Search

Introduction: Nutrition, sleep and physical activity are termed the "big three" health enhancing behaviors (HEB) associated with psychological distress and wellbeing. This study sought to understand differential associations between an expanded group of HEB (nutrition, sleep, physical activity, mindfulness, social connectedness) and psychological distress/wellbeing in early adolescents. Methods: Correlational and regression analyses were conducted in N=103 (51% females) adolescents (12.6 ± 0.3 years of age) recruited from the Longitudinal Adolescent Brain Study. Results: Higher scores on sleep, social connectedness and mindfulness scales were significantly associated with lower psychological distress scores. While higher scores on social connectedness and mindfulness scales were significantly associated with higher wellbeing scores. When adjusting for sex, nutrition, sleep, social connectedness and mindfulness accounted for a significant proportion of variance in the psychological distress model whereas physical activity and social connectedness accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in the wellbeing model. Discussions: Overall findings make a strong case for expansion of the "big three" HEB to include mindfulness and social connectedness, especially given social connectedness emerged as the strongest predictor of both psychological distress and wellbeing. In addition, this research suggests that early adolescent nutrition, sleep quality, and mindfulness should be prioritized in efforts to reduce risk of difficulties, and physical activity prioritized as a protective factor for wellbeing in this population. Findings have implications for interventions, emphasizing the importance of addressing HEB factors comprehensively and tailoring strategies to the unique needs of early adolescents to foster positive mental health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have indicated that social connectedness can serve as a protective buffer against negative outcomes associated with online victimization. However, the role of social connectedness between Internet gaming disorder and somatic symptoms is still unclear. This study aims to examine the mediating effect of social connectedness on the association between Internet gaming disorder and somatic symptoms. Methods: A cross-sectional design was utilized, using questionnaires for data collection and multi-stage stratified cluster sampling. The general demographic questionnaire, Nine-Item Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short Form, Social Connectedness Scale-Revised and Patient Health Questionnaire Physical Symptoms were used to collect data. We adopted Pearson's correlation analysis and the PROCESS Macro Model in regression analysis to explore the relationships among Internet gaming disorder, social connectedness and somatic symptoms. Results: Internet gaming disorder was positively correlated with somatic symptoms (r = 0.20, P < 0.001), while network (r=-0.08, P < 0.001) and real-life social connectedness (r=-0.31, P < 0.001) negatively affected somatic symptoms. The network social connectedness and the real-life social connectedness played a chain mediating role in the development of Internet gaming disorder to somatic symptoms [95%CI: 0.073, 0.088], explaining 45.25% of the total effect value. The difference of real-life social connectedness and network social connectedness played a partial mediating role between Internet gaming disorder and somatic symptoms [95% CI:0.050, 0.062], accounting for 31.28% of the total effect value. Conclusions: Real-life social connectedness, network social connectedness, and their disparity all mediated the relationship between Internet gaming disorder and somatic symptoms. Real-life social connectedness acted as a protective factor, while network social connectedness served as a risk factor. Encouraging offline activities and guiding teenagers to use the internet responsibly may help prevent and reduce physical symptoms linked to Internet gaming disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the feasibility and acceptability of the Oshawa Senior Community Centres (OSCC55 +) virtual programs (VP) in addressing the needs for social connection and interaction for people with dementia (PWD) and their informal caregivers (ICG). Background: During the pandemic, PWD faced increased loneliness and reduced social interaction due to a loss of community programs. The OSCC55 + developed VPs to combat social isolation and provide respite for ICG. These efforts highlight the importance of accessible, and technology-based VPs for maintaining social connectedness for PWD. Methods: A qualitative interpretive research design with PWD (n = 14) interviews and ICG focus group and one-on-one interviews (n = 11). This research explored the lived experiences of PWD and their ICG, examining the feasibility and acceptability of the VPs. Results: The PWD and ICG interviews provided insight into the positive impacts of VP, challenges of VP, program barriers, program facilitating factors, and suggestions for future improvement for the OSCC55 + VPs. Participants highlighted that the VP created an option for them to remain socially connected to their community; while also outlining the positive impact on reducing loneliness, challenges with technology use, the importance of involving younger generations and volunteers, and the need for more culturally inclusive programs. Conclusions: The VP developed by OSCC55 + were perceived as effective and useful for PWD and their ICG, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and relieving caregiving tasks. These findings suggest that VP can complement in-person programs in the future, offering a hybrid model that leverages the strengths of both approaches to better meet the needs of PWD and ICG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many major social media companies have claimed that their social feed algorithms were designed to promote relational well-being and enhance social connection. This project tested part of these claims by investigating if algorithmic personalization predicted social connectedness on TikTok, where connecting with identity-relevant media content is prioritized over interpersonal interaction. Drawing from the algorithm responsiveness process, we identified perceived algorithm responsiveness (PAR) and perceived algorithm insensitivity (PAI) as perceptual mechanisms of how algorithmic personalization relates to social connectedness. In two preregistered studies, an online survey and a 2-week daily diary survey, results suggested that the TikTok For You algorithm curating frequent and positively valenced identity-relevant content was associated with higher PAR and less PAI. In turn, higher levels of PAR predicted more social connectedness, but PAI did not. These findings highlight the sociotechnical dynamics of algorithms, suggesting human–algorithm interaction predicted social connectedness not only an algorithm's code. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Quality of life (QoL) is a subjective measure reflecting individuals' evaluations based on their personal goals and values. While global research shows the role of neighborhood factors like ethnic diversity and socio-cultural dynamics on QoL, these are unexplored in the Nepali context. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between neighborhood environment and QoL among Nepali older adults in eastern Nepal. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 847 non-institutionalized older adults (aged ≥ 60 years) from two districts in eastern Nepal. QoL was evaluated using the 13-item brief Older People's Quality of Life questionnaire, where a mean score of < 3 indicated low/poor QoL. The neighborhood environment, conceptualized across three domains (demographic, socio-cultural, and built environment), included ethnic diversity, connections with family, friends, and neighbors, cultural ties, residential stability, and rurality. Their association with QoL was examined using multivariable logistic regression. Results: Around 20% of older adults reported poor QoL. Higher ethnic diversity (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 0.12, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.04–0.36), moderate contact with family and relatives (aOR = 0.26, CI: 0.11–0.61), and high contact with neighbors (aOR = 0.09, CI: 0.03–0.21) were associated with lower odds of poor QoL. Conversely, high contact with friends (aOR = 2.29, CI: 1.30–4.04) and unstable residence (OR = 6.25, CI: 2.03–19.23) increased the odds of poor QoL. Additionally, among the covariates, chronic disease, tobacco use, unemployment, and lack of education were also significantly associated with poor QoL. Conclusion: Overall, the demographic environment, socio-cultural factors, and the built environment of the neighborhood influence QoL. Therefore, diversifying the neighborhood's ethnic composition, promoting social connections such as frequent contact with family, relatives, and neighbors, and ensuring residential stability can enhance the QoL of older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Previous studies have indicated that social connectedness can serve as a protective buffer against negative outcomes associated with online victimization. However, the role of social connectedness between Internet gaming disorder and somatic symptoms is still unclear. This study aims to examine the mediating effect of social connectedness on the association between Internet gaming disorder and somatic symptoms. Methods A cross-sectional design was utilized, using questionnaires for data collection and multi-stage stratified cluster sampling. The general demographic questionnaire, Nine-Item Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short Form, Social Connectedness Scale-Revised and Patient Health Questionnaire Physical Symptoms were used to collect data. We adopted Pearson’s correlation analysis and the PROCESS Macro Model in regression analysis to explore the relationships among Internet gaming disorder, social connectedness and somatic symptoms. Results Internet gaming disorder was positively correlated with somatic symptoms (r = 0.20, P

Abstract Objective To assess the feasibility and acceptability of the Oshawa Senior Community Centres (OSCC55 +) virtual programs (VP) in addressing the needs for social connection and interaction for people with dementia (PWD) and their informal caregivers (ICG). Background During the pandemic, PWD faced increased loneliness and reduced social interaction due to a loss of community programs. The OSCC55 + developed VPs to combat social isolation and provide respite for ICG. These efforts highlight the importance of accessible, and technology-based VPs for maintaining social connectedness for PWD. Methods A qualitative interpretive research design with PWD (n = 14) interviews and ICG focus group and one-on-one interviews (n = 11). This research explored the lived experiences of PWD and their ICG, examining the feasibility and acceptability of the VPs. Results The PWD and ICG interviews provided insight into the positive impacts of VP, challenges of VP, program barriers, program facilitating factors, and suggestions for future improvement for the OSCC55 + VPs. Participants highlighted that the VP created an option for them to remain socially connected to their community; while also outlining the positive impact on reducing loneliness, challenges with technology use, the importance of involving younger generations and volunteers, and the need for more culturally inclusive programs. Conclusions The VP developed by OSCC55 + were perceived as effective and useful for PWD and their ICG, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and relieving caregiving tasks. These findings suggest that VP can complement in-person programs in the future, offering a hybrid model that leverages the strengths of both approaches to better meet the needs of PWD and ICG.

Abstract Introduction Quality of life (QoL) is a subjective measure reflecting individuals’ evaluations based on their personal goals and values. While global research shows the role of neighborhood factors like ethnic diversity and socio-cultural dynamics on QoL, these are unexplored in the Nepali context. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between neighborhood environment and QoL among Nepali older adults in eastern Nepal. Methods This cross-sectional study involved 847 non-institutionalized older adults (aged ≥ 60 years) from two districts in eastern Nepal. QoL was evaluated using the 13-item brief Older People’s Quality of Life questionnaire, where a mean score of

The gut microbiome has a well-documented relationship with host fitness. Greater microbial diversity and abundance of specific microbes have been associated with improved fitness outcomes. Intestinal microbes also may be associated with patterns of social behaviour. However, these associations have been largely studied in captive animal models; we know less about microbiome composition as a potential driver of individual social behaviour and position in the wild. We used linear mixed models to quantify the relationship between fecal microbial composition, diversity and social network traits in a wild population of yellow-bellied marmots (Marmota flaviventer). We focused our analyses on microbes previously linked to sociability and neurobehavioural alterations in captive rodents, primates and humans. Using 5 years of data, we found microbial diversity (Shannon-Wiener and Faiths phylogenetic diversity) has a modest yet statistically significant negative relationship with the number of social interactions an individual engaged in. We also found a negative relationship between Streptococcus spp. relative abundance and two social network measures (clustering coefficient and embeddedness) that quantify an individuals position relative to others in their social group. These findings highlight a potentially consequential relationship between microbial composition and social behaviour in a wild social mammal.

This qualitative study uses Talanoa methodologies to explore the everyday experiences of Pacific elders travelling around Māngere Central, Aotearoa New Zealand. A suite of street infrastructure changes for walking and cycling took place in the area between 2015 and 2017. While the evidence linking attributes of urban street design to physical activity behaviour is strong, there is little research on the impact of the built environment on Pacific elders’ active mobility. The study seeks to address this knowledge gap by focusing on the impacts of streetscape changes on the active travel and social connectivity of this group of residents. Findings indicate that post-intervention, elders feel significantly safer while walking, with active travel increasing for some. All elders in the study feel that important amenities are now more accessible, with some of significant cultural and social importance. As such, opportunities for social connection appear to have increased. Furthermore, the enhanced look and feel of the local environment is important to the elders interviewed, enhancing feelings of community pride and well-being for some. Further desired changes to support active mobility are discussed, and a logic model highlighting factors theorised to be particularly important for achieving mode shift among Pacific elders is proposed.

Abstract Greater loneliness as well as a lack of social connectedness have often been associated with poorer sleep. However, the temporal dynamics and direction of these associations remain unclear. Aim of the current study was to examine bi-directional associations between loneliness/social connectedness and sleep in 48 stress-exposed medical students during their first medical internship, considered a period of heightened stress. We obtained trait-level questionnaire data on loneliness and global sleep completed before and during the internship as well as state-level diary- and wearable-based data on daily changes in social connectedness and sleep collected twice over the period of seven consecutive days, once before and once during the internship. Bi-directional associations among greater loneliness and higher daytime dysfunction on trait-level were identified. In addition, several uni-directional associations between loneliness/social connectedness and sleep were found on trait- and state-level. In sum, findings of this study point at a bi-directional relation among loneliness/social connectedness and sleep, in which variables seem to reciprocally influence each other across longer-term periods as well as on a day-to-day basis.

Abstract Background Being subjected to bullying is a significant risk factor for non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among adolescents. Parental support, peer support, and social connectedness play protective roles in mitigating NSSI in this population. However, the precise impact of the combined effects of parental and peer support on bullying and NSSI requires further investigation. Methods This study employed the Child and Adolescent Social Support Scale, Delaware Bullying Victimisation Scale, Social Connectedness Scale, and the Ottawa Self-Injury Inventory to survey 1277 Chinese adolescents. Polynomial regression analysis and response surface analysis were applied to examine the mediating role of bullying and social connectedness in the relationship between parental and peer support matching and NSSI. Results The results indicate that parental support (r = 0.287, P

Abstract This study investigated the mediating role of social connectedness in the relationship between excessive smartphone use and psychological adjustment problems. 484 young adults (M = 27.04 ± 4.36 years and 72.1% females) participated in this study. Using an online survey, participants completed the Multidimensional Smartphone Use Scale, Social Connectedness Scale-Revised, and Brief Psychological Adjustment-6. The results showed that smartphone use had a significant predictive effect on social connectedness and psychological adjustment problems. Social connectedness also had a significant predictive impact on psychological adjustment problems. Further, social connectedness partially mediated the relationship between smartphone use and psychological adjustment problems. The findings are fruitful in terms of presenting evidence for tailoring prevention and intervention programs to mitigate the adverse consequences of smartphone use on psychological health.

Background The primary objective worldwide during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had been controlling disease transmission. However, lockdown measures used to mitigate transmission affected human behavior and altered lifestyles, with a likely impact on chronic non-communicable diseases. More than a year into the pandemic, substantial peer-reviewed literature emerged on altered lifestyles following the varying lockdown measures imposed globally to control the virus spread. We explored the impact of lockdown measures on six lifestyle factors, namely diet, physical activity, sleep, stress, social connectedness, and the use of tobacco, alcohol, or other harmful substances. Methods We comprehensively searched PubMed and the World Health Organization’s global literature database on COVID-19 and retrieved 649 relevant articles for the narrative review. A critical interpretative synthesis of the articles was performed. Results Most of the articles included in the review identified the negative effect of lockdown measures on each of the lifestyle factors in many parts of the world. Encouraging lifestyle trends were also highlighted in a few articles. Such trends can positively influence the outcome of lifestyle-related chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes. Conclusions The lockdown associated with COVID-19 has largely had a negative impact on the lifestyles of individuals and communities across many countries and cultures. However, some individuals and communities also initiated positive lifestyle-related behavioral changes. If the knowledge generated by studying the impact of COVID-19-related lockdowns on the six lifestyle factors is further consolidated, it could improve chronic disease outcomes. This will help better understand lifestyle behaviors amidst crises and assist in redesigning extreme public health measures such as lockdowns.. It is up to governments, communities, and healthcare/academic entities to derive benefit from lessons learned from the pandemic, with the ultimate objective of better educating and promoting healthy lifestyles among communities.

Greater loneliness as well as a lack of social connectedness have often been associated with poorer sleep. However, the temporal dynamics and direction of these associations remain unclear. Aim of the current study was to examine bi-directional associations between loneliness/social connectedness and sleep in 48 stress-exposed medical students during their first medical internship, considered a period of heightened stress. We obtained trait-level questionnaire data on loneliness and global sleep completed before and during the internship as well as state-level diary- and wearable-based data on daily changes in social connectedness and sleep collected twice over the period of seven consecutive days, once before and once during the internship. Bi-directional associations among greater loneliness and higher daytime dysfunction on trait-level were identified. In addition, several uni-directional associations between loneliness/social connectedness and sleep were found on trait- and state-level. In sum, findings of this study point at a bi-directional relation among loneliness/social connectedness and sleep, in which variables seem to reciprocally influence each other across longer-term periods as well as on a day-to-day basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the mediating role of social connectedness in the relationship between excessive smartphone use and psychological adjustment problems. 484 young adults (M = 27.04 ± 4.36 years and 72.1% females) participated in this study. Using an online survey, participants completed the Multidimensional Smartphone Use Scale, Social Connectedness Scale-Revised, and Brief Psychological Adjustment-6. The results showed that smartphone use had a significant predictive effect on social connectedness and psychological adjustment problems. Social connectedness also had a significant predictive impact on psychological adjustment problems. Further, social connectedness partially mediated the relationship between smartphone use and psychological adjustment problems. The findings are fruitful in terms of presenting evidence for tailoring prevention and intervention programs to mitigate the adverse consequences of smartphone use on psychological health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionWhile the relationship between adolescent problematic Internet use (PIU) and depression has been extensively researched, few studies have investigated the role and mechanisms of social connectedness (SC) in this context. This study aimed to investigate the mediating effect of social connectedness (SC) and cognitive emotion regulation (CER) in the relationship between PIU and depression.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study involving 9,407 adolescents aged 12–18 years in China from September 2022 to March 2023. We employed Young’s 20-item Internet Addiction Test (IAT-20), the Social Connectedness Scale-Revised (SCS-R), the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Scale (CER), and the DSM-5 Level-2 Depression Scale to assess mental health outcomes. Logistic regression analysis was also performed to examine the independent association between the measured variables and depression. Mediation analysis was then conducted to evaluate the mediating roles of social connectedness and cognitive emotion regulation in the relationship between PIU and depression.ResultsWe found that the prevalence of PIU was 21.8%. Offline SC (indirect effect: 0.112, 95% CI: 0.104–0.121) and negative CER (indirect effect: 00.140, 95% CI: 0.129–0.152) mainly played a parallel mediating role in the relationship between PIU and depression, along with online SC (on_SC) (indirect effect: 0.007, 95% CI: 0.005–0.010).DiscussionThese findings provide valuable insights into how PIU is associated with depression and highlight the importance of fostering real-life interpersonal interactions. However, the generalizability of this study’s findings to other populations may be limited due to cultural factors.

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic impacted college student learning both globally and nationally. Current literature points to decreases in social connectedness, adverse mental health outcomes, and decreased overall learning outcomes; however, there are limited findings from higher education institutions within the Bay Area, California. There are also limited studies that examine the COVID-19 impact among public health graduate students, especially to understand how the pandemic renewed their interest in the field. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of COVID-19 on graduate student learning experiences, social connectedness and mental health within the Master of Public Health program at San José State University in San Jose, California.MethodsWe employed a convergent mixed-methods design using a survey that quantitatively assessed student learning experiences through a retrospective pre-and post-design, and a semi-structured interview guide that qualitatively assessed student learning experiences and its relationship with mental health and social connectedness using a phenomenological design. Data were collected between September 2022 and June 2023 and analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.ResultsA total of 22 students completed the survey and four participated in follow-up semi-structured interviews. Of the 22, 12(54%) were among the 18–29-year age group, 9(41%) identified as Asian, 21(95%) identified as female, and 9(41%) identified as a first-generation college student. When comparing survey responses, the median change in learning experiences pre and during-pandemic were statistically significant across several areas such as student ability to stay organized (p

The rapid development of technology is making it faster and more accessible for people worldwide to communicate and socialise. However, exposure to and use of online social media can harm well-being and psychosocial development, including mental health. This study investigates the relationship between perceived stress and digital well-being with social connectedness as a mediator variable. The research participants were recruited by convenience sampling, including 242 students and 100 workers. The regression analysis shows that the study's result implies that stress as a determinant of mental health has a mixed impact on overall digital well-being based on an individual's social connectedness. The findings of this study indicate potential long-term benefits or drawbacks in the debate regarding the use of digital media and technology in stressful situations for active users of digital media and technology, particularly among students.

People often use audio-only communication to connect with others. Spatialization of audio has been previously found to improve immersion, presence, and social presence during conversations. We propose that spatial audio improves social connectedness between dyads. Participants engaged in three 8-min semi-structured conversations with an acquainted partner in three conditions: in-person communication, monaural audio communication, and spatial audio communication. Using Media Naturalness Theory as our theoretical framework, we found that the use of spatial audio benefited aspects of social connectedness. While in-person communication yielded the greatest social connectedness, spatial audio better facilitated social connectedness than traditional monaural communication. Spatial audio improved feelings of being physically in the same room and being on the same wavelength and produced more nonverbal behaviors associated with rapport building than monaural communication.

The experience of rejection and disconnection reliably amplifies pain. Yet, little is known about the impact of enduring feelings of closeness, or social connectedness, on experiences of chronic pain. The current secondary analysis tested the hypothesis that greater social connectedness would predict lower chronic pain ratings, mediated by lower depression and anxiety. In addition, based on the social-affective effects of deeper pressure, and our previous finding that deeper pressure from a weighted blanket reduced chronic pain ratings, we examined whether deeper pressure from a weighted blanket would induce greater pain relief in socially disconnected chronic pain patients. We assessed social connectedness, anxiety, and depression at baseline and pain levels before and after a remote, 7-day randomized-controlled trial of a heavy or light (control) weighted blanket in a predominately White (86%) and female (80%) sample of 95 chronic pain patients. Results revealed that lower social connectedness was associated with higher chronic pain ratings, which was mediated by anxiety, but not depression. Pressure level (light vs. deep) moderated associations between social connectedness and pain reductions, such that deeper pressure was necessary for pain relief in the most socially disconnected participants. Our findings suggest a close relationship between social connectedness and chronic pain through a mechanistic pathway of anxiety. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that sensory-affective interventions such as a weighted blanket may be a beneficial tool for chronic pain sufferers who are prone to social disconnection, potentially by activating embodied representations of safety and social support. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

Abstract Background Euthanasia and assisted suicide (EAS) requests are common in countries where they are legal. Loneliness and social isolation are modifiable risk factors for mental illness and suicidal behaviour and are common in terminal illness. Our objective was to summarise available literature to clarify whether these and related measures of social connectedness might contribute to requests for EAS. Methods We conducted a pre-registered (PROSPERO CRD42019160508) systematic review and narrative synthesis of quantitative literature investigating associations between social connectedness and a) requested/actual EAS, b) attitudes towards EAS, and c) a desire for hastened death (DHD) by searching six databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) from inception to November 2022, rating eligible peer-reviewed, empirical studies using the QATSO quality assessment tool. Results We identified 37 eligible studies that investigated associations with a) requested/actual EAS (n = 9), b) attitudes to EAS (n = 16), and c) DHD (n = 14), with limited overlap, including 17,359 participants. The majority (62%) were rated at medium/high risk of bias. Focussing our narrative synthesis on the more methodologically sound studies, we found no evidence to support an association between different constructs of social connectedness and requested or actual EAS, and very little evidence to support an association with attitudes to EAS or an association with DHD. Conclusions Our findings for all age groups are consistent with a those of a previous systematic review focussed on older adults and suggest that poor social connectedness is not a clear risk factor for EAS or for measures more distally related to EAS. However, we acknowledge low study quality in some studies in relation to sampling, unvalidated exposure/outcome measures, cross-sectional design, unadjusted analyses, and multiple testing. Clinical assessment should focus on modifying established risk factors for suicide and EAS, such as hopelessness and depression, as well as improving any distressing aspects of social disconnectedness to improve quality of life. Funding UKRI, NIHR.

Anhedonia, a reduced ability to experience positive affect and seek rewards, is present across many psychiatric disorders, notably among individuals who experienced trauma. Within the social domain, anhedonia manifests as an altered sense of belonging and social isolation and is associated with poorer clinical outcomes. Yet, mechanistic operationalizations of social anhedonia are lacking, limiting our understanding of the relationship between these mechanisms and affective symptoms. To address these questions, we developed a social reward exploration task which was administered to a transdiagnostic sample of trauma-exposed Veterans (N = 33) while they underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging. The goal was to maximize compliments from two unknown partners, as participants were told these partners selected compliments based on seeing their picture. A Bayesian reinforcement learning modeling approach was used to extract cognitive and neural markers of compliment (reward) exploration. To address these questions, we developed a social reward exploration task which was administered to a transdiagnostic sample of trauma-exposed Veterans (N = 33) while they underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging. The goal was to maximize compliments from two unknown partners, as participants were told these partners selected compliments based on seeing their picture. A Bayesian reinforcement learning modeling approach was used to extract cognitive and neural markers of compliment (reward) exploration. Higher social connectedness (β = 0.51; 95 % CI=[0.11,0.94]) and anxiety (β = 0.57; 95 % CI=[0.13,1.00]) were independently associated with more model-based choices of the partner they anticipated to be most complimenting. In the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (ACC; z = 3.89, p .001) and left inferior parietal lobule (z = 3.96, p .001), neural responses to reward prediction errors (RPE) were more positive in response to compliment relative to non-compliment outcomes. Greater positive RPE ACC activation was associated with lower anxiety (β = −0.51; 95 % CI=[−0.99,−0.10]. Computational approaches to social reinforcement learning can help identify important neurocognitive differences in social reward sensitivity among individuals with complex affective profiles, such as trauma-exposed individuals. Understanding these differences may help develop new prediction and treatment tools for social anhedonia.

Background Social disconnection is a public health concern among rural Australian older adults. While research suggests technology can enhance social wellbeing and protect against social disconnection, many older adults are not digitally literate, and little is known as to why and how technology adoption could be promoted in rural contexts. This study aimed to (1) explore the barriers and facilitators of technology adoption among rural older adults and (2) determine the potential utility of technology to promote social connectedness in the aged population. The Theoretical Domains Framework and the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) were employed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the digital and social behaviours of rural Australian older adults.Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of 33 rural older adults aged between 65 and 87 years. Interviews were conducted over the phone, audio-recorded, and transcribed. Interview transcripts were coded and analysed using thematic analysis and the BCW.Results Numerous barriers and facilitators of technology adoption were identified, with the most prominent being knowledge, perceived value, perceived self-efficacy, and social support. Findings suggest that older adults’ technology adoption is not simply a technical matter, but influenced by various individual, social, and environmental contexts. Consideration of these factors during development, marketing, training and implementation may facilitate technology adoption among older adults. With regard to social connectedness, several rural barriers emerged, including low population density, geographic isolation, limited community opportunities and poor public transport infrastructure.Conclusion Technology was consistently identified as a facilitator of the social experience, indicating that technology is a promising tool to enhance social connectedness among older adults, particularly those living in rural areas. Future research should focus on enhancing the capability, opportunity and motivation of older adults in technology adoption, with reference to the rural contexts.

Background: Euthanasia and assisted suicide (EAS) requests are common in countries where they are legal. Loneliness and social isolation are modifiable risk factors for mental illness and suicidal behaviour and are common in terminal illness. Our objective was to summarise available literature to clarify whether these and related measures of social connectedness might contribute to requests for EAS. Methods: We conducted a pre-registered (PROSPERO CRD42019160508) systematic review and narrative synthesis of quantitative literature investigating associations between social connectedness and a) requested/actual EAS, b) attitudes towards EAS, and c) a desire for hastened death (DHD) by searching six databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar) from inception to November 2022, rating eligible peer-reviewed, empirical studies using the QATSO quality assessment tool. Results: We identified 37 eligible studies that investigated associations with a) requested/actual EAS (n = 9), b) attitudes to EAS (n = 16), and c) DHD (n = 14), with limited overlap, including 17,359 participants. The majority (62%) were rated at medium/high risk of bias. Focussing our narrative synthesis on the more methodologically sound studies, we found no evidence to support an association between different constructs of social connectedness and requested or actual EAS, and very little evidence to support an association with attitudes to EAS or an association with DHD. Conclusions: Our findings for all age groups are consistent with a those of a previous systematic review focussed on older adults and suggest that poor social connectedness is not a clear risk factor for EAS or for measures more distally related to EAS. However, we acknowledge low study quality in some studies in relation to sampling, unvalidated exposure/outcome measures, cross-sectional design, unadjusted analyses, and multiple testing. Clinical assessment should focus on modifying established risk factors for suicide and EAS, such as hopelessness and depression, as well as improving any distressing aspects of social disconnectedness to improve quality of life. Funding: UKRI, NIHR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and social support is well documented, few studies have tested the causal pathways explaining this association at several points in the acute post-trauma recovery period or examined whether the association varies for different sources of social support. To address these gaps, 151 community individuals (mean age = 37.20 years, 69.5% women) exposed to trauma within the previous 6 months were recruited to complete measures of PTSD and social support from intimate partners, friends, and relatives four times in 1 year. In line with recent recommendations for research on social support and PTSD symptoms, random intercept cross-lagged panel modeling (RI-CLPM) was used to examine dynamic changes between PTSD severity and social support over time. The pattern of RI-CLPM cross-lagged coefficients indicated that positive deviations from one's expected stable level of total social support (across all sources) sped up the recovery of PTSD symptoms at the end of the post-trauma year, and more severe PTSD symptoms than expected based on one's expected stable level of PTSD started eroding social support midway through the assessment year. When specific sources of social support were analyzed separately, the association between within-person increases in social support from friends at any given time point accelerated the recovery from PTSD across the entire year. Among participants with intimate partners (n = 53), intimate partner support did not predict PTSD symptoms, but more severe PTSD symptoms at any given time point predicted less support at the following time point. Results from this longitudinal study provide additional support for the bidirectional relationship between PTSD and social support over time and suggest that perceived social support from friends may be especially helpful during trauma recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies on the associations between well-being and work outcomes, such as work distraction and job satisfaction, have largely been cross-sectional and typically focused on only one or two aspects of well-being. Using two waves of data from a sample of employees at a United States health insurance company (n = 1,234), the present brief research report examines prospective associations between six domains of well-being (emotional health, physical health, meaning & purpose, character strengths, social connectedness, and financial security) and two work outcomes (work distraction and job satisfaction). Lagged regression analyses provided some evidence indicating that higher-level well-being in several domains was associated with subsequent reduced work distraction and increased job satisfaction assessed approximately 1 year later, but the magnitude of associations with each outcome did vary by specific domain. Emotional health and social connectedness were most strongly associated with work distraction and job satisfaction. We discuss some implications of the findings, including the importance of applying a multidimensional approach to studying employee well-being and potential opportunities for organizations to support the well-being of their employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Social connectedness is associated with slower cognitive decline among older adults. Recent research suggests that distinct aspects of social networks may have differential effects on cognitive resilience, but few studies analyze brain structure. METHODS: This study includes 117 cognitively impaired and 59 unimpaired older adults. The effects of social network characteristics (bridging/bonding) on brain regions of interests were analyzed using linear regressions and voxel‐wise multiple linear regressions of gray matter density. RESULTS: Increased social bridging was associated with greater bilateral amygdala volume and insular thickness, and left frontal lobe thickness, putamen, and thalamic volumes. Increased social bonding was associated with greater bilateral medial orbitofrontal and caudal anterior cingulate thickness, as well as right frontal lobe thickness, putamen, and amygdala volumes. DISCUSSION: The associations between social connectedness and brain structure vary depending on the types of social enrichment accessible through social networks, suggesting that psychosocial interventions could mitigate neurodegeneration. Highlights: Distinct forms of social capital are uniquely linked to gray matter density (GMD).Bridging is associated with preserved GMD in limbic system structures.Bonding is associated with preserved GMD in frontal lobe regions.Bridging is associated with increased brain reserve in sensory processing regions.Bonding is associated with increased brain reserve in regions of stress modulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population migration has become a dominant force in shaping local demographic changes in the United States, surpassing natural growth rates. However, whether the migration pattern and the influential factor have distinctive disparities between hierarchical county pairs is still elusive. This study delves into the spatial diversity and driving forces behind migration patterns at the county level, with a particular focus on the disparities through an examination of migration levels and scales. We utilize county-pair-level migration data from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey to unveil the intricate network structure of population movement. Our findings reveal a pronounced spatial diversity in migration patterns, while cities witness a net influx of population, and in contrast to rural areas, majority of population inflow of cities primarily stems from metro areas. We employ Hierarchical Linear Models to analyze the impact of social connectedness, local wealthiness, and racial diversity on migration flows. The results highlight that cities with robust social networks, higher economic status, and balanced racial diversity are more attractive to migrants. Notably, the influence of racial diversity differences between origin and destination counties is found to be more significant in attracting migration compared to per capita income disparities. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners in managing demographic changes and addressing the challenges associated with migration-driven population redistribution. The study underscores the importance of considering social, economic, and racial factors in understanding and shaping migration patterns, with implications for regional development and social cohesion.

Purpose: This study examines the interplay of psychosocial career pre-occupation, social connectedness, and organisational commitment in higher education and offers insights for academia and practitioners. It also explores the impact of gender, job level, and the moderating effect of psychosocial career pre-occupation on employees’ commitment in this sector. Design/methodology/approach: A purposeful sample of 288 senior academic and administrative staff, mostly married males aged 31–40 years, completed the Psychosocial Career Pre-occupation Scale (PCOS), Workplace Friendship Scale (WFS), and Organisational Commitment Scale (OCS). Findings/results: Significant relationships were found among psychosocial career pre-occupation, social connectedness, and organisational commitment in higher education. Moderated analysis revealed predictive roles of gender, job level, and psychosocial career pre-occupation on organisational commitment, and illuminating sector dynamics. Practical implications: For human resource managers and practitioners in Ghana’s public higher education, this study offers insights to boost workforce commitment and engagement, which is vital for national progress. Originality/value: By validating essential elements of career self-management practices, this research extends career construction theory, enriching understanding and fostering professionals’ careers in higher education. It contributes to practical applications and scholarly knowledge by providing a deepening insight into organisational dynamics in this sector.

ObjectivesTo examine the feasibility of a social phone call program to address social isolation and loneliness in stroke survivors.Materials and methodsWe paired 14 lonely community-living stroke survivors with 14 health professional students for 6-weekly unstructured social phone calls. Feasibility data and measures of social isolation, loneliness and other psychosocial metrics were collected pre- and post-intervention. Students journaled following each unstructured call to capture the informal conversation and their sentiments.ResultsSixty-two percent of the targeted sample was interested. Fourteen eligible and interested participants were enrolled. The 13 (93%) participants completing all calls and surveys were an average of 57 years old, 85% female, and 77% non-Hispanic white. At baseline, participants were highly lonely and moderately depressed. Participants disclosed physical and emotional challenges, previous valued employment, and enjoyment from the calls. Students reported enjoying the connections, learning about the struggles of aging-in-place after stroke, and valuing compassionate care for the stroke population.ConclusionsKnowledge gaps remain regarding effective social support interventions to provide continuity of care directed at managing social disconnection after stroke. A health professional student-delivered social phone call intervention with stroke survivors appears to be a feasible, in part, and encouraging approach for addressing social isolation and loneliness. Future trials require re-evaluation of eligibility criteria and strategies to boost enrollment before efficacy testing is conducted in a larger trial.

Rapid urbanization in developing countries is increasingly becoming an important development issue due to its negative effects on poverty and food insecurity in cities. This study investigated the determinants of the food insecurity gap among urban households living in informal settlements in Nairobi, Kenya, and the role of social connectedness and the rural-urban food continuum. Using panel data collected from 385 households using a two-stage cluster sample design, the study applied panel data regression and decomposition models to understand the factors affecting food insecurity access scores and weekly household food consumption expenditure. Descriptive results showed a score of 8.00 for the pooled sample on the household food access scale, with households from other regions having a lower score (7.94) than those from the Western region (8.32). 43 % of households from Western Kenya engaged in farming in rural areas (43 %) and had higher social connectedness (45 %) than households from other regions. The results indicate that dependency ratio, income, savings, social connectedness, rural visits, and dietary knowledge are significant factors impacting food security. Decomposition of levels and change in food insecurity revealed that endowments from the random effects model contributed to reducing the food insecurity gap between households originating from the Western region and those from other regions. The study highlights the importance of considering regional factors and promoting social connectedness and rural-urban linkages in addressing food insecurity in informal urban settlements.

Abstract Background Social connectedness is a key determinant of health and interventions have been developed to prevent social isolation in older adults. However, these interventions have historically had a low participation rate amongst minority populations. Given the sustained isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is even more important to understand what factors are associated with an individual’s decision to participate in a social intervention. To achieve this, we used machine learning techniques to model the racial and ethnic differences in participation in social connectedness interventions. Methods Data were obtained from a social connectedness intervention that paired college students with Houston-area community-dwelling older adults (> 65 yo) enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. Eligible participants were contacted telephonically and asked to complete the 3-item UCLA Loneliness Scale. We used the following machine-learning methods to identify significant predictors of participation in the program: k-nearest neighbors, logistic regression, decision tree, gradient-boosted decision tree, and random forest. Results The gradient-boosted decision tree models yielded the best parameters for all race/ethnicity groups (96.1% test accuracy, 0.739 AUROC). Among non-Hispanic White older adults, key features of the predictive model included Functional Comorbidity Index (FCI) score, Medicare prescription risk score, Medicare risk score, and depression and anxiety indicators within the FCI. Among non-Hispanic Black older adults, key features included disability, Medicare prescription risk score, FCI and Medicare risk scores. Among Hispanic older adults, key features included depression, FCI and Medicare risk scores. Conclusions These findings offer a substantial opportunity for the design of interventions that maximize engagement among minority groups at greater risk for adverse health outcomes.

Abstract Background The negative effects of loneliness on population health and wellbeing requires interventions that transcend the medical system and leverage social, cultural, and public health system resources. Group-based social interventions are a potential method to alleviate loneliness. Moreover, nature, as part of our social and health infrastructure, may be an important part of the solutions that are needed to address loneliness. The RECETAS European project H2020 (Re-imagining Environments for Connection and Engagement: Testing Actions for Social Prescribing in Natural Spaces) is an international research project aiming to develop and test the effectiveness of nature-based social interventions to reduce loneliness and increase health-related quality of life. Methods This article describes the three related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that will be implemented: the RECETAS-BCN Trial in Barcelona (Spain) is targeting people 18+ from low socio-economic urban areas; the RECETAS-PRG Trial in Prague (Czech Republic) is addressing community-dwelling older adults over 60 years of age, and the RECETAS-HLSNK trial is reaching older people in assisted living facilities. Each trial will recruit 316 adults suffering from loneliness at least sometimes and randomize them to nature-based social interventions called “Friends in Nature” or to the control group. “Friends in Nature” uses modifications of the “Circle of Friends” methodology based on group processes of peer support and empowerment but including activities in nature. Participants will be assessed at baseline, at post-intervention (3 months), and at 6- and 12-month follow-up after baseline. Primary outcomes are the health-related quality-of-life according to 15D measure and The De Jong Gierveld 11-item loneliness scale. Secondary outcomes are health and psychosocial variables tailored to the specific target population. Nature exposure will be collected throughout the intervention period. Process evaluation will explore context, implementation, and mechanism of impact. Additionally, health economic evaluations will be performed. Discussion The three RECETAS trials will explore the effectiveness of nature-based social interventions among lonely people from various ages, social, economic, and cultural backgrounds. RECETAS meets the growing need of solid evidence for programs addressing loneliness by harnessing the beneficial impact of nature on enhancing wellbeing and social connections. Trial registration Barcelona (Spain) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05488496. Registered 29 July 2022. Prague (Czech Republic) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05522140. Registered August 25, 2022. Helsinki (Finland) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05507684. Registered August 12, 2022.

A large body of research has been reported on the lifelong consequences of attachment, with social connectedness being one of the main related factors. It is thus crucial to determine the mediating variables in the relationship between attachment and social connectedness. To better understand the relationship between anxious and avoidant attachment styles and social connectedness among university students, this study investigated the sequential mediating roles of inferiority and perfectionism. The study involved 390 undergraduate students (257 female, 133 male) enrolled in various undergraduate programs. Data was collected through various scales including the Experiences in Close Relationships, Almost Perfect Scale, Social Connectedness, and Inferiority Scale. Structural equation modeling shows that adaptive perfectionism partially mediates the relationship between avoidant attachment and social connectedness. Additionally, inferiority functions as a mediator between anxious attachment and maladaptive perfectionism, while maladaptive perfectionism partially functions as a mediator between inferiority and social connection. The results suggest that it would be beneficial for practitioners to address inferiority and perfectionism so as to promote social connectedness among undergraduate students.

Zhensong Lan,1 Huaqiang Liu,2,3 Xuefang Huang,4 Qing Wang,5 Fafang Deng,1 Juchao Li6 1School of Public Administration, Hechi University, Yizhou, Guangxi, 546300, People’s Republic of China; 2School of Law and Public Administration, Yibin University, Yibin, Sichuan, 644000, People’s Republic of China; 3Yibin Ronghe Social Work Service Center, Yibin, Sichuan, 644000, People’s Republic of China; 4School of Teacher Education, Hechi University, Yizhou, Guangxi, 546300, People’s Republic of China; 5Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330013, People’s Republic of China; 6School of Economics and Management, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, 100124, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Huaqiang Liu, School of Law and Public Administration, Yibin University, 8 Jiusheng Road, Cuiping District, Yibin, Sichuan, 644000, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 13060000980, Email liuhq@yibinu.edu.cnPurpose: To explore the impact of the match between academic pressure and peer support on adolescents’ sense of loneliness and examine whether social connectedness played a mediating role, using a polynomial regression and response surface analysis.Methods: A questionnaire survey was conducted with 1277 adolescents from two cities in Sichuan Province, China, to investigate their academic pressure, peer support, social connectedness, and sense of loneliness.Results: (1) Adolescents’ sense of loneliness positively correlated with their level of academic pressure and negatively correlated with their degree of peer support. (2) Social connectedness played a mediating role in the relationship between academic pressure, peer support, and sense of loneliness. (3) Adolescents with high academic pressure and low peer support had weaker social connectedness than those with low academic pressure and high peer support. (4) Adolescents with high academic pressure and high peer support had stronger social connectedness than those with low academic pressure and low peer support.Discussion: The study revealed the mechanism through which a match (or mismatch) between academic pressure and peer support influenced adolescents’ sense of loneliness and validated the mediating role of social connectedness. The study enriches the developmental theory of adolescent loneliness and provides research experience for future interventions targeting adolescent loneliness.Keywords: academic pressure, peer support, social connectedness, loneliness, adolescents, polynomial regression and response surface analysis

Background: Social connectedness is a key determinant of health and interventions have been developed to prevent social isolation in older adults. However, these interventions have historically had a low participation rate amongst minority populations. Given the sustained isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is even more important to understand what factors are associated with an individual's decision to participate in a social intervention. To achieve this, we used machine learning techniques to model the racial and ethnic differences in participation in social connectedness interventions. Methods: Data were obtained from a social connectedness intervention that paired college students with Houston-area community-dwelling older adults (> 65 yo) enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. Eligible participants were contacted telephonically and asked to complete the 3-item UCLA Loneliness Scale. We used the following machine-learning methods to identify significant predictors of participation in the program: k-nearest neighbors, logistic regression, decision tree, gradient-boosted decision tree, and random forest. Results: The gradient-boosted decision tree models yielded the best parameters for all race/ethnicity groups (96.1% test accuracy, 0.739 AUROC). Among non-Hispanic White older adults, key features of the predictive model included Functional Comorbidity Index (FCI) score, Medicare prescription risk score, Medicare risk score, and depression and anxiety indicators within the FCI. Among non-Hispanic Black older adults, key features included disability, Medicare prescription risk score, FCI and Medicare risk scores. Among Hispanic older adults, key features included depression, FCI and Medicare risk scores. Conclusions: These findings offer a substantial opportunity for the design of interventions that maximize engagement among minority groups at greater risk for adverse health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper explores the intricate interplay between mental health (MH), quality of life (QOL), religiosity, and social connectedness among students with disabilities. In the context of a growing awareness of the multifaceted nature of well-being, this study aims to unravel the moderating effects of religiosity and social connectedness on the relationship between mental health and the overall quality of life experienced by students with disabilities. Utilizing Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), this research investigates direct and moderating effects within the proposed conceptual framework. The results indicate that all mental health disorder dimensions (stress, depression, and anxiety) negatively and significantly affect the quality of life of students with disabilities; moreover, the negative impact of stress on QOL is dampened by the moderation effect of social connectedness. Similarly, the negative impact of anxiety on QOL is dampened by the moderation effect of religiosity. However, the findings indicate that social connectedness fails to dampen the negative impact of depression (and anxiety (β = −0.12)) on QOL. Similarly, the findings reveal that religiosity is unable to dampen the negative effect of depression and stress on QOL. These findings' implications extend to the theoretical and practical domains, informing interventions and support systems aimed at enhancing the overall quality of life of people with disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The negative effects of loneliness on population health and wellbeing requires interventions that transcend the medical system and leverage social, cultural, and public health system resources. Group-based social interventions are a potential method to alleviate loneliness. Moreover, nature, as part of our social and health infrastructure, may be an important part of the solutions that are needed to address loneliness. The RECETAS European project H2020 (Re-imagining Environments for Connection and Engagement: Testing Actions for Social Prescribing in Natural Spaces) is an international research project aiming to develop and test the effectiveness of nature-based social interventions to reduce loneliness and increase health-related quality of life. Methods: This article describes the three related randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that will be implemented: the RECETAS-BCN Trial in Barcelona (Spain) is targeting people 18+ from low socio-economic urban areas; the RECETAS-PRG Trial in Prague (Czech Republic) is addressing community-dwelling older adults over 60 years of age, and the RECETAS-HLSNK trial is reaching older people in assisted living facilities. Each trial will recruit 316 adults suffering from loneliness at least sometimes and randomize them to nature-based social interventions called "Friends in Nature" or to the control group. "Friends in Nature" uses modifications of the "Circle of Friends" methodology based on group processes of peer support and empowerment but including activities in nature. Participants will be assessed at baseline, at post-intervention (3 months), and at 6- and 12-month follow-up after baseline. Primary outcomes are the health-related quality-of-life according to 15D measure and The De Jong Gierveld 11-item loneliness scale. Secondary outcomes are health and psychosocial variables tailored to the specific target population. Nature exposure will be collected throughout the intervention period. Process evaluation will explore context, implementation, and mechanism of impact. Additionally, health economic evaluations will be performed. Discussion: The three RECETAS trials will explore the effectiveness of nature-based social interventions among lonely people from various ages, social, economic, and cultural backgrounds. RECETAS meets the growing need of solid evidence for programs addressing loneliness by harnessing the beneficial impact of nature on enhancing wellbeing and social connections. Trial registration: Barcelona (Spain) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05488496. Registered 29 July 2022. Prague (Czech Republic) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05522140. Registered August 25, 2022. Helsinki (Finland) trial: ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05507684. Registered August 12, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of the study: The study evaluates the role of connectedness and coping strategies in mental health model. Subject or material and methods: The sample included a total of 81 adult participants aged 19-57 years (M=28.02), of whom 76,5% were female. More than half of participants live in the biggest cities in Poland, including capital city (61,73%). The online semi-structured questionnaire included sections concerning several areas: sociodemographic data, mental health symptoms (DASS-21), nature connectedness (CNS), social connectedness (SCS-R), coping strategies (Mini-COPE). Results: The analysis examined how depression, stress, anxiety, and coping mechanisms are related to the nature and social connectedness. Obtained results shown: (1) significant negative relationship of social connectedness with severity of stress (r = - .41; BCa 95% CI), anxiety (r = - .40; BCa 95% CI) and depression (r = - .50; BCa 95% CI); (2) significant negative relationship of nature connectedness with anxiety level (r = - .22; BCa 95% CI) and symptoms of depression (r = - .26; BCa 95% CI). Furthermore, the results showed a significant relationships of social connectedness/nature connectedness and adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies. Discussion: Recent studies have shown the mental health is broad concept and both nature and social connectedness seems to be one of important factors affecting it. The stronger both nature and social connectedness we can observe the clear tendency to using positive, adaptive coping strategies. Conclusions: As this research seems to indicate that prevention should include strengthening both social and nature connectedness, the implications of these findings may be useful for mental health care planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the importance disabled people award to NGOs in their experiences of social connectedness. Applying qualitative research methods (interviews and content analysis) revealed significant aspects of the existential desire to belong to a group. Four research categories emerged: connectedness through identity, connectedness with another person, connectedness through the need to give help, and connectedness through the need to receive help. The results of the research showed that disabled people join NGOs when they feel rejected by society. This involves a step in the search for one's own identity in order to realise oneself as a person. The research revealed that people with disabilities may look for people with the same fate, giving meaning to their lives and being. The category of connectedness with another person revealed that communication is an integral part of social connectedness. This leads to overcoming loneliness, not being closed at home, and having human relations with each other within an NGO. Based on the results of the qualitative research, it became clear that in terms of connectedness through the need for help, it was considered important to help others and for NGOs to be interested in those who need help. From the data that were obtained during the research, it can be seen that moral support and psychological help are important components of connectedness for seriously ill individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching & Learning is the property of Society for Teaching & Learning in Higher Education and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Social disconnectedness and isolation are risk factors for poor mental health. Community-based friendship group interventions have been designed to increase an individual’s social capital and consequently their mental wellbeing. Structured and unstructured friendship groups reflect two distinct approaches to friendship group interventions. Methods: This meta-analysis investigated whether structured or unstructured community friendship groups are more effective for mental health and social capital outcomes. A systematic search of quantitative studies was conducted across seven databases and study quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) tool. Eight studies (2 unstructured and 6 structured friendship groups) were included in the review, published between 2005 and 2020. Results: Structured friendship groups had a small significant effect on reducing participant depression symptoms. There was not enough available data to compare the effectiveness of structured and unstructured groups for mental health outcomes. There was substantial heterogeneity between studies to calculate pooled effect sizes for any social capital outcomes. Data synthesis indicated mixed reviews for social capital outcomes, likely due to the large heterogeneity and limited studies. Discussion: This meta-analysis provides limited support for positive mental health outcomes following structured community-based friendship group interventions. There is a need for additional research as a large research gap remains, particularly for unstructured friendship groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To gain a deeper understanding of healthcare workers experiences during COVID- 19 using an anonymous, web-based, audio narrative platform. Methods: Data were collected from healthcare workers in the midwestern United States using a web-enabled audio diary approach. Participant recordings were analysed using a narrative coding and conceptualization process derived from grounded theory coding techniques. Results: Fifteen healthcare workers, in direct patient care or non-patient care roles, submitted 18 audio narratives. Two paradoxical themes emerged: 1) A paradox of distress and meaningfulness, where a harsh work environment resulted in psychological distress while simultaneously resulting in new rewarding experiences, sense of purpose and positive outlooks. 2) A paradox of social isolation and connection, where despite extreme isolation, healthcare workers formed intense and meaningful interpersonal connections with patients and colleagues in new ways. Conclusions: A web-enabled audio diary approach provided an opportunity for healthcare workers to reflect deeper on their experiences without investigator influence, which led to some unique findings. Paradoxically, amid social isolation and extreme distress, a sense of value, meaning and rewarding human connections emerged. These findings suggest that interventions addressing healthcare worker burnout and distress might be enhanced by leveraging naturally occurring positive experiences as much as mitigating negative ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Young adults, aged between 17 and 25 years, experienced a strong impact on both their mental health and well-being due to COVID-19. Indeed, they were simultaneously faced with the normative tasks of their age and stressors associated with the long-lasting COVID-19 pandemic. This study offers further insights into the perceptions of the well-being (stress, anxiety, and depression) and social bonds in young Italian adults during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The first survey was conducted between December and February 2021 (i.e., during the second wave in Italy) and included a total sample of 347 participants. The second survey took place between April and May 2022 (i.e., at the end of the health emergency in Italy) and consisted of a total sample of 313 participants. Results: T-tests, correlations, and linear regressions were performed. Overall, our findings showed an increased mood disturbance was positively correlated with having contracted COVID-19 and negatively associated with social connectedness. Furthermore, social assurance was found to negatively predict mood disorders during COVID-19. Conclusion: While numerous studies have focused on mental health, there has been limited exploration of protective factors, which could represent a different perspective that emphasizes individuals' resources rather than their vulnerabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Whilst qualitative research has previously been conducted on older people's personal resilience and wellbeing during COVID-19, there are fewer empirical studies on the impact it had on social connectedness for this age group. In this paper we seek to examine older people's social connectedness to others during the pandemic, their personal experiences of seeking out those connections, and whether there are any identifiable pre-existing factors that enabled them to minimise the impact of enforced isolation. Methods: Using a phenomenological methodology, we conducted in-depth interviews with 13 older people between March and May 2021. These interviews explored the participant's lived experiences of staying socially connected to others during the enforced lockdowns and various restrictions. Results: Our findings reveal strong themes of personal resilience, sense of coherence and other protective factors, but also highlight the benefits of establishing connections to friends, family, organised groups and community prior to the pandemic. Conclusion: Older people's ability to stay socially connected is influenced by personal resilience and a positive mindset; pre-existing social ties to others and maintaining a personal sense of coherence and a sense of belonging to people or places. Our findings shed light on the importance of informal social interactions, what it means to feel lonely in older age and indicate that for some the pandemic restrictions may even have offered a welcome space in which to process significant life events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large body of research has been reported on the lifelong consequences of attachment, with social connectedness being one of the main related factors. It is thus crucial to determine the mediating variables in the relationship between attachment and social connectedness. To better understand the relationship between anxious and avoidant attachment styles and social connectedness among university students, this study investigated the sequential mediating roles of inferiority and perfectionism. The study involved 390 undergraduate students (257 female, 133 male) enrolled in various undergraduate programs. Data was collected through various scales including the Experiences in Close Relationships, Almost Perfect Scale, Social Connectedness, and Inferiority Scale. Structural equation modeling shows that adaptive perfectionism partially mediates the relationship between avoidant attachment and social connectedness. Additionally, inferiority functions as a mediator between anxious attachment and maladaptive perfectionism, while maladaptive perfectionism partially functions as a mediator between inferiority and social connection. The results suggest that it would be beneficial for practitioners to address inferiority and perfectionism so as to promote social connectedness among undergraduate students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectivesWe investigated changes over time in mental and social wellbeing indicators for vulnerable population subgroups during the pandemic. These groups were younger people, people with disabilities, low-income groups, unemployed, culturally, and linguistically diverse communities (CaLD), and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.MethodsA series of four repeated population representative surveys were conducted in June 2020, September 2020, January 2022, and June 2022. Questions included items on psychological distress, financial hardship, social connection, and life satisfaction.ResultsFor most groups, social connection and life satisfaction improved in 2022 relative to 2020. Psychological distress and financial hardship showed the opposite pattern, with some groups having worse results in 2022 relative to 2020. People without any vulnerability had better mental health and social wellbeing outcomes at each time point relative to the vulnerable population subgroups.ConclusionPandemic-related policies had differential effects over time and for different population groups. Future policies and research need to closely monitor how they impact population subgroups, and the overall results clearly demonstrate the inequity in mental health and social wellbeing outcomes for vulnerable population cohorts.

A transition to a more sustainable society is occurring worldwide and necessitates a change in people's ways of consuming. Self-transcendence (ST) is recognized as a key predictor of green consumption. Thus, a multiple intermediary model was developed to clarify the psychological mechanisms underlying ST and its influence on consumption. The model was tested using data from a nationally representative sample of 428 Chinese participants. The results show that ST's overall positive effect on green consumption is realized via four indirect paths: (1) the simple mediating role of nature connectedness between ST and green consumption, (2) the simple mediating role of social connectedness between ST and green consumption; (3) the chain-mediating role of construction of meaning in life (CoMIL) and nature connectedness, and (4) the chain-mediating role of CoMIL and social connectedness. Among these paths, nature connectedness plays the most critical mediating role for the Chinese, accounting for the greatest proportion of the total indirect effect. The study advances understanding of the influence and path of ST on green consumption, and provides theoretical and practical support for guiding people toward sustainable lifestyles.