Cat Coat Color, Personality Traits and the Cat-Owner Relationship Scale: A Study with Cat Owners in Mexico.

Studies regarding the cat-owner bond are quite rare, and several aspects merit more research, including personality trait differences in cats related to coat color and the cat-owner relationship. The objectives of the study were to describe, from the perspective of their owners, the personality traits of cats based on their coat colors and to evaluate the relationships among the Cat Owner Relationship Scale (CORS), its subscales and the traits of cats. Therefore, the CORS was translated into Spanish, and its psychometric properties were assessed. For the personality traits of cats, participants answered a 7-point Likert scale indicating the extent to which they agreed with the following characteristics in describing their cats: active, aloof, bold, calm, friendly, intolerant, shy, stubborn, tolerant and trainable. 211 cat owners living in Mexico participated. Owners perceived their cats as being bold and friendly. Gray cats had the highest score for being as shy, aloof and intolerant, while orange cats had the highest scores for being trainable, friendly and calm. Tabbies the highest for bold and active, tricolor cats for stubborn, and bicolor cats for tolerant. The 3 CORS subscales had adequate psychometric properties when evaluated separately. Cat-owner interaction was positively correlated with an active and friendly personality and negatively correlated with aloofness. Emotional closeness was positively correlated with an active, bold and friendly personality, and perceived cost was negatively correlated with boldness.

Diferencias en tolerancia a la frustración entre Baby Boomers, Generación X y Millennials / Frustration tolerance differences among Baby Boomers, Generation X and Millennials

Introducción y objetivos: La sociedad actual se compone de cinco generaciones con características culturales diferenciales, que llevan al supuesto de diferencia en la tolerancia a la frustración entre ellas. La tolerancia a la frustración es un concepto esencial en el modelo cognitivo-conductual. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue comparar la tolerancia a la frustración entre tres de las generaciones: Baby Boomer, X y Millennials. Material y métodos: Participaron 909 personas,192 pertenecientes la generación Baby Boomers, 310 de la generación X y 407 Millennials. Se utilizó la Escala de Tolerancia a la frustración (ETAF) que se compone de 4 dimensiones: personal, social, laboral y familiar. Resultados: La correlación entre edad y tolerancia a la frustración es débil, aunque significativa, lo que se atribuye al tamaño de muestra (rs = .132; p = .001). Las correlaciones entre edad y tolerancia a la frustración dentro de cada grupo generacional, no fueron significativas. La prueba Kruskal-Wallis indicó diferencia significativa en tolerancia a la frustración entre los tres grupos. Con la prueba U de Mann Whitney se identificó equivalencia entre la Generación X y Millennials. Se encontró equivalencia de las tres generaciones en la dimensión familiar. La generación Baby Boomers presenta diferencias significativas con las otras dos generaciones en el resto de las dimensiones, mientras que Millennials y Generación X solo presentan diferencias en la dimensión laboral. Conclusiones: La generación Baby Boomers muestra la mayor tolerancia a la frustración y la generación Millennials la menor tolerancia a la frustración especialmente en la dimensión laboral.(AU)

Introduction and objectives: Modern society consists of five generations with differential cultural characteristics, which lead to the assumption of differences in frustration tolerance among them. Frustration tolerance is an essential concept in cognitive-behavioral model. The objective of this research was to compare frustration tolerance among three generations: Baby Boomer, X and Millennials. Material and methods: Participated 909 people; 192 belonging to Baby Boomers generation, 310 to X generation and 407 were Millennials. The Frustration Tolerance Scale was used, it has 4 dimensions: personal, social, labor and family. Scores were not normally distributed, thus nonparametric tests were used. Results: The correlation between age and frustration tolerance is weak, although significant, which is attributed to the sample size (rs = .132; p = .001). The correlations between age and frustration tolerance in each generational group were not significant. The Kruskal-Wallis test showed a significant difference among three generation when frustration tolerance was compared. Using Mann-Whitney U test an equivalence between Generation X and Millennials was identified. Equivalence of the three generations was found in the family dimension. Significant differences between Baby Boomers generation and each other generation were found in labor, social and personal dimensions. Millennials and Generation X only showed differences in the labor dimension. Conclusions: The Baby Boomers generation shows the highest frustration tolerance and Millennials generation the least frustration tolerance, especially in the labor dimension.(AU)

Pet-Human Relationships: Dogs versus Cats.

The study of human-animal interactions has increased, focusing on the dog-owner relationship, leaving a lag in research on the cat-owner relationship and practically a total absence of studies that compare the dog-owner relationship with the cat-owner relationship. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to make this comparison based on the perception of people living with both dogs and cats, considering interaction, emotional closeness, and perceived cost of the relationship. A total of 132 residents in Mexico participated. To evaluate the pet-human relationship, the dog and cat versions of the Monash dog owner relationship scale were used, thus obtaining comparable scores for the relationship with dogs and cats. Based on what the owners reported, significant differences were found. Relationships with cats were better than relationships with dogs, a finding that was confirmed when comparing male dogs and cats and when comparing female dogs and cats. It was concluded that relationships with cats are better because the perceived cost of such a relationship is lower. However, emotional closeness is greater with dogs than with cats.

Tolerancia al estrés y satisfacción con la vida como predictores del impacto por el confinamiento debido al COVID-19 / Stress tolerance and life satisfaction as predictors of the perceived impact of confinement by COVID-19

Introducción y Objetivos: En México, la indicación de permanecer en confinamiento voluntario debido al COVID-19 inició el 14 de marzo del 2020. A la fecha, son pocos los estudios sobre los factores de riesgo y protectores del impacto por este confinamiento. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar un modelo estructural del impacto percibido en diferentes ámbitos de la vida de la persona por el confinamiento debido al COVID- 19, incluyendo como predictores la tolerancia al estrés y satisfacción con la vida.Pacientes o Materiales y Métodos: El diseño fue longitudinal de grupos pareados, buscando identificar el efecto de las variables independientes en un lapso de dos meses (evaluación 1: tolerancia al estrés y satisfacción con la vida) sobre la dependiente (evaluación 2: impacto). Se incluyeron 158 personas con edad promedio de 31.8 años (DE = 11.1), 65.2% mujeres.Resultados: El modelo estructural confirma el efecto de la tolerancia al estrés y la satisfacción con la vida sobre el impacto percibido por el confinamiento en los ámbitos de bienestar emocional, condición física, salud, felicidad y tranquilidad.Conclusiones: Se concluye que la tolerancia al estrés y la satisfacción con la vida pueden ser protectores del impacto por el confinamiento en aquellos ámbitos en los que la persona puede modificar su comportamiento o sus pensamientos.(AU)

Introduction and Objectives: In Mexico, the indication to shelter in place due to COVID-19 began on March 14, 2020. To date, there are few studies on risk factors and protectors of the impact of this confinement. The aim was to evaluate a structural model of the perceived impact in different areas of the person's life due to confinement by COVID-19, including stress tolerance and life satisfaction as predictors.Patients or Materials and Methods: This was a longitudinal paired groups study, seeking to identify the effect of the independent variables with two months between evaluations (evaluation 1: stress tolerance and life satisfaction) on the dependent one (evaluation 2: impact). Were included 158 people with mean age of 31.8 years (SD = 11.1), 65.2% women.Results: The structural model confirms the effect of stress tolerance and life satisfaction on the perceived impact of confinement in the areas of emotional well-being, physical condition, health, happiness and tranquility.Conclusions: It is concluded that stress tolerance and life satisfaction can be protectors of the impact of confinement in those areas in which the person can modify their behavior or thoughts.(AU)

Validación del modelo de cinco factores de la Escala de Actitud hacia la Estadística en estudiantes mexicanos de psicología / Validation of the five-factor model of the Attitude Scale towards Statistics in Mexican psychology students

Resumen La actitud positiva hacia la estadística promueve el estudio y uso de esta disciplina fundamental para analizar datos; de ahí la relevancia de evaluar el nivel actitudinal y desarrollar estrategias que lo potencien. La Escala de Actitud hacia la Estadística (EAE-25) de Auzmendi es uno de los instrumentos más usados en español para medir esta actitud, pero no se ha validado en México, lo que es importante para su uso en este país y para aportar evidencias de validez. Los objetivos del estudio fueron contrastar el modelo propuesto originariamente, comprobar su consistencia interna, describir su distribución, comparar los promedios entre sexos y verificar su validez concurrente. Este estudio instrumental usó un muestreo no probabilístico. Se analizó una muestra de 383 estudiantes de psicología mexicanos (73.6 % mujeres y 26.4 % hombres) que respondieron a dos escalas de actitud. El modelo de cinco factores (confianza, ansiedad, agrado, utilidad y motivación) mostró buen ajuste a los datos. Sus factores presentaron confiabilidad y validez discriminante. La distribución de las puntuaciones en EAE-25 fue normal. La actitud se polarizó, aproximadamente, en cuatro de cada diez estudiantes hacia la aceptación y en uno de cada diez hacia el rechazo. No hubo diferencias de medias entre sexos. La EAE-25 tuvo correlación alta con actitud hacia la investigación y baja con la calificación en la materia de investigación del semestre anterior. Se concluye que la EAE-25 presenta consistencia interna y validez de constructo.

Abstract The positive attitude towards statistics promotes the study and use of this fundamental discipline to analyze data, hence the relevance of evaluating the attitudinal level and developing strategies that promote a positive attitude. The Auzmendi's Scale of Attitude towards Statistics (EAE-25) is one of the most used instruments in Spanish language to assess this attitude; however, it has not been validated in Mexico, which is important for its use in this country and to provide evidence of validity. The objectives of the study were to test the originally proposed model, to verify its reliability, to describe its distribution, to compare the averages between both sexes, and to verify its concurrent validity. A non-probabilistic sampling was used in this instrumental study. A sample of 383 Mexican psychology students was analyzed (73.6 % women and 26.4 % men). The EAE-25 and a scale assessing attitude towards research were applied. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the Auzmendi's five-factor model. The parameter estimation was performed by unweighted least squares, using polychoric correlation matrix. The internal consistency was estimated by the McDonald's omega coefficient (ω), the convergent validity by the average variance extracted (AVE), and the discriminant validity by the heterotrait-monotrait ratio of correlations (HTMT). The mean differences between both sexes were tested through the t-test and concurrent validity through Pearson's correlation coefficients. The model of five correlated factors (confidence, anxiety, pleasure, usefulness, and motivation) showed good fit (χ./df =1.79, GFI = .98, AGFI = .97, NFI = .97, CFI =.99, RMSEA = .04, and SRMR = .07). The five factors showed reliability (ω > .80 in confidence, anxiety, pleasure, and usefulness, and ω = .72 in motivation) and discriminant validity (HTMT < .85 in nine out of ten factor pairs, and < .90 in the pair of the anxiety and confidence factors). The values of AVE were higher than .50 in the factors of confidence, anxiety and pleasure, which shows convergent validity in these three factors. A value of AVE very close to .50 in utility (AVE = .49) was compensated by an omega coefficient of .82, which suggests an acceptable convergent validity. However, the value of AVE was lower than .50 in motivation (AVE = .34). The EAE-25 and its factors presented normal distribution, with the exception of the motivation factor. The scores in the scale and its factors were obtained through the quotient between the sum of the items scored in the sense of acceptance attitude and the number of items added. These scores were interpreted in an absolute sense, by dividing the continuum from 1 to 5 into five intervals in correspondence with the five ordered categories of response to the items: [1, 1.8) y [1.8, 2.6) rejection, [2.6, 3.4) neutral, and [3.4, 4.2) y [4.2, 5] acceptance. The average attitude was positive in confidence (. = 3.53) and utility (. = 3.52), and neutral in the EAE-25 total score and its other three factors. The EAE-25 total scores were polarized towards acceptance in approximately four out of ten students and towards the rejected in approximately one out of ten; in the rest, they were neutral. There were no differences of means between both sexes. The EAE-25 total score had a high correlation with the total score in the scale of attitude towards research (. = .52, . < .001) and low with the qualification in the research subject of the previous semester (. = .13, . < .001). It is concluded that EAE-25 presents internal consistency and construct validity. It is suggested to use this scale in applied research in the field of university education and upper secondary education.

Predictores del crecimiento postraumático en hombres y mujeres / Predictors of posttraumatic growth in men and women

INTRODUCCIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: Las experiencias traumáticas son hechos relativamente frecuentes y no todas las víctimas desarrollan consecuencias psicológicas negativas. El propósito de este trabajo fue identificar los predictores del crecimiento postraumático en víctimas de distintos sucesos traumáticos. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: La muestra estaba constituida por 198 mujeres (M = 33.37; DE = 11.91) y 99 hombres (M = 35.30; DE = 12.54) quienes experimentaron diferentes eventos traumáticos. Para identificar los predictores del crecimiento postraumático se empleó el modelamiento de ecuaciones estructurales, considerando como variables predictoras: optimismo, sentido de vida y resiliencia. RESULTADOS: No se encontraron diferencias significativas en las variables de estudio de acuerdo con el sexo de los participantes; sin embargo, la matriz de correlaciones mostró que existían diferencias entre hombres y mujeres, por lo que se estimaron modelos separados. Aunque los modelos mostraron algunas diferencias, en ambos casos, tanto para mujeres como para hombres, el factor fortaleza y confianza en sí mismo resultó ser el principal predictor. CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados muestran la importancia de variables tanto individuales como ambientales, las cuales facilitan un estilo de afrontamiento adaptativo para lograr un crecimiento postraumático

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Traumatic experiences are relatively frequent, however, not all victims develop negative psychological outcomes. The purpose of this study was to identify the predictors of posttraumatic growth (PTG) in victims of different traumatic events. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample was composed of 198 women (M = 33.37; SD = 11.91) and 99 men (M = 35.30; SD = 12.54) who experienced different traumatic events. To identify the predictors of PTG, structural equation modeling was performed, considering as predictive variables: optimism, sense of life and resilience. RESULTS: No significant differences were found in the study variables by sex; nevertheless, given that the correlation matrix showed differences between men and women, separate models were estimated. Although the models showed some differences, both for women and men, the strength and self-confidence factor was the main predictor. CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate the importance of both individual and environmental variables, which facilitate an adaptive coping style to achieve PTG

Adaptación de la escala de apoyo social familiar y de amigos (AFA-R) como medida del apoyo social de pareja en mujeres mexicanas embarazadas / Adaptation of the Social Support from Parents and Friends Scale (AFA-R) as a measure of social partner support in Mexican pregnant women

INTRODUCCIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: El apoyo social representa un factor protector para la mujer embarazada, contribuyendo al afrontamiento favorable de estresores. De ahí la importancia del apoyo social de la pareja, ya que su involucramiento propicia la adaptación de la mujer al embarazo, repercutiendo en su salud física y psicológica. El objetivo del estudio fue adaptar y evaluar la estructura interna de la escala AFA-R como medida del apoyo social familiar y de pareja. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Participaron 284 mujeres mexicanas embarazadas. El muestreo por conveniencia se realizó en clínicas del sector salud. Se realizaron análisis de consistencia interna, análisis factorial exploratorio (AFE) (n = 100) y análisis confirmatorio (AFC) (n = 184). RESULTADOS: Se obtuvo un alfa de .927 y evidencia de validez de criterio evaluada con medidas de estrés (rs = -.391) y ansiedad (rs = -.401). El AFE determinó una estructura bifactorial que explica el 68.07% de la varianza. El AFC mostró buena confiabilidad compuesta (CR > .8) y adecuada validez convergente (AVE > .5) en ambas variables latentes. CONCLUSIONES: Se confirma la estructura bifactorial para valorar el apoyo social familiar y de pareja en mujeres embarazadas con la versión adaptada del AFA-R

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Social support represents a protective factor for pregnant women, contributing to the favorable coping of stressors. Hence the importance of a partner's social support, since their involvement promotes a woman's adaptation to pregnancy, affecting her physical and psychological health. The objective of the study was to adapt and evaluate the internal structure of the AFA-R scale as a measure of family and partner's social support. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two hundred and eighty fourMexican pregnant women participated. Sampling for convenience was performed in health sector clinics. Internal consistency analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) (n = 100) and confirmatory analysis (CFA) (n = 184) were performed. RESULTS: An alpha of .927 was obtained, and evidence for criteria validity was assessed with stress measures (rs = -.391) and anxiety (rs = -.401) The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) determined a bifactorial structure that explains 68.07% of the variance. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) showed good composite reliability (CR > .8) and an adequate average variance was extracted (AAV > .5) from both latent variables. CONCLUSIONS: The bifactorial structure is confirmed to assess family and partner's social support in pregnant women with the AFA-R's adapted version

Satisfacción marital e impacto del confinamiento por COVID-19 en México / Couple satisfaction and impact of confinement by COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico / Marital satisfaction and impact of confinement by COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico

RESUMEN Introducción : El propósito del estudio fue evaluar la relación entre la satisfacción marital, medida por la Escala de Valoración de la Relación y el impacto percibido por el confinamiento debido al COVID-19 en diferentes ámbitos de la vida de las personas en una muestra mexicana. Método : Se evaluó a 101 personas que viven en pareja, con edad promedio de 41.2 años (DE = 10.7), 54.5% mujeres y 45.5% hombres. Resultados : El principal resultado fue la correlación negativa y significativa que indica que, a mayor satisfacción en la relación, menor impacto del confinamiento en los ámbitos de tranquilidad, felicidad, salud, condición física y bienestar emocional. Conclusión : Las personas que evalúan su relación de pareja como satisfactoria perciben menor impacto durante la contingencia por COVID-19 en los diferentes ámbitos de su vida.

ABSTRACT Background : The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between marital satisfaction, measured by the Relationship Assessment Scale and the perceived impact of confinement due to COVID-19 in different areas of people's lives, in a Mexican sample. Method : 101 people living as a couple, with an average age of 41.2 years (SD = 10.7), 54.5% women and 45.5% men were evaluated. Results : The main result was a negative and significant correlation that indicates that the greater the satisfaction in the relationship, the less impact of confinement in the areas of tranquility, happiness, health, physical condition and emotional well-being. Conclusion : The people with higher marital satisfaction will perceive less impact during the contingency by COVID-19 in the different areas of the person's life.

ABSTRACT Background : The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between marital satisfaction, measured by the Relationship Assessment Scale and the perceived impact of confinement due to COVID-19 in different areas of people's lives, in a Mexican sample. Method : 101 people living as a couple, with an average age of 41.2 years (SD = 10.7), 54.5% women and 45.5% men were evaluated. Results : The main result was a negative and significant correlation that indicates that the greater the satisfaction in the relationship, the less impact of confinement in the areas of tranquility, happiness, health, physical condition and emotional well-being. Conclusion : The people with higher marital satisfaction will perceive less impact during the contingency by COVID-19 in the different areas of the person's life.

RESUMEN Introducción : El propósito del estudio fue evaluar la relación entre la satisfacción marital, medida por la Escala de Valoración de la Relación y el impacto percibido por el confinamiento debido al COVID-19 en diferentes ámbitos de la vida de las personas en una muestra mexicana. Método : Se evaluó a 101 personas que viven en pareja, con edad promedio de 41.2 años (DE = 10.7), 54.5% mujeres y 45.5% hombres. Resultados : El principal resultado fue la correlación negativa y significativa que indica que, a mayor satis- facción en la relación, menor impacto del confinamiento en los ámbitos de tranquilidad, felicidad, salud, condición física y bienestar emocional. Conclusión : Las personas que evalúan su relación de pareja como satisfactoria perciben menor impacto durante la contingencia por COVID-19 en los diferentes ámbitos de su vida.

Social influences in a model of body dissatisfaction, weight worry and bodily discomfort in Mexican women / Influencias sociales en un modelo de insatisfacción corporal, preocupación por el peso y malestar corporal en mujeres mexicanas

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze the explanatory level of the variables advertising influence, verbal messages, social models and social situations as regards body dissatisfaction, weight worry, and bodily discomfort. The study was conducted in a convenience sample of 206 Mexican women with an average age of 22.12 years (SD = 4.21). Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the direct and indirect effects of the independent variables on the dependent ones in three hypothetical models proposed. In the case of the model proposed for body dissatisfaction, it was found that the set of vari ables had 79% of variance explained and showed adequate goodness-of-fit indices (χ2/gl = .877; GFI = .982; CFI = .978; AGFI = .980; SRMR = .068; RMSEA = .079). The model for weight worry had 62% of variance explained and an acceptable goodness of fit (χ2/gl = 1.556; GFI = .981; CFI = .975; AGFI = .978; SRMR = .068; RMSEA = .080). Finally, the model for bodily discomfort had 72% of variance explained and showed adequate goodness of fit (χ2/gl = .173; GFI = .976; CFI = .969; AGFI = .972; SRMR = .062; RMSEA = .072). It is concluded that social influences have a significant impact on body image. Verbal messages had the strongest impact on the variables studied.

Resumen El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar el grado explicativo de las variables "influencia de la publicidad", "mensajes verbales", "modelos sociales" y "situaciones sociales" frente a la insatisfacción corporal, la preocupación por el peso y el malestar corporal en una muestra seleccionada por conveniencia de 206 mujeres mexicanas con promedio de edad de 22.12 años (DT = 4.21). Específicamente, se utilizó un modelamiento de ecuaciones estructurales para identificar los efectos directos e indirectos de las variables independientes sobre las dependientes en tres modelos hipotéticos propuestos, y como resultados se encontró que el conjunto de variables tuvo un valor explicativo de 79 % para el modelo planteado para la insatisfacción corporal, con buenos indicadores de bondad de ajuste (χ2/gl = .877; GFI = .982; CFI = .978; AGFI = .980; SRMR = .068; RMSEA = .079); de 62 % para el modelo de preocupación por el peso, con una adecuada bondad de ajuste (χ2/gl = 1.556; GFI = .981; CFI = .975; AGFI = .978; SRMR = .068; RMSEA = .080); y de 72 % para el modelo de malestar corporal, con buenos valores de bondad de ajuste (χ2/gl = .173; GFI = .976; CFI = .969; AGFI = .972; SRMR = .062; RMSEA = .072). Se concluye que las influencias sociales tienen un impacto significativo en la imagen corporal y que los mensajes verbales presentan un mayor impacto en las variables estudiadas.

Escala de tolerancia al estrés: propiedades psicométricas en muestra mexicana y relación con estrés percibido y edad / Distress tolerance scale: Psychometric properties in a Mexican sample and its relationship with perceived stress and age

INTRODUCCIÓN Y OBJETIVOS: La tolerancia al estrés se define como la capacidad para experimentar y resistir estados psicológicos negativos. Recientemente ha sido estudiada en relación con diversos aspectos psicopatológicos, pero no de forma suficiente con otras variables no clínicas, entre ellas la edad. La presente investigación surge debido al creciente interés en incluir la variable tolerancia al estrés en la investigación clínica y la escasez de estudios en español al respecto. El objetivo es evaluar las propiedades psicométricas de la escala de tolerancia al estrés en muestras mexicanas, evaluar su relación con el estrés percibido y comparar sus puntuaciones por grupos de edad. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: El estudio se compone de 2 muestras de conveniencia, la primera de 225 personas, con edad promedio de 34.1 años (DE = 13.9), el 71.6% mujeres y el 28.4% hombres. La muestra 2 se compone de 384 universitarios, con edad promedio de 19.4 años (DE = 3.1) el 73.2% mujeres y el 26.8% hombres. RESULTADOS: Se encontraron valores adecuados de consistencia interna en ambas muestras. Se confirmó la estructura de 4 factores con uno de segundo orden. Las correlaciones entre la mayoría de las subescalas de tolerancia al estrés fueron significativas en ambas muestras, al igual que las correlaciones (negativas) entre estrés percibido y tolerancia al estrés. Las puntuaciones fueron equivalentes entre los diferentes grupos de edad. CONCLUSIONES: Se concluye que es una escala con adecuadas propiedades psicométricas, y que la versión española es adecuada para ser utilizada en población mexicana y posiblemente latina

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Distress tolerance is defined as the ability to experience and resist negative psychological states. Recently it has been studied in relation to different psychopathological aspects, but not enough in relation to other non-clinical variables, including age. This research arises due to the growing interest in including distress tolerance in clinical research and the scarcity of studies in Spanish in this regard. The aim of the study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Distress Tolerance Scale in a Mexican sample; and to assess their relationship with perceived stress and compare their scores by age groups. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study consists of 2 convenience samples, the first of 225 people, with an average age of 34.1 years (SD = 13.9), 71.6% women and 28.4% men. Sample 2 is composed of 384 university students, with an average age of 19.4 years (SD = 3.1) 73.2% women and 26.8% men. RESULTS: We found adequate values of reliability in both samples. The 4 factor structure with a second order structure was confirmed. The correlations between most of the distress tolerance subscales were significant in both samples, as well as the negative correlation between perceived stress and distress tolerance. The scores were equivalent among the different age groups. CONCLUSIONS: It is concluded that this is a scale with adequate psychometric properties and that the Spanish version is suitable to be used in the Mexican population and possibly in the Latin population

Compatibility between Humans and Their Dogs: Benefits for Both.

Compatibility in activity preferences refers to the shared enjoyment of daily activities, such as walking and interacting with others, and it is an indicator of the behavioral dimension of compatibility, which mainly refers to exercise and play. It has been found that individuals who are more compatible with their dogs have a better relationship with them, which can explain some of the benefits of human-dog interaction. However, research to explain how and why human-animal relationships are potentially therapeutic is still needed. The objective of this quantitative study was to compare the benefits of human-dog interaction for both humans and dogs between people who were and were not compatible with their dogs. Ninety people with scores of 50% or less on the compatibility index and 110 people with 100% compatibility participated in the study. The groups were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. The people in the group with greater compatibility reported more subjective happiness and less perceived stress, a stable dog-feeding routine, and more frequent daily walks and playing sessions; additionally, for their dogs, they reported a lower frequency of aggressive and fearful behaviors and higher trainability scores. In conclusion, compatibility in activity preferences helps explain the benefits of human-animal interaction.

Dog-Assisted Therapy and Dental Anxiety: A Pilot Study.

Animal-assisted therapy aimed at improving individuals' mental or physical health has been widely reported. However, the data on how a therapy dog could help control anxiety during dental procedures is scarce. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of dog-assisted therapy on people with a history of dental anxiety while receiving preventive dental treatment. Twelve adults participated (women: n = 11 (91.7%) and men: n = 1 (8.3%), mean age = 31.25 years, D.E. = 5.78). The Corah Dental Anxiety Scale was applied, the patient's mood was assessed with a Likert scale before and after receiving the dental treatment, and their blood pressure was recorded for each of the three stages of treatment. A therapy dog accompanied the participants during the dental procedure. The main results indicated that a decrease in discomfort was perceived during the intervention, and there was also an improvement in the patient's evaluation of the experience. The results are based on the decrease in patients' blood pressure when taken in the middle of the dental treatment.

Intervention Approach to Improve Body Image Perception, from the Positive Psychology Perspective / Propuesta para mejorar la percepción de la imagen corporal, desde la psicología positiva / Proposta para melhorar a percepção da imagem corporal, desde a psicologia positiva

The following is a theoretical integration of two important topics: positive psychology and body image, in which tools of positive psychology and the importance of prevention based on it are detailed. Also, the concepts of body image in the population that is currently most vulnerable to this issue, adolescent women and young adult women, are highlighted. This review is complemented with a detailed proposal of psychological intervention designed from the approach of positive psychology and cognitive behavioral therapy. This proposal is composed of 11 sessions focused on improving the body image of women in two age ranges: adolescents and young adults who are normal weight, underweight or overweight; without falling into obesity or eating disorders. This proposal was created under two theoretical perspectives that are oriented towards the change of perceptions and behaviors that help self-acceptance of the body, with the purpose of avoiding body image distortion. Likewise, the necessary details are provided for the intervention to be applied in further investigations that offer evidence of its effectiveness and/or suggestions for improvements.

A continuación se presenta una integración teórica de dos tópicos de importancia actual: la psicología positiva y la imagen corporal, en donde se detallan herramientas de psicología positiva y la importancia de la prevención basada en ella. También se puntualizan los conceptos de imagen corporal en la población que actualmente es más vulnerable ante este tema, las mujeres adolescentes y las mujeres adultas jóvenes. Esta revisión se complementa con una detallada propuesta de intervención psicológica diseñada desde el enfoque de la psicología positiva y la terapia cognitivo conductual. La propuesta consta de 11 sesiones enfocadas en mejorar la imagen corporal de mujeres en dos rangos de edad, adolescentes y adultas jóvenes con normo peso, bajo peso o sobre peso, sin caer en obesidad o trastornos de conducta alimentaria. Esta propuesta se creó bajo dos perspectivas teóricas que están orientadas hacia el cambio de percepciones y conductas que favorezcan a la autoaceptación del cuerpo, con el fin de evitar la distorsión de la imagen corporal. Asimismo, se proporcionan los detalles necesarios para que la intervención se aplique en futuras investigaciones que ofrezcan evidencia de su efectividad o sugerencias de mejoras.

A seguinte é uma integração teórica de dois temas importantes: a psicologia positiva e a imagem corporal. No estudo são detalhadas as ferramentas da psicologia positiva e a importância da prevenção baseada em elas. Também, são ressaltados os conceitos da imagem corporal na população que é atualmente mais vulnerável em este aspeto, mulheres adolescentes e mulheres jovens adultas. Esta revisão é complementada com uma proposta detalhada da intervenção psicológica desenhada desde a perspectiva da psicologia positiva e a terapia cognitiva comportamental. Esta proposta esta composta de 11 sessões enfocadas em melhorar a imagem corporal de mulheres em dois rangos de idade: adolescentes e jovens adultas com peso normal ou com baixo ou sobrepeso, mais sem cair na obesidade ou desordens de alimentação. Esta proposta foi criada baixo duas perspectivas teóricas que estão orientada através da mudança das percepções e comportamentos que ajudam à auto aceitação do corpo, com o propósito de evitar a distorção da imagem corporal. Do mesmo jeito, são oferecidos os detalhes necessários de intervenção para ser aplicados em futuras pesquisas que proviam evidencia de sua efetividade e/ou sugestões para melhorar.

Consideraciones de la terapia asistida con perros como apoyo a la terapia cognitivo-conductual / Considerations of dog assisted therapy in support of cognitive-behavioral therapy

Existe una literatura variada sobre los efectos de la terapia asistida con animales sobre la salud física y psicológica de los humanos. Sin embargo, no todos los resultados han sido claramente comprendidos, en parte por las formas de evaluación utilizadas. Este trabajo documenta una serie de limitaciones que se presentaron en el desarrollo de un estudio de investigación en el que se aplicó un taller para incrementar la inteligencia emocional en un grupo de adolescentes de una casa hogar. Las limitaciones presentadas son ejemplos de los aspectos esenciales a considerar para la evaluación y aplicación de la terapia asistida con animales como apoyo a la terapia cognitivo-conductual. Se concluye que, si bien la terapia asistida con animales es una intervención adecuada para ciertas poblaciones, debe considerarse el costo/beneficio para su aplicación

Effects of animal assisted therapy in relation to physical and psychological human health have been previously reported. However, not all the results have been clearly understood due to the variety of measurement forms used. This paper shows the limitations faced when developing a research study on a workshop applied to increase emotional intelligence in a group of adolescents living in a shelter. The limitations presented are examples of the aspects that are essential to achieving a correct evaluation and application of animal assisted therapy in support of cognitive behavioral therapy. It is concluded that although animal assisted therapy is an appropriate intervention for certain populations, cost-benefit analysis should be considered in the process

Stressful situations affecting the perception of happiness: Love as a stressor / Situaciones estresantes que afectan la percepción de la felicidad: el amor como estresor

The purpose of this study was to analyze the association between subjective happiness, perceived stress and number of stressors, and to identify which of the latter have greater influence on subjective happiness and perceived stress. It was a transversal study carried out with 238 women and 52 men from the general population with an age range from 25 to 44 years, residents of the city of Monterrey or metropolitan area of the state of Nuevo León, Mexico. The Subjective Happiness Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale and a question about stressful situations were used as assessment instruments. Results showed a negative correlation between happiness and perceived stress. Likewise, the group of participants who reported love and partner relations as major stressful situations were the ones who also reported lower levels of happiness and higher levels of perceived stress. We conclude that, in our sample, situations related to love and partner relations had a higher impact on happiness, regardless of marital status and sex

Los propósitos de este estudio fueron conocer la relación entre la felicidad subjetiva, el estrés percibido y el número de estresores, e identificar aquellos sucesos vitales con más influencia sobre la felicidad subjetiva y el estrés percibido. Fue un estudio transversal donde participaron 238 mujeres y 52 hombres de población general de 25 a 44 años de edad, residentes en la ciudad de Monterrey o área metropolitana del estado de Nuevo León, México. Como medidas de evaluación se utilizaron la Escala de Felicidad Subjetiva, la Escala de Estrés Percibido y una pregunta sobre situaciones estresantes. Los resultados mostraron una relación negativa entre la felicidad y el estrés percibido de los participantes. Las personas del grupo que reportó las situaciones de amor y pareja como eventos generadores de estrés fueron quienes reportaron menor felicidad y mayor estrés percibido. Puede concluirse que las situaciones relacionadas con el amor y la pareja son las que tuvieron un mayor impacto en la felicidad, independientemente del estado civil y el sexo

Taller de manejo de ansiedad a hablar en público con la participación de perros de terapia / Speech anxiety management workshop assisted by therapy dogs

La ansiedad a hablar en público es común entre los universitarios y limita el desarrollo de esta competencia. La integración de la terapia cognitivo-conductual y el enfoque centrado en soluciones ha mostrado resultados positivos en su tratamiento. La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo evaluar si la participación de perros de terapia incrementaba los cambios después de un taller para manejar la ansiedad a hablar en público. El taller integra los enfoques terapéuticos mencionados. Se evaluaron síntomas de ansiedad y confianza a hablar en público. Participaron 7 universitarios. Formamos un grupo equivalente al grupo de comparación, que tomó el taller de 5 sesiones sin el apoyo de perros de terapia. Los resultados indicaron una mejoría significativa en las variables evaluadas (p < 0,05), aunque no se encontró diferencia significativa con el grupo de comparación. Se concluye que incluir perros de terapia no mejora los resultados del tratamiento

Speech anxiety is common among university students, which hinders their ability to speak in public. Cognitive behavioural therapy and solution-focused therapy have shown positive results in speech anxiety. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether using therapy dogs enhanced results after a speech anxiety workshop that incorporated the aforementioned therapeutic approaches. Anxiety symptoms and public speaking confidence were assessed. Seven university students participated and results were compared against an equivalent comparison group, which attended the 5-session workshop without the support of therapy dogs. The results indicated a significant improvement in the assessed variables (P < .05), although the changes observed did not differ statistically from the comparison group. We conclude that including therapy dogs does not improve treatment results

Variación diurna del cortisol y su relación con estrés, optimismo y estrategias de afrontamiento en mujeres con cáncer de mama / Diurnal cortisol variation and its relationship with stress, optimism and coping strategies in women with breast cancer / Variação diurna do cortisol e sua relação com o estresse: otimismo e estratégias de enfrentamento em mulheres com câncer de mama

El ritmo diurno del cortisol se ha visto alterado en los pacientes con cáncer. Factores como el avance de la enfermedad y los niveles de estrés se han considerado para explicar esta condición; sin embargo, los resultados no son claros. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar y determinar si existen diferencias en los niveles de cortisol en mujeres con cáncer de mama en diferentes estadios, y analizar la relación entre los niveles de cortisol y el estrés, el optimismo y las estrategias de afrontamiento. Se recolectaron muestras de cortisol salival durante dos días, y se aplicaron cuestionarios psicológicos de estrés percibido (PSS), optimismo disposicional (LOT-R) y estrategias de afrontamiento (MAC) a 17 mujeres con cáncer de mama en estadio I, II y III. Los resultados muestran que las pacientes con cáncer de mama en los tres estadios presentan un ritmo diurno de cortisol normal y no difieren significativamente en los niveles de cortisol. Respecto a las variables psicológicas, solo difieren en la variable de optimismo. Las estrategias de afrontamiento espíritu de lucha y evitación cognitiva son las variables que tienen más influencia en los niveles de cortisol, y explican un 55% de la varianza. Se discuten las implicaciones de estos resultados.

Diurnal cortisol rhythm has been altered in patients with cancer. Factors such as disease progression and stress levels are regarded as possible causes to explain this condition, however results are not clear. The aim of this study was to assess and determine whether there are differences in cortisol levels in women with breast cancer in different stages and analyze the relationship between cortisol levels and stress, optimism and coping strategies. Salivary cortisol samples were collected for two days and psychological questionnaires of perceived stress (PSS), dispositional optimism (LOT-R) and coping strategies (MAC) were administered to 17 breast cancer women in stage I, II and III of the disease. The results show that patients with breast cancer in the three stages have a normal diurnal cortisol rhythm and do not differ significantly in cortisol levels. Regarding the psychological variables, they differ only in optimism. Coping strategies such as fighting spirit and cognitive avoidance are the variables that have more influence on cortisol levels, explaining 55% of variance. The implications of these results are discussed.

O ritmo diurno do cortisol vem sendo visto alterado nos pacientes com câncer. Fatores como o avanço da doença e os níveis de estresse estão sendo considerados para explicar essa condição; contudo, os resultados não são claros. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar e determinar se existem diferenças nos níveis de cortisol em mulheres com câncer de mama de diferentes estágios, bem como analisar estratégias de enfrentamento. Foram coletadas amostras de cortisol salival durante dois dias e aplicados questionários psicológicos de estresse percebido, otimismo disposicional e estratégias de enfrentamento a 17 mulheres com câncer de mama em estágio I, II e III. Os resultados mostram que as pacientes com esse câncer nos três estágios apresentam um ritmo diurno de cortisol normal e não se diferenciam significativamente na variável de otimismo. A respeito das variáveis psicológicas, só diferem na variável de otimismo. As estratégias de enfrentamento -espírito de luta e evitação cognitiva- são as variáveis que têm mais influência nos níveis de cortisol e explicam 55% da variação. Discutem-se as implicações desses resultados.

Propiedades psicométricas del modelo bifactorial del BDI-II (versión española) en muestras mexicanas de población general y estudiantes universitarios / Psychometric Properties of the BDI-II Bifactorial Model on Mexican General Population and University Students

En este trabajo, se analizan las propiedades psicométricas de la versión española (Sanz, Navarro, & Vázquez, 2003) del Inventario para la Depresión de Beck ([BDI-II]; Beck, Steer, & Brown, 1996) en muestras mexicanas no clínicas: 474 estudiantes universitarios y 478 personas de población general. La consistencia interna resultó satisfactoria en ambas muestras siendo alfa de Cronbach 0.901 para la muestra total. Los resultados coinciden con los reportados en estudios previos españoles (Sanz, Navarro & Vázquez, 2003; Sanz, Perdigón & Vazquez, 2003) acerca de las propiedades psicométricas del instrumento, así como otros estudios internacionales revisados. El análisis factorial confirmatorio muestra buenos índices de ajuste al modelo bifactorial de la escala. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en las puntuaciones en función del sexo, pero no se observan efectos significativos de la edad. Se concluye que la versión española del BDI-II puede ser un instrumento válido y fiable para evaluar la sintomatología depresiva en la población general adulta mexicana y en estudiantes universitarios.

The purpose of this study was to test the Spanish version (Sanz, Navarro, & Vazquez, 2003) of the Beck Depression Inventory-II ([BDI-II]; Beck, Steer, & Brown, 1996) in the Mexican general population and undergraduate university students on non clinical samples. The reliability and construct validity obtained in a sample of 474 university students and 478 people from the general population, confirmed good psychometric properties: Cronbach alpha of 0.901 and Confirmatory factor analysis, showed good adjustment indices to two-factor model scale. These results agree with those reported in previous studies both international and Spanish studies on the psychometric properties of the instrument (Sanz, Navarro, & Vázquez, 2003; Sanz, Perdigón & Vázquez, 2003). Confirmatory factor analysis showed a good fit of the Mexican population data, the two-factor model reported in the Spanish population. Finally, the distributions of scores were similar to those found in Spanish studies. There were significant differences in scores by gender, but there are no significant effects of age. It is concluded that the Spanish version of the BDI-II may be a valid and reliable instrument to assess depressive symptoms in college students and the general population of Mexican adults.

Evaluación de las propiedades psicométricas del Brief COPE, su relación con el NEO PI-R y diferencias de género en Brasil / Evaluation of Psychometric Properties of the Brief COPE, its Relationship with the NEO PI-R and Gender Differences in Brazil

El NEO PI-R es una escala base para examinar la personalidad y el Brief COPE es un instrumento, poco difundido en Brasil, para examinar el afron-tamiento. Por ello, el presente estudio transversal con muestra brasileña tiene como objetivos evaluar las propiedades psicométricas del Brief COPE, examinar su relación con el NEO PI-R, así como también evaluar las diferencias de género en el NEO PI-R y el Brief Cope. Participaron 899 adultos. El análisis factorial no confirmó la estructura original del Brief COPE. El análisis factorial exploratorio evidenció una solución de ocho factores, que fue corroborada por el análisis factorial confirmatorio. Se encontraron correlaciones entre las cinco dimensiones de la personalidad y los factores del afrontamiento, así como también diferencias significativas de género.

The NEO PI-R is a major scale to examine the personality, and the Brief COPE is a little known instrument in Brazil to examine the coping. As this cross-sectional study with Brazilian sample aims to: evaluate the psychometric properties of the Brief COPE; examine its relationship with the NEO PI-R, and evaluate gender differences in the NEO PI-R and Brief Cope. The participants were 899 adults. The factor analysis did not confirm the original structure of the Brief COPE. The exploratory factorial analysis showed an eight factor solution, which was confirmed by the confirmatory factorial analysis. Correlation was found between the five dimensions of personality and coping factors, as well significant differences between genders.

Adaptación para México y estructura factorial del Inventario de Situaciones y Respuestas de Ansiedad Breve (ISRA-B) / Adaptation to Mexico and factor structure of the Brief Inventory of Situations and Responses of Anxiety (ISRA-B)

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar las propiedades psicométricas, confirmar la estructura factorial y construir baremos diferenciados por sexo del ISRA-B en una muestra de México de 1,651 participantes de ambos sexos, con un rango de edad de 18 a 55 años (M = 34.2; DT = 10.9). Los resultados confirman la estructura factorial del ISRA-B, una excelente consistencia interna total, buenos valores de consistencia interna para cada una de sus subescalas, además de evidenciar su validez al compararse con el Índice de Sensibilidad a la Ansiedad-3. Asimismo, se presentan los baremos diferenciados por sexo y medidas de tendencia central por grupo de edad y sexo. Se concluye que el ISRA-B es un instrumento válido y confiable por lo que se recomienda su uso

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the psychometric properties, confirm the factor structure and establish normative data, differentiated by sex, using the ISRA-B in a Mexican sample of 1,651 participants of both sexes, aged 18-55 years (M = 34.2; SD = 10.9). The results confirm the factor structure of the ISRA-B, an excellent overall internal consistency, good internal consistency values ​​for the subscales, and also demonstrated its validity when compared with the Anxiety Sensitivity Index -3. Also, the normative data are presented, differentiated by sex, and measures of central tendency by age and sex group. The ISRA-B is a valid and reliable instrument whereby its use is recommended