Psychological Mechanisms Research Articles

The Digital Media-use Effects (d-MUsE) Model: A comprehensive framework for exploring/studying functional and dysfunctional effects on adolescent wellbeing

AbstractBackground and AimsDigital media have become a fundamental aspect of daily life for children and adolescents, influencing cognitive, emotional, and social development. The present work explores the dual nature of digital media use, identifying both positive and negative impacts on well-being and development.MethodsA comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to explore the interplay between digital media use and its effects on child and adolescent well-being. The study employs the Digital Media-use Effects (d-MUsE) model to analyze psychological mechanisms and contextual factors mediating these effects.ResultsFunctional media use promotes positive mental, physical, and social outcomes, while dysfunctional use is linked to negative psychological consequences, such as increased anxiety, depression, and social isolation. The proposed d-MUsE model highlights the interplay of psychological mechanisms and contextual factors—both proximal and distal—that mediate the effects of digital media on short- and long-term well-being.DiscussionThe present work endeavours to refine our existing comprehension of the intricate interplay of elements and mechanisms underpinning functional and dysfunctional employment of digital media. Prospective research trajectories, which spotlight factors that hitherto remained at the periphery of investigative scrutiny, find discourse in this synthesis.

Investigating the link between sleep quality and belief in conspiracy theories.

Two studies examined the link between sleep quality and conspiracy theory beliefs, as well as the underlying mechanisms. In Study 1 (n = 540), participants with poorer sleep quality over the past month reported higher conspiracy beliefs about the 2019 Notre Dame fire when exposed to Notre Dame fire conspiracy theories compared to non-conspiracy information. Study 2 (n = 575) investigated the underlying psychological mechanisms connecting poor sleep quality with increased conspiracy beliefs and whether insomnia shows a similar pattern. We found that poorer sleep quality and insomnia were positively correlated with conspiracy theory beliefs - conspiracy mentality and belief in specific conspiracy theories. A consistent indirect effect through depression was uncovered, although there were inconsistent indirect relationships between both sleep quality and insomnia with conspiracy beliefs for anger and paranoia. These findings suggest that improving sleep quality could reduce susceptibility to conspiracy theories, highlighting the need for sleep-focussed interventions.

The effect of slow breathing in regulating anxiety

Anxiety is an interactive disorder of the mind and body, characterized by excessive worry about uncertain future events and a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. Previous studies have shown that slow, deep breathing can reduce physical tension, and anxiety. Although we know that slow and deep breathing techniques can effectively regulate anxiety and other emotions, the psychological and neurophysiological mechanisms of slow breathing on anxiety have not been systematically explored. In the study, we combined the paced breathing task with the threat uncertainty task for the first time to investigate the role of slow breathing in regulating anxiety. Here we investigated this question, using Spectral analysis and Time-frequency domain of EEG to assess brain activity relating respiratory rate and the mechanism of respiratory rate impact on the anxious. Twenty-seven individuals participated in the experiment, which followed a 2 (respiratory rate: fast breathing, slow breathing) × 2 (certainty: certain, uncertain) within-subjects design. The results of showed that: (1) Slow breathing effectively reduced anxiety, the valence and arousal are lower under the slow breathing. (2) The EEG of fast and slow breathing showed different characteristics. There is an overall increase in power during slow breathing in the delta, theta, alpha and beta bands.(3) The interaction of respiratory rate and certainty were closely related to beta. In the uncertain, beta power decreased with slow breathing but increased with fast breathing.

Exploring the psychological mechanisms of library anxiety considering achievement motivation and goal orientation

Introduction. Although library anxiety is recognised as having a negative impact on people's exploration, its mechanisms are unknown. Moreover, no studies have systematically demonstrated the mechanisms through which exploration is modified in the context of library anxiety. This study reviewed the context and results related to library anxiety and hypothesised that achievement motives and goal orientations underlie changes in exploration. Method. A survey of approximately 2,000 participants was conducted and 642 responses were collected. Results. A covariance structure analysis of the responses revealed that, in most cases, the hope of success was significantly related to mastery goals and information seeking from all sources, with the aim of personal growth and a deeper understanding of the task. When motivated by fear of failure, participants avoid damaging their self-esteem by envisioning the event of failure or being treated lightly by others. Conclusions. These results imply that when one’s goal is to prevent the loss of self-esteem or being treated lightly by others, seeking information from other people is avoided in favour of searching for information from non-human sources.

Trapped by AI Recommendation: How Identity Concerns Reduce Variety‐Seeking Behavior

ABSTRACTThis research explores the impact of AI recommendations on consumers' variety‐seeking behavior. Through three studies, we examine how AI recommendations in different contexts, such as music and shopping apps, influence consumers' variety‐seeking behavior. The results consistently show that AI recommendation significantly reduces variety‐seeking behavior among consumers with strong identification due to heightened concerns about AI misclassification. In contrast, consumers with weak identification remain unaffected. These findings reveal a potential dark side of AI recommendation, where consumers' desire to maintain a consistent identity leads them to engage less in diverse explorations, thereby intensifying the creation of information cocoons. Our research contributes to the literature by highlighting the psychological mechanisms underlying consumer responses to AI recommendations and underscores the need for a balanced approach in AI personalization strategies.

Age-related differences in the relationship between confidence and false memory in a mnemonic discrimination task

In addition to episodic memory loss there is an increase in false remembering in ageing especially when the discrimination between studied and new items is difficult in a recognition memory task. The aim of this study was to identify the underlying psychological mechanisms of this behavior, specifically, the possible role of false recollection. We used the Mnemonic Similarity Task, a widely used task in neuroscience research developed to assess the behavioral manifestation of hippocampal computations, pattern separation and pattern completion. First, older and young adults (n = 39 and 44, respectively) were presented with images of everyday objects. Then, on a surprise recognition test, they saw old (studied) and new (non-studied) items as well as visually similar lures of the images seen in the study phase. Instead of using the original Old/New test format, we asked participants to make confidence judgments. Our response frequency and ROC (receiver operating characteristics) analyses revealed overconfidence in false memories for the lures in the group of older adults suggesting false recollection. Such overconfidence was not observed for the completely new stimuli. Our results imply that older adults tend not to acknowledge some memory problems as a consequence of very high confidence in false memories.

COGNITIVE TRAPS IN THE ECONOMY, THEIR INFLUENCE ON THE FORMATION OF FINANCIAL DECISIONS

Cognitive economics, an important interdisciplinary science that studies the processes of economic decision-making by a person, taking into account the peculiarities of his cognitive abilities, psychology, neuroscience and behavioral economics. It investigates complex mechanisms of decision-making that deviate from traditional rational models. This research focuses on cognitive and psychological mechanisms that shape economic behavior, in particular on cognitive deviations, heuristics and irrational actions. People often make decisions not based on ideal logic, but using heuristics, which is an aspect of bounded rationality. Cognitive economics studies how the brain processes economic information, in particular that related to financial decisions aimed at improving well-being, studies the impact of digital technologies on economic thinking. Social interaction and its dynamic changes on people's economic behavior require special research. The article analyzes key theories and experiments to inform economists, analysts, and policymakers in designing effective economic interventions. Using quantitative data analysis and qualitative research, the article presents a comprehensive overview of financial decision-making processes. Real-life examples demonstrate how cognitive traps manifest themselves in different economic contexts, including the influence of social norms and cultural factors. Understanding these factors contributes to a deeper understanding of decision-making and its impact on society. Practical recommendations for decision-making will allow us to develop further directions for the development of the financial market, including the cryptocurrency market. The cognitive actions of society in this market, in most cases, are based not on real economic processes, but on current fashion trends that are formed under the influence of political events. Potential conclusions of the study include the development of more accurate forecasting models, stimulation of more rational behavior, and reassessment of existing economic paradigms. This work highlights the importance of studying cognitive traps to better understand human behavior in economic and social contexts, contributing to the development of this progressive field.

Personality, Perception, and Cultural Adaptation: A Scoping Review of Interpersonal Dynamics in Cross-Cultural Contexts

This scoping review explores the interconnected roles of personality traits, perception, and cultural adaptation theory in the context of adapting to new cultural environments. With increasing cross-cultural mobility due to globalization, understanding the psychological mechanisms that facilitate cultural adaptation is important. Using the PRISMA-ScR framework, the review systematically identifies, and analyses studies published from 2000 to 2023, revealing key themes in the literature. The findings indicate that personality traits, particularly openness to experience, extraversion, and emotional stability, significantly influence individuals’ approaches to cultural adaptation. Those high in openness demonstrate greater curiosity and acceptance of cultural differences, while extroverts typically build stronger social networks that aid in adaptation. Furthermore, perception plays a critical role in shaping individuals' experiences, positive perceptions of the host culture correlate with smoother adaptation processes. The review also highlights the significance of cultural adaptation theory, particularly Berry’s Acculturation Model, which emphasizes the interplay between individual and contextual factors in adaptation outcomes. Limitations of existing research include a focus on Western contexts and a reliance on cross-sectional studies, which constrain the understanding of long-term adaptation processes. Future research directions include longitudinal studies, cross-cultural comparisons, and interventions tailored to personality traits and perceptual tendencies. This review contributes to a deeper understanding of the psychological processes involved in cultural adaptation, offering a foundation for developing effective strategies to support individuals in navigating the complexities of cross-cultural transitions.

Effects of Perceived Price Dispersion on Travel Agency Platforms: Mental Stimulation to Consumer Cognition

Despite free access to complete information regarding hotel quality and reference prices, consumers perceive significant price differences across different online platforms. We explore how perceived price dispersion on online travel agency platforms influences consumer purchase intention through mental account theory and propose a psychological mechanism explaining why consumers may tolerate and even embrace price discrepancies. Study 1 employs a scenario-based experiment that manipulates differing levels of price dispersion for the same hotel booking, demonstrating that higher PPD significantly amplifies perceived transaction utility and, in turn, acquisition utility. Study 2 corroborates these findings through an online survey with judgment sampling, highlighting that consumers—despite access to comprehensive OTA information—are often motivated, rather than deterred, by price discrepancies; multiple variable combinations were tested to ensure robust findings. This study challenges traditional marketing theories suggesting that price dispersion signals market unfairness and reduces consumers’ purchasing intention; instead, it mentally stimulates consumers. This perception enhances transaction and acquisition utility, positively impacting purchase intention. We also offer a robust model for mechanism study and provide insights for leveraging price dispersion as a cost-less promotional strategy, potentially increasing consumer engagement without additional marketing expenditure. We contribute to the literature by integrating the mental account theory into the context of online marketplaces and developing a price dispersion model with psychological utility in the consumer decision-making process.

Investigation of The Effect of Psychological Adaptation Skills on Sleep Quality: A Study on Students of The Faculty of Sports Sciences

Adequate sleep is vital for individuals. Many factors affect sleep quality. Some of these factors are expressed as depression, anxiety, and stress. The impact of depression, anxiety, and stress on sleep quality is an important issue that needs to be revealed. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of psychological adaptation skills of Ataturk University and Erzurum Technical University sports sciences faculty students on sleep quality. A total of 358 students, 119 female and 239 male, studying at sports science faculties constitute the sample group. Three parts were used in the data collection process: demographic information form, sleep quality scale, and DAS-21 scale. The relational screening model was used in the research. Findings show that as participants' depression, anxiety, and stress levels increase, their sleep quality scores also increase. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were used in the study. As a result of the correlation and multiple regression analysis, it is seen that psychological adaptation skills positively predict sleep quality. As participants' sleep quality levels increase, their psychological adaptation skills increase.

Unlocking the enigma: understanding the motives and identities of Chinese urban youth as influencer followers

Purpose This study aims to explore the perceptions of follower identities among Chinese youth and the formation of these identities within the context of use and gratification theory and mediated relationships. Design/methodology/approach Interviews were conducted with 22 individuals who followed digital influencers on various social media platforms, and a general inductive approach was followed to analyze the collected data. Findings The research uncovered that influencers’ followers view themselves as learners, advisees, surveillants, friends and sponsors, aligning these identities with their reasons for following influencers. These reasons are classified as either emotionally or functionally driven. The study further highlights the critical role these motivations and identities play in influencing the followers’ intentions to buy products and brands endorsed by influencers. Followers motivated by utilitarian reasons focus more on the product’s functionality and practical value, whereas those attracted to influencers for their unique personalities and perceived personal connections place greater importance on the products’ symbolic value. Originality/value Despite the widespread attention the influencer market has garnered, scant literature has deeply explored the psychological mechanisms behind individuals’ behavior in following influencers and their subsequent purchasing intentions. This study introduces new insights into influencer marketing by focusing on followers’ psychological motivations, offering a refined understanding of their impact on the dynamics of digital marketing.

Core beliefs in psychosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Increasing interest is growing for the identification of psychological mechanisms to account for the influence of trauma on psychosis, with core beliefs being proposed as a putative mediator to account for this relationship. A systematic review (n = 79 studies) was conducted to summarise the existing evidence base regarding the role of core beliefs/schemas in psychosis, Clinical High-Risk (CHR), and non-clinical samples with Psychotic-Like Experiences (PLEs). Compared to Healthy Controls (HCs), individuals with psychosis experiencing Auditory Hallucinations or Persecutory Delusions had significantly higher scores for negative self and negative other-beliefs and significantly lower scores for positive self and positive other-beliefs. This pattern of core beliefs was also observed for CHR individuals. In contrast, the core belief profile for grandiose delusions was in the opposite direction: higher positive self and positive other-beliefs and lower negative self-beliefs. In non-clinical samples, several factors mediated the relationship between Traumatic Life Events (TLEs) and PLEs, such as greater perceived stress, dissociation, external locus of control, and negative self and negative other-beliefs. Compared to HCs, meta-analyses revealed statistically significant large effects for negative self and negative other-beliefs in Schizophrenia. In CHR, statistically significant large and moderate effects were found for negative self and negative other-beliefs, respectively, along with a moderate negative effect for positive self-beliefs. Core beliefs were found to play a significant role in the development and maintenance of positive symptoms of psychosis. The development of psychosocial interventions that explicitly target negative self and other-beliefs, whilst also enhancing positive self-beliefs are warranted and would innovate CBTp practices.

The power of self-forgiveness: the dual impact of shame on creativity

While some studies have begun to explore the impact of negative emotions on creativity, the psychological mechanisms through which shame, as a strongly negative emotional experience, affects creativity remain unclear. Furthermore, previous research has predominantly relied on variable-centered methods, potentially masking significant individual differences in shame within populations. Therefore, this study employs an individual-centered latent profile analysis method, grounded in cognitive adjustment model theory and emotion regulation process models, to examine the mediating role of self-forgiveness across different categories of shame. The study surveyed 1023 participants (50.60% male, 49.40% female). The results revealed that latent profile analysis identified five distinct shame groups: Shame-Context Constancy Low, Shame-Context Constancy Moderate, Shame-Context Constancy High, Shame-Context Salience Low, and Shame-Context Salience High. Self-forgiveness played a suppressive mediating role in the Shame-Context Constancy High and Shame-Context Salience High groups, which, in turn, influenced creativity. This study uncovers significant heterogeneity in shame across different groups and elucidates the complex psychological mechanisms through which shame affects creativity: high levels of shame may predict better creative performance, but the lack of self-forgiveness can inhibit the creative benefits derived from shame. These findings provide valuable insights for interventions aimed at enhancing creativity among different shame subgroups.

Psychological Mechanisms in Chekhov

This paper aims to analyse the psychological mechanisms present in the dramaturgy of Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, alongside the psychic transformations undergone by the theatre creator during the process of interpreting and staging these classic texts. Considering the symbolic value of Chekhov’s characters at a social and cultural level, all of which were developed under the auspices of the great cultural and historical shifts of the beginning of the 20th century, the present analysis investigates a series of stage expression methods that the contemporary theatre has exhibited over the past decades. In fact, what this essay questions is the creator’s level of understanding of his own artistic predispositions, needs, or fears. The way the artist navigates through the realm of signs and aesthetic images born from Chekhov’s dramaturgy tests both the discernment that everyone trains in front of the stage, as well as the predilection for certain motives and directorial directions. Moreover, for a theatre-maker, Chekhovian dramaturgy provokes an essential interaction with the emotional and psychological sensibilities of the characters, as it requires great attention to detail in the interpretation and staging of these fine psychological processes.

Workplace greenery and employee green behavior: a moderated-mediation model

Purpose The implementation of sustainable corporate policies and practices requires that employees engage in green behavior. Understanding the drivers of employee green behavior (EGB) is a fundamental research question. This paper aims to extend the scholarship on the micro-foundations of EGB by examining workplace greenery as an antecedent of EGB. Design/methodology/approach Drawing from theories in environmental psychology (biophilic design, well-being and nature relatedness [NR]), the paper studies the mediating role of well-being and the moderating role of employee nature-relatedness in a three-wave panel study, conducted nine months apart in a sample of white-collar workers. Findings Workplace greenery influences the green behavior of employees; whereas the effect is direct for employees with low NR, for employees high in this trait the effect is mediated by well-being. Practical implications Workplace greenery emerges as a practical environmental cue that contributes to achieving the environmental goals of the company reducing its environmental impact. Organizations may consider investing in creating greener workspaces as it implies a double dividend: for employees with stronger environmental identities, these plants enhance well-being and indirectly foster green behavior, but it will encourage green behavior in employees without such an identity. Social implications The insights provided about the complex interplay between workplace greenery, NR, well-being and environmental behavior can guide the development of targeted and more strategic workplace interventions that foster greener and happier employees and organizations. Originality/value This study contributes to the micro-foundations of EGB in three ways. First, it reveals that workplace greenery, an under-researched organizational factor, may be used as a cultural artifact to promote green behavior among employees. Second, it enriches the authors’ understanding of the psychological mechanisms leading to EGB. Finally, it expands on the individual determinants of EGB, underscoring the importance of considering NR in green human resource management.

Urban residents’ water-saving behaviors along the South-to-North Water Diversion Project

ABSTRACT Based on the value-belief-norm (VBN) theory, this paper analyzes the driving factors and influencing mechanisms of residents’ water-saving behaviors (WSB) along the South-to-North Water Diversion Project (SNWDP) in China. Specifically, focusing on residents from five water-receiving provinces and cities along the SNWDP, we collected 258 questionnaires and employed a structural equation model to analyze the data and verify that residents’ WSB can be determined through the chain of values, beliefs, and personal norms (PN). The results indicate that biospheric value (BV) and altruistic value (AV) positively affect the ascription of responsibility (AR), whereas egoistic value (EV) and AR have no significant negative correlation. Moreover, AR has a significantly positive effect on PN, and PN statistically predicts residents’ WSB. this research reveals the driving factors and psychological mechanisms of residents’ WSB along the SNWDP and puts forward water-saving policy suggestions based on the psychological and behavioral levels.

Motivational Needs Satisfaction and Universal Design for Learning

Motivational Needs Satisfaction and Universal Design for Learning

Psychological Resilience in Flood-Affected Communities of Pakistan: Coping Strategies and Mental Health Outcomes

Background: Refugees undergo traditional socio-economic and psychological strain which captures their resilience and wellbeing. The context from which these boundaries emerge, such as limited financial resources, social support networks, educational opportunities, and coping mechanisms are pertinent to their acculturation as well as their mental health. These factors are important when creating targeted interventions. Aim: This investigation seeks to outline a demographic profile detailing psychological distress, coping mechanisms, and barriers to education for refugees that stress the importance of family support, financial resources, and education in building resilience. Method: In Pakistan, a psychologist phenomenology approach was adopted to investigate coping experiences of a flood affecting community in eight provinces. There were focus group discussions that contained participants from each of the geography and culture of focus. 600 refugees participated through focus group probability sampling, which was equally divided across 5 provinces. Each province was further divided into two cities. Everyone was asked emotions, social, and cognitive coping strategies with 20 open-ended questions Restriction for risk of feeling stigmatized from using NVivo software to demographic resilience and mental health outcome concealed by ethical approval and informed consent. Results: Financial constraints (33.3%) and lack of infrastructure (25%) were identified as primary barriers to education. Psychological distress, including PTSD and anxiety, was rampant among people especially lacking in social support. Family support (41.7%) emerged as a prominent factor of resilience. Alongside religion, coping and other cognitive strategies were central for emotions regulation. Conclusion: it's important note the impact of education and mental health on financial wellbeing. Failing to tackle the interrelated nature will only perpetuate mental health issues that makes the integration process harder long term.

Corporate social responsibility and organizational citizenship behavior: Mediating role of psychological capital, affective commitment, and prosocial motivation

This research attempts to investigate the mechanisms linking corporate social responsibility with organizational citizenship behavior among Generation Z employees in Indonesia's banking sector, focusing on the mediating roles of psychological capital, affective commitment, and prosocial motivation. While Generation Z demonstrates high concern for social and environmental issues, paradoxically, they exhibit the lowest levels of organizational citizenship behavior among all generations. Data were collected through an online survey of 230 Generation Z employees in the Indonesian banking sector who had worked for at least 6 months. The study employs Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling for data analysis. The findings reveal that corporate social responsibility positively influence organizational citizenship behavior through the mediation of psychological capital, affective commitment, and prosocial motivation. These findings provide insights for banking institutions in designing effective corporate social responsibility strategies to enhance organizational citizenship behavior among Generation Z employees, while contributing to the literature by explaining the psychological mechanisms linking corporate social responsibility to organizational citizenship behavior. Practical and theoretical implications are discussed, along with suggestions for future research.

Mindfulness and Inhibitory Control of Deaf Students: Evidence from China

ABSTRACT Inhibitory control is an important component of cognitive function, and it may be more critical for individuals with hearing impairment than those with normal hearing. However, few studies have examined the impact of hearing impairment on inhibitory control, and the mechanism underlying this relationship is unclear. This study investigated different inhibitory control in hearing-impaired and hearing-normal individuals and explored whether there is some relationship between inhibitory control and mindfulness in hearing-impaired individuals. A comparative study of 61 hearing-impaired and 55 hearing-normal individuals was conducted using the Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale and Flanker task. The results showed that both groups had conflicting effects. In terms of trends, the hearing-impaired group had lower inhibitory control ability. Besides, mindfulness predicted inhibitory control in the hearing-impaired, but this prediction was weak and insignificant for the hearing-normal. Therefore, it is clear from the simple moderating results that there may be a common psychological mechanism between mindfulness level and inhibitory control in both groups: mindfulness can positively predict inhibitory control. These findings highlight that hearing impairment can affect inhibitory control and provide potential mechanisms by which mindfulness can improve inhibitory control. These mechanisms are illuminating and informative for understanding issues such as altered cognitive function in hearing-impaired individuals, brain plasticity, and educational training of hearing-impaired children.