Client Engagement Research Articles

ER export via SURF4 uses diverse mechanisms of both client and coat engagement.

Protein secretion is an essential process that drives cell growth and communication. Enrichment of soluble secretory proteins into ER-derived transport carriers occurs via transmembrane cargo receptors that connect lumenal cargo to the cytosolic COPII coat. Here, we find that the cargo receptor, SURF4, recruits different SEC24 cargo adaptor paralogs of the COPII coat to export different cargoes. The secreted protease, PCSK9, requires both SURF4 and a co-receptor, TMED10, for export via SEC24A. In contrast, secretion of Cab45 and NUCB1 requires SEC24C/D. We further show that ER export signals of Cab45 and NUCB1 bind co-translationally to SURF4 via a lumenal pocket, contrasting prevailing models of receptor engagement only upon protein folding/maturation. Bioinformatics analyses suggest that strong SURF4-binding motifs are features of proteases, receptor-binding ligands, and Ca2+-binding proteins. We propose that certain classes of proteins are fast-tracked for rapid export to protect the health of the ER lumen.

Persuasive Speech Act Strategies of Online Fashion Sellers in Live E-Commerce: A Cyberpragmatics Approach

Through cyberpragmatics outlook, this study explores the persuasive speech act techniques utilized by online fashion vendors during live e-commerce sessions. The study investigates how sellers utilize persuasive strategies in digital communication to influence consumer behavior and increase revenue. A mixed-methods approach is employed so that the research combines qualitative content analysis of live selling sessions with quantitative measures of engagement and conversion rates. Important discoveries show that sellers frequently use a combination of assertive, expressive, directive, commissive, and phatic speech acts, which are adapted to the dynamic and interactive nature of real-time e-commerce platforms. The implications for both sellers and digital marketing strategists underscore the importance of adaptive communication techniques in enhancing consumer engagement and optimizing sales outcomes. Furthermore, the persuasive strategies emphasize the importance of using visual aids, real-time client engagement, and personalized marketing tactics. This research contributes to the understanding of digital persuasion in e-commerce and offers insights into the evolving landscape of online retail communication.

Veterinary clients prefer benefit-focused online communication while clinic websites uncommonly communicate benefits of preventive care services.

To explore client preferences for how value is communicated via written means and to assess the consistency of this preference with how veterinary clinic websites present this information for preventive care services. First, a questionnaire was developed to assess clients' preference between 2 researcher-developed paragraphs recommending senior pet screening (one focused on the function of screening, the other on pet benefits of screening) and distributed from August 17 to November 2, 2023. Second, veterinary clinic websites were retrieved with a search engine using predefined search phrases related to 4 preventive care topics (flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention, dental cleaning, and senior bloodwork). Each website was coded for the frequency of 4 codes related to how the value of the preventive care service was communicated (feature, function, pet benefit, or client benefit). From the questionnaire, 58.0% (166/286) of participants preferred the benefit-focused communication. Those who saw the benefit-focused paragraph were more likely to indicate being "extremely likely" to discuss senior pet screening with a veterinarian. Of the 128 website pages coded, the mean text percentages for each code were 13.3% feature, 10.5% function, 6.4% pet benefit, and 1.0% client benefit. Results suggest that opportunities exist to increase communication of the benefits of veterinary care on veterinary clinic websites, which may align more with clients' preferences. Through online communication, veterinary professionals may have an opportunity to increase client engagement with preventive care services by emphasizing the benefits of preventive care services in addition to the function.

The Application of Self-Determination Theory in Psychological Counseling Process

Self Determination Theory (SDT) is an important theoretical framework used in psychological counseling to increase intrinsic motivation, strengthen psychological well-being and support behavioural changes. This study examines the applications and effects of SDT in psychological counseling in detail. Deci and Ryan SDT focuses on the needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness to increase the intrinsic motivation of individuals. Meeting these basic needs has positive effects on the psychological well-being of clients. SDT applications in psychological counseling stand out with their effectiveness in increasing client engagement and commitment to therapy. The autonomy-supportive approaches of SDT encourage clients to participate more actively in the therapy processes, which positively affects therapeutic outcomes. Research shows that SDT increases clients' intrinsic motivation and this motivation leads to high success rates in therapeutic processes. In the study, the application examples and case studies section shows how SDT is applied in various therapeutic contexts and what results it yields. The case studies illustrate how SDT supports clients' psychological well-being and is effective in behavioural change processes. Clinical research and meta-analyses provide important findings supporting the general validity and effectiveness of SDT. In conclusion, SDT is an effective approach in psychological counseling to increase clients' intrinsic motivation, strengthen their psychological well-being and support long-term changes.

Linguistic sensitivity in family therapy: A review of language adaptation strategies for enhancing therapeutic engagement

Language plays a pivotal role in family therapy, shaping the therapeutic process and influencing client engagement and outcomes. This review explores the significance of linguistic sensitivity in family therapy and examines various language adaptation strategies aimed at enhancing therapeutic engagement. Drawing upon existing literature, this paper synthesizes key findings and offers insights into effective approaches for addressing linguistic diversity within therapeutic contexts. Understanding the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of clients is essential for promoting inclusivity and facilitating effective communication in family therapy. Cultural competence encompasses not only an awareness of diverse cultural norms and values but also proficiency in navigating linguistic nuances. By recognizing the impact of language on therapeutic interactions, therapists can foster a more inclusive and empowering therapeutic environment. The review identifies several language adaptation strategies that therapists can employ to enhance therapeutic engagement with diverse client populations. These strategies include linguistic matching, which involves adjusting language patterns and communication styles to resonate with clients' linguistic preferences. Additionally, the use of culturally relevant metaphors, idioms, and storytelling techniques can facilitate deeper rapport and understanding between therapists and clients. Furthermore, the review discusses the importance of employing interpreters and bilingual therapists to bridge language barriers effectively. It emphasizes the need for clear communication protocols and the importance of training therapists in language adaptation techniques to ensure ethical and effective practice. Moreover, the review highlights the role of technology in language adaptation, such as the use of translation software and teletherapy platforms with multilingual capabilities. Leveraging technology can broaden access to therapy and support linguistic diversity in therapeutic settings. Linguistic sensitivity is fundamental to promoting inclusivity and effectiveness in family therapy. By adopting language adaptation strategies and embracing linguistic diversity, therapists can cultivate a more responsive and culturally competent approach to working with diverse families. This review underscores the importance of ongoing research and training initiatives to further enhance linguistic sensitivity within the field of family therapy.

A Mindfulness-Integrated Therapeutic Approach to Enhance Client Engagement with Prolonged Exposure and Habit Reversal Therapy and Bolster Therapist Trainee Self-Efficacy and Distress Tolerance

Despite the established efficacy of exposure-based trauma treatments, such as prolonged exposure (PE), clinicians’ and clients’ concerns about these therapies hinder their widespread implementation. Clinicians report experiencing low self-efficacy and high distress when delivering PE, while patients doubt the credibility of this treatment, contributing to patient dropout. To tackle such challenges, mindfulness-based therapeutic approaches have been used. In the current case involving PTSD due to childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and coercive sex, trichotillomania, excoriation disorder, and depression, mindfulness practices and principles were woven into PE and habit reversal therapy (HRT). The therapist, a trainee with no prior trauma treatment experience, felt that her ability to manage the client’s distress during treatment and her confidence in delivering therapy was enhanced by her own mindfulness practice, and further reinforced by the pervasive integration of mindfulness throughout treatment. Likewise, the client attributed her capacity to engage in PE and HRT to the mindfulness practices and principles woven into treatment. Mindfulness also assisted in coalescing the concomitant delivery of PE and HRT. Following 21 sessions of mindfulness-integrated PE and 17 sessions of mindfulness-integrated HRT, the client no longer met criteria for PTSD and depression, eradicated her body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), and disclosed her index trauma with loved ones. These improvements were maintained at one-year follow-up, underscoring the potency of mindfulness therapeutic integration to enhance therapists’ distress tolerance and self-efficacy, clients’ treatment engagement, and overall therapeutic outcomes in complex cases.

The use of technology and mobile health apps in child maltreatment interventions: Perspectives of TF-CBT therapists and SafeCare providers

BackgroundPrevious research has demonstrated positive effects of using technology as an augmentation to evidence-based youth mental health treatment and parenting programs, however, limited research has examined the use of technology in evidence-based child maltreatment (CM) prevention and treatment. ObjectivesThe purpose of this paper is twofold: 1) to understand the application of technology and mobile health apps in CM prevention and treatment programs and 2) examine the acceptability of CM programs with an evidence-informed app, JoyPop™, developed to promote resilience through emotion regulation. Participants and SettingTrauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) therapists (N = 12) and SafeCare© providers (N = 12) were recruited and participated in virtual semi-structured interviews. MethodParticipants tested the JoyPop™ app over one week and were interviewed to assess their perspectives about and experiences using technology and mobile health apps in practice (aim 1) and the potential use of JoyPop™ as a program augmentation (aim 2). Data collection and analysis was guided by qualitative descriptive analysis. ResultsParticipants reported that technology and apps supporting positive coping strategies, including JoyPop™, are relevant to the goals of CM programs and can be used enhance client engagement and skill uptake. Participants noted that JoyPop™'s features more strongly align with the components of TF-CBT than Safecare. Limitations of technology use in practice are discussed. ConclusionsSupplementing CM programs with technology and mobile health apps may be used to bolster client engagement and positive outcomes. Future research is needed to address the efficacy and client acceptance of technology and app usage in practice.

The impact of Covid-19 on recovery after sexual violence and abuse: Voices of help-seeking survivors and those individuals working within specialist support services in England

We examined the impact of Covid-19 on service delivery within specialist sexual violence services and the healing journeys of survivors of sexual violence and abuse through the experiences of 22 professionals and 221 service users in England. The pandemic posed challenges across all sectors and economies across the globe, but practices and innovations that emerged at that time could enhance future services and user experiences. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes within the data. Overall, the negative impacts of Covid-19 outweighed the positive changes: survivors reported increased feelings of depression, anxiety, and worry, exacerbated by isolation and lost connections with friends and family, and access to strategies for managing their mental health. Difficulties/delays in accessing support, service provision, and disruptions to rapport, trust, and safety were widespread in participants’ reports. Conversely, for some, requirements to remain at home provided safety from the world, and space for healing, and even prompted survivors of non-recent abuse to seek help. Remote service delivery was beneficial where clients could be ‘at a distance’ in discussing sensitive issues. Together with insights from professionals about their own isolation, blurred boundaries, and concerns regarding client confidentiality and engagement, this research highlights an agile sector responding to an unprecedented situation. Moving forward, survivors’ preferences for flexible/remote support must be integrated into everyday delivery.

Clinical Effects of Asynchronous Provider-Guided Practice Sessions During Blended Care Therapy for Anxiety and Depression: Pragmatic Retrospective Cohort Study.

Blended care therapy models are intended to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of evidence-based psychotherapy by combining synchronous and asynchronous components of care. This retrospective cohort study evaluated the clinical effects of synchronous video therapy sessions and asynchronous guided practice session elements on anxiety and depression in a blended care therapy program, with a novel focus on asynchronous provider feedback messages. Participants were adults (N=33,492) with clinical symptoms of anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale [GAD-7] score of ≥8) and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire 9-item scale [PHQ-9] score of ≥10) at intake. Symptom trajectories were evaluated via individual growth curve models. Time-varying covariates evaluated effects of synchronous video session attendance and the presence or absence of each asynchronous guided practice session element occurring within 7 days and 8-14 days prior to each clinical outcome assessment. Guided practice session elements included client digital lesson completion, client digital exercise completion, and feedback messages sent by providers. Approximately 86.6% (29,012/33,492) of clients met criteria for clinical improvement by end of care (median 6, IQR 4-8 synchronous sessions). Synchronous video session attendance and client digital lesson completion in the past 7 days and in the past 8-14 days were each uniquely and significantly associated with lower GAD-7 scores (video session effects: bsession7=-0.82, bsession8-14=-0.58, P values<.001; digital lesson effects: blesson7=-0.18, blesson8-14=-0.26, P values <.001) and PHQ-9 scores (video session effects: bsession7=-0.89, bsession8-14=-0.67, P values <.001; digital lesson effects: blesson7=-0.12, blesson8-14=-0.30, P values <.001). Client digital exercise completion in the past 8-14 days was significantly associated with lower GAD-7 scores (bexercise8-14=-0.10; P<.001) but exercise completion in the 7 days prior to clinical outcome assessment was not (bexercise7=0.00; P=.89). Exercise completion in the past 7 days was significantly associated with lower PHQ-9 scores (bexercise7=-0.16; P<.001) but exercise completion in the past 8-14 days was not (bexercise8-14=-0.05; P=.09). Provider feedback messaging in the past 7 days and in the past 8-14 days was significantly associated with lower GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores, respectively (GAD-7: bfeedback7=-0.12, P<.001; bfeedback8-14=-0.07, P=.004; PHQ-9: bfeedback7=-0.15, P<.001; bfeedback8-14=-0.08, P=.01). Provider feedback between synchronous therapy sessions provided significant benefit for symptom reduction, beyond the effects of client digital engagement and synchronous video sessions. When guided practice sessions are well integrated into care, blended care therapy provides meaningful improvements upon the traditional, synchronous session-only therapy model. Provider guidance and feedback for clients between synchronous sessions support more efficient and effective mental health care overall.

Current approaches to the identification and management of gambling disorder: a narrative review to inform clinical practice in Australia and New Zealand.

Gambling disorder is a recognised psychiatric disorder in the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5) and is classified as an addiction alongside alcohol and substance use disorders. The DSM-5 describes a past-year timeframe, episodic or persistent specifiers, early or sustained remission specifiers, and three gambling disorder severity specifiers (mild, moderate and severe). Although anyone can develop gambling disorder, there are known risk factors. In studies involving general adult populations, the likelihood of developing the disorder varies with the type of gambling, and is particularly high for internet gambling, casino table games and poker machines. Australia and New Zealand have shifted the focus of gambling disorder to the identification of gambling harm, in recognition that efforts targeting the prevention of harm may be more effective as they potentially influence a larger segment of the population. Temporal categories of gambling harm (crisis harms versus legacy harms) affect help-seeking and need for treatment. Crisis harms often motivate people to change their behaviour or seek help, whereas treatment addresses legacy harms, which emerge or continue to occur after gambling behaviour ceases. The evidence base and clinical guidelines recommend cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing but there are many gaps in our understanding of treatment for gambling disorder, including an absence of high quality evaluations that assess treatment effectiveness over the longer term, especially for treatment delivered in community settings. There is also an urgent need to understand how, why and for whom treatment works so that interventions can be optimised to individual needs, thereby facilitating client engagement. Because of limited access to health care and poor retention in treatment, in recent years there has been an increase in treatment choices in the form of internet therapies and smartphone applications.

Computational elucidation of nonverbal behavior and body language in music therapy

Abstract Music therapy has shown efficacy in serious and chronic conditions, mental disorders, and disabilities. However, there is still much to explore regarding the mechanisms through which music interventions exert their effects. A typical session involves interactions between the therapist, the client, and the musical work itself, and to help address the challenges of capturing and comprehending its dynamics, we extend our general computational paradigm (CP) for analyzing the expressive and social behavioral processes in arts therapies. The extension includes bodily and nonverbal aspects of the behavior, offering additional insights into the client's emotional states and engagement. We have used this version of the CP, which employs AI pose estimation technology, image processing, and audio analysis, to capture therapy-related psychometrics and their intra- and inter-session analysis. The CP is applied in a real-world proof-of-concept study, and the results enable us to pinpoint meaningful events and emergent properties not captured by the human eye, complementing the therapist's interpretations. The resulting data may also be useful in other scientific and clinical areas.

"What Is Normal?": A Qualitative Exploration of Health Practitioners' Reports of Treating Patients Presenting with Unpleasant Sexual Experiences.

Sexual health, including sexual pleasure, is fundamental to holistic health and well-being, and is considered an area of priority health in Australia. Despite the importance of sexual functioning, women experience significant gaps in sexual well-being compared to men and often do not seek medical care or treatment. Health practitioners are central to the identification and treatment of sexual dysfunction, including fostering sexual well-being for patients. Despite this, minimal research has explored health practitioners' experiences in treating reports of unpleasant sex. This study aimed to explore health practitioners' experiences, responses, and confidence in treating patients presenting for unpleasant sexual experiences. An online, mixed-methods survey was completed by 96 participants. Thematic analysis identified 11 core themes. These themes included five patient centred themes (health risks, diverse sex acts, painful vaginal intercourse, relationship breakdown and violence, unwanted sex) and six health practitioner centred themes (communication and counselling, what is normal, ongoing care and follow up, emotional response, limited practical training, and highly prevalent). Participants described a complex sexual health landscape, with social contexts impacting women's sexual experiences and engagement in treatment. Additionally, health practitioners reported the need for a biopsychosocial approach to understanding and responding to unpleasant sexual experiences for patients, while simultaneously reporting limited education in this area. Findings reflect the need for health practitioners to be cognisant of matters related to sexual function, consent, coercion, client engagement, and treatment pathways, identifying a need for greater education and holistic approaches to sexual healthcare across medical settings.

Abstract B048: Qualitative analysis of fieldnote and interview data for planning a food bank- based breast cancer screening intervention

Abstract Among individuals and communities with low-income, the experience of food insecurity is associated with greater delays in recommended mammography screening and late-stage breast cancer at diagnosis. Community-based interventions that address barriers to breast cancer screening in diverse communities of women with food insecurity can increase screening uptake, ultimately improving cancer health equity. In partnership with Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services (SFBFS), the largest non-profit provider of social services in Sacramento County, this study identified barriers and facilitators to implementing a breast cancer screening intervention in a food distribution setting, assessing the preliminary acceptability and logistical feasibility of the proposed intervention. Qualitative data about food bank distribution events and the clients served was collected over 24 weeks using participant observation with semi-structured fieldnotes and interviews, then analyzed via directed content analysis guided by the well-defined domains and determinants in the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and coded using Dedoose software. Fieldnotes were completed for 12 community food distribution events, and 20 stakeholder interviews were conducted with purposefully sampled food bank staff (N=10) and female clients (N=10) who regularly attend events. The results of this qualitative analysis identified barriers and facilitators to implementation in all CFIR domains, describing current workflows for food distribution events and existing health education efforts, capacity, client engagement logistics and modes of delivery, and resources available or needed to support implementation. Prominent CFIR determinants included characteristics of individuals, specifically the innovation recipients’ capability and motivation to receive a breast cancer screening intervention in this context. Participants often pointed out their awareness of important preventative behaviors such as nutrition while also acknowledging barriers such as time constraints, accessibility of breast cancer screening services, and culturally-specific health beliefs and practices. Determinants in the outer setting, inner setting, innovation characteristics, and process that relate to the overall theme of sustainability were identified as potential barriers including financing, the availability of resources, internal and external pressure to change, and the process of engaging with clients while they are at the food distribution event. Facilitators included buy-in from SFBFS leadership and staff, and the benefit of collaborating with reputable local partners. Intervention format should include tailored messaging that is culturally appropriate and empowers individuals to obtain recommended screening. Content of the intervention should provide interactive assistance that facilitates local support for screening eligibility and services. Overall, there was consensus that promoting breast cancer screening in the food distribution setting was beneficial and welcomed by all stakeholders. Citation Format: Charlotte L. Kerber, Julie HT Dang, Daniel J. Pasillas-Pablo, Jocelyn T. Canty, Laura Fejerman. Qualitative analysis of fieldnote and interview data for planning a food bank- based breast cancer screening intervention [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B048.

Using machine learning to predict investors’ switching behaviour

Individual investors’ decisions to switch investments very often lead to significantly lower investment returns so having an effective predictive model of these switches would be of value to clients, advisors and investment managers. A random forest algorithm was applied to a new dataset of over 20 million observations relating to 95,685 clients on Momentum Investments’ platform between 2018 and 2024. It identified a combination of investor characteristics (number of holdings, past switching behaviour, total assets) and external features (past returns, macroeconomic variables) as the key features of investor switch behaviour. This model exceeds commercially accepted standards in respect of the AUC and Gini metrics showcasing the model’s strength in its ranking capability. It can thus provide a useful basis for client segmentation and engagement by financial advisors.

A Study on General Staffing Services and Manpower Providing Services of QUESS CORP LTD. in Ahmedabad

This research paper presents a comprehensive study of general staffing services and manpower providing services offered by Quess Corp in Ahmedabad. The study aims to explore the operational frameworks, client engagement strategies, and service delivery mechanisms that make Quess Corp a significant player in the staffing industry. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including interviews with company executives, surveys of client companies, and analysis of industry reports, the paper delves into the challenges and opportunities faced by the company in the rapidly evolving employment landscape of Ahmedabad. Key findings indicate that Quess Corp's emphasis on technology- driven solutions, robust training programs, and strategic partnerships has significantly enhanced its service efficiency and client satisfaction levels. Additionally, the study highlights the critical role of adaptive workforce solutions in addressing the dynamic needs of businesses in Ahmedabad. The paper concludes with recommendations for leveraging technological advancements and optimizing human resource management practices to further strengthen Quess Corp's market position. Quess Corp’s general staffing services encompass temporary staffing, contract staffing, and permanent staffing solutions. The company’s comprehensive approach ensures that it can meet the diverse staffing needs of its clients, ranging from short- term project-based requirements to long-term strategic hires. The study explores how Quess Corp tailors its services to suit the specific demands of various sectors, including IT, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. The company utilizes advanced technology platforms to manage its talent pool, ensuring quick and accurate matching of candidates to job requirements. This technological integration is a significant factor in Quess Corp’s ability to deliver high- quality staffing solutions efficiently

Online Counseling Encourages Openness to Help Individuals Dealing with Psychological Disorders

Online counseling can be used to help individuals maintain their mental health. There is a need to test the feasibility and effectiveness of online counseling in treating individuals who experience psychological disorders. The research was carried out through one of the pre-experimental design models, i.e one group pretest-posttest. Participants were twelve individuals consisting of students and communities who were experiencing psychological distress in severe and chronic status who were willing to participate in online counseling programs. Online counseling is administrated through a synchronous and asynchronous format. Feasibility is statistically established based on data on the client’s comfort to express himself and his involvement in the counseling process. The technique used is a percentile with a percentile of 75 (P75) as a minimal condition. Data on convenience is measured quantitatively through scale and engagement data is measured quantitatively based on counseling documents. The effectiveness of counseling is statistically established on the basis of whether or not there is a significant decrease in the status of the client's psychological disorder. The statistical technique used is the t test for correlated samples. Psychological disorders are defined as stress, anxiety, and depression which is being experienced by the client and measured through DASS-21 (depression, anxiety, stress scale version 21 items) in Indonesian version. The study produced two main findings as follows.: (1) online counseling can strongly encourage self-exploration and client engagement; and (2) online counseling is significantly effective in lowering the status of the client's psychological disorders, although the rate of decline in this status is varied between clients.

Reliability and validity of a measure of service providers' perceptions of child and parent engagement in pediatric rehabilitation therapy sessions.

There is growing interest in client engagement in pediatric rehabilitation. This article investigated the psychometric properties of a measure of service providers' perceptions of the affective, cognitive and behavioural engagement of both children with disabilities and their parents in pediatric rehabilitation therapy sessions. Test-retest reliability of the Pediatric Rehabilitation Intervention Measure of Engagement-Service Provider version (PRIME-SP) was examined using engagement ratings made by 60 service providers for 77 children and 73 parents. Construct validity was examined using the known-group validity technique, utilizing service providers' ratings of the engagement of parents and their children attending the same session with the service provider. We hypothesized that there would be significantly different, yet moderately correlated engagement ratings for children and their parents. There was evidence of moderate test-retest reliability for the child ratings, indicative of dynamicity across occasions, but also a degree of consistency, as aligned with our expectations. Service providers' ratings of parent and child engagement were not significantly correlated and paired t-tests indicated significantly higher engagement scores for parents than children. The study provides preliminary evidence to support the reliability and validity of the PRIME-SP as a tool for service providers to document, reflect on and monitor child and/or parent engagement.

SPECIAL ISSUE: The ACT of Biofeedback—Training for Psychological Flexibility

This paper examines the innovative integration of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) principles with biofeedback methodologies, presenting a novel approach to psychophysiological therapy. This paper uses Kevin Polk’s structured ACT matrix approach to elucidate how biofeedback can augment ACT processes, including acceptance, cognitive defusion, and present-moment awareness. The paper explicates practical techniques such as the “Hook Words Exercise” and “Verbal Aikido,” demonstrating their application within a biofeedback-enhanced therapeutic context. This integrative approach represents a significant advancement in psychophysiological interventions, offering a comprehensive framework for deepening interoceptive awareness and fostering psychological flexibility and value-aligned living while bridging the gap between cognitive processes and physiological responses. By exemplifying assimilative integration in psychotherapy, this approach offers a promising avenue for advancing both clinical practice and research in psychophysiological interventions, potentially improving therapeutic outcomes and client engagement.

The Impact of Attachment Styles on the Depth of Self-Disclosure and Topic Selection in Initial Psychotherapy Sessions

This paper explores the significant influence of attachment styles on self-disclosure and topic selection in initial psychotherapy sessions, examining how secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment patterns impact the therapeutic process and outcomes. Attachment theory, as developed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, provides a framework for understanding the internal working models that individuals carry into therapy, affecting their openness and engagement. Securely attached clients tend to disclose more freely, facilitating stronger therapeutic alliances, while those with anxious attachment may require reassurance to mitigate fears of rejection. Avoidant clients often struggle with emotional intimacy, necessitating gradual trust-building strategies, and disorganized clients benefit from structured, trauma-informed approaches. Through case studies and research findings, the paper underscores the importance of tailoring therapeutic strategies to accommodate attachment-related dynamics, enhancing client engagement and therapeutic success. The implications for practice include the need for therapist training focused on recognizing and adapting to diverse attachment styles, fostering personalized and effective therapeutic interventions. Future research directions are suggested to further explore the intersection of attachment styles with cultural and socio-economic factors, and to develop specialized techniques for optimizing therapy based on attachment patterns.

E-commerce on Hardware sales: A case study of Computer technologies Union in Owerri, Nigeria.

The incorporation of computers into contemporary company operations has significantly altered productivity and communication, essentially making paper-based file systems outdated. The advancement of technology has made it possible to manage data more accurately, streamline procedures, and obtain information more quickly. Better managerial skills are now a trademark of the digital age, allowing companies to accurately and quickly respond to information requests. Innovative business models have also been made possible by the transition to digital technology, especially in the areas of customer engagement and operational management. A more dynamic and responsive business environment has been made possible by the automation of repetitive processes, real-time data analysis, and enhanced communication channels. This has allowed organisations to respond to shifting market conditions with accuracy and agility. A significant advancement in this digital shift is the emergence of e-commerce platforms. These platforms have facilitated a smooth and mutually beneficial relationship between businesses and customers. Online shopping provides customers with an unparalleled level of ease, enabling them to peruse, evaluate, and buy things from the comfort of their own homes. These websites give businesses access to a wider market, an extra source of income, and insightful data analytics on consumer behaviour. By providing easy navigation, safe payment choices, and personalised experiences, the e-commerce model improves client engagement. The transition to e-commerce has increased revenues as well as customer happiness and brand loyalty by offering a convenient and effective purchasing experience. For Computer Technologies Union (CTU) in Owerri, the project's goal was to create an e-commerce website that would improve customer interaction and business operations in response to current trends. To enable simple online purchases, the website was built with a feature-rich catalogue of store merchandise and an intuitive shopping cart. The system was designed to be reliable, scalable, and effective by utilising a three-tier design. Although the middle layer, which used PHP, handled business logic with ease, the backend MySQL database ensured dependable data management. Shopping was simple and easy with the client interface, which could be accessed via a web browser. The speed and precision of service delivery at CTU Owerri were greatly enhanced by the new system after it was fully implemented. While the firm benefited from increased operational efficiency and the ability to better meet customer expectations, customers had a convenient and pleasurable shopping experience. In addition to modernising CTU Owerri's operations, this calculated decision gave it a competitive edge in the online market.