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To support older adults during the first wave of COVID-19, we rapidly adapted our effective health-promoting intervention (Choose to Move [CTM]) for virtual delivery in British Columbia, Canada. The intervention was delivered (April–October 2020) to 33 groups of older adults ("programs") who were a convenience sample (had previously completed CTM in person; n = 153; 86% female; 73 [6] years). We compared implementation outcomes (recruitment, dose received, retention, and completion of virtual data collection) to predetermined feasibility targets. We assessed mobility, physical activity, and social health outcomes pre- and postintervention (3 months) with validated surveys. We met most (dose received, retention, and virtual data collection), but not all (recruitment), feasibility targets. Approximately two thirds of older adults maintained or improved mobility, physical activity, and social health outcomes at 3 months. It was feasible to implement and evaluate CTM virtually. In future, virtual CTM could help us reach homebound older adults and/or serve as support during public health emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

Unethical prosocial behaviour (UPB) refers to acts where people violate widely held moral rules to benefit others. In light of previous research on the association between immoral behaviours and dehumanization, we examined whether and how engaging in UPB would impact the tendency to self‐dehumanize. Across four studies (valid N = 1640), we found that UPB led to less self‐dehumanization than unethical proself behaviour, which was mediated sequentially by social connectedness and perceived morality (Studies 2–4). Moreover, the comparison between UPB and ethical prosocial behaviour indicated that UPB did not necessarily lead to more self‐dehumanization than ethical prosocial behaviour (Study 4). Although UPB was rated as less moral, it was associated with similar levels of social connectedness as ethical prosocial behaviour. These results have significant implications for research on morality and dehumanization and highlight the role of social connectedness in reducing dehumanization. [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]

Purpose: People living with dementia are often at increased risk of becoming socially disconnected due to dementia-related challenges. In recent years, digital technology has been designed to help address the social health of people living with dementia and provide opportunities to promote or maintain their social connectedness. This paper presents the findings from phase two of a participatory action research project, which explored people living with dementia and their caregiver's experiences and perceptions of social connectedness and the potential role of Virtual Reality (VR) in promoting or maintaining same. Materials and Methods: People living with dementia (n = 8) and their informal caregivers (n = 8) participated in an individual, 1:1 online interview. Data analysis was guided by reflexive thematic analysis. Results: The findings presented four themes: social connectedness: lived experiences and insights, facilitating social connectedness, barriers to social connectedness and the potential of multi-user VR for social connectedness. People living with dementia experienced a range of personal, community and societal connectedness. Facilitators of social connectedness included supportive, non-judgemental, and reciprocal relationships, technology adoption, and personal and contextual facilitators. Dementia-related difficulties and periods of disruption or change were considered barriers to social connectedness. Multi-user VR was perceived as useful for promoting and maintaining social connectedness. Conclusions: The perceived usefulness of multi-user VR for social connectedness indicates its potential for use with this population. Understanding the lived experiences, barriers, and facilitators of social connectedness will assist researchers and the human-computer interaction community to inform the design of future multi-user VR for social connectedness outcomes with people living with dementia and their caregivers. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: People living with dementia and their caregivers consider social connectedness a vital aspect of living well with dementia. People living with dementia experience social connectedness across personal, community and societal domains. Supportive, non-judgemental or reciprocal relationships, fostering technology, and personal and contextual factors facilitate social connectedness for people living with dementia. Dementia-related barriers and periods of disruption and change can negatively impact the social connectedness of people living with dementia. People living with dementia and their caregivers consider multi-user virtual reality a promising technology to promote and maintain their social connectedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Current models of loneliness emphasise the role of maladaptive cognitions in causing and/or maintaining loneliness. However, standardised paradigms to experimentally examine the role of maladaptive cognition in loneliness are lacking, making it difficult to establish causality. This paper tested a mock online chat paradigm designed to induce changes in negative affect (loneliness, depression, and anxiety), and strength of belief in lonely thoughts, by manipulating comparative and normative fit. Methods: Participants (N = 59) were randomised into either the loneliness arm (i.e., loneliness induction chat followed by a social connectedness induction chat), or the social connectedness arm (i.e., two separate social connectedness induction chats), and subsequently completed outcome measures. Results: The experimental paradigm significantly and specifically increased lonely affect; however, this was associated with non-significant changes in strength of belief in lonely thoughts. The social connectedness induction chat led to significant reductions in broad negative affect for both groups, with these effects accruing across chats for participants in the social connectedness arm. Conclusion: Experimentally manipulating comparative and normative fit to either emphasise differences or similarities between an individual and group members is an effective paradigm for increasing lonely affect or decreasing general negative affect, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of the late stage of COVID-19 pandemic, the occurrence of persistent symptoms after COVID-19 infection has become more frequent. To date, there are no standardized treatments. Underlying mechanisms, risk and protective factors for severe persisting symptoms should be investigated to develop effective interventions. An online questionnaire was used to assess gender, presence of prior mental disorder, severity of COVID-19 infection, and social connectedness (SCS-R) to determine their influence on symptom severity of persisting symptoms. The sample used to examine risk and protective factors consisted of 693 participants. The analysis revealed no significant gender differences for severity of persisting symptoms. However, prior mental health condition was associated with severity of persisting symptoms. Moreover, there was a positive association between symptom severity during COVID-19 infection and Post COVID 19. Social connectedness was found to be negatively associated with Post COVID 19 symptoms. Social connectedness was shown to be negatively associated with depressive symptoms and disordered self-organization. The symptoms of energy loss and concentration had the highest centrality. The results of the study indicate that severity of post-covid symptoms is associated with higher levels of psychopathological symptoms and a lower level of social connectedness. In conclusion, social connectedness may be an important factor in the development of post-COVID symptoms and should be considered for future interventions. The results from the network analyses provide a first step for a more granular syndrome profile. [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]

As the number of people of all ages at risk of loneliness increases rapidly, interest in identifying the most effective interventions has grown. A number of researchers have conducted scoping reviews on loneliness interventions and have concluded that the most successful methods involve group interventions. Intergenerational programs can be a good solution for the reduction of loneliness. The aim of this scoping review is to identify studies that report on the effectiveness of intergenerational programs to reduce loneliness or social isolation following the five-step model. Twelve articles were selected for content analysis, showing that the use of intergenerational programs was associated with positive outcomes in terms of participants’ health, well-being, social connectedness, and a reduction in loneliness. These interventions promote intergenerational understanding and the development of new and better quality relationships, which is a crucial element in reducing loneliness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nostalgia evoked through various experiences (e.g., scents, music) has been shown to enhance emotional well-being and reduce social pain. We propose that reading a familiar book similarly can elicit nostalgia, and provide emotional benefits through narrative transportation beyond that of reading a new book. We tested the relationship between reading new versus familiar books, nostalgia, narrative transportation, and indices of social connectedness. Participants were randomly assigned to re-read a favorite novel, read a new novel of interest, or read a set of newspaper articles. Re-reading elicited greater nostalgia and social connectedness than reading a new novel or newspaper. Narrative transportation and nostalgia fully mediated the effect of reading condition on social connectedness. We discuss implications for our understanding homeostatic nature of nostalgia and mental transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid pace of ageing raises concerns regarding financial security, health and long-term care and place for older people to live as they age. This paper examined the factors associated with preference to age in place (AIP) among 2231 respondents aged 60 and older from the Malaysia Ageing and Retirement Survey (MARS). The Categorical Principal Component Analysis (CATPCA) was utilized to identify variables that represent family supports, social connectedness and social participation. 75% of the respondents indicated that they would like to age in place with the binary logistic regression showing a greater likelihood among respondents with strong family and social connectedness, having a spouse, being non-Chinese and being in a good health condition. Urban respondents, with a high individual capacity and social participation, are less likely to age in place. There is a need to strengthen the family institutions and communities, providing incentives and support to promote ageing in place and empower them to remain sustainable for future generations. [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]

Background Methods Results Conclusions The uptake of traditional mental health services among older adults remains low. Digital peer support offers older adults a resource for engaging with others to independently support their mental well‐being. This qualitative study explored the uptake and engagement of a clinically moderated digital peer support platform (Breathing Space) for older adults with depressive symptoms and alcohol use concerns.Semi‐structured interviews with 30 participants aged 60–80 years explored participants' uptake and engagement with Breathing Space, a novel, moderated, private, and anonymous peer support platform. Data were analysed using reflective thematic analysis and are discussed with reference to the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology2.Three themes were constructed to characterize participants' experiences: (i) navigating the complexities of peer‐peer online engagement; (ii) the function of anonymity in online connection; and (iii) experiences of app features and content.Future development of digital peer support for older adults would benefit from the following: (i) co‐design with older adults; (ii) providing choice over anonymity and increased options for interacting with peers; (iii) streamlining the basic functionality with popular platforms; (iv) providing options for users to curate their digital experience; and (v) providing telephone support for troubleshooting technical difficulties. Future research should explore the use of digital peer support among older adults who experience social exclusion challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social connection is a central element in mental health recovery and has been found to have a significant impact on the health and well‐being of individuals. This study examines the experiences of social connectedness for people accessing NDIS support for psychosocial disability. Interviews were conducted with eight NDIS participants. The study's findings suggest that people with psychosocial disabilities experience limited social connections and small social worlds. While NDIS support relationships were seen as important facilitators in increasing social engagement, these relationships may also limit opportunities for participants to extend their social connections beyond these professional support contacts. The impacts of participants' illnesses were identified as major barriers to establishing social connections and further research is needed to identify effective interventions that reduce social isolation in this population. This study highlights the role the NDIS can play in supporting social connection and inclusion for participants. Further consideration regarding the role of NDIS support relationships and NDIS‐funded interventions in supporting the social connectedness of participants is needed. [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]

Quantitative research on the linguistic acculturation of sojourners in non-Western and multilingual social contexts remains scarce. Revising the Framework of Acculturation Variables (FAV), we propose a parsimonious model exploring the effect of acculturation conditions (trilingual language usage and perceived discrimination), orientations (social connectedness to mainstream and minority community), and outcome (psychological well-being). In particular, we examined the alternative paths enabled by non-local languages in the acculturation process, revealing the complexity of multidimensionality in trilingual linguistic acculturation. The findings highlight the crucial mediating role of acculturation orientation in the acculturation process. The effects of Cantonese, Mandarin, and English usage on the acculturation process of Mainland Chinese students in Hong Kong (N = 798) were examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benefits of religion have predominantly focused on personal religious identities and experiences, while the broader context of religious worldviews remains understudied. Across two quantitative studies, we showed the incremental predictive power of religious worldview and its mechanism among young adults in two societies—the USA (N = 179) and Hong Kong (N = 164). The mediation mechanism with social connectedness was further inferred from a 12-month study among Hong Kong Chinese (N = 133). This research has laid important groundwork for a deeper understanding of how religion shapes our perception of the world and its impact on our well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the impact on Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in Australia of government and community responses to the coronavirus pandemic of 2019 in the domains of education, employment, housing, social connectedness, and public health communication. Most of the examples are drawn from the state of New South Wales. In Australia, CALD refers to people from countries not classified as main English speaking. Most CALD communities reported in this article are from refugee backgrounds, are recently arrived migrants or do not use English in most of their communication. Inadequate, and in some instances, inappropriate or absent support, adversely impacts CALD communities. We used a multidisciplinary bricolage approach that draws on media, government, and community support publications and concluded that CALD communities experienced heightened pressures due to lower resource availability and poor communication. This led to disruption of support services, exposing gaps and vulnerability. The results reported here challenge Australian government, schools, community agencies, researchers to include proactively CALD community perspectives when planning and responding to such crises in future. Improving communication, pandemic response planning, addressing needs and ensuring participation are key considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasised the importance of social connectedness, whilst the popularity of social media continues to rise. The present study examined the relationship between engagement on social networking sites (SNSs), social connectedness and social isolation in a sample of Hong Kong Chinese adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 232 participants (65% female) aged 18–65 years were recruited to a cross-sectional online study. SNS engagement was predictive of social connectedness in the present sample. Findings revealed that SNS engagement was associated with lower levels of social isolation. Younger participants reported greater engagement with SNSs, and lower levels of social isolation compared to older participants. However, older respondents reported greater levels of social connectedness. No gender differences were observed in social connectedness, but men reported significantly higher levels of social isolation compared to women. With the COVID-19 pandemic only just at an end, social restrictions have recently been lifted in Hong Kong, resulting in the significance of online communication becoming ever more important as a means of maintaining social connectedness. [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]

Insecure adult attachment, shame, self-blame, and isolation following perinatal loss place bereaved women at risk of adverse psychological outcomes, which can impact child and family outcomes. To date, no research has considered how these variables continue to influence women's psychological health in pregnancy subsequent to loss. This study explored associations between prenatal psychological adjustment (less grief and distress) and adult attachment, shame, and social connectedness, in women pregnant after loss. Twenty-nine pregnant Australian women accessing a Pregnancy After Loss Clinic (PALC) completed measures of attachment styles, shame, self-blame, social connectedness, perinatal grief, and psychological distress. Four 2-step hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed adult attachment (secure/avoidant/anxious; Step 1), shame, self-blame, and social connectedness (Step 2) explained 74% difficulty coping, 74% total grief, 65% despair, and 57% active grief. Avoidant attachment predicted more difficulty coping and higher levels of despair. Self-blame predicted more active grief, difficulty coping, and despair. Social connectedness predicted lower active grief, and significantly mediated relationships between perinatal grief and all three attachment patterns (secure/avoidant/anxious). Although avoidant attachment and self-blame can heighten grief in pregnancy after loss, focusing on social connectedness may be a helpful way for prenatal clinicians to support pregnant women during their subsequent pregnancy – and in grief. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to understand COVID-19 pandemic impacts on anxiety, depression, and addictive/excessive behaviors, with exploration of intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and social connectedness as potential moderators. Participants: Adult college students participated. Method: Our online survey assessed symptoms and behaviors prior to COVID-19, during the initial outbreak (Wave 1), and during early 2021 (Wave 2). Results: Significant increases were found in anxiety, depression, binge eating, sexual behaviors, video game playing, internet/social media usage, and compulsive exercise in both waves. IU moderated the relationship between both depression/anxiety and certain excessive behaviors; social connectedness moderated the relationship between anxiety and smoking. Conclusions: This study replicated prior work and highlights new impacts on addictive/excessive behaviors, as well as moderating effects from social connectedness and IU. Future research is warranted to evaluate the efficacy of treatments targeting IU and social connectedness as the pandemic continues to unfold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social connectedness and related relational constructs can facilitate recovery in adults with substance use disorder (SUD). To date, there is a lack of research differentiating music therapy interventions as measured by the group relationship among peers within an inpatient detoxification setting for adults with SUD. The purpose of this study was to compare three commonly used group music therapy interventions in adults with SUD by measuring the group relationship Participants (N = 103) were adults with SUD hospitalized on an inpatient detoxification unit. The researcher cluster-randomized participants to one of three single-session group music therapy conditions: lyric analysis (LA), recreational music therapy (RMT), or songwriting (SW). Participants completed pre- and posttest measures of the group relationship. All conditions had favorable mean group relationship changes from pre- to posttest. There were significant between-group differences in the positive bonding relationship and positive working relationship subscales between the SW and RMT conditions. There was a significant between-group difference in the negative relationship scale between the RMT and both the LA and SW conditions. Despite the temporal limitations of single-session therapy common on detoxification units, this study has clinical implications because of the relevance of social connectedness and group relationships among adults with SUD. As the SW condition outperformed the RMT condition in all three group relationship subscales and has support regarding other SUD-related constructs, SW may constitute an ideal intervention in adult detoxification settings. Implications, limitations, and suggestions for future research are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine first-generation Korean immigrants' migratory grief in relation to cultural, social, and mental health variables. We examined (a) how behavioral and value acculturation and enculturation as well as mainstream and ethnic connectedness predicted migratory grief and (b) how mainstream and ethnic connectedness moderated the relationships of migratory grief and mental health outcomes (i.e., depression, life satisfaction, positive and negative affect). Method: Data were collected from 188 self-identified first-generation Korean immigrant adults (N = 188, Mage = 43.63, SD = 12.18) and were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression. Results: Age and behavioral enculturation positively predicted migratory grief, while European American values and mainstream connectedness negatively predicted migratory grief. Migratory grief and mainstream and ethnic connectedness had significant main effects on mental health, but social connectedness did not moderate the relationships between migratory grief and mental health. Conclusion: Acculturation, enculturation, and social connectedness were significant predictors of first-generation Korean immigrants' migratory grief. Additionally, migratory grief and social connectedness significantly predicted mental health. We discussed implications for research and practice. Public Significance Statement: Several factors such as age, acculturation, and a sense of connection to communities were associated with first-generation Korean immigrants' experiences of migratory grief—distress related to losses experienced in migration. Additionally, migratory grief and connection to communities were important to mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The restrictions imposed to control the COVID-19 pandemic had significant negative effects on the mental health of the general population, and particularly in nurses as frontline healthcare workers. The main goal of the present study was to analyze the direct and indirect effects, via social connectedness, of centrality of the COVID-19 outbreak on depressive symptoms. Furthermore, it is explored whether this association varied by group (nurses versus general population). The global sample included 326 individuals from the community and 316 nurses, who were administered self-reported questionnaires. Results revealed that event centrality of COVID-19 outbreak was linked to depressive symptoms, both directly and through the deterioration of social connectedness; moreover, this indirect effect was significant for both subsamples. Interventions aimed at preventing the deterioration of social connectedness may facilitate the decrease of depressive symptoms in the aftermath of the pandemic, particularly for nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medication abortion has been established globally as safe and effective. This modality has increased accessibility and the opportunity to centre individual autonomy at the heart of abortion care, by facilitating self-managed abortion. Previous research has shown how self-managed abortion is beneficial in myriad settings ranging from problematic to (relatively) unproblematic contexts of access. In this paper we explore the relationship between self-management and sources of support (including health professionals, family, and friends); as well as considering issues of reproductive control and autonomy. Drawing on qualitative, experience-centred interviews, we utilise the concept of social connectedness to examine how supported self-managed abortion was experienced in the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, self-management was welcomed, with participants speaking positively about managing their own abortion at home. However, a sense of connectedness was crucial in helping participants deal with difficult experiences; and functioned to support individual autonomy in self-care. This paper is the first to examine factors of connection, support, and isolation, as experienced by those undergoing self-managed abortion in the UK in detail. Our research suggests a continued need to advocate for high quality support for self-managed abortion, as well as for choice of abortion method, to support patient-centered care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study contributes to the social connectedness literature by exploring the range of social interactions that people experience on a daily basis using time diary data. First, we investigate the different types of people whom individuals encounter in everyday life (i.e., family, friends, co-workers, acquaintances, others). Quantifying the degree of this social exposure provides insight into potential sources of support, information, comparison, and control. It further allows us to capture certain types of social connections that are commonly missed in traditional social network questionnaires. Second, we examine how social context fosters interactions between different types of people. Upon analyzing data from the American Time Use Survey, we find that a majority of respondents (69%) engaged in at least one interaction with a non-household member in a 24-hour period. We also found that interactions with different types of people varied according to social context. Interactions with friends, acquaintances, and "others" were significantly more likely to occur in public contexts rather than private or professional contexts. Collectively, our findings highlight the prevalence of social exposure among the American population as well as the important role of social context in making these interactions possible. • Uses time diary data to assess social connectedness in everyday life. • Quantifies number of social interactions people experience in day. • Examines how interactions with different types of people are contextually patterned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a post-Covid context, the term presence has become the subject of renewed academic focus, amplified by mass phenomena such as Zoom fatigue and online classroom teaching. The prism of new materialism allows for a new reading of relationships between technology and human sensing, physical and virtual presence and copresence, with possible design implications: Current research in public health and social-environment discourse is interested in the effect of presence on well-being. As a theoretical framework, new materialism provides a lens that foregrounds complex relations between affect and technology, enabling us, through interventions like the KIMA: Colour participatory artwork, to interrogate the broad discourse on mediated presence and social connectivity. This paper provides an overview of the AHRC-funded research project, 'p_ART_icipate!', which is a collaborative investigation led by the University of Greenwich, CNWL NHS Foundation Trust, and Brunel University. This paper describes one of the case studies within the project, 'KIMA Colour', a collaboration with the art collective Analema Group, the National Gallery and the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB). The case study explores the effect of collective cultural experiences and participatory art on a sense of social connectivity and copresence. In collaboration with RNIB and a group of visually impaired individuals, the team asked how we can design meaningful and accessible online interfaces that actively contribute to a sense of 'participatory presence'. Findings suggest a possible link between the experience, presence and social connectedness. This research aims to contribute to our understanding of participatory art and to provide recommendations for accessibility and facilitation designc for participatory online interfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aims of this multi-study investigation were to expand the research on social connectedness (Lee & Robbins, 1995, 1998) to investigate associations with physical health indices. A multi-study approach was utilized to identify independent associations of social connectedness with somatic distress and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and to apply belongingness and loneliness theoretical frameworks to reveal potential pathways from social connectedness to health. Methods: Social connectedness and somatic symptoms severity were measured in a sample of college students (Study 1, N = 486) and replicated with HRQOL outcomes in a sample of individuals with ongoing symptoms of chronic illness (Study 2, N = 225). The third study added loneliness and stress measures and focused on HRQOL as an outcome (Study 3, N = 280).Results: Social connectedness consistently emerged as a significant and independent predictor of HRQOL and somatic symptom severity, with standardized coefficients ranging from − 0.22 for somatic distress to 0.28 for physical functioning, and 0.24–0.26 for general health. In Study 3, mediation findings showed that stress partially explained the connection between social connectedness and HRQOL. Conclusions: Findings suggest that a sense of self as being more connected with the social world is important for physical health, with this relationship partially accounted for by stress. Addressing social connectedness may be an important consideration in health research and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to explore the views and understanding of youth mental health clinicians with regard to the physical health of young people with early psychosis and their perspectives on lifestyle interventions improving the health and well‐being of young people with early psychosis. Physical health disparities leading to premature mortality among people with mental illness are well evident in the literature. Mental health and physical health are directly correlated. The risk of poor physical health often begins before the onset of mental ill health. Young people with early psychosis are highly susceptible to poor physical health. A co‐designed integrated approach focusing on early prevention and intervention in overall well‐being and health is imminent for this targeted population to prevent poor physical health trajectory across the lifespan. Ten clinicians were recruited and participated in this study through semi‐structured interviews. Five themes were identified: (i) Impact of early psychosis, (ii) Focus of care, (iii) Conversations around physical health, (iv) Co‐location of specialist roles and (v) Health literacy. The findings of this study confirm the dimensional impact of early psychosis on the well‐being and health of young people through the vicious cycle of early psychosis. Promotion of health literacy along with social connectedness and elements of self‐determination, as well as having a prime focus on the individuals' experience in the journey of health promotion through participation in lifestyle interventions, has been identified as critically prominent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No-contact boxing is becoming a popular exercise-based program to improve symptoms of Parkinson's Disease (PD), with growing scientific evidence. While many studies have demonstrated its physical, cognitive, and social benefits, fewer studies have focused on how participants perceive its benefits on everyday activities. This exploratory study aimed to investigate participants' experiences with no-contact boxing and self-perceived improvement in the completion of everyday tasks. A descriptive qualitative design was used. Two focus groups were conducted. Nine participants completed the study. Six themes emerged: (1) Camaraderie in the group creates a sense of social connection, (2) Self-perceived improvement in self-care and productivity (3) Positive experience due to the program approach, (4) Self-perceived physical and mental benefits, (5) Punching the bag as a symbolic of fighting PD, and (6) Increased motivation to pursue other exercise programs. No-contact boxing brings many self-perceived benefits to older adults living with PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age-related changes shape social connectedness, isolation and loneliness among older adults. Ageing often accompanies decisions about ageing in place or moving (i.e. senior living facility). Scant research compares these two living arrangements and even sparser research focuses on older women. This study, thus, poses the following questions: How do older women (aged 75+ years) experience social connectedness and perceived isolation? How does this experience vary between older women living alone in private homes and those living in assisted living facilities? Data include semi-structured interviews with women aged 75+ years who live alone in a private home or in an assisted living facility (N = 16). Findings revealed differences in three aspects of social connectedness: interactions, relationships and belonging. Private home participants' interactions underscored intentionality, with minimal investment in forging new or deeper relationships and an emphasis on belonging to the world through awareness, contribution and cognitive ability. The experiences of participants living in assisted living were characterised by availability of interactions and casual relationships. They emphasised belonging to the facility community, while positioning themselves between the status of resident and staff. Surprisingly, most participants in both groups did not express feelings of perceived isolation. Both had adapted their social connectedness expectations to reflect their current situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social connectedness plays a crucial role in the lives of emerging adults. Hence, social connectedness assessment is necessary to check their acquisition of the expected competencies. Anchored on Bowlby's attachment theory and Eysenck theory on nature and nurture, this study profiled the emerging adults' personality profile and extent of social connectedness in a state university in Western Visayas, Philippines, in terms of school, family, peer, and community relative to sex, academic program, birth order, and family structure. Utilizing the descriptivecorrelational approach, a standardized personality inventory and an adapted social connectedness questionnaire were administered to 252 stratified randomly sampled emerging adults, using very great to very poor extent ratings. In data analysis, mean, standard deviation, frequency count, percentage, rank biserial, and eta correlation were employed. Overall, agreeableness has the highest rating. Emerging adults have great extent of social connectedness showing that they often feel cared, trusted, and respected by their professors, classmates, friends, family, and neighbors. Academic program and family structure had significant relationship with social connectedness, where education and science courses and those from intact families had higher rating than their counterparts. With these results, the theories are validated and a proposed enhancement personality development program is recommended to strengthen their social connectedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While technology is moving forward, people are looking back to the past. How does nostalgia influence responses (i.e., attitudes and behavior) to innovative technology? We postulated a dual-pathway model, according to which nostalgia, as a social emotion, would foster social connectedness that would be associated with or lead to favorable responses to innovative technology. At the same time, nostalgia, as an emotion that places a high premium on the past, would be associated with or lead to unfavorable responses to innovative technology (i.e., artificial intelligence or fifth-generation wireless communication) via skepticism about change. We provided support for the dual-pathway model in seven studies (N = 1,629), using correlational and experimental methods, operationalizing the constructs in diverse ways, and testing participants from three cultures (China, United Kingdom, and United States). The findings contribute to the vibrant conversation on human−technology relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The present research examined associations between stroke and long-term trajectories of loneliness. Methods We conducted secondary analyses in 3 large representative panel studies of adults 50 years and older in the United States, Europe, and Israel: the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSA; analytic N  = 14,992); the Survey of Health, Aging, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE; analytic N  = 103,782); and the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; analytic N  = 22,179). Within each sample, we used discontinuous growth curve modeling to estimate loneliness trajectories across adulthood and the impact of stroke on loneliness trajectories. Results Across all 3 samples, participants who experienced stroke reported higher levels of loneliness relative to participants who did not experience stroke. In ELSA and HRS (but not SHARE), loneliness levels were higher after stroke onset relative to before stroke onset. Discussion This research adds to a growing body of evidence demonstrating elevated loneliness among stroke survivors and highlights the need for interventions to increase social connectedness after stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grounded in racial identity development theories, the present study examined how COVID-related racial discrimination is related to Asian Americans' wellbeing (i.e., life satisfaction and positive and negative affect) via sequential mediations by (a) internalized model minority myth of achievement orientation and unrestricted mobility and color-blindness and (b) mainstream and ethnic social connectedness. Asian American adults (N = 407; 49.9% female; 32% first generation, 40% second generation, and 28% third generation; Mage = 33.81) were recruited nationally through Amazon Mechanical Turk (n = 350) and through personal contacts (n = 57). Path analysis revealed that COVID-related discrimination was directly and indirectly related to wellbeing via internalized model minority myth, color-blindness, and social connectedness. Interestingly, racial discrimination was both negatively and positively related to wellbeing via the mediational paths. As hypothesized, racial discrimination was negatively related to the internalized model minority myth of unrestricted mobility and color-blindness. Unrestricted mobility was positively related to both mainstream and ethnic connectedness, whereas color-blindness was negatively related to ethnic connectedness. Mainstream and ethnic connectedness, in turn, were both positively associated with wellbeing. In the face of COVID-related discrimination, the findings suggest the importance of understanding Asian Americans' wellbeing in relation to their racial beliefs and social connectedness. Implications for research and clinical practice are discussed. [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]

AbstractDigital technologies such as virtual reality (VR) are increasingly designed and implemented to support people living with dementia who are at risk of loneliness and/or social isolation. Multi-user VR (MUVR), which involves simultaneous user engagement and a sense of being present together in VR, may promote and maintain social connectedness between people living with dementia and their support persons. This paper focuses on Phase 4 of a larger participatory action research (PAR) project, which aimed to explore the usability, acceptability and feasibility of a MUVR application and its potential to support the social connectedness of people living with dementia and their support persons. The study involved five people living with dementia and their five support persons, who trialed the application in their homes over two PAR cycles. The researcher gathered feedback through individual semi-structured interviews and observational field notes. Reflexive thematic analysis guided qualitative data analysis, and the findings suggested that MUVR is a usable, acceptable, and feasible application for this population. The findings also indicated that MUVR shows promise in promoting or maintaining social connectedness among people living with dementia and their support persons. Nonetheless, further refinement is necessary to enhance the usability, acceptability and feasibility of the MUVR application, and these areas of refinement are presented in this paper, through design recommendations for future work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated associations between chronic developmental/behavioral and physical health conditions and social connectedness of adolescents using rich population-based data from a national U.S. birth cohort study. Potentially disabling health conditions were reported by caregivers and categorized by our team as developmental/behavioral or physical. Social connectedness was assessed using a validated scale that measured adolescents' reports of positive social connectedness across relevant contexts (family, friends, school). Of the 3,207 adolescents included, over one third had at least one chronic health condition. Unadjusted and adjusted linear and logistic regression models of associations between the presence of chronic health conditions (any developmental/behavioral health condition and any physical health condition, compared to no conditions) and adolescents' social connectedness outcomes were estimated. Compared to those with no chronic health conditions, adolescents with developmental/behavioral health conditions had lower odds of high positive social connectedness scores (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.80; CI [0.67, 0.94]), having friends they really care about (AOR: 0.76; CI [0.61, 0.94]), having people who care (AOR: 0.65; CI [0.50, 0.84]), and having people with whom to share good news (AOR: 0.77; CI [0.63, 0.94]). Adolescents with chronic physical health conditions had lower odds of reporting having people who care about them (AOR: 0.72; CI [0.55, 0.94]). The findings point to the need for interventions designed to foster the development of positive interpersonal relationships, reduce loneliness, and increase positive social identity among adolescents with chronic health conditions, particularly those with developmental/behavioral health conditions. Public Policy Relevance Statement: In this study of U.S. urban youth, adolescents with chronic developmental/behavioral health conditions had lower odds of positive social interactions compared to their peers with no chronic health conditions. The findings point to the need for interventions designed to foster the development of positive interpersonal relationships, reduce loneliness, and increase positive social identity among adolescents with chronic health conditions, particularly those with developmental/behavioral health conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous findings on the relationship between smartphone use and well-being have been mixed. This may be partially due to a reliance on cross-sectional study designs and self-reported smartphone usage. In the current study, we collected screen time data by directly tracking participants' (N = 325, ages 14−80 years, 58% women) smartphone usage over a period of 6 days. We combined this tracking with ecological momentary assessment, asking participants three times per day about their psychological well-being and feelings of social connectedness. Smartphone screen time was determined for the hour directly before each assessment. Results revealed that at times when participants used their smartphone more in the hour before an assessment, they reported lower psychological well-being and lower social connectedness. A bidirectional relationship emerged between smartphone screen time and social connectedness, suggesting a potential "vicious cycle" whereby smartphone usage leads to reduced social connectedness, which promotes more smartphone usage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]