Positive Thinking Research Articles

ENGLISH JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS’ AND STUDENTS’ PERSPECTIVES OF DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION PRACTICES IN KURIKULUM MERDEKA

This study proposes to explore English Junior High School teachers’ and students’ perspectives of differentiated instruction practices in Kurikulum Merdeka. The study conducted a descriptive qualitative approach. Three teachers and 3 classes of each grade of Junior High School students were selected to become participants in this study. The data were gathered through questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. The result of this study revealed that all teachers and most of the students had positive perspectives on the use of Differentiated Instruction in the classes. That was indicated from their positive thoughts on their planning and implementation that Differentiated instruction became an effective and engaging learning practice in the classroom. The teachers planned the lesson with different stages but with the same topic. The teachers are evaluated as good practitioners for students in practicing Differentiated Instruction. And most of the students had positive feedback on their experiences and found when the teachers implemented differentiated instruction strategies in their classes, they could overcome their learning difficulties. All this result leads to the alignment of the differentiated instruction practices that should be implemented in any classroom activities

FRESHMAN EFL LEARNERS’ ANXIETY IN SPEAKING CLASSES AND COPING STRATEGIES

This study aims to investigate what speaking anxiety freshman EFL learners encountered in their classes and what strategies they used to reduce their anxiety. A mixed methods approach was employed to collect the data, including a questionnaire following the quantitative method and individual semi-structured interviews following the qualitative method. The participants were 185 freshman EFL learners at several universities in the Mekong Delta. The combination of the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale developed by Horwitz, Horwitz & Cope (1986) and the theories about three kinds of anxiety proposed by Ellis (1994) was adapted to measure freshman EFL learners’ kinds of speaking anxiety in classes. Additionally, the five categories of coping strategies in Kondo and Ling (2004) were adapted to measure the participants’ coping strategies for reducing their speaking anxiety. The results of the study showed that the participants encountered all three kinds of speaking anxiety including trait anxiety, specific-situation anxiety, and state anxiety in classes. Furthermore, the study also indicated five kinds of strategies utilized by the participants to reduce their anxiety in speaking class namely preparation strategies, relaxation strategies, positive thinking strategies, peer-seeking strategies, and resignation strategies. From the results, it was also indicated that preparation strategies were used more frequently than the other strategies by the participants in speaking classes.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0019/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Coping strategies and psychosocial resources among women living with metastatic breast cancer: A qualitative study

Objective: Despite more women living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), this population is underrepresented in cancer survivorship research. Few studies have assessed how women with MBC cope with their cancer experience. This qualitative study describes the coping strategies and psychosocial resources utilized by women living with MBC.Methods: Twenty-two women with MBC participated in four focus groups. Transcripts were analyzed using a general inductive approach. Codes derived from participants’ responses were subsequently condensed into themes.Results: We identified 12 coping strategies and psychosocial resources and grouped them into five themes: Behavioral Coping Strategies (i.e. stress management, active coping and planning); Cognitive Coping Strategies and Psychological Resources (i.e. cognitive reappraisal, optimism, mindfulness, positive thinking, and religious coping); Existential Approach-Oriented Coping (i.e. acceptance, values-based living, and identity integration); Avoidance (i.e. avoidant coping); and Interpersonal Resources and Seeking Social Support (i.e. social support).Conclusions: Women living with MBC utilize several engagement and disengagement coping strategies, as well as intrapersonal and interpersonal resources. This study provides useful perspectives of women living with MBC that may inform the development of psychosocial interventions. Further research is needed to assess coping strategies and psychosocial resources across different subgroups of MBC patients and determine their impact on cancer outcomes.

AN ANALYSIS OF ENGLISH-SPEAKING ANXIETY ENCOUNTERED BY STUDENTS IN ENGLISH EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

This research focused on analyzing English speaking anxiety that experienced by the second semester students of English education department at STKIP Paracendekia NW Sumbawa. Through a descriptive qualitative method, this research aimed to find out factors that cause English speaking anxiety, students’ efforts to overcome their English-speaking anxiety, and category of anxiety that is experienced in the students. The respondents who are selected purposively in this research consisted of ten students from class A and B second semester in English Education Department at STKIP Paracendekia NW Sumbawa. This research used interview and observation techniques to collect the data which later the data analyzed using three techniques: data reduction, data display and drawing conclusion or verification. The result of this research reveals the factors that cause English speaking anxiety are lack of vocabulary, low English proficiency, lack of practice, lack of preparation and fear of making mistakes and being laughed at. In addition, the strategies used by the students to overcome their English-speaking anxiety are preparation, relaxation and positive thinking. Furthermore, the category of anxiety experienced by the students in this research is state anxiety.

Manggunting OBUK Batak Toba Study: Local Wisdom

In this study the authors discuss Manggunting obuk Toba Batak Studies: Local Wisdom. The purpose of this research is to explain the Manggunting obuk Toba Batak Describe the Manggunting obuk Toba Batak, and Describe the norms of local wisdom contained in scissors Toba Batak. The theory used to analyze the data from this research is the theory of wisdom local. In completing this thesis, the author uses qualitative methods. To find the results in this thesis, the writer uses data collection methods, namely (1) direct interviews with informants, (2) observation, (3) documentation related to the object under study. The results found in this study are that there are manggunting carried out simultaneously using those carried out starting from Mangharanoani, Marsepsi,scissors or fundraising for esek-esek, marambit, mebat mengbati, ulos parompa, ulos tondi gifts, and dugu-dugu. The message is on scissors is a form of gratitude to God because children are born safe and healthy, besides that this also strengthens friendship between families, and the values of local wisdom contained incisors are politeness, honesty, social solidarity, harmony and conflict resolution, commitment, positive thoughts, gratitude, hard work, discipline, health, mutual cooperation, gender management, preservation and creativity culture. The author hopes that young people will preserve and recommend knowledge about the methods, stages and processes of Manggunting obuk in the Toba Batak area. Keywords: Local Wisdom, Toba, Mangguting obuk, Hair, Babies

Individual and Family Determinants for Quality of Life in Parents of Children With Inborn Errors of Metabolism Requiring a Restricted Diet: A Multilevel Analysis Approach

ABSTRACT Inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) requiring a restricted diet can have a significant impact on both children and their caregivers. Previous research has shown conflicting findings in the quality of life (QoL) of caregivers specifically, as many factors can influence daily interactions: home care demands, the potential for acute health crises and hospitalization, dietary constraints, medications, and others. Influencing factors have previously been reported to include emotional, adaptive, and socioeconomic factors, and previous research has varied greatly in sample characteristics, methods of collecting data and measuring QoL, and methods of analysis. This study was performed to clarify previous findings and provide a clearer picture of QoL in parents of children with IEMs requiring a restricted diet compared with the general population based on parent self-report. The final analysis included 785 parents of 578 children with IEMs requiring a restricted diet. Quality of life was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life–BREF and was compared with age- and sex-matched control subjects from the general population. Parents of children with IEMs requiring a restricted diet in this study population experienced a significantly lower QoL in the areas of physical health (mean, −6.09 [SD, 15.01]) and social relationships (mean, −6.82 [SD, 17.71]), as well as a significantly higher QoL in psychological health (mean, +3.10 [SD, 14.25]). Multivariate models were examined to determine factors responsible for these differences in QoL; parental anxiety was negatively associated with all QoL domains. Other factors negatively associated with at least 1 domain included being a father (physical health and social relationships), older parent (physical and psychological health), having an education higher than high school (psychological health), and using more social support–seeking coping strategies (physical health and environment). Factors positively associated with at least 1 domain included having an education level higher than high school (environment), being a working parent (physical and psychological health, environment), and using more positive thinking coping strategies (psychological health). Child-related factors negatively associated with parental QoL included having at least 1 disease complication (social relationships and environment) and a higher number of hospital medical providers (physical health). A child being older positively impacted parental QoL in the environment domain. It is not uncommon for parents of children with chronic diseases or impairments to experience a lower QoL. In this study, some aspects of QoL were enhanced by the demands of caregiving, and some were negatively impacted. Discrepancies in previous literature may be partially attributed to varying tests, variable characteristics within a sample (eg, longer time since diagnosis), or differences in analysis methods. The results in this study indicate a potential need for resources to support parents of children with IEMs requiring a restricted diet. Previous literature has shown efficacy in providing in-home health care professionals for occasional relief of caregiving duties for parents, as well as support groups of parents in similar situations. Parental anxiety in particular was shown to impact QoL negatively in all domains, and thus targeting interventions toward reducing parental anxiety might be one way to improve QoL. The adaptation of parents to their child's condition and to the demands of caregiving could explain some aspects of the QoL difference from the general population, but these differences should still be addressed to improve QoL.

The effect of forgiveness on positive thinking and life satisfaction: A study on university students

Bu araştırma, üniversite öğrencilerinde affediciliğin pozitif düşünme ve yaşam doyumu üzerindeki etkisinin tespit edilmesi amacıyla gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırmada, veri toplamak için bazı ölçekler uygulanmıştır. Bu ölçekler: Kişisel Bilgi Formu” ile “Heartland Affetme Ölçeği”, “Pozitif-Negatif Duygu Ölçeği” ve “Yaşam Doyumu Ölçeği” dir. Araştırmada toplam 385 üniversite öğrencisinden elde edilen veriler SPSS 25 paket programı ile analiz edilmiştir. Yapılan analiz sonucunda, affetme toplam puanının pozitif ve negatif duygu ile yaşam doyum düzeyini anlamlı yönde etkilediği tespit edilmiştir. Araştırmada ayrıca, kendini affetme ve başkalarını affetme alt boyutlarının yaşam doyum düzeyini etkilediği, durumları affetme alt boyutunun ise yaşam doyum düzeyini etkilemediği tespit edilmiştir.

Positive Psychology in Christian Perspective: Foundations, Concepts, and Application

Positive Psychology in Christian Perspective: Foundations, Concepts, and Application

Empowering Middle-aged Women: Nurturing Mental Health Through Brahma Kumaris Rajyoga

Middle-aged women undergo a critical phase marked by intricate physical, emotional, and social transformations that deeply impact their mental well-being. This period demands a nuanced understanding of mental health concerns and the development of targeted interventions. This review explores the prevalence of mental health disorders among middle-aged women, with a focus on hormonal influences, distinct stressors, and societal dynamics. It delves into the potential effectiveness of Brahmakumaris Rajyoga—a spiritual practice integrating meditation, positive thinking, and self-reflection—as a mental health management strategy. Employing a mixed-methods approach, qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys are conducted to assess the impact of Rajyoga on mental well-being. The review highlights Raj yoga’s potential benefits in stress reduction, anxiety and depression management, self-awareness enhancement, and coping with life transitions. However, further research is needed to establish its efficacy conclusively. The review underscores the importance of a comprehensive strategy encompassing tailored interventions, awareness campaigns, and holistic support networks to address mental health challenges among middle-aged women.

Improving interpersonal communication: positive thinking training for santri Pondok Pesantren Tahfidz Qur'an An-Nur Gemolong Sragen

This Community service aims to help students maintain their interpersonal connections to other people and their environment by increasing understanding and motivation. In order to establish comfort in studying, be skilled at handling challenges, and maintain mental health, it is intended that the students would be able to forge strong relationships with peers, teachers, and the neighborhood surrounding the boarding school. The community service implementation strategy that consists of three stages: introduction, induction, and evaluation. The outcome of this program is that students understand the difference between thinking positively and negatively. Students are encouraged to grow in self-assurance, develop empathy for friends, adhere to the boarding school's norms with more order, be more forthright when they encounter difficulties, and be able to appreciate others more. Thus, the impact is the improving understanding of the students regarding the importance of positive thinking in interpersonal communication, so that students can establish harmonious relationships with their environment.

KEARIFAN LOKAL SASTRA LISAN BATIMANG PADA MASYARAKAT DESA SIMALINYANG KECAMATAN KAMPAR KIRI TENGAH KABUPATEN KAMPAR

This study aims to describe the values of local wisdom contained in the batimang oral literature by using the theory of Robert Sibarani so that the value of local wisdom is found in the batimang oral literature. The method used is a descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques of observation, interviews and documentation. The results of the research obtained in the field show that there are six values of local wisdom in batiman oral literature, namely: hard work, education, preservation and cultural creativity, courtesy, harmony and conflict resolution and positive thinking. The local wisdom values obtained aim to achieve prosperity and peace in society.

Evaluation of Self-Confidence in Women with Chronic Disease

Background: Self-confidence, which is an important emotional need in women, affects women's quality of life. This research was conducted to evaluate the self-confidence of women with chronic diseases. Methods: This study was conducted at the internal medicine clinic of Erzincan Mengücek Gazi Training and Research Hospital in Turkey between August 2019 and June 2020. The sample consisted of 339 female patients with chronic diseases who agreed to participate in this study. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using information form and the Women’s Self-Confidence Scale. Results: The mean total score of the participants was 136.40 ± 24.92. Scores on the self-confidence scale significantly differed in accordance with the women’s age, body mass index, educational status, type of family, place of residence, number of children, self-care, history of smoking, allocation of time-to-herself, activity, perceived health status, presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other chronic diseases, and information received about the disease (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Women with chronic diseases had a moderate level of self-esteem. Self-confidence is a person’s belief that they will perform a particular activity successfully and feel valued. People with high self-confidence are likely to be compatible with themselves through accumulating positive thoughts and feelings about themselves. Therefore, increasing the self-confidence of women with chronic diseases is important.

A randomized trial on differential changes in thought and affect after mindfulness versus dyadic practice indicates phenomenological fingerprints of app-based interventions

Contemplative practice has demonstrated benefits for mental health and well-being. Most previous studies, however, implemented in-person trainings containing a mix of different, mostly solitary, practices and focused on pre- to post-training outcomes. In this randomized trial, we explore the immediate differential efficacy of two daily app-delivered practices in shifting emotional (valence, arousal) and thinking patterns (thought content on future-past, self-other, positive–negative dimensions). For 10 weeks of daily training, 212 participants (18–65 years) performed either a novel 12-min partner-based socio-emotional practice (Affect Dyad) or a 12-min attention-focused solitary mindfulness-based practice. Using ordinal Bayesian multilevel modeling, we found that both practice types led to more positive affect and higher arousal. However, whereas mindfulness-based practice partly led to a decrease in active thoughts, particularly in future-, other-related and negative thoughts, the Dyad in contrast led to increases in other-related, and positive thoughts. This shift towards more social and positive thoughts may specifically support overcoming ruminative thinking patterns associated with self-related and negative thought content. Overall, these differential findings may help inform the adaptation of scalable app-based mental trainings in different segments of the population with the goal to improve mental health and well-being.

The influence of cultural identity education on students’ positive psychology

The aim of this study was to Analysed the influence of Chinese traditional culture identity education on the positive psychology of university students. The study selected 200 students as the research object and divided into experimental group and control group. The students in the experimental group received traditional cultural identity education courses combined with practical activities, while the control group implemented conventional courses. After implementing the program, students’ learning efficiency is significantly improved and their learning anxiety is reduced. The learning effectiveness, cultural identity, and interpersonal communication barriers of the experimental group students have all improved, and the improvement in positive psychological status of the experimental group is significantly higher than that of the control group. The difference between the two groups is statistically significant. Chinese culture has a long history and contains profound life truth and positive thoughts. Good traditional cultural identity education can cultivate college students’ correct political position and establish correct outlook on life, values and the world. This study showed effective cultural identity education and practical activities in colleges and universities can effectively promote the cultivation of students’ positive psychology, improve students’ self-confidence and enhance national pride.Contribution: The result of this study is applicable for scholars in the field of psychology of religion and the sociology of religion, as well as cultural studies and public theology.

Amplification of Positivity Treatment for Anxiety and Depression: A Randomized Experimental Therapeutics Trial Targeting Social Reward Sensitivity to Enhance Social Connectedness

BackgroundSocial disconnection is common and causes significant impairment in anxiety and depressive disorders, and it does not respond sufficiently to available treatments. The positive valence system supports social bond formation and maintenance but is often hyporesponsive in people with anxiety or depression. We conducted an experimental therapeutics trial to test the hypothesis that targeting positive valence processes through cognitive and behavioral strategies would enhance responsivity to social rewards, a core mechanism underlying social connectedness. MethodsSixty-eight adults who endorsed clinically elevated anxiety and/or depression with social impairment were randomized 1:1:1 to 5 (n = 23) or 10 (n = 22) sessions of amplification of positivity (AMP) treatment or waitlist (n = 23). Pre- to posttreatment change in striatal activity (primary outcome) during social reward anticipation was measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging, and reactivity to a social affiliation task (secondary) and self-reported social connectedness (exploratory) were examined. Primary analyses compared AMP (doses combined) versus waitlist. A second aim was to compare the effects of different doses. ResultsAMP engaged the hypothesized treatment target, leading to greater striatal activation during anticipation of social rewards versus waitlist (d = 1.01 [95% CI = 0.42–1.61]; largest striatal volume). AMP yielded larger improvements in positive affect and approach behavior during the affiliation task (but not other outcomes) and social connectedness. Larger striatal and social connectedness increases were observed for 5-session versus 10-session AMP (d range = 0.08–1.03). ConclusionsTeaching people with anxiety or depression strategies to increase positive thoughts, behaviors, and emotions enhances activity in brain regions that govern social reward processing and promotes social connectedness. Social reward sensitivity may be a transdiagnostic target for remediating social disconnection.

Positive psychology interventions can improve mental health for chronic pain patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective This study examines the efficacy of positive psychology interventions (PPIs) for patients with chronic pain through a systematic review and meta-analysis. PPIs are defined as strategies that involve focusing on positive emotions, thoughts, and behaviors that improve mental health by increasing mental well-being and reducing psychological distress. Design The search was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library databases. Main Outcome Measures Subjective, psychological, and social well-being were used as indicators of mental well-being, and depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were used as indicators of psychological distress. Results: Nine studies were included. Eight studies evaluated subjective well-being, seven evaluated depression, and three evaluated anxiety symptoms. No studies examined psychological well-being, social well-being, or stress. PPIs were found to be effective in promoting subjective well-being post-treatment (Hedges’ g = 0.40; 95% CI [0.06, 0.73]) and reducing anxiety (Hedges’ g = −0.32, 95% CI [-0.59, −0.06]), but no significant results were found for depression (Hedges’ g = −0.23, 95% CI [-0.50, 0.04]). Conclusion The included investigations, while limited, suggest the utility of PPIs in mitigating the psychological consequences of chronic pain. Researchers and practitioners are encouraged to implement PPI practices.

Spiritual coping behaviors among injured urban black men in Philadelphia

PurposeHigh rates of firearm injury among urban Black men in the US can lead to long physical and psychological recovery times, worsened by limited access to mental health services. Spirituality can propel positive thoughts, actions, perceptions and behaviors about self and others yet how it is used among Black men recovering from firearm injury is underexplored. This study examined the role of spirituality in the recovery of Black male survivors of firearm injury. MethodTen injured urban Black men in Philadelphia were interviewed using descriptive phenomenology. A subset of participants from the Emotional Responses and Recovery from Injury in Urban Black Men study who agreed to be recontacted for future studies were enrolled. Informed consent was obtained, semi-structured interviews were conducted via phone and were audiotaped, transcribed, and de-identified. Thematic content analysis was used to understand perceptions of spirituality and to identify spiritual coping behavior themes. ResultsFindings suggest that injured urban Black men engaged in theistic and non-theistic spiritual activities that resulted in positive character development, reduced risk of re-injury, hope, improved mental health and social bonds. ConclusionSpirituality may serve as a protective factor against firearm re-injury or retaliation by promoting desired behaviors and mental health among injured urban Black men. Combining culturally sensitive spiritual resources and psychotherapy may lead to effective trauma-informed care in addressing spiritual and existential challenges of injured urban Black men who may find spirituality important.

Level of Self-Objectification among Adolescent Girls from Co-educational Schools and All-Girls Schools: A Comparative Study.

Indian females have been objectified since time immemorial. The ancient Indian texts and architecture have numerous instances of sexual objectification of females. In the present time, self-objectification in girls is evident from the increasing popularity of apps like Photoshop, the rise in the makeup industry, plastic and cosmetic surgeries, and so on. This is especially relevant for females across the globe and leads to huge negative effects on women's identities. The aim of the present study is to assess and compare the levels of body surveillance (self-objectification), body shaming, and control beliefs in adolescent girls from co-educational schools and all-girls schools. Four hundred adolescent girls from Convent schools in different cities in Uttar Pradesh were included in the study using purposive (homogeneous) sampling based on the inclusion criteria. The Objectified Body Consciousness Scale (OBCS) was used to assess body surveillance (self-objectification), body shaming, and control beliefs. The results of the study revealed that the level of body surveillance (self-objectification) was significantly high among Indian adolescent girls. It was found that all-girls schools had a higher level of body surveillance (self-objectification), body shaming, and control beliefs as compared to adolescent girls from co-educational schools. It can be concluded that the phenomenon of self-objectification has numerous implications for the physical and mental well-being of girls, particularly during their formative years. Healthy behaviors and positive thoughts are the best ways to respect and honor one's body. The research suggests the need for meditation, awareness workshops, and school-level counseling for adolescent girls, especially in all-girls schools.

The dark triad and forgiveness: The mediating role of anger rumination

Previous studies indicated that the Dark Triad, anger rumination, and forgiveness are interrelated, but their interplay received limited attention. Therefore, we examined whether anger ruminations could mediate the Dark Triad relationship with forgiveness in a community sample of 629 participants. Machiavellianism and psychopathy showed a consistent pattern of positive correlations with anger ruminations and negative with forgiveness. In contrast, narcissism exhibited a low negative correlation only with anger rumination related to thoughts of revenge. The path analysis indicated that the effects of Machiavellianism and psychopathy on the absence of negative thoughts, feelings, and behavior toward wrongdoers are mediated through three anger rumination dimensions (angry afterthoughts, angry memories, thoughts of revenge) partially and fully, respectively. Machiavellianism and psychopathy associations with the presence of positive thoughts, feelings, and behavior toward a wrongdoer were fully mediated via thoughts of revenge. Overall, our study highlights the important mediating role of anger rumination in relationships between dark traits and forgiveness.

Awareness, Beliefs and Practice of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Strategies for Chronic Pain Management Among Physiotherapists

Purpose: To evaluate the awareness, practice and beliefs about CBT strategies for chronic pain management among Physiotherapists. Relevance: Chronic pain can be defined as pain that persists for 3 months or longer and, while not necessarily maladaptive, often leads to physical decline, limited functional ability and emotional distress. CBT has been increasingly used as an effective tool by psychologists in the management of chronic pain that is delivered through individual or group counselling sessions. Cognitive restructuring, relaxation techniques, activity pacing and good sleep hygiene are a few strategies of cognitive behavioral pain management therapies. There is also increasing evidence that supports the use of CBT strategies by Physiotherapists during their treatment for obtaining a positive outcome for chronic pain patients. Method and Analysis: A Google Form was formulated with relevant questions about awareness, practice and beliefs about CBT strategies for chronic pain. The questionnaire was face validated by 3 independent psychologists who practice CBT for chronic pain in their regular practice. This form was then distributed through various Physiotherapy groups in Bangalore via snowball sampling method. The data obtained from the responses were then complied, decoded and quantitatively analysed through content analysis using the SPSS-22. Result: The result showed strikingly contrasting responses from the Physiotherapists, as even though the majority of them were aware of CBT (34.1%), they applied it relatively less (15.3%). Of 63.5% Physiotherapists believed that pain perception is affected by automatic thoughts, while 52.9% agreed that negative thoughts need to be changed into positive coping thoughts. Around 49.4% of Physiotherapists believe in teaching relaxation techniques to their patients with chronic pain. Activity pacing and good sleep hygiene are important, as believed by 25.9% and 47.1% respectively. Physiotherapists (56.5%) accepted that patient needs to be mindful while exercising. Conclusion: Majority of Physiotherapists are aware and have positive beliefs about CBT strategies for chronic pain management. However, comparatively, we can see variations in the application of CBT strategies in their treatment plan. KEY WORDS: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, chronic pain, Physiotherapy.