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The overview study sums up the contemporary knowledge concerning the psychological capital (PsyCap). It represents a relatively new but rapidly developing construct in the field of positive psychology, and has applications in organizational, educational, and health psychology. The study starts with the theoretical conceptualization of PsyCap, and presents its four components: hope, self-efficacy, optimism, and resilience. It provides a comprehensive review of the positive outcomes and correlates of PsyCap across multiple life domains. Next, it describes the antecedents and possible interventions supporting the development of PsyCap. It takes notice of the PsyCap measurement and it evaluates strengths and weaknesses of available methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The methodology of a systematic review of studies verifying the efficacy of intervention in the treatment of mental disorders helps to reduce bias by using explicit and rigorous methods for literature search and critical evaluation of previous studies. Up to now, no systematic review has been conducted on the efficacy of individual emotion focused therapy (EFT), despite the growing number of research findings examining the efficacy of EFT. The aim of this systematic review is therefore to evaluate the efficacy of an individual form of EFT in the treatment of mental problems and disorders. Method. In this study, the authors followed the PRISMA methodological manual. A systematic literature search was performed in the EBSCO, PubMed and Web of Science databases. The analysis was focused on assessing the magnitude of the effect of pre-post therapeutic changes, the sustainability of change within follow-up, or comparing the effect of change with another psychotherapeutic approach by evaluating the statistical and material significance of changes (effect size). Results. The authors identified seven studies that used a (quasi) experimental method to investigate the efficacy of EFT. The results support the efficacy of EFT as well as the sustainability of change in the treatment of depression. There is preliminary support for the efficacy of EFT in the treatment of social anxiety, trauma and eating disorders. So far, in the case of the abovementioned disorders and difficulties, it is possible to consider EFT as probably effective. Limitations. Only studies written in English were selected in this systematic review. Case studies were not included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the author focuses on three areas of problems that are observed in the direct ambulatory care of mental health in connection with COVID-19 disease. These are the issues of: 1) neuropsychological deficits; 2) anxiety and affective disorders; 3) psychotic disorders. The author tries to supplement the previous overview studies from the last year with observations from his own clinical practice and draw attention to the need for preparation and sufficient capacity of health services in the field of mental health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to verify the factor structure of the Czech translation of Self-Curiosity Attitude-Interest Scale (SCAI) in Czech grammar schools, students and to explore reliability of the scale. Curiosity about self was initially conceptualized as the desire that people have to explore and understand themselves and their psychological functioning beyond what they already know about themselves. Sample and setting. A total of 2356 Czech adolescents, aged 15-19, who studied grammar school participated in the study. The research sample consisted of 1406 female students and 950 male students. The sample covered 2,75% of the Czech adolescent population at grammar schools. Statistical analysis. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to verify the factor structure of the Self-Curiosity Attitude-Interest Scale. Omega coefficients were used as the estimates of reliability. Results. CFA confirmed two-factor structure of the Czech version of Self-Curiosity Attitude-Interest Scale. Reliability reaches a value of 0.72. Study limitation. The construct validity of the SCAI-CZ was taken over from the study published by the authors of the scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NS), such as depression, apathy, hallucinations, etc., as well as changes in creativity in older age, are telltale marks in the development of such neurodegenerative diseases as Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, Lewy body disease, and Parkinson's disease. Both NS and creativity are important non-cognitive aspects of behavior that changes as a result of neurodegeneration, similar to the development of cognitive deficit. NS can occur in the preclinical stages of neurodegeneration, as well as in the clinical stages (mild cognitive impairment or dementia). However, in clinical routine, their presence is underestimated, or patients with neurodegeneration are often considered to have psychiatric disorders, which may negatively affect their treatment. Scientific research is increasingly devoted to the analysis of the non-cognitive aspects of neurodegenerative diseases, resulting in the newly defined concept of Mild Behavioral Impairment (MBI). In this paper, a review of the most common NS and changes in creativity as a result of neurodegeneration with a special focus on Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, Lewy body disease, and Parkinson's disease is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The review summarizes the knowledge and specific findings about cognitive functioning in depression. Although decades of research on depressive disorder have pointed out cognitive impairment might be linked to depression, a number of meta-analyses indicated that cognitive impairment is not necessarily present in all individuals suffering from this disorder. On the other hand, apart from classical neuropsychological studies there is a growing body of research calling attention to the improvement of some cognitive processes linked to the negative affect with the overreach to depressive affect. The review focuses on these inconsistencies and discusses the methodology of the research on depression, which lacks unity. Last but not the least, attention is drawn to the role of cognition in the course of depression with considerations of how the methodology of research can help to identify it. Furthermore, suggestions for future research are proposed to bring more clarity into this complex matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The aim of the study was estimation of basic psychometric properties of the Czech version of the NEO Personality Inventory 3 (NEO-PI-3) for measuring five basic personality dimensions. Subject and settings. The NEO-PI-3 for selfreport were administered to 1,639 participants in age from 20 to 76 years. Hypothesis. It was expected that the Czech version of the NEO-PI-3 will have the same or better psychometric properties then the NEO-PI-R. Statistical analysis. Internal consistency of the NEO-PI-3 domains and facets was estimated using Cronbach alpha coefficient. The structure of the NEO-PI-3 was derived from Principal Component Analysis with Varimax rotation and confirmatory factor analysis. The NEO-PI-3 structure was compared using congruence coefficients with the structure of the NEO-PI-R and with the American normative structure of the NEO-PI-3. Gender and age of participants were correlated with domains and facets of the NEOPI-3. The correspondence of the short version The NEO-FFI-3 and The NEO-PI-3 was estimated using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results. The NEO-PI-3 domains showed excellent internal consistency, ranging from 0.90 to 0.94. Facets' internal consistency ranged from 0.43 to 0.83, median 0.79. All facets of the NEO-PI-3 reached component loadings higher or equal 0.40 on intended component. Only in five cases, facet had secondary component loading higher than 0.40 on another component. Domain congruency of the NEO Inventories when comparing Czech NEO-PI-R and NEO-PI-3 structures ranged from 0.98 to 0.99; when comparing Czech NEO-PI-3 structure with American normative NEO-PI-3 structure congruence ranged from 0.97 to 0.98. Neuroticism, Extraversion and Openness to Experience decreased with age and Agreeableness and Conscientiousness increased with age. Women described themselves as more neurotic and agreeable in comparison with men. Short version of the NEO-FFI-3 captured 83% of the full NEO-PI-3 variance. Study limitation. The study did not include test of convergent validity of the instrument, testretest reliability and self-other agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The main aim of this study is to examine the psychometric characteristics of the Czech version of Experiences in Close Relationships scale used for assessment of two orthogonally oriented attachment dimensions. The study focuses on the factor structure of this method, the reliability and validity with regard to the possibility of application in research and clinical practice. The main aim includes also creating norms for this method. Sample and settings. Data were obtained on the sample of 1072 respondents at the age 18 to 68, 25.6% of which were men and 74.4% were women. Besides the Czech version of ECR, 4 subscales from the Business-focused Inventory of Personality (BIP) were used for verification of parallel criterion validity. Results. Exploratory factor analysis confirmed two-factor solution that was expected and shorten version of ECR-CZ was designed with better psychometric qualities. Confirmatory factor analysis of ECR-CZ confirmed a match between the model and data. Internal consistency of standard ECR and revised version of ECRCZ showed reliability ranging from .86 to .87. Satisfactory values of test-retest reliability were obtained for both scales in both versions of the ECR. Parallel criterion validity for scales Attachment avoidance and Attachment anxiety correspond with dynamics of attachment in adulthood. Attachment anxiety is characterized by lowered emotional stability and resistance to stress. Attachment avoidance is characterized by lowered capacity for networking and team orientation. The norms were prepared for standard ECR and shorten ECR-CZ. Method exhibits good psychometric properties for research and clinical practice. Study limitations. The main limitation of the study is the selection of research sample. Despite of wide range of respondents, age, the mean is in young adulthood. The data were collected only on common population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The study introduces Czech adaptation of the Game Addiction Scale. Psychometric properties of the method were evaluated - factor structure, internal consistency and construct validity. Subjects and Settings. The research sample consisted of 423 adolescents (48% females). The questionnaire was administered in paper&pencil form in school settings in three major Czech cities - Prague, Brno, Ostrava. Data collection was performed in autumn 2015 and spring 2016. Data analysis. Internal consistency was estimated using Cronbach's a. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural model capturing construct validity were performed using Lavaan package in the R statistical environment. Results. Psychometric properties of the Czech adaptation of the method are comparable with original findings and can be described as satisfactory. Based on the presented results the Czech version of the Game Addiction Scale for research and diagnostic use in adolescents can be recommended. Limitations. Relatively smaller proportion of respondents addicted to video game playing could have a negative impact on the level of construct validity in terms of impaired parameter estimates of relationships between video game addiction and other variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study provides an overview of the findings from the naturalistic decision making field, specifically about the recognition-primed decision model, its main characteristics and broader context. This model describes how experienced decision makers can quickly make situation assessment and select satisficing course of action. Its initial version originated in the research of decision making of fire ground commanders in real world situations and in the present it has three variations (simple match, diagnose the situation, evaluate course of action), which describe the application of typical options. Although it is discussed mainly in the relation to macrocognition and microcognition, assumed task-relevant emotions may function in it. Furthermore, the paper focuses on the key assumption of the model -- experience represented in the form of mental models stored in the memory. Because novices have little experience, they do not use the recognitional decision strategy so often. Experienced decision makers use it especially in routine situations, but also in nonroutine situations under time pressure. Research studies providing empirical support for the model and many of its extensions and computational implementations providing suggestions for decision support systems and training programs are also presented here. The limits summarized in the conclusion show that the model does not describe universal decision strategy and it does not address some cognitive aspects of decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The aim of the present study was to adapt the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ), one of the most widely used methods for the assessment of schizotypy, into the Slovak language and investigate its basic psychometric properties (reliability, latent structure, gender differences, and measurement invariance) in healthy volunteers. Sample and setting. The Slovak version of the questionnaire (SPQ-SK) was completed by 267 responders (120 men and 147 women) with a mean age of 25.3 years (SD = 5.5). SPQ includes 74 binary items arranged into 9 subscales. Hypotheses. Latent structure of two concurrent models, a three-factor and a four-factor model were tested. Statistical analysis. Gender differences were assessed by Welch t-test. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha and ordinal alpha. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was calculated using the maximum likelihood method. χ²-test, CFI, RMSEA, SRMR, AIC and BIC were used to evaluate and compare the respective models. Measurement invariance was assessed by χ² and CFI differences. Results. SPQ-SK showed an acceptable internal consistency. On average, men scored higher in the dimensions Odd or Eccentric Behavior, No Close Friends, and Constricted Affect, whereas women scored higher on Excessive Social Anxiety and Magical Thinking. CFA indicated that a modified three-factor structure represented the best model for SPQ-SK. This model also showed configural invariance and weak measurement invariance. However, strong and strict invariance was only partially supported. Study limitations. The research sample consisted of healthy individuals. Further investigations are needed to determine clinically relevant scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The study assessed basic psychometric properties of Czech versions of the Big Five Inventory measuring five basic personality dimensions that differ with respect to number of items (BFI-44 and BFI-10). Subject and settings. BFI-44 and BFI-10 for self-report were administered to six groups of 6.292 participants ageing from 11 to 84 years. Hypothesis. Authors expected that Czech version of BFI would have good psychometric properties. Statistical analysis. Internal consistency of BFI-44 scales was estimated using Cronbach alpha coefficient, internal consistency of BFI-10 was estimated using Spearman-Brown coefficient. The test-retest stability for BFI-10 was estimated using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The structure of BFI-44 items was derived from Principal Component Factor Analysis with Varimax rotation. The correspondence between BFI-10 and BFI-44 was estimated using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results. The BFI-44 scales showed adequate reliability, ranging from .65 to .83, Mdn = .73, across three samples of participants. The testretest stability of BFI-44 estimated over a two month period was satisfactory, r = .79. The testretest stability of BFI-10 estimated over a month period averaged to r = .69, the test-retest stability estimated over a two month period in another sample averaged to r = .66. An average factor loading of BFI-44 items on intended factors was .50. The BFI-10 scales captured 60% of the full BFI-44 variance after including an additional item for measuring agreeableness. Study limitation. The study did not test convergent validity of instruments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the text is to point out to the presence of developmental psychology ideas in concepts and theories of Transactional Analysis, which is not generally considered to be a complex psychological system. Authors are introducing some of the Transactional Analysis concepts as well as pointing out how, in which context and with help of which conceptual apparatus human development is included in those concepts. They are also seeking for similarities and compatibility of Transactional Analysis concepts and traditional developmental psychology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The study deals with the cognitive development concept of prosocial moral reasoning (Eisenberg, 1969) derived from Kohlberg,s and Rest,s theories of moral reasoning. Measurement tool based on this concept is called Prosocial Reasoning Objective Measure - PROM (Carlo, Eisenberg, & Knight, 1992). The purpose of the study was to investigate the test items factor structure and to compare the obtained results with the original structure. The second goal was to analyse the internal consistency of possibly created new scales. Lastly, this study sought to investigate the sex differences in moral reasoning. Sample and setting. Research sample included 6th grade primary school students (N=331, Mage=11,9; 49,1% females). Research Question. The main question was: what is the factor structure of PROM items in Slovak 11-12 years old students? Statistical analysis. Exploratory factor analysis via Maximum likelihood extraction and Oblimin method for rotation was used. Descriptive statistics and correlation matrices (Pearson,s coefficient) as well as the internal consistency (Cronbach,s alpha) of the scales were analysed. Results. First exploratory factor analysis resulted in the 5-factor model, even though there were discrepancies between obtained and original model. 4-factor structure was obtained after excluding the first story, which seemed to be problematic, from the analysed data. Three categories of the original 5-factor model, (2. approval-oriented, 3. hedonistic, and 4. needs-oriented) fit well with the collected data. The first factor is composed from two original items: internalised and stereotyped (Pearson correlation: r=0,471, p<0,001). Study limitation. Some data were collected by teachers, not by administrators. The order of the PROM stories was not randomized for each participant. Problematic usage of the lie/nonsense scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of video games playing are getting research attention already since the 1980's, while the research efforts escalate along with the increasing intensity of playing video games in the society. The greatest attention is paid to the impact of violent content of video games on aggression and the related negative phenomena. This review study integrates findings of available meta-analytic studies and their contradictory results are discussed. There are also presented theoretical approaches, which explain the mechanisms of how video game content impacts the person's internal processes and behavior, and attention is paid to variables which moderate this relationship. Finally, the latest research trends, emphasizing the positive effects of playing video games with broader focus on wider population including adults and seniors, are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to describe levels of social cognition in people with schizophrenia according to two concepts: Social Cognition and Object Relations Scale (SCORS) and interpersonal decentering (ID), to compare the results of these scoring systems and to find their associations with selected factors. Sample and setting. The research sample included 42 hospitalized patients (31 males, 11 females) with paranoid schizophrenia aged 19- 56. For assessment of SCORS and ID, ten card of the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT): 1, 2, 3BM, 4, 5, 6GF, 8BM, 10, 12M, 13MF were used. 420 TAT stories were collected and scored according to the SCORS and ID manuals. Hypotheses. The main research questions were to determine the overall levels of social cognition by using SCORS and ID scoring systems, if there are any correlations between the scores and if the results are associated with selected demographic variables. Statistical analysis. Descriptive statistics for presentation SCORS and ID results were used and Pearson's correlation coefficient r and effect size r2 were calculated to find associations between these results. Pearson's correlation coefficient r and Student'st were used to determine associations between SCORS and ID results and selected demographic factors. Results. The overall levels of SCORS and ID in TAT stories were low. The results of both concepts correlated in several dimensions. The presence and length of a partnership are important factors associated with levels of social cognition. Other significant variables were age and education. TAT and SCORS and ID scoring systems can be recommended for measurement of social cogniton. Study limitation. The main limitation of the study is the size of research sample and the fact that all data were collected from participants hospitalised at a psychiatric hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The study deals with subjective quality of life of childhood cancer survivors. Sample and setting. Sample consisted of 65 adolescents and young adults (33 girls) aged 12-25 years (mean age = 17.54). Quality of life was assessed using the Minneapolis-Manchester Quality of Life Instrument (MMQL) and Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) twice: for the first time 1-11 years after treatment, for the second time after a time interval of another 1-6 years. Hypotheses. The decline in subjective quality of life between two measurements was expected. Statistical analysis. The levels of the measured characteristics were compared using a paired t-test, effect size was expressed by Cohen's D. Relationships between measurements were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results. There were no significant differences in the level of the characteristics observed in the first and second measurements. Life satisfaction declined at the time of the second measurement, however, its level was comparable to healthy controls and the decline was not statistically significant when adjusted by Bonferroni correction. Relatively close relationships between the first and second measurements in MMQL were found. In the case of CDI, the relationships were looser as compared to MMQL, which can probably be explained by the low variability of CDI scores. Study limitation. So far, a relatively low number of people was interviewed in the second wave of the longitudinal study. Moreover, sample is considerably heterogeneous and division into subsamples will be needed for further analyses after completing data collection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The authors try to summarize the most influential possibilities for testing the neuropsychological construct of figural fluency. Sample and setting. 215 persons were assessed by Olomouc test of figural fluency. Persons older than 60 years were screened for syndrome of dementia by methods ACE-CZ and MMSE. In the study, three samples were used: 146 volunteers of nonclinical population without evidence of cognitive deficit, 39 of those at risk of cognitive deficit (positive screening for sy. dementia through the MMSE and ACE-CZ) and 30 patients with proven sy. dementia. These samples were compared with respect to the basic parameters of the Olomouc figural fluency test. Statistical analysis and results. It was found that chronological age in non-clinical population is statistically significantly negatively correlated with the overall performance of the test and the number of perseveration, and significantly positively with the number of years of education. Performance of women and men is not statistically different. Index of overall performance statistically significantly differentiates performance of non-clinical population and both clinical populations. Among persons aged over 60 years statistically significant positive correlation of overall performance in the test and screening tests for dementia syndrome was found. Partial variables are discussed syndrome the needs of clinical practice. Study limitations. Among limits of the study non-randomized selection of research population and unequal distribution of participants in the age range 31-50 years due to the number of persons in other age groups can be mentioned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to describe interpersonal decentering (ID), a less know concept of social cognition, in patients with schizophrenia. Sample and setting. The research sample included 50 hospitalized patients (36 males, 14 females) with psychotic spectrum disorder (45 with schizophrenia) aged 19-70. For assessment of ID ten cards of the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT): 1, 2, 3BM, 4, 5, 6GF, 8BM, 10, 12M, 13MF were used. 500 TAT stories were collected and scored according to the manual of ID. Hypotheses. The aim was to describe the performances of ID, verify the correlation between ID and selected variables, and compare the findings with studies realized in other populations. Statistical analysis. To verify the hypotheses, Pearson's correlation coefficient and Student's t-test were calculated. Results. The levels of ID in the sample were consistently very low and statistically significantly lower than the available data of other clinical groups. This finding is consistent with the findings of other concepts of social cognition, e.g. Theory of Mind. Results of ID in the sample were not significantly related to gender, education, presence of partner relationship and severity of disorder. This findings support the hypothesis that ID is a stable personality trait of people with schizophrenia, and may be prodrom of psychotic illness. Study limitation. The main limitation of the study is that all participants were inpatients and their ID results might differ from the outpatient population. The conclusion corresponds with the neurodevelopmental hypothesis of schizophrenia but requires further verification, preferably longitudinal research of children from preschool age to adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on possibilities of application of Rorschach method in assessing traumatic experience. Author tries to organize existing knowledge about the image of posttraumatic phenomena in Rorschach method. The author notes that the symptoms of trauma are in Rorschach evidence-based in several basic levels of psychological functioning, i. e. variables associated with lower cognitive performance, variables associated with poor affective control and signs of anxious experience. One of characteristic characteristic features is also a long-term projection of topics associated with trauma, the interpretation of ambiguous stimulus with reference to the memories of the traumatic event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The goal of the presented study was to identify groups of respondents which differ in the probability of successful solving individual items comprising test of spatial abilities. Sample and setting: The size of the research sample was 1540 test-takers, who attended the admission procedure to Masaryk University. Data from the Spatial Abilities subtest were analyzed. Hypotheses: The total score of the Spatial Abilities test reflects not only the level of spatial abilities but also the level of verbal-analytic thinking. Statistical analysis: The Latent Class Analysis was used to identify the latent classes of respondents and also other common statistical procedures were applied. Results: Three latent classes of respondents were identified. These classes were interpreted considering the ability to solve the item using manipulations with mental images or analytical technique based on decomposing the item image into sequence of propositions. Study limitation: The interpretations are based on a large research sample collected in a real testing situation during university's admission procedure. In a follow-up research the authors plan to use the introspection method to analyze mental processes applied when solving items from a test of spatial abilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes development of therapeutic, relaxation and self-experiencing method Restricted environmental stimulation technique/therapy (REST). From a historical standpoint it refers to early research into sensory deprivation from the 1950s to 1970s. Further it emphasizes the connection with Japanese therapists approach (Masatake Morita and Yoshimoto Ishin). Research of REST is intensively practiced in Sweden and USA. REST is method that is construed as a supplement of therapeutic action. This method has two forms: Chamber REST and Flotation REST. The chamber REST variant, in combination with other therapeutic techniques, has a therapeutic potencial that enables restructuralization of attitudes, opinions, understanding of the patients own emotions in relation to social environment, enacts on change of self-concept and enables an insight into actual problems. It improves realistic thinking and ability of elaboration. Some studies support positive influence on serious diagnosis such as obsessive compulsive disorder, autism, reducing psychotic symptoms in schizofrenic patients, manic and hypomanic states, and addictive behaviour changes (alcohol abuse, obesity, smoking). The flotation REST variant has similar effects such as relaxation, autogenous training, meditation. Its use is connected with medical influence in hypertension reduction, insomnia treatment, stress coping. It also provides relief of chronic pain and muscle tension, and improves creativity. It can create feeling of relief without previous training [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to create valid Czech version of the most commonly used handedness questionairre: the Edinburgh handedness inventory (EHI). The formulations of particular items were changed during the translation procedure (modified direct translation) in order to unify the interpretation of the items. Structural equation modeling revealed a redundancy (writing), or insufficient accuracy (knife, broom, box opening) of some items in the EHI. Czech version of the EHI containing 6 items was created by exclusion of these problematic items. Results suggest that it is not necessary to weight particular items to calculate the laterality quotient (compozite score). Reliability measured as the McDonald's omega for the unidimensional Czech version of the EHI was 0,95 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both the posttraumatic stress and the posttraumatic growth are often cited in relation to cancer. The aim of this paper is to give a review of current research in this field and briefly outline new perspective on possible connections between these concepts. The integrative approach has been presented in this review as well as new challenges and directions for future research. The basic information about ongoing QOLOPstudy on posttraumatic stress and growth in pediatric oncology patients and their families is provided in a nutshell at the end. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The presented study analyzes the preference of response categories in spatial reasoning test. The goal is to enhance comprehension of test behavior of respondents that determines the choice of certain response category in multiple choice items. Subjects and setting. The sample consisted of 2001 subjects (52 % females), who attended entrance exams to Masaryk university, i.e. the Learning Potential Test. Each of the items in the test consisted of one correct answer and four distractors. Five items of the Spatial reasoning subtest were analyzed. Statistical analysis. Using IRT Nominal Categories Model, for each response category conditional probabilities of their preference based on ability level estimate were computed. Results. On the basis of acquired information the authors suggested hypotheses about the roles of distractors in items. These hypotheses were further discussed in conjunction with information from test items reviewers and testtakers, who had the possibility to comment test items through official internet discussion forum. Study limitations. Suggested hypotheses about test behavior need to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adaptively administered tests with dichotomously scored items are already well described in the relevant literature and used in practice. The presented study analyses the possibilities of adaptive administration of test with polytomous items, which are commonly used in personality testing. Based on analysis of simulated adaptive administration of NEO PI-R, the limits and benefits of this approach are discussed. It was found that adaptive administration successfully and more effectively reconstructs the level of measured traits in comparison with full scale administration. On the other hand, significant problem consists in overexposure of several items with highest item discrimination power. Representative sample built for the purposes of Czech standardization of NEO PI-R was used (N = 2084). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding of children's death concept increases its significance in a situation of serious illness of a child or in facing a loss of a close person. Our study describes the development of child's understanding of death from four different historical perspectives - psychoanalytic, cognitive, existential, naive-biological perspective. It points out primary components of the death-concept and variables that can modify its individual development such as age, cognitive development, personal experience of a child, religiousness of a family, anxiety of a child and parents and the communication about the topic in a family. The study summarizes risk arising from different understanding of death by children and adults, indicates decreasing age of construing matured death concept by children, discusses discrepancies of provided studies and suggests further research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study introduces the Rorschach oral dependency scale. This scale is in the frame of projective psychodiagnostics considered an authoritative instrument for measurement of interpersonal dependency. It's considered a valuable predictor of conformity, compliance, help-seeking and support-seeking oriented behavior of another person. The article informs about essential validization studies and tries to underline experimental studies which have the largest meaning for psychodiagnostics in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overview study sums up the contemporary knowledge concerning the transformational leadership theory. It deals with topics important for further study of transformational leadership and for utilization the theory of transformation leadership in psychological praxis in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It puts the transformational theory into the context of further leadership theories, presents the positive impacts of transformational leadership on levels of organizations, teams, and individuals, deals also with the critics of the theory and its weak aspects. It also takes notice of the method of transformational leadership measurement and its validity, and possibilities of development of leaders in organizations. The conclusion is devoted to current trends in the study of transformational leadership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. the main aim of the study was to identify impact of impulsivity on adolescent risk behaviors. Sample and setting. representative research sample consisted of 4,098 high school students of the Czech Republic. the basic set represents 348,678 adolescents, of which approximately 86,796 attend four-year, six-year and eight-year high schools. the research sample consists of approximately 5% of the basic set. Hypothesis. Based on previous findings, research hypothesis predicted impact of impulsivity on abuse of psychoactive substances, bullying and delinquency. Statistical analysis. Linear regression analysis (Enter) was used to determine impact of impulsivity (SIDS) on VRCHA questionnaire variables. Results. Impulsivity is a significant predictor of bullying (R²=0,059), abuse (R²=0,089), and delinquency (R²=0,137) among adolescents. Study limitation. the study operates exclusively with one variable as a predictor of risk behavior. For more complex investigations, other significant predictors need to be induced into the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The aim of the study was to adapt the CORE-OM measure to the Czech context and evaluate its psychometric properties. Sample and setting. CORE-OM, RSES, and SCL-90 were administered to 375 patients from four psychotherapy clinics (a clinical sample). Further, the first two measures were administered to 233 respondents from the general population (a non-clinical sample). Statistical analysis. The questionnaire structure was explored through an exploratory factor analysis, concurrent validity assessed using correlation with SCL-90 and RSES, and internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha. The difference between the clinical and the non-clinical samples was determined by the Mann-Whitney test and sensitivity to change was assessed by the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results. The factor analysis revealed a twofactor structure. However, the factor solution for the clinical and the non-clinical samples differed. In the clinical sample, the internal consistency of the Total Score was α = 0,933, the Total Score correlated rs = 0,80 with GSI SCL-90 and rs = -0,51 with RSES. The measure successfully differentiated between the clinical and the non-clinical samples. Using the Total Score, the clinical cutoff score had a value of c = 1,349 and the Reliable Change Index had a value of RCI = 0,445. The sensitivity to psychotherapy change was adequate (r ~ -0,35 to -0,50 for individual clinics). Study limitation. The data was obtained through casual sampling and did not include outpatients or respondents with a psychotic disorder. Evaluation of sensitivity to change was based solely on self-report measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The current view of negative symptoms in schizophrenia is based on 2 factors, social amotivation and diminished expression. In accordance with this view, a new psychodiagnostic method, Clinical Assessment Interview for Negative Symptoms (CAINS) was created. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Czech version of CAINS and to describe the results of CAINS in a sample of patients with schizophrenia. Sample and setting. The sample consisted of 100 adults with schizophrenia, hospitalised at a psychiatric hospital. CAINS and the Beck Depression Inventory-II were administered. Hypothesis. The factor structure and psychometric properties of the Czech version of CAINS are expected to be equivalent to the original version of the method. Statistical analysis. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) with diagonally weighted least squares (WLSMV) estimation was used. χ² index, Tucker-Lewis index (TLI), comparative fit index (CFI) and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) were evaluated. An item analysis, calculated Cronbach's alpha, point-biserial correlations and Pearson' s correlation for CAINS and BDI-II were also conducted. Results. CFA revealed a 2-factor solution similar to the structure of the original version of the method. Study limitation. The main limitation is that the research sample is unrepresentative. To further evaluate psychometric properties of CAINS, a more variable sample including outpatients is needed. This study provides a base for future use of CAINS in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The purpose of this study is to map the coping strategies used by childhood cancer survivors during the treatment and also in their current life and to find a relationship between coping strategies and the rate of depressive symptomatology. Sample and setting. The research group consists of 65 adolescent childhood cancer survivors (M=18,29; SD=2,71). Coping strategies and depression symptoms were assessed through KIDCOPE and CDI (Children's Depression Inventory). Hypotheses. Adolescent childhood cancer survivors use significantly more avoidance coping strategies during the treatment. They use significantly more approach coping strategies in longterm remission. Certain coping strategies (e.g. resignation, social support) contribute to lower rate of depressive symptoms. Statistical analysis. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon signed rank test and Spearman's correlation through SPSS. Results. Resignation (avoidant coping) and social support (approach coping) were the most used coping strategies during the treatment in both girls and boys. The use of coping strategies in current life was more steady. Cognitive restructuring seems to be effective strategy both during the treatment and in long-term remission in both girls and boys. In contrast emotion regulation, blaming others, social withdrawal and social isolation used both during the treatment and in long-term remission are associated with more depressive symptoms but only in boys. Study limitations. The main study limitation is retrospective information retrieval using questionnaire form several years after treatment that can cause distortion of information by adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to population aging and higher prevalence of neurodegeneration-related cognitive impairment, standard neuropsychological assessment procedures are gaining importance. Over the last ten years, a view upon the function and design of neuropsychological assessment in the process of diagnosis has changed, and research recommendations have been implemented in clinical practice. The main focus is aimed at identification of cognitive decline that may predict development of neurodegenerative diseases, among which the most common is Alzheimer,s disease. Its diagnostic criteria has been revised, and neuropsychological assessment is now playing a key role in the diagnostic process. The study offers an overview of standard neuropsychological procedures in the assessment of cognitive functions defined for clinical practice and in diagnostic criteria of neurodegenerative diseases in pre-clinic stage, in mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The article provides guidelines and recommendations based on research findings and clinical knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of demographic characteristics, personality characteristics, dispositional optimism, defensive pessimism, and health-related behaviour components on the number of subjective health complaints among Czech adult respondents between the age of 18 and 93. Subjects and methods. The sample consisted of 703 respondents, 489 (69.6%) female, aged between 18 and 93 years (M = 35.9; SD = 16.3), who completed a large set of self-report measures. The present study summarizes results obtained from the Health Behaviours Scale (Dosedlová, Slováčková, Klimusová, 2013), the Health Complaints Inventory by Osecká, Řehulková, Macek (1998), the Life Orientation Test - Revised, (LOT-R; Scheier, Carver, Bridges, 1994), the Defensive Pessimism Questionnaire (DPQ; Norem, 2002), and the Gordon Personal Profile (GPP-I, Gordon,1953, adapted by Svoboda, 1999). Statistical analysis. In the first step, the authors conducted a Principal Component Analysis with the items of the Health Behaviours Scale. The results were saved as factor scores. In the second step, a hierarchical multiple regression analysis with three sets of predictors was conducted. Results. Personality variables turned out to be the strongest predictors of health complaints: Together with demographic variables, they explained 25.3% of variance in subjective healthrelated ill-being. In comparison, dispositional optimism and defensive pessimism explained 3.7% only while health behaviours explained 7.5% of variance in health complaints. The strongest relations were found to promotion of mental health and to lifestyle regularity. All predictors together explained 36.4% of variance in health complaints. Study limitations. The primary limitation of the study is the use of convenience sample, which may have reduced the degree to which the sample was representative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The study brings an analyse of the skills structure in children with specific language impairment (SLI) in pre-school age. The research captures developmental characteristics by two measurements. The study verified validity of the model and the classifications according to which phonological deficit may or not to be present in symptoms of SLI (Rapin, Allen, 1988; Conti-Ramsden et al., 1997; Catts et al., 2005, Ramus et al., 2013). Sample and setting. The research sample consisted of 61 children with SLI (average age 63,51 months) and a control group of 51 typically developing children (average age 62,59 months) in the first testing period, and 72 children with SLI (average age 74,41 months) and a control group of 48 typically developing children (average age 73,21 months) in the second testing period. The children were examined by a set of tests which map the language-cognitive and literacy skills. The statistical analysis consisted of application of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Results. Four relatively independent groups of language-cognitive skills were confirmed: phonological memory, literacy, RAN and grammar factor, by the means of CFA in the structure of abilities of children with SLI. The model manifests stability over time according to number and structure of factors. Developmental change can be characterized as a higher interconnection of skills with age. The results reveal a group of children with morpho-syntactic deficits without fonological difficulties, what corresponds to the source model. Study limitation. In accordance with the effect of „illusory recovery” (Scarborough, Dobrich, 1990) and concerning the speech and language therapy, it is necessary to consider if the second testing was sensitive enough to detect phonological difficulties in some children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. It has been shown that propositional density (PD), which roughly corresponds to the number of ideas expressed in a text of given length, is related to cognitive performance in the older age. The present study investigated differences in propositional density in oral language production between healthy seniors and patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is generally accepted as a prodromal stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Sample and setting. The sample included 33 MCI persons and 32 healthy controls (mean age 73 years). The groups were equivalent as for the age and education. As expected, there was a significant difference between Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores between the groups, with MMSE being a simplified measure of their cognitive status. Hypotheses. Lower PD was expected in MCI persons, as the task required recent past recall which is considered one of the early deficiencies in early AD and MCI due to AD. Statistical analysis. Mean PD across groups was compared using the independent samples t-test. Results. Mean propositional density in MCI persons was 48,74% (SD 5,78), and in healthy controls 53,06% (SD 4,56). The difference was statistically significant (p<0,001). Cohen's d 0,83 represents a large effect size for the group difference. Study limitations. The main limitation is the heterogeneity of the MCI group. Also, the detailed cognitive status of the healthy controls is unknown. Thus the group could include persons with some cognitive impairment which has not been detected yet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. It has been shown that propositional density (PD), which roughly corresponds to the number of ideas expressed in a text of given length, is related to cognitive performance in the older age. The present study investigated differences in propositional density in oral language production between healthy seniors and patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is generally accepted as a prodromal stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Sample and setting. The sample included 33 MCI persons and 32 healthy controls (mean age 73 years). The groups were equivalent as for the age and education. As expected, there was a significant difference between Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores between the groups, with MMSE being a simplified measure of their cognitive status. Hypotheses. Lower PD was expected in MCI persons, as the task required recent past recall which is considered one of the early deficiencies in early AD and MCI due to AD. Statistical analysis. Mean PD across groups was compared using the independent samples t-test. Results. Mean propositional density in MCI persons was 48,74% (SD 5,78), and in healthy controls 53,06% (SD 4,56). The difference was statistically significant (p<0,001). Cohen's d 0,83 represents a large effect size for the group difference. Study limitations. The main limitation is the heterogeneity of the MCI group. Also, the detailed cognitive status of the healthy controls is unknown. Thus the group could include persons with some cognitive impairment which has not been detected yet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The purpose of this study was to explore symptoms of depression in childhood cancer survivors. Sample and setting. The study included 91 childhood cancer survivors (47 girls) aged 9-19. Depressiveness was measured by means of the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) within a period of two to five years after treatment completion while monitoring the late effects of oncological treatment and survivors' quality of life. The data has been compared to a group of child patients with another chronic disease and a group of healthy children (comparison groups). Hypotheses. The aim of the study was to identify whether possible differences between the individual groups of respondents manifest themselves in some specific CDI subscales and thus help better identify possible complaints among the survivors. Statistical analysis. The sum scores for the whole CDI scale and its sub-scales were compared by factor analysis of variance. Results. Former oncological patients (study group) scored significantly lower in the CDI in comparison to both comparison groups, and the analysis of individual CDI subscales has established a significant difference between the study group and the two comparison groups in relation to the Negative Mood, Anhedonia and Negative Self-esteem subscales. The lowest depressiveness scores have been explored on the specified subscales for the cancer survivor group. Study limitation. The research has the usual limitations arising from the fact that a self-report method was used. CDI data should be verified using projective testing and an interview in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The aim of the study was to explore siblings' knowledge about cancer, perceived changes in relationship with parents, problem behavior and quality of life of siblings of pediatric oncology patients. Subjects and settings. Subjects were 34 siblings age 7 to 16 (average aged 11.3 years, 19 girls) three to nine months after diagnosis (average time from diagnoses 6,6 months). Hypothesis. We expected lower quality of life and higher problem behavior in study sample in comparison to healthy population. Instruments and statistical analyses. Sibling Perception Questionnaire was used for assessing information about disease and relationship with parents, Child Behavior Checklist to assess problem behavior, and Minneapolis-Manchester Quality of Life Instrument to evaluate quality of life. Differences between groups were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. Results. The results showed that siblings are relatively well informed about the disease and treatment of sick child and that they are not experiencing behavioral problems. However, younger siblings reported the wish to spend more time with their parents and adolescents have lower life satisfaction than comparison groups. Results also showed presence of myths about the disease. Study limitations. The main limitation of the study is effect of self-selection of participants as only 31% addressed families entered the research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]