Behavioral Sciences Research Articles

Creating demand for unmet needs: Agile Storytelling

IntroductionThe translational gap from the discovery of evidence-based solutions to their implementation in healthcare delivery organizations derives from an incorrect assumption that the need for change among executive, administrative, or clinical personnel is the same as the demand for change. For sickle cell disease (SCD), implementation of evidence-based guidelines is often delayed or obstructed due to lack of demand. This challenge allows for the persistence of resource limitations and care delivery models that do not meet the community's unique needs. Agile Storytelling is a process built on the scientific foundations of behavioral economics, complexity science, and network science to create local demand for the implementation of evidence-based solutions.MethodsAgile Storytelling includes a design phase and a testing phase. The design phase converts the evidence-based solution into a minimally viable story of a hero, a villain, struggle, drama, and a resolution. The testing phase evaluates the effectiveness of the story via a series of storytelling sprints in the target local healthcare delivery organization. The efficacy of Agile Storytelling was tested in an iterative n-of-1 case study design.ResultsAgile Storytelling was used in a large, urban, healthcare system within the United States to facilitate implementation of national SCD best-practice guidelines. After repeated failures attempting to use national and local data regarding the high societal need to hire a SCD-specific social worker, an Agile change conductor using Agile Storytelling was able to create demand for the new position within a week. This decision has ultimately improved patient outcomes and led to the adoption of a specialized collaborative care team for SCD within the health network.DiscussionAgile Storytelling can lead to structured, effective, and informed storytelling to create local demand within healthcare delivery organizations.

Guess What? The Asker–Guesser Discrepancy in Desire for the Right Guess

The practice of initiating conversations with “guess what” questions is common across various social settings. This study examines whether askers and guessers share similar desires for correct guesses during these interactions, a question previously unexplored in behavioral sciences. Across five studies, our research uncovered a significant discrepancy: Askers generally exhibited a lower desire for correct guesses compared to guessers. This pattern holds true across diverse social contexts. Moreover, the results of guesses impact the outcomes of conversations, with askers experiencing more enjoyment and being more willing to continue the conversation when guesses are incorrect, whereas guessers have the opposite experience. Further, while individuals may recognize this disparity, adopting a perspective-taking approach does not alter the guesser's desire to guess correctly; however, guessers do decrease that desire when reminded to protect the asker's emotions.

An untapped resource: social media accounts show problem solving in numerous new animal species

Abstract Problem solving in animals is often studied by measuring an animal’s ability to solve man-made puzzles, such as puzzle feeders. Outside of scientific studies, puzzle feeders are also presented to captive animals housed in zoos, aquaria, and sanctuaries as a form of enrichment. Footage of these interactions is commonly posted on social media accounts to increase public engagement with the institution. However, because these puzzle feeders are not presented to animals for research purposes, the problem-solving abilities of numerous species may not be recorded in the scientific literature. Therefore, we searched through three social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram and X) for footage of captive animals solving problems to determine if social media could be a useful tool for behavioural scientists. For each video, we recorded what species was featured, what the puzzle was, how it was solved, and whether this was the first documentation of problem solving for the species (to the best of our knowledge). We found 111 records of successful problem solving across 74 species, including mammals (), birds (), and reptiles (). Overall, this was the first record of problem solving in 29 of these species. We suggest that social media could be a useful tool for researchers studying problem solving, particularly of mammalian and avian species.

7.A. Skills building seminar: Is Behavioural Science Relevant for Public Health? A Quintuple Helix Lens

Abstract Background On 29 May 2023, the World Health Assembly adopted the first-ever global Behavioural Sciences for Better Health resolution (WHA76.7). This resolution requests the World Health Organization (WHO) to mainstream and support behavioural sciences in public health across the WHO and within Member States; including enhancing awareness, knowledge, and evidence and providing technical assistance, normative guidance, and capacity-building. But is behavioural science really relevant for public health? Why and how it can help us to improve people’s health? Rationale This workshop seeks to delve into the application of behavioural science in public health within the context of the quintuple helix framework - academia, industry, government, civil society, and the broader environment. Through collaborating across sectors, stakeholders can leverage behavioural science to design more effective strategies for promoting positive health behaviour change, preventing diseases, and addressing public health challenges. This workshop will feature discussions and case studies in various public health domains. Aim The main aim of this skills-building seminar is to explore the synergies between behavioural science and the quintuple helix, examining how these collaborations can drive innovation, enhance policy implementation, and foster sustainable health outcomes. By critically examining these intersections, we seek to stimulate dialogue, foster collaborations, and inspire innovative approaches for addressing complex health challenges in our society. Workshop structure This workshop will consist of three parts: - It will start with a short scene-setting presentation by Iveta Nagyova, EUPHA president, highlighting the innovation potential of behavioural science to improve people’s health (10 mins). - In the second part (30 mins), the panellists will discuss concrete examples of interconnections of behavioural science and public health within the quintuple helix framework. 1. Susan Michie will share her experience of interconnections between academia and government as a member of the UK SAGE - Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies. 2. Simon Bacon will discuss the behavioural lens applied to the commercial determinant of health. 3. Tiina Likki will share WHO/Europe’s experience with developing and implementing the European regional action framework for behavioural and cultural insights for health, 2022-2027, 4. Kim Lavoie will speak about community involvement and social innovation within the context of more efficient healthcare systems. 5. Stefano Capalongo will show us examples of salutogenic design and architecture, applying neurobiobehavioural mechanisms. - The third part (20 mins) will be dedicated to a facilitated discussion with the audience to explore attendees’ opinions regarding the challenges and opportunities of applying behavioural sciences to improve people’s health and well-being, using the quintuple helix framework. Key messages • Integrating behavioural science within the quintuple helix framework cultivates partnerships advancing effective, inclusive and lasting public health initiatives. • Fostering cross-sector collaboration establishes an ecosystem driving innovative, equitable and sustainable solutions in public health. Speakers/Panelists Susan Michie University College London, London, UK Simon Bacon Concordia University, Montréal, Canada Kim Lavoie UQAM, Department of Psychology, Montreal, Canada Tiina Likki WHO/Europe, Hellerup, Denmark Stefano Capolongo Politecnico di Milano, Milan, Italy

11.P. Scientific session: Behavioural Science of Emergency Preparedness across Europe

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of human behaviour in times of crisis. However, it also revealed that the behavioural sciences were not optimally prepared to provide actionable insights to policy makers to support preventive and coping behaviours in a crisis context. To ensure that the behavioural sciences can provide timely and effective advice to policy makers during future emergencies, it is key to act before a crisis occurs. The current workshop chaired by the Behavioural and Cultural Insights Unit of the WHO, will offer five perspectives to explore how behavioural science as a discipline is being applied to our understanding of pandemic and emergency preparedness and what concrete actions can and are already being taken now. Following five short presentations, a discussion with the panel and the audience will take place. The Dutch National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) will start by presenting their approach toward embedding behavioural science of pandemic preparedness: the organisation of a national stakeholder network, the development of a conceptual framework, and3) development of a quantitative survey monitor for individual level behaviour. monitoring pandemic preparedness. f The Spanish Carlos III Health Institute and Slovenian Public Health institute will present insights about operationalising this monitor in their given context. They will present results of the first two rounds of this monitor on behalf of the four European member states, focusing on comparative insights on perceptions and states of preparedness, vaccination, citizen wellbeing and resilience with respect to their context. Next, the Competence Centre on Behavioural Insights of the European Commission will present an experimental approach toward preparedness. They will present results based on a scenario study, focused on understanding behaviours in the broader context of pandemic and disaster preparedness. The last two presentations will reflect on qualitative approaches. The Behavioural and Cultural Insights Unit of the WHO will present their qualitative study on health-service access, needs and behaviours of Ukrainian refugees in neighbouring countries, and reflect on operating under emergency constraints. In the final presentation the RIVM will present their findings of qualitative methods to study perceived emergency readiness. In particular, their study focuses on what citizens understand by pandemic preparedness, and to what extent they perceive their government as prepared for a future pandemic. Overall, the workshop aims to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of the importance of behavioural science in pandemic and disaster preparedness and inspire collaborative action towards building resilient and effective strategies for future crises. Key messages • The workshop underlines the importance of behavioural science in preventing and responding to infectious disease outbreaks. • Participants learn how behavioural sciences can already be applied now to prepare citizens and organisations for future pandemics and crises.

Correlates of using behavioural sciences to design health promotion interventions and programs

Abstract Background The World Health Organization highlighted the need to better integrate behavioural science in the field of public health. Based on the theoretical domains framework, this study examined correlates of public health practitioners’ use of behavioural science principles to plan public health actions aim at promoting physical activity and healthy eating. Methods This study adopted a cross-sectional design. A convenience sample of 160 public health practitioners were recruited from different public health agencies (non-profit organizations, governmental and para-governmental agencies). They were asked to complete a survey questionnaire online and self-reported their use of behavioural science to plan health promotion interventions. Regression analyses were conducted to examine correlates of behaviour and behavioural intentions. All analyses were controlled for sex, number of years of experience in public health and the type of organization they work for. Results Skills (OR = 4.1, 95%CI: 1.3, 13.5) and intentions/goals (OR = 9.2, 95%CI: 2.3, 36.1) were the two domains significantly associated with the use of behavioural science. Perceived capacity to overcome the fact that none of their colleagues rely on behavioural sciences in their organization (OR = 7.2, 95%CI: 1.7, 30.3) was also associated with behaviour. Knowledge (OR = 8.6, 95%CI: 1.9, 39.1) and beliefs about consequences (OR = 4.0, 95%CI: 1.1, 14.7) were in turn associated with intentions/goals. Conclusions This unique study provides important insights for the development of future knowledge transfer activities aim at supporting positive attitudes and motivations toward the use of behavioural science as well as developing competencies and a normative use of behavioural science. The development of a strong knowledge basis would also need to be a core component of trainings to support the integration of behavioural science in public health to design physical active lifestyles and healthy eating interventions. Key messages • Increasing knowledge and skills in behavioural sciences is a key for a better integration in public health practices. • Changes in norms and attitudes toward the use of behavioural sciences will also support a better uptake.

A behavioural perspective on pandemic preparedness

Abstract Driven by lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, the RIVM Behavioural Unit is working on the preparedness of social and behavioural sciences. This includes establishing and maintaining a stakeholder network and a knowledge base on pandemic preparedness and behaviour. Using the socio-ecological model and the emergency management cycle, we propose a conceptual framework for a behavioural perspective on pandemic preparedness. The multilevel (individual, community, organisational, national and supra-national), time-dependent (cold, acute, recovery phase) structure of the framework can be helpful in explicating who has to do what, when. In addition, to explain and understand what different actors require for those behaviours prior to or during a pandemic, we propose an adapted version of the COM-B model (Michie et al., 2011), including determinants of behaviour related to motivation, capabilities and opportunities. Based on these frameworks, various monitoring tools are developed. Here we present the Pandemic Preparedness and Behaviour (PPb) survey aimed at cold phase monitoring behaviour on an individual level (i.e. hygiene behaviours, social activity, preparedness behaviours) and their determinants. With this survey we will obtain baseline measurements ahead of a possible future pandemic and will have developed the appropriate tools to be used in a hot phase for as much as possible. In addition, results on cold phase determinants can help to identify where communities, organisations and governments can provide support to improve pandemic preparedness. In this presentation, the proposed conceptual framework and the PPb survey will be discussed, together with their relevance for preparedness of the social and behavioural sciences.

Leveraging epidemiological data for the development of interventions to promote healthy nutrition and physical activity among adolescents from disadvantaged backgrounds

Abstract ePro-Schools is a public health initiative designed to promote healthy nutrition and physical activity among adolescents from socially disadvantaged backgrounds using a targeted e-health intervention to be deployed in the school context. A central theme of ePro-Schools is its robust cross-sectoral collaboration, involving stakeholders from academia, healthcare, education, and local communities. This cooperative approach not only enhances the intervention’s relevance and efficacy but also ensures its cultural, social, and economic adaptability to the needs of the target population. The project embodies a truly interdisciplinary effort, integrating insights from epidemiology, behavioural science, public health, and digital technology to innovate and improve health promotion strategies. This presentation will explore how data from epidemiological studies, such as the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study, are used to support the development of the ePro-Schools intervention. Utilizing high-quality epidemiological data, the project identifies key determinants of physical activity, dietary habits, and sedentary behaviour amongst adolescents growing up in low-SES contexts, allowing to craft tailored strategies to promote healthier lifestyles within this vulnerable population.

Restoring trust in vaccination through collective engagement with key populations in Eastern Europe

Abstract Issue/problem COVID-19 vaccination rates remained below 50% in Moldova, North Macedonia, and Serbia, especially among vulnerable populations like pregnant women and those with chronic diseases. This was strengthened by a lack of targeted communication and training for healthcare workers, and COVID-19 fatigue. Strategies to increase vaccine demand and confidence are a global priority, especially among vulnerable populations. Description of the solution From May 2022 to April 2024, the USAID MOMENTUM Routine Immunization Transformation and Equity project employed behavior integration to design a social and behavior change strategy, centering on vaccination as a part of a healthy lifestyle. It was implemented through continuing medical education (CME) and community engagement (CE) workshops with vulnerable populations, supplemented by cross-country learning exchanges. The outcomes provide a framework for public health initiatives aimed at boosting vaccine uptake through innovative, behavior-based methods. Results 1,618 healthcare professionals, able to reach 2.5 to 4.8 million patients, received training in immunization, COVID-19 vaccines, and quality health service, and 99% indicated confidence in applying the knowledge. 265 CE workshops, engaging 4,079 patients, increased awareness and addressed concerns related to vaccination. Of 3,223 patients who were followed up, 47% reported setting an appointment with their doctor regarding vaccination, 27% discussed vaccination with their partners, and 7% proceeded to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Lessons Behavior Integration helped address key barriers to vaccination and informed the design of strategies (i.e. situating COVID-19 vaccination as part of a healthy lifestyle). Establishing trust with healthcare providers and patients through collective engagement improved health behaviors. Focusing on health as a wider priority helped re-establish the significance of vaccination as part of a healthy lifestyle. Key messages • Behavior science and behavior integration helped identify and address barriers, as well as design tailored interventions to improve vaccination demand and confidence. • Collective engagement, focused on integration of COVID-19 vaccination as part of a healthy lifestyle, achieved results through addressing vaccine hesitance from both sides of the equation.

Leveraging Behavioural Insights to Create Healthier Online Environment for Children

Abstract Issue/Problem The proliferation of digital marketing poses a significant threat to children’s health and well-being, necessitating innovative solutions grounded in cross-disciplinary systems approach. Description of the problem Children’s exposure to harmful digital marketing is pervasive, influencing their preferences, behaviours, and health outcomes. Traditional regulatory approaches often fall short in addressing the dynamic nature of online advertising, exacerbating the challenge. Without effective interventions, children remain vulnerable to the detrimental effects of marketing for unhealthy products and services, undermining public health efforts. Results Integrating behavioural sciences with public health suggests promising avenues for addressing the complexities of harmful digital marketing to children. The WHO KidAd app is a ground-breaking tool designed for objective monitoring of digital marketing. Coupled with evidence-based behavioural strategies such as nudges, choice architecture, and social norms, policymakers can influence decision-making in favour of healthier choices, thereby reducing the impact of harmful marketing. By understanding the decision-making processes and behavioural patterns involved, policymakers can design targeted interventions to mitigate exposure and protect children. Lessons Learned The application of behavioural sciences in public health policy-making yields valuable lessons. Firstly, personalized and contextually relevant interventions resonate more effectively with target audiences, enhancing their efficacy. Secondly, leveraging behavioural insights allows for the design of interventions that complement existing regulatory frameworks, filling gaps in enforcement and compliance. Thirdly, interdisciplinary collaboration between public health experts, policymakers, and behavioural scientists is essential for developing evidence-based strategies tailored to the digital landscape’s evolving challenges. [Grant: APVV-22-0587] Speakers/Panelists Amandine Garde Law & Non-Communicable Diseases Unit, Liverpool, UK

3.G. Scientific session: Making WHO European Region the Healthiest Online Environment for children: Restrict harmful marketing

Abstract Children spend a significant amount of their time daily on digital devices using online services. While this can bring many advantages and benefits, it also entails dangers if not the online environment is not effectively regulated. Exposure to marketing of harmful products and services, particularly towards children, remains a pervasive challenge, despite the extensive evidence base documenting its negative impacts. This session will give an overview of integrating behavioural sciences with public health which suggested promising avenues for addressing the complexities of harmful digital marketing to children. Additionally, current tools developed by WHO Regional Office for Europe and Joint Actions, which Member States can use to address novel challenges like brand marketing will be presented. The tools help to map, monitor and regulate the digital marketing exposure of unhealthy foods and brands to children in their country. One focus will be on the need to objective monitoring of marketing exposure to inform policies and ensure that they are fit for purpose. This is particularly challenging, as traditional monitoring tools struggle to keep up with automated, targeted and personalized advertisements. Due to the complexity to successfully restrict marketing exposure to children, strong collaborations are needed. Collaborative efforts of the Joint Action PreventNCD and the WHO Europe will be presented. Specific goals set by the Joint Action, as well as the importance of a sustainable approach will be highlighted. A discussion on the way forward will focus on how tangible impact can be created in the WHO European Region. Key messages • Need for effective tools to address novel challenges and successfully monitor and regulate harmful marketing to children. • Need for integration of behavioural science and strong collaborations to create real impact.

Students’ attitudes towards and willingness to intervene in partner violence against women in Sweden

Abstract Intimate partner violence against women (IPVAW) is a global public health problem, shown to be related to gender equality and to attitudes towards IPVAW. In Sweden, however, the reported prevalence of IPVAW is high, despite high levels of gender equality and a clear condemnation of such violence on the societal level. This phenomenon has been referred to as The Nordic paradox. One potential explanation for this paradox is that gender equality measures at the public level are not necessarily comparable to gender equality at a private level. One way to find out more about this is to investigate attitudes towards IPVAW at an individual level, which has so far been done to a limited extent in a Swedish context. In the current study, the aim was to investigate different aspects of attitudes to IPVAW (perceived acceptability, perceived severity, victim-blaming and ambivalent sexism) among university students in Sweden, and whether those attitudes were related to studentś willingness to intervene in cases of IPVAW. Any gender differences related to IPVAW attitudes and willingness to intervene were also examined. The respondents (n = 656, ≥18 years old) were recruited from three different universities and represented different scientific fields (e.g. social, behavioral, and technical sciences). Most of the respondents were undergraduate students and the majority were women (81%). The results showed that the students had rather non-accepting attitudes towards IPVAW overall, but viewed victims as to some extent responsible of the violence they are subjected to. There were no gender differences regarding willingness to intervene in cases of IPVAW, and attitudes to IPVAW were related to willingness to intervene. There were both similarities and differences between male and female students, in terms of how attitudes were linked to willingness to intervene. The presentation will discuss the results and their implications for future research, policy and practice. Key messages • Increased knowledge on attitudes towards IPVAW in Sweden may shed light on the Nordic paradox. • While non-accepting attitudes were found overall, gender differences and tendencies towards victim-blaming were identified.

Performance Mindfulness: Integrating ACT Matrix, Imagery and Mindfulness for Performance Enhancement

Mindfulness, imagery, and acceptance-based interventions have been widely applied within the sport and performance psychology domain. This paper presents a novel imagery method termed ‘Performance Mindfulness,’ which synthesizes insights from the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Matrix tool, the Physical, Environmental, Task, Timing, Learning, Emotion, Perspective (PETTLEP) imagery method, and principles of mindfulness. As existing imagery techniques are limited in effectively capturing the motivational and emotional dimensions of athletic performance, this integrated approach introduces a well-conceptualized, evidence-based framework rooted in Contextual Behavioral Science. This framework translates insights from the ACT Matrix into a practical tool within the imagery process and integrates principles of mindfulness to enhance the effectiveness of imagery. Performance Mindfulness is tailored for sport psychology practitioners who seek to incorporate acceptance and mindfulness principles into the mental preparation of athletes at various levels. The paper provides a detailed explanation of the technique, including concrete examples, and discusses its advantages and disadvantages comprehensively.

Cohort retention in a pandemic response study: Lessons from the SIREN study

Abstract Background Cohort studies represent an important research-tool, yet participant retention is difficult. SIREN followed a cohort of healthcare workers across 135 NHS sites in the UK during a pandemic. We designed an evolving retention programme, underpinned by our Participant Involvement Panel (PIP). We aimed to evaluate cohort retention over time and identify learnings. Methods Mixed method evaluation of our evolving retention programme in the 12 and 24-month cohort. We described cohort retention by demographics and site, using odds ratios from logistic regression. Withdrawal reasons were collected by survey. We collected participant feedback via cross-sectional survey using a behavioural science approach. We conducted focus groups with research teams and conducted thematic analysis. Results 37,275 (84.7%) participants at 135 sites completed 12-months of follow-up. 12,635 (85.5%) participants at 87 sites completed 24-months. Retention increased with age (24-months: >65 vs < 25 years OR = 2.92; 95%CI: 1.78-4.88; p < 0.001) and was highest in the Asian and Black ethnic groups (24-months OR = 1.78; 95%CI: 1.42-2.25; p < 0.001, and OR = 2.12; 95%CI: 1.41-3.35; p < 0.001, respectively, Ref=white). SIREN scored highly in participant feedback. Lessons for future studies include the need to monitor changing participant motivation; using inclusive and comprehensive communication; acknowledging the contributions of participants and investing in the skillset of research teams. Conclusions Despite challenges to running a large multicentre cohort study in an evolving pandemic, retention in SIREN has remained very high. Some factors impacting retention were outside of study control, including the altruistic motivation of participants. Participant feedback was positive, suggesting SIREN methodology will provide useful learning for future retention programmes. Site feedback provided learning for future multicentre research studies, offering insights into key facilitators and common challenges. Key messages • Cohort retention is difficult. Mixed methods evaluation shows SIREN achieved high retention while following a cohort of healthcare workers across 135 NHS sites in four UK nations during a pandemic. • Lessons learned include the need to monitor changing participant motivation; using inclusive communication; acknowledging participants contributions and investing in the research team skillset.

To use or not to use behavioural science evidence in designing health promotion interventions: Identification of targets for capacity building.

The behavioural sciences provide useful evidence to design effective health promotion interventions, but evidence is infrequently integrated in practice. This study examined associations between theoretical domains framework (TDF) constructs and public health practitioners' use of behavioural science evidence to plan public health actions. Using a cross-sectional design, a convenience sample of 160 practitioners were recruited from public health agencies across Canada. Respondents completed an online questionnaire assessing TDF constructs and the use of behavioural science theory and approaches (i.e., evidence) in their practice. Logistic regression analyses allowed for identification of factors associated with evidence use and intentions. All analyses were adjusted for sex, years of experience, and type of public health agency. Greater skills (ORadj = 4.1, 95%CI 1.3, 13.5) and stronger intentions/aligned goals (ORadj = 9.2, 95%CI 2.3, 36.1) were associated with greater use of behavioural science evidence to plan public health actions. Greater perceived capacity to overcome widespread absence of use of behavioural science evidence in their organization (ORadj = 7.2, 95%CI 1.7, 30.3) was also associated with greater use. More knowledge (ORadj = 8.6, 95%CI 1.9, 39.1) and stronger beliefs about consequences (ORadj = 4.0, 95%CI 1.1, 14.7) were significantly associated with stronger intentions/aligned goals. Findings show that more knowledge, positive attitudes, and stronger perceived competence are associated with greater likelihood of using behavioural science evidence to plan interventions. The use of behavioural science evidence will also require strengthening the norm pertaining to this professional practice in public health organizations.

Keeping viewers hooked: Netflix’s innovative strategies for reducing churn

Netflix’s digital disruption in the entertainment industry has been significantly enhanced by digital nudging, which refers to using behavioural science techniques to subtly influence user decisions (Thaler and Sunstein, 2008). By leveraging data analytics, Netflix personalises the viewing experience, guiding users toward content they are likely to enjoy, which increases engagement and encourages binge-watching. The platform employs sophisticated algorithms to recommend titles, effectively nudging viewers to explore new genres or original content based on their viewing history (Lobato, 2019). This strategy has been pivotal in fostering a binge-watching culture, contrasting sharply with traditional broadcasting schedules offering weekly instalments. Netflix’s ability to analyse user data allows it to create content that aligns with viewer preferences, further enhancing its appeal. By understanding what resonates with audiences, Netflix can produce targeted original content that captures attention and retains subscribers. Digital nudging plays a crucial role in Netflix’s strategy, reinforcing its position as a leader in the streaming market while reshaping consumption habits across the industry. However, digital nudging presents both opportunities and challenges for customer churn management, raising critical ethical questions about autonomy and manipulation. Finding the right balance between effective customer retention strategies and ethical considerations will be vital for fostering trust and enhancing the overall user experience on the platform.

Adolescents social capital and academic performance: A comprehensive study on the mediating effect of social belongingness and connectedness

ABSTRACT Adolescence recognised as the peroid of transition characterised by a changing environment. The inadequate attention given to adolescent social relationships and resources makes it crucial for investigation in the field of behavioral sciences. The individual’s instinct for collective survival through the establishment of social relationships enhances the significance of connectedness and belongingness in the process of resource accumulation. This study aims to investigate the mediating role of social belongingness and connectedness in the relationship between social capital and academic performance within the educational context. The research employs a cross-sectional approach utilizing a quantitative descriptive research design and stratified sampling methodology. Approximately, 200 samples were gathered through a questionnaire administered to middle-aged adolescents aged 12-15 years from multiple schools in Salem district. The study findings indicate a statistically significant association between social capital, belongingness, connectedness, and academic performance of the individuals within the school environment. Furthermore, social capital was predicted and mediated by sense of belongingness and connectedness. The study concludes that the dual relationship between individuals’ social capital and academic performance facilitates enhanced access to resources and opportunities, favouring both individuals’ and society as a whole.

Bibliometric Insights into Anger and Aggression Research

Background: Anger and aggression are central constructs in psychology, sociology, and behavioral sciences, affecting mental health and social interactions. Despite extensive research, there is a need to map the trends and focal points of studies in this area, particularly to understand how themes like mental health disorders, developmental psychology, and social dynamics interconnect with aggression. Objective: This study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of global research on anger and aggression, identifying key trends, influential authors, leading research areas, and interdisciplinary approaches. The goal is to provide insights into the trajectory and focus of scholarly work in this field. Methods: Using bibliometric techniques, including co-occurrence mapping and citation analysis, data from relevant research articles were extracted and analyzed through VOSviewer. Key terms, authorship networks, and publication patterns were examined to uncover thematic clusters and research trajectories. Findings: The analysis highlights several prominent themes in the literature on anger and aggression, including their links to psychological disorders (e.g., depression, stress), behavioral development in children and adolescents, and the influence of family and social environments. The co-occurrence analysis also points to growing interest in therapeutic interventions, cognitive and neurological underpinnings of aggression, and biological factors, such as brain injury. Authors such as Richard Tremblay, David Farrington, and Manuel Eisner have emerged as influential figures in this research domain. Conclusion: This bibliometric study reveals that research on anger and aggression is characterized by interdisciplinary approaches, integrating psychology, neuroscience, and social sciences. The focus on mental health and therapeutic interventions highlights the practical applications of this research in clinical settings. The increasing interest in the neurological and biological dimensions of aggression also suggests a broadening of the research agenda. Novelty: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the intellectual landscape of anger and aggression research through a bibliometric lens, offering new insights into the evolving trends, collaboration networks, and thematic directions in the field. It is one of the first studies to integrate a co-occurrence analysis with citation data to map both psychological and biological dimensions of aggression research.

Digital cognitive-behavioral therapy for substance use: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Background: Prior meta-analyses have evaluated digital interventions for alcohol exclusively and alcohol/tobacco combined. These meta-analyses showed positive outcomes pertaining to alcohol and alcohol/tobacco combined. Yet questions remain pertaining to the effect of digital cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on reducing alcohol and drug use.Objectives: The purpose of the meta-analysis was to determine the mean effect size, relative to control groups, of digital CBT, for posttest reductions in drug and/or alcohol use.Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses criteria was used to guide this review and meta-analysis. Electronic databases (APA PsycArticles, Academic Search Complete, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL Complete, ERIC, MEDLINE, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, Social Sciences Full Text, Social Work Abstracts, SocINDEX), clinicaltrials.gov, reference lists were searched. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (ID#: CRD42023471492). The CBT interventions included cognitive restructuring.Results: All but one of the effect sizes favored digital CBT (from -0.02 to -1.45). After the removal an outlier, a small, significant, random effects model Hedges' g summary effect of -0.23 (95% confidence interval: -0.32, -0.14, p < .0001) showed a reduction in substance use at the posttest, favoring digital CBT relative to the control group. A variety of control conditions were used; however, the effects sizes had minimal heterogeneity (k = 17, I2 = 5.34, Q = 16.9, p = .39). The funnel plot and Egger regression test intercept (0.01, p = .99) lacked publication bias.Conclusion: The meta-analytic findings suggest digital CBT is an efficacious treatment for reducing alcohol and drug use overall.

Worldwide Recessions and Herding Behaviour: A Comparative Analysis of Three Countries

The general suggestion that behavioral science plays a part in creating abnormalities within the financial sector has been studied and proposed many times in the past. This study aims to prove the existence of behavioral sciences, specifically herding behavior, in three countries with different market conditions: Indonesia (Emerging), Vietnam (Frontier), and the United States (Developed). We developed our methodology using quantile regression to study the existence of herding behavior, and our findings were as follows: (1) As expected, the US didn’t have any indication of a statistically significant herding presence; they do, however, indicate an insignificant presence of herding behavior in the post-covid period under bearish conditions (2) Vietnam does not indicate significant herding tendencies, (3) Surprisingly, Indonesia did not exhibit statistically significant herding presence, but both Indonesia and Vietnam exhibited the slight presence of herding behavior but still relatively insignificant.