Foster Positive Attitudes Research Articles

The effect of group counseling based on positive psychology on the WhatsApp social media platform on the severity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms: a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundPremenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a prevalent health issue impacting women, significantly impacting their well-being and fostering a negative attitude of femininity and menstruation. We investigated the effect of group counseling based on positive psychology on the severity of PMS symptoms.MethodsParticipants in the intervention group engaged in six online sessions of group counseling focused on positive psychology via WhatsApp. Data were collected using the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Questionnaire (PSST) before, immediately, and two months post-intervention. Analytical assessments were performed using SPSS 16 software using Chi-square, independent t-tests, and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Comparative analyses were carried out using the Bonferroni post hoc test with a 95% confidence level.ResultsThe mean intensity of PMS symptoms in the intervention group significantly decreased from 21.60 (2.50) to 13.35 (4.727) and 14.750 (5.963) immediately and two months after the intervention; however, the difference was not significant in the control group. The results of repeated measures ANOVA showed that the effect of the intervention over time and the interaction between time and group were significant. The Eta effect size was about 0.20 and 16%, respectively (p = 0.001). According to Bonferroni post hoc test results, the difference in the mean scores of the severity of PMS symptoms before the intervention was statistically significant compared to both follow-up periods (p ≤ 0.007). However, the difference in mean scores immediately after the intervention compared to two months after the intervention was not statistically significant (p = 0.42).ConclusionUsing a positive counseling approach demonstrates efficacy in alleviating the severity of PMS symptoms in the short term. While all women can benefit from such interventions, targeting adolescents is particularly strategic, as early interventions can foster positive attitudes toward menstruation. Additionally, social media platforms like WhatsApp provide a feasible and engaging medium for adolescent health interventions. Integrating this approach into adolescent health promotion package appears to be a viable measure worthy of consideration by relevant policymakers.Trial registrationCurrent Controlled Trials IRCT20201113049377N1, Date of Registration 2020, 12, 08.

Predictors of consistent condom use among male construction workers who have engaged in concurrent sex with regular sex partners, casual sex partners, and sex workers over a 3-month period

ABSTRACT This study investigates the predictors of consistent condom use among male construction workers in South Africa who reported concurrent sexual relationships with regular partners, casual partners, and sex workers over a 3-month period. A cross-sectional survey was used to collect data from a convenience sample of 450 male workers across 18 construction work sites in the Western Cape province. Of these, 245 (54%) indicated that they had engaged in sex with all three partner types during the 3-month study period. Hierarchical multiple linear regression was then used to assess consistent condom use as a function of demographic, experiential, behavioural and cognitive characteristics. Three statistically significant predictors of consistent condom use were identified: perceived control over condom use (β = 0.252, p < 0.001), positive attitude toward condom use (β = 0.154, p < 0.05) and fear of HIV infection (β = 0.121, p < 0.05). These findings highlight the high prevalence of sexual concurrency among study participants. It also suggests that amid declining condom use, interventions which focus on enhancing an individuals’ condom application skills and efficacy, that foster positive attitudes toward condom use and that strategically incorporate fear-based messaging within a multilevel framework may potentially increase condom use among individuals in concurrent sexual relationships.

Evaluation of Nurses’ attitudes, behaviors, and barriers toward pressure ulcer prevention in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units

IntroductionPressure ulcers are a significant concern in pediatric intensive care units, with prevalence rates ranging from 0.8% to 27%. They pose serious physical and psychological challenges, particularly in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units (NICU and PICU). This study explores nursing strategies, attitudes, and barriers toward pressure ulcer prevention in NICU and PICU settings.MethodsUsing a descriptive study design, data were collected from 80 nurses working in NICU and PICU through validated questionnaires, including a demographic profile and a pressure ulcer survey. Descriptive statistics were employed to calculate mean scores and percentages, while inferential statistics assessed associations between variables.ResultsThe study revealed specific nursing strategies, along with significant barriers and attitudes toward pressure ulcer prevention in NICU and PICU. The total attitude mean score was 3.57, with the highest positive response (mean = 4.29) for “most pressure sores can be avoided”, and the highest negative response (mean = 3.86) for “pressure sore prevention is a low priority for me”. Among participants, 72.5% conducted risk assessments on all patients, 60% had written prevention care plans, and 76.3% implemented preventive strategies. Barriers such as staff shortages and time constraints were reported by 76.2% of nurses. Multivariate analysis indicated that nurses with more than 10 years of qualification (OR = 3.67) and permanent staff with over 10 years of employment (OR = 4.31) were significantly more likely to engage in preventive practices. The use of a pressure ulcer grading tool (OR = 2.49, P &amp;lt; 0.05) and participation in formal training (OR = 3.14, P &amp;lt; 0.05) were also positively associated with preventive practices.DiscussionThese findings underscore the importance of structured assessment tools, ongoing education, and the need to foster positive attitudes among nurses to effectively reduce pressure ulcer prevalence and enhance patient outcomes in NICU and PICU settings.

Community perspectives on existence of human wildlife conflicts and underlying mitigation measures adjacent to protected areas in Northern Tanzania

Wildlife conservation has the potential to make significant contributions to community development. Despite this potential, the sector faces various challenges, including human-wildlife conflicts (HWC). Communities adjacent to the Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Manyara protected areas (NTMPAs) are known to experience HWC; however, studies on HWC management strategies concerning the demographic characteristics of these communities are scarce. This study utilized questionnaires and focus group discussions to assess this information within the study area. The findings from this study revealed that respondents over the age of 30 significantly (x2(112) = 78.857, p < 0.000) reported the existence of problem animals causing conflicts in their villages. Additionally, respondents engaged in agriculture-related activities demonstrated significant (x2(4) = 23.501, p < 0.0001) concern about problem animals and conflicts compared to other groups. Conflict mitigation measure used, varied significantly (Cochran's Q Test (6) = 138.539, p = 0.001 and n = 120) across the study area. Respondents reported that different mitigation measures varied significantly across occupation and education levels. The study suggests that while efforts to engage younger individuals in formal and conservation education are important, similar initiatives should also target older individuals, particularly those involved in agriculture, whether as landowners or casual laborers. Wildlife management authorities should prioritize efforts to intensify community awareness, focusing on conservation education, the establishment of buffer zones, and the promotion of alternative crops. These initiatives aim to foster positive attitudes toward wildlife conservation. Ultimately, such efforts will help transform community attitudes and increase tolerance for wildlife, facilitating coexistence and enhancing sustainability in wildlife conservation and community development in areas adjacent to protected areas, including the NTMPAs.

The development of attitudes toward science and technology: a longitudinal analysis of Generation X

Abstract Research on public attitudes toward science and technology policy has relied on surveys taken at single points in time. These surveys fail to indicate how these attitudes develop or change. In this study, we use data from the Longitudinal Study of American Life that has followed a national sample of Generation X for 33 years—from middle school to midlife. We demonstrate that the critical period for the formation of attitudes toward science and technology is the 15–18 years after high school—college, work, family, and career. The attitudes formed in this period remain stable for most individuals during midlife. This work provides an important perspective for scientists, engineers, and the leadership of the scientific community in their efforts to foster positive attitudes toward science and technology and to understand the roots of concerns and reservations about science.

Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Colorectal Cancer in a Community in Mexico City: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on Surveys.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common and deadly neoplasms worldwide, with a growing burden in low- and middle-income countries, such as Mexico. This study seeks to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to CRC in a community in Mexico City. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between March and April 2023 among adults aged 45 to 74 residing in six neighborhoods of the Tlalpan borough in Mexico City. The questionnaire included sections on sociodemographic characteristics, medical family history, lifestyle habits, knowledge about CRC, attitudes towards prevention, and willingness to undergo screening. Data were analyzed using logistic regression models to identify factors associated with greater knowledge, attitudes, and practices. A total of 349 people were surveyed. A total of 35.2% reported knowing what CRC is, with greater knowledge of CRC being associated with higher education levels and having a family history of cancer. A total of 23.8% showed positive attitudes towards CRC screening, influenced by having a tertiary level of education. A total of 80.8% of participants expressed willingness to undergo CRC screening if offered, with lower intention observed among men. Levels of knowledge about CRC within the studied community are low, especially among those with lower education levels and without a family history of cancer. Intervention strategies should improve CRC education and foster positive attitudes towards early detection, particularly in high-risk groups.

Oral Diabetes Medication Videos on Douyin: Analysis of Information Quality and User Comment Attitudes.

Oral diabetes medications are important for glucose management in people with diabetes. Although there are many health-related videos on Douyin (the Chinese version of TikTok), the quality of information and the effects on user comment attitudes are unclear. The purpose of this study was to analyze the quality of information and user comment attitudes related to oral diabetes medication videos on Douyin. The key phrase "oral diabetes medications" was used to search Douyin on July 24, 2023, and the final samples included 138 videos. The basic information in the videos and the content of user comments were captured using Python. Each video was assigned a sentiment category based on the predominant positive, neutral, or negative attitude, as analyzed using the Weiciyun website. Two independent raters assessed the video content and information quality using the DISCERN (a tool for assessing health information quality) and PEMAT-A/V (Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials) instruments. Doctors were the main source of the videos (136/138, 98.6%). The overall information quality of the videos was acceptable (median 3, IQR 1). Videos on Douyin showed relatively high understandability (median 75%, IQR 16.6%) but poor actionability (median 66.7%, IQR 48%). Most content on oral diabetes medications on Douyin related to the mechanism of action (75/138, 54.3%), precautions (70/138, 50.7%), and advantages (68/138, 49.3%), with limited content on indications (19/138, 13.8%) and contraindications (14/138, 10.1%). It was found that 10.1% (14/138) of the videos contained misinformation, of which 50% (7/14) were about the method of administration. Regarding user comment attitudes, the majority of videos garnered positive comments (81/138, 58.7%), followed by neutral comments (46/138, 33.3%) and negative comments (11/138, 8%). Multinomial logistic regression revealed 2 factors influencing a positive attitude: user comment count (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.00, 95% CI 1.00-1.00; P=.02) and information quality of treatment choices (adjusted OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.09-2.04; P=.01). Despite most videos on Douyin being posted by doctors, with generally acceptable information quality and positive user comment attitudes, some content inaccuracies and poor actionability remain. Users show more positive attitudes toward videos with high-quality information about treatment choices. This study suggests that health care providers should ensure the accuracy and actionability of video content, enhance the information quality of treatment choices of oral diabetes medications to foster positive user attitudes, help users access accurate health information, and promote medication adherence.

Engaging hearts and minds in hospitality: the interplay between authentic leadership, affective commitment, and the Et-Moone cultural bond

ABSTRACT The fast-based and diverse work environments at hotels and tourism settings comprise specific dynamics that drive employees’ attitudes and behaviours at the workplace. However, scant attention has been dedicated towards investigating the stance of employee engagement via the lens of employees’ domestic cultural and social norms. Therefore, guided by social exchange theory, we embrace an employee-centred approach integrating various lines of inquiries (individual, institutional, and cultural) in one nomological network. Towards that end, a purposeful sampling technique was used to gather data from 681 employees working for 4–5 hotels in Jordan. Conducting multiple mediation analyses, the results revealed that indirect-only mediation regulates the associations between authentic leadership, affective commitment, and Et-Moone. Further, the findings reported a complementary mediation between the affective commitment-Et-Moone-employee engagement associations, indicating direct and indirect (via Et-Moone) influence of affective commitment on employee engagement. The findings of the current study provide a novel contingency view advancing the state of knowledge on employee engagement and relationship development and guiding firms on how to foster positive attitudes and behaviours in hospitality and tourism-relevant contexts. This research endeavour has also discussed significant conceptual and practical implications, along with research limitations and guidance for future research.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices among medical students toward depression management: a cross-sectional study in China.

The prevalence of depression among university and college students in China is nearly one-quarter. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) among medical students toward depression management. Depression, a significant public health issue, has a substantial impact on students, with a reported prevalence of 23.8% among university and college students in China. This web-based cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2023 and October 2023 at three medical universities in China. A self-administered questionnaire collected demographic information and assessed medical students' KAP on depression management. A total of 632 participants were enrolled in this study from three medical universities. Among them, 383 (60.60%) were female, and the participants were aged 20.17 years on average (SD ± 1.80). Most of their family members (521, 82.44%) were not in the medical profession. Using a validated 15-point knowledge scale, a 50-point attitude scale, and a 30-point practice scale, which covered areas such as symptom recognition, treatment approaches, and stigma related to depression, the mean knowledge, attitudes and practices scores were 10.55 ± 3.36 (possible range: 0-15), 41.72 ± 4.45 (possible range: 10-50) and 19.79 ± 5.44 (possible range: 6-30), respectively. Males had lower knowledge (p = 0.003). Only children had higher practice (p = 0.034). Urban residents had higher attitudes (p = 0.046). Higher income linked to better practice (p = 0.047). Freshmen scored higher across all KAP (p < 0.05). Medical family background linked to better knowledge (p = 0.005). The attitude scores were correlated with the practice scores (r = 0.403, p = 0.004). The structural equation model demonstrated that knowledge had direct effects on attitude and practice, as indicated by a path coefficient of 0.725 (p < 0.001) and 0.370 (p = 0.001), respectively. Furthermore, attitude had direct effects on practices, with a path coefficient of 0.509 (p < 0.001). The study revealed that medical students possessed sufficient knowledge and demonstrated active attitudes but exhibited limited practical skills in managing depression. In investigating the KAP of medical students, it is essential to integrate specific practical applications, such as role-playing scenarios and case studies, into the curriculum. These methods will emphasize the importance of knowledge, foster positive attitudes, and promote peer collaboration to enhance practical skills in depression management.

Preschool Teachers' Attitudes about Inclusive Education and Its Influencing Factors in China.

The purpose of this study is to describe the current status of preschool teachers' attitudes about inclusive education and discuss the factors that influence these attitudes. A total of 449 preschool teachers who have students with disabilities or special educational needs in their classrooms and 638 teachers without students with disabilities or special educational needs in their classrooms volunteered to complete the online survey. The survey included two components: a Basic Information Questionnaire and the Early Childhood Inclusive Education Attitude Questionnaire (ECIEAQ). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and ANOVA. Scores in the two dimensions of Positivity and Promotion were higher than those in the two dimensions of Resistance and Passivity, indicating an overall positive attitude about inclusive education. Attitudes about inclusive education significantly differed by gender, preschool location, inclusive education training opportunities, and receipt of a special education financial allowance. Inclusive class teachers who are female, aged over 30, teach classes with a child-to-teacher ratio of more than 14, and who work in urban areas show higher levels of Promotion or Resistance than general class teachers. Overall, preschool teachers hold a positive attitude about inclusive education. Training opportunities and a special education financial allowance should be provided to foster positive attitudes. Certain groups of inclusive class teachers may need more support and resources to implement inclusive education.

Perception of the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Practices Among Healthcare Professionals in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform healthcare practices, but the successful adoption of AI depends on the perception and acceptance of healthcare professionals. This study aimed to assess the understanding of AI concepts, recognize the attitude toward AI integration, and identify the barriers to AI adoption among healthcare professionals in a tertiary care hospital. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Chengalpattu district, India. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and perceived barriers to AI adoption. The chi-square test was used to analyze the associations between variables. The majorityof the participants, i.e., 54% (n = 108), had moderate knowledge about AI adoption, while 48% (n = 96) had a low attitude toward it.Barriers to the adoption of AI in healthcare practices among healthcare professionals were low among the majority, i.e., 49% (n = 98), of the participants. A statistically significant association was found between knowledge and attitude (X² = 18.052, df = 4, p = 0.001), i.e., healthcare professionals with moderate knowledge levels had low attitudes toward the adoption of AI. A statistically significant association was also found between knowledge and perceived barriers (X² = 31.235, df = 4, p = 0.00), i.e., healthcare professionals with higher knowledge levels perceived lower barriers to the adoption of AI. The study highlights the need for education and training to improve knowledge, foster positive attitudes, and address the perceived barriers to AI adoption among healthcare professionals. Future research should focus on developing targeted interventions to enhance the understanding and acceptance of AI in healthcare practices.

Trends in Malaysian Adolescents’ Mathematics Performance Across Two Decades: What Factors Matter?

The relationship between individual and school factors plays a crucial role in shaping adolescents' mathematics achievement. Individual factors, such as a student's motivation and educational expectation, directly influence their engagement and persistence in mathematical learning. Concurrently, school factors, including teacher quality and the availability of resources, create an environment that either fosters or hinders students' academic success in mathematics. Together, these factors underscore the need for a holistic approach to education that recognizes the interconnectedness of personal and institutional influences on student performance. Thus, this study investigates what individual and school factors have been associated with adolescents’ mathematics achievement over the last two decades. We examined six-wave data of Malaysia from the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). Multilevel modeling technique was employed for data composed of 5557, 5314, 4466, 5733, 9726, and 7065 eighth-grade students participating in 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2019, respectively. The results showed that 65.17%, 57.44%, 65.89%, 73.00%, 43.16%, and 61.69% of the total variance in mathematics achievement was due to school differences in these years. The findings also indicated that students with higher mathematics motivational beliefs scored higher. Students who more frequently spoke the language of the test at home achieved lower scores in the four waves of TIMSS; however, this trend changed in 2015 and 2019. Student educational aspiration emerged as a positive predictor of mathematics achievement in the last two assessments of TIMSS. Home educational resources and book ownership also significantly correlated with mathematics achievement. At the school level, teacher gender was negatively associated with achievement in all TIMSS waves except 2019. Students whom female teachers taught outperformed those whom male teachers taught. The longitudinal study of Malaysian students' mathematics performance reveals critical insights for educational stakeholders. The findings indicate that 43.16% to 73.00% of the variance in mathematical achievement is linked to school differences, underscoring the importance of equitable resource distribution. Moreover, students' motivational beliefs significantly influence their mathematics scores, suggesting a need for interventions that foster positive attitudes. The evolving correlation between home language proficiency and achievement emphasizes the necessity of integrating language support into educational strategies. Additionally, promoting educational aspirations is vital for enhancing performance, while the role of gender dynamics in teacher effectiveness warrants further exploration.

Investigation of the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding nutrition in older adults with tuberculosis and diabetes: a cross-sectional study in Eastern China

ObjectivesOlder adults with tuberculosis and diabetes have special needs regarding dietary nutrition. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) regarding dietary nutrition among older adults with...

한국인 아랍어 전공 대학생의 학습동기와 학습경험/태도 중재방안에 관한 연구

This study investigates the motivational characteristics of Korean university students majoring in Arabic and develops motivational intervention strategies based on the findings. To achieve this goal, a survey was conducted using Dörnyei's (2005, 2009) “L2 Motivational Self System” with additional variables reflecting the socio-cultural context of Korea. The survey participants were 178 students majoring in Arabic or Arab studies at 5 domestic universities. Subsequent analysis of the survey responses revealed that augmenting learners' satisfaction with their learning experiences and improving their learning attitudes significantly contributed to intensifying their study efforts. To facilitate these improvements, the study indicates a need for intervention strategies that foster positive attitudes towards Arabs and Arab culture within Arabic language classrooms, while also capitalizing on the 'competition' factor. Finally, the Teams Games Tournaments (TGT) model was selected and exemplified as a potential intervention strategy that aligns with the research findings.

Development and validation of the Women’s Self-care Knowledge and Attitude Questionnaire (WSKAQ)

BackgroundMenopausal women should learn self-care practices to enjoy a healthy lifestyle, positive health behaviors, and health status. In addition, the lack of self-care knowledge can lead to unhealthy attitudes and lifestyles, resulting in many complications. Improved self-care knowledge can foster positive attitudes, leading to healthier lifestyles as a beneficial cycle. However, menopausal women have limited knowledge about self-care and evaluation tools. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and investigate the validity and reliability of the Women’s Self-care Knowledge and Attitude Questionnaire (WSKAQ) in Iranian menopausal women.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 249 menopausal women, aged between 45 and 65 years and at least one year post-menopause, with a minimum literacy level of elementary education. Validation properties included construct validity, exploratory (EFA), and discriminant validity. Reliability was further established through Cronbach’s α and McDonald’s Omega. PASS 15 and SPSS 27 software were used to select centers, calculate sample size and analyze the data, respectively.ResultsThe initial stage of construct validity involved the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test and EFA, resulting in a 6-item self-care knowledge subscale, 47.29% of the total data variance, and 7-item self-care attitude subscale, 55.50% of the total data variance. Independent t-test indicated that menopausal women with education level equal to or higher than diploma have significantly higher self-care attitude scores than those with lower than diploma (p = 0.007). Additionally, significant correlations were observed between self-care knowledge and attitude (r:0.30). Cronbach’s α and McDonald’s Omega coefficients of the 13-item WSKAQ were 0.77 and 0.78, respectively.ConclusionsBased on the results, the WSKAQ, consisting of 13 items, was validated and reliable for assessing the self-care knowledge and attitude of Iranian menopausal women.

Enhancing EFL Learners’ Communicative Skills through Dramatisation of Lessons

Dramatisation breathes vitality into the realm of language learning, transcending mere vocabulary to engage the entire learner - their body, mind, emotions, and senses. This research explores the integration of drama within language instruction and its profound impact on students' speaking proficiency. Studies consistently highlight that enacting lessons not only bolsters fluency but also instills a sense of confidence in learners. As students step into various roles and articulate lines, their language skills undergo marked improvement, rendering their speech more natural and expressive. This newfound confidence serves as a catalyst, empowering students to actively participate in classroom discourse and embrace English communication with enthusiasm. Even for those initially hesitant to voice their thoughts, the immersive experience of dramatisation provides a safe haven. The playful nature of role-play alleviates apprehensions, enabling even the most reserved learners to find their voice and connect with their peers on a deeper level. Furthermore, the empathetic exploration of diverse perspectives inherent in dramatisation enriches students' spoken English with nuance and emotion. Beyond immediate language proficiency, dramatised lessons foster positive attitudes towards learning, injecting an element of enjoyment and excitement into the language acquisition process. By engaging in creative expression, learners not only acquire language skills but also develop a genuine passion for linguistic exploration. In essence, the integration of dramatisation into language instruction serves as a powerful tool for guiding students towards achieving proficiency in a language. Its multifaceted benefits extend beyond the classroom, shaping learners into confident, expressive communicators with a profound appreciation for the intricacies of language and culture.

Determinants of bicycle ownership and use: A case study of apartment residents in Melbourne, Australia

Cycling can offer a range of benefits for individuals and society, yet factors influencing bicycle ownership and use are not well understood, particularly among apartment residents where the provision of bicycle parking is stipulated by planning requirements. A survey of 480 apartment residents was undertaken in Melbourne, Australia, with results analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression modelling. Results show that households owned 0.86 bicycles on average, much higher than the current bicycle parking requirement of 0.2 spaces per household for new apartment developments. Additionally, 28% of respondents reported using a bicycle in the last week. Factors associated with bicycle ownership and use included various socio-demographics, attitudes, preferences, and built environment and transport characteristics. In general, these factors were far more extensive than previous studies that have considered all housing types together. Notably, the availability of off-street bicycle parking was found to increase the odds of an apartment household owning one bicycle, compared with none, by more than two times. The results imply that increasing bicycle ownership and use among apartment residents requires a multifaceted approach, including adequate bicycle parking requirements that vary both spatially and by apartment size, along with programs and events that can foster positive attitudes towards cycling.

How Attitudes Toward Evidence-Based Practice Impacts Burnout: A Sequential Mediation Model

ABSTRACT Purpose With the rapid development of China’s social work sector, the increasing job pressures, and risks of professional burnout among social workers have become more prevalent. This study examined the relationship between Chinese social workers’ attitudes toward evidence-based practice (EBP) and burnout, exploring the mediating mechanisms of evidence-based knowledge (EBK) and service quality perception (SQP). Materials and methods We applied PROCESS 4.2 macro in SPSS to analyze the data from 5,931 social workers, testing the sequential mediation effects of EBK and SQP between their attitudes toward EBP and burnout. Results The findings revealed: (1) Attitudes toward EBP had significant indirect positive effects on burnout; (2) EBK partially mediated the relationship between EBP attitude and burnout; (3) SQP partially mediated the relationship between attitudes toward EBP and burnout; (4) Attitudes toward EBP had a sequential mediated effect on burnout through EBK and SQP. Discussion The findings emphasize the need to implement targeted interventions and training programs to foster positive attitudes toward EBP, promote continuous professional development, and provide access to EBP resources. Moreover, nurturing EBK and SQP could help alleviate burnout by improving social workers’ ability to address client issues and enhance their sense of confidence and accomplishment. Conclusion This study fills a research gap by providing empirical evidence on the negative correlation between Chinese social workers’ attitudes toward EBP and burnout, while demonstrating the mediating roles of EBK and SQP.

Changing Attitudes Towards People with Disabilities in a Positive Direction: A Pilot Practice of Psychoeducation in Primary Education

Background: Acceptance by society and a sense of belonging are fundamental needs, second only to physiological requirements. However, discrimination, involving the exclusion of individuals perceived as different and less worthy, remains a pervasive issue in almost every society. Those most adversely affected by this problem are often people with disabilities. This study aimed to assess the impact of a multi-component psychoeducational program on the attitudes of children with typical development toward peers with disabilities during middle childhood. Participants and procedure: An experimental study was conducted, involving 61 students aged 9-12 attending primary school. The pretest-posttest results of the experimental, placebo, and control groups were compared at the end of the study. Results: The psychoeducational program was found to significantly enhance the attitudes of typically developing children toward their peers with disabilities. Specifically, statistically significant differences were observed in the avoidance dimension and the total attitude score among typically developing children in the experimental, placebo, and control groups. However, no significance was found in the dimensions of acceptance, pity, and sense of similarity. Conclusions: The study's findings are expected to contribute to preventive and intervention programs designed to foster positive attitudes towards people with disabilities in primary education.

INFLUENCE OF RELIGIOUS BELIEFS ON HALAL PURCHASE INTENTION IN NON-MUSLIM CUSTOMERS

This study investigates the influence of religious beliefs, perceived benefits of halal products, social influence, and attitudes towards halal products on the halal purchase intention among non-Muslim customers in Surabaya. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 150 non-Muslim respondents through an online survey distributed via social media. The analysis was conducted using SmartPLS to evaluate the relationships between the constructs. The findings reveal that even among non-Muslim customers, strong religious beliefs can foster positive attitudes towards halal products due to shared ethical and health values. Perceived benefits, including health, ethical, and quality advantages, significantly enhance attitudes towards halal products. Social influence from family, friends, and social media positively impacts non-Muslim customers' attitudes, highlighting the role of social endorsement in shaping perceptions. Furthermore, a positive attitude towards halal products is a strong predictor of purchase intention, indicating that favorable perceptions directly translate into a higher likelihood of purchase. These findings contribute to the understanding of consumer behavior in the context of halal products and offer practical implications for businesses aiming to target non-Muslim customers. By recognizing the importance of religious beliefs, perceived benefits, and social influence, companies can develop more effective marketing strategies to promote halal products beyond the Muslim community. .