ULHT/HEI-Lab - Artigos de Revistas Internacionais com Arbitragem Científica

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Difficulties in emotion regulation, repetitive negative thinking, and sexual and psychological distress : a two-wave longitudinal mediation study using a transdiagnostic approach
(Oxford University Press, 2025-08) Raposo, Catarina F.; Nobre, Pedro; Rosa, Pedro Joel; Pascoal, Patrícia; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
Background: Sexual distress is a critical element in diagnosing sexual dysfunction. Recent research using a cross-sectional design has supported the adequacy of a transdiagnostic approach for its understanding. Aim: This exploratory study aimed to investigate the mediating role of repetitive negative thinking between difficulties in emotional regulation and sexual and psychological distress in a community sample. Methods: We used a quantitative longitudinal design with measures including a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale–Short Form, the Persistent and Intrusive Negative Thoughts Scale, the Sexual Distress Scale–Revised, and the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. Outcomes: Data were collected from 64 partnered individuals (85.9% women; age: M = 31.20, SD = 6.46). Results: Correlational analysis across time revealed significant associations among difficulties in emotion regulation (T1 r = 0.37, T2 r = 0.32), repetitive negative thinking (T1 r = 0.30, T2 r = 0.27), psychological distress (T1 r = 0.37, T2 r = 0.55), and sexual distress (all at P < .01) . The total effect of difficulties in emotion regulation on sexual distress was found to be positive (β = 0.20, P = .008) after controlling for frequency of sexual activity (r = −0.25, P < .05). Longitudinal mediation analysis indicated a significant negative indirect effect from difficulties in emotion regulation on sexual distress via repetitive negative thinking (β = -0.04, 95% CI [-0.008, -0.001]), suggesting a buffering effect over time on sexual distress. Clinical Implications: These results highlight the significance of recognizing difficulties in emotion regulation and repetitive negative thinking as coping strategies when examining sexual distress, emphasizing the need to explore the putative efficacy of therapeutic interventions focused on addressing these cognitive processes to decrease adverse sexual-related outcomes. Strengths and Limitations: These findings highlight the importance of acknowledging difficulties in emotion regulation and repetitive negative thinking as coping strategies in the study of sexual distress. However, the small sample size and the predominance of women participants limit generalizability. Further research with clinical samples and more diverse populations is needed to better understand the relevance of these aspects in assessment and therapy. Conclusions: The findings imply that repetitive negative thinking may have potentially adaptive effects, indicating a nuanced role in coping strategies within the context of the study.
Predictors of higher education dropout intention in the post-pandemic era : The mediating role of academic exhaustion
(Public Library of Science, 2025-07) Gonzalez, Bárbara; Mendes, Teresa P.; Pinto, Ricardo; Correia, Sónia V.; Albuquerque, Sara; Paulino, Paula; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab; CIDEFES - Research group in Sports behavior, Physical Education, and Exercise and Health Sciences
Introduction The phenomenon of dropout in higher education needs the acknowledging of its multi-domain complexity. In the post-pandemic era, exhaustion may be a relevant feature affecting students. This cross-sectional study aimed primarily to test a predictive model of five domains of variables (background, academic, social, psychological, and economic) on dropout intention, in a relation mediated by academic exhaustion. Secondarily, it aimed to assess the structural invariance of this model across working status (working vs. non-working students) and residence status (living away from family’s residence vs. living in family residence). If these groups are differently affected by dropout determinants, specific dropout prevention measures should be implemented. Method A stratified sample of 1402 Portuguese university students aged between 19 and 45 years (M=22.87, SD=3.64), selected through a convenience quota method, was assessed for background, academic, social, psychological, and economic variables using self-report instruments. Structural equation modelling was used. Results The predictive model explained 51% of the variance in dropout intention. Academic exhaustion was the stronger predictor (β=0.523, p<.001), followed by social connecteness to the campus (β=−31, p<.001), vocational difficulties (β=0.274, p<.001), and course value (β=−0.256, p<.001). Except for the course value, and family educational level, all significant predictors had their effect on dropout intention through academic exhaustion. The model was invariant across working and residence status. Discussion This study shows the relevance of students’ academic exhaustion experiences as a pathway through which different types of factors exert their influence on students´ dropout intentions. The invariance of the predictive model of dropout intention across different groups points the robustness of the model and the relevance of the integrated variables. The results emphasize the importance of student´s individual factors (e.g., academic exhaustion, lack of fit with the course) in dropout decisions, also stressing the role of academic institutions and of the education system in addressing this phenomenon, concerning academic workload, vocational orientation, social environment, and financing.
Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in children in the Azores Islands (Portugal) : sociodemographic and clinical profile
(Springer, 2025-06-17) Dias, Ana Rita Conde; Mota, Pilar; Botelho , Tânia; Caldeira, Suzana Nunes; Rego, Isabel Estrela; Silva, Osvaldo; Toledo de Sousa , Áurea; Freitas , Carina; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
Prevalence studies are essential to provide objective indicators about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and are a source of information for public policies. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of ASD among children in the Azores Islands (Portugal). Administrative data on the number of children with a proven diagnosis of ASD were collected from all schools. Parents completed a questionnaire about the child’s sociodemographic characteristics, the diagnostic process, and clinical history. The overall prevalence of ASD in the Azores region was 9.92 per 1000 children, approximately equivalent to 1% (0.99). The prevalence of ASD in the Azores seems to be higher when compared with the global rate in Portugal, as well as with other regions of Europe. There appears to be a concentration of children with ASD in the region, and the results appear to support the hypothesis of a heritable predisposition to ASD.
A strengths-based approach to resilience in child sexual abuse : a meta-analysis
(Springer Nature, 2026-03-14) Antunes, Carla; Camilo, Cláudia; Ferreira, Célia; Cunha, Cristiana; Magalhães, Eunice; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
This meta-analysis aims to uncover which protective factors reveal the greatest effect sizes on resilience among CSA survivors (i.e., symptoms, well-being, and competence) based on the Resilience Portfolio Model. This perspective shifts the focus from deficit-based models to a strengths-based approach that focuses on CSA survivors' resources and assets. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a total of 50 reports were included in the meta-analysis, involving 12,345 participants (children and adults) from different contexts (community, clinical, and forensic) and 335 effect sizes. Our findings revealed that while meaning-making strengths (e.g., spirituality) were associated with both well-being and symptoms, regulatory strengths (e.g., emotional regulation, self-control) and supportive relationships (e.g., caregiver emotional support) were associated with symptoms but not with well-being, and environmental strengths (e.g., extracurricular activities) were associated with well-being but not with symptoms. Coping was not significantly associated with symptoms or well-being. Clinical interventions based on narrative, mindfulness, and trauma-focused therapy could be particularly useful for fostering psychological health in CSA victims.
History of mental health problems moderates the association between partner support during childbirth and women's mental health in the postpartum period
(Churchill Livingstone, 2025-05) Tavares, Daniela; Fidalgo, Daniela; Sousa, Matilde; Morais, Ana; Jongenelen, Inês Martins; Lamela, Diogo; Alves, Stephanie; Costa, Raquel; Pinto, Tiago Miguel; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab; FPE - Faculty of Psychology and Education
Background: Partner support during childbirth is an important protective factor for women's perinatal mental health. However, its protective role in women experiencing vulnerabilities is largely unknown, namely in those with history of mental health problems. Aim: This study analysed (1) the association between partner support during childbirth and depressive, anxiety, and childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in the postpartum period; and (2) the moderating role of previous diagnosis of mental health problems in those associations. Design: Cross-sectional study with 284 women. Methods: At 2 months postpartum, participants reported on sociodemographic, obstetric, and mental health-related data, partner support during childbirth, and depressive (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), anxiety (State Anxiety Inventory), and childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder (City Birth Trauma Scale) symptoms. Findings: More partner support during childbirth was associated with lower depressive, anxiety, and childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Previous diagnosis of mental health problems was associated with higher depressive, anxiety, and childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and moderated the association between partner support during childbirth and depressive and anxiety symptoms. Higher partner support during childbirth was associated with lower depressive and anxiety symptoms, only in women without a previous diagnosis of mental health problems. Discussion: Findings suggest that partner support during childbirth can be a protective factor for women's postpartum mental health, particularly for women without a previous diagnosis of mental health problems. However, for those with a previous diagnosis of mental health problems, this support was not associated with symptoms. Conclusion: Women with a history of mental health problems may require additional support beyond that provided by their partners to prevent or mitigate postpartum mental health problems.
Intimate partner violence : perceptions and attributions of male perpetrators
(Routledge, 2024) Cunha, Olga; Pereira, Bárbara; Cruz, Ana Rita; Gonçalves, Rui; de Castro Rodrigues, Andreia; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
There are many reasons to perpetrate intimate partner violence (IPV). This study analyzes the attributions and perceptions of Portuguese men who perpetrate IPV to understand their justifications for violence against their female partners. In-depth interviews were conducted with seven male perpetrators. Through thematic analysis, three main categories emerged: self, partner, and situational factors. Perpetrators identified self attributes as justifications to abuse, such as individual characteristics, emotional disturbances, and jealousy; partner attributes, such as partners’ characteristics and the use of violence against them; and situational factors, such as alcohol abuse and relational stressors. Perpetrators’ narratives evidenced a tendency to conceive violence as an unintentional and unplanned action, attributing violence to uncontrollable factors, and an attitude of non-accountability for their behaviors/actions. A deeper understanding of perpetrators’ perceptions and attributions for IPV will help to develop more effective intervention programs with offenders or to improve the existent ones, for example, in terms of dropout prevention, to reduce violence against women.
Sexual distress with partnered face-to-face sexual activity : an exploratory qualitative study with heterosexual cis people who seek and 2 do not seek professional help
(Frontiers Media SA, 2025) Pascoal, Patrícia M.; Andersson, Gerhard; Fischer, Vinicius J.; Manão, Andreia A.; Oliveira, Cátia; Raposo, Catarina F.; Rosa, Pedro J.; Roberto, Magda Sofia; Santos, Graça; Tomada, Nuno; Giraldi, Annamaria; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab; EPCV - School of Psychology and Life Sciences; FPE - Faculty of Psychology and Education
Introduction: Sexual distress is interrelated with mental health and relationship quality and is fundamental for establishing a diagnosis of sexual dysfunction, even though it also affects people who do not seek professional clinical help. Research on sexual distress related to partnered sexual activity is limited, and no comprehensive model exists to guide research or clinical interventions. We conducted an online cross-sectional qualitative study to: 1) explore the reasons why people experiencing sexual distress in partnered face-to-face sexual activity do not seek professional clinical help; 2) analyze the experiences of participants’ of sexual distress in partnered sexual activity; 3) reflexively compare the experiences reported by participants who seek and do not seek professional help; and 4) reflexively compare experiences across genders. Methods: We performed reflexive thematic analysis on 438 heterosexual people answers (Mage = 41.06, SD = 12.19), including 306 women (69.7%) and 132 men (30.1%). Results: Most participants (54.1%) had not sought professional clinical help but wanted to do so. Some participants (13.2%) expressed a desire for clinical consultations but reported financial or time constraints. Using the reflexive thematic analysis on the qualitative data provided, we created three themes: (1) Sexual (dys)function (It’s the function), which focuses on sexual function and lack of pleasure; (2) Intimacy dynamics (It’s us!), which discusses relationship challenges; (3) Intrapersonal struggles (It’s me!), which highlight individual factors, some influenced by social messages. Comparison across groups revealed that people who sought professional clinical help emphasise genital function and negative emotions, and women highlighted experiencing sexual pain, while men emphasised desire discrepancies and erectile disorder. Discussion: Our results demonstrate that difficulties related to sexual pleasure and with penetrative sex are important sources of distress in partnered sexual activity, which is in line with DSM and ICD frameworks of sexual dysfunction. Participants’ accounts show that pre-existing psychological characteristics, partnered communication, cognitive, and emotional factors are key factors to shape the experience of sexual distress related to sexual dysfunctions. This has implications for clinical work as interventions should target transdiagnostic individual factors that may not be sexual specific (e.g., repetitive negative thinking) as well as couple-level factors (e.g., communication). Internet-based integrative therapies directed at these factors may be a promising venue for those who experience sexual distress with partnered sexual activity and are reluctant to seek in-person sexual healthcare.
Consumer demand for bioplastics : an umbrella review of barriers and recommendations
(Routledge, 2025-09-12) Domingos, Samuel; Farias, Ana Rita; Possidónio, Catarina; Luís, Sílvia; Loureiro, Ana; Cruz, Bernardo; Portugal, Eliana; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
Bioplastics are emerging as an alternative to conventional plastics. These hold the promise of a more sustainable alternative that promotes the circular economy, while reducing dependency on fossil resources and negative environmental impacts of conventional plastics. Nevertheless, the success of bioplastics in replacing conventional plastics largely depends on consumers acceptance and demand. Here we conducted an umbrella review with the goal of aggregating and summarizing the findings regarding: (1) barriers to consumer acceptance and demand for bioplastics, and (2) recommendations to promote consumer acceptance and demand for bioplastics. This was accomplished thorough aggregating findings from recently published reviews in the field. Identified barriers include: (a) limited public awareness; (b) low knowledge; (c) biased perceptions and beliefs; (d) strong preferences; (e) misaligned expectations; (f) conflicting identity values; (g) social amplification of misleading information; and (h) complex regulatory landscapes. Recommendations suggest: (a) promoting interaction with bioplastics; (b) understanding what consumers know and what they still need to know; (c) addressing consumers’ misconceptions; (d) building positive attitudes; (e) managing expectations; (f) targeting favourable social groups; (g) making accurate and truthful claims; and (h) developing clear standards and labels. Researchers, professionals, and policy makers can find a synthesis of the main barriers to consumer acceptance and demand for bioplastics and comprehensive summary of evidence-based recommendations.
Exploring a novel approach to cybersecurity : the role of ecological simulations on cybersecurity risk behaviors
(Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH, 2025-09) Abril, Tiago; Gamito, Pedro; da Motta, Carolina; Oliveira, Jorge; Dias, Fábio; Pinto, Filipe; Oliveira, Miguel; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
In response to the growing cybersecurity problem, this study presents an innovative approach using virtual reality to train individuals in reducing the risk of cyberattacks. The research involved 70 adult participants with or enrolled in higher education studies, who participated in a virtual reality task that simulates a typical workday in a corporate setting. The participants were divided into three groups: a control group of 24 engaged in tasks without cybersecurity threats, and two experimental groups of 23 each, with cybersecurity threats present, but one with feedback on performance and the other without feedback. The results revealed (1) that virtual reality shows promise as an effective tool to create immersive and ecological simulator experiences for cybersecurity training against cyberattacks, (2) the incorporation of feedback in real-world scenario simulators is crucial for participants to fully comprehend the complexities of cyber threats, and (3) risky behaviour within our virtual reality ecological setting, as well as age, can predict attitudes towards cybersecurity and cybercrime within organization. In conclusion, by taking advantage of this cutting-edge virtual reality approach, individuals, businesses, and governments can foster more secure cybersecurity practices, contributing to a safer digital landscape for everyone.
Informing future seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccination campaigns based on past experience : a mixed-method approach with eligible populations and healthcare professionals
(Frontiers Media SA, 2025-08-22) Oliveira, Jorge; Gonzalez, Bárbara; Mendes, Teresa; Paulino, Paula; António, Bruna; Gaspar, Rui; Costa, Diana; Pinto, Leonor Q; Costa, Andreia; De Arriaga, Miguel Telo; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
BACKGROUND: Seasonal vaccination campaigns against influenza and COVID-19 are critical for protecting vulnerable populations. Scientific evidence on past campaigns is essential for the effectiveness of future campaigns. This study aims to: (1) assess predictors of influenza and COVID-19 vaccination intentions (2) explore perceived barriers and facilitators of 2023-2024 seasonal vaccination campaign.METHODS: A cross-sectional study employing both quantitative and qualitative methods was conducted. The quantitative study involved a sample of 231 respondents from Portugal, including healthcare professionals and vaccination eligible population: individuals over 60 years of age, and individuals with chronic diseases. Quantitative data were collected via an online survey to assess vaccination literacy, attitudes, and future vaccination intention. The qualitative study consisted of four focus groups with a total of 17.PARTICIPANTS: Vaccinated/unvaccinated individuals and healthcare professionals. Thematic analysis was used to explore perceptions of eligible populations about this vaccination campaign.RESULTS: Quantitative analysis revealed that attitudes toward vaccination and factors related to personal/family health predicted future vaccination intentions for influenza and COVID-19. Thematic analysis identified key facilitators, such as positive perceptions of pharmacies as vaccination sites and an early start of the campaign specifically for vaccinated groups. Barriers were related to campaign communication, fear of side effects, vaccination fatigue, and the co-occurrence of high temperatures during the campaign start. Unvaccinated individuals expressed lower perceived susceptibility and severity.CONCLUSION: The study highlights the importance of clear communication, addressing vaccination fatigue, and considering environmental factors. Improving proximity between health professionals as trusted information sources and the population, alongside customized communication, may also enhance vaccination uptake among the eligible population. The potential influence of weather conditions on the acceptance of vaccination campaigns is a topic that deserves further consideration in the future, within the scope of climate changes.
Understanding experiences of discrimination among individuals with mental health challenges : an online qualitative inquiry
(Chevron Publishing Corporation, 2024) Beato, Ana; Carvalho, Ana; SANTOS, ISABEL OLIMPIA FIGUEIREDO DOS; Costa, Leonor Pereira da; Albuquerque, Sara; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
Does caffeine matter for arousal? Affective and autonomic responses induced by caffeine in coffee intake: evidence from a double-blind tasting task
(Edições Universitárias Lusófonas, 2021-03-26) Rodrigues, Fernando; Diogo, Julien; Rodrigues, Carla; Figueira, Cláudia; Rosa, Pedro Joel; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
Coffee is consumed worldwide, but there are different types of espresso blends, each with its unique concentration of caffeine, which can have different effects on the human being. The aim of this study was to understand the effect of the impact of caffeine on the autonomic nervous system, evaluating the physiological changes and subjective responses due to different levels of caffeine intake. A double-blind tasting task consisting of one within-subject factor design (caffeine level: high / double caffeine mixture (blend A) vs single-charge caffeine mixture (blend B) vs low-caffeine mixture (blend c) allowed us to assess participants’ autonomic responses using Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Pupillary Reactivity (PR). Arousal was also assessed through the Self-Assessment Manikin (SAM). Results revealed statistically significant differences in HRV and PR between coffee blends, showing the blend A,a more pronounced autonomic response that blend C. However, no significant differences were found in arousal level among coffee blends. These results are similar to previous research that pointed out to a discordance between subjective and objective measures when caffeine is consumed.
Male victims of female-perpetrated partner violence : a qualitative analysis of men’s experiences, the impact of violence, and perceptions of their worth
(American Psychological Association, 2020-09-17) Machado, Andreia; Hines, Denise; Douglas, Emily; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
There has been a recent increase in the amount of research on male victims of female-perpetrated partner violence (PV), but research needs to be conducted to understand how the patterns of abuse persist in these relationships. In the current study, the experiences of 59 male PV victims in the United States, recruited through online advertisements in professional networks and websites (e.g., agencies that specialize in male victims of PV), were explored through a thematic analysis. Analyses suggested that the help-seeking process of male PV victims is complex and heterogeneous and can often lead to further negative consequences due to various structural, cultural, social, and organizational factors. The findings also highlight the potential societal issues that male victims perceived as contributing to male victimization and lack of available resources for them. The results are discussed in terms of its implications for agencies, service providers, and general societal attitudes that are relevant to raising awareness about this phenomenon.
Assessing the unidimensionality of Clayton's Environmental Identity Scale using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Bifactor Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling (bifactor-ESEM)
(University of California Press, 2021-10-14) Moreira, Paulo; Loureiro, Ana; Inman, Richard; Olivos-Jara, Pablo; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
A relevant intrapersonal characteristic for understanding intentions and behavior toward environmental sustainability is the degree to which nature is important for a person's self-definition. Clayton's Environmental Identity (EID) scale purports to measure this construct. However, a limited number of prior exploratory studies of this measure have supported different factor structures. Hence, our initial aim was to develop an understanding of the dimensionality of Clayton's 24-item EID scale by testing competing latent structures using confirmatory factor analysis. We analyzed self-reported data from 458 adults (Mage = 26.7 years; 81% female). Four a priori models (a first-order model, a second-order model, a unidimensional model, and a bifactor model) did not show satisfactory fit to the data. An ancillary analysis using bifactor exploratory structural equation modeling (bifactor-ESEM) indicated a bifactor model with three specific factors had a good fit to the data. The factor loadings of this model and values for bifactor indices (Omega Hierarchical and Explained Common Variance [ECV]) indicated a single mean score across all EID scale items taps into an essentially unidimensional construct and is therefore appropriate to interpret. In sum, our study provides a critical insight into the dimensionality of Clayton's EID scale that will be valuable when applying this measure for research and intervention purposes.
Fibromyalgia : heterogeneity in personality and psychopathology and its implications
(Routledge, 2020-07-02) Gonzalez, Bárbara; Novo, Rosa; Ferreira, Ana Sousa; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
The fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) is a chronic widespread pain con dition whose etiology remains unknown and no treatment hassatisfactory levels of success. A meta-analysis has identified a distinct Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) clinical profile between FM female patients and healthy controls, and differences between FM and other chronic pain condition with clear etiology have also been found. However, heterogeneity in this population has been suggested in several studies. We aim to assess clinical aspects in FM patients, based on personality psychopathol ogy characteristics, in order to explore heterogeneity and the exis tence of core common aspects. In this cross-sectional study, a relatively homogeneous sample of 56 female FM patients (Mage = 45.95, SDage = 9.39) was assessed through MMPI-2. A K-Means cluster analysis identified two clusters, one (n = 24) with clinically significant levels in Negative Emotionality and Introversion scales. Subsequent MANOVAs identified important features of this cluster on several MMPI-2 dimensions. Moreover, several dimensions are clinically elevated in both clusters. In conclusion, the combination of psychopathological negative emotionality, interpersonal isola tion, and low hedonic capacity, in a group of patients, has implica tions for the daily living and treatment of FM patients, and several core aspects of FM need to be addressed.
Fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis : personality and psychopathology differences from the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2
(Elsevier B.V., 2019-05-01) Gonzalez, Bárbara Isabel Dinis; Novo, Rosa Ferreira; Peres, Rodrigo; Baptista, Telmo Ventura Mourinho; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
The fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) is a chronic widespread pain condition whose etiology remains unknown. Within a psychosocial approach to FM, personality may play a role as predisposing and/or maintaining factor. A meta-analytic study has identified a distinct Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) clinical profile between FM female patients and healthy controls, but the differences between FM and other chronic pain conditions with clear etiology are not established. This cross-sectional study compares the clinical MMPI-2 profile in FM and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, identifies typical groups of each pathology, and further characterizes these groups in the broad MMPI-2 personality and psychopathology dimensions. The MMPI-2 scales were assessed in a sample of 70 women (FM: n = 38, Mage = 46.03, SDage = 8.48; RA: n = 32, Mage = 45.31, SDage = 8.68). The FM group had clinically significant elevations on five clinical scales (Hypochondriasis, Depression, Hysteria, Psychasthenia and Schizophrenia), while RA group had none. A K-Means cluster analysis allowed the identification of a typical profile of each pathology, and subsequent MANCOVAs identified important features of FM patients on several MMPI-2 dimensions. We conclude there is specificity in the personality and psychopathology characteristics of FM patients
Diagnostic precision of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test in assessing cognitive deficits in substance use disorders
(2021-04-01) Faustino, B.; Oliveira, J.; Lopes, P.; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab; EPCV - School of Psychology and Life Sciences
The Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) is a widely used neuropsychological instrument to assess executive functions related to cognitive flexibility and abstract reasoning. However, there is a lack of studies investigating the diagnostic precision of this instrument in substance use disorders. In this study, we aimed at assessing the sensitivity and specificity of the WCST in discriminating the performance of participants with substance use disorder with cognitive deficits and participants from the general population without cognitive deficits. The sample comprised three groups of participants with substance use disorders (opioid use disorder in harm reduction with methadone maintenance; opioid use disorder in treatment in a therapeutic community; alcohol use disorder in a therapeutic community) and a normative group of healthy adults. The total sample consisted of 587 participants that were assessed with cognitive tests for executive functions, general cognitive functioning, and self-reported depression. The results showed differences between groups in most WCST variables, providing evidence of discriminant validity for this test. Convergent validity was also established by weak to moderate correlations with general cognitive functioning. Cutoff points based on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated for the WCST variables. Overall, the WCST was sensitive to changes in cognitive flexibility and abstract reasoning that are key features of substance use disorders.
Individual differences in working memory abilities in healthy adults
(Springer New York, 2018-02-13) Morais, R. M.; Pera, M. V.; Ladera, V.; Oliveira, J.; García, R.; COPELABS - Cognitive and People-centric Computing
The goal of this study was to understand the role of individual characteristics such as age, gender and education of healthy adults on working memory abilities, as conceptualized in the central executive, phonological loop, and visuospatial sketchpad. The sample comprised 302 adults aged from 18 to 65 with different educational backgrounds. Participants were submitted to a protocol of established neuropsychological tests that were selected to assess the central executive, phonological loop, and visuospatial sketchpad. The results revealed that these factors influenced working memory abilities differentially. Education level influenced all the three components in the same direction. Individuals with higher academic qualifications have better performance in tests assessing the central executive, phonological loop, and visuospatial sketchpad, whereas age affected performance in the task evaluating the central executive. Age and gender also influenced the performance in tasks related to visuospatial sketchpad in the sense that younger individuals or men reveal better visual and spatial abilities as conceptualized in the visuospatial sketchpad.
Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire : Factor Structure and Measurement Invariance among Portuguese male perpetrators of intimate partner violence
(SAGE Publications Inc., 2021) Cunha, Olga Cecília Soares da; Peixoto, Maria Manuela; Cruz, Ana Rita Pereira da; Gonçalves, Rui Abrunhosa; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
This study was conducted at Psychology Research Centre (UID/PSI/01662/2013), University of Minho, and supported by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology and the Portuguese Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education through national funds and co-financed by FEDER through COMPETE2020 under the PT2020 Partnership Agreement (POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007653). The study was also supported by Grant SFRH/ BD/66110/2009 from the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology awarded to the first author.
Cultural differences in vocal emotion recognition : a behavioural and skin conductance study in Portugal and Guinea-Bissau
(Springer Verlag, 2021) Cosme, Gonçalo; Tavares, Vânia; Nobre, Guilherme; Lima, César; Sá, Rui; Rosa, Pedro; Prata, Diana; HEI-LAB - Human Environment Interaction Lab
Cross-cultural studies of emotion recognition in nonverbal vocalizations not only support the universality hypothesis for its innate features, but also an in-group advantage for culture-dependent features. Nevertheless, in such studies, differences in socio-economic-educational status have not always been accounted for, with idiomatic translation of emotional concepts being a limitation, and the underlying psychophysiological mechanisms still un-researched. We set out to investigate whether native residents from Guinea-Bissau (West African culture) and Portugal (Western European culture)—matched for socio-economic-educational status, sex and language—varied in behavioural and autonomic system response during emotion recognition of nonverbal vocalizations from Portuguese individuals. Overall, Guinea–Bissauans (as out-group) responded significantly less accurately (corrected p < .05), slower, and showed a trend for higher concomitant skin conductance, compared to Portuguese (as in-group)—findings which may indicate a higher cognitive effort stemming from higher difficulty in discerning emotions from another culture. Specifically, accuracy differences were particularly found for pleasure, amusement, and anger, rather than for sadness, relief or fear. Nevertheless, both cultures recognized all emotions above-chance level. The perceived authenticity, measured for the first time in nonverbal cross-cultural research, in the same vocalizations, retrieved no difference between cultures in accuracy, but still a slower response from the out-group. Lastly, we provide—to our knowledge—a first account of how skin conductance response varies between nonverbally vocalized emotions, with significant differences (p < .05). In sum, we provide behavioural and psychophysiological data, demographically and language-matched, that supports cultural and emotion effects on vocal emotion recognition and perceived authenticity, as well as the universality hypothesis.

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