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Sun Y, Kinsella EL, Igou ER. On Cultural Differences of Heroes: Evidence From Individualistic and Collectivistic Cultures. Pers Soc Psychol Bull 2024; 50:841-856. [PMID: 36727610 PMCID: PMC11080389 DOI: 10.1177/01461672221150238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Building on earlier research that examined the characteristics people associate with heroes, our research examined similarities and differences of the hero stereotype across cultures. Specifically, in Study 1 (N = 209) and Study 2 (N = 298), we investigated lay perceptions of heroes among participants from a collectivistic culture. In Study 3 (N = 586), we examined whether group membership could be determined by participants' centrality ratings of the combined set of hero features. In Study 4 (N = 197), we tested whether the hero features that distinguish American and Chinese participants, when used to describe a target person, influence the impression that the target person is a hero. In Study 5 (N = 158) and Study 6 (N = 591), we investigated cultural differences in perceptions of different types of heroes (e.g., social, martial, civil) and the influence of individualism and collectivism on the perception of those heroes.
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McHugh C, McGann M, Igou ER, Kinsella EL. Cognitive Load Can Reduce Reason-Giving in a Moral Dumbfounding Task. Collabra: Psychology 2023. [DOI: 10.1525/collabra.73818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Moral dumbfounding occurs when people defend a moral judgment, without reasons in support of this judgment. The phenomenon has been influential in moral psychology, however, despite its influence, it remains poorly understood. Based on the notion that cognitive load enhances biases and shortcomings in human judgment when elaboration is beneficial, we hypothesized that under cognitive load, people would be less likely to provide reasons for a judgment and more likely to be dumbfounded (or to change their judgment). In a pre-registered study (N = 1686) we tested this prediction. Our findings suggest that cognitive load reduces reason-giving, and increases dumbfounding (but does not lead to changes in judgments). Our results provide new insights into the phenomenon of moral dumbfounding while also advancing theory in moral psychology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cillian McHugh
- Department of Psychology 1 ,
- University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland 1 ,
| | - Marek McGann
- Department of Psychology 2 ,
- Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, Ireland 2 ,
| | - Eric R. Igou
- Department of Psychology 1 ,
- University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland 1 ,
| | - Elaine L. Kinsella
- Department of Psychology 1 ,
- University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland 1 ,
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Kinsella EL, Muldoon OT, Lemon S, Stonebridge N, Hughes S, Sumner RC. In it together?: Exploring solidarity with frontline workers in the United Kingdom and Ireland during COVID-19. Br J Soc Psychol 2022; 62:241-263. [PMID: 36097335 PMCID: PMC9538398 DOI: 10.1111/bjso.12579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The phrase 'in it together' has been used liberally since the outbreak of COVID-19, but the extent that frontline workers felt 'in it together' is not well understood. Here, we consider the factors that built (or eroded) solidarity while working through the pandemic, and how frontline workers navigated their lives through periods of disconnection. Semi-structured interviews with 21 frontline workers, across all sectors, were conducted in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The qualitative data were analysed systematically using reflexive thematic analysis. The three themes identified in the data were: (1) Solidarity as central to frontline experiences; (2) Leadership as absent, shallow and divisive: highlighting 'us-them' distinctions and (3) The rise of 'us' and 'we' among colleagues. Our research offers insights into how frontline workers make sense of their experiences of solidarity and discordance during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, with relevance for government and organizational policy-makers shaping future conditions for frontline workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine L. Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues ResearchUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
| | - Orla T. Muldoon
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues ResearchUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
| | - Sarah Lemon
- Department of Psychological SciencesUniversity of GloucestershireCheltenhamUK
| | - Natasha Stonebridge
- Department of Psychological SciencesUniversity of GloucestershireCheltenhamUK
| | - Samantha Hughes
- Department of Psychological SciencesUniversity of GloucestershireCheltenhamUK
| | - Rachel C. Sumner
- Health and Human Performance Global AcademyCardiff Metropolitan UniversityCardiffUK
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4
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Sumner RC, Kinsella EL. Solidarity appraisal, meaning, and markers of welfare in frontline workers in the UK and Ireland during the Covid-19 pandemic. SSM Ment Health 2022; 2:100099. [PMID: 35463800 PMCID: PMC9017115 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmmh.2022.100099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, frontline workers have carried out essential roles to keep society going, while the public have been called to minimise the infection rate to limit the burden on frontline workers. In this sense, navigating Covid-19 has necessitated interdependence between frontline workers and key stakeholder groups (such as their colleagues, organisations, their government, and the public). Reports suggest that frontline workers have perceived varying degrees of solidarity with others throughout the pandemic, yet the influence of perceived solidarity on psychological welfare has received limited empirical or theoretical attention. The aim of the present study was to test the importance of perceived solidarity (or solidarity appraisal) by assessing the relationship between perceptions of solidarity and psychological welfare in frontline workers — across all sectors — during Covid-19, and explore the role of a potential mechanism (i.e., meaning in life) for explaining this relationship. To assess this proposed model, we used cross-sectional and longitudinal data from a project tracking a cohort of frontline workers in the UK and Ireland since March 2020. Participants were surveyed at baseline (T1), at six months (T2), and 12 months (T3). At T3, participants (N = 414) reported their perceived solidarity (with colleagues, organisations, government, and public) along with a range of psychological welfare measures. Overall, frontline workers’ levels of meaning in life dropped significantly over time. Lower levels of perceived solidarity were predictive of poorer wellbeing, and higher anxiety, burnout, post-traumatic stress symptoms, and somatic stress symptoms, and these relationships were mediated by the presence of meaning in life. These findings suggest that perceived solidarity with interdependent social groups may imbue life with meaning, which can in turn have a positive influence on psychological welfare in chronic and cumulatively stressful occupational settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C Sumner
- Health & Human Performance Global Academy, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cyncoed Road, Cardiff, CF23 6XD, UK
| | - Elaine L Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, RISE Lab, University of Limerick, Castletroy, Limerick, Ireland
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Kinsella EL, Sumner RC. High ideals: the misappropriation and reappropriation of the heroic label in the midst of a global pandemic. J Med Ethics 2022; 48:198-199. [PMID: 33593874 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2021-107236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to offer an alternative, more nuanced analysis of the labelling of frontline workers as heroes than originally proposed. Here, we argue that the hero narrative in itself need not be problematic, but highlight a number of wider factors that have led to the initial rise (and subsequent fall) in support for labelling frontline workers as heroes. Through our related work, we have gathered similar stories from frontline workers where they feel betrayed, let down or otherwise short-changed by the hero label, and we have sought to make sense of this through understanding more about how the hero label is used rather than what it means. In this article, we propose a way forward where there is greater discussion around the hero label in this context where individuals can be heroes but still struggle, still fail and still feel vulnerable, and where heroism is viewed as a state of interdependence between heroic actor and the wider group. It is true that heroes can inspire, lead, guide and build morale and camaraderie, but collective responsibility is held with us all. We can draw hope and energy from our heroes, but we must dig deep and be proactive, particularly in the face of adversity. In doing so, we support the heroes to lead from the front and ensure that even though we cannot physically help; we are not making their situation worse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine L Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, RISE Lab, Health Research Institute, Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Rachel C Sumner
- HERA Lab, School of Natural & Social Sciences, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, UK
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6
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O'Dea MK, Igou ER, van Tilburg WA, Kinsella EL. Self-compassion predicts less boredom: The role of meaning in life. Personality and Individual Differences 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2021.111360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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7
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Griffin SM, Kinsella EL, Bradshaw D, McMahon G, Nightingale A, Fortune DG, Muldoon OT. New group memberships formed after an acquired brain injury and posttraumatic growth: A prospective study. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2022; 32:2054-2076. [PMID: 35048777 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2021.2021950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Predicting positive psychosocial outcomes following an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) remains a challenge. Considerable research demonstrates that social group memberships can have positive effects on psychological well-being, particularly during life transitions. Social group memberships are argued to help people derive a sense of self. This prospective study examined if social group memberships (number of groups and connectedness with groups) could predict posttraumatic growth (PTG) in those affected by ABI. Thirty-six participants (10 females, Mage = 46.56, SD = 11.46) engaged in community rehabilitation services completed measures at two time-points. Mediation analyses demonstrated that the number of new group memberships (groups formed post-injury) predicted greater PTG at time 2, via stronger connectedness with these new group memberships (controlling for initial PTG). The observed results suggest that a focus on developing and strengthening connections with new group memberships may promote positive adjustment after brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhán M Griffin
- Centre for Social Issues Research, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Elaine L Kinsella
- Centre for Social Issues Research, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,RISE Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Daragh Bradshaw
- Centre for Social Issues Research, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Grace McMahon
- Centre for Social Issues Research, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Alastair Nightingale
- Centre for Social Issues Research, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Donal G Fortune
- Centre for Social Issues Research, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,HSE Mid-West Region, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Orla T Muldoon
- Centre for Social Issues Research, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Abstract
Observed variability and complexity of judgments of "right" and "wrong" cannot be readily accounted for within extant approaches to understanding moral judgment. In response to this challenge, we present a novel perspective on categorization in moral judgment. Moral judgment as categorization (MJAC) incorporates principles of category formation research while addressing key challenges of existing approaches to moral judgment. People develop skills in making context-relevant categorizations. They learn that various objects (events, behaviors, people, etc.) can be categorized as morally right or wrong. Repetition and rehearsal result in reliable, habitualized categorizations. According to this skill-formation account of moral categorization, the learning and the habitualization of the forming of moral categories occur within goal-directed activity that is sensitive to various contextual influences. By allowing for the complexity of moral judgments, MJAC offers greater explanatory power than existing approaches while also providing opportunities for a diverse range of new research questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cillian McHugh
- Department of Psychology, University of Limerick
- Social Psychology & Cognition Lab, University of Limerick (SOCOUL)
- Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick
| | - Marek McGann
- Department of Psychology, Mary Immaculate College
| | - Eric R. Igou
- Department of Psychology, University of Limerick
- Social Psychology & Cognition Lab, University of Limerick (SOCOUL)
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick
| | - Elaine L. Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, University of Limerick
- Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick
- Research on Influence, Social Networks, & Ethics (RISE) Lab
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Muldoon OT, Bradshaw D, Jay S, Kinsella EL, Maher P, Murphy R, Taaffe C, O'Donnell P. Vaccination roll-out: a time to develop and maintain trust in science and health care. Br J Gen Pract 2021; 71:518-519. [PMID: 34711570 PMCID: PMC8544138 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp21x717629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Orla T Muldoon
- Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick
| | - Daragh Bradshaw
- Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick
| | - Sarah Jay
- Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick
| | | | - Paul Maher
- Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick
| | - Robert Murphy
- Research Services and Policy Unit, Department of Health, Dublin
| | - Carol Taaffe
- Research Services and Policy Unit, Department of Health, Dublin
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Kinsella EL, Hughes S, Lemon S, Stonebridge N, Sumner RC. "We shouldn't waste a good crisis": the lived experience of working on the frontline through the first surge (and beyond) of COVID-19 in the UK and Ireland. Psychol Health 2021; 37:151-177. [PMID: 34187244 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2021.1928668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Frontline workers have shown extraordinary resilience and sustained efforts since the outbreak of COVID-19. The present study used semi-structured interviews with 38 frontline workers in the UK and Ireland to explore the psychological impact of working through COVID-19. DESIGN The qualitative data were analysed systematically using thematic analysis. RESULTS Four themes were interpreted: 1)) "I've stopped turning the telly on. I've had to because the news was making me ill": An ecosystem of influence; 2) "Dead, dead, dead": The emotional and psychological toll: 3) "It's shone a light on what we're failing on as well": Injustices, hierarchies and heroes: and 4) "I definitely think COVID happened for a reason to stop us in our tracks and to slow us down": Unexpected positives. CONCLUSION This research offers insights into how frontline workers make sense of their experiences during periods of enormous societal and occupational stress. The learnings generated have relevance for government and organisational policy-makers who have opportunities to shape future conditions for frontline workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine L Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, RISE (Research on Influence, Social networks & Ethics) lab, and Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Samantha Hughes
- Department of Psychological Sciences, HERA Lab, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Lemon
- Department of Psychological Sciences, HERA Lab, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, United Kingdom
| | - Natasha Stonebridge
- Department of Psychological Sciences, HERA Lab, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel C Sumner
- Department of Psychological Sciences, HERA Lab, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, United Kingdom
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Sumner RC, Kinsella EL. "It's Like a Kick in the Teeth": The Emergence of Novel Predictors of Burnout in Frontline Workers During Covid-19. Front Psychol 2021; 12:645504. [PMID: 34113288 PMCID: PMC8185026 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.645504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The context of Covid-19 has offered an unusual cultural landscape for examining how workers view their own position relative to others, and how individuals respond to prolonged exposure to workplace stress across different sectors and cultures. Through our recent work tracking the well-being of frontline workers in the UK and Ireland (the CV19 Heroes project), we have uncovered additional psychological factors that have not been accounted for in previous models of occupational stress or burnout. In recent months, frontline workers have worked to protect the community from the threat of SARS-CoV-2 and, simultaneously, have evaluated their perceptions of collective efforts of others as either congruent or incongruent with collective goals (e.g., lowered mortality and morbidity): we call this novel aspect solidarity appraisal. These frontline workers have been hailed as heroes, which we argue has led to the creation of an implicit psychological contract (the hero contract) between frontline workers and the public. Here, the heroes are willing to "go above and beyond" for the greater good, with the expectation that we (the public) do our part by adhering to public health guidelines. Where frontline workers perceive incongruence between the words and actions of others in working toward collective goals this drives negative affect and subsequent burnout. In this perspective article, we evaluate the cultural context of the pandemic in the UK and Ireland and suggest important socio-cultural factors that contribute to perceptions of solidarity, and how this may relate to burnout and worker welfare during and beyond the pandemic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C. Sumner
- Health, Environmental Responsibility & Action (HERA) Lab, School of Natural & Social Sciences, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine L. Kinsella
- Research on Influence, Social Networks, & Ethics (RISE) Lab, Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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12
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Sumner RC, Kinsella EL. Grace Under Pressure: Resilience, Burnout, and Wellbeing in Frontline Workers in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Front Psychol 2021; 11:576229. [PMID: 33584412 PMCID: PMC7874970 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.576229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic has necessitated extraordinary human resilience in order to preserve and prolong life and social order. Risks to health and even life are being confronted by workers in health and social care, as well as those in roles previously never defined as "frontline," such as individuals working in community supply chain sectors. The strategy adopted by the United Kingdom (UK) government in facing the challenges of the pandemic was markedly different from other countries. The present study set out to examine what variables were associated with resilience, burnout, and wellbeing in all sectors of frontline workers, and whether or not these differed between the UK and Republic of Ireland (RoI). Individuals were eligible if they were a frontline worker (in health and social care, community supply chain, or other emergency services) in the UK or RoI during the pandemic. Part of a larger, longitudinal study, the participants completed an online survey to assess various aspects of their daily and working lives, along with their attitudes toward their government's handling of the crisis, and measurement of psychological variables associated with heroism (altruism, meaning in life, and resilient coping). A total of 1,305 participants (N = 869, 66.6% from the UK) provided sufficient data for analysis. UK-based workers reported lower wellbeing than the RoI-based participants. In multivariate models, both psychological and pandemic-related variables were associated with levels of resilience, burnout, and wellbeing in these workers, but which pandemic-related variables were associated with outcomes differed depending on the country. The judgment of lower timeliness in their government's response to the pandemic appeared to be a key driver of each outcome for the UK-based frontline workers. These findings provide initial evidence that the different strategies adopted by each country may be associated with the overall wellbeing of frontline workers, with higher detriment observed in the UK. The judgment of the relatively slow response of the UK government to instigate their pandemic measures appears to be associated with lower resilience, higher burnout, and lower wellbeing in frontline workers in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C Sumner
- HERA Lab, School of Natural & Social Sciences, University of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine L Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, RISE Lab, Health Research Institute, Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Ulqinaku A, Sarial‐Abi G, Kinsella EL. Benefits of heroes to coping with mortality threats by providing perceptions of personal power and reducing unhealthy compensatory consumption. Psychol Mark 2020; 37:1433-1445. [PMID: 32836727 PMCID: PMC7405095 DOI: 10.1002/mar.21391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Mortality threats are among the strongest psychological threats that an individual can encounter. Previous research shows that mortality threats lead people to engage in unhealthy compensatory consumption (i.e., overeating), as a maladaptive coping response to threat. In this paper, we propose that reminders of heroes when experiencing mortality threat increases perceptions of personal power, which in turn buffers the need to engage in unhealthy compensatory consumption. We test and find support for our predictions in a series of four studies that include real-world Twitter data after a series of terrorist attacks in 2016-2017, and three experimental studies conducted online and in the field with behavioral measures after Day of the Dead and during COVID-19 pandemic. These findings advance the literature on compensatory consumption, mortality threats, and the psychological functions of heroes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aulona Ulqinaku
- Marketing DepartmentLeeds University Business School, University of LeedsLeedsUK
| | - Gülen Sarial‐Abi
- Marketing DepartmentCopenhagen Business SchoolFrederiksbergDenmark
| | - Elaine L. Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues ResearchUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
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Ulqinaku A, Sarial-Abi G, Kinsella EL, Igou ER. The breaking bad effect: Priming with an antihero increases sensation seeking. Br J Soc Psychol 2020; 60:294-315. [PMID: 32144806 DOI: 10.1111/bjso.12374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Antiheroes are characters that share features with both heroes and villains, typified as selfish and rule breakers, but who end up doing something good for society. In this research, we examined how priming people with antiheroes (vs. heroes) affected their sensation seeking. We reason that antiheroes (vs. heroes) are more associated with temporally close (vs. past and future) events. Given that sensation seeking is related to being focused on the present (vs. past or future), we hypothesized that if people are primed with antiheroes (vs. heroes) they are more likely to seek sensation. Findings from a series of five experimental studies provide insights into the effect of priming with an antihero on people's sensation seeking, providing directions for future research in psychology and practical applications in the areas of marketing strategy and consumer behaviour.
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McHugh C, McGann M, Igou ER, Kinsella EL. Reasons or rationalizations: The role of principles in the moral dumbfounding paradigm. J Behav Dec Making 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/bdm.2167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cillian McHugh
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Limerick Limerick Ireland
| | - Marek McGann
- Department of Psychology, Mary Immaculate CollegeUniversity of Limerick Limerick Ireland
| | - Eric R. Igou
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Limerick Limerick Ireland
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Beadleston LN, O’Donnell AT, McMahon J, McMahon G, Kinsella EL, Kearns M, Jay S, Muldoon OT. Working hard and playing hard: multiple group membership, exercise and cognitive performance in boys and girls. Soc Psychol Educ 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11218-019-09483-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Muldoon OT, Walsh RS, Curtain M, Crawley L, Kinsella EL. Social cure and social curse: Social identity resources and adjustment to acquired brain injury. Eur J Soc Psychol 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ejsp.2564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Igou ER, van Tilburg WAP, Kinsella EL, Buckley LK. On the Existential Road From Regret to Heroism: Searching for Meaning in Life. Front Psychol 2018; 9:2375. [PMID: 30559695 PMCID: PMC6286989 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether regret predicted the motivation to act heroically. In a series of studies, we examined the relationship between regret, search for meaning in life, and heroism motivation. First, Study 1 (a and b) investigated the association between regret and search for meaning in life, considering regret as a whole, action regret, and inaction regret. As expected, regret correlated positively with search for meaning in life. In two additional studies (Study 2 and 3), we examined whether regret predicted heroism motivation and whether this effect was mediated through search for meaning in life. Study 2 confirmed this hypothesis for individual differences in regret, using a correlational design. Study 3 confirmed the hypothesis for temporary experiences of regret, using an experimental design. In addition, in Study 3 we found that heroism motivation was stronger for people with high self-enhancement needs than for those with lower self-enhancement needs. We discuss the relationship between regret and heroism in light of these results and explore their implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R. Igou
- Advancing Social Cognition Lab, Department of Psychology, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Elaine L. Kinsella
- RISE Lab, Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research Institute, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Laura K. Buckley
- Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Kinsella EL, Muldoon OT, Fortune DG, Haslam C. Collective influences on individual functioning: Multiple group memberships, self-regulation, and depression after acquired brain injury. Neuropsychol Rehabil 2018; 30:1059-1073. [PMID: 30457441 DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2018.1546194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of research demonstrates the role that social groups play in protecting health and well-being in the context of adjusting to acquired brain injury (ABI). However, the psychological processes that underpin this relationship are less well understood. The present research extends this work by testing a theoretically derived model about the role of multiple social group belonging in contributing to improved self-regulation and depression symptoms. A cross sectional survey was conducted involving 50 adults with ABI (Mage = 45 years, SD = 12.10; range 22-67 years) who completed a series of self-report measures indexing social group membership, self-regulation, and depression. Support for the predicted model was found with mediation analysis showing that multiple group belonging predicted lowered depression symptoms, by providing a basis for enhancing self-regulation. The findings suggest that belonging to multiple groups provides individuals with multiple opportunities for social interaction with which to trial and develop self-regulatory skills, which, in turn, has a positive influence on depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine L Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, Health Research Institute and Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Orla T Muldoon
- Department of Psychology, Health Research Institute and Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Dónal G Fortune
- Department of Psychology, Health Research Institute and Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,Health Service Executive Mid-West Region, Ireland
| | - Catherine Haslam
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Msetfi R, Jay S, O'Donnell AT, Kearns M, Kinsella EL, McMahon J, Muldoon OT, Naughton C, Creaven AM. Restricted reproductive rights and risky sexual behaviour: How political disenfranchisement relates to women's sense of control, well-being and sexual health. J Health Psychol 2017; 23:252-262. [PMID: 29076402 DOI: 10.1177/1359105317736784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Few studies have investigated the role of disenfranchisement and denial of agency in women's sexual health. To address this, a cross-sectional study of disenfranchisement, control (general and reproductive control) and health was conducted in Ireland, where abortion is severely restricted. Multiple mediation models ( N = 513 women) indicated that general but not reproductive control mediates the association between disenfranchisement and psychological well-being. Additionally, serial mediation shows disenfranchisement is associated with lower sense of control, which is linked to poorer well-being and risky sexual behaviour. Disenfranchisement arising from socio-political contexts may have important implications for women's sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Msetfi
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,3 Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Sarah Jay
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Aisling T O'Donnell
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Michelle Kearns
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Elaine L Kinsella
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Jennifer McMahon
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,3 Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,4 School of Education, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Orla T Muldoon
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Catherine Naughton
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,5 School of Law, Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Science, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Ann-Marie Creaven
- 1 Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,2 Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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McHugh C, McGann M, Igou ER, Kinsella EL. Searching for Moral Dumbfounding: Identifying Measurable Indicators of Moral Dumbfounding. Collabra: Psychology 2017. [DOI: 10.1525/collabra.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Moral dumbfounding is defined as maintaining a moral judgement, without supporting reasons. The most cited demonstration of dumbfounding does not identify a specific measure of dumbfounding and has not been published in peer-review form, or directly replicated. Despite limited empirical examination, dumbfounding has been widely discussed in moral psychology. The present research examines the reliability with which dumbfounding can be elicited, and aims to identify measureable indicators of dumbfounding. Study 1 aimed at establishing the effect that is reported in the literature. Participants read four scenarios and judged the actions described. An Interviewer challenged participants’ stated reasons for judgements. Dumbfounding was evoked, as measured by two indicators, admissions of not having reasons (17%), unsupported declarations (9%) with differences between scenarios. Study 2 measured dumbfounding as the selecting of an unsupported declaration as part of a computerised task. We observed high rates of dumbfounding across all scenarios. Studies 3a (college sample) and 3b (MTurk sample), addressing limitations in Study 2, replaced the unsupported declaration with an admission of having no reason, and included open-ended responses that were coded for unsupported declarations. As predicted, lower rates of dumbfounding were observed (3a 20%; 3b 16%; or 3a 32%; 3b 24% including unsupported declarations in open-ended responses). Two measures provided evidence for dumbfounding across three studies; rates varied with task type (interview/computer task), and with the particular measure being employed (admissions of not having reasons/unsupported declarations). Possible cognitive processes underlying dumbfounding and limitations of methodologies used are discussed as a means to account for this variability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marek McGann
- Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick, IE
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Coughlan G, Igou ER, van Tilburg WAP, Kinsella EL, Ritchie TD. On Boredom and Perceptions of Heroes: A Meaning-Regulation Approach to Heroism. Journal of Humanistic Psychology 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/0022167817705281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Franco ZE, Allison ST, Kinsella EL, Kohen A, Langdon M, Zimbardo PG. Heroism Research: A Review of Theories, Methods, Challenges, and Trends. Journal of Humanistic Psychology 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/0022167816681232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heroism as an expression of self-actualization and a pinnacle social state is of fundamental interest to humanistic psychology and the field more broadly. This review places the growing discussion on heroic action in a humanistic perspective, as heroism aligns with ethical self-actualization in its highest form, personal meaning making, and social good, and can also involve profound existential costs. This review is organized in four major sections: First, the historical and philosophical underpinnings of heroism are examined, moving from ancient Greco-Roman perspectives, to more modern interpretations of Continental philosophy, and to Freud and Le Bon. Second, the article summarizes in detail a renaissance of interest in the psychology of heroism that began in the early 2000s, moving from a modern re-theorizing of heroism toward empirical exploration. This renewal of interest is described as six overlapping phases: theory building and exploration of operational definitions of heroism, taxonometric approaches to heroic figures, implicit theories of heroism, social ascription of heroic status, social influence of heroes, and internal motivations for heroic action. Third, key methodological challenges in studying heroism are discussed. Finally, the renewed interest in heroism is considered as a social movement involving not just researchers but also the broader public.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ari Kohen
- University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
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Fortune DG, Kinsella EL, Muldoon OM. Editorial: Better Together: A Joined-Up Psychological Approach to Health, Well-Being, and Rehabilitation. Front Psychol 2016; 7:974. [PMID: 27445934 PMCID: PMC4923156 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2016.00974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaine L Kinsella
- Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, Mary Immaculate College, University of Limerick Limerick, Ireland
| | - Orla M Muldoon
- Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick Limerick, Ireland
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Grace JJ, Kinsella EL, Muldoon OT, Fortune DG. Post-traumatic growth following acquired brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychol 2015; 6:1162. [PMID: 26321983 PMCID: PMC4536376 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The idea that acquired brain injury (ABI) caused by stroke, hemorrhage, infection or traumatic insult to the brain can result in post-traumatic growth (PTG) for individuals is increasingly attracting psychological attention. However, PTG also attracts controversy as a result of ambiguous empirical findings. The extent that demographic variables, injury factors, subjective beliefs, and psychological health are associated with PTG following ABI is not clear. Consequently, this systematic review and meta-analysis explores the correlates of variables within these four broad areas and PTG. From a total of 744 published studies addressing PTG in people with ABI, eight studies met inclusion criteria for detailed examination. Meta-analysis of these studies indicated that growth was related to employment, longer education, subjective beliefs about change post-injury, relationship status, older age, longer time since injury, and lower levels of depression. Results from homogeneity analyses indicated significant inter-study heterogeneity across variables. There is general support for the idea that people with ABI can experience growth, and that various demographics, injury-related variables, subjective beliefs and psychological health are related to growth. The contribution of social integration and the forming of new identities post-ABI to the experience of PTG is explored. These meta-analytic findings are however constrained by methodological limitations prevalent in the literature. Clinical and research implications are discussed with specific reference to community and collective factors that enable PTG.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaine L Kinsella
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick Limerick, Ireland
| | - Orla T Muldoon
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick Limerick, Ireland
| | - Dónal G Fortune
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick Limerick, Ireland
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Abstract
Declaring and thinking about heroes are common human preoccupations but surprisingly aspects of heroism that reinforce these behaviors are not well-understood. In four thematically consistent studies, we attempt to identify lay perspectives about the psychological functions served by heroes. In Study 1, participants (n = 189) freely generated open-ended descriptions of hero functions, which were then sorted by independent coders into 14 categories (e.g., instill hope, guide others). In Study 2, in an attempt to identify the most important functions associated with heroes, participants (n = 249) rated how each function corresponded with their personal views about heroes. Results from a confirmatory factor analysis suggested that a three-factor model of hero functions fit the data well: participants thought that heroes enhanced the lives of others, promoted morals, and protected individuals from threats. In Study 3 (n = 242), participants rated heroes as more likely to fulfill a protecting function than either leaders or role models. In Studies 4A (n = 38) and 4B (n = 102), participants indicated that thinking about a hero (relative to a leader or an acquaintance) during psychological threat fulfilled personal enhancement, moral modeling, and protection needs. In all, these findings provide an empirical basis to spur additional research about the social and psychological functions that heroes offer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine L Kinsella
- Department of Psychology and Centre for Social Issues Research, University of Limerick, Limerick Ireland
| | | | - Eric R Igou
- Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick Ireland
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