Adolescent, parent, and provider perspectives on school-related influences of mental health in adolescents with suicide-related thoughts and behaviors

Cultural threads in writing mastery: a structural analysis of perfectionism, learning self-efficacy, and motivation as mediated by self-reflection in Chinese EFL learners

BACKGROUND

The study explores language acquisition in Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education, where English proficiency is crucial for global opportunities. As China gains prominence, the demand for English skills rises beyond communication to include academic and business success. The Chinese education system emphasizes proficient English writing for further education and professional achievement. This research investigates the complex linguistic context for EFL learners in China, analyzing the intersection of psychological factors, cultural nuances, varied pedagogy, and individual experiences.

METHODS

Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is utilized for analysis, enabling the creation of a metric set to explore intangibles such as perfectionism, learning self-efficacy, motivation, study habits, cultural influences, and introspection. The research utilizes a diverse sample from multiple universities across different regions of China, incorporating demographic factors to encompass the varied characteristics within the EFL learner community.

RESULTS

Results reveal that perfectionism (β = 0.30, p < 0.001), learning self-efficacy (β = 0.25, p = 0.005), motivation (β = 0.35, p < 0.001), study habits (β = 0.20, p = 0.01), and self-reflection (β = 0.28, p < 0.001) significantly predict writing proficiency. Cultural effects (Beta = 0.15, p = 0.05) show a statistically significant, albeit minimal, impact. Mediation-moderation analysis underscores perfectionism as a mediator (Beta = 0.25, p = 0.005), emphasizing its influence on other predictors. Cultural factors act as moderators (Beta = 0.15, p = 0.01), shaping the link between predictors and writing skills. The combined mediation and moderation effects on writing proficiency are positively significant (Beta = 0.20, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

This study makes a significant theoretical contribution, enhancing existing models and providing practical insights for EFL educators and policymakers. Emphasizing the intricate relationship between psychological factors and cultural dynamics underscores the necessity for a sophisticated, culturally sensitive approach to language acquisition in Chinese EFL instruction. Beyond language skills, the research recognizes the importance of fostering a conducive environment that encourages personal development, socio-cultural awareness, and a holistic learning approach.

Caregiver Experiences of Adolescent School Reentry After Adolescent Hospitalization Due to Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: Recommendations to Improve Reentry Practices

BACKGROUND

Suicide rates among adolescents increased over the past few decades. Following psychiatric hospitalization, many adolescents return to school, a context that can influence recovery. Families can play an integral role in supporting adolescents through the hospitalization and school reentry process; however, little research has focused on family experiences during adolescent school reentry. Grounded in ecological systems theory, the aim of the present study was to explore the experiences of caregivers whose children were hospitalized for suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) and provide recommendations for the school reentry process.

METHODS

In-depth interviews were conducted with caregivers (n = 19) whose adolescents returned to school following hospitalization for suicide-related crises. Researchers analyzed the transcribed interviews using applied thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Themes emerged regarding academic difficulties during hospitalization; breakdowns in communication between schools, families, and hospitals; logistical challenges during the school reentry planning process; and challenges navigating peer relationships and academics following school reentry.

IMPLICATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

Few reentry recommendations account for the specific challenges faced by families. Recommendations informed by caregiver experiences are needed to ensure that families can effectively support the recoveries of their children. This study presents caregiver-informed recommendations to facilitate an improved reentry process for caregivers and adolescents.