Psychological Issues Research Articles

Migration Dynamics: Navigating Challenges, Seizing Opportunities, and Enhancing Emotional and Social Well-being

Migration is a complex and multifaceted process that significantly impacts the emotional and social well-being of individuals. This paper explores the dynamics of migration, focusing on navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities it presents. Migrants often face significant pre-migration stressors, including exposure to armed conflict and economic hardships, leading to trauma and long-term psychological issues. The migration journey itself is fraught with dangers, including violence, exploitation, and separation from family, further exacerbating emotional distress. Post-migration barriers, such as difficulties in accessing healthcare, poor living conditions, and discrimination, contribute to ongoing stress and anxiety among migrants. Despite these challenges, migration also offers substantial opportunities for both migrants and host societies. Migrants contribute to economic growth through their labor and entrepreneurial activities, enrich host societies with cultural diversity, and foster social integration through community support and engagement. Case studies from Europe and the Middle East illustrate the varied experiences of migrants and the responses of host countries. This study emphasizes the need for inclusive policies and accessible mental health services to address the unique emotional and social needs of migrants, fostering their successful integration and overall well-being. By recognizing and valuing the contributions of migrants, societies can create more inclusive and resilient communities that benefit everyone.

A systematic review on the effects of logotherapy and meaning-centered therapy on psychological and existential symptoms in women with breast and gynecological cancer

PurposeWomen diagnosed with breast cancer (BC) and gynecological cancer (GC) face psychological and existential challenges common to all cancers, such as anxiety and depression, along with specific issues related to body image and sexuality. Logotherapy and meaning-centered therapy (MCT) have shown positive effects on the psychological well-being of cancer patients.MethodsA systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to assess the impact of logotherapy and meaning-centered therapy (MCT) on women diagnosed with BC and GC from January 2014 to December 2024. Empirical research articles published in English were included, while literature reviews, meta-analyses, doctoral theses, preprints, books, and studies involving other cancer types or metastatic/comorbid conditions were excluded. The search was conducted across Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases using terms like uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, mastectomy, logotherapy, and MCT. The Boolean operators AND and OR were used in the Title and search fields across all three databases, as well as in the Topic search field for the WoS database.ResultsOut of the 36 articles initially obtained, 29 remained after eliminating duplicates and, finally, six papers were selected. The included studies examined various psychological and existential issues in patients with breast and gynecological cancer, including anxiety, distress, depression, hopelessness, death anxiety, post-traumatic stress, perception of physical symptoms, quality of life, post-traumatic growth, spiritual well-being, and meaning in life.ConclusionFindings suggest that logotherapy decreases depressive symptoms, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, whereas improves meaning in life, quality of life, physical symptom perception, and post-traumatic growth in women with BC and GC. Implementing logotherapy in cancer care units through a multidisciplinary approach could be valuable, considering biopsychosocial factors, and incorporating aspects of self-image and sexuality in treatment would also be beneficial.

The impact of environmental and psychological factors on sleep quality among incarcerated persons at a correctional center in Southern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

This study aims to assess the impact of environmental and psychological factors on sleep quality among incarcerated persons at a correctional center in southern Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Wolaita Sodo Town Correctional Center from April 01 to 30, 2023. A systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit study participants. Binary logistic regression analyses were used to show the association of independent variables and the outcome variable. In the multivariate analysis, p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. A 60.2% prevalence of poor sleep quality was found among study participants. Factors such as generalized anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, history of incarceration, not engaging in physical activities and lack of income-generating opportunities while in prison were significantly associated with poor sleep quality. The limitations of this study were that it is a cross-sectional study; therefore, causal-impact relationships cannot be determined, and the prison environment factor was assessed by a single question without a cut-off point. The prevalence of poor sleep quality is notably high. Screening and treatment for depression and anxiety, promoting structured physical activity, income-generating opportunities and social reintegration training are crucial to reducing and preventing poor sleep quality. Determining the magnitude of poor sleep quality and identifying the impact of environmental and psychological factors on sleep quality is very crucial to intervene in the future. This paper is novel by addressing the detailed psychological and environmental issues that affect the sleep quality of incarcerated people at correctional center.

Pengaruh Konsumsi Fast Food terhadap Risiko Obesitas pada Remaja di Berbagai Negara dan Wilayah Daerah

The fast-paced modern lifestyle has led teenagers to favor fast food over healthier home-cooked meals. This study aims to analyze the effects of fast food consumption on obesity risk among adolescents through a review of 20 relevant studies. The findings indicate that excessive consumption of fast food, along with low physical activity and social influences, significantly contributes to the increasing rates of adolescent obesity in Indonesia. Key factors include easy access, affordability, aggressive marketing, sedentary lifestyles, and a lack of nutritional education. As a result, there is a heightened risk of degenerative diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, as well as psychological issues related to low self-esteem. To address the rising trend of adolescent obesity, comprehensive interventions are necessary, including nutrition education, dietary regulation, and the promotion of active lifestyles.

PREVALENCE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF PROBLEMATIC PORNOGRAPHY USE IN SWEDISH ADOLESCENTS

PREVALENCE AND CHARACTERISTICS OF PROBLEMATIC PORNOGRAPHY USE IN SWEDISH ADOLESCENTS

A qualitative research on the symptom experience and psychological feelings of patients during the rehabilitation period after radical hysterectomy

Objective: This study seeks to probe the symptom experiences and psychological feelings of patients during the rehabilitation period following radical hysterectomy through qualitative research and structured interviews, providing a reference basis for rehabilitation interventions. Methods: A total of 200 patients who underwent radical hysterectomy were selected as the study subjects. In the study of postoperative rehabilitation interventions for cervical cancer, a detailed interview outline was first formulated, covering a wide range of topics from physical symptoms to psychological feelings. In-depth interviews and recordings were conducted with patients to ensure the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the information. Strict quality control measures were taken during the interview process, including pre-determined quiet interview environments to ensure smooth patient expression and the avoidance of leading language. The interview content was not limited to verbal expression but also focused on patients’ body language and emotional changes, providing researchers with adequate data sources. After the interviews, data accuracy and completeness were ensured through text conversion and voice confirmation. In the final interview analysis stage, detailed analysis results were compiled, including themes, patterns, and key trends, providing in-depth understanding and guidance for further research and interventions. Subsequently, patient interviews and result summaries were conducted. Results: Among the 200 individuals, (1) physical symptoms encompassed fatigue (22.50%), urination disorders (24.00%), and lower limb dysfunction (25.00%); (2) Psychological issues included a sense of stigma (40.50%), financial concerns (50.50%), and fear of recurrence (35.50%).; (3) Family-associated changes involved emotional changes with husbands (61.00%) and immediate family members (65.00%); (4) Social aspects included a decreased sense of social identity (76.00%) and impaired social interaction (63.00%). Conclusion: Following radical hysterectomy, patients during the rehabilitation period face adverse experiences pertaining to symptom experience and psychological feelings, which necessitates appropriate interventions to boost their recovery.

LEARNING TO BELONG: AFGHAN NEWCOMER CHILDREN AND THE SOCIAL FABRIC OF AMERICAN SCHOOLS

There are important psychological, social, and cultural issues involved in the assimilation of Afghan refugees into American society. After the U.S. exited Afghanistan, Afghan refugees were temporarily detained in camps before being relocated around the U.S. Although they have survived the immediate danger, the impact of war, displacement, and detention has resulted in the refugees suffering chronic psychological trauma including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. These mental health conditions, along with cultural differences and difficulty acclimating to American social customs, add a layer of complication to the integration process. In this paper, the most important issues confronting foreign refugees are analyzed, and field-tested policy recommendations that can help to reconstruct and integrate this population into American life are formulated. The study employs a combination of methods such as interviews, surveys, focus groups, and case studies to better understand the experiences of Afghan refugees and the opinions of the American host communities. Results show that there are strong societal concerns toward refugee integration that can, however, be overcome by well-organized supporting measures. Other recommendations include gradual acclimation to the community, compulsory psychosocial support, and the development of cultural awareness programs for both refugees and host populations. Furthermore, targeted educational bridging programs are proposed for refugee children, aimed at covering the educational gap and supporting emotional development. It is particularly important to have mechanisms for continued monitoring of integration outcomes in the long term so that refugees are not left behind and are encouraged as they adjust to stable lives. The U.S. can make it easier for Afghans to be absorbed into society with the right policy recommendations in place. Given long-term planning and consistent support, refugees are able to start afresh and contribute to the social and cultural tapestry of this country.

Health patterns in the working population: latent class analysis of physical and psychological complaints in Germany

Abstract Aim This study aimed to identify distinct patterns of health complaints among German workers and investigate their associations with socioeconomic factors. Subject and methods Latent class analysis was performed on data from the BIBB/BAuA Employment Survey, which included 19,320 employed respondents aged 15 years and above. The analysis considered 21 physical and psychological health complaints, such as headache, back pain, fatigue, irritability, and depressiveness. The identified health complaint classes were compared via sociodemographic indicators, including age, gender, occupation, working hours, and education. Results Four classes of health complaints were identified: “Low Overall Complaints” (low prevalence of all complaints; 40% of the sample), “Physical Complaints” (high prevalence of physical complaints but low prevalence of psychological complaints; 25% of the sample), “Psychological Complaints” (high prevalence of psychological complaints but low prevalence of physical complaints; 20% of the sample), and “High Overall Complaints” (high prevalence of both physical and psychological complaints; 15% of the sample). The classes differed most strongly according to occupational group, gender and education. Participants in high-skilled white-collar occupations were more likely to belong to the Low Overall Complaints and Psychological Complaints classes, while those in blue-collar occupations were more likely to belong to the Physical Complaints and High Overall Complaints classes. Conclusion This study revealed four distinct patterns of health complaints in the German working population, differing in severity (low symptom burden vs. high symptom burden) as well as content (physical vs. psychological symptoms). A substantial proportion of workers experienced multiple physical, psychological, or overall health issues (60%). The differences between the classes were primarily related to occupation, highlighting the importance of occupational health research for public health. As the world of work evolves with an increasing proportion of high-skilled white-collar occupations, a rise in psychological health complaints is anticipated in the future.

Wellbeing and Mental Health Issues of Elderly Women in India

The aging population in the 21st century is a significant human achievement, influencing both developed and developing nations. The elderly, particularly women, face increased challenges and problems, despite advancements in technology, medicines, facilities, and modernization, yet they remain vulnerable and underserved. Their health and mental state are influenced by the quality of care provided by their family members and society. Elderly women are experiencing a higher number of health issues compared to men. Most women suffer from chronic diseases, and loneliness is a prevalent psychological issue among all women.

A simulation-based network analysis of intervention targets for comorbid symptoms of depression and anxiety in Chinese healthcare workers in the post-dynamic zero-COVID policy era

BackgroundAfter the official end of the dynamic zero-COVID policy in China, healthcare workers continued to heavy workloads and psychological stress. In this new phase, concerns related to work and family, rather than infection, may have become new sources of psychological issues such as depression and anxiety among healthcare workers, leading to new patterns of comorbidity. However, few studies have addressed these issues. To fill this gap, this study used network analysis to examine new features and mechanisms of comorbidity between depression and anxiety symptoms, and simulated symptom-specific interventions to identify effective targets for intervention.MethodsA total of 708 Chinese healthcare workers (71.2% females; Age: M = 37.55, SD = 9.37) were recruited and completed the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7). This study first calculated the incidence rates of anxiety, depression, and their comorbidity, and then constructed the comorbid Ising network. Central and bridge symptoms were identified with expected influence (EI) and bridge EI, respectively. The NodeIdentifyR algorithm (NIRA) was then used to simulate interventions within the network, examining the effects of alleviating or aggravating specific symptoms on the network’s severity.Results48.2% of Chinese healthcare workers reported experiencing depression (19.8%), anxiety (11.7%), or both (16.2%). In the anxiety-depression network, “guilt” and “appetite changes” were identified as the central symptoms, and “guilt” and “excessive worry” were identified as the bridge symptoms. Simulated interventions suggested that alleviating “Anhedonia” can the most reduce the overall severity of the network, while aggravating “guilt” can the most increase the overall severity. These two symptoms were considered the key target for treatment and prevention, respectively.ConclusionsChinese healthcare workers still face high risk of depression, anxiety, and comorbidity in the post-dynamic zero-COVID policy era. Our findings highlight the key roles of guilt, appetite changes, and excessive worry in the network of depression and anxiety symptoms. Future research should apply the results of the simulated interventions, develop intervention strategies targeting anhedonia, and focus on preventing guilt to improve the healthcare workers’ mental health.Trial registrationNot applicable.

The Effect of Physical Exercise on Academic Burnout Among College Students: The Chain Mediating Role of Psychological Distress and Mobile Phone Addiction.

Background: Academic burnout (AB) among college students is a negative psychological state that can lead to serious psychological and behavioral issues. Thus, a deep understanding of its contributing factors and mechanisms is crucial for promoting healthy development and a positive learning attitude. Method: This study explores the mitigating effects of physical exercise (PE) on academic burnout among college students, examining the mediating roles of psychological distress (PD) and mobile phone addiction (MPA). The study employed a cross-sectional design with 986 university students (M age = 20.2, SD = 1.5) from diverse academic disciplines across China, including 489 (49.6%) males and 497 (50.4%) females. Results: Findings suggest that regular physical exercise significantly reduces academic burnout, with psychological distress and mobile phone addiction serving as key mediators. Physical exercise was negatively correlated with academic burnout and psychological distress, while psychological distress positively influenced both mobile phone addiction and academic burnout. Additionally, mobile phone addiction positively correlated with increased academic burnout. The structural equation model indicated that the pathways from physical exercise to academic burnout through psychological distress and mobile phone addiction are significant, revealing a chained mediation effect. Conclusion: These results underscore the importance of physical exercises in mitigating academic burnout through psychological and behavioral mechanisms.

Observational study of the relationship between negative cognitive processing bias and mental health, sleep quality in the early and middle stages of peacekeeping mission.

To examine the correlation between negative cognitive processing bias and the mental health, sleep status of peacekeepers across various time periods to establish a benchmark for peacekeeper mental health interventions. Symptom checklist 90 (SCL-90), Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), and negative cognitive processing bias questionnaire (NCPBQ) were adopted to investigate 172 Chinese peacekeepers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo at the early and middle stages of the mission. There was no statistically significant difference in the overall score of PSQI between the early and middle stages of the mission (P = .699). However, there was a statistically significant difference in the overall score of SCL-90 and NCPBQ (P < .05). Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the negative cognitive processing bias and the scores of SCL-90 and PSQI (R = 0.114-0.528, P < .05). A negative cognitive processing bias was also found to be a strong predictor of the overall score on the SCL-90 and PSQI assessments, with explanation rates of 27.3% and 17.5%, respectively. Peacekeepers are prone to experiencing psychological issues during the initial phase of their mission, necessitating careful attention. The presence of negative cognitive processing bias significantly impacts both mental health and sleep quality. Alleviating negative cognitive processing bias can potentially enhance the mental well-being and sleep quality of peacekeepers.

Risk Factors Associated with Psychological Health and Workload among Clinical Nurses

Background: Nurses are exposed to various occupational stressors that can negatively impact their psychological health and well-being. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify individual and occupational risk factors associated with psychological health and workload among Iranian clinical nurses. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 131 nurses at a teaching and training hospital in Semnan, Iran, from April to October 2020. Data were collected through self-reported questionnaires assessing psychological health, mental health exhaustion, workload levels, and demographic information. Descriptive statistics and Spearman’s correlation were used to analyze the data. Results: Approximately half of the participants reported moderate symptoms of psychological health problems. Higher rates of psychological health issues were observed in emergency, gynecology, and internal medicine units. Younger nurses and those with less experience were more likely to report negative feelings toward their job. Extended working hours (12 hours) were associated with increased workload. Significant positive correlations were found between sub-dimensions of psychological health and workload. Conclusions: The findings suggest that work environment stressors, such as extended working hours and heavy workloads, are associated with job dissatisfaction and exhaustion among clinical nurses. To improve the psychological health and job satisfaction of nurses, it is essential to implement organizational strategies such as reducing overtime work and providing flexible work schedules, particularly for experienced nurses.

Exploring the Relationship Between Excessive Social Media Use and Eating Disorders Among Young Adults: Evidence From a Bangladesh-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Problematic or addictive use of social media has been associated with psychological and health issues. The main objective of this study was to explore the relationship between Facebook addiction and eating disorders (EDs) among young adults in Bangladesh. We conducted an online-based cross-sectional study among 550 young adults aged 18 to 27 in Bangladesh. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain the survey data. The survey tool consisted of three sections: (i) socio-demographic, behavioral, and social media use-related characteristics, (ii) assessment of Facebook addiction using Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale, and (iii) assessment of EDs risk using Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26, outcome variable). Scoring at or above 20 on the EAT-26 scale (total score ranges from 0 to 78) indicated an ED risk. Unadjusted and adjusted binary logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the relationship outcome and explanatory variables. Approximately 38% of the study participants showed addiction to Facebook, whereas 23.6% were at risk of developing an ED. Multiple adjusted logistic regression models demonstrated that Facebook addiction was significantly associated with an increased risk of EDs (OR = 1.784; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.154-2.760). Moreover, smoking habits, self-rated body mass index (BMI), and physical activity level showed a significant association with the risk of EDs. These findings may help public health professionals and policymakers to take the initiative and develop strategies to overcome these addictive behaviors and promote healthy eating habits across the country.

The effectiveness of immersive virtual reality on the psychology of older adults: A systematic review and Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

The effectiveness of immersive virtual reality on the psychology of older adults: A systematic review and Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Digital Dependence in Aging: Nomophobia as the New Mental Health Threat for Older Adults.

Digital Dependence in Aging: Nomophobia as the New Mental Health Threat for Older Adults.

Longitudinal Study of Mental Health in an Elite Soccer Club: Depression and Anxiety Symptoms Across a Competitive Season.

Longitudinal Study of Mental Health in an Elite Soccer Club: Depression and Anxiety Symptoms Across a Competitive Season.

Exploring the Landscape of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Care in Albania - Current Situation and Mental Health Services

This paper examines the current state of mental health care for children and adolescents in Albania, highlighting the significant challenges faced by the country’s mental health system. Despite modest progress, Albania continues to rank among the lowest in Europe in terms of mental health workforce availability, with a particularly severe shortage of specialists in child and adolescent care. The three-tiered mental health care system, while structured, remains ineffective due to a lack of specialized professionals, inadequate infrastructure, and significant geographic disparities in service access. Cultural stigma surrounding mental health, combined with limited public awareness and distrust in available services, exacerbates the situation, further deterring families from seeking necessary support. Additionally, high rates of child abuse, emotional neglect, and school violence contribute to the growing mental health crisis, leaving many young individuals vulnerable to psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, and aggression. This paper explores the systemic barriers, financial constraints, and cultural norms that hinder effective mental health care for children and adolescents in Albania, and it offers recommendations for improving access to care, increasing professional capacity, and reducing stigma. Ultimately, it calls for urgent reforms to create a more accessible, equitable, and effective mental health care system for Albania’s youth.

Emotional Dynamics in Social Interactions: A Multi-Strategy Synergy Model

This paper presents a mathematical model for analyzing emotional dynamics in social interactions, considering strategic induction, group feedback, and natural emotional decay. Stability analysis shows that without control strategies, an emotional system has a unique stable equilibrium. Numerical simulations validated the model’s effectiveness. Single-strategy analyses revealed that social comparison and emotional resonance strategies can significantly enhance emotional levels, while a self-positioning strategy causes emotional oscillations. Composite-strategy simulations showed that combined strategies led to an initial rapid increase in emotions, followed by periodic fluctuations and stabilization. Global sensitivity analysis identified the natural emotional decay rate as the most influential parameter for emotional dynamics. An empirical case study of commuters’ weekly emotional changes demonstrated the model’s ability to capture real-world emotional fluctuations. Overall, the model provides a fundamental mathematical framework for understanding emotional regulation in social contexts, laying the groundwork for further exploration of related psychological and sociological issues.

DETECÇÃO DE SINAIS DE PROBLEMAS EMOCIONAIS EM ESTUDANTES DO ENSINO MÉDIO E SUAS POTENCIAIS CAUSAS

The present research is applied in nature and descriptive in type, with the general objective of detecting emotional problems among high school students. Among the specific objectives are the identification of levels of understanding, regulation, and expression of emotions, as well as the recognition of the tendency to seek out risky and dangerous situations among students in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years of high school at a private educational institution located in the city of Rio Branco, capital of the State of Acre, in the northern region of Brazil. The study adopted a quantitative approach, using a sample of 106 students aged between 14 and 18 years. The results showed that 50% of the participants were at an intermediate level, indicating that a portion of adolescents is exposed to certain risks but may possess some protective factors or coping mechanisms that allow them to resist or partially mitigate negative effects. However, they are not entirely resilient or protected. If emotional problems are not identified early, they may become risk factors, contributing to the development or worsening of future psychological issues. A student experiencing emotional problems is unlikely to achieve good academic performance; they tend to be distracted, absent, and show little motivation to engage in classroom activities.