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Trend analysis of marital satisfaction of Chinese couples in the past 20 years HOU Juan, JIA Keke, FANG Xiaoyi Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (7): 895-910.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00895 Abstract （6274）   HTML （281）    PDF （632KB）（30500）       Knowledge map    Marriage is the most stable and lasting traditional form of sexual union in human society and an important part of human culture. Marriage satisfaction is a main indicator for measuring marital success. Marriage satisfaction is affected by social, family, individual and other factors and changes in response to society, family and individuals. Thus, changes in marital satisfaction reflect continuous changes in society. Exploring the relationship between marital satisfaction and social change has important reference significance for understanding psychological changes in Chinese society and individuals. This cross-temporal meta-analysis assessed 92 studies (59122 husbands and wives) published between 2000 and 2021 that used the Evaluating & Nurturing Relationship Issues, Communication, Happiness (enrich), the Marital Adjustment Test (MAT) and the Quality of Marriage Index (QMI) to measure the marital satisfaction of Chinese couples. The China Comprehensive Social Survey (CGSS) analysis was used to discuss the relationship between social indicators and marital satisfaction based on Bronfenbrenner’s ecosystem theory. The findings are as follows: (1) the marital satisfaction of Chinese couples significantly positively correlates with the year; (2) at the macro level, improving people's quality of life and reducing the household size will increase marriage satisfaction; while, increasing marital satisfaction will promote the pursuit of a better life among couples and maintain family stability and (3) at the micro level, regarding the association between marital satisfaction and social change, the length of marriage, gender, number of children, and the matching degree of education level do not affect marital satisfaction; however, changes due to the presence of children and the degree of education do. In the model of the relationship between social change and marital satisfaction, macro system factors, micro system factors and era changes interact and jointly affect marital satisfaction. Moreover, marital satisfaction will also react to macrosystem factors and promote the harmonious and stable development of society. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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More utilitarian and less rational? Social change and two types of individualism over the last 40 years in China WU Michael Shengtao, WANG Yuling, PENG Kaiping Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (7): 911-925.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00911 Abstract （3467）   HTML （218）    PDF （800KB）（30213）       Knowledge map    Individualism appears to have increased along with modernization and globalization, yet it is a great debate whether such a cultural shift fell in the value discrepancy between the independence-focused rational individualism and the interest-focused utilitarian individualism, especially in fast-changing societies like China. Based on expert interview, self-report survey, and open-question analysis (pilot study), the pilot study established a reliable and valid dictionary of rational individualism and utilitarian individualism, finding that rational (vs. utilitarian) individualism prevailed in responses to questions about rational individualism, and vice versa. Furthermore, based on word counting (Study 1) and word embedding (Study 2) analyses of Chinese version of Google Books Ngram (1980~2019), the present research was designed to test the effect of social change on rational individualism and utilitarian individualism. We hypothesized that (1) rational individualism decreased while utilitarian individualism increased from 1980 through 2019, and that (2) the semantic association between self and rational (vs. utilitarian) individualism decreased over the past 40 years. As expected, Study 1 revealed that the usage of rational individualism decreased, while that of utilitarian individualism increased over time; and via the single-target Word Embedding Association Test (WEAT), Study 2 revealed that the semantic similarity between the target words about self (e.g., I, self) and attribute words about rational (vs. utilitarian) individualism decreased over time. Taken together, the results demonstrate the cultural shift of the increase in utilitarian individualism and decrease in rational individualism over the past 40 years in China, whereas both rational enlightenment and utilitarian expansion serve as psychological drives in the development of modern societies. It was suggested that the value discrepancy of rational and utilitarian individualism should be seriously concerned, and that further work is needed on multiple selves, cultural evolution, and psychological function of the two types of individualism. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The cognitive mechanism of reducing procrastination by emotion regulation: The mediation role of task aversiveness TONG Tingting, BAI Youling, FENG Tingyong Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (4): 458-468.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00458 Abstract （10926）   HTML （1538）    PDF （554KB）（22669）       Knowledge map    Previous research has shown that using adaptive emotion-regulation strategies, particularly cognitive reappraisal, can help reduce procrastination. However, the precise cognitive mechanisms underlying the impact of emotion regulation on procrastination remain unclear. The temporal decision model of procrastination posits that procrastination is primarily influenced by the tradeoff between task aversiveness and outcome utility. When task aversiveness surpasses outcome utility, individuals are more likely to procrastinate, whereas when outcome utility outweighs task aversiveness, immediate action is more probable. Consequently, emotion regulation could reduce procrastination by diminishing task aversiveness or by improving outcome utility. To investigate this issue, based on Gross’s emotion regulation theory and the temporal decision model of procrastination, this research focuses on individuals exhibiting high levels of procrastination (as measured by the General Procrastination Scale, with scores above 67.5). These participants were divided into two groups: the positive reappraisal group (consisting of 34 individuals) and the ineffective strategy group (also consisting of 34 individuals). Over a period of 7 days, the two groups were longitudinally tracked through empirical sampling, resulting in a total of 14 data collection points. The results showed that: (1) There was no notable disparity between the two groups in task executive willingness during the pre-test, while the positive reappraisal group demonstrated a significantly higher task executive willingness compared to the ineffective strategy group in the post-test, indicating that positive reappraisal significantly enhanced individuals’ task executive willingness. (2) No significant difference was observed in task aversiveness between the two groups during the pre-test, while the positive reappraisal group exhibited noticeably lower levels of task aversiveness compared to the ineffective strategy group in the post-test. Additionally, initial outcome utility levels did not differ significantly between the two groups, while the positive reappraisal group demonstrated significantly higher outcome utility compared to the ineffective strategy group in the post-test. (3) Mediation analysis indicated that the reduction of task aversiveness mediated the influence of emotion regulation on the degree of improvement in procrastination (that is, the increase in task executive willingness), whereas the increase of outcome utility did not mediate the impact of emotion regulation on the degree of improvement in procrastination (that is, the increase in task executive willingness). These findings suggest that emotion regulation mainly enhance individuals’ task executive willingness by diminishing task aversiveness, thereby reducing procrastination behavior. This offers a strong theoretical foundation for interventions targeting procrastination through the lens of emotional regulation. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Feasibility of online self-help mindfulness intervention integrating Chinese classical poetry and its impact on participants’ adherence WANG Biao, WANG Zhenzhen, LIU Xinghua Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (8): 1110-1124.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.01110 Abstract （5178）   HTML （1090）    PDF （553KB）（14607）       Knowledge map    In recent years, mindfulness interventions have been applied across various fields and have achieved significant efficacy. With the widespread adoption of mobile Internet, online mindfulness interventions are flourishing, thus holding tremendous potential. However, a prominent issue is the generally low adherence of participants in such online mindfulness interventions. Concurrently, previous studies have demonstrated that poetry is also regarded as an important supplement to psychotherapy and mindfulness intervention therapy. Yet, no research has been conducted on the integration of Chinese classical poetry and mindfulness interventions—a topic that warrants further exploration. Moreover, Chinese classical poetry possesses distinct Chinese characteristics and is a highly appreciated literary art form among the local population. Therefore, based on the above propositions, this study considers the feasibility of integrating Chinese classical poetry into mindfulness intervention and whether it can enhance participants’ adherence. In Study 1, a 49-day online self-help mindfulness intervention incorporating Chinese classical poetry was developed based on Mindfulness Intervention for Emotional Distress (MIED) and poetry therapy. A total of 54 participants were recruited online who completed the pre- and postintervention assessments, including measures of mindfulness, perceived stress, and general well-being. The participants were required to answer additional questions regarding the feasibility of the intervention within one week postintervention. Then, the effectiveness of the intervention was analyzed using paired samples t-tests, whereas its feasibility was evaluated across five dimensions: Acceptability, Demand, Implementation, Practicality, and Limited-efficacy testing. In Study 2, 258 participants were recruited online and randomly assigned to Group A or Group B. Group A attended a mindfulness intervention program that integrated Chinese classical poetry, while Group B attended the same program without poetry. In the end, a total of 245 participants joined the study (118 in Group A and 127 in Group B). All participants were required to complete pre-, mid-, and postintervention assessments measuring mindfulness, perceived stress, and general well-being levels. Furthermore, the intervention’s effectiveness was examined using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), whereas the impact of the presence or absence of Chinese classical poetry on participants’ adherence was analyzed using chi-square tests. The results confirmed the feasibility of the developed online self-help mindfulness intervention integrating Chinese classical poetry in terms of Acceptability, Demand, Implementation, Practicality and Limited-efficacy testing, with participants perceiving the intervention as effective. The results of Study 2 demonstrated that both programs with and without poetry significantly improved participants’ mindfulness, perceived stress, and general well-being levels. However, the former significantly enhanced participants’ adherence. In addition, compared with the overall adherence levels of current online mindfulness interventions (ranging from 35% to 92%), the participants’ adherence to the proposed online intervention with Chinese classical poetry (84.75%) is relatively high. Finally, the study also found that integrating poetry into mindfulness interventions enhanced the majority of Chinese individuals’ engagement and completion rates, regardless of their personal preferences for Chinese classical poetry at baseline. This study represents the first integration of Chinese classical poetry into mindfulness intervention, resulting in a program enriched by Chinese cultural elements. The program facilitates the combination of outstanding traditional Chinese culture with modern psychological theories and practices, fostering their creative transformation and innovative development. Furthermore, the purely online self-help program employed in this study reduces reliance on therapists while simultaneously enhancing participants’ adherence. At the same time, this study provides more possibilities for the widespread application of mindfulness intervention and provides individuals with more choices for mental health treatment. Overall, these contributions hold significant practical significance and social value. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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How to predict whether her romantic partner will be a playboy? The predictive roles of childhood environments on women’s romantic partners’ short-term mating preferences WANG Yan, SUN Xinyun, YANG Yinbei Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (11): 1512-1523.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.01512 Abstract （6781）   HTML （1011）    PDF （513KB）（12667）       Knowledge map    Drawing on Life History Theory and Paternal Investment Theory, it can be inferred that childhood environments, which include harshness, unpredictability, and parent-offspring relationships, can predict offspring’s reproductive strategies as adults. Moreover, according to Parental Investment Theory, it is generally observed that males prefer short-term mating strategies while females opt for long-term mating strategies. However, in practice, some women still choose or have romantic partners who exhibit a preference for short-term mating strategy. An intriguing question arising from this observation is whether it can be predicted from childhood environments how some women eventually have romantic partners with a higher level of short-term mating strategy. To date, few existing literatures have explored this topic. This research aims to explore the aforementioned question based on Life History Theory and its derivative, Paternal Investment Theory. In Study 1, questionnaires were collected online from 250 female participants (Mage = 22.75, SD = 2.50) who had romantic experiences. Data were analyzed using SPSS v22.0 and PROCESS 21.5 (Model 10). Results indicated that childhood unpredictability significantly moderated the relationship between childhood father-daughter relationships and adult females’ perceived mate value. Additionally, females’ perceived mate value mediated the relationship between the father-daughter relationship in childhood and their romantic partners’ short-term mating preferences, but only under conditions of stability (low levels of childhood unpredictability regardless of childhood harshness) or severe adversity (high levels of both unpredictability and harshness). In Study 2, experimental priming of the childhood father-daughter relationship was employed with 169 unmarried female participants (Mage = 21.43, SD = 2.04). The variable of childhood harshness was excluded due to its insignificant main and interactive effects observed in Study 1. Results (PROCESS 21.5, Model 8) from Study 2 demonstrated that childhood unpredictability moderated the relationship between the childhood father-daughter relationship and females’ perceived mate value, corroborating the findings from Study 1. Furthermore, results supported the mediating role of females’ perceived mate value in the relationship between childhood father-daughter relationships and participants’ tolerance of their romantic partners’ short-term mating preferences, but only under conditions where the level of childhood unpredictability ranged from low to moderate. Conclusion: The childhood father-daughter relationship and childhood unpredictability can predict adult females’ perceived mate value interactively. Additionally, females’ childhood father-daughter relationship can predict their romantic partners’ short-term mating preferences through the mediating role of women’s perceived mate value, albeit under restricted conditions. Based on these findings, the “Daughter’s Conditional Sensitivity to Paternal Investment Hypothesis” and the “Childhood Environments Socialization Hypothesis” are proposed to explain how childhood experiences socialize individuals’ life history strategies. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Work values of Chinese generational cohorts TANG Ningyu, ZHEN Danlei, GUAN Jian Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (7): 876-894.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00876 Abstract （2502）   HTML （130）    PDF （684KB）（12578）       Knowledge map    The entry of members of the millennial generation cohort (i.e., individuals born after 1980) into the Chinese workplace has created a more diverse labor force. Researchers and practitioners alike have recognized that these younger workers hold different work expectations from workers in prior generational cohorts. Since the division between new generations and their older counterparts has become more salient, researchers have increasingly emphasized issues such as how to accurately understand and effectively manage multi-generation employees. To address these issues, the current study aims to explore work values in three generation cohorts (i.e., the pre-reform, the reform, and the post-reform generation cohorts) based on Inglehart’s evolutionary modernization theory and from different research designs, measures, analysis methods and angles. In study 1, we used a longitudinal nationwide quantitative survey (China Labor-force Dynamic Survey, CLDS). The sample size was 5, 850 in total from CLDS 2012 to CLDS 2016. We used Age- Period-Cohort (APC) analysis to separate the cohort effect in work values from the age effect and the period effect. Study 2 aimed to validate the results of Study 1, and further explored intergenerational differences and similarities in work values. Since study 1 used a simple questionnaire to measure work values, we adopted the work values measurement developed by Cable and Edwards (2004), which followed Schwartz’s basic individual values framework to explore the work values more systematically. We conducted Study 2 through Credamo, a Chinese professional data platform. 992 full-time employees participated in the study, and we used hierarchical regression modeling. We conducted Study 3 through interpersonal perspective to overcome the potential self- serving biases in study 1 and study 2, and we asked participants to assess the work values of each generation. We recruited a total of 361 participants from the platform Credamo. The analyses of Studies 1~3 showed both generational differences and similarities in work values, and by and large, the post-reform generation showed more differences with the other two generations. Specifically, members of the post-reform generation placed more importance on the post-materialism work values and less importance on the materialism work value than previous generations; the post-reform generations placed higher importance on the openness to change work value than their predecessors, but there was no significant difference on the self- transcendence work value among the three generations. In addition, studies also found that there were both age and period effects on work values, and finally, all generations still placed more importance on materialist than post-materialist work value in the current workplace. The research provides new evidence and nuanced insight for generational differences in work values, which enriches our understanding of evolutionary modernization theory by empirically testing it in the Chinese context. Moreover, we conducted three studies with different designs, measures, analysis methods and perspectives, which not only supports the robustness of our research findings, but also sets a multi-method research example for future studies on the evolution in generation cohorts. This study offers managerial implications for how to better understand the similarities and differences in generation cohorts, especially the characteristics of younger generation workers, and how to manage diverse employees effectively in the workplace. It also sheds lights on future research potential for work values in generation cohorts. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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When AI “possesses” personality: Roles of good and evil personalities influence moral judgment in large language models JIAO Liying, LI Chang-Jin, CHEN Zhen, XU Hengbin, XU Yan Acta Psychologica Sinica    2025, 57 (6): 929-946.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2025.0929 Abstract （6137）   HTML （478）    PDF （1204KB）（11987）       Knowledge map    The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has raised significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding the moral decision-making capabilities of large language models (LLMs). One intriguing aspect is the potential for LLMs to exhibit characteristics akin to human personalities, which may influence the LLMs’ moral judgment. Understanding how personality traits, especially the moral traits, influence these decisions is crucial for developing AI systems that align with human ethical standards. Therefore, this study aims to explore how the roles of good and evil personalities shape the moral decision-making of LLMs, providing insights that are essential for the ethical development of AI. This study investigated the roles of good and evil personalities in shaping the moral decision-making of the ERNIE 4.0 and GPT-4. Good personality was characterized by traits such as conscientiousness and integrity, altruism and dedication, benevolence and amicability, and tolerance and magnanimity. Evil personality encompassed traits such as atrociousness and mercilessness, mendacity and hypocrisy, calumniation and circumvention, and faithlessness and treacherousness. Study 1 analyzed 4000 observations. Specific prompts corresponding to different personality dimensions were designed. After specifying the type of personality, ERNIE 4.0 completed a self-report scale for good and evil personalities, evaluated whether the descriptions matched the current personality traits and provided a numerical rating indicating the degree of agreement. Study 2 recruited 370 human participants and utilized 832 LLM observations, investigated the roles of good and evil personalities in shaping the moral decision-making of the LLMs and compared with human results. Significant score differences were observed across all eight personality dimensions, with high-level manipulations significantly higher than low-level manipulations. These results demonstrate LLMs’ ability to express levels of good and evil personality traits. A comparative analysis was conducted between human participants and LLMs to evaluate the impact of these traits on CAN model in Study 2. Results showed that the patterns of personality’s influence on moral judgment exhibited both similarities and differences between LLMs and humans. GPT-4's good personality manipulation aligns closely with human results, while ERNIE 4.0 scored higher than humans on sensitivity to consequences (C), sensitivity to moral norms (N), overall action/inaction preferences (A) parameters, and utilitarianism (U). GPT-4 demonstrated better moral alignment compared to ERNIE 4.0. Furthermore, a theoretical model of good and evil personality traits in LLMs was constructed within the domain of moral judgment. This study demonstrated that LLMs effectively simulated varying levels of good and evil personality traits through personality prompts, which significantly influenced their moral judgments. GPT-4’s moral judgments aligned more closely with humans under good personality prompts, while ERNIE 4.0 consistently scored higher than humans across moral judgment indicators. Under evil personality prompts, GPT-4 exhibited lower moral norm sensitivity and higher action tendency and utilitarianism. Additionally, the influence of personality on GPT-4’s moral judgment was stronger than on ERNIE 4.0. The impact of good and evil personalities on moral judgment showed hierarchical differences, with good personality traits, particularly conscientiousness, playing a more critical role in achieving human-AI alignment in moral judgments. This research provided valuable insights into enhancing AI ethical decision-making by integrating nuanced personality traits, guiding the development of more socially responsible AI systems. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The effects of rumination on social anxiety: The role of negative self-beliefs GENG Li, FENG Qiuyang, LI Yu, QIU Jiang Acta Psychologica Sinica    2025, 57 (5): 792-804.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2025.0792 Abstract （6678）   HTML （795）    PDF （755KB）（11765）       Knowledge map    People sometimes recall social interactions, speculating on others' evaluations and opinions of themselves. When such thinking exceeds normal limits or is persistently accompanied by negative emotions, it becomes distressing, manifesting as rumination. Cognitive theories of social anxiety identify rumination as a pivotal factor in its onset and maintenance. Individuals engaged in rumination often form negative and pessimistic evaluations about themselves, with cognitive elements playing a crucial role. Sometimes, people develop distorted, counterfactual beliefs about themselves and others, termed negative self-beliefs, which are a type of adverse cognition and a core feature of social anxiety. Although the relationships among rumination, social anxiety, and negative self-beliefs have been theoretically discussed, empirical studies confirming their interaction mechanisms are lacking. Thus, the purpose of this study is to explore the significant role of negative self-beliefs in the relationship between rumination and social anxiety. The study conducted two experiments designed to provoke social anxiety and prompt participants to engage in state rumination, with the aim of monitoring and analyzing their subsequent emotional responses. Experiment 1 included 83 participants (26 males, 57 females; mean age 21.05 ± 2.15 years). The participants first underwent baseline measurements, followed by a 3-minute timed speech task to induce social anxiety. After this task, the participants were randomly divided into two groups to engage in either rumination or distraction imaging, with changes in negative self-beliefs and levels of social anxiety recorded before and after the tasks. Experiment 2 involved 51 participants (20 males, 31 females; mean age 20.14 ± 1.76 years). The experiment was conducted over two lab visits. In the first visit, the participants learned about and mastered the concepts of social anxiety and negative self-beliefs, recalled, and wrote down four previous social anxiety events and the negative self-beliefs associated with each event. During the second visit, the participants completed a keyboard response task, during which real-time emotional changes were recorded. They dealt with their negative self-beliefs according to the guidance provided under different psychological states of rumination or distraction and used various coping strategies (reacting, observing, and reevaluating) to address the presented negative self-beliefs. The results of the data analysis are as follows: Experiment 1 utilized repeated-measures ANOVA and mediation models based on change scores, revealing (1) significant positive correlations among rumination, social anxiety, and negative self-beliefs and (2) that rumination affects social anxiety by sustaining negative self-beliefs. Experiment 2, which used repeated-measures ANOVA, revealed that (1) rumination on social anxiety events triggered more negative emotions; (2) using distraction strategies to alleviate social anxiety resulted in a rebound of negative emotions; and (3) interventions targeting negative self-beliefs proved to be more effective in alleviating social anxiety. Both experiments validated and complemented each other, collectively elucidating the critical role of negative self-beliefs in the impact of rumination on social anxiety. In summary, this study explored the impact of rumination and negative self-beliefs on social anxiety, not only validating and enriching the cognitive theories of social anxiety at a theoretical level but also filling empirical gaps in the previous research. First, the experimental results clarify the mediating role of negative self-beliefs in the relationship between rumination and social anxiety, offering a new perspective for understanding the mechanisms underlying the onset and maintenance of social anxiety. This finding deepens our understanding of the interaction between rumination and social anxiety, enhancing theoretical models of social phobia and broadening cognitive models of the onset and maintenance of social anxiety disorders. Second, the research results provide a basis for developing new intervention measures. Given the significant role of negative self-beliefs in maintaining social anxiety, future interventions could focus on directly targeting these self-beliefs, offering new strategies for the clinical treatment of social anxiety. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The influence relationship among variables and types of multiple influence factors working together WEN Zhonglin, WANG Yifan, MA Peng, MENG Jin Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (10): 1462-1470.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.01462 Abstract （6512）   HTML （360）    PDF （444KB）（11554）       Knowledge map    The investigation of relationships among variables is the main focus of empirical research in psychology and other social science disciplines. Many empirical studies based on questionnaire surveys involve the influence relationship between variables. However, the lack of a universally accepted definition for this concept has led to ambiguity, and it is often conflated with causal or correlational relationships, which may cause problems, especially for studies on mediating effects. This article defines the influence relationship as a directional correlation, elucidating relations between correlation, influence, and causation in terms of denotation and connotation. Risk factors and protective factors are both influence factors of a negative outcome, and the impact increases with the level of a risk factor and decreases with that of a protective factor. We summarize several ways to find evidence for modeling the influence relationship: (1) establishing directionality based on the temporal sequencing of variable occurrences; (2) testing the explanatory power by reversing the order of variables; (3) following the rule that object variables tend to influence subject variables; (4) considering attributes of variables (e.g., essential vs. state attributes, long-term vs. temporary attributes; stable vs. unstable attributes) to predict their influence; (5) gaining evidence from theoretical or empirical literature; (6) obtaining support from life experience and common sense; (7) reasoning through analogies; (8) applying principles of cross-lag analysis to identifying dominant factors. Furthermore, we categorize multiple influence factors working together. These include independent effects, overlapping effects, two types of proxy effects, two types of mediating variables, and three types of moderating variables. These distinctions clarify how different influence factors work together to shape outcomes. Some influence relationships exhibit characteristics akin to causal relationships, while others resemble correlation patterns. The degree to which different studies capture influence relationships close to causation may differ, affecting the quality of the research. Closer proximity to causal relationships enhances the informational value and significance of findings. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Beyond the myth of slimming: The impact of social norms on positive body image and caloric intake among young adults TANG Meihui, TIAN Shuwan, XIE Tian Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (10): 1367-1383.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.01367 Abstract （7208）   HTML （727）    PDF （932KB）（10797）       Knowledge map    Under the influence of the mass media, many individuals have embraced the “thin-ideal” social norm, wherein people accept and adhere to the behavioral norm that perceives thinness as the ideal body type. This trend has resulted in many young adults compromising their positive body image and adopting unhealthy weight loss practices, such as reducing their caloric intake. Based on the self-discrepancy theory, this paper proposes that the thin-ideal social norm will strengthen the thin-ideal self-concept, which will amplify any existing discrepancy between the ideal self and the actual self, ultimately diminishing the individual’s positive body image. In that light, the present research explored the effects of social norm interventions on improving young adults’ positive body image and increasing their caloric intake. The findings suggest that interventions that address misconceptions, particularly when combined with role models, yield more favorable outcomes than interventions that focus solely on correcting misunderstandings within the social norm framework do. The present research comprised one questionnaire study and three intervention studies, involving 612 participants. Study 1 examined the mediating role of body mass index (BMI) self-discrepancy in the relationship between the thin-ideal social norm and a positive body image. Two hundred eleven participants (113 females, aged 22.31 ± 2.10 years) completed questionnaires assessing their perceptions of the social norms, their BMI self-discrepancy, and their positive body image. Studies 2~4 were dedicated to practical interventions. In Study 2, 117 participants (79 females, aged 22.56 ± 2.28 years) received either interventions that addressed misinformation about social norms, or no information. The participants reported their positive body image at the beginning and end of the study, along with their caloric intake over 4 days. Study 3 involved 155 participants (111 females, aged 22.06 ± 2.13 years) who were randomly assigned to one of three interventions: correcting misunderstandings alone, combining that intervention with role models, or no intervention. As was the case with Study 2, the participants reported their positive body image and caloric intake over 4 days. In Study 4, 147 participants (89 females, aged 22.57 ± 2.10 years) were randomly assigned to one of three interventions that were similar to those in Study 3 but spanned 10 days. Those participants reported their body image at two time points and their caloric intake at five time points. Study 1 revealed that self-discrepancy partially mediated the relationship between the social norms of the thin ideal and body image. Specifically, both the thin-ideal descriptive and injunctive social norms could reduce body image by increasing the self-discrepancy between ideal BMI and real BMI. Building upon Study 1, Study 2 revealed that the instructive social norm intervention demonstrated a positive impact on caloric intake, compared with no intervention, but not on positive body image, and its effectiveness was limited to correcting misunderstandings. Motivated by the insights from Study 2, Studies 3 and 4 advanced the research by adopting more robust descriptive social norm interventions and also employing descriptive social norm interventions that incorporated role models. Study 3 showed that both interventions had better effects on positive body image and caloric intake than no intervention did. In Study 4, among groups adhering to restrictive diets, the application of the norm-based intervention did not yield a significant improvement in positive body image. However, the findings suggest that the descriptive social norm interventions which incorporated role models exhibited not only a better impact but also a more sustained and prolonged duration of intervention effectiveness on caloric intake. This research contributes valuable insights into thin-ideal social norms. It suggests a more effective intervention strategy that provides practical recommendations which are applicable to individuals, role models, and commercial organizations. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Relationship between adolescents’ smartphone stress and mental health: Based on the multiverse-style analysis and intensive longitudinal method HUANG Shunsen, LAI Xiaoxiong, ZHANG Cai, ZHAO Xinmei, DAI Xinran, QI Mengdi, WANG Huanlei, WANG Wenrong, WANG Yun Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (6): 745-758.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00745 Abstract （8057）   HTML （831）    PDF （1194KB）（10576）       Knowledge map    Adolescents frequently encounter elevated levels of digital stress by exposure to digital media (e.g., smartphone stress). Their ongoing brain development increases adolescents’ susceptibility to digital stress, making them more vulnerable to its adverse effects. Among digital devices, smartphones are the most widely used ones by adolescents and a primary source of digital stress. The current study aims to investigate the robust association between digital stress, specifically smartphone stress, and adolescent mental health. The study also aims to investigate the underlying mechanisms of this association. In Study 1, a multiverse-style analysis was employed to investigate the robust relationship between smartphone stress and mental health (depression and well-being) in a large sample of adolescents (N= 74 182, male = 39 192). This method was chosen for its robustness of various data manipulations to test the effect of interest, and median β and NSRPD (number of significant results in predominant direction) were used as statistical inference indicators of the effect. In Study 2, we conducted an intensive longitudinal design to examine the mechanism of how smartphone stress affects mental health among adolescents (N= 477, female = 214, Mage= 12.67 ± 0.31). Before intensive longitudinal design, we assessed smartphone stress, well-being, and depression (T1). Subsequently, daily rumination (consecutive 17 days, T2) and daily negative mood (consecutive 18 days, T3) were assessed over a 35-day period. Upon intensive longitudinal design, we once again measured well-being and depression (T4). We found that rumination, negative emotion (NE), and rumination-NE (serial mediation) mediate the link between smartphone stress and mental health (smartphone stress-depression model, smartphone stress-well-being model). Study 1 indicated that over half of adolescents (52.6% of grade 4 students and 78.2% of grade 8 students) experienced smartphone stress. Furthermore, smartphone stress strongly and robustly predicted depression (Median β = 0.37, p < 0.001, NSRPD = 160/160, p< 0.001, partial r2 = 0.172) and well-being (Median β = −0.14, p < 0.001, NSRPD = 160/160, p < 0.001, partial r2 = 0.011). Effect sizes from both outcomes (partial r2 > 0.010) are capable to inform policy and the public sphere. Study 2 revealed that rumination intensity, negative emotion intensity, and rumination-negative emotion intensity mediate the relationship between smartphone stress and depression. However, no mediation was found for rumination or negative emotion fluctuation. In smartphone stress-well-being model, negative emotion intensity and rumination-negative emotion intensity, but not rumination intensity, mediated the association between smartphone stress and well-being. Moreover, negative emotion and rumination-negative emotion fluctuation, but not rumination fluctuation, mediated the association between smartphone stress and well-being. Therefore, the intensity and fluctuation of rumination and negative emotion are common mediators in the relationship between smartphone stress and depression/well-being, while the effects of mechanisms are outcome-dependent. The findings pinpoint the significant and robust effect of smartphone stress on depression and well-being among adolescents. The mediation of rumination and negative emotion in the relationship between smartphone stress and mental health probes into the mechanism of this relationship. These results support classic theories (e.g., the Emotional Cascade Model) and confirm and enrich the recent Media use-Digital stress-Mental health model. These findings could also inform future interventions for mental health problems related to smartphone stress. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Network analysis and core dimensions of adolescent prosocial behavior LIN Jing, XU Boya, YANG Ying, ZHANG Qing-peng, KOU Yu Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (9): 1252-1265.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.01252 Abstract （6942）   HTML （944）    PDF （5972KB）（10533）       Knowledge map    Previous studies have discovered that the concept of prosocial behavior among adolescents is composed of four dimensions: commonweal-social rule, altruism, relationship, and personal trait. Utilizing this four- dimensional structure, the Prosocial Behavior Scale for Adolescents (PBSA) measurements revealed gender and grade-level differences in the importance attributed to each dimension. Furthermore, numerous prior studies on the development of adolescent prosocial behavior have yielded inconsistent results. In this study, we employed a network analysis approach to explore the network of adolescent prosocial behavior, uncovering the relationships among different dimensions and individual questionnaire items, revealing its core dimensions, and shedding light on differences across gender and grade. Conducted in 2017, this study included 9160 students from 15 schools spanning eight provinces or municipalities, namely Beijing, Fujian, Henan, Jiangsu, Shandong, Shaanxi, Sichuan, and Chongqing, with ages ranging from 10 to 17 and covering elementary, middle, and high school students. We utilized the PBSA, consisting of 15 items based on the four-dimensional concept, to assess and analyze the network of adolescent prosocial behavior. The network analysis process followed the standardization guidelines published by Epskamp et al, utilizing qgraph in the R programming for network estimation and computation of centrality indices. Finally, we performed comparisons of dimension networks and item networks across different genders and grades. In the overall network of adolescent prosocial behavior, as well as in the grade- and gender-based networks, the commonweal-social rule dimension consistently exhibited the highest centrality, followed by altruism, relationship, and traits dimensions. Compared to the prosocial behavior network in females, the male prosocial behavior network showed higher centrality in the commonweal-social rule and relationship dimensions, occupying more central positions within the network. When comparing prosocial behavior networks across different grades, the commonweal-social rule dimension occupied the most central position in all grades. Moreover, its centrality was highest in the middle school group. The centrality of the altruism dimension was highest in the high school group, while the relationship and personal trait dimensions held the highest centrality in the elementary school group. As for the network structure, no differences were found in the gender-based dimension networks. However, differences were identified in the grade-based dimension networks, with high school students exhibiting significantly weaker network strength than middle and elementary school students. Similarly, no notable differences were observed in the item networks based on gender, but differences were found in the item networks based on grade. Taken together, the current study has found that, in the overall sample as well as among different genders and grades, the commonweal-social rule consistently serves as a core dimension within the network structure of prosocial behavior. There were significant grade differences in both dimension networks and item prosocial behavior networks, along with subtle gender differences in item networks. These results provide a new perspective for deepening our understanding of adolescent prosocial behavior and expanding the research domain of prosocial behavior. These findings suggest that future interventions targeting the commonweal-social rule and altruism dimensions could potentially boost overall prosocial behavior in adolescents. The middle school stage may be a critical period for promoting commonweal-social rule prosocial behavior. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Social inclusion regulates the effect of social exclusion on adaptation to emotional conflict MENG Xianxin, LUO Yi, HAN Chenyuan, WU Guowei, CHANG Jiao, YUAN Jiajing, QIAN Kun, FU Xiaolan Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (5): 577-593.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00577 Abstract （7987）   HTML （952）    PDF （533KB）（10254）       Knowledge map    Social exclusion is a very painful experience that threatens people’s physical and mental health, potentially increasing their risk of developing emotional problems. However, the psychological mechanism by which social exclusion affects emotional problems remains unclear. Studies have found that an impaired adaptability to emotional conflict plays an important role in emotional problems. Therefore, the first objective of the present study is to explore whether and how social exclusion affects adaptation to emotional conflict. After a person experiences social exclusion, social inclusion can promote positive emotions and lessen negative emotions. Therefore, the second objective of the present study is to explore whether and how social inclusion has the potential to regulate the effect of social exclusion on adaptation to emotional conflict. The present study used the Cyberball game and face−word Stroop paradigm to explore the effect of social exclusion on adaptation to emotional conflict (Experiment 1), and whether social inclusion had the potential to regulate the effect of social exclusion on adaptation to emotional conflict (Experiment 2). Experiment 1 used a mixed experimental design with 2 (social situation: exclusion, inclusion) × 2 (previous trial consistency: consistent, inconsistent) × 2 (current trial consistency: consistent, inconsistent) format. The consistency of the previous trial and the consistency of the current trial were the within-subject factors, while the social situation was the between-subject factor. In Experiment 1, participants were randomly assigned to either the inclusion group or the exclusion group. Experiment 2 used a mixed experimental design with 2 (Game 1: exclusion vs. inclusion) × 2 (Game 2: exclusion vs. inclusion) × 2 (previous trial consistency: consistent, inconsistent) × 2 (current trial consistency: consistent, inconsistent) format. The consistency of both the previous trial and the current trial were the within-subject factors, while Game 1 and Game 2 were the between-subject factors. In Experiment 2, participants were randomly assigned to the inclusion−exclusion, exclusion−exclusion, exclusion− inclusion, or inclusion−inclusion groups. In Experiment 1, the emotional conflict adaptation effect in reaction times of the exclusion group was lower than that of the inclusion group. In Experiment 2, the inclusion−exclusion group showed a greater emotional conflict adaptation effect in its reaction times than the exclusion−exclusion group. There was no significant difference in the emotional conflict adaptation effect in reaction times between the exclusion−inclusion group and the inclusion−inclusion group. In conclusion, social exclusion has the potential to reduce the individual’s adaptation to emotional conflict, while social inclusion has the potential to regulate the excluded individual’s adaptation to emotional conflict. These findings contribute to understanding the relationship between social exclusion and emotional problems and provide a feasible program to mitigate the risk of emotional problems caused by social exclusion. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The linguistic strength and weakness of artificial intelligence: A comparison between Large Language Model(s) and real students in the Chinese context GAO Chenghai, DANG Baobao, WANG Bingjie, WU Michael Shengtao Acta Psychologica Sinica    2025, 57 (6): 947-966.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2025.0947 Abstract （2602）   HTML （121）    PDF （1029KB）（10129）       Knowledge map    Previous research on generative artificial intelligence (AI) has been primarily conducted in the English context, but it remains unclear about linguistic strength and weakness of generative AI in the Chinese context. This study focuses on the accuracy and normativity, affectivity, and creativity of AI in generating language knowledge, and explores its cultural adaptability and ability to generate humanized and personalized content. Evaluating and analyzing these key indicators helps us gain a deeper understanding of the linguistic strengths and weaknesses of AI, as well as cultivating the unique advantages of humans in education. By combining quantitative and qualitative methods, we evaluated the differences in knowledge accuracy, normativity, affectivity, and creativity between large language models and real students. Specifically, using an explanatory sequential design in the mixed-methods framework, we first tested group differences in each indicator among GPT-4 and ERNIE-4 versus real students on knowledge accuracy, normativity, affectivity, and creativity to test the. Next, through content analyses, we explored the specific performance of large language models on each indicator and the mechanism of their linguistic strengths and weaknesses. Study 1 found that compared to real students, GPT-4 exhibited higher accuracy in modern text knowledge (especially conceptual knowledge), but lower accuracy in ancient poetry and language usage. The knowledge normativity of GPT-4 were comparable to those of real students, while its affectivity and creativity were lower than those of real students. Moreover, the highest individual scores of GPT-4 in normativity and emotionality were on comparable with the highest scores of real students. Study 2, based on ERNIE-4, confirmed the aforementioned results, and the accuracy in ancient poetry was still lower than that of real students. The results exhibited the advantages of artificial intelligence in the areas of modern knowledge and norms, its shortcomings in ancient poetry knowledge, and its potential in affective and creative expressions. Taken together, the current findings demonstrate the linguistic strength of generative AI in the knowledge accuracy of modern Chinese literary, and the weakness regarding ancient Chinese poetry and affective and creative writings, as well as generative AI’s potential in normative and affective expressions. This sheds light on the field of the cultural adaptability, affective and creative expressions of generative AI, and has valuable implications for the AI-assistant teaching practice in the Chinese context. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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“Buddha-like” mentality in workplace: The building of fundamental theory and the empirical test of its validity in Chinese context YAN Yu, FENG Ming, ZHANG Yong Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (5): 594-611.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00594 Abstract （6410）   HTML （508）    PDF （660KB）（9657）       Knowledge map    As a combination of traditional Buddha culture and modern network culture, Buddha-like mentality has been a popular work attitude in the workplace, yet limited scholarly attentions have been paid to investigate this concept, which is partly due to a lack of established scale. This lack, in turn, lead to incomplete understandings of the facets as well as the consequences of employees’ Buddha-like mentality. To construct the framework of Buddha-like mentality and examine its consequences, we used qualitative research and quantitative research in this study. We firstly collected participants’ views on Buddha-like mentality through interviews and questionnaires, and searched the contents related to Buddha-like mentality through the Internet. Secondly, the classical grounded theory was adopted to encode the descriptions derived from open survey, so as to conduct an exploration study on the concept and structural dimensions of the Buddha- like mentality in the working context. Based on this qualitative study and the exploratory factor analysis (EFA), an 18-item questionnaire was compiled according to the structural dimension of Buddha-like mentality. Then we conducted a correlation analysis with a sample of 290 participants to examine the discriminant validities between the Buddha-like mentality and existing concepts. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) is conducted to test the construct validity with 478 samples. Finally, a time-lagged study is used to test the predictive validity of Buddha-like mentality with 402 valid matching questionnaires collected from 29 enterprises. The results of grounded theory show that the Buddha-like mentality in the work situation can be divided into four dimensions: unconcerned, satisfied with the status quo, friendly and not argumentative, and letting nature take its course. EFA and CFA of the Buddha-like mentality questionnaire show good reliability and validity, and there is no redundancy of questions. In addition, in the second-order four-factor model, the correlation coefficients of these factors are significant, and all of the standardized loadings of the first-order factor and the second-order factor are significant, which further confirms that the Buddha-like mentality in the workplace is a second-order structure composed of four first-order factors. Correlation analyses show (1) Buddha-like mentality correlates negatively with extraversion, (2) Buddha-like mentality has no significant correlation with agreeableness. The prediction validity study shows (1) Buddha-like mentality has a significant negative impact on creativity, (2) Buddha-like mentality has a significant positive impact on workplace well-being, (3) The impact of Buddha-like mentality on job performance is not significant. These findings enrich the scholarly understandings of Buddha-like mentality and offer a reliable instrument for the assessment of Buddha-like mentality, which may benefit much for future studies on this concept. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The relationship between awe and prosocial behavior: Three-level meta-analysis and meta-analytic structural equation modeling LIN Rongmao, YU Qiaohua, HU Tianxiang, ZHANG Jiumei, YE Yushan, LIAN Rong Acta Psychologica Sinica    2025, 57 (4): 631-651.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2025.0631 Abstract （2614）   HTML （380）    PDF （1655KB）（9516）       Knowledge map    Awe and prosocial behavior are two crucial indicators of human social development. Their association has garnered widespread attention from researchers. The prosocial effects of awe are supported by the social functionalist theory of emotion as well as the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. Numerous empirical studies have found a positive relationship between awe and prosocial behavior, demonstrating that awe can promote prosocial behavior. However, some contradictory evidence suggest that awe may not always enhance individuals’ willingness to help, donate, or forgive others and may even diminish their prosocial tendencies. Such inconsistency may relate to factors such as the characteristics of awe, the attributes of prosocial behavior, cultural background, etc. Study 1 aimed to explore the correlation and causality between awe and prosocial behavior, along with their potential moderating variables. Furthermore, current studies primarily focus on either self-diminishment or self-transcendence, which can easily lead to the specious mediators problem. Study 2 built upon existing research to explore the mediating roles of self-diminishment and self-transcendence in the relationship between awe and prosocial behavior. A systematic literature review was conducted using multiple databases, including Web of Science, ProQuest, Science Direct, Google Scholar, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), CSTJD (China Science and Technology Journal Database), WFD (Wan Fang Data), and PsyArXiv (preprint platform). Data analyses were performed using the meta, metafor, and metaSEM packages in R 4.4.1. Three-level meta-analysis was performed to synthesize the effect sizes and conduct moderator analyses in Study 1. In Study 2, meta-analytic structural equation modeling (MASEM) was employed to synthesize previous mediation studies to explore the theoretical mechanisms underlying the prosocial effects of awe. Publication bias was assessed using Funnel Plots, Egger-MLMA regression tests, Trim and Fill, and Fail-Safe Number. Outlier and influence diagnostics were performed using SDR (studentized deleted residual), CD (Cook’s distance), and DFBETAS. Through literature search and screening, a total of 110 articles were included in Study 1, comprising 221 studies and 620 effect sizes, with a total sample size of 2, 961, 227 participants. Study 2 identified 33 articles, which included 42 studies and 42 correlation matrices, involving 30, 045 participants. The results of two three-level meta-analyses indicated the correlation between awe and prosocial behavior was significantly positive (r = 0.37, 95% CI [0.33, 0.41]), and awe could positively predict prosocial behavior (g = 0.59, 95% CI [0.48, 0.69]). Moderator analyses revealed that awe has greater prosocial effect when the cultural background was collectivist, the valence was positive, the eliciting factor was social, and the type of prosocial behavior was not restricted to individuals. Meanwhile, the association between awe and prosocial behavior was not moderated by induction methods(e.g., recall, video, music, image, text, and real situations) and prosocial costs. The results of the meta-analytic structural equation modeling showed that awe leads to prosocial behavior via self-diminishment and self-transcendence (with mediation effects of 0.060 and 0.070, respectively, accounting for 18.2% and 21.2% of the total effect, respectively). However, the chained mediating effect was not significant. The study systematically examines the prosocial effects of awe and the conditions that facilitate it. It provides a theoretical foundation for enhancing prosocial behavior through an emotional lens and contributing to the vision of a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind. Additionally, the findings support the psychological mechanisms of self-diminishment and self-transcendence, offering a systematic and integrated theoretical explanation for the prosocial effects of awe. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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A longitudinal study on depression and anxiety among Chinese adolescents in the late phase of the COVID-19 pandemic: The trajectories, antecedents, and outcomes YANG Zhixu, PENG Haiyun, XIN Sufei Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (4): 482-496.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00482 Abstract （6987）   HTML （720）    PDF （601KB）（9485）       Knowledge map    During the COVID-19 pandemic, all age groups’ mental health has substantially declined. Compared to other age groups, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent mental health problems was more salient, particularly on depression and anxiety. Previous studies, which were primarily conducted during the phase of COVID-19 pandemic, have mainly covered the first and second phases of COVID-19-related prevention and containment in China, without adequate attention being paid to the third and fourth phases of COVID-19-related prevention and containment in China. Currently, there are three competing hypotheses for the longitudinal trajectories of depression and anxiety among Chinese adolescents in the post-COVID era, making the construction of the mental health monitoring system and the mental health service system for adolescents in China “blind spots”. Based on developmental contextualism and three-dimensional theoretical framework of mental health change, the present study thus investigated the developmental trajectories of depression and anxiety among adolescents, as well as the potential antecedent (psychological resilience) and outcome (prosocial tendency) of such trajectories in the late phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in China. In this study, 1170 adolescents in Shandong province were assessed at three time points with a six-month interval (Time 1 = May 2021; Time 2 = November 2021; Time 3 = May 2022) from the normalization period of the pandemic through self-report questionnaires. The adolescents completed Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale during the three measurements. Furthermore, all adolescents completed the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale at Time 1 and Prosocial Tendencies Measure at Time 3. Attrition analyses, common method bias analyses, and descriptive statistics were analyzed by SPSS software. The trajectories of depression and anxiety, as well as their associated antecedent (i.e., psychological resilience) and outcome (i.e., prosocial tendency) were further analyzed via latent growth curve models using Mplus software. According to the results of the latent growth curve models, adolescents’ depression and anxiety levels tended to decline. The higher the level of depression and anxiety at Time 1, the slower the decline over time. Furthermore, psychological resilience at Time 1 negatively predicted initial levels of depression and anxiety but positively predicted the decreasing speed of depression and anxiety trajectories. Concerning the outcomes, we found that the initial level and speed of depression trajectories significantly and negatively predicted the levels of prosocial tendency at Time 3. Regarding the anxiety trajectory, its intercept factor negatively predicted prosocial tendency at Time 3, but its slope factor’s predictive effect was non-significant. Finally, multi-group analyses revealed that both boys and girls showed declining trends in depression and anxiety over time, while girls scored significantly higher on depression and anxiety initially than boys. In conclusion, this research found that the changes in mental health (particularly depression and anxiety problems) among Chinese adolescents in the late phase of the COVID-19 pandemic were developing well, which provides empirical evidence for better construction of adolescent mental health service systems in China. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Perceived opacity leads to algorithm aversion in the workplace ZHAO Yijun, XU Liying, YU Feng, JIN Wanglong Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (4): 497-514.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.00497 Abstract （4022）   HTML （511）    PDF （1664KB）（9469）       Knowledge map    With algorithms standing out and influencing every aspect of human society, people’s attitudes toward algorithmic invasion have become a vital topic to be discussed. Recently, algorithms as alternatives and enhancements to human decision-making have become ubiquitously applied in the workplace. Despite algorithms offering numerous advantages, such as vast data storage and anti-interference performance, previous research has found that people tend to reject algorithmic agents across different applications. Especially in the realm of human resources, the increasing utilization of algorithms forces us to focus on users’ attitudes. Thus, the present study aimed to explore public attitudes toward algorithmic decision-making and probe the underlying mechanism and potential boundary conditions behind the possible difference. To verify our research hypotheses, four experiments (N = 1211) were conducted, which involved various kinds of human resource decisions in the daily workplace, including resume screening, recruitment and hiring, allocation of bonuses, and performance assessment. Experiment 1 used a single-factor, two-level, between-subjects design. 303 participants were randomly assigned to two conditions (agent of decision-making: human versus algorithm) and measured their permissibility, liking, and willingness to utilize the agent. Experiment 1 was designed to be consistent with Experiment 2. The only difference was an additional measurement of perceived transparency to test the mediating role. Experiment 3 aimed to establish a causal chain between the mediator and dependent variables by manipulating the perceived transparency of the algorithm. In Experiment 4, a single-factor three-level between-subjects design (non-anthropomorphism algorithm versus anthropomorphism algorithm versus human) was utilized to explore the boundary condition of this effect. As anticipated, the present research revealed a pervasive algorithmic aversion across diverse organizational settings. Specifically, we conceptualized algorithm aversion as a tripartite framework encompassing cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions. We found that compared with human managers, participants demonstrated significantly lower permissibility (Experiments: 1, 2, and 4), liking (Experiments: 1, 2, and 4), and willingness to utilize (Experiment 2) algorithmic management. And the robustness of this result was demonstrated by the diversity of our scenarios and samples. Additionally, this research discovered perceived transparency as an interpretation mechanism explaining participants’ psychological reactions to different decision-making agents. That is to say, participants were opposed to algorithmic management because they thought its decision processes were more incomprehensible and inaccessible than humans (noted in Experiment 2). Addressing this “black box” phenomenon, Experiment 3 showed that providing more information and principles about algorithmic management positively influenced participants’ attitudes. Crucially, the result also demonstrated the moderating effect of anthropomorphism. The result showed that participants exhibited greater permissibility and liking for the algorithm with human-like characteristics, such as a human-like name and communication style, over more than a mechanized form of the algorithm. This observation underlined the potential of anthropomorphism to ameliorate resistance to algorithmic management. These results bridge the gap between algorithmic aversion and decision transparency from the social-psychological perspective. Firstly, the present research establishes a three-dimensional (cognitive, affective, and behavioral) dual-perspective (employee and employer) model to elucidate the negative responses toward algorithmic management. Secondly, it reveals that perceived opacity acts as an obstacle to embracing algorithmic decision-making. This finding lays the theoretical foundation of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) which is conceptualized as a “glass box”. Ultimately, the study highlights the moderating effect of anthropomorphism on algorithmic aversion. This suggests that anthropomorphizing algorithms could be a feasible approach to facilitate the integration of intelligent management systems. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Dynamics of parenting behaviors and 5-6-year-old children’s behavioral response during a conflict discussion task PAN Laike, ZHAI Shuyi, HE Jie Acta Psychologica Sinica    2024, 56 (10): 1340-1350.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2024.01340 Abstract （6474）   HTML （676）    PDF （531KB）（9451）       Knowledge map    Parent-child communication is pivotal in children’s education, with both parties actively engaging in discussion and influencing each other. These daily interactions are widely acknowledged as significant contributors to children's developmental outcomes. While existing research has focused on examining parental effects or bidirectional relations over time, our understanding of child-driven versus parent-driven effects in momentary interactions remains limited. Furthermore, considering that children aged 5 and 6 have gained increased autonomy and self-regulation abilities, it is imperative to examine the dynamic processes within parent-preschooler dyads. In the current study, we used dynamic structural equation modeling (DSEM) to explore the bidirectional associations between parenting behaviors and child behavioral responses during a conflict discussion task. Our aim is to determine whether the momentary interaction process is primarily driven by parents or by children themselves. The study included 113 Chinese parent-child dyads (59 boys, Mage = 5.81 years). During the laboratory visit, the parent-child dyads were video-recorded engaging in a conflict discussion. Specifically, they were prompted to discuss a negative episode with the potential to lead to conflict in their daily lives. Trained observers rated parental supportive behavior, non-supportive behavior, child positive behavior, and child negative behavior on 4-point scales in 15-second epochs. Also, observers coded the resolution of the conflict discussion as compromise, win-loss, or standoff. For data analysis, we employed DSEM with Bayesian statistics to assess changes in parental parenting behaviors and child behavioral responses in their momentary interactions during the discussion task. Further, we conducted regression analysis to examine the effects of parental and child behaviors on the resolution of the conflict discussion. The findings revealed that: (1) increases in children's negative behavioral responses in a given 15-second epoch predicted increases in parental non-supportive parenting behavior in the next epoch; (2) children's positive behavioral responses primarily predicted the resolution of the conflict discussion, with higher levels of positive behavior in children contributing to more constructive conflict resolution. The current study provides evidence for the child-driven effect in moment-to-moment parent-child communication, highlighting the active role of preschoolers in shaping parent-child interactions. Our findings underscore children as proactive agents in their own socialization process and offer valuable insights for parenting practices. Specifically, parents should be mindful of their own non-supportive parenting behaviors when responding to their children's negative reactions. To achieve constructive conflict resolution, it is crucial for parents to guide their children in developing positive strategies for behavioral regulation. Overall, our findings have practical implications for fostering effective parenting practices and nurturing healthy parent-child relationships. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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The associations between parent-child value conflict in filial piety and adolescent depressive symptoms GUO Xiaolin, ZHANG Yifan, GUAN Yuelin, LUO Liang Acta Psychologica Sinica    2025, 57 (1): 58-70.   DOI: 10.3724/SP.J.1041.2025.0058 Abstract （5806）   HTML （924）    PDF （2677KB）（9190）       Knowledge map    As one of the core values of Chinese culture, filial piety is an important value norm for maintaining parent‒child relationships and supporting family functioning, which has an important impact on the well-being of children. The value of filial piety may be conflictive between the parents and children in a family, and its psychological influences on children are unknown. Given that depression is a prominent and frequent emotional problem in adolescents and that family pressure stemming from the parent‒child relationship is a major risk factor for adolescent depression, this study aimed to explore the relationship between parent‒child value conflict in filial piety and adolescent depression. Given that adolescents tend to take their same-sex parents as role models, parent and child gender differences were also considered. Longitudinal data from 3321 adolescents (1692 boys, 1629 girls; average age = 10.87 ± 0.36 years) and their fathers and mothers were collected when the adolescents were in 5th and 7th grades. In the first wave, after providing informed consent, both the adolescents and their fathers and mothers reported their concept of filial piety. In the second wave, both adolescents and their fathers and mothers reported their levels of depression. Polynomial regression and response surface analysis were used to explore the relationship between parent‒child value conflict in filial piety and adolescent depression. SPSS 22.0, Mplus 7.1, and MATLAB 2022b were used to analyze the data. The results revealed that (1) when parents’ and adolescents’ filial piety were not conflictive, the levels of fathers’ and sons’ reciprocal filial piety and authoritarian filial piety, mothers’ and sons’ reciprocal filial piety and authoritarian filial piety, fathers’ and daughters’ reciprocal filial piety and authoritarian filial piety and mothers’ and daughters’ reciprocal filial piety and authoritarian filial piety did not significantly predict adolescents’ depression. (2) When parents’ and adolescents’ filial piety were conflictive, the direction of value conflict between fathers’ and sons’ reciprocal filial piety predicted the sons’ depression. The direction of value conflict between fathers’ and daughters’ reciprocal filial piety, fathers’ and daughters’ authoritarian filial piety, mothers’ and daughters’ reciprocal filial piety and mothers’ and daughters’ authoritarian filial piety predicted the daughters’ depression. Moreover, the degree of value conflict between fathers’ and sons’ authoritarian filial piety predicted sons’ depression. The degree of value conflict between fathers’ and daughters’ authoritarian filial piety, mothers’ and daughters’ reciprocal filial piety and mothers’ and daughters’ authoritarian filial piety predicted the daughters’ depression. The results indicate that when parents and children reach a consensus on filial piety, the type and level of filial piety are not related to adolescents’ depression, but the value conflict between fathers’ and sons’ filial piety and parents’ and daughters’ filial piety may induce adolescents’ depression. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics