INTRODUCTION:There is still insuffi cient data whether problematic internet use (PIU) is linked with physical symptoms associated with mental disorders, particularly among student demographics. AIM:This study was conducted to determine whether problematic internet use (PIU) in adults is associated with physical symptoms linked to mental disorders. METHODS:An anonymous online survey included the nine-item Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire (PIUQ-9) to measure PIU and the 15-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15) to measure physical symptoms associated with mental disorders. Depression symptoms were measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and anxiety symptoms with the seven-item General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale. The study included 207 students (mean age: 23 ± 3 years, 83.6% women). RESULTS:Signifi cant correlations were identifi ed between PIUQ-9 scores and physical symptoms. Multivariable regression analysis, adjusting for age, gender, and PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores, revealed associations between PIU and physical symptoms: extremity/joint pain (β = 0.161, p = 0.019), sexual dysfunction (β = 0.145, p = 0.032), chest pain (β = 0.135, p = 0.047), and fatigue (β = 0.214, p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS:High levels of PIU in young adults were associated with physical symptoms linked to mental disorders irrespective of age, sex, depression, and anxiety symptoms. SOURCE:(Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2026; 28(2): 57-65)
BACKGROUND:Childhood trauma constitutes a major public health issue, as it is associated with enduring mental and physical health complications, as well as an increased risk for a range of psychiatric disorders in adulthood. The Early Trauma Inventory Self Report-Short Form (ETISRSF) is a concise and eff ective instrument for assessing early traumatic experiences. The present study aimed to examine the psychometric properties and validate the Hungarian version of the ETISR-SF. METHODS:In this cross-sectional study, a total of 300 psychiatric patients and 57 non-clinical control participants completed the Early Trauma Inventory Self Report-Short Form (ETISR-SF) and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form (CTQ-SF). RESULTS:Confi rmatory factor analysis supported the original four-factor structure, yielding satisfactory model fi t indices. The ETISR-SF demonstrated high internal consistency across all subscales (Cronbach's α = 0.78-0.94). Signifi cant diff erences between the clinical and non-clinical groups provided evidence of good discriminant validity. Correlations between the ETISR-SF and the CTQ-SF, both at the total and subscale levels, were signifi cant and ranged from low to moderate (r = 0.22-0.71, p ‹ 0.001), supporting the instrument's convergent and divergent validity. CONCLUSIONS:The findings of the present study indicate that the Hungarian version of the ETISR-SF is a psychometrically sound instrument, demonstrating validity and reliability for assessing early traumatic experiences in Hungarian clinical populations. SOURCE:(Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2026; 28(2): 85-101)
OBJECTIVE:This study aimed to adapt the Children's Kitchen Task Assessment for Hungarian primary school children and to investigate its relationship with an ecologically valid executive function questionnaire and standard computer-based executive function tasks in the context of socioeconomic status. METHODS:Our study included 17 children aged 8-12 years, of whom eleven children (64.7%) lived in a town in deep poverty with many families with low socioeconomic status, while the remaining six (35.3%) of the subjects lived in a city in Hungary. Participants completed standard executive function tasks (Go/No-Go, Corsi Block-Tapping Task, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task), as well as the adapted version of the Children's Kitchen Task Assessment. In addition, 14 parents and 13 teachers completed the Childhood Executive Functioning Inventory regarding the participating children. RESULTS:The Hungarian Children's Kitchen Task demonstrated good interrater reliability (κ = .81) and acceptable internal consistency (α = .68). Performance on the task was found to be signifi cantly related to both standard executive function tasks and the ecologically valid questionnaire. In terms of planning, children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds demonstrated poorer performance (t(15) = 2.87, p ‹ .02, d = 0.13), yet they completed the task in a shorter amount of time than their peers with higher socioeconomic status (t(15) = -2.4, p ‹ .02, d = 1.23). CONCLUSIONS:Executive functions measured in ecologically valid settings demonstrated convergence with other executive function assessment methods. Furthermore, our results suggest that socioeconomic status is related to children's executive functions, especially when the executive functions are measured with tasks resembling more to everyday situations. Our findings have implications for interventions. SOURCE:(Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2026; 28(2): 66-84)
BACKGROUND:Neurodegeneration is accelerated by Type 2 diabetes mellitus through adipokine dysregulation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. This could link metabolic imbalance to Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and cognitive decline. The aim of this review is to clarify the roles of adipokines in type 2 diabetes-induced neurodegeneration, their molecular pathways, and the possible neuroprotective potential of antidiabetic agents. METHODS:Literature was searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for Englishlanguage articles published up to November 2025, using keywords like adipokines, diabetes mellitus, neurodegeneration, neuroinfl ammation, and antidiabetics. RESULTS:Results highlight those elevated levels of pro-infl ammatory adipokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, and resistin, together with reduced levels of neuroprotective adipokines, including adiponectin and leptin, may drive NF-kB activation, suppression of Nrf2 signaling, and amyloid and tau pathology. This is further exacerbated by oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Antidiabetic agents like metformin, GLP-1 agonists, thiazolidinediones, and SGLT2 inhibitors restore adipokine balance, enhance AMPK/PPARγ signaling, and show cognitive benefits in mild cognitive impairment cohorts per clinical trials. DISCUSSION:In conclusion, repurposing antidiabetics via biomarker-guided multiple therapies offers disease-modifying promise for type 2 diabetes-linked neurodegeneration, necessitating large randomized controlled trials in prediabetic populations. SOURCE:(Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2026; 28(2): 102-114)
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:This research examines the intersection of education and political systems, exploring how instructional practices align with neoliberal policies. Education is often viewed as a means to address societal issues such as unemployment and inequality; however, its emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and ethical considerations may sometimes be overlooked. A shift toward fostering critical engagement and societal development could be beneficial. METHODS:Using a descriptive approach, this study retrieved articles from the Web of Science and Scopus databases. RESULTS:In Iran, the education system has undergone notable changes since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, primarily aligning with ideological objectives. While enrollment rates have increased, the system appears to face challenges such as outdated curricula, structural inefficiencies, centralized governance, and limitations in teacher training. Although reforms have aimed at reinforcing ideological priorities, their impact on fostering innovation and global competitiveness remains uncertain. Additionally, regional disparities and gender inequalities continue to be areas of concern. Key challenges may include an overreliance on rote learning, limited adoption of modern pedagogical methods, and insufficient coordination between research and policy implementation. Teacher motivation could also be affected by inadequate wages and institutional support, potentially influencing the overall quality of education. Furthermore, both teachers and students encounter barriers to accessing equitable and high-quality education, which may hinder educational progress. Psychological concerns among Iranian students appear to be rising, possibly due to academic stress, suboptimal educational environments, and family dynamics. Research suggests that supportive family and school settings may play a significant role in improving mental wellbeing, motivation, and self-perception. Adolescents, in particular, seem to benefit from strong familial bonds, which could positively impact their mental health and academic performance. Based on these findings, it may be advisable to consider reducing political influence in education, modernizing curricula, investing in teacher re-training, and integrating psychological support within schools. Decentralizing governance and fostering innovation could contribute to a more dynamic and responsive education system. CONCLUSION:While Iran's education system has made strides in enrollment, addressing these structural and pedagogical challenges could enhance its ability to prepare students for the demands of modern society while supporting their psychological and social well-being. SOURCE:(Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2026; 28(2): 115-130)
OBJECTIVES:In the clinical practice and research of childhood and adolescent mental health disorders, there is a common practice of involving multiple informants, including parents, teachers, and the child or adolescent themselves. However, data obtained from these different sources typically show low to moderate levels of agreement. The aim of this study is to interpret the discrepancies between data provided by different informants in the diagnostic process of psychological disorders, and to examine which theoretical models can explain these discrepancies and what clinical significance they may hold. METHODS:In the course of this literature review, two interpretative frameworks are presented: first, the Operation Triad Model, which examines the identifiable patterns in the data derived from different informants, and second, the Attribution Bias Context Model, which organizes the possible causes of discrepancies among informants. The review placed particular emphasis on the clinical and prognostic relevance of the observed patterns. RESULTS:The Operation Triad Model identifies three types of operations: convergent operations, where the data point in the same direction; compensatory operations, where divergent data suggest methodological issues; and divergent operations, where the data differ in a way that can be meaningfully interpreted and may provide valuable additional information. Divergent operations can contribute to the identification of new risk factors and facilitate a deeper, contextually grounded understanding of pathologies. Based on the findings, integrating data and discrepancies from multiple informants enriches the interpretation of psychopathological phenomena and enables more accurate prognosis. CONCLUSIONS:The discrepant data obtained through the involvement of multiple informants cannot always be simply explained as measurement error but may reflect phenomena that contribute to a deeper understanding of the nature and context of symptoms. Integrating the conscious interpretation of these discrepancies into clinical practice can improve diagnostic accuracy and enhance the effectiveness of treatment planning.
The global refugee crisis has led to a significant influx of Arabic-speaking immigrants and refugees (ASIR) into Europe and North America, particularly from conflict-affected regions such as Syria. This review examines the prevalence and determinants of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and post-migration stress behavioural patterns among Arabic immigrant and refugee populations. Drawing on existing literature and data from countries such as Hungary, Germany, and Sweden, this paper highlights the significant mental health challenges faced by these populations. Key findings indicate high prevalence rates of PTSD (ranging from 11.4% to 83.4%) and depression (ranging from 14.5% to 60%), influenced by pre-migration trauma, post-migration living difficulties, and sociodemographic factors such as gender and age. Post-migration stressors, including language barriers, social isolation, discrimination, and uncertain legal status, are identified as critical contributors to mental health outcomes. The review underscores the need for culturally sensitive mental health interventions and policies that address both pre- and post-migration stressors to improve the well-being of Arabic immigrant and refugee populations. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2026; 28(1): 37-46) Keywords: arab, immigrants, refugees, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, post-migration stress, mental health, cultural adaptation, resilience.
This study examines the role of media in shaping suicidal behavior, with particular emphasis on the Werther and Papageno effects. Drawing on current research, it explores how media coverage can either increase or decrease the risk of suicide, depending on the narrative it conveys. Using the Fluid Vulnerability Model of Suicide as a framework to interpret these effects, the paper analyzes the characteristics of risk-enhancing and protective media content. Based on these insights, it provides practical recommendations for responsible communication practices aimed at suicide prevention. The aim of this paper is to contribute to the development of evidence-based media policy and prevention strategies, especially to protect vulnerable populations. Keywords: suicide, media effect, Werther effect, Papageno effect, prevention, mental health.
The authors analyse the predictive utility of their self-developed, 6-item Short Suicide Questionnaire among 151 discharged psychiatric inpatients during a 91-95 month follow-up. During this time-frame, 3 patients (2%) died by suicide and 15 (10%) attempted suicide. The results show that reaching 22 points or more from the maximum total score of 28 is a reliable indicator not only the current but also the future suicidal risk. Keywords: suicide, suicide attempt, psychiatric patients, questionnaire, prediction.
OBJECTIVE:With the increasing prominence of the alternative, dimensional model of personality disorders, developmental aspects have also gained importance in the diagnosis of personality disorders. Researchers and practicing clinicians are paying growing attention to adolescents showing signs of disharmonious personality development. Although the study of personality pathology in adolescence remains a debated area both domestically and internationally, timely and appropriate diagnostics can form the basis for adequate therapy. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Alternative Model for Personality Disorders (SCID-5-AMPD) is recommended for assessing adolescents with signs of disharmonious personality development. However, to the best of our knowledge, the SCID-5-AMPD has not yet been applied in adolescent populations in Hungary. The aim of our study is to administer the SCID-5-AMPD to a psychiatric adolescent sample at risk for disharmonious personality development aged 14 and older, as well as to a control group without psychiatric diagnoses. METHOD:Our study has been approved by the Scientific and Research Ethics Committee of the Health Scientific Council (reference number: BM/9184-1/2024). Considering the developmental characteristics of adolescence, our research focuses on a dimensional approach, i.e., exploring the functioning of personality and the degree of maladaptive personality traits. Therefore, the first and second modules of the SCID-5-AMPD were administered. After obtaining written informed consent from both the guardian and the adolescent, the adolescents and their parents completed a questionnaire package, followed by the administration of the first two modules of the SCID-5-AMPD with the adolescent. Written notes were taken during the interviews. The clinical sample included 14 participants, while the control group consisted of 17 participants. The study involved 8 boys (25.8%) and 23 girls (74.2%), with a mean age of 16.06 years (SD = 1.24 years). RESULTS:The items proved to be understandable and relevant for adolescents. Feedback from adolescents with disharmonious personality development indicated that the structured format of the interview and the coherence created by the standardized questions helped them better understand their otherwise hard-to-define difficulties. The duration of the interviews varied widely. Interviewers were able to learn how to administer a structured clinical interview, apply the concepts of the SCID-AMPD, and gain a closer understanding of the dimensional approach to personality disorders and its practical application. CONCLUSIONS:Based on our preliminary experience, the first two modules of the SCID-5-AMPD may be applicable for assessing adolescents. Further investigation of its psychometric properties among Hungarian adolescents is essential for future use.
One of the serious problems in educational systems around the world is the increase in academic burnout among university students. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between academic support and students' academic burnout through the mediating variable of academic engagement. The research method was descriptive-correlational. The population included all undergraduate students of Islamic Azad University, Qaenat Branch during the academic year of 1998-99, from which 205 (98 females and 107 males) were selected based on stratified random sampling. To collect data, three questionnaires were used, including the Sands and Plankt (2005) Academic Support Scale, the Modified Maslach Academic Burnout Questionnaire (2002) and the Academic Engagement Questionnaire (Reeve, 2013). Data analysis was performed using AMOS software (version 20) and structural equation modeling method. The results of data analysis revealed that the model has a good fit with research data. According to the findings, the direct path of academic support to academic burnout was significant. The indirect path from academic support to academic burnout through the mediating variable of academic engagement was also significant. Overall, the results of the present study show that academic support through influencing students' academic engagement as well as reducing their academic burnout can lead to active involvement of students in academic activities. Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2025; 27(4): 270-281)
The prevalence of neurocognitive impairment subsequent to haemorrhagic stroke is notably high, thus constituting a significant predictor of survival and functionality. To date, however, there has been a paucity of studies that have described the profile of specific cognitive impairments in patients suffering from haemorrhagic strokes. The objective of the present study is twofold: firstly, to analyse in detail cognitive impairment after haemorrhagic stroke; secondly, to investigate the improvement in cognitive function and to determine its association with potential prognostic factors. The present pilot study comprised 17 haemorrhagic stroke patients who underwent a detailed cognitive assessment on day 14 and 3 months after the haemorrhage using the Montreal Cognitive Test, Rey Auditory-Verbal Learning Test, Letter Fluency and Semantic Fluency Tests, Number Span Test and CANTAB. At baseline, 18.8% of patients exhibited minor neurocognitive impairment, while 43.8% demonstrated major neurocognitive impairment. A number of significant changes were observed between the two time points in spatial-visual abilities, executive functions, attention/concentration, short-term memory and orientation. A subsequent investigation into the laterality of the haemorrhage revealed a significant discrepancy, as determined by the t-test results. Specifically, the right hemisphere haemorrhage exhibited a reduced degree of cognitive impairment. Among the factors influencing improvement, a significant correlation was identified between residual bleeding and perifocal edema size as seen on the 3rd month CT. The findings of our subsequent study demonstrated considerable neurocognitive and domain-specific impairments subsequent to haemorrhagic stroke. It is important to note that improvement was observed in several cognitive domains three months after the event, and we were able to identify prognostic factors influencing recovery. It is hypothesised that these findings may inform the design of rehabilitation programmes. This is due to the fact that they provide clinicians with a more precise understanding of the cognitive status of patients suffering from post-haemorrhagic stroke.
AIM:The paper presents the general methodological background and main methodological results of the 2023 wave of the National Survey on Addiction Problems in Hungary (NSAPH). The ultimate aim of the research was to provide a comprehensive epidemiological overview of addictive problems, including substance use-related behaviours and behavioural addictions) among the adult population in Hungary, complemented by some objectives to develop/refresh the conceptual framework and indicators. The study presents the measurement instruments used in the research, the sampling and data collection strategy employed, and the methodological results related to sample selection and the reliability and validity of the measurement instruments used. METHODS:The survey was conducted on a nationally representative sample of 2200 gross, 1800 net population aged 18-64, using a mixed survey technique combining face-to-face interviewing with self-completion elements. The theoretical margin of error at the 95% confidence level is ±2.3%. Sample outliers were corrected by matrix weighting by stratum category. The data collection battery used in the survey covered substance use behaviours (smoking, alcohol and other psychoactive substance use), different behavioural addictions (problematic internet use, gaming disorder, problem social media use, problematic mobile phone use, gambling disorder, exercise addiction, eating disorders, work addiction, compulsive buying-shopping behaviour) and included instruments to map socio-demographic and psychological background. The reliability and validity of the data obtained along the target variables were analysed by means of indicators calculated on the basis of the correlations between the answers to the different logically related questions in the questionnaire, the proportion of missing and invalid answers, the proportion of consumption responses to a so-called dummy drug, and by examining the internal consistency of the standard scales used. RESULTS:Based on the proportion of consistent users in relation to the lifetime prevalence value, it can be concluded that for the majority of the substances tested, the lifetime prevalence values contain a higher proportion of consistent data. Compared to sociodemographic questions, which can be considered neutral, the proportion of missing and invalid responses for the addictive behaviours studied can be considered relatively high, but good compared to other sensitive questions. The degree of overestimation is negligible. CONCLUSIONS:Ove-rall, the methodological results of the OLAAP 2023 survey suggest that valid and reliable conclusions can be drawn from the survey data with regard to the current characteristics and patterns of the addictive behaviours under investigation. The trends in out-of-sample errors in substance use behaviour indicate that, in addition to the increased attention that is still needed, the careful interpretation of results and the use of estimation procedures developed over the years and continued in this research, we can rely somewhat greater confidence than before on results obtained using standard measurement instruments when analysing changes.
In my narrative paper, I describe the development of the bipolar spectrum concept and its clinical heterogeneity observed in everyday practice. I review relevant findings from biological marker research and phenomenology-based screening tools. Furthermore, I provide an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the bipolar spectrum theory, as well as the challenges of diagnosis. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2025; 27(4): 282-295)
OBJECTIVES:The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a marker of systemic inflammation. A NLR≥3 is considered abnormal (and ≥1.8 for benign ethnic neutropenia, BEN). METHODS:NLR values were added to longitudinal data including c-reactive protein (CRP) in 5 published clozapine-induced myocarditis cases. RESULTS:Case 1 had two NLRs with normal values, but on clozapine day 19, the CRP became abnormal (10.0 μg/d, ≤0.9) and the NLR=3.9. Clozapine was stopped on day 26. Case 2 had three normal NLRs before myocarditis, but on day 19 clozapine was stopped due to abnormal CRP (16. μg/dL, ≤0.9) with abnormal NLR (6.7). Case 3 received 25 mg on the first day (on valproic acid and quetiapine) with a NLR=3.4 on day 2. On day 11, CRP and NLR were normal. On day 14, he had chest pain, abnormal CRP (4.9 μg/dL,≤0.9) and abnormal NLR (7.4). Clozapine was discontinued on day 17. CRP and NLR finally normalized on day 35. Skin abscesses led to abnormal CRP and NLR values. On day 148, 12.5 mg of clozapine was restarted leading to a skin rash the next day. On day 155, this dose was stopped. Case 4 had two normal NLRs before myocarditis, but on day 16, clozapine was stopped (abnormal CRP, 15.8 μg/dL, ≤0.5 and abnormal NLR=4.4). Case 5 had BEN. NLR was normal on day 7, but became abnormal (NLR=1.9) on day 11 on 250 mg/day. He died five days later. CONCLUSIONS:An abnormal NLR during titration may suggest clozapine-induced inflammation and/or infection. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2025; 27(4): 296-311)
BACKGROUND:Research suggests that the use of digital devices correlates with children's sleep duration and physical activity, and that parents' behavior influences their children's use of digital devices and sports activities. The relationship between parents' mediation strategies and attitudes towards digital devices and their children's use of digital devices is debated. METHOD:A total of 132 parents of primary school students (91.7% female, average age 41.4, SD = 6.5) competed the questionnaire package. Of the evaluated children, 52.3% were boys, with an average age of 10.1 years (SD = 2.5). RESULTS:A significant correlation was found between sleep duration and digital device use among girls, as well as between parents' and daughters' digital device usage time. The frequency of parents' sport activities was significantly correlated with that of their children. Parents who use multiple mediation strategies, as opposed to only active mediation, have a more negative attitude towards digital device use. There was a significant correlation between parents' attitude towards smart devices and the time girls spent using digital devices. CONCLUSION:Parents' habits (regarding sports and digital devices) and attitudes towards smart device use may contribute to children's health behaviors (especially for girls). However, there is no single mediation strategy that can clearly serve as a prevention regarding the time spent on digital devices.
Suicide rates in Hungary remain alarmingly high, particularly among middle-aged and older men. This study introduces the Hungarian adaptations of two suicide prevention tools: the Ask Suicide-Screening Questions (ASQ) and the Brief Suicide Safety Assessment (BSSA), examining their applicability within a three-step clinical pathway consisting of screening, risk stratification, and treatment planning. The authors present a detailed overview of the hierarchy of suicide risk factors and emphasize the critical role of both screening and risk assessment in clinical decision-making. A dedicated section of the study explores various psychosocial interventions that have been proven effective in preventing suicide attempts. These include immediate stabilizing interventions and longer-term, more complex psychotherapeutic treatment approaches, all of which aim to provide structured support for individuals at risk.
AIM:It is recommended to consider multiple sources of information when assessing eating disorder symptoms in adolescents. The Parent Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (PEDE-Q) measures the parent-reported eating disorder symptoms of adolescents. The aim of the present study was to validate the Hungarian version of the PEDE-Q in a community- based Hungarian sample. Our further aim was to examine the relationship between the questionnaire and adolescents' self-reported eating disorder symptoms, as well as parents' own eating attitudes. METHOD:201 parents aged between 32 and 68 years (155 mothers) completed the PEDE-Q and the Eating Attitudes Test-26. Additionally, 195 adolescents aged between 12 and 18 years (55.7% girls) completed the self-administered Psychiatric Scales for Children and Adolescents - Psychogenic Eating Scale. We conducted confirmatory factor analyses to examine the factor structure of the Hungarian PEDE-Q. For further bivariate analyses, we used Pearson correlations. RESULTS:After adding modification indices, the revised hierarchical model, where the three first-order factors (Restraint, Eating Concern, and Shape/Weight Concern) loaded onto a second-order general eating disorder factor, showed acceptable properties (CFI = 1.000, TLI = 0.999, RMSEA = 0.031 [90% CI: 0.017-0.042], SRMR = 0.084; α = 0.83-0.94). A moderate positive correlation was found between the self-reported and the parent-reported adolescent eating disorder symptoms. The results also showed a weak positive correlation between the parent-reported adolescent symptoms and the parents' own symptoms. CONCLUSION:The Hungarian Parent Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire is a valid and reliable measure of parent-reported eating disorder symptoms of adolescents. The association between adolescent and parental reports highlights the importance of multi- informant assessments in identifying eating disorder symptoms in youth. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2025; 27(3): 169-184)
AIM:A growing body of research has demonstrated the positive eff ects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) delivered in the workplace on employees' well-being and psychological fl exibility. Delivering ACT in the workplace aims to enhance employee performance and reduce stress levels by promoting psychological flexibility, a skill to consciously live in the present, observing thoughts and emotions, and engaging in value-driven actions. The short-term effects of a 5-week-long ACT-based psychological flexibility training program were tested. METHODS:A total of 21 corporate employees (62 % women, Mage = 43.9 years, SD = 9.5) from a large company in the financial sector completed study measures prior to and after the training sessions. The six core processes of psychological flexibility were examined. Psychological flexibility, Valued living, Thought suppression, and five facets of Mindfulness and Cognitive fusion were assessed. RESULTS:Results showed significant difference in one core process of psychological flexibility (Contact with the present moment). Moreover, Acting with awareness, Describe and Nonjudge showed significant difference before and after the training. CONCLUSION:The present research has provided further empirical evidence for the effectiveness of ACT-based psychological flexibility training with regard to three aspects of Contact with the present moment, which is a core process of psychological flexibility (Acting with awareness, Describe, and Nonjudge). The findings provide a basis for future research to investigate longer-term effects, including monitoring how participants in the research program practice the learnt techniques in their everyday lives. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2025; 27(3): 157-168)
INTRODUCTION:Burnout is a complex, process-oriented phenomenon with long-term negative consequences, which tends to recur regularly in helping professions. The identification of psychological risk factors leading to burnout, as well as the protective factors that may mitigate its development, is essential for effective prevention and targeted workforce support. This task is particularly pressing in emotionally demanding fields such as oncology, where professional work not only entails heightened emotional vulnerability but also presents specific intervention-related challenges. OBJECTIVE:The aim of this study is to explore the characteristics and specific risk factors of burnout among professionals working in oncology care, and to identify protective factors that may contribute to the prevention and alleviation of burnout. METHOD:Based on a review of relevant literature, the study examines the individual- and organizational-level challenges that are observable in everyday oncological practice, in relation to potential interventions and preventive strategies. RESULTS:Professionals involved in oncology care are exposed to increased and domain-specific emotional burdens that adversely affect their mental health, reduce performance, and negatively impact the quality of patient care. The analysis highlights the critical role of individual resilience, the monitoring of well-being, and the importance of institutional-level intervention strategies. DISCUSSION:Preventing burnout requires integrated, multi-level interventions that take into account both individual resources and the institutional culture. Strengthening protective factors is essential for sustaining long-term psychological well-being. Effective prevention necessitates regular monitoring of burnout and well-being, the development of individual coping capacities, and the cultivation of a supportive organizational climate. CONCLUSION:Burnout among oncology professionals constitutes not only an individual but also a systemic challenge. Supporting colleagues experiencing exhaustion must be considered a fundamental workplace condition. The foundation of prevention lies in the implementation of a robust psychological support system, institutional accountability, and the targeted promotion of staff well-being. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2025; 27(3): 208-220)
