Positive Behavior Change Research Articles

Exploring the Application of Structural Family Therapy in Addressing Adolescent Behavioral Issues: A Case Study Perspective

This study endeavors to explore the application and effectiveness of Structural Family Therapy (SFT) in addressing adolescent behavioral issues, utilizing a case study methodology. SFT, a therapeutic method that intervenes at the level of the family system, emphasizes restructuring the family and clarifying boundaries among its members. By selecting emblematic cases, this study meticulously analyzes the foundational principles employed in therapy alongside specific techniques, including enhancement of family functionality, adjustment of family structure, and resource-oriented strategies. This research probes into the effectiveness and theoretical foundations of Structural Family Therapy (SFT) in tackling adolescent behavioral challenges, highlighting its unique contributions to family therapy. Through an exhaustive examination of seminal cases from distinguished practitioners such as Minuchin, Fishman, and Lee, Wai–Yung, the paper elucidates SFT's proficiency in navigating the dynamics of family systems. It reveals how the therapy's strategic modifications in interaction patterns and boundary configurations among family members catalyze notable improvements in adolescent behaviors. These transformations transcend mere direct interventions; they epitomize a deeper, collaborative process engaging both therapists and family units. The findings further illuminate SFT's prowess in enhancing family functionality, thereby fostering an environment conducive to nurturing adolescent independence. This exploration affirms SFT's pivotal role in reshaping familial interactions, thereby mitigating adolescent behavioral issues through a holistic and collaborative approach that benefits the entire family structure. Moreover, this study additionally concentrates on the sustainability of treatment outcomes and their impact on the overall well-being of family members, aiming to provide a comprehensive evaluation of SFT's efficacy in ameliorating adolescent behavioral issues. Through an in-depth analysis of the cases, this research reveals the details of SFT's application in practice and its potential to foster positive changes in adolescent behavior and enhance overall family function. The results aim to provide mental health professionals with effective strategies for treating adolescent behavioral problems and to offer further theoretical and practical guidance in the field of family therapy.

Supporting behaviour and emotions in school: an exploration into school staff perspectives on the journey from punitive approaches to relational-based approaches

ABSTRACT There are conflicting theories about the best ways to support behaviour in schools. This paper captures the perspectives of UK primary school staff regarding the advantages and disadvantages of different behaviour support approaches, in addition to exploring the facilitators and barriers to adopting relational-based approaches. Virtual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 school staff across three mainstream primary schools. A reflexive thematic analysis identified nine themes. Participants commented on the approaches’ flexibility, familiarity, positive long-term behaviour change and emotional wellbeing and relationships. Key facilitators to adopting relational-based approaches included: whole-school training and understanding; quality and type of training; and working together and feeling supported. Key barriers included: changing perspectives; ease of implementation and familiarity; scarcity of resources; and persevering in the face of difficulties. Themes are discussed in light of psychological research and implications for educational practitioners and future research are considered.

Exploring factors influencing the perspective regarding HIV transmission and prevention among college students in India.

Although many studies have been conducted to assess the knowledge and practices among healthcare workers, high-risk groups or medical students, very few studies have been conducted among college students from non-medical backgrounds. Our study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and perception about human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) among the college students of the Mumbai region and to determine their association with the socio-demographic variables. A cross-sectional online and offline questionnaire survey was conducted among 401 college students from the month of August 2022 to October 2022. Mean score and percentage were used to analyse the data. About 82.04% of participants exhibited good knowledge about HIV transmission and prevention, while 46.38% had a positive attitude towards HIV. Age, gender, religion and education had not influenced either knowledge or attitude significantly. Overall, knowledge score had a weak positive correlation with attitude of the participants. Our study findings indicate that a holistic approach covering knowledge, psychological and societal health aspects is necessary among youth in India for positive changes in people's behaviour and achieving HIV prevention and management goals which will benefit public health at large.

Increasing Health Behaviors and Psychological Measures with an Adapted Version of the ACCELERATION Program.

Recent evidence highlights the importance of interventions tackling physical inactivity and unhealthy eating in lower-income countries. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the Canadian ACCELERATION lifestyle program adapted to Brazilians. The main outcomes of the study were changes in the engagement in weekly moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and in the daily consumption of fruits/vegetables. The adapted intervention consisted of a 12-week quasi-randomized controlled trial delivered through email. The data from the original Canadian experimental group (CE, n = 194) and the two groups of Portuguese-speaking Brazilians living in Canada in the adapted program - Brazilian experimental (BE, n = 41) and Brazilian control (BC, n = 35) - were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. The data of the 270 participants were analyzed using two-way repeated measures factorial ANCOVA (group x time) for ratio variables and Chi-square and McNemar tests for the categorical variables. The BE group had a significant increase in MVPA (mean difference, 95% CI: 86.3, 38.1-134.4min/week) and fruits/vegetables intake (3.2, 1.4-5.1 servings/day) after the intervention (both p < 0.001). The proportion of participants engaging in ≥ 150min of MVPA increased from 4.9% to 73.2%, while adoption of a healthy diet increased from 4.9% to 53.7% in the BE group (both p < 0.001). The CE group also improved on these variables (p < 0.05) with no difference vs the BE group (p > 0.05), whereas BC did not show changes (p > 0.05). The Brazilian version of the ACCELERATION program effectively promoted positive health behavior changes in its participants and has the potential to contribute to the fight against risk factors for chronic diseases in Brazilians.

Changes in Exercise Behaviors with Exercise Counseling

PURPOSE This study aimed to understand the changes in the exercise behavior of participants in the exercise-psychological counseling program.METHODS This study sampled adult female participants of C diet camp in Seoul, who were in stages 2~3 of the “Stages of Change Model.” A total of 60 participants were randomly assigned to the counseling group (n=30) and control group (n=30). During the 12 weeks of study, all subjects participated in the diet camp program C. The counseling group participated in the exercise psychological counseling program once a week, while the control group participated in recreational activities instead. Exercise adherence, outcome-expectancy, and satisfaction were measured once every four weeks. Latent growth models were used to analyze the measured data.RESULTS Exercise adherence, outcome-expectancy, and satisfaction in the counseling group exerted a statistically significant positive effect. A statistically significant positive effect on the change of exercise adherence variable was observed in the control group, but the trend was only 1/4 of that of the counseling group. In the control group, exercise outcome-expectancy and exercise satisfaction did not have a statistically significant outcome.CONCLUSIONS The exercise counseling program is an essential intervention strategy that enhances participants’ exercise adherence, outcome-expectancy, and satisfaction. Therefore, a positive change in exercise behaviors occurs.

Enhancing Non-Communicable Disease Management in Elderly Families: A Community Outreach Initiative

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a significant public health concern, particularly among elderly families. Limited access to healthcare resources and inadequate disease management exacerbation the impact of NCDs on this vulnerable population. This study aimed to implement a community outreach initiative focused on enhancing non-communicable disease management in elderly families. A comprehensive intervention was designed, including health education workshops, individualized health assessments, and the establishment of support networks. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to measure changes in knowledge levels, health status, health management practices, health behaviors, and family resilience among elderly families. Following the intervention, there was a substantial improvement in knowledge regarding NCDs and their management. Additionally, participants exhibited enhanced health status and more effective health management practices. Positive changes in health behaviors, such as regular exercise and balanced nutrition, were also observed. Moreover, family resilience significantly increased, strengthening their ability to cope with health challenges. The community outreach initiative demonstrated significant positive outcomes in non-communicable disease management among elderly families. Targeted interventions can play a role in empowering this demographic, improve their health and well-being, and encouraging community-based health services.

The Role and Importance of Obstacle Course Training for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Aim: In this study, we set out to describe the motor development deficits of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) based on existing research and to provide a methodologically based recommendation for the use of obstacle courses as a motor development tool and opportunity for children with ASD. Methods: a primary research study was conducted to present the results of semi-structured in-depth interviews with parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (N=25). The aim of the study was to provide a comprehensive summary of the experiences of a group of 25 interview participants whose children with autism spectrum disorder participated in an obstacle course movement development programme. The interviews explored the impact of obstacle course movement development on the children's various skills (motor, social, communication and emotional/behavioural). Results: the parents' experiences confirmed that the obstacle course physical activity programme, which was provided for at least six months, was not only effective in developing children's gross motor and fine motor skills, but also led to positive changes in social relationships, social skills, communication skills and emotional behaviour.

Prevalence of risky sexual behavior and associated factors among Injibara University students, Northwest Ethiopia.

Engaging in risky sexual behaviors can lead to HIV infection, sexually transmitted infections, and unintended pregnancy among youths. University students had greater sexual risks for many reasons. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of risky sexual behaviors among regular undergraduate students at Injibara University, Northwest Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Injibara University from 20 January to 30 2020. Multistage sampling was employed to select 770 students. Data were collected using a semistructured self-administered questionnaire. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with risky sexual behavior. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% CIs were determined, and variables with P-values <0.05 were considered significant. A total of 770 students participated in the study, providing a response rate of 100%. In this study, 294 (38%, 95% CI: 35%, 42%) students engaged in risky sexual behaviors. Risky sexual behavior was significantly associated with not tested for HIV (AOR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.15-2.31), peer pressure (AOR = 1.90, CI: 1.37-2.64), basic HIV knowledge (AOR = 2.16, CI: 1.65-2.89), substance use (AOR = 3.56, CI: 2.11-6.06), watching pornography videos (AOR = 1.58, CI: 1.11-2.23), and HIV risk perception (AOR = 1.37, CI: 1.02-1.91). A substantial proportion of university students in this study engaged in unsafe sexual behavior. Risky sexual behaviors are more likely to occur when students are under peer pressure, use substances, have no perceived HIV risk, watch pornography, and have inadequate basic HIV knowledge. Therefore, tailored strategic interventions such as life skill training should be designed to bring about positive behavioral changes among university students.

Nurse-Led Approaches to Lowering Alcohol Use among Adolescents: Study Findings.

This study delves into how motivational sessions and brief interventions impact students' alcohol consumption, highlighting the vital role of nurses in fostering positive behavioural changes. The study aims to discern the effects of these interventions, starting with a pre-and post-intervention setup involving 62 students from a private school in northern Portugal. The intervention comprised a session delivered by school and mental health nurses, utilizing the motivational intervention and FRAMES method and a poster offering feedback on alcohol consumption scores. The results indicated that females tended to drink for fewer days and engage in less binge drinking than males. Furthermore, the intervention hinted at a reduction in the number of heavy drinking days. This study underscores the importance of including healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, in delivering brief interventions within school settings. The findings carry weight for crafting evidence-based interventions to cultivate healthier adolescent behaviours and enhance overall well-being.

Gamification of Cybersecurity Awareness for Non-IT Professionals: A Systematic Literature Review

This literature review delves into research on the gamification of cybersecurity awareness for non-IT professionals, aiming to provide an accurate report on known and unknown information regarding three key questions: the impact of gamification on cybersecurity awareness interest and engagement, measurable results related to game elements and their connection to specific learning goals, and the long-term effectiveness of gamified cybersecurity. Examining five relevant papers, the findings confirm short-term effectiveness and indicate that the incorporation of various game elements, such as storytelling, team leaderboards, and interactive scenarios, results in increased knowledge, improved engagement, and positive behavior changes aligned with specific cybersecurity awareness learning goals. However, the review also identifies recurring gaps in evaluating individual game elements and customizing gamification strategies for non-IT professionals. Highlighting a critical gap in understanding long-term effectiveness, we argue for further empirical studies to consider habituation effects, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of gamification's impact on cybersecurity awareness over an extended period. Thus, the review contributes to the existing body of knowledge by emphasizing the necessity for empirical studies focusing on sustained, long-term effectiveness and habituation effects in gamified cybersecurity initiatives.

Role of the media in health awareness

The media play an active role in disseminating health information and data to a wide audience. This information includes messages about disease prevention, treatment methods and the latest research and developments in the medical field. This awareness is conveyed through educational programmes, articles and awareness campaigns. In addition, the media can motivate individuals and communities to take positive steps to improve their health. This is particularly important at a time when misleading information is easily disseminated. In general, the media are a fundamental pillar in raising awareness of health issues by providing information, education, advocacy and promoting positive changes in the health behaviour of individuals and communities. However, this field faces several obstacles and factors that we will address in this article.

The Impact of Praise on Cooperative Behavior in Three-Player Public Goods Games and Its Gender Differences.

Previous research has primarily focused on static factors influencing cooperative behavior in social dilemmas, with less attention given to dynamic factors within group social interactions, such as positive feedback received during interactions, i.e., praise. This study, through a between-subjects online experiment with a single-factor, two-level design (praise: public praise/no praise), investigates the impact of praise on cooperative behavior changes across two rounds of a three-player public goods problem. Results revealed the following: (1) A positive correlation between individuals' contributions across two rounds and a negative correlation with the number of correct answers in rule comprehension questions were evident; for men, a correlation between rule comprehension and first-round contributions was observed. (2) Multilevel model results showed that praise, role, and rule comprehension significantly positively affected contribution changes across two rounds; gender did not significantly affect contribution changes. Specifically, under public-praise conditions, contribution changes were greater. Publicly praised individuals showed positive or negative behavior changes, while those not praised in the same group showed positive changes. Men contributed significantly more in the first round than women, with no gender difference found in contribution changes. Rule comprehension positively predicted contribution changes, indicating that more correct answers led to greater positive changes in contributions. These results not only support the inferential social learning perspective, suggesting that through praise, individuals can infer external world perceptions and self-evaluations, affecting both the praised (positively or negatively) and positively influencing non-praised individuals in the same group, but also provide a theoretical basis and intervention strategies for team and organizational management in groups.

Abstract 1292: ProTALKS: A community outreach project founded by a graduate of the CaRE2 Community Scientist Research Advocacy training program, Mrs. Lynn Jones-Turpin

Abstract ProTALKS was created and led by a community member committed to reducing prostate cancer health disparities. ProTALKS stands for Prostate Cancer Outreach, Opinions, and Opportunities and is designed to increase awareness of prostate cancer prevention, research, and treatment as well as highlight the health disparities observed in Black communities. According to the Florida Department of Health, prostate cancer incidence and mortality rates among Black men living in Duval County are higher compared to men of other races and ethnicities. Therefore, there is a need for programs like ProTALKS that focus on early detection strategies and promoting community resources. In collaboration with the Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN), The American Legion Post 197, and Florida Blue, ProTALKS has increased access to services such as prostate cancer screening and evidence-based information. Community events implemented by ProTALKS bring together oncologists, researchers, key community leaders, health educators, and providers to educate and promote positive health behavior changes among high-risk communities. In addition to hosting health fairs, ProTalks has hosted grilling competitions and community awareness walks to further educate the community about prostate cancer prevention, screening, and research. ProTALKS also shares information through the local newspaper, The Jacksonville Free Press, The Lynn &amp; Friends radio show, and social media platforms. Since its start in 2021, with support from the Florida-California Cancer Research, Education, and Engagement (CaRE2) Health Equity Center, ProTALKS has implemented more than 10 community events with over 1,000 community members from Jacksonville, Florida. ProTALKS, in collaboration with CaRE2, continues to disseminate information about cancer screening, the importance of clinical trial participation, and donating biospecimens for cancer research. Although ProTALKS has been successful in its mission, there have been challenges throughout its implementation. For example, one challenge has been increasing the number of community members attending events and using appropriate marketing techniques to promote ProTALKS’ activities. Future implications to avoid challenges include recruiting more volunteers, and partnering with other community organizations in Duval County. Citation Format: Lynn Jones-Turpin, Ileana Guzman, Brooke Hensel, Fern Webb. ProTALKS: A community outreach project founded by a graduate of the CaRE2 Community Scientist Research Advocacy training program, Mrs. Lynn Jones-Turpin [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1292.

Training health professional students to conduct SBIRT: A step forward to interprofessional collaboration to address substance use

Substance use (SU) remains a significant public health problem. Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) is an evidence-based method to address patient SU. Training students from multiple disciplines can positively impact continuity of care for these patients.The SBIRT training was incorporated into the physician assistant, physical therapy, pharmacy and counseling curricula via online modules and live skills practice. Knowledge about screening for harmful SU and developing confidence to discuss SU using motivational interviewing (MI) to facilitate positive behavior changes were the outcomes.Training outcomes were measured for three consecutive years, assessed via pre- and post-training assessments and ratings of SBIRT interactions with patients. Knowledge gains and improved perceived competence to address SU were found. Successful curricular integration was achieved and has been maintained.Online training modules and resources are available through the Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU) at the University of Pittsburgh at https://www.peru.pitt.edu/ihsi/.

Development of Nurse-led Self-Management Education Instruments for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to develop and outline the Nurse-Led Diabetes Mellitus Self-Management Education (Nu-DiMENTION) program, aimed at improving knowledge and behavior change among type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients. Given the challenges faced by these patients in managing their disease effectively, including risks of complications such as diabetic foot ulcers, retinopathy, and ketoacidosis, there is a pressing need for tailored self-management education programs. The study seeks to address this need by creating a web-based nurse-led educational intervention that has demonstrated efficacy in increasing patient knowledge and promoting positive behavior change. Methods: The research adopts a research and development (R&amp;D) approach to outline the development process of Nu-DiMENTION. Drawing upon theory, existing research evidence, international guidelines, and qualitative data from target users, the study identifies determinants of self-management and defines the content to be included in the program. The development process involves multiple stages, including evaluating existing educational instruments, conducting focus groups with relevant stakeholders (e.g., healthcare professionals and type 2 DM patients), and assessing item validity through expert evaluation. Results and discussion: The initial evaluation of 19 diabetes mellitus educational instruments revealed inadequacies in terms of goals, targets, content, methods, media, time, and evaluation. Subsequent focus groups involving healthcare professionals and type 2 DM patients provided valuable insights into strategic issues and innovation plans for the Nu-DiMENTION program. The assessment of item validity conducted by diabetes mellitus education experts confirmed the validity and reliability of the developed instruments, with a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.834 indicating good internal consistency. Implications of the research: The development of Nu-DiMENTION holds significant implications for improving the self-management capabilities of type 2 DM patients and reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications. By providing accessible, web-based nurse-led education, the program has the potential to empower patients with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage their condition. Moreover, the rigorous development process, including expert validation, ensures the quality and reliability of the program, enhancing its suitability for implementation in clinical settings. Originality/value: This study contributes to the literature by outlining the development process and subject matter of Nu-DiMENTION, a novel web-based nurse-led self-management education program for type 2 DM patients. By synthesizing theory, existing evidence, and stakeholder insights, the program offers a comprehensive approach to addressing the educational needs of this patient population. Furthermore, the emphasis on item validity assessment ensures the program's reliability and effectiveness, adding to its value as a practical intervention for improving diabetes self-management. Overall, Nu-DiMENTION represents an innovative and valuable contribution to diabetes care and patient education.

Virtual reality and gamification in education: a systematic review

This study aims to analyze the use of virtual reality and gamification in education by examining the existing literature. In addition to virtual reality, this study focuses on gamified virtual reality learning environments which refer to virtual reality learning environments that integrate gamification elements and mechanisms. Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, a systematic literature review was carried out. No limitations were set regarding educational level, type of study, subject, and publication year. The related articles were retrieved from 5 databases (ERIC, Google Scholar, IEEE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science). A total of 112 articles were included, 16 research questions were explored, and a thematic analysis was conducted. To evaluate the quality of the articles included, the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used. According to the findings, gamification and virtual reality support several pedagogical theories and approaches. Their adoption to and integration into education can enrich and transform traditional teaching and learning and were assessed positively by students and teachers. Gamification elements significantly affected students’ achievements. In comparison to traditional learning environments, gamified virtual reality learning environments were more motivating, engaging, and interactive and offered more opportunities for personalized and collaborative learning. Through the realistic and interactive experiences offered, students’ immersion and social presence can be enhanced, knowledge acquisition can be improved, and material comprehension can be facilitated. Positive changes in student attitude, behavior, and mentality as well as improved cognitive, physical, and social–emotional development were observed. When using learning environments that integrate both virtual reality and gamification, students’ learning outcomes, motivation, engagement, and self-efficacy were increased. Additionally, students’ academic performance, active involvement, and satisfaction were improved. Students’ curiosity, imagination, focus, and interest were enhanced and their skills and competences were developed. Finally, gamified virtual reality emerged as an effective educational tool that can improve learning at all educational levels, subjects, and contexts.

Sociodemographic and treatment-related determinants of recent substance use among adults with comorbid substance misuse and psychotic disorders discharged from substance use treatment

IntroductionRates of alcohol and illicit substance use are higher among persons with psychotic disorders relative to the general population. The adverse health and psychological effects of substance use behaviors disproportionately impact persons with psychotic disorders. Prior research has shown that persons with psychotic disorders experience increased difficulty in reducing substance use behaviors, and interventions targeting substance use behavior change among this population have demonstrated limited effectiveness. One reason for this is that little is known about the factors that influence substance use and behavior change among this population. To address these disparities, the present study investigated sociodemographic and treatment-related factors of substance use recurrence among persons with psychotic disorders who received substance use treatment services. MethodsData came from the 2015–2018 Treatment Episode Dataset-Discharges (TEDS-D). TEDS-D collects annual data on adolescent and adult discharges from state-certified substance use treatment centers in the United States. The study conducted all analyses with a subsample of 1956 adult discharges with a psychotic disorder who received services from an outpatient substance use treatment center for at least one month. χ2 tests of independence and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine associations of sociodemographic and treatment-related characteristics with substance use recurrence while in treatment (α < 0.05 analyses). The study presents results from multivariable logistic regression models as adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI). ResultsThose who were age 50 or older, were referred to treatment by the criminal justice system, and attended substance use self-help groups had lower odds of substance use recurrence while in treatment. Sex, educational attainment, employment status, living situation, type of substance use, and treatment history were not significantly associated with substance use recurrence. ConclusionsIn designing treatment services, providers should consider whether focusing on sociodemographic, including cultural, factors can affect more positive substance use behavior change and other desired treatment outcomes among those with psychotic disorders and comorbid substance misuse. Further study is needed to identify these factors among specific subpopulations of those with psychotic disorders and substance misuse.

Lifestyle behaviour changes associated with osteoarthritis: a prospective cohort study

The aim of this prospective cohort study was to compare changes in lifestyle behaviours over nine years in women who were and were not diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA). Data were from the 1945–51 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health (aged 50–55 in 2001) who completed written surveys in 2001, 2004, 2007 and 2010. The sample included 610 women who were, and 3810 women who were not diagnosed with OA between 2004 and 2007. Descriptive statistics were used to assess changes in lifestyle behaviours (weight, sitting time, physical activity, alcohol and smoking) in the two groups, over three survey intervals: from 2001–2004 (prior to diagnosis); from 2004–2007 (around diagnosis); and from 2007–2010 (following diagnosis). Compared with women without OA (28%), a greater proportion of women with OA (38%) made at least one positive lifestyle change (p < 0.001). These included losing > 5 kg (9.8% vs. 14.4%, p < 0.001), and reducing sitting time by an hour (29.5% vs. 39.1%, p < 0.001) following diagnosis. However, women with OA also made negative lifestyle changes (35% vs. 29%, p < 0.001), for example, gaining > 5 kg around the time of diagnosis (21.4% vs. 14.5%, p < 0.001) and increasing sitting time by an hour following diagnosis (38.4% vs. 32.3%, p = 0.003). More women with OA also started smoking following diagnosis (8.9% vs. 0.8%, p < 0.001). While some women made positive changes in lifestyle behaviours during and following OA diagnosis, others made negative changes. Consistent support from clinicians for managing OA symptoms may enable patients to make more positive changes in lifestyle behaviours.

Re-telling stories: A mixed method to evaluate the impact of Tree of Life metaphor on experiences of young refugees

The research assessed the effectiveness of the Tree of Life narrative approach in supporting vulnerable refugee children in schools. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods, finding positive and significant improvements in areas such as self-confidence, future goals, school enjoyment, motivation, and parental understanding. No significant change was observed in participants’ pride in their cultural heritage. Qualitative analysis revealed seven categories, affirming the Tree of Life’s positive impact on participants’ lives, including increased confidence, positive behavioural changes, and improved social relationships.

Kegiatan Pendampingan Belajar Al Qur’an pada Anak-Anak Usia SD di TPQ Nurul Ummah Dusun Tunggulsari

Studying the Quran is a noble act in the eyes of Allah SWT. However, nowadays, many children, teenagers, and even adults prefer playing over learning the Quran, resulting in a gradual abandonment of Quranic education. Conversely, studying the Quran brings significant advantages and merits compared to other pursuits. Therefore, Quranic education activities have become a focal point of society, particularly for children who represent the future generation. This educational initiative will take place at the Nurul Ummah Quran Education Park in Tunggulsari hamlet, Pojok village, Mojogedang district, Karanganyar regency. The objectives of this activity are: To enhance children's proficiency in reading, writing, and memorizing the Quran correctly; To introduce the Quran to children from an early age; and To foster a comprehensive understanding of Islam. The mentoring will be conducted face-to-face using methods such as lectures, question-and-answer sessions, practice, and storytelling. The mentoring activities will be carried out in three stages: preparation, implementation, and evaluation. The final outcome of this service demonstrates that Quranic learning support has a positive impact on children's motivation and understanding of the Quran, as well as its benefits in their lives. This is evident through positive changes in children's behavior.