Book of Abstracts

Transcription

Book of Abstracts

Book of Abstracts
SSP SGP Congress 2015
Dieses Dokument wurde maschinell generiert.
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Page 1 of 323
Keynote:
“Social Hormones” in the Human Brain: from
social approach to new therapies
Keynote: “Social Hormones” in the Human Brain: from social approach to new therapies
Submitted by:
Prof. Dr. Markus Heinrichs
Authors
Abstract
There is substantial evidence from animal research indicating a key role of the neurohormone
oxytocin (OT) in the regulation of complex social cognition and behavior. Recent studies have
investigated the effects of OT on human social interaction, the genetic mechanisms of
inter-individual variation in social neuropeptide signaling, and actions in the human brain as
revealed by neuroimaging. These data have advanced our understanding of the mechanisms by
which this hormone contributes to human social behavior. OT is emerging as a target for novel
treatment approaches — particularly in synergistic combination with behavior therapy — for
mental disorders characterized by social dysfunction, such as autism. This talk focuses on our
recent knowledge we have gained of the behavioral, social, endocrine, genetic, and neural
effects of OT in humans and provides a synthesis of recent advances in the effort to implicate the
oxytocinergic system in the personalized treatment of psychopathological states. Selected
References Chen, F. S., Kumsta, R., von Dawans, B., Monakhov, M., Ebstein, R. P. Heinrichs,
M. (2011). Common oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) polymorphism and social support interact to
reduce stress in humans. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States
of America (PNAS), 108, 19937-19942. Donaldson, Z. R. Young, L. J. (2008). Oxytocin,
vasopressin, and the neurogenetics of sociality. Science, 322, 900-904. Heinrichs, M., Chen, F.
S. Domes, G. (2013). Social neuropeptides in the human brain: oxytocin and social behavior. In
S. Baron-Cohen, H. Tager-Flusberg M. Lombardo (Eds.), Understanding other minds (3rd ed.)
(pp. 291-307). Oxford: Oxford University Press. Heinrichs, M., Chen, F. S., Domes, G. Kumsta,
R. (2013). Social stress and social approach. In J. Armony P. Vuilleumier (Eds.), The Cambridge
Handbook of Human Affective Neuroscience (pp. 509-532). Cambridge: Cambridge University
Press. Heinrichs, M., von Dawans, B. Domes, G. (2009). Oxytocin, vasopressin, and human
social behavior. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 30, 548-557. Kumsta, R. Heinrichs, M. (2013).
Oxytocin, stress and social behavior: neurogenetics of the human oxytocin system. Current
Opinion in Neurobiology, 23, 11-16. Meyer-Lindenberg, A., Domes, G., Kirsch, P. Heinrichs, M.
(2011). Oxytocin and vasopressin in the human brain: social neuropeptides for translational
medicine. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12, 524-538.
Page 2 of 323
Keynote:
Making Learning Stick: Evidence-Based
Techniques to Improve Instruction and Student
Learning
Keynote: Making Learning Stick: Evidence-Based Techniques to Improve Instruction and
Student Learning
Submitted by:
Phd Mark McDaniel
Authors
Abstract
Many students report that their typical study activities (such as underlining and rereading text and
lecture notes) involve recycling of information while they are trying to learn. However, research in
cognitive psychology shows that these activities do little to improve long-term learning and that
other techniques work much better. Repeated studying (cramming) and other common study
techniques can work well in the short term, on an immediate test, but the learning is fleeting and
the material will soon be forgotten. The types of learning strategies that are effective involve
active processing: Elaborating target material; spacing study of material rather than massing
(back to back) repetition; mixing up topics during study; and practicing retrieval from memory. I
will illustrate these principles and their utility in authentic contexts (e.g., classrooms) with results
from applied research. These strategies do involve effort, but they can usually be readily
incorporated into classroom practice and into students’ study habits.
Page 3 of 323
Symposium: Difficult tasks made easy: The
influence of motivation and cognitive strategies
on performance
Maintaining goal-directed action in the face of an ever-changing environment is a challenge. This
symposium sheds light on the questions of how different motivational states and cognitive
strategies influence performance on challenging cognitive tasks. Five talks will illuminate different
aspects of successful (or unsuccessful) cognitive performance using a variety of methodological
approaches, including electroencephalography, cardiovascular measures, and behavioral
assessments. Schmid et al. will present research demonstrating how feeling powerful affects the
neurocognitive mechanisms of successful response control. Grubert et al. will provide evidence
that focusing on a single goal rather than on multiple goals facilitates performance on cognitive
tasks. Freydefont et al.’s research suggests that implementation intentions lead to enhanced
performance on a cognitive task and that this effect occurs automatically rather than through
increased effort mobilization. Crouzevialle et al. will show that ironically, high-achievers choke
under pressure and perform poorly when they are highly motivated but uncertain to excel at the
task. Finally, Hogrefe et al. will propose a new core function training that enhances cognitive
performance. By bringing research from the fields of motivation, social psychology, and cognitive
psychology together, this symposium will enhance our understanding of the situational factors
that affect performance.
Page 4 of 323
Core function training: optimizing the n-back
working memory task
Symposium: Difficult tasks made easy: The influence of motivation and cognitive strategies on
performance
Submitted by:
Msc Antonia Hogrefe
Authors
Hogrefe, Antonia, University of Bern, Department of Psychology
Kodzabashev, Stefan, University of Bern, Department of Psychology
Perrig, Walter, University of Bern, Department of Psychology
Abstract
For various cognitive functions reaction time variability is a known indicator of performance level.
Moreover, there seems to be a beneficial effect of small reaction time variability on the transfer of
working memory training: The more consistent the reaction time during an n-back working
memory training, the higher the transfer of the training on different cognitive tasks. In an attempt
to optimize the widely used n-back working memory training we relied on this consistency effect
by adding a direct reaction time feedback to the n-back task and enforcing a constant reaction
time performance from the trainees in the training task itself. Training with this consistency-task,
compared to a n-back training without this feedback-related response constraints, led to higher
improvement in non trained working memory tasks and reduced reaction-time variability in other
tasks. We conclude that this approach is a promising way to improve concentration and to
strengthen the functioning of working memory.
Page 5 of 323
Striving for Excellence Sometimes Hinders High
Achievers: Performance-Approach Goals Hamper
Arithmetical Performance in Students with High
Working Memory Capacity
performance
Submitted by:
Ph.D Marie Crouzevialle
Authors
Crouzevialle, Marie, University of Lausanne, Laboratory of Social Psychology, Lausanne
Smeding, Annique, University of Savoie, Department of Psychology, Chambery
Butera, Fabrizio, University of Lausanne, Laboratory of Social Psychology, Lausanne
Abstract
Recent research has identified the pursuit of performance-approach goals—i.e., the goal to attain
normative superiority over others—as triggering distractive concerns associated with the
evaluative situation and its consequences, which impairs cognitive performance (Crouzevialle
Butera, 2013). We tested whether such interfering thoughts could be amplified for high-working
memory capacity students — that is, those who are used to be high achievers — since the
pursuit of performance-approach goals should represent a high-stake opportunity for them to
reaffirm their positive status. Results revealed that under performance-approach goal pursuit, the
higher the students’ working memory capacity, the lower their performance at a complex
arithmetic task. Crucially, this pattern proved to be driven by uncertainty regarding chances to
outclass others and excel at the task; an accessibility measure confirmed the role played by
status-related concerns. We discuss why high-stake situations can paradoxically endanger
high-achievers’ performance when high-order cognitive performance is at play.
Page 6 of 323
Implementation intentions and effort-related
cardiac activity in task performance context
performance
Submitted by:
Ph.D Laure Freydefont
Authors
Freydefont, Laure, New York University
Gollwitzer, Peter, New York University
Oettingen, Gabriele, New York University
Abstract
Although implementation intentions are known to facilitate goal attainment, the link between
implementation intentions and effort mobilization is still uninvestigated. According to the
motivational intensity theory (Brehm Self, 1989), effort is mobilized proportionally to subjectively
experienced task demand as long as success is possible and justified. The present work
investigates the influence of implementation intentions on effort-related cardiac activity during
task performance. According to the psychophysiological literature (Obrist, 1981; Kelsey, 2012;
Wright, 1996), we quantified effort intensity as performance-related changes in cardiac
contractility force in terms of cardiac pre-ejection period (PEP). Results from a first study showed
significantly weaker performance-related cardiac PEP responses by participants in the
implementation intention condition compared to participants in the goal intention and control
conditions. These findings suggest that the heightened task performance caused by
implementation intentions is automatic as it leads to less effort expenditure in task performance
context (indicated by lowered PEP).
Page 7 of 323
Efficiency differences in single and
multiple-colour visual search
performance
Submitted by:
Phd Anna Grubert
Authors
Grubert, Anna, Birkbeck College, University of London, Department of Psychological Sciences,
London
Eimer, Martin, Birkbeck College, University of London, Department of Psychological Sciences,
London
Abstract
Attentional selection of currently relevant visual events is endogenously guided by the featural
representations of a looked-for object. These representations are referred to as attentional
templates and are thought to reside in visual working memory. To find out whether attentional
target selection is effectively guided by a multiple-colour template, we measured behavioural and
ERP (event-related potential) markers of attentional target selection in a visual search
experiment in which participants had to identify colour-defined target digits. Target selection was
less efficient when search was guided by a multiple-colour relative to a single-colour template, as
was reflected in slower response times and delayed target N2pc components. Furthermore,
non-target items captured attention and gained access to working memory when participants
searched for two relative to one colours. From these results we conclude that there are
qualitative differences in the top-down guidance of attentional target selection between
single-feature and multiple-feature visual search.
Page 8 of 323
Power increases cognitive control by enhancing
the conflict-action link
performance
Submitted by:
Phd Petra Schmid
Authors
Schmid, Petra, New York University, Department of Psychology, USA
Kleiman, Tali, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Department of Psychology, Israel
Amodio, David, New York University, Department of Psychology, USA
Abstract
Power is known to facilitate goal pursuit and action. However, the psychological process through
which this occurs is subject to a theoretical debate; some models suggest that power influences
automatic processing, whereas others propose that it affects controlled processing. We
demonstrated in two studies that power enhanced performance in a classic response conflict
task by increasing controlled but not affecting automatic processing. According to the cognitive
neuroscience literature, cognitive control involves at least two components: conflict processing
(i.e., conflict detection and monitoring) and response implementation. Using event-related
potentials (ERP) methods, we showed that power did not significantly affect the neural
processing of conflict (as indexed by the response-locked N2 ERP component), however, power
strengthened the link between conflict processing and goal-directed behavior. This research
contributes to a theoretical debate concerning power effects on social cognition. Moreover, it
clarifies where, in the cognitive control pathway, power makes a difference.
Page 9 of 323
Symposium: Perception
Perception is our window to the world. The sensory systems transform environmental energy into
the firing of neurons that give rise to our subjective experience of the world. A dominant theme in
research on perception is neural specialization. There are neurons that respond to the rotation of
the body, others respond to briefly flashed stimuli, and yet others to particular shapes. While our
perceptual experience is unitary, researchers have addressed the multiple perceptual
subsystems individually and according to their particular functions. In this symposium, five chairs
from Switzerland present research illustrating the multiple approaches to perception. On the one
hand, we span multiple sensory systems from the vestibular senses to visual perception. On the
other hand, the symposium will be a showcase of the different functions of perception. We need
perception to search for objects of interest, to perceive highly-relevant stimuli (such as faces), to
differentiate between stimuli that are close together and move rapidly, or to know by how much
our body moved. All these functions are subject to change by perceptual learning. Depending on
the environmental demands, perceptual functions may become more efficient. For instance,
video gaming or extensive training of simple perceptual tasks may improve performance. The
talks in this symposium will present exemplary research projects from the five labs.
Page 10 of 323
Spatial Perspective Taking and Vestibular
Cognition
Submitted by:
Phd Fred Mast
Authors
Fred, Mast, University of Bern, Department of Psychology, Bern
Andrew, Ellis, University of Bern, Department of Psychology, Bern
Abstract
An increasing body of evidence demonstrates that vestibular information is involved in higher
cognitive tasks, in addition to being crucially involved in known functions, such as the control of
body posture, perception of self-motion and the vestibulo-ocular reflex. I will present several
psychophysical experiments on spatial perspective transformation in which we provide evidence
for the involvement of vestibular sensory information. The experiments were carried out on a
motion platform, in microgravity or with the aid of caloric vestibular stimulation, and we tested
healthy persons or patients. I will also outline ongoing development of a computational approach
to vestibular cognition. The output of this research has the potential to inform development in
diverse fields, such as sensory prosthetics, training of cognitive functions and the development of
"empathic" robots.
Page 11 of 323
Cultural Diversity in Eye Movements is shaped by
Nurture not Nature
Submitted by:
Phd Roberto Caldara
Authors
Caldara, Roberto, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg
Richoz, Anne-Raphaëlle, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg
Liu, Yingdi, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg
Lao, Junpeng, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg
Abstract
Humans adapt to their environment through a unique amalgamation of culture and biology.
Historically, it has long been presumed that across cultures, all humans perceive and sample the
world in a comparable manner. Recently, however, this notion has been disputed by evidence
showing fundamental perceptual differences between people from Eastern and Western cultures,
for low- (reflexive saccades) and high-level (faces) visual information sampling strategies. Yet,
whether these well-established cultural differences are related to nature or nurture remains
unaddressed. We recorded the eye movements of culturally Westerners South Korean adoptees
while they performed an old/new face recognition task and visually guided saccades. A Bayesian
model assessed that the South Korean adoptees perfectly fitted with the Western oculomotor
behavior for face recognition, and express reflexive saccades. Altogether, our data show that
nurture and not nature is responsible for cultural variations in eye movements. Culture finely
tunes the visual system.
Page 12 of 323
Using action video games to probe the plasticity
of perceptual functions
Submitted by:
Phd Daphne Bavelier
Authors
Bavelier, Daphne, UNIGE
Abstract
Perceptual functions are typically resolution- or capacity-limited, with many of these limits initially
understood as fixed, and partly constraining other aspects of cognition. Yet, we have recently
shown that the very act of playing action video games enhances such resolution and capacity
limits. We have identified a common mechanism at the source of this range of perceptual
improvements. In particular, we will show that action video game play results in greater
attentional control allowing action video game players to better focus on task relevant information
and more efficiently ignore sources of noise or distraction. As a result, action gaming appears to
promote an enhanced ability to learn new perceptual templates, a form or “learning to learn”.
Applications of this work to education and rehabilitation will be discussed.
Page 13 of 323
Limits on dimensional attention : Larger
distraction with random variations on an
irrelevant dimension
Submitted by:
Dr. Dirk Kerzel
Authors
Kerzel, Dirk, 40 Boulevard du Pont d'Arve, 1205 Genève
Abstract
Previous research has established that attentional capture by irrelevant color singletons occurs
when observers search for unique shapes (singleton detection), but not when they look for a
specific shape (feature search). In the current study, we replicated this finding and additionally,
we introduced a random variation of color. Instead of always presenting the same context color
(green), it changed randomly between red and green. With random color variation, attentional
capture was stronger and in particular, it also occurred in feature search mode, suggesting that
observers were unable to focus on the relevant dimension (shape) even under the most
favorable conditions. We think that observers are able to search efficiently for only a single
perceptual template (e.g., a green circle). The distraction occurring with two templates (e.g., a
green circle and red circle) shows that observers default to singleton detection when cognitive
load is too high.
Page 14 of 323
A fresh look on visual perception (far beyond
textbook models of vision)
Submitted by:
Prof. Michael Herzog
Authors
Herzog, Michael , EPFL, Brain Mind Institute, Laboratory of Psychophysics, Lausanne
Abstract
In classical models of vision, vision proceeds in a hierarchical fashion, from low-level analysis
(edges and lines) to figural processing (shapes and objects). Low-level processing determines
high-level processing. Here, we show that, to the contrary, shape processing determines basic
visual processing. For example, we presented a vernier stimulus and asked observers to indicate
its offset direction. Performance strongly deteriorated when the vernier was surrounded by a
square, in line with most models of vision. Surprisingly, performance improved when more
squares were added. This improvement of performance can hardly be explained by classical
models of vision, which predict a further deterioration of performance. We propose that shape
interactions precede low-level processing in a recurrent fashion. Using high density EEG and
trans-cranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), we show how good Gestalt emerges during recurrent,
unconscious processing within 420ms. The outcome of this processing, i.e., the conscious
percept, determines, paradoxically, the first stages of visual processing.
Page 15 of 323
Symposium: Gender and Cultural diversity
Gender inequalities and cultural diversity, resulting from immigration and in particular the
presence of Muslim minorities, are at the centre of contemporary societal debates. In an attempt
to understand these challenges, psychological research touches upon a range of topics from
cognitive processes, implicit and explicit attitudes to the minority experience, for example in the
job market. This symposium thus brings together five contributions using survey and
experimental methods to examine diversity challenges both from the perspective of the dominant
majority (e.g., natives) and of the subordinate minority groups (e.g., immigrants, females). Gygax
and Parzuchowski take an embodied view of cognition and study variation of height perceptions
of men and women as a function of sexism. Sarrasin shows that support for the Muslim
headscarf is shaped by gender equality beliefs. Anderson and Antalikova examine how framing a
target as a Muslim rather than an immigrant affects negative explicit and implicit attitudes as a
function of the participants’ religion. Johnston et al. demonstrate that while immigrants have
higher levels of career adaptability than locals, job insecurity was particularly detrimental to their
career adaptability. Dietz argues for an evidence-based approach in Human Resource practices
designed to promote gender equality in organizations.
Page 16 of 323
Contributing to Gender Equality in Leadership
Positions: An Evidence-Based Approach
Submitted by:
Ph.D. Joerg Dietz
Authors
Dietz, Joerg , University of Lausanne, Faculty of Business and Economics (HEC Lausanne),
Lausanne
Abstract
Research has demonstrated that women possess leadership abilities that are similar if not
slightly better than those of men. Yet, the proportion of women in leadership positions remains
much smaller than that of men. In Western countries, the discussion about addressing the
under-representation of women in leadership centers on two prototypical often politically
motivated positions: (1) Correct the under-representation through quotas, or (2) Do nothing and
over time meritocracy will result in equality. What is missing in discussions about gender equality
is an evidence-based approach that seeks to understand when human resource management
(HRM) processes contribute to inequality and when not, and when corrective measures, such as
quotas, are more or less likely to be efficient. Analyzing gender equality and the effects of
corrective measures throughout the phases of HRM, such as recruitment, evaluation, hiring,
training, and promotion, indicates that in some phases (e.g., evaluation) corrective measures can
be effective, whereas in other phases (hiring, promotion), negative side effects can outweigh
positive effects. Thus, an evidence-based approach to gender equality suggests that the
discussion should not be about gender quotas in general, but rather when in HRM processes
corrective measures should be implemented and when not.
Page 17 of 323
Immigrants’ career resources
Submitted by:
Claire Johnston
Authors
Johnston, Claire, NCCR LIVES, University of Lausanne
Bollmann, Grégoire, NCCR LIVES, University of Lausanne
Krings, Franciska, Faculty of Business and Economics, University of Lausanne
Abstract
Our research focuses on immigrants’ career adaptability as an important resource for navigating
professional trajectories. Research suggests that career adaptability becomes activated in
response to specific challenges (e.g., transition). Because immigrants encounter several
additional challenges in the labour market, compared to locals, they may show higher career
adaptability. However, certain threats can undermine career adaptability, notably job insecurity.
Using data from a large representative sample in Switzerland, 2469 individuals active in the
labour market responded to questions about their professional experiences. Immigrants had
higher levels of career adaptability than locals even when controlling for age, gender, education
and personality. However, job insecurity corresponded to reduced career adaptability. Combining
immigrant status and insecurity showed that job insecurity was particularly damaging to
immigrants’ career adaptability. This study shows for the first time that immigrants have higher
levels of career adaptability than locals, pointing to an important resource for immigrants’ career
pathways.
Page 18 of 323
Are you an immigrant... or a Muslim?: The effects
of Framing on attitudes of Christians and Atheists
Submitted by:
Phd Joel Anderson
Authors
Anderson, Joel , University of Geneva
Antalikova, Radka, Aalborg University
Abstract
Denmark is currently experiencing the highest immigration rate in its modern history. Population
surveys indicate that negative public attitudes toward immigrants actually stem from attitudes
toward their (perceived) Islamic affiliation. We used a framing paradigm to investigate the explicit
and implicit attitudes of Christian and Atheist Danes toward targets framed as Muslims or as
immigrants. The results showed that explicit and implicit attitudes were more negative when the
target was framed as a Muslim, rather than as an immigrant. Interestingly, implicit attitudes were
qualified by the participants’ religion. Specifically, analyses revealed that Christians
demonstrated more negative implicit attitudes toward immigrants than Muslims. Conversely,
Atheists demonstrated more negative implicit attitudes toward Muslims than Atheists. These
results suggest a complex relationship between religion, and implicit and explicit prejudice. Both
the religious affiliation of the perceiver and the perceived religious affiliation of the target are key
factors in social perception.
Page 19 of 323
When support for gender equality and tolerance
of the Muslim headscarf go hand in hand
Submitted by:
Phd Oriane Sarrasin
Authors
Sarrasin, Oriane, University of Lausanne, NCCR LIVES, Lausanne
Abstract
Often perceived as incompatible with gender equality, the Muslim headscarf meets widespread
opposition. Despite this, little is known as to how individuals’ attitudes toward gender equality
shape their reactions to the headscarf. Those holding progressive gender attitudes may not
approve of a garment often presented as a symbol of patriarchal oppression. They may however
also support it as the right of a minority. I assume that the key to this conundrum lies in how
individuals interpret the principle of equality. Results of two studies (N = 117; N = 104) confirmed
this assumption. Supporting gender equality (e.g., upholding equal opportunities and freedom of
choice) was related to positive attitudes toward the headscarf. The willingness to enforce equality
(e.g., with quotas), in contrast, was related to negative attitudes. These findings illustrate the
need, when studying reactions against the headscarf, for more fine-grained conceptualizations of
attitudes toward gender equality.
Page 20 of 323
Looking down on women: when sexism creeps
into perceptual processes
Submitted by:
Dr Pascal Gygax
Authors
Gygax, Pascal, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg
Parzuchowski, Michal, University of Fribourg (CH) University of Social Sciences and Humanities,
Sopot Campus (PL)
Abstract
We present data from a Poland-Switzerland project on the perceptual and spatial encoding of
men and women. We argue that women and men are spatially encoded, independent of height
typicality, supporting the embodied view of cognition, and that these representations vary
according to sexism level. In our experiment, participants took longer to process female names
(e.g., Nathalie) when they were presented at the top of the screen, whereas male names (e.g.,
Patrick) were processed with more difficulty when presented at the bottom, hinting at hierarchical
representations. In addition to this, memory traces of the positions of these names were biased,
and even more so when participants’ sexism scores (i.e., HS) were high. We argue that sexism
has an impact on surface cognitive processes such as perceptual ones, inasmuch as those
holding strong sexist beliefs may well perceive men as taller and women as smaller than what
they are.
Page 21 of 323
Symposium: Advanced methods for repeated
measurements in psychology
Repeated measurements are extremely frequent in psychological research. Whether across trials
within experiments, or across years in longitudinal panels, such data offer the invaluable potential
to investigate psychological phenomena about intra-individual change. However, all too often
repeated measurements are aggregated into composite scores and analyzed solely as a function
of inter-individual differences. In this symposium, we discuss modern methods for the analysis of
repeated measurements in widely different research applications within psychology. Jacot et al.
introduce the linear mixed model, frequently used to test predictors of within-person change and
between-person differences. The authors also discuss and demonstrate measures of explained
variation and model selection. Audrin et al. present the generalized linear mixed model applied to
an experiment using a binary-choice paradigm. The model is shown to offer several advantages
over traditional analyses of aggregated binary data. Cheval et al. discuss the use of nonlinear
mixed models for physiological data on pupil dilations in response to erotic stimuli under different
conditions. Rather than characterizing participants by their aggregate frequency estimates,
individual trajectories of pupil dilations are analyzed. Finally, Cekic et al. present the Granger
causality methodology in the context of local-field potential data. The authors show how
competing causality links can be assessed between two time series.
Page 22 of 323
Amygala and orbitofrontal causal relationships
investigation through the Granger-Causality
methodology
Symposium: Advanced methods for repeated measurements in psychology
Submitted by:
Ms Sezen Cekic
Authors
Cekic, Sezen, University of Geneva, Psychology, Switzerland
Grandjean, Didier, University of Geneva, Psychology, Switzerland
Renaud, Olivier , University of Geneva, Psychology, Switzerland
Abstract
In many neuroscience experiments, data are recorded during an experimental situation, in which
stimuli are presented at fix time points and are expected to create a reaction in subjects. Being
able to describe the link between signals taken at different locations on subjects’ skulls is of
primary interest. Often, directional causal links are hypothesized. Such links can be tested with
the Granger causality methodology. As the links may vary in time, the possibility to compute a
time-varying statistic of causality is essential. Furthermore, the interest often lies on being able to
derive a statistic that assesses not only at which time there is a Granger-type of causality but
also at which frequency this causality arises. Such a statistic is said to be time-varying frequency
specific. In this talk, we discuss the modelling of time-varying frequency specific causal
relationships between two signals, with a focus on signals measuring neural activities recorded in
humans through the method of local field potentials (LFP).
Page 23 of 323
Interindividual differences in pupil dilation
patterns: An application of linear and non-linear
growth curve modeling
Submitted by:
Post-Doc Boris Cheval
Authors
Cheval, Boris, University of Geneva, MAD Laboratory
Abstract
Pupil dilations to erotic stimuli are expected to provide a reliable measure of sexual response.
However, the traditional analysis of variance on aggregated dilation measurements that is
commonly used to examine these data suffers from two major pitfalls: (a) it disregards the
sampling variability of stimuli, in spite of numerous warnings about the shortcomings of this
practice, and (b) it requires averaging pupil size data across time, preventing to evaluate
interindividual differences in intraindividual changes over time. In this presentation, we present a
comprehensive solution, based on mixed models, to examine inter-individual differences in linear
and non-linear change over time. We show the substantial advantages of the linear and
nonlinear growth curve models within the context of pupil’s dilation response to heterosexual and
homosexual pictures. We also highlight several advantages of this approach (such as the
possibility to specify the pattern of variances and covariances over time, to add categorical or
continuous predictors, as well as to manage missing data) over the more traditional approach.
Page 24 of 323
The benefits of using Generalized Linear Mixed
Models (GLMM): Application in consumer
decision-making.
Submitted by:
Msc Catherine Audrin
Authors
Audrin, Catherine, University of Geneva, Geneva
Chanal, Julien , University of Geneva, Geneva
Abstract
Traditional analyses in the field of psychology are performed on aggregated data, where the
initial recorded data are averaged across participants and conditions. Nowadays, researchers
are encouraged to keep all the recorded information, ensuring an increase of power for further
analyses and a deeper understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. The use of GLMM
allows analysing every observation and modeling at the same time effects at the level of single
observations and of participants. Moreover, GLMM assess the impact of the manipulated factors
(i.e., fixed factors) and the specificities of the participants and of the items (i.e., crossed random
factors). We will illustrate these features in a binary choice paradigm experiment.
Page 25 of 323
Measures of explained variation and model
selection in linear mixed-effects models
Submitted by:
Master Nadège Jacot
Authors
Jacot, Nadège, Université de Genève, FPSE, Genève
Cantoni, Eva, Université de Genève, GSEM, Genève
Ghisletta, Paolo, Université de Genève, FPSE, Genève
Abstract
In this talk, we will present the linear mixed-effects model (LMM), a.k.a. random-effects model,
linear multilevel model, or hierarchical linear model, that generalizes the linear regression model
to cases where the assumption of independent observations is violated. Thereby, the LMM is
widely used, especially to analyze repeated-measures data (e.g., measures of an outcome
before and after a treatment) or clustered data (e.g., students organized within classrooms). In
order to compare alternative models and to assess their adequacy with respect to the selected
dependent data, many users of LMM ignore the existence of different measures of model
selection and explained variation. The purpose of this talk is to introduce some of these
measures. We will illustrate the use of the LMM and of the considered measures on data of
verbal capacity of school children at four different ages.
Page 26 of 323
Symposium: Human-Machine Interaction I:
automation and performance
Jobs in technical work environments are increasingly characterised by high levels of automation
and complex task demands. While there are undoubtedly considerable benefits of automation,
there have also been concerns about negative side-effects such as loss of operator skill,
complacency, and loss of situational awareness. In this symposium, a strong focus will be on the
consequences of providing automatic support to operators in airport security screening. Different
concepts of automation design have been empirically examined with regard to their
consequences for performance and operator variables such as mental workload. The issue of
multiple-task performance is also addressed in the empirical work presented, using car
navigation and modern in-vehicle information systems as an application area.
Page 27 of 323
Process simulation for optimizing
human-machine system performance in X-ray
screening of passenger bags with automated
explosive detection
Symposium: Human-Machine Interaction I: automation and performance
Submitted by:
Yanik Sterchi
Authors
Sterchi, Yanik, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of
Applied Psychology, Olten
Schwaninger, Adrian, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School
of Applied Psychology, Olten
Abstract
Automated explosive detection is an important aid for the visual inspection of X-ray images by
human operators and already in use at many airports. How security and throughput are
influenced by such systems depends heavily on the ability of the security personnel and the
machine settings, where a careful balance between a high hit rate and a low false alarm rate is
needed. With the aid of process simulations the effect of named parameters on the detection rate
for explosives and cabin baggage throughput was explored. In a second step, the optimization of
throughput by procedural adaptations was investigated. The results imply that already
conservative machine settings provide a substantial increase in explosives detection, especially
for less experienced screeners. Effects of small increases in false alarms can be dampened by
small procedural parameter changes, while larger increases in false alarms require additional
human resources.
Page 28 of 323
Automated explosive detection in airport security
X-ray screening of passenger bags
Submitted by:
Nicole Hättenschwiler
Authors
Hättenschwiler, Nicole, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland,
School of Applied Psychology, Olten
Mendes, Marcia, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of
Sterchi, Yanik, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of
of Applied Psychology, Olten
Abstract
X-ray screening of passenger bags is used at airports worldwide to secure air transportation.
Advanced cabin baggage screening features automated explosive detection systems (EDS). In
this study, the potential benefits of EDS were investigated using a simulated X-ray baggage
screening task with airport security screeners of two European airports. Condition A served as
baseline without EDS. In condition B and C, EDS was available while in the latter, screeners
were only exposed to X-ray images that did not cause an alarm by the EDS. The results imply
that the introduction of EDS is valuable while the benefits depend on screener expertise and
level of automation.
Page 29 of 323
Automatic support in luggage screening: effects
of system reliability and degree of automation on
performance
Submitted by:
Dr Alain Chavaillaz
Authors
Chavaillaz, Alain, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Michel, Stefan, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of
applied psychology, Olten
of applied psychology, Olten
Sauer, Juergen, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Abstract
The present study investigated whether flexible automation can improve performance in a
safety-critical luggage screening task. 120 student participants were asked to detect the
presence of dangerous objects (either a knife or a gun) in a series of X-ray pictures of bags and
suitcases. Participants either worked with a support system offering static support at a low or
medium level (indicating that a target was present without specifying its location vs. pointing out
the exact target location), or they could freely choose between levels of automation (flexible
automation). Furthermore, automation reliability was manipulated (low or high reliability) to
assess operators’ trust in automation. The results showed an advantage of medium static
automation (i.e. the exact location of the target is pointed out to operator) over flexible
automation. Furthermore, high system reliability led to better performance and higher operator
trust (?). The findings have implications for automation design.
Page 30 of 323
Hands on the wheel, eyes on the road –
evaluation of user experience and driving
performance of three different in-vehicle
information and communication systems
Submitted by:
M.Sc. Jürgen Baumgartner
Authors
Baumgartner, Jürgen, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Sonderegger, Andreas, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Angelini, Leonardo, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Fribourg,
Information and Communication Department, Fribourg
Caon, Maurizio, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Fribourg,
Carrino, Stefano, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Fribourg,
Carrino, Francesco, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland Fribourg,
Sauer, Jürgen, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Abstract
In-vehicle information and communication systems (IVIS) are increasingly used while driving.
Several studies have already carried out the evaluations of different interfaces of IVIS with regard
to usability and driving performance. The study aims to extend this usability-centred methodology
by including the approach of user experience (UX). The goal was to compare touch-, voice- and
gesture-based interfaces with regard to driving performance and relevant UX aspects. For this
purpose, a usability test was conducted. 60 participants were asked to drive twice a route in a
driving simulator and to simultaneously complete tasks with one of three different IVIS interfaces
(touch-, voice- and gesture-based). In addition, the traffic density was manipulated (high vs. low).
Subjective ratings regarding perceived usability, workload, emotion, flow and fun as well as
objective performance measures were collected. Data analysis showed no influence of
interface-type on primary task performance. However, effects on secondary task performance
was found for the touch-based and for the voice-based interface in regard of time on task and
number of interactions. In addition, the use of the gesture-based interface was associated with
less negative affect and less frustration in high traffic condition. This indicates that the use of
such systems might be advantageous in high traffic situations (e.g. in a city).
Page 31 of 323
Symposium: Implicit Motivation
Human motivation is not only governed by conscious choices but also by implicit processes. Five
researchers from three universities will present novel findings on how implicit motives, theories,
and affective cues influence well-being, performance, and physiological outcomes. Guido
Gendolla will illustrate the joint impact of implicit fear cues and task difficulty on effort-related
cardiac response. Specifically, implicit fear cues render tasks more difficult, resulting in high
effort for easy tasks but effort withdrawal for difficult tasks. Mirko Wegner will focus on the implicit
power motive in a sport context. Two studies demonstrate the joint impact of the implicit power
motive and social competition on performance and cortisol response. Sabine Backes will
elaborate on findings showing that the implicit power and intimacy motives moderate the
relationship between the use of the pronouns “I” and “we” and relationship satisfaction. Julia
Schüler will present three studies from various sport contexts suggesting that individuals high in
an implicit motive benefit more strongly from the satisfaction of the corresponding basic need in
terms of motivation and well-being. Veronika Job will demonstrate that implicit theories about
willpower predict emotional outcomes. Specifically, a limited theory of willpower is associated
with lower well-being and negative change in well-being.
Page 32 of 323
Implicit Theories About Willpower Predict
Subjective Well-Being
Submitted by:
Phd Veronika Job
Authors
Bernecker, Katharina, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmühlestrasse 14/6,
8050 Zürich
Hermann, Marcel, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmühlestrasse 14/6, 8050
Zürich
Brandstätter, Veronika, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmühlestrasse 14/6,
8050 Zürich
Job, Veronika, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmühlestrasse 14/11, 8050
Zürich
Abstract
Lay theories about willpower—the belief that willpower is a limited versus nonlimited
resource—affects self-control and goal striving in everyday. Three studies examined whether the
effects of willpower theories on goal striving radiates on people’s subjective well-being. A
cross-sectional (Study 1) and two longitudinal studies (Study 2 3) measured individuals’
willpower theories and different indicators of subjective well-being. Additionally, Studies 2 and 3
measured trait self-control, personal goal progress, and availability of goal–relevant resources. A
limited theory about willpower was associated with lower subjective and physical well-being in a
diverse adult sample (Study 1, N = 258) and negative change in subjective well-being over a
period of six months (Study 2, N = 196). The effects were independent of trait self-control. Study
3 (N = 167) replicated the long-term effect and found that availability of goal–relevant resources
and personal goal progress mediate the relationship. The belief that willpower is based on a
limited resource has larger implications and seems not only to impair self-control and personal
goal-striving, but also affects people’s emotional outcomes.
Page 33 of 323
Achievement, affiliation, and autonomy motives
as moderators of basic need satisfaction effects
on motivation and well-being in various sport
contexts
Submitted by:
Phd Julia Schüler
Authors
Schüler, Julia, Institut of Sport Science, University of Bern, Switzerland
Sieber, Vanda, Institut of Sport Science, University of Bern, Switzerland
Wegner, Mirko, Institut of Sport Science, University of Bern, Switzerland
Abstract
In order to promote motivation and well-being in sport, we integrate need concepts from two
different research approaches: the basic psychological need approach as defined in the
Self-Determination Theory (SDT; Deci Ryan, 1985) and the implicit motive approach of the
Motive Disposition Theory (MDT; McClelland, 1985). We hypothesized that individuals high in an
implicit motive (e.g., implicit achievement, affiliation, autonomy motive) benefit more strongly
from the satisfaction of the corresponding basic need (e.g., basic need for competence, social
relatedness, autonomy) in terms of motivation and well-being. Three studies with extreme
endurance sport athletes (N = 93), recruits of the Swiss Armed Forces (N = 125) and physically
inactive persons (N = 127), respectively, confirmed the hypothesized interaction effect. In the
presentation, we will discuss that considering individual differences in implicit motives comes with
challenges as well as chances for applied psychology.
Page 34 of 323
Motivated language use: Implicit motives
moderate effects of pronoun use on relationship
satisfaction
Submitted by:
Dr. Sabine Backes
Authors
Backes, Sabine , University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Horn, Andrea , University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
Language style of romantic partners, especially pronoun use, has repeatedly been shown to
influence relationship variables. However, several studies have yielded inconsistent results with
regard to whether more frequent use of “we” and “I” goes along with ameliorated or deteriorated
relationship outcomes. We hypothesized that the implicit power motive and the implicit intimacy
motive, dispositions that implicitly regulate behavior, moderate the effects of language style on
relationship satisfaction. We tested our assumptions in a dyadic data set with N = 368 couples in
Actor-Partner-Interdependence Models (APIM), one for implicit power and “I” and one for implicit
intimacy and “we”. Pronoun use predicted relationship satisfaction (actor effects) in both models.
Additionally, supporting our hypotheses, the implicit power motive proved to be a moderator of
the relationship between “I” and relationship satisfaction, while the implicit intimacy motive played
a significant role for the interplay between “we” and relationship satisfaction (partner effects).
Page 35 of 323
The implicit power motive, sports performance,
and cortisol changes in response to social stress
in children and adolescents
Submitted by:
Dr. Mirko Wegner
Authors
Wegner, Mirko, University of Bern, Institute of Sport Science
Budde, Henning, Medical School Hamburg, Faculty of Human Sciences
Schüler, Julia, University of Bern, Institute of Sport Science
Abstract
The implicit power motive is the concern for having impact on others, gaining or maintaining
reputation, and is assumed to develop early in life. Contest situations (e.g. in sports) involve such
incentives for the power motive. Our presentation includes findings regarding the effects of the
implicit power motive on sports behavior and physiological responses to contest situations with
children and adolescents. In a study with 9-10 year-old children, we found their soccer shooting
performance and power motives related in a social evaluative vs. control situation. In a second
study with 14 to 15-year olds, participants’ cortisol responses to social evaluative stress were
linked to their power motives; which was not the case in an exercise or control condition. The
implicit power motive will be discussed as a valuable moderator of behavioral and physiological
responses to social stress in sports even in this young age group.
Page 36 of 323
Implicit fear, effort, and the heart
Submitted by:
Professor Guido Gendolla
Authors
Gendolla, Guido, University of Geneve, FPSE, Sektion of Psychology
Chatelain, Mathieu, University of Geneve, FPSE, Sektion of Psychology
Abstract
Extending recently published research on the implicit-affect-primes-effort (IAPE) model
(Gendolla, 2012), we report new experiments on the systematic influence of implicitly processed
fear cues on effort-related cardiac response. These studies revealed that implicit fear
leads—similarly as implicit sadness—to stronger cardiac contractility than implicit anger or
happiness when tasks are relatively easy. However, when task difficulty is objectively high,
implicit fear result in effort withdrawal. These findings add to the support of the IAPE model.
Accordingly, implicit fear and sadness cues that are processed online during task performance
render tasks subjectively more difficult, resulting in relatively high effort as long as success is
possible and justified. By contrast, anger and happiness cues’ effect is facilitating, leading to
lower effort in easy tasks, but higher effort in objectively difficult challenges. Implications of these
findings for theories about self-regulation, implicit affect, and implicit motivation are discussed.
Page 37 of 323
Symposium: Prospective memory: Psychology of
the future
Prospective memory denotes the self-initiated retrieval of a previously planned intention at the
encounter of a relevant retrieval cue. Prospective memory cues are embedded in an ongoing
activity and as a consequence, can be missed without realising. The goals of this symposium are
two-fold: discussed are 1) the factors and processes that influence prospective memory retrieval
and 2) its relative superiority and consequences. More specifically, the individual contributions of
this symposium are concerned with prospective memory retrieval and its underlying
psychophysiology, cue-related aspects and their influence on performance in different age
groups, genetic factors, and also the impact of reward and punishment. Furthermore,
after-effects of deactivated intentions on ongoing task trials and subsequent tasks are also
discussed as well as the potential superiority of intentions more generally. As such this
symposium offers a broad perspective on current prospective memory research.
Page 38 of 323
Intention superiority? Forget it!
Symposium: Prospective memory: Psychology of the future
Submitted by:
Dr. Stefan Walter
Authors
Walter, Stefan, Insitute of Psychology, Department of Experimental and Neuropsychology, Bern,
Switzerland
Meier, Beat, Institute of Psychology, Department of Experimental and Neuropsychology, Bern,
Switzerland
Abstract
According to the intention superiority effect (ISE), people remember more future than past
events. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether an ISE is influenced by a
specific valence (positive, negative or neutral) of an event in three experiments. In the first
experiment, participants were explicitly asked to report either positive or negative future or past
events. In the other experiments, participants were asked to rate the valence of the events after
their production. In all experiments, participants reported more positive than negative events.
Critically, asking for a valence of events a priori resulted in an inverse ISE for positive and
negative events (Experiment 1), whereas rating the events after retrieval did not show an ISE at
all (Experiment 2 and 3). This suggests that for real-life intentions the ISE is fragile and it can be
even reversed with the instruction to produce already valued intentions.
Page 39 of 323
The value of value-added intentions: Effects of
monetary punishments and rewards on
prospective memory
Submitted by:
Dr Jan Rummel
Authors
Rummel, Jan, Heidelberg University, Department of Psychology, Heidelberg
Cook, Gabriel, Claremont McKenna College, Department of Psychology, USA
Dummel, Sebastian, Heidelberg University, Department of Psychology, Heidelberg
Abstract
In everyday life, some of the tasks and obligations we intend to fulfill in the future are associated
with monetary punishments (like a late fee for a not-in-time payment) or monetary rewards (like a
discount for keeping a deadline). Such incentives for in-time intention fulfillment are assumed to
increase the personal value of an intention and thus the likelihood that the intention is actually
fulfilled. This assumption seems plausible but, to our best knowledge, it has not yet been
investigated systematically. To fill this gap, in two experiments, we manipulated the personal
value of intention fulfillment and assessed performance in the Einstein-McDaniel prospective
memory laboratory paradigm (Einstein McDaniel, 1990). Both associating failures of intention
fulfillment with monetary losses (Experiments 1 and 2) and associating successful intention
fulfillment with monetary gains (Experiment 2) resulted in increased likelihood of intention
fulfillment compared to control group for which intention fulfillment was not associated with a loss
or gain. These improvements were not accompanied by ongoing-task performance changes.
Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Page 40 of 323
Prospective memory in mid-age carriers of a
genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease
Submitted by:
Msc Claire Lancaster
Authors
Lancaster, Claire , University of Sussex, Psychology, Sussex, UK
Rusted, Jennifer , University of Sussex, Psychology, Sussex, UK
Abstract
The e4 variant of the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene is the most well established genetic risk
factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This research explores the trajectory of the gene effects
during mid-adulthood and its link to age-related cognitive decline. A battery of attention tasks is
used to disentangle the profile of attention seen in carriers of the e4 allele. Mid-age e4 volunteers
show a speed-accuracy trade-off on the PM task. Tasks designed to assess attentional control
(switching, scaling and vigilance) and capture (distractor task, attentional pop-out), provide a
more detailed profile of processing differences in e4 carriers. The presence of e4 differences on
attention-based tasks is explored in the context of an earlier shift towards frontal mechanisms in
response to accelerated ageing.
Page 41 of 323
Relative influence of cue distinctiveness and
focality on prospective memory performance in
age
Submitted by:
Nicola Ballhausen
Authors
Ballhausen, Nicola, University of Geneva
Schnitzspahn, Katharina, University of Geneva
Kliegel, Matthias, University of Geneva
Abstract
One important issue in prospective memory research is the performance of that capacity in old
age. While there is meta-analytic evidence of age-related decline, results vary considerably
across studies. The multiprocess theory has been used to explain and to predict age differences
by characteristics of the prospective memory cue as well as of the ongoing task. While several
studies could demonstrate the impact of cue focality, the other cue-related aspect of
distinctiveness has not been examined so much. This study on young (18 – 35 years) and older
adults (60 – 80 years) investigated those both factors. Besides specifying their relative
importance, for the first time possible interaction effects were tested. Data analyses reveal a
main effect of age, cue focality and distinctiveness on prospective memory performance.
Furthermore, an interaction of distinctiveness and focality as well as of distinctiveness and age
was found. Results are discussed with regard to current prospective memory literature as well as
potential underlying mechanisms.
Page 42 of 323
Psychophysiology of Prospective Memory: The
effects of autonomic arousal and cue-focality on
prospective memory retrieval
Submitted by:
Phd Nicolas Rothen
Authors
Rothen, Nicolas, University of Sussex, School of Psychology, Brighton
Nagai, Yoko, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton
Rusted, Jennifer, University of Sussex, School of Psychology, Brighton
Abstract
Successful prospective memory retrieval leads to an increase in skin conductance (i.e.,
suggesting higher autonomic arousal). However, it remains to be shown how exactly prospective
memory retrieval affects skin conductance responses (SCRs). Hence, we investigated how
autonomic arousal and cue-focality affect prospective memory performance. In line with previous
research, we found better prospective memory performance for focal than non-focal cues and
increased SCRs for prospective memory hits in comparison to misses. Moreover, we were able
to confirm that focal prospective memory cues are more readily processed in comparison to
non-focal cues by demonstrating increased SCRs for prospective memory hits in the focal
condition in comparison to the non-focal condition. In line with increased SCRs for prospective
memory hits the data suggest that states of increased autonomic arousal can also increase
prospective memory performance. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of measuring
SCRs in advancing our insights about prospective memory processes.
Page 43 of 323
After-effects and after-effects, and after-effects of
after-effects: The multiple side-effects of
prospective memory
Submitted by:
Phd Beat Meier
Authors
Meier, Beat, University of Bern
Abstract
In a prospective memory task responding to a prospective memory target involves switching
between ongoing and prospective memory task which can result in a slowing of subsequent
ongoing task performance (i.e., an after-effect). Moreover, a slowing can also occur when
prospective memory targets occur after the prospective memory task is deactivated (i.e., another
after-effect). In this study, we investigated both after-effects within the same study. Moreover, we
also tested whether the latter after-effects even occur on subsequent ongoing task trials. The
results show, in fact, after-effects of all kinds. Thus, (1) correctly responding to prospective
memory targets results in after-effects, a so far neglected cost on ongoing task performance, (2)
responding to deactivated prospective memory targets also slows down performance, probably
due to the involuntary retrieval of the intention, and (3) this slowing is present even on
subsequent ongoing task trials, suggesting that even deactivated intentions are sufficient to
induce a conflict that requires subsequent adaptation. Overall, these results indicate that
performance slowing in a prospective memory experiment includes various kinds of sources, not
only monitoring cost, and these sources may be understood best in terms of conflict adaptation.
Page 44 of 323
Symposium: The Struggle for Competence in
Academic Selection: Social Psychological
Influences on Competence Threat
Selection is a pervasive feature of academic life, with a permanent emphasis on testing, ranking
and assessing for pupils and students, teachers and researchers, schools and universities. The
present symposium reports results from a Sinergia project led by Fabrizio Butera (Lausanne),
Gabriel Mugny, Alain Quiamzade, Céline Buchs (Genève) and Céline Darnon
(Clermont-Ferrand). The general hypothesis is that, although selection is intended to identify the
most competent people and may elicit some positive outcomes, it might also have the
paradoxical effect of reducing actual competence of its targets. This hypothesis is based on the
notion that selection and a competitive social comparison render people’s competences
negatively interdependent—some people will be selected out—thereby creating a struggle for
competence. Five talks illustrate these dynamics, addressing the effects of tracking and
normative assessment on the chances of underprivileged pupils to pursue studying, the role of
the selection function of University in the underperformance of underprivileged students, the
hindrance behaviour stemming from conflict between equally competent peers who struggle for
the first place, the effects of a threatening social comparison on the peer reviewing process, and
the potential of cooperative learning to alleviate the threat of a selective environment.
Page 45 of 323
Preparing students to cooperate in order to
reduce threatening comparison and favor
learning
Symposium: The Struggle for Competence in Academic Selection: Social Psychological
Submitted by:
Ph.D Céline Buchs
Authors
Buchs, Céline, University of Geneva
Filippou, Dimitra, University of Geneva
Abstract
Previous research underlined that threatening social comparison is likely to take place during
cooperative learning at university. We have first investigated the potential ambivalence in
students’ judgments for cooperation and competition ; results indicated that when students tried
to appear likable, they scored higher on cooperation, but when they tried to appear likely to
succeed, they scored higher on competition. Therefore, we propose that in order to reduce
threatening social comparison and favor learning it is important to make students aware of the
social utility of cooperative learning. We tested this hypothesis in a one-session intervention with
185 first-year psychology students learning statistics, by comparing individual learning,
cooperative dyads and cooperative dyads with a short intervention explaining why and how to
cooperate in the task. Results revealed the importance to prepare students to cooperate for
reducing threatening social comparison and favoring learning outcomes as well competence
perception.
Page 46 of 323
Competence struggle in the peer reviewing
process
Submitted by:
Master Lucie Colpaert
Authors
Colpaert, Lucie, Université de Genève Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l’Education
(FPSE) Section de Psychologie Uni Mail – 40 Bd du Pont d’Arve CH – 1205 Genève
Mugny, Gabriel, Université de Genève Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l’Education
Quiamzade, Alain, Université de Genève Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l’Education
Abstract
Nowadays, articles published in scientific journals have to successfully pass through a peer
reviewing process. Although the purpose of this selection process is to objectively judge the
quality of submitted manuscripts, we propose that it could also be the occasion for the reviewers
to maintain or defend their own competence. We argue that competence stakes in this process
can lead reviewers to hinder the author by being stricter in their decision concerning the work
under evaluation. Several studies were conducted reproducing situations similar to those of peer
reviewing in which we manipulated the social comparison context (threatening vs.
non-threatening for self-competence), and the alleged level of competence of the participants in
the task (high vs. low). Results showed that when the participants’ competence is threatened,
although the production under evaluation remains the same, the more they feel competent, the
stricter the decisions.
Page 47 of 323
Hindrance behaviour in confrontations between
competent peers
Submitted by:
Master Reni Atanassova
Authors
Atanassova, Reni, University of Geneva
Quiamzade, Alain, University of Geneva
Mugny, Gabriel, University of Geneva
Abstract
Our research focuses on forced social comparison between equally competent peers, termed a
conflict of competences, and predicts that such a comparison may pose a threat to
self-competence and elicit self-enhancement strategies aimed at protecting the self against this
threat. One such strategy consists in actively producing a downward comparison by hindering the
peer’s success in an evaluative task. This hypothesis was put to test by giving participants a
feedback of high self-competence following a bogus verbal task, and then confronting them with
an equally competent vs. inferior peer. Those confronted with an equally competent peer
hindered the latter in a subsequent task significantly more than those confronted with an inferior
peer. A second study proved that hindrance behaviour is specific to high-level confrontations and
not a result of mere equality, since peer-directed hindrance was higher when both participant and
peer were excellent compared to when they were both mediocre.
Page 48 of 323
The function of selection and the social-class
achievement gap at University.
Submitted by:
Dr Mickaël Jury
Authors
Jury, Mickaël, Université Clermont Auvergne - LAPSCO
Smeding, Annique, Universite■ de Savoie Mont Blanc - LIP
Darnon, Céline , Université Clermont Auvergne - LAPSCO - Institut Universitaire de France
Abstract
First-generation students do not succeed as well as continuing-generation students at University.
In the present experiment, we argue that the mere activation of the function of selection fulfilled
by the University system should make first-generation students vigilant to a visual threatening
cue (i.e., an arrow displayed on the screen, supposed to reflect student’s underperformance),
which may increase the likelihood for the achievement gap to appear. Participants were asked to
complete a novel math task. Depending on the condition, an introductory text either made salient
selection or no selection in university policies. Results confirmed that first-generation students
performed more poorly compared to continuing-generation students only when the selection
function was salient. The results did not confirm the hypothesis on vigilance. However, they
indicate that whatever the condition, high achieving first-generation students were more vigilant
to the inferiority cue than their continuing generation counterparts.
Page 49 of 323
The struggle to access higher education:
Normative assessment and school tracking as
barriers to low social class pupils’ success
Submitted by:
Anatolia Batruch
Authors
Batruch, Anatolia, Université de Lausanne, Institut de Psychologie, Lausanne
Autin, Frédérique, Université de Lausanne, Institut de Psychologie, Lausanne
Butera, Fabrizio, Université de Lausanne, Institut de Psychologie, Lausanne
Abstract
The limited access of low social class pupils to higher education is a pervasive phenomenon. We
test the hypothesis that selection practices lead evaluators to be biased against low
socioeconomic status (SES) pupils. Three studies investigated how the use of normative
assessment (i.e., grades), compared to formative assessment (i.e., comments), leads evaluators
to create a status-based performance gap. Participants detected more mistakes in a test if a
low-SES pupil supposedly produced it, compared to a high-SES pupil, only when they used
normative assessment. In three other studies participants had to decide which secondary school
track was suitable for students with identical grades. Participants considered the lower track
more suitable for a low-SES pupil than for a high-SES pupil, while the higher track was deemed
more suitable for a high-SES student. These selection practices reinforce social class
inequalities by allowing educational agents to actively constrain the access to educational
opportunities.
Page 50 of 323
Symposium: The Therapeutic Alliance: Back to
the Future
Once described as “the quintessential integrative variable” (Wolfe Goldfried, 1988), the
therapeutic alliance has, for many years now, been one of the most popular topics of
psychotherapy research, likely due to the consistent evidence that the quality of the alliance
predicts outcome and to a paradigm shift in many - if not all - psychotherapeutic traditions that
emphasizes the importance of relational factors in psychological treatment. But what is the future
of the concept of therapeutic alliance? Has it outlived its usefulness, as some people seem to
think? During this panel, on the basis of quantitative and qualitative empirical data, the role of the
therapeutic relationship in the change process, the development of training programs on the
therapeutic alliance, and the usefulness of its extension to other clinical psychological contexts
will be discussed. Definitely three critical tasks for the future of the research in that domain.
Page 51 of 323
How Do Career Counselors Build a Working
Alliance ?
Symposium: The Therapeutic Alliance: Back to the Future
Submitted by:
Master Shékina Rochat
Authors
Rochat, Shékina, Institute of Psychology - University of Lausanne
Abstract
Career counseling interventions aim at providing help to individuals who are facing career
decision-making difficulties. This approach put a great emphasis on the establishment of a
working alliance to deliver relevant career information. Specific features of career counseling are
likely to have an impact on how career counselors establish working alliance. The present study
intends to examine which strategies school career counselors use to build working alliance. Each
participant (n = 11) audio-recorded two to six of his or her usual career-counseling sessions.
Counselors’ behaviors and counselees’ speech were coded with the Motivational Interviewing
Skills Code 2.1. Results indicated that career counselors’ tend to use different strategies to build
working alliance. Benefits and limits of these strategies will be displayed. Contribution of
integrating career decision-making difficulties assessment and motivational interviewing in usual
career counseling sessions to help building a working alliance will be discussed.
Page 52 of 323
The Moderator Effect of the Working Alliance in
Career Counseling: Are there Specificities from
the Context?
Submitted by:
Dr Sophie Perdrix
Authors
Perdrix, Sophie, Office pour l'orientation, la formation professionnelle et continue (OFPC),
Geneva state service for vocational guidance
Abstract
Working alliance is recognized as a crucial factor contributing to the effectiveness of
psychotherapy. In the field of career guidance, the relational aspects were historically
underestimated favoring quantitative assessment of individual characteristics (personality,
interests, aptitudes, etc.). Recently Perdrix et al. (2012) highlighted that working alliance had a
moderator impact on the effectiveness of a career counseling intervention, with career
decision-making difficulties diminishing significantly more when the alliance between the
counselor and the counselee was high. Based on a mixed method approach, these quantitative
results are interrogated through a case study using the theoretical framework focusing on
ruptures and resolutions of the working alliance. This fosters the observation of the concrete role
of the relational aspects within career counseling while providing a theoretical framework letting
us investigate specificities of the working alliance in this context.
Page 53 of 323
Can Therapists Develop their Abilities to
Negociate Alliance Ruptures? Effects of a Two
Days Workshop.
Submitted by:
Diana Ortega
Authors
Ortega, Diana, Institute of psychology, University of Lausanne
Abstract
Research suggests that most helpful therapists are better able to identify and repair alliance
ruptures that frequently occur during therapy. This study examines the effects of a two days
workshop on rupture resolution strategies. The participants were randomized into an
experimental group (N=16), who received a two-day training course and a control group
(waiting-list, N=18). The participants’ competence in repairing alliance ruptures was assessed
through standardized role-plays with professional actors simulating hostile patients. The
role-plays were filmed. On the basis of a coding system, raters assessed the number of
resolution strategies used by participants and scored the overall alliance-repair. The results
indicate that trained therapists used significantly more resolution strategies and had better
success in repairing the alliance than the others. Benefits and limits of integrating this workshop
in the psychotherapy postgraduate curriculum will be discussed.
Page 54 of 323
Key Features of Therapist Behavior that Promote
Resolutions of Alliance Ruptures: A
Theory-Building Case Study
Submitted by:
Phd Yves de Roten
Authors
de Roten, Yves , Université de Lausanne, Institut Universitaire de Psychothérapie, Département
de psychiatrie-CHUV
Abstract
Ruptures in the therapeutic alliance are occasions when patients’ core interpersonal patterns are
activated. Ruptures may provide opportunities for patient and therapist to resolve problems in the
alliance and, thereby, promote change in the core patterns. This theory-building case study
investigated therapist and patient interpersonal behavior in a successful 34-session treatment of
a 28 years old female patient drawn from a systematic naturalistic study of short-term dynamic
psychotherapy (Michel, Kramer, de Roten, 2011). Alliance was monitored after each session
(WAI). Two rupture-resolution sequences were transcribed and analyzed by conducting a
micro-analytic examination of how patient and therapist interventions related to the elements of a
case formulation based on interpersonal defense theory (Westerman Steen, 2007). Results
showed that therapist behavior played a causal role in the rupture-resolution process. The
renewed interest of case study methodology in the empirical research on interpersonal
processes in psychotherapy will be discussed.
Page 55 of 323
Symposium: Human-Machine Interaction II:
Current trends in UX research
Looking at recent developments in usability research, we can observe that the focus of interest in
consumer ergonomics has considerably changed over the past decade, moving from a functional
view of usability issues towards an experiential perspective. Taking into consideration a more
global view of the user-product interaction, the notion “user experience” (UX) comprises the
entire set of effects elicited by the use of a product, including emotional experience, motivational
processes and perceived aesthetics. This symposium addresses specific issues that are
currently discussed in usability research, with a special emphasis being placed on contextual
factors of the user-product interaction influencing emotional and motivational consequences of a
user-product interaction. In this regard, the influence of different characteristics of the user
groups (user age, blindness) is addressed in two contributions. Furthermore, the influence of the
usage context (work or leisure) is discussed. Finally, a study is presented which investigates the
influence of visual cues on motivation and work behavior.
Page 56 of 323
Visual Customization As a Key to Enhance
Willpower: Strengthening Willpower Through
self-selected Background pictures
Symposium: Human-Machine Interaction II: Current trends in UX research
Submitted by:
M.Sc. Glena Iten
Authors
Iten, Glena, University of Basel, Faculty of Psychology, Basel
Petralito, Serge, University of Basel, Faculty of Psychology, Basel
Opwis, Klaus, University of Basel, Faculty of Psychology, Basel
Abstract
Technological interventions such as E-Mail, Facebook and YouTube offer a multitude of ways to
distract people during work. Since it is possible to be interrupted by technology continually,
people have to constantly control themselves until they have only little willpower left to continue
working. How can technology be used to strengthen willpower – the main resource of
self-control? Kang and Sundar (2013) found that if users could customize an information portal
their willpower could be strengthened. They observed that customizing the web portal reminded
users of their identity, which in turn strengthened their willpower. First, we selected pictures
reminding people of their goals, wishes, interests and values based on data of a preliminary
study. Secondly, an experiment was set up in order to observe whether these pictures would
lead to a higher self-identity while using them as background pictures in a search portal and
therefore strengthen the users willpower.
Page 57 of 323
The influence of age in user experience
evaluation
Submitted by:
Dr Andreas Sonderegger
Authors
Sonderegger, Andreas, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Switzerland
Schmutz, Sven, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Switzerland
Sauer, Juergen, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Switzerland
Abstract
The influence of participants’ age in user experience evaluation was examined in an experiment.
Sixty users from two age groups (M = 23.0 yrs, M = 58.1 yrs) operated two technical devices
(keyboard-based and touchscreen-based smartphones). As typical outcome measures of user
experience evaluations, various performance indicators and several subjective measures were
recorded (e.g., perceived usability, emotion, and workload). The results indicated increased
performance scores for younger adults than older adults for task completion time. For older adult
users, a mismatch between usability ratings and task completion time was revealed, with higher
ratings for the touchscreen device although performance was poorer compared to the
keyboard-based device. This mismatch was neither shown for the link between usability ratings
and task completion rate of older adult users nor for younger adult users in general. Such
age-related differences in the importance of speed and accuracy in task completion point to the
need to consider more strongly the factor user age in usability research and practice.
Page 58 of 323
Web accessibility guidelines: Do they provide
benefits for users with and without disabilities?
Submitted by:
Phd-Student Sven Schmutz
Authors
Schmutz, Sven, University of Fribourg, Psychology, Fribourg
Sonderegger, Andreas, University of Fribourg, Psychology, Fribourg
Sauer, Jürgen, University of Fribourg, Psychology, Fribourg
Abstract
The aim of the study was to examine the effectiveness of internationally accepted web
accessibility guidelines for users with disabilities. In a two-factorial experimental design, a
website’s conformance to the guidelines was manipulated at three levels (no conformance, low
conformance, high conformance) and two user groups were tested (visually impaired vs.
nondisabled users). In a usability test each participant carried out five tasks on one of the
websites. A broad range of performance measures (task completion rate, task completion time
and click rate) and subjective measures (usability, aesthetics, trustworthiness, work load and
affect) were taken. First results suggest that implementing web accessibility guidelines provides
benefits to both user groups, users with visual impairments and users without disabilities.
Implications for practitioners and web design are discussed.
Page 59 of 323
User Experience in Leisure or at Work: The Role
of Psychological Need Fulfilment in Different
Activity Domains
Submitted by:
Alex Tuch
Authors
Tuch, Alexandre, University of Basel, Department of Psychology, Basel (CH)
van Schaik, Paul, Teesside University, School of Social Sciences, Business and Law,
Middlesbrough (UK)
Hornbæk, Kasper, University of Copenhagen, Department of Computer Science, Copenhagen
(DK)
Abstract
Recent research suggests that psychological needs, such as autonomy, competence, and
relatedness are involved in users’ experience with technology and are related to the perception
of a product’s hedonic and pragmatic quality. This line of research, however, predominately
focused on leisure experiences and it is therefore unclear whether need fulfilment plays a similar
role in other activity domains such as work. Hence, this study investigates need fulfilment in work
and leisure experiences by analyzing 255 users’ experiences with technology from the two
activity domains along with ratings on need fulfilment, affect, and perceived product quality.
Results show that work and leisure experiences differ in terms of need fulfilment: experiences
high on pleasure and relatedness are more likely to be from the leisure domain, whereas
experiences high on competence, popularity, and security are more likely to be from the work
domain. Moreover, in both domains need fulfilment is related to experienced affect and perceived
product quality. We discuss the implications of our findings for user experience theory and
design.
Page 60 of 323
Symposium: Social relations over the life span:
challenges and rewards
Social contacts and particularly close social relationships are important for well-being and health.
The present symposium addresses challenges and rewards of social relations during different
phases of the life-span, based on qualitative and quantitative data from four different countries.
Brodbeck and colleagues investigate the longitudinal relationship between life events and casual
sexual relationships (CSR) in emerging adulthood in Switzerland (N=2844). Findings indicate that
life events predicted subsequent CSR. Rapo explores the social relations in older Swiss adults
(50+) living with HIV. Grounded theory was used to analyze 28 qualitative interviews. Findings
show that relationships with children/grand-children helped maintain a positive identity, but
HIV-related stigma influenced relationship quality. Jopp and colleagues compared the role of
social resources for life-satisfaction in 531 Germans and Japanese (65-84 years). Social
contacts and hope were the strongest predictors for young-old Germans; no prediction was found
for the Japanese. In old-old age, optimism was important in both cultures; contacts presented a
risk for Japanese oldest-old. Van Riesenbeck and colleagues investigates the nature of the
parent-child relationship based on 29 dyads from the Fordham Centenarian Study (New York
City). Qualitative analysis showed that centenarians and children were burdened but also felt
fortuned to still have each other.
Page 61 of 323
Centenarians and their advanced-age children: A
gratifying or challenging experience? – Findings
from the Fordham Centenarian Study
Symposium: Social relations over the life span: challenges and rewards
Submitted by:
Ms Isabelle van Riesenbeck
Authors
van Riesenbeck, Isabelle, University of Osnabruck, Osnabruck, Germany
Jopp, Daniela S., University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
Boerner, Kathrin, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA
Abstract
Very old adults are the fastest growing segment of the population in developed countries around
the world. Their children who are likely to become primary caregivers have often reached old age
too. This study explored unique challenges of this relationship constellation. Participants were 29
dyads of centenarians and their advanced-aged children from the Fordham Centenarian Study.
In-person interviews conducted with parent and child separately included standardized structured
and open-ended assessments. Theme-based analysis of narrative relationship data generated
codes reflecting relationship quality, helping role, specific challenges and rewards for
parent/child. Whereas most centenarians expressed being grateful for their child’s presence,
some expressed concern that their own presence might be challenging to them which some
children confirmed. Although the majority of centenarians and children appraised the relationship
as good, most of them reported difficulties as well. Reporting more challenges than rewards was
associated with poorer well-being for children and centenarians.
Page 62 of 323
Life-satisfaction in Japanese and German old and
very old individuals: Predictive value of social
resources and psychological strengths
Submitted by:
Dr. Daniela Jopp
Authors
Jopp, Daniela S, Unversity of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology, Geopolis, 1015 Lausanne,
Switzerland
Nakagawa, Takeshi, Osaka University, ZIP 565-0871 1-2, Yamada-oka, Suita-city, Osaka-pref,
Japan
Gondo, Yasuyuki, Osaka University, ZIP 565-0871 1-2, Yamada-oka, Suita-city, Osaka-pref,
Japan
Rott, Christoph, Heidelberg University, Institute of Gerontology, Bergheimerstr. 20, Heidelberg,
Germany
Oswald, Frank, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-W.-Adorno-Platz 6 60323 Frankfurt am
Main, Germany
Abstract
This study investigated predictors of life-satisfaction in old and very old individuals from Germany
and Japan. Considering potential cultural differences, a specific focus was on the role of social
resources (e.g., living with family) and psychological strengths (e.g., optimism). The sample
included 531 individuals (MAge = 74.38, 65-84 years), with 285 young-olds (65-74 years) and
246 old-olds (75-84 years). Equal numbers of participants came from each nation. Germans
were more likely to live alone, but had more social contacts, more psychological strengths and
life-satisfaction than Japanese. Regression findings indicated that for young-old Germans, social
contacts and feeling hopeful were the strongest predictors of life-satisfaction; in the old-old
Germans, optimistic outlook was the strongest predictor. No individual predictor was significant
for the young-old Japanese, but contacts and optimistic outlook significantly predicted old-old
Japanese’s life-satisfaction. Yet, contacts had a negative effect: Japanese old-olds living alone
felt less satisfied with more social contact.
Page 63 of 323
Risks and benefits of social relationships when
aging with HIV
Submitted by:
Msc Christel Rapo
Authors
Rapo, Christel, University of Lausanne
Abstract
Since advent of antiretroviral drugs, new issues have arisen concerning aging of HIV-positive
people, including concerns about their quality of life. This research explores how older people
(50+) living with HIV, experience the aging process in the context of their social relations. Four
semi-structured interviews were realized with three females and four males using a biographical
approach. Content analysis suggests that social relationships could be either a resource or a
risk. For women, relationships with children/grandchildren helps maintaining a positive identity.
Generativity was important to all participants, although more challenging for gay childless men.
However, HIV-related stigma impacts on the quality of the social relationships, the social support
and leads to social isolation. Findings provides insights on specific challenges related to social
aspects of aging with HIV, which implied risks and benefits in term of quality of life.
Page 64 of 323
Longitudinal associations between casual sexual
relationships and stressful life events in emerging
adults
Submitted by:
Pd Jeannette Brodbeck
Authors
Brodbeck, Jeannette, University of Berne, Department of Psychology, Fabrikstrasse 8, 3012
Berne
Abstract
Findings on the consequences of casual sexual relationships (CSR) are inconsistent and range
from positive to negative outcomes. The longitudinal association between stressful live events
and CSR was investigated in a random sample of 2844 Swiss emerging adults. Cross-lagged
panel models with baseline, two- and five-year follow-up data showed that life events predicted
more subsequent CSR across emerging adulthood. In contrast, CSR predicted life events only
from the first to the second wave. Results suggest that the link between stressful life events and
CSR was mainly explained by romantic breakups as stressful life event. Environment-related life
events were not substantially associated with casual sexual relationships. Thus, engaging in
CSR did not seem to be a general emotion-focused coping strategy in the context of life events
nor can the engagement in casual sex be seen as a result of stressful life events affecting
general self-regulation.
Page 65 of 323
Symposium: Why so few women in science and
leadership positions?
Although gender diversity has been acknowledged as a factor contributing to innovation in
science as well as business success, yet women are still underrepresented at high hierarchical
levels in private companies and public organizations, as well as in academia. Past research has
revealed that this underrepresentation of women can in part be explained by the endorsement of
gender stereotypes and the lack of support toward policies promoting gender equality. This
symposium brings together 14 researchers from 10 different universities and includes
presentations exploring how gender stereotypes influence a) professional aspirations of girls and
boys (contribution 1, Lavinia Gianettoni); b) mental representations of women in science
(contribution 2, Annique Smeding Jean-Charles Quinton); and c) underlying cognitive and
emotional processes that prevent women to strive for leadership positions (contribution 3, Joerg
Dietz colleagues and contribution 4, Michèle Céline Kaufmann colleagues). Finally, the last
presentation, by Klea Faniko and colleagues, examines the attitudes of women and men toward
policies promoting gender equality. Following the presentations, the chairs will serve as
discussants to highlight both theoretical and practical implications of the presented research.
Page 66 of 323
Why do women in high positions fail to support
gender equality policies? Further evidence for the
Queen Bee phenomenon
Symposium: Why so few women in science and leadership positions?
Submitted by:
Dr Klea FANIKO
Authors
FANIKO, Klea , Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences University of Geneva Boulevard
du Pont d'Arve 40 1205 Geneva
ELLEMERS, Naomi , Faculteit der Sociale Wetenschappen, Instituut Psychologie, Sociale en
Organisatiepsychologie Pieter de la Court gebouw Wassenaarseweg 52 2333 AK Leiden The
Netherlands
DERKS, Belle , Social and Organisation Psychology University of Utrecht Martinus J.
Langeveldgebouw Heidelberglaan 1 3584 CS UTRECHT The Netherlands
Abstract
This study examined why some women in managerial positions fail to endorse policies promoting
gender equality. Our theoretical analysis is based on the Queen Bee phenomenon. The Queen
Bee phenomenon refers to the tendency of some women in high places to consider themselves
as exceptional group members and to undermine the career of other women (Ellemers, Rink,
Derks, Ryan, 2012). Using a large sample of women and men employed in public and private
sectors in Geneva, we found that Queen Bee reactions are unique for women in managerial
positions and do not occur among men in the same positions. More contently, the women in
managerial positions distance themselves from other women by describing themselves as
non-prototypical members of their gender group and rating their personal career commitment as
significantly higher than other women’s career commitment. The findings further demonstrate
that Queen Bee responses explain the lack of support of female managers for gender equality
programs aimed at supporting the career development of junior women in their organisation.
Page 67 of 323
Striving for Powerful Positions: Gender Norms as
Stress Triggers
Submitted by:
Dr. Michèle Céline Kaufmann
Authors
Kaufmann, Michèle Céline, University of Lausanne, Department of Organizational Behavior ,
Lausanne
Messerli-Bürgy, Nadine, University of Fribourg, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois,
Fribourg
Rudman, Laurie, Rutgers University, Department of Psychology, Piscataway, NJ
Sczesny, Sabine, University of Bern, Department of Psychology, Bern
Abstract
This study investigated women’s and men’s self-perceived fit for a junior leadership position and
their self-reported, peripheral-physiological and endocrine stress reactions. 181 students (88
women and 93 men) were asked to take part in an adjusted version of the Trier Social Stress
Test. Participants received a fictitious job advertisement for a junior leadership position. After the
job interview participants were asked to indicate their self-perceived suitability for the advertised
junior leadership position. Women judged themselves as less suitable for the advertised job than
men. This gender differences in the perception of suitability for the position could be explained by
women’s lower self-ascribed agency, which led to lower self-esteem, resulting in a higher
self-reported stress response. Moreover, we found that women show stronger endocrine stress
responses than men especially when the advertised junior leadership position required
dominance which negatively influenced their perceived suitability.
Page 68 of 323
Gender Prototypes as Subtle Discrimination
Submitted by:
Ph.D. Joerg Dietz
Authors
Dietz, Joerg , University of Lausanne, Faculty of Business and Ecnomics (HEC Lausanne)
Dennerlein, Tobias, University of Lausanne, Faculty of Business and Ecnomics (HEC Lausanne),
and Erasmus University, Rotterdam/Netherlands
Ding, Ashley Bin, University of Lausanne, Faculty of Business and Ecnomics (HEC Lausanne)
Kleinlogel, Emmanuelle P., Université Clermont Auvergne, Université Blaise Pascal, Laboratoire
de Psychologie Sociale et Cognitive, Clermont-Ferrand, France
Faniko, Klea, Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l’Éducation, University of Geneva
Abstract
We seek to understand cognitive processes that contribute to the exclusion of women from
leadership roles. One classic argument is that leader prototypes are predominantly male and that
women fit these prototypes to a lesser degree than do men. With our research, we add that even
if gender-balanced leader prototypes existed, cognitive processes likely play a role in keeping
women out of leadership positions. Our proposed answer lies in the gender prototypes held by
men and women. Specifically, in order to maintain their status, men hold prototypes of women
that are characterized by positive attributes to a lower degree than are their prototypes of men.
Women, in contrast, do not make such distinctions in their gender prototypes. Results from three
studies are consistent with these arguments. They point to a pattern of subtle discrimination,
such that men perceive women not as worse than men on negative attributes, but men do view
women as not as being as good as men on positive attributes.
Page 69 of 323
Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics (STEM): Implicit Gender Stereotypes
and Social Group Differences
Submitted by:
Ph.D. Annique Smeding
Authors
Smeding, Annique, Savoie Mont Blanc University
Quinton, Jean-Charles, Clermont University and CNRS UMR6602 / Pascal Institute
Abstract
Women are still underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
(STEM), but some manage to remain in counterstereotypic STEM tracks. We present a line of
research investigating implicit gender-STEM stereotypes among counterstereotypic STEM
women, STEM men, non-STEM women and non-STEM men. Study 1 examined whether implicit
gender-math stereotypes – stronger male-math associations as measured by the Implicit
Association Test (IAT) - would be weaker for STEM women than for the other groups. Study 2
tested whether the same results would be observed with implicit gender-reasoning stereotypes
(male-reasoning associations). Study 3 investigated implicit gender-math stereotypes with an
IAT-adapted MouseTracking technique, and in Study 4, a computational study, data were
simulated by a connectionist model parameterized to reflect intergroup differences. Together,
findings consistently demonstrate weaker implicit gender stereotypes among STEM women and
emphasize the key role of the self in the construction of counterstereotypical associations, hence
providing support for a core assumption of IAT-related theorization.
Page 70 of 323
Professional aspirations of boys and girls: the
impact of sexist ideologies
Submitted by:
Dr Lavinia Gianettoni
Authors
Gianettoni, Lavinia, University of Lausanne
Abstract
A survey on the gendering of professional aspirations was conducted in 2011 in 5 Swiss cantons.
3179 pupils aged between 13 and 15 years towards the end of their compulsory schooling and
their parents were surveyed by questionnaire. The results show that the girls’ degree of
adherence to old-fashioned sexism influences the gendering of their professional aspirations: the
more they distance themselves from sexist attitudes, the more they aspire to gender-atypical
occupations. Family ideologies also play a significant role, for boys as well: the more the parents
adhere to modern sexism, the more the pupils’ aspirations conform to gender norms. Moreover, it
appears that the more the parents adhere to old-fashioned sexism, the more girls aspire to
typical occupations. These results show that primary socialization into gendered roles is an
important factor in young people’s subsequent professional aspirations and is therefore a
determinant for their career choice and their professional future.
Page 71 of 323
Symposium: Emotions in psychotherapy: current
perspectives
Emotions are central components for understanding psychological processes underlying
disorders; avoidance tendencies, effects of traumatic histories, ruminative activity and
impulsiveness may all be linked with core maladaptive emotions. Emotions may also be
understood as a core and primary resource for change in psychotherapy. The first presentation
investigates interpersonal forgiveness in emotion-focused couple’s therapy where accessing
primary shame in couple’s therapy is central. The second study presents data from a randomized
controlled trial on the change of global distress in the beginning of treatment for borderline
personality disorder, where the therapist is using an individually-tailored treatment offer. The third
presentation shows results from a randomized controlled trial on the effects of priming
procedures, for example resource priming, in the context of a cognitive-behavioral treatment for
generalized anxiety disorder. The forth speaker will focus on the therapist’s positive emotions, in
particular hope and enthusiasm, in understanding outcome expectations in the context of a
cognitive-behavioral treatment for depression. Finally, the fifth speaker will present two controlled
psychotherapy studies where the central distinction between secondary and primary adaptive
anger in borderline personality disorder will be discussed.
Page 72 of 323
Vice and virtue of anger: two controlled studies
from an emotion-focused perspective
Symposium: Emotions in psychotherapy: current perspectives
Submitted by:
Pd Dr. Ueli Kramer
Authors
Kramer, Ueli, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychotherapy, Department of Psychiatry,
Switzerland
Pascual-Leone, Antonio, University of Windsor, Department of Psychology
Abstract
Two types of anger, primary assertive and secondary rejecting anger may be defined, depending
on the productivity and primacy of the emotion for the therapeutic process and outcome. Using a
quasi-experimental design, n = 23 anger-prone under-graduate students were compared to n =
22, as participants were working through their idiosyncratic self-critical contents. The results
suggest that anger-prone individuals express more self-contempt and have more difficulty in
accessing their underlying existential need, when compared to controls. The second study
examines the role of the two types of anger in dialectical-behavior (DBT)- skills training. This
randomized controlled trial included N = 41 patients with BPD (n = 21 DBT skills training vs n =
20 treatment as usual). Result showed that the increase in assertive anger mediated the
symptom reduction, in particular in social role. These studies are discussed from a differentiated
perspective on emotion in psychotherapy.
Page 73 of 323
Raising hopes: Differential change of patients’
outcome expectancies depending on the person
of the therapist
Submitted by:
Prof. Dr. Martin grosse Holtforth
Authors
grosse Holtforth, Martin, University of Bern, Department of Psychology, Fabrikstrasse 8, 3012
Bern, Switzerland
Visla, Andreea, Babes-Bolyai-University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Krieger, Tobias, niversity of Bern
Flückiger, Christoph, University of Zurich/University of Bern
Abstract
Aim: Therapist characteristics such as therapist enthusiasm, affiliation, and competence have
been related to outcome expectations in previous research. Whereas previous studies have
investigated how therapist behavior may influence patient outcome expectation in general, no
study has focused on the person of the therapist yet. The aim of this study was to investigate
how therapists differ in terms of changes in their patients’ outcome expectations during therapy.
Methods: 143 patients were treated by 24 therapists practicing CBT. Patients’ mean age was
40.6 years (SD= 11.4 years) and 81 (56.6%) were female. Outcome expectations were
measured at four time points: At screening, pre-treatment, session 7, and at session 14. Results:
We found that some therapists seem to do significantly better than others in changing their
patients’ outcome expectation during therapy. Discussion: Theoretical consequences, clinical
and training implications, as well as avenues for future research will be discussed.
Page 74 of 323
Therapists' flexibility – a randomized clinical trial
in generalized anxiety disorder
Submitted by:
Pd Dr. Phil. Christoph Flückiger
Authors
Flückiger, Christoph, University of Bern, Bern
Bättig, Isabelle, University of Zürich, Clinical Psychology Psychotherapy, Zürich
Forrer, Lena, University of Zürich, Clinical Psychology Psychotherapy, Zürich
Bodenmann, Guy, University of Zürich, Clinical Psychology Psychotherapy, Zürich
Zinbarg, Richard E., Northwestern University, Clinical Psychology Psychotherapy, Evanston,
USA
Abstract
Background. Treatment manuals and protocols allow a relatively high degree of freedom for the
way therapists implement the overall treatment manuals. There is a systematic lack of knowledge
on how therapists should customize these overall protocols. The present study experimentally
examines three ways of conducting a bonafide psychotherapy based on a 15 session
time-limited cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) protocol and their relation to the therapists’
protocol adherence and treatment efficacy using dyadic peer-tutoring methodology (primings).
Methods. Within a randomized clinical trial design, 57 individuals with GAD are randomly
assigned to one of three priming conditions (resource priming, supportive resource priming, or
adherence priming). Primary outcome was assessed on a session-by-session approach up to a
6-months follow-up.Results. Pre-post dropout-rate was low in comparison to the reported
drop-out rates in the literature (Swift Greenberg, 2012), with a slight advantage for the resource
priming conditions in comparison to the adherence priming condition (5%, 5% vs. 15%).
Resource priming conditions indicated a slightly faster symptom reduction on the primary
outcome in comparison to the adherence condition. Discussion. Through the development and
testing of the proposed priming procedures, this study describes levels of adherence and how to
conduct an overall treatment protocol in a more systematized way.
Page 75 of 323
Leaving Distress Behind: A Randomized
Controlled Study on Therapist Responsiveness
and Client Emotional Processing in Borderline
Personality Disorder
Submitted by:
Mas Laurent Berthoud
Authors
Berthoud, Laurent, Institut Universitaire de Psychothérapie, Département de Psychiatrie, CHUV,
Lausanne
Abstract
The marked impulsivity and instability of clients suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder
(BPD) greatly challenge therapists’ understanding and responsiveness. This may hinder the
development of a constructive therapeutic relationship despite it being of particular importance in
their treatment. Recent studies have shown that using Motive-Oriented Therapeutic Relationship
(MOTR), a possible operationalization of appropriate therapist responsiveness, can enhance
treatment outcome for BPD. The overall objective of this study is to examine change in emotional
processing in BPD clients following the therapist’s use of MOTR. The presentation focuses on
N=50 cases taken from each of two conditions of a randomized controlled add-on effectiveness
design. Clients were either allocated to a manual-based psychiatric-psychodynamic 10-session
version of General Psychiatric Management (GPM) or to a 10-session version of GPM
augmented with MOTR. Emotional states were assessed using the Classification of
Affective-Meaning States (Pascual-Leone Greenberg, 2005) at intake, mid-treatment and in the
penultimate session. Across treatment, Early Expressions of Distress, especially the emotion
state of Global Distress, were shown to significantly decrease, and adaptive emotions were
found to emerge. Between-condition differences of change were found, including a significant
increase in emotional variability and stronger outcome predictors in the MOTR condition. The
findings indicate emotional change in BPD clients in a relatively short timeframe and suggest the
addition of MOTR to psychotherapeutic treatments as promising. Clinical implications are
discussed.
Page 76 of 323
Understanding the roles of shame and empathy in
couples' forgiveness process
Submitted by:
Phd Catalina woldarsky
Authors
Woldarsky meneses, Catalina, private practice
Abstract
The aim of this study was to relate the processes involved in interpersonal forgiveness to
outcome for couples wanting to resolve various forms of relational betrayals. 33 couples received
10-12 sessions of Emotion-focused couples therapy. This study represents the validation phase
of a task analysis of couple’s forgiveness, which was based on the rigorous observations of
moment-by-moment changes in eight couples: four couples that forgave and reconciled and four
couples that did not. We closely observed the processes and patterns that seemed to distinguish
couples who successfully resolved their emotional injury via forgiveness versus those who did
not. This culminated in the construction of the Couples Forgiveness Model (Woldarsky Meneses
Greenberg, 2011).Three components from this model were tested using hierarchical linear
regression analyses. The results suggest that the offender’s shame and the injuring partner’s
empathy for this shame are central to the process of couples’ forgiveness.
Page 77 of 323
Symposium: Stepping through Young Employees’
Career with Motivation and Career
Self-Management
Our symposium addresses different processes in young employees’ careers through the lens of
career-enhancing variables. Rochat and Rossier look at a young male career counseling clients
whose motivation for engaging in career choice and development activities was successfully
supported using a motivational interviewing intervention. Valero and Hirschi also look at
motivation by exploring motivational profiles in students who are still in school and working
adolescents using a person-centered approach. The contribution by Johnston gives an overview
of research on career adaptability among adolescents and young employees, a powerful
resource to navigate today’s dynamic and uncertain work environment. She names the strengths
and desiderata for future career adaptability research. Baumeler and Hirschi show how job
crafting and networking are affected by work enhancement and interference for private life
among young workers in their twenties and thirties who face new career development
challenges: They need to sustainably establish their careers while conserving work-life balance
and well-being. Finally, Gubler, Biemann, and Tschopp investigate how career anchors – a
concept that relates to abilities, motives, and values – is related to young MBA alumni’ career
development.
Page 78 of 323
The Interplay of Career Anchors and Career
Behavior – A Sequence Analysis Perspective
Symposium: Stepping through Young Employees’ Career with Motivation and Career
Self-Management
Submitted by:
Dr. Martin Gubler
Authors
Gubler, Martin, Schwyz University of Teacher Education, Goldau ETH Zurich, Zurich
Biemann, Torsten, University of Mannheim, Mannheim
Tschopp, Cécile, ETH Zurich, Zurich
Abstract
As a result of the exposure to various work experiences and challenges, young individuals
eventually develop career anchors (CA)—a combination of self-perceived abilities, motives, and
values. CA—a well-established concept in career research and practice—are assumed to affect
individual career choices, career-related behavior, and the selection of specific occupations.
However, these core assumptions of the concept still lack empirical validation. To address this
research gap, we explored the relationship between CA scores of a sample of MBA alumni in
Switzerland (n = 354) and career trajectories of these individuals over ten years, using sequence
analysis. We found that different CA scores are, indeed, meaningfully related to individuals’
behavior over time, but the results also indicate that some of these relationships are more
complex than what may have been expected. Our findings have various academic and practical
implications, particularly for individuals in their early career stages.
Page 79 of 323
Job Crafting and Networking at Work in
Interaction with Personal Life
Self-Management
Submitted by:
Phd-Student Franziska Baumeler
Authors
Baumeler, Franziska, Universität Bern, Institut für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie,
Switzerland
Hirschi, Andreas, Universität Bern, Institut für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie,
Switzerland
Abstract
Young adults are confronted with a range of different challenges within their work and nonwork
areas. They need to get established in their work role whilst preserving their work-life-balance.
Therefore, the question rises how young employees cope with these different challenges. We
propose that individual career management strategies and personal work-life-balance mutually
influence each other in positive and negative ways. We test this proposition in a study with young
employees from several educational backgrounds and vocational fields and two measurement
points that are half a year apart. Using cross-lagged analyses we explore how work
enhancement and interference are related to job crafting and networking at work. Our results are
important to enhance the understanding of young employees’ career development and have
implications for career counselling and interventions.
Page 80 of 323
The Relevance of Career Adaptability in Early
Careers: A Review of the Literature
Self-Management
Submitted by:
Claire Johnston
Authors
Abstract
This presentation will review the literature on career adaptability, paying special attention to
studies focusing on early career populations and students. Studies were identified by searching
for subject-relevant keywords in scientific databases as well as in domain specific journals such
as the Journal of Vocational Behavior. Approximately 35 studies were included that either used
the Savickas and Porfeli (2012) Career Adapt-Abilities Scale, or a measure of career adaptability
based on this theoretical framework. The review illustrates that career adaptability is associated
to a number of pertinent career behaviours, outcomes, and psychological characteristics but that
the conclusions of many studies are limited by their cross-sectional nature. A select number of
longitudinal studies that have examined the predictors and outcomes of career adaptability are
promising. Finally, studies that have proposed the mediating or moderating effect of career
adaptability illustrate it as an important explanatory mechanism for career outcomes and
behaviours.
Page 81 of 323
Profiles of Work-Related Motivation in Adolescent
Workers
Self-Management
Submitted by:
Lic. Phil. Domingo Valero
Authors
Valero, Domingo, Institute of Psychology, University of Bern
Hirschi, Andreas, Institute of Psychology, University of Bern
Abstract
We used a person-centered approach to explore work-related motivation as indicated by
autonomous goals, positive affect, and occupational self-efficacy among 577 students still in
school and 949 working youth. We identified groups of individuals that were characterized by
high, average, and low levels of motivation. We further found groups showing qualitatively
differing motivational profiles. Students still in school and working adolescents showed similar
motivational profiles. Profiles characterized by high motivation showed the most positive
association with the correlates as goal engagement in the student sample and with person-job fit,
job satisfaction, and work engagement in the working sample. Employing a person-centered
approach, our results showed a variety in motivational profiles that would not have been found
using a variable-centered approach. Practitioners in career counseling and coaching should be
aware of characteristic motivational patterns of their clients that may require specific counseling
approaches.
Page 82 of 323
How and Why Integrating Motivational
Interviewing in Career Counseling: A Case Study
Self-Management
Submitted by:
Master Shékina Rochat
Authors
Rochat, Shékina, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne
Rossier, Jérôme, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne
Abstract
Motivational interviewing (MI) is receiving an increasing attention in the field of career counseling.
However, none of the previous work concretely displayed how and why this method can be
integrated in career counseling. Through the case study of Vigo’s career counseling intervention,
this paper provides a typical illustration of how a brief MI (BMI) intervention can be integrated in
traditional career counseling to help overcome career dilemmas. Analysis of the interactions
between Vigo and his counselor during the BMI with the MI-specific coding tool MISC 2.1
displays why this method can be useful for career counseling. Immediate and long-term effects of
the global career counseling intervention on Vigo’s career decision-making difficulties were
assessed, as well as the specific impacts of the BMI. This case study clearly shows that a BMI
can be used within a career counseling intervention to help career counselee overcome career
dilemma and increase their readiness to make a career choice.
Page 83 of 323
Symposium: Motivational determinants of goal
pursuit
This symposium brings together researchers that conduct research on the impact of motivation
on various parameters of goal pursuit. Miriam Ghassemi will present data on action crisis, the
situation where individuals are forced by insurmountable obstacles to decide whether to continue
goal pursuit or not. She will elaborate on how action crisis evolves and how it affects
performance. Michaela Knecht will show data from a time-sampling study that reveal how
conflicting goals related to work, family, and leisure affect goal selection, optimization of goal
relevant means, and compensation. Jessica Franzen will discuss the impact of reward and
punishment on goal pursuit in subclinical depression. Presenting cardiovascular and muscle
activity data, she will show that dysphoric individuals' effort response to reward and punishment
is similar, whereas their affective reactions' intensity differs. Joséphine Stanek will present a
study that examined difficulty and ability effects on two indicators of effort, cardiovascular
reactivity and oxygen consumption. She will show that task difficulty affects both measures,
whereas ability has only an impact on cardiovascular reactivity. Nicolas Silvestrini will discuss the
impact of pain on effort and performance. He will demonstrate that experiencing pain reduces
performance in subsequent tasks and that the pain-effort relationship is curvilinear.
Page 84 of 323
Pain-Related Cognitive Depletion Impacts Effort
Mobilization and Performance
Symposium: Motivational determinants of goal pursuit
Submitted by:
Phd Nicolas Silvestrini
Authors
Silvestrini, Nicolas, University of Geneva, Boulevard du Pont d'Arve 40, 1211 Geneva
Corradi Dell'Acqua, Corrado, University of Geneva, Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Chemin
des Mines 9, 1202 Geneva
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of a painful vs. non-painful task on effort-related cardiac
response and performance in a subsequent cognitive task. Pain was anticipated to deplete
cognitive resources due to the implication of executive functions in pain regulation.
Consequently, we predicted that effort would be stronger after the painful task to compensate for
the cognitive depletion induced by pain and that task performance would be lower after the
painful task. Results only confirmed our predictions regarding the effect of pain on performance.
However, further correlational analyses indicated that effort mobilization was related to pain
ratings. A moderate pain led to stronger effort whereas a high pain led to low effort. We interpret
this finding as suggesting that participants reporting a high pain disengaged from the cognitive
task due to stronger pain-related cognitive depletion and in turn decreased motivation to perform
the task.
Page 85 of 323
Effort-related measures do not follow energy
expenditure during a cycling task
Submitted by:
Josephine Stanek
Authors
Stanek, Josephine, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Richter, Michael, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Marcora, Samuele, University of Kent, Sport Science, Chatham
Abstract
Motivational intensity theory (Brehm Self, 1989) predicts that energy investment increases with
task difficulty as long as success is possible and justifies the energy invested. According to a
theory extension, individual capacity also determines energy investment (Wright, 1998). Past
research corroborated these predictions with indirect measures of energy investment but not with
direct ones (e.g., Marcora, Bosio, de Morree, 2008). Our study (N=22) employed a 2 (capacity:
low, high) x 4 (difficulty: 50W, 150W, 250W, 500W) mixed design. During a cycling task, we
assessed energy expenditure-oxygen uptake-and effort-related measures-perception of effort,
systolic blood pressure, and heart rate. Planned contrasts were significant for each one of the
measures. As predicted, both individual capacity and task difficulty determined effort-related
measures. However, task difficulty mainly determined energy expenditure regardless of individual
capacity.
Page 86 of 323
Cardiovascular and Muscular Responses during
Incentive Anticipation and Consumption in
Dysphoria
Submitted by:
Jessica Franzen
Authors
Franzen, Jessica, Boulevard du Pont-d'Arve 40, 1211 Genève 4
Brinkmann, Kerstin, Boulevard du Pont-d'Arve 40, 1211 Genève 4
Abstract
Previous studies showed blunted sensitivity to anticipated reward and in part also to anticipated
punishment in clinical and subclinical depression. They also showed weaker affective responses
to reward receipt and similar affective responses to punishment receipt. However, studies
investigating incentive anticipation by effort mobilization and incentive consumption by facial
expressions are scarce. The present two studies investigated reward and punishment
responsiveness in subclinical depression using cardiovascular and muscular measures. Effort
mobilization was operationalized as cardiovascular reactivity during incentive anticipation, while
facial expressions were measured by muscular reactivity during incentive consumption. A
monetary reward was promised in case of good performance in Study 1, while a monetary
punishment was announced in case of bad performance in Study 2. As expected, these studies
showed reduced cardiovascular reactivity during reward and punishment anticipation in
dysphoria, as well as reduced muscular reactivity during reward consumption and normal
muscular reactivity during punishment consumption.
Page 87 of 323
Selection, Optimization, and Compensation as
response to goal conflict and facilitation
Submitted by:
Dr Michaela Knecht
Authors
Knecht, Michaela, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology and URPP Dynamics of
Healthy Aging
Freund, Alexandra M., University of Zurich, Department of Psychology and URPP Dynamics of
Healthy Aging
Abstract
How do middle-aged adults master the pursuit of multiple goals related to work, family and
leisure? What consequences for self-regulatory behavior do conflict and facilitation among the
multiple goals have? The current study investigated the association between goal conflict and
facilitation with the self-regulatory strategies Selection, Optimization, and Compensation (SOC).
More specifically, we tested if momentary goal conflict and facilitation predict SOC-behavior
simultaneously and longitudinally in a time-sampling study with N = 89 employed adults (56%
women) aged between 30 and 55 years who live with their family or partner. Participants
responded on average to 126 questionnaires over the course of 20 days that were presented on
smartphones, reporting on the momentary conflict and facilitation between personal goals,
SOC-strategies, and affective well-being. Multi-level analyses show that momentary goal conflict
positively predicts the use of SOC behavior at the next time point, whereas goal facilitation
negatively predicts SOC strategies.
Page 88 of 323
Should I Stop or Should I Go: Recent Findings on
the Action Crisis as a Motivational Conflict
Between Goal Pursuit and Goal Disengagement
Submitted by:
Dipl.-Psych. Mirjam Ghassemi
Authors
Ghassemi , Mirjam, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Psychology of Motivation,
Volition and Emotion, Zurich
Brandstätter, Veronika, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Psychology of
Motivation, Volition and Emotion, Zurich
Abstract
The pursuit of personal goals is an indispensable aspect of human life. However, goal striving
does not always flow smoothly. When a person does not possess the abilities required for goal
achievement, when conditions for goal pursuit have deteriorated, or when the goal itself has lost
some of its appeal, goal striving may be fraught with obstacles. Sometimes these obstacles
become so insurmountable that the individual ultimately faces the unpleasant decision on
whether to continue or disengage from the goal, despite considerable investments already
incurred. Recent research has conceptualized this intra-psychic conflict as an “action crisis”
(Brandstätter Schüler, 2013; Brandstätter, Herrmann, Schüler, 2013). We present recent findings
on how an action crisis unfolds, how it affects goal-unrelated performance, and discuss first
evidence on a psychological intervention, that might help to resolve this critical phase.
Page 89 of 323
Symposium: Future Thinking: From underlying
processes to goal-related functions
One of the remarkable features of the human mind is that it allows us to mentally explore
possible futures, to imagine either positive situations that we strive to achieve or negative
situations that we would rather avoid. This capacity —often termed “future thinking” or
“prospection”— is central to many aspects of human cognition and behavior, such as decision
making, planning, self-regulation and sense of identity. Over the last decade, important progress
has been made in understanding the representations and processes that underlie our ability to
simulate potential futures, but much remains to be elucidated. In this symposium, a set of
international speakers present recent research on future thinking. The flexible interplay of
episodic details and autobiographical knowledge that gives rise to future-oriented thoughts is
addressed. The frequency, properties and functions of future thinking are reported, as assessed
both through a laboratory-based paradigm and in natural settings. Finally, the way we imagine
our future selves is characterized in a cross-cultural perspective. Overall, this symposium
emphasizes a key role of future thinking in goal pursuit.
Page 90 of 323
Cross-cultural differences in imagining the future
self
Symposium: Future Thinking: From underlying processes to goal-related functions
Submitted by:
Phd Clare Rathbone
Authors
Rathbone, Clare, Oxford Brookes University, Department of Psychology, Oxford
Salgado, Sinué, Aarhus University, Center on Autobiographical Memory Research, Aarhus
Akan, Melisa, Bogaziçi University, Department of Psychology, Istanbul
Havelka, Jelena, University of Leeds, School of Psychology, Leeds
Berntsen, Dorthe, Aarhus University, Center on Autobiographical Memory Research, Aarhus
Abstract
This study examined the impact of culture on the qualitative and quantitative features of possible
future selves. Young adults from Turkey (n = 55), Serbia (n = 64), and the United Kingdom (n =
73) generated images of eight possible selves (e.g. I will be a doctor) which were dated and
rated for vividness, positivity, imagery perspective, rehearsal and according to whether or not
they involved other people. All future selves were coded according to categories (e.g. job,
parenthood, self-improvement), which revealed cross-cultural differences in the types of possible
selves generated. There were also cross-cultural differences in the ratings for vividness, positivity
and rehearsal of possible selves. Across all three cultures, specific possible selves (which
mapped onto life script categories) were more frequently generated than abstract (trait-linked)
possible selves. Results are discussed with reference to cultural life scripts and the effects of
culture on future cognitions.
Page 91 of 323
Characteristics and functions of emotional future
thinking in daily life
Submitted by:
Phd Catherine Barsics
Authors
Barsics, Catherine, University of Geneva, Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Switzerland
Van der Linden, Martial, University of Geneva, Cognitive Psychopathology and Neuropsychology
Unit, Switzerland
D'Argembeau, Arnaud, University of Liège, Department of Psychology: Cognition and Behavior,
Belgium
Abstract
Many thoughts that people form about their future refer to emotionally significant events. This
study investigates the frequency and nature of such emotional future-oriented thoughts
(EmoFTs), occurring in natural settings. Participants (n = 76) recorded EmoFTs occurring in daily
life and rated their characteristics, perceived functions, and associated anticipatory and
anticipated emotions (i.e. emotions experienced in the present versus emotions expected to
occur in the future). EmoFTs are frequent and are perceived to fulfill important functions such as
goal pursuit and emotion regulation. A positivity bias in the frequency of EmoFTs is restricted to
anticipated emotions. The representational format and perceived function of EmoFTs vary
according to valence. The personal importance and amount of visual imagery of EmoFTs impact
on the intensity of associated emotions, which influence subsequent mood states. Overall, these
findings shed further light on the emotional properties of future-oriented thoughts that are
experienced in daily life.
Page 92 of 323
The Goal-relatedness of Voluntary and
Involuntary Future Thoughts Elicited in a
Laboratory Task
Submitted by:
Phd Scott Cole
Authors
Cole, Scott, City University, London
Berntsen, Dorthe, Aarhus University, Denmark
Abstract
Future thoughts could serve personal goals by regulating one’s cognition and behaviour.
Research has indicated a goal function for voluntary future thoughts; those generated wilfully.
However, will future thoughts that come to mind involuntarily be as goal-relevant as voluntary
future thoughts? In this study, we used a laboratory-based paradigm to study past and future
thoughts in voluntary and involuntary modes. We found a greater proportion of involuntary and
voluntary goal-related future versus past thoughts, showing the prevalence of goal-related future
thoughts. Second, in line with findings from memory research, we found that voluntary
goal-related thoughts were more important to the self, and rehearsed more frequently, than non
goal-related voluntary thoughts. Goal-related voluntary thoughts were also more emotionally
intense and positive, and elicited a greater mood impact. We reflect on the question of why
humans experience future thoughts.
Page 93 of 323
The role of autobiographical knowledge in
episodic future thinking
Submitted by:
Phd Arnaud D'Argembeau
Authors
D'Argembeau, Arnaud, University of Liège, Department of Psychology, Belgium
Abstract
Episodic future thinking—the ability to mentally simulate specific events that might happen in
one’s personal future—has received much theoretical and empirical attention in recent years.
The evidence shows that episodic and semantic memory play a key role in this ability, providing
the sources of information for constructing event representations. It is unlikely, however, that the
construction of a mental scene is sufficient in order for an imagined event to be subjectively
perceived as belonging to one’s personal future. In this talk, I will present behavioral and
neuroimaging evidence showing that autobiographical knowledge (e.g., personal goals and
general expectations about one’s life) is also an integral part of episodic future thinking that
drives, constrains, and contextualizes imagined events. Specifically, several studies show that
autobiographical knowledge contributes to the construction and organization of episodic future
thoughts, and enhances the subjective sense of “pre-experiencing” imagined events.
Page 94 of 323
Symposium: Studying vulnerability across the life
course: An interdisciplinary project
The Swiss National Centre of Competences in Research “LIVES - Overcoming vulnerability: life
course perspectives” is studying vulnerability across the life course as a dynamic between
resources and stressors. This symposium aims to discuss our most recent evidence on
vulnerability and vulnerabilisation. In the first talk, Dasoki et al. will present a study investigating
the interrelations and the influences that different temporalities, i.e. individual, social, and
historical times, have on memories of happiness and vulnerability. Lampraki et al. will focus on
continuity and social participation in the process of recovering from the loss of an intimate partner
in the second half of life. Ihle et al. will discuss the role of different life course determinants such
as educational background, health related variables, and engaging in professional and leisure
activities in middle adulthood for cognitive performance in old age. The fourth presentation by
Maggiori et al. will focus on the impact of personal resources and professional conditions on the
relationship between personality dimensions and professional and general well-being. Finally,
Vallet et al. will present a study examining frailty in aging and its influences on stress
management and well-being. In sum, the symposium emphasizes the interdisciplinary and
multi-methodological angle of the NCCR LIVES to enlighten different domains of vulnerability and
vulnerabilisation with a life course perspective.
Page 95 of 323
Frailty in aging and its influences on stress
management
Symposium: Studying vulnerability across the life course: An interdisciplinary project
Submitted by:
Doctor Fanny vallet
Authors
Vallet, Fanny, University of Geneva, Centre interfacultaire de gérontologie et d'études des
vulnérabilités, pôle de recherche national NCCR LIVES et Groupe de Recherche en Psychologie
de la Santé, Geneva
Desrichard, Olivier, University of Geneva, pôle de recherche national NCCR LIVES et Groupe de
Recherche en Psychologie de la Santé, Geneva
Fagot, Delphine, University of Geneva, Centre interfacultaire de gérontologie et d'études des
vulnérabilités, pôle de recherche national NCCR LIVES, Geneva
Spini, Dario, University of Lausanne, Institut des sciences sociales, pôle de recherche national
NCCR LIVES, Lausanne
Abstract
Despite frail elders, compared to independent ones, are supposed to have a baseline
vulnerability to stressors (e.g. Quinlann et al., 2001), there is little empirical evidence that they
have more difficulties to recover after a stressful event. In this study, 2774 participants, all
members of the VLV-cohort, aged 64 to 101 (M=78), reported the stress they experienced during
the past month, and the presence/absence of 6 Stress Related Symptoms (SRS, e.g., sleep
disruption) during the same period. Controlled for age and sex, frailty significantly predicts stress.
As expected, frailty moderates the stress-SRS relationship: compared to independent elders, frail
elders who experienced stress during the past month reported more SRS. Our results confirm
that, below and above sex and age, frail elders face more stressful situations. They also
experience more SRS after a stressful event, suggesting a more difficult stress recovery.
Page 96 of 323
Workers’ well-being: The role of personal
resources and professional conditions
Submitted by:
Phd Christian Maggiori
Authors
Maggiori, Christian, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland - School of
Social Work Fribourg
Johnston, Claire, Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research – LIVES, University of
Lausanne
Rossier, Jérôme, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology
Abstract
This presentation focuses on the impact of personal resources (i.e., occupational self-efficacy,
Schyns Von Collani, 2002) and professional conditions (i.e., job strain, Karasek, 1979) on the
relationship between personality dimensions (Five-factor model, McCrae Costa, 1999), and
professional and general well-being (e.g. job satisfaction, general health). This pattern of
relationships is assessed generally for employed individuals and within specific occupational
groups. Based on the 1st wave of a longitudinal study on professional trajectories of the Swiss
NCCR–LIVES, the overall sample consists of 1’714 employed adults living in Switzerland (Mage
= 41.9; SD = 8.6). With reference to professional well-being, initial structural equation modeling
analyses on the overall sample, emphasized that the effect of neuroticism is partly mediated by
job strain and occupational self-efficacy, while extraversion and conscientiousness have an
indirect effect only through occupational self-efficacy. Considering, the occupational groups, the
results highlight different patterns of relationships across the groups.
Page 97 of 323
Life course determinants of cognitive
performance in old age
Submitted by:
Dr. Andreas Ihle
Authors
Ihle, Andreas, University of Geneva, Department of Psychology as well as Center for the
Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability and NCCR LIVES, Switzerland
Oris, Michel, University of Geneva, Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and
Vulnerability and NCCR LIVES, Switzerland
Fagot, Delphine, University of Geneva, Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and
Vulnerability and NCCR LIVES, Switzerland
Kliegel, Matthias, University of Geneva, Department of Psychology, Switzerland
Abstract
The present study set out to investigate the role of different life course determinants such as
educational background, health related variables, and engaging in professional and leisure
activities in middle adulthood for cognitive performance in old age. 2812 older adults (aged
65-101) performed a test on verbal abilities and one on processing speed. In addition, individuals
were retrospectively interviewed on their educational background, health status, and regarding
engaging in professional and leisure activities in middle adulthood. Results revealed significant
links between these determinants characterizing individual life courses with cognitive functioning
in old age. Interestingly, these relations were pronounced for certain combinations of life course
patterns. In sum, present results underline the role of individuals’ life trajectories as a frame for
the development of cognitive functioning in old age.
Page 98 of 323
Continuity and social participation in the process
of recovering from the loss of an intimate partner
in the second half of life
Submitted by:
Master Charikleia Lampraki
Authors
LAMPRAKI, CHARIKLEIA, UNIVERSITY OF LAUSANNE, INSITUTE OF PSYCHOLOGY,
NCCR-LIVES, LAUSANNE
SPINI, DARIO, UNIVERSITY OF LAUSANNE, INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, OF
PSYCHOLOGY, NCCR-LIVES, LAUSANNE
MORSELLI, DAVIDE, UNIVERSITY OF LAUSANNE, INSTITUTE OF SOCIAL SCIENCES,
INSITUTE OF PSYCHOLOGY, NCCR-LIVES, LAUSANNE
Abstract
Research on identity stresses the importance of continuity for successful aging. This study
assesses the impact of spousal loss (through separation or death) in the second half of life on
perceived self-continuity and how active participation in social groups (outside family/friends)
may support the coping process. Time effects were examined by separating the sample
according to when the event had occurred: 0 to 2 years ago (short-term) or 2 to 5 years ago
(long-term). Married individuals served as control group. Considering short-term loss effects, the
number of social groups and social loneliness increased while self-continuity decreased.
Regarding long-term effects, there was a decrease in the number of social groups and social
loneliness but an increase of self-continuity, indicating a selection process on social interactions
that affects self-continuity. Moreover, regression analyses showed that social participation and
social loneliness were critical only at a later point in time after the loss.
Page 99 of 323
Memories of happiness and vulnerability: a
crossroad for individual, social and historical
Submitted by:
Nora Dasoki
Authors
Dasoki, Nora, NCCR LIVES - Institut de sciences sociales - Lausanne
Morselli, Davide , NCCR LIVES - Institut de sciences sociales - Lausanne
Spini, Dario, NCCR LIVES - Institut de sciences sociales - Lausanne
Abstract
Autobiographical memory is the result of three main temporalities that interact and alternate with
each other: individual time (positivity bias); social times (cultural life script); and historical time
(collective memories). Until now, the three temporalities were studied separately. We test the
influence that this three temporality has on memories with the Vivre / Leben / Vivere survey in
Switzerland. Happy and vulnerable memories were collected using a life calendar. Our findings
show that happy memories are linked to social expectations and there are no age differences.
For vulnerability individual time and historical context have both an impact and an interaction.
The oldest elderly are less likely to remember their lives as vulnerable, but during the Second
World War this is reversed and it’s the younger elderly that report less vulnerability. Finally older
were at the moment of the WWII, the more likely they are to report vulnerability.
Page 100 of 323
Symposium: Complex Identity Configurations and
Intergroup Relations
The social-psychological literature on intergroup relations has most often focused on social
identities in clear-cut ingroup-outgroup contexts. Increased globalization and migration flows
challenges this perception of social identities. The ensuing tendency to perceive social identities
as complex and malleable has encouraged the development of new research lines. The present
symposium consists of four presentations which emphasize the necessity of considering the
impact of complex identity configurations on the quality of intergroup relations. The first
contribution, by Serge Guimond and collaborators, examines the impact of different types of
integration policies that vary in the degree to which they encourage the blending of immigrants’
multiple identities on harmonious intergroup relations. In the second presentation, Natasha
Frederic and colleagues highlights how a heterogeneous national identity leads nationals to
express more negative attitudes toward immigrants. The third contribution, by Marion Chipeaux
and collaborators, focuses on the influence of status inconsistency between multiple identities
(resulting from social mobility) on the concern for the inherited low-status ingroup. Finally, the last
presentation, by Eva Green and colleagues, investigates how complex historical relations
between two social groups (alternating between the position of either victim or perpetrator at
different stages of their history) impact on prejudice toward the outgroup.
Page 101 of 323
Ethnic prejudice and group-based emotions in
light of historical events: majority and minority
perspectives
Symposium: Complex Identity Configurations and Intergroup Relations
Submitted by:
Phd Eva G.T. Green
Authors
Green, Eva G.T., University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology
Visintin, Emilio Paolo, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology
Hristova, Antoaneta , Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Bulgaria
Bozhanova, Ana, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Bulgaria
Giroud, Adrienne , University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology
Staerklé, Christian, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology
Abstract
This research examined the mediating role of group-based emotions in the relationship between
perceived collective victimhood and acknowledgment of outgroup suffering on the one hand and
prejudice on the other. A survey study was conducted in Bulgaria where both the ethnic majority
and the Bulgarian Turkish minority can be conceived as victims and perpetrators at different
moments in history. Path models demonstrated that for the majority (N = 192) collective
victimhood was positively related to prejudice through reduced guilt and shame as well as
forgiveness. Perception of outgroup suffering, in turn, decreased prejudice through heightened
guilt and shame as well as forgiveness. Among the minority (N = 160) the result pattern was
different. Perceptions of outgroup suffering reduced prejudice through increased forgiveness,
while collective victimhood reduced prejudice through decreased guilt and shame. The impact of
historical representations on current day prejudice is discussed in light of intergroup status
differences.
Page 102 of 323
“I want, and therefore I am”: Spanish immigrants’
attitudes who long for the host nationality
Submitted by:
Phd Student Marion Chipeaux
Authors
Chipeaux, Marion, Boulevard Pont d'Arve, 40. 1211 Genève 4
Kulich, Clara, Boulevard Pont d'Arve, 40. 1211 Genève 4
Iacoviello, Vincenzo, Boulevard Pont d'Arve, 40. 1211 Genève 4
Lorenzi-Cioldi, Fabio, Boulevard Pont d'Arve, 40. 1211 Genève 4
Abstract
Past research illustrates that when members of socially disadvantaged groups join a better
valued group through individual achievements, they express low concern for the disadvantaged
group. Such attitudes are not explained by a decrease of their identification with the inherited
group, but rather by an increase of their identification with the achieved one. The present work
further investigates these findings by exploring the attitudes of individuals who wish to engage in
upward mobility. Participants are Spanish immigrants in Geneva. Socially mobile participants, i.e.
Spanish who possess the Swiss nationality, as well as participants who long for the Swiss
nationality, express lower concern for the Spanish compared to participants who do not wish to
acquire the Swiss nationality. The findings show that this difference is accounted for by the
greater identification with the Swiss amongst the former compared to the latter. The discussion
focuses on anticipatory socialization theory.
Page 103 of 323
The impact of national identity heterogeneity on
anti-immigrant prejudices
Submitted by:
Natasha Frederic
Authors
Frederic, Natasha Stine, University of Geneva
Falomir-Pichastor, Juan Manuel, University of Geneva
Abstract
Past research suggest that in-group heterogeneity could result in more positive intra-group
relations. We will present a series of studies that suggest that a heterogeneous national identity
could have a negative effect on attitudes towards out-groups, namely immigrants. First,
heterogeneity increases anti-immigrant prejudices only when immigrants are a pertinent
comparison-group: When they are excluded from (vs. included in) the national group (N = 95).
Second, the perception of heterogeneity as threatening depends on individual factors, and can
be attenuated. Heterogeneity increases-anti-immigrant prejudice for individuals with a high level
of RWA (N = 83). Moreover, prejudice is reduced in the heterogeneous condition when
immigrants are presented as heterogeneous (vs. homogeneous) for individuals with a high level
of RWA (N = 82), or by inducing a complex (vs. simple) identity configuration for high national
identifiers (N = 77). Results will be discussed in terms of how heterogeneous in-group identities
challenge in-group distinctiveness.
Page 104 of 323
Confronting cultural and religious diversity: A
new perspective
Submitted by:
Master Elodie Roebroeck
Authors
ROEBROECK, Elodie, University Blaise Pascal, LAPSCO, Department of Psychology,
Clermont-Ferrand
GUIMOND, Serge, University Blaise Pascal, LAPSCO, Department of Psychology,
Clermont-Ferrand
Abstract
Every year millions of immigrants face the challenge of dealing with multiple cultural identities.
Historically, social psychologists' research interest was first focused on the choices made by
immigrants to keep or give up their culture of origin. But, in a complementary way, more and
more research is now concerned with integration policies implemented by the host country.
These policies seeking to deal with cultural and religious diversity are sometimes based on
radically different assumptions (i.e. prescribing the adoption of a single identity by all vs. allowing
and even promoting so-called dual identities). We have conducted a number of studies in
different countries to assess the implications of these models of integration for intergroup
relations. We present an overview of these studies, discussing the impact of four distinct models:
assimilation, multiculturalism, republican universalism and laïcité. Policies that are promoting
equality are found to be associated with the most positive impact.
Page 105 of 323
Symposium: Work Rest: New Insights into
Research on Job Stress and Recovery from Work
This symposium brings together five methodologically diverse studies that present new insights
in the areas of job stress and recovery. In the first presentation, Baeriswyl et al. show that
self-endangering behavior mediates the relationship between job stressors and exhaustion.
Then, Elfering et al. present findings on experienced stress and sleep problems as mediators in
the relationship between work-privacy conflict and musculoskeletal pain. Moving towards the
area of recovery, three studies focus on psychological detachment (i.e., a person’s sense of
being away from the work situation) as a specific recovery experience. First, Debus and Fritz
investigate changes in job characteristics and well-being, and the role of psychological
detachment when employees become managers. Focusing on the context of couples, Meier and
Cho link detachment to the spillover-crossover mechanism and demonstrate that low detachment
mediates the relationship between job demands and social undermining behavior at home.
Finally, the study by Debrot et al. shows that detachment at home is related to better mood, both
within oneself and one’s partner, and that intimacy acts as a crucial boundary condition. As our
discussant, Norbert K. Semmer will comment on the presented studies, as well as discuss their
theoretical and practical implications.
Page 106 of 323
Daily affective interpersonal consequences of
psychological detachment from work: The
moderating role of intimacy
Symposium: Work Rest: New Insights into Research on Job Stress and Recovery from Work
Submitted by:
Dr Phil. Anik Debrot
Authors
Debrot, Anik, Personnel and Organizational Psychology, Deparment of Psychology, University of
Fribourg
Schoebi, Dominik, Clinical Family Psychology, Deparment of Psychology, University of Fribourg
Klumb, Petra L. , Personnel and Organizational Psychology, Deparment of Psychology,
University of Fribourg
Abstract
Psychological detachment from work during leisure time is important for individual wellbeing.
Partners of people with higher general tendency to detach from work report greater life
satisfaction. However, the interpersonal consequences of detachment haven’t yet been studied
in daily life. Following the stress-buffering hypothesis, close partners could also play a facilitating
role the detachment process. Using electronic momentary assessment, 109 dual-earner couples
with young children reported on their level of detachment, their affective experience and their
intimacy feelings toward the partner after returning home from work over ten consecutive days.
Dyadic multilevel analyses suggest that not only the own but also the partner’s mood is higher
when individuals detach from work. Intimacy feelings are associated with a better mood.
However, this is less the case when the partner fails to detach from work. The results are
discussed from an interpersonal emotion regulation framework.
Page 107 of 323
Lack of Psychological Detachment as Linking
Mechanism Between Job Demands and Social
Undermining at Home: Results from a Diary
Study, a Longitudinal Study, and a Multi-Source
Study
Submitted by:
Dr. Laurenz Meier
Authors
Meier, Laurenz, University of Fribourg
Cho, Eunae, University at Albany
Abstract
Previous research on the spillover-crossover process mainly focused on affective reactions as a
linking mechanism, thereby overlooking other mechanisms. In the present research, we
examined lack of psychological detachment as a mediator in the relationship between job
demands and social undermining towards the partner. Additionally, we tested whether
relationship satisfaction serves as a boundary condition on the proposed effect. We addressed
these research questions with three data sets, namely a two-week daily diary study, a 5-wave
longitudinal study, and a multi-source study with partner’s reports. The results provide
converging support that psychological detachment partially mediated the effect of job demands
on social undermining. Furthermore, the effect was weaker among employees whose
relationship satisfaction was high. Extending previous research on psychological detachment that
has largely focused on employee’s health as outcome, our findings demonstrate that low
detachment is an important pathway of the spillover-crossover process and has negative
interpersonal consequences.
Page 108 of 323
Becoming a Manager: Changes in Job
Characteristics, Well-Being, and the Importance
of Detachment from Work
Submitted by:
Dr. Maike Debus
Authors
Debus, Maike E., University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmühlestrasse 14/12, 8050
Zürich, Switzerland
Fritz, Charlotte, Portland State University, Department of Psychology, 317 Cramer Hall, 1721 SW
Broadway, Portland,OR 97207-0751, USA
Abstract
In the present study, we investigated changes in job resources, job demands, and well-being that
individuals experience when they transition from a non-manager to a manager position. In
addition, we examined psychological detachment from work (i.e., a person’s sense of being away
from the work situation) as a crucial boundary condition. Using panel data from 2090 individuals,
within-person analyses revealed that individuals experience an increase in autonomy, time
pressure, exhaustion, and work-family conflict. Contrary to our expectations, we did not find an
increase in job satisfaction. However, the analyses demonstrated that especially those new
managers who experience high detachment from work in their free time experience an increase
in job satisfaction; psychological detachment also buffered the increase in exhaustion and
work-family conflict. Our findings suggest that leadership trainings should also focus on new
managers’ non-work life and teach them how to effectively recover from work.
Page 109 of 323
Work-Privacy Conflict and Musculoskeletal Pain:
A Population-based Test of a StressSleep-Mediation Model
Submitted by:
Ph.D. Achim Elfering
Authors
Elfering, Achim, University of Bern
Igic, Ivana, University of Bern
Keller, Anita, University of Bern
Meier, Laurenz, University of Fribourg
Semmer, Norbert, University of Bern
Abstract
Previous research showed that work-privacy conflict (WPC) is associated with musculoskeletal
pain (MSP) but the processes involved are unclear. This study tests three mediation paths
(WPC->experienced stress->MSP, WPC->sleep problems->MSP, and WPC>experienced
stress->sleep problems->MSP). Total mediation was tested to differ in subgroups. In a
representative sample of the Swiss working population (N = 3,438)constructs were assessed by
self-report. All three mediation paths were significant (ps <.001). The total indirect effect was
stronger in women compared to men (p = .036) while mediation did not differ in groups who differ
in working schedules or age. However, tests of higher order moderated mediation showed that
mediation was significantly higher in women aged 45 or older who did shift work than in all other
combinations (p = .036). Work redesign should reduce WPC in order to reduce experienced
stress, prevent sleeping problems and reduce work-related MSP.
Page 110 of 323
Job Stressors and Emotional Exhaustion among
Swiss Teachers: Self-Endangering Work Behavior
as a Mediator
Submitted by:
Master Sophie Baeriswyl
Authors
Baeriswyl, Sophie, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of
Berset, Martial , University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of
Krause, Andreas, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of
Abstract
Purpose: Increasing demands in the teaching Profession call for accelerated effort and new ways
of coping. The present study examines self-endangering work behavior (SEWB) (prolonging
working hours) as a coping behavior and an intervening variable between job stressors
(workload, pupil misbehavior, conflicts with parents) and emotional exhaustion. Methods:
Hypotheses were tested with structural equation modeling in the context of a crosssectional
survey analysis based on a representative sample of 570 Swiss teachers. Results: The effects of
workload and conflicts with parents on emotional exhaustion were partially mediated through
SEWB. Pupil misbehavior affected emotional exhaustion only directly. Discussion: Results
support the view of SEWB as mediating variable in the relationship between job stressors
(workload and conflict with parents) and emotional exhaustion. With rumination and impaired
recovery, potential explanations for these associations are discussed and results are embedded
in the current discussion of legitimate vs. illegitimate stressors.
Page 111 of 323
Symposium: The good, the bad, and the ugly:
Influences of resources and risk factors on
psychobiological health
Stress is a major risk factor in the Western world. Studies in Switzerland show an increase in
stress prevalence and societal burden, especially due to the development and progression of
mental and physical disorders. The link between stress and morbidity/mortality is thought to be
directly or indirectly mediated by different physiological systems, such as the central nervous
system (CNS), the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the autonomic nervous system
(ANS), and the immune system. In this symposium, the speakers will, on the one hand, present
different health-threatening psychobiological correlates of stress and related disorders. On the
other hand, they will present findings from current studies including different physiological and/or
psychological interventions, aiming to buffer the negative effects of stress or decrease
disorder-specific symptoms. Findings, methods, and the potential preventive benefit of the
different interventions will be critically discussed.
Page 112 of 323
Dark chocolate consumption attenuates
intracellular pro-inflammatory reactivity to acute
psychosocial stress in healthy men
Symposium: The good, the bad, and the ugly: Influences of resources and risk factors on
Submitted by:
Ulrike Kuebler
Authors
Kuebler, Ulrike , University of Zurich, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Zurich
Arpagaus, Angela , University of Zurich, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Zurich
Meister, Rebecca , Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, and University of Bern, Neurology, Bern
von Känel, Roland, Clinic Barmelweid, Psychosomatic Medicine, Barmelweid
Ehlert, Ulrike , University of Zurich, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Zurich
Wirtz, Petra H., University of Konstanz, Biological Work and Health Psychology, Konstanz
Abstract
Flavonoid-rich dark chocolate consumption has beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, but
underlying mechanisms are elusive. In a randomized placebo-controlled study, we investigated
for the first time the effect of acute dark chocolate consumption on inflammatory measures
before and after acute psychosocial stress in 65 healthy men (aged 20-50 years). Compared to
the placebo chocolate group, the dark chocolate group revealed a marginal increase in mRNA
expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 prior to stress, and significantly blunted stress
reactivity of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB and the pro-inflammatory cytokines
IL-1β and IL-6 at mRNA levels. These results remained significant when controlling for potential
confounders. Our findings indicate that acute flavonoid-rich dark chocolate exerts
anti-inflammatory effects both by increasing mRNA expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine
IL-10 and by attenuating the intracellular pro-inflammatory stress response. This mechanism may
add to beneficial effects of dark chocolate on cardiovascular health.
Page 113 of 323
Psychoneuroendocrine evaluation of social
support stress management training in healthy
women
Submitted by:
Lic. Phil. Nadja Heimgartner
Authors
Heimgartner, Nadja, University of Basel, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Basel
Hochueli, Stefanie, University of Basel, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Basel
Ponti, Svetlana, University of Basel, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Basel
Gaab, Jens, University of Basel, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Basel
Abstract
Psychosocial stress is a potent activator of the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis.
While neuroendocrine stress responses are essential for the maintenance of homeostasis,
evidence suggests that excessive activation of the HPA axis constitutes a risk for disease and
psychopathology. Numerous studies demonstrated the essential importance of interpersonal ties,
social support and social integration for health, wellbeing and even survival. Although the positive
effects of social support are well supported as well as long accepted, a stress management
intervention based on social support has not been designed and tested so far. The goal of the
present study was to develop and evaluate the effects of a social support-based stress
management training on psychological wellbeing and endocrine stress responses under acute
psychosocial stress among healthy women. Results will be presented at the congress.
Page 114 of 323
The autonomic nervous activity of hostile acting
Submitted by:
Dr Julie Palix
Authors
Palix, Julie, CHUV, Lausanne
Moulin, Valérie, CHUV, Lausanne
Favrod, Jérôme, Ecole La Source, Lausanne
Abstract
The present talk aims to examine the heart-rate variability (HRV) indexes of two populations
known to be particularly sensitive to stress condition: violent offenders and intellectually impaired
patients. For both, difficulties in managing stressful and emotional events could lead to
unpredictable and hostile acting. Results in favour of specific HRV baseline patterns and
emotional control will be developed, as the proposition of precursors of agitation in the
physiological fluctuations preceding high tensed episodes. The improvement offered by coherent
breathing trainings will be discussed for both groups.
Page 115 of 323
Stress, sleep and memory consolidation during
sleep
Submitted by:
Phd Sandra Ackermann
Authors
Ackermann, Sandra, Department of Psychology, Division of Biopsychology, University of Zurich,
Zurich, Switzerland
La Marca, Roberto, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric
Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Seifritz, Erich, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric
Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Rasch, Björn, Department of Psychology, Cognitive Biopsychology and Methods, University of
Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
Abstract
Stress affects sleep as well as memory processes. In spite of the importance of stress-related
learning processes in everyday life, the mechanisms of the association between stress, sleep
and memory are virtually unknown. In the present study we focus on the influence of acute stress
on sleep and memory consolidation during a 90-minute nap-sleep or wakefulness. Sleep onset
latency after stress induction was prolonged when compared to sleep onset latency in the control
condition. In respect to stress effects on memory consolidation, we observed an interaction
between the cortisol response and sleep or wakefulness after stress induction. While cortisol
responders in the wake group show typical stress effects on memory, this effect was completely
abolished in the sleep group. Our results indicate that stress effects on memory consolidation
during wakefulness are mediated by the cortisol response while this effect was not observable in
the sleep group.
Page 116 of 323
The role of the vagus nerve for mental and
somatic health and ways to increase its activity
Submitted by:
Phd Roberto La Marca
Authors
La Marca, Roberto, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychological Institute, University of
Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Lozza, Niclà, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychological Institute, University of
Lacker, Tim, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychological Institute, University of
Ehlert, Ulrike, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Psychological Institute, University of
Abstract
The vagus nerve (VN) is considered to be a health nerve. Higher vagal activity, which is often
indexed by heart rate variability, has repeatedly shown to be associated with mental and somatic
health measures. The underlying physiological mechanisms of these associations have become
clearer only in recent years: As a main constituent of the autonomic nervous system, the VN
regulates the activity of several vital organs (e.g. the heart). Additionally, the VN modulates the
activity of different systems related to stress, such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis or
the immune system. For instance, higher vagal activity is linked to lower cortisol levels and
reduced inflammation. Therefore, increasing vagal activity may have beneficial effects on
stress-related diseases and disorders. After giving an overview of the vagal physiology, different
methods assumed to increase vagal activity will be discussed at the meeting.
Page 117 of 323
Symposium: Cognitive plasticity across the
lifespan: On training gains and mechanisms of
transfer
Training mind and brain is a hot topic in psychology. Cognitive plasticity refers to cognitive and
neural changes due to training in target domains such as working memory and executive
functions. Moreover, cognitive trainings aim not only to benefit the trained domain but also to
transfer to other cognitive abilities such as reasoning. The present symposium will address the
question of the underpinnings of transfer and influencing factors on possible transfer effects in
cognitive training. Four talks will present training studies across the lifespan investigating
children, young adults and older adults. Sascha Zuber will investigate executive function trainings
in children and their possible transfer to prospective memory. The following two talks will
examine young adults. The focus of Carla De Simoni’s talk will be on working memory training
and its transfer to reasoning and executive functions in a large-scale study. Julia Föcker will
present work on neural plasticity of attentional control investigating action video game players.
The last talk by Erika Borella will present working memory training in older adults examining the
influence of education, age and the nature of the training task on training and transfer outcomes.
Finally, Mark McDaniel will integrate and discuss the presented research for further insights and
reflections on plasticity and cognitive trainings across the lifespan.
Page 118 of 323
Working Memory Training in aging: Where are the
gains?
Symposium: Cognitive plasticity across the lifespan: On training gains and mechanisms of
transfer
Submitted by:
Phd Erika Borella
Authors
Borella, Erika , School of Psychology, Department of General Psychology, University of Padova,
Italy
Abstract
Working Memory (WM) is one of the crucial mechanisms involved in higher-order cognition and
everyday abilities. It is also very sensitive to aging. Hence the interest of researchers in WM
training with a view to enhancing, or at least preserving older adults’ cognitive functioning.
Results of WM training studies clearly show training-related benefits in the trained task and there
is also some evidence of transfer effects on untrained tasks. This presentation concerns a WM
training procedure that we developed, which has generated promising results in terms of transfer
and maintenance effects also on everyday life competences. In particular, I will discuss how
certain specific variables such as participants’ age and level of formal education, and the nature
of the training task may influence training-related gains.
Page 119 of 323
Neural plastic changes of attentional network
recruitment in action video game players
transfer
Submitted by:
Phd Julia Focker
Authors
Föcker, Julia, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Campus
Biotech, Geneva, Switzerland
Bavelier, Daphne, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva,
Campus Biotech, Geneva, Switzerland, Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Rochester,
Rochester, New York
Abstract
Recent studies have shown an enhanced top-down attention in action video game players
(AVGPs). The aspects of attention changed for the better include attentional control and the
ability to select a target among distractors. Crucially, the impact of action video game play in
such attentional enhancements has been established through training. Several neural markers
have been proposed to explain these behavioral enhancements, such as greater suppression of
cortical responses to distractors and enhanced neural responses to targets during decision
making processes. We will present brain imaging work contrasting top-down and bottom up
attention networks and their interactions in AVGPs and non-action video game players
(NAVGPs). This work highlights lesser recruitment of top-down networks during target
preparation in AVGPs compared to NAVGPs, but increased recruitment during target processing.
While the former is often a sign of less effortful processing, the latter may reflect a signature of
greater attentional efficiency in AVGPs.
Page 120 of 323
Training and transfer effects of working memory
updating
transfer
Submitted by:
Msc Carla De Simoni
Authors
De Simoni, Carla, Departement of Psychology, Cognitive Psychology Unit, Binzmühlestrasse
14/22, CH-8050 Zurich
Abstract
Can cognitive abilities such as reasoning or executive functions be improved through
computer-based working memory training? This question is still highly controversial, with only
few studies investigating the mechanisms underlying training and transfer effects. In an ongoing
project, we therefore aim to narrow down these specific functional mechanisms in a large-scale
training study in which the impact of updating training will be examined on a broad set of transfer
tasks assessing reasoning, shifting, inhibition, and multiple working memory processes (binding,
removal, and substitution of information). For five weeks in-between pre- and posttest, 200
healthy young (18-35 years) participants practice either updating (experimental) or visual search
tasks (active control) for 4 times per week. In this talk, preliminary results of this study will be
presented.
Page 121 of 323
Training executive functions and the development
of intentional behavior in children
transfer
Submitted by:
Msc Sascha Zuber
Authors
Zuber, Sascha, Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Mahy, Caitlin, Department of Psychology, Brock University, St. Catharines, Canada
Kliegel, Matthias, Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Abstract
Prospective memory (PM) refers to the ability to remember to perform intentions after a delay
and plays an important role in the development of independence from caregivers during
childhood. One possible mechanism driving the development of PM during childhood is executive
functioning (EF). Yet, so far, available evidence for this link rests on few mostly correlational
studies. Thus, the current study aims to establish a directional link between EF and PM by
training three core facets of EF (working memory, inhibition and set shifting) and to examine their
relative impact on PM performance in children aged 7-9 years. For this purpose, three training
groups (training EF across 4 weeks) will be compared to one active and one passive control
group in several PM and EF tasks in a pre-post-test design. Data collection is ongoing and
results will be discussed in the context of recent models of PM development.
Page 122 of 323
Symposium: Motivation in Close Personal
Relationships
Four researchers from three universities will demonstrate the important role of motivation,
particularly goals and motives, in close personal relationships. Rebekka Weidmann will show that
romantic partners’ growing goals are interdependent and increase relationship satisfaction. In
contrast to growing goals, avoidance goals are detrimental for romantic relationships. Veronika
Brandstätter will demonstrate that this is the case because avoidance goals lead to individuals’
heightened reactivity to the partner’s negative behaviour. However, social avoidance goals are
less detrimental when people age, as Jana Nikitin will present. The focus of social avoidance
goals shifts from a primary concern about oneself to a stronger concern for the well being of
others. Such a focus on others might buffer the otherwise negative consequences of avoidance
goals. Finally, Florian Müller will present one powerful moderator of goal processes in
relationship initiation and maintenance. His findings document that implicit self-regulation is used
only if the goal in question provides incentives that match the implicit motive disposition of the
individual.
Page 123 of 323
Goal - Motive Fit and Implicit Self-Regulation in
Romantic Relationships
Symposium: Motivation in Close Personal Relationships
Submitted by:
Florian Müller
Authors
Müller, Florian, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena
Abstract
Research on self-regulation has documented the pervasive role of implicit processes of
self-regulation. First, recent findings on one powerful moderator of these processes - the fit
between the properties of a goal and participants’ motives - will be reviewed. These findings
document that implicit self-regulation is used only if the goal in question provides incentives that
match the implicit motive disposition of the individual. Second, this idea is extended to the
domain on romantic relationships. Research has shown the existence of a number of implicit
self-regulatory processes that guide pursuit of relationship initiation (i.e. attentional bias for and
upvaluation of attractive possible mates) and relationship maintencance (i.e. attentional bias
against attractive alternatives for committed individuals). Findings testing the idea that also these
types of implicit self-regulation are dependent on motive incentives of the relationship and the
motive disposition of the individal are presented.
Page 124 of 323
Are Social Avoidance Goals Maladaptive? The
Role of Age
Submitted by:
Dr.Phil. Jana Nikitin
Authors
Nikitin, Jana, University of Zurich, Dept. of Psychology, Binzmühlestrasse 14/11, 8050 Zürich
Abstract
Given the tremendous importance of a satisfying social life for the psychological and physical
health across the lifespan, it is essential for people to create and maintain social relationships.
Consequently, people are highly motivated to be socially integrated. There are two fundamental
orientations of social motivation: social approach goals (i.e., approaching positive social
outcomes) and social avoidance goals (e.g., avoiding negative social outcomes). Previous
research demonstrated that behaviors, cognitions, and emotions that are the product of
avoidance goals are particularly detrimental for social relationships in young adulthood. The
current three studies demonstrate that social avoidance goals are less detrimental when people
age. This might be the case because the focus of social avoidance goals shifts from a primary
concern about oneself to a stronger concern for the well being of others. Such a focus on others
might buffer the otherwise negative consequences of avoidance goals.
Page 125 of 323
Avoidance Orientation and the Escalation of
Negative Communication in Intimate
Relationships
Submitted by:
Phd Veronika Brandstätter
Authors
Brandstätter, Veronika, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmühlestrasse 14/6,
8050 Zürich
Kuster, Monika, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmühlestrasse 14/6, 8050
Zürich
Bernecker, Katharina, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmuehlestrasse 14/6,
8050 Zürich
Backes, Sabine, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmuehlestrasse 14/6, 8050
Zürich
Abstract
Avoidance goals heighten the salience of negative social experiences, and in intimate
relationships such an orientation may contribute to communication difficulties. We hypothesized
that individuals with stronger avoidance goals would be particularly prone to engage in escalating
levels of negative communication with their intimate partner, and we tested this by conducting
sequential analyses on videotaped observational data (28,470 observations) collected from 365
heterosexual couples engaging in a relationship-related conflict. While less avoidance-oriented
spouses showed a decline in their likelihood of negative communication over the course of the
eight-minute conflict discussion, the likelihood that more avoidance-oriented spouses would
display negative communication behaviors remained at a high level. This effect was particularly
strong when avoidance-oriented spouses were confronted with negative communication behavior
of their partners. Findings demonstrate that avoidance goals underlie individuals’ heightened
reactivity to the partner’s negative behavior, while also clarifying one possible reason why some
individuals engage in communication behaviors that may prove maladaptive to their relationship.
Page 126 of 323
Growth Striving within Romantic Relationships
Submitted by:
M.Sc. Rebekka Weidmann
Authors
Weidmann, Rebekka, University of Basel, Department of Psychology
Bühler, Janina, University of Basel, Department of Psychology
Grob, Alexander, University of Basel, Department of Psychology
Abstract
As personal growing is an elementary human need, individuals constantly seek to develop
across the lifespan. How people achieve to move closer to (vs. further away from) their ideal
selves is represented by the Michelangelo phenomenon. Little is known about the
interdependence of both partners’ growing processes and differences across adulthood. The
‘Co-Development in Personality’ study surveyed a sample of 164 couples from three different
generations. Actor-partner interdependence models suggest that perceiving the partner as
similar to the ideal self, feeling partner affirmation, and moving toward the ideal self were
significantly associated with both partners’ relationship satisfaction. Actor effects were stronger
than partner effects. The strongest association was found for partner affirmation explaining 30%
in variance. Our results underline the importance of the motivational aspects of the Michelangelo
phenomenon for relationship satisfaction in couples.
Page 127 of 323
Symposium: Stratégies de réseaux et diversité de
réception dans la construction internationale de
l’œuvre de Jean Piaget
Connu hors de Suisse dès ses premiers travaux de psychologie des années 1920, Piaget a été
un psychologue reconnu, et un important acteur de la scène internationale du 20e siècle. Notre
symposium en présentera quelques-unes des facettes, entre les années 1930 et son décès en
1980. Les problématiques soulevées mêlent des préoccupations d’histoire et de psychologie.
Les communications analyseront la tension entre la diversité internationale – la réception de la
théorie piagétienne étant dépendante de diverses audiences liées aux intérêts des acteurs – et
l’unité des stratégies de conservation et de développement de l’œuvre. On cherchera à spécifier
les réseaux savants, ainsi que les facteurs – psychologiques, relationnels et cognitifs – qui ont
permis d’augmenter l’impact de l’œuvre et qui en ont favorisé le développement. Ces
perspectives internationales seront analysées au moyen de méthodes qualitatives et
quantitatives. Les analyses quantitatives mettront en valeur des databases exploitant différents
types de données, les citations et les traductions de Piaget, son contexte de réception
médiatique ainsi que ses réseaux internationaux. Les analyses qualitatives tenteront de
comprendre l’influence de facteurs psychologiques et sociaux tels que les réseaux, les liens
humains, les stratégies médiatiques et la dynamique de relation sur la construction de
l’internationalité de sa théorie.
Page 128 of 323
Jean Piaget "manager" d’institutions
internationales : le Bureau International de
l’Education (1929-1968) et le Centre International
d’Epistémologie Génétique (1955-1980)
Symposium: Stratégies de réseaux et diversité de réception dans la construction internationale
de l’œuvre de Jean Piaget
Submitted by:
Phd Marc Ratcliff
Authors
Ratcliff, Marc, Université de Genève, FPSE, Geneva, Switzerland
Hofstetter, Rita, Université de Genève, FPSE, Geneva, Switzerland
Abstract
En 1929, Piaget est nommé directeur du Bureau International de l’Education (BIE) et 25 ans
après, en 1955, il crée le Centre International d’Epistémologie Génétique (CIEG). Ces institutions
vont attirer à Genève, pour le BIE, force ministres et représentants internationaux de l’éducation
et, pour le CIEG, de nombreux savants de tous pays, notamment des psychologues,
épistémologues et logiciens. Cette communication questionnera les différences et similarités
entre ces institutions et la manière dont Piaget les a dirigées. Leurs objectifs diffèrent : le BIE a
comme mission de fédérer les autorités mondiales de l’éducation pour promouvoir l’accès de
tous à l’instruction alors que le CIEG cherche à établir les fondements de l’interdisciplinarité à
partir de la psychologie. Deux réseaux internationaux distincts sont construits, centrés autour de
Piaget. C’est pourquoi nous interrogerons aussi la filiation entre le BIE et le CIEG, cherchant en
quoi l’expérience de l’interaction sociale élaborée dans le premier, autant ou plus que la culture
des réseaux, a pu être mise par Piaget au service de la création du second.
Page 129 of 323
Le dialogue scientifique au crible de la politique :
Jean Piaget et les psychologues du bloc de l'Est
Submitted by:
Phd Latala Renata
Authors
Latala, Renata, Université de Genève; Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l'Education,
Genève
Abstract
L’une des plus importantes lignes de front durant la guerre froide est le domaine de la culture et
de la pensée. Fort de sa volonté de résister à la rhétorique de la guerre froide, Jean Piaget va
utiliser ses réseaux formels et informels pour créer des contacts et entamer un dialogue
permettant une collaboration scientifique par-delà la lutte idéologique. Par sa participation à ces
réseaux aux interdépendances complexes (Congrès internationaux de Psychologie, Bureau
International de l'Education, Centre d'Épistémologie Génétique), Piaget contribue à créer des
espaces internationaux de rencontre et de recherche scientifique, permettant à plusieurs
intellectuels de l'Est de sortir du cloisonnement imposé par les régimes en place. Si ces relations
avec les scientifiques de l'Est ne sont ni simples ni exemptes de tensions au gré de la situation
politique, elles révèlent que le dialogue scientifique, où la psychologie prend une large part, est
possible par-delà des frontières idéologiques.
Page 130 of 323
La nomination de Piaget à la Sorbonne (1952) : un
tremplin international ?
Submitted by:
Jaccard Camille
Authors
Camille, Jaccard, FPSE, Unige
Abstract
En 1952, Jean Piaget est nommé chargé de cours de psychologie à la section de philosophie de
la Sorbonne. Pourtant les circonstances et les enjeux liés à l’engagement de ce professeur
suisse sont peu connus. Le témoignage de Piaget qui prétendait en 1965 ne jamais avoir su si
les raisons de sa nomination « reposaient ou non sur un malentendu », n’apporte pas davantage
de précisions. Comment expliquer en effet qu’un étranger, dépourvu de surcroît de l’agrégation
de philosophie accède à cette fonction ? C’est ce que nous nous proposons de questionner en
ayant recours notamment aux archives. Nous évoquerons ainsi les relations que Piaget a
nouées à Paris dès 1919 et insisterons sur l’importance de cette nomination pour la diffusion de
son œuvre. Enfin, la clarification de cet épisode précisera les relations de la psychologie avec la
philosophie au niveau institutionnel et doctrinal.
Page 131 of 323
Quelques données sur la réception médiatique de
Piaget en Amérique du Nord et en Europe de 1945
à 1980
Submitted by:
Ariane-Isabeau NOEL
Authors
NOEL, Ariane-Isabeau, UNIGE FPSE
Abstract
Dans ma recherche, les relations de Jean Piaget avec l’international sont envisagées sous
l’angle des sources médiatiques (majoritairement journalistiques). On vise ainsi à comprendre
comment s’est façonnée son image publique et sous quelle(s) forme(s) le « message » de la
théorie piagétienne est passé. Proches ou pas de Piaget, les auteurs de ces articles de presse
ont contribué à diffuser le message piagétien, tant selon les canons de la théorie qu’en fonction
de leur degré de proximité avec Piaget. Ces sources, proches du grand public, s’éloignent du
champ scientifique habituellement exploré et permettent de dresser un tableau chronologique et
géographique de l’impact de l’ « esprit piagétien » (Richelle, 2000) sur la science et la société.
L’exploitation statistique d’une base de données réalisée à partir d’un millier d’articles de presse
permettra, lors de cette communication, de présenter la cartographie des principales variables
qui structurent l’espace médiatique autour de Piaget et de les mettre en relation avec les thèmes
abordés.
Page 132 of 323
“Piagets” after Piaget: Internationalization as
history and future of Genevan developmental
thought
Submitted by:
Ma Jeremy Burman
Authors
Burman, Jeremy, York University, Canada FPSE, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Abstract
It is well-understood among historians of American Psychology that the works of Wilhelm Wundt
were either mistranslated during their importation by Titchener, or they were distorted to serve a
local set of interests. Regardless, the outcome was the same: Wundt’s experimentalism came to
be celebrated (especially after Boring), while the V■lkerpsychologie was suppressed. And it is
this that then led to the rise of Behaviorism, as it was to Titchener that Watson replied (rather
than to Wundt). This paper shows how that historical observation—by Blumenthal, Danziger, and
others—can be generalized using quantitative methods borrowed from the Digital Humanities,
and then it shows how the same thing occurred in the translation of Piaget’s works. We are then
left to wonder: what is Piaget’s equivalent to V■lkerpsychologie? (In other words: does
examining the reflections produced by internationalization give us a new approach to
understanding what has been called Piaget’s “new” theory?)
Page 133 of 323
Symposium: Attentional refreshing in human
working memory
Suppose you are presented with an arbitrary list of letters such as K-B-N-S and you have to
recall the list a few seconds later. Your task is thus to keep some letters in mind that are no
longer physically present. Cognitive psychologists propose that you do this by storing the
information in Working Memory (WM) where it can be held in an active state over a brief period
of time. Research has shown that people can hold about 3-5 meaningful items in WM, with the
precise capacity limit varying between individuals (Cowan, 2001). One idea that has gained
popularity over the last years is that, in order to keep information active in WM, people briefly
think back to the information to be remembered by bringing it back into the focus of attention.
This process of directing one’s focus of attention to representations in WM is referred to as
refreshing (Johnson, 1992). Despite a growing consensus that maintenance of information in WM
typically relies on attention, the process of attentional refreshing is still poorly understood. This
symposium brings together young researchers from diverse theoretical backgrounds who will
present their most recent efforts in advancing our understanding of attentional refreshing. More
specifically, they will present research that (1) explores the nature and operation of attentional
refreshing, (2) studies what the most powerful manipulations of refreshing are, and (3) examines
how refreshing relates to other attention-demanding processes in WM such as consolidation. The
aim of the symposium is to keep up with the latest developments on attentional refreshing and to
pinpoint directions for future research.
Page 134 of 323
Working memory consolidation and refreshing
Symposium: Attentional refreshing in human working memory
Submitted by:
Master Sébastien De Schrijver
Authors
De Schrijver, Sebastien, University of Geneva
Langerock, Naomi, University of Geneva
Barrouillet, Pierre, University of Geneva
Abstract
Information dissipates rapidly in working memory (WM). Two main types of mechanisms have
been described that are thought to counteract this rapid loss: maintenance (Camos, Lagner,
Barrouillet, 2009; Cowan, 1995; Unsworth Engle, 2007) and consolidation (Jolicoeur Dell’Acqua,
1998; Ricker Cowan, 2014). Consolidation refers to the encoding of sensory traces into more
stable short-term memory traces while maintenance refers to keeping these traces active in WM.
We tested the effects of both mechanisms by varying the time available for maintenance and for
consolidation. Results revealed a strong effect of consolidation time when concurrent activities
prevent maintenance mechanisms to operate (high cognitive load), whereas consolidation time
had no effect when participants had plenty of time to refresh memory traces (low cognitive load).
This suggests that consolidating memory traces before distracting activities or refreshing them
afterwards could rely on the same mechanisms and have the same effects on WM.
Page 135 of 323
Examining the operation of attentional refreshing
through the probe-span task
Submitted by:
Phd Evie Vergauwe
Authors
Vergauwe, Evie , University of Geneva - University of Missouri
Cowan, Nelson, University of Missouri
Abstract
People appear to refresh recently-presented information to keep it active in working memory
(WM) but the process has been mysterious. Previous studies have shown only that memory
performance increases as a function of the unoccupied time available to refresh (Barrouillet et
al., 2004, 2007, 2011). Rather than examining the effect of refreshing on the final outcome (recall
performance), we aimed at examining the effect of refreshing on the status of the items in WM
locally, during the pauses when refreshing is assumed to take place. In our new probe-span task,
using response latencies, access to items in WM was probed at different time points during the
inter-item periods available for refreshing. We explore the operation of refreshing by examining
how set size functions and serial position curves are modulated by the time available for
refreshing. Our findings put new constraints on how the process of refreshing might operate in
WM.
Page 136 of 323
Directing attention to and away from memory
representations
Submitted by:
Phd. Alessandra Souza
Authors
Souza, Alessandra, University of Zurich
Oberauer, Klaus , University of Zurich
Abstract
Refreshing is the act of directing one’s focus of attention to representations in working memory
(WM). Refreshing is assumed to improve memory; nevertheless little is known about how
refreshing operates. Here, we implemented conditions in which refreshing was either (1)
uncontrolled (baseline), (2) was controlled by asking participant to refresh items 0, 1, or 2 times
(refreshing condition), or (3) was potentially blocked by engaging attention in a secondary task
during the RI (blocking conditions). The blocking conditions were split into a visual condition
(engaging visual attention) and a central condition (engaging response selection). Recall
improved as the number of refreshing steps directed to the target of recall increased, providing
direct evidence that refreshing is beneficial to memory. Directing central attention away from WM
items impaired recall similarly as not cueing an item for refreshing. This finding supports the
conclusion that refreshing engages central attention.
Page 137 of 323
The Effects of Cognitive Load and Refreshing
Opportunities on Working Memory and Episodic
Memory
Submitted by:
Phd Student Anne-Laure Oftinger
Authors
Loaiza, Vanessa , University of Zurich
Oftinger, Anne-Laure, University of Fribourg
Camos, Valerie, University of Fribourg
Abstract
Attentional refreshing has received considerable attention for its relevance for both working
memory (WM) and episodic memory (EM). While studies on WM manipulated the cognitive load
of the concurrent task in complex span tasks, other studies examined the consequences of
refreshing opportunities during complex span tasks on EM. The current experiments orthogonally
manipulated cognitive load and refreshing opportunities in complex span tasks to examine recall
from WM and EM. To vary cognitive load, Experiment 1 utilized a serial or choice reaction time
task with a fixed pace, while Experiment 2 utilized a choice reaction time task at a slow or fast
pace. The results indicated overall effects of cognitive load on WM and EM, whereas refreshing
opportunities only affected WM in the low load condition of Experiment 1. This suggests that
varying cognitive load in complex span tasks is a more powerful manipulation of attentional
refreshing than refreshing opportunities.
Page 138 of 323
Long-term representations do not moderate the
effect of attentional refreshing on working
memory
Submitted by:
Phd Valerie Camos
Authors
Camos, Valerie, University of Fribourg
Mora, Gerome, University of Burgundy
Loaiza, Vanessa, University of Zurich
Abstract
Attentional refreshing is a major maintenance mechanism in working memory (WM). It was
suggested that it relies on retrieval from long-term memory (LTM; e.g., Loaiza McCabe,
2012).The aim of this study was to gain direct evidence for this suggestion by studying how
characteristics known to affect retrieval from LTM affect refreshing. According to Loaiza and
McCabe (2012), maintenance in WM of items that are difficult to retrieve from LTM (i.e,
low-frequency words, non-words, or shallow-processed words) should be more affected by a
reduction of refreshing availability. Our participants maintained memoranda varying in frequency,
lexicality or depth-of-processing while performing concurrent tasks. Refreshing availability was
manipulated by varying attentional demands of concurrent tasks. Although frequency, lexicality,
and depth-of-processing affected recall from WM, they never interacted with refreshing
availability. These findings are at odds with the idea that refreshing relies on retrieval from LTM;
alternative conceptions (scanning, reconstruction, or elaboration) are discussed.
Page 139 of 323
Symposium: Psychology of Religion: current
research in French-speaking Switzerland
Psychology of religion, a scientific discipline dealing with questions of religion and spirituality
from psychological perspective, is a rapidly growing domain with such organizations as Division
36 (Society for the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality) of APA, or The International
Association for the Psychology of Religion supporting and promoting research in this area.
Psychology of religion has long history in Switzerland: lectures on this subject were first given in
Geneva as early as the beginning of XX century, and the tradition still carries on. This
symposium aims to present the directions in this field being developed by Swiss researchers at
the moment. Prof. Pierre-Yves Brandt will speak about role of religion and spirituality in
constructing psychological identity, emphasizing integrative approach to the field of psychology
of religion and spirituality. Grégory Dessart will present current research on children’s
representations of supernatural agents, which involves cross-cultural comparison, rare in this
area. Dr. Sylvia Mohr’s presentation will concern spirituality, religiosity, meaning in life, and
values among patients with severe mental disorders. Liudmila Gamaiunova will make an
overview of current trends in research on religious coping, giving examples from her work on
coping in Sufis and meditation practitioners.
Page 140 of 323
Religious spiritual coping: Current trends in
research
Symposium: Psychology of Religion: current research in French-speaking Switzerland
Submitted by:
Ma Liudmila Gamaiunova
Authors
Gamaiunova, Liudmila, Pontaise 23, 1018-Lausanne
Abstract
Religion and spirituality are important resources in dealing with difficulties. Within psychology of
religion a vast area of research, dealing with questions of how religious and spiritual factors
impact human’s ability to handle problems, was initiated by works of Pargament (1997), and
since then hundreds of articles were published, exploring coping strategies in different religious
groups (Abu Raiya, Pargament, Mahoney, Stein, 2008; Phillips et al., 2009), its relation to
various health outcomes (Koenig, 2004), life stressors (Trevino Pargament, 2007). In this paper I
will make a short overview of current frameworks of religious and spiritual coping, and will give
examples from my own research on religious coping among Sufis practitioners of orders
operating in the West, and mindfulness meditation practitioners.
Page 141 of 323
Meaning in life, values, spirituality and religiosity:
a study among patients with severe mental
disorders
Submitted by:
Phd Sylvia Mohr
Authors
Mohr, Sylvia, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Département de Santé Mentale et Psychiatrie
Vidal, Sonia, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Département de Santé Mentale et Psychiatrie
Abstract
Objective: In psychological recovery, the re-establishment of meaning in life is a key element.
This study aimed to explore the role of spirituality for meaning in life among people with severe
mental disorders. Method: Clinical investigation and questionnaires about basic human values,
importance of domains of living, meaning in life and spirituality were conducted with 176 patients
with schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorder or anorexia. Results:
Spirituality is essential to give meaning in life for 26% of patients, of some importance for 35%
and absent for 39%. Spirituality is not associated with gender, age, severity of pathology; but is
more prevalent in schizophrenia, and less in anorexia. Spirituality is associated with increased
self-esteem, quality of life, specific values (tradition, security, benevolence, universalism, and
self-direction), and domains in living. Conclusions: Our results highlight the role of spirituality as a
booster for meaning-in life. Indeed it increases engagement in various domains and well-being,
without being in contradiction with any basic human value.
Page 142 of 323
Drawings of gods
Submitted by:
Master'S Grégory Dessart
Authors
Dessart, Gregory, Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies (FTSR), Institute for Social
Sciences of Contemporary Religions (ISSRC), Quartier UNIL-Dorigny Bâtiment Anthropole,
Lausanne
Abstract
There has been an increasing need in research for more authentic and multidimensional data in
regard to the representations children develop about god(s) (Gibson, 2008). Hence, the use of
qualitative measures such as drawings and narratives has showed to be most relevant as it
allows developmental and cultural aspects to be taken into account (Hanisch, 1996; Harms,
1944). So far, only two studies have looked into children’s representations of supernatural agents
outside of Western countries (Brandt, Kagata Spitteler Gillièron Paléologue, 2009; Dandarova,
2013). However, cross-cultural comparisons would still be essential to the topic. Unfortunately, to
date such information has been reported in only one study (Konyushkova et al., in preparation).
Nevertheless, the present project aims to save into a database (http://dddtiresias.unil.ch)
children’s drawings from all over the world through international partnership, which should widely
broaden our knowledge on the matter.
Page 143 of 323
Religion, spirituality and the construction of
psychological identity
Submitted by:
Prof. Pierre-Yves Brandt
Authors
Brandt, Pierre-Yves, ISSRC/FTSR, Universitié de Lausanne, Quartier Unil-Dorigny, 1015
Lausanne
Abstract
Questions such as “who am I?” and “what will I become?” are central to psychological
development. These questions are worked and reworked in a life-long interaction with the cultural
context. Religion is a part of this context and is organised as a meaning system providing
resources for each level of the identity and for each of its dimensions. This presentation makes a
case for an integrative approach to the field of psychology of religion and spirituality. Rather than
relying upon or choosing one approach or theory to the detriment of all others, one can identify
the construction of the psychological identity as one of several possible « points of connection »
serving as worksite for the convergence, synthesis and exchange among the vast and rich
variety of concepts, measures, theories and methods extant in psychology.
Page 144 of 323
Symposium: Legitimizing ideologies in the
context of gender and political issues
Legitimizing ideologies—beliefs that help to make sense of the world as appropriate and
stable—are closely intertwined with intergroup dynamics. As shown in this symposium,
perceiving social or political arrangements as legitimate not only shape individuals’ opinions
toward others and themselves, but also result from past intergroup relations. The first two talks
examine the moderating role of ideological beliefs in gender issues. First, Gioaba and colleagues
study the buffering properties of personal just world beliefs, which are found to lessen the extent
to which women who experience incivilities at work feel victim of discrimination. Then,
Falomir-Pichastor and colleagues investigate gender roles as an ideology legitimating sexual
prejudice, and how men’s feminisation may either reinforce or reduce this pattern as a mean to
reaffirm men’s threatened anti-femininity. In the context of democracy and war, the last two talks
highlight the boundaries and antecedents of legitimizing ideologies: Pereira and van Prooijen
show that endorsement of democracy as a value affects the freedom of speech granted to
divergent groups. Finally, Fasel demonstrates how socioeconomic conditions and war
victimization shattered the general just world beliefs of residents of former Yugoslav countries.
Page 145 of 323
Does victimization threaten the belief in a just
world?
Symposium: Legitimizing ideologies in the context of gender and political issues
Submitted by:
Phd Rachel Fasel
Authors
Fasel, Rachel, University of Lausanne, NCCR LIVES, Lausanne
Abstract
Belief in a just world (BJW) is often considered a personal resource, or as an ideology that aims
to justify a system and maintain the social status quo. However, what happens when individuals
are self-confronted with personal or collective situations of victimization that contradict their
BJW? To what extend can they maintain this fundamental delusion? Previous studies (Fasel
Spini, 2010; 2013) showed lower BJW adherence for individuals who experienced stronger
victimization due to war and economic precariousness. The present study goes one step further,
conducting multilevel analysis to disentangle variations of BJW related to individual level
variables and variations of BJW related to contextual variables. Analyses run on 2’080
respondents (Level-1) nested within 80 areas of ex-Yugoslavia (Level-2) revealed that BJW was
explained by victimization at both levels. Curvilinear effect and cross-level interactions indicated
that the relation between victimization and BJW was moderated by the level of collective
victimization.
Page 146 of 323
Support for dissidents’ freedom of speech as a
function of attitudes towards democracy
Submitted by:
Phd Andrea Pereira
Authors
Pereira, Andrea, VU University Amsterdam
van Prooijen, Jan-Willem, VU University Amsterdam
Abstract
Democracy has become an ideological belief system, providing value and legitimacy to
democratic groups and their actions. In line with research showing that people sometimes bend
their justice judgments in order to protect this belief system, the present research examines how
attitudes towards democracy influence support for democratic rights. Freedom of speech is
considered a founding principle of democracy and is strongly supported; but is it always the
case? A critical test is whether dissident opinions are also granted freedom of speech. This talk
will present findings showing that support for freedom of speech of a deviant group is, indeed,
increased as a function of one’s support for democratic features, but is conversely decreased as
a function of one’s critical stance towards democracy and one’s endorsement of democracy as a
value. Hence, under threat, valorizing democracy can trigger defense mechanisms which
ironically undermine democratic founding principles.
Page 147 of 323
Masculinity and sexual prejudice: The effect of
social changes in men’s gender roles
Submitted by:
Juan M Falomir-Pichastor
Authors
Falomir-Pichastor, Juan M., University of Geneva
Berent, Jacques, University of Geneva
Felder, Max, University of Geneva
Anderson, Joel, University of Geneva
Abstract
Gender roles and gender identity constitute an ideological system defining appropriate and
valued gender behaviors across different domains such as intergroup relations. However, slow
but consistent social changes in the professional, political and domestic sphere challenge the
very definition of traditional gender identity and therefore may have consequences on the
relationship between gender ideologies and intergroup attitudes. We will present research
investigating the consequences of social changes in men’s gender roles on the relative weight
attributed to different dimensions of masculinity (antifemininity vs. heterosexuality) and on sexual
prejudice. More specifically, findings show that gender differences legitimate sexual prejudice,
and that men’s feminization might either reinforce or reduce this pattern as a means to reaffirm
men’s threatened antifemininity. Different moderators of this effect have been explored, such as
men’s endorsement of traditional gender ideologies, the gay target gender, and the presence of
alternative ways of affirming one’s masculinity.
Page 148 of 323
Just-World Beliefs Buffer Against Subtle
Discrimination Experiences at Work
Submitted by:
Irina Gioaba
Authors
Gioaba, Irina , University of Lausanne, Department of Organizational Behavior, Lausanne
Krings, Franciska, University of Lausanne, Department of Organizational Behavior, Lausanne
Fa-Kaji, Naomi, Rice University, Department of Psychology, Houston, Texas
Abstract
This study examines the relationships between men and women’s experiences of workplace
incivility, perceptions of gender discrimination and just-world beliefs. Results from data drawn
from a large representative sample confirm our hypothesis that incivility experiences unrelated to
gender foster women’s but not men's perceived discrimination. The more incivilities women
experienced at work, the more likely they were to feel that they were victims of discrimination,
based on their gender. This relationship was attenuated by strong personal just-world beliefs,
indicating that personal justice beliefs act as a buffer against subtle discrimination experiences.
Page 149 of 323
Symposium: Interactions in intimate
relationships: It is all about quality
Social relationships are closely tied to our well-being and health (e.g., Uchino, 2006). This
symposium includes different perspectives on the quality of couples’ interactions and its
consequences for individual and interpersonal well-being and adjustment. Charvoz et al. outline
the role and implications of criticism from the partner for the health of women facing breast
cancer. Self-disclosure processes are in the focus of the talks by Horn et al. and Milek et al. Horn
et al. show how self-disclosure buffers the negative impact of maladaptive emotion regulation on
physical health. Milek et al. illustrate how the sharing of feelings and thoughts contributes to
more satisfaction with the time spent with the partner, particularly when partners are faced with
limited time. A more specific look into partners’ emotional dynamics is provided by Luginbuehl et
al. They examine the links between event-related emotional responses, individual differences in
emotional dynamics and interpersonal adaptation processes. Finally, Debrot et al. provide a
novel look into how sexual contacts can improve partners’ positive affect on a daily basis.
Page 150 of 323
Sex and affectionate moments as emotion
regulation: A daily diary study of young parents
Symposium: Interactions in intimate relationships: It is all about quality
Submitted by:
Dr Phil. Anik Debrot
Authors
Debrot, Anik, University of Fribourg, Personnel and Organizational Psychology, Fribourg
Meuwly, Nathalie, University of Fribourg, Clinical Family Psychology, Fribourg
Schoebi, Dominik, University of Fribourg, Clinical Family Psychology, Fribourg
Abstract
A blooming sexuality is associated with more general happiness. Only few studies have
investigated how sexual activity relates to individual wellbeing in daily life suggesting a positive
association. It remains however unclear, whether these associations are true for males, and
which aspects of sexual interactions affect emotional states. Based on the assumption that the
sexual and affectionate drives are distinct, yet associated systems, we tested reports on sexual
or erotic activity, and on affectionate and loving exchanges, as predictors of fluctuations in daily
mood. Using electronic momentary assessment, 106 dual-earner couples with young children
reported on their momentary mood, and their sexual and affectionate moments with their partner
over ten days. Dyadic multilevel analyses suggest that sexual activity is associated with
increased mood. However, when affectionate moments are included, sex is no longer associated
with mood. The roles of sexuality and affection in romantic relationships for individual wellbeing
are discussed.
Page 151 of 323
Emotion dynamics and emotional reactivity to
interpersonal events
Submitted by:
M.Sc Tamara Luginbühl
Authors
Luginbühl, Tamara, University of Fribourg, Clinical Family Psychology, Fribourg
Schoebi, Dominik, University of Fribourg, Clinical Family Psychology, Fribourg
Abstract
Background: Emotional experience has a profound impact on relationship functioning, and they
play a crucial role in interpersonal adjustment processes and communication. Individual
differences in emotional response tendencies are therefore likely to affect how partners navigate
their relationships in daily life. Both a lack of emotional responsiveness or overreactivity can be
maladaptive (e.g., Kuppens, Allen Sheeber, 2010; Ebner-Priemer et al., 2007), and this may also
affect interpersonal adjustment: interpersonal adaptation may be compromised if individuals fail
to respond to relevant interpersonal events, but also if they are highly reactive (Tolpin, Gunthert,
Cohen O’Neill, 2004). Purpose: The current paper examines individual differences in emotional
dynamics, and investigates how those differences relate to the emotional impact of daily
interpersonal events, such as conflict or intimate interactions. Method: Eighty-one participants
recorded their emotions and their interpersonal experiences 4 times a day over the course of four
consecutive weeks with an electronic diary. After this period, they took part in a laboratory
interaction with their intimate partners. Results: Multilevel analyses suggested nonlinear
associations between the degree of emotional changeability in daily life and event-related
emotional responses. We also report on individual differences in emotional dynamics as
associated with the likelihood of interpersonal event reports, and observed interaction behaviors.
Conclusions: The data emphasize the interpersonal dimension of individuals’ emotional
dynamics, and underline the complexity and different dimensions of emotional dynamics.
Page 152 of 323
Parents’ satisfaction with shared time and the
importance of self-disclosure
Submitted by:
Dr. Des. Anne Milek
Authors
Milek, Anne, University of Zurich, Clinical Psychology - Children/Adolescents Couples/Families,
Zurich
Nussbeck, Fridtjof, University of Bielefeld, Psychology Department, Bielefeld
Bodenmann, Guy, University of Zurich, Clinical Psychology - Children/Adolescents
Couples/Families, Zurich
Abstract
Although research has shown that being satisfied with shared time together as a couple is
predictive for the quality of intimate relationships, less is known about what specifically
contributes to partners' satisfaction with shared time. Many couples are not entirely satisfied with
the (amount of) time they spent together. For parents in particular intimate shared moments such
as time to share personal thoughts and feelings with the partner are hard to come by. We used
data from two parental samples (study A, n = 90 couples, study B, n = 92 mothers) to test how
(1) the amount of time and (2) the intensity of self-disclosure during the shared time are related
to parents’ satisfaction with shared time. In both studies, the amount of time and self-disclosure
were positively associated with parents’ satisfaction with shared time. However, the amount of
time was less strongly associated with satisfaction with shared time when perceived levels of
self-disclosure were high. Using even little time effectively sharing thoughts and feelings might
prevent parents’ satisfaction from deteriorating in times when shared time with the partner is
scarce.
Page 153 of 323
Interplay of intra- and interpersonal emotion
regulation in couples: longitudinal actor and
partner effects of intrapersonal ruminative
brooding and the moderating role of disclosure in
couples
Submitted by:
Dr. Andrea Horn
Authors
Horn, Andrea B., University of Zuerich
Milek, Anne, University of Zuerich
Maercker, Andreas, University of Zuerich
Abstract
Ruminative brooding is a form of maladaptive emotion regulation. In contrast, disclosure in
couples is seen as an adaptive way to deal with emotional experiences. The aim of this study is
to explore the interplay of these strategies in couples in the prediction of physical symptoms. 115
couples answered online-questionnaires assessing brooding, daily negative couple disclosure,
and physical symptoms (PHQ15). 3 months later, the PHQ15 was reassessed. APIM analyses
were conducted controlling for baseline PHQ15. Own and partner’s brooding predicted physical
symptoms 3 months later. In males this effect was buffered by disclosure of the partner. In
females own brooding was moderated by own disclosure. Maladaptive emotion regulation is a
risk factor for health- for both, the ruminator and his/her partner. However, disclosure seems to
buffer this effect. Further research is needed to get a deeper understanding of the interplay of
intra- and interpersonal emotion regulation.
Page 154 of 323
Do critical comments influence patients’ and
partners’ psychological distress in couples facing
breast cancer?
Submitted by:
Prof. Linda Charvoz
Authors
Charvoz, Linda, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, EESP, Lausanne
Favez, Nicolas, University of Geneva, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Geneva
Antonini, Tania, University of Geneva, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Geneva
Cairo Notari, Sarah, University of Geneva, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences,
Geneva
Notari, Luca, University of Geneva, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Geneva
Panes-Ruedin, Bénédicte, Lausanne University Hospital
Delaloye, Jean-François, Lausanne University Hospital
Abstract
Associations between spouses’ critical comments and patients’ adjustment to the stress of the
illness were shown in medical diseases. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of
criticism of both partners on their psychological distress in couples where the woman is facing
breast cancer, three months and one year after surgery. Forty-one female patients and their
partner completed questionnaires evaluating their psychological distress and their relationship
satisfaction. Each partner was filmed during 5 minutes talking about the other one and their
relationship. Regression analyses showed that at three months: (i) a high level of partners’
critical comments predicted a high level of patients’ somatisation, depression and anxiety; (ii)
patients’ criticism did not predict psychological distress of the partners; and (iii) critical comments
emitted by each partner did not predict her/his own psychological distress. No significant results
were found one year after surgery. These results encourage pursuing investigations.
Page 155 of 323
Symposium: A multidimensional approach to
impulsivity : Illustrations in psychopathology and
neuropsychology
Impulsivity is a central construct in major personality theories and plays a prominent role in
numerous psychopathological states and neurological conditions. However, understanding the
relationships between impulsivity and problematic behaviours requires considering that
impulsivity is a multidimensional construct divided into four distinct components: urgency
(tendency to experience strong reactions under conditions of intense affect); premeditation
(tendency to take into account the consequences of an act before engaging in that act);
perseverance (ability to remain focused on a boring/difficult task); sensation seeking (tendency to
enjoy and pursue new/exciting activities). In addition, recent literature identified specific
psychological mechanisms associated with each dimension (e.g., inhibition of prepotent
responses, resistance to proactive interference, decision-making processes). This symposium
brings together four researchers from the University of Geneva and the Geneva School of Health
Professions and focuses on the relevance of this multidimensional approach to impulsivity in
relation to the following topics : (a) behavioural problems after a traumatic brain injury
(contribution 1, Lucien Rochat); (b) procrastination (contribution 2, Marie My Lien Rebetez); (c)
eating disorders (contribution 3, Isabelle Carrard). Finally, the last presentation examines (d) the
efficacity of a self-regulatory planning strategy called intentions implementation which aims to
decrease impulsive behaviours (contribution 4, Christina Burkard).
Page 156 of 323
The use of “implementation intentions” to reduce
impulsive behaviours
Symposium: A multidimensional approach to impulsivity : Illustrations in psychopathology and
neuropsychology
Submitted by:
Phd Christina Berner-Burkard
Authors
Berner-Burkard, Christina, University of Geneva
Abstract
Impulsivity is frequently described in individuals with brain damages and/or psychopathological
states and is related to negative psychosocial consequences. Consequently, the development of
strategies to decrease impulsive behaviours constitutes an important topic in clinical psychology.
Implementation intentions, consisting in planning when, how and where an adapted behaviour
will be executed (e.g., “If I am offered a glass of alcohol at this party today, then I will say that I
prefer a soda »), have been shown to improve a variety of behaviours requiring self-regulation.
While previous studies have shown that implementation intentions are inefficient in individuals
with high urgency (Churchill Jessop, 2010 ; 2011), we will present data indicating that the
strategy can be used in individuals with high urgency, as long as participants are not in an
emotional context at the time of strategy use. We will discuss these results and their implications
for clinical settings.
Page 157 of 323
Impulsivity in eating disorders
neuropsychology
Submitted by:
Phd Isabelle Carrard
Authors
Carrard, Isabelle, Nutrition and dietetics department, School of Health, HES-SO Geneva, Rue
des Caroubiers 25, 1227 Carouge
Abstract
Although impulsivity belongs to the correlates of eating disorder that have been examined in the
literature, few studies have used the UPPS model of impulsivity to account for eating disorders
mechanisms. In this presentation, we will illustrate how impulsivity dimensions are involved in
various aspects of eating disorders. For instance, negative urgency and sensation seeking have
been associated with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder. In particular, it seems that
negative emotions and cognitive difficulties in coping with them play an important role in the
maintenance of binge eating, which is used as a coping strategy. Moreover, we observed that a
subgroup of patients with binge eating disorder symptoms and high negative affect exhibited
higher negative urgency, greater disorder severity and more treatment dropout. These
components of impulsivity should thus be taken into account in order to individualize treatment
for eating disorders.
Page 158 of 323
Procrastination and Impulsivity
neuropsychology
Submitted by:
Msc Marie My Lien Rebetez
Authors
Rebetez, Marie My Lien, Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l'Education, Université de
Genève
Abstract
Procrastination, or to “voluntarily delay an intended course of action despite expecting to be
worse off for the delay”, is conceptualized as a self-regulatory failure representative of high
impulsiveness (Steel, 2007). More specifically, Steel (2007) demonstrated that impulsivity is one
of the strongest correlates of procrastination. In addition, Gustavson et al. (2014) showed a
genetic overlap between the two constructs. Nonetheless, an understanding of the relationship
between procrastination and impulsivity requires taking into account that impulsivity is a
multidimensional construct. In this presentation, we will illustrate through our own data how the
different impulsivity dimensions (and related mechanisms) are involved in various aspects
(cognitive, affective, and motivational) of procrastination. For example, poor inhibition capacities
in an emotional context (reflected by urgency) may underlie a primacy of short-term mood repair
over the longer term pursuit of intended actions; difficulties in inhibiting irrelevant
thoughts/memories (reflected by lack of perseverance) may underlie a failure to stay focused on
intended tasks. The implications of the multidimensional approach of impulsivity for the
evaluation and the conceptualization of procrastination will be discussed throughout the
presentation.
Page 159 of 323
A multidimensional approach to impulsivity after
a traumatic brain injury
neuropsychology
Submitted by:
Phd Lucien Rochat
Authors
Rochat, Lucien, Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l'Education
Abstract
Impulsive behaviours are frequently described in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and
have dramatic psychosocial consequences for both the patients and their caregivers. However,
few studies have examined impulsivity in a multidimensional perspective by using the UPPS
model of impulsivity which distinguishes four dimensions of impulsivity (urgency, lack of
premeditation, lack of perseverance, and sensation seeking) in these patients. In this talk, our
data collected on patients with TBI will be presented to illustrate (1) the relationships between
these dimensions and behavioural problems after a TBI, (2) the psychological mechanisms (e.g.,
inhibition of prepotent responses, resistance to proactive interference, decision-making
processes) associated with these dimensions of impulsivity and their neural bases. These results
provide a valuable insight into the nature of brain systems and psychological processes
underlying impulsive behaviours. In addition, understanding the mechanisms underlying
impulsive behaviours in patients with cerebral damages hold implications for both assessment
and rehabilitation in clinical settings.
Page 160 of 323
Symposium: Cognitive-motor dual tasking: A key
ability in old age
Walking while simultaneously talking is a common cognitive-motor dual task in daily life.
However, it becomes challenging in old age, since attentional resources tend to decrease with
advancing age and gait is increasingly reliant on cognitive resources. Gait interference caused by
dual tasking is crucial for the occurrence of falls. In this symposium we will shed light on
cognitive-motor dual tasking in old age from different perspectives and bring together recent
findings from clinical over neuroimaging to intervention research. Stephanie Bridenbaugh will
introduce the electronic gait analysis used in geriatric diagnostics and show that gait changes are
a sensitive marker for early pathological cognitive decline and fall risk. Céline Bürki will elaborate
the link between gait analysis and neural correlates of cognitive-motor dual tasking and its
potential as a diagnostic tool. Natalia Fernandez will present behavioral and neuroimaging
findings from a music-based rhythmic training in older adults with fall risks. Sabine Schäfer will
demonstrate that task prioritization in high-risk dual task settings is not the same in younger and
older adults and tends to fail in older age. Vera Schumacher will emphasize the role of
cognitive-motor dual task intervention as a powerful means to improve cognitive performance in
older adults.
Page 161 of 323
Cognitive-motor dual task training in older adults
Symposium: Cognitive-motor dual tasking: A key ability in old age
Submitted by:
Dr. Vera Schumacher
Authors
Schumacher, Vera, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
Different studies have demonstrated that the training of cognitive as well as physical abilities
positively influences cognitive performance of older adults. Although these training studies led to
improvements in particular cognitive tasks or abilities the training and transfer effects were
usually not as broad or persistent as desired. In our study, we hypothesized that training effects
or precisely transfer effects would be larger if both, cognitive and physical, abilities would be
trained simultaneously. Therefore, sixty-three participants attended either verbal working memory
and treadmill training (simultaneously), verbal working memory training or no training at all. The
results indicate similar training progress and larger improvements in an executive control test for
both training groups when compared to the control group and larger improvements in a
paired-associates learning test and a motor-cognitive dual-task test for the simultaneous training
group only. The findings suggest that the simultaneous training of cognitive and physical abilities
is a promising training concept to improve cognitive performance of older adults.
Page 162 of 323
Walking in high-risk settings: Do older adults still
prioritize gait when distracted by a cognitive
task?
Submitted by:
Jun.-Prof. Dr. Sabine Schaefer
Authors
Schaefer, Sabine, MPI for Human Development
Schellenbach, Michael, University of Applied Sciences Ruhr West
Lindenberger, Ulman, MPI for Human Development
Woollacott, Marjorie, University of Oregon
Abstract
In cognitive-motor dual-task situations, older adults often prioritize their motor performance,
possibly to protect themselves from falls. Do prioritization behaviors remain when several
challenges are combined? Younger (20–30 years) and older adults (60–70 years; n = 24 in each
group) walked through virtual environments with and without a cognitive load (3-back task).
Walking difficulty was increased by walking on an elevated surface or on a narrow as opposed to
a broad track, or both. Walking instructions emphasized speed and accuracy. Participants
decreased their 3-back performance while walking. Younger adults maintained their walking
speed on elevated surfaces and kept the number of missteps low, even when walking on a
narrow track while performing the cognitive task. Older adults increased their walking speed on
elevated relative to even surfaces and committed more missteps under cognitive load. This
suggests that task prioritization might fail in healthy older adults in high-risk settings.
Page 163 of 323
“Rhythmic training and executive functioning in
seniors with fall risks”
Submitted by:
Natalia Fernandez
Authors
Fernandez, Natalia, Laboratory of Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, Dept. of
Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Hars, Mélany, Division of Bone Diseases, Dept. of Internal Medicine Specialities, Geneva
University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Switzerland
Herrmann, François, Division of Bone Diseases, Dept. of Internal Medicine Specialities, Geneva
Vuilleumier, Patrik, Laboratory of Behavioral Neurology and Imaging of Cognition, Dept. of
Neurosciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Trombetti, Andrea, Division of Bone Diseases, Dept. of Internal Medicine Specialities, Geneva
Abstract
Decline in executive function are common in seniors and contribute to fall risk. Previous work
showed that training improves balance and reduces falls. In this study, we aim to evaluate the
executive functions impairment in seniors with fall risks and to determine how falls and walking
parameters are related with cognition decline. We secondly aim at assessing the impact of
music-based training on both falls and cognitive functions. 140 participants take part in a clinical
study and participate during one year in a weekly training. 34 of them, recruited for an fMRI
study, are scanned before and after the training. To assess executive functions, fMRI sessions
involve a coordination task and a selective attention task. As predicted brain activation shows
that elderly have difficulties to inhibit interfering information and performing concurrent tasks.
This cognitive decline is related to vulnerability, as highlighted by the association between
cerebral network and clinical parameters.
Page 164 of 323
Neural correlates of cognitive-motor dual tasking
in older adults: An fMRI gait analysis
Submitted by:
Phd Céline Bürki
Authors
Bürki, Céline, Felix Platter Hospital, University Center for Medicine of Aging Basel, Switzerland
and University of Basel Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Diagnostic and
Interventional Neuroradiology, Switzerland
Reinhardt, Julia, University of Basel Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Diagnostic
and Interventional Neuroradiology, Switzerland
Benner, Jan, University of Basel Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Diagnostic and
Bridenbaugh, Stephanie, Felix Platter Hospital, Basel Mobility Center, Switzerland
Stippich, Christoph, University of Basel Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Diagnostic
and Interventional Neuroradiology, Switzerland
Kressig, Reto W., Felix Platter Hospital, University Center for Medicine of Aging Basel,
Switzerland
Blatow, Maria, University of Basel Hospital, Department of Radiology, Division of Diagnostic and
Abstract
In geriatric diagnostics electronic gait analysis under dual task condition is used to predict fall risk
and cognitive decline. However, to date the neural correlates of divided attention processes
during cognitive-motor dual tasking are not fully understood. We designed an fMRI paradigm and
developed an MR-compatible stepping device to reproduce the electronic gait analysis.
Thirty-two older adults (70-85 years) conducted a gait analysis and a neuropsychological test
battery prior to the scanning session. Then, fMRI data was acquired during two cognitive-motor
dual task paradigms, i.e., stepping while counting backwards and stepping while generating
words. Preliminary results indicate that during the dual task conditions compared to the single
task conditions brain activation in primary motor areas and parietal regions is down-regulated
and therefore divided to different brain regions. The present study represents an initial building
block in the development of a functional neuroimaging-based tool for clinical diagnostics of
cognitive disorders in aging.
Page 165 of 323
Gait, cognition and fall prevention in seniors: the
role of gait analysis
Submitted by:
M.D. Stephanie Bridenbaugh
Authors
Bridenbaugh, Stephanie, Felix Platter Hospital, University Center for Medicine of Aging, Basel
Mobility Center
Abstract
Gait and cognition are closely associated. Older adults with gait deficits have an increased risk of
developing cognitive deficits. Cognitive deficits are associated with worsened gait. Both gait and
cognitive impairments are risk factors for falls in older adults. Every third person over the age of
65 falls at least once a year and one-third of those suffer moderate to severe injuries.
Quantitative gait analysis is important because changes in certain gait parameters have been
identified as fall predictors. With spatio-temporal gait analysis, gait deficits can be measured
before they are visible to the naked eye. Particularly, use of the dual task test paradigm - walking
and simultaneously performing another task - can detect gait deficits although walking alone as a
single task is unremarkable. Early detection of gait deficits allows for the implementation of
timely, preventive measures to improve gait – in the best case scenario, before a fall occurs.
Page 166 of 323
Symposium: Verbal behavior, nonverbal behavior,
and performance in workplace interactions
What is the role of verbal and nonverbal behaviors in organizational settings? What factors
predict how well job applicants perform in job interviews? In the current symposium we bring
together research that investigates actual behavior in workplace interactions such as job
interviews and negotiations. The first two talks focus on the role of verbal and nonverbal behavior
in predicting workplace outcomes, whereas the last two talks focus on the factors that predict
performance in job interviews. In the first talk Formanowicz and Sczesny explore how gender-fair
verbal behavior influences the motivation and evaluations of women in the workplace. In the
second talk, Schlegel and colleagues examine how nonverbal behaviors predict negotiation
outcomes, both objective (gains) and relational (cooperation). In a third talk, Frauendofer and
colleagues discuss research that shows that people are accurate in predicting their own job
interview outcomes, and this meta-accuracy predicts higher likelihood of getting hired, through
felt competence. In the last talk, Latu and colleagues investigate how male interviewers’ implicit
and explicit gender stereotypes interact to predict applicants’ performance. Whether it is verbal
behavior, nonverbal behavior, or performance, the research in the current symposium sheds light
on how actual behaviors play out in consequential workplace interactions.
Page 167 of 323
The interactive effects of interviewers’ implicit
and explicit stereotypes in predicting applicants’
job interview performance
Symposium: Verbal behavior, nonverbal behavior, and performance in workplace interactions
Submitted by:
Phd Ioana Latu
Authors
Latu, Ioana, Rutgers University, Psychology, Camden USA
Schmid Mast, Marianne , Université de Lausanne, Département de Comportement
Organisationnel, Suisse
Stewart, Tracie , Kennesaw State University, Psychology, Kennesaw USA
Abstract
Although explicit stereotypes of women in the workplace have improved, implicit stereotypes
remain relatively negative. In the current study we investigated how male interviewers’ explicit
and implicit stereotypes predicted the performance of female job applicants. Thirty male
interviewer- female applicant dyads conducted mock job interviews for a managerial position.
Prior to the interview, we measured interviewers’ implicit and explicit gender managerial
stereotypes. External observers rated applicants’ performance based on videotapes. Results
showed that the performance of female job applicants was most negatively affected when
interacting with male interviewers who were low in explicit gender stereotypes but high in implicit
gender stereotypes. We explain this finding by proposing that low explicit stereotypes are
expressed behaviorally through positive verbal signals, whereas high implicit stereotypes through
negative nonverbal signals. This behavioral inconsistency of interviewers may interfere with the
smooth functioning of the interaction, thus resulting in decreased performance of female
applicants.
Page 168 of 323
Meta-Accuracy of Applicants' Interview
Performance
Submitted by:
Phd Denise Frauendorfer
Authors
Frauendorfer, Denise, University of Lausanne, HEC, Lausanne
Murphy, Nora, Loyola Marymount University
Schmid Mast, Marianne, University of Lausanne, HEC, Lausanne
Darioly, Annick, University of Neuchâtel, IPTO, Neuchâtel
Abstract
Meta-accuracy indicates to what extent people know what impression they convey to others. Two
job interview studies were conducted investigating whether applicants are able to accurately
assess how they are perceived by the recruiter. Meta-accuracy was measured as the correlation
between applicants’ self-ratings and external judges’ ratings of applicants’ job interview
performance. In both studies (N1=49; N2=127) applicants accurately predicted their interview
skills at above-chance levels. Moreover, applicants’ higher accuracy in predicting how competent
they were perceived was related to feeling more competent during the job interview, and the
more applicants felt competent during the job interview, the higher the likelihood of being hired.
That is, applicants’ felt competence during the interview mediated the relationship between
participant meta-accuracy and ratings of hiring likelihood.
Page 169 of 323
Verbal and nonverbal behavior as predictors of
negotiation outcomes
Submitted by:
Phd Katja Schlegel
Authors
Schlegel, Katja, Social Interaction Lab, Northeastern University, Boston
van Peer, Jacobien, Radboud University, Nijmegen
Mehu, Marc, Webster University, Vienna
Abstract
Negotiation is an interpersonal process in which individuals try to accomplish certain objectives.
The degree to which these objectives are accomplished can be influenced by the negotiators’
verbal and nonverbal behavior. However, previous research has largely omitted nonverbal
behavior as a predictor of negotiation outcomes. Furthermore, studies mostly focused on
objective outcomes (e.g., points won) and much less on relational outcomes (e.g.,
cooperativeness). In this study, 65 same-sex pairs of students engaged in an employee-recruiter
negotiation task in which they earned points. Participants were videotaped and rated their own
and their partner’s cooperativeness after the negotiation. Nonverbal (smiling, frowning, gaze,
expansive posture) and verbal (speech acts, negotiation strategies) behaviors were coded.
Results showed that overall, more initial smiling and adaptive negotiation strategies predicted
higher gains, whereas expansive posture and more frequent interruptions, rejections, and
negative verbal reactions were associated with less self-reported cooperativeness and less liking
by the other person.
Page 170 of 323
The benefits and pitfalls of language change – the
case of gender-fair language use
Submitted by:
Phd Magdalena Formanowicz
Authors
Formanowicz, Magdalena, Uni Bern, Psychology Department
Sczesny, Sabine, Uni Bern, Psychology Department
Abstract
Gender-fair language (GFL) is a symmetric linguistic treatment of women and men. To create
GFL two principle strategies can be deployed. Neutralization means that gender-unmarked forms
(police officer) are used to substitute the male-biased (policeman). Feminization, implies that
feminine forms of nouns are used systematically to make female referents visible. The results of
a comprehensive European research program provide evidence in support of a
non-discrimination policy in language, yet identify the potential setbacks preventing linguistic
reforms to be effective. In general, studies indicate positive effects of GFL. In an applied context,
for example women feel more motivated to apply for the position if a job advertisement is
formulated in a GFL. However, negative effects of reformed usage were also reported specifically
when GFL is novel. For example, a woman referred to as a chairperson was evaluated lower in
occupational status than a woman referred to as a chairman.
Page 171 of 323
Symposium: Work and family: Evidence for
differential spillover effects and their
consequences
Five studies based on experimental designs (Steiner et al.), large panels (Li Zerle-Elsäßer,
Slatcher et al.), and ecological momentary assessments (Jensen Klumb, Siegler et al.),
investigated bidirectional relations between work and family and their conditions and
consequences. Negative as well as positive spillover were observed. Li Zerle-Elsäßer’s study
confirmed existing evidence on time-based conflicts, reporting that overtime prevents fathers
from actively engaging in child care. Conflicts in both directions were found to impair well-being
(mood, Siegler et al.; cortisol rhythm, Slatcher et al.). But specific work demands could also be
shown to have positive effects on well-being and parenting (Jensen et al.). The strength of
reported effects differed as a function of the direction of spillover (Siegler et al. vs. Slatcher et
al.). In addition to effects on the target person’s well-being, conflicts between work and family
entailed (negative) evaluations by others. Mothers and fathers with family-to-work conflict were
found to be perceived more negatively on several work-related characteristics whereas mothers
with work-to-family conflict were evaluated more negatively than fathers (Steiner et al.). Taken
together, the studies to be presented further establish and elaborate existing knowledge and
yield new insights into the interdependencies between work and family.
Page 172 of 323
Perceptions of conflicts between work and family:
Does target gender and direction of conflict
matter?
Symposium: Work and family: Evidence for differential spillover effects and their consequences
Submitted by:
Master Rebekka Steiner
Authors
Steiner, Rebekka , University of Lausanne, Organizational Behavior, Lausanne
Krings, Franciska , University of Lausanne, Organizational Behavior, Lausanne
Allen, Tammy, University of South Florida, Department of Psychology, Tampa
Abstract
Little is known about how individuals experiencing work-to-family conflict (WFC) or family-to-work
conflict (FWC) are perceived by others. Because gender-stereotypes describe the ideal mother
as invested in family and the ideal father as invested in work, we tested in two experimental
studies whether mothers with WFC and fathers with FWC would receive particularly negative
evaluations from others. In study 1, individuals experiencing FWC conflict were perceived as less
agentic and promotable than individuals experiencing WFC, independently of their gender. Study
2 showed that mothers with WFC were perceived as less committed to their families than fathers
with the same conflict. Overall, results demonstrate that mothers and fathers experiencing FWC
are evaluated negatively with respect to characteristics relevant for the work-domain. Gender
differences only emerge for parents experiencing WFC, and only for characteristics that are
relevant in the family-domain, leading to harsher evaluations of mothers with WFC than fathers
with WFC.
Page 173 of 323
Family, Work, and Diurnal Cortisol during Midlife:
The impact of Negative Family-to-Work Spillover
Submitted by:
Ph.D. Richard Slatcher
Authors
Abstract
Accumulating empirical evidence has shown that both dimensions of the work-family interface,
work-to-family and family-to-work spillover, can have important implications for health and
well-being. Negative spillover, which reflects the degree to which negative experiences in one
dimension intrude into the other, has been associated with impoverished physical health and
greater likelihood of chronic health conditions among employees. Positive spillover, on the other
hand, has been associated with better mental and physical health outcomes. Despite the
importance of these associations, very little is known about the physiological mechanisms
through which family and work experiences are translated into long-lasting consequences for
health. In the current study we investigated the impact of each spillover dimension on diurnal
cortisol secretion patterns in a large panel study of adults between the ages of 25 and 74.
Results revealed that greater negative family-to-work (NFW) spillover predicted lower wake-up
cortisol values and flatter (less “healthy”) cortisol slopes throughout the day. No associations
were observed between the other spillover dimensions and cortisol secretion. Moreover, these
results remained unchanged when all four dimensions were used as predictors in the same
model, indicating that NFW is a unique predictor of cortisol in this sample. These findings
suggest that diurnal cortisol may be an important pathway through which negative aspects of the
work-family interface leave their mark on health. Furthermore, our results support previous
findings from the same sample indicating that family concerns had a greater impact on work
experiences than work concerns on family experiences. Accumulating empirical evidence has
shown that both dimensions of the work-family interface, work-to-family and family-to-work
spillover, can have important implications for health and well-being. Negative spillover, which
reflects the degree to which negative experiences in one dimension intrude into the other, has
been associated with impoverished physical health and greater likelihood of chronic health
conditions among employees. Positive spillover, on the other hand, has been associated with
better mental and physical health outcomes. Despite the importance of these associations, very
little is known about the physiological mechanisms through which family and work experiences
are translated into long-lasting consequences for health. In the current study we investigated the
impact of each spillover dimension on diurnal cortisol secretion patterns in a large panel study of
adults between the ages of 25 and 74. Results revealed that greater negative family-to-work
(NFW) spillover predicted lower wake-up cortisol values and flatter (less “healthy”) cortisol slopes
throughout the day. No associations were observed between the other spillover dimensions and
cortisol secretion. Moreover, these results remained unchanged when all four dimensions were
used as predictors in the same model, indicating that NFW is a unique predictor of cortisol in this
sample. These findings suggest that diurnal cortisol may be an important pathway through which
negative aspects of the work-family interface leave their mark on health. Furthermore, our results
support previous findings from the same sample indicating that family concerns had a greater
impact on work experiences than work concerns on family experiences.
Page 174 of 323
Spillover processes between work and family
Submitted by:
Sebastian Siegler
Authors
Siegler, Sebastian, University of Fribourg
Voelkle, Manuel, Humboldt University of Berlin
Klumb, Petra L., University of Fribourg
Abstract
Affective spillover from work to family is established, but less is known about the spillover from
family to work. The two life domains are differentially permeable, implying that the spillover effect
is more pronounced in one direction than the other. We analyzed these competing spillover
effects with a bivariate model and additionally examined the temporal dynamics of these spillover
effects. Using data from a time-sampling study with dual-earner parents (N = 56 couples) who
rated their affect seven times a day for seven days, we studied the spillover effects by means of
continuous time structural equation modeling. As expected, the affective spillover from work to
family was stronger than from family to work. We conclude that the permeability of the two life
domains differs and identify the family domain as being more susceptible in terms of affective
spillover. Keywords: affective spillover, work-family, ecological momentary assessment,
continuous time structural equation modeling
Page 175 of 323
The influence of social demands: Do they have a
positive or a negative effect on well-being and
parental behavior? Results from a diary study.
Submitted by:
M.Sc. Regina Jensen
Authors
Jensen, Regina , University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Klumb, Petra , University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Abstract
Social demands in work interactions play an important role in many professions. Previous
research on its effects is not consistent, though. On the one hand, social demands have been
related to impaired well-being. On the other hand, social demands offer an opportunity to learn
new skills, which may result in improved well-being. By examining potential moderating factors
such as social skills, the aim of this study was to provide a more detailed picture about the effect
of social demands, both with regard to employees’ well-being and parental behavior. We carried
out ecological momentary assessments among working fathers. During eight days, they
answered four questionnaires per day regarding e.g. social demands, subjective well-being, and
parental behavior. Our first analyses suggest differential effects of various social demands on
well-being and parental behavior. Therefore, this study extends our knowledge about the
influence of work characteristics on employee’s well-being and family life.
Page 176 of 323
Juggling career and parenthood: Latest empirical
data from German fathers
Submitted by:
Xuan Li
Authors
Li, Xuan, Department of Family and Family Policies, German Youth Institute (Deutsches
Jugendinstitut)
Zerle-Elsäßer, Claudia, Department of Family and Family Policies, German Youth Institute
(Deutsches Jugendinstitut)
Abstract
Despite the discussions on “new, ‘active’ fathers” mothers still suspend their career after
childbirth for a longer time and work mostly part-time when they return, whereas fathers take
shorter breaks, if at all, and tend to work full-time afterwards. Most fathers must perform “active
fatherhood” while maintaining full-time employment. How should we define “active fatherhood” in
this context? The present study is based on AID:A II, conducted by the German Youth Institute,
Munich, includes 3023 father-mother-dyads with a child under 9 years, and could help refine the
definition of active fatherhood and identify predictors of father involvement. Preliminary findings
suggest that paternal engagement in childcare is closely related to parental employment
constellations, especially to parents’ actual working hours: fathers who work overtime are less
likely to be actively involved. The results will also examine fathers’ ideal working time,
work-to-family and family-to-work conflicts and fathers’ satisfaction with their parental
engagement.
Page 177 of 323
Symposium: Digging into late-career issues:
From exploring specific needs of older workers to
transitioning to retirement.
Due to increasing life expectancy, governments and organizations currently face the various
challenges of an aging society. Age represents a specific kind of diversity in the workplace, which
has lead to the emergence of a new career development stage called late career. This stage is
marked by, the question of when to retire, but mostly of how to retire and what to retire to. This
symposium aims to present current research on late careers from various Swiss universities.
First, Nagy and Hirschi present general challenges regarding this specific career development
stage (e.g., sustainability, life-long learning, generativity needs). The symposium will then
discuss issues from a chronological standpoint: Gubler, Biemann, and Herzog will present
longitudinal data covering over 25 years of career development, focusing on older workers’
career histories. Then, Walther and Tschopp as well as Froidevaux and Hirschi will discuss some
specific needs of older workers regarding transition to retirement: Intentions to continue working
after retirement and perception of mattering as an important resource for retirement planning and
retirement adjustment. Finally, Rousier-Vercruyssen, Lacheret, and Fossard will turn to the
specific issue of the discourses produced by retired individuals.
Page 178 of 323
Silent pauses, clues of discursive planning?
Symposium: Digging into late-career issues: From exploring specific needs of older workers to
Submitted by:
Phd Student Lucie Rousier-Vercruyssen
Authors
Rousier-Vercruyssen, Lucie , ISLC, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel MoDyCo, University of
Paris Ouest Nanterre la Défense, Nanterre (France)
Lacheret, Anne , MoDyCo, University of Paris Ouest Nanterre la Défense, Nanterre (France)
Fossard, Marion , ISLC, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel
Abstract
Silent pauses indicate several processes involved in the linguistic production like utterance
segmentation and discursive planning. In this study, we assess whether the mean duration of
silent pauses (MDSP) can indicate a difficulty of discursive planning, defined as the capacity to
elaborate/organize possible utterances in a discourse, within sequential storytelling produced by
30older speakers (59-79 years), taking into account their level of formal education (without
diploma, professional/university degree). 3discourse variables distinguishing the storytelling
sequences in terms of complexity (script, number of characters and discourse stages) were used
to analyze the MDSP. On the whole, results show that the complexity of storytelling sequences
significantly influence the increase of the MDSP, suggesting a difficulty of discursive planning for
all speakers and more particularly for low-educational-level speakers. Tell stories to different
addressees in different situational contexts can be a good exercise to maintain/improve the
capacity of discursive planning.
Page 179 of 323
To Matter or not Matter? An Overlooked Key
Challenge for Transition to Retirement
Submitted by:
Msc Ariane Froidevaux
Authors
Froidevaux, Ariane, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology, Quartier UNIL-Mouline,
1015 Lausanne
Hirschi, Andreas, University of Bern, Work and Organisational Psychology, Fabrikstrasse 8, 3012
Bern
Abstract
In an ageing society, making a successful transition from work to retirement becomes a major
concern for individuals, organizations, and governments. This presentation focuses on the
particular role of mattering (i.e., individuals’ perceptions that they make a difference in the world
around them) as a critical self-image dimension that may mediate the impact of social resources
on retirement planning and retirement adjustment quality. Study 1 examined older workers aged
above 55 years (N = 306) and found direct effects from general and work-specific perceived
social support on life satisfaction and retirement planning but no indirect effects trough mattering.
Study 2 examined retirees (N = 313) and found that general mattering mediated the effects of
social support and provided care on retirement adjustment quality. Overall, our results suggest
that mattering represents a critical mechanism that explains the positive association between
social resources and well-being for retirees, contributing to better adjust to retirement.
Page 180 of 323
Intention to Bridge Employment: The Moderating
Role of Autonomy on the Attitude-Intention Link
Submitted by:
M.Sc. Stephanie Walter
Authors
Walter, Stephanie , Zurich State Police, Research and Development, Zurich Airport
Tschopp, Cècile, ETH Zurich, D-MTEC, Organization, Work Technology Group, Zurich
Abstract
As a result of demographic change, work after retirement gains in importance for organizations.
A remarkable amount of research focuses on the decision-making process regarding
post-retirement work. Organizational factors have rarely been examined in this context, although
a thorough understanding of these effects would provide valuable insights for organizations to
elaborate effective strategies to keep their workforce. Surveying 342 employees aged 55 years
or older with a two-wave questionnaire, we found a moderate intention to same-employer bridge
employment but surprisingly a strong intention to bridge employment in general. Moreover, we
could show that attitude, social norm and perceived behavioral control predict the intention to
same-employer bridge employment, indicating that the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991)
can be applied to this context. Furthermore, autonomy had a significant moderating effect on the
attitude-intention link. Our findings highlight the importance of the work environment, when
dealing with the phenomenon of bridge employment.
Page 181 of 323
How Did They Get There? – A Sequence Analysis
Perspective on Career Patterns of Older
Individuals
Submitted by:
Dr. Martin Gubler
Authors
Gubler, Martin, Schwyz University of Teacher Education, Goldau
Biemann, Torsten, University of Mannheim, Mannheim
Herzog, Silvio, Schwyz University of Teacher Education, Goldau
Abstract
To address specific career development needs of employees aged 50+, it would be paramount to
understand, take into account, and build on individuals’ previous career paths in more detail.
However, such research is widely lacking. Using sequence analysis (specifically, optimal
matching analysis), our study investigates career trajectories of 442 Swiss primary school
teachers in two cohorts (graduation 1964 and 1974) over 25 years, thereby covering those
individuals’ career paths roughly between age 25 and 50. By holding initial profession (teacher)
and geographical location (one canton in Switzerland) constant, this study provides a rare
opportunity to gain novel insights regarding how and why individual careers diverge over time as
well as between cohorts. In particular, we identify four distinct career patterns. The
differences—and some surprising similarities—between these clusters provide various useful
lessons for future research on—as well as practical implications for—career development of
employees aged 50+.
Page 182 of 323
Career Developmental Challenges and
Opportunities of Older Workers in Light of
Today's Job Market Conditions
Submitted by:
Lic. Phil Noemi Nagy
Authors
Nagy, Noemi, University of Bern, Institute of Psychology, Departement of
Industrial/Organisational Psychology
Hirschi, Andreas, University of Bern, Institute of Psychology, Departement of
Industrial/Organisational Psychology
Abstract
Career development of older workers is an important yet relatively young field of research.
Demographic change, especially the aging society as well as increasingly complex,
individualized and flexibly customizable career paths are important factors of influence on today’s
careers. Therefore it is important to also consider these changes from the perspective of workers
aged 50+. This presentation intends to provide an insight into the topics of career development
and the career support needs of older workers. Emphasis is on lifelong learning and
sustainability, the latter including both the compatibility of leisure and family with professional
obligations (work-life balance) as well as an intrinsically meaningful activity of the work itself. Of
central importance are also generativity and social commitment, which become increasingly
important for this age group. Additionally, from the perspective of the organizations, age diversity
and pros and cons of hiring of older workers will be discussed.
Page 183 of 323
Symposium: Intergroup relations and identity
dynamics from the perspective of disadvantaged
minority groups
The “minority” case has become a central issue in our societies in recent decades. However,
research in social psychology focuses more frequently on the perspective of people who possess
material and symbolic capital: the majority. This symposium therefore brings minority groups to
the forefront. Drawing on a number of theoretical frameworks, the five presentations highlight the
role of national and group identification, perception of structural inequalities and justice, social
mobility, the consequences of intergroup contact on minorities’ commitment to social change, as
well as reconciliation processes. First, Gale and Staerklé explore the variations in preferences for
individual or collective justice, challenging the view that minorities unanimously support
multiculturalism principles and pro diversity policies. Second, Iacoviello and colleagues examine
the impact of social mobility on the concern for the inherited, minority group. Third, Politi and
Staerklé focus on intra-minority intergroup relationships and detect some processes responsible
for political solidarity between minorities. Fourth, Giroud and Green analyse the direct and
indirect role of positive and negative contact experiences with the majority on political intentions
of Bulgarian Roma, a highly stigmatized minority. Finally, Oberpfalzerova presents a unique and
functioning model using storytelling for promoting reconciliation between victimized war groups in
Bosnia.
Page 184 of 323
Behind immigration policy attitudes: A dynamic
approach to intra-minority political solidarity.
Symposium: Intergroup relations and identity dynamics from the perspective of disadvantaged
minority groups
Submitted by:
Phd Student Emanuele Politi
Authors
Politi, Emanuele, University of Lausanne, UNILaPS
Staerklé, Christian , University of Lausanne, UNILaPS
Abstract
A recent survey study (MOSAiCH, 2013) showed that 52% of second-generation immigrants in
Switzerland reported opposition to the right to vote for foreigners. A similar family trajectory and a
common stigmatized origin seem therefore insufficient for developing a sense of solidarity
between minority groups. The present study works towards a dynamic model of intra-minority
relations. A series of experiments show that a (manipulated) social identity threat for
second-generation immigrants leads to more positive opinions regarding immigration policies.
Meritocratic ideologies mediate the effect: To perceive one’s own group as disadvantaged
reduces beliefs that all people can improve their position in society with hard work. This
diminished belief in turn leads respondents to show political solidarity towards immigrants.
Results also support the hypothesis that national identity moderates the effect of identity threat
on meritocratic beliefs: Those who firmly endorse national values are more affected by the
perceived disadvantage of their group.
Page 185 of 323
Minority attitudes towards cultural diversity
principles versus policies
minority groups
Submitted by:
Jessica Gale
Authors
Gale, Jessica, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology, UNILaPS
Staerklé, Christian, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology, UNILaPS
Abstract
Multiculturalism and colorblindness are two widely studied conceptions of cultural diversity in
social psychology. Multiculturalism is based on principles of collective justice and colorblindness
on individual justice ones. Both attenuate, in theory, group-based hierarchies. Existing research
shows however that minorities endorse multiculturalism more than colorblindness. They also
support multiculturalism more than majorities do. In the present research, we compare attitudes
towards general principles of multiculturalism and colorblindness with attitudes towards specific
policies implementing them. Preliminary results show a gap between attitudes towards principles
and policy implementation. In particular, majority respondents demonstrate a significantly greater
degree of support for multiculturalism in principle rather than in practice. This gap is reduced for
minorities, but only marginally. These findings suggest that support for cultural diversity policies
depends both on minority-majority group membership and item specificity, and that minorities do
not unanimously show greater support for pro-diversity policies.
Page 186 of 323
When social mobility strengthens the status quo:
The role of ingroup identification
minority groups
Submitted by:
Phd Student Vincenzo Iacoviello
Authors
Iacoviello, Vincenzo, Unimail, Bd du Pont-d'Arve 40, 1205 Genève
Kulich, Clara, Unimail, Bd du Pont-d'Arve 40, 1205 Genève
Lorenzi-Cioldi, Fabio, Unimail, Bd du Pont-d'Arve 40, 1205 Genève
Chipeaux, Marion, Unimail, Bd du Pont-d'Arve 40, 1205 Genève
Abstract
The present research examines individuals’ concern for the ingroup when they move from a
socially disadvantaged inherited background (in terms of gender, ethnicity, and nationality) to a
higher social standing through individual achievement. All of our four studies consistently showed
that socially mobile individuals express lower concern toward the disadvantaged ingroup than
non-mobile individuals. Moreover, Studies 3-4 demonstrate that this lower concern for the
ingroup is concomitant with maintaining the identification with the low-status ingroup and the
increase of the identification with the achieved group. These findings suggest that low concern
for the ingroup is not explained by a decrease in identification with the disadvantaged, but rather
by an increase in identification with the high-status group.
Page 187 of 323
National identification, contact with majority and
minority ethnic activism among Bulgarian Roma
minority groups
Submitted by:
Ma Adrienne Giroud
Authors
Giroud, Adrienne, Université de Lausanne, Institut de Psychologie, Laboratoire UniLaPS,
Lausanne, Switzerland
Green, Eva, Université de Lausanne, Institut de Psychologie, Laboratoire UniLaPS, Lausanne,
Switzerland
Abstract
Collective action research shows that group identification play a central role in committing
individuals to a cause. We conducted a survey study in Bulgaria, analyzing political commitment,
namely political behavioural intentions and ethnic activism of Bulgarian Roma (N=320) as a
function of their contact with the national majority (ethnic Bulgarians). We examined the direct
effects of positive and negative contact with ethnic Bulgarians on political commitment as well as
the indirect effect through group identification and other mediators. Regression analyses
revealed that positive contact had a direct positive relationship with political commitment, and a
positive indirect relationship through national identification. Negative contact experiences, in turn,
were negatively related to political intentions through reduced national identification, but
positively through perceived discrimination. Semi-directive interviews (N=10) were conducted to
further interpret these findings. Explanations for the multiple effects of intergroup contact on
minorities' political commitment are reflected upon.
Page 188 of 323
Truth-Telling by War Victims as A Mechanism of
Reconciliation in Bosnia: The Inititative
„Choosing Peace Together“
minority groups
Submitted by:
Mgr. Hana Oberpfalzerova
Authors
Oberpfalzerova, Hana, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
The contribution will present the conclusions of mixed methods research of an NGO initiative
which represents a unique and functioning model of using storytelling for promoting
reconciliation. Three war victims, one from each group, share their war and life stories in public
conferences. Many mechanisms of reconciliation are at work, the key are sadness and sorrow
which produce all types of empathy. Hearing about the sufferance of other nations can
counteract competitive victimhood and motivates people to learn more and question their
nation´s guilt, which can gradually change attitudes. Individualization can reduce prejudice. Other
mechanisms are common and superordinate identity, collective guilt, positive information,
self-disclosure, the NBM and others. The attitude change takes a few weeks or months. The
information is taken seriously as the interaction is emotional and face to face. The speakers are
interviewed about the speakings and their stories are analyzed for mechanisms of reconciliation.
Page 189 of 323
Symposium: Romantic relationships: The
influence of observed behavior, attention to own
feelings, natural language use, and intimacy
goals
How couples manage interpersonal regulation processes is an important question in the light of
high divorce and separation rates. In this symposium four researchers from different areas of
psychology present different approaches to explain relationship functioning. Using observational
and questionnaire data, Lorena Leuchtmann examines from a couple research perspective how
the partners’ attention to their own feelings influences disclosure of stress in the relationship.
Similarly, Rebekka Kuhn investigates observational data by means of sequential analyses to
unravel the mutual dynamics of couples’ dyadic coping. Taking linguistic categories into account,
Mona Neysari looks at the interplay between natural language use and observed nonverbal
behavior to explain relationship satisfaction. From a motivational psychological perspective,
Ferdinand Denzinger demonstrates that the fit between general intimacy goals and relationship
goals is essential for relationship satisfaction, using new methodology. Taken together, in this
symposium several predictors of interpersonal regulations processes in romantic relationships
are presented that may help to understand in more detail what makes couples satisfied. At the
end, all presented findings will be discussed by Dominik Schöbi.
Page 190 of 323
The dynamics of dyadic coping in couples'
conversations
Symposium: Romantic relationships: The influence of observed behavior, attention to own
feelings, natural language use, and intimacy goals
Submitted by:
Msc. Rebekka Kuhn
Authors
Kuhn, Rebekka, University of Zurich
Zemp, Martina, University of Zurich
Bodenmann, Guy, University of Zurich
Abstract
Stress communication and dyadic coping in couples are among the strongest predictors of
relationship satisfaction and stability. Many studies have gathered observational data to
investigate the underlying processes. However, they have mainly been studied cross-sectionally
without taking into account the partner dynamics during a conversation. The purpose of this
study is to examine the mutual dynamics of couples’ dyadic coping processes by means of
sequential analyses. Behavioral data on partners’ stress communication and dyadic coping were
assessed in a sample of 368 couples across three age cohorts. Preliminary results suggest that
more satisfied partners displayed more adaptive coping behaviors toward their partners’ stress
communication, whereas less satisfied partners were reacting with more negative behaviors.
Further analyses will provide insights into the sequential patterns of dyadic coping interactions.
These findings may potentially enhance our understanding of coping processes in couples and
provide important implications for couple programs and marital therapy.
Page 191 of 323
Linguistic andn non-verbal expressions in
couples' discussions: the association of You, I
and We, and non-verbal behavior with
relationship satisfaction
Submitted by:
Msc. Mona Neysari
Authors
Neysari , Mna , Depamrtment of Psychology, Gerontopsychology and Gerontology, Zurich
Abstract
¨The use of pronouns in couple’s has been found to be related to relationship satisfaction, and
might reflect certain communal regulation styles. In this study we hypothesized that the relation
between we-talk, I-talk and you-talk and relationship satisfaction is mediated by non-verbal
communication behavior. Our analyses in a sample of N=368 couples from three different age
groups revealed significant actor effects for I, you and we on non-verbal behavior; we-talk was
related to less negative, you-talk to more negative and less positive non-verbal behavior. In
general, findings support the hypothesis that the association between pronoun use and relation
satisfaction is, at least partially, mediated by non-verbal behavior. The combined study of
linguistic and non-verbal behavior in couples seems to be a promising way to detect
interpersonal regulation processes. These analyses will be expanded to test these effects in and
between the three different cohorts.
Page 192 of 323
The role of attention to one's own feelings on
stress-related self-disclosure and the couple
climate in romantic relationships
Submitted by:
M.Sc. Lorena Leuchtmann
Authors
Leuchtmann, Lorena, University of Zurich
Zemp, Martina, University of Zurich
Bodenmann, Guy, University of Zurich
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that private self-consciousness (awareness of internal aspects of
oneself, e.g. thoughts and feelings) heightens self-disclosure, which, in turn, is related to positive
relationship outcomes. However, only little research has examined private self-consciousness in
the context of romantic relationships to date. This study aims to address this gap by investigating
the association of attention to one's own feelings (a construct closely related to private
self-consciousness) with stress-related self-disclosure in dyadic interactions of N = 368 couples
using observational data. Moreover, we examine attention to one's own feelings as predictor of
the couple climate (e.g., close vs. distant atmosphere) in dyadic interactions. Furthermore, the
impact of the partner's attention to other people's feelings on relationship outcomes is analyzed.
Results will be discussed in respect to gender effects and practical implications.
Page 193 of 323
Goal-Fit Predicts Relationship Satisfaction
Submitted by:
Msc Ferdinand Denzinger
Authors
Denzinger, Ferdinand, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Binzmuehlestrasse 14/6,
CH-8050 Zurich
Backes, Sabine, University of Zurich, Department of Psychologie, Binzmuehlestrasse 14/6,
CH-8050 Zurich
Brandstätter, Veronika, University of Zurich, Department of Psychologie, Binzmuehlestrasse
14/6, CH-8050 Zurich
Abstract
There is strong evidence that intimacy goals predict relationship satisfaction (Sanderson Evans,
2001). To date, no research is conducted on the fit of life goals concerning intimacy in general
and goals concerning intimacy in the own intimate relationship. Moreover, a lack of consent
exists in using appropriate methods. Recent studies show that methods used until now, e.g.
regression or difference scores, are deemed unacceptable or riddled with error (Shanock et al.,
2010). Thus, effects on the fit between the general life goal for intimacy and the goal for intimacy
in the own intimate relationship were investigated in an extensive dyadic sample containing 368
females and 368 males. Analyses were conducted with polynomial regression and response
surface analysis (Edwards, 2002). The pattern of results is in line with the hypotheses: goal fit
predicts relationship satisfaction. Furthermore, gender and age differences are discussed.
Page 194 of 323
Symposium: Aspect dynamique dans l'évaluation
des capacités de traitement de l'information et
impact sur les prises en charges des personnes
avec syndrome de Williams
Le syndrome de Williams (SW) est un trouble neurogénétique rare provenant d’une
microdélétion du chromosome 7. Les personnes avec SW présentent un retard mental léger à
modéré. Leur profil cognitif est caractérisé par une dissociation entre des bonnes compétences
verbales générales et des déficits sévères des aptitudes visuo-spatiales, mais avec une grande
variabilité individuelle observée. La littérature rapporte des spécificités au niveau de leurs
traitements d’informations sensorielles : ces personnes semblent favoriser un traitement local
des informations visuelles au détriment d’un traitement global, une hypersensibilité aux indices
acoustiques avec une discrimination du son plus fine que la moyenne, ainsi qu’une
hypersensibilité tactile de type défensif. Ces processus considérés comme atypiques semblent
avoir un impact négatif sur l’acquisition des compétences employées dans la vie quotidienne ou
l’apprentissage scolaire telle que l’orientation spatiale, le dessin, la lecture ou l’écriture. L’objectif
de ce symposium est de présenter les derniers travaux réalisés, en utilisant une approche
qualitative et dynamique pour évaluer les processus sous-jacents aux traitements des
informations verbales, tactiles et visuo-spatiales des personnes avec SW. Ceci a pour but de
mieux comprendre le fonctionnement individuel et de proposer, par la suite, un programme de
prise en charge efficace et adapté à chacun.
Page 195 of 323
Rotation mentale et prise de référence chez les
personnes avec syndrome de Williams (SW)
Symposium: Aspect dynamique dans l'évaluation des capacités de traitement de l'information et
impact sur les prises en charges des personnes avec syndrome de Williams
Submitted by:
Phd Student Julie Heiz
Authors
Heiz, Julie, Université de Genève, Unité de psychologie clinique et neuropsychologie de l'enfant,
Switzerland
Barisnikov, Koviljka, Université de Genève, Unité de psychologie clinique et neuropsychologie de
l'enfant, Switzerland
Abstract
Les personnes avec SW présentent des difficultés importantes dans les tâches visuo-spatiales et
en particulier celles sollicitant des compétences de rotation mentale. Leurs capacités déficitaires
de prise de références de type égocentré (par rapport à soi) et allocentré (par rapport aux objets)
peuvent être à la base de ces difficultés avec des conséquences négatives sur leurs
apprentissages (dessin, écriture, calcul). L’objectif de notre étude était donc d’évaluer
l’amélioration possible des capacités de prise de référence spatiale et de rotation mentale selon
différentes conditions. Ces capacités ont été évaluées chez 20 personnes avec SW (10-41 ans)
et comparées à 165 enfants (4-12 ans) et 20 adultes au développement typique. Les résultats
montrent une grande hétérogénéité de patterns de réponses chez les personnes avec SW
indiquant la nécessité d’effectuer une évaluation en cas unique de manière dynamique, afin de
proposer un programme de réhabilitation adapté à chacun.
Page 196 of 323
La perception haptique chez les enfants et
adultes avec syndrome de Williams
Submitted by:
Caroline Cheam
Authors
CHEAM, Caroline, Boulevard du Pont d'Arve, 40. 1211 Geneva
Abstract
De rares études ont examiné les compétences de la perception tactile chez les personnes avec
Syndrome de Williams (SW) et ont rapporté la présence d’hypersensibilité tactile et des
difficultés pour localiser des stimuli tactiles. Cependant, notre étude est la première à évaluer la
perception haptique chez les enfants et adultes avec SW en les comparant à la population au
développement typique (DT), avec deux tâches : le jugement de texture sur 3 dimensions
(rugosité, épaisseur et agréabilité) ; la comparaison de ces textures sous 3 condition (visuelle,
haptique et visuo-haptique). Nos résultats montrent que les participants avec SW jugeraient les
textures comme des adultes au DT (de 19.8 à 40.1 ans) mais présenteraient des performances
de comparaison équivalentes aux enfants au DT âgé de 5 ans. Toutefois, une forte
hétérogénéité interindividuelle est présente et remet en question les différences de résultats
observées, ce qui fera l’objet de notre discussion.
Page 197 of 323
Training of categorical speech perception in
Williams syndrome
Submitted by:
Phd Steve Majerus
Authors
Majerus, Steve, Université de Liège, Psychology
Melotte, Evelyne, Université de Liège, Psychology
Poncelet, Martine, Université de Liège, Psychology
Barisnikov, Koviljka, Université de Genève
Serniclaes, Willy, Université Libre de Bruxelles
Abstract
Children with Williams syndrome (7q11.2 microdeletion) have been shown to display atypical
speech perception abilities, characterized by stronger sensitivity to acoustic than abstract
phonological cues. This may lead to difficulties in the acquisition of written language, where
abstract phonological codes need to be associated to letters. The aim of this multiple case study
was to determine the efficacy of an abstract phonological training program in 5 children with
Williams syndrome. The children were exposed to an explicit and directed categorisation
program of sounds varying on a d-b continuum; a control stimulation program consisted of
passive and non-categorized listening to speech sounds varying on a t-p continuum.
Phonological perception abilities were assessed via standard and untrained categorical speech
perception tasks. We observed for the 5 children a progressive but unstable increase of
categorical perception for the b-d continuum, and partial transfer to the t-p continuum. The limits
of this intervention program and its potential role in written language instruction will be discussed.
Page 198 of 323
Training of categorical speech perception in
Williams syndrome
Submitted by:
Phd Steve Majerus
Authors
Majerus, Steve, Université de Liège, Psychology
Melotte, Evelyne, Université de Liège, Psychology
Poncelet, Martine, Université de Liège, Psychology
Barisnikov, Koviljka, Université de Genève
Serniclaes, Willy, Université Libre de Bruxelles
Abstract
Children with Williams syndrome (7q11.2 microdeletion) have been shown to display atypical
speech perception abilities, characterized by stronger sensitivity to acoustic than abstract
phonological cues. This may lead to difficulties in the acquisition of written language, where
abstract phonological codes need to be associated to letters. The aim of this multiple case study
was to determine the efficacy of an abstract phonological training program in 5 children with
Williams syndrome. The children were exposed to an explicit and directed categorisation
program of sounds varying on a d-b continuum; a control stimulation program consisted of
passive and non-categorized listening to speech sounds varying on a t-p continuum.
Phonological perception abilities were assessed via standard and untrained categorical speech
perception tasks. We observed for the 5 children a progressive but unstable increase of
categorical perception for the b-d continuum, and partial transfer to the t-p continuum. The limits
of this intervention program and its potential role in written language instruction will be discussed.
Page 199 of 323
Facteurs explicatifs des difficultés
d’apprentissage de la lecture dans le Syndrome
de Williams
Submitted by:
Phd Nathalie Marec-Breton
Authors
Marec-Breton, Nathalie , Université Rennes 2, CRPCC EA 1285
Pezzino, Anne-Sophie , Université Rennes 2, CRPCC EA 1285
Attout, Lucie, Université de Liège
Lacroix, Agnès, Université Rennes 2, CRPCC EA 1285
Abstract
Le syndrome de Williams (SW) est une maladie génétique rare due à une microdélétion sur le
chromosome 7. Les recherches relatives à l’apprentissage de la lecture dans cette population
montrent qu’elles ont des difficultés importantes dans la mise en place des automatismes en
lecture (e.g. Barca, Bello, Volterra Burani, 2010 ; Levy, Smith Tager-Flusberg, 2003). L’objectif
de l’étude est de déterminer quels sont les facteurs explicatifs de ces difficultés d’apprentissage
de la lecture. A cette fin, des épreuves de connaissances des lettres, de connaissances des
sons, de conscience phonologique, de perception catégorielle et d’habiletés visuo-spatiales ont
été proposées à quinze enfants et adolescents porteurs du SW âgés de 5 à 23 ans. Les
performances à ces tâches sont comparées à celles d’enfants typiques appariés sur l’âge
chronologique. Les résultats montrent que l’origine des difficultés en lecture des SW pourrait être
multidimensionnelle (Dessalegn, Landau Rapp, 2013).
Page 200 of 323
Paper Session: Single Talks : General Psychology
Colour preferences differ according to object
context
Submitted by:
Bsc Psychology Domicele Jonauskaite
Authors
Jonauskaite, Domicele, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology, Lausanne
Mohr, Christine, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology, Lausanne
Dael, Nele, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology, Lausanne
Abstract
Colour preferences may result from their combined affective reactions to correspondingly
coloured objects (as proposed by ecological valence theory (EVT)). Since current approaches
focus on liked colours, little is known about i) preferences for disliked colours ii), mechanisms
underlying such evaluative judgments and iii) the influence of context. Here, participants selected
colours they liked most and least for three scenarios (general, t-shirt, interior walls) using a newly
devised colour-picker. Additionally, participants indicated whether the colour was associated to a
valenced object or concept. Participants selected a large variation of colours, between individuals
and scenarios. This variation concerned all three colour dimensions: hue, saturation and
lightness. Compared to liked colours, disliked colours were less often linked to valenced objects
or concepts. The current results indicate that the predictions of the EVT may be more relevant to
liked than disliked colours and confirm that colour preferences depend on the target object.
Page 201 of 323
Body-related biases in eating disorders:
Approach and avoidance tendencies in response
to own-body and other-body photographs
Submitted by:
Phd Kathrin Schuck
Authors
Schuck, Kathrin, Ruhr-University Bochum (Germany)
Munsch, Simone, University of Fribourg (Switzerland)
Rinck, Mike, Radboud University Nijmegen (Netherlands)
Schneider, Silvia, Ruhr-University Bochum (Germany)
Abstract
Body image distortions are a central characteristic of eating disorders (ED). A large body of
studies show that individuals with ED display differences in the processing of body-related
stimuli. For example, individuals with ED and individuals with high levels of body dissatisfaction
show an attentional bias for body-related stimuli. Yet, it is unclear whether information processing
of one’s own body differs from information processing of other persons’ bodies. In addition to
attentional biases, which have been well-documented, behavioural tendencies (e.g., avoidance)
may also play a role in the maintenance of ED. The present study uses an Approach-Avoidance
Task to examine response tendencies towards own-body photographs and other-body
photographs (in comparison to control stimuli) among 18-35 year old women with and without
eating disorders. Currently, data are being collected among women without ED (n=50), women
with Anorexia Nervosa (n=25), and women with Bulimia Nervosa (n=25). Preliminary results will
be presented.
Page 202 of 323
Colour choices and colour representation as a
function of expressed emotion
Submitted by:
Phd Nele Dael
Authors
Dael, Nele, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology
Perseguers, Marie-Noëlle, Ecole Politechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Marchand, Cynthia , Ecole Politechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Antonietti, Jean-Philippe , University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology
Mohr, Christine , University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology
Abstract
Hue is often stated as the colour property related to specific emotions (e.g., red and anger).
However, a strong association has been found between colour brightness and affective valence,
supposedly driving behavior. In two studies we investigated the effect of emotional information on
colour cognition. In the first study, participants selected colours to go best with bodily
expressions of elated joy and panic fear. Colours chosen for the joy expressions were brighter,
more saturated and warmer than those for the fear expressions. These results confirm a
valence-brightness association and support the role of emotion in colour choices along all colour
properties. In the second study, participants mind-matched the brightness of the clothing of
actors expressing four emotions. Brightness was judged higher for positive and high arousal
expressions than for negative and low arousal expressions. This study shows that emotional
expression biased colour reproduction in line with the valence-brightness association.
Page 203 of 323
Physiological correlates of media exposure in
Eating Disorder patients
Submitted by:
M.Sc. Nadine Humbel
Authors
Humbel, Nadine, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Wyssen, Andrea, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Garcia-Burgos, David, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Biedert, Esther, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Munsch, Simone, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Lennertz, Julia, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Germany
Schuck, Kathrin, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Germany
Schneider, Silvia, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Germany
Abstract
Thin ideal exposure has been shown to be a repeated stressor in daily life of young women
triggering different types of psychological stress reactions. Up to now, it has not been
investigated, whether this stress reaction may also be observed on the physiological level in
terms of heart rate or stress hormone release. Additionally, according to recent research, stress
reactivity differs between eating disorder patient and healthy individuals in both
hypothalamus-pituitary adrenal axis and sympathoadrenal medullary system activation. The aim
of this study is to explore whether biological stress responses are observed after media exposure
in order to shed light on the implication of this stressor and on the specificity of stress reaction in
a sample including anorexia (n=14), bulimia (n=13) patients and a mixed mental disorders (n=10)
and healthy (n=50) control group. Preliminary results will be presented. (138 words)
Page 204 of 323
Spatial Abilities are Related to Formal Fraction
Knowledge: The Role of Geometric and
Proportional Understanding
Submitted by:
Dr. Wenke Möhring
Authors
Möhring, Wenke, University of Fribourg
Frick, Andrea , University of Fribourg
Abstract
Spatial abilities are related to achievement in mathematics; however, studies investigating the
relative contribution of different spatial skills to mathematical knowledge are rare. In the present
study, we asked whether children’s mental rotation abilities were connected to their formal
fraction knowledge. We hypothesized that children’s geometric understanding and their ability to
reason about spatial proportions may be important contributing factors. We measured 6th to 8th
graders’ mental rotation, verbal intelligence, and their knowledge about geometry, proportions,
and fractions (N = 107). A linear regression model showed that age and verbal intelligence
explained 11% of the variance in children’s fraction knowledge. Mental rotation added another
11%, proportional reasoning 7%, geometric understanding 11%, and all of these contributions
were significant (all Fs > 6.47, all ps < .05). Findings indicate that mental rotation and fraction
knowledge are closely connected and that proportional and geometric understanding contribute
significantly to children’s fraction knowledge.
Page 205 of 323
Cognitive Distortions triggered by Thin Ideals:
Validation of a Body-Related Thought-Shape
Fusion Scale (TSF-B)
Submitted by:
Bachelor Luka-Johanna Debbeler
Authors
Debbeler, Luka Johanna, Universität Fribourg, Lehrstuhl für Klinische Psychologie und
Psychotherapie, Fribourg
Wyssen, Andrea, Universität Fribourg, Lehrstuhl für Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie,
Fribourg
Messerli-Bürgy, Nadine, Universität Bern, Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie, Bern
Munsch, Simone, Universität Fribourg, Lehrstuhl für Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie,
Fribourg
Abstract
Objective: Thought-shape fusion (TSF) is a cognitive distortion associated with eating disorders
(EDs), triggered by thoughts about fattening food (Shafran, et al. 1999). We developed a TSF
body scale (TSF-B), addressing cognitive distortions triggered by cognitions regarding the
thin-ideal in females. This study establishes the psychometric properties of the scale. Method:
Patients suffering from EDs (n=61), affective or anxiety disorders (n=55) and healthy students
(n=230), all female, participated in a diagnostic interview and completed a set of
online-questionnaires. Results: An unifactorial solution was revealed. Therefore, a shortened
version of the TSF-B was constructed. Good psychometric properties were found. The group with
ED could be discriminated from the two other groups by the TSF-B scores. Discussion: Results
indicate that cognitive distortions are not only triggered by thoughts of food but also of thin-ideals
and are associated with eating pathology. The TSF-B scale appropriately measures this
construct.
Page 206 of 323
Future directions for perceived compression of
space
Submitted by:
Phd Sabine Born
Authors
Born, Sabine, Equipe Cognition Visuelle, Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l'Education,
Université de Genève, Switzerland
Zimmermann, Eckart, Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3),
Research Centre Jülich, Jülich, Germany
Cavanagh, Patrick, Centre Attention Vision, Laboratoire Psychologie de la Perception, Université
Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 8242, Paris, France
Abstract
Probes briefly flashed just before or during a saccadic eye movement are mislocalized towards
the saccade goal, a phenomenon known as saccadic compression of space. The perceptual
error is typically attributed to saccade-specific extra-retinal signals interacting with visual input.
Questioning this account, we have recently demonstrated compression of space in the absence
of saccades: brief probes were attracted towards a visual reference when preceded or followed
by a transient visual mask. We could even observe compression without a transient visual
disruption, just by using low contrast probes. We suggest that compression effects reflect how
the visual system deals with degraded targets in the context of highly visible stimuli that share
some aspects with the target. Our observations allow us to see perceptual compression
phenomena from a less restricted viewpoint in the future: in the context of the general encoding
of space in the brain, not just in the context of eye movements.
Page 207 of 323
Predictors of the cognitive distortion
‘though-shape fusion’ in eating disorders.
Submitted by:
Master Of Science Julia Lennertz
Authors
Lennertz, Julia, Ruhr-University Bochum, Department of Psychology, Germany
Wyssen, Andrea, University of Fribourg, Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy,
Switzerland
Schuck, Kathrin, Ruhr-University Bochum, Department of Psychology, Germany
Schneider, Silvia , Ruhr-University Bochum, Department of Psychology, Germany
Munsch, Simone, University of Fribourg, Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy,
Switzerland
Abstract
Research suggests that the cognitive distortion though-shape fusion (TSF) is characteristic of
eating disorders. TSF refers to a set of irrational beliefs that merely thinking about fattening foods
can lead to gaining weight, feelings of fatness and guilt. Several studies have shown that severity
of TSF is associated with depressive symptoms, severity of eating pathology, body
dissatisfaction and the cognitive distortion Thought-Action Fusion. Yet, in order to develop a
comprehensive model of TSF more factors need to be identified. The objective of this study is to
investigate the predictive value of self- esteem and emotion regulation in TSF. We aim to
examine 250 female participants (18-35 years old, healthy students, patients with anorexia,
bulimia, depression, anxiety disorders and somatoform disorders) with regard to
sociodemographic characteristics (age, educational level), general psychopathology (anxiety and
depression), eating pathology, body dissatisfaction, self-esteem and emotion regulation and the
role of these variables in TSF. Preliminary results will be presented.
Page 208 of 323
Coordinating concurrent joint activities:
Distributed versus joint attention
Submitted by:
Phd Adrian Bangerter
Authors
Bangerter, Adrian, University of Neuchâtel, Institute of Work and Organizational Psychology,
Neuchâtel
Mayor, Eric, University of Neuchâtel, Institute of Work and Organizational Psychology, Neuchâtel
Abstract
We report an experiment on coordination of two concurrent joint activities, walking along an
itinerary using a map and conversing. Forty dyads were videotaped via mobile camera while
conversing (a narrator told stories to a listener) in 4 different within-subject conditions of mobility.
Stories were narrated while dyads were (a) stationary, (b) walking in a line, (c) navigating a
complex itinerary, and (d) navigating a complex itinerary without the constraint of storytelling.
There were 2 between-subjects conditions : Either the narrator or the listener was responsible for
the map. We transcribed talk and coded multimodal behaviors (e.g., gaze) used in coordinating
either the narrative or the navigation task. We compared (c) and (d) conditions to show when
coordination behaviors are distributed among participants and when participants focus joint
attention, momentarily suspending one task to solve emergent problems in the other task (e.g.,
consulting the map and changing direction).
Page 209 of 323
Paper Session: Single Talks : Methods,
Diagnostics, Learning
iMap 4: An Open Source Toolbox for the
Statistical Fixation Mapping of Eye Movement
data with Linear Mixed Modeling
Paper Session: Single Talks : Methods, Diagnostics, Learning
Submitted by:
Phd Junpeng Lao
Authors
Lao, Junpeng, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
Miellet, Sébastien, Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK
Pernet, Cyril, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, Neuroimaging Sciences, University of
Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
Sokhn, Nayla, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
Caldara, Roberto, Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
Abstract
A major challenge in modern eye movement research is to statistically map where observers are
looking at. Compared to signals of contemporary neuroscience measures, such as M/EEG and
fMRI, eye movement data are sparser with much larger variations across trials and participants.
As a result, the implementation of a conventional linear modeling approach on two-dimensional
fixation distributions often returns unstable estimations and underpowered results. Here, we
tackled this issue by applying a pixel-wise Linear Mixed Models on the smoothed fixation data
with each subject as a random effect. All the possible linear contrasts for the fixed effects (main
effects, interactions, etc.) could be performed after the model fitting. Importantly, we introduced a
novel spatial cluster test based on bootstrapping to assess the statistical significance of the linear
contrasts. This approach is validated by using both experimental and Monte Carlo simulation
data. We implemented this approach in an open source MATLAB toolbox - iMap 4 - with a
user-friendly interface providing straightforward, easy to interpret statistical graphical outputs.
iMap 4 matches the standards of the robust statistical neuroimaging methods. iMap 4 should
thus provide an easy access to robust data-driven analyses for the statistical spatial mapping of
eye movement data.
Page 210 of 323
From the present replication and confidence
crisis to future psychological science: The new
diagnostic tools for assessing the evidential
value of research findings
Submitted by:
Prof. Dddr. Martin Voracek
Authors
Voracek, Martin, Department of Basic Psychological Research and Research Methods, School of
Psychology, University of Vienna
Abstract
Since 2011/12, awareness of the present replication and confidence crisis in psychological
science has surfaced from unreplicable published research, fraud cases, retractions, widespread
questionable research practices, and the like. Meanwhile, the widely publicized crisis has led to
journal policy changes, incipient reform of publishing, large-scale replication initiatives, and the
development of novel methodology, i.e., a suite of diagnostic tools for assessing the evidentiality
of research findings. This talk focuses on these latter innovations, by providing a first-time
systematic overview of more than a dozen of these (caliper, ES-N, and excess significance tests;
incredibility index; N-pact factor; p-augmented, p-curve, and p-uniform; safeguard power and
type S and M error analyses; v metric). Presented and discussed are these methods‘
foundations, assumptions, capabilities and limitations, commonalities as well as differences, and
the resonance and applications they had so far.
Page 211 of 323
A self-assessment for prospective students of
Psychology- characteristics and findings
Submitted by:
Phd Katja Pässler
Authors
Pässler, Katja, University of Applied Sciences and Arts, School of Applied Psychology, Olten
Kornblum, Angelika, University of Applied Sciences and Arts, School of Applied Psychology,
Olten
Abstract
In Switzerland, psychology is one of the most popular degree programs. However, many
prospective students find it difficult to appraise whether their interests and abilities fit the
demands of this particular subject. Additionally, they often lack relevant information about
studying psychology, leading to false expectations about the contents of Psychology. A
self-assessment (www.psychologie-self-assessment.ch) was developed to support prospective
students in their decision for or against studying psychology. It aims at providing a realistic study
preview as well as relevant information about studying psychology and working as a
psychologist. The web-based tool uncovers false expectations and contains various tests that
assess interests, cognitive abilities and relevant skills. For evaluating the psychometric
properties, the validity and the usefulness of the tool, data was collected in different samples and
a user survey was conducted. Results of data analyses are presented and limitations of the tool
are discussed.
Page 212 of 323
Does instructional 3D animation support learning
three-dimensional complex information?
Submitted by:
Phd Sandra Berney
Authors
Berney, Sandra, Université de Genève, FAPSE - TECFA, 1205 Genève
Groff, Jonathan, Université de Bourgogne, LEAD-CNRS, 21078 Dijon, France
Gagnière, Laurence, Unidistance, Technopôle 5, 3960 Sierre, Suisse
Abstract
Today, when considering computer-based learning materials, animations are definitively such
educational resources, that have the added value of presenting or displaying three-dimensional
(3D) information (content) by means of two-dimensional displays. As opposed to the
two-dimensional approach traditionally used to teach anatomy, animations of a three-dimensional
rotating model (3D animation) provide learners with spatial information on the anatomical 3D
object, which is not available with two-dimensional illustrations. However, the influence of
learners' spatial ability in processing 3D animations as well as the need to take into account the
spatial relationships between the anatomical object and the three-dimensional body space are
challenges to learning. An experimental eye-tracker study was conducted to investigate the
interplay between 3D animations and spatial ability when learning functional anatomy.
Additionally, retrospective verbal reporting cued by eye-movement replay will be used in order to
elicit participants' learning strategies with these new 3D educational resources.
Page 213 of 323
Career Path Planning in Psychology: 2 Pilot
Academic Swiss Approaches
Submitted by:
Phd Laurence gagniere
Authors
Gagnière, Laurence , Unidistance, centre d'études de sierre, Technopôle 5, ch3960 sierre
Berney, Sandra, Université de Genève, Unimail, FAPSE 42, boulevard du pont d'arve, 1205
Genève
Frauenfelder, Ulrich, Laboratoire de psychololinguistique expérimentale, FPSE, boulevard du
pont d'arve, 1205 Genève
Abstract
Although the spectrum of careers in psychology is vast, undergraduate psychology students
generally have little knowledge about their career options. It is therefore crucial to provide them
with information on career issues and help them plan their professional futures early in their
academic curriculum. We present two courses that were developed to meet these challenges by
two Swiss higher education institutions (one distance learning and the other traditional). The
three objectives of the two courses are: 1) to define and to clarify the professional direction and
post-bachelor choices, 2) to make explicit academic, transversal and professional competencies
required, and 3) to learn to adopt a personal reflexive approach and to develop a realistic
professional post-bachelor project. Additionally, the distance learning approach includes an
additional 7-day internship that provides adult distance learners with an opportunity to gain
experiential learning. The traditional class-based approach presents live testimonies of former
graduates students, who have already begun working in psychology.
Page 214 of 323
Paper Session: Single Talks: Clinical /
Developmental
A normative computational approach to age
differences in learning across the human lifespan
Paper Session: Single Talks: Clinical / Developmental
Submitted by:
Dr. Ben Eppinger
Authors
Abstract
In this talk I will present data from recent studies on lifespan age differences in learning in
dynamic task environments. I will focus on three factors that have been shown recently to affect
the rate of learning during predictive inference: Uncertainty, volatility, and surprise. Results of
these studies show that learning deficits in older adults are primarily driven by a diminished
capacity to represent and utilize uncertainty in the regulation of learning. In contrast,
developmental differences in learning seem to be better characterized by a differential sensitivity
to the volatility of environments as well as surprising outcomes. I will conclude by providing a first
approach to a normative theory of lifespan age differences in learning in dynamic task
environments.
Page 215 of 323
Quantifying visual information use for facial
expression recognition during development
Submitted by:
Phd Roberto Caldara
Authors
Rodger, Helen, University of Fribourg
Caldara, Roberto, University of Fribourg
Abstract
We aimed to quantify visual information use for recognition of the 6 ‘basic’ emotions using two
distinct measures in a unified framework from early childhood up to adulthood. We isolated both
the quantity of signal necessary to recognize an emotional expression at the apex normalized for
contrast and luminance, and the expression intensity (using neutral-expression image morphs)
necessary across development while maintaining accuracy at 75% correct. Fear and happiness
were the most difficult and easiest expressions to recognize across age groups and measures.
During early childhood both measures significantly correlated for all expressions except surprise.
The correspondence between measures broke down at 11-12 years, while recognition thresholds
continued to improve with age. Early adolescence thus marks a crucial developmental transition,
where visual information use for facial expressions becomes more discriminative. Morphed or
expressions at the apex cannot be straightforwardly compared, offering novel insights for the
investigation of the development of the affective system.
Page 216 of 323
Associations between cognitive decline,
psychiatric symptoms and response quality in
self-rated personality questionnaires among
subjects aged 65 or older: a PsyCoLaus study
Submitted by:
Msc Marc Dupuis
Authors
Dupuis, Marc, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne
Vandeleur, Caroline, Centre for Research in Psychiatric Epidemiology and Psychopathology,
Lausanne University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry
Meier, Emanuele, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne
Capel, Roland, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne
Abstract
Our purpose was to examine the associations between cognitive decline, psychiatric symptoms,
and the response quality to personality questionnaires. A sample of 415 participants aged 65 or
older from the PsyCoLaus study in Lausanne completed the NEO Five-Factor Inventory
(NEO-FFI), the Symptom Checklist 90–revised (SCL-90-R), and various neurocognitive tests.
Based on Gendre’s functional method, different indices measuring the quality of the entire set of
responses were calculated for the NEO-FFI. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed
to measure how much of the variance of these indices of response quality could be explained by
the results of the neurocognitive tests, controlling for sociodemographics and the SCL-90-R
factors. Determination coefficients ranging from 10% to 41% were measured. Nonetheless,
psychiatric symptoms explained a significant proportion of the variance (7%-36%). The two main
findings are 1) cognitive decline leads to non-negligible decreases in response quality and 2)
psychiatric symptoms have important effects on response quality in patients over 65 years.
Page 217 of 323
Gender typical patterns and the link between
alexithymia, dyadic coping and depressive
symptoms
Submitted by:
Ph.D. Barbara Gabriel
Authors
Gabriel, Barbara , Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
Untas, Aurélie , Université Paris Descartes, France
Luminet, Olivier , Université catholique de Louvain, Belgium
Koleck, Michèle, Université Bordeaux, France
Idier, Laetitia , Université Bordeaux, France
Abstract
Introduction: New studies revealed alexithymia (e.g. difficulties to identify and describe emotions)
as an important variable in understanding the marital functioning–depression link. Additionally
own recent studies showed exaggerations of gender typical marital interaction patterns and
differences as important correlates of depression. Method: The present study investigates for the
first time gender typical couple dynamics of dyadic coping and intensity of alexithymia going
ahead with life satisfaction and depressive symptoms on a sample 112 heterosexual couples
(mean age 35.1, mean couple duration 11.6 years) using models of path analyses. Result:
Evidence of greater stress generating behaviors going ahead with an exaggeration of gender
typical patterns in dyadic coping in association with higher intensity of alexithymia and of
depressive symptoms was found. Conclusion: Accordingly, the inclusion of alexithymia as well as
gender differences seems to be an important and innovative way for understanding depression in
the marital context. Keywords: depressive symptoms, gender, alexithymia, dyadic coping
Page 218 of 323
Now You Make False Memories; Now You Don’t:
Serial Position Effects and Critical Lure
Production in Alzheimer’s Disease
Submitted by:
Phd Anne-Laure Gilet
Authors
Gilet, Anne-Laure, Université de Nantes, Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire,
Nantes
Evrard, Christelle, Université de Nantes, Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire,
Nantes and Centre Mémoire de Ressources et Recherche, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
Colombel, Fabienne, Université de Nantes, Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire,
Nantes
Corson, Yves, Université de Nantes, Laboratoire de Psychologie des Pays de la Loire, Nantes
Abstract
Alzheimer's patients regularly produce fewer critical lures than older adults in DRM tasks. This
study aimed at investigating this question by examining the role of words’ order of presentation in
the DRM lists. With this aim, 149 participants (young, middle-aged, healthy older adults, and
Alzheimer patients) were asked to perform a DRM task with a classical presentation order of the
words in the lists or with a reverse presentation order. First, analyses showed preserved recency
and primacy effects in participants except in Alzheimer's patients who showed recency effects
only. Analyses also revealed that patients recalled as many critical lures as older adults in the
classical condition, but more critical lures than older adults in the reverse condition. In addition,
patients recalled significantly more critical lures in the reverse condition than in the classical
condition. The use of the DRM paradigm for patients compared to healthy subjects will be
discussed.
Page 219 of 323
Paper Session: Single Talks: Social / Personality
Is your humor social, mocking, inept, or
cognitive? On the dimensionality of the sense of
humor
Submitted by:
Sonja Heintz
Authors
Heintz, Sonja, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
Sense of humor is likely a multidimensional construct, and a four-factor model (4FMH) has
recently been proposed (Ruch, 2012) that comprises social, mocking, inept, and cognitive humor.
The present study investigates the dimensionality of humor instruments using markers for the
4FMH along with a list of specific humor facets (e.g., nonsense, wit, sarcasm, irony, fun, satire,
self-defeating, self-enhancing) in a sample of young adults. Principal components analysis
yielded the expected four factors of social, mocking, inept, and cognitive humor. These factors
explained more than 50% of the variance in the humor facets. Some of these facets were pure
markers, while others proved to be factorially complex. For example, wit, benevolent humor, and
self-enhancing loaded on both the social and cognitive humor factors. Thus, the present study
suggests that clinically and literarily derived humor facets can be well represented by the 4FMH,
which was derived from everyday humor behavior.
Page 220 of 323
Is the lift really going up? Favorable stereotypes,
self-competence threat, and intellectual
performance.
Submitted by:
Phd Nicolas Sommet
Authors
Sommet, Nicolas, Unité de Psychologie Sociale, Uni Mail - 40 Bd du Pont d'Arve CH - 1205
Genève
Marie-Pierre, Fayant, Université Paris Descartes 71, Avenue Edouard Vaillant 92100
Boulogne-Billancourt, France
Quiamzade, Alain , Unité de Psychologie Sociale, Uni Mail - 40 Bd du Pont d'Arve CH - 1205
Genève
Mugny, Gabriel, Unité de Psychologie Sociale, Uni Mail - 40 Bd du Pont d'Arve CH - 1205
Genève
Abstract
The salience of a negative stereotype about an out-group's lower ability positively predicts
intellectual performance. The underlying mechanisms of this phenomenon (i.e., the "stereotype
lift") are poorly understood. We argue that it might be partly explained by a deflection of a
preexisting self-competence threat (leading to a recovery in optimal performance) rather than by
enhanced efforts (leading to a genuine increase in performance). In two studies, stereotype lift
was shown to only occur when individuals were formerly engaged in upward (supposed to be
threatening) interpersonal comparisons. In two other experiments, stereotype lift was found to
lessen when self-competence threat was eliminated beforehand via a self-affirmation procedure.
Taken together, the findings suggest that stereotype lift is accounted by a dissipation of a
self-competence threat associated with prior interpersonal comparison.
Page 221 of 323
Does peer approval influence self-esteem
development? Test of reciprocal, prospective and
long-term effects
Submitted by:
Phd Andrea Gruenenfelder-Steiger
Authors
Gruenenfelder-Steiger, Andrea , University of Zurich, Department of Psychology,
Binzmühlestrasse 14/24, 8050 Zurich
Abstract
The present study had two major goals. The first aim was to test the reciprocal longitudinal
relation between self-esteem and peer approval (subjective and objective measures) from ages
12 to 16 using five measurement occasions (N = 1,527). It was hypothesized that peer approval
leads to subsequent changes in self-esteem and that self-esteem in turn leads to changes in
peer approval. The second aim was to test the long-term effect of adolescent self-esteem and
peer approval on social life outcomes in adulthood (age 35). Given the existing long-term
evidence for self-esteem as an important predictor of various life outcomes, it was expected that
adolescent self-esteem predicts social life outcomes two decades later. Furthermore, it was
expected that peer approval during adolescence remains a sensitive marker in an individual’s life
history with long-term effects well into adulthood. Both subjectively and objectively measured
peer approval prospectively predicted self-esteem in adolescence and long-term effects of both
self-esteem and peer approval on adult social outcomes were evidenced. However, self-esteem
did not impact subsequent peer approval in adolescence.
Page 222 of 323
A Meta-Analysis on Social Stressors at Work and
Sleep
Submitted by:
Dipl.-Psych. Christin Gerhardt
Authors
Pereira, Diana, University of Bern, Work and Organizational Psychology, Bern
Gerhardt, Christin, University of Bern, Work and Organizational Psychology, Bern
Kottwitz, Maria, University of Marburg, Work and Organizational Psychology, Marburg
Elfering, Achim, University of Bern, Work and Organizational Psychology, Bern
Abstract
Sleep is a fundamental mechanism to keep body and mind healthy. It refills our depleted
resources to face everyday’s challenges. Problems can arise if it gets disturbed. Yet
underestimated influences on sleep are social stressors. Since people are working closely
together, conflicts will inevitably arise. We present a review of studies analyzing the relationship
between social stressors and sleep disturbances. We meta-analysed the association between
social stressors and sleep in 10 studies and a total sample of 9’859 people. Results show an
overall moderate positive relation between social stressors and sleep disturbances. There are
few studies examining the relationship of social stressors at work and sleep patterns. Conceptual
clearness in various social stressor concepts need to be improved. Results show the importance
of social stressors for sleep behavior and therefore health. Preventing social stress at work could
also protect health. We know of no other meta-analysis concerning social stressors and sleep
behavior.
Page 223 of 323
The transfer effect hypothesis : When warmth
perception depends on self-interest satisfaction
Submitted by:
Antonin Carrier
Authors
Carrier, Antonin, University of Savoy
Dompnier, Benoît , University of Lausanne
Abstract
Social judgment comprises two dimensions. Warmth reflects the profitable or threatening
potential of the trait possessor for others (“other-profitability”). Competence reflects the ability for
the trait possessor to reach his goals (“self-profitability”). However, competence can become
other-profitable when one is dependent on other’s competence to reach his goal. We
hypothesized that, in such interdependence relationship, warmth perception should result from
the position of the target on competence dimension. Findings from four studies support this
“transfer effect hypothesis”. More precisely, they indicate that cooperative targets are perceived
as warm when presented as competent and cold when presented as incompetent. The exact
opposite was found for competitive targets. This cooperation/competition by competence
interaction was fully mediated by perceived target’s profitabilty. Moreover, this effect only shows
up when the perceiver places great value on the task, suggesting that warmth perception
resulting from the transfer effect is contingent on perceiver’s self-interest.
Page 224 of 323
Do dogs really resemble their owner ? The social
categories to which owners belong as a key
causal factor of the dog-owner matching effect
Submitted by:
Ph.D Alain Quiamzade
Authors
Quiamzade, Alain, University of Geneva, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Science
Abstract
Studies have shown that people who are presented owners with their dogs and lure dogs, are
able to match the real dog-owner pair better than at random. This effect has been interpreted as
a dog-owner physical similarity. We will present four studies showing that this matching effect is
in fact explained by the social categories to which the owners belong. We manipulated the
owners’ social categories (sex and age) and the typicality of lure dogs (judged as typical of men
vs. women or typical of younger vs. older people). Results show that we can produce as well as
suppress a match by manipulating the owners’ social categories and the typicality of lure dogs.
Moreover, the more participants acknowledge using such categories, the better they match real
dogs and their owners. Finally, there is an asymmetry, these results holding for women but not
men and for older but not younger owners.
Page 225 of 323
Paper Session: Single Talks: Emotion / Cognition
Reactivation triggers integration of neutral
information into emotional memories
Submitted by:
Alison Montagrin
Authors
Montagrin, Alison, University of Geneva, Department of Psychology, Geneva
Zafeiriou, Athina , University of Geneva, Department of Psychology, Geneva
Sander, David, University of Geneva, Department of Psychology, Geneva
Rimmele, Ulrike, University of Geneva, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Geneva
Abstract
Previous findings suggest that neutral and fear memories can be updated when they are
reactivated. However, to date, it is unclear whether emotional (i.e., positive and negative)
episodic memory can likewise be updated. Here, we test whether emotional episodic memories
can be updated upon reactivation. Participants enrolled in a three-day experiment. On Day 1,
one group learned a first list of emotional images and one group a list of neutral images. On Day
2, half received a reminder of Day 1, while the other half did not. Then, all of them learned a
neutral second list. On Day 3, memory for list 1 was tested. Results show that participants, who
received a reminder, had higher neutral intrusions when they recalled the first list in both groups.
This finding shows that not only neutral, but also positive and negative episodic memories. can
be updated with neutral material after a reminder.
Page 226 of 323
Emotional intelligence compensates for low IQ
and boosts low emotionality individuals in a
self-presentation task
Submitted by:
Ph.D Marina Fiori
Authors
Fiori, Marina, University of Lausanne, Faculty of HEC, Dept. of Organizational Behavior
Abstract
The research on emotional intelligence (EI) has focused mainly on testing the incremental validity
of EI with respect to general intelligence and personality; less attention has been devoted to
investigating the potential interaction effects. In a self-presentation task that required participants
to obtain positive evaluations from others, individuals low in IQ but high in EI performed as well
as the high IQ individuals. In addition, the low emotionality individuals performed significantly
higher when also high in EI. The results extend the previous findings on the compensatory effect
of EI on low IQ to the domain of interpersonal effectiveness and shed light on the effective
functioning of personality traits when interpreted with the interaction of EI. Overall this study
suggests that the role of EI in predicting performance might have been overlooked by checking
solely for main effects and illustrates new venues for understanding the contribution of EI in
explaining emotion-laden performance.
Page 227 of 323
A Meta-Analytical Investigation Attentional Bias
for Positive Rewarding Stimuli: The Role of
Valence Arousal and Relevance
Submitted by:
Msc Eva Pool
Authors
Pool, Eva, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Brosch, Tobias, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Delplanque, Sylvain, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Sander, David, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Abstract
Despite an initial focus on negative threatening stimuli, researchers have more recently
expanded the investigation of attentional biases toward positive rewarding stimuli. The present
meta-analysis systematically compared the attentional bias for positive compared with neutral
stimuli across 243 published and unpublished studies (N = 9,182 healthy participants) using
different types of attentional paradigms and positive stimuli. Factors were tested that, as
postulated by several attentional models derived from theories of emotion, might modulate this
bias (e.g., relevance and valence and arousal dimensions of the positive stimulus). Overall,
results showed a significant, albeit modest (Hedges’ g = .258), attentional bias for positive as
compared with neutral stimuli. Moderator analyses revealed that the magnitude of the attentional
bias did not significantly vary as a function of the stimulus’ valence dimension . The magnitude of
the attentional bias rather varied as a function of the stimulus’ arousal dimension and it was
significantly larger when the emotional stimulus was relevant to the participants’ specific
concerns (e.g., hunger) compared with other positive stimuli that were less relevant to their
concerns. Moreover, the moderator analyses showed that the attentional bias for positive stimuli
was larger in paradigms that measure early, rather than late, attentional processing, suggesting
that the attentional bias for positive stimuli occurs rapidly and involuntarily. These findings
demonstrate that, similar to negative threating stimuli, positive rewarding stimuli also bias
attention at an early stage of information processing. This supports the hypothesis that the
attentional bias for emotional stimuli is not driven by threat or the negative valence of the
stimulus, but rather by a mechanism that is common to negative threats and positive rewards, a
key component of which is the relevance of the stimulus for the observer’s concerns.
Page 228 of 323
Does Smiling Really Make us Happier? A
Cross-Lagged Examination of the Causal
Relationships between Affective and Cognitive
Components of Subjective Well-Being
Submitted by:
Phd Gregoire Bollmann
Authors
Bollmann, Gregoire, NCCR LIVES, University of Lausanne
Maggiori, Christian, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland
Rossier, Jérôme, University of Lausanne
Abstract
This research investigates how life satisfaction, positive and negative affect influence each other
over time, controlling for personality. Models of subjective well-being consider its affective
component to influence its cognitive counterpart. Yet, it remains unclear if this relation holds true
over time, over and beyond baseline levels of satisfaction with life or if it is the reverse, namely if
life satisfaction (also) causes changes in affect. We examined this question with a three-year
longitudinal study on 1,724 participants (a representative sample of the Swiss working age
population). Controlling for affect at Time 2, cross-lagged models revealed satisfaction with life at
Time 2 significantly predicted positive and negative affect at Time 3. This was not the case for
affect at Time 2 on satisfaction with life at Time 3. These results held controlling for personality
assessed at Time 1. Interventions aimed at long-lasting well-being should consider more stable
cognitions like belief systems.
Page 229 of 323
Reduced emotionality after short mindfulness
intervention
Submitted by:
Phd Eric Mayor
Authors
Mayor, Eric, Université de Neuchâtel, IPTO, Neuchâtel
Abstract
Studies have shown decreases in negative affect and anxiety, and increases in positive affect
after intensive mindfulness training (e.g., 10 days interventions). We hypothesized similar results
after a 5-minute short intervention. We conceived a guided audio mindfulness intervention
(mindfulness of breathing and body-scan) delivered by a natural text-to-speech voice (speech
synthesis). Participants (N=27) completed the state anxiety subscale of the STAI (short form),
and the positive and negative affect scales of the PANAS (short form) before and after
performing the exercises as guided by the synthetized voice (test - retest). Participants were first
informed of the procedure. As expected, participants had a lower negative affect and state
anxiety after the intervention. Surprisingly, positive affect also decreased after the exercises.
Implications will be discussed.
Page 230 of 323
Paper Session: Single Talks: Work / Applied
Just a slice of assessment center, please: On
whether judging a slice may suffice
Submitted by:
Dr. Pia Ingold
Authors
Ingold, Pia V., University of Zurich, Work Organizational Psychology, Zurich
Dönni, Mirjam, University of Zurich, Work Organizational Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
During initial encounters, people form impressions of others and this applies to assessors in
assessment centers (ACs), too. Yet, we do not know how these first impressions in ACs relate to
AC performance ratings. This is important given that this will foster understanding what
contributes to AC performance ratings and its predictive power. Thus, this study aimed at
examining whether first impressions of assessees predict AC performance ratings. Trained
assessors rated the AC performance of 103 participants in a simulated AC. Based upon short
video clips of the AC exercises, a second set of raters rated their first impressions of the
assessees. Results from this study showed that first impressions of assessees predicted AC
performance ratings. Taken together, this study fosters the view that first impressions convey
meaningful information about assessees, thereby contributing to our understanding of AC
performance ratings. This may hint at future options for shortening AC exercises.
Page 231 of 323
The Relationship between Shared Language,
Relational Coordination, Job Satisfaction and
Performance: Investigating Moderated Mediation
Effects
Submitted by:
Msc. Manuel Stühlinger
Authors
Stühlinger, Manuel, ETH Zürich, Department of Management, Technology and Economics,
Zurich
Grote, Gudela, ETH Zürich, Department of Management, Technology and Economics, Zurich
Schmutz, Jan, ETH Zürich, Department of Management, Technology and Economics, Zurich
Abstract
In interdisciplinary medical teams, coordination among its members is essential for good care. In
our study, we examine if relational coordination (RC) mediates the relationship between shared
language and job satisfaction and quality of care. Further, we expect that this mediation is
moderated by beliefs in the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration. In a cross-sectional study,
we surveyed 154 employees from Swiss rehabilitation centers, assessing all the constructs of our
model. Analyses showed that shared language related positively to RC and RC, in turn, to quality
of care and job satisfaction. The relationships between RC and the two outcome variables were
moderated by beliefs in the benefits of interdisciplinary collaboration: When the beliefs were
weak, the relationships increased. This study contributes to an improvement of interdisciplinary
collaboration in medical teams and could help enhance quality of care and job satisfaction
among employees.
Page 232 of 323
Consequences of delayed responses in job
interview
Submitted by:
Phd Student Julie Brosy
Authors
Brosy, Julie, University of Neuchâtel, Institute of work and organizational psychology, 2000
Neuchâtel
Bangerter, Adrian, University of Neuchâtel, Institute of work and organizational psychology, 2000
Neuchâtel
Mayor, Eric, University of Neuchâtel, Institute of work and organizational psychology, 2000
Neuchâtel
Abstract
Conversation is governed by expectations of timely responding. Violations of these expectations
are grounds for inference by other participants. These inferences may be at odds with identities
respondents try to project. In job interviews, candidates' responses are used by recruiters to
make judgments of suitability for the position and ultimately hiring decisions. Candidates trade off
between (1) delaying to search for an appropriate response at the risk of appearing inept and (2)
responding quicker but less appropriately. Therefore, pause durations in job interviews may be
related to the type of response (appropriate or not) produced by candidates. Moreover, pause
durations may lead to inferences on the part of recruiters, thereby affecting hiring
recommendations they gave to candidates. In a corpus of real job interviews, response delays
increase the probability of inappropriate responses and decrease hireability ratings, illustrating
how unintended conversational inferences can entail far-reaching social and institutional
consequences beyond the conversation itself.
Page 233 of 323
Why do people tip? The psychology of restaurant
tipping in Switzerland
Submitted by:
Phd Sébastien Fernandez
Authors
Fernandez, Sébastien, Haute Ecole Spécialisée de Suisse Occidentale, Ecole Hôtelière de
Lausanne, Lausanne
De Boer, Charlotte , Haute Ecole Spécialisée de Suisse Occidentale, Ecole Hôtelière de
Lausanne, Lausanne
Terrier, Lohyd, Haute Ecole Spécialisée de Suisse Occidentale, Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne,
Lausanne
Abstract
This study investigates the factors that lead customers to leave tips in a restaurant. Tipping is of
major importance for waiters and waitresses as their salaries are still lower than the average
salaries in Switzerland. Customers who were eating in an Italian casual-dining restaurant in
Lausanne filled a short questionnaire after having received the bill. Results obtained on 120
customers point out that some factors usually linked with tipping behavior in the USA (meal price,
patronage frequency) correlate also with the tip amount in our study. No relationship is found
between service quality and the tip amount but the tip amount is correlated with price quality. As
this result is different from all those obtained in the USA, it suggests that Swiss customers tip
waiters for other reasons than American customers. Theoretical implications of these results will
be discussed in this presentation.
Page 234 of 323
Title: "Just Words? Just Speeches?" On The
Economic Value of Charismatic Leadership
Submitted by:
Ph.D. John Antonakis
Authors
Antonakis, John, Dept. of Organizational Behavior, University of Lausanne, Lausanne
d'Adda, Giovanna, Dept. of Management, Economics and Industrial Organization, Politecnico di
Milano, Milan
Weber, Roberto, Dept. of Economics, University of Zurich, Zurich
Christian, Zehnder, Dept. of Organizational Behavior, University of Lausanne, Lausanne
Abstract
Does charismatic leadership enhance firm performance? Evidence showing causal effects of
charisma in a real, economically relevant work environment is lacking. In a field experiment, we
hired temporary workers to prepare envelopes for a fundraising campaign conducted on behalf of
a hospital. An actor briefed workers about the importance of their task. We manipulated (a) the
degree of charisma the actor demonstrated, and (b) the financial incentives we gave to workers.
Charisma increased worker output by 17.44% relative to the workers who received the standard
speech; this effect was statistically significant and comparable in size to the positive effect of
performance-based financial incentives. The charismatic speech also significantly lowered cost
of production. Our results have implications for leadership in the design of institutions and
organizations.
Page 235 of 323
Poster Session: Poster Lunch
To be a psychologist. Tensions between
individual and social dimensions in the
representations of the profession of a
psychologist by students
Submitted by:
Dr Nathalie Muller Mirza
Authors
Muller Mirza, Nathalie, University of Lausanne
Abstract
Over the past 30 years the profession of psychologist has faced many transformations. In this
ever-changing profession, where the practices and the social demands rise to new challenges,
do the representations of the profession change as well? This paper analyses the responses of
150 second-year’s students in psychology in a French-speaking university in Switzerland. The
starting point was previous surveys conducted in -80’s that showed four different representations
of psychologists, arranged on a continuum from a focus on collective to individual contexts. The
responses of the students in 2014 indicated a dominance of a representation focusing on the
individual dimension: the individual is the main object of a psychological intervention and the
personal value of the psychologist is the criterion legitimating her activity. The paper aims at
discussing the tension one can see between on one side the reality of a profession which asks
for social and cultural sensitivity for the on-going challenges of our complex societies and on the
other the representations of the students which focus on the individual dimension of their future
profession.
Page 236 of 323
Who’s greener, the neighbour or me? The impact
of social support on pro-environmental
behaviors.
Submitted by:
Master Fanny Lalot
Authors
Lalot, Fanny, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Falomir-Pichastor, Juan Manuel, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Quiamzade, Alain, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Abstract
Ecology started as a minority movement back in the 70s. In a few decades, it imposed itself as a
majority concern of general acknowledgement. However, effective personal actions remain
insufficient. We suppose that the globalisation movement to address this issue initiates a switch
in social support perception from minority to majority support, causing such an effort slacking.
From a social psychological perspective, we propose that believing that a majority of people
supports pro-environmental values would lead to a perception of ecology as a normative
obligation and make people focus on a minimal standard (the least effort one should do to reach
the environmental norm). Thus, if one thinks s/he has reached this standard, one would stop
making green gestures. Conversely, minority support would lead to a perception of ecology as an
ideal, making people focus on a maximal standard (the more one could possibly accomplish).
People would then pursue their efforts, considering there is still much to do. In a series of
studies, we present how social support and minimal standard interact and predict further
pro-environmental behaviors.
Page 237 of 323
The German version of the Multicultural
Personality Questionnaire (MPQ): testing
reliability and validity
Submitted by:
Dr Klea FANIKO
Authors
Faniko, Klea, Geneva University
Burckhardt, Till , Geneva University
Grin, François , Geneva University
Ghisletta, Paolo , Geneva University
Abstract
The paper assesses the reliability and validity of the German-language version of the
Multicultural Personality Questionnaire (MPQ) among young men with Swiss citizenship (N =
32,660) who participated in Swiss Federal Youth Surveys (ch-x). The percentage of young Swiss
people with an immigrant background is high (24%). In such context, it is crucial to evaluate if an
immigrant background affects multicultural skills, as measured through the MPQ. For this
purpose, we define two steps for examining the impact of respondents’ background. First, using
exploratory and multi-group confirmatory factor analyses, we test the invariance of measurement
among three subgroups, namely (1) participants whose parents were both born in Switzerland;
(2) Participants with only one Swiss-born parent; (3) participants whose parents were both born
abroad. On the basis of these results, we then tested for differences in means across the three
subgroups. Our results show that multicultural skills are not interpreted similarly across the three
subgroups. This suggests that measurement equivalence should be established when comparing
data within the same linguistic group.
Page 238 of 323
iObjectify: exploring self- and
other-objectification processes on Grindr
Submitted by:
Phd Joel Anderson
Authors
Anderson, Joel, University of Geneve
Holland, Elise, University of Melbourne
Koc, Yasin, University of Sussex
Abstract
Grindr is a smart phone application used by gay men to attract the interest of similar others in
close proximity. The purpose of the research was to investigate how same-sex attracted men
choose to present themselves in online dating contexts and how this relates to the tendency to
objectify the self and others. In Study 1, we compare Grindr users to non-users on measures of
self- and other-objectification. In Study 2, we conduct a content analysis on the profiles of 1400
Grindr users, in which we explored whether objectified self-representations (i.e., profile pictures
that focus on the body) would be related to use of the application. In Study 3, we explore the
relationship between self- and other-objectification, and sexual behaviours (e.g., safe-sex
practices, discussion of HIV status) in a sample of 300 Grindr users. We present evidence that
how men present themselves on Grindr is indeed related to objectification processes, and
discuss the implications of these findings.
Page 239 of 323
I CHOOSE IT BECAUSE THEY LOOKED AT IT
GENUINELY
Submitted by:
Post-Doc Elena Canadas
Authors
Canadas, Elena, University of Lausanne, Organizational Behavior, Lausanne
Schmid Mast, Marianne, University of Lausanne, Organizational Behavior, Lausanne
Abstract
Gaze is an exceptional indicator of where attention should be driven (Bayliss, Cannon, Tipper,
2006). Smiles function as signals in social interactions (Maringer, Krumhuber, Fischer,
Niedenthal, 2011). Combination of these two cues (gazes and smiles) seems to be a powerful
sign for decision making. Previous research has shown that people like objects that have been
look at with a happy compared to a disgust expression more (Bayliss, Frischen, Fenske, Tipper,
2007). In two studies we evaluated to what extent genuineness of smiles influences preferences
and evaluations of objects (Study 1) and of people (Study 2). Participants were presented with
faces expressing true or false smiles in the middle of the screen looking at objects or faces.
Results show objects and people who were smiled at with a genuine smile were preferred over
objects and people smiled at with a false smile but that the genuineness of the simile did not
affect the evaluation of objects and people.
Page 240 of 323
Interethnic attitudes in Bulgaria: intergroup
contact moderates the relationship between
perceived social norms and outgroup attitudes
and behavioral intentions
Submitted by:
Dr. Emilio Paolo Visintin
Authors
Visintin, Emilio Paolo, University of Lausanne
Green, Eva G. T., University of Lausanne
Falomir-Pichastor, Juan Manuel, University of Geneva
Giroud, Adrienne, University of Lausanne
Miteva, Polimira, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (Sofia)
Zografova, Yolanda, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (Sofia)
Abstract
Social norms are group standards about appropriate behaviors and attitudes, and perceptions of
social norms about outgroups affect individuals’ prejudice and behaviors. However, conformity to
social norms can be moderated by personal experiences. In this study we predicted that the
relationship between perceived social norms and intergroup attitudes and behaviors is
moderated by intergroup contact. We conducted a correlational study in Bulgaria, analyzing the
ethnic Bulgarian majority’s view point and considering as outgroups two ethnic minorities
(Bulgarian Turks and Roma). Regression analyses showed that, for both outgroups, the
relationship between perceived negative social norms and behavioral intentions to support ethnic
minorities was moderated by intergroup contact, with respondents with low levels of contact
conforming more to negative social norms than individuals with high levels of contact. This
pattern was mediated by outgroup attitudes. The importance of positive intergroup contact for
counteracting the detrimental effects of anti-egalitarian social norms is discussed.
Page 241 of 323
Playfulness in adults as a personality trait: A
structural model and its measurement
Submitted by:
Pd, Phd René PROYER
Authors
Proyer, René , University of Zurich, Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
While playfulness is considered an important personality characteristic in children and positively
associated with a broad range of developmental achievements there is comparatively little known
about playfulness in adults. A brief overview about strengths and weaknesses of current
conceptualizations is given. Several studies will be presented reporting on the development of a
new structural model of playfulness and its measurement. The model suggests that there are
four basic components; i.e., other-directed, lighthearted, intellectual, and whimsical. A 28 item
measure for the subjective assessment of these four components will be presented along with
data on its validty (e.g., from a diary study). Findings will be discussed in light of recent
developments in research in playfulness as a personality trait in adults.
Page 242 of 323
Positive relationships and accomplishment: The
development of a measurement instrument and
the evaluation of interventions.
Submitted by:
Msc Fabian Gander
Authors
Gander, Fabian, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Proyer, René, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Ruch, Willibald, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
Seligman proposed in his 2002 Authentic Happiness Theory three basic orientations that lead to
well-being: The life of pleasure, the life of engagement, and the life of meaning. Peterson, Park,
and Seligman (2005) developed the Orientations to Happiness Questionnaire for the
measurement of these orientations, and numerous studies confirm their associations with
well-being. In 2011, Seligman revised his theory and added two new components; i.e., positive
relationships and accomplishment. We describe the construction and initial validation of short
scales for the assessment of positive relationships and accomplishment, and examine their
associations with different indicators of well-being in cross-sectional and in placebo-controlled
intervention studies. Results show that both components can be measured independently from
each other and from the other orientations, that they are robustly associated with well-being, and
that addressing them in an intervention increases well-being.
Page 243 of 323
Does good character have a place at school? Two
studies on applying character strengths at school
Submitted by:
Dipl.-Psych. Lisa Wagner
Authors
Wagner, Lisa, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Personality and Assessment
Ruch, Willibald, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Personality and Assessment
Abstract
Recent findings suggest that certain character strengths (e.g., love of learning, perseverance)
may contribute to well-being at school. However, it is unclear whether it also matters that
students can apply their character strengths at school. Thus, two studies investigated the
application of character strengths at school: a cross-sectional study (N = 382, mean age: 14.1
years) and a daily diary study (N = 183, mean age: 14.3 years). In both, adolescents completed a
measure of character strengths (VIA-Youth), measures on well-being at school, and the
applicability of character strengths at school (self-reported behavior and peer-rated desirability),
either in general or relating to the respective school day over five days. Random-intercept
multilevel models used to address the nested structure of the data revealed that the number of
applied signature strengths predicted positive school experiences in both studies. These results
suggest that applying character strengths seems to matter for well-being at school.
Page 244 of 323
Belief in free will: is it truly a unified construct?
Submitted by:
Yann Schrag
Authors
Schrag, Yann, University of Lausanne, Institut of Psychology, Lausanne
Abstract
The scientific literature has seen a recent surge in studies looking at the effects of belief in free
will on behavior (Vohs Schooler, 2008). Interestingly, these studies start from the premise that
participants share a unified view of what it means to believe in free will. Based on the observation
of self-report questionnaires results (own belief versus belief of others, relationship between free
will and determinism), we propose that belief in free will is far more complex.
Page 245 of 323
What’s the best method? Comparison of different
short forms of the Pathological Narcissism
Inventory
Submitted by:
Dr. Eva Schürch
Authors
Schürch, Eva, Institute for Psychology, University of Bern
Morf, Carolyn C., Institute for Psychology, University of Bern
Abstract
Recent research emphasizes the various facets of narcissism. As a consequence, newly
developed questionnaires for narcissism have a large number of subscales and items. However,
for the daily use in research and practice, short measures are crucial. In this study we compare
different short forms of the Pathological Narcissism Questionnaire, a 54 item measure with seven
subscales. In different samples (total N>2000) we applied different theoretical models to
construct short forms of approximately 20 items. In particular, we compared IRT, item-total
correlation, and factor loading based short forms and versions based on content validity and
random selection. In all versions the original subscale structure was preserved. Results show
that the short forms all have high correlations with the original version. Furthermore, correlations
with criterion validation measures were comparable. We conclude that the item number can be
reduced substantially without loosing information. Pros and cons of the different reduction
methods are discussed.
Page 246 of 323
Differential Effects of Biological Sex and
Relationship Status on Aspects of Sociosexuality
Submitted by:
M.Sc. Janina Larissa Bühler
Authors
Buehler, Janina , University of Basel, Departement of Psychology, Basel
Abstract
Individuals differ in their orientation toward uncommitted sexual encounters. While previous
research has given much emphasis on biological sex as important factor of influence, social
determinants, such as relationship status, have been rather ignored. In the present study, the
effects of biological sex and relationship status were investigated in a sample of 501
heterosexual adults (mean age: 28.1 years; 71.7 % female). Two-way analyses of variance
yielded main effects of biological sex on Sociosexual Attitude and Desire implying men to be
more permissive than women with regard to both facets. Relationship status had a main effect on
Sociosexual Desire with singles having more permissive motivations than partnered individuals.
Concerning Sociosexual Behavior, an interaction between biological sex and relationship status
emerged indicating men to be more permissive than women among partnered individuals, but not
among singles. Our results complement earlier research by highlighting the differential influence
of biological sex and relationship status on aspects of sociosexuality.
Page 247 of 323
Stepparenting and child adjustment : Influence of
marital relationship and coparenting in
stepfamilies
Submitted by:
Prof. Joëlle Darwiche
Authors
Repond, Gloria, Institute of Psychology, SSP, Unil-Moulines, Géopolis, 1015 Lausanne
Darwiche, Joëlle, Institute of Psychology, SSP, Unil-Moulines, Géopolis, 1015 Lausanne
Abstract
Introduction: Data show that stepfamilies function differently than traditional families. Differences
are observed in marital satisfaction across time, in quality of stepparent’s involvement and in
frequency of child difficulties (Bray, 2005). Study population: This study aims to investigate 50
non-clinical stepfamilies living together and having at least one child from a previous relationship.
Method: Child behavioural and emotional problems (SDQ; Goodman, 1998), coparenting
(McHale et al, 2000), marital functioning (MAT) and specific couple issues in stepfamilies (QCS,
Beaudry, 2001) were assessed. An observational task was included to evaluate coparenting
interactions (Adaptation of Baker et al, 2010). Results: Preliminary results showed a negative
association between marital satisfaction and coparental conflicts for both parents (stepfathers: r =
-0.693, p = .012 and stepmothers: r = -0.602, p = .038). Marital quality was associated with
stepparenting difficulties (stepfathers: r = .962, p = . 038 ; stepmothers: r = .712, p = .047); and
stepparenting difficulties also tended to be related with child’s peer difficulties (r = .997, p = .052).
Finally, the length of the marital relationship was positively associated with child’s behavioural
difficulties (r = .681, p = .021) and hyperactivity (r = .698, p = .017). Conclusion: In case on
marital difficulties, we observe more frequent stepparenting difficulties, which in turn seem to
affect child adjustment. These results show the importance of supporting stepfamilies, as the
impact on the child appears to be maintained over time.
Page 248 of 323
Activating gender inferences in the absence of
human reference role noun cues.
Submitted by:
Ph.D. Sayaka Sato
Authors
Sato, Sayaka, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Gygax, Pascal, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Abstract
Research examining the representation of gender during reading comprehension has suggested
that readers immediately activate gender inferences based on gender stereotypes and
grammatical gender information when reading role noun cues (e.g., surgeons), as the information
is incorporated as part of their lexical representation. Following these lines of evidence, the
present study sought to assess the robustness in which gender inferences are generated by
comparing cues that offer varying degrees of gender information. Specifically, occupational
descriptions associated to a plausible gender (e.g., operating on a patient) were compared with
role nouns in an eye-tracking experiment employing a gender match-mismatch paradigm in
English and French. The results suggested that occupational descriptions do not offer sufficient
gender information to spontaneously activate gender inferences as did role noun cues. Instead,
gender inferences were only elicited when readers encountered gender-specifying pronouns later
in the text that triggered an antecedent search suggestive of a backward inferencing mechanism.
Page 249 of 323
Crisis and Rhetoric in Presidential Leadership: A
Regression Discontinuity Design
Submitted by:
Nicolas Bastardoz
Authors
Bastardoz, Nicolas, Department of Organizational Behavior, Internef-622, UNIL, 1015
Lausanne-Dorigny
Antonakis, John, Department of Organizational Behavior, Internef-618, UNIL, 1015
Lausanne-Dorigny
Jacquart, Philippe, EMLYON Business School, France
Abstract
Leadership scholars have suggested that charismatic leadership is more likely to emerge in
times of crisis. As such, we examined President George W. Bush’s speeches before and after
the events of 9/11. We predicted that the terrorist attacks affected Bush’s rhetoric such that he
would use more charismatic themes and appeals. We tested our predictions by reanalyzing data
from Bligh et al. (2004), but using a regression discontinuity design (RDD) instead of a standard
regression (ANOVA) model like they did. Unlike an ANOVA, the RDD allows for the drawing of
proper causal conclusions when observations are not randomized to groupings, as long as the
selection process is correctly modeled. Although like Bligh and colleagues, we find that Bush’s
rhetoric significantly changed following the 9/11 attacks, our results differ rather substantially
from what they found. We provide explanations and discuss the implications of these findings
both substantively and methodologically.
Page 250 of 323
Too many cooks spoil the broth: Influence of
team size on coordination and clinical
performance in medical emergency teams
Submitted by:
Phd Jan Schmutz
Authors
Schmutz, Jan, ETH Zurich, Department of Management, Technology and Innovation,
Weinbergstrasse 56/58, 8097 Zürich
Manser, Tanja , Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Institut für Patientensicherheit, Bonn
Abstract
PURPOSE. Action teams in high-risk industries are characterised by complex and variable team
structures. A bigger team makes it possible to delegate tasks and thus free up resources to make
a diagnosis. However, at a specific point, the effort to coordinate the actions of a larger team will
exceed the benefits. We propose that the relationship between team size (TS) and performance
becomes negative, which can be explained through a decrease of coordination.
METHODOLOGY. A simulation study with 60 medical teams was conducted to assess
coordination. Team size was manipulated and ranged from 4 to 8 people. Performance was
assessed with an evaluation checklist. Linear and curvilinear regression analysis was conducted.
RESULTS. There was a negative relationship between TS and a) performance b) closed loop
communication and c) coordination. Further, a mediation model revealed that the negative
relationship between TS and performance is mediated by coordination. IMPLICATIONS. Until
now the general principle “call for help” is generously applied in emergency situations. This study
yields a different view and proposes more careful approach when calling for help.
Page 251 of 323
How to improve construct-related validity of
employment interviews? Assessing the Big Five
personality dimensions in a structured interview
Submitted by:
Anna Luca Heimann
Authors
Heimann, Anna Luca, Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Zurich
Ingold, Pia V., Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Zurich
Kleinmann, Martin, Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Zurich
Abstract
Structured employment interviews are widely used for personnel selection. However, they often
fail in accurately measuring the intended interview dimensions. One approach to improve
construct-related validity might be to measure well-defined psychological constructs as interview
dimensions. This study aimed to validate a structured interview that measures the Big Five
personality dimensions. Trained interviewers rated 223 (part-time) employed participants on the
Big Five personality dimensions in mock interviews. Supervisors rated participants’ job
performance online. Results indicated that the Big Five dimensions can be accurately measured
in a structured interview. Furthermore, conscientiousness, intellect, and emotional stability as
assessed in the interview predicted participant’s job performance. Hence, this study provides
evidence for both the construct-related and the criterion-related validity of a structured interview
that measures established psychological constructs.
Page 252 of 323
The importance of affective and cognitive trust for
leader effectiveness in China
Submitted by:
Lic.Phil. Neela Mühlemann
Authors
Mühlemann, Neela , University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Jonas, Klaus, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
Due to the increasing importance of China for western firms, extending the knowledge about
leading effectively in foreign-owned companies in China is of high practical relevance. The
current study addresses the question of how leaders in China gain trust and therefore lead
effectively. We hypothesize that ethical leadership increases trust and therefore increases leader
effectiveness, irrespective of their cultural background. Chinese employees (N = 424) from five
foreign-owned companies filled in an online questionnaire. We found a positive effect of ethical
leadership on leader effectiveness, which was mediated by trust in the leader. Interestingly, in
both samples (supervisors and subordinates) affective trust in the leader was a stronger predictor
of leader effectiveness than cognitive trust. The later finding differed from those found in western
cultures. Therefore, our findings indicate that leaders in China need to take more attention to
gain cognitive as well affective trust from their employees than in western countries.
Page 253 of 323
Welcome to ISLAND: An Innovative
Browser-based Negotiation Tool
Submitted by:
Lic.Phil. Christian Bucher
Authors
Bucher, Christian, University of Zurich, Social and Business Psychology, Binzmuehlestr. 14/13,
8050 Zurich
Goetze, Alison, University of Zurich, Social and Business Psychology, Binzmuehlestr. 14/13,
8050 Zurich
Abstract
Negotiating divergent interests in a social interaction has changed its nature from an adversarial
to a relationship-based practice. It has evolved to a continual interactive process of decision
making; frequently in social dilemmas where collective interests are at odds with private
interests. In order to have a contemporary and effective measure, a browser-based, modular
negotiation tool (ISLAND) was designed. ISLAND simulates for multiple manipulation
possibilities, e.g., modular assembling of group sizes, types of dilemma, conflicts of interest,
levels of uncertainty, and difficulty. Further, it allows online assessment with mobile devices (e.g.,
laptop computer, smartphones) in order to run the negotiation without time and place
dependence for participants. ISLAND serves as innovative research tool for social interactions
but also as training / counseling tool for negotiations over time. The tool represents the first
browser-based, modular, dynamic simulation of social interactions to be played interactively and
simultaneously among various participants.
Page 254 of 323
Elaboration and exploration of a new memory
task based on the Self-Memory System model
Submitted by:
Madame Caroline Bendahan
Authors
Bendahan, Caroline, University of Geneva, Cognitive Psychopathology and Neuropsychology
Unit, Geneva
Radomska, Michalina, University of Geneva, Cognitive Psychopathology and Neuropsychology
Unit, Geneva
Gallerne, Elisa, University of Geneva, Geneva
Van der Linden, Martial, University of Geneva, Cognitive Psychopathology and Neuropsychology
Unit, Geneva
Abstract
Episodic memory is usually assessed by means of standardized tests which do not comply with
new theoretical conceptualizations highlighting the importance of the self and goals in memory.
Furthermore, these standardized tools do not meet methodological criteria allowing an accurate
and valid measurement of memory impairments. In this context, we developed a new
psychometric tool: the Self and Memory Task (SMT), based on Conway’s Self-Memory System
model (SMS, 2005). The SMT consists in incidental encoding of pictures depicting 16 daily living
activities under a self-referential processing, as well as an immediate and a delayed recall (7
days later). We administered the SMT to a group of healthy older adults. The main results
revealed good sensitivity scores and the existence of various memory profiles, among which
some participants tended to maintain, or even improve, their performances while other showed
decreased performances. These profiles can be partly explained by socio-demographic and
psychological variables.
Page 255 of 323
Disentangling mental imagery and perceptual
expectation
Submitted by:
Msc Andrew Ellis
Authors
Ellis, Andrew, Institute of Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Perception and Methodology, Bern
Preuss, Nora, Institute of Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Perception and Methodology, Bern
Mast, Fred, Institute of Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Perception and Methodology, Bern
Abstract
Mental imagery and perception are thought to rely on similar neural circuits, and many recent
behavioral studies have attempted to demonstrate interactions between actual physical
stimulation and sensory imagery in the corresponding sensory modality. However, there has
been a lack of theoretical understanding of the nature of these interactions, and both
interferential and facilitatory effects have been found. Facilitatory effects appear strikingly similar
to those that arise due to experimental manipulations of expectation. Using a self-motion
discrimination task, we try to disentangle the effects of mental imagery from those of expectation
by using a hierarchical drift diffusion model to investigate both choice data and response times.
Manipulations of expectation are reasonably well understood in terms of their selective influence
on parameters of the drift diffusion model, and in this study, we make the first attempt to similarly
characterize the effects of mental imagery.
Page 256 of 323
Suppress to Forget, Express to Remember:
Response-focused Emotion Regulation Strategies
Differentially Affect Memory
Submitted by:
M. Sc. Argyro-Despoina Antypa
Authors
Antypa, Despina, University of Geneva, Basic Neurosciences, Geneva
Vuilleumier, Patrik, University of Geneva, Basic Neurosciences, Geneva
Rimmele, Ulrike, University of Geneva, Basic Neurosciences, Geneva
Abstract
Emotion enhancement and emotion suppression are emotion regulation strategies that have
been shown to affect self-reported experienced emotion as well as physiological arousal (Gross,
1998; Richards Gross, 1999; Demaree et al., 2006; Hayes et al., 2010). In the present study, we
examine whether these emotion regulation strategies at encoding affect subjective arousal and
valence ratings of emotional and neutral pictures, as well as later memory. Emotion suppression
at encoding decreased the subjective sense of recollection. In contrast, emotion enhancement at
encoding was linked to an increase in subjective sense of recollection for participants that
exhibited lower memory performance (grouped into a lower memory performance group after a
median split).
Page 257 of 323
Motor preparation and attentional benefits:
potential targets and resolving competition
Submitted by:
Msc Michael Puntiroli
Authors
Puntiroli, Michael, Université de Genève, Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l’Education,
Genève
Kerzel, Dirk, Université de Genève, Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l’Education,
Genève
Born, Sabine, Université de Genève, Faculté de Psychologie et des Sciences de l’Education,
Genève
Abstract
Movements require activation of inhibitory components, believed to assure execution is not
triggered prematurely. It’s suggested that preparation of an eye movement towards one of two
potential targets relies greatly on such inhibitory components, due to heightened competition.
Our goal was to verify the attentional implications associated with preparing eye movements
towards two locations, and the subsequent rejection of one of these. We employed a dual-task
paradigm, primarily requiring the rapid execution of saccades to one of two potential targets,
while also discriminating an asymmetric cross flashed at these locations. Our results show
attentional enhancement at the potential target locations compared to the controls. In the time
immediately following target appearance a dip in discrimination performance was observed at the
saccade target location, while performance at the rejected location continued to increase, only to
decrease at a later stage. Preparing eye movements appears to carry perceptual benefits and
the process of competition resolution seems to have direct effects on the attentional benefits
found at these locations over time.
Page 258 of 323
Interference effects in language comprehension
Submitted by:
Miss Sandra Villata
Authors
Villata, Sandra, University of Geneva
McElree, Brian, University of New York
Wagers, Matt, University of California
Franck, Julie, University of Geneva
Abstract
Natural language syntax, although unbounded, is not unconstrained, as it is governed by
constraints restricting the span over which syntactic rules apply. In particular, a syntactic process
cannot connect two elements separated by an intervening element (Rizzi 2011). On an
independent ground, psychological theories of memory retrieval state that when processing
long-distance dependencies, language comprehension requires recovering an item from
memory, an operation that has been shown to be sensitive to the interference of similar units in
memory (McElree 2006). Here we present two acceptability judgments experiments and a
speed-accuracy trade off study testing long distance dependencies with various degrees of
interference (strong vs. weak) and different sources of interference (syntactic vs. semantic).
Results fit well with theories of memory, although syntactic constraints appear to play a core role
in modulating interference, paving the way for a framework integrating grammar and processing.
Page 259 of 323
The effect of concurrent processing on
visuospatial and verbal maintenance
Submitted by:
Phd Kim Uittenhove
Authors
Uittenhove, Kim, University of Geneva
Barrouillet, Pierre, University of Geneva
Abstract
We studied working-memory maintenance of verbal and visuospatial information in the presence
of an attention-demanding concurrent task. Participants had to maintain letters or spatial
positions, interspersed with 2 to 8 processing episodes per item (deciding whether a given
number was the smallest of a set of four). A constant refreshing time of 600 ms was added after
every processing episode. According to the time-based resource sharing model of working
memory (TBRS, Barrouillet, Portrat, Camos, 2011), item recall depends on the ratio between
time allocated to the concurrent task and time available for refreshing. When this ratio is fixed,
the number of intervening processing episodes should not affect maintenance. Our results show
that this is the case for verbal but not for visuospatial information. Contrary to the former, the
latter degrades as the number of intervening processing episodes increases. Moreover, when we
blocked the phonological loop, recall of verbal information partially followed the same pattern.
This suggests a partial role for the phonological loop in the resistance of verbal information to
concurrent processing.
Page 260 of 323
Presenting and maintaining integrated
information to increase working memory capacity
Submitted by:
Master Naomi langerock
Authors
Langerock, Naomi, University of Geneva, FPSE, Geneva
Vergauwe, Evie, University of Geneva, FPSE, Geneva
Barrouillet, Pierre, University of Geneva, FPSE, Geneva
Abstract
Human’s working memory capacity is limited. Our environment pushes us to continuously
surpass these limits. The maintenance of feature associations has been suggested as a way to
increase working memory capacity. Maintaining objects composed of multiple features would
result in better working memory performance than maintaining features in isolation. In a series of
experiments, we explored the advantages of integrated feature presentation and the necessary
conditions to make these benefits appear. Our results showed that humans have a natural
tendency to maintain features integrated if these have been presented integrated. A spatially and
temporally isolated feature presentation does not naturally lead to this kind of integrated
maintenance. Integrated feature maintenance, as compared to isolated feature maintenance,
results indeed in a number of advantages such as higher feature memory, a protection of the
features from interference and the maintenance of the link between features. An integrated
feature presentation can thus indeed aid to maximize working memory performance.
Page 261 of 323
Mental time line and memory: Insights from eye
data
Submitted by:
Phd Corinna Martarelli
Authors
Martarelli, Corinna, Department of Psychology, University of Bern; Center for Cognition, Learning
and Memory, University of Bern
Hartmann, Matthias, Department of Psychology, University of Bern; Division of Cognitive
Sciences, University of Potsdam, Germany
Mast, Fred, Department of Psychology, University of Bern; Center for Cognition, Learning and
Memory, University of Bern
Abstract
Time is grounded in various ways. In this study, we investigated spontaneous eye movements on
a blank screen during encoding, recall, and recognition of future vs. past events. Participants
performed an encoding task, in which they memorized words related to the future vs. past. After
the encoding, participants had to freely recall the words and their time-associations. Finally, they
had to recognize the words (old/new task) and again retrieve the time-associations. Eye position
was more rightward during future events compared to past events. This effect was strongest in
the free recall task, which also resulted to be the most difficult task (larger pupil size). We
conclude that the mental time line assists memory retrieval of future vs. past events. More
generally, our findings highlight the spatial nature of temporal representations.
Page 262 of 323
Allocentric spatial learning and memory deficits
in Down syndrome.
Submitted by:
Ph.D. Pamela Banta Lavenex
Authors
Banta Lavenex, Pamela, Laboratory for Experimental Research on Behavior, Institute of
Psychology, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
Bostelmann, Mathilde, Laboratory for Experimental Research on Behavior, Institute of
Psychology, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
Brandner, Catherine, Laboratory for Experimental Research on Behavior, Institute of Psychology,
University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
Costanzo, Floriana, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165
Rome, Italy
Fragnière, Emilie, Laboratory for Experimental Research on Behavior, Institute of Psychology,
Klencklen, Giuliana, Laboratory for Experimental Research on Behavior, Institute of Psychology,
Lavenex, Pierre, Laboratory for Experimental Research on Behavior, Institute of Psychology,
Menghini, Deny, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome,
Italy
Vicari, Stefano, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome,
Italy
Abstract
Studies have shown that persons with Down Syndrome (DS) exhibit impaired visuoperceptual
memory, whereas their visuospatial memory capacities appear comparatively spared. However,
most of the evidence concerning preserved visuospatial memory comes from tabletop or
computerized experiments which are biased towards testing egocentric (viewpoint-dependent)
spatial representations. Accordingly, allocentric (viewpoint-independent) spatial learning and
memory capacities may not be necessary to perform these tasks. Thus, in order to more fully
characterize the spatial capacities of individuals with DS, allocentric processes underlying
real-world navigation must also be investigated. We tested 20 participants with DS and 16 mental
age-matched, typically developing (TD) children in a real-world, allocentric spatial memory task.
We found that although there was significant individual variation, as a group participants with DS
performed worse than TD children on all measures of task performance, suggesting persistent
and pervasive deficits in hippocampus-dependent memory in DS.
Page 263 of 323
Role of the frequency of visual orientation of 4and 9-month-old infants in family interactions: a
connecting or a control strategy?
Submitted by:
Phd Chloé Lavanchy Scaiola
Authors
Lavanchy Scaiola, Chloé, UR-CEF, IUP, CHUV, Avenue de Morges 10, 1004 Lausanne
Favez, Nicolas , Faculté FPSE, University of Geneva, Geneva
Gentaz, Edouard, Factual FPSE, University of Geneva, Geneva
Frascarolo, France, UR-CEF, IUP, CHUV, Avenue de Morges 10, 1004 Lausanne
Abstract
The visual orientations associated with emotional expressions are clues used to apprehend
infant’s affect development. Duration of visual fixation is considered as revealing infant’s
connection to parents (affect sharing). Frequency of look orientations is rarely studied. In our
study, we expected to find that look orientations associated with positive emotions would be
correlated, revealing a connecting strategy. Frequency of look orientations was observed in a
moment of play between thirty-seven parents and their 4- and 9-month-old infants. We measured
the number of visual orientations toward father and mother (episodes) and assessed emotional
expressions (negative, positive). Main result indicated that episodes were at both ages
significantly positively correlated mostly with negative emotions (very few expressed). This result
may suggest that episodes occur when infant is in a negative affective state and may be a
control strategy (checking parent’s behaviors, considered as vigilance) instead of a sharing
strategy.
Page 264 of 323
The Subjectivation Process in the training of
psychologists: an exploratory study
Submitted by:
Phd Giulia Allegra
Authors
Allegra, Giulia, 8 quai Ernest Ansermet
Abstract
The study presented is part of an on-going broader doctoral research project on the
“subjectivation” process (Richard Wainrib, 2006; Kaës Desvignes, 2011) at work in the training of
future developmental psychologists, enrolled in a Master degree University program. It aims to
better understand the conditions that are likely to hinder or facilitate the subjectivation process,
through which the learner, building on what is being transmitted and in identification to the
“transmitter”, can gradually make what has been learnt his own and find his own way, as a
differentiated individual. The study is based on 8 longitudinal cases studies of students over one
year, combining participant observation and in-depth interviews. The data were analysed through
the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis method (Smith, 2009) and then matched with the
researcher’s own observations and the supervisors’ interviews. They show that the subjectivation
process implies an observed change over time from a strong affective, cognitive and identity
dependance on the supervisors, to more autonomy. This finding is in keeping with other
researchs, underlying the importance of this factor in learning. For the future of training in
psychology, the issue of subjectivation is – or should be – central, in order to improve any
training setting.
Page 265 of 323
Post-divorce Parental Conflict and Self-esteem
among Adolescents in Divorced Families
Submitted by:
Phd Nooshin sabour esmaeili
Authors
Sabour Esmaeili, Nooshin, Institute for Family Research and Counseling,University of Fribourg,
Switzerland
Schoebi, Dominik, Institute for Family Research and Counseling,University of Fribourg,
Switzerland
Abstract
Research on divorce has found that adolescents of divorced families who are exposed to high
levels of conflict between parents are at increased risk for lower self-esteem compared with
those in non-divorced families. This study extends previous research by examining the
association between post-divorce parental conflict and self-esteem in a sample of 800 Iranian
adolescents (424 females and 376 males) from divorced families aged 15 to 18 years old based
on a probability proportionate to size sampling technique. The instruments used for data
collection were the Post-divorce Parental Conflict Scale (PPCS; Sonnenblick Schwarz, 1992)
and Self-esteem Scale (RSES; Rosenberg, 1965). The results obtained from the current study
revealed that post-divorce parental conflict was associated with self-esteem among adolescents
of divorced families. The findings implied that adolescents who experienced high level of
post-divorce parental conflict tend to exhibit lower level of self-esteem. Keywords: post-divorce
parental conflict, self-esteem, adolescents
Page 266 of 323
Heterogeneity of cognitive profiles in children,
young adults and older adults
Submitted by:
Prof./ Phd Anik de Ribaupierre
Authors
Mella, Nathalie, Developmental and Differential Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and
Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Fagot, Delphine, Center for Interdisciplinary Gerontology and Study of Vulnerabilities, University
of Geneva, Switzerland
de Ribaupierre, Anik , Developmental and Differential Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and
Educational Sciences, and Center for Interdisciplinary Gerontology and Study of Vulnerabilities,
University of Geneva, Switzerland
Abstract
Cognitive heterogeneity or dispersion, referring to intraindividual variability across tasks, has
often been studied in pathological subgroups, but is rarely studied in normal cognitive
development. The aim of the present study was to explore age differences in dispersion across
the lifespan, in two domains: processing speed and working memory (WM). 557 participants
(aged 9-89 years) underwent a battery of Response Times (RT) and WM tasks. Heterogeneity
was analyzed separately in the two types of tasks, which showed a contrasted developmental
trend. While young adults showed less heterogeneity than both children and older adults across
RT tasks, they presented greater dispersion across WM tasks. A cluster analysis distinguished a
group showing relatively little dispersion and good overall performance from a group showing
large dispersion in the RT tasks and poor performance. Altogether, our findings suggest that
heterogeneity in RT and in WM performance do not reflect the same phenomenon.
Page 267 of 323
Fluctuation of performance in young and older
adults is linked to weaker functional connectivity
in the default mode network
Submitted by:
Prof./ Phd Anik de Ribaupierre
Authors
Mella, Nathalie, FPSE, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Preti, Giulia, Medical Image Processing Lab, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland and
EPFL, Institute of Bioengineering, Lausanne, Switzerland
Eagleson, Roy, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Western University, London, Canada
de Ribaupierre, Sandrine, Clinical Neurological Sciences, and Brain and Mind Institute, Western
University, London,Canada
Van De Ville, Dimitri, Medical Image Processing Lab, University of Geneva, Geneva,
Switzerland, and EPFL, Institute of Bioengineering, Lausanne, Switzerland
de Ribaupierre, Anik, FPSE, and CIGEV, University of Geneva, Switzerland, University of
Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Abstract
Aging is characterized by increased intraindividual variability (IIV), which may be linked to
disruption in functional connectivity (FC) (Castellanos et al., 2008). The goal of this study was to
investigate age-related differences in FC at rest. 24 young (18-30 yo) and 21 older adults (65-85
yo) underwent an MRI session including resting-state fMRI. Functional connectomes were
computed using pairwise correlations between the regionally-averaged time-courses of 90
cortical regions (AAL90 parcellation). The difference in FC between groups was assessed,
focusing on Default Mode Network (DMN). Consistent with previous literature, reduced FC was
observed in the older group, in particular between posterior cingulate and frontal medial cortices.
In contrast, increased FC between left and right frontal superior cortices was seen in older adults.
The correlations between FC and cognitive measures showed that connectivity strength between
core regions of the DMN is more related to intraindividual variability than to mean performance.
Page 268 of 323
Relapse prevention during acute
psychotherapeutic treatment of depression
Submitted by:
Thomas Mäder
Authors
Mäder, Thomas, Psychologisches Institut, Binzmühlestrasse 14/1, 8050 Zürich
Abstract
Relapse and recurrence is common among depressed patients, even after responding to acute
phase psychotherapy and achieving remission. Just a few studies have investigated how relapse
prevention during acute treatment might predict long-term outcome. However, we suppose that
an individual and specific relapse prevention can reduce risk of relapse and recurrence,
specifically the patient’s transition from acute phase treatment back to daily life after treatment.
To our knowledge, there are no studies so far which investigated techniques used by therapists
in implementing relapse prevention in acute treatment of depression. Therefore, this poster
presents results of a master's project investigating how therapists from in- and outpatient settings
organise relapse prevention in depression. Contents, techniques and exercises used for relapse
prevention are assessed by structured interviews. These findings might help to improve acute
phase treatment in terms of defining effective strategies for relapse prevention which are
applicable to the patient's everyday life.
Page 269 of 323
The use of technological resources in the
psychotherapeutic process of a child with ASD Case Study
Submitted by:
Msc Tiago Ribeiro
Authors
Ribeiro, Tiago, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal
Silva, Inês, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal
Gesta, Camila, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal
Abstract
The psychological interventions for children with autism have been diversifying, emerging new
approaches focused on technological resources. We analyze the effects of technology as a
mediator during an intervention process with an autistic patient. A 7 years old female, diagnosed
with autism, experienced psychological intervention using a multisensory and technological
environment. This intervention was performed in 30 fortnightly sessions of 60 minutes, based on
a behavioral intervention and using strategies of ABA model and play therapy. A pre-intervention
assessment was conducted followed by a post-intervention analysis, both through the Griffiths
Mental Development Scales, the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, and
Psychoeducational Profile. There were significant improvements in expressive and receptive
language, stereotyped behavior and social interaction. This study points to the need of
information and systematic analysis in this field.
Page 270 of 323
The right Occipital Face Area is not necessary for
facial symmetry perception
Submitted by:
Phd Student Anne-Raphaëlle Richoz
Authors
Richoz, Anne-Raphaëlle, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Elphick, Camilla , University of Sussex, UK
Caldara, Roberto, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Abstract
Bilateral facial symmetry is a biological relevant cue playing an important role in object and face
perception. Using fMRI we previously demonstrated sensitivity to this feature uniquely in the right
fusiform face area (rFFA), whereas other researchers found a causal involvement of the right
occipital face area (rOFA) alone. These conflicting findings highlight that the neural substrates
underlying the processing of facial symmetry remain unclear. To address this question, we tested
PS, a pure case of acquired prosopagnosia – with bilateral occipitotemporal lesions anatomically
encompassing the rOFA and sparing the rFFA. We confronted PS with natural and perfectly
symmetrical versions of the same faces. PS identified facial symmetry above chance-level and
as accurately as the controls. Our data show that facial symmetry detection does not necessarily
require the neural populations within the rOFA. An intact rFFA seems to be sufficient to process
this important biological and visual feature in human faces.
Page 271 of 323
Evaluation of the need of internet information by
cancer patients, by their close relatives and by
the medical staff: Satisfaction with the
information and influence on the
patient-physician relationship
Submitted by:
Phd Anne-Julie Wyss
Authors
Wyss, Anne-Julie, Department Psychology, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Walt, Heinrich, Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery, University Hospital Zurich,
Switzerland
Jenewein, Josef, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich,
Switzerland
Schnyder, Ulrich, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Zurich,
Switzerland
Martin-Soelch, Chantal, Department Psychology, University of Fribourg, Switzerland
Abstract
Information is one of the most frequent unmet needs reported by cancer patients and their
relatives. The internet has become one of the main sources of health-related information. The
search for information on the internet can however induce feelings of distress and confusion in
patients and their relatives. Here, we assess the need for and the satisfaction with online
cancer-related information of cancer patients, their relatives and health professionals.using a
cross-sectional retrospective study, in which 31 participants filled in computerized
questionnaires.. We found that all patients and health professionals and a majority of relatives
used the internet to search information about cancer. Patients and relatives reported poor
satisfaction with the online information. All health professionals would like to be briefed about the
online information which their patients found on the internet. However, less than half of them
reported being able to suggest good internet sites, with useful information.
Page 272 of 323
Expressed Emotion as predictor of relational
satisfaction in couples facing breast cancer 1
year after surgery
Submitted by:
Msc Tania Antonini
Authors
Antonini, Tania, NCCR Lives Genève
Cairo Notari, Sarah, University of Geneva, Geneva
Favez, Nicolas, University of Geneva, Geneva
Charvoz, Linda, Ecole d'Etudes Sociales et Pédagogiques, Lausanne
Notari, Luca, University of Geneva, Geneva
Panes-Ruedin, Bénédicte, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
Delaloye, Jean-François, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
Abstract
Expressed Emotion (EE) refers to negative emotional attitudes (e.g. criticism) of relatives of
individuals with a psychiatric or medical condition. It has been showed to be related to the
patient’s psychological and relational well-being. To date, EE have not been studied in breast
cancer (BC). The aim of this study is to explore if EE predicts relational satisfaction in BC
patients and their partners during the first year after surgery. 44 patients and their partners
participated in interviews and completed questionnaires 2 weeks (T1), 3 months (T2) and 1 year
(T3) after surgery. Regressions showed that partner’s criticism predicts women’s relational
satisfaction at T2 and T3. Same results were found for partners. Results suggested that EE of
both partners negatively affects their relationship. This study encourages the development of
interventions that aim to improve contact between partners.
Page 273 of 323
Psychological adjustment of orphans and
non-orphan institutionalized children: A
comparison with community non-institutionalized
children in Rwanda
Submitted by:
Phd Student Epaphrodite NSABIMANA
Authors
NSABIMANA, Epaphrodite, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Martin-Sölch, Chantal, University of Fribourg, Department of Psychology, Fribourg
Abstract
Negative effects of institutionalization on children’s wellbeing have been well documented. This
study aims at investigating specifically whether institutionalization impacts negatively
psychological adjustment of children and whether having or not living parents have additional
influence. Data were collected on 95 institutionalized and 84 not institutionalized children aged 9
to 16 using Coopernsmith Self-Esteem Inventory and Child Behavior Checklist. Multivariate
analysis of variance was performed on global self-esteem and externalizing behavior problems
as indirect measure of psychological adjustment. Psychological adjustment was significantly
affected by institutionalization, living parents status and their interaction. Univariate analysis
resulted in significantly more externalizing problems and lower self-esteem in institutionalized
children. Having living parents was an aggravating factor in institutionalized children only. This
study adds evidence to existing documented effects of institutionalization with a special focus on
adjustment and psychopathology and highlights the importance of having or not living parents.
Page 274 of 323
How parenting- and couple-focused programs
affect child behavioral problems: A randomized
controlled trial
Submitted by:
Dr. Martina Zemp
Authors
Zemp, Martina, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Milek, Anne , University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Bodenmann, Guy, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
The significance of enhancing parenting to reduce child maladjustment is well-established and
has led to the development of numerous parenting programs. However, the notion that parenting
should be the exclusive focus in family therapy is necessarily limiting. Evidence is accumulating
that marital treatments may be powerful to improve child adjustment, albeit the underlying effects
in couple- versus parenting-focused programs have not yet been properly researched. The aim
of this RCT was to compare the treatment effects of (1) a couple-focused program (CCET) to (2)
a parenting training (Triple P) and (3) a non-treated control group on children’s behavioral
problems in 150 couples. Multi-group path analyses revealed that, in mothers, the
couple-focused program reduced child behavioral problems by enhancing the relationship quality
whereas improved parenting mediated the benefits in the parenting training. In fathers, the
couple-focused program reduced dysfunctional parenting which largely accounted for the
benefits in child adjustment. The dearth of research on child outcomes in couple intervention
studies is a striking gap in which more effort should be devoted to. This is a promising field
because of its inherent potential to foster the health of many children.
Page 275 of 323
Connectivity Between Prefrontal Cortex and
Amygdala and Its Association with
Socio--Emotional Skills in Autism Spectrum
Disorder
Submitted by:
Phd Andrea Samson
Authors
Samson, Andrea, University of Geneva, Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Geneva, CH
Hardan, Antonio, Stanford University, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford, CA, USA
Dougherty, Robert, Stanford University, Department of Psychology, Stanford, CA, USA
Phillips, Jennifer , Stanford University, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford, CA, USA
Gross, James, Stanford University, Department of Psychology, Stanford, CA, USA
Abstract
Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have social and communication deficits,
demonstrate restricted and repetitive behavior, and show difficulties with emotion regulation. The
goal of this investigation is to increase our understanding of the neural correlates of social skills
and emotional regulation in children and adolescents with ASD. We particularly focused on the
uncinate fasciculus since this white matter tract connects the amygdala with the orbito-frontal
cortex which are both involved in socio-emotional processing. The association between white
matter integrity in the left and right uncinate fasciculus and social skills and emotion regulation
was examined in 18 high functioning individuals with ASD and 18 typically developing (TD)
controls using Diffusion Tensor Imaging. To test specificity of the associations between white
matter integrity and socio-emotional skills, the relationship between the uncinate fasciculus and
restricted and repetitive behaviors was examined as well. Emotion regulation, social skills, and
repetitive behaviors were assessed using parent-report measures. Compared to TD individuals,
individuals with ASD had lower fractional anisotropy in the left uncinate, but not in the right
uncinate. Group moderated the association between left uncinate and socio-emotional skills,
indicating that within the ASD group, white matter integrity was associated with socio-emotional
skills. Individuals with ASD with lower white matter integrity had increased social deficits and
more difficulties regulating emotions. There was no association between white matter integrity in
the left and right uncinate and restricted and repetitive behaviors. This study provides preliminary
evidence that the left uncinate may play a critical role in social skills and emotion regulation in
individuals with ASD. Additional investigations are needed to examine these relationships in a
larger sample size that includes lower functioning individuals.
Page 276 of 323
A sub-cortical processing route revealed by EEG
in a cortically blind patient
Submitted by:
Master Eda Tipura
Authors
Tipura, Eda, Methodology and Data Analysis, Department of Psychology, University of Geneva,
Switzerland
Renaud, Olivier, Methodology and Data Analysis, Department of Psychology, University of
Geneva, Switzerland
Pegna, Alan, Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology,
University of Geneva, Switzerland
Abstract
In this talk, we will discuss the visual processing of relevant stimuli when the cortical route to the
primary visual cortex is not available. We investigated the neuronal correlates of face versus
non-face processing in a blindsight patient (T.N.) and in a group of healthy controls, using an
EEG paradigm. Time-frequency transforms were conducted on the patients’ data and revealed
post stimulus oscillatory modulations of faces as well as scrambled faces at different scalp sites.
This demonstrates that despite the destruction of the visual cortex, oscillatory rhythms are not
cancelled out, supporting the hypothesis that a subcortical processing route may be involved in
blindsight. The same oscillatory modulations were not present in healthy controls. To our
knowledge, these results are the first of their kind investigating face and non-face processing in a
case of a complete bilateral cortical blindness.
Page 277 of 323
Visuomotor integration of subliminally and
supraliminally presented angry facial expressions
Submitted by:
Phd Student Sélim Coll
Authors
Coll, Sélim, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Glauser, Anaëlle , University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Grandjean, Didier, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Abstract
Different parts of our brains code different perceptual and action features related to an object.
How does the brain integrate the information belonging to the same events without mixing them
up with features from other processed events? Hommel (1998) suggested the existence of an
episodic memory trace binding together perceptual features and actions related to an event.
Using a similar paradigm, we investigated the integration of emotional faces with motor
responses (Coll Grandjean, in preparation). The latter always occurred when emotion was made
task-relevant, but only happened when participants focused on the details of the faces, when
emotional information was task-irrelevant. With two new studies we investigate the influence of
angry faces time presentation (14, 28, 100, 250 and 500 ms) on their binding with motor
responses. We expect that emotion would interact significantly with motor responses for all
presentation times and that the importance of this interaction would decline with exposure time.
Page 278 of 323
Age effects on the relationships between felt
emotions and cardiovascular and electrodermal
reactivity to affective pictures
Submitted by:
Dr. Sc. Patrick Gomez
Authors
Gomez, Patrick, Institut de Santé au Travail, Epalinges-Lausanne
von Gunten, Armin, Service universitaire de psychiatrie de l'âge avancé, CHUV, Prilly-Lausanne
Danuser, Brigitta, Institut de Santé au Travail, Epalinges-Lausanne
Abstract
The present study aimed at determining whether age modulates the relationship between felt
emotions and the electrodermal and cardiovascular responses. A total of 212 individuals, ages
20-81 years, watched 14 picture series and reported pleasantness and arousal. Systolic blood
pressure (SBP) and heart rate (HR) were measured beat-to-beat with Finometer. Skin
conductance level (SCL) was recorded with Psylab. Mixed effect regression modeling was used
to determine the relationships between affective ratings, physiological change scores (60-s
series minus 10-s baseline) and age. SCL increased with increasing self-rated arousal more
strongly in younger than in older adults. HR deceleration became increasingly larger with
increasing self-reported unpleasantness in younger adults but not in older adults. SBP increased
with both increasing self-rated pleasantness and arousal independently of age. This study
suggests that age effects on the coupling between felt emotions and physiology are not unitary
but rather measure-specific.
Page 279 of 323
Physicians’ empathy is related to verbal
adaptability
Submitted by:
Master Valérie Carrard
Authors
Carrard, Valérie, University of Lausanne, Faculty of Business and Economics (HEC), Department
of Organizational Behavior, Internef-Dorigny, 1015 Lausanne
Schmid Mast, Marianne, University of Lausanne, Faculty of Business and Economics (HEC),
Department of Organizational Behavior, Internef-Dorigny, 1015 Lausanne
Abstract
Nowadays, medical trend is the customization of care. Physicians are advised to tailor their
communication style to their patients’ characteristics. Although, adapting one’s behavior to
others’ characteristics seems difficult, we claim that some trainable skills – like empathy – can
help physicians adapt their communication style to their patients’ preferences. In the present
study, we videotaped 64 physicians when interacting with 4 of their patients (2 male and 2
female). Physicians’ empathy and their patients’ preferences for patient-centeredness were
assessed prior to the consultation. Physicians’ verbal patient-centeredness was then coded
based on the videotaped consultations. Physicians’ verbal adaptability scores were computed by
correlating physicians’ verbal patient-centeredness and the preferences of their 4 patients.
Results confirmed our hypothesis: the more empathic the physicians were, the more they
adapted their verbal behaviors to their patients’ preferences for patient-centeredness.
Customization of care could thus be better achieved with empathy training.
Page 280 of 323
Neural substrates of anger and forgiveness
behavior
Submitted by:
Undergraduate Lucien Gyger
Authors
Gyger, Lucien, Laboratory for the Study of Emotion Elicitation and Expression, Department of
Psychology, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Klimecki, Olga Maria, Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Laboratory for the Study of Emotion
Elicitation and Expression, Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Sander, David, Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Laboratory for the Study of Emotion
Elicitation and Expression, Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, Switzerland
Vuilleumier, Patrik, Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Laboratory for Behavioral Neurology and
Imaging of Cognition, Department of Neuroscience, Medical School, University of Geneva,
Switzerland
Abstract
Although humans are equipped with high-level social skills, it is so far unresolved which neural
functions are key in promoting forgiveness behavior following provocation. To study this
question, we used the Inequality Game - an economic interaction paradigm to dissociate
emotional reactions to provocation and subsequent behavioral reactions. In the Inequality Game,
the participant is first passively receiving fair or unfair economic and feedback choices from two
other alleged participants. In a subsequent phase, the participant is actively engaging in
monetary allocations and feedback choices. A functional magnetic resonance imaging study with
25 male participants revealed that self-reported anger towards the unfair other during the
provocation phase was positively correlated with activations in amygdala, temporal lobe, inferior
frontal gyrus and the limbic system. Subsequent forgiveness behavior was predicted by
increased activations of anterior cingulate and dorsolateral prefrontal cortices, suggesting that
participants who control their emotions during provocation show less aggression.
Page 281 of 323
How quota-based procedures affect the
self-ascribed fit and motivation of European
women and men striving for leadership positions
Submitted by:
M Sc Christa Nater
Authors
Nater, Christa, Institut of Psychology, University of Bern
Sczesny, Sabine, Institut of Psychology, University of Bern
Abstract
The consequences of quota-based hiring policies on women’s and men’s self-ascribed fit and
motivation to apply for leadership positions were investigated in the European context. 389
management students (195 women, 194 men) from Switzerland, Germany, and Austria received
job advertisements varying in their gender policies. Interestingly, women’s and men’s
self-ascribed fit and motivation to apply did not differ when no policy was included. Instead,
participant’s agency was the relevant predictor leading to higher perceived fit, resulting in higher
inclination to apply. When women were either explicitly invited to apply or preferentially treated
when equally qualified, they reported higher fit and inclination to apply compared to both the
control condition and men. In contrast, when a quota of 40% women should be established,
neither women’s fit nor motivation to apply were increased beyond the levels of the control or
men’s. Men were not affected by the different policies.
Page 282 of 323
How do felt power and audience size affect
performance in public speaking tasks?
Submitted by:
Phd Dario Bombari
Authors
Bombari, Dario, University of Lausanne, Organizational Behavior, Lausanne
Schmid Mast, Marianne, University of Lausanne, Organizational Behavior, Lausanne
Lammers, Joris, University of Cologne, Cologne
Latu, Ioana, Rutgers University, Camden, NJ
Bachmann, Manuel, University of Applied Sciences, Bern
Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated that power improves performance in social evaluation
tasks. It is still unclear whether this effect holds true irrespective of the stressfulness of the
situation. We conducted a study in a virtual reality environment with 156 participants who
delivered a persuasive speech in front of either a large (more stressful) or a small (less stressful)
audience composed of 74 and 4 avatars respectively. We found that in the large audience
condition felt power assessed before the speech was positively correlated with nonverbal
performance during the speech. This effect was explained by reduced evaluation apprehension
in those who felt more powerful. In contrast, the correlation between power and performance was
not significant in the small audience condition. These findings suggest that power improves
performance in social evaluation tasks only when the situation is perceived as stressful.
Page 283 of 323
Attitudes towards the inclusion of pupils with
behavioural difficulties and burnout risk among
novice student teachers
Submitted by:
Phd Candidate Valérie Schürch
Authors
Schürch, Valérie, UNIL, Institut de Psychologie et HEP Vaud, UER Développement de l’enfant à
l’adulte
Doudin, Pierre-André, UNIL, Institut de Psychologie
Abstract
In most cases, research points out that teachers’ attitudes towards the inclusion of pupils with
behavioural difficulties are mainly negative. This may be due to adverse consequences this
phenomenon may entail (e.g., increased burnout risk). Yet, the study of this subject among
student teachers has largely been overlooked. Our research focuses on novice student teachers,
as we intend to analyse their attitudes towards the inclusion of these pupils prior to the influence
of teacher education and practical experience. Additionally, we aim at analysing the influence of
student burnout risk on these attitudes. Our sample (N=407) consists on two independent groups
of first-year student teachers from a Swiss university (189 at the beginning of their first semester
and 218 at the end). SEM analyses show that burnout dimensions have an important influence
on attitudes towards inclusion. Furthermore, there are significant differences between the two
groups with regards to attitudes and burnout levels. Implications for teacher education and for
students’ mental health will be discussed.
Page 284 of 323
Personality, Prediction of Others, and Prediction
of the Situation on Cooperation over Time
Submitted by:
Lic.Phil. Christian Bucher
Authors
Bucher, Christian, University of Zurich, Social and Business Psychology, Binzmuehlestr. 14/13,
8050 Zurich
Gallus, Marc, University of Zurich, Social and Business Psychology, Binzmuehlestr. 14/13, 8050
Zurich
Jonas, Klaus, University of Zurich, Social and Business Psychology, Binzmuehlestr. 14/13, 8050
Zurich
Abstract
Current research focuses on dispositional and situational antecedents of cooperative behavior in
social dilemmas, and possible promoters of cooperation over time. In this study, 56 individuals in
14 groups of four performed a social dilemma over time. Prosocials behaved according to their
prediction of others: cooperatively if the majority of others was predicted cooperative and
competitively if the majority of others was predicted competitive. Prosocials also behaved
according to the prediction of the situation: cooperatively if the situation was predicted
cooperative and competitively if the situation was predicted competitively. In contrast, proselfs’
behavior was neither affected by the prediction of others nor the situation. Over time, cooperation
was promoted by trust and fairness. Due to quantitative assessment of communication, possible
effects on cooperation could only be explained to a limited extent. Reciprocity showed no effect
on cooperation, however, the dilemma structure did not allow for tit-for-tat strategies at all.
Page 285 of 323
Act local but don't think too global: The impact of
environmental message goal level on perceived
efficacy and behavior.
Submitted by:
Doctoral Student Lisa Moussaoui
Authors
Moussaoui, Lisa , University of Geneva
Abstract
Growing awareness of humanity’s impact on the environment raises the question of how best to
encourage ecological behaviors. Numerous campaigns have been created to convince people to
practice everyday actions such as switching off unused appliances with varying success. The
difficulty may be due to the huge gap between these small individual actions and the high-level
goal often used as incentive, such as “saving the planet”. We showed that high level goal is less
efficient than proximal goal (such as saving energy in the university building) to trigger behavior.
We propose that the more the level of an ecological goal is high, the lower is the feeling that the
associated actions are impactful (outcome expectancy) because the higher is the feeling that
goal attainment requires the participation of lots of people (cumulative effort). Meta-analysis on 4
studies show the impact of goal-level on outcome expectancy and cumulative effort.
Page 286 of 323
A 3.5 year follow-up of positive psychology
interventions
Submitted by:
Pd, Phd René PROYER
Authors
Proyer, René, University of Zurich, Psychology, Zurich
Wellenzohn, Sara, University of Zurich, Psychology, Zurich
Gander, Fabian, University of Zurich, Psychology, Zurich
Ruch, Willibald, University of Zurich, Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
Meta-analytical findings support the notion that positive psychology interventions (PPIs) are
effective in enhancing well-being and ameliorating depression. In this study, we test indicators of
a person × intervention fit when predicting happiness and depressive symptoms 3.5 years after
completion of a PPI. A sample of 165 women completed measures for happiness and depressive
symptoms before and about 3.5 years after completion of a PPI (random assignment to one out
of nine interventions, which were aggregated for the analyses). Findings suggest that three out of
four tested person × intervention fit indicators were positively/negatively related to
happiness/depression when controlled for the pretest scores. Together, they explained 6 per cent
of the variance in happiness, and 10 per cent of the variance of depressive symptoms. This
suggests that the way people work with the interventions has predictive power for individual
levels of happiness and depression after 3.5 years.
Page 287 of 323
Can humor be a useful ingredient in
online-interventions to enhance well-being? A
placebo-controlled study on the long-term
effectiveness of humor-based
online-interventions
Submitted by:
Lic. Phil. Sara Wellenzohn
Authors
Wellenzohn, Sara, University of Zurich, Personality and Assessment, Zürich
Proyer, René T., University of Zurich, Personality and Assessment, Zürich
Ruch, Willibald, University of Zurich, Personality and Assessment, Zürich
Abstract
For investigating the usefulness of humor as an ingredient in online-interventions, the study aims
at adapting established interventions to humor-based interventions in line with Gander et al.
(2013). They found the “three funny things”-intervention (adapted from the “three good
things”-intervention) to be effective in enhancing happiness and lowering depressive symptoms.
These findings should be replicated and the effectiveness of four newly developed humor-based
interventions will be tested and possible moderators addressed. We randomly assigned 632
participants to one of the five humor-based online-interventions, or a placebo control condition
(“early childhood memories”). We assessed happiness and depressive symptoms before and
after the intervention as well as one, three, and six months later. Three humor-based
interventions enhanced happiness for up to six months and the effects of the “three funny things”
could be replicated for happiness. Moderator-analyses showed the tendency for greater
effectiveness for those with lower levels in sense of humor.
Page 288 of 323
Investigating the couple as an entity: Links
between configurations of social desires and
relationship functioning
Submitted by:
Dipl.-Psych. Thomas Czikmantori
Authors
Czikmantori, Thomas, University of Zurich, Psychology of Motivation, Volition, and Emotion,
Zurich (SUI)
Hagemeyer, Birk, University of Jena, Personality Psychology, Jena (GER)
Engeser, Stefan, University of Kiel, Personality Psychology, Kiel (GER)
Abstract
In a well-functioning couple relationship, two individuals with each their own social desires need
to find a balance of spending time together and time apart that satisfies both partners. Yet, to
date it has not been investigated which configurations of social desires exist within couples.
Using latent profile analysis, 631 German heterosexual couples were categorized regarding both
partners’ communal desires to affiliate with friends, their agentic desires to be alone, and their
communal desires to be close to their partners. A four-class solution fit the data best. The
communal types (communion, 67%; closeness, 5%) showed better relationship functioning than
the non-communal types (distanced woman, 12%; distanced man, 17%). Compared to other
types, the distanced man type showed an increased risk of relationship break-up one year after
desire assessment. We discuss implications for research on trait configurations and relationship
functioning.
Page 289 of 323
Drinking motives as mediators of the association
between reinforcement sensitivity and alcohol
use
Submitted by:
Phd Joseph Studer
Authors
Studer, Joseph, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Alcohol Treatment Centre, Lausanne,
Switzerland
Geml, Gerhard, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Alcohol Treatment Centre, Lausanne,
Switzerland; Addiction Switzerland, Lausanne
Abstract
This study investigates how behavioral activation (BAS; i.e. fun seeking [FS], drive [D], reward
responsiveness [RR]) and behavioral inhibition (BIS) systems relate with risky single-occasion
drinking (RSOD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) by exploring the direct associations and indirect
associations through drinking motives (DM; i.e. enhancement, social, coping, conformity) in a
sample of 5362 young men. Results showed that for BAS, FS constitutes a risk factor for both
outcomes, and that most of its contribution was mediated by enhancement DM. BIS was
negatively directly associated with RSOD, and positively indirectly associated with AUD, mainly
through coping DM. This suggests that high BIS individuals may be more prone to long-term
consequences of drinking (i.e. AUD) than others, because they are more prone to use alcohol in
order to cope with the anxiety and distress associated with high BIS. At the same time, due to
their enhanced sensitivity to signals of punishment, high BIS individuals may also be less prone
to RSOD because they over-expect potential short-term negative consequences (e.g. hangover,
accident), associated with RSOD.
Page 290 of 323
Understanding the Influence of Motivation on
different Types of Engagement Behavior in Online
Communities
Submitted by:
Dr. Dorothea Schaffner
Authors
Schaffner, Dorothea, Department of Communication and Marketing, Lucerne University of
Applied Sciences and Arts
Federspiel, Esther, Department of Communication and Marketing, Lucerne University of Applied
Sciences and Arts
Abstract
With the Internet a broad range of computer-mediated technologies such as online communities,
social networking sites, or blogs have emerged and extended consumers’ informational and
interactive capabilities. This shift from rather passive recipients to a more active audience entails
a fundamental change in consumer behavior. An number of studies have investigated what
motivates consumers to engage in online communities. However, none of these studies
differentiated between different types of engagement behaviors such as reading, posting or
asking questions. Based on the Uses-and-Gratification Theory (Katz, 1974), the present paper
investigates how motives drive different types of engagement behaviors. An online survey (N =
417) in three online communities finds that active participation (posting and asking questions) is
predominantly diriven by status and affiliation motivations, while passive particpation (reading) is
driven by a motivation to learn. Thereby, this study contributes to a better understanding of the
psychological foundations of engagement in online communities.
Page 291 of 323
Discovering psychology jobs: a three-year
approach
Submitted by:
Phd Sandra Berney
Authors
Berney, Sandra, Université de Genève - FAPSE - Genève
Desrichard, Olivier, Université de Genève - FAPSE - Genève
Frauenfelder, Uli, Université de Genève - FAPSE - Genève
Schneider El Gueddari, Nora, Université de Genève - FAPSE - Genève
Abstract
The general public’s image of psychology is often vague and biased. Many people, including
beginning psychology students, have an unrealistic and even false representation of the
profession. In the Psychology department at the University of Geneva we have set up a series of
three courses, one in each year of the bachelor program, that provides students with a thread to
follow. Under the title "Discovering a future profession in psychology", these three courses lead
students to take a personal reflexive approach and to develop a realistic professional
post-bachelor project. The first-year course presents the many occupational fields in psychology,
the second-year course focuses on concepts and methods in applied psychology, and the
third-year course outlines the different available Master's degrees. Together these courses
provide valuable information about the academic training and the professional world of
psychology. A clearer vision of the various fields of psychology is crucial for the bachelor
students to help them plan their professional futures early in their academic curriculum
Page 292 of 323
Parental self-esteem and family relationships
Submitted by:
Prof. Joëlle Darwiche
Authors
El Ghaziri, Nahema, Institute of Psychology, SSp. UNIL-Moulines, Géopolis, 1015 Lausanne
Darwiche, Joëlle, Institute of Psychology, SSp. UNIL-Moulines, Géopolis, 1015 Lausanne
Abstract
Parental traits can have a major influence on family dynamics. The main goal of this study is to
explore the impact of self-esteem on the quality of marital and coparental relationships. A dyadic
approach was adopted, where self-esteem of each parent is taken into consideration. Indeed, we
analyzed the effects of a parent’s self-esteem, on his/her own representations of marital and
coparental quality, but also on the representations of his /her partner. The sample is drawn from
the German Family Panel (pairfam) release 5.0 (Nauck et al. 2014) and is composed of 1365
couples, with at least one child under 21 years. The data analyzed was collected through
self-reported questionnaires measuring self-esteem, marital and coparental quality. Findings
show that for both mothers and fathers, high self-esteem is related to a more positive perception
of marital and coparental relationships. Moreover, having a partner with a high level of
self-esteem also had a positive impact on an individual’s perception of these relationships. In
conclusion, results indicate that high parental self-esteem might be a general family resource,
enhancing both partners’ positive perceptions of family relationships.
Page 293 of 323
Stepparenting and child adjustment: influence of
marital relationship and coparenting in
stepfamilies
Submitted by:
Gloria Repond
Authors
Repond, Gloria, Institut de Psychologie, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne
Darwiche, Joëlle, Institut de Psychologie, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne
Abstract
Introduction: Data show that stepfamilies function differently than traditional families. Differences
are observed in marital satisfaction across time, in quality of stepparent’s involvement and in
frequency of child difficulties (Bray, 2005). Study population: This study aims to investigate 50
non-clinical stepfamilies living together and having at least one child from a previous relationship.
Method: Child behavioural and emotional problems (SDQ; Goodman, 1998), coparenting
(McHale et al, 2000), marital functioning (MAT) and a questionnaire specially designed to assess
couples difficulties in stepfamilies (QCS, Beaudry, 2001) were assessed. An observational task
was included to evaluate coparenting interactions (Adaptation of Baker et al, 2010). Results:
Preliminary results show a negative association between marital satisfaction and coparental
conflicts for both parents (stepfathers: r = -0.693, p = .012 and stepmothers: r = -0.602, p = .038).
Marital quality is associated with stepparenting difficulties (stepfathers: r = .962, p = . 038 ;
stepmothers: r = .712, p = .047); and stepparenting difficulties tend also to be related with child’s
peer difficulties (r = .997, p = .052). Finally, the length of the marital relationship is positively
associated with child’s behavioural difficulties (r = .681, p = .021) and hyperactivity (r = .698, p =
.017). Conclusion: In case on marital difficulties, we observe more frequent stepparenting
difficulties, which in turn seem to affect the child adjustment. These results show the importance
of supporting stepfamilies, as the impact on the child’s adjustment appear to be maintained over
time.
Page 294 of 323
Rethinking integration: a comparative qualitative
study of skilled migrant women’s experience in
Switzerland
Submitted by:
Phd Student Juliana Nunes Reichel
Authors
Nunes-Reichel, Juliana, University of Lausanne
Santiago-Delefosse, Marie, University of Lausanne
Abstract
Recent studies on migrants’ social and professional integration in Switzerland indicate that
migrant women are the most vulnerable group but they tend to focus on a descriptive level,
without considering the influence of context, language and the heterogeneity of migrants’
experiences. This study aims to investigate the meaning of migration and integration process
from participants’ frame of reference: their challenges, self-protection strategies and the impacts
of the migration experience on identity. Semi-structured interviews (n=30) were conducted with
two groups of skilled migrant women and data was analysed by thematic content analysis.
Results highlighted that the participants do not recognize themselves in social discourse. This
experience has an impact on their self-esteem and motivation to integrate into the local
community. Moreover, there is a gap between participant’s resources and immigration policy
measures. Findings might contribute to the development of more precise integration strategies to
improve migrants’ and local community’s well-being.
Page 295 of 323
How work characteristics and work-related
outcomes differ among Swiss natives and Swiss
foreigners
Submitted by:
Phd Christina Györkös
Authors
Györkös, Christina, IPTO, rue Emile-Argand11, 2000 Neuchâtel
Rossier, Jérôme, Institut de psychologie, Université de Lausanne, Géopolis - CH-1015 Lausanne
Massoudi, Koosroh, Institut de psychologie, Université de Lausanne, Géopolis - CH-1015
Lausanne
Antonietti, Jean-Philippe, Institut de psychologie, Université de Lausanne, Géopolis - CH-1015
Lausanne
Abstract
Our study investigated the relations between work conditions and employee well being in the
Swiss context. Results obtained from Anovas indicated that, adverse work characteristics seem
to correspond to different topographies according to nationality: native Swiss versus Swiss
foreigner. We discuss the universalities and specificities of the work environment and of
work-related outcomes in each group. Although cultural diversity at work seems to increase
globally, efficient strategies in response to this new reality are developing with difficulty (Trefry,
2006). Based on our results, we encourage the development of new strategies for organizations
to enhance the management of cultural diversity.
Page 296 of 323
Communication within surgical teams:
Interruptions by external staff influence the
content of the communication even after the
interruption.
Submitted by:
Msc. Sandra Keller
Authors
Keller, Sandra, University of Neuchâtel, Institut de Psychologie du travail et des organisations
(IPTO), Neuchâtel
Leupi, Franziska L., University of Bern, Institut für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie, Bern
Tschan, Franziska, University of Neuchâtel, Institut de Psychologie du travail et des
organisations (IPTO), Neuchâtel
Semmer, Norbert K., University of Bern, Institut für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie, Bern
Seelandt, Julia C., University of Neuchâtel, Institut de Psychologie du travail et des organisations
(IPTO), Neuchâtel
Kurmann, Anita, University of Bern, Institut für Arbeits- und Organisationspsychologie, Bern
Candinas, Daniel, University hospital of Bern
Beldi, Guido, University hospital of Bern
Abstract
Background: Performance suffers if task requiring high concentration are interrupted – this also
holds for teams. Besides of direct interferences with the task, interruptions may have delayed
effects on team processes, after the interruption ended. We investigated such delayed effects in
an applied work setting. Method: In a prospective observational study, we identified interruptions
of surgical teams by external staff in 110 long, open abdominal surgeries, using a validated
observational system. Interruption content was coded as case-relevant (if patient or procedure is
discussed with the interruptor) or case-irrelevant (other discussions); team
communication-patterns before and after the interruption were analysed. Findings: Interruption
content influenced communication-patterns of surgical teams after the interruption:
Case-irrelevant interruptions distracted surgical teams away from the case. Case-relevant
interruptions focused surgical teams back to the case if, prior to the interruption, they were less
focused on the case, showing potential beneficiary effects of interruptions.
Page 297 of 323
Effects of Applicants’ Expectations Before the
Interview: Are High Or Realistic Expectations the
Key?
Submitted by:
Dr. Annika Wilhelmy
Authors
Wilhelmy, Annika, University of Zurich, Work and Organizational Psychology, Zurich, Switzerland
Kleinmann, Martin , University of Zurich, Work and Organizational Psychology, Zurich,
Switzerland
Melchers, Klaus, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
Schneider, Lisa, GGW Homburg, Homburg, Germany
Abstract
Applicants’ fairness perceptions of interviews are crucial for organizations to be seen as
attractive employers. However, it remains unclear how these fairness perceptions are influenced
by applicants’ expectations before the interview. To gain answers to this question, we conducted
a three-wave field study with 127 candidates who applied for a Bachelor’s program and were
selected based on interviews. Fairness expectations (procedural and interpersonal) were
assessed 1-2 weeks before the interview, fairness perceptions directly after the interview, and
organizational attractiveness after applicants had received the interview results. Regarding
procedural fairness, applicants’ perceptions were high when their expectations were high, which
increased organizational attractiveness. Regarding interpersonal fairness, organizational
attractiveness was high when discrepancies between applicants’ expectations and perceptions
were high. These results point out that the effects of applicants’ expectations differ for different
fairness dimensions. It will be discussed how applicants’ expectations could be influenced to
increase organizational attractiveness.
Page 298 of 323
Individual Differences in Action Awareness
Submitted by:
Phd Sanaâ Belayachi
Authors
Belayachi, Sanaâ, University of Liège, Department of Psychology, Liège (Belgium)
Van der Linden, Martial, University of Geneva, Department of Psychology, Geneva (Switzerland)
Abstract
Neurocognitive systems underlying enactment (e.g., action control mechanisms) play an
important role in the subjective experience of doing (sense of agency). Some research convey to
the surprising idea that consciousness of goal fulfillment comes along with a diminished
awareness of fine motor parameters (e.g., corrective movements). Interestingly, some clinical
features evoke a disturbed consciousness of goal completion along with an increased awareness
of action details. This study aimed to examine action awareness in people with a high propensity
to experience incompleteness/error feelings and chronic doubts about self-actions in everyday
life, by using a task in which participants generally have a reduced awareness of their
movements, despite the introduction of a directional biases on some trials requiring them some
corrective movements (due to action control’s ability to automatically correct errors in order to
attain the goal). Results revealed that participants with high incompleteness feelings were
characterized by an increased and early awareness of movement corrections, as compared to
those with low-levels of incompleteness.
Page 299 of 323
Age differences in the processing of emotion in
visual working memory
Submitted by:
Bsc In Psychology Tania Bermudez
Authors
Bermudez, Tania, University of Zurich, General Psychology - Cognition, Zurich
Souza, Alessandra, University of Zurich, General Psychology - Cognition, Zurich
Abstract
Aging is associated with declines in several cognitive abilities including working memory (WM).
Several studies have suggested, however, that older people can benefit from emotional content
to boost memory. The goal of the current study was to assess whether processing of emotional
information could reduce the age gap in the quantity and quality of representations in WM. Young
and older adults completed two WM tasks: an Image Recognition Task (IRT) and a Color-Image
Binding Task (CIBT). Results of the IRT showed a worse performance for negative than for
neutral and positive stimuli, especially within the older group. The young group performed better
across all valences than the older group in serial recall, whereas, in the case of free recall, this
was only true for negative items. As for the CIBT, there were only marginal effects of age and an
overall marginal trend towards a positivity effect.
Page 300 of 323
Reducing negative mood associated with
mind-wandering: Three potential moderators
Submitted by:
Bachelor Sarah Untersander
Authors
Untersander, Sarah, University of Zürich, Department of Psychology, Zürich
Demiray Batur, Burcu, University of Zürich, Department of Psychology, Zürich
Abstract
Mind-wandering is often associated with costs such as negative mood. This study provides new
insight into this relation by examining three moderators possibly reducing negative mood: one’s
meta-awareness about mind-wandering, relevance of mind-wandering to one’s personal goals
and amount of attention one’s current activity demands. Although discussed as potential
moderators, they have not yet been researched concerning mood. A smartphone application was
used to examine these relations in everyday life. We tested 23 participants (8 men) aged
between 18 and 30. Participants carried a smartphone for 10 days, which signalled them 7
random times per day. Participants reported their thoughts and whether they were
mind-wandering. Furthermore, they reported whether they had been aware of mind-wandering,
helpfulness of mind-wandering in achieving a personal goal, and how much attention their
current activity demanded. Analyses including multilevel modelling are ongoing. Results will be
discussed related to the widely-studied association between mind-wandering and mood.
Page 301 of 323
To Procrastinate, or Not to Procrastinate? The
Interplay of Goal Focus, Activity Characteristics,
and Mood
Submitted by:
Msc. Oliver Kaftan
Authors
Kaftan, Oliver J., University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Freund, Alexandra M., University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
Academic procrastination is typically explained by determinants related to situational factors or
personality characteristics. In contrast, the question of how cognitive goal characteristics might
be related to procrastination has been largely neglected. The ongoing research presented in this
paper investigates the interplay between goal focus (i.e., the cognitive representation of goals
primarily in terms of the means or the outcome), activity characteristics (e.g., aversiveness of
procrastinated and other activities), as well as mood during procrastination and
non-procrastination episodes over the course of up to 4 months with weekly assessment. We
hypothesize that goal focus not only predicts students’ decision whether to procrastinate or not,
but also informs their choice of a particular alternative activity to engage in, as well as their mood
when procrastinating. Results from this study may increase understanding of procrastination and
help the development of interventions.
Page 302 of 323
Sex differences and anxiety biases: insights from
alerting and orienting attentional networks
functioning
Submitted by:
Phd Student Teofil Ciobanu
Authors
Ciobanu, Teofil, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne
Ruggeri, Paolo, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne
Lew, Eileen, Faculty of Engineering, Computing and Science, Swinburne University of
Technology, Malaysia
Brandner, Catherine, Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne
Abstract
Recent studies using attentional network approach have shown that anxiety biases in information
processing are associated to impairments of orienting and executive control functioning when
individuals perform the ANT-I task. Moreover, it is well documented that sex factor modulates the
engagement of the attentional resources, particularly for the completion of visuo-spatial tasks.
The study aimed to explore whether non-pathological trait anxiety could be a significant factor in
the understanding of sex differences in attentional processing of information. The ANT-I task was
performed by a sample of 137 young adults (37 men) in order to investigate the anxiety biases
related to alerting, orienting and executive networks functioning. Results revealed that anxiety
selectively modulates women and men’s efficiency performance. In high anxious group, women
latency responses were significantly longer in comparison with men. Particularly, anxiety biases
were selectively related to the processing of the alerting tones and the visual cues (neutral, valid,
invalid) preceding a subsequent target. The processing of target interfering flankers was similarly
biased by anxiety in both sexes. Sex differences in information processing seem to be related to
anxiety biases on alerting and orienting networks functioning, and not on executive control of
attention.
Page 303 of 323
Visually induced self-motion in a virtual
environment modulates performance in a serial
addition task for individuals with high immersion.
Submitted by:
M Sc Ivan Moser
Authors
Moser, Ivan, University of Bern, Department of Psychology, Bern
Mast, Fred W., University of Bern, Department of Psychology, Bern
Abstract
Recent research on mathematical cognition suggests that adding or subtracting numbers implies
right- or leftward attentional shifts on the spatial representation of numbers (i.e. the mental
number line). Accordingly, we hypothesized that a visually induced illusion of congruent
self-motion (rightward vection) leads to better performance in solving additions compared to
incongruent self-motion (leftward vection). Thirty participants solved sequences of additions and
subtractions while being exposed to a rotating virtual environment. As expected, rightward
vection lead to shorter response times in the addition task compared to leftward vection.
However, this effect was only present in individuals with high ratings of immersion. Our results
are in line with previous findings of attentional shifts on the mental number line during perceived
body-motion. Furthermore, we could show that visually induced sensations of rotation in a virtual
environment are sufficient to modulate performance in an arithmetic task.
Page 304 of 323
No correlations between visual illusion strength
Submitted by:
Master Lukasz Grzeczkowski
Authors
Grzeczkowski, Lukasz, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Brain Mind Institute,
Laboratory of Psychophysics, Lausanne
Clarke, Aaron, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Brain Mind Institute, Laboratory of
Psychophysics, Lausanne
Mast, Fred, University of Bern, Department of Psychology, Bern
Herzog, Michael, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Brain Mind Institute, Laboratory of
Psychophysics, Lausanne
Abstract
In cognition, audition and somatosensation, performance correlates strongly between different
tasks suggesting the existence of common factors. Surprisingly, this does not hold true for vision.
For example, Vernier acuity and Gabor detection correlate very weakly (r2 = 0.003). Here, we
show similar results for visual illusions. 143 participants, aged from 8 to 81, adjusted the strength
of six illusions. Correlations were very low and mostly non-significant. For example, the
correlation between the Ebbinghaus and the Ponzo illusion was r2 = 0.08, i.e., the two illusions
have only 8% of variance in common. Results for males and females did not differ. Illusion
magnitude decreased with age for the Ebbinghaus, Ponzo, and Tilt illusion. Our null results are
supported by good test-retest reliability and a Bayesian analysis. We suggest that, contrary to
cognition, audition and somatosensation, there is no general factor for vision.
Page 305 of 323
Working memory and incidental memory :the
study of distractors’ status through a recognition
task.
Submitted by:
Phd Student Isabelle Dagry
Authors
Dagry, Isabelle, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Vergauwe, Evie, University of Missouri, Psychology, Missouri
Barrouillet, Pierre, University of Geneva, Psychology, Geneva
Abstract
There are two opposite conceptions in accounting for the cognitive load effect in complex span
task. The TBRS model (Barrouillet et al., 2004) assumes that a low cognitive load involves better
immediate recall due to the increased proportion of time available to refresh memory traces. The
SOB-CS model (Oberauer et al., 2012) proposes a different explanation: low cognitive load
allows more time to remove distractors, hence the better recall. A way to decide between these
two hypotheses is to study the status of distractors through a recognition task. If participants use
free time to remove distractors, a low cognitive load condition should result in poorer recognition
of distractors because low cognitive load involves more time to clear working memory. We
obtained results at odds with this prediction, suggesting that people do not use the available free
time to remove distractors.
Page 306 of 323
Multiple Goals From the Perspective of Optimal
Foraging Theory
Submitted by:
Pd Dr Martin Tomasik
Authors
Tomasik, Martin J., University of Zurich, Department of Developmental Psychology: Adulthood,
Zurich
Knecht, Michaela, University of Zurich, Department of Developmental Psychology: Adulthood,
Zurich
Freund, Alexandra M., University of Zurich, Department of Developmental Psychology:
Adulthood, Zurich
Abstract
We propose a metric by which goal systems comprising multiple goals with facilitative and
conflicting interrelations can be evaluated with regard to their level of optimization. Our approach
is based on optimal foraging theory that takes into account expectancy and value as well as
opportunity costs of foraging resp. striving for goals. After presenting the conceptual framework,
we exemplify the usefulness of the concept with data from three empirical studies (two
longitudinal, N = 277 and N = 145; one cross-sectional, N = 210). The number of goals
investigated in each study ranges from four to ten. Results indicate that individuals with a more
optimized goal system are more conscientious and open to new experience, approach their goals
from a process perspective, and are more satisfied and engaged with their goals. Furthermore,
individuals with a suboptimal goal system tend to switch their goals more often, which on
average results in a higher level of optimization. We discuss evident limitations as well as
possible future directions of our approach.
Page 307 of 323
Does listening to an emotional voice help facial
expression recognition in 4-month olds?
Submitted by:
Master Amaya Roux
Authors
Roux, Amaya, UNIGE, Psychology, Geneva
Abstract
This study aimed at evaluating whether an emotional prosody helps facial expression recognition
in 4-month olds children. Indeed, some studies have shown that the discrimination of multimodal
stimuli is possible from 4 or 5 months (Caron and al., 1988; Flom Bahrick, 2007) while
discrimination of unimodal appears around 5 months for auditory modality, and around 7 months
for visual one. However, the results vary a lot across studies and there is not a consensus about
the developmental course of these abilities. In our study, we chose to assess the intermodal
transfer between visual and auditory modalities. We supposed that listening to an emotional
(happy or angry) prosody will orientate to the congruent emotional facial expression. Twenty
babies were tested and results show that until 4.5-months infants looks at congruents stimulus. If
the infants heard a happy sound they looked more at happy face and if they heard an angry
sound, they looked more at angry face.Overall, the results also showed that the infants who
heard females voices look more at angry face and the infants exposed to males voices look more
at happy face.
Page 308 of 323
Developmental absence of the corpus callosum
and its impact on working memory
Submitted by:
Msc (Psyc) Vanessa Siffredi
Authors
Siffredi, Vanessa, University of Geneva, Faculty of Psychology, Geneva
Vaessen, Maarten, University of Geneva, Department of Neurosciences, Geneva
McIlroy, Alissandra, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Clinical Sciences, Melbourne,
Australia
Vuilleumier, Patrik, University of Geneva, Department of Neurosciences, Geneva
Leventer, Richard, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute,Clinical Sciences, Melbourne, Australia
Barrouillet, Pierre, University of Geneva, Faculty of Psychology, Geneva
Anderson, Vicki, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute,Clinical Sciences, Melbourne, Australia
Spencer-Smith, Megan, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute,Clinical Sciences, Melbourne,
Australia
Abstract
Working memory (WM), the ability to maintain and manipulate information in mind, is a core
cognitive function. It is underpinned by a fronto-parietal network and inter-hemispheric
connectivity mainly relying on the corpus callosum (CC). Developmental absence (agenesis) of
the CC (AgCC) is a congenital brain malformation resulting from disruption of CC formation. This
study aimed to characterise WM abilities in children with AgCC compared with typically
developing (TD) children and examine associations between white matter measures and WM in
AgCC. 20 children with AgCC (partial n=8, complete n=12) and 28 TD children 8 to 17 years
were recruited from the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne. WM was estimated using
standardised measures. Mean white matter volume and FA in the anterior commissure and
whole brain were computed. The AgCC compared with the TD group showed reduced scores on
all WM measures (p<.001 to .008). White matter measures were not associated with WM scores
in the AgCC group. In childhood AgCC is associated with WM impairments. The anterior
commissure might not provide an alternative route for WM.
Page 309 of 323
The development of haptic everyday texture
matching abilities
Submitted by:
Caroline Cheam
Authors
Cheam, Caroline, Boulevard du Pont d'Arve, 40. 1211 Geneva
Barisnikov, Koviljka, Boulevard du Pont d'Arve, 40. 1211 Geneva
Gentaz, Edouard, Boulevard du Pont d'Arve, 40. 1211 Geneva
Abstract
Cross-modal transfer abilities lead to a unified and coherent perception of the environment:
through touch, we can recognize an object previously explored only through vision, and
inversely. A lot of research has used abrasive papers in which roughness measures were easily
employed, contrary to everyday textures. Our aim is to assess the development of cross-modal
transfer abilities using an everyday texture matching task. Adults and children were asked to
compare 24 pairs of fabrics (“similar” or “not similar”). Each pair was simultaneously displayed in
3 conditions. In the haptic condition, participants touched one fabric per hand; in the visuo-haptic
condition, they compared one tactually explored fabric with another visually explored fabric; in
the visual condition, the two fabrics were only presented visually. Results showed that the
texture-matching performances improve with age but performances in the visuo-haptic condition
were similar to those in the haptic condition. These results are discussed.
Page 310 of 323
Development: a test for the dual-process theories
of conditional reasoning.
Submitted by:
Dr Caroline Gauffroy
Authors
Gauffroy, Caroline, Université de Genève (Geneva)
Barrouillet, Pierre, Université de Genève (Geneva)
Abstract
Actually, dual process theories of thinking and reasoning become increasingly influential in the
psychology of reasoning. These theories mainly focus on adults' performance. However, adult
reasoning is an endpoint. In order to understand its functioning, the developmental trajectory
leading to this endpoint should be investigated. First, I will present the developmental findings
observed in conditional reasoning which is the most studied type of human reasoning. Then, I will
evaluate the dual process theories in the light of these developmental findings. Finally, I will
propose an integrative dual-process mental model theory of conditional reasoning (Gauffroy
Barrouillet, 2009, 2011, Barrouillet Gauffroy, 2015).
Page 311 of 323
Fear and anger regulatory behaviours in
12-month-old very preterm and full-term infants
Submitted by:
Emmanuelle Martin
Authors
Martin, Emmanuelle C., Child Clinical Neuropsychology Unit, Geneva, Switzerland
Lejeune, Fleur, Child Clinical Neuropsychology Unit, Geneva, Switzerland
Bickle Graz, Myriam , Follow-up Unit, Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics,
University Hospital,Lausanne, Switzerland
Hüppi, Petra S. , Division of Development and Growth, Department of Child and Adolescent,
University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
Borradori Tolsa, Cristina , Division of Development and Growth, Department of Child and
Adolescent, University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
Barisnikov, Koviljka , Child Clinical Neuropsychology Unit, Geneva, Switzerland
Abstract
Preterm children present persistent socio-emotional difficulties that could be related to their
emotion regulation abilities. The present study aimed to investigate the emotional reactivity and
behaviour strategies during two emotion-eliciting episodes by comparing those abilities between
12-month-old very preterm and full-term infants. Fifty-three very preterm were compared to 24
full-term infants on anger and fear episodes provided by the Laboratory Temperament
Assessment Battery. Six behavioural strategies have been identified and rated for each
emotional context. Preterm infants demonstrated higher anger reactivity and produced less social
interactions through verbal communication but more through physical contact. They expressed
lower fear reactivity and were both more approaching and self-distracting from the object of fear
compared to full-terms. In conclusion, the two groups faced differently a situation eliciting a
specific emotion. This study highlights the importance to discriminate negative emotions when
observing specific strategies.
Page 312 of 323
Executive functioning and motor stereotypies in
autism spectrum disorder
Submitted by:
Msc Tiago Ribeiro
Authors
Ribeiro, Tiago , Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal
Melo, Cláudia, Serviço de Pediatria, Centro Hospitalar do Médio Ave, Vila Nova de Famalicão,
Portugal
Gesta, Camila, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal
Prior, Catarina, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal
Martins, Vânia, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal
Temudo, Teresa, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Porto, Portugal / Instituto de Ciências
Biomédicas de Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
Abstract
Motor stereotypies are frequent in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with different characteristics
and movement patterns. We analyze the cognitive profile of a group of patients due to the
presence of motor stereotypies and type of movement. We randomly selected 35 ASD patients
from a cohort (AutisMove): 15 ASD patients with motor stereotypies (7 boys, 3 girls; mean age 9
years) and 20 ASD patients without motor stereotypies (16 boys, 4 girls; mean age: 10 years).
Assessments were recorded using 4 digital video cameras which allowed 360 ° analysis of the
movement. Results indicate more severe cognitive deficits in patients with motor stereotypies,
however it suggests there is no relationship between the number of stereotypies per minute and
cognitive performance. Also parental perception of repetitive behavior is higher in the group of
patients with stereotypes. Results also sugest a larger number of stereotypic movements per
minute in patients with a wider range of motor stereotypies.
Page 313 of 323
Feasibility of a telephone-based
psychotherapeutic continuation therapy for
chronic depressed patients
Submitted by:
Bsc Yessica Martinez
Authors
Martinez, Yessica, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Machmutow, Katja, University of Zurich, Department of Psychology, Zurich
Abstract
In primary care, treating chronic and recurrent depression usually includes antidepressant
medication and/or psychotherapy. Although chronic patients are on high risk of relapse,
psychotherapeutic aftercare in terms of continuation and maintenance treatment is rare in current
usual care. This poster presents a pilot study, in which remitted patients (n=20) receive a
telephone-based psychotherapeutic continuation therapy (initial face-to-face contact and 7 phone
sessions during 6 months). Participants are randomized into two conditions varying in length of
phone contacts (30 vs 50 minutes). The provided therapy encourages patients to integrate
techniques and contents learned during their previous therapy into their everyday life. The main
focus of our study is to evaluate the feasibility and satisfaction with treatment, assessed by
questionnaires and interviews with both patients and therapists. Initial feasibility outcomes (at
half-time of therapy) are presented. These findings might improve clinical and scientific work to
optimize treatment and prevent patients from relapse.
Page 314 of 323
Losing your only child! A pilot study of value
orientation related self-defining memory in
Chinese bereaved parents
Submitted by:
Msc Daiming Xiu
Authors
Xiu, Daiming, Division of Psychopathology and Clinical Intervention, University of Zurich,
Switzerland
Maercker, Andreas, Division of Psychopathology and Clinical Intervention, University of Zurich,
Switzerland
Abstract
The influence of bereavement in self-defining memory was examined within a cultural context
from an ongoing study. Eighteen Chinese parents who lost their only child were asked to narrate
and evaluate self-defining memories with references to modern and traditional value orientations
(e.g. conformity, tradition, self-direction etc.). This pilot study investigated three dimensions
(overgenerality, content and meaning) of memories and their relationships with risk factors.
Chinese parents recounted more memories related to their traditional values. Mothers’ narratives
involved more about their child, especially for traditional cues. Furthermore, overgenerality of
memories was correlated with life satisfaction, grief-related content with income level and gender
of dead child, as well as meaning making with current family structure (marital status and
parents’ condition). These findings emphasized the role of social and cultural contexts when
elucidating self-narratives of bereaved parents.
Page 315 of 323
Longitudinal study of performances of 4
individuals with Williams Syndrome on The
Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of
Visual-Motor Integration
Submitted by:
Authors
Switzerland
Cengic, Lejla, Université de Genève, Unité de psychologie clinique et neuropsychologie de
Da Costa Fernandes, Ana, Université de Genève, Unité de psychologie clinique et
neuropsychologie de l'enfant, Switzerland
Cheam, Caroline, Université de Genève, Unité de psychologie clinique et neuropsychologie de
Abstract
Good visual-perceptual abilities in facial and object recognition tasks, but severe deficits in
geometrical figure-copying tasks have been reported in people with Williams Syndrome (WS).
However, no longitudinal study has ever been conducted on this population. The
Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration was repeatedly administered to
4 people with WS throughout their development. This test consists of 27 geometric shapes of
increasing difficulty organized in 3 subtests: Visual Perception Forms, Motor Co-ordination
Forms, and Full Forms. Performances on the 3 subtests allowed the development of a
visuo-motor integration profile. Typically developing children’s performances on the 3 subtests
gradually improved with age. Unlike the control children, visual-motor integration abilities of WS
individuals do not follow a developmental curve. Our results show an atypical visual-motor
development in WS individuals.
Page 316 of 323
Body schemas of individuals with Williams
Syndrome
Submitted by:
Authors
Switzerland
Da Costa Fenandes, Ana, Université de Genève, Unité de psychologie clinique et
neuropsychologie de l'enfant, Switzerland
Cengic, Lejla, Université de Genève, Unité de psychologie clinique et neuropsychologie de
Saj, Arnaud, Université de Genève, Département de neurosciences et neurologie clinique,
Switzerland
Abstract
Although a chronology of the development of body schemas is difficult to establish in view of
various known theories, an age-related development occurs in typically developing children. This
ability seems directly linked to the capacity to use an egocentric frame of reference (relative to
the self) or an allocentric frame of reference (relative to external objects). The capacity to choose
an adapted frame of reference is essential for the development of visuo-spatial skills and plays a
significant role not only in learning academic and practical skills but also in personal bodily
representation, which are important for the construction of individual identity. However, this is
possible only if the person has a good body schema. Twenty people with Williams Syndrome
(10-41years) performed a recognition task of different bodily parts, and a projection task of their
own body. Results show that WS individuals have a poorly defined representation of their body.
Page 317 of 323
Web-based attention bias modification training
for binge drinking prevention : A protocol for a
randomized control trial
Submitted by:
Msc Ekaterina Plys
Authors
Plys, Ekaterina, University of Geneva, Faculty of psychology and educational sciences, Geneva
Khazaal, Yasser , Geneva University Hospitals, Department of addictology, Geneva
Ceschi, Grazia , University of Geneva, Faculty of psychology and educational sciences, Geneva
Abstract
Attention bias (AB) towards alcohol is an important vulnerability factor for alcohol misuse.
Although the AB can be successfully retrained by Cognitive Bias Modification-Attention (CBM-A),
little is known about the efficacy of internet-based CBM-A for binge drinking prevention. We
hypothesise that binge drinkers trained to attend to alcohol-unrelated stimuli will decrease their
AB towards alcohol and their alcohol consumption and that this effect will last at least one month.
Eighty binge drinkers aged 18-29 will be assessed on their AB and alcohol consumption before
and after the training. The Dot-Probe Detection Task will be used for the AB assessing and
training. The participants will be randomly assigned to either an active (attentional training) or a
placebo (no training) condition and will perform eight training sessions within four weeks. The
participants and the experimenter will be blind to the group assignment. This study will further our
understanding of cognitive processes associated with binge drinking and provide knowledge
about the preventive efficacy of web-based CBM-A.
Page 318 of 323
Relational and medical predictors of body image
disturbances in women with breast cancer during
the first year after surgery
Submitted by:
Msc Sarah Cairo Notari
Authors
Cairo Notari, Sarah , University of Geneva, FPSE, Geneva
Notari, Luca, University of Geneva, FPSE, Geneva
Favez, Nicolas, University of Geneva, FPSE, Geneva
Antonini, Tania, University of Geneva, FPSE, Geneva
Panes-Ruedin, Bénédicte, CHUV, Sénologie, Lausanne
Charvoz, Linda, Ecole d'Etudes Sociales et Pédagogiques (EESP), Lausanne
Delaloye, Jean-François, CHUV, Sénologie, Lausanne
Abstract
Body image (BI) disturbances are linked to depression. In breast cancer patients, BI is affected
by the surgery and by the side-effects of treatments. However there are individual differences in
BI disturbances that are not explained by the medical condition only. The aim of this study is thus
to find additional predictors of BI disturbances. 71 Swiss patients engaged in a couple
relationship completed questionnaires 2 weeks (T1), 3 months (T2) and 1 year (T3) after surgery.
Multiple regressions showed that BI disturbances at T1 was largely explained by couple
satisfaction and mastectomy. At T2 and T3, BI was predicted by their BI at T1 and time since
diagnosis. The predictive effect of couple satisfaction and mastectomy were mediated by the BI
at T1. Assessing BI shortly after surgery can be useful to predict future psychological difficulties.
In addition, our study showed that the quality of the couple relationship may represent a
protective factor to prevent BI disturbances.
Page 319 of 323
Negative and positive thoughts in low- and
high-anxious music students after a public
performance
Submitted by:
Dr. Sc. Patrick Gomez
Authors
Nielsen, Carole, Institut de santé au Travail, Epalinges-Lausanne
Danuser, Brigitta, Institut de santé au Travail, Epalinges-Lausanne
Studer, Regina, Institut de santé au Travail, Epalinges-Lausanne
Gomez, Patrick , Institut de santé au Travail, Epalinges-Lausanne
Abstract
Music Performance anxiety (MPA) is a major problem for a large number of music students. We
investigated ruminative thoughts after a public performance in low- and high-anxious music
students and the relationship between their thoughts, self-evaluated performance and mood.
Forty-five music students performed individually in front of an audience. Ten minutes, 24 and 48
hours after the concert, they judged their performance and assessed the frequency of negative
and positive thoughts related to the concert. Mood was measured five times per day. Compared
to low-anxious students, high-anxious students judged their performance more negatively and
reported more negative and less positive post-event ruminations at all three time points. The
students reporting more negative post-event rumination felt less positive and less energetic
immediately after the concert. Post-concert self-appraised performance, rumination and mood
may be important in understanding how the stress response is prolonged in high-anxious
musicians and how MPA is maintained.
Page 320 of 323
Attachment tendencies and representations of
sexuality as predictors of dyadic and solitary
sexual behaviors
Submitted by:
Dr Hervé Tissot
Authors
Tissot, Hervé, University of Geneva, FPSE
Favez, Nicolas, University of Geneva, FPSE
Abstract
We will present the results of a study investigating the influence of attachment avoidance and
anxiety and of sexual representations (positive and negative) on the frequency of dyadic and
solitary sexual activities in adults. A community sample of men and women (N = 490; 25–45
years) engaged in an ongoing couple relationship completed self-reported questionnaires related
to the study variables. Structural equation modeling showed that once gender, age, duration of
relationship and marital satisfaction were controlled for, higher avoidance and anxiety predicted a
higher frequency of dyadic sexual activities. A high rate of positive representations allowed to
lower the effect of anxiety. A higher anxiety was also linked with less solitary activities, while a
higher avoidance was predictive of higher solitary activities only when positive representations
were high. These results suggested that attachment tendencies and the meaning individuals give
to their sexual activities are both essential to understand sexual behaviors.
Page 321 of 323
Electrophysiological and Behavioral Investigation
of Spatial Memory Development
Submitted by:
Phd Adeline Jabès
Authors
Jabès, Adeline, University of Lausanne, Institute of Psychology, Lausanne
Nelson, Charles A., Harvard Medical School, DDM, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
Abstract
Spatial memory abilities emerge over the first years of life. The brain structures subserving them
also develop gradually. However, few studies have addressed how specific changes in brain
structure and function might underlie the emergence of these abilities. We assessed the
differential maturation of two spatial memory abilities: egocentric memory (locations coded in
relation to the body) and allocentric memory (locations coded in relation to the surrounding
environment) using behavioral and electrophysiological measurements. Preliminary data
suggested that 9-month-old (n=5) exhibit spatial recognition in egocentric but not allocentric
conditions. In contrast adults electrophysiological data (n=16) suggested spatial recognition in
both egocentric and allocentric conditions. We are currently testing 2-3-year-old children, age at
which allocentric memory is thought to emerge. Given the abnormalities observed in the brain
regions subserving spatial memory in several neurodevelopmental disorders, it is particularly
important to understand the normal development of this function and brain structures subserving
it.
Page 322 of 323
A new theoretical perspective on emotional
learning: The role of self-relevance in fear
learning
Submitted by:
Msc Yoann Stussi
Authors
Stussi, Yoann, Swiss Center for Affectives Sciences and Department of Psychology, University
of Geneva, Geneva
Brosch, Tobias, Swiss Center for Affectives Sciences and Department of Psychology, University
of Geneva, Geneva
Sander, David, Swiss Center for Affectives Sciences and Department of Psychology, University
of Geneva, Geneva
Abstract
Emotional learning is an adaptive function, however its psychological determinants are unclear.
Here, we propose a new theoretical framework based on appraisal theories of emotion, which
holds that emotional learning is driven by a process of relevance detection. Testing the model,
we predicted faster, larger acquisition and greater resistance to extinction of the conditioned
response (CR) to self-relevant stimuli relative to stimuli with less relevance. We manipulated
self-relevance through emotion and gaze direction of synthetic dynamic facial expressions during
differential aversive conditioning. Results provided mixed evidence for our hypotheses. Critically,
we revealed faster acquisition of the CR to angry faces with direct compared with averted gaze
and greater resistance to extinction to fearful faces with averted relative to direct gaze. We
conclude that the relevance detection hypothesis offers an appropriate theoretical framework
allowing to (re)interpret existing evidence, incorporate our results, and propose a new research
perspective in the study of emotional learning.
Page 323 of 323

Book of Abstracts

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