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Pregnancy and the transition to being a parent bring about significant physiological change and stress, which lead them to turn to social media influencers (SMIs) to seek information and help. This study examines the effects of followers' psychological characteristics on the influencer-follower relationship in parenting-related influencer marketing and how parenting-related SMIs can manage themselves as human brands. The empirical findings indicate that followers' perceived self-image congruity and function congruity with social media influencers enhance their behaviour intentions, mediated by SMI attachment. Although perceived parenting stress does not correlate with function congruity on SMI attachment, it plays a moderating role as it weakens the positive impact of self-image congruity on SMI attachment. The results have discussed important implications for both parenting-related SMIs and marketers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A personal narrative is presented in which the editor discusses articles in the issue on topics including body transformation, the emotional impact of breast cancer, and reflections on art and self-perception.

Purpose: Study on the effect of psychological skills training on self-esteem (SE) in young athletes. Method: 10 swimmers and 35 volleyball players, split into an intervention group (25) and a control group (18). The intervention entailed a 3-week psychological skills training program covering arousal management, breathing, relaxation, mental imagery, and self-talk. Multilevel growth curve analyses evaluated SE changes. Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in multiple SE dimensions—physical self-worth, fitness, athletic competence, strength, and body attractiveness but not general SE. Conclusions: This study provides initial evidence of a multimodal psychological skills training's effectiveness in enhancing young athletes' domain-specific SE. It highlights the role of domain-specific SE in young athletes' well-being. Future research should examine psychological and physiological correlations and assess the long-term SE development in adolescent athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Confrontation on Borneo tests a thesis on counterinsurgency: winning hearts and minds succeeds if object place/people win over the hearts and minds of subject counterinsurgency soldiers. This psychological transformation depends on fixed objects that counterinsurgency cannot easily change: the counterinsurgency destination and the counterinsurgents' place of origin that formed soldiers' unconscious selves. Soldiers encountered on Borneo a transformative, attractive, alien destination that changed their behavior. Soldiers then ratified unconscious behavior by asserting that the cause was their innate decency and official hearts and minds policy. But Borneo had formed the unconscious self that gave form to hearts and minds. This article argues that altered states of being shape counterinsurgency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to understand the lived experiences of wheelchair basketball athletes from low- and middle-income countries of recent or current armed conflict and the meaning that they ascribed to their participation. Wheelchair basketball athletes (N = 108) from eight national teams participated in semistructured focus-group interviews. Study data were analyzed thematically using an interpretive descriptive approach. Three themes were developed: "I can do anything I want; not only basketball," self-concept changes through sport participation; "Now they see me as a respectable person," societal belonging through sport; and "I have motivated other disabled people," influence on nonparticipating disabled persons. The findings indicated that participation in wheelchair sports may help disabled persons see themselves as capable individuals on the court and in aspects of daily living, perhaps even peer role models for other disabled persons in their communities and countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on entrepreneurial networking suggests that women may be more likely than men to select cofounders based on their resources (e.g., knowledge, skills, and experience), as a means to counteract investor bias. In contrast, research on gender in networking suggests that women may be more likely than men to select cofounders based on interpersonal attraction (e.g., liking, trustworthiness, and familiarity), because it aligns with their preference for stable and harmonious relationships. In this paper, we reconcile this tension and ask: "How, when, and why do women differ from men in how they choose cofounders?" We propose that women entrepreneurs generally prioritize interpersonal attraction and de-prioritize resources because doing so aligns with their interdependent self-construal, but these relationships are mitigated when legitimacy is low, such that women entrepreneurs decrease their use of interpersonal attraction and increase their focus on resources as a means to bolster legitimacy. We find support for our framework across three studies. Our findings reconcile a key tension in the literature and highlight how interdependent self-construals enable women entrepreneurs to flexibly adjust their networking approach to cofounder selection by prioritizing interpersonal attraction when legitimacy is high and by increasing their use of resource seeking when legitimacy is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although the physical activities have demonstrated efficacy in improving physical self-perception, the findings of available studies in college students were conflicting. This review aimed to examine the effects of physical activity interventions on physical self-perception in college students. Methods: Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, EBSCOhost, Embase, Scopus, CNKI, WanFang, and Chinese Technical Periodicals were searched from inception to April 2024. Studies were included if they were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or non-RCTs (non-RCTs) that examined the effects of physical activity interventions on college students' physical self-perception. Random-effects models were used in meta-analyses to synthesize effect sizes. Results: Forty studies (17 RCTs and 23 non-RCTs) with 4955 participants were included in this meta-analysis. Overall, physical activity interventions had small to moderate significant effect on physical self-worth (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.44, P <.00001), perceived sports competence (SMD = 0.60, P <.00001), perceived physical condition (SMD = 0.45, P <.00001), perceived physical strength (SMD = 0.53, P <.00001), and perceived body attractiveness (SMD = 0.54, P <.00001). Significant differences were observed in study design (P =.031–.039), intervention type (P =.003–.031), and intervention duration (P =.002–.036) for some aspects of physical self-perception, such as perceived physical strength and perceived body attractiveness. Conclusions: Physical activity interventions have beneficial effects on physical self-perception in college students, especially those conducted for 12 weeks, 3 times or more per week, lasting 90 minutes or more per session. Large, high-quality RCTs are required to further confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this placebo-controlled, triple-blind, balanced crossover study was to assess the acute effects of phenylcapsaicin (PC) intake (2.5 mg) on intraocular pressure (IOP), ocular perfusion pressure (OPP), and heart rate (HR) during a 30-min cycling task performed at 15% of the individual maximal power. Twenty-two healthy young adults performed the cycling task 45 min after ingesting PC or placebo. IOP was measured with a rebound tonometer before exercise, during cycling (every 6 min), and after 5 and 10 min of recovery. OPP was assessed before and after exercise. HR was monitored throughout the cycling task. We found an acute increase of IOP levels related to PC consumption while cycling (mean difference = 1.91 ± 2.24 mmHg; p =.007, η p 2 =.30), whereas no differences were observed for OPP levels between the PC and placebo conditions (mean difference = 1.33 ± 8.70 mmHg; p =.608). Mean HR values were higher after PC in comparison with placebo intake (mean difference = 3.11 ± 15.87 bpm, p =.019, η p 2 =.24), whereas maximum HR did not differ between both experimental conditions (p =.199). These findings suggest that PC intake before exercise should be avoided when reducing IOP levels is desired (e.g., glaucoma patients or those at risk). Future studies should determine the effects of different ergogenic aids on IOP and OPP levels with other exercise configurations and in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine whether caffeine gum influenced perceptual-cognitive and physical performance during the extra-time period of simulated soccer match-play. Semiprofessional male soccer players (n = 12, age: 22 ± 3 years, stature: 1.78 ± 0.06 m, mass: 75 ± 9 kg) performed 120-min soccer-specific exercise on two occasions. In a triple-blind, randomized, crossover design, players chewed caffeinated (200 mg; caffeine) or control (0 mg; placebo) gum for 5 min following 90 min of soccer-specific exercise. Perceptual-cognitive skills (i.e., passing accuracy, reaction time, composure, and adaptability) were assessed using a soccer-specific virtual reality simulator, collected pre- and posttrial. Neuromuscular performance (reactive-strength index, vertical jump height, absolute and relative peak power output, and negative vertical displacement) and sprint performance (15 and 30 m) were measured at pretrial, half-time, 90 min, and posttrial. Caffeine gum attenuated declines in reaction time (pre: 90.8 ± 0.8 AU to post: 90.7 ± 0.8 AU) by a further 4.2% than placebo (pre: 92.1 ± 0.8 AU to post: 88.2 ± 0.8 AU; p <.01). Caffeine gum reduced composure by 4.7% (pre: 69.1 ± 0.8 AU to post: 65.9 ± 0.8 AU) versus placebo (pre: 68.8 ± 0.8 AU to post: 68.3 ± 0.8 AU; p <.01). Caffeine gum did not influence any other variables (p >.05). Where caffeine gum is consumed by players prior to extra-time, reaction time increases but composure may be compromised, and neuromuscular and sprint performance remain unchanged. Future work should assess caffeine gum mixes with substances like L-theanine that promote a relaxed state under stressful conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research proposes a novel approach to identity-based choice that focuses on consumers' representations of the self-concept, as captured by the perceived cause–effect relationships among features of an individual consumer's self-concept. More specifically, the studies reported here test the proposal that the causal centrality of an identity—the number of other features of a consumer's self-concept that the consumer believes influenced or were influenced by the identity—underlies identity importance and is a determinant of identity-based consumer behaviors. Across seven studies, using both measured and manipulated causal centrality, the current research provides evidence for the role of causal centrality in identity-based choice. Among consumers who share an identity (belong to the same social category), those who believe that the identity is more causally central perceive the identity as more important and are more likely to engage in behaviors consistent with the norms of the social category. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigated sex differences in self-reported causes, symptoms, and recovery strategies associated with underperformance in endurance athletes. Methods: A total of 82 athletes (40 women) meeting the inclusion criteria (performance level ≥tier 3, used training diaries, and experienced 1 or more periods of underperformance during their career) completed an online questionnaire. The questionnaire encompassed inquiries regarding load monitoring and experiences with underperformance, focusing on causes, symptoms, and recovery strategies. Results: The most frequently reported symptoms associated with underperformance included psychological (31%), physiological (23%), and health-related (12%) symptoms. Notably, female athletes were more likely to report psychological symptoms associated with underperformance (38% vs 25%, P =.01) compared with male athletes. The leading causes of underperformance comprised illness (21%), mental/emotional challenges (20%), training errors (12%), lack of recovery (10%), and nutritional challenges (5%). Female athletes reported nutritional challenges more frequently as the cause of underperformance compared with males (9% vs 1%, P =.01), whereas male athletes more often attributed underperformance to training errors (15% vs 9%, P =.03). Overall, 67% of athletes reported recovering from underperformance, with a tendency for more male than female athletes to recover (76% vs 58%, P =.07). Furthermore, a higher proportion of male than female athletes reported implementing changes in the training process as a recovery strategy (62% vs 35%, P =.02). Conclusions: This study offers valuable insights into sex differences in experiences with underperformance in endurance athletes. The findings could inform coaches and athletes in both the prevention and treatment of such incidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on research on meta‐stereotypes and signaling theory, we examined the effects of organizational signaling on the attraction of autistic applicants. Our model predicted that meta‐stereotypes and the combination of expressed and evidence‐based autism‐conscious signals would have simple and joint effects on candidates' fit perceptions, which would, in turn, affect their job pursuit intentions. Further, we expected that the effect of signaling on our outcomes would be weaker among candidates with strong negative autism meta‐stereotypes. Prior to testing our hypotheses, we conducted a focus group to determine the supports that autistic job seekers deemed most important. As the ability to work from home (WFH) was overwhelmingly the most cited support, we included this as our evidence‐based signal. Specifically, we examined the combined effect of disability‐conscious (vs. disability‐blind) diversity statements and WFH (vs. retirement benefits) on expected fit and subsequent job pursuit intentions. Both meta‐stereotypes and combined signals significantly influenced fit expectations. Further, the autism‐friendly signals significantly affected the fit of candidates with weak and moderate negative meta‐stereotype, but not the fit of candidates with strong meta‐stereotypes. In addition, our results indicate that the signal x meta‐stereotype interaction had an indirect effect on job pursuit intentions. Findings are discussed vis‐à‐vis the research on signaling theory and practical guidance is offered to employers seeking to attract the growing number of autistic job seekers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extending Thompson's discussion of the extended self, I contrast his view if the I Self (in William James' terms) with my focus on James' Me Self. I go on to discuss the Aggregate Self, the Digital Self, and various concepts of plural selves and cultural differences. Thompson's introduction of distributed self fits nicely here and further expands the discussion of self. I introduce the concept of the Extended Object and briefly examine thanobots and AI and the way they may affect our concepts of self in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study proposes and tests a self‐concept‐based perspective for the effects of formal mentoring support on affective organizational commitment (AOC) via multiple mediators. Using time‐lagged multi‐source dyadic data (n = 203), we demonstrate that formal mentoring support significantly influences newcomer–protégés' AOC through an underlying self‐evaluative mechanism indicated by organization‐based self‐esteem (OBSE), even in the presence of a well‐established alternative mediator (perceived organizational support; POS). Moreover, we further demonstrate when or under what circumstances such effects might be attenuated or exaggerated by introducing a salient boundary condition to such a process (i.e., perceived mentor organizational prototypicality). As the findings reveal, by making newcomer–protégés feel good about themselves in the workplace (i.e., perceive self‐value) formal mentoring support can also promote organizational commitment, effects that are likely to be amplified when the formal mentor is perceived to be prototypical of the organization. Thus, bridging the mentoring and socialization literatures, the inclusion of our proposed mediators and moderator and testing their relationships simultaneously not only provides a more nuanced view of the underlying mechanisms through which the effects of formal mentoring support are channeled to influence newcomer–protégés' work attitudes but it offers new theoretical elaboration and contextual understanding that we hope will prompt future research and be of benefit to human resource practitioners. Implications to theory, practice and future research directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, systemic condition affecting the gastrointestinal tract. IBD can be severe and are associated with impairment in growth, school absences, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Physical activity (PA) could have an anti-inflammatory effect in addition to other benefits. It is important to address the possible risks, physiological effects of PA, and potential barriers, and facilitators for PA participation in pediatric IBD. However, potential barriers and facilitators to PA have yet to be adequately described. Methods: We conducted a scoping review to map and describe the current literature on PA in pediatric IBD populations between 1980 and April 2022 using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines for Scoping reviews. Results: Nineteen articles were identified including 10 descriptive, 6 interventional, and 3 physiological responses to PA studies. Patients and healthy controls demonstrated similar responses to exercise. Barriers to participation were low self-esteem, body image, and active IBD symptoms. Facilitators included personal interest, activity with friends, and support from family. Conclusion: This review highlighted that PA participation may reduce in children with IBD-related symptoms. Short- and medium-term impacts of PA on immune modulation require further study; it is possible that regular PA does not negatively affect biomarkers of disease activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to estimate the extent to which motivational regulations influence physical activity behavior through role identity among people 55 years or older. Participants (N = 409; Mage = 66.29 years [SD = 7.06]) completed online questionnaires to measure motivational regulations, role identity, and the frequency of physical activity in a typical week and in the past month. Mediation analysis using ordinary least squares path analysis revealed that autonomous forms of motivational regulation (positively) and controlled forms of motivational regulation (negatively) influenced role identity, which then positively influenced physical activity behavior. Bootstrap confidence intervals (95%) for the indirect effects (a × b) based on 5,000 bootstrap samples were entirely above or below zero. These findings point to future experimental evaluations of interventions aiming at both increasing and decreasing autonomous and controlled motivational regulations, respectively, to promote physical activity behavior through role identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People routinely conceive of themselves in their career in both stable and dynamic ways. Individuals may draw common threads across their various career experiences and aspirations to form a stable anchor for their career identity, yet, at the same time, dynamically adapt their self-concept in the context of their career. In this paper, we call attention to the anchoring and evolving forces that people experience as a paradox for their career identity and theorize "career identifying" as an ongoing process of career identity maintenance and change. As individuals contend with career identity tensions, they make adjustments to maintain a balance of anchoring and evolving forces on their career identity or to make shifts that accumulate into career identity change. The career identifying process accounts for both career identity maintenance and change in a single theoretical model that explains how career identity can change over time while being stable enough to make coherent career choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study assessed the impact of a fixed prosthetic rehabilitation on masticatory function in patients diagnosed with stage IV periodontitis. Eligible participants were adults in need of complex rehabilitation due to masticatory dysfunction. Masticatory function was evaluated using the two‐ colored chewing gum mixing ability test (VOH) at the diagnostic phase (T0), 1 week after delivery of the prosthetic prototype (T1), and 1 week after delivery of the final prosthetic solution (T2). Ten subjects were treated with a fixed prosthesis following periodontal and implant surgery using an individualized, fully digital workflow. Full-mouth plaque and bleeding scores, pocket depth, and clinical attachment level improved significantly. VOH was 0.472 ± 0.168 at T0, 0.358 ± 0.166 at T1, and 0.250 ± 0.123 at T2. A significant improvement in VOH was observed from T0 to T1 (difference: –0.114; 95% CI: –0.199 to –0.029; P = .014) and from T1 to T2 (difference: –0.108; 95% CI: –0.200 to –0.015; P = .027). From T0 to T2, VOH increased by 44.3%. Self-perceived assessment of masticatory function also improved from T0 to T2 (P = .002). The fixed prosthetic rehabilitation in patients with stage IV periodontitis allowed for a significant improvement in objective and subjective measurements of masticatory function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An emerging virtual-reality technology, virtual fitting rooms (VFRs) allow online shoppers to virtually try on clothes. Despite its increasing popularity, how VFR technology influences different consumer groups is hitherto unknown. Neglecting such nuances may significantly undermine VFR effectiveness. From a large-scale field experiment with real-world transactional data and five laboratory experiments, the authors document the asymmetric effects of VFR use conditional on consumer body types, characterize the theoretical underpinnings, and identify a systematic set of managerially actionable moderators that can mitigate adverse effects. Specifically, while VFR use enhances product evaluations and purchases among consumers with relatively low body mass index (BMI) levels, it negatively influences responses from high-BMI consumers due to self-image threat induced by avatars that resemble consumers' own bodies. To cope with self-image threat, high-BMI consumers tend to shift the blame to the apparel item, resulting in negative product responses. The authors identify four feasible solutions to alleviate the negative responses among high-BMI users of VFRs, namely, promoting diversified beauty standards, featuring mannequin faces for VFR avatars, providing consumers opportunities to engage in prosocial behavior, and presenting high-status products. These findings offer guidance for retailers to leverage this new technology smartly to enhance both business performance and consumer well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endometriosis is a painful non-curable disease that affects women's quality of life, reducing their self-esteem and consequently their mental well-being. However, enhancing the physical self-concept could induce the development of the self-esteem. A suitable method to increase the physical self-concept would be physical activity (PA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between PA and physical self-concept in women with endometriosis under 30 years old and to evaluate whether the type of PA was associated with different physical self-concept scores. Materials and methods: A total of 198 women under 30 diagnosed with endometriosis responded to a survey. Physical self-concept was assessed using the short version of the physical self-description questionnaire. Women were also asked to answer to questions about their PA habits. The type of PA practiced was then assigned to 1 of the 3 following groups: relaxing activities (n = 14), activities without necessary interactions with other participants (n = 58), and activities including necessary interactions with other participants (n = 46). Results: Women under 30 years old participating in a regular PA (more than once a week) (n = 137) had a significantly higher physical self-concept than women not participating in a regular PA (n = 61) (p < 0.05). Results differed in physical self-concept sub-scales. The type of PA did not seem to make a difference in physical self-concept scores (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Young women with endometriosis should be advised to participate to a regular PA to increase their physical self-concept and therefore cope better with their anxiety and stress. All types of activities appear to be just as relevant for developing physical self-concept in young women with endometriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With rapid technological advances, social media has become an everyday form of human social interactions. For the first time in evolutionary history, people can now interact in virtual spaces where temporal, spatial, and embodied cues are decoupled from one another. What implications do these recent changes have for socio-cognitive phenotypes and mental disorders? We have conducted a systematic review on the relationships between social media use and mental disorders involving the social brain. The main findings indicate evidence of increased social media usage in individuals with psychotic spectrum phenotypes and especially among individuals with disorders characterized by alterations in the basic self, most notably narcissism, body dysmorphism, and eating disorders. These findings can be understood in the context of a new conceptual model, referred to here as 'Delusion Amplification by Social Media', whereby this suite of disorders and symptoms centrally involves forms of mentalistic delusions, linked with altered perception and perpetuation of distorted manifestations of the self, that are enabled and exacerbated by social media. In particular, an underdeveloped and incoherent sense of self, in conjunction with 'real life' social isolation that inhibits identify formation and facilitates virtual social interactions, may lead to use of social media to generate and maintain a more or less delusional sense of self identity. The delusions involved may be mental (as in narcissism and erotomania), or somatic (as in body dysmorphic disorder and eating disorders, encompassing either the entire body or specific body parts). In each case, the virtual nature of social media facilitates the delusionality because the self is defined and bolstered in this highly mentalistic environment, where real-life exposure of the delusion can be largely avoided. Current evidence also suggests that increased social media usage, via its disembodied and isolative nature, may be associated with psychotic spectrum phenotypes, especially delusionality, by the decoupling of inter and intra-corporeal cues integral to shared reality testing, leading to the blurring of self-other boundaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People who take antipsychotics, and people who are prescribed antipsychotics without taking them, experience effects which are not frequently discussed: effects on their identity and sense of self. Qualitative research indicates the relationship between taking APs and identity is multilayered, and changeable. Taking APs can restore people to their earlier, pre-symptom sense of self. Being prescribed and taking APs can also, on the other hand, be experienced as damaging, erasing and dulling people's sense of who they are. This complexity deserves exploration in clinical practice, which we believe is currently not done routinely. More work is needed to understand whether, and how, the relationship between identity and APs is being addressed. We outline the importance of having discussions in a clinical space around identity, and a sense of agency, on the grounds that true recovery-oriented care, which enacts shared decision-making principles, demands it. Further, we argue that it will allow for better therapeutic alliance and trust to be forged between clinician and client, ultimately leading to better care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current research explores how respondents' ideology influences their perception of political parties' stances on various issues. Additionally, we examine how three distinct indicators of ideological strength—congruence between ideology and party affiliation, level of education, and engagement in political activities—affect these perceptions. Our empirical analyses rely on data from the 1968–2012 Cumulative American National Election Study dataset, which captures respondents' views on the stances of US political parties regarding ten key issues. We find that, after controlling for respondents' own issue positions, (i) perceptions of the positions held by the opponent party are strongly influenced by respondents' ideologies, and (ii) this influence is more pronounced among individuals with stronger ideological convictions, as indicated by the three aforementioned indicators. Conversely, when examining perceptions of one's favored party, ideology demonstrates a weak and inconsistent effect across the three markers of ideological strength. We discuss theoretical frameworks that may elucidate these findings, their implications for understanding political polarization, and we acknowledge limitations related to the dataset's characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores long-term stability of creative self-concept variables, which have gained attention in the past decade, but lacked specific longitudinal investigation and strong analytical decisions. We conducted two higher-order confirmatory factor analyses based on latent state-trait theory to investigate the underlying latent structure of two constructs—creative personal identity and creative self-efficacy—across 7 years. Our results demonstrated a satisfying model fit with high standardized latent state and trait loadings. Both constructs showed greater trait than state influences, and more than half of the state variance at each time point was explained by interindividual trait differences, leading to the conclusion that creative self-concept variables are relatively stable yet malleable trait-like constructs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promoting honesty is considered a key endeavor in the betterment of our societies. However, our understanding of this phenomenon, and of its evil twin, dishonesty, is still lacking. In this text, we analyze the main tenets assumed by empirical models of vigilance and sanctions. We approach our analysis in three sections. Initially, we investigate the concept of honesty as assumed by commonly used methodologies in studying honesty. This then leads us to identify the previously overlooked but essential element of epistemic privilege in characterizing honesty. In the third part, we delve into how current explanatory models of honesty lack sufficient consideration of epistemic privilege, resulting in incomplete narratives about honesty. Our analysis of the extant literature suggests that both internal (including the self-concept maintenance theory) and external vigilance models fall short of explaining honesty and dishonesty because of both conceptual problems and empirical inadequacy. Identifying these shortcomings allows us to suggest some possible directions of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research has increasingly discussed the importance of temporal comparisons (comparisons with previous achievements) for the formation of students' academic self-concepts, in addition to social comparisons (comparisons with others' achievements) and dimensional comparisons (comparisons with achievements in other subjects). However, empirical findings on temporal comparison effects are inconsistent. In this paper, we contribute to this debate by arguing that temporal comparison effects were overestimated in previous studies testing the 2I/E model—a model that has often been used to investigate the joint effects of social, dimensional, and temporal comparisons in recent years—due to an inappropriate specification of social and dimensional comparison effects. Moreover, we examine the potential impact of comparison periods on the strength of temporal comparison effects. Specifically, we developed an extension of the 2I/E model in which we calculated students' achievement levels (used to specify social and dimensional comparison effects) by weighting rather than averaging students' grades from earlier school years. Subsequently, we tested this 2I/E model extension, together with two alternative models, in a sample of 1,006 tenth-graders from Germany by examining social, dimensional, and temporal comparison effects, relating to periods from 0.5 to 2.0 years, on students' math and German self-concepts. Overall, we found evidence for our assumption that temporal comparisons were overestimated in previous 2I/E model studies. Nevertheless, we still found significant temporal comparison effects in our 2I/E model extension. The periods for which the temporal comparison effects became significant differed between math and German. Educational Impact and Implications Statement: This study demonstrates that temporal comparisons affect students' academic self-concepts. Teachers can take advantage of these effects by highlighting their students' achievement improvements to promote their self-concepts. The achievement improvements can relate to different periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The death of a baby in the perinatal period is considered a disenfranchized grief that can be a source of significant symptoms of guilt, shame, and stigma. There is a lack of validated instruments for assessing the stigma associated with perinatal grief. The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties (factor structure, reliability, and validity) of the Spanish version of the Stillbirth Stigma Scale (SSS) in parents who have experienced a perinatal loss. A total of 291 participants (mostly mothers) completed an online questionnaire that included the SSS and other measures. The best-fitting factor structure was a second-order model with four dimensions and adequate reliability values. In terms of validity, we found statistically significant relationships between the SSS scores and the variables of self-esteem, complicated grief, event centrality, depression, and anxiety. In conclusion, the Spanish adaptation of the SSS is deemed to have adequate psychometric properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a prevalent problem among Egyptian youth, and achieving recovery and abstinence is challenging. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a well‐known approach, can be particularly beneficial when it addresses psychological aspects such as resilience and self‐esteem. What does the paper add to existing knowledge?: Our research is recognized as a trailblazer in integrating a spiritual adaptation of CBT with spiritual elements for treating patients with OUD in the Egyptian context. This innovative approach marks a significant advancement in the field.The study found a statistically significant increase in the mean scores of resilience, self‐esteem, and spirituality (p <.001 each) following the spiritual adaptation of CBT sessions compared to the control group. What are the implications for practice?: The findings can guide psychiatrists and nurses in providing more comprehensive and effective care to patients with OUD by incorporating a spiritual adaptation of CBT with spiritual components into treatment plans. Introduction: Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a prevalent problem among Egyptian youth, and achieving recovery and abstinence is challenging. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a well‐known approach, can be particularly beneficial when it addresses psychological aspects such as resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a spiritual adaptation of CBT in enhancing these factors among clients with OUD. Methods: A quasi‐experimental study with a control group was conducted using a pretest‐posttest design. The study included 49 clients with OUD and 46 clients in the control group. The Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale–Modified Arabic Version, Daily Spiritual Experience Scale, and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale were used as measurement tools. CBT was delivered in 60‐min group sessions. After 3 months, the questionnaires were re‐administered to evaluate the effectiveness of a spiritual adaptation of CBT sessions. Results: The study found a statistically significant increase in the mean scores of resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality (p <.001 each) following a spiritual adaptation of CBT sessions compared to the control group. Discussion: A spiritual adaptation of CBT effectively enhanced resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality in clients with OUD. Implications for Practice: Understanding the effectiveness of a spiritual adaptation of CBT in enhancing resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality can enable psychiatrists and nurses to provide more comprehensive and effective care to patients with OUD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging research suggests that reproductive coercion and abuse (RCA), like intimate partner violence (IPV), is associated with poorer mental and sexual health outcomes, including greater symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression and poorer markers of physical and sexual health such as sexually transmitted infections, unplanned pregnancies and lowered sexual agency. Although victims/survivors of RCA report long-lasting impacts on future relationships, including fear and anxiety, little is known about impacts of RCA on anxiety and general wellbeing, nor emotional and mental components of sexual health that comprise a person's sexual self-concept. With community samples of participants in Australia, we conducted two studies to explore the impact of RCA and IPV on psychological (study 1) and sexual (study 2) health outcomes. Study 1 (n = 368) found that experiencing IPV and RCA both significantly and uniquely contributed to poorer mental health outcomes. After controlling for age and IPV, RCA significantly predicted symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, and reduced satisfaction with life. Study 2 (n = 329) found that IPV and RCA differentially predicted various components of sexual health. IPV predicted decreased sexual satisfaction and increased sexual anxiety, depression, and fear of sexual encounters. After controlling for age and IPV, RCA significantly and uniquely predicted lower levels of sexual assertiveness and increased sexual depression and fear of sexual encounters, but not sexual satisfaction or anxiety. We conclude that RCA is associated with significant psychological distress and a negative sexual self-concept that may impact future relationships. Screening for both IPV and RCA across settings is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there are studies in the literature showing that genital self-image and sexuality-related issues are related. Genital self-image and women's perceptions of sexuality vary in different cultures and societies. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between genital self-image and the quality of sexual life of married Turkish women. We conducted a descriptive and correlational study between June 15, 2023 and August 15, 2023, with 232 married women. The data were collected online using the Personal Information Form, The Female Genital Self‑Image Scale (FGSIS), and the Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire-Female (SQLQ-F). Data analysis was performed through parametric tests, correlation and regression analysis. The mean scores of FGSIS and SQLQ-F were found to be 18.68 ± 4.19 and 75.11 ± 23.32, respectively. In the correlation analysis, a positive moderate-level significant relationship was determined between the total FGSIS score and the total SQLQ-F score (p < 0.001). A statistically significant difference was identified between the mean score of the FGSIS and women's and their husband's educational status, employment status of both women and husbands, delivery status, type of marriage, and self-perception of weight (p < 0.05). A statistically significant difference was detected between the mean score of the SQLQ-F and women's and their husband's educational status, income-expenditure level, delivery status, type of marriage, and self-perception of weight (p < 0.05). The genital self-image of the women is positive, and their sexual quality of life is good. It has been determined that as women's genital self-image increases, their quality of sexual life also increases. It is recommended that health professionals also evaluate genital self-image in their attempts to improve women's sexual life quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ghanaian culture is characterized by dominant heteronormative views about sexual orientation where the adolescent does not have the space to open up about their sexuality, stigma is attached to homosexuality and there are minimal avenues for socialization about sexuality. Given the research evidence of the potential for sexual identity confusion in a conservative culture such as Ghana, this study explored the extent of sexual orientation self-concept ambiguity (SOSA) and its psychosocial correlates among Ghanaian adolescents. 1080 adolescents, aged 13–19 years, completed questionnaires assessing sexual binary status, childhood sexual abuse, self-esteem, parent-child attachment, perceived social support, meaning in life, and SOSA. Overall, 28% of the sample reported high SOSA. The number of siblings and childhood sexual abuse were positive predictors whereas parental attachment and self-esteem were negative predictors of SOSA. For males, childhood sexual abuse and self-esteem were significant predictors. For females, being approached by a same-sex peer, identifying as gender non-binary and parental attachment were significant predictors of SOSA. These findings underscore the need for avenues for healthy exploration and discussions about sexuality and sexual orientation among Ghanaian adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although numerous studies have been conducted on sexual objectification in Western countries, few have focused on this topic among Muslim women. This study aimed to explore and understand the main sources of body shame among middle-aged Iranian women. Using in-depth interviews within a grounded theory framework, 18 middle-aged Iranian women participated in this study. The findings showed that many participants reported not feeling a strong sense of body shame in daily life, which was deeply ingrained in their perceived social expectations in daily interactions. Concerns about not meeting societal standards of sexual attractiveness were narrated as a significant contributor to body shame. Physical self-concept and past intimate relationships were key components in shaping the perception of sexual attractiveness. Furthermore, social identity emerged as a crucial contextual factor, influencing both the need for sexual attractiveness and the level of body shame experienced when exposed to sexually objectifying messages. The multifaceted nature of body shame and its intricate interplay with societal expectations were discussed within the context of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both Plato and Confucius were deeply concerned with moral cultivation and political leadership, topics that were inherently gendered in ancient patriarchal societies. I show that both thinkers focused their discussions on concepts that were associated with male aristocratic ideals of gentlemanliness. Yet while Confucian texts emphasize moral behavior and ritual to beautify the male body (shen 身), Plato focuses on the cultivation of a non-physical soul, which women also possess. Various theories have been proposed to explain this difference in their understandings of the self, but when we bear the gendered nature of their inquiry in mind, an important difference takes center stage: for Socrates, the male body is an object of sexual desire. This paper highlights the influence of homoerotic desire in Plato's unique approach to gentlemanliness, offering a new perspective for comparing these philosophers' views on gender, cultivation, and leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mnemic neglect effect describes a memory phenomenon in which individuals selectively forget negative information that threatens their core self-beliefs. While most studies support this phenomenon, some have shown that individuals do not always neglect self-relevant negative information and may even focus on it more. This study aims to validate the stability of mnemic neglect and explore the factors contributing to its variability under different conditions. This meta-analysis includes 18 studies with 93 independent samples (N = 4 ,989). The findings reveal: (1) The overall effect size of mnemic neglect is robust, g = 0.365, with a 95% CI [0.253, 0.476], Z = 6.416, p < 0.001; (2) there is a significant difference between recall performance for central and peripheral information, with individuals exhibiting better recall for self-relevant central information; (3) individuals recall fewer self-relevant central negative information compared to other-relevant central negative information; and (4) subgroup analysis indicates significant moderation of the mnemic neglect effect by anxiety levels and two fundamental dimensions of social cognition. This study provides empirical support for the robustness of mnemic neglect and further explores its underlying motivational mechanisms and influencing factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at investigating Finnish lower secondary grade students' (N = 469) emotional school well-being, social inclusion, and academic self-concept with regard to grade level, linguistic background, and needs for support. For collecting the data, a Finnish translation of the Perceptions of Inclusion Questionnaire for students was used. The results suggest that, considering the students' own perceptions, Finnish schools are quite inclusive with regard to students' linguistic backgrounds. Although the results showed a decrease in emotional well-being, social inclusion, and academic self-concept during the lower secondary level, this decrease was not related to any specific background factors. The results indicate that students receiving support showed lower levels of social inclusion and academic self-concept, suggesting that not all students feel equally included. These findings underline the importance of assessing students' own perceptions of inclusion. Additionally, educational implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drawing on the aesthetics of engagement proposed by the philosopher Arnold Berleant, this article sets out an environmental aesthetic approach to the human geographic debate about ruins. By adopting a relational understanding of self and world, the focus is on the immersive and multisensory experience of ruins including (im)material, bodily and cognitive accounts. Sensitive recording is introduced as a method to make experiences accessible in their situativity and fragility. Based on an empirical case study in the derelict Beelitz sanatorium in Germany, the article reveals three central qualities of experience that can be encountered in the ruins: emotive, challenging and irritating qualities. Such experiential qualities bring to light the significance of situative tensions at the threshold of absence and presence, past and present, familiar and unfamiliar, or vitality and lifelessness. By describing such tensions, we gain greater insight into the disruption of the familiar. Therefore, we can assess the emergent qualities of experience with the concepts of 'haunting' and 'uncanny'. Furthermore, we discover that encounters with the derelict place reveal qualities of wellbeing and connectedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the current preregistered cross‐sectional study was to examine whether in parents with high anxious (characterized with a negative model of self), dismissing (characterized with a negative model of others), and fearful attachment styles (characterized with a negative model of self and of others), the link between parental burnout and violence toward the offspring is stronger. Background: Past research has shown that parental burnout exacerbates violence toward the offspring, but the correlation is not perfect (r =.49), which suggests that not all parents in burnout out are violent, and that moderators might therefore be at play. Method: Participants (N = 794) answered an online questionnaires one time, through Prolific. Parental burnout, violence, and attachment styles were measured through the Parental Burnout Assessment, the Parental Violence Scale, and the Relationship Questionnaire. Multiple regression analyses were performed to test the moderating role of anxious, dismissing, and fearful attachment styles. Results: Parental burnout and all attachment styles are significantly related to violence. However, only fearful attachment style significantly potentiated the relation between parental burnout and violence. Conclusion: In parents with high fearful attachment style, the link between parental burnout and violence toward the offspring is stronger. Results are discussed in light of the role of internal models of self and others. Implications: Anxious, dismissing, and fearful attachment styles should systematically be investigated when dealing with burnt out parents, as some may be associated with a higher risk of violence toward the offspring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies offer conflicting evidence on whether face consciousness, which is a Confucian cultural value, promotes (or inhibits) the ethical aspects of fashion consumption. Building on the theory of regulatory focus and Confucian virtue ethics, we reconcile this discrepancy by conceptualising face consciousness as two distinct face regulatory foci in Confucian culture, namely, gaining mianzi and avoiding losing lian. We argue that in Confucian society, the ethics of fashion consumption are delineated by the Confucian virtues of rén, yì and lǐ. However, the two face regulatory foci have a dual moderating effect on individuals' manifestation of these virtues. On the one hand, individuals who seek to gain mianzi desire a consistent social self-image; therefore, they will proactively follow Confucian virtues to adopt ethical fashion. In contrast, individuals who primarily seek to avoid losing lian are less interested in ethical fashion. On the other hand, when the unethical consumption of fashion goods is a group norm, the mianzi-oriented group members would behave less ethically and prefer a non-ethical fashion option, but the members who intend to avoid losing lian would be more likely to support ethical fashion. Our findings reveal how traditional Confucian virtues are linked to the ethics of fashion consumption. We discuss the implications of our findings for ethical fashion production, marketing and consumption practice in a Confucian society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the impact of a DMT intervention in reducing aggression, depression, anxiety and increasing levels of self-esteem in adolescents who experienced trauma. Sixty females between the age of 13 & 18 participated in this study and were randomly assigned to either the experimental group or a wait-list group. The experimental group participated in 12 DMT sessions of 2 h each over a period of 2 months. The BP-AQ, RSES and the RCADS-25 were administered pre and post the intervention to measure the effects. The results of the MANOVA showed no significant difference between the overall pretest and post test scores of the experimental group. Separate ANOVAS with each of the dependent variables showed a significant difference between pre and post test scores. DMT may be effective in reducing aggression and depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-concept and self-efficacy have been acknowledged as critical predictors of foreign language (L2) learning. However, these two constructs are so closely intertwined that how they function together during L2 learning remains to be determined. The current project aimed to reveal two uncertainties: the bidirectional relationship between L2 self-concept and L2 self-efficacy and their relative effects on L2 achievement. We designed two independent studies: a two-wave longitudinal study to address the bidirectional issue (Study 1) and a correlational study for the relative importance issue (Study 2). For Study 1, we conducted cross-lagged structural equation modeling and found the one-directional relationship from self-concept to self-efficacy. For Study 2, we applied multilevel–structural equation modeling and found that only self-concept significantly predicted L2 achievement. These results provided evidence revealing the directional relationship between L2 self-concept and L2 self-efficacy and evidence supporting the relatively more important role of L2 self-concept in predicting L2 achievement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary school students struggling with mental health are less likely than high school students to access mental health care, due to barriers such as mental health stigma and low mental health literacy among children and parents. The near universal reach of schools offers a potential avenue to increase access to mental health care through early identification. The potential risks of this approach also need to be understood. This study monitored the impact of universal screening for mental health symptoms on stigma and mental health outcomes for primary school students. Methods: Across 6 primary schools, a cluster randomised controlled trial allocated schools to one of two conditions. Conditions varied based on the order and frequency of symptom and stigma questionnaires. A sample of 798 children (8 to 13 years; Mage = 10.29) completed assessments at baseline, 6-week, and 12-week follow-ups. Results: Significant time-by-group interaction effects were present, indicating differing changes in mental health stigma between groups. Follow-up analyses of subscales showed significant time-by-group interaction effects for concerns around self-stigma and secrecy, but not for public stigma. The frequency and presentation order of the questionnaires impacted on mental health stigma. Initially, children reporting on mental health symptoms before stigma, reported heightened stigma, but over time, those receiving more frequent presentations of the symptom check experienced an overall stigma reduction, contrasting with an increase in the comparison group. Conclusion: The frequency and presentation order of mental health symptom assessments impact children's reports of mental health stigma, underscoring the importance of screening context. Potential screening harms, such as exacerbating self-stigma and secrecy, warrant consideration. Addressing stigma-related barriers is crucial for enhancing mental health care access for children in schools. Trial registration Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622001114730) https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=384472 Date of trial registration: 12th August 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The association between connectedness to nature and happiness has been investigated in studies on nature-based recreation. However, few studies have explored the mechanisms underlying this relationship. Drawing upon the concept of ecological self, the present study investigated the associations among connectedness to nature, immersion, tourist inspiration, and happiness and explored the mediating roles of immersion and tourist inspiration in the context of mountaineering. We surveyed 359 mountain climbers who climbed high-altitude mountains in Taiwan. The results revealed that the direct path from connectedness to nature to happiness was nonsignificant. Connectedness to nature indirectly affected happiness through immersion and tourist inspiration, and the tourist inspiration had a stronger mediating influence than immersion. This study contributes to the literature by identifying two variables – immersion and tourist inspiration – that mediate the relationship between connectedness to nature and happiness. Managerial implications and suggestions for future research are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through progressive policies, Rwanda has made significant strides in promoting girls' education and empowerment. However, female enrollment in Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programs remains disproportionately low. This cross-sectional study investigates the influence of gender stereotypes and girls' self-perceptions on female engagement in MBBS programs in Rwanda. The data analyzed for this study has been used and published in BMC Medical Education in a study with a different but clearly related focus, under the title "Gender-based support systems influencing female students to pursue a bachelor of medicine, bachelor of surgery (MBBS) in Rwanda" (Neil KL, BMC Med Educ 24:641,2024). While the previous analysis focused on the presence and gaps in gender-based support systems, the current research has a new focus on gender based self-perceptions influence in girls interest in pursuing medical school training. Conducted across 13 secondary schools and 3 universities offering MBBS degrees, the study engaged 8–12 students, parents/guardians, and teachers in each focus group discussion in a total of thirty-four focus group discussions and sixteen semi-structured interviews. Twenty-eight discussions took place at the secondary school level, and six were conducted at the MBBS level. Data analysis utilized inductive coding to identify recurring themes. The study identified three overarching themes: society's role in shaping gendered expectations about domestic and professional roles, girls' self-perceptions regarding their ability to pursue sciences and MBBS within these norms, and internalized stereotypes affecting girls' career aspirations. Drawing on gender schema and social cognitive theory, the research underscores how societal expectations and stereotypes shape and constrain girls' career choices. The findings highlight the necessity of dismantling gender-based perceptions that hinder girls' participation in scientific disciplines, including MBBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]