Psychological Strategies Research Articles

Textual Cohesion in the Speech of Tariq ibn Ziyad at the Conquest of Andalusia: A Linguistic Study

This study examines textual cohesion in the speech of Tariq bin Ziyad delivered during the conquest of Andalusia in the 8th century. This speech is known as one of the psychological strategies that successfully inspired and motivated his troops in facing the larger Visigoth army. This study aims to identify and analyze the types of lexical and grammatical cohesion contained in the text of the speech. The research method used is descriptive qualitative with data sources in the form of speech texts of Tariq bin Ziyad taken from the internet. Data analysis is done by identifying, classifying, and interpreting sentences that contain lexical and grammatical cohesion. Lexical cohesion includes repetition, synonymy, antonymy, hyponymy collocation, and equivalence, while grammatical cohesion includes elements such as reference, substitution, ellipsis, and conjunction. The results show that Tariq bin Ziyad's speech contains various elements of cohesion that are effective in maintaining the unity and clarity of the message, as well as motivating and building solidarity among the troops. This textual cohesion plays an important role in effectively conveying the message and influencing the psychology of the listeners, which contributed to the military success of Tariq bin Ziyad and his troops in conquering Andalusia.

Empowering Women Through Sport: Developing for Competition and Life

Development through sport has a long and varied history in sport psychology. Unfortunately, there appears to be an under-representation of females in sport psychology research, both generally and in this important area. Thus, it is fair to assume that female athletes are likely receiving coaching, guidance, and psychological strategies focused on their development, but informed by evidence based primarily on males. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to introduce that females need their own specific research to best help them build empowering psychological characteristics. Reflecting the comparatively small numbers who make it to the top, such systems must not only help them in their sport, but also help them succeed in life. Indeed, we propose that the development of the necessary psychological characteristics could help females face the equality challenges they face in sport and in future leadership roles. Furthermore, that there needs to be a shift in focus when it comes to sport, and female athletes should not only be developed for their sport but also from their sport.

Research on Psychological Coping Strategies for Employment Anxiety Among Contemporary College Students

Research on Psychological Coping Strategies for Employment Anxiety Among Contemporary College Students

Social distancing stress, anxiety/depression, COVID-19 diagnosis, gender identity, and immigration status

BackgroundStrict social distancing public health measures to decrease COVID-19 spread increased social distancing stress. However, differences in social distancing stress by anxiety/depression symptoms are understudied, especially based on COVID-19 diagnosis status, gender identity, and immigration status. We examined whether the association between social distancing stress and anxiety/depression symptoms was moderated by COVID-19 diagnosis status, gender identity, and immigration status. We further examined the associations of social distancing stress with anxiety/depression symptoms, gender identity, and immigration status among individuals with and without COVID-19.MethodsWe utilized data from a national cross-sectional survey among adults aged ≥ 18 years in the United States between May 13, 2021, and January 9, 2022 (n = 5,255). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the associations.ResultsThe prevalence of social distancing stress was higher among individuals with COVID-19 (79.23%) than among those without COVID-19 (67.51%). We observed significant associations between social distancing stress and anxiety/depression symptoms, moderated by COVID-19 diagnosis status, immigration status, and gender identity, respectively. Anxiety/depression symptoms were associated with social distancing stress among both individuals with and without COVID-19. Gender identity and immigration status were associated with social distancing stress among only individuals without COVID-19.ConclusionsOur findings revealed that the association between social distancing stress and anxiety/depression varied by COVID-19 diagnosis status, gender identity, and immigration status. The findings underscore the need for more targeted psychological distress strategies to reduce social distancing stress and anxiety/depression among diverse US populations, while considering the impacts of COVID-19 diagnosis status, gender identity, and immigration status.

Integrated self-management support provided by primary care nurses to persons with chronic diseases and common mental disorders: a qualitative study

BackgroundMore and more people suffer from concomitant chronic physical diseases and common mental disorders, calling for integrated self-management support in primary care. However, self-management support of chronic physical diseases and common mental disorders is not clearly operationalized by guidelines and is still conducted in silos by primary care nurses, especially in favour of chronic diseases. This study aims to better understand primary care nurses’ experience of integrated self-management support for people with physical chronic diseases and common mental disorders.MethodsAn interpretive descriptive qualitative approach was conducted with 23 primary care nurses from family medicine groups in Quebec (Canada). They were selected through purposive and snowball sampling methods to participate in an individual interview. Data were analysed using an iterative inductive and deductive analysis (Rainbow Model of Integrated Care and the Practical Reviews in Self-Management Support (PRISMS) taxonomy).ResultsNurses’ experience of integrated self-management support for people with CD and CMD was structured around: (1) elements of the approach; (2) clinical integration through prevention and health promotion; and (3) operationalization of integrated self-management support. Several elements deemed essential to integrated self-management support were identified. Nurses offered integrated self-management support through prevention of risk factors and promotion of a healthy lifestyle for physical chronic diseases and common mental disorders. Nurses’ self-management support activities included education, action plans, monitoring, and many practical, psychological, and social support strategies. A model of integrated self-management support for primary care nursing is proposed to better understand its clinical integration.ConclusionThis study presents clinical integration of self-management support and activities for people with physical chronic diseases and common mental disorders in primary care settings. Understanding integrated self-management support will help implement future interventions.

EDUCAÇÃO MULTICULTURAL E JOGOS USANDO REALIDADE AUMENTADA NO TDAH

According to recent data, many communities worldwide are multicultural nowadays. Culture is believed to significantly impact the creation of therapy materials, practice models, assessment instruments, and client collaboration. Also, recent works address the interaction between a therapist and a client and the need to understand a child's social needs. Even with significant advancements in the development and delivery of efficient treatments for children with ADHD, ethnic minority youths and teens continue to lag behind their non-minority peers in terms of diagnosis and treatment rates. Various learning and behavioral obstacles are linked to this disorder because of cognitive and metacognitive functioning difficulties. Individuals can only fully integrate into society if these functions have been acquired. Children can acquire alternate strategies to manage their cognitive deficits and adapt to different circumstances by using internal attention to build self-awareness, self-regulation, and self-control. The quick progress of research has led to the development of several medicinal and psychological strategies for treating ADHD, which significantly help with symptom management. The goal of the current study is to gain an understanding of the various therapeutic approaches used to help children from racial and ethnic minorities who are suffering from ADHD. These approaches include games using augmented reality (AR) environments.

Weight Loss Programs: Why Do They Fail? A Multidimensional Approach for Obesity Management.

Despite the prevalence of weight loss programs, their success rates remain discouraging, with around half of individuals regaining lost weight within two years. The primary objective of this review is to explore the factors contributing to the failure of weight loss programs and to provide insights into effective weight management strategies. Factors contributing to the failure of weight loss programs include the impracticality of restrictive diets, potential metabolic impacts, limited focus on lifestyle changes, genetic predispositions, psychological influences, socioeconomic status, and medical conditions. A holistic approach considering these factors is crucial for safe and sustainable weight loss. Key findings indicate the importance of holistic approaches to weight management, including lifestyle modifications, medical interventions, and behavioral and psychological strategies. Effective weight loss strategies emphasize low-calorie, nutrient-rich diets, regular physical activity, and interventions tailored to individual needs. Combining multiple approaches offers the best chance of successful weight management and improved health outcomes. This review provides insights into the complexities of obesity management and the factors contributing to the failure of weight loss programs. It highlights the necessity of adopting a holistic approach that addresses dietary habits, physical activity, genetic factors, psychological well-being, and socioeconomic influences. Recommendations include implementing lifestyle modifications, medical interventions when necessary, and integrating behavioral and psychological support to achieve sustainable weight loss and mitigate the global health challenge posed by obesity.

Psychological Distress, Coping Strategies and Social Support in Parents of Children with Leukemia

Background: Leukemia poses significant distress for affected children and their families, necessitating extensive parental involvement in care. Parents must manage multiple clinic visits, medication administration, and provide emotional support during treatment, impacting their psychological well-being. Objective: To assess the levels of psychological distress, coping strategies, and social support among parents of children with leukemia. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at Bolan Medical Complex and Cenar Cancer Hospital in Quetta, Baluchistan. A total of 341 parents participated, with data collected via three standardized questionnaires: the Coping Health Inventory for Parents (CHIP), Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Ethical approval was granted by the Khyber Medical University Peshawar. Results: Among the participants, 36.1% were aged 25-35 years; 61.9% were male. Educational levels were 73.9% secondary and 23.8% primary. Psychological distress was reported as moderate by 86%, while 76% utilized fair coping strategies, and 95% experienced medium social support. There was no significant correlation between psychological distress and coping strategies; however, a negative association was noted between social support and psychological distress. Conclusion: The study reveals substantial psychological distress among parents, with prevalent fair coping strategies and medium social support. Enhanced social support is negatively associated with psychological distress, highlighting the need for targeted support interventions.

Resilience and coping: a qualitative analysis of cognitive and behavioral factors in adults with osteogenesis Imperfecta

Purpose The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate resilience among adults with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). Materials and methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 adults with OI. Transcripts were coded and subsequently abstracted, yielding themes specific to resilience and coping. Interview guides covered broad topics including pain challenges specific to OI, mental health issues related to OI, and priorities for future interventions for individuals with OI. Results Participants described resilience in the context of OI as the ability to grow from adversity, adapt to challenges resulting from OI-related injuries, and find identities apart from their condition. Psychological coping strategies included acceptance, self-efficacy, cognitive reframing, perspective-taking, and positivity. Behavioral factors that helped participants develop resilience included developing new skills, pursuing meaningful goals, practicing spirituality, and seeking external resources such as psychotherapy, education, and connection with community. Conclusion Having identified how adults with OI define resilience and the strategies they use to cope, we can now develop interventions and guide healthcare providers in improving psychological wellbeing in this population.

Updating the psychological case for reparations to African Americans

AbstractIn 2019, Medria Connolly and I wrote an article that we consider to be the theoretical foundation of our reparations activism. Since that time, a world‐wide pandemic and unprecedented protests following the extra‐judicial killing of George Floyd dramatically changed the psycho‐social landscape surrounding the reparations debate. Evidence of the third spontaneously erupted across the world and was instantaneously televised into the homes of an audience held captive by pandemic restrictions. However, a fierce and sophisticated backlash that historically follows Black advancement also materialized. Group and individual psychological strategies are offered that may help sustain the reparations movement in the face of these powerful counter forces.

Assessing the mental health of slum dwellers: an ordinal logistic approach

BackgroundStress, depression and anxiety are prevalent mental health concerns that are getting worse every day in the context of rapidly expanding megacities, where a rising number of people live in slums. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the state of mental health and related variables underlying mental health issues among the impoverished population.MethodologyA total of 384 slum residents from the Khulna division responded to our questionnaire, which included the DASS-21 and other pertinent questions. Using ordinal logistic regression, the significant factors were extracted.ResultsThe Cronbach’s reliability coefficient for the DASS-21 scale lies between 0.79 and 0.89 which indicates the high reliability of the DASS-21 scales. According to the findings, roughly 72.7%, 84.1%, and 69% of participants slum dwellers experienced anxiety, depression, and anxiety problems respectively. The result of ordinal logistic regression shows, slum dwellers of female gender (B = 0.669*, 95% CI 0.141, 1.197), married (B = 1.506*, 95% CI 0.119, 2.893), having only one earning member in the family (B = 1.224*, 95% CI 0.526, 1.922), day laborers (B = 2.294*, 95% CI 1.115, 3.473), not being able to educate children due to financial problem (B = 0.558*, 95% CI 0.183, 0.932) were more likely to report high levels of anxiety, depression, and stress.ConclusionThe study finds that a significant portion of people who live in slums struggle with mental health issues. It also points to the need for further support, intervention, and study on Khulna's slum inhabitants who are experiencing mental health issues. The authors anticipate that the results will spur policymakers and government representatives to enhance financing for slum dwellers and employ psychological intervention strategies, both of which will aid in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal.

Multiple Linear Analysis of the Mindfulness on Exercise Stress, and Psychological Performance Strategies

Multiple Linear Analysis of the Mindfulness on Exercise Stress, and Psychological Performance Strategies

Impact of Solution-based Intervention on Psychological Problems and Coping Strategies among Women with Gestational Diabetes

Impact of Solution-based Intervention on Psychological Problems and Coping Strategies among Women with Gestational Diabetes

Longitudinal effects of cognitive fusion in depressive and anxious symptoms of family caregivers of people with dementia.

Family dementia caregiving has been commonly associated with psychological distress for caregivers. Cognitive fusion, that is, the tendency to become too entangled in thoughts, beliefs, or judgments (in the absence of objectivity) that may often lead to rigid thinking and impact psychological distress, is a transdiagnostic and central process of psychological inflexibility. Cross-sectional studies have shown that family caregivers of people with dementia who could present high levels of stress may be vulnerable to experiencing psychological symptoms such as depression and anxiety (even comorbidity) if they present this rigid way of thinking without seeing the objectivity of their thoughts, which could be related to aspects of the family member's dementia or helplessness in being a caregiver, for example. Specifically, studies in the caregiving field, as well as in other populations, suggest that cognitive fusion could play a mediating role in the relationship between stress and psychological symptoms. However, the predictive role of caregivers' cognitive fusion on psychological distress has not been analyzed in longitudinal studies. The objective of this study was to analyze the longitudinal effect of cognitive fusion in depressive and anxious symptoms after controlling for other relevant variables in a sample of Spanish family caregivers. Face to face assessments were conducted with a total of 176 Spanish family dementia caregivers. The study involved three assessments in a two-year period (baseline, 12 and 24 months). Linear mixed model analysis was used to analyze the associations between time-varying values of frequency and reaction to care-recipient behavioral problems, cognitive fusion, and caregivers' depressive and anxiety symptoms. Increases in cognitive fusion significantly predicted depressive and anxious symptoms (p < 0.01). In addition, reaction to care-recipients’ behavioral problems and being a female caregiver predicted increases in anxiety symptoms over time (p < 0.05). These results suggested that cognitive fusion may constitute a core dysfunctional mechanism involved in depressive and anxious symptoms. Psychological strategies aimed at reducing cognitive fusion and stress levels may be especially helpful for reducing caregivers' distress.

UK-based digital forensic investigators and the impact of exposure to traumatic material

Purpose Digital forensic investigators (DFIs) encounter traumatic material, and this is associated with the development of secondary traumatic stress (STS). Limited research has been conducted with UK DFIs, a significant concern given their role. This study aims to explore levels of self-reported STS by DFIs, the relationship to gender, years as a DFI, frequency of exposure to traumatic material and difficulty coping with such material. This study also aims to provide insight into the psychological impact, identify potential risk groups and explore coping strategies within this specific group of professionals. Design/methodology/approach A correlational cross-sectional design was conducted at a fixed point in time, with a sample of 114 currently employed DFIs, recruited through the Forensic Capability Network. Findings Mean STS scores fell within the moderate range, although 29.9% of participants reported high to severe levels. Significant correlations were found between STS total and subscales with difficulty viewing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). While females reported higher mean STS scores, the difference was not statistically significant, however, females did score significantly higher on the arousal sub-scale of the STS. Regression analysis included the variables (COPE scale and subscales, frequency of viewing child abuse material, years spent working as a DFI, age, gender) that identified mental disengagement, difficulty viewing CSAM and younger age as predictors of increased STS. Research limitations/implications Primarily, the reliance on self-report instruments lacks external validation of STS. Furthermore, possible response or selection basis could have stemmed from participants experiencing high stress. Hosting the study online hindered exploring this further, suggesting the potential for future research. Although the regression model explained 28% of STS variance, unaccounted factors remain, constituting 72% unexplained variance. A mixed method approach might unveil additional variables, addressing potential limitations. Additionally, this study was cross-sectional meaning that the authors cannot infer causation. Practical implications These findings underscore the need for educational efforts targeting DFI’s to raise awareness about potential mental health risks associated with CSAM-related work. Equally crucial is emphasising the hazards associated with adopting negative coping strategies. Equipping DFI’s with this knowledge may enable them to make informed decisions aimed at minimising the impact of job-related stressors. Moreover, it highlights the necessity of recognising DFIs as a group deserving access to professional and mental health support. It is pertinent to consider recent research highlighting the stigma of therapy and a prevailing perception of a “critical or judgemental workplace culture” among UK investigators. Social implications To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study represents the first known exploration of STS in UK-based DFI’s, encompassing an investigation into potential risk and protective factors. A proportion of the sample reported experiencing mild to severe levels of STS, with the mean STS score falling within the moderate range. Notably, 29.9% of participants reported high to severe levels of STS. Originality/value The findings provide an inaugural exploration of STS among UK-based DFI’s, offering crucial insight into the psychological impact, vulnerable demographics and coping strategies within this unique professional context. Practical implications based on the findings are considered.

Effects of pain education on disability, pain, quality of life, and self-efficacy in chronic low back pain: A randomized controlled trial.

Low back pain stands as a prevalent contributor to pain-related disability on a global scale. In addressing chronic low back pain (CLBP), there is a growing emphasis on incorporating psychological strategies into the management process. Among these, pain education interventions strive to reshape pain beliefs and mitigate the perceived threat of pain. This randomized controlled trial sought to assess the effects of pain education on various aspects, including pain levels, disability, quality of life, self-efficacy, and prognostic characteristics in individuals grappling with CLBP. The clinical trial, retrospectively registered with the Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2021/08/035963), employed a two-arm parallel randomized design. Ninety-two participants with CLBP were randomly assigned to either the standard physiotherapy care with a pain education program or the control group. Both groups underwent a 6-week intervention. Assessment of pain intensity (using NPRS), disability (using RMDQ), self-efficacy (using the general self-efficacy scale), and well-being (using WHO 5I) occurred both before and after the 6-week study intervention. Post-intervention score comparisons between the groups revealed that the pain education intervention led to a significant reduction in disability compared to the usual standard care at 6 weeks (mean difference 8.2, p < 0.001, effect size Cohen d = 0.75), a decrease in pain intensity (mean difference 3.5, p < 0.001, effect size Cohen d = 0.82), and an improvement in the well-being index (mean difference 13.7, p < 0.001, effect size Cohen d = 0.58). The findings suggest that integrating a pain education program enhances the therapeutic benefits of standard physiotherapy care for individuals dealing with chronic LBP. In conclusion, the clinical benefits of pain education become apparent when delivered in conjunction with standard care physiotherapy during the management of chronic low back pain.

Exploring the role of mindfulness in the stress-recovery balance: 10-Day monitoring of young BMX riders in an intensive training center during a pre-competition cycle

Considering mindfulness as a multidimensional disposition domain-specific skill and state, this study aimed to explore the effect of the dimensions of mindfulness on the trajectories of biopsychosocial stress-recovery balance and on HRV over 10 days of a pre-competitive cycle. 24 young BMX riders completed mindfulness disposition and domain-specific skill scales. Monitoring of the recovery-stress states was based on biopsychosocial measurements (daily and biweekly). RMSSD was used to assess the organism ability to cope with the training program stimulus. After each training session, riders self-rated their state of mindfulness. Multilevel growth curve analyses examined the linear and/or quadratic trajectories of the athletes’ recovery-stress states and the effect of mindfulness on these trajectories. Mindfulness states results showed that the refocusing state had a significant negative quadratic effect over time on daily recovery and sport-specific recovery, and the awareness state on general recovery and total recovery. Concerning the dispositions of mindfulness, the observing component had a significant positive quadratic effect over time on daily stress. Nonreactivity had a significant positive quadratic effect over time on daily recovery and sport-specific recovery, and a significant positive effect on RMSSD. Acting with awareness had a significant positive effect on daily recovery and a significant negative effect on RMSSD. The study offered a better understanding of the effect of mindfulness (dispositions, domain-specific skills, and states) and its different components on the stress-recovery balance. The results suggest that mindfulness could be considered a promising effective psychological recovery strategy.

Exploring the experiences of dancers who have achieved peak performance: on-stage, pre-stage, and post-stage

The aim of this study is to identify and classify the different attributes that contribute to peak performance among professional dancers, and to understand how these attributes change over time. We conducted an analysis using inductive content analysis on open-ended survey data collected from 42 formally trained professional dancers. Additionally, we analyzed interview data from seven professional dancers who demonstrated outstanding achievements in the field among the survey participants. The main themes that emerged were related to various temporal events of peak performance experience: pre-stage, on-stage, and post-stage. During the on-stage, peak performance was perceived by both internal and external factors. During the pre-stage, emphasis was placed on technical, cognitive, and artistic strategies during practice, whereas just before going on the stage, attention shifted to psychological and physical strategies. During the post-stage, dancers reported immediate changes in their psychological and physical states following the peak performance experience, and thereafter, the peak performance experience was noted to influence psychological, technical, and cognitive aspects. These findings provide valuable insights into the key characteristics that emerge throughout a series of peak performance experiences and are consistent with previous research.

Особенности психологических защит и копинг-стратегий у педагогов дошкольных образовательных учреждений с разным уровнем психологического благополучия

&lt;p&gt;The aim of the work was to identify the features of psychological defenses and coping strategies among teachers of preschool educational institutions with different levels of psychological well-being. The study involved 62 educators of preschool educational institutions in the city of Rostov-on-Don, the city of Aksai and the village of Rassvet, Rostov Region. The following methods were used: &amp;ldquo;Scale of psychological well-being&amp;rdquo; by K. Riff, technique for measuring psychological defense by E.R. Pilyugina, R.F. Suleimanov, questionnaire &amp;ldquo;Types of orientations in difficult situations&amp;rdquo; by E.V. Bityutskaya, A.A. Korneeva. As a result of the study, it was found that teachers with a high level of psychological well-being more often use adaptive psychological defenses, teachers with an average level of psychological well-being more often use psychological defense of the infantile type, teachers with a low level of psychological well-being more often use psychological defense of the psychotic, as well as infantile and neurotic types. Teachers of preschool educational institutions with a high level of psychological well-being are distinguished by their preference for coping strategies related to the type &amp;ldquo;Orientation towards rapprochement, interaction with difficulty.&amp;rdquo; Teachers of preschool educational institutions with an average and, especially, a low level of psychological well-being tend to be more inclined to use coping strategies related to the type &amp;ldquo;Orientation towards leaving and moving away from difficulties.&amp;rdquo; It is recommended to use the results of the study in psychoprophylactic and psychocorrective work with preschool teachers.&lt;/p&gt;

Qualitative exploration of sexual dysfunction and associated coping strategies among Iranian prostate cancer survivors.

Our understanding of the experiences of prostate cancer survivors regarding their sexual life and related issues remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to explore sexual dysfunction and associated coping strategies among Iranian prostate cancer survivors. A qualitative study was undertaken. Participants were 15 Iranian prostate cancer survivors chosen using purposeful sampling. Data collection involved conducting in-depth semi-structured interviews, followed by the utilization of the conventional qualitative content analysis method for data analysis. Three themes were developed: (a) suspension of sexual life-treatment for prostate cancer significantly impacted participants' sexual lives; (b) emotional resilience and psychological coping strategies-various psychological strategies were used to tackle sexual dysfunction; (c) efforts to regain sexual function-several strategies were applied to enhance sexual performance. Our study findings provide insights into the experiences of prostate cancer survivors and subsequent shifts in their sexual dynamics and coping with the disease. Healthcare providers should actively identify patients' concerns and develop culturally tailored care strategies to address sexual challenges and improve coping among prostate cancer survivors.