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As rates of Internet gambling participation increase worldwide, so too does the need to understand how people engage in this form of gambling. This study represents the first examination of actual Internet gambling records within Iceland, a Nordic country with an active Internet lottery market that imposes strict regulations on gambling operator licenses. We summarized electronic betting records of a cohort of subscribers to the Internet betting service provider Íslensk Getspá. We observed that the typical subscriber bet approximately 3 days per month and made fewer than two bets per gambling day, each worth approximately the equivalent of $4 US. Subscribers lost the bulk (96%) of the amount they wagered, for a total loss of approximately $40 across the 2-year window of observation. Although these observations do not support the view of Internet gambling as an activity that is inherently risky for the typical subscriber, we did observe discontinuity across the distributions of gambling behavior, with the top 1% of subscribers making more than three bets per day.
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Comportamento Aditivo/psicologia , Jogo de Azar/psicologia , Internet/estatística & dados numéricos , Recompensa , Autoeficácia , Comportamento Aditivo/economia , Jogo de Azar/economia , Humanos , Islândia , Controle Interno-Externo , Assunção de Riscos , Esportes/economiaRESUMO
Introduction: Scientific literature contains mainly systematic reviews focused on substantial aspects, but there are also approaches that have combined both substantial and methodological aspects, which is our preferred option since it undeniably adds value. The aims of this study were: (1) to carry out a systematic review of the literatura on T-Pattern analysis (TPA), and (2) to explore the possible contribution of mixed methods research to the integration of qualitative and quantitative elements on a synthesis level. Methods: Based on PRISMA guidelines, searches were carried out in the Scopus, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases. The general search syntax was: "THEME" AND ("T-Patterns" OR "T Patterns") carried out in title, keywords and abstract. In addition, we included empirical articles on THEME and T-Patterns collected in other sources based on citations in several empirical works and consultations with different authors. This selection process resulted in 125 primary documents making up this systematic review. Results: The results showed that the detection of structures in behavior patterns forms a nexus between studies carried out in very diverse fields and contexts. Most studies are observational, whilst the applicability and power of T-Pattern detection are extraordinary. It allows the researcher to go deeper in a robust analysis that responds to the integration of qualitative and quantitative elements which constitutes the leit motive of mixed methods; and also to discover the deep, hidden structure that underlies the respective databases, regardless of the methodology used in each study. The possibilities in assigning parameters notably increase the options for obtaining results and their interpretation. Discussion: It is relevant the extraordinary strength and applicability of T-pattern detection. There is a high presence of T-pattern detection and analysis in studies using observational methodology. It is necessary commit to consolidating the methodological analysis of selected works, as taking individual and collective responsibility for improving methodological quality of TPA studies, taking advantage of the resources provided by the THEME program.
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The term "structure" indicates a set of components that, in relation to each other, shape an organic complex. Such a complex takes on essential connotations of functionally unitary entity resulting from the mutual relationships of its constituent elements. In a broader sense, we can use the word "structure" to define the set of relationships among the elements of an emergent system that is not determined by the mere algebraic sum of these elements, but by the interdependence relationships of these components from which the function of the entire structure itself derives. The behavior of an integrated living being can be described in structural terms via an ethogram, defined as an itemized list of behavioral units. Akin to an architectural structure, a behavioral structure arises from the reciprocal relationships that the individual units of behavior establish. Like an architectural structure, the function of the resulting behaving complex emerges from the relationships of the parts. Hence, studying behavior in its wholeness necessitates not only the identification of its constitutive units in their autarchic individuality, but also, and importantly, some understanding of their relationships. This paper aimed to critically review different methods to study behavior in structural terms. First, we emphasized the utilization of T-pattern analysis, i.e., one of the most effective and reliable tools to provide structural information on behavior. Second, we discussed the application of other methodological approaches that are based on the analysis of transition matrices, such as hierarchical clustering, stochastic analyses, and adjusted residuals. Unlike T-pattern analysis, these methods allow researchers to explore behavioral structure beyond its temporal characteristics and through other relational constraints. After an overview of how these methods are used in the study of animal behavior, from rodents to non-human primates, we discussed the specificities, advantages and challenges of each approach. This paper could represent a useful background for all scientists who intend to study behavior both quantitatively and structurally, that is in terms of the reciprocal relationships that the various units of a given behavioral repertoire normally weave together.
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Identifying performance indicators in professional boxing trough T-pattern analysis (TPA) was a priority objective of the present study. We accessed data through the boxrec.com portal, where 15 boxing fights were selected. All these fights concluded in the first or second round and belonged to champions (lb. for lb.) of international organizations recognized in professional boxing. The boxers' interactive decisions were approached through an observational methodology. For the conformation and behavioral record, a mixed registration system was agreed upon by two former exprofessional boxers. The data were analyzed through Theme (TPA) to reveal differences relating to the outcome (Winner vs Loser), in terms of temporal regularities and number of occurrences through Chi-square (χ2). More percentages of individual T-Patterns were found in winners than in losers, and winning boxers showed greater decisional complexity than the losers. However, these differences between both groups of boxers were not supported by Chi-square (χ2).
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Boxe , HumanosRESUMO
The focus of this study was on exploring decision-making in a triadic motor game (Bears, Monkeys and Ants), using T-Pattern analysis (TPA). The research involved 23 players aged 12 to 13 years (mean ± standard deviation; 12.5 ± 1), 12 girls and 11 boys, from a secondary middle-class school in Tenerife (Spain). An observational design was used (quadrant III): Nomothetic (a plurality of players), Punctual (a session recorded) and Multidimensional (different criteria). A mixed methods approach was used. It consisted of systematic observation to assess specific roles and subroles. A viewing instrument was built to observe the players 'ad hoc' while they were playing. To address the quality of the records, the inter-observer and intra-observer reliability and validity were calculated. We carried out a descriptive analysis of the behaviors' frequencies coded through Lince. For data analysis we use the tools IBM SPSS 25 and THEME v.6. TPA were performed according to collective (team by team), team-gender and individual. Although analyzes were performed (Chi-square (χ2)), comparing the participation between girls and boys in each team; no significant differences were found (p>.05). Greater complexity was pointed out throught T-Pattern analysis in Monkeys and Ants teams than in the Bears team. Girls showed greater variability than boys in Monkey and Ants teams. When girls used 3 different roles, boys only used 2 of them, being the conduct to realease peers (p <0.005) recurrent in Monkeys. The boys as a team (p <0.005) used subroles that directly modified the outcome in the Ants team. Similar T-Patterns were found in girls (p<.05) when analyzed individually. The use of TPA allows the detection of hidden features while girls and boys were playing. The apparent neutrality of the game may have a seemingly random decision-making process but TPA revealed specificities highly applicable to the study of gender through triadic motor games.
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Relações Interpessoais , Instituições Acadêmicas , Processos Grupais , Reprodutibilidade dos Testes , EspanhaRESUMO
The main objective of the work is to address the effective behavior of girls and boys through Triadic Motor Games (TMG). A chasing game "The Maze" was applied on two class groups with a total of 42 players, 18 girls, and 24 boys, who were 12- and 13-year-old secondary school students. An observational methodology was adopted, with a nomothetic, punctual, and multidimensional design. We used a mixed registry system that two expert observers later applied through an observational methodology, obtaining sufficient record-quality levels. THEME was applied to detect temporary regularities, while cross-tabulations and growth trees were applied with the SPSS v.24 tool to reveal whether girls and boys played in similar or distinct ways. The fact that the specific decision groups within the physical education class are different for girls and boys (p < 0.005) is worth reflecting on. The game's TMG complexity was addressed through roles and subroles, giving rise to a certain motor asymmetry in relation to gender, which is an expression of behaviors lacking in playful neutrality. Through a mixed-methods approach, a study was built using observational methodology that reveals more varied motor solutions in girls, while male behavior showed greater specialization of roles and subroles, and the linkage of these solutions with the favorable modification of the marker. Identifying relevant variables when playing TMG allows a better understanding of girls and boys by analyzing their relationships, which are sometimes paradoxical, in a practical context.
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The human body is a powerful advertising tool that portrays changing messages according to social trends and expectations. Sport advertisements in particular offer many opportunities to study these changes. The aim of this study was to analyze changes in body image portrayal in printed sports magazine advertisements over the last two decades. We used a purpose-designed observation instrument (OSBI) to analyze 221 body images in sports magazine advertisements from 2008 to 2018. We then performed T-pattern analysis (TPA) to compare the 2 periods as TPA is a suitable technique for analyzing the motor activities. Our results showed that advertisements from both periods featured mostly young, muscular, athletic men wearing sports attire. Women appeared more frequently in 2018 and showed a more dynamic body attitude. Other changes detected for 2018 were a greater presence of sports idols, facial mood expressions, and technological devices. We consider that this research demonstrates a unique, new application of TPA since we did not focus on behaviors from a single time dimension, but on a continuous chain of body images portrayed in sports magazine advertisements. The OSBI observation instrument used to record details of body image sequences provided objective evidence to help answer our research question.
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Publicidade , Imagem Corporal , Feminino , Humanos , MasculinoRESUMO
Efficacy of classical manual material handling (MMH) training interventions on back pain prevention at the workplace has been called into question. The way that observation (self-observation or hetero-observation) is used in other areas to create feedback addressed to modify motor activities can justify innovative components for these interventions. However, their implementation and evaluation cannot be done without tackling the methodological challenge of developing a reliable observational instrument to measure manual handling practice during the training process. The aims of this study were: (1) justify and develop an hetero-observation (H-O) instrument to assess changes in the worker behavioral patterns with a level of analysis convenient to derive a parallel version for the systematic self-observation (S-O) during training on MMH; (2) provide evidence on the inter-rater reliability of the H-O instrument; (3) provide evidence on the usability of the S-O instrument and its perceived usefulness; and (4) provide evidence on the benefits that can be derived with the use of the H-O instrument to create feedback based on T-pattern and polar coordinate analysis. A mixed method approach mainly grounded on systematic observation was used. A convenience sample composed by blue-collar workers participated in the study. Based on literature review and expert opinion, the H-O instrument proposed was composed by six dimensions (feet, knee joints, back, elbow joints, load position, and interaction between back tilt and displacement) plus a structural dimension which defined MMH phases. The inter-rater reliability of this instrument was almost perfect for all dimensions using a tolerance level of 2 s (the range of time-unit kappa was from 0.93 to 0.97 and the range of event-based kappa was from 0.82 to 0.9). The usability and usefulness of the S-O instrument was highly valued by workers. Regarding the way to use hetero-observations to create feedback, the paper shows the great potential of T-pattern and polar coordinate analysis. The observational instruments developed combined with these techniques make it possible to characterize the body positions adopted during manual handling performance, and this is crucial to create feedback on performance instead of only feedback on results.
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Deception has evolved to become a fundamental aspect of human interaction. Despite the prolonged efforts in many disciplines, there has been no definite finding of a univocally "deceptive" signal. This work proposes an approach to deception detection combining cognitive load manipulation and T-pattern methodology with the objective of: (a) testing the efficacy of dual task-procedure in enhancing differences between truth tellers and liars in a low-stakes situation; (b) exploring the efficacy of T-pattern methodology in discriminating truthful reports from deceitful ones in a low-stakes situation; (c) setting the experimental design and procedure for following research. We manipulated cognitive load to enhance differences between truth tellers and liars, because of the low-stakes lies involved in our experiment. We conducted an experimental study with a convenience sample of 40 students. We carried out a first analysis on the behaviors' frequencies coded through the observation software, using SPSS (22). The aim was to describe shape and characteristics of behavior's distributions and explore differences between groups. Datasets were then analyzed with Theme 6.0 software which detects repeated patterns (T-patterns) of coded events (non-verbal behaviors) that regularly or irregularly occur within a period of observation. A descriptive analysis on T-pattern frequencies was carried out to explore differences between groups. An in-depth analysis on more complex patterns was performed to get qualitative information on the behavior structure expressed by the participants. Results show that the dual-task procedure enhances differences observed between liars and truth tellers with T-pattern methodology; moreover, T-pattern detection reveals a higher variety and complexity of behavior in truth tellers than in liars. These findings support the combination of cognitive load manipulation and T-pattern methodology for deception detection in low-stakes situations, suggesting the testing of directional hypothesis on a larger probabilistic sample of population.
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The triad is a particular structure in which an ambivalent social relationship takes place. This work is focused on the search of behavioral regularities in the practice of motor games in triad, which is a little known field. For the detection of behavioral patterns not visible to the naked eye, we use Theme. A chasing games model was followed, with rules, and in two different structures (AâBâCâA and A â B â C â A) on four class groups (two for each structure), for a total of 84, 12, and 13 year old secondary school students, 37 girls (44%) and 47 boys (56%). The aim was to examine if the players' behavior, in relation to the triad structure, matches with any ludic behavior patterns. An observational methodology was applied, with a nomothetic, punctual and multidimensional design. The intra and inter-evaluative correlation coefficients and the generalizability theory ensured the quality of the data. A mixed behavioral role system was used (four criteria and 15 categories), and the pattern detection software Theme was applied to detect temporal regularities in the order of event occurrences. The results show that time location of motor responses in triad games was not random. In the "maze" game we detected more complex ludic patterns than the "three fields" game, which might be explained by means of structural determinants such as circulation. This research points out the decisional complexity in motor games, and it confirms the differences among triads from the point of view of motor communication.
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Observational methodology provides a rigorous yet flexible framework for capturing behaviors over time to allow for the performance of subsequent diachronic analyses of the data captured. Theme is a specialized software program that detects hidden temporal behavioral patterns (T-patterns) within data sets. It is increasingly being used to analyze performance in soccer and other sports. The aim of this study was to show how to select and interpret T-patterns generated by the application of three "quantitative" sort options in Theme and three "qualitative" filters established by the researchers. These will be used to investigate whether 7-a-side (F7) or 8-a-side (F8) soccer is best suited to the learning and skills development needs of 7- and 8-year-old male soccer players. The information contained in the T-patterns generated allowed us to characterize patterns of play in children in this age group. For both formats, we detected technical-tactical behaviors showing that children of this age have difficulty with first-touch actions and controlling the ball after a throw-in. We also found that ball control followed by a pass or a shot at the goal are common in the central corridor of the pitch. Further, depth of play is achieved by ball control, followed by dribbling and a pass or shot. In F8, we saw that depth of play was achieved through ball control, followed by dribbling and passing of one or more opponents leading to a pass or shot. However, in F7, we saw that players succeeded in advancing from their goal area to the rival goal area through a sequence of actions.
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The influence of game location on performance has been widely examined in sport contexts. Concerning soccer, game-location affects positively the secondary and tertiary level of performance; however, there are fewer evidences about its effect on game structure (primary level of performance). This study aimed to detect the effect of game location on a primary level of performance in soccer. In particular, the objective was to reveal the hidden structures underlying the attack actions, in both home and away matches played by a top club (Serie A 2012/2013-First Leg). The methodological approach was based on systematic observation, supported by digital recordings and T-pattern analysis. Data were analyzed with THEME 6.0 software. A quantitative analysis, with nonparametric Mann-Whitney test and descriptive statistics, was carried out to test the hypotheses. A qualitative analysis on complex patterns was performed to get in-depth information on the game structure. This study showed that game tactics were significantly different, with home matches characterized by a more structured and varied game than away matches. In particular, a higher number of different patterns, with a higher level of complexity and including more unique behaviors was detected in home matches than in the away ones. No significant differences were found in the number of events coded per game between the two conditions. THEME software, and the corresponding T-pattern detection algorithm, enhance research opportunities by going further than frequency-based analyses, making this method an effective tool in supporting sport performance analysis and training.
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Contextual factors are crucial for evaluative research in psychology, as they provide insights into what works, for whom, in what circumstances, in what respects, and why. Studying behavior in context, however, poses numerous methodological challenges. Although a comprehensive framework for classifying methods seeking to quantify biopsychosocial aspects in everyday contexts was recently proposed, this framework does not contemplate contributions from observational methodology. The aim of this paper is to justify and propose a more general framework that includes observational methodology approaches. Our analysis is rooted in two general concepts: ecological validity and methodological complementarity. We performed a narrative review of the literature on research methods and techniques for studying daily life and describe their shared properties and requirements (collection of data in real time, on repeated occasions, and in natural settings) and classification criteria (eg, variables of interest and level of participant involvement in the data collection process). We provide several examples that illustrate why, despite their higher costs, studies of behavior and experience in everyday contexts offer insights that complement findings provided by other methodological approaches. We urge that observational methodology be included in classifications of research methods and techniques for studying everyday behavior and advocate a renewed commitment to prioritizing ecological validity in behavioral research seeking to quantify biopsychosocial aspects.
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In the field of sports research, there is a growing need for the rigorous collection of data that provide empirical evidence about the complex reality they refer to. Although sports psychology research has advanced considerably in recent years, in both extent and quality, one area of research that remains relatively unexplored is the dynamics of the sports group and the influence of the group on its members (George & Feltz, 1995; Widmeyer, Brawley, & Carron, 1992). Key aspects in this regard include the presence of regularities that are not detectable through visual inference or traditional methods of data analysis, the lack of standard observation instruments, and, assuming priority, the need to develop powerful, computerized coding systems, all of which must form part of an approach that is suitable for natural and habitual contexts. The present study is part of a broader research project concerning ACB teams (first Spanish basketball division) and considers the interaction context before teams try to score (where this is understood as how teams create scoring opportunities) as the core aspect that links team play. This investigation proposes a new model of analysis for studying the effectiveness and construction of offensive basketball plays in order to identify their outcomes, thus providing coaches with an important device for improving or consolidating them.
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Desempenho Atlético/psicologia , Basquetebol/psicologia , Pesquisa Comportamental/métodos , Observação/métodos , Humanos , SoftwareRESUMO
The present article analyzes the diversity of motor skills related to three different kinds of instructions: descriptive, metaphoric, and kinesic, with a special emphasis on the detection of temporal patterns (T-patterns). Twelve undergraduates studying sport and physical education, but without experience in dance, were observed during 24 lessons of Body Movement, a discipline based on creative dance, mime dance, and motor skill improvisation. Using observational methodology and technology applied to movement, the aim of this article was to adapt the Observational instrument of Motor Skills (OSMOS) (Castañer, Torrents, Anguera, & Dinusová, 2008) so as to create an instrument capable of analyzing the motor skill responses generated in lessons of Body Movement and Dance. The results, as reflected by the T-patterns detected, show that (1) participants try to generate their own motor skills but copy some fundamental components of the instructions, and (2) the criterion of stability in two configurations (support and axial) is the predominant category. Sequential and coordinated locomotion also appears to be very relevant.
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Pesquisa Comportamental/métodos , Dança , Destreza Motora , Movimento , Gravação de Videoteipe/métodos , Humanos , Modelos Educacionais , Fatores de Tempo , Adulto JovemRESUMO
Traditional methods for quantifying sport performances are limited in their capacity to describe the complex interactions of events that occur within a performance over time. The following article outlines a new approach to the study of actions between players in team sports--mainly, soccer. Since the observational design is nomothetic, point, and multidimensional, an observational and data-collecting instrument has been developed. The instrument is mixed and combines a field format with a category system for game events, as well as an ad hoc instrument that considers the game actions of one or both teams, each recorded according to the same criteria. The article also outlines a new approach to the analysis of time-based event records--in this case, sports performance--known as T-pattern detection. The relevant elements of the T-pattern detection process are explained, and exemplar data from analyses of soccer matches are presented to highlight the potential of this form of data analysis. The results suggest that it is possible to identify new kinds of profiles for both individuals and teams on the basis of observational criteria and a further analysis of temporal behavioral patterns detected within the performances.
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Relações Interpessoais , Reconhecimento Automatizado de Padrão/métodos , Futebol/estatística & dados numéricos , Validação de Programas de Computador , Análise e Desempenho de Tarefas , Ciências do Comportamento/instrumentação , Ciências do Comportamento/métodos , Coleta de Dados/métodos , Humanos , Educação Física e Treinamento/métodos , Jogos e Brinquedos , Gravação em VídeoRESUMO
Quantitative analysis of sports performance has been shown to produce information that coaches can use within the coaching process to enhance performance. Traditional methods for quantifying sport performances are limited in their capacity to describe the complex interactions of events that occur within a performance over time. In this paper, we outline a new approach to the analysis of time-based event records and real-time behaviour records on sport performance known as T-pattern detection. The relevant elements of the T-pattern detection process are explained and exemplar data from the analysis of 13 soccer matches are presented to highlight the potential of this form of analysis. The results from soccer suggest that it is possible to identify new profiles for both individuals and teams based on the analysis of temporal behavioural patterns detected within the performances.