Showing papers in "Psychological Studies in 2014"

Social Influences on Students’ Academic Engagement and Science Achievement

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the role of social support from parents, teachers, and peers in students’ engagement and achievement. Filipino secondary school students (N = 1,694) participated in this study and answered questionnaires assessing their levels of perceived social support and academic engagement. A standardized science achievement test was also given. Results showed that students who perceived higher levels of social support from parents, teachers, and peers were more engaged and had higher achievement scores. More interestingly, peer support seemed to be more salient compared to parental and teacher support. Implications are discussed.

Medical Jargons as Hindrance in Doctor–Patient Communication

Abstract: This study assessed patients’ understanding of the jargons used by cardiologists during consultation, and to compare the knowledge of these jargons across three patient age groups. The Cardiac Jargons Comprehension Schedule (CAJCOMPS), consisting of 11 cardiac jargons, was developed and validated. It was found that the proportion of participants who were aware of the jargons ranged between 10 % and 96 % across the 11 jargons; however, mean scores across the jargons ranged only between 0 and 2 on a scale of 0–5. Significant effect of age on the overall level of understanding of jargons and of specific jargons (Angina, Heart Failure, Palpitation and Treadmill Test) was noted. Participants of the youngest age group (18–45 years) had reported significantly lower level of knowledge of jargons than their the older age counterparts (46–60 and 61–80 years). Cardiologists’ communication involving jargons is, thus, not adequately reaching patients, young adults in particular.

Analysis of the Separation of Task-Based and Self-Based Achievement Goals in a Philippine Sample

Abstract: The 3 × 2 achievement goal model separates the mastery goal construct into task-based and self-based achievement goals. Using data primarily gathered from self-report questionnaires administered to a sample of Filipino college students from the Philippines, the present research investigated the structural validity of task-based goals and self-based goals and their association with previously examined antecedent and consequent variables of mastery goals (task value, self-efficacy, test hope, test anxiety, test performance). While results from the data analyses were mixed, the results provided some evidence on the structural and predictive validity of task-based and self-based achievement goals in the Philippine sample. Moreover, the present research did not only provide some support for the separation of task-based and self-based goals but also highlighted the benefits of both task-based goals and self-based goals.

Positive Psychology and Indian Psychology In Need of Mutual Reinforcement

Abstract: The current practices of positive psychology are woven into the behavioural fabric in the form of numerous strategies/practices without much theoretical foundation. Positive psychology moved from repair to reconstruction, from the negative side of human nature to its positive aspect. Indian psychology is relevant as it has the necessary meta-theoretical framework to sustain the goals of positive psychology. It proposes that mind may be controlled by deconstructing the ego and cultivating altruism by practicing selfless work, total absorption of the mind by devotion or meditation. When the ego is deconstructed, ignorance is removed and the person regains her inherent freedom and moves towards perfection. This position allows going beyond hedonistic pleasures to define happiness and combining material prosperity with moral sensitivity. To this end this paper brings out the points of contact between positive psychology and Indian psychology and argues for new initiatives.

Subjective Well-Being Predictors of Academic Citizenship Behavior

Abstract: Two studies tested the hypothesis that SWB predicts unique variance in academic citizenship attitudes, even while accounting for personality traits. In Study 1, participants (n = 2,566) completed an online questionnaire assessing their positive and negative affect, ACBs and personality. The results indicated that positive affect predicted consideration, civic virtue, and conscientiousness, whereas negative affect predicted citizenship conscientiousness and sportsmanship while controlling for personality. In Study 2, participants (n = 260) completed measures of life satisfaction, ACBs and personality. The results showed that life satisfaction predicted all ACBs while controlling for personality. Based on these results, it can be concluded that SWB is an important predictor of ACBs. Implications for the selection of student aids in academic settings are discussed.

When Does Yoga Work? Long Term and Short Term Effects of Yoga Intervention among Pre-adolescent Children

Abstract: In this research, pre-adolescent children of two city schools were randomly assigned to three conditions of a systematic yoga intervention, a non-yogic intervention and a time lagged comparison group intervention. Three assessments at baseline, three months and six months were done on a sample of 178 school children of class fifth and sixth. The outcome variables were anthropometric, cognitive, personality variables and self reported class room behaviours. Various directional hypotheses based on review of literature were tested. In particular, to understand the short term and long term effects of yoga intervention on children, repeated measures analysis and discriminant function analysis was used, which is discussed in the present paper. Results reveal that the effect of yoga interventions emerge only at long term, where the yoga group is clearly ahead of the non-yogic and time -lagged group on a cluster of factors termed as “positive health”. Implications are discussed.

Understanding Happiness: A Vedantic Perspective

Abstract: The pursuit of happiness has been the one of the most prominent goals of humanity since time immemorial. However, understanding and experiencing happiness varies across cultures. While the dominant understanding on happiness has developed from the Euro-American cultural background there are other significant conceptualizations present in the Eastern philosophical and cultural traditions like India and China. It has been noted that Eastern psychologies offer rich insights into human phenomena which are equally universal in nature because of their long-standing civilizational experiences. Drawing from these traditions would make the discourse on happiness culturally informed and more comprehensive. Furthermore, Indian tradition which considers bliss as the essential nature of the individual personality can contribute immensely in understanding and realizing lasting happiness. This paper explores the types and nature of happiness as expounded in the Vedantic tradition in the context of Indian psychology.

Conformity Bias: A Fact or an Experimental Artifact?

Abstract: Upon exploring social psychology’s treatment of the term social influence, a skew towards conformity is noted. This skew points to the tendency of amplifying the effect of conformity and minimizing any other form of social influence and has been termed ‘conformity bias’. This review explores the concept of conformity and tries to examine what conformity entails and how it has been understood (and often misunderstood). It is observed that conformity is not a unitary concept and has various facets to it. Besides identifying key disciplinary features such as methodology and ideology that may be possible causes of this skew, implications of this bias are discussed. Failure to identify and move beyond conformity bias may lead to failure in recognizing real social issues. Therefore, it becomes imperative that researchers be wary of this bias and take steps to consciously overcome it.

Influence of Sociocultural Pressures on Body Image Dissatisfaction

Abstract: It now seems that body image concerns, which were thought to be western phenomenon, are very much prevalent in Asian society. Against this backdrop this study tried to assess the relationship between body image dissatisfaction and sociocultural pressures in Indian girls. The study also attempted to look at whether self-consciousness about appearance and rejection of societal value of thinness mediate the relationship between body dissatisfaction and socio-cultural pressures to be thin. The participants included 303 females from the age range of 17–22 years. Measures used consisted of Young Women’s Experiences with Body Weight and Shape Assessment, BMI ratings, and Perceived Socio-cultural Pressures Scale. Results showed that body image dissatisfaction was significantly related to sociocultural pressures. Also self-consciousness about appearance partially mediated the relationship between body dissatisfaction and sociocultural pressures.

Positive Psychology and Indian Psychology: Birds of the Same Feather

Abstract: Positive psychology and Indian psychology share similar concerns regarding human life. But Indian psychology has more to offer towards our understanding of happiness and well-being than what Positive psychology can at this point of time, because of latter’s paradigmatic limitations. This commentary draws attention to certain shortcomings of the target article: (a) in presenting the contemporary Positive psychology perspective; (b) in conceptualizing IP with reference to its epistemological position; (c) and in equating certain concepts from PP and IP and their implications.

Teasing Experiences, Interpersonal Sensitivity, Self-Schema and Psychological Distress in Youth: an Exploratory Study

Abstract: The present study as aimed at exploring peer victimization (teasing) experiences, interpersonal sensitivity, self-schemas and psychological distress in youth. The sample consisted of 231 male and female participants who met specified criteria. Participants completed The Teasing Questionnaire-Revised, Teasing Checklist, Interpersonal Sensitivity Measure, General Health Questionnaire- 28 and Self- Schema Questionnaire. In addition, an open ended question was included to obtain data on teasing experiences. The results showed that the appearance related teasing was reported to be the highest, with more females than males reporting teasing experiences on this domain. Teasing experiences in the domains of performance, social behavior, family and appearance were positively related to psychological distress. Interpersonal sensitivity and self-schema were positively correlated with distress and there was a significant difference between distressed and non-distressed participants on these measures. On IPSM, the need for approval was higher in females whereas fragile inner self was higher in males. Self-efficacy on Self Schema Questionnaire (SSQ), Separation Anxiety (IPSM), Social behavior (TQ) and Teasing Checklist were found to be significant predictors of psychological distress, accounting for 29 % of the variation in psychological distress. Teasing experiences is a significant predisposing factor for psychological distress. Our findings have important clinical implications in understanding early teasing experiences in the development of psychological and emotional disorders.

A Q Analysis on the Impact of Shadow Education on the Academic Life of High School Students

Abstract: Shadow education, more commonly known as private tutoring, has been actively supplementing the formal mainstream education system in both developed and developing countries. Using the Q methodology, a quali-quantilogical approach, the study determined how private tutoring has impacted the academic life of high school students by exploring and analyzing their subjective experiences in relation to being part of shadow education. This was done by asking 30 high school students to perform a Q sort of 48 statements that depicts the impact of shadow education or private tutoring. The findings revealed that exposure to shadow education activities affected the general attitude of the participants towards their studies and learning and their perception about their selves and their ability to perform tasks related to their schooling. Likewise, results also showed that exposure to shadow education activities had an effect on the academic performance of the participants. The effect of exposure to shadow education activities are not limited to those commonly reported in literature.

Personality Factors, Attachment Styles and Coping Strategies in Couples with Good and Poor Marital Quality

Abstract: Marital quality in connection to its demographical and psychological correlates has been studied extensively in the West. In India also, it has been given considerable attention, but adequate exploration of relevant psychological variables is still wanting. The present study was conceptualized in this context to explore differences in the Personality factors, Attachment styles and Coping strategies in couples with good and poor marital quality. Data were collected from 90 couples for initial screening. Finally 20 couples with good marital quality and 20 couples with poor marital quality were selected based on scores of Marital Quality Scale. The tools used for screening were Marital Quality Scale and General Health Questionnaire-28. Other tools consisted of Neo Five Factor Inventory, Attachment style Questionnaire, and Coping Check list. Analysis revealed that the husbands with poor marital quality had higher neuroticism, less extraversion, less secure attachment style, less problem focused coping and acceptance, and greater denial than those with good marital quality. Wives with poor marital quality differed significantly from the wives with good marital quality in terms of less religious coping, acceptance and social support. The findings of the study may be utilized for advising maritally distressed couples by enhancing their coping resources and utilizing attachment potentials for furtherance of quality of married life.

Exploring the Impact of Parental Military Deployment/Field Posting on Adolescents in Indian Military Families

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore the consequences of parental deployment for adolescents and to identify the risk and protective factors which may affect their well- being. The study being exploratory in nature, focus group was chosen for data collection. Three focus groups were held with boys and girls in the age group 12–18 years who were experiencing the deployment of their father for more than six months. Each group consisted of 6–8 participants. A semi structured interview schedule was prepared for the focus group interviews. Each focus group was audio taped and then transcribed for further analysis. Response themes indicate relocation in the absence of the father, changes in roles and responsibilities, routine changes, not having the parent to help with the homework, participate in activities and provide guidance as major sources of stress. While the relaxation in family rules and discipline is cherished by all, there are reintegration problems when the parent returns. Some adolescents expressed concern about the health and worries of the at-home parent, for most of them the mother or the at home parent is the central figure who helps steer through the multiple deployments.

Effect of Cognitive Aging on Working Memory Consolidation

Abstract: This study was conducted to investigate the hypothesis that the decline in memory consolidation in aging may be determined by the reduction of inhibitory control processes. To this end an Attentional Blink (AB) paradigm was employed. AB effect was more pronounced and lengthened for older adults (60–85 years) than young (18–22 years) and middle aged (45–55 years) groups, which could be due to interference at the perceptual stage itself. The onset of the first target involuntarily captures attentional resources, impairing subsequent target identification due to decrease in inhibitory control. Experiment 2 was conducted manipulating perceptual load in working memory to study interference as a function of load. The effect of load was more pronounced for older and middle-aged adults. The decline in memory consolidation in this group may be due to difficulties in early stages of perceptual processing, inhibitory control and unsuccessful suppression of irrelevant stimuli. These effects were also observed among middle-aged individuals.

Does Feeling Happy Contributes to Flexible Thinking: Exploring the Association Between Positive Emotions and Cognitive Flexibility

Abstract: This study examined the association between positive emotions and cognitive flexibility. The study comprises of two experiments which examine the influence of positive/neutral writing and watching positive movie (methods of emotion induction) on cognitive flexibility. Cognitive flexibility was observed on a shape detection task. The results do not lend support to the association between positive emotions and cognitive flexibility. The results are discussed in light of the existing literature and issues for further research are indicated.

Willingness to Forgive the Spouse: A Qualitative Study

Abstract: The study examined the phenomenon of forgiving and willingness to forgive in the context of marital relationship in the Indian context. The participants, included six couples and two divorcees (women) residing in the National capital region of Delhi. Following interpretive phenomenological approach semi-structured interviews were used, which were later transcribed verbatim. The common themes included unwillingness to let go of the past; a feeling of anger or frustration; unfulfilled or unclear needs and expectations; closeness and intimacy of the relationship determining the ease with which one accepts and forgives. Invariably, forgiveness was perceived as a necessary precursor for a happy and satisfied relationship.

Socio-Demographic Variables Affecting Well-Being: A Study on Indian Rural Women

Abstract: The women in Indian villages perform multiple roles that include looking after the various needs of the family members, participating in home bound income generating activities (e.g. animal husbandry, agricultural activities) and holding jobs outside the home. Against this backdrop this study addressed two related goals: (a) to understand the perception of the dual role by the rural women, their work status and preferences and the attitude of their families and society towards women and (b) to explore variation in their well-being as a function of chronological age, level of education and work status. A large sample of 221 rural women (age range 18 to 56 years) drawn from villages of Haryana participated in the study. The relevant data were obtained through interview and observation. The findings showed that family and society appreciated the efforts of the rural women. Age and level of education emerged as significant factors in determining the experience of well-being.

Yoking Gnosis and Logos: On the Knowledge Function of Some Exceptional Mental States for Well-Being

Abstract: Earlier religious formations everywhere dynamically engaged in pursuit of knowledge. Of particular interest is direct experience of knowledge rather by learning through practice; former approximates gnosis and latter refers to logos. Study of transcendental experiences was an ambitious project of William James, the founder of modern psychology. The present paper makes it more explicit by looking into correlative thinking and paranormal experiences. Second, the advances in cognitive science of religion (CSR) indicate integration of gnosis and logos, and they perhaps access discrete cognitive processes analogous to Kahneman’s (American Psychologist 58:697–720, 2003) System I (intuition) and System 2 (reasoning). Third, gnosis, trance and intuition are correlated. Lastly, exceptional mental states have significance for psychological well-being.

The Dark Cycle of Work Avoidance Goals and Disengagement: A Cross-Lagged Analysis

Abstract: While previous research has mainly emphasized how work avoidance goals lead to academic disengagement, there is a lack of research on reciprocal relations between work avoidance goal pursuit and the experience of disengagement. In this study, I not only suggest that work avoidance increases disengagement but that disengagement can also enhance subsequent work avoidance goal adoption. A full cross-lagged analysis was used to test reciprocal relations between work avoidance goals and disengagement. Filipino high school students (N = 848) answered the relevant questionnaires across two time points spread over a half-year interval. Results showed that T1 work avoidance goals had an impact on subsequent T2 disengagement and that T1 disengagement also had an impact on T2 work avoidance goals. Moreover, temporal stability was also shown for both work avoidance and disengagement. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.

A Theory of Contrast Effects in Performance Appraisal and Social Cognitive Judgments

Abstract: Contrast effects in performance appraisal have been studied for almost 50 years, yet no integrative theory explaining them has been presented. We present a theory of contrast effects in performance appraisals, and in some forms of stereotyping and social comparison, based on five propositions. These propositions state that contrast effects are most likely to occur when 1) the target is average, 2) the target is unfamiliar, 3) the perceiver has enough cognitive resources, 4) the context is homogeneous, and 5) the context is negative. Methodological limitations and proposals for future research are also discussed.

Attachment Quality And Depression In Iranian Adolescents

Abstract: This study investigated the relationship of quality of adolescent’s attachment to mother, father, and peers with depression 785 high school students (497 % male and 503 % female) aged between 15 and 17 years completed the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA) as well as the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) In case of boys the results showed that their attachment to mother, father, and peers were meaningful predictors of depression during adolescence Similar trend was noted for girls Attachment to mother across both genders accounted for greater variance in depression in comparison to attachment to father and/or attachment to peers Cultural implications are addressed

Attachment and Displacement: The Resettlers of Bhakra Dam are Hurt

Abstract: Dam-induced displacement and resettlement pose a major challenge. A peasantry in the western Himalayas displaced nearly 50 years ago due to the Bhakra Nangal Project, still has strong attachment to its lost home. The resettled peasants recalled significantly greater number of memories of the lost home in comparison to the normal peasants. Bowlby’s attachment theory suggests that unwilling separation from secure habitats of human living cause long-term changes in cognitive schemas of memory. A serendipitous finding of the study is greater overall retrieval of the memories of loss of home among the displacees by scripts of low and high anger, indicating a low threshold for such provocations due to hurt feelings. We suggest that policy makers show sensitivity to these negative feelings and plan a secure base for displacees in line with the principles of attachment theory.

“I’m More Aware of the Body than Ever”: Old Adults’ Experiences of the Psychosocial Significance of Their Bodies

Abstract: Psychology theorises about the ageing body in terms of physical losses, and recommends transcending the body for satisfactory ageing. This study explored old adults’ conceptions of the ageing body to identify its relevance for their well-being in personal and interpersonal contexts. Ten retired individuals participated in semi-structured interviews and data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Ageing was found to trigger a conflict between the participants’ active self and weakening body. The interviewees defensively attempted to sideline their bodies by preoccupying themselves with mental health and interpersonal issues. However, they realised that their daily experiences (e.g., emotions and interpersonal interactions) depended upon bodily fitness and reciprocally, physical health was affected by lifestyle choices alongside socio-cultural influences. This insight about the biopsychosocial nature of the body empowered the participants to adapt to ageing. Their limitations seemed to motivate them to assume health behaviours, to fight for dignity of self and to empathise with significant others, thus enhancing well-being. Perceptions about the body therefore influenced participants’ health management and relationships. An alternative theorisation of the body as an active contributor to human psychosocial identity will pave way for interventions that sustain quality of life among those experiencing physical decline.

The Ultimate Attribution Error: Does it Transcend Conflict? The Case of Muslim Adolescents in Kashmir and Delhi

Abstract: This study examined the attribution style, religious stereotypes and the strength of religious identity in Muslim adolescents in a conflict zone (Kashmir) and a non-conflict zone (Delhi). The sample comprised of 321 adolescents (males = 239; females = 82). The results showed that the attributions made by Kashmiri adolescents were more ethnocentric in the case of judging socially desirable behaviours by in-group members, though were not so in the case of judging socially desirable behaviours by out group members. No differences were found between Kashmiri and Delhi students in the attributions made for socially undesirable behaviours by the in-group or out-group. Further, the adolescents in Kashmir held more positive perceptions of both the in-group and out-group as compared to adolescents in Delhi. Finally, the adolescents in Kashmir displayed stronger religious identity than adolescents in Delhi. The implications of the findings in the context of socio-political context and conflict are discussed.

Negotiating an Open Marriage in Couple Therapy

Abstract: Open marriages as arrangements between married couples to explore sexual and emotional intimacy with partners outside the marriage have been documented in research in other countries. This paper focuses on two case examples of couples seen in therapy to negotiate an open marriage. This is a new therapeutic trend in India, driven by various social and cultural changes. The therapeutic processes and the key challenges in working with couples in open marriages are outlined. Implications for couple therapy practice in the Indian socio-cultural context are explored.

A Commentary on “Positive Psychology and Indian Psychology: In Need of Mutual Reinforcement”

Abstract: For those who consider Indian Psychology (IP) a cause worthy of support, comparing IP with Positive Psychology (PP) is a compelling, but at first sight rather embarrassing exercise. Though these two approaches to psychology started roughly at the same time with similar-looking intentions, PP has made by now a major impact in terms of published papers, books and “name recognition”, while IP is still no more than a fringe phenomenon that is hardly on the map, even in India. K. Ramakrishna Rao’s analysis of the situation is as always impressive, but alternative perspectives are possible. To start, I agree of course with Prof. Ramakrishna Rao that these two new schools of psychology are similar in their intent of bringing some more “goodness” into mainstream psychology, but in my humble opinion, their similarity ends there. PP is a simple attempt at correcting mainstream psychology’s tendency to focus primarily on difficulties and negative emotional states. Beyond that, it doesn’t challenge the mainstream in any way. In spite of a not very successful attempt at internationalising itself (for an excellent critique see Christopher & Hickinbottom, 2008), it is still solidly American, and as a whole it fits perfectly and noiselessly within the existing discipline and its supporting culture.

Personality and Facebook Usage as Predictors of Student Participation in Course Blogs

Abstract: The use of social media for educational purposes has increased in the past few years. While the use of Facebook and Twitter has been extensively researched, research on the use of blogs in educational contexts has been limited. Course blogs are maintained by the instructor and used as tools to encourage participation, but every student does not participate in these blogs. The current study was an exploratory investigation of the factors that influence students’ participation in course-related blogs. Students enrolled in undergraduate music courses were given the option to create or respond to weekly blog postings by the instructor across two semesters. At the end of each semester, students completed a survey regarding their reactions to the usage of course blog as a participation tool. Findings indicated that conscientiousness and average time spent on Facebook significantly predicted student participation in course blogs. No significant relationships were observed between extroversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, neuroticism and course blog participation. Implications of these findings and directions for future research are discussed.

Effect of Gender and Life-Stage on Love Styles in the Indian Context

Abstract: This study examined how love styles evolve over a period of time and if gender shapes the use of love styles. The sample comprised 120 people (60 males and 60 females): 20 couples in a dating relationship, 20 couples married for less than 2 years (childless) and 20 couples married for more than 15 years (with children). The sample consisted of Indian population and only those married couples were selected who had married out of ‘love’. Results indicated significant differences across life stages for Eros, decreasing progressively with life stages. No other love style differed significantly across life styles. Gender differences were found on Pragma and Mania, with females using both Pragma and Mania more than males, in line with the evolutionary perspective.

Clinical Profile of Borderline Personality Disorder in North India

Abstract: This study examined specific features in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) patients and attempted to offer a comprehensive analysis of BPD patients using case history method and mental status examination. Eight cases of BPD, identified using DSM-IV-TR criteria and semi-structured interview schedule including DIB-R (Diagnostic Interview for Borderlines-Revised) Symptoms, were drawn from the Nur Manzil Psychiatric Centre, Lucknow, Ravideep Clinic, Allahabad and Counseling Centre, Allahabad University. Case study data were analyzed by identifying the themes as features of BPD and broader categories as areas of difficulty. The common and unique features of BPD along with the general trends of the disorder were examined in the interviews of cases. A list of commonly found defining characteristics of BPD such as substance abuse, suicidality, academic failure, social dysfunction, dependency on others and personal distress were identified. The results indicated that marked impairments exist in significant areas of the patients’ life, such as intimate relationships and occupational functioning. A major problem encountered in Indian clinical population was the family attitude. Attitude of the patients’ family members was a barrier in seeking therapy. BPD features can be drawn from the social foundations of personal experience as the reality of personal distress is socially constructed and shaped.