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Background: Even though mental health problems and alcohol use remain major challenges facing adolescents, our understanding of their developmental progressions primarily stems from cohorts coming 1 of age in the early 2000's. We aimed to examine and describe normative developmental trajectories of depression, conduct problems, and alcohol use across adolescent years among more recent cohorts of Norwegian youth born in the 21st century. Methods: Multilevel mixed linear models for symptoms of depression and conduct disorder, and multilevel mixed logistic models for depressive disorder, conduct problems, any alcohol use, and risky drinking, were estimated with longitudinal data from a nationwide sample N = 3436 (55% girls) of Norwegian adolescents (mean age 14.3 [SD = 0.85] in 2017). We compared models with linear, quadratic, and cubic change with age, and models that tested moderation by sex and centrality (rural vs. urban communities). Results: Average symptoms and the rate of depressive disorder increased sharply from age 13 to age 19, but both the initial levels and the rates of change were greater for girls than for boys. Average symptoms of conduct disorder and the rate of conduct problems increased in early adolescence and were greater for boys than girls. The rates of any alcohol use and risky drinking both increased sharply from age 14, but there were no notable sex differences either in the initial levels or rates of change over time. Adolescents from more rural communities had greater rates of any drinking in mid-adolescence, but there were no other effects of centrality. Conclusions: This study provides a much-needed update concerning normative developmental trajectories of depression, conduct problems, and alcohol use among millennium cohorts. Consistent with prior studies, we observed significant increases in all outcomes across adolescence, with depression being both greater and more prevalent among girls and conduct problems being both greater and more prevalent among boys. Consistent with the emerging evidence, we observed no sex differences in alcohol use. Finally, there were no differences in the examined developmental trajectories as a function of centrality. These findings underscore the importance of early prevention and treatment of mental health and substance use problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2022, South Africa (SA) had the second-highest HIV incidence rate among adolescents worldwide. This study's participants were boys living in SA aged 15–19 years old, in a current dating or sexual relationship, and diagnosed with HIV before the age of 10. Despite the launch of campaigns to spread awareness of Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U = U), our findings showed that a significant number of adolescents living with HIV do not demonstrate an understanding of the concept. This highlights the importance of integrating U = U messaging in ongoing conversations with healthcare workers given the potential positive impact on adolescent wellbeing, transmission risk perception, and safer sexual practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study examines the network structure and, using Bayesian network analysis, estimates the directional pathways among symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and levels of alcohol and cannabis use. Method: A sample of 1471 adults in the United States, who reported at least one potentially traumatic event, completed the PTSD Checklist (PCL-5), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the Alcohol/Cannabis Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT/CUDIT). A regularized partial correlation network provided estimates of symptoms clusters and connections. Directional pathways within the network were then estimated using a directed acyclic graph (DAG). Results: Symptoms clustered in theoretically consistent ways. Risky behavior demonstrated the highest strength centrality and bridge strength. Neither alcohol nor cannabis use appeared central in the network, and DAG results suggested that MDD and PTSD symptoms are more likely to lead to substance use than the other way around. Conclusions: Results suggest that cannabis use is largely connected to alcohol use. Consistent with prior research, risky behavior appeared to be the primary bridge between substance use and PTSD. The direction of associations between substance use and psychological symptoms requires further attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although smartphone ownership among minors has become an important social phenomenon, its impact on children's and adolescents' well-being, as well as the mechanisms by which this might take place are not yet sufficiently well-established. To date, no research has examined the effect of smartphone ownership on the well-being of minors through the consumption of influencer-generated content, nor has it explored the effectiveness of the main prevention strategies employed by parents in this context. To fill those gaps, 800 Spanish minors (50% female) aged from 8 to 16 years old (M = 12.33, SD = 2.38) participated in a correlational study in which the ownership of electronic devices, the consumption of influencer generated content, the parasocial relationship with the influencer, and the most common parental mediation strategies were considered. The results showed a positive association between electronic device ownership and psychological discomfort, problematic usage, and imitation of dangerous behaviors. This association was mediated by the consumption of influencer-generated content and the parasocial relationship established by the minor with the influencer. Regarding preventive strategies, only active mediation was inversely related to poorer well-being indicators, however this positive effect significantly decreased when a smartphone or a similar electronic device was owned by the minor (vs. no owned). These findings contribute to the understanding of how smartphone ownership can affect the well-being of children, emphasizing the need for thoughtful consideration when deciding whether to provide smartphones to minors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To compare the prevalence and trajectories of risky health behaviors in sexual minority (SM; lesbian/gay/bisexual/questioning/asexual) versus heterosexual undergraduates across their first year of post-secondary. Participants. First-year undergraduates (N = 704, Mage=17.97 years, 24% SM) from a midsized Canadian university. Methods. Students completed monthly (September-April) online questionnaires assessing substance use (binge drinking, tobacco, cannabis, illicit drug use) and disordered eating (binge eating, fasting, purging). Results. At the outset of the academic year, SM students endorsed more frequent cannabis use, illicit drug use, fasting, and binge eating, but less frequent tobacco use, versus heterosexual students. Over the year, SM students' binge drinking frequency declined less than that of heterosexual students, but their illicit drug use decreased while that of their heterosexual peers increased, and all students reported declining disordered eating frequency. Conclusions. Campus wellness initiatives for SM students should offer prevention and harm-reduction strategies prior to or shortly after their arrival on campus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This pilot study evaluated a novel psycho-educational group intervention addressing sexuality and intimacy issues among male heterosexual individuals with mental health conditions. Despite the universal need for fulfilling relationships, stigma and lack of support often distort views and promote high-risk behaviors in this population. A cognitive-behavioral framework was used in a six-session program to enhance knowledge and promote healthy sexuality among six participants recruited from an integrated vocational rehabilitation service center in Hong Kong. Quantitative pre- and post-testing alongside qualitative observations revealed that participants significantly improved their understanding of relationships, communication skills, and ability to identify safe practices. Limitations included the small, exclusively heterosexual male sample and evaluation methods. As sexuality is an important yet under-researched topic impacting this population's quality of life, these findings suggest structured group interventions may equip individuals with adaptive tools for intimacy. However, larger trials with expanded curricula are needed to validate this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motorcycles have the highest rate of vehicle collisions in Thailand, causing deaths, injuries, and disability--this quasi-experimental study aimed to test gamification's effectiveness in preventing risky motorcycle driving behaviors. The participants were senior secondary school students in Bangkok who used motorcycles daily to travel between home and school. Students in grade 11 and in two classrooms were randomly selected and assigned to experimental and control groups. Then, random sampling was used to select the participants who met the inclusion criteria in the experimental group (n = 37) receiving the behavioral risk prevention program using gamification for six weeks and the control group (n = 38) receiving a regular program from school. Questionnaires used for data collection were the Demographic and Motor Cycle Related Behavior and Experience Form, the Prevention Motivation Questionnaire, and the Intention of Driving Safety Questionnaire. Descriptive, and paired and independent t-tests were used to analyze the data. The results revealed that the mean score of prevention motivation and the intention of driving safety in the experimental group after receiving the program were significantly higher than before receiving the intervention program and significantly higher than the control group. This study underscores the potential of using gamification to prevent adolescent motorcycle accidents. However, further research is necessary to evaluate the program's long-term effectiveness in different settings. Moreover, it highlights the importance of reinforcing training and licensing for motorcycle driving among adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mental healthcare for children and adolescents with a history of childhood abuse constitutes a major public health issue. Indeed, abuse exposes children to severe and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (cPTSD) but also to neurodevelopmental and psychological repercussions impacting the developmental trajectory. Trauma-focused care is essential to avoid the chronicization of symptoms and disorders. Objective: The aim of this prospective case series study was to investigate the efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) on complex post-traumatic symptoms and associated psychiatric disorders in adolescents with a history of abuse. Method: Twenty-two adolescents, aged 12 to 17, who had been abused during childhood were included. All adolescents met ICD-11 criteria for complex PTSD. Subjective measures of PTSD and associated psychiatric disorders were taken before (T0) and after 3 months of EMDR therapy (T1). Results: The average PTSD symptom score on the CPTS-RI significantly decreased from 40.2 to 34.4 after EMDR, indicating improvement in post-traumatic symptoms. A significant decrease in the average depression score (CDI from 18.2 at T0 to 10.6 at T1), anxiety score (R–CMAS from 21.3 at T0 to 13.3 at T1), emotional regulation score (ALS from 29 at T0 to 10.8 at T1), insomnia score (ISI from 18.5 at T0 to T1 of 9.2 at T1), and harmful use of alcohol and drugs score (ADOSPA from 2.3 at T0 to 0.3 at T1) was observed after EMDR therapy, as well as an increase in quality of life (CBCL 4–16 score from 57.9 at T0 to 77.4 at T1). Conclusions: The results of this study are encouraging and suggest that EMDR may be effective in the symptom management reducing post-traumatic symptoms and certain comorbid disorders frequently seen in adolescents who have experienced childhood abuse. Further research is needed on adolescent populations suffering from cPTSD (e.g., randomized controlled trials with control groups and other therapies or evaluating the action of the different phases of the study). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Our study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention based on Motivational Interviewing (MI) performed by healthcare professionals in Primary Care (PC) patients with risky alcohol use through a multicenter, two-arm parallel, cluster-randomized, open-label controlled clinical trial. Methods: PC professionals were randomized into two groups: an Experimental Group (EG) and a Control Group (CG). The study was carried out in PC centers of the Andalusian Health Service, located in Cordoba, Spain. An MI-based approach was implemented with patients recruited in the EG, while health advice was provided to those included in the CG. The follow-up period was 12 months, with five visits scheduled. The consumption of standard drinking units per week was quantified, and risky alcohol use was estimated using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). An intention-to-treat statistical analysis was performed. Relative risk (RR), absolute risk reduction (ARR) and the number of subjects needed to treat (NNT) were used to estimate the intervention effect size. Results: A total of 268 patients were included, 148 in the EG and 120 in the CG. Considering the quantification of risky alcohol use, the ARR at 12 months after baseline visit was 16.46% (95% CI: 5.37–27.99), with an NNT of 6 (95% CI: 4–19). According to the AUDIT, the ARR at 12 months was 13.15% (95% CI: 2.73–24.24%), and the NNT was 8 (95% CI: 4–37). Conclusions: We concluded that MI is more effective than the usual health advice in decreasing risky alcohol use in patients treated in PC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Secure forensic hospital treatments are resource-intensive, aiming to rehabilitate offenders and enhance public safety. While these treatments consume significant portions of mental health budgets and show efficacy in some countries, their effectiveness in Czechia remains underexplored. Previous research has highlighted various factors influencing the likelihood of discharge from these institutions. Notably, the role of sociodemographic variables and the length of stay (LoS) in the context of forensic treatments has presented inconsistent findings across studies. Methods: The study, part of the 'Deinstitutionalization project' in Czechia, collected data from all inpatient forensic care hospitals. A total of 793 patients (711 male, 79 female and 3 unknown) were included. Data collection spanned 6 months, with tools like HoNOS, HoNOS-Secure, MOAS, HCR-20V3 and AQoL-8D employed to assess various aspects of patient health, behaviour, risk and quality of life. Results: The study revealed several determinants influencing patient discharge from forensic hospitals. Key assessment tools, such as HoNOS secure scores and the HCR-20 clinical subscale, showed that higher scores equated to lower chances of release. Furthermore, specific diagnoses like substance use disorder increased discharge odds, while a mental retardation diagnosis significantly reduced it. The type of index offense showed no influence on discharge decisions. Conclusion: Factors like reduced risk behaviours, absence of mental retardation diagnosis, social support and secure post-release housing plans played significant roles. The results underscored the importance of using standardized assessment tools over clinical judgement. A standout insight was the unique challenges faced by patients diagnosed with mental retardation, emphasizing a need for specialized care units or tailored programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the factors that are associated with individual differences in emotion regulation (ER) difficulties, which is one of the common transdiagnostic factors underlying many psychological disorders, is crucial for understanding and treating psychological disorders. The aim of the two investigations was to examine the mediator role of looming cognitive style (LCS) in the relationship of harm avoidance (HA) with both state and trait forms of ER difficulty. A total of 362 adults participated in Study 1 and 236 adults in Study 2. They completed measurements of HA, LCS, and ER. In Study 2, participants were induced into an anxious mood state and filled out a scale measuring ER in that process. Path analysis demonstrated that social looming between HA and trait ER and physical looming between HA and state ER had mediator roles. Finally, the alternative models which included HA and ER as the outcomes yielded poor fit. The results revealed that LCS significantly mediated the relationship of HA with both trait and state forms of ER difficulty, providing support for the model that aimed to explain how LCS contributes to the development and maintenance of psychological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Skin cancer rates in Canada are rising quickly, with about one-third of Canadians likely to be affected in their lifetime. Despite this alarming trend, government actions to reduce skin cancer are limited. Our study, conducted in Manitoba, found that many residents have risky sun exposure habits and lack awareness about skin cancer. Over 65% reported a history of sunburns, more than half had used tanning beds, and a large majority recently tanned for pleasure. Misconceptions are common, with over 50% believing that tans are healthy or a sign of beauty. Moreover, sun protection practices are inadequate, with less than 60% using protective clothing and under 50% using sunscreen. These findings highlight the need for targeted public health campaigns to improve awareness and promote better sun protection behaviors to prevent future skin cancers in Manitoba. The rapidly increasing skin cancer rates in Canada are alarming, with current data estimating that 1/3 of Canadians will be affected in their lifetime. Thus, deeper understanding of high-risk sun exposure behaviors is needed to help counter this trend. Only limited action has been taken by federal/provincial governments to reduce skin cancer incidence. A cross-sectional survey study was conducted in Manitoba, with frequency counts, means, and percentages used to encapsulate responses. Age- and gender-adjusted odds ratios were calculated using logistic regression analyses. Our study identified worrying inadequacies in sun protective behaviors and attitudes, with the threat of such high-risk behaviors amplified by a lack of skin cancer awareness. Alarming elements were noted in participants' sun exposure history (>65% reported a history of sunburns, >50% previously used a tanning bed, and >75% recently tanned for pleasure), beliefs and attitudes (>50% believe that they look better/healthier with a tan, and >40% believe that having a base tan is protective against further sun damage), and sun protection efforts (sun protective clothing was used <60% of the time, sunscreen was used by <50%, and there was a lack of knowledge about sunscreen characteristics in ~30% of respondents), in addition to significant differences being established between demographic subgroups (based on gender, age, skin phototype, income, and education attained). This study provides worrisome insight onto the grim landscape of sun protective behaviors and attitudes in Manitoba, which will inevitably translate into higher skin cancer rates and should serve as a call to action to promote targeted public health messaging in this jurisdiction and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine risky leisure noise exposure from listening to music via headphones and to identify potential determinants with special focus on portable listening devices (PLDs) among adolescents over a period of 7.5-years. Design: Data were collected by questionnaires at four equidistant time points (O1-O4). Music exposure via headphones was calculated based on self-reported volume setting and listening duration. Exceeding 85 dB(A) equivalent for a 40-hour working week was defined as risky noise exposure. Determinants of risky headphone and PLD exposure were investigated using generalised estimating equations and accounting for missing data by multiple imputation. Study sample: Closed cohort of 2148 students attending 9th grade of any secondary school type in Regensburg (Germany), during 2009 to 2011. Results: Risky noise exposure from headphone usage was almost twice as high in wave O1 and O2 (at age 15 or 18) compared with 20–23-year-olds in O3 and O4. Risky exposure to headphones and PLDs were associated with younger age, low and medium education, single-parent household and smoking, whereas good self-rated hearing showed a protective effect. Additionally, not being born in Germany was associated with risky PLD exposure. Conclusion: Before harmful behaviours become entrenched, starting preventive efforts at a young age is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Research shows that personal relevance may affect the impact of alcohol-related health information. This study explored alcohol consumption during the UK Covid-19 lockdown, and whether a message emphasising the effect of alcohol on the immune system was more effective in altering intentions to follow low-risk drinking guidelines than other messages about the effects of alcohol on health. Methods & Measures: From April to June 2020, 953 drinkers completed an online questionnaire, and were randomly allocated to exposure to a control condition or one of three messages emphasising the impact of alcohol on: the immune system; mental health; or physical health. Outcome variables were: concern about alcohol intake, and intention to adhere to low-risk drinking guidelines. Results: Pre-post ANCOVAs revealed that participants in the immunity message group had significantly stronger intention to adhere to low-risk guidelines than the control group (after controlling for initial intention). Concern for the effect of alcohol on health was not significantly affected. Conclusion: During Covid-19 lockdown, a message emphasising the impact of alcohol on the immune-system had a greater effect on intention to observe low-risk drinking guidelines than other messages. Contextually relevant messages could be used for alcohol health campaigns and for improving alcohol labelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of monkeypox (Mpox) cases in the 2022 outbreak have been traced back to mass gathering events in May, primarily among men who have sex with men (MSM). While some quantitative studies exist in the literature, focusing mainly on the link between Mpox knowledge, conspiracy theories, and vaccination hesitancy, there is a dearth of qualitative or mixed-method research that examines the beliefs surrounding this phenomenon, particularly including LGBTQIA+ groups. This study's primary objective is to delve into the beliefs associated with the media's portrayal of a connection between Mpox and MSM during the initial outbreak period. A total of 333 participants, including 212 cisgender women, 110 cisgender men, and 11 individuals identifying with other genders, took part in an online quali-quantitative survey conducted in June 2022 in Italy. This survey aimed to explore participants' perceptions of Mpox, their knowledge about it, and their attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ individuals and sexuality. The final thematic structure revealed a hierarchical arrangement of themes, encompassing: (1) The linkage between Mpox and MSM, elucidated through risky sexual behaviours or contextual factors; (2)The absence of any connection, explained through causal effects and a general mistrust of society. Individuals identified as male at birth and cisgender men tended to attribute the primary reason behind Mpox contagion to sexual promiscuity. Conversely, non-heterosexual participants were more inclined to consider both sexual promiscuity and the presence of stigma. The results demonstrated a diverse range of opinions concerning Mpox, spanning from objective behavioural risks to the stigmatising notion that MSM constitute a socially hazardous group. It is incumbent upon researchers and scientific organisations to disseminate lucid, non-alarmist, and destigmatizing information aimed at curbing risky behaviours. The opinions of both LGBTQIA+ and non-LGBTQIA+ people regarding Mpox during the 2022 outbreak were diverse, often expressing scientific misconceptions and stigmatising beliefs. To address misconceptions and fake news surrounding Mpox infection, it is the responsibility of researchers and scientific organisations to promote clear, non-alarmist information aimed at preventing risky behaviours and protecting against stigma. Health messages related to Mpox prevention should employ sensitive and affirmative language, providing useful information about prevention and care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. In recent years, workplace accidents have imposed a considerable cost on industries. Accident proneness is one of the most influential factors known to cause unsafe behaviors and occupational accidents. Therefore, the present study investigated the validity and reliability of the accident proneness questionnaire in industries. Methods. The questionnaire was developed to measure accident proneness in industries – the developed instrument was distributed in East Azarbaijan industries (1100 questionaries). Content validity, confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory factor analysis were used to examine the construct validity, and Cronbach's α and the test–retest method were used to examine the reliability and reproducibility of the instrument. Results. In the face validity section, the impact score of all items was determined to be >1.5. In the content validity section, the content validity index (CVI) and the content validity ratio (CVR) were higher than the standard value of 0.42. The Cronbach's α coefficient for all dimensions was 0.914. Conclusion. The findings of the study show that the accident proneness questionnaire in industries has acceptable validity and reliability, and can be used as a comprehensive, practical, robust and reliable instrument to investigate the accident proneness of different industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. Although some studies have shown role stressors can lead to unsafe behaviors, it is unclear how role stressors induce delivery riders' unsafe behaviors. We found that delivery riders suffered from tremendous role stressors during the delivery process and had to conduct frequent smartphone interactions. This study aimed to explore the effects of role stressors and smartphone interactions on delivery riders' unsafe behaviors. Methods. First, a questionnaire survey (N = 326) was used to collect data, and correlation and regression analyses were conducted to explore the relationship between role stressors, smartphone interaction frequency and delivery riders' unsafe behaviors. Second, a scenario survey (N = 35) was conducted, and comparative analysis was used to further explore how smartphone interactions affect delivery riders' unsafe behaviors. Results. The questionnaire survey revealed that role stressors, smartphone interaction frequency and delivery riders' unsafe behaviors were positively correlated. In addition, the role stressors forced delivery riders to conduct necessary and unnecessary smartphone interactions. The scenario survey found that smartphone interactions reduced delivery riders' motion speed and motion ability, and increased their psychology, so they had a risk-taking mentality, which led to an increase in unsafe behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Use of simulation-based education (SBE) in social work is growing. However, there is a lack of substance use training, for both post-qualified social workers and undergraduate social work students. This study addressed a gap in undergraduate substance use education around prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and its impact on foetal development. A mixed methods approach was used with undergraduate social work students across two universities in the Southwest of the UK. Both groups received a taught session on foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), completed pre- and post-taught session questionnaires assessing FAS knowledge, and had the opportunity to interact with the FAS neonate simulator. Creative activities around interaction with the FAS simulator enabled feedback on thoughts, feelings and practice implications. Findings revealed increased pre- to post-FAS knowledge and enhanced understanding of the long-term impacts of gestational alcohol use for the developing child. Social work students felt more aware of the impact of alcohol use during pregnancy and were more confident to address these issues through future practice. The use of FAS neonate simulators as a pedagogic tool is beneficial to help elucidate student knowledge on alcohol use during pregnancy and to increase confidence working with people who are pregnant who may be using alcohol or substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to assess sexual risk behaviours among young people in Central America. Secondary data were analysed from 15,807 school adolescents (mean age = 14.4 years) who were part of the most recent cross-sectional Global School Based Student Health Survey (GSHS) in six Central American countries. Results show that almost a quarter (24.3%) of participants had sexual initiation, with 19.7% in Guatemala and 40.9% in Panama. Among those students who had sexual initiation, 51.7% had it early (≤14 years), 27.7% had non-condom use, 45.1% had non-birth control use and 41.5% had multiple sexual partners. Older age (≥15 years), male sex, psychological distress, suicide attempt, bullying victimization, school truancy, in physical fight, history of alcohol intoxication, trouble from alcohol use, no physical education, physical injury, soft drink intake and low parental support were associated with sexual risk behaviours. One in four adolescents in the Central America had sexual risk behaviours, calling for interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Risky drinking is a concern among UK-based middle-aged adults. We aimed to explore the relationship between risky drinking, drinking motives, wellbeing, and mental health literacy (MHL). Method: Cross-sectional analysis of online survey data completed by 193 UK-based adults aged 40–65 who drank alcohol, incorporating the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT); Drinking Motives Questionnaire-Revised (DMQ-R); Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS); Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS) and demographic questions. Results: Coping, enhancement and conformity motives and gender significantly predicted higher AUDIT scores (measuring risky drinking). Enhancement motives were found to mediate the relationship between the self-help component of MHL and AUDIT scores, while coping motives mediated the association between wellbeing and AUDIT scores. Conclusion: Findings support research emphasising the influence of drinking motives on risky drinking and highlights how low wellbeing may interact with coping motives to explain risky drinking among middle-aged adults, particularly men. Interventions supporting individuals to understand the relationship between drinking motives and risky drinking, develop adaptive coping strategies, and address the causes of low wellbeing, may be beneficial. However, as the sample was 84% ethnically White, 64% women, 85% educated to at least undergraduate level, and reported a relatively high mean socioeconomic status (6.98 out of 10), the results may not generalise beyond these groups. Future research should use stratified sampling to increase generalisability, as well as exploring whether alcohol-specific, component-specific, or disorder-specific MHL is associated with risky drinking and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Men who have sex with men are at an increased risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections, and although behavioral and contextual interventions have improved, infections continue to spread. Therefore, a new focus on recent trends in sexual health in this population is needed. The aim of this study was to describe the relationship between sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics according to Grindr usage patterns, the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and attitudes toward HIV testing. In January 2020, a cross-sectional study was conducted using a sample of 881 men who have sex with men (MSM) who completed an online questionnaire. We evaluated their Grindr use patterns (moderate or intensive) and explored the associations of these with sociodemographic behavioral characteristics, STIs, and attitudes toward HIV testing. Of 881 participants in total, 587 (66.6%) were intensive Grindr users. Compared to moderate users, these participants reported significantly higher numbers of casual sexual partners (76.2% vs. 23.8%; p < 0.001), were more likely to participate in Chemsex (77.3% vs. 22.7%: p = 0.031), and had a higher self-reported number of STIs (69.9% vs. 30.1; p = 0.046). They also demonstrated better attitudes toward HIV testing (69.7% vs. 30.3%; p = 0.045) and perceived themselves to be at moderate risk of HIV (71.2% vs. 28.8%: p = 0.048). Moreover, intensive Grindr users were 1.36 times more likely than moderate users to test positive for STIs (95%CI = 1.15–1.91; p = 0.048). With some limitations, age, sexual partners, intensive Grindr users, and PrEP uses were associated with the risk of STIs in the sample of Spanish Grindr users studied. As Grindr users are vulnerable to sociodemographic and behavioral factors that determine STIs and HIV infection, mainly among intensive users, it is necessary to highlight the importance of new trends such as online dating apps, PrEP use, substance use in sex, and Chemsex, and these need to be incorporated into online public health strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the latent structure and correlates of the 26-item Painful and Provocative Events Scale (PPES). For a sample of 290 community respondents, results from parallel analysis indicated a 5-factor structure. Based on principal axis factoring with varimax rotation, scales of Intense physicality, Physical and mental trauma, Physical risk taking, Psychopathy, and Body enhancement were constructed, and these demonstrated a pattern of convergent and discriminant correlations with suicide-associated and demographic variables that supported the delineation of these scales as being distinct. In general, results challenge the current scoring of the PPES and, with developed scales being differentially related to demographic variables, indicate that both respondent age and sex require consideration for scale score interpretation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risky sexual behaviors (RSBs) are a prevalent public health concern among adolescents and young adults. Dating apps, which are relatively new technological means to meet sexual partners, are on the rise among this population. However, the scientific literature is mixed regarding the association between the use of dating apps and RSBs, with most studies focusing exclusively on condom use. The present study examined the associations between dating app use and a comprehensive range of RSBs, as well as the moderating role of sexual satisfaction. Self-report questionnaires assessing the level of activity on dating apps, sexual satisfaction, and RSBs were completed by 342 adolescents and young adults. The results revealed significant positive associations between dating app use and a variety of RSBs. Sexual satisfaction was a significant moderator of the link between dating app use and impulsive sexual behaviors. Specifically, dating app use was positively associated with impulsive sexual behaviors at both low and high levels of sexual satisfaction, but more strongly so at low levels of sexual satisfaction. The findings highlight the importance of examining a wide variety of RSBs beyond condom use and have meaningful implications for the prevention of RSBs among youth. Dating app use was linked to higher levels of risky sexual behaviors, such as having multiple sexual partners. In addition, low sexual satisfaction played a role in amplifying the link between dating app use and impulsive sexual behaviors. These findings are relevant for the promotion of sexual health among youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cannabis use and misuse is known to be associated with a variety of negative health, academic, and work-related outcomes; therefore, it is important to study the factors that contribute to or moderate its use. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine whether risky behavior, belongingness and social support as clustering variables play a role in cannabis use frequency. Method: In a university student sample, participant data on risky behavior, belongingness and social support were used to generate vulnerability profiles through cluster analysis (low vulnerability with low risk, low vulnerability with high belonging, moderate vulnerability, and high vulnerability). Using an analysis of variance, the vulnerability profiles were compared with respect to cannabis use frequency and quantity. Through chi-square tests we assessed whether these profiles are overrepresented in certain demographics. Results: The cluster analysis yielded four groups, which differed in their vulnerability for cannabis use. The most vulnerable cluster group had higher cannabis use frequency relative to the two least vulnerable groups. Low income vs. high income was also associated with high vulnerability group membership. International students were overrepresented in the low vulnerability with high belonging group relative to the low vulnerability with low-risk group. The opposite was observed for domestic students. Conclusions: This research adds to the expanding body of literature on cannabis use and misuse in Canada, which may contribute to public health policy and the prevention and treatment of cannabis addiction by providing new insight on who may be at risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This research aimed at understanding how changes in one behavior affect other behaviors, known as "transfer effect," could extend knowledge of shared constructs among compound health risk behaviors, and improve methods for promoting simultaneous behavior changes. The current study explored whether participants who completed a randomized controlled trial for physical activity (PA) improved their diet with no intervention in diet or nutrition. Methods: US adults (N = 283) were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of either exercise videogames, standard exercise, or an attention control. Secondary analyses were conducted to examine a possible transfer effect of the intervention on diet at end of intervention (EOT) and 6-month follow-up. Assessments of potential PA constructs (i.e., exercise enjoyment, self-efficacy) and demographics (e.g., age, gender) were conducted. PA, specifically moderate-to-vigorous levels of physical activity (MVPA), was measured using a self-report measure. Diet was measured using the Rate Your Plate dietary assessment. Results: Findings support that a randomization effect was associated with a higher likelihood of increasing MVPA (β = 30.00, 95% CI = 4.46, 64.46) and dietary improvement at EOT (β = 1.48, SE =.83, P =.01) and follow-up (β = 1.74, SE =.52, P =.02). At EOT, changes in diet were associated with higher PA enjoyment (β = 0.41, SE = 0.15, P =.01). This intervention effect on diet was moderated by gender, with women showing more dietary improvement than men (β = −.78, SE = 13, P =.03). At 6 months, dietary improvement was associated with greater self-efficacy (β =.04, SE =.01, P =.01). Conclusion: This study shows evidence of a transfer effect among two synergistic behaviors and expands understanding of factors that predict the occurrence of this type of behavior change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: We analyzed data from a study to evaluate the effectiveness of the Relationships Under Construction (RUC) sexual risk avoidance education program promoting positive youth development and healthy relationships. METHODS: Twelve schools in the Midwestern region of the United States randomized to the intervention implemented RUC in health or science classes, while control schools collected study measures and implemented the standard curriculum. RESULTS: Post‐randomization analyses revealed significant differences in grade, race/ethnicity, and prior relationship education at baseline between intervention and control students. Subsequent analyses controlled for these differences. We distributed parental notification letters to 641 students, and no parents requested that their adolescent opt out of data collection. We obtained assent and baseline computer‐assisted survey interviews or paper‐and‐pencil instrument forms from 100% of these students. Findings suggest that RUC significantly reduced sexual activity (odds ratio = 0.56, p =.046) at 3‐month follow‐up, compared to those in the control group. RUC also reduced pornography viewing and improved attitudes about delayed gratification, beliefs, decision making, and negative outcome expectations. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that RUC improves sexual attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors among this population of adolescents. Additional research is needed to assess RUC impacts among diverse populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When participants enrolled in an HIV prevention trial hold a preventive misconception (PM) – expectations that experimental interventions will confer protection from HIV infection – they may engage in behaviors that increase their risk of acquiring HIV. This can raise ethical concerns about whether those enrolled in the trial understand the nature of participation and their safety. Consequently, we systematically evaluated the prevalence of PM and its association with risk behaviors in a trial examining three candidate regimens for oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis in which all participants received at least one antiretroviral agent. Overall, trial participants exhibited relatively high preventive expectations that may be associated with an increase in risk behaviors among men who have sex with men. In addition, we identified substantial site variability in PM that necessitates future research to uncover its source. This will allow appropriate measures to be taken to mitigate PM and help ensure that participants have an accurate understanding of the potential risks and benefits of trial participation throughout the course of a trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Justice-involved young adult (JIYA) men are at high risk for HIV, yet frequently do not access HIV services. A better understanding of testing behaviors and motivation, as well as facilitators and barriers to testing is necessary for treatment-as-prevention approaches to be implemented among JIYA. Seventeen JIYA men and nine staff were recruited from three alternative sentencing programs (ASPs). In-depth interviews and a staff focus group explored HIV risk and testing uptake behaviors. Narratives from JIYA demonstrated a lack of connection among HIV risk and behavior, views on testing, and knowledge of PreP. Youth and staff also disclosed various youth and environmental/structural barriers to HIV testing. The justice system may be a crucial point of intervention to reduce HIV risk and promote HIV testing with interventions targeted to the needs of JIYA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alcohol consumption among young people is a significant public health concern. Previous studies have indicated that participation in sports, through the positive experiences it offers, may function as a protective factor against alcohol intake. This study aimed to examine the influence of enjoyment and personal fulfillment on adolescent alcohol use, exploring the role of engagement with sports as a mediating variable. Methods: A total of 370 adolescents (mean age = 15.08; SD = 1.48) participated in the study and completed the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test, the Enjoyment in Sports Scale, and the Athlete Engagement Questionnaire. Results: The results demonstrated that enjoyment is related to lower alcohol consumption through personal fulfillment and engagement in sporting activity. Conclusions: It is crucial to facilitate positive experiences in sport that promote engagement and generate a sense of personal fulfillment, as these factors may reduce the likelihood of risky alcohol consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

College students have been recognized as a risk group for substance use. Nevertheless, coherent risk factors for stimulant use remain to be elucidated. The objective of this paper is to identify risk factors associated with the recreational use of MDMA, cocaine, amphetamine and methamphetamine. An online questionnaire was distributed among colleges in Berlin. A sample of 12,914 college students participated, of which 9,382 met the inclusion criteria. Past-month prevalence was 7.0% for MDMA, 6.7% for amphetamine, 5.8% for cocaine and 0.1% for methamphetamine. Associated factors included male gender, "other" gender, homosexual and bisexual orientation, open relationship status or being single, engaging in sexual risk-taking behavior, having a psychiatric diagnosis, tobacco use, drinking alcohol and an increased number of (illicit) substances consumed in the past month and in life. Berlin college students showed a substantially higher prevalence of stimulant use compared to both the general population and college students in other cities. Certain parameters, e.g., polydrug use, were particularly high in this group. The results can be used in further development of prevention efforts. However, conclusions about causality are limited by the cross-sectional nature of this study, highlighting the necessity for longitudinal studies in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: University students are sexually active, and the sexual risk behavior of this group is higher than that of the general population. The prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) emphasizes the need for comprehensive knowledge about behaviors for STI protection and the actual realization of these behaviors. Subject and methods: First, an online questionnaire was developed to record the knowledge and realization of STI-protective behaviors among students at Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HUAS) to conduct quantitative cross-sectional interviews. The sample included 1532 students. Specific aspects of the interview are based on lower response rates. The correlations were then tested by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and Pearson's chi-squared test. Results: Significant positive correlations were identified between the self-efficacy (SE) and the use of condoms, STI vaccinations, STI tests, and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Significant negative correlations were suggested between substance use and the use of condoms and the use of PrEP and the intake of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Significant positive correlations were identified between the knowledge about STI-protective behaviors and the usage of STI-protective vaccinations, STI tests, and ART. Significant positive correlations were identified between the experiences in terms of STIs and the knowledge about STI-protective vaccinations, use of PrEP, and use of ART. Conclusion: Moreover, the results indicate that students with a divergent sexual identity have a higher level of knowledge about STI-protective behaviors. The sexual health of university students should be improved by preventive measures to improve the sexual health of individual students and their social environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In the context of a couples cohort established to evaluate an optimised couples-focused behavioural intervention in rural South Africa, we examined: (1) Is couples' relationship quality (RQ) associated with couples HIV testing and counselling (CHTC) uptake? (2) Does CHTC uptake or the intervention components uptake improve subsequent RQ? Enrolled couples, (n = 218), previously naïve to couples HIV testing, were invited to two group sessions and offered four couples counselling sessions (CS1-CS4), as part of the intervention and administered a questionnaire individually at baseline, four weeks, and four months, which included item-scales to measure RQ: satisfaction, intimacy, dyadic trust, conflict, and mutual constructive communication. Logistic models indicated that no baseline RQ measures were significantly associated with CHTC uptake. Linear regression models showed that CHTC uptake before four weeks assessment significantly improved couples' satisfaction and trust at four weeks, and intimacy at four months. Attending at least one CS was associated with increased satisfaction, intimacy, and decreased conflict within couples at four weeks; the improvement in intimacy was sustained at four months. Consistent with the theoretical interdependence model, our findings suggest that CHTC and CS seemed to strengthen aspects of relationship quality, possibly leading to further collaboration in managing lifestyle changes and treatment adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study expands the literature on risk taking among college students by exploring anti-racism action as a form of positive risk taking. Participants: 346 Black (64%) and Latinx (36%) college students (85% female) ages 18–27 years (M = 18.75, SD = 1.31). Methods: Participants responded to questionnaires on anti-racism action, health-risk taking, and college functioning. Latent class analysis identified behavioral profiles of risk takers. Indicators of profile membership and associations with college functioning were examined. Results: Three profiles emerged: moderate overall risk taking, high health-risk taking, and high anti-racism action. Personal experience with discrimination was associated with a greater likelihood of health-risk taking. Students in the high anti-racism profile evinced greater educational functioning than those in the high-health risk taking profile. Conclusions: Risky behavior on college campuses is not homogeneous. Specific interventions and support networks are necessary to support students falling within specific risk profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Culture and stigma-relevant issues discourage transgender individuals in China from gender identity disclosure, which may limit their access to comprehensive health care services. This study evaluates how gender identity disclosure to healthcare professionals would facilitate healthcare services in China. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in nine cities across mainland China from December 2019 to June 2020 among transgender individuals. Participants completed questions covering socio-demographic information, Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus and Sexually Transmitted Infections (HIV/STI) testing habits, sexual risk behaviors, and access to medical and mental health services for the past 3 months. Results: A total of 277 eligible transgender individuals with a mean age of 29 ± 8 years old completed the survey. Overall, 56.0% (155/277) had disclosed their gender identity to health professionals. 83.9% had ever tested for HIV (with HIV prevalence of 12.9%), 54.2% had tested for STIs, 62.6% had used hormone therapy, and 12.3% had undergone gender-affirming surgery. Multivariable logistic regression showed that participants who had ever disclosed their gender identity to healthcare professionals were more likely to have tested for STIs (aOR = 1.94, 95%CI: 1.12–3.39) and HIV (aOR = 1.72, 95% CI 0.82–3.39), received hormone intervention therapy (aOR = 2.81, 95%CI: 1.56–5.05), and used pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) (aOR= 3.51, 95%CI: 1.12–10.97) compared to non-disclosers. Conclusions: Our study demonstrated strong correlations between gender identity disclosure and healthcare services usage among Chinese transgender individuals. Facilitating the gender identity disclosure of transgender individuals to healthcare professionals with caution would be useful for improving their access to care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: People who use drugs are disproportionally affected by sexually transmitted and blood‐borne infections (STBBIs). While the benefits of methadone in reducing injecting‐risk behaviours are well documented, less is known on its impacts on sexual‐related risks, as well as its comparative effectiveness to buprenorphine/naloxone, particularly in the context of highly potent opioids. The aim of this study was to estimate the relative effects of buprenorphine/naloxone and methadone on injecting and STBBI risks among people with prescription‐type opioid use disorder (POUD). Methods: Secondary analysis of a pan‐Canadian pragmatic 24‐week randomized clinical trial comparing methadone and buprenorphine/naloxone models of care among 272 people with POUD (including licit or illicit opioid analgesics, fentanyl). The Risk Behaviour Survey was used to collect injecting and sexual risks at baseline, and weeks 12 and 24. Results: In total, 210 participants initiated treatment (103 buprenorphine/naloxone and 107 methadone). At baseline, 113/205 (55.1%) participants reported recently injecting drugs, 37/209 (17.7%) unsafe injection practices and 67/162 (41.4%) high‐risk sex. Both methadone and buprenorphine/naloxone were associated with reductions in the prevalence of injection drug use and high‐risk sex at weeks 12 and 24 with no interactions between treatment arm and time. Conclusion: Methadone and buprenorphine/naloxone were similarly effective in reducing injecting and sexual risk behaviours among people with POUD. Clinical Trials Registration: clinicaltrials.gov NCT03033732. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Teenage pregnancy may have negative consequences for the mother and the infant. The aim of the study was to examine whether selected individual factors occurring early in life were associated with teenage pregnancy. Methods: In a population-based, cross-sectional questionnaire study among 34,455 women from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden aged 20–45 years, who had first sexual intercourse (FSI) at age 13–19 years, we assessed the association between early smoking and drinking initiation (i.e., before the age of 13), contraceptive use at FSI, and teenage pregnancy. Log-linear binary regression models were fitted to estimate the relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of teenage pregnancy according to the three exposure variables, overall and by age at FSI. Furthermore, the outcomes of the teenage pregnancies were examined according to age at FSI. Results: Teenage pregnancy occurred in 11% of the population. Both early smoking initiation (RR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.4–1.8), early drinking initiation (RR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.0–1.4), and non-use of contraceptives at FSI (RR: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.8–2.0) were associated with teenage pregnancy. The associations for early smoking initiation and non-use of contraceptives remained when analyses were stratified by age at FSI. Almost 60% of all teenage pregnant women had an induced abortion and less than 30% gave birth. Conclusions: Individual factors, including early smoking and drinking initiation, and non-use of contraceptives at FSI, were associated with teenage pregnancy regardless of age at FSI. This emphasizes the necessity of focusing on early risk-taking behavior as a potential modifier to prevent teenage pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The phenomenon of 'parental alienation' is controversial and little explored in the Nordic countries. We wanted to investigate whether parental alienation is a valid concept and how it is perceived in a Nordic context. Material and method: The study was based on an online survey where the participants were self-recruited. We received responses from 1212 participants. Bivariate and multivariate models were used to test the associations between parental alienation and gender, other intimate partner violence, depressive health problems and reduced well-being. Results: Visitation sabotage and parental alienation are realities for both fathers and mothers. It was most frequently directed at fathers, but such behaviour is not gender specific. Eight different alienation strategies have high internal reliability, and all items contribute to high Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was confirmed by the fact that parental alienation is strongly associated with visitation sabotage and with other forms of destructive relational behaviour. Visitation sabotage and false accusations increase gradually with the degree of parental alienation. The construct validity of parental alienation was also confirmed by dose–response associations with both mental ill-health and impaired well-being in adjusted analyses. Conclusions: The phenomenon of parental alienation is recognized among parents as a form of harmful behaviour where both mothers and fathers suffer. The construct validity was supported in this study. Such behaviour should be recognized as a form of domestic violence by professional communities in health and social services and be subject to legal action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research has shown that moral emotions interact with self-control and unstructured socializing in explaining rule-breaking behavior. High levels of moral emotions appear to weaken the effects of both self-control and unstructured socializing, in explaining rule-breaking behavior. The current study examined whether these interactions also affect rule-breaking behavior that is explicitly committed with friends. In addition, three operationalizations of moral emotions were distinguished. Data were collected from N = 169 adolescents (54% female; mean = 14.95 years; SD = 1.7) using a self-report questionnaire battery. Results indicate that high levels of anticipated emotions in moral conflicts (AEMC) attenuate the effect of low self-control on one's own rule-breaking behavior. In contrast, high levels of both guilt- and shame-proneness enhanced the effect of unstructured socializing on one's own and rule-breaking with friends. The limitations of the study, ideas for future research, and practical implications are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A few previous cross-sectional studies investigated correlated factors of suicidal ideation or suicide attempts among suicide prevention hotline callers; however, scarcely any evidence was from a longitudinal study. In addition, it is still unclear whether improvements in some suicide risk factors could reduce the occurrence of subsequent suicidal acts. This longitudinal study focusing on the risk factors for subsequent suicidal acts among adolescent and young adult callers with high suicide risk aims to fill this gap. Methods: This study recruited 12–25-year-old high-risk callers to a China nationwide suicide prevention hotline. Potential risk factors, including hopefulness, psychological distress, depression, history of suicide attempts, alcohol or substance misuse, and acute life events, were examined during the index calls, and improvements in hopefulness, psychological distress, and suicide intent were assessed before ending the index calls. The recruited callers were followed up 12 months after their index calls. The primary outcome was the occurrence of suicidal acts (suicide attempts or suicide death) during follow-up. Kaplan–Meier survival curves, log-rank tests, and Cox proportional hazards model were used. Results: During the follow-up period, 271 of 1656 high-risk adolescent and young adult callers attempted suicide, and seven callers died by suicide. After adjusting for demographic variables, low hopefulness (Hazard Ratio [HR] = 2.03, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]=[1.47, 2.80]) at the beginning of the index call was associated with a higher risk for subsequent suicidal acts, whereas improvements in psychological distress (HR = 0.61, 95%CI [0.41, 0.89]) and suicidal intent (HR = 0.56, 95%CI [0.38, 0.84]) during the index call reduced the risk of subsequent suicidal acts. In addition, alcohol or substance misuse (Model 2, HR = 1.65, 95%CI [1.11, 2.46]) and suicide attempt history(Model 1: one episode, HR = 1.96, 95%CI=[1.05, 3.66]; two or more episodes, HR = 2.81, 95%CI [1.59, 4.96]. Model 2: one episode, HR = 2.26, 95%CI [1.06, 4.82]; two or more episodes: HR = 3.28, 95%CI [1.63, 6.60]) were risk factors for subsequent suicidal acts. Conclusions: While suicide prevention hotline operators deliver brief psychological interventions to high-risk adolescent and young adult callers, priority should be given to callers with low hopefulness and to the alleviation of callers' high psychological distress and suicide intent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To verify the psychometric properties of the Brazilian-Portuguese version of the Falls Behavioral (FaB-Brazil) Scale in Parkinson's disease (PD). Participants (n = 96) were assessed by disease-specific, self-report and functional mobility measures. Internal consistency of the FaB-Brazil scale was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha and inter-rater and test–retest reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). The standard error of measurement (SEM), minimal detectable change (MDC), ceiling and floor effects, and convergent and discriminative validity were evaluated. Internal consistency was moderate (α = 0.77). Excellent inter-rater (ICC = 0.90; p < 0.001) and test–retest (ICC = 0.91; p < 0.001) reliability were found. The SEM was 0.20 and MDC was 0.38. Ceiling and floor effects were not found. Convergent validity was established by the positive correlations between the FaB-Brazil scale and age, modified Hoehn and Yahr, PD duration, Movement Disorders Society-Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, Motor Aspects of Experiences of Daily Living, Timed Up & Go and 8-item Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire, and negative correlations between the FaB-Brazil scale and community mobility, Schwab & England, and Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale. Females showed greater protective behaviors than males; recurrent fallers showed greater protective behaviors than non-recurrent fallers (p < 0.05). The FaB-Brazil scale is reliable and valid for assessing people with PD. Fall-related behaviors should be part of the fall risk assessment of community-dwelling people with Parkinson's disease. The Brazilian-Portuguese version of the Fall Behavioral (FaB-Brazil) Scale is reliable and valid for assessing everyday behaviors and actions related to falling in community-dwelling people with Parkinson's disease. The FaB-Brazil scale may be used to tailor individualized fall prevention programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: It is known that taking appropriate risks during play is crucial for the development of a child's creativity, problem-solving abilities, resilience, selfconfidence, and skills in evaluating risky situations. However, communication problems resulting from hearing loss (HL) can affect a child's ability to hear danger and warning signals during play, potentially leading to injury. This study investigates the attitudes of parents or caregivers with children with HL toward risky play. Method: The study included 170 caregivers of children with normal hearing (NH; n = 103) and cochlear implant and/or hearing aids users (n = 67) aged 3-13 years. The primary caregiver completed the Tolerance for Risk in Play Scale (TRIPS), and the caregivers of children with HL also completed the Auditory Behavior in Everyday Life (ABEL) questionnaire. Results: TRIPS total scores were significantly higher in the NH group (p < .05). Mothers of children with HL had lower TRIPS scores than mothers of children with NH (p < .05). Similarly, lower TRIPS scores were found in the lower income group with HL (p < .05). A weak positive correlation was observed between TRIPS and both the ABEL total score (p < .05, r = .207) and ABEL auditory awareness score (p < .05, r = .204) in the hard of hearing group. Conclusions: The study found that caregivers of children with HL have less tolerance for risky play. Additionally, caregivers of children with better auditory skills were more tolerant of risky play. Therefore, it is suggested that caregivers of children using appropriate hearing devices should be informed that they do not need to be overly restrictive during play, and these children should be encouraged to engage in risky play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children and adolescents in residential care often present with emotional and/or behavioral problems associated to previous adverse experiences such as abuse and neglect. Consequently, child welfare systems have developed therapeutic residential care (TRC) programs to address the most complex needs of this population. The aim of this study is to explore the characteristics of youths in TRC comparing them with those of youth in general residential care (GRC), and to detect the factors predicting referral to TRC programs. The sample consisted of 900 adolescents aged 12–17 years old (M = 15.57; SD = 1.33; 66.2% boys), from General Residential Care (n = 554) and Therapeutic Residential Care (n = 346). Profile information was collected through official files and an ad hoc questionnaire. Mental health problems were evaluated using the youth self-report (YSR). Significant sociodemographic differences were found between groups. Also, a higher frequency of emotional abuse and neglect, worse mental health, more breakdowns in child welfare measures and risk behaviors were found among adolescents in TRC. Sociodemographic and familial characteristics, features of the protective process and risk behaviors were associated to referral to TRC programs. Youths in GRC and TRC present with mental and behavioral problems that make it necessary to implement prevention programs and early detection procedures. Screening and evaluation of youth's mental health and establishment of concrete criteria are suggested to ensure appropriate referral to the most suitable resource according to the individual needs of adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and poor health outcomes is well-established in high-income countries. However, the evidence is limited for the association of ACEs, mental health, and risky behaviors for low- and middle-income countries. Moreover, studies often overlook prescription drug misuse and risky driving when examining the association of ACEs with risky behaviors. In our study, we examined the associations between ACEs, suicidal ideation, and risky behaviors (binge drinking, prescription drug misuse, and risky driving) among Brazilian college students. Methods: Participants consisted of a convenience sample of students recruited from undergraduate courses primarily in two states in Southern Brazil (93%). Data were collected via an online survey between December 2020 and August 2021. The analytical sample comprised 503 participants, most were female (71%), and the mean age was 24 years. Survey instrument included questions on ten different ACE types, mental health, and risky behaviors. Statistical analyses included univariate descriptive analysis, binary and multivariable regression models. Results: Across the ten ACE types assessed, only 14% of participants reported no ACEs, and 29% of participants experienced polyvictimization (i.e., four or more ACES). Multivariable models showed that, compared to those with no ACEs, participants who experienced polyvictimization had significantly increased odds of reporting suicide ideation (AOR = 6.21, p <.001), prescription drug misuse (AOR = 8.78, p <.01), and riding with an impaired driver (AOR = 3.58, p <.01). Conclusions: Our findings support the need for psychological support and services available for college students with multiple ACEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alexithymia has been linked to risky or problematic alcohol use, with a common interpretation invoking deficient emotion regulation and use of alcohol to cope with distress. An alternative explanation positing a general deficit of interoception in alexithymia suggested that poor awareness of internal cues of overconsumption may promote excessive drinking. The present study assessed predictions based on these hypotheses in 337 young adult alcohol users recruited online. Participants completed validated questionnaire indices of alcohol use, alexithymia, emotion regulation, interoceptive sensibility, and sensitivity to reward and punishment. Alcohol use was positively correlated with alexithymia and reward sensitivity, and negatively correlated with emotion regulation as expected, but was uncorrelated with interoceptive sensibility. Alexithymia was not significantly correlated with most dimensions of interoceptive sensibility but was highly negatively correlated with emotion regulation. Hierarchical regression controlling for demographic variables indicated that alexithymia, emotion regulation, sex, and sensitivity to reward and punishment were significant predictors of alcohol use levels. Bootstrapped mediation test controlling for all other variables indicated mediation of the association between alexithymia and alcohol use by deficient emotion regulation but not interoceptive sensibility. Results supported the emotion regulation deficit interpretation of the association of alexithymia with alcohol use. Limitations concerning interoception measurement, online samples, self-report measures, cross-sectional designs, and collection of data during the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed. Future research could follow up on these findings by testing interoceptive accuracy in addition to interoceptive sensibility in relation to alexithymia and alcohol use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the southern USA, where religiosity is higher than in other parts of the country, many researchers have questioned if the religiosity of parents plays a role in emerging adults' risky sexual behavior (RSB). Specifically, research suggests that certain aspects of religiosity (i.e., conservatism) are especially detrimental when examining RSB. In the current study, college students (N = 585, 65.5% women, 69.2% White, 25.0% Black) completed the following self-report measures: the Stearns-McKinney Assessment of Religious Traits – Short Form, the Parental Environment Questionnaire, and the Student Sexual Risks Scale. Results of path analysis (reported statistics have p <.05) indicated that perceived maternal relationship quality had a significant negative association with RSB in emerging adult women, β = −.27, and men, β = −.20; perceived paternal relationship quality also associated negatively with RSB in women, β = −.12, and men, β = −.20. Of all the parental religiosity variables, only perceived maternal conservatism had a significant effect, where it demonstrated a positive association with RSB in women, β =.34, and men, β = −.20. These results suggest that perceived parent–child relationship quality and perceived maternal conservative religiosity influence emerging adult RSB. This study presents novel insight into the specific aspects of perceived parental religiosity that, at least in the current study, are found to influence RSB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of nursing students' fasting during Ramadan on their risky behaviors. This study was conducted in a university located in 2022 using the prospective cohort study method. The data were collected from the nursing department students through face-to-face questionnaires. The sample of the study consisted of 186 nursing students. The data were obtained using a descriptive information form, which consists of questions regarding the descriptive characteristics of the nursing students, and the risky behaviors form, created by the researchers, to evaluate the effect of fasting during Ramadan on nursing students' risky behaviors. According to the findings of the research, it has been determined that the students who always fast during Ramadan have regular sahur. When the students' level of religious faith and fasting and having sahur status were compared with their risky behaviors, the mean scores of exercise and nutrition increased significantly, and the mean scores of interpersonal relationships decreased significantly. It was determined that the majority of students had a high level of religious faith, fasted and had sahur during Ramadan. Consequently, while Ramadan fasting negatively affected students' physical activity, nutrition and sleep patterns, it positively affected their interpersonal relationship status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Syndemic models have been used in previous studies exploring HIV-related outcomes; however, these models do not fully consider intersecting psychosocial (e.g., substance use, depressive symptoms) and structural factors (unstable housing, concentrated housing vacancy) that influence the lived experiences of women. Therefore, there is a need to explore the syndemic effects of psychosocial and structural factors on HIV risk behaviors to better explain the multilevel factors shaping HIV disparities among black women. Methods: This analysis uses baseline data (May 2009–August 2010) from non-Hispanic black women enrolled in the HIV Prevention Trials Network 064 Women's Seroincidence Study (HPTN 064) and the American Community Survey 5-year estimates from 2007 to 2011. Three parameterizations of syndemic factors were applied in this analysis a cumulative syndemic index, three syndemic groups reflecting the level of influence (psychosocial syndemic group, participant-level structural syndemic group, and a neighborhood-level structural syndemic group), and syndemic factor groups. Clustered mixed effects log-binomial analyses measured the relationship of each syndemic parameterization on HIV risk behaviors in 1,347 black women enrolled in HPTN 064. Results: A higher syndemic score was significantly associated with increased prevalence of unknown HIV status of the last male sex partner (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) = 1.07, 95% confidence interval or CI 1.04–1.10), involvement in exchange sex (aPR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.14–1.20), and multiple sex partners (aPR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.06–1.09) in the last 6 months. A dose–response relationship was observed between the number of syndemic groups and HIV risk behaviors, therefore, being in multiple syndemic groups was significantly associated with increased prevalence of reporting HIV risk behaviors compared with being in one syndemic group. In addition, being in all three syndemic groups was associated with increased prevalence of unknown HIV status of the last male sex partner (aPR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.43–1.95) and multiple sex partners (aPR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.36–1.72). Conclusions: Findings highlight syndemic factors influence the lived experiences of black women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Risk analysis is essential for promoting hiking-based tourism. Our objective in the present study was to map 395 mountain hikers' positions on risk judgment and risk taking, according to how they integrated three antecedent factors of confidence (environment, team, and self). For integrating information, people can develop an additive rule whereby they apply the same weight to all information or use interaction rules (i.e., conjunctive or disjunctive), to give different weights to information. In the questionnaire our participants completed, there were eight scenarios that combined the three confidence antecedent factors as information cues. We applied cluster analysis, repeated-measures analyses of variance, chi-square tests, and bivariate correlation analyses to the questionnaire results to identify three participant risk positions. In the first risk position (cluster 1), participants used a disjunctive integration rule for both risk judgment and risk taking. In the second risk position (Clusters 2 and 4), they used an additive integration rule for risk judgment while they used a disjunctive integration rule for risk taking. In the third risk position (cluster 3), they used an additive integration rule for both risk judgment and risk taking. In each risk position, confidence in the three antecedent factors (environment, team, and self) negatively affected risk judgment and positively affected risk taking. We found the compositions of the clusters to be related to the participants' sex, and we discuss various advantages of applying information integration for mountain hiking practitioners and promoters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]