Optimistic Research Articles

Deciphering temporal perspectives: A key to happiness and optimism for healthy aging in nursing practices”

BackgroundWith the global population of older individuals increasing rapidly, it is important to understand the factors contributing to their well-being. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between older adults' time perspective and their experiences of happiness and optimism. MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted on a substantial sample size of 300 older adults from January to March 2023. The study utilized reliable and validated measures, including the Short Version of the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory and the Arabic Scales of Happiness, Optimism, and Pessimism. ResultsThe study found that older adults with a negative view of the past (PN perspective) had lower levels of happiness (r=-0.374, p<0.01), while those with a hedonistic view of the present (PH perspective) had higher levels of happiness (r=0.266, p<0.01). Additionally, a fatalistic view of the present (PF perspective) was associated with lower levels of happiness (r=-0.178, p<0.05) and optimism (r=-0.168, p<0.05). Negative views of the future (FN perspective) were correlated with lower happiness levels (r=-0.546, p<0.01), while positive views of the future (FP perspective) were associated with higher levels of optimism (r=0.432, p<0.01). ConclusionOlder adults with a balanced time perspective, marked by positive and negative views of the past and an optimistic outlook on the future, reported moderate happiness and optimism. Older adults with a negative view of the past and a fatalistic view of the present tend to have lower levels of happiness and optimism. On the other hand, those who have a hedonistic view of the present and a positive view of the future tend to have higher levels of happiness and optimism. Older adults with a pessimistic outlook toward past experiences or the future may require additional emotional support and targeted interventions to foster a more positive mindset.

The Experience of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training in People with Urinary Incontinence: A Qualitative Study

Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) is the first primary solution to improve urinary incontinence (UI) symptoms, but many challenges stems from certain PFMT-related practices. Exploring PFMT experience will help to increase treatment satisfaction, enjoyment, and empowerment. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the experience of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) in Italian people with UI. A qualitative semi-structured interview study was conducted. The interviews’ transcriptions were analysed using a constructionist epistemology lens and adopting the “Reflexive Thematic Analysis”. Sixteen Italian participants (Women N = 10, Men = 6) with UI who experienced PFMT were interviewed. Four themes were generated: (1) ‘Learn to Control the Unconscious Consciously’ as participants learned to control continence through active exercises; (2) ‘Starting PFMT, Changing Mind’ as they realised they can have an active role in managing their condition; (3) ‘Into the unknown intimacy’, as they bridged the gap in their (mis)understanding of the pelvic floor area, overcoming the discomfort linked to intimacy; (4) The Importance of Not Being Alone in this Process’, as the participants emphasised the paramount role of the physiotherapists in the healing process. To conclude, in people with UI, PFMT enhanced pelvic floor knowledge and understanding, fostering awareness, positive mindset, and symptom relief. The physiotherapist's pivotal role as an educator and empathetic guide in exercise programs, along with a preference for active exercises. Overall, our results proved that PFMT has positive consequences in people’s beliefs and mindset about and in the management of UI.

Roles of positive psychological capital resources dimensions on self-employment creation among youths

Purpose: This research paper aims to explore how positive psychological resources influence youth participating in the Industrial Training Fund’s (ITF) National Industrial Skill Development Programme (NISDP), specifically examining the programs’ impact on self-employment creation in Plateau State, Nigeria. Method: The paper employs Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and a Structural Equation Model (SEM) to examine the relationship between positive psychological resources and self-employment creation in Plateau State. Results: The study concludes that dimensions of positive psychological resources serve as effective predictors of self-employment creation among youths. However, it notes that two dimensions; resilience and hope, did not exhibit a significant positive relationship. Nonetheless, the lack of significance does not negate the existence of a relationship explaining self-employment creation among youths in the context of this study. Limitations: Several factors constrained the study. It was conducted within a specific constituency in Plateau State, limiting its scope and generalizability. Therefore, the results may not be applicable to the entire state. Contributions: This study offers insights beneficial to both self-employed and unemployed youths, emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset in self-employment creation. The findings are particularly relevant to the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and its National Industrial Skills Development Programme (NISDP), shedding light on the effectiveness of their training programs fostering self-employment. Moreover, this research contributes to the existing body of literature on self-employment creation among youths and extends understanding of positive psychological capital resources (PSYCAP) by examining various dimensions. Additionally, it provides guidance for future directions in research and practice in this field.

Roles of positive psychological capital resources dimensions on self-employment creation among youths

Purpose: This research paper aims to explore how positive psychological resources influence youth participating in the Industrial Training Fund’s (ITF) National Industrial Skill Development Programme (NISDP), specifically examining the programs’ impact on self-employment creation in Plateau State, Nigeria. Method: The paper employs Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and a Structural Equation Model (SEM) to examine the relationship between positive psychological resources and self-employment creation in Plateau State. Results: The study concludes that dimensions of positive psychological resources serve as effective predictors of self-employment creation among youths. However, it notes that two dimensions; resilience and hope, did not exhibit a significant positive relationship. Nonetheless, the lack of significance does not negate the existence of a relationship explaining self-employment creation among youths in the context of this study. Limitations: Several factors constrained the study. It was conducted within a specific constituency in Plateau State, limiting its scope and generalizability. Therefore, the results may not be applicable to the entire state. Contributions: This study offers insights beneficial to both self-employed and unemployed youths, emphasizing the importance of a positive mindset in self-employment creation. The findings are particularly relevant to the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) and its National Industrial Skills Development Programme (NISDP), shedding light on the effectiveness of their training programs fostering self-employment. Moreover, this research contributes to the existing body of literature on self-employment creation among youths and extends understanding of positive psychological capital resources (PSYCAP) by examining various dimensions. Additionally, it provides guidance for future directions in research and practice in this field.

Knowledge of and Attitude Toward Preventive Care Among Iraqi Dentists and Senior Dental Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Acquiring knowledge and maintaining a positive mindset are essential for dental care providers to offer optimal dental services. Dental professionals are expected to follow preventive dentistry principles to ensure the best oral health maintenance for their patients, as prevention is a key component of public health initiatives. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes toward preventive dental care among Iraqi dentists and senior dental students. A cross-sectional study, conducted from June to August 2023, involved 876 Iraqi dentists and 587 senior dental students in Baghdad, utilizing a physically paper-based self-administered questionnaire. Participants' level of knowledge was assessed based on a 5-point Likert scale to 12 statements on preventive dental care. Their attitudes were inquired by selecting one option from a 7-point Likert scale on four pairs of bipolar adjectives describing preventive dentistry. Higher scores were considered more accurate knowledge and more positive attitudes. Statistical evaluation included the Chi-square test and regression analysis. In total, data from 841 dentists and 567 students were analyzed (response rate: 96%). Around 90% of dentists (N=745) and students (N=502) acknowledged the impact of sugar, sealant, and water fluoridation on dental caries, but about 80% of dentists (N=662) and students (N=446)undervalued the role of fluoridated toothpaste. Women (OR=1.4, 95% CI: 1.02-2.1) and dentists, within one year of their graduation (OR=1.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.5), exhibited higher levels of knowledge. More favorable attitudes towards preventive dentistry were associated with a higher level of knowledge among dentists (OR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.2-2.3). Regarding dental students, those from private dental schools showed higher scores of knowledge than their counterparts from public schools (OR=2.1, 95% CI: 1.3-3.4). The majority of participants held the belief that preventive dentistry is beneficial for the community but just about 60% of dentists (N=477) and students (N=300)exhibited a positive attitude toward the economic advantages of preventive dentistry for dentists, as well as the ease of engaging in preventive dental practices. The dentists and dental students in this study demonstrated satisfactory knowledge and a favorable attitude toward most aspects of preventive dentistry. However, deficiencies were noted in certain areas, such as the application of topical fluoride for preventing dental caries, as well as a substantial proportion of individuals who lacked a positive perspective on the economic benefits of preventive dentistry. Hence, there is a clear need for educational interventions during their undergraduate training and postgraduate continuing education to enhance their knowledge levels and cultivate a more positive attitude towards preventive dentistry.

Examining the association of vaccine-related mindsets and post-vaccination antibody response, side effects, and affective outcomes

BackgroundAlthough vaccines are largely effective and safe, there is variability in post-vaccination experience regarding antibody response, side effects, and affective outcomes. Vaccine mindsets, specific beliefs about the vaccine, may be associated with post-vaccination experience. This is important since mindsets are malleable and may help decrease vaccine hesitancy and improve post-vaccination experience. MethodsIn a prospective study, we measured overall positive vaccine mindset and specific mindsets regarding efficacy, body response, and side effects. We tested whether vaccine mindsets before vaccination predicted neutralizing antibody response, side effects, vaccine-related stress, and affective outcomes (general stress, sadness, and happiness). Antibody response was assessed one month and six months after participants completed a SARS-CoV-2 vaccination series. Side effect experience and affective reactions were assessed daily on the vaccination day and the subsequent five days. ResultsThere was no significant association between the aggregate vaccine mindset score and neutralizing antibody response; however, people with a more positive vaccine mindset reported fewer side effects, less same-day vaccine-related anxiety, and improved affective outcomes after vaccination. In secondary analyses, when specific mindsets were explored, the mindset that vaccine side effects are a sign of treatment efficacy predicted higher antibodies, but not side effects experience and vaccine-related anxiety. Vaccine efficacy and body-response mindsets predicted fewer side effects, vaccine-related anxiety, and improved affective outcomes after vaccination. ConclusionThese findings underscore the potential of vaccine mindsets in enhancing the overall post-vaccination experience and, in some cases, increasing antibody response.

Perceived usefulness of English (L2) learning apps and language mindset mediated by flow and motivation intensity: a serial mediation model and a network analysis

ABSTRACT Existing research has explored the connection between perceived usefulness and growth mindset, but there are still gaps in our understanding of how the perceived usefulness of second language learning apps (PU-L2LA) relates to L2 learner’s language mindset (LM). Our study seeks to investigate the serial mediating role of flow and motivation intensity in the association between PU-L2LA and LM, as well as the network-level interaction between flow and motivation intensity (MI). This is a cross-sectional study conducted with a convenience sample of 524 Chinese university students, aiming to assess PU-L2LA, flow, MI, and LM. The results of the mediation analyses reveal that flow and MI play sequential mediating roles in linking PU-L2LA to LM. Furthermore, through network analysis techniques, two key bridge indicators (“The experience is extremely rewarding.” and “After I graduate from college, I will continue to study English and try to improve.”) were identified as important links between flow and MI. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how PU-L2LA influences LM and the underlying mechanisms involved. They highlight the importance of considering flow experiences and MI in promoting a positive language mindset among learners. Educators, app developers, and researchers can utilize these insights to design effective interventions, enhance engagement, and optimize language learning outcomes.

Pelatihan Deteksi Dini Konflik Sosial dan Keagamaan pada Masa Pemilu di Kabupaten Kerinci dan Kota Sungai Penuh

The early detection of conflict is a crucial process in conflict prevention to avoid more complex situations in society. Politically competitive activities have the potential to trigger social division and broader conflicts. This community service initiative aims to provide concrete solutions for religious-social conflicts resulting from the political process. The initiative is implemented through training and mentoring for members of the Election Supervisory Board (Bawaslu) in Kerinci District and Sungai Penuh City, involving relevant stakeholders such as the National Unity and Politics Agency (Kesbangpol), Regional Police (Polres), and the Forum for Interfaith Harmony (FKUB). Participants in the training displayed high enthusiasm by actively participating in Q&amp;A sessions, group discussions, presentations, and providing reflections. Qualitatively, the training has positively impacted participants’ insights, attitudes, and skills in analyzing and detecting conflicts in society. Participants gained in-depth knowledge of the concept of early conflict detection and methods to identify potential conflicts before reaching higher levels of escalation. In terms of attitude, the training was effective in shaping a positive mindset and sensitivity to conflict issues, reinforcing peace values, and encouraging participants to adopt a proactive approach to conflict prevention efforts. Finally, through case studies and simulations, participants acquired the necessary skills to identify early signs of conflict and develop appropriate handling strategies.

Combined Exercise and Mindset Training During a Pediatric Cardiac Fitness and Rehabilitation Program Benefits Youth with a Range of Congenital Heart Disease.

Pediatric cardiac fitness and rehabilitation programs vary widely in structure and content. The Cardiac Fitness Program (CFP) is built on traditional training pillars of aerobic, strength, and flexibility, and adds a fourth, training a positive mindset. This study assesses whether the systematic and comprehensive framework of the CFP results in broad benefits for a range of patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Data from participants between 01/2017 and 12/2022 were analyzed. Pre- and post-CFP cardiopulmonary exercise test parameters, strength and flexibility metrics, and mindset survey results were compared overall, and by sex, age, diagnosis, and hemodynamic level. Of 62 participants (median age 15.5years, range 8 to 23, 50% female), 3% had simple, 37% complex, 24% single ventricle CHD, and 35% arrhythmia, cardiomyopathy, or transplant. Significant improvements were noted in aerobic fitness (mean 9 ± 15% increase in % predicted peak oxygen consumption, p < 0.001). Strength metrics significantly improved (each p < 0.001), as did flexibility (p < 0.001). Patient-reported positive mindset scores did not improve significantly (mean increase 1.8 ± 5.1, p = 0.10, n = 25), whereas parents reported significant improvements (5.9 ± 10.4, p = 0.02, n = 20). Improvements were not significantly different by sex, age, diagnosis, or hemodynamic level. Comprehensive training across four pillars of fitness yields significant improvements in aerobic fitness, strength, flexibility, and parent-reported mindset scores for pediatric CHD patients, regardless of patient characteristics, diagnosis type, or severity of hemodynamic limitation. Further study is warranted into optimal standardization of training and whether a comprehensive approach amplifies individual pillars to create more than the sum of its parts.

Enhancing Brain Elasticity: Key Lifestyle Habits to Unlock Genius Potential at Any Age

The brain is a masterpiece, often referred to as the king organ, as it governs the entire body. When the brain ceases to function, it marks the end of an individual's vitality, essentially rendering them a "vegetable." This profound importance raises a crucial question: Are we adequately nurturing and caring for our brains? In today's fast-paced world, humans often subject their brains to relentless stress and negative impulses, leading to cognitive decline. However, enhancing brain elasticity can be remarkably simple by adopting specific daily habits. These habits not only pamper the brain but also make it sharper and stronger. Key factors in boosting brain capacity include maintaining optimal hydration, engaging in IQ-enhancing non-digital games like chess and Scrabble, solving logical math problems, regular exercise, and meditation. Additionally, incorporating fruits and vegetables into the diet, consuming foods rich in Omega-3 and DHA, ensuring 8 hours of sleep, reducing screen time, learning new languages, playing various musical instruments, and fostering a positive and resilient mindset are vital. One crucial yet often overlooked habit is regular reading. Reading stimulates the brain, improves concentration, enhances vocabulary, and fosters a deeper understanding of diverse subjects, all of which contribute to increased cognitive flexibility and brain elasticity. Another important factor is maintaining good gut health. Recent research has shown that good gut bacteria play a crucial role in increasing brain activity. The gut-brain axis, a complex communication network, connects the gut and brain, allowing gut bacteria to influence cognitive functions. Probiotics and a diet rich in fiber can enhance the diversity and health of gut microbiota, leading to improved brain function and mental health. This review explores how these lifestyle practices contribute to cognitive enhancement, potentially transforming ordinary individuals into geniuses. It posits that genius is not an inherent trait but a result of deliberate and consistent mental engagement and nurturing. By embracing these strategies, including the habit of regular reading and maintaining good gut health, individuals can significantly elevate their cognitive abilities and achieve exceptional intellectual growth.

Pengaruh Kesenjangan Pendidikan terhadap Pola Pikir Siswa SMA dan Mahasiswa: Analisis Kuantitatif dari Trend Tiktok di Indonesia

The study focuses on the impact of educational disparities on the mindset of high school students and students in Indonesia. In this study, the analysis uses quantitative data from TikTok trends in Indonesia to understand how education disparities affect the way students think between high school and students. Studies show that educational gaps have a significant impact on the mindset of both high school students and students. High school students who have good access to education have a more positive mindset and are better prepared to adapt to change, while students with better access to school have more critical mindsets and are more ready to think analytically. The results of this research have important implications for educational policy in Indonesia, as well as to raise public awareness of the importance of educational equality in improving the thinking ability of students.

Young Spouses' Experiences of Having a Partner With Heart Disease and Adolescents Living at Home.

To describe the life situation of spouses having a partner with heart disease and adolescents living at home. Qualitative inductive design. Participants (n = 22) were included from three Scandinavian countries. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using thematic analysis with an inductive and latent approach. Three themes were derived. 'Being in spousal and parental role transition' described how daily life had been affected and parental responsibilities had been doubled due to their partner's heart disease. 'Living with unpredictability and insecurity' included how the unpredictable illness trajectory caused worries and affected the well-being of the family. 'Managing a challenging life situation' highlights how spouses coped with their partners' heart disease and adapted to a new life situation. Young spouses' life situation was greatly affected by their partner's heart disease, resulting in increased responsibilities and double parenthood. Having a positive attitude and mindset towards life was used as a strategy to cope with the changed life situation and find a new way of life. All family members are affected by heart disease. Spouses needed additional professional support and guidance on how to involve the children when a parent is ill. This study highlights how young spouses, with adolescents living at home, experience their life situation. The life situation is unpredictable due to the partner's heart disease, as they must handle both caring for their partner and taking on double parenthood. Research involving family members can improve person- and family-centred care and treatment outcomes in health care and society. COREQ checklist was used preparing the manuscript. Data collection included interviews with spouse. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER CONTRIBUTE TO THE WIDER GLOBAL CLINICAL COMMUNITY?: By highlighting the spouses changed life situation due to heart disease and the importance of including them in health care.

Relationship Between Knowledge, Attitude, and Family Support with Exclusive Breastfeeding

The effort to improve the quality of human resources (HR) begins from infancy in the womb. One of the efforts to ensure a well-growing and developing baby is by providing Exclusive Breastfeeding (EBF). Globally, the provision of EBF is lower than needed. This study aims to determine the relationship between knowledge, attitude, and family support towards the provision of exclusive breastfeeding in the working area of UPTD Puskesmas Plaosan Magetan. Method : This research is an analytical survey study with a cross-sectional design. The research sample was taken using Simple Random sampling technique, amounting to 37 mothers with infants aged 0-6 months. The independent variables are knowledge, attitude, and family support, and the dependent variable is the provision of Exclusive Breastfeeding. Data collection was conducted using questionnaires and baby register books. To analyze the relationship between knowledge, attitude, and family support, Bivariate analysis was used, and the tests used were chi-square or fisher exact tests. Result : The results showed that there was no relationship between knowledge and the provision of Exclusive Breastfeeding (p-value = 0.447), there was a relationship between attitude and the provision of Exclusive Breastfeeding (p-value = 0.005), and there was a relationship between family support and the provision of Exclusive Breastfeeding (p-value = 0.002). Discussion : Based on the results of the study, it is concluded that the success of Exclusive Breastfeeding is related to attitude and family support; however, attitude and family support are formed from good knowledge and a positive mindset. Suggestion : Therefore, it is recommended for UPTD Puskesmas Plaosan to develop educational programs involving family participation and community leaders, as well as to improve health services.

Serat gumuyu: Sumber pengaruh untuk membentuk persepsi kebahagiaan dan kesehatan mental masyarakat

The manuscript is one of the cultural relics of the past which is a source of cultural institutions of the community. The manuscript is also used as a reflection of local wisdom and a foundation for oral traditions, art, and Javanese values, as is the case with the Serat Gumuyu script. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach to obtain complete information about laughter can shape the perception of each individual to manage a more positive mindset so as to form happiness and improve people's mental health from Serat Gumuyu. The theory used is Seligman's mental health theory, which focuses on the psychological aspects of mental health and which focuses on positive psychological theories, especially happiness. This research data is in the form of quotes derived from Serat Gumuyu. The source of this research data is Serat Gumuyu, serial number NB 1567 code obtained from manuscripts in the collection of the National Library of the Republic of Indonesia. The data collection method uses content analysis techniques to describe the manuscript, editing and transliteration. The text is hermeniutic analyzed by Ricoeur to explore the axis of the roots of cultural forces socially and mental health in Javanese society. This research presents how laughter in Serat Gumuyu contains the benefits and factors that make someone laugh. This serat invites us that the positive influence of laughter can provide many benefits and is not visible physically but in human mental health also becomes better and optimal. Keywords: Serat Gumuyu, laugh, mental health

Resilience of Women with Dual Roles in Higher Education Institutions: A Comparative Study of Indonesian and Malaysian Female Muslim Lecturer

&lt;p&gt;&lt;span lang="EN-GB"&gt;This paper aims to compare the resilience of Muslim women Lecturer with dual roles in Indonesia (INa) and Malaysia (IMa). There are five indicators used, namely Wagnild and Yong indicators which are derived into 25 sub-indicators. The interview instrument is broken down from the 25 sub-indicators. This research uses a phenomenological qualitative approach. Data were obtained by interview method, offline and online. There are six Muslim women Lecturer who became informants, three from Indonesian universities, and the rest from Malaysian universities. The discussion is presented by displaying the results of data analysis from Atlas.ti in the form of WordCloude, making it easier for readers to see the comparison. The first indicator of Equanimity, in Indonesia positive thinking is more dominant, while in Malaysia reflection is more dominant. Second, Perseverance indicators, which emerged from the two countries were purpose and intention (INa), meaningfulness (IMa). Third, Self Resiliance INa is Self-Confident, and IMa is Spirit. Fourth, there are five categories whose portions are balanced, (INa) namely Helpful, Ability, Greatful, Insatiate, and Resilient. While the IMa that appears is the Meaningfulness category. Fifth, the Existential Aloneness Indicator INa consists of Indifferent and Intuitive, while IMa is Indifferent and Cheerful. The results show strategies that can be used to improve resilience, such as developing a positive mindset, finding meaning in work, and building self-confidence.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

The Psychology of Saving : How Mindset Impacts Financial Competence

This study investigates the dynamics of financial competence among customers and employees of Bank BNI, focusing on the roles of mindset, saving behavior, and financial knowledge. Using a quantitative research design with a sample size of 100 participants selected through random sampling, data were analyzed using Smart PLS for path analysis. The findings reveal significant direct relationships: mindset positively influences both financial knowledge (FK) and financial competence (FC), while saving behavior directly enhances FC. Additionally, indirect effects show that both mindset and saving behavior contribute to FC through their positive impacts on FK. These results highlight the critical importance of psychological factors and proactive financial behaviors in shaping individuals' financial capabilities. For Bank BNI, promoting a positive financial mindset and supporting disciplined saving practices could effectively enhance financial literacy and decision-making among stakeholders. Future research could explore additional variables and interventions to further refine strategies for fostering financial competence across diverse demographic groups.

Советский спор(т): попытки гальванизации эйдосов в нововременных кинокартинах о выдающихся советских спортсменах

The author believes that the so-called cinematic speaking on the Soviet, that is, an array of texts, formulated within the contours of fi lm, television, and other screen arts, is one of the representative sources shaping the domestic discourse of the reception of the Soviet. Within the framework of this work, research attention is focused on the consideration of modern Russian films about the legends of Soviet sports, which, in the area of the abovementioned cinematic speaking, appeal to a number of phrase themes, such as sports, personality, heroism, asceticism, service, and moral values. According to the author, the repetitive nature of references to Soviet sports mythology is associated with the dire need of having some kind of incredible task fulfilled; but, unlike, for example, S. Toymentsev, the author considers this task to be cultural, educational and didactic rather than politically predetermined. The author sees Soviet sports biopics as a good opportunity for a large-scale conversation at the level of everyday consciousness, designed to ensure the galvanization of eidos, re-launch of values and remastering of meanings. However, despite the self-evidently noble nature of such intentions, modern sports dramas are unable to fully realize their mission for a number of reasons. The first reason why biographical films about Soviet athletes do not turn into a guide to action, and their protagonists do not become sought-after role models, is the dramatic discrepancy between the glorified personal qualities of the heroes and the main plots of current popular psychology, which consistently inculcates the cult of hedonism and the so-called ‘positive mindset’. The second reason that determines the emergence of the viewer’s “cognitive lag” is associated with the unanimous silencing in such films of the ideological component of Soviet social relations as a factor that necessarily shapes personality (or the reduction of this factor to requisite and decorative markers): a complex of behavioral patterns, choices and motives thus turn out to be impenetrable to the viewer in the absence of interpretative model. As the third reason, the author names the formal, ‘dotted’ manner of depicting Soviet temporality in “champion fi lm sagas” and comes to the conclusion that unpacking and appropriating the didactic, instructive potential of legendary sports stories is impossible without a thoughtful depiction of Soviet social time.

The Lived Experiences of Paternal Parents as Primary Caregivers in Raising Children with Developmental Disabilities

This study delves into the lived experiences of paternal parents raising children with developmental disabilities within the City of Cabuyao Laguna. It aims to comprehend their unique challenges, explore how the distress of raising a child with developmental disabilities is manifested in them, and identify their coping strategies. Eight (8) paternal parents, acting as primary caregivers for children with Autism, Down syndrome, and Intellectual disability who were also reported to experience significant stress, were interviewed. The study used a Parental Stress Scale and interviews to collect data. By using a phenomenological research approach, three main themes emerged through thematic analysis: (1) Navigating Parenting Challenges and Sacrifices; under this theme are the subthemes: (1.1) lifestyles, (1.2) financial issues, and (1.3) social stigma. (2) Holistic Well-being Under Stress, its subthemes are (2.1) physical manifestation, (2.2) emotional impact, and (2.3) impact on the body. (3) Balancing Approach to Personal Development and Well-being, under this main theme are these subthemes: (3.1) coping and fostering resilience, (3.2) positive mindset in maintaining children’s growth and well-being, (3.3) engaging diverse activities. The study recommends a Stress Management Program for Paternal Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities, which aims to support paternal parents in raising children with developmental disabilities by providing them with essential stress management tools and fostering a supportive community. Throughout the 5-week program, participants will engage in interactive sessions focused on understanding stress, exploring coping strategies, strengthening physical health, enhancing parent-child interactions, building support networks, and accessing resources for ongoing support.

Shaping future-ready graduates with mindset shifts: studying the impact of integrating critical and design thinking in design innovation education

In an era marked by rapid change and complex global challenges, Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) are tasked with preparing students to navigate and address these evolving demands. This paper explores the critical role of Higher Education (HE) in equipping students with the necessary skills and mindsets to tackle real-world problems through innovative solutions. Integrating critical thinking and design thinking within a Design Innovation module is central to this exploration. The study is undergirded by a conceptual framework that blends critical, design, and futures thinking, focusing exclusively in this paper on applying critical thinking (CT) and design thinking (DT). The research investigates two primary questions: (1) How do students’ DT and CT mindsets change after participation in a Design Innovation module? (2) Is CT a prerequisite for developing DT? This study aims to illuminate the shifts in students’ mindsets from before to after the completion of the module, highlighting the importance of developing key dispositions for ethical and socially responsible problem-solving. Results show a statistically significant increase in CT and DT disposition scores from pre- to post-test, suggesting a shift to more positive CT and DT mindsets after going through the Design Innovation module. In addition, a significant moderation effect of pre-test CT mindset on the relationship between pre-test and post-test DT mindset scores was observed, implying that CT was a prerequisite for DT. The findings offer insights into the module’s effectiveness in fostering future-ready graduates’ thinking capabilities on innovating for real-world challenges and highlight the need for our future-ready students to achieve critical competence and creative confidence. Finally, we conclude the paper with recommendations for educators to integrate CT skill development intentionally and in tandem with DT skill development for a balanced approach to developing critical competence and creative confidence in interdisciplinary courses.

A Model for Alleviating Work Pressures and Enhancing Teachers’ Resilience

Teaching is a complex task that requires knowledge of what to teach, how to teach it, and how to cope with educational challenges. To perform their duties effectively, teachers’ mental well-being and inner states are essential. This study aims to define teacher resilience, give examples of the stressors and challenges that EFL/ESL college instructors face and the factors that lead to attrition and burnout. It also aims to propose strategies for coping with negative stressors. Results of a survey with a sample of EFL/ESL college instructors at five higher education institutions in Saudi Arabia who teach language, linguistics, translation and interpreting courses to undergraduate students showed that they face intellectual, emotional, and service-related stressors and challenges that impact their well-being and effectiveness such as high workload, limited support, meeting deadlines, managing their time effectively, students’ behavior and attitudes, classroom management and health concerns, financial and economic issues, balancing their work and personal, and lack of support and recognition. In addition, some instructors complained of lack of motivation and enthusiasm, fatigue, headaches, irritability, anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating. To combat stress, mental and emotional challenges that some instructors face, this study proposes some coping strategies based on the principles of positive psychology to help foster teacher resilience, maintain a strong and effective teaching workforce, and empower educators to thrive in their profession. These coping strategies cover psychological, pedagogical, interpersonal, and pragmatic aspects such as identifying the signs of stress, prioritizing self-care and well-being, setting achievable goals, time management and organization, embracing flexibility and adaptability, adopting a positive mindset, classroom management techniques, advocating for resources and support, attending professional development workshops, building/joining a strong support network, collaborating with other colleagues to share ideas and strategies, reflecting on and assessing their teaching practices, practicing mindfulness, quick relaxation techniques, visualization, progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, listening to music, regulating emotional responses, and celebrating small wins. The coping strategies posed herein are described in detail.