Using Delphi methodology, the current study utilized a panel of "expert" parents (N = 23 after th... more Using Delphi methodology, the current study utilized a panel of "expert" parents (N = 23 after three rounds) to examine nine content-based and logistical factors perceived to be important when developing pre-and perinatal (PPN) parenting programs for the modern day. The aim was to attain consensus on 235 items generated from literature and panelists. Consensus was reached on 126 items (53.62%). The most notable related to needs-based content, barriers to fathers' attendance, and groups of parents who may benefit most from programs. Consistent with the literature, clarity was not achieved for appropriate timing and length of programs. With the diversity of recommendations, next steps involve developing a range of programs that use randomized clinical trials with control groups, effective sample sizes, and are pre-and posttested.
O bjectives: Despite extensive research examining loneliness as a risk factor for depression, the... more O bjectives: Despite extensive research examining loneliness as a risk factor for depression, the protective effects of strengths-based variables on the relationship between loneliness and depression have been vastly understudied. The current study aimed to address this gap, by examining the utility of resilience and social connectedness as protective factors to prevent the onset of depression. Methods: Buffering models of resilience and social connectedness were examined in an adult sample (N = 227) using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale; UCLA Loneliness Scale; Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21-Item Version, and Social Connectedness Scale. Results: Moderation analyses found that social connectedness did not moderate the relationship between loneliness and depression. However, the relationship between loneliness and depression was moderated by resilience. Discussion: Results indicate that resilience may exert a protective effect on the relationship between loneliness and depression, supporting a buffering model of resilience, whereby resilience may mitigate the risk of loneliness-induced depression.
The capacity for human service professionals to replenish resilience is important to their health... more The capacity for human service professionals to replenish resilience is important to their health and psychological wellbeing. The current study evaluated a brief Mindful Awareness and Resilience Skills Training (MARST) program designed to enhance mindfulness and positive re-appraisal as psychological mechanisms for increasing resilience, decreasing psychological distress and perceived stress. This program was informed by the Mindful-Cognitive Model of Cultivating Resilience. A sample of 46 human service professionals were randomly allocated to a MARST group or control group. Short term and follow-up training effects were examined using MANOVA. At post-training, the MARST group reported significantly higher levels of resilience, mindfulness and positive re-appraisal compared to the control group. At one-month follow-up, the MARST group reported significantly higher levels of resilience, mindfulness, and positive re-appraisal, and significantly lower levels of perceived stress and psychological distress relative to the control group. The findings provide preliminary support for the efficacy of the MARST program to increase resilience and decrease levels of psychological distress and perceived stress among human services professionals.
Journal of harmonized research in medical and health science, 2017
Furthermore, prevalence rates of psychological distress among university students are significant... more Furthermore, prevalence rates of psychological distress among university students are significantly higher than that of the general community. 3,4 However, the prevalence rate of psychological distress reported by university students across year levels of study are not well Abstract: Psychological distress increases university student s’ risk of developing mental health disorders, such as depression. The current study ai ms to examine the role of resilience, social connectedness and social support in predicting psyc hological distress among Australian university students. In addition, the current study will also examine the prevalence rates of psychological distr es reported by Australian university students across y ear levels and compare the prevalence to an Australian community population. Online survey dat a was collected from 94 Australian university students and 143 Australian community participants. Data was analysed using Independent-Samples tTests, an analysis of variance, a hierarchical mult iple regression and a mediation analysis. Results showed no significant differences in prevalence rat s of psychological distress between Australian university students and Australian community partic ipants. Prevalence rates of psychological distress were not different across year levels of study amon g Australian university participants. Analyses of predictors found social connectedness was the stron gest predictor of psychological distress even when social support was found to mediate the relationshi p. Limitations of the current study such as sample characteristics and generalisability concerns were identified. Implications of the current findings fo r the development of prevention and intervention prog rams and future research are discussed.
Journal of basic and applied research in biomedicine, Aug 5, 2017
Objective: University students experience higher levels of psychological distress compared to the... more Objective: University students experience higher levels of psychological distress compared to the general population. Clark and Watson (1991) introduced the Tripartite Model, proposing that psychological distress is operationalised by depression, anxiety and stress. Although self-compassion and emotional regulation have been shown to be associated with lower levels of psychological distress, the relationship between these variable has been vastly understudied. Method: The study employed a cross-sectional design using online questionnaires measuring emotional regulation, self-compassion and psychological distress (depression, anxiety and stress). Data were collected from 89 Australian university students. Results: As predicted, bivariate correlations found that self-compassion, emotional regulation, and psychological distress (depression, anxiety and stress), were all significantly correlated. Regression analyses highlighted that self-compassion significantly accounted for 44% of the variance of psychological distress; emotional regulation did not significantly account for variance of psychological distress. Following this, three single mediations based on significant correlations were conducted. Mediation analyses found that emotional regulation mediated the relationship between self-compassion and depression. However emotional regulation did not mediate the relationship between self-compassion and anxiety, or self-compassion and stress. Conclusions: The results highlight the mediating role of emotional regulation on self-compassion and depression. Future research is warranted to better understand the role of emotional regulation the depression–intrusion relationship, which may shed light on the clinical applicability of self-compassion targeted intervention for enhancing emotional regulation in university students experiencing depression. Received: 26-7-2017 Revised: 2-8-2017 Published: 5-8-2017
Ninety-eight parents experiencing significant difficulties in managing their own anger in their i... more Ninety-eight parents experiencing significant difficulties in managing their own anger in their interactions with their preschool-aged children were randomly assigned either to an enhanced group-administered behavioral family intervention program based on the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program that incorporated attributional retraining and anger management (EBFI) or a standard behavioral family intervention program (SBFI) that provided training in parenting skills alone. At post-intervention, both conditions were associated with lower levels of observed and parent-reported disruptive child behavior, lower levels of parent-reported dysfunctional parenting, greater parental self-efficacy, less parental distress, relationship conflict and similarly This study was supported by grants from the National Centre for the Prevention of Child Abuse (NCPCA) and Queensland Health. We gratefully acknowledge the assistance of the following persons in the delivery of therapeutic interventions and in the collection and coding of observational, interview, and parent-report data:
There is a long history of provision of pre-and perinatal (PPN) education to expecting mothers, a... more There is a long history of provision of pre-and perinatal (PPN) education to expecting mothers, and less so to fathers. Due to inconsistencies in both research methodologies and subsequent study findings, understanding what constitutes best practice in PPN education programs remains unclear. This research study was the second of four in a PhD program of research that examined content and logistical factors perceived to be important when designing, developing, and delivering PPN parenting programs for the 21 st century. In this study, 54 existing mothers and seven fathers (N=61) who had attended a PPN parenting program, completed an exploratory selfreport online questionnaire that examined program content strengths, gaps and limitations. An outcome based on the utilization of Braun and Clarke's (2006) five-step thematic analysis process, was a perceived need to understand what mindfulness-based knowledge, skills, and tools expecting parents could be taught to promote heathy pregnancies, births, couples' relationship and transitions to parenthood. Findings from the current study were consistent with the literature on PPN psychology, mindfulness and neuroscience, which has theorized that parents' thoughts, emotions, beliefs, moods, state of mind, as well as quality of partner relationship during the time of pregnancy influences prenates. By developing a range of PPN parenting programs that include mindfulness skills, and measuring effectiveness through pre-and post-test randomized clinical trials, utilizing large sample sizes and control groups, outcomes may result in positive parenting and bonding pre-and post-birth, as well as a positive transition for couples from being partners to parents.
OBM integrative and complimentary medicine, Aug 27, 2018
Elevated levels of psychological distress in university students is a growing area of concern as ... more Elevated levels of psychological distress in university students is a growing area of concern as it is associated with a variety of consequences including mental illness symptoms, absenteeism, and poor academic performance. A growing body of research has indicated that resilience in university students is associated with reduced psychological distress and perceived stress. The construct of resilience and the factors that contribute to its development are not well understood, hampering the development of effective interventions. Key factors including mindfulness (paying attention on purpose and nonjudgementally in the present moment), positive reappraisal (reframing perceived stress as meaningful), positive emotion, and reduced psychological distress are associated with fostering resilience in the face of perceived stress. These four factors are termed eudaimonic resilience. The present study examined whether perceived stress, mindfulness, positive reappraisal, positive emotion, and psychological distress accounted for variance in university student resilience (N = 164). A theoretical framework of eudaimonic resilience development was examined with mediation. Hierarchical regression indicated that mindfulness, positive
Mindfulness, conceptualized as a dispositional trait that differs across individuals, may potenti... more Mindfulness, conceptualized as a dispositional trait that differs across individuals, may potentially influence disordered eating behaviors. Previous research has independently identified insecure attachment style and neurotic personality traits as correlates of disordered eating behavior. Thus this current study will investigate whether neurotic personality traits, insecure attachment style and mindfulness predict disordered eating behavior controlling for gender differences. Participants (N = 126) completed the Adult Attachment Scale [1], the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire-Revised 18 [2], The Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised [3] and the International Personality Item Pool [4]. The results of this cross-sectional study indicated that neurotic personality traits, insecure attachment style and mindfulness were related to disordered eating behaviors. The variance in disordered eating behaviors that was accounted for by neurotic personality traits and insecure attachment style was significantly reduced with the introduction of mindfulness. The results provides preliminary support for the inclusion of mindfulness training in disordered eating behavior interventions for individuals exhibiting an insecure attachment style and neurotic personality traits. Limitations and implications for further research are discussed.
Body image dissatisfaction, which is increasing as an issue for women, can diminish quality of li... more Body image dissatisfaction, which is increasing as an issue for women, can diminish quality of life with negative psychological consequences. The relationship between internalizing the thin body ideal and the development of body image dissatisfaction has been studied in psychology. The thin body ideal is aspiring to a perfect female body that is very thin, presented as the ideal in the media. Research has focused on investigating strategies that women use to resist internalizing a thin-ideal body and prevent developing body dissatisfaction. The present study investigated the protective benefits of dispositional mindfulness against developing body image dissatisfaction in a sample of 186 women aged between 18 to 64 years (M = 29). The results suggest that compared to women with low levels of dispositional mindfulness, women with high levels of dispositional mindfulness report significantly less body image dissatisfaction and preoccupation with weight, lower levels of shame, psychological distress and higher levels of self-esteem.
This paper explores the feasibility of a brief Mindfulness with Metta Training Program (MMTP), ta... more This paper explores the feasibility of a brief Mindfulness with Metta Training Program (MMTP), targeting the enhancement of mindfulness and self-compassion in a retreat format, as a means of increasing resilience in human services professionals. In this randomised control trial, 44 human services professionals were randomly allocated either to a MMTP retreat group or to a control group. Following the MMTP intervention, no significant differences between the retreat and control groups were found on resilience, mindfulness and self-compassion variables. However, significant improvements were observed over time for the retreat group for mindfulness and self-compassion at one and four months and for resilience at four-months post MMTP intervention. The results of this pilot study show that MMTP in a retreat format is a promising method of increasing resilience, mindfulness and self-compassion in human services professionals.
Retention and attrition are issues of concern in universities worldwide. Researchers have noted t... more Retention and attrition are issues of concern in universities worldwide. Researchers have noted that students' satisfaction with academic experience and psychological adjustment on campus play an important role in student retention. The current study examined the mediating role that perceived social support and feeling of connectedness have on the relationship between psychological distress or satisfaction with academic experience among university students. A sample of 211 university students aged from 18-59 years (M = 22.11, SD = 5.5) enrolled at universities from Australia, the United States of America, and Hong Kong voluntarily participated in the study. The results indicated that perceived social support and the feeling of connectedness on campus mediated the relationship between psychological distress and satisfaction with academic experience. These results support the idea that universities should develop strategies to increase students social support and campus connectedneness in order to enhance psychological well-being and satisfaction with academic experience.
Reckless behaviours, such as reckless driving, sexual behaviours and drug use, are major lifestyl... more Reckless behaviours, such as reckless driving, sexual behaviours and drug use, are major lifestyle contributors to morbidity and mortality for young adults. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the relationship between reckless behaviours, gender, attachment security and psychological mindedness. Data was collected from university students (n = 101) aged between 18 to 30 years old (M = 21) and analysed using multivariate analysis of covariance. Gender was found to be a significant predictor of reckless behaviour (p = .004), with males reporting significantly higher levels. Participants reporting high levels of attachment security did not report significantly different reckless behaviours than participants with low levels of attachment security. However, participants reporting high levels of psychological mindedness, compared to those with low levels of psychological mindedness, tended to engage in significantly more reckless substance use (p < .024). To date, there has been relatively little or no research on the relationship between psychological mindedness and reckless behavior, and these results highlight the inconclusiveness of previous research regarding the relationship between PM and therapy outcome, warranting further research. The results raise questions regarding what behaviours constitute healthy psychological functioning and adjustment in young adulthood. Limitations of the study, including characteristics of the sample and generalisability of the findings, are identified. Implications of the results for developing psychological mindedness and future research are discussed.
International journal of psychology and behavioral sciences, 2016
Compared to the general population, university students experience higher rates of poor sleep qua... more Compared to the general population, university students experience higher rates of poor sleep quality and depression, anxiety, and stress. These issues impact upon students' psychological wellbeing, academic studies, and everyday functioning. Mindfulness has been shown to influence depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as sleep quality. The aim of the current study was to examine whether mindfulness and sleep quality predicted depression, anxiety and stress in a sample of 173 Australian university students. Participants were recruited through an online research participation pool and were aged between 18 to 57 years, including 132 females and 34 males. Participants completed an online survey comprising a series of questionnaires that measured self-reported depression, anxiety, stress, sleep quality, and mindfulness. Results showed that sleep quality and mindfulness significantly predicted depression, anxiety, and stress. However mindfulness alone did not predict sleep quality. The findings indicated that students with poorer sleep quality reported higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, and students with higher levels of mindfulness reported lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. The present study provides preliminary support for universities to develop and implement programs to cultivate mindfulness in university students, and health promotion and educational programs that emphasise the importance of both sleep quality and psychological wellbeing in university students.
This study examined the feasibility and efficacy of implementing intense brief willpower strength... more This study examined the feasibility and efficacy of implementing intense brief willpower strengthening exercises with university students. Thirty-nine university students were randomly allocated into one of three groups: willpower strengthening exercise intervention groups, 4-7-8 Hands or postural adjustments, or a control group. Participants assigned to the active intervention groups were required to practice the relevant willpower strengthening exercise every hour, for six hours per day, over three days. The high participation and compliance rates of participants in the two active intervention groups, along with positive feedback, supported the feasibility of the willpower strengthening exercises with university students. Additionally, the 4-7-8 Hands and posture groups reported directional improvements in willpower compared to the control group. Future research is recommended to evaluate the efficacy of willpower strengthening exercises over a longer time period to allow for more practice and effect time.
OBM integrative and complimentary medicine, May 15, 2018
Objective: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have shown promise in cultivating resilience an... more Objective: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have shown promise in cultivating resilience and are widely accepted as efficacious in the treatment of a range of psychological disorders. This paper explores the feasibility of a mindful-awareness and resilience skills training (MARST) program to enhance mindfulness and resilience, as a means of increasing psychological well-being and alleviating burnout and compassion fatigue in human service professionals. Method: In this randomised control trial, 46 human service professionals were randomly allocated to either a MARST group or to a no intervention, control group. Results: Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA), with pre-test scores as the covariates, revealed that the MARST intervention resulted in significant improvements in mindfulness, resilience, compassion satisfaction, and psychological well-being, and significant reductions in burnout and compassion fatigue; at post-intervention. These results were maintained at one
Exposure to media that portrays thin women as ideal and attractive can lead to women internalizin... more Exposure to media that portrays thin women as ideal and attractive can lead to women internalizing the thin ideal, which results in incorporating societal standards of thinness into belief systems. Internalization of the thin-ideal is associated with numerous detrimental effects on women, including decreased levels of self-esteem and increased levels of body-focused anxiety, negative emotions and disordered eating. The present study utilized a sample of women (N = 208) aged between 18 and 67 years (M = 29.44, SD = 13.08) to examine the relationship between internalization of the thinideal, body-focused anxiety, body mass index (BMI), and dieting frequency. Correlational, regression and mediation analyses conducted on the data showed that internalization of the thin-ideal, BMI and dieting frequency significantly contributed to body-focused anxiety in women. In addition, body-focused anxiety fully mediated the relationship between internalization of the thin-ideal and dieting frequency among women. BMI did not moderate the relationship between internalization of the thin-ideal and body-focused, indicating that women who internalize the thin-ideal are less vulnerable to dieting unless experiencing body-focused anxiety. The results of the current study enhance our understanding of the relationship between internalization of the thin-ideal, body-focused anxiety, BMI, and dieting frequency among women. Clinical implications will be discussed.
Extensive research shows university students experience high levels of stress, which can lead to ... more Extensive research shows university students experience high levels of stress, which can lead to the development of mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Preliminary evidence supports the role of psychosocial factors such as perceived social support (PSS) and campus connectedness (CC) as protective factors in the development of mental health problems in university students. However, research conducted on the potential ameliorating effects of social support on stress applying Cohen and Wills' (1985) stress-buffering hypothesis produced weak, inconsistent, and even contradictory results. In addition, little attention has been given to examining the protective role of CC in the relationships between perceived stress, anxiety, and depression. The current study examined the applicability of CC and PSS in buffering the relationships been perceived stress, anxiety, and depression across an international sample comprised of university students (N = 206) from Australia, Hong Kong, and the United States. The prediction that CC and PSS would moderate the relationships between perceived stress, anxiety, and depression was partially supported. The results indicated CC moderated the relationship between perceived stress and depression but did not moderate the relationship between perceived stress and anxiety. PSS did not moderate the relationship between perceived stress and depression or the relationship between perceived stress and anxiety, thus rejecting the stress-buffering hypothesis. These findings suggest less emphasis should be placed on PSS as a protective factor, with universities focusing on enhancing CC to reduce the high prevalence of mental health problems to promote psychological wellbeing among students.
Using Delphi methodology, the current study utilized a panel of "expert" parents (N = 23 after th... more Using Delphi methodology, the current study utilized a panel of "expert" parents (N = 23 after three rounds) to examine nine content-based and logistical factors perceived to be important when developing pre-and perinatal (PPN) parenting programs for the modern day. The aim was to attain consensus on 235 items generated from literature and panelists. Consensus was reached on 126 items (53.62%). The most notable related to needs-based content, barriers to fathers' attendance, and groups of parents who may benefit most from programs. Consistent with the literature, clarity was not achieved for appropriate timing and length of programs. With the diversity of recommendations, next steps involve developing a range of programs that use randomized clinical trials with control groups, effective sample sizes, and are pre-and posttested.
O bjectives: Despite extensive research examining loneliness as a risk factor for depression, the... more O bjectives: Despite extensive research examining loneliness as a risk factor for depression, the protective effects of strengths-based variables on the relationship between loneliness and depression have been vastly understudied. The current study aimed to address this gap, by examining the utility of resilience and social connectedness as protective factors to prevent the onset of depression. Methods: Buffering models of resilience and social connectedness were examined in an adult sample (N = 227) using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale; UCLA Loneliness Scale; Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21-Item Version, and Social Connectedness Scale. Results: Moderation analyses found that social connectedness did not moderate the relationship between loneliness and depression. However, the relationship between loneliness and depression was moderated by resilience. Discussion: Results indicate that resilience may exert a protective effect on the relationship between loneliness and depression, supporting a buffering model of resilience, whereby resilience may mitigate the risk of loneliness-induced depression.
The capacity for human service professionals to replenish resilience is important to their health... more The capacity for human service professionals to replenish resilience is important to their health and psychological wellbeing. The current study evaluated a brief Mindful Awareness and Resilience Skills Training (MARST) program designed to enhance mindfulness and positive re-appraisal as psychological mechanisms for increasing resilience, decreasing psychological distress and perceived stress. This program was informed by the Mindful-Cognitive Model of Cultivating Resilience. A sample of 46 human service professionals were randomly allocated to a MARST group or control group. Short term and follow-up training effects were examined using MANOVA. At post-training, the MARST group reported significantly higher levels of resilience, mindfulness and positive re-appraisal compared to the control group. At one-month follow-up, the MARST group reported significantly higher levels of resilience, mindfulness, and positive re-appraisal, and significantly lower levels of perceived stress and psychological distress relative to the control group. The findings provide preliminary support for the efficacy of the MARST program to increase resilience and decrease levels of psychological distress and perceived stress among human services professionals.
Journal of harmonized research in medical and health science, 2017
Furthermore, prevalence rates of psychological distress among university students are significant... more Furthermore, prevalence rates of psychological distress among university students are significantly higher than that of the general community. 3,4 However, the prevalence rate of psychological distress reported by university students across year levels of study are not well Abstract: Psychological distress increases university student s’ risk of developing mental health disorders, such as depression. The current study ai ms to examine the role of resilience, social connectedness and social support in predicting psyc hological distress among Australian university students. In addition, the current study will also examine the prevalence rates of psychological distr es reported by Australian university students across y ear levels and compare the prevalence to an Australian community population. Online survey dat a was collected from 94 Australian university students and 143 Australian community participants. Data was analysed using Independent-Samples tTests, an analysis of variance, a hierarchical mult iple regression and a mediation analysis. Results showed no significant differences in prevalence rat s of psychological distress between Australian university students and Australian community partic ipants. Prevalence rates of psychological distress were not different across year levels of study amon g Australian university participants. Analyses of predictors found social connectedness was the stron gest predictor of psychological distress even when social support was found to mediate the relationshi p. Limitations of the current study such as sample characteristics and generalisability concerns were identified. Implications of the current findings fo r the development of prevention and intervention prog rams and future research are discussed.
Journal of basic and applied research in biomedicine, Aug 5, 2017
Objective: University students experience higher levels of psychological distress compared to the... more Objective: University students experience higher levels of psychological distress compared to the general population. Clark and Watson (1991) introduced the Tripartite Model, proposing that psychological distress is operationalised by depression, anxiety and stress. Although self-compassion and emotional regulation have been shown to be associated with lower levels of psychological distress, the relationship between these variable has been vastly understudied. Method: The study employed a cross-sectional design using online questionnaires measuring emotional regulation, self-compassion and psychological distress (depression, anxiety and stress). Data were collected from 89 Australian university students. Results: As predicted, bivariate correlations found that self-compassion, emotional regulation, and psychological distress (depression, anxiety and stress), were all significantly correlated. Regression analyses highlighted that self-compassion significantly accounted for 44% of the variance of psychological distress; emotional regulation did not significantly account for variance of psychological distress. Following this, three single mediations based on significant correlations were conducted. Mediation analyses found that emotional regulation mediated the relationship between self-compassion and depression. However emotional regulation did not mediate the relationship between self-compassion and anxiety, or self-compassion and stress. Conclusions: The results highlight the mediating role of emotional regulation on self-compassion and depression. Future research is warranted to better understand the role of emotional regulation the depression–intrusion relationship, which may shed light on the clinical applicability of self-compassion targeted intervention for enhancing emotional regulation in university students experiencing depression. Received: 26-7-2017 Revised: 2-8-2017 Published: 5-8-2017
Ninety-eight parents experiencing significant difficulties in managing their own anger in their i... more Ninety-eight parents experiencing significant difficulties in managing their own anger in their interactions with their preschool-aged children were randomly assigned either to an enhanced group-administered behavioral family intervention program based on the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program that incorporated attributional retraining and anger management (EBFI) or a standard behavioral family intervention program (SBFI) that provided training in parenting skills alone. At post-intervention, both conditions were associated with lower levels of observed and parent-reported disruptive child behavior, lower levels of parent-reported dysfunctional parenting, greater parental self-efficacy, less parental distress, relationship conflict and similarly This study was supported by grants from the National Centre for the Prevention of Child Abuse (NCPCA) and Queensland Health. We gratefully acknowledge the assistance of the following persons in the delivery of therapeutic interventions and in the collection and coding of observational, interview, and parent-report data:
There is a long history of provision of pre-and perinatal (PPN) education to expecting mothers, a... more There is a long history of provision of pre-and perinatal (PPN) education to expecting mothers, and less so to fathers. Due to inconsistencies in both research methodologies and subsequent study findings, understanding what constitutes best practice in PPN education programs remains unclear. This research study was the second of four in a PhD program of research that examined content and logistical factors perceived to be important when designing, developing, and delivering PPN parenting programs for the 21 st century. In this study, 54 existing mothers and seven fathers (N=61) who had attended a PPN parenting program, completed an exploratory selfreport online questionnaire that examined program content strengths, gaps and limitations. An outcome based on the utilization of Braun and Clarke's (2006) five-step thematic analysis process, was a perceived need to understand what mindfulness-based knowledge, skills, and tools expecting parents could be taught to promote heathy pregnancies, births, couples' relationship and transitions to parenthood. Findings from the current study were consistent with the literature on PPN psychology, mindfulness and neuroscience, which has theorized that parents' thoughts, emotions, beliefs, moods, state of mind, as well as quality of partner relationship during the time of pregnancy influences prenates. By developing a range of PPN parenting programs that include mindfulness skills, and measuring effectiveness through pre-and post-test randomized clinical trials, utilizing large sample sizes and control groups, outcomes may result in positive parenting and bonding pre-and post-birth, as well as a positive transition for couples from being partners to parents.
OBM integrative and complimentary medicine, Aug 27, 2018
Elevated levels of psychological distress in university students is a growing area of concern as ... more Elevated levels of psychological distress in university students is a growing area of concern as it is associated with a variety of consequences including mental illness symptoms, absenteeism, and poor academic performance. A growing body of research has indicated that resilience in university students is associated with reduced psychological distress and perceived stress. The construct of resilience and the factors that contribute to its development are not well understood, hampering the development of effective interventions. Key factors including mindfulness (paying attention on purpose and nonjudgementally in the present moment), positive reappraisal (reframing perceived stress as meaningful), positive emotion, and reduced psychological distress are associated with fostering resilience in the face of perceived stress. These four factors are termed eudaimonic resilience. The present study examined whether perceived stress, mindfulness, positive reappraisal, positive emotion, and psychological distress accounted for variance in university student resilience (N = 164). A theoretical framework of eudaimonic resilience development was examined with mediation. Hierarchical regression indicated that mindfulness, positive
Mindfulness, conceptualized as a dispositional trait that differs across individuals, may potenti... more Mindfulness, conceptualized as a dispositional trait that differs across individuals, may potentially influence disordered eating behaviors. Previous research has independently identified insecure attachment style and neurotic personality traits as correlates of disordered eating behavior. Thus this current study will investigate whether neurotic personality traits, insecure attachment style and mindfulness predict disordered eating behavior controlling for gender differences. Participants (N = 126) completed the Adult Attachment Scale [1], the Three Factor Eating Questionnaire-Revised 18 [2], The Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised [3] and the International Personality Item Pool [4]. The results of this cross-sectional study indicated that neurotic personality traits, insecure attachment style and mindfulness were related to disordered eating behaviors. The variance in disordered eating behaviors that was accounted for by neurotic personality traits and insecure attachment style was significantly reduced with the introduction of mindfulness. The results provides preliminary support for the inclusion of mindfulness training in disordered eating behavior interventions for individuals exhibiting an insecure attachment style and neurotic personality traits. Limitations and implications for further research are discussed.
Body image dissatisfaction, which is increasing as an issue for women, can diminish quality of li... more Body image dissatisfaction, which is increasing as an issue for women, can diminish quality of life with negative psychological consequences. The relationship between internalizing the thin body ideal and the development of body image dissatisfaction has been studied in psychology. The thin body ideal is aspiring to a perfect female body that is very thin, presented as the ideal in the media. Research has focused on investigating strategies that women use to resist internalizing a thin-ideal body and prevent developing body dissatisfaction. The present study investigated the protective benefits of dispositional mindfulness against developing body image dissatisfaction in a sample of 186 women aged between 18 to 64 years (M = 29). The results suggest that compared to women with low levels of dispositional mindfulness, women with high levels of dispositional mindfulness report significantly less body image dissatisfaction and preoccupation with weight, lower levels of shame, psychological distress and higher levels of self-esteem.
This paper explores the feasibility of a brief Mindfulness with Metta Training Program (MMTP), ta... more This paper explores the feasibility of a brief Mindfulness with Metta Training Program (MMTP), targeting the enhancement of mindfulness and self-compassion in a retreat format, as a means of increasing resilience in human services professionals. In this randomised control trial, 44 human services professionals were randomly allocated either to a MMTP retreat group or to a control group. Following the MMTP intervention, no significant differences between the retreat and control groups were found on resilience, mindfulness and self-compassion variables. However, significant improvements were observed over time for the retreat group for mindfulness and self-compassion at one and four months and for resilience at four-months post MMTP intervention. The results of this pilot study show that MMTP in a retreat format is a promising method of increasing resilience, mindfulness and self-compassion in human services professionals.
Retention and attrition are issues of concern in universities worldwide. Researchers have noted t... more Retention and attrition are issues of concern in universities worldwide. Researchers have noted that students' satisfaction with academic experience and psychological adjustment on campus play an important role in student retention. The current study examined the mediating role that perceived social support and feeling of connectedness have on the relationship between psychological distress or satisfaction with academic experience among university students. A sample of 211 university students aged from 18-59 years (M = 22.11, SD = 5.5) enrolled at universities from Australia, the United States of America, and Hong Kong voluntarily participated in the study. The results indicated that perceived social support and the feeling of connectedness on campus mediated the relationship between psychological distress and satisfaction with academic experience. These results support the idea that universities should develop strategies to increase students social support and campus connectedneness in order to enhance psychological well-being and satisfaction with academic experience.
Reckless behaviours, such as reckless driving, sexual behaviours and drug use, are major lifestyl... more Reckless behaviours, such as reckless driving, sexual behaviours and drug use, are major lifestyle contributors to morbidity and mortality for young adults. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the relationship between reckless behaviours, gender, attachment security and psychological mindedness. Data was collected from university students (n = 101) aged between 18 to 30 years old (M = 21) and analysed using multivariate analysis of covariance. Gender was found to be a significant predictor of reckless behaviour (p = .004), with males reporting significantly higher levels. Participants reporting high levels of attachment security did not report significantly different reckless behaviours than participants with low levels of attachment security. However, participants reporting high levels of psychological mindedness, compared to those with low levels of psychological mindedness, tended to engage in significantly more reckless substance use (p < .024). To date, there has been relatively little or no research on the relationship between psychological mindedness and reckless behavior, and these results highlight the inconclusiveness of previous research regarding the relationship between PM and therapy outcome, warranting further research. The results raise questions regarding what behaviours constitute healthy psychological functioning and adjustment in young adulthood. Limitations of the study, including characteristics of the sample and generalisability of the findings, are identified. Implications of the results for developing psychological mindedness and future research are discussed.
International journal of psychology and behavioral sciences, 2016
Compared to the general population, university students experience higher rates of poor sleep qua... more Compared to the general population, university students experience higher rates of poor sleep quality and depression, anxiety, and stress. These issues impact upon students' psychological wellbeing, academic studies, and everyday functioning. Mindfulness has been shown to influence depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as sleep quality. The aim of the current study was to examine whether mindfulness and sleep quality predicted depression, anxiety and stress in a sample of 173 Australian university students. Participants were recruited through an online research participation pool and were aged between 18 to 57 years, including 132 females and 34 males. Participants completed an online survey comprising a series of questionnaires that measured self-reported depression, anxiety, stress, sleep quality, and mindfulness. Results showed that sleep quality and mindfulness significantly predicted depression, anxiety, and stress. However mindfulness alone did not predict sleep quality. The findings indicated that students with poorer sleep quality reported higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, and students with higher levels of mindfulness reported lower levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. The present study provides preliminary support for universities to develop and implement programs to cultivate mindfulness in university students, and health promotion and educational programs that emphasise the importance of both sleep quality and psychological wellbeing in university students.
This study examined the feasibility and efficacy of implementing intense brief willpower strength... more This study examined the feasibility and efficacy of implementing intense brief willpower strengthening exercises with university students. Thirty-nine university students were randomly allocated into one of three groups: willpower strengthening exercise intervention groups, 4-7-8 Hands or postural adjustments, or a control group. Participants assigned to the active intervention groups were required to practice the relevant willpower strengthening exercise every hour, for six hours per day, over three days. The high participation and compliance rates of participants in the two active intervention groups, along with positive feedback, supported the feasibility of the willpower strengthening exercises with university students. Additionally, the 4-7-8 Hands and posture groups reported directional improvements in willpower compared to the control group. Future research is recommended to evaluate the efficacy of willpower strengthening exercises over a longer time period to allow for more practice and effect time.
OBM integrative and complimentary medicine, May 15, 2018
Objective: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have shown promise in cultivating resilience an... more Objective: Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have shown promise in cultivating resilience and are widely accepted as efficacious in the treatment of a range of psychological disorders. This paper explores the feasibility of a mindful-awareness and resilience skills training (MARST) program to enhance mindfulness and resilience, as a means of increasing psychological well-being and alleviating burnout and compassion fatigue in human service professionals. Method: In this randomised control trial, 46 human service professionals were randomly allocated to either a MARST group or to a no intervention, control group. Results: Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA), with pre-test scores as the covariates, revealed that the MARST intervention resulted in significant improvements in mindfulness, resilience, compassion satisfaction, and psychological well-being, and significant reductions in burnout and compassion fatigue; at post-intervention. These results were maintained at one
Exposure to media that portrays thin women as ideal and attractive can lead to women internalizin... more Exposure to media that portrays thin women as ideal and attractive can lead to women internalizing the thin ideal, which results in incorporating societal standards of thinness into belief systems. Internalization of the thin-ideal is associated with numerous detrimental effects on women, including decreased levels of self-esteem and increased levels of body-focused anxiety, negative emotions and disordered eating. The present study utilized a sample of women (N = 208) aged between 18 and 67 years (M = 29.44, SD = 13.08) to examine the relationship between internalization of the thinideal, body-focused anxiety, body mass index (BMI), and dieting frequency. Correlational, regression and mediation analyses conducted on the data showed that internalization of the thin-ideal, BMI and dieting frequency significantly contributed to body-focused anxiety in women. In addition, body-focused anxiety fully mediated the relationship between internalization of the thin-ideal and dieting frequency among women. BMI did not moderate the relationship between internalization of the thin-ideal and body-focused, indicating that women who internalize the thin-ideal are less vulnerable to dieting unless experiencing body-focused anxiety. The results of the current study enhance our understanding of the relationship between internalization of the thin-ideal, body-focused anxiety, BMI, and dieting frequency among women. Clinical implications will be discussed.
Extensive research shows university students experience high levels of stress, which can lead to ... more Extensive research shows university students experience high levels of stress, which can lead to the development of mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Preliminary evidence supports the role of psychosocial factors such as perceived social support (PSS) and campus connectedness (CC) as protective factors in the development of mental health problems in university students. However, research conducted on the potential ameliorating effects of social support on stress applying Cohen and Wills' (1985) stress-buffering hypothesis produced weak, inconsistent, and even contradictory results. In addition, little attention has been given to examining the protective role of CC in the relationships between perceived stress, anxiety, and depression. The current study examined the applicability of CC and PSS in buffering the relationships been perceived stress, anxiety, and depression across an international sample comprised of university students (N = 206) from Australia, Hong Kong, and the United States. The prediction that CC and PSS would moderate the relationships between perceived stress, anxiety, and depression was partially supported. The results indicated CC moderated the relationship between perceived stress and depression but did not moderate the relationship between perceived stress and anxiety. PSS did not moderate the relationship between perceived stress and depression or the relationship between perceived stress and anxiety, thus rejecting the stress-buffering hypothesis. These findings suggest less emphasis should be placed on PSS as a protective factor, with universities focusing on enhancing CC to reduce the high prevalence of mental health problems to promote psychological wellbeing among students.
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Papers by Aileen Pidgeon