[The botellón phenomenon. Descriptive analysis and possible implications from a sample of galician teenagers.] / El fenómeno del botellón. Análisis descriptivo y posibles implicaciones a partir de una muestra de adolescentes gallegos.

OBJECTIVE: Botellón has established itself as a recreational ritual of great importance in the leisure of young people and it has contributed to the expansion of a worrying pattern of alcohol and other substances consumption. However, there are few papers that take an integrated approach to this issue. The aim of this work was to have new data to characterize this practice, while providing evidence of its consequences and identifying relevant prognostic factors for prevention. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample of 4,867 Galician adolescents between 12 and 18 years of age (Mean=14.68; SD=1.67). Data were collected in schools through an ad hoc questionnaire and they were analyzed through of a bivariate tabulation, with the application of the opportune contrasts according to the nature of the variables. RESULTS: 27.3% of the teenagers in the sample went to botellón during the last year. 96.6% admitted to drinking alcohol when they went to a botellón, 53.4% alcohol and tobacco and 30.2% three or more substances. This practice was associated with significantly higher rates of Intensive Alcohol Consumption (28% vs. 0.9%), as well as of consumption of risk of alcohol, cannabis and drugs in general. The modulating role of variables such as risk perception and beliefs and expectations associated with consumption, money available or time of arrival at home was also found. CONCLUSIONS: At least 1 in 4 teenagers continue to go to botellones. This practice associated with risky consumption. The evidence found reinforces the multidimensional nature of the problem and suggests reorienting prevention policies.

OBJETIVO: El botellón se ha consolidado como un ritual recreativo de gran importancia en el ocio de los jóvenes y ha contribuido a la expansión de un patrón preocupante de consumo de alcohol y otras sustancias. Pese a ello, son escasos los trabajos que lo aborden de manera integral. Este trabajo se planteó con el objetivo disponer de nuevos datos que permitan caracterizar dicha práctica, al tiempo que aportar evidencias sobre sus consecuencias e identificar factores de pronóstico relevantes para la prevención. METODOS: Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal con una muestra de 4.867 adolescentes gallegos de entre 12 y 18 años (Media=14,68; DT=1,67). Los datos se recogieron en centros escolares mediante un cuestionario elaborado ad hoc y fueron analizados mediante una tabulación bivariada, con la aplicación de los contrastes oportunos en función de la naturaleza de las variables. RESULTADOS: El 27,3% de los adolescentes de la muestra hicieron botellón en el transcurso del último año. El 96,6% reconoció beber alcohol cuando acude a un botellón, el 53,4% alcohol y tabaco y un 30,2% tres o más sustancias. Esta práctica se asoció con tasas significativamente mayores de consumo intensivo de alcohol (28% vs. 0,9%), así como de consumo de riesgo de alcohol, cannabis y drogas en general. Se constató también el papel modulador de variables como la percepción de riesgo y las creencias y expectativas asociadas al consumo, el dinero disponible o la hora de llegada a casa. CONCLUSIONES: Al menos 1 de cada 4 adolescentes sigue haciendo botellón, asociándose este a un consumo de riesgo. Las evidencias encontradas refuerzan el carácter multidimensional del problema y sugieren reorientar las políticas de prevención.

El fenómeno del botellón. Análisis descriptivo y posibles implicaciones a partir de una muestra de adolescentes gallegos / The botellón phenomenon. Descriptive analysis and possible implications from a sample of galician teenagers

OBJETIVO: El botellón se ha consolidado como un ritual recreativo de gran importancia en el ocio de los jóvenes y ha contribuido a la expansión de un patrón preocupante de consumo de alcohol y otras sustancias. Pese a ello, son escasos los trabajos que lo aborden de manera integral. Este trabajo se planteó con el objetivo disponer de nuevos datos que permitan caracterizar dicha práctica, al tiempo que aportar evidencias sobre sus consecuencias e identificar factores de pronóstico relevantes para la prevención. MÉTODOS: Se llevó a cabo un estudio transversal con una muestra de 4.867 adolescentes gallegos de entre 12 y 18 años (Media=14,68; DT=1,67). Los datos se recogieron en centros escolares mediante un cuestionario elaborado ad hoc y fueron analizados mediante una tabulación bivariada, con la aplicación de los contrastes oportunos en función de la naturaleza de las variables. RESULTADOS: El 27,3% de los adolescentes de la muestra hicieron botellón en el transcurso del último año. El 96,6% reconoció beber alcohol cuando acude a un botellón, el 53,4% alcohol y tabaco y un 30,2% tres o más sustancias. Esta práctica se asoció con tasas significativamente mayores de consumo intensivo de alcohol (28% vs. 0,9%), así como de consumo de riesgo de alcohol, cannabis y drogas en general. Se constató también el papel modulador de variables como la percepción de riesgo y las creencias y expectativas asociadas al consumo, el dinero disponible o la hora de llegada a casa. CONCLUSIONES: Al menos 1 de cada 4 adolescentes sigue haciendo botellón, asociándose este a un consumo de riesgo. Las evidencias encontradas refuerzan el carácter multidimensional del problema y sugieren reorientar las políticas de prevención

OBJECTIVE: Botellón has established itself as a recreational ritual of great importance in the leisure of young people and it has contributed to the expansion of a worrying pattern of alcohol and other substances consumption. However, there are few papers that take an integrated approach to this issue. The aim of this work was to have new data to characterize this practice, while providing evidence of its consequences and identifying relevant prognostic factors for prevention. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample of 4,867 Galician adolescents between 12 and 18 years of age (Mean=14.68; SD=1.67). Data were collected in schools through an ad hoc questionnaire and they were analyzed through of a bivariate tabulation, with the application of the opportune contrasts according to the nature of the variables. RESULTS: 27.3% of the teenagers in the sample went to botellón during the last year. 96.6% admitted to drinking alcohol when they went to a botellón, 53.4% alcohol and tobacco and 30.2% three or more substances. This practice was associated with significantly higher rates of Intensive Alcohol Consumption (28% vs. 0.9%), as well as of consumption of risk of alcohol, cannabis and drugs in general. The modulating role of variables such as risk perception and beliefs and expectations associated with consumption, money available or time of arrival at home was also found. CONCLUSIONS: At least 1 in 4 teenagers continue to go to botellones. This practice associated with risky consumption. The evidence found reinforces the multidimensional nature of the problem and suggests reorienting prevention policies

Predictive factors of the dimensions and location of mental foramen using cone beam computed tomography.

OBJECTIVE: The mental foramen (MF) hosts main neurovascular structures, making it of crucial importance for surgical procedures. This study aimed to analyze the factors influencing the dimensions and location of the MF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of 344 patients were examined for MF dimensions, as well as for the distances from the MF to the alveolar crest (MF-MSB), and to the inferior mandibular border (MF-MIB). RESULTS: Gender, mandibular side and presence of accessory mental foramina (AMF) significantly influence MF area. Males, left hemimandibles, and hemimandibles with no AMF had a higher rate of large MF areas (B = - 0.60; p = 0.003, females; B = 0.55; p = 0.005; B = 0.85; p = 0.038). Age, gender and dental status significantly influence MF-MSB distance. The distance decreased as age increased (B = -0.054; p = 0.001), females showed a lower rate of long MF-MSB distances (B = -0.94, p = 0.001), and dentate patients showed a higher rate of long MF-MSB distances (B = 2.27; p = 0.001). Age, gender and emerging angle significantly influenced MF-MIB distance. The distance decreased as age and emerging angle increased (B = -0.01; p = 0.001; B = -0.03; p = 0.001), and females had a lower rate of long MF-MIB distances (B = -1.94, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: General and local factors influence the dimensions and location of MF. MF dimensions are influenced by gender, mandibular side, anteroposterior position, and the presence of AMF. Distance from MF to alveolar crest is influenced by gender, age and dental status, while the relative MF position is influenced by age and dental status. CBCT images make it possible to analyze the MF in order to avoid complications during surgical procedures.

Validación del "Test de identificación de trastorno por consumo de alcohol" (AUDIT) en población adolescente española / Validation of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) among Spanish adolescent population

El "Test de identificación de trastornos por consumo de alcohol" (AUDIT) es uno de los instrumentos de cribado de consumo de alcohol que más pruebas empíricas acumula, aunque en España no se ha informado todavía de sus propiedades psicométricas con adolescentes. Este ha sido el objetivo de este trabajo. Se utilizó una metodología correlacional, consistente en la realización de una entrevista individual a una muestra de 569 adolescentes de 12 a 18 años (M= 14,71; DT= 1,79), en la que se incluyó la subescala para el diagnóstico del trastorno por consumo de alcohol de la "Entrevista diagnóstica para adolescentes" (ADI), la subescala de Consumo y abuso de sustancias del "Instrumento de cribado orientado a problemas para adolescentes" (POSIT) y el "Test de cribado de abuso de sustancias" (CRAFFT). El AUDIT presentó una adecuada consistencia interna (alfa= 0,82) y mostró sensibilidad (86,4%) y especificidad (89,8%) utilizando como punto de corte "4". El análisis factorial ha confirmado dos factores como la solución más satisfactoria. Estos resultados permiten utilizar el AUDIT con adolescentes españoles con garantías psicométricas

One of the instruments for the screening of problematic alcohol consumption with more empirical evidence is the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). However there is no study in Spain that reports its psychometric properties among adolescents. This has been the aim of this paper. A correlational method was used by administering an individual interview to a sample of 569 adolescents aged between 12 and 18 years (M= 14.71, SD= 1.79). A subscale for the diagnosis of alcohol use disorder of the Adolescent Diagnostic Interview (ADI) was included as well as the subscale of Substance use and abuse of the Problem Oriented Screening Instrument for Teenagers (POSIT) and the CRAFFT Substance Abuse Screening Test. The AUDIT presents an adequate psychometric behavior when it is applied to adolescents, both in terms of internal consistency (alfa = .82), as well as sensitivity (86.4%) and specificity (89.8%), using "4" as cut-off point. Factorial analysis has confirmed two factors as the most satisfactory solution. Henceforth, the AUDIT may be used in Spain with adolescents with psychometric guarantees

Anatomical characteristics and visibility of mental foramen and accessory mental foramen: Panoramic radiography vs. cone beam CT

BACKGROUND: The mental foramen (MF) is a small foramen located in the anterolateral region of the mandible through which the mental nerve and vessels emerge. The knowledge on the anatomic characteristics and variations of MF is very important in surgical procedures involving that area. The aim of this study was two-fold: firstly, to analyze the anatomic characteristics of MF and the presence of accessory mental foramen (AMF) using CBCT and, secondly, to compare the capability of CBCT and PAN in terms of MF and AMF visualization, as well as influencing factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A sample of 344 CBCT scans was analyzed for presence and characteristics (i.e. diameter, area, shape, exit angle) of MF and AMF. Subsequently, corresponding PANs were analyzed to ascertain whether MF and AMF were visible. RESULTS: Out of the 344 patients, 344 (100%) MFs and 45 (13%) AMFs were observed on CBCT. Regarding gender, MF diameter and area, MF-MIB and MF-MSB distances, and exit angle were all significantly higher in males. Also, statistically significant differences were found in terms of age and dental status. Statistically significant differences in MF long and short diameters and MF area were found with respect to AMF presence (p=.021, p=.008, p=.021). Only 83.87% of the MFs and 45.83% of the AMFs identified on CBCT were also visible on PANs. MF diameter, shape, exit angle, and age had a significant influence on MF visualization on PAN (B=.43, p=.005; B=-.55, p=.020; B=.20, p=.008; B=.61, p=.005). CONCLUSIONS: PAN is not an adequate technique to properly identify MF and AMF. Diameter, shape, exit angle, and age are all factors influencing MF visualization on PAN images. For surgery involving the MF anatomical region, a preoperative radiological study with CBCT is of crucial importance to avoid complications

Anatomical characteristics and visibility of mental foramen and accessory mental foramen: Panoramic radiography vs. cone beam CT.

BACKGROUND: The mental foramen (MF) is a small foramen located in the anterolateral region of the mandible through which the mental nerve and vessels emerge. The knowledge on the anatomic characteristics and variations of MF is very important in surgical procedures involving that area. The aim of this study was two-fold: firstly, to analyze the anatomic characteristics of MF and the presence of accessory mental foramen (AMF) using CBCT and, secondly, to compare the capability of CBCT and PAN in terms of MF and AMF visualization, as well as influencing factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A sample of 344 CBCT scans was analyzed for presence and characteristics (i.e. diameter, area, shape, exit angle) of MF and AMF. Subsequently, corresponding PANs were analyzed to ascertain whether MF and AMF were visible. RESULTS: Out of the 344 patients, 344 (100%) MFs and 45 (13%) AMFs were observed on CBCT. Regarding gender, MF diameter and area, MF-MIB and MF-MSB distances, and exit angle were all significantly higher in males. Also, statistically significant differences were found in terms of age and dental status. Statistically significant differences in MF long and short diameters and MF area were found with respect to AMF presence (p=.021, p=.008, p=.021). Only 83.87% of the MFs and 45.83% of the AMFs identified on CBCT were also visible on PANs. MF diameter, shape, exit angle, and age had a significant influence on MF visualization on PAN (B=.43, p=.005; B=-.55, p=.020; B=.20, p=.008; B=.61, p=.005). CONCLUSIONS: PAN is not an adequate technique to properly identify MF and AMF. Diameter, shape, exit angle, and age are all factors influencing MF visualization on PAN images. For surgery involving the MF anatomical region, a preoperative radiological study with CBCT is of crucial importance to avoid complications.

Critical anatomic region of nasopalatine canal based on tridimensional analysis: cone beam computed tomography.

The study aim of this was to define the critical anatomic region of the premaxilla by evaluating dimensions of nasopalatine canal, buccal bone plate (BBP) and palatal bone plate (PBP). 230 CBCTs were selected with both, one or no upper central incisors present (+/+, -/+, -/-) and periodontal condition was evaluated. T-student test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation and a multivariant-linear regression model (MLRM) were used. Regarding gender, significant differences at level 1 (lower NC) were found for: buccal-palatal, transversal and sagittal NC diameters, and NC length (NCL). Regarding dental status, significant differences were found for: total BBP length (tBL) and PBP width (PW2) at level 2 (NCL midpoint). NCL was correlated with PW2, tBL, and PBP length at level 3 (foramina of Stenson level). An MLRM had a high prediction value for NCL (69.3%). Gender is related to NC dimensions. Dental status has an influence on BBP dimensions, but does not influence on NC and PBP. Periodontal condition should be evaluated for precise premaxillae analysis NC diameters at the three anatomical planes are related to each other, while NCL is related to BBP and PBP lengths. A third of premaxilla is taken up by NC, thus, establishing the critical anatomic region.

PIUS-a: Problematic Internet Use Scale in adolescents. Development and psychometric validation.

Adolescents' use of the Internet is becoming a matter of great concern for different sectors of society. The psychological and behavioural consequences of problematic Internet use in young people demands quick and effective answers. One of the major challenges in this context is the development of empirically validated tools, which would facilitate early detection and screening for potential risk cases. This is precisely the aim of this paper. Based on a sample of 1,709 secondary-school students from Galicia (a region in northern Spain) aged 11 to 17 (M = 13.74, SD = 1.43), the analysis carried out permitted us to present a brief and simple tool (with just 11 items). It has substantial theoretical support, since both the existing background information and the views of experts from the academic and professional spheres were taken into account in the course of its development. The scale is adapted to the Spanish cultural context and to the language of young people. It has satisfactory psychometric properties in terms of reliability of the scores (α = .82), evidence of its internal structure (tested via a Confirmatory Factorial Analysis), sensitivity (81%), and specificity (82.6%). Moreover, its use enables the gradation of adolescents on a risk or problematic Internet use continuum. In our view, all of this lends it enormous applied potential in both the educational and clinical contexts.

EUPI-a: Escala de Uso Problemático de Internet en adolescentes. Desarrollo y validación psicométrica / PIUS-a: Problematic Internet Use Scale in adolescents. Development and psychometric validation

El uso que los adolescentes hacen de Internet viene suscitando una enorme preocupación en diferentes sectores de la sociedad. Las consecuencias a nivel psicológico y conductual que el uso problemático de la Red provoca entre los más jóvenes demandan una respuesta tan rápida como eficaz. Uno de los grandes retos en este contexto es el desarrollo de herramientas validadas empíricamente, que permitan hacer un cribado o detección precoz de posibles casos de riesgo. Ese es precisamente el objetivo de este trabajo. A partir de una muestra de 1709 escolares de Enseñanza Secundaria Obligatoria de la comunidad gallega, de edades comprendidas entre los 11 y los 17 años (M = 13,74; DT = 1,43), los análisis realizados permiten presentar una herramienta breve y sencilla (compuesta por solo 11 ítems), que goza de un importante aval teórico, ya que para su elaboración se tuvieron en cuenta tanto los antecedentes existentes en la literatura, como las opiniones de expertos del ámbito académico y profesional. Dicha escala, además de estar adaptada al contexto cultural español y al lenguaje de los adolescentes, presenta unas propiedades psicométricas satisfactorias, tanto en términos de fiabilidad de las puntuaciones (α = ,82) y evidencias de su estructura interna (probada a través de un Análisis Factorial Confimatorio), como de sensibilidad (81%) y especificidad (82,6%), permitiendo 'escalar' a los adolescentes en un continuum de riesgo o uso problemático de Internet. Todo ello le confiere, a nuestro modo de ver, un notable potencial a nivel aplicado, tanto en el contexto educativo como clínico

Adolescents' use of the Internet is becoming a matter of great concern for different sectors of society. The psychological and behavioural consequences of problematic Internet use in young people demands quick and effective answers. One of the major challenges in this context is the development of empirically validated tools, which would facilitate early detection and screening for potential risk cases. This is precisely the aim of this paper. Based on a sample of 1,709 secondaryschool students from Galicia (a region in northern Spain) aged 11 to 17 (M = 13.74, SD = 1.43), the analysis carried out permitted us to present a brief and simple tool (with just 11 items). It has substantial theoretical support, since both the existing background information and the views of experts from the academic and professional spheres were taken into account in the course of its development. The scale is adapted to the Spanish cultural context and to the language of young people. It has satisfactory psychometric properties in terms of reliability of the scores (α = .82), evidence of its internal structure (tested via a Confirmatory Factorial Analysis), sensitivity (81%), and specificity (82.6%). Moreover, its use enables the gradation of adolescents on a risk or problematic Internet use continuum. In our view, all of this lends it enormous applied potential in both the educational and clinical contexts

Evaluation and early detection of problematic Internet use in adolescents / Evaluación y detección precoz del uso problemático de Internet entre adolescentes

BACKGROUND: Problematic Internet use in adolescents has become an issue of concern for a growing number of researchers and institutions over the past years. Behavioural problems, social isolation, school failure and family problems are some of the consequences of psychological and behavioural impact on teenagers. Taking into account the interest that this issue has generated at many levels, the aim of this paper is to develop a screening tool for early detection of problematic Internet use in teenagers. METHOD: A survey of Compulsory Secondary School students from Galicia involving a total of 2,339 individuals was carried out. RESULTS: The results obtained allow (1) gauging the magnitude of the problem, establishing the risk levels among the adolescents, and (2) presenting a new, simple and short screening instrument. CONCLUSIONS: The present scale has sufficient theoretical and empirical support, including good psychometric properties (a= .83; specificity = .81; sensitivity = .80; ROC curve = .90), making it an interesting applied tool

ANTECEDENTES: el uso problemático de Internet entre los adolescentes preocupa cada vez más a investigadores e instituciones. Problemas de conducta, aislamiento social, fracaso escolar y problemas familiares son algunas de las consecuencias del impacto a nivel psicológico y conductual que ello produce. Habida cuenta del interés que el tema suscita a diferentes niveles, el objetivo de este trabajo es desarrollar una herramienta de screening para la detección precoz de uso problemático de Internet entre adolescentes. MÉTODO: se realizó una encuesta a escolares de Enseñanza Secundaria Obligatoria de la comunidad gallega, en la que participaron un total de 2.339 individuos. RESULTADOS: los resultados obtenidos permiten: (1) evaluar la magnitud del problema, permitiendo conocer los niveles de riesgo existente, y (2) presentar un nuevo instrumento de screening o cribado, breve y sencillo. CONCLUSIONES: la presente escala cuenta con suficiente aval teórico y empírico y con unas buenas propiedades psicométricas (a= ,83; especificidad = ,81; sensibilidad = ,80; Curva COR = ,90), lo cual la convierte en una herramienta de interés a nivel aplicado

Evaluation and early detection of problematic Internet use in adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Problematic Internet use in adolescents has become an issue of concern for a growing number of researchers and institutions over the past years. Behavioural problems, social isolation, school failure and family problems are some of the consequences of psychological and behavioural impact on teenagers. Taking into account the interest that this issue has generated at many levels, the aim of this paper is to develop a screening tool for early detection of problematic Internet use in teenagers. METHOD: A survey of Compulsory Secondary School students from Galicia involving a total of 2,339 individuals was carried out. RESULTS: The results obtained allow (1) gauging the magnitude of the problem, establishing the risk levels among the adolescents, and (2) presenting a new, simple and short screening instrument. CONCLUSIONS: The present scale has sufficient theoretical and empirical support, including good psychometric properties (a = .83; specificity = .81; sensitivity = .80; ROC curve = .90), making it an interesting applied tool.

[Relationship between perceived health care quality and attitude toward substance abuse treatment]. / Relación entre la calidad asistencial percibida y la actitud frente al tratamiento en drogodependencias.

Despite the considerable investment made in recent years in Spain in substance abuse care, treatment adherence remains one of the aspects that determine the effectiveness of programs. Several authors have noted the importance of perceived service quality in this context. This paper is presented with dual purpose of highlighting the role that management of the quality of care for drug addicts has, both as a modulator of users' attitudes and perceptions about the treatment, and as a work philosophy, typical of an organization committed to continuous improvement. Conducting personal interviews with 670 users of drug abuse care services in Galicia and through the application of covariance structure analysis, the close relationship between two factors (perceived quality and attitude toward treatment) was revealed. This research also provides professionals and researchers with a new scale for service evaluation that is short, easy to use and with adequate psychometric properties.

Relación entre la calidad asistencial percibida y la actitud frente al tratamiento en drogodependencias / Relationship between perceived health care quality and attitude toward substance abuse treatment

A pesar de la considerable inversión realizada en los últimos años en España en la asistencia a las drogodependencias, la adherencia al tratamiento sigue siendo uno de los elementos que condicionan de forma clara la eficacia de los diferentes programas que se ponen en marcha. Diferentes autores han advertido la importancia de la calidad percibida del servicio en este contexto. Este trabajo se plantea con el doble objetivo de remarcar el papel que una adecuada gestión de la calidad de la atención al drogodependiente posee, tanto como modulador de las actitudes y percepciones de los usuarios respecto al tratamiento, como filosofía de trabajo en sí misma, propia de una organización sanitaria comprometida con la mejora continua. La realización de una entrevista personal a 670 usuarios de la Red Asistencial del Plan de Galicia sobre Drogas (PGD) y la posterior utilización del análisis de estructuras de covarianza ha permitido constatar la estrecha relación entre ambos elementos (calidad percibida del servicio y percepción del tratamiento), al mismo tiempo que se pone a disposición de profesionales e investigadores una nueva escala para su evaluación, breve, sencilla, de fácil aplicación y con propiedades psicométricas adecuadas (AU)

Despite the considerable investment made in recent years in Spain in substance abuse care, treatment adherence remains one of the aspects that determine the effectiveness of programs. Several authors have noted the importance of perceived service quality in this context. This paper is presented with dual purpose of highlighting the role that management of the quality of care for drug addicts has, both as a modulator of users’ attitudes and perceptions about the treatment, and as a work philosophy, typical of an organization committed to continuous improvement. Conducting personal interviews with 670 users of drug abuse care services in Galicia and through the application of covariance structure analysis, the close relationship between two factors (perceived quality and attitude toward treatment) was revealed. This research also provides professionals and researchers with a new scale for service evaluation that is short, easy to use and with adequate psychometric properties(AU)

Aplicación de los modelos de ecuaciones estructurales a la identificación de las variables predictoras de la fidelidad a un centro comercial / Application of structural equation modelling to identification of predicting variables of a shopping centre loyalty

Existe una extensa literatura con relación a la elección y atracción de los establecimientos comerciales, proponiéndose diferentes modelos y variables a la hora de explicar ambas variables. Sin embargo, a día de hoy no es posible establecer conclusiones ni mucho menos definitivas al respecto, sobre todo desde el punto de vista de la gestión. Sí existe un amplio acuerdo al señalar que los factores que influyen o condicionan la atracción de un centro comercial son múltiples. Las aproximaciones clásicas señalan la importancia de diferentes tipos de factores: las características personales de los consumidores (edad, estatus, estilo de vida…), la distancia del establecimiento a la residencia del consumidor, la oferta comercial y de servicios y la publicidad. El objetivo de esta investigación es poner a prueba un modelo integral que recoja estos cuatro tipos de elementos, desde una perspectiva psicosocial, incorporando además el involvement del consumidor. Gracias a la realización de 220 entrevistas personales y la utilización de los modelos de ecuaciones estructurales, ha sido posible comprobar que tanto la Distancia como la Publicidad siguen desempeñando un papel prioritario y, por tanto, requieren una atención especial en el diseño y la gestión de los nuevos centros comerciales(AU)

There is a vast literature about the attraction and choice of the commercial establishments, with different proposals about the involved variables and different models which try to explain both constructs. Even so, this has not brought about definitive conclusions from the point of view of the management. But there is an agreement in affirming that there are many factors influencing the attraction and choice of a shopping centre. The classical approach point out the importance of several kinds of factors: personal characteristics of consumers (age, status, life style...), distance from the establishment to consumer, commercial and services offer and advertising. The aim of this research is to test an integral model which contains elements from the four types, from a psychosocial perspective and incorporating also consumer involvement. Thanks to the realization of a personal interview to 220 subjects and using structural equation modelling, we could check that Distance as well as the Advertising play a main role and, therefore, we must pay a special attention to both in the design and management of modern shopping centres (AU)

La evaluación de la atención al drogodependiente desde el punto de vista de los propios usuarios / Assessing drug consumers’ care from the user’s viewpoint

En este estudio se ha pretendido elaborar una herramienta que permita evaluar de manera periódica la calidad percibida de la atención que actualmente se viene dispensando en los centros de atención al drogodependiente que integran la red del Plan de Galicia sobre Drogas. La intención no es otra que disponer de una escala que posea unas características psicométricas aceptables, que recoja las dimensiones relevantes del servicio y que, al mismo tiempo, sea breve y de fácil aplicación. A partir de la realización de 902 entrevistas a usuarios de las 17 Unidades de Atención al Drogodependiente que hoy día existen en Galicia, los análisis realizados permiten presentar una escala de tan sólo 13 ítems, cuya validez y fiabilidad son altamente satisfactorias. Dicha escala recoge tres grandes dimensiones (personal,acceso e instalaciones) y se convierte en una herramienta de gran potencial a nivel de gestión, en la medida en que hace posible un diagnóstico objetivo del funcionamiento del servicio a partir de las percepciones de sus propios usuarios, así como la identificación de algunas de las claves para la mejora continua (AU)

In this study, we developed a tool that allows us to assess, on a regular basis, the perceived quality of the assistance currently provided in the centres of Attention for Drug-dependent People that integrate the network of the Galician Plan for Drugs. Our goal is to obtain a scale with acceptable psychometric properties, which reflects the relevant dimensions of the service and, at the same time, is short and easy to apply. From the analysis of 902 interviews from the 17 units of Attention for Drug-Dependent People in Galicia, we obtained a scale of only 13 items with highly satisfactory reliability and validity. This scale assesses 3 main dimensions (Personnel, Access, and Facilities) and it has high potential at management levels, as it allows both an objective diagnosis of the quality of the service from the users’ perspective and the identification of key issues for constant improvement (AU)

[Assessing drug consumers' care from the user's viewpoint]. / La evaluación de la atención al drogodependiente desde el punto de vista de los propios usuarios.

In this study, we developed a tool that allows us to assess, on a regular basis, the perceived quality of the assistance currently provided in the centres of Attention for Drug-dependent People that integrate the network of the Galician Plan for Drugs. Our goal is to obtain a scale with acceptable psychometric properties, which reflects the relevant dimensions of the service and, at the same time, is short and easy to apply. From the analysis of 902 interviews from the 17 units of Attention for Drug-Dependent People in Galicia, we obtained a scale of only 13 items with highly satisfactory reliability and validity. This scale assesses 3 main dimensions (Personnel, Access, and Facilities) and it has high potential at management levels, as it allows both an objective diagnosis of the quality of the service from the users' perspective and the identification of key issues for constant improvement.

El análisis de importancia-valoración aplicado a la gestión de servicios / Importance-Performance Analysis for services management

El Análisis de Importancia-Valoración (IPA: Importance-Performance Analysis) constituye una aproximación indirecta a la medida de la satisfacción que permite representar, de manera sencilla y funcional, los puntos fuertes y áreas de mejora de un determinado producto o servicio. Partiendo de la importancia y la valoración que los usuarios otorgan a cada uno de los atributos relevantes de un servicio, es posible obtener un gráfico dividido en cuatro cuadrantes en los que se incluyan recomendaciones para la gestión de los recursos organizacionales. Sin embargo, esta herramienta ha estado sujeta a controversias desde sus orígenes, referidas fundamentalmente a la colocación de los ejes que definen los cuadrantes y a la conceptualización y medición de la importancia de los atributos que componen el servicio. El objetivo de este trabajo es proponer una alternativa en la representación del IPA que permita superar las limitaciones y contradicciones derivadas de la técnica original sin desechar la representación clásica. El análisis se aplica a los datos obtenidos en una encuesta sobre la satisfacción con los servicios sanitarios de atención primaria de Galicia. Los resultados permitirán efectuar recomendaciones a los gestores de la atención primaria de cara a la planificación de futuras acciones estratégicas

Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) constitutes an indirect aproximation to user’s satisfaction measurement that allows to represent, in an easy and functional way, the main points and improvement areas of a specific product or service. Beginning from the importance and judgements concerning the performance that users grant to each prominent attributes of a service, it is possible to obtain a graphic divided into four quadrants in which recommendations for the organization economic resources management are included. Nevertheless, this tool has raised controversies since its origins, referred fundamentally to the placement of the axes that define the quadrants and the conception and measurement of the importance of attributes that compose the service. The primary goal of this article is to propose an alternative to the IPA representation that allows to overcome the limitations and contradictions derived from the original technique, without rejecting the classical graph. The analysis applies to data obtained in a survey about satisfaction with primary health care services of Galicia. Results will permit to advise to primary health care managers with a view toward the planning of future strategic actions

Development of an index to assess the brand image of tourist destinations

La imagen de un destino turístico constituye un elemento fundamental en los diferentes modelos que analizan el proceso de elección por parte del consumidor (Moutinho, 1984; Chon, 1990; Baloglu & McCleary, 1999). Los diferentes estudios consultados sugieren que aquellos destinos que poseen una imagen positiva gozan de una mayor probabilidad de ser considerados y finalmente elegidos en un proceso de decisión. El objetivo del presente estudio es proponer una metodología que permita evaluar la imagen de marca como un constructo de carácter psicológico, a partir de la percepción que los sujetos tienen de los atributos que definen distintos destinos turísticos. Para llevar a cabo este trabajo y llegar a proponer un índice de imagen de carácter cuantitativo, se analizaron los datos correspondientes a una encuesta de 916 turistas españoles

A destination’s image constitutes a central factor in the different models that analyze travel decision-making and its selection (Moutinho, 1984; Chon, 1990; Baloglu & McCleary, 1999). The studies consulted suggest that destinations with a positive image will have a higher probability of being considered and finally chosen in the selection process. The aim of this study is to propose a methodology for measuring brand image as an entirely psychological construct, deriving from the subjects’ perceptions of its component attributes. To develop and evaluate this measure, we analyzed the results of a survey of 916 tourists

Una nueva escala para la evaluación de la calidad de los servicios de hostelería / A new scale for the assessment of the quality of hotel bussiness services

En los últimos veinte años el sector servicios ha experimentado un crecimiento muy significativo, constituyendo en nuestro país uno de los sectores económicos más importantes. Dentro del sector turístico, los establecimientos de hospedaje y restauración están experimentando una fuerte competencia. En un escenario caracterizado por la competitividad, la apuesta por la calidad supone una ventaja competitiva difícil de superar (García-Buedes, 2001). El objetivo perseguido en este estudio no ha sido otro que realizar una aproximación a la evaluación de la calidad percibida de los restaurantes. Fruto de la revisión bibliográfica realizada y de una primera aproximación de carácter cualitativo, se partió de una escala de 31 ítems que incluía 5 dimensiones: acceso, personal, servicio, producto e instalaciones. Los resultados obtenidos al aplicar el cuestionario, mediante entrevista estructurada, a más de 2.400 clientes de 180 establecimientos de Santiago Compostela y comarca confirman que no todas estas dimensiones poseen la misma importancia a la hora de explicar la satisfacción del cliente. En concreto, el producto emerge como la dimensión más importante. Asimismo, la eliminación de la dimensión servicio y una selección de los ítems más exhaustiva en base a criterios psicométricos, ha permitido definir una escala breve, de tan sólo 15 ítems, lo que vaticina su enorme atractivo como herramienta de gestión. La escala final que se propone para evaluar la calidad percibida en el sector de la restauración incluye cuatro dimensiones fundamentales, relacionadas entre sí, que, por orden de importancia, son: producto, personal, instalaciones y acceso

In the last 20 years the services sector has experienced a highly significant growth, being currently one of the most important economic sectors in our country. Inside the touristic sector, a strong competence has being experienced among the lodging and restoration establishments. In a scenario characterized by competitiveness, the bet for quality represents a difficult competitive advantage to surpass (García-Buedes, 2001). The objective of this study is to carry out an approach to the evaluation of the perceived quality of the restaurants. As a result of bibliographic revision, and also a first approach of a qualitative nature, we started from a scale of 31 ítems that included 5 dimensions: access, personal, service, product and installations. The results obtained applying the questionnaire to more than 2400 clients of 180 establishments of Santiago de Compostela and region, by means of structured interviews, confirmed that not all these dimensions had the same importance as predictors of customer satisfaction. Specifically, the product emerges as the most important dimension. Likewise, the elimination of the dimension service and a more exhaustive selection of the ítems, based on psychometric criteria, has permitted to define a brief scale, consisting of only 15 ítems, which makes it very attractive as a management tool. The final scale proposed to evaluate the perceived quality in the restoration sector includes four fundamental and non-independent dimensions. These are, ordered by importance: product, personal, installations and access

[A new scale for the assessment of the quality of hospitality services]. / Una nueva escala para la evaluación de la calidad de los servicios de hostelería.

In the last 20 years the services sector has experienced a highly significant growth, being currently one of the most important economic sectors in our country. Inside the touristic sector, a strong competence has being experienced among the lodging and restoration establishments. In a scenario characterized by competitiveness, the bet for quality represents a difficult competitive advantage to surpass (García-Buedes, 2001). The objective of this study is to carry out an approach to the evaluation of the perceived quality of the restaurants. As a result of bibliographic revision, and also a first approach of a qualitative nature, we started from a scale of 31 items that included 5 dimensions: access, personal, service, product and installations. The results obtained applying the questionnaire to more than 2400 clients of 180 establishments of Santiago de Compostela and region, by means of structured interviews, confirmed that not all these dimensions had the same importance as predictors of customer satisfaction. Specifically, the product emerges as the most important dimension. Likewise, the elimination of the dimension service and a more exhaustive selection of the items, based on psychometric criteria, has permitted to define a brief scale, consisting of only 15 items, which makes it very attractive as a management tool. The final scale proposed to evaluate the perceived quality in the restaurant sector includes four fundamental and non-independent dimensions. These are, ordered by importance: product, personal, installations and access.