Psychodynamic Research Articles

Suicide prevention and assisted suicide- incompatible?

The principles of suicide prevention and easy access to assisted suicide are not compatible. Although suicide prevention does not aim to prevent suicide at all costs, it is fundamentally geared towards supporting people in existential crises and emergency situations in developing options for asuccessful life. Based on empirical facts on suicide and suicidal ideation in old age as well as clinical psychodynamic theories on the understanding of suicide, the corresponding foundations of assisted suicide are presented. After abrief introduction to the basic principles of suicide prevention, the relationship between suicide prevention and assisted suicide is explained and described. Based on the empirical knowledge of specific emergencies that can lead to arequest for assisted suicide, possibilities of universal, selective and indicated suicide prevention are derived for this field.

Language style (mis)matching: Consuming entertainment media from someone unlike you is linked to positive attitudes

Prior work suggests people often match with conversational partners by using a common rate of style words (e.g., articles, pronouns). Indeed, such language style matching (LSM) has associated positively with downstream social and psychological dynamics like cooperation, liking, and well-being. To what degree is LSM predictive of positive attitudes in entertainment media settings? The current two-study paper addressed this question by collecting participants’ writing style with three diverse prompts, and then having them consume a random selection of TED talks (Study 1) and videotaped podcast narratives (Study 2). The evidence suggested less LSM was associated with positive attitudes (e.g., an interest in watching another video by the speaker, feeling connected to the speaker). Mediation analyses revealed the negative relationship between LSM and positive attitudes was explained by one’s novelty need satisfaction. Implications for LSM research, plus character construction and narrative development in media psychology, are discussed.

Trust, Intimacy, and Their Impact on Spousal Relationships among Older Adults: Examining Key Psychological Dynamics

This study aimed to explore the relationship between trust, intimacy, and spousal relationships among older adults. The rationale stemmed from the observed importance of trust and intimacy in sustaining long-term relationships. The objective was to examine how these variables interplay in shaping spousal dynamics. Using a between-group research design, the study employed non-probability convenience sampling to recruit 50 couples (100 participants), aged 40–65 years, with a minimum of 15 years of marriage. Data were collected through standardized instruments: the Trust Scale, Relationship Assessment Scale, and Intimacy Scale. Descriptive and correlational analyses using SPSS revealed significant positive relationships between trust, intimacy, and spousal satisfaction. However, no significant differences were found based on family systems or gender. The study highlighted the critical role of trust in fostering intimacy and improving relationship quality. Recommendations include conducting workshops to enhance trust and intimacy and exploring these dynamics in diverse cultural and relationship contexts. Future research should consider larger, geographically varied samples and include partially separated or cohabiting couples to generalize findings.

THE INFLUENCE OF LEARNING STRATEGIES AND CONFIDENCE ON BASKETBALL DRIBBLE LEARNING OUTCOMES

Abstract Interdisciplinary approaches to understanding the factors that influence basketball dribble learning are also relevant. Psychological factors such as motivation, perception of self-esteem, and coping strategies in the face of failure can also influence player learning outcomes. Thus, this research not only explores the technical aspects of learning, but also expands our view of the psychological dynamics involved in the learning process of sports skills. Basketball Dribble is one of the demands in the learning process of PJOK in High School. In the process of learning of course each student has different skills – different. In this case, PJOK teachers are charged with using learning strategies that make it possible to match students. This research is a 2×2 factorial design experiment because it consists of two factors and each factor has two levels. The aim of this study was to determine whether the two learning strategies, the Inkuiri Learning Strategy (SPI) and the Problem-Based Learning Strategies (SPBM), had a greater influence on Dtibble basketball learning outcomes.

The Relationship Between Nomophobia and Boredom Intolerance in the Use of Social Media among Generation Z Muslim Students

This study explores the relationship between nomophobia and boredom intolerance among Generation Z Muslim students who are active social media users. The increasing prevalence of smartphone dependency has been linked to anxiety disorders such as nomophobia while also exacerbating the inability to tolerate boredom, particularly in digital contexts. This study used a quantitative method with a survey approach, utilizing the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q) and the Boredom Proneness Scale (BPS) to measure these variables among 47 randomly selected participants. The data were analyzed using simple linear regression, revealing a significant positive correlation between nomophobia and boredom intolerance: as nomophobia levels increased, tolerance for boredom decreased. This research highlights the growing concern about smartphone overreliance and its psychological effects on Generation Z. Given the crucial role of social media in the daily lives of these students, understanding the psychological dynamics at play offers insights into developing targeted interventions to reduce smartphone dependence and improve emotional regulation. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on mental health in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of fostering greater awareness of the psychological risks associated with excessive smartphone use and suggesting strategies for enhancing students' emotional resilience. Future research should investigate the cultural and social factors influencing these behaviors further to develop more effective interventions.

Learned Helplessness, Resilience, and Time Perspective in Ukrainian and Israeli Citizens Amid Prolonged Warfare: Social and Neurobehavioral patterns

The incessant, incomprehensible war in Ukraine and Israel inevitably determines everyday uncertainty and chronic stress, which significantly affect the mental health, well-being and functioning of the civilian population. This study examines the problem of studied helplessness, resilience and understanding of life in the context of the perception of a temporary perspective among Ukrainian and Israeli citizens. The study highlights the possibility of using the “Unified Framework for Integrated Psychological Assessment and Intervention,” which combines metacognitive, neuropsychological and psychodynamic approaches. This framework is proposed as the most important strategy for meeting the complex psychological needs of people in war-affected areas. By applying this comprehensive framework, mental health professionals can develop more thoughtful and effective support systems, increase resilience, encourage future-­oriented thinking, and mitigate feelings of helplessness, ultimately improving the well-being of a person living in a prolonged environment.

Analysis of Sports Brand Marketing Strategy Optimization Based on Fan Psychology

Cause of increased competition in sports branding, the main issue for powerful marketing is to understand fan psychology. The attachment of a fan to their team and athletes has much to do with their purchasing behavior and brand loyalty. For that reason, understanding those psychological dynamics is necessary for a brand when trying to figure out an effective marketing strategy. The study shall now explore how sports brands utilize psychological frameworks, such as the Psychological Continuum Model, to nurture emotional connections that will lead to brand loyalty. Case studies are provided relating to Li-Ning and Nike, where it has been seen that aligning with athletes through limited edition product launches and special content given to fans drives deeper consumer engagement. However, it is hypothesized that if there is a heavy reliance on a fan-driven approach, mainstream market opportunities could be lost, and this may reduce longer-term growth. To this end, sports brands are suggested to balance fan-focused approaches against broader market segmentation, ensuring the process and strategy that will help meet diverse consumer needs and inclusivity for sustainable development. The insights provided here seek to guide brands toward maximizing their reach and brand resilience by harmonizing fan loyalty with mainstream appeal.

Transmitting thought and/or transmitting disease – a psychoanalytic exploration of similarities and differences between gaining insight and falling ill

ABSTRACT The paper explores possible similarities between falling ill after being infected by transmitted disease and the transformation that can occur after receiving a grain of something psychically foreign transmitted through human communication – whether it takes place in the primal situation of the mother/infant dyad, in the clinical situation of psychoanalytic treatment or in psychoanalytic training. The author argues that in order to gain transformative insight (learn), one must necessarily put oneself at risk, as there is no absolute way of knowing beforehand whether the incorporated aspects of the other embedded in interpretation and (enigmatic) messages also contain ‘pathogens’ and both analyst and analysand are exposed to this risk. The analogy is further used to highlight the specificity of psychoanalysis compared to other contemporary psychodynamic approaches and to make a plea for the preservation of the radicality of psychoanalysis in contemporary times.

From Reflection to Sustainability: Mapping Psychological Dynamics, Collective Culture, and Supportive Leadership within Front Office Teams in Hotels

This study investigates the relationships among team psychological safety, participation-supportive leadership, collectivism, team reflexivity, and team sustainability within front office teams in the Indonesian hospitality sector. Utilizing a quantitative research design, data were collected from 387 respondents across major cities, including Surabaya, Jakarta, Denpasar, and Yogyakarta. The findings indicate that higher levels of psychological safety significantly enhance team reflexivity, allowing team members to engage in open communication and collaborative problem-solving. Additionally, participation-supportive leadership fosters an inclusive environment where team members feel empowered to contribute their ideas, which is essential for effective decision-making. Collectivism serves as a moderating factor, influencing the relationship between leadership and team dynamics, thereby highlighting the importance of cultural values in shaping team interactions. The study underscores the necessity of creating a psychologically safe climate that encourages risk-taking and innovation, ultimately leading to improved team sustainability and performance. Limitations include the cross-sectional design, which restricts causal inferences, and the focus on a specific cultural context, potentially affecting the generalizability of the findings. Future research should explore longitudinal designs and incorporate additional cultural dimensions to enhance the applicability of the results. By providing insights into culturally sensitive practices, this study contributes to the understanding of team dynamics and sustainability in organizational settings, particularly within the hospitality industry.

Borderline Personality Disorder and Loneliness: Broadening the Scope of Treatment for Social Rehabilitation.

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) has been described as a condition of intolerance of aloneness. This characteristic drives distinguishing criteria, such as frantic efforts to avoid abandonment. Both BPD and loneliness are linked with elevated mortality risk and multiple negative health outcomes. Psychodynamic theories of BPD emphasize fundamental impairment in attachment and interpersonal functioning. Empirical research demonstrates an association between BPD diagnosis and increased loneliness. Individuals with BPD experience higher levels of loneliness than the general population, and their social networks are systematically smaller, less diverse, and less satisfying. Differences in the subjective experience of loneliness persist when controlling for these relevant social network features, indicating that people with BPD experience more loneliness than others in the same objective social circumstances. According to patients with BPD, increased social connection is often a primary treatment goal and marker of satisfying recovery. There are, however, few evidence-based approaches that primarily target loneliness and building life structures that support durable connections with others. Therefore, loneliness persists as an intractable problem, often failing to remit alongside other symptoms, and few resources are routinely implemented to address this problem. In this article, we argue that loneliness is central to the symptomatic oscillations and subjective experiences of many patients with BPD. We propose that treatment extend beyond the overemphasized therapeutic alliance relationship to also promote socialization and group and vocational settings to enhance patients' social networks. Building larger social networks that rely less on exclusive caregiving and/or romantic relationships and more on role-bound identity building and community relationships would more directly target long-term identity diffusion and relational instability. Such interventions can harness nonclinical community resources, such as group treatment, vocational supports, and peer supports.

MAKIAN DALAM NOVEL AKU TAK MEMBENCI HUJAN KARYA SRI PUJI HARTINI: PERSPEKTIF PSIKOLINGUISTIK

This research focuses on exploring the use of swearing in the novel “Aku Tak Membenci Hujan” through a psycholinguistic perspective. In literary works, swearing often serves as a reflection of the characters' emotions, internal struggles, and psychological states. A psycholinguistic framework is utilized to analyze how swearing manifests in the interactions between characters and how individual psychological factors influence the use of offensive or negative language. The study identifies various forms of swearing within the novel and investigates the meanings and psychological roles behind them. Data is gathered using discourse analysis techniques, with particular attention to the characters, contexts, and emotional effects conveyed through swearing. The results of the study reveal that swearing reflects the characters' feelings of frustration, anger, and dissatisfaction with both their social and personal circumstances. This analysis demonstrates that swearing is not merely a negative expression but also a window into the deeper psychological dynamics at play in the characters' development. The study offers valuable insights into the connections between language, psychology, and literature.

SELF-COMFORTING BEHAVIOURS ACROSS THEORETICAL FRAMEWORKS: A 50-YEAR SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF PATTERNS, MECHANISMS, AND SOCIO-CULTURAL INFLUENCES

This systematic review comprehensively examines the development, mechanisms, and socio-cultural influences on self-comforting behaviours over the past 50 years, integrating findings from psychology, developmental science, and psychiatry. Self-comforting behaviours—such as thumb-sucking, positive self-talk, and support-seeking—are adaptive strategies for managing stress and maintaining emotional equilibrium across all life stages. These behaviours are essential for coping with stress and maintaining emotional balance throughout life. Drawing on multiple theoretical frameworks, including attachment theory, stress and coping, cognitive-behavioural, and psychodynamic perspectives, this review identifies patterns and functions of self-comforting behaviours. It highlights both their adaptive roles in promoting resilience and their maladaptive roles in exacerbating psychological distress. Methodologically, the review synthesizes data from quantitative studies across diverse populations, emphasizing the impact of adverse life events on self-comforting behaviours. It examines differences in the intensity, frequency, and outcomes of these behaviours on wellbeing. After a thorough screening process, 94 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. This extensive review process ensures a comprehensive understanding of how self-comforting behaviours vary across different contexts and populations. The findings reveal that self-comforting behaviours can promote resilience by helping individuals enhance coping skills, manage stress and maintain emotional stability. However, maladaptive forms of these behaviours, such as excessive grooming or substance use, can exacerbate psychological distress. This synthesis underscores the importance of considering developmental stages and socio-cultural contexts when studying self-comforting behaviours. It informs future research and interventions aimed at promoting healthy coping mechanisms. By identifying commonalities and gaps in the existing literature, this review contributes to a nuanced understanding of self-comforting behaviours and their relevance in mental health. It provides a foundation for developing more comprehensive theories and effective interventions to support mental wellbeing. This review highlights the need for tailored approaches that consider individual differences and socio-cultural factors in promoting healthy self-comforting behaviours.

Efikasi Diri Akademik Sebagai Strategi Pengembangan Pembinaan Penyesuaian Psikologis Santri di Pesantren

The academic self-efficacy of Madrasah-Aliyah (MA) students is a description of the form of psychological dynamics of students in self-adjustment in Islamic boarding schools. Academic self-efficacy is defined as an individual's belief in his or her ability to do assignments, to manage his own learning activities, to realize academic expectations, both academic expectations from himself and from others. This study aims to describe the dynamics of academic self-efficacy of MA students in self-adjustment in pesantren. The study uses a case study research design, in the process of collecting data the researcher uses observation, interview and documentation methods. The research uses data analysis techniques that reduce data, present data and draw conclusions or verification. The research was carried out at MA Tarbiyatut Tholabah Kranji Lamongan. The results of the study show that students at MA Tarbiyatut Tholabah Kranji Lamogan who have high self-efficacy tend to be more successful in adjusting to the pesantren environment. They showed the ability to manage their time well, which had an impact on discipline and efficiency in carrying out daily routines. In addition, strong self-efficacy improves their performance, as they carry out each task with seriousness and confidence, which results in optimal results

Aetiology and Treatments of Antisocial Personality Disorder

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) by emphasising its characteristics, pathological causes and treatments. ASPD is identified as a type B personality disorder which is characterised by consistently disobeying social norms and lacking remorse. The following sections discuss the contributors to ASPD from both nature (biological) and nurture (environmental) perspectives, highlighting the essential influences of inheritance and adverse childhood experiences. Specifically, this study explores the abnormalities in brain structures involving the frontal lobe and amygdala, as well as the effects of abuse and ignorance in its development. In addition, this paper recalls the treatment methods, with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) exhibiting a higher possibility of reducing violent behaviours, while the psychodynamic approach and pharmacological intervention function to mitigate comorbidities of ASPD. Furthermore, ASPD behaviours in real life have been addressed through analysing the case study of Ted Bundy, illustrating the importance of diagnosis and intervention in the early stages. The findings supply useful suggestions for relevant experts and professors and also help society to better understand the complexity of ASPD.

Unlocking the mind: a psychodynamic approach to treating obsessive-compulsive disorder

There is limited evidence supporting the use of psychodynamic psychotherapy in the management of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). However, OCD is a disabling illness that often presents with comorbidities, and psychodynamic psychotherapy can be particularly beneficial in such cases. By targeting unconscious conflicts and bringing them to the surface, this therapeutic approach may help patients gain a deeper understanding of their illness. This article aims to explain the manifestation of symptoms through the lens of psychodynamic theory. It seeks to deepen the understanding of the nature of OCD by exploring unconscious processes and defence mechanisms. Furthermore, we will examine how addressing underlying psychological conflicts can complement traditional treatments and potentially improve patient outcomes.

The problem of suicidality, personality disorder, and treatment: an alternative psycho-social perspective.

Suicidal behaviour, including both attempted and completed suicides, has been increasing globally, particularly in industrialized nations, making suicidality a significant public health concern. Despite the allocation of increasing resources by US, EU, and UK governmental and mental health bodies, the effectiveness of current strategies for the treatment, management, and prevention of suicide remains in question. This paper reviews evidence from epidemiological studies and national prevention policies, alongside research data from a London-based specialist personality disorder treatment centre and clinical case studies from private psychiatric/psychotherapy practice, to explore an alternative psychosocial approach to addressing suicidality. The dominant psychiatric model, which relies heavily on medication, hospitalization, and often coercive methods of control, may have iatrogenic effects, potentially exacerbating the risk of suicide. In contrast, a psychodynamic and psychosocial approach, focused on understanding the underlying psychological dimensions of suicidality, fostering a trusting therapeutic alliance, addressing both internal and external factors contributing to suicidal behaviour, and promoting open dialogue around suicidal thoughts, has shown promise in reducing suicide risk. The findings presented in this paper argue for a rethinking of traditional psychiatric approaches, advocating for a shift toward more personalized, collaborative, and psychologically informed interventions that can more effectively reduce the risk of suicide.

From ego to equity: exploring the influence of narcissism and gender on start-up funding success

Purpose This study aims to investigate the association between narcissistic tendencies, gender and funding success in high-growth start-ups. It aims to bridge a critical research gap by exploring the combined effect of gender and narcissism on start-up funding success. Design/methodology/approach The authors surveyed 540 founders of high-growth start-ups in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, using the NPI-16 questionnaire to assess narcissistic tendencies. By focusing on high-growth start-ups as opposed to small firms, the authors enhanced the validity of the sample. This study isolates and analyses the effects of gender and narcissism, providing insights into their individual and combined contributions to start-up funding success. Findings The findings reveal that gender is associated with lower start-up funding and lower narcissistic tendencies. This highlights the intricate relationship between gender, narcissism and funding success within the context of high-growth start-ups. Practical implications These findings have important implications for investors, policymakers and entrepreneurial educators, suggesting that a nuanced understanding of founders’ psychological traits could enhance funding strategies and start-up support mechanisms. Originality/value This research addresses the critical gap in the literature by examining the joint influence of gender and narcissism on funding success in high-growth start-ups. The study contributes to a nuanced understanding of the factors shaping founder psychology and performance dynamics, offering valuable insights for future research in gender, narcissism and start-up success.

Exploring aggressive emotions in women in prison: the role of empathy and perceived social support in moderating the effects of childhood discrimination experiences

BackgroundThe recent increase in the population of women in prison within the societal context of China has shifted attention towards understanding the unique psychological and social dynamics distinct from those traditionally associated with man offenders. Growing evidence suggests that childhood experiences of discrimination play a crucial role in shaping the aggressive behaviors observed among women in prison. This underscores the necessity for an in-depth examination of the psychological and societal foundations of these behaviors.ObjectiveThis study seeks to elucidate the roles of empathy and perceived social support (PSS) in moderating the effects of childhood discrimination on aggression among women in prison. It aims to provide insights that could inform effective intervention and prevention strategies. Participants and Setting: The study involved 411 women in prison from correctional facilities across two provinces in China. Data were collected through paper-based surveys distributed from May to June 2024.MethodsParticipants responded to the Everyday Discrimination Scale, Interpersonal Reactivity Index, Perceived Social Support Scale, and Aggression Questionnaire. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlations, analysis of variance, and parallel multiple mediation models. These analyses were conducted using SPSS and a PROCESS macro to test statistical hypotheses.ResultsResults demonstrated significant associations between high levels of childhood discrimination and increased aggressive emotions and behaviors in adulthood. Mediation analysis indicated that both affective empathy and PSS significantly mediated these relationships. Affective empathy was found to intensify emotional responses leading to aggression, while PSS acted as a buffering mechanism that mitigated these adverse outcomes.ConclusionsThe findings highlight the pivotal moderating roles of empathy and social support in the aggression dynamics observed among women in prison, influenced by early experiences of discrimination. The study advocates for targeted interventions that enhance empathic abilities and bolster social support networks to reduce aggression and aid in rehabilitation. These insights foster the development of nuanced approaches to addressing the needs of women in prison and have significant implications for policy and practice in correctional and rehabilitative settings.

Forgiveness in juvenile corrections: An exploratory study on Korean female youth offenders

This study investigates the prevalence and possible impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and attachment issues among incarcerated youth in South Korea, exploring the efficacy of a forgiveness education program. A total of 27 female offenders were assigned to either a treatment group receiving a forgiveness education or a control group receiving regular correctional programs. Results indicate that both groups had high scores on the traditional 10 ACEs and showed significant psychological compromises. Notably, the treatment group showed improvements in forgiveness, mother attachment, as well as reductions in anger and anxiety, compared to the control group. Additionally, the study highlighted the potential of staff members acting as alternative attachment figures, facilitating improved attachment outcomes. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions about effective interventions in juvenile justice settings and underscore the need for programs that address the complex psychological and relational dynamics of youth offenders.

Eksplorasi Psikologis: Studi Kasus Terhadap Muncikari Gigolo

In the prostitution business, procurers are intermediaries between clients and prostitutes, both male and female. Procurers are tasked with handling conflicts and incentives in their work. The aim of this research is to understand the psychological dynamics of a respondent regarding their motivation to become a procurer and the impact of this profession on them. This research is a qualitative research study with a case study approach. The main respondent in the study was one woman accompanied by one other person as a significant other. In this research, data were collected using semi-structured interviews. The results of data analysis show that the respondent's decision to become a procurer was influenced by a toxic relationship environment, traumatic events, financial difficulties, and family separation. The respondent experienced several negative impacts on their psychological condition, even though they felt safe about their financial condition. These negative impacts were losing concern for others, hurting themselves, feeling guilty about what they did, and giving in to pressure. The psychological insights gained from this study have significant implications for mental health practitioners working with individuals involved in prostitution, while contributing to the broader academic discourse on psychological adaptation in such complex social environments.