véve a szexuális elégedettségre ható tényezőket a mikro-, a mezo-, az exo-, és a makroszintek mentén tárjuk fel. A PCOS-el élő nők a szexuális elégedettség terén mind a négy szinten veszélyeztetettek lehetnek: a mikrorendszer szintjén korlátozottabban élhetik meg a szexuális vonzerejüket; a mezorendszer szintjén csökkenhet a szexuális funkcionalitásuk; az exo- és makrorendszerek szintjén pedig a PCOS kezelése és a társadalmi és vallási elvárások miatt több stresszt élhetnek meg, mint más nők. Kiemelten fontos ezért a pszichológiai szövődmények megelőzése, szűrése és terápiája. A szexuális elégedettség terén hatásosnak bizonyult a szexuális funkcionalitás javításában a metforminkezelés és a testmozgás szorgalmazása; a szexuális attraktivitás megélése terén pedig jó eredmények várhatóak a pozitív testképet támogató egyéni, valamint a párok kommunikációját ja vító párterápiáktól. További kutatás javasolt, hogy jobban feltárhassuk a PCOS-ben érintett nők szexuális elégedettségét, és az ökológiai rendszer négy szintjének szexuális elégedettségre, valamint egymásra gyakorolt hatását.
Szakmai beszámoló az International College of Psychosomatic Medicine (ICPM) 27. világkongresszusáról
TÜBINGEN, 2024. SZEPTEMBER 19–21.
Szociodemográfiai változók és a szubjektív jóllét kapcsolata Magyarországon
The relationship of sociodemographic variables with subjective well-being in Hungary
Elméleti háttér: A köznapi értelemben vett boldogság pszichológiai konstruktuma a szubjektív jóllét. Ezzel rokon fogalom a pszichológiai jóllét, a globális jóllét, a virágzás és a pozitivitás. Mindezek mérésére már számos tesztet szerkesztettek. Cél: A szubjektív jóllétet mérő különböző mutatók lényegét egyetlen közös mutató, az ún. esszenciális jóllét segítségével mérve megvizsgálni, hogy ennek nagy-ságszintjét milyen módon és milyen mértékben határozzák meg a jelenkori Magyarországon olyan alapvető szociodemográfiai változók, mint a nem, az életkor, az iskolázottság, a foglalkozás, a családi állapot, a gyerekszám, a szubjektív anyagi helyzet, valamint a vizsgált személy településének (lakóhelyének) nagysága. Módszer: Négy, 2019 és 2022 között évente megismételt, online módon lefolytatott kérdőíves keresztmetszeti vizsgálat mindegyikében a személyek (n = 11686) kitöltöttek egy 73 tételes kérdőívet, amelyben demográfiai, valamint testi és lelki egészségre vonatkozó kérdések mellett szerepeltek a következő önkitöltős kérdőívek tételei: Globális Jóllét Kérdőív (GJK), Rövidített Pszichológiai Immunitás Kérdőív (Rövidített PIK), Diener-féle Virágzás Skála (DVS), Huppert-féle Virágzás Kérdőív (HVK), Caprara-féle Pozitivitás Skála (CPS). A GJK, DVS, CPS tesztek összpontszáma, valamint a jóllét mércéjének tekinthető négy egyedi kérdés (általános lelkiállapot, aktuális boldogság szintje, pozitív élmények aránya, a HVK teszt összboldogságra vonatkozó 10. tétele) bevonásával főkomponens-analízist (FKA-t) végeztünk, hogy megragadjuk a szubjektív jóllét különböző mértékeinek közös lényegét. Ezután az FKA-nak ezt a közös lényeget képviselő első főkomponensét (esszenciális jóllét) összefüggésbe hoztuk a fentebb felsorolt demográfiai változókkal. Ennek során korreláció- és regresszióelemzéseket, valamint varianciaanalíziseket végeztünk. Eredmények: A szociodemográfiai változók együtt az esszenciális jóllét varianciájának kb. 18%-át magyarázzák. Ezen belül a jóllét egyértelmű pozitív irányú kapcsolatot mutat a szubjektív anyagi helyzettel, az iskolázottsággal és a gyerekszámmal. A jóllét a nőknél rendszerint magasabb, mint a férfiaknál. Ez a nemi hatás 25 és 50 éves kor között a legmarkánsabb, és eltűnik a nyugdíjas korban, 65 év felett. A jóllét szintje az egyedülállók között az életkorral 25 év felett nő, míg a kapcsolatban élőknél nincs egyértelmű életkori összefüggés. Családi állapot szerint legboldogabbak a házas kapcsolatban élők, a jóllét legalacsonyabb szintjén pedig az egyedülállók vannak. Foglalkozás szerint a jóllét magas szintje jellemzi a vállalkozókat és a közalkalmazottakat, valamint a köztisztviselőket. A jóllét legalacsonyabb szintjén a munkanélküliek és a hajléktalanok vannak, és viszonylag alacsony szint jellemzi a tanulókat is. A magukat legszegényebbnek vallók között a nyugdíjasok a legboldogabbak. A település lakosságszám szerint definiált típusa nincs szakmailag értelmezhető szintű kapcsolatban a jólléttel. Következtetés: Egyes szociodemográfiai változók szakmailag jelentős kapcsolatban vannak a szubjektív jólléttel.
Abstract
Background and aims
The active ingredients of psychological gambling treatments remain unclear, with research identifying effective change techniques only emerging. This study aimed to identify clinical consensus statements on effective change techniques for gambling treatment according to Australian and New Zealand gambling clinicians. Identification of promising change techniques can inform the development of optimised interventions.
Methods
A panel of 68 clinicians participated in a two-round Modified Delphi study. Panellists rated the effectiveness of 19 change techniques for reducing gambling severity, expenditure and frequency. Consensus criteria for effectiveness and ineffectiveness were defined a priori. Panellists were also asked to provide culturally relevant considerations and adaptations when using change techniques with culturally diverse, linguistically diverse and Indigenous populations. Responses were analysed through a thematic analysis.
Results
Clinical consensus was reached on the effectiveness of 10 change techniques: relapse prevention, goal setting, motivational enhancement, information provision, cognitive restructuring, financial regulation, information gathering, plan social support, problem solving, and decisional balance. There was no consensus that any technique was ineffective, however social comparison received the lowest ratings. Panellists also identified four key themes of considerations when working with culturally diverse, linguistically diverse and Indigenous populations.
Discussion and Conclusions
This is the first Delphi study to explore clinician perspectives on change technique effectiveness. Ten change techniques were identified as likely to be effective. Findings can inform the selection of promising change techniques for inclusion in gambling treatment programs and expedite optimised intervention development by focussing research efforts on change techniques most likely to be effective.
Abstract
Objective
The association between depression and gambling disorder (GD) has been well-researched. However, prior research lacks consensus on the temporal association between depression and GD. Furthermore, the extant literature has not explored the nature of the aforementioned relationship using objective research methodology data and large-scale samples. The present study addressed these research gaps by investigating the longitudinal relationship between antidepressant prescriptions and the likelihood of developing GD using registry data over a period of 11 years (2008–2018).
Methods
Data were derived from the Norwegian Patient Registry (NPR) that was matched with data from the Norwegian Prescription Registry (NorPD). The dataset comprised 27,420 individuals, where 5,131 were diagnosed with GD. A binary logistic regression analysis was conducted where individuals with GD were compared with 22,289 individuals matched on age and gender from NPR.
Results
The results show that individuals with antidepressant prescriptions had higher odds of developing GD (OR = 2.80, 95% CI: 2.60–3.01, p < 0.001). Furthermore, males and older adults were found to have a higher likelihood of being diagnosed with GD.
Conclusions
Depression is known to be one of the most common mental health disorders. The findings show that prior antidepressant prescription is associated with GD, which would be in accordance with the escape hypothesis because some individuals gamble to escape dysphoric feelings, such as depression. The study findings add to the existing knowledge on the temporal association of depression and GD. Furthermore, the results also have significant practical implications.
Abstract
Background and aims
The Moral Incongruence Model of Pornography Use proposes that pornography-use-related problems may be present due to problematic pornography use (PPU) and/or moral disapproval (MD) of pornography use. Despite some supporting empirical evidence, no study has tested the presence of different pornography-use profiles based on individuals' behavioral dysregulation (i.e., PPU) and moral values concerning pornography use. The generalizability of previous findings to diverse populations has also been limited given the scarcity of studies conducted outside of Western countries.
Methods
Using data from the International Sex Survey (42 countries, N = 66,994; M age = 32.16 years, SD = 12.27), we conducted latent profile analysis to identify pornography-use profiles based on individuals' frequency of use, MD, and PPU. The profiles were compared along a wide range of pornography-use-related, sexuality-related, and psychological correlates.
Results
Six pornography-use profiles were identified, including two increased risk groups (i.e., Increased risk of PPU without MD and Increased risk of PPU with some MD). Several factors differentiated between the increased risk vs. no/low risk profiles (e.g., relatedness satisfaction) as well as between the two increased risk profiles (e.g., religiosity). Apart from behavioral dysregulation, moral values concerning pornography use played an important role in distinguishing pornography-use profiles and demonstrated the importance of inquiring about MD when working with individuals with pornography-use-related problems.
Conclusion
Findings also support recent calls for better-integrated sex therapy and sexual medicine perspectives into pornography-use-related problems research and care.
Abstract
Background and aims
Despite a growing body of research on pornography use among women, there is a lack of understanding of the problematic versus non-problematic nature. The current study aimed to investigate the relationship between women's motivations for pornography use and sexual wellbeing using a cross-sectional, self-report survey design among participants from 42 countries.
Methods
The total sample included 82,243 participants, of whom 46,874 (57.0%) identified as women and were analyzed. The participants' age averaged at M = 29.67 years, with a standard deviation of SD = 10.11. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire assessing their motivations for pornography use, as well as measures of sexual functioning, sexual desire, and sexual satisfaction.
Results
Study results suggest that across cultures, women's motivations for pornography use are associated with their sexual wellbeing. Specifically, when women reported using pornography for their own pleasure or sexual curiosity, it was associated with fewer sexual functioning problems and higher sexual desire. Conversely, when women reported using pornography due to a lack of sexual satisfaction in their relationships, it was associated with more sexual functioning problems.
Discussion and conclusions
These findings highlight the need to consider the multifaceted nature of pornography use among women, including the usage motives, to fully understand associations with sexual wellbeing. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of conducting further research utilizing longitudinal designs, to establish the directionality between pornography use motivations and sexual wellbeing among women.
Abstract
Background and Aims
Nasal congestion is a prevalent symptom often alleviated with over-the-counter nasal sprays containing decongestants. Rhinitis medicamentosa (RM), caused by the overuse of decongestants leading to recurrent mucosal swelling, poses a significant challenge for specialists in managing patients. Despite advancements in understanding, research primarily consists of case series with limited data on its impact on quality of life. This qualitative study aimed to explore the effect of nasal spray overuse on quality of life and identify addiction components among individuals with RM.
Methods
Twenty participants with RM were interviewed by an otorhinolaryngologist and addiction counsellor. The study employed a qualitative approach utilising directed content analysis and revealed eleven categories, classified into addiction components and distinctive features of nasal spray addiction.
Results
The analysis revealed the presence of all Griffiths' addiction components in the identified themes. Additionally, sleep disorders, the feeling of suffocation, side effects, illness identity and psychological effects on nasal congestion significantly impair individuals' quality of life.
Conclusion
This qualitative study identified key components of addiction in nasal spray overuse and suggested that RM might be conceptualised in the DSM-5 category of “Other (or Unknown) Substance-Related Disorders”, considering the lack of psychoactive effects. Nevertheless, in view of the current findings, it also seems to be plausible to examine the phenomenon in the behavioural addiction framework. The study underscores the need for further research and intervention strategies to address the significant impact of RM on individuals' quality of life.
Abstract
Background and aims
Adolescent problematic gaming is a global public health issue, and is associated with numerous negative outcomes. The Big Two personality traits, neuroticism and extraversion, have been identified as significant predictors of problematic gaming in adolescents. However, most previous studies have been cross-sectional, limiting the ability to explore their mutual influences or causality inference. This study addresses this gap by employing a longitudinal design and utilizing the Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Model (RI-CLPM) to examine the bidirectional relations between the Big Two personality traits and problematic gaming at the within-person level.
Methods
This study included 3,307 students (Mean age = 11.30, SD = 0.48, 43.6% being girls). Participants were assessed annually, completing a total of four assessments over the course of the study.
Results
The RI-CLPM analyses revealed that neuroticism and problematic gaming significantly predict each other. Extraversion acts as a protective factor against adolescent problematic gaming, whereas problematic gaming leads to a decrease in extraversion levels. Additionally, the longitudinal relations between neuroticism and problematic gaming exhibit significant sex differences.
Discussion and conclusions
This study provides insights into the interplay between the Big Two personality traits and problematic gaming in adolescents. These findings emphasize the need for prevention and intervention strategies that address personality traits as risk factors while recognizing how problematic gaming can influence personality, promoting a more holistic approach. The observed sex differences highlight the importance of integrating sex-specific considerations in interventions.
Abstract
Background and aims
Exercise addiction in adults is increasingly recognized as a public health concern, carrying potentially harmful physical, psychological, and social consequences. Body image—encompassing cognitive, behavioral, affective, and perceptual elements—may be a key factor in this risk, yet comprehensive evidence remains scarce. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to (1) evaluate the overall relationship between multidimensional body image and the risk of exercise addiction in adults, and (2) identify key moderators (e.g., different elements of body image, gender, region).
Methods
A systematic search was conducted in PsycINFO, Medline, SPORT Discus, Web of Science, and Embase up to October 22, 2024. A three-level meta-analysis model was employed, and univariate and multivariate meta-regressions were used to explore potential moderating factors.
Results
A total of 38 eligible studies were identified, contributing 65 effect sizes. The meta-analysis revealed a moderate correlation (r = 0.26) between body image and risk of exercise addiction in adults. Moreover, the cognitive component of body image and the use of compulsive exercise measures in addiction assessments emerged as unique moderators, each further strengthening the observed relationship.
Discussion and conclusions
These findings underscore the central role of body image—particularly its cognitive dimension—in shaping the risk of exercise addiction in adults, especially when assessed via compulsive exercise measures. Incorporating these insights into research and practice may guide more effective interventions and improve public health strategies aimed at mitigating harmful exercise behaviors.
Abstract
Background and aims
Smartphones have been so widely adopted that many consider them essential for modern life. However, some people use their phone excessively, which can cause functional impairment or harm, termed problematic smartphone use (PSU). Smartphone use motives may help explain why users engage in general smartphone use and PSU, but existing measures may not capture certain motives which research suggests are important to smartphone use. To address this, across two studies, we constructed and validated a Motives for Smartphone Use Questionnaire (MSUQ) among young adults.
Methods and results
In Study 1, the Delphi method was used, whereby engagement with a panel of 23 international academic experts resulted in a pool of 62 smartphone use motives items that measure 11 proposed motives. In Study 2, the 62 items were administered to 680 young adults aged 18–25 years (M age = 22.50, SD = 2.16). Results from exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses found that the MSUQ has a seven-factor structure, assessing smartphone use to cope, pass time, socialize, obtain social comfort, feel safe, fulfil social obligations, and seek information. These motives differentially influenced PSU and smartphone usage.
Conclusions
The MSUQ is a valid measure of motives for smartphone use. It was developed specifically for smartphone use and it includes motives not captured in prior measures.
Abstract
Background and aims
Emotion dysregulation has been suggested to play a role in gambling-related harm, but past gambling research has typically assessed emotion dysregulation via self-report surveys rather than in a gambling context. Here, we sought to investigate how the severity of participants' hazardous gambling behavior was associated with their emotional reactivity and choice behavior within a simulated slot-machine task.
Methods
Participants (N = 100) recruited via Prolific completed a behavioral task involving repeated choices between two simulated slot-machines. When chosen, slot-machines could produce one of five outcome types (win/near-win/neutral/near-loss/loss). After each outcome, participants reported their subjective emotional valence. Emotion data were analysed using a beta-autoregressive computational model, allowing us to extract per-participant estimates of trial-by-trial emotional reactivity to different slot-machine outcomes.
Results
Correlation analyses revealed that people who engaged in more hazardous gambling behavior (higher PGSI scores) showed greater emotional reactivity to all slot-machine outcome types (all Spearman ρ > |0.31|, all p < 0.01, corrected for multiple comparisons). There were no significant associations between patterns of choice behavior and PGSI scores.
Discussion and conclusions
Within a simulated slot-machine task, individuals who engaged in more hazardous gambling behavior showed greater emotional reactivity in general (more positive emotional reactions to wins and more negative emotional reactions to unpleasant events such as losses and near-wins). These results are consistent with a model in which emotion dysregulation is a risk factor for gambling-related harm, and serve to validate this model in a more naturalistic setting.
Abstract
Objective
Hallucinogen Persistent Perception Disorder (HPPD) is a condition where the effects of hallucinogenic drugs reoccur long after the acute effects have stopped. No established risk factors or mechanisms for HPPD have been identified. However, reports have suggested a risk phenotype for HPPD due to associations with other perceptual disturbances. With recent increases in therapeutic psychedelic drug use, it is essential to consider the existence of HPPD risk factors. Therefore, exploring potential links between HPPD and other perceptual disturbances, such as tinnitus and migraine with aura, is a necessary first step. This study aimed to investigate the association between HPPD and other perceptual disorders.
Methods
One hundred thirty-eight individuals with HPPD and 116 controls participated in a survey assessing the prevalence of various perceptual disturbances: photosensitivity, phonosensitivity, tinnitus, migraine with aura, vertigo, paraesthesia, and synaesthesia.
Results
The survey results showed a significant association between HPPD and photosensitivity (OR = 10.65), phonosensitivity (OR = 8.00), and the number of perceptual disturbances (OR = 1.59) in the HPPD group compared to the control group. The study also observed trends of dual prevalence between HPPD and tinnitus, migraine with aura, vertigo, paraesthesia, and synaesthesia. Participants with both HPPD and other perceptual disturbances were likelier to experience additional perceptual disturbances after the onset of HPPD.
Conclusions
These findings suggest a common vulnerability or pathophysiological mechanism among these perceptual disturbances. Given the increasing therapeutic use of hallucinogens, the results of this study provide essential considerations for HPPD risk profiles. Moreover, they may guide future investigations into HPPD's pathophysiology and management options.
Abstract
Background and Aims
Networks of so-called underground, or illegal, psilocybin mushroom practitioners are popularly known to exist, though few systematic investigations of their practices have been conducted. We sought to uncover the experiences of a hidden community of psilocybin practitioners in order to inform scientific and policy dialogues about safe and effective practices in this area.
Methods
An academic-community partnered research team used snowball sampling to recruit 17 underground psilocybin practitioners in a western U.S. state for in-depth individual interviews focused on training, protocols, practices, and policy priorities. Combined deductive and inductive analysis with three independent coders was completed using NVivo v12.
Results
Practitioners were white (76.5%), female-identified (64.7%), aged 31 to 50 (64.7%), non-therapists by training (58.8%), and moderately to highly experienced facilitators. All described multiple years of often difficult personal inner-directed work with psilocybin before guiding others. Benefits ranged from reduction in symptoms of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and addictions to greater self-knowledge, reduced death anxiety, and a greater ability to experience joy. Client screening protocols revealed precautions for persons with severe trauma backgrounds, personality disorders, or lacking social support. Moving too quickly into a high dose mushroom session without adequate preparation or internal resourcing was perceived as a significant risk for harm. Practitioners' direct personal relationship with mushrooms was highlighted as critical to safe practice. Policy priorities centered on respectful reciprocity, defined as an ethos of giving back rather than extraction, and equitable access.
Conclusions
While some psychedelic research actively examines the role of the mystical-type experience in clients' positive outcomes, findings from underground practitioners suggest an even greater role of mysticism, relationality, and expanded concepts of holistic healing that can inform the development of best practice paradigms of an emerging profession.
Hallgatni arany, beszélni ezüst – A szervezeti véleménynyilvánítás és hallgatás viszonyrendszerének feltárása
Silence is golden, voice is silver – Exploring the dynamics of organizational voice and silence
Háttér és célkitűzések: Az utóbbi években élénk vita folyik arról, hogy a szervezeti véleménynyilvánítás, illetve a hallgatás egymás ellentétei, vagy különálló konstruktumok-e. Több érv szól az utóbbi nézet mellett, például a köztük lévő kismértékű korreláció vagy az, hogy a különböző tényezők gyakran nem ellentétes hatást gyakorolnak a véleménynyilvánításra és a hallgatásra. Korábbi kutatásunkban mi is azt tapasztaltuk, hogy a véleménynyilvánítás motivációs bázisának ismeretéből nem következtethetünk a hallgatás motivációira. Ezért egy véleménynyilvánítást és hallgatást is integráló közös modellel további érveket kerestünk a fenti álláspont mellett. Módszer: Keresztmetszeti kutatást végeztünk kérdőíves módszerrel. Az 577 kitöltő (358 nő, 218 férfi) válaszait látens változó modellezéssel vizsgáltuk. Modellünk fő változói a fejlesztő és figyelmeztető véleménynyilvánítás, illetve a defenzív és normatív hallgatás. Megvizsgáltuk a pszichológiai biztonság, a változási készenlét és a karrierrel való elégedettség prediktív hatását a véleménynyilvánításra és a hallgatásra. Eredmények: A pszichológiai biztonságnak aszimmetrikus prediktív hatása van. A hallgatási faktorokat erősen és negatívan jósolja be, míg a véleménynyilvánítási faktorok esetében pozitív, de kisebb mértékű a hatása. A változási készenlét viszont fontosabb szerepet játszik a véleménynyilvánítás megjelenésében, mint a hallgatáséban. A karrierrel való elégedettség gyenge prediktor, amely a fejlesztő véleménynyilvánításra pozitívan, míg a normatív hallgatásra negatívan hat. Következtetések: Összetett képet kaptunk a véleménynyilvánítás és a hallgatás viszonyáról. A pszichológiai biztonság és a változási készenlét aszimmetrikus hatása azt az érvelést erősítik, miszerint a véleménynyilvánítás és a hallgatás eltérő konstruktumok. Ennek fontos gyakorlati következménye is van, hiszen az egyoldalúan a véleménynyilvánításra serkentő szervezeti intézkedések nem feltétlenül ösztönzik a dolgozókat a hallgatás feladására is.
Megküzdési stratégiák a munkahelyen – a proaktív és kollektív megküzdés vizsgálata az észlelt stresszel és a pszichológiai jólléttel összefüggésben
Coping strategies at work – Examining the relationship between proactive and collective coping, perceived stress, and psychological well-being
Háttér és célkitűzések: Tanulmányunk célja két vizsgálaton keresztül ismertetni az észlelt stressz, a jóllét, valamint a proaktív és a kollektív megküzdés közötti kapcsolatot magyar munkavállalói mintán. Eredményeink hozzájárulnak a célcsoport munkával kapcsolatos megéléseinek, viselkedéses reakcióinak pontosabb megismeréséhez, miközben iránymutatásul szolgálhatnak ezek fejlesztése során. Módszer: Mindkét vizsgálatban keresztmetszeti eljárással és kényelmi mintavétellel gyűjtöttünk adatokat felnőtt, magyar munkavállalói mintán. Az első vizsgálat (N = 312) fókuszában az észlelt stressz, a jóllét és a proaktív megküzdés közötti kapcsolat feltárása áll, míg a második vizsgálat (N = 811) a Kollektív Megküzdés Kérdőív magyar nyelvű adaptációjának validitásvizsgálatát helyezi előtérbe. Eredmények: Az első vizsgálat a nemzetközi szakirodalommal összhangban megerősítette, hogy szignifikáns kapcsolat van az észlelt stressz, bizonyos jóllétkomponensek és a proaktív megküzdés között – utóbbiak az észlelt stressz varianciájának közel 50%-át magyarázzák együttesen. A második vizsgálat a Kollektív Megküzdés Kérdőívet megbízható mérőeszközként azonosította, noha az eredeti kérdőív faktorstruktúráját nem sikerült teljes mértékben reprodukálni, és a konstruktumvaliditás vizsgálatához választott változókkal mutatott korrelációk erőssége is alacsonyabb lett a vártnál. Következtetések: Noha vizsgálatainkat érdemes a továbbiakban longitudinális elrendezéssel is megismételni, eredményeink alátámasztják, hogy a proaktív, illetve a társas megküzdés fontos szerepet tölt be a stressz és a jóllét kapcsolatában.
Robotokkal szembeni elfogadás a szexizmus és a robot nemének vonatkozásában
Robot acceptance in relation to sexism and robot gender
Háttér és célkitűzések: Kutatásunk központi kérdésköre a robotgender témakör volt. Vizsgálatunkban arra próbáltunk meg választ keresni, hogy az emberekben működő nemiszerep-elvárások milyen hatással vannak a nem ipari robotokkal (szociális robotokkal) szembeni attitűdökre, ezzel beemelve a szexizmust a robotikus pszichológia kutatási aspektusai közé. Módszer: Ennek felmérése érdekében átlagpopuláción vett, kényelmi mintán végeztünk kérdőíves vizsgálatot 135 fővel. Kérdőívcsomagunk saját szerkesztésű kérdéseket, valamint a Robot Elfogadás Kérdőívet, Ambivalens Szexizmus Kérdőívet és a Régi és Modern Szexizmus Kérdőív tartalmazta. Eredmények: Legfontosabb eredményünk, hogy több hipotézisen keresztül is bizonyítékot találtunk a szexizmus és a robotokkal kapcsolatos attitűdök között. Azok, akik magasabb szintű szexizmussal rendelkeznek, preferálják, ha egy robotnak van neme, míg az alacsonyabb szexizmussal rendelkezők inkább a gendersemleges robotokat preferálták. Következtetések: Az eredmények leginkább a szellemi munkakörben és a személyi kisegítő robotok esetében rendelkeznek jelentős felhasználási potenciállal, hiszen ezekben a környezetekben fontos aspektusa lehet az ember-robot illesztésben a robot nemének. Továbbá kutatásunk rámutat a szexizmus vizsgálatának fontosságára az ember-robot interakciók esetében.
Abstract
A longstanding challenge in the behavioral addictions field has been determining the point at which gaming involvement becomes clinically significant problematic use. Gaming disorder (GD) and hazardous gaming as recent ICD-11 diagnoses have attracted polarized perspectives due in part to the global popularity of recreational gaming and gaming culture. The broad continuum of gaming can often be perceived differently by different parties, including gamers themselves; what might be seen as regular, harmless, and normative to some, may be considered risky and problematic by others. The ICD-11 guidelines provide some clarity by advising that gaming disorder should not be diagnosed based on persistent gaming alone; that gaming as part of a routine, developing skills, changing mood or relieving boredom, or facilitating social interaction is not sufficient for a diagnosis; and that cultural and peer group norms should be considered in diagnosis. In this paper, we examine gaming normality-disorder boundary issues in the areas of conceptualization, assessment, and interventions. Some examples of the complex personal, social, and cultural considerations that arise in gaming diagnoses are provided. We call for researchers in the addiction and health disciplines to grapple with conceptual controversy and conduct the empirical and clinical research needed to ensure that normal recreational gaming is always clearly distinguished from harm and disorder.
Abstract
Background and aims
There is a lack of research on the impact of acute stress on the interaction of affective and cognitive processes in online compulsive buying-shopping disorder (CBSD). Therefore, this project addressed stress response, cue reactivity, attentional bias, and implicit associations in individuals with online CBSD.
Methods
Women with CBSD (n = 63) and women with non-problematic online buying-shopping (n = 64) were randomly assigned to the Trier Social Stress Test or a non-stress condition. After the stress/non-stress induction, participants performed a cue-reactivity paradigm, a dot-probe paradigm, and an implicit association task, each with addiction-related (online buying-shopping) and control (social networks) cues.
Results
Individuals with CBSD showed stronger affective responses towards the addiction-related and control cues than the control group and rated the addiction-related pictures with higher ‘arousal’ and ‘urge’ than the control images. No group differences emerged in the dot-probe paradigm and implicit association task. Acute stress showed no effect on performance in the behavioural tasks. Regression models investigating the impact of craving on the relationship between stress response and implicit cognitions within the group with CBSD were not significant.
Discussion
The findings demonstrate the involvement and generalization of cue reactivity in online CBSD, but do not provide support for effects of acute stress on cue reactivity, attentional bias and implicit associations.
Conclusions
Future studies should not be restricted to women and combine laboratory and naturalistic study designs to investigate the complex psychological mechanisms in online CBSD.
Abstract
This article critically addresses one of the most pressing questions of the current moment of the psychedelic wave: Is mainstreaming psychedelics a good thing? Our aim is not to provide a simple “yes” or “no” as an answer but to explore the tensions, controversies, disparities, inequalities, and risks that have risen in the last decades. We discuss the limits of psychedelic science as the paradigm leading this movement and the risks of an overemphasis on biomedicalization to the detriment of the social sciences, humanities, and traditional knowledge. We also examine policy considerations, the dangers of commodification, and the ecological burdens that the expansion of the use of psychedelics is causing. Additionally, the article reflects on the tendency to prioritize the psychotherapeutic approach to care, a topic that has been neglected in the field. The authors put forward the need for inclusion, ethics, and reciprocity to balance the inequalities that risk recreating the psychedelic movement as another expression of mainstream capitalist endeavors. Given the Food and Drug Administration's delay in approval of MDMA for PTSD and the hurdles for regulating access to psychedelics in ceremonial and therapeutic contexts, such as Colorado and Oregon, there is an urgent need to engage in an informed conversation about the future of the psychedelic movement. It is important to avoid the tendency to romanticize this landscape and to do a proper assessment of the contemporary challenges and ethical risks that we face in the future.
Abstract
Background and aims
Online dating applications (ODAs) are gaining popularity, raising concerns about their potential addictive effects on users' health. The main objective of this study was to investigate the association between problematic ODA use and mental health, substance use, and sexual behavior outcomes in men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM). To achieve this, we first validated a German version of the Problematic ODA Use Scale (PODAUS), which assesses problematic ODA usage patterns.
Methods
Problematic ODA use was assessed in 226 HIV-negative MSM counseling for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis at baseline and 6-month follow-up (n = 164, Mage = 42, SD = 11). The German PODAUS was validated using confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) and correlational analysis. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to investigate associations of PODAUS with mental, sexual health, and substance use outcomes.
Results
CFA supported PODAUS’ 6-item unidimensional structure, demonstrating excellent fit indices. Reliability analyses indicated good internal consistency (α = 0.79) and high test-retest reliability (r s = 0.68). Regarding mental health, significant positive associations were found between PODAUS and symptoms of depression, loneliness, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and impulsivity, with medium to large effect sizes. Regarding sexual health, significant negative associations of small to medium effect sizes were found between PODAUS and lifetime prevalence of sexually transmitted infections, body acceptance, and sexual fulfillment, while a significant positive association with trait sex motivation occurred.
Discussion and Conclusion
The German version of PODAUS emerges as a valid, reliable tool to assess problematic ODA use. In an MSM sample, problematic ODA use was associated with lower mental and sexual health.
