1
|
You B, Wen H, Jackson T. Investigating mortality salience as a potential causal influence and moderator of responses to laboratory pain. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17204. [PMID: 38584938 PMCID: PMC10998629 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Because pain can have profound ramifications for quality of life and daily functioning, understanding nuances in the interplay of psychosocial experiences with pain perception is vital for effective pain management. In separate lines of research, pain resilience and mortality salience have emerged as potentially important psychological correlates of reduced pain severity and increased tolerance of pain. However, to date, there has been a paucity of research examining potentially interactive effects of these factors on pain perception. To address this gap, the present experiment investigated mortality salience as a causal influence on tolerance of laboratory pain and a moderator of associations between pain resilience and pain tolerance within a Chinese sample. Methods Participants were healthy young Chinese adults (86 women, 84 men) who first completed a brief initial cold pressor test (CPT) followed by measures of demographics and pain resilience. Subsequently, participants randomly assigned to a mortality salience (MS) condition completed two open-ended essay questions in which they wrote about their death as well as a death anxiety scale while those randomly assigned to a control condition completed analogous tasks about watching television. Finally, all participants engaged in a delay task and a second CPT designed to measure post-manipulation pain tolerance and subjective pain intensity levels. Results MS condition cohorts showed greater pain tolerance than controls on the post-manipulation CPT, though pain intensity levels did not differ between groups. Moderator analyses indicated that the relationship between the behavior perseverance facet of pain resilience and pain tolerance was significantly stronger among MS condition participants than controls. Conclusions This experiment is the first to document potential causal effects of MS on pain tolerance and Ms as a moderator of the association between self-reported behavior perseverance and behavioral pain tolerance. Findings provide foundations for extensions within clinical pain samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beibei You
- School of Nursing, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongwei Wen
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Todd Jackson
- Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Taipa, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wein S. Mortality salience in oncologists. Palliat Support Care 2024; 22:404-405. [PMID: 36958935 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951523000329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Wein
- Palliative Care Service, Davidoff Cancer Center, Beilinson Hospital, Petach Tikvah, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Felig RN, Courtney EP, Ligman KM, Lee KJ, Goldenberg JL. Objects Do Not Suffer: An Impact of Mechanistic Dehumanization on Perceptions of Women's Suffering and Lack of Justice in Domestic Assault. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2024; 39:1245-1267. [PMID: 37815050 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231204897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Women constitute an overwhelming majority of those who experience domestic violence; furthermore, the vast majority of perpetrators of domestic violence go unsentenced. The objectification of women innately implies the denial of humanness, and dehumanization is known to play a role in willingness to engage in and acceptance of interpersonal harm. Yet, important questions remain. The current study examines the type of humanness objectified women are being denied, and how that denial implicates perceptions surrounding domestic assault. We predict that associating women with objects, and not animals, may be uniquely implicated in the lack of consequences for perpetrators-for objects cannot feel pain. In the current study (N = 319), we manipulated the presentation of a woman as sexualized or not and purported that she had been involved in a domestic violence incident. We found that when the target woman was sexualized (and thus objectified), participants associated her with an inert, non-human object (i.e., mechanistically dehumanized her) more than when she was not sexually objectified, but we found no effect of sexualization on animalistic dehumanization. Furthermore, mechanistic dehumanization mediated decreases in perceptions of the sexually objectified woman's suffering as a result of the domestic violence, which decreased the severity of the punishment participants recommended for the perpetrator, while also, increasing victim, and decreasing perpetrator, blame. We discuss critical considerations of the role of dehumanization in domestic violence directed toward women and the lack of consequences for perpetrators of these crimes.
Collapse
|
4
|
Quevedo-Blasco R, Díaz-Román A, Vega-García A. Death Anxiety in Caregivers of Chronic Patients. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:107. [PMID: 38201013 PMCID: PMC10871074 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12010107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the extent to which caregivers of patients with chronic illnesses experience death anxiety, and which variables from caregivers and patients might potentially be related to their death anxiety. It also aimed to compare the levels of death anxiety between patients and caregivers. Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Psychology Database, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were searched for original studies available until December 2022 that quantitatively addressed death anxiety in family and informal caregivers of individuals with chronic illnesses. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed, and a meta-analysis was conducted using Hedges' g as the effect size index and the DerSimonian-Laird method to analyze differences between patients and caregivers in death anxiety. The results of the 11 included studies showed moderate levels of death anxiety in caregivers, and the meta-analysis (k = 7; 614 patients and 586 caregivers) revealed non-significant differences between the death anxiety experienced by patients and caregivers (pooled Hedges' g = -0.03, 95% CI = -0.29 to 0.25, p = 0.802). Some sociodemographic and psychological factors (e.g., gender, depression, and anxiety) might be related to the death anxiety experienced, but additional research is necessary to validate these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raúl Quevedo-Blasco
- Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC), University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain
| | - Amparo Díaz-Román
- Faculty of Psychology and Speech Therapy, University of Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bessarabova E, Massey ZB, Ma H, MacDonald A, Lindsey N. Reactance, Mortality Salience, and Skin-Cancer Prevention Among Young Adults. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023:1-9. [PMID: 38098213 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2293911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
In an experiment (N = 206) using skin cancer prevention messages and a 2 (mortality: salient, control) × 2 (freedom-limiting language: freedom-limiting, autonomy-supportive) independent-group design, we tested the terror management health model and integrated its predictions with the theory of psychological reactance. We used a sample of young adults because they are most at risk for excessive tanning. Consistent with the study predictions about proximal defenses, mortality salience significantly increased intentions to wear sunscreen all year around, relative to the control condition. A significant interaction between freedom-limiting language and mortality salience on behavioral intention to purchase high-SPF lotion revealed that, when a freedom-limiting message was paired with mortality salience, intentions to purchase high-SPF lotion were significantly greater as compared to autonomy-supportive language, indicating that mortality salience mitigated the maladaptive effects of reactance. These results add to a growing body of research identifying boundary conditions for reactance effects and, further, point to the utility of directive (albeit freedom-limiting language) in health-prevention messages attempting to communicate deadly health risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Zachary B Massey
- Strategic Communication, School of Journalism, University of Missouri
| | - Haijing Ma
- English, Communication, Creative Writing, and Publishing, University of Houston-Victoria
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wessler J, van der Schalk J, Hansen J, Klackl J, Jonas E, Fons M, Doosje B, Fischer A. Existential threat and responses to emotional displays of ingroup and outgroup members. GROUP PROCESSES & INTERGROUP RELATIONS 2023; 26:1866-1887. [PMID: 38021316 PMCID: PMC10665133 DOI: 10.1177/13684302221128229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The present research investigates how emotional displays shape reactions to ingroup and outgroup members when people are reminded of death. We hypothesized that under mortality salience, emotions that signal social distance promote worldview defense (i.e., increased ingroup favoritism and outgroup derogation), whereas emotions that signal affiliation promote affiliation need (i.e., reduced ingroup favoritism and outgroup derogation). In three studies, participants viewed emotional displays of ingroup and/or outgroup members after a mortality salience or control manipulation. Results revealed that under mortality salience, anger increased ingroup favoritism and outgroup derogation (Study 1), enhanced perceived overlap with the ingroup (Study 3), and increased positive facial behavior to ingroup displays-measured via the Facial Action Coding System (Studies 1 and 2) and electromyography of the zygomaticus major muscle (Study 3). In contrast, happiness decreased ingroup favoritism and outgroup derogation (Study 2), and increased positive facial behavior towards outgroup members (Study 3). The findings suggest that, in times of threat, emotional displays can determine whether people move away from unfamiliar others or try to form as many friendly relations as possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet Wessler
- German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bessarabova E, Massey ZB. The effects of death awareness and reactance on texting-and-driving prevention. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2023; 43:2597-2609. [PMID: 36802065 DOI: 10.1111/risa.14107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Using a 2 (mortality: salient, control) × 2 (freedom-limiting language: freedom-limiting, autonomy-supportive) independent-group design, this study examined the relationship between mortality salience and psychological reactance in the context of texting-and-driving prevention messages. The terror management health model and the theory of psychological reactance guided study predictions. Results showed mortality salience produced adaptive effects on attitudes toward texting-and-driving prevention and behavioral intentions to reduce unsafe driving practices. Additionally, some evidence for the effectiveness of directive, albeit freedom-limiting communication, emerged. These and other results are discussed along with the implications, limitations, and future research directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Bessarabova
- Department of Communication, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Zachary B Massey
- School of Journalism, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Becker S, Lee-Grimm SI, Juckel G, Mavrogiorgou P. Death Anxiety in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231215521. [PMID: 37963233 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231215521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Death anxiety has long been attributed a role as a psychopathologically decisive factor in the development of mental illnesses such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). For example, patients with washing compulsions associate their behavior with a fear of life-threatening diseases or patients with control compulsions report that the constant checking is driven by the fear of fatal or deadly consequences for the occupants.Method: The Bochum Questionnaire to Assess Death Anxiety and Attitudes Towards Death (BOFRETTA) was administered to 31 patients with OCD and 31 healthy volunteers within a semi-structured interview using broad psychometry.Results: OCD patients showed increased death anxiety and negative attitute to death in comparison to healthy volunteers. A significant correlation was found between BOFRETTA-anxiety and the currently present religious obsessive thoughts.Conclusions: Our investigation provides further findings on the role of death anxiety and the problematic attitude towards death in OCD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Becker
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, LWL-University Hospital of Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sie-In Lee-Grimm
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, LWL-University Hospital of Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Georg Juckel
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, LWL-University Hospital of Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Paraskevi Mavrogiorgou
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, LWL-University Hospital of Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gyimes IL, Valentini E. Reminders of Mortality: Investigating the Effects of Different Mortality Saliences on Somatosensory Neural Activity. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1077. [PMID: 37509009 PMCID: PMC10377243 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13071077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Terror Management Theory (TMT) offered a great deal of generative hypotheses that have been tested in a plethora of studies. However, there is a still substantive lack of clarity about the interpretation of TMT-driven effects and their underlying neurological mechanisms. Here, we aimed to expand upon previous research by introducing two novel methodological manipulations aimed to enhance the effects of mortality salience (MS). We presented participants with the idea of the participants' romantic partner's death as well as increased the perceived threat of somatosensory stimuli. Linear mixed modelling disclosed the greater effects of MS directed at one's romantic partner on pain perception (as opposed to the participant's own mortality). The theta event-related oscillatory activity measured at the vertex of the scalp was significantly lower compared to the control condition. We suggest that MS aimed at one's romantic partner can result in increased effects on perceptual experience; however, the underlying neural activities are not reflected by a classical measure of cortical arousal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Istvan Laszlo Gyimes
- Centre for Brain Science, Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Elia Valentini
- Centre for Brain Science, Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Arena AF, Moreton SG, Tiliopoulos N. Do mortality cues increase state autonomy? The moderating roles of trait autonomy, flexibility, and curiosity. DEATH STUDIES 2023; 48:352-360. [PMID: 37427681 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2023.2230549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
This study tested the effects of deep and subtle mortality cues on state autonomy, in addition to the moderating roles of trait autonomy, psychological flexibility, and curiosity. Australian undergraduate students (N = 442) self-reported on moderator variables before being randomly allocated to receive either deep mortality cues, subtle mortality cues, or a control task, and finally reported their state autonomy for life goals. Trait autonomy did not moderate the effect of mortality cues on state autonomy. However, for individuals high on psychological flexibility, any mortality cues led to increased state autonomy compared to the control. For individuals high on curiosity, there was some evidence that only deep mortality cues led to increased state autonomy. These findings help clarify the nature of growth outcomes (in terms of more authentic, autonomous motivation for life goals), and the personal characteristics that facilitate growth-oriented processing of death awareness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew F Arena
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Sam G Moreton
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Niko Tiliopoulos
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sielaff A, Rothschild L, Horner DE, Greenberg J. A Qualitative Study of How Hospice Workers Cope With Their Level of Exposure to Death. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231184297. [PMID: 38124327 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231184297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify whether hospice workers hold unique and theoretically-informative perspectives about death, especially as they relate to terror management processes. METHOD Twelve hospice workers from two hospices in Tucson, Arizona, United States, participated in semi-structured interviews. Interview and analytic practices were guided by Grounded Theory (Glaser & Strauss, 1967). RESULTS Three categories were identified in relation to death attitudes: effects of chronic confrontation with death; reasons for working in hospice; and perceptions of death in others. CONCLUSIONS Two theoretically informative trends appeared. First, hospice workers largely manage death anxiety as identified by existing literature with the notable exception that hospice workers overall seem to integrate death and dying into their worldviews as a meaningful category, as opposed to avoiding thinking about death. Second, even among those regularly exposed to death, there seems to be a range across participants on a continuum from avoiding to confronting the topic of death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Sielaff
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Dylan E Horner
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Jeff Greenberg
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bao Y, Zhang Y, Wang J. Exploring the relationship between exposure to COVID-19 and donations during the COVID-19 pandemic: The mediating roles of emotions and risk perception. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1052531. [PMID: 37082569 PMCID: PMC10110961 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1052531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectivePublic emergency events like the COVID-19 pandemic are special occasions that need immediate massive funding from public donations. Thus, understanding the determinants of donation behaviors under public emergencies is important for both researchers and practitioners. This study investigated the effect of personal and local exposure to incidences of COVID-19 on donation behaviors. Specifically, we examined the mediating effects of risk perception and emotions on the relationship between exposure to COVID-19 and donation behaviors.MethodsThe data were from a survey distributed in China between March 20 and 30th, 2020. Participants’ donation choice at the end of the survey was used to measure their donation behaviors. Participants’ emotions, risk perception, and personal exposure were assessed in the questionnaire. Local exposure was the 30-day confirmed cases obtained from the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China. A total of 8,720 participants (Mean age = 28.91, 43.6% females) completed the online survey.ResultsBased on the results from the mediation analysis, we found that people with stronger positive and negative emotions, higher risk perception, and more personal exposure to COVID-19 were more likely to donate. Furthermore, the effects of both personal and local exposure on donations are mediated by risk perception and negative emotion. Both higher personal and local exposure led to stronger negative emotions and higher risk perception, which in turn led to more donation behaviors.DiscussionThis study extends our knowledge of donation behaviors during public emergencies. Our results suggest that policymakers and charity organizations should elicit stronger emotions and risk perception by exposing the severity of the disaster in advertisements to promote donations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Bao
- Department of Psychology, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yan Zhang
- The Affiliated Kangning Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Sociology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junxiu Wang
- The Affiliated Kangning Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Sociology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Junxiu Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sonmez F, Nart S, Altunışık R. Examining the effect of mortality salience on preference for anthropomorphic products. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37359703 PMCID: PMC10031169 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-023-04533-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Research has shown that anthropomorphic products can compensate for the lack of belongingness and control. These findings suggest that anthropomorphic products may also protect against mortality salience, which has been shown in numerous research studies to be closely related to both belongingness and control motives. In two high-powered experiments, the present research aimed to investigate the effect of mortality salience on preference for anthropomorphic products and test the moderating role of three relevant factors, namely, belongingness, self-esteem, and attachment style. In the first study, we conducted a 2 (mortality salience: yes vs. no) x 2 (anthropomorphism: yes vs. no) between-subjects factorial design experiment. In the second study, we conducted a 2 (mortality salience: yes, no) x 2 (anthropomorphism: yes, no) mixed design experiment, in which we manipulated mortality salience between subjects and anthropomorphism within subjects. We found no evidence for the effect of mortality salience on preference for anthropomorphic products, nor for the moderating roles of belongingness, attachment style, or self-esteem. However, we found that anthropomorphism had a large, positive main effect on attitudes toward the product only when a non-anthropomorphic comparison was available. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Collapse
|
14
|
Marais-Potgieter A, Thatcher A. Exploring the impact of the pandemic on the relationship between individual types and the natural environment: the role of mortality concerns. CURRENT RESEARCH IN ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 4:100096. [PMID: 36936508 PMCID: PMC10008185 DOI: 10.1016/j.cresp.2023.100096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a global event that has impacted every individual on earth in some way and can be viewed as a mortality salience trigger. Although there were reports of increased nature exposure across the world, research is needed to understand whether the pandemic event impacted the underlying psychology of the human-nature nexus. Given the likelihood of pandemics and environmental challenges increasing in frequency in the future, there is a need for a deeper understanding of how pandemics impact individuals' relationship with the natural environment in South Africa. To achieve this, the study applied psychological types (grouping individuals based on homogeneity) to explore potential shifts as human nature is neither fixed, nor universal. The study asked: Given the multiple significant impacts of COVID-19 on the African continent, how have perceptions and attitudes towards the natural environment changed within and between types of individuals from 2016 (pre COVID) to 2021 (COVID) in South Africa? In a longitudinal, quantitative study, separate samples 721 in 2016 and 665 in 2021 were obtained. Participants in 2021 were grouped into the same six types using the same criteria, for comparison with the 2016 data. The results showed limited potential for pandemics to act as catalysts for long-term individual change towards increased pro-environmentalism. The study confirmed the main tenets of Terror Management Theory that individuals tend to be driven to uphold worldviews when confronted with mortality. Furthermore, there was a reduced experience of personal control over outcomes that increased reliance on sources of control outside the self as an attempt to buffer against mortality concerns. The study contributes towards Terror Management Theory's application during pandemics, and how that relates to individual environmental attitudes and perceptions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Marais-Potgieter
- Department of Psychology, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, Private Bag 3, 2050
| | - Andrew Thatcher
- Department of Psychology, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, Private Bag 3, 2050
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Litofcenko J, Meyer M, Neumayr M, Pennerstorfer A. Charitable Giving in Times of Covid-19: Do Crises Forward the Better or the Worse in Individuals? VOLUNTAS : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF VOLUNTARY AND NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37360505 PMCID: PMC9974051 DOI: 10.1007/s11266-023-00558-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Why did some individuals react to the Covid-19 crisis in a prosocial manner, whereas others withdrew from society? To shed light onto this question, we investigate changing patterns of charitable giving during the pandemic. The study analyzes survey data of 2000 individuals, representative of the populations of Germany and Austria. Logistic regressions reveal that personal affectedness by Covid-19 seems to play a crucial role: those who were personally affected either mentally, financially, or health-wise during the first 12 months of Covid-19 were most likely to have changed their giving behavior. The observed patterns fit psychological explanations of how human beings process existential threats. Our findings indicate that a profound societal crisis in itself mainly leads to changes in charitable giving if individuals are severely affected on a personal level. Thereby, we contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying individuals' charitable giving behavior in times of crisis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11266-023-00558-y.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Litofcenko
- Institute for Nonprofit Management, WU Vienna, University of Economics and Business, Welthandelsplatz 1, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Meyer
- Institute for Nonprofit Management, WU Vienna, University of Economics and Business, Welthandelsplatz 1, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michaela Neumayr
- Institute for Nonprofit Management, WU Vienna, University of Economics and Business, Welthandelsplatz 1, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - Astrid Pennerstorfer
- Institute for Social Policy, WU Vienna, University of Economics and Business, Welthandelsplatz 1, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Laurent SM, Kim JY. Do Injustice and Mortality Salience Impact Secondary Victimization Through the Need to Believe in a Just World? BASIC AND APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/01973533.2023.2175681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sean M. Laurent
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- The Pennsylvania State University
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kheibari A, Cerel J. The Role of Death Anxiety and Self-Esteem in Suicide Attitudes. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023; 86:1069-1088. [PMID: 33691531 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211000935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The persistent stigmatization of suicide calls for a careful examination of the thought processes involved in perceptions of suicide. Hence, the present study is the first to apply terror management theory (TMT) and use experimental methods to examine whether reminders of death lead to increased stigma towards suicide and whether self-esteem moderates these stigmatized reactions. Consistent with the predicted effect of the death anxiety and self-esteem hypothesis, findings revealed that, for respondents with low self-esteem, thinking about their own death led to more stigma, less willingness to intervene, and allocated less money to a suicide prevention organization as compared to those who did not think about death. Findings from this study could have important implications for how we understand the psychological underpinnings of stigma and the role of death anxiety in hostile attitudes and decreased altruism - especially for mental health professionals working with individuals affected by suicide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Athena Kheibari
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Julie Cerel
- College of Social Work, University of Kentucky, Lexington, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Treger S, Benau EM, Timko CA. Not so terrifying after all? A set of failed replications of the mortality salience effects of Terror Management Theory. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285267. [PMID: 37159447 PMCID: PMC10168577 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Terror Management Theory (TMT) postulates that humans, in response to awareness of their death, developed complex defenses to remove the salience and discomfort stemming from those thoughts. In a standard paradigm to test this theory, an individual is presented with a death-related prime (Mortality Salience; MS), such as writing the details of their own death, or something neutral, such as watching television. After a distractor task (for delay), participants complete the dependent variable, such as rating how much they like or agree with a pro- or anti-national essay and its author. Individuals in the MS condition typically exhibit greater worldview defense than control conditions by rating the pro-national essay more positively and the anti-national essay more negatively. We completed five separate studies across five unique samples with the goal of replicating and extending this well-established pattern to provide further understanding of the phenomena that underlie the effects of MS. However, despite using standard procedures, we were unable to replicate basic patterns of the dependent variable in the MS conditions. We also pooled all responses into two meta-analyses, one examining all dependent variables and one focusing on the anti-national essay; yet the effect sizes in these analyses did not significantly differ from zero. We discuss the methodological and theoretical implications of these (unintended) failures to replicate. It is not clear if these null findings were due to methodological limitations, restraints of online/crowd-sourced recruitment, or ever-evolving sociocultural factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Treger
- Northern Trust Corporation, Chicago, IL United States of America
| | - Erik M Benau
- Department of Psychology, SUNY Old Westbury, Old Westbury, NY, United States of America
| | - C Alix Timko
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
- Department of Psychology, Towson University, Towson, MD, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhang D. The relationship between gratitude and adolescents' prosocial behavior: A moderated mediation model. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1024312. [PMID: 36591067 PMCID: PMC9795242 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1024312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The development of prosocial behavior is an important embodiment of youth socialization. Cultivating adolescents' prosocial behaviors can be beneficial to individuals form correct outlook on life and values, and has a profound impact on promoting the harmonious development of society. Methods This manuscript constructs a model to explain the mediating role of sense of meaning in life between gratitude and prosocial behavior and the moderating role of self-esteem in the mediating path. From the analysis of the data of 2,735 questionnaires utilizing SPSS 22. Results (1) Gratitude has a significant positive effect on prosocial behavior; (2) sense of meaning in life plays a mediating influence on the relationship between gratitude and prosocial behavior; and (3) self-esteem has a moderating impact on relationship between sense of meaning in life and prosocial behavior, which means that adolescents with high self-esteem experience a stronger positive effect of a sense of life's meaning on their prosocial behavior. Discussion These findings not only add to research on the relationship between gratitude and prosocial behavior, but also provide ideas for improving adolescent prosocial behavior. Theoretical and practical implications, along with limitations and future research directions, were discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ding Zhang
- Center of Student Psychological Development, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Huang Y, Guan Z, Yan F, Wiley JA, Reynolds NR, Tang S, Sun M. Mediator role of presence of meaning and self-esteem in the relationship of social support and death anxiety. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1018097. [PMID: 36544437 PMCID: PMC9760982 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1018097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Death anxiety has increased following the COVID-19 pandemic. Although terror management theory has suggested social support, presence of meaning and self-esteem functioned as death anxiety buffers, few existing works have explored the mechanism of how social support, presence of meaning, and self-esteem buffer death anxiety. To identify these mechanisms is the aim of this study. Methods Our cross-sectional study was conducted with 1167 people in China from 19 May 2020 to 1 June 2020 during the COVID-19 outbreak. The average age of participants was 26 years. Data were by questionnaire, including demographic information, the Templer's Death anxiety scale, the multidimensional scale of perceived social support, the presence of meaning scale, and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale. Results Results using structural equation modeling showed presence of meaning and self-esteem fully mediated the relationship between social support and death anxiety, respectively and sequentially. The proposed model showed good fit of indices: χ2 = 243.384, df = 58, p < 0.001; CFI = 0.968, TLI = 0.954, RMSEA = 0.052, SRMR = 0.044. Discussion This study demonstrates significant mediator roles of presence of meaning and self-esteem in the relationship of social support and death anxiety. Multi-component interventions are needed to manage death anxiety by targeting increasing social support, presence of meaning and self-esteem and increasing presence of meaning and self-esteem when social support is diminished in the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Huang
- Teaching and Research Section of Clinical Nursing, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China,Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyao Guan
- School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Fang Yan
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - James A. Wiley
- Teaching and Research Section of Clinical Nursing, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China,Family and Community Medicine and Institute of Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Nancy R. Reynolds
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Siyuan Tang
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Mei Sun
- Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China,*Correspondence: Mei Sun
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fairlamb S, Courtney E. An existential perspective on interpersonal closeness and social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychol Health 2022:1-18. [PMID: 36189676 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2022.2129052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The terror management health model proposes that COVID-19's association with death should increase a desire for closeness, which could undermine social distancing intentions. Alternatively, social distancing intentions may increase if it has become culturally valued. The present research assessed these claims. DESIGN We conducted three pre-registered online experiments (N = 409) where we manipulated COVID-19 thoughts, and examined either proximal (i.e. immediate) or distal (i.e. delayed) reactions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Death-thought accessibility, desire for closeness, social distancing intentions, and measures concerning the perceived cultural value of social distancing. RESULTS COVID-19 thoughts increased death-thought accessibility (Study 1). COVID-19-induced death thoughts increased a distal desire for closeness, particularly in securely attached individuals, but also increased the perceived value of, and intentions to engage in, social distancing (Studies 2 and 3). CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate how proximal strategies may progress to distal strategies when they become embedded within cultural worldviews. These findings can aid in sustained efforts to encourage social distancing behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Fairlamb
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham Hill, Egham, UK
| | - Emily Courtney
- Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pashak TJ, Nelson OM, Tunstull MD, Vanderstelt BH, Nichols DP, Hitt JM. Embrace subjectivity: existentially-informed clinical psychological science, practice, and teaching. CLIN PSYCHOL-UK 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/13284207.2022.2108695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Travis J. Pashak
- Department of Psychology, Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI, USA
| | - Olivia M. Nelson
- Department of Psychology, Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI, USA
| | - Makiya D. Tunstull
- Department of Psychology, Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI, USA
| | | | - David P. Nichols
- Department of Philosophy, Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI, USA
| | - James M. Hitt
- Department of Philosophy, Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mahat-Shamir M, Kagan M. When the times get tough the toughs get funny: Means by which humor buffers against death anxiety emerged during COVID-19 outbreak. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0273338. [PMID: 35984818 PMCID: PMC9390890 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
According to Terror Management Theory (TMT), there are three common buffers that minimize the anxiety of mortality salience: affirmation of a) one’s cultural worldview, b) the self and one’s personal values, and c) one’s significance in the context of close personal relationships. The current study aimed at examining the contents of memes, which were distributed on social media during the COVID-19 outbreak, to explore the means by which humor buffers against death anxiety. A deductive and inductive thematic analysis captured three means by which humor buffers against death anxiety, a) humor as a means for connecting to cultural worldviews; b) humor as a means for inclusion in group; c) humor as a means to gain a sense of control. These findings are discussed through the theoretical lens of TMT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maya Kagan
- School of Social Work, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Schindler S, Hilgard J, Fritsche I, Burke B, Pfattheicher S. Do Salient Social Norms Moderate Mortality Salience Effects? A (Challenging) Meta-Analysis of Terror Management Studies. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY REVIEW 2022; 27:195-225. [PMID: 35950528 PMCID: PMC10115940 DOI: 10.1177/10888683221107267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Terror management theory postulates that mortality salience (MS) increases the motivation to defend one's cultural worldviews. How that motivation is expressed may depend on the social norm that is momentarily salient. Meta-analyses were conducted on studies that manipulated MS and social norm salience. Results based on 64 effect sizes for the hypothesized interaction between MS and norm salience revealed a small-to-medium effect of g = 0.34, 95% confidence interval [0.26, 0.41]. Bias-adjustment techniques suggested the presence of publication bias and/or the exploitation of researcher degrees of freedom and arrived at smaller effect size estimates for the hypothesized interaction, in several cases reducing the effect to nonsignificance (range gcorrected = -0.36 to 0.15). To increase confidence in the idea that MS and norm salience interact to influence behavior, preregistered, high-powered experiments using validated norm salience manipulations are necessary. Concomitantly, more specific theorizing is needed to identify reliable boundary conditions of the effect.
Collapse
|
25
|
Pashak TJ, Percy CS, Trierweiler EJ, Bradley SM, Conley MA, Weaver JS. Awareness isn't saving lives: An experimental exploration of suicide risk reduction methods for emerging adults. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2022; 52:740-751. [PMID: 35334144 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Suicide prevention campaigns commonly employ brief informational materials aimed at emerging adults. Are such programs helpful, and do design characteristics yield differences in user outcomes? Literature is reviewed from the interpersonal theory of suicide, escape theory, and terror management theory, to inform our experimental design. METHOD Participants (n = 977 MTurk emerging adults) reported demographics and suicide histories and were randomized to one of nine experimental cells with varying video and journaling conditions to approximate suicide prevention materials. Participants were surveyed on perceptions of the materials' risk reduction effectiveness, indicated their suicidality risk factors (e.g., hopelessness, depressiveness, purposelessness, and non-belongingness), and conducted an implicit association test of suicidality. RESULTS Suicide risk factors did not differ between experimental and control conditions, but certain conditions were rated as more effective (i.e., essay conditions prompting reflection, and the video condition featuring a personal/affective narrative). While there was no actual comparative reduction of risk, there was a perception that certain designs were more helpful. CONCLUSION Real-world suicide prevention campaigns often feel justified despite lacking impact. Effective suicide risk reduction requires greater time investment and deeper personal connection than brief campaigns can offer, as well as systemic changes from a public health policy perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Travis J Pashak
- Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, Michigan, USA
| | - Carly S Percy
- Michigan School of Psychology, Farmington Hills, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Sophia M Bradley
- Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, Michigan, USA
| | - McCall A Conley
- Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, Michigan, USA
| | - Joseph S Weaver
- Saginaw Valley State University, University Center, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhou J, Chen Y, Xu Y, Liao B, Fu W. Facing a Real Threat of Death: Dynamic Changes in Death-Thought Accessibility. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2022; 15:1731-1740. [PMID: 35860205 PMCID: PMC9292051 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s361432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study explored the relationship between emotion and death-thought accessibility (DTA) in individuals experiencing true mortality salience (MS), specifically, patients with cancer. Patients and Methods The study included 255 participants; among them, 132 patients had cancer and represented the MS group, and 123 had dental pain and served as a control group. Participants completed the Projective Diseases Attitude Assessment Questionnaire to induce priming, completed an affect scale, completed one of four calculation tasks as manipulation of cognitive load (all four were done over several sessions), and performed a Pinyin-Chinese characters exercise to measure DTA. Results MS was associated with strong negative emotional arousal. When these negative emotions are generated, they enter an individual’s consciousness and activate proximal defense mechanisms. At this point, DTA can be measured. Patients with cancer had significantly higher levels of DTA in the high-frequency cognitive load condition than in the other three conditions (no task, simple delay task, and single cognitive load task). Patients with dental pain had significantly higher levels of DTA in the no task and simple delay conditions than in the single cognitive load or high-frequency cognitive load conditions. This study also found that negative experiences without MS (specifically, dental pain) are associated with higher levels of DTA. Conclusion These findings suggest that in addition to death-related events, both negative and stress-inducing events can produce DTA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zhou
- School of Humanities and Management Science, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, SiChuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Chen
- School of Humanities and Management Science, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, SiChuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Liao
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, SiChuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenguang Fu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Impacts of COVID-19 on the post-pandemic behaviour: The role of mortality threats and religiosity. JOURNAL OF RETAILING AND CONSUMER SERVICES 2022; 67:102964. [PMCID: PMC8858701 DOI: 10.1016/j.jretconser.2022.102964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
This study explores the influence of intra-pandemic perceptions on travellers' post-pandemic hotel booking behaviour among crisis-resistant travellers and crisis-sensitive groups. It also examines the moderating role of mortality threats and religiosity on these behaviours. We collected quantitative data utilising survey method via questionnaires to address various levels of the research. We used PLS-SEM to evaluate our proposed model. We collected data from 1580 who had booked hotels in Egypt. Our study indicated that intra-pandemic perception has a stronger effect on travellers’ post-pandemic hotel booking behaviours if the travellers are less religious and feel deeply threatened by the idea of their own level of mortality. Moreover, it revealed that intra-pandemic perceptions had a stronger association with post-pandemic planned behaviour for travellers who chose to cancel their hotel booking plans. Our study also indicated that emergency public information plays a critical role in influencing post-pandemic planned behaviour. Our study offers effective strategies to aid hospitality and tourism practitioners when risky and threating situations such as COVID-19 arise, specifically in the period of response and recovery.
Collapse
|
28
|
Changing Personal Values through Value-Manipulation Tasks: A Systematic Literature Review Based on Schwartz's Theory of Basic Human Values. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2022; 12:692-715. [PMID: 35877452 PMCID: PMC9319275 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe12070052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
According to the Theory of Basic Human Values, values are relatively stable, but not immutable, abstract goals which strongly influence peoples’ lives. Since their relative stability, psychosocial research is attempting to understand the extent to which it is possible to induce a voluntary change in people’s personal values. The main aim of this study was to systematically review the existing literature on experiments to induce a value change, also highlighting the theoretical perspectives used to develop the experimental tasks. We conducted a literature search of five databases (SCOPUS, ProQuest, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Web of Science). After the screening and the eligibility phase, we included a total of 14 articles (25 experiments). Most of these studies involved university students and adopted a pre-and post-test design, using different manipulation tasks. The results highlighted the possibility of inducing a voluntary value change, assessed in terms of mean levels and/or rank order. These findings provide new insights regarding the stability of values in the light of the Theory of Basic Human Values. The practical implications and future research directions are discussed.
Collapse
|
29
|
Stiller M, Di Masso A. The Power of Death Valence: A Revised Terror Management Process. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221108300. [PMID: 35719090 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221108300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Terror management strategies (TMS) are assumed to affect social prejudice. In a prior study, positive death valence in wave 1 reduced gender-related stereotypes in wave 2. Psychosocial intervention against prejudice requires a deeper understanding of the terror management process. We investigated the relationships between death anxiety, death valence, mortality salience and TMS in a mixed method study. Participants showed complex emotions in the face of death, including fear, anxiety, sadness and ambivalent calm. Positive death valence was associated with more conscious fear, but with less implicit death anxiety, while negative death valence was associated with more death denial. In conclusion, we propose death anxiety as a distal precursor and death valence as a proximate precursor of the plural TMS that are triggered by mortality salience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mel Stiller
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, University of Barelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrés Di Masso
- Department of Social Psychology and Quantitative Psychology, University of Barelona, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Harvell-Bowman LA, Critchfield KL, Ndzana F, Stucker E, Yocca C, Wilgus K, Hurst A, Sullivan K. Of Love and Death: Death Anxiety, Attachment, and Suicide as Experienced by College Students. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221100636. [PMID: 35533365 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221100636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Drawing from the mental health crisis present on college campuses, we investigate the psychological processes associated with suicidal ideation among undergraduate students. Specifically, we used Terror Management Theory to investigate how individuals who have a history of suicidal ideation handle traditional death anxiety in coordination with Benjamin's theory underlying Interpersonal Reconstructive Therapy to explore specific attachment-based mechanisms that may allow for exceptions to the perceived meaning of death. Results show it was the fantasy of suicide itself, including its relevance in the lives of others, that was used to alleviate fear of death among the suicidal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Amanda Hurst
- 3745James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA, USA
- Immaculata University, Pennsylvania, PA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Leung HT, Chew PKH, Caltabiano NJ. Mortality Salience Effects of Critical Incidents - A Systematic Literature Review and Research Agenda. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221098890. [PMID: 35491896 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221098890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Critical incidents (CI) trigger acute stress reactions and psychological trauma because of direct or vicarious exposure. These events include natural disasters, wars, terrorist attacks and pandemics, and usually result in deaths and serious physical injuries. Their life-threatening nature makes them reasonable candidates to induce mortality salience (MS). The current review aims to consolidate Terror Management Theory (TMT) research using CIs as MS. A systematic literature review was conducted. Overall, 74 articles with 113 studies were included. Through this review, strong support for MS effects of CI has been found. Consistent with TMT, CIs tend to trigger worldview defence, self-esteem enhancement and relationship seeking. CIs have also been found to impact negatively on individual well-being and organisational health. Recommendations specific to crisis interventions and well-being will be discussed. The review concludes with potential future research directions to strengthen and expand empirical knowledge in CI salience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hoi-Ting Leung
- School of Social and Health Sciences, 208640James Cook University, Singapore
| | - Peter K H Chew
- School of Social and Health Sciences, 208640James Cook University, Singapore
| | - Nerina J Caltabiano
- College of Healthcare Sciences, 208640James Cook University, Cairns Campus, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Incorvaia AD. Death Positivity in America: The Movement-Its History and Literature. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221085176. [PMID: 35466807 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221085176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Western society is in an era of death awareness, its most recent salience: A Positive Death Movement. This article traces the evolution of American death culture by describing key periods of change, starting with the 1700s and going through the 21st century, and overviews contemporary movement scholarship. Experts suggest our current epoch is one in which a diffuse collection of individuals and organizations advocate for approaching death differently. Movement proponents aim to modify society's "conventional" death framework, which is characterized as medicalized, institutionalized, impersonal, and lacking psychosocial emotional preparation and engagement.
Collapse
|
33
|
Rodriguez CG, Gadarian SK, Goodman SW, Pepinsky TB. Morbid Polarization: Exposure to COVID-19 and Partisan Disagreement about Pandemic Response. POLITICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 43:POPS12810. [PMID: 35602578 PMCID: PMC9115507 DOI: 10.1111/pops.12810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of all Americans, but the severity of the pandemic has been experienced unevenly across space and time. Some states saw sharp rises in COVID-19 cases in early March, whereas case counts rose much later in the rest of the country. In this article, we examine the relationship between exposure to COVID-19 and citizens' views on what type of measures are required to deal with the crises and how experience with and exposure to COVID-19 is associated with greater partisan polarization. We find consistent evidence of partisan divergence in pandemic-response policy preferences across the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic: Republicans support national control measures whereas Democrats support welfare policies, and interparty differences grow over time. We find only limited evidence that exposure or experience moderates these partisan differences. Our findings are consistent with the view that Americans interpret the COVID-19 pandemic in fundamentally partisan manner, and that objective pandemic conditions play at most a minor role in shaping mass preferences.
Collapse
|
34
|
Wu X, Gai X, Xu L, Liu F, Wang H, Kou H. Family socioeconomic status and provincial‐level economic, educational, and health‐related factors as predictors of present‐ and future‐oriented subjective wellbeing in junior high school students in China. J Adolesc 2022; 94:354-365. [DOI: 10.1002/jad.12027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Wu
- School of Psychology Northeast Normal University Changchun Jilin China
| | - Xiaosong Gai
- School of Psychology Northeast Normal University Changchun Jilin China
| | - Lili Xu
- School of Psychology Northeast Normal University Changchun Jilin China
| | - Fangqing Liu
- School of Psychology Northeast Normal University Changchun Jilin China
| | - Hong Wang
- School of Psychology Northeast Normal University Changchun Jilin China
| | - Hongyang Kou
- Northeast Asian Studies College Jilin University Changchun Jilin China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mayer CH, Krasovska N, Fouché PJP. The Meaning of Life and Death in the Eyes of Frankl: Archetypal and Terror Management Perspectives. EUROPES JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 17:164-175. [PMID: 35136437 PMCID: PMC8763221 DOI: 10.5964/ejop.4689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This article aims to uncover the meaning of life and death across the lifespan of the extraordinary person, Viktor E. Frankl (1905–1997). Frankl was purposively sampled due to his international acclaim as an Austrian neurologist and psychiatrist, who later became famous as a holocaust survivor and the founder of logotherapy. Through his approach of “healing through meaning,” he became the founder of the meaning-centred school of psychotherapy and published many books on existential and humanistic psychology. The study describes the meaning of life and death through two theoretical approaches: the archetypal analysis based on C.G. Jung’s and C.S. Pearson’s work and a terror management approach based on the melancholic existentialist work of Ernest Becker. The methodology of psychobiography is used to conduct the psycho-historical analysis of the interplay of archetypes and death annihilation anxiety throughout Frankl’s lifespan. The article evaluates how archetypes and death anxiety interacts and how they built meaning in different stages of Frankl’s lifespan. The theories are discussed and illustrated in the light of Viktor E. Frankl’s life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claude-Hélène Mayer
- Department of Industrial Psychology and People Management, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Faculty of Cultural Studies, European University Viadrina Frankfurt (Oder), Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Paul J P Fouché
- Department of Psychology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Heller I, Halabi S. The Underlying Process of Prosocial Behavior Among Soldiers: A Terror Management Theory Perspective. Front Psychol 2022; 12:770723. [PMID: 35095654 PMCID: PMC8797155 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.770723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The mortality salience (MS) hypothesis postulates that anxiety elicited by mortality awareness leads people to develop negative emotions toward those who hold values inconsistent with their worldview faith. We explored this hypothesis in a sample of 76 Israeli combat soldiers, who were asked to reflect on either their mortality or dental pain. Subsequently, participants reported their motivation to help a father in need who was either an Arab (outgroup) or a Jewish Israeli (ingroup), as well as their perceptions of threat by Arab Israelis. Regression analysis indicated that mortality reminders intensified soldiers’ perception of threat by the outgroup, leading to an increased desire to assist a Jewish-Israeli father, and a decreased motivation to help an Arab-Israeli one. The findings demonstrate the pronounced effects of MS on soldiers involved in frequent combat actions in terms of evoking negative emotions leading to reluctance to help unarmed civilian outgroup members. Recommendations for soldiers’ pre-deployment psychoeducation sessions are provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ido Heller
- Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Samer Halabi
- Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Song W, Zhao T, Huang E. How Does the COVID-19 Pandemic Affect People's Willingness to Pay for Health in the Short and Long Term? A Longitudinal Study during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031568. [PMID: 35162590 PMCID: PMC8835082 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a substantial threat to people’s lives and aroused health concerns. This study aims at exploring the following questions. First, how does the COVID-19 pandemic affect people’s willingness to pay for health (WPH) in the short and long term? Second, what is the psychological mechanism underlying such an effect? Finally, what are the boundary conditions for this effect? To answer these questions, we conducted three longitudinal surveys. The first survey was launched in February 2020—the time of the most serious outbreak of COVID-19 in China. Data were obtained from 1548 participants through questionnaires on an online survey platform. The sample covered 297 prefecture-level cities in 31 provincial administrative regions. Subsequently, we conducted two follow-up surveys in August 2020 and July 2021. The samples of these surveys were randomly selected from the sample of the first survey. The findings showed that the pandemic promoted people’s WPH in the outbreak period. The fear of death and self-esteem mediated and moderated this effect, respectively. Moreover, the effect persisted for six months after the COVID-19 pandemic had been brought under control (August 2020). However, the effect disappeared after a year and a half (July 2021). These results indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic promoted people’s WPH and that this effect was sustained in the short term after the pandemic had been brought under control but not in the long term.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Song
- Yatai School of Business Management, Jilin University of Finance and Economics, Changchun 130117, China;
| | - Taiyang Zhao
- School of Philosophy and Sociology, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-1332-154-1212
| | - Ershuai Huang
- School of Business Administration, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo 454003, China;
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Perach R, Limbu M. Can culture beat Covid-19? Evidence that exposure to facemasks with cultural symbols increases solidarity. BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 61:991-1010. [PMID: 35076104 DOI: 10.1111/bjso.12521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Facemasks have become integral to everyday life. We propose that exposure to facemasks with a solidarity-related cultural symbol can activate cultural values such as mutual trust and increase corresponding interpersonal perceptions, thereby enhancing collective resilience in the Covid-19 pandemic. In three (two of which preregistered) studies, we examined whether exposure to facemasks with a solidarity-related cultural symbol predicts positive interpersonal perceptions, and whether this depends on death awareness. Across studies, exposure to facemasks with a cultural symbol (either pride flag or National Health Service) increased positive interpersonal perceptions, an index of solidarity, in people for whom this symbol represents a meaningful social identity. This was found whether participants were reminded of death, a neutral experience, or a negative experience. Importantly, in Study 3, exposure to facemasks with a solidarity-related cultural symbol (vs. surgical) led to greater increases in positive interpersonal perceptions when death awareness was high. Together, our findings suggest that wearing facemasks with a cultural symbol that relates to solidarity can be a vehicle for shaping people's personality impressions of others. Applied directions for the activation of people's social identities via facemask selection to promote collective resilience in the Covid-19 pandemic are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rotem Perach
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Maliyana Limbu
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Rezaee Vessal S, Partouche-Sebban J. The effect of mortality salience on status consumption among elderly individuals: the moderating role of chronological age and subjective age. JOURNAL OF ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/jocm-12-2019-0392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeOver the past two decades, a large body of research has examined the effect of the awareness of the inevitability of death on consumption behaviours. However, the literature has shed little light on the effect of mortality salience (MS) on elderly individuals. The present research specifically aims to challenge the effect of MS on status consumption among elderly individuals.Design/methodology/approachTwo experiments were conducted among individuals over 50. The experiments manipulated MS to test its effect on status consumption.FindingsThe results demonstrate that MS positively influences the preference for status products among elderly individuals (experiment 1) and that this effect is less pronounced as elderly individuals age (experiment 2). Subjective age bias, defined as the potential gap between chronological age and subjective age, negatively moderates this effect (experiment 2).Practical implicationsLuxury marketers need to pay attention to generational cohorts rather than other demographic variables in the segmentation of their market. Moreover, subjective age may be a better segmentation variable for marketers than objective variables such as chronological age.Originality/valueThis research provides insights that support a better understanding of status consumption among elderly individuals and the role of subjective ageing in this process.
Collapse
|
40
|
Jimenez T, Arndt J, Helm PJ. Prejudicial reactions to the removal of Native American mascots. GROUP PROCESSES & INTERGROUP RELATIONS 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/13684302211040865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
As Native American mascots are discontinued, research is needed to understand the impact on intergroup relations. Such discontinuations may be threatening to some and increase prejudice against Native Americans. In Study 1 ( N = 389), exposure to information about a Native American mascot removal increased punitive judgments against a Native American in a hypothetical legal scenario, particularly among those high in racial colorblindness and those residing in the implicated geographical location. Study 2 ( N = 358,644) conceptually replicated and extended these findings, using population-level implicit bias data to perform a natural quasi-experiment. Prejudice against Native Americans increased in the year following the removal of two Native American mascots: “Chief Illiniwek” and “Chief Wahoo.” However, in the case of Chief Illiniwek, the effect diminished after 6 years. Together, the studies contribute to understanding the psychological impact of Native American mascots, offering a first look at how their removal influence intergroup relations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Jimenez
- University of Washington, USA
- University of Missouri, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Sonmez F. The effect of COVID-19-induced mortality salience on delay discounting: a replication. JOURNAL OF THE ECONOMIC SCIENCE ASSOCIATION 2021. [PMCID: PMC8570231 DOI: 10.1007/s40881-021-00109-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study is a conceptual replication of Kelley & Schmeichel (PLOS ONE 10: e0144228, 2015), which found that thinking about death reduces delay discounting. Unlike the original study, the current study was conducted in an environment where there was a real and tangible mortality threat across the world, that is, COVID-19. Contrary to the findings of the original study, results of the current study revealed that thinking about death increases delay discounting, such that participants who were primed with death thoughts traded “₺200 now” for “₺342.35 three months later,” whereas those in the control condition traded “₺200 now” for “₺319.27 three months later”. The current study also explored the moderating roles of goal orientation and self-esteem in the effect of mortality salience on delay discounting; however, it failed to provide evidence for the moderating roles of these variables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatih Sonmez
- Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Muş Alparslan University, Muş, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Chen Y, Tan X, Xing C, Zheng J. How healthcare workers respond to COVID-19: The role of vulnerability and social support in a close relationships defense mechanism. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2021; 221:103442. [PMID: 34717255 PMCID: PMC8549441 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2021.103442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers play a vital role in the fight against COVID-19. Based on Terror Management Theory (TMT), the present research examined whether a close relationships defense mechanism reduces anxiety among healthcare workers (N = 729) in China. Our results suggest that this defense mechanism, as indexed by relationship satisfaction, serves as an effective terror management source after exposure to reminders of death (MS; mortality salience). These findings extend TMT by identifying two moderating variables: vulnerability and social support. In a low objective vulnerability group, healthcare workers who subjectively believed themselves as less vulnerable to COVID-19 showed a stronger defense mechanism after a MS manipulation as compared to those who felt more vulnerable. Further, healthcare workers with higher levels of social support reported more relationship satisfaction. These findings have practical implications for guiding healthcare workers on how to buffer death-related anxiety and maintain their mental health in the fight against COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunjiao Chen
- Department of Psychology, Renmin University of China, Beijing 100872, China
| | - Xuyun Tan
- Institute of Sociology, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing 100732, China
| | - Cai Xing
- Department of Psychology, Renmin University of China, Beijing 100872, China,Corresponding author at: Department of Psychology, Renmin University of China, ZhongGuanCun Street No. 59, Beijing 100872, China
| | - Jiaren Zheng
- The Third Hospital of Jinjiang, Fujian 362211, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abadi D, Arnaldo I, Fischer A. Anxious and Angry: Emotional Responses to the COVID-19 Threat. Front Psychol 2021; 12:676116. [PMID: 34531784 PMCID: PMC8439354 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.676116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic elicits a vast amount of anxiety. In the current study, we investigated how anxiety related to COVID-19 is associated with support for and compliance with governmental hygiene measures, and how these are influenced by populist attitudes, anger at the government, and conspiracy mentalities. We conducted an online survey in April 2020 in four different countries (Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and the UK; N = 2,031) using a cross-sectional design. Results showed that (1) anxiety related to COVID-19 is associated with conspiracy beliefs, anger at the government, and populist attitudes, and (2) support for and compliance with hygiene measures are both positively predicted by anxiety related to COVID-19; however, (3) support for hygiene measures is also predicted by populist attitudes and negatively by conspiracy mentalities, whereas compliance with hygiene measures is more strongly predicted by anger at transgressors (anger at people transgressing the hygiene measures). Consequently, although anxiety related to COVID-19 concerns the health of individual people, it also has political and social implications: anxiety is associated with an increase in anger, either at transgressors or the government.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Abadi
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Kheibari A, Cerel J. Does self-esteem inflation mitigate mortality salience effects on suicide attitudes? Suicide Life Threat Behav 2021; 51:775-784. [PMID: 33904615 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suicide stigma is a major barrier to prevention and intervention efforts. Using terror management theory as the guiding framework, the present study examined whether enhancing self-esteem would buffer against suicide stigma and lead to prosocial attitudes and behavior. METHODS Experimental methods were utilized in the present study. After being primed with death-related thoughts, participants were randomly assigned to one of two conditions: (1) positive feedback (experimental group) and (2) no feedback (control group). The dependent variables included (1) evaluations of a suicide decedent, (2) intentions to intervene against suicide, and (3) charitable donation behavior toward a suicide prevention organization. RESULTS The most consistent findings for the self-esteem boost hypothesis were for the interaction effects of death anxiety and self-esteem boost for the donation allocation task and intentions to intervene against suicide. For participants who were reminded of death, the self-esteem boost intervention mitigated the negative impact of death anxiety on donation behavior (i.e., an average difference of $16.37). Positive feedback for participants with reported low self-esteem also led to increased willingness to intervene against suicide. CONCLUSION These findings provide some promising potential for the self-esteem enhancement intervention to attenuate defensive reactions to suicide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Athena Kheibari
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Julie Cerel
- College of Social Work, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
The curious case of left‐wing authoritarianism: When authoritarian persons meet anti‐authoritarian norms. JOURNAL OF THEORETICAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 5:423-442. [DOI: 10.1002/jts5.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
46
|
Knoepke CE, Chaussee EL, Matlock DD, Thompson JS, McIlvennan CK, Ambardekar AV, Schaffer EM, Khazanie P, Scherer L, Arnold RM, Allen LA. Changes over Time in Patient Stated Values and Treatment Preferences Regarding Aggressive Therapies: Insights from the DECIDE-LVAD Trial. Med Decis Making 2021; 42:404-414. [PMID: 34296623 PMCID: PMC8783927 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x211028234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Background Patient-centered care includes matching treatments to patient values and preferences. This assumes clarity and consistency of values and preferences relevant to major medical decisions. We sought to describe stability of patient-reported values regarding aggressiveness of care and preferences for left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) for advanced heart failure. Methods and Results We conducted a secondary analysis of patients undergoing LVAD evaluation at 6 US centers. Surveys at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months included a single 10-point scale on the value of aggressive care (score 1 = “do everything,” 10 = “live with whatever time I have left”) and treatment preference (LVAD, unsure, no LVAD). Data were captured for 232 patients, of whom 196 were ultimately deemed medically eligible for LVAD, and 161 were surgically implanted by 1 month. Values at baseline favored aggressive care (mean [SD], 2.49 [2.63]), trending toward less aggressive over time (1 month, 2.63 [2.05]; 6 months, 3.22 [2.70]). Between baseline and 1 month, values scores changed by ≥2 points in 28% (50/176), as did treatment preferences for 18% (29/161) of patients. Values score changes over time were associated with lower illness acceptance, depression, and eventual LVAD ineligibility. Treatment preference change was associated with values score change. Conclusion Most patients considering LVAD were stable in their values and treatment preferences. This stability, as well as the association between unstable treatment preferences and changes to stated values, highlighted the clinical utility of the values scale of aggressiveness. However, a substantial minority reported significant changes over time that may complicate the process of shared decision making. Improved methods to elicit and clarify values, including support to those with depression and low illness acceptance, is critical for patient-centered care. Highlights Self-reported values and preferences change significantly over time in about a quarter of patients actively considering left ventricular assist device implantation. Instability in stated values and preferences challenges clinicians who want to maximally match patient preferences to the treatments they receive. For most patients, clinicians can normalize the desire to maximize survival and empathize with the difficulty of making the decision. For others, clinicians may want to help patients explore the benefits and tradeoffs of therapy, including whether values other than the ones being asked about dominate their consideration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher E Knoepke
- Division of Cardiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Adult & Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Erin L Chaussee
- Adult & Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Daniel D Matlock
- Adult & Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Division of Geriatric Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Division of General Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jocelyn S Thompson
- Adult & Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Colleen K McIlvennan
- Division of Cardiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Adult & Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amrut V Ambardekar
- Division of Cardiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Elisabeth M Schaffer
- Adult & Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Prateeti Khazanie
- Division of Cardiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Laura Scherer
- Division of Cardiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Adult & Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Robert M Arnold
- Section of Palliative Care and Medical Ethics, Division of General Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Larry A Allen
- Division of Cardiology, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.,Adult & Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research & Delivery Science, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Tavara Ramirez FA, Espinosa Pezzia A, Delgado Taboada JM. Defensa de la visión del mundo y motivos identitarios ante la saliencia de mortalidad y la religión en Lima. UNIVERSITAS PSYCHOLOGICA 2021. [DOI: 10.11144/javeriana.upsy19.dvmm] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Justificación. La Teoría del Manejo del Terror (TMT) propone que la saliencia de mortalidad (SM) produce estados de ansiedad que las personas afrontan con la Defensa de la Visión del Mundo (DVM) y la adhesión a Motivos Identitarios (MI). Objetivo. Analizar el efecto de la SM en la DVM y los MI en católicos y ateos de Lima (Perú). Método. Se desarrolló un diseño cuasiexperimental, intersujetos, 2 x 2 [Condición: Experimental vs. Control X Grupo de Creencia: Católicos (n = 30) vs. Ateos (n = 32)]. Los participantes de la condición experimental fueron expuestos a la SM y los de la condición control no, respondiendo posteriormente a cuestionarios de DVM y MI. Resultados. No existen diferencias en la DVM y los MI por condición, ni por la interacción entre condición y grupo de creencia. Sin embargo, analizando las diferencias por grupo de creencia, los ateos muestran mayor DVM y los católicos mayores niveles en los MI de Pertenencia y Continuidad. Discusión. Los hallazgos sobre los efectos de la SM en las variables dependientes son consistentes con resultados en contextos no anglosajones. Adicionalmente, las diferencias entre grupos de creencia se discuten desde un marco de relaciones intergrupales en el contexto peruano.
Collapse
|
48
|
Yang Y, Wang R, Zhang D, Su Y, Zang Y. The protective effect of self-esteem on suicidal ideation among nursing home residents with limited social support in China: A cross-sectional study. Nurs Open 2021; 9:2729-2738. [PMID: 34190426 PMCID: PMC9584493 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim This cross‐sectional study aimed to assess the impact of limited social support and loneliness on suicidal ideation, under the influence of self‐esteem, an important inner resource for quality living. Design An observational cross‐sectional study conducted from September 2018–April 2019. Methods The participants comprised 538 nursing home residents selected by a stratified sampling method from all seven administrative districts in a capital city of eastern China. All the participants completed the survey that constituted the measurement of suicidal ideation, self‐esteem, social support and loneliness. Path analysis was performed using the structural equation modelling method. Results A moderating effect, with satisfactory model fit indices and significant path coefficients, was detected between self‐esteem and suicidal ideation through limited social support and loneliness, revealing the multiple protective mechanisms of this psychological characteristic on the change of suicidal ideation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Rui Wang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yonggang Su
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,School of Foreign Languages and Literature, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuli Zang
- Faculty of Medicine, The Nethersole School of Nursing, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Quirin M, Malekzad F, Kazén M, Luckey U, Kehr H. Existential Threat: Uncovering Implicit Affect in Response to Terror Reminders in Soldiers. Front Psychol 2021; 12:585854. [PMID: 34149495 PMCID: PMC8211763 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.585854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychological science has a hard time assessing affective processes of the individuals that they may not recognize or do not like to report on. Here, the authors used the Implicit Positive and Negative Affect Test (IPANAT; Quirin et al., 2009) to investigate whether reminders of an existential threat induce unpleasant implicit affect in soldiers waiting for their deployment to a country with high levels of terrorist threat, Afghanistan. As expected, relative to reminding participants of a television evening, implicit negative affect was higher and implicit positive affect was lower after reminding participants of terror acts performed in different cities. No significant effects were found in self-reports of negative or positive affect. Our findings suggest that reminders of existential threat can elicit implicit negative affect that individuals may not report on explicitly and thus, validate the IPANAT as an easily applicable measure in emotional contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markus Quirin
- Technical University of Munich, Private Hochschule Göttingen, Bavaria, Germany.,Department of Psychology, Private Hochschule Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Farhood Malekzad
- Technical University of Munich, Private Hochschule Göttingen, Bavaria, Germany
| | - Miguel Kazén
- Institute of Psychology, Osnabrueck University, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Udo Luckey
- Institute of Psychology, Osnabrueck University, Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Hugo Kehr
- Technical University of Munich, Private Hochschule Göttingen, Bavaria, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Qi J, Fprt. Chinese College Students' Death Cognition and its Long-Term Changes After Wenchuan Earthquake. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2021; 87:401-423. [PMID: 34053344 DOI: 10.1177/00302228211015598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study explores the cognitive structure of death and long-term changes of death cognition after catastrophes for Chinese college students. Two months before Wenchuan earthquake, a week after, a year after, and ten years after, a total of 1507 participants' associated words of death were collected, after clustering high-frequency words' similarity coefficients, results showed that death was represented by four advanced clusters: death contact, death anxiety and its reminders, deathafter, and defense mechanism; a week after earthquake, death anxiety and its reminders, defense mechanism were activated; a year after, death contact, afterdeath were appreciated, death anxiety and its reminders, defense mechanism were underappreciated, this phenomenon still existed even ten years later, which suggests that the earthquake permanently changed their death cognition, and this change stabilized one year later. In addition, this paper provides an effective method to uncover cognitive structure of one certain concept.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Qi
- School of Psychology, Qufu Normal University, P.R. China
| | - Fprt
- School of Psychology, Qufu Normal University, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|