Personal Factors Research Articles

Effect of childhood emotional abuse on depression and anxiety in adulthood is partially mediated by neuroticism: Evidence from a large online sample

Childhood trauma is widely recognized as a potential risk factor for psychiatric illness in adulthood, yet the precise mechanisms underlying this relationship remain incompletely understood. One proposed mechanism involves the impact of childhood trauma on personality development, particularly in relation to neuroticism, which may subsequently heighten susceptibility to psychiatric disorders.In this study, we aimed to investigate this hypothesis through an online survey involving 1116 participants (232 male, 21 %). Participants completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), assessing emotional abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional neglect, and physical neglect, along with the Trait Self-Description Inventory (TSDI) for personality assessment and the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 clinical questionnaires for depression and anxiety symptoms evaluation, respectively.Our analyses revealed significant positive correlations between all facets of childhood trauma and neuroticism (all p < .01). Linear regression analysis demonstrated that emotional abuse significantly contributed to neuroticism (β = 0.267, p < .05), openness (β = 0.142, p < .05), and agreeableness (β = 0.089, p < .05), while sexual abuse was associated with agreeableness (β = 0.137, p < .01) Emotional neglect was negatively correlated with conscientiousness (β = −0.090, p < .01), extroversion (β = −0.109, p < .01) and agreeableness (β = −0.154, p < .01).Furthermore, linear regression analysis revealed that emotional abuse was positively and significantly correlated with PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores (r = 0.330, p < .01 and r = 0.327, p < .01, respectively). Mediation analysis supported a significant mediating role of neuroticism in the association between childhood emotional abuse and both depression (PHQ-9) (z = 8.681, p < .01) and anxiety (GAD-7) (z = 9.206, p < .01). Notably, the correlation between childhood emotional abuse and psychiatric symptoms was attenuated but not eliminated after controlling for neuroticism, suggesting partial mediation.While our cross-sectional design precludes causal inference, our findings support the notion that childhood emotional abuse may contribute to increased neuroticism, thereby elevating vulnerability to affective disorders in adulthood. These results underscore the importance of considering personality factors in understanding the long-term consequences of childhood trauma on mental health outcomes.

Analysis of the relationship between religion, abortion, and assisted reproductive technology: Insights into cross-national public opinion

With advancement in reproductive technologies, public opinion regarding these procedures varies considerably across the world. While prominent public debates have focused on abortion, we know less about the factors shaping feelings regarding Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). Both procedures challenge the idea that human life starts with conception – with the fertilization of an embryo. Using European Values Survey data and multilevel modeling, we compare how religion and other personal and country-level factors shape disapproval toward abortion and ART. Conservative Protestants and people who are more engaged with their religion and live in a more religious country are more likely to disapprove of abortion and ART. More supportive polices and attitudes regarding ART, but not abortion, are correlated. Additionally, economic development moderates the relationship between personal religiosity and abortion, but not ART. This finding provides important insight into why abortion has remained such a controversial issue, even in richer nations.

Enhancing Chinese students’ willingness to communicate (WTC) in EMI classrooms: Do learning motivation and academic self-efficacy matter?

Due to the vital role of classroom communications in the success of EMI courses, factors driving students to communicate with teachers and classmates need to be recognized. In this respect, several scholars worldwide have explored different emotional, personal, and environmental sources of students’ willingness to communicate (WTC). Nonetheless, the impacts of learning motivation and academic self-efficacy have somehow been overlooked in previous investigations. That is, few investigations have inspected the effects of these personal factors on students’ decisions to speak. Additionally, no research study has been carried out on the consequences of motivation and self-efficacy for EMI students’ decisions to communicate. To address the mentioned gaps, this investigation measured the influences of learning motivation and academic self-efficacy on Chinese EMI students’ WTC. In doing so, three closed-ended questionnaires were given to 303 Chinese EMI students. Correlation tests indicated positive links between WTC, academic self-efficacy, and learning motivation. Regression analysis also demonstrated the significant, positive effects of learning motivation and academic self-efficacy on Chinese EMI students’ WTC. The results of this inquiry could be beneficial for all EMI teachers and teacher trainers.

A living lab to develop smart home services for the residential welfare of older adults

Owing to the decline in the physical and social functions of older adults, the residential environment substantially impacts the psychological and emotional stability and life satisfaction for older adults. Recently, there has been a growing interest in providing residential welfare services related to the health and independent living of the older adults. The primary objective of this research was to identify the needs and perceptions of older adults regarding smart home services and associated sensors and evaluate the indoor environment conditions of older adults through a living lab. Survey results indicate that older adults felt the burden of electricity bills in summer and winter and had relatively high safety-related smart home service needs. Focus group interviews with the participants in the living lab confirmed that older adults positively perceived the benefits and privacy of the living-lab sensors. In addition, the analysis of indoor environment data over one year from a case-study household showed that approximately 66.4% during the winter season and 13.1% during the summer season have fallen within the neutral thermal comfort range according to the proposed approach (i.e., predicted mean vote (PMV) calculated using heart rate). This study adopted the proposed PMV method (hereafter PMV-P) that takes into account personal factors (e.g., metabolic rate of older adults that can be calculated using heart rate) and environmental factors (e.g., temperature, humidity) by using the real-time data collected from IoT-based sensors. Furthermore, this study proposed a new home energy management system (EMS) algorithm on the basis of model predictive control for reducing heating energy consumption while satisfying the thermal comfort. The new EMS was demonstrated to achieve 5 – 12% heating energy savings depending on the thermal comfort preferences of occupants. Overall, the results of multidisciplinary research not only provided the preliminary evidence regarding the needs and perceptions of older adults toward IoT-based sensors but also showcased the development of IoT-based smart home service system through the living lab.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Polish sonographers—A questionnaire study

PurposeThe ultrasound specialists face a substantial issue with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), characterized by occupation-related pain, reaching an estimated frequency of up to 90.5%. The type and location of pain vary depending on the sonographers specialty and the specific anatomical areas being examined. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence and intensity of pain among Polish doctors from various specialties conducting ultrasound examinations. Materials and methodsThe study has been performed between July and December 2023, involving 90 participants (51.9% women) actively practicing ultrasound diagnostics. The data collection process utilized a structured questionnaire developed by the researchers for this study. The questionnaire covered personal factors, including gender and age, and work-related aspects like workplace, specialty, sonography experience, and the types of examinations conducted. Statistical analysis involved both descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. ResultsThe age distribution ranged from 26 to 74 years, with mean (SD) of 43.1 (12.2) years. The leading specialties among physicians were radiology (22.2%) and internal medicine (22.2%). Among all physicians, 65.6% reported pain during or after ultrasound scans, with a mean (SD) pain intensity of 6.17 (2) in a 1–10 scale. The analysis indicated no correlation between age and gender and the occurrence of discomfort. ConclusionsWMSDs pose a significant risk to Polish sonographers, especially those specializing in vascular surgery, general surgery and obstetrics and gynecology specialties. The study underscores a notable deficit, with only 10% of the personnel reporting training in ergonomics for ultrasound work.

The Predictive Ability of the Big Five Personality Factors and Cognitive Flexibility in Metamemory among High School Students

The study aimed to identify the predictive ability of the big five personality factors and cognitive flexibility in metamemory among high school students in Nazareth district. The correlational descriptive mmethodology was used. The scales of metamemory, big five personality factors, and cognitive flexibility were used for data collection, as they were applied to a random sample of (332) students at the Galilee school in the Nazareth district. The results showed a positive, statistically significant correlational relationship between the big five personality factors to satisfaction with memory, and a negative with memory errors, and a positive statistically significant relationship of negative emotion factor to memory errors and memory strategies, and a positive, statistically significant relationship between cognitive flexibility and satisfaction with memory.

Identifying barriers to outpatient appointment attendance in patient groups at risk of inequity: a mixed methods study in a London NHS trust.

There is significant health inequity in the United Kingdom (U.K.), with different populations facing challenges accessing health services, which can impact health outcomes. At one London National Health Service (NHS) Trust, data showed that patients from deprived areas and minority ethnic groups had a higher likelihood of missing their first outpatient appointment. This study's objectives were to understand barriers to specific patient populations attending first outpatient appointments, explore systemic factors and assess appointment awareness. Five high-volume specialties identified as having inequitable access based on ethnicity and deprivation were selected as the study setting. Mixed methods were employed to understand barriers to outpatient attendance, including qualitative semi-structured interviews with patients and staff, observations of staff workflows and interrogation of quantitative data on appointment communication. To identify barriers, semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients who missed their appointment and were from a minority ethnic group or deprived area. Staff interviews and observations were carried out to further understand attendance barriers. Patient interview data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis to create a thematic framework and triangulated with staff data. Subthemes were mapped onto a behavioural science framework highlighting behaviours that could be targeted. Quantitative data from patient interviews were analysed to assess appointment awareness and communication. Twenty-six patients and 11 staff were interviewed, with four staff observed. Seven themes were identified as barriers - communication factors, communication methods, healthcare system, system errors, transport, appointment, and personal factors. Knowledge about appointments was an important identified behaviour, supported by eight out of 26 patients answering that they were unaware of their missed appointment. Environmental context and resources were other strongly represented behavioural factors, highlighting systemic barriers that prevent attendance. This study showed the barriers preventing patients from minority ethnic groups or living in deprived areas from attending their outpatient appointment. These barriers included communication factors, communication methods, healthcare the system, system errors, transport, appointment, and personal factors. Healthcare services should acknowledge this and work with public members from these communities to co-design solutions supporting attendance. Our work provides a basis for future intervention design, informed by behavioural science and community involvement.

부모의 심리적 통제가 아동의 공격성에 미치는 영향

Objectives The purpose of this study is to improve parents' understanding of children's problem behavior and to present effective counseling intervention plans by selecting major environmental and personal factors that affect children's relational and overt aggression. Methods The effect of parents' psychological control on children's relational and overt aggression was verified through the mediating effect of moral disengagement and emotion regulation. PCS-YSR, relational and overt aggression scale, and emotion regulation scale were used for 684 students in 4th to 6th grades at 5 elementary schools in Daegu and Gyeongsangbuk-do. The collected data were analyzed for correlation between measurement variables using SPSS 23.0. Hierarchical regression analysis was performed to verify the mediation effect between variables. Results First, there was a significant positive correlations between parents' psychological control and children's relational and overt aggression, and moral disengagement. On the other hand, there was significant negative correlations in emotion regulation and the other variables. Second, it was found that parents' psychological control affects children's relational and overt aggression, and moral disengagement is partially mediated. Third, it was found that parents' psychological control affects children's relational and overt aggression, and their emotion regulation is partially mediated. Conclusions As a result of this study, the influence of psychological control of fathers and mothers on children's relational and overt aggression was confirmed, and the mediating effect of moral disengagement and emotion regulation was verified. These findings can provide basic data for child counseling and parent education programs that can alleviate children's relational and overt aggression.

The Role of Insecure Attachment in Emotional Disorders: From Children to the Elderly

Certain emotional disorders pose a significant societal concern due to their association with recurring suicidal tendencies and behaviors. Beyond the ongoing debate surrounding genetic and personality factors, this paper underscores the importance of considering attachment in the context of emotional disorders. Through a comprehensive review of literature in the fields of social and clinical psychology, this paper explores the connection between insecure attachment and emotional disorders. The exploration encompasses a concise historical overview and categozrization of attachment, followed by an in-depth analysis of the role of insecure attachment in emotional disorders across the lifespan, from childhood to old age. Additionally, potential mediator and moderator mechanisms are discussed. Notably, emotional regulation emerges as a predominant mediator during various life stages, serving this role in both childhood and adulthood, while self-esteem is identified as a sole mediating factor during adolescence. By elucidating the detrimental impacts of insecure attachment, this article emphasizes the crucial need to understand attachment dynamics throughout the human lifespan. Future research endeavors may focus on promoting heightened awareness among parents regarding the significance of sensitive early family interactions and encouraging individuals to identify and cultivate secure attachment figures.

Determinants of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among Young Adults Type 2 Diabetes Patients in Selected Tertiary Hospitals in Shandong Province, China

Objective: The purpose of this study is to understand the current situation of knowledge, attitude, and practice of self-management in young patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to explore the relationship between general conditions (personal, social, and environment, clinical factors) and their knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of diabetes self-management, This aims to provide patients with high-quality nursing care management and services, as well as to provide relevant recommendations for effective self-management. Methods: This study is a descriptive correlational study that used the purposive sampling method to investigate 359 patients with T2DM aged 18–25 years in four designated tertiary hospitals in Shandong Province. Results: Knowledge of self-management was correlated with sex, age, education level, occupation and work situation, monthly household income, medical payment method, family and friend support, frequency of diabetes health education, and diabetes complications. The attitude subscale was correlated with sex, age, education level, work situation, and family and friend support. The practice subscale was associated with age, education level, work situation, family and friend support, frequency of diabetes health education, and HbA1c values. Conclusion: Young adults aged 18–25 with T2DM have positive attitudes towards diabetes self-management, but there are still deficiencies in knowledge acquisition and behavioral practice. The KAP of self-management of diabetes is influenced by personal factors such as sex, age, and education level, and socio-environmental factors such as family income and family or friends’ social support. Additionally, clinical factors such as complications and HbA1c values significantly impacted the patient’s disease self-management ability.

Applying ICF Framework to Explore the Factors That Influence Quality of Life in Patients After Lung Surgery.

To explore the relationship between pulmonary function, physical activity, and health-related quality of life (QoL) in resected lung cancer patients based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework developed by the World Health Organization to describe health and health-related states. A quantitative study was designed with postoperative lung cancer survivors to assess personal characteristics. We also assessed functional impairment related to the lung using forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1), activity limitations using maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), anaerobic threshold (AT) and 6-minute walking distance (6MWD), and participation restriction using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey V1 (SF-36). Data analyses were conducted using the multivariate method and Smart- PLS to examine path coefficient among the measures. Forty-one patients were enrolled in this study. FVC and FEV1 were poorly correlated with QoL, and 6MWD, AT, or VO2max were positively associated with QoL. AT or VO2max showed a significant (p<0.01) direct path with SF-36 in the ICF model. Although age and body mass index were not strongly correlated with QoL, these personal factors had a medium to large effect on perceived QoL. Disability is a complex in patients with lung resection, and physical activity plays an important role in enabling participation. Improving VO2max and AT is needed to improve the QoL of resected lung cancer patients. We should also pay more attention to contextual factors that have a significant impact on social participation.

Relationship between Personality Characteristics and Spiritual Health

Abstract Background: Spirituality significantly impacts our well-being. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the role of personality traits and Spiritual Well-Being (SWB) responses. Methods: We utilized the Five Factor Personality Inventory and the Spiritual Health and Life Orientation Measure. A total of 264 individuals aged 18 to 80 (M=37.17; SD=13.88) participated, with 78% female and 22% male. Results: Our findings indicate that individuals with higher levels of extraversion (β=-0.15) have greater spiritual well-being. Individuals who have higher levels of openness to experience (β=0.19) and neuroticism (β=0.17) tend to have lower spiritual health. Conclusion: Extraverted individuals perceive enhanced development in spiritual ideals, resulting in elevated levels of spiritual health. Future research could explore additional factors influencing spiritual well-being. Keywords: Personality Factors, Spiritual Well-Being, Extraversion, Correlational Study.

College of Education: Tutors’ Perceived Professional Practice and their Well-Being

The well-being of tutors is a multifaceted concept encompassing various dimensions of their physical, emotional, and social health. The study examines the tutor’s perceived professional practice and their well-being. A descriptive research design was used for the study. The accessible population was four out of the seven colleges of education with a sample size of 202 tutors’’. A standardized instrument was adapted with an alpha value of .869. From the findings, it was evident that some of the variables in the well-being factors predicted higher than others. The environmental well-being factors revealed that 7 out of 9 items of respondents believe that their College of Education environment was conducive to effective professional practice. However, 2 out of the 9 items, the respondents were in disagreement with because they were of the opinion that their college of education environment affects their effectiveness and efficiency in their professional practice in 21st-century tertiary education. To this, it was recommended that educational managers, administrators, quality assurance officers and other stakeholders of the colleges should formulate policies that will enable tutors’’ to continuously develop themselves professionally and also improve their professional practice. it is also recommended that tutors’’' personal well-being factors should be factored into their condition of service by stakeholders to enhance their self-esteem to perform their professional practice

The Predictors of Academic Motivation of University Students During COVID-19 Pandemic

Given the salience of personal and environmental-related factors in young people’s motivation during COVID-19, this study investigated if positive future expectations, social-emotional learning (SEL) skills, and perceived social support were related to university students’ intrinsic and extrinsic academic motivation and amotivation as well as if their academic motivations differed according to gender. Using a convenient sampling method, 805 university students (54% female) participated in the study in the spring semester of 2020-2021, during COVID-19 lockdowns. The results of multiple linear regression showed positive relations of positive future expectations and SEL skills with intrinsic and extrinsic academic motivations and negative relations with amotivation levels of university students. In addition, the results indicated a significant positive relationship between perceived social support and extrinsic motivation, yet no significant relation between intrinsic motivation and amotivation levels. Moreover, female students' intrinsic and extrinsic motivation levels were higher and their amotivation levels were lower than those of male students, with low effect sizes. The findings pointed to theoretical, research, and practical implications, which could be interpreted in a cultural context during COVID-19.

Wine consumer profile in wine regions of Brazil

Our article aims to analyze the main influences, experience and affective involvement that impact the consumer behavior of regional wines in Brazil. We used a descriptive quantitative survey. Our findings contribute to a greater understanding of the behavior of choice related to local experiences and what points are essential to involve the consumer with a product, in this case, wine. The Brazilian wine industry has been dealing with tariff disputes between countries, increased number of producers, reduction in consumption per capita and demand for higher quality wines. Our results show that cultural, social, personal, and psychological factors are crucial in this process.

2023 Pauline Cerasoli Lecture: It Takes a Village to Raise a Profession.

Personal and profession-related factors affect graduate transition to practice. Social supports and a sense of belonging are recognized as critical factors affecting success. The need for a professional to postprofessional continuum of learning has been identified. Development of a process to effectively move learners through this continuum are affected by conflicts such as economic issues, varied educational and practice philosophies, and capacity demands for clinical sites and instructors. The purpose of this article was to discuss professional formation as an individual experience that needs environmental support. If we look to the intrinsic needs of the individual to develop effective systems, both individuals and the profession will thrive. The changing demographics of students and factors affecting health care and education offer compelling reasons to reconsider the pathway for early professional development. Education and practice must collaborate to cocreate the foundation for professional formation. Basic needs such as economic security and social belonging must be met to create optimal conditions for learning and growth. The profession has not adopted an intentional pathway for new graduates to meet foundational practice needs. Some new graduates seek residencies, but residencies are focused on specialization and supply does not meet the demand. Strategies to promote success of early career professionals include a professional to postprofessional curriculum with intentional mentorship, changes in the regulatory environment, and formation of effective partnerships to support education and practice.

Factor Affecting Decision Making on Madan (Garcinia Schomburgkiana Pierre.) Cultivation of Farmers in Nakhon Nayok Province

The objectives of this research were to study: 1) personal factors and economic factors, 2) practices for Madan cultivation, 3) levels of decision-making on Madan cultivation, 4) the difference between personal factors and economic factors affecting the decision-making on Madan cultivation, and 5) problems and suggestions regarding Madan cultivation. Sample sizes consisted of 124 farmers who plant Madan in Nakhon Nayok province. Data was collected using an interview record. Statistical analyses included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, minimum, maximum, t-test, and F-test. The results of the research revealed that most of the farmers were female, with an average age of 59.33 years, and educated at primary school and lower primary school. These farmers received information about Madan from personal media including relatives and inherited from ancestors. The results from this research showed that decision-making of farmers on Madan cultivation depend on gender, number of laborers, productivity, sales of produce, and source of money with a significant level at 0.05, 0.01. The problems of cultivation were intermittent rain, oversupply, processing of Madan for export, and government support.

Personal Hygiene as Scabies Factors Incidence in the Institute Rehabilitation Center of the Vagrants, Scrounger and Mental Disabilities in South Sumatra Region

Introduction: Scabies, caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, is a highly contagious skin infestation. Poor personal hygiene often contributes to its prevalence. This study aims to identify specific aspects of personal hygiene that influence the incidence of scabies among residents of the Institute Rehabilitation Center of The Vagrants, Scroungers, and Individuals with Mental Disabilities in the South Sumatra Region. Methods: This observational-analytic study employed a case-control design. Data collection involved clinical records, observations, and questionnaire-based interviews. A total of 160 occupants, comprising 80 cases and 80 controls, were selected through simple random sampling. Data analysis utilized chi-square test and multiple logistic regression tests. Results and Discussion: Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations (p-value = 0.000) between scabies incidence and bathing habits, cleanliness of mattresses and bed linen, cleanliness of clothing, and open defecation behavior. Multiple logistic regression indicated that open defecation behavior (OR = 56.336; 95% CI = 17.281 – 158.500) was the primary personal hygiene factor influencing scabies incidence. Thus, maintaining proper open defecation practices is crucial for residents' hygiene and health. Conclusion: Poor personal hygiene practices, including inadequate bathing habits, unclean bedding, dirty clothing, and open defecation behavior, contribute to the occurrence of scabies. Effective education and counseling by healthcare professionals are essential for promoting better hygiene practices among residents.

An FsQCA Exploration of Multiple Paths to Sales Performance: Evidence from China

ABSTRACT Purpose Sales performance is one of the critical roles in boosting firm performance, making motivating salespeople a concern for many managers. However, few existing studies on sales performance improvement from the holistic perspective exist. Based on triadic reciprocal determinism, this paper explores the combinations of the factors that may influence sales performance. Methodology/approach Based on matching questionnaires from 154 salespeople and their supervisors, this paper employs fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to delve into the inherent complexity of factors influencing sales performance. Findings The results revealed that a combination of personal (family motivation, challenge stress and hindrance stress), behavioral (adaptive selling behavior) and environmental factors (organizational innovation climate and business environment) determine sales performance. Specifically, three paths lead to high sales performance, and one path leads to non-high sales performance. Significantly, the path with an organizational innovation climate can explain high sales performance more effectively than other paths. Research implications This paper makes a valuable contribution to the literature on B2B sales literature by exploring triadic reciprocal determinism. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first fsQCA attempt to address sales performance based on Chinese samples. Practical implications This paper offers an essential basis for sales managers to plan sales strategies. The sales managers could refer to the three paths leading to high sales performance to achieve sales targets. Further, the one path leading to non-high sales performance should be avoided in strategy decision-making. Originality/value/contribution The paper examines different approaches to achieving high and non-high sales performance using the fsQCA method, which offers a unique and relevant perspective on B2B sales literature.

Relationship Between Personality and Relapse of Breast Cancer Patients at The Oncology Polyclinic Dr. Soetomo Academic General Hospital Surabaya

Introductions: Breast cancer is a major health problem that affects the lives of millions of women. Some patients have tried treatment, but cancer recurrence is still present. It is suspected that growth factors play a role in the occurrence of relapse. However, until now, it has been controversial. Finding out whether there is a relation between personality and the incidence of relapse in breast cancer and comparing the personalities of patients with relapsed breast cancer with those with non-relapsed breast cancer. Methods: Analytical research is an observational case-control study. The number of respondents is 56 patients who meet the criteria. It consists of 28 relapsed patients and 28 non-relapsed patients. The research was conducted at the Oncology Polyclinic of Dr. Soetomo General Hospital. Using an instrument to measure personality types that have been validated, namely the OCEAN—Big Five Questionnaire Inventory 44 and Demographic Questionnaire. Results: There is no relationship between personality and the incidence of relapse in breast cancer (p &gt; 0.05). The type of personality in relapse with the most neuroticism (29%) and non-relapse with the most openness (32%), extraversion (36%). Conclusions: The incidence of relapse in breast cancer is not only caused by personality factors; it is possible that other factors play a role. However, the personality of neuroticism is quite prominent in relapse patients.