Diseño y validación de un instrumento para evaluar comportamiento contraproducente online. Rasgos de personalidad como predictores de dichas conductas / Design and Validation of an Instrument to Assess Online Counterproductive Behavior. Personality Traits as Predictors of these Behaviors / Desenho e validação de um instrumento para avaliação de comportamento contraproducente online. Traços de personalidade como preditores de tais comportamentos

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo el diseño y vali- dación de una escala para evaluar comportamiento con- traproducente en línea que incluye el análisis conjunto de conductas destructivas (antisociales) y constructivas (prosociales). Además, se propuso determinar qué ras- gos de personalidad (normales, patológicos, negativos o positivos) predicen dicho comportamiento. Participaron 351 sujetos de población general argentina (156 hombres, 191 mujeres, 2 se identificaron como no binarios), con una edad promedio de 39.35 años (de = 13.79). Para el cumplimiento de todos los objetivos, aparte de la prueba construida, se emplearon los siguientes instrumentos: Big Five Inventory, Personality Inven- tory for DSM-5 Brief-Form, Positive Traits Inventory Short-Form, Dark Triad Scale, y una encuesta diseñada ad hoc para evaluar el uso de internet y redes sociales. El análisis factorial exploratorio reveló una estructura de dos factores orientados a la evaluación de los dos tipos de conductas, que explicaban el 57.5 % de la varianza total. Como resultado, se dio lugar a una escala de 18 ítems con muy buenos valores de fiabilidad ­coeficiente omega­ (conductas destructivas ω = 0.88; conductas constructivas ω = 0.79). Por último, se realizaron análisis de regresión jerárquica que determinaron que los rasgos de la tríada oscura son los que mejor predicen el desarrollo de conductas destructivas, en tanto que los rasgos positivos predicen las conductas constructivas. Palabras clave: rasgos de personalidad; comportamiento en línea; antisocial; prosocial.

The present study aimed to design and validate a scale to assess online counterproductive behavior that includes the joint analysis of destructive (antisocial) and constructive (prosocial) behaviors. In addition, it was studied which personality traits (normal, pathological, negative or positive) predict this counterproductive behavior. 351 subjects from the general Argentine population participated (156 men, 191 women, 2 identified themselves as non-binary), with an average age of 39.35 years (SD = 13.79). In order to achieve the objectives, in addition to the constructed test, the follow- ing instruments were used: Personality Inventory for dSM-5 Brief-Form, Positive Traits Inventory Short-Form, Dark Triad Scale, and a survey designed ad hoc to assess internet and social media sites use. The exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure ­oriented to the evaluation of the two types of behaviors­ that explained 57.5 % of the total variance. As a result, a scale of 18 items with very good reliability values ­omega coefficient­ (destructive behaviors ω = 0.88; constructive behaviors ω = 0.79) was developed. Finally, hierarchical regression analyzes were performed. The results showed that the Dark Triad traits best predict destructive behaviors, while positive traits predict constructive behaviors.

O objetivo deste estudo foi a concepção e validação de uma escala para avaliar o comportamento on-line contraproducente que inclui a análise conjunta de com- portamentos destrutivos (antissociais) e construtivos (pró-sociais). Além disso, foi proposto determinar quais traços de personalidade (normal, patológico, negativo ou positivo) predizem tal comportamento. Participaram 351 sujeitos da população geral argentina (156 homens, 191 mulheres, 2 identificados como não binários), com idade média de 39.35 anos (dP = 13.79). Para atender a todos os objetivos, além do teste cons- truído, foram utilizados os seguintes instrumentos: Big Five Inventory, Personality Inventory for DSM- 5 Brief-Form, Positive Traits Inventory Short-Form, Dark Triad Scale e um questionário elaborado ad hoc para avaliar o uso da internet e das redes sociais. A análise fatorial exploratória revelou uma estrutura de dois fatores orientada para a avaliação dos dois tipos de comportamentos, que explicaram 57.5 % da variância total. Como resultado, foi criada uma escala de 18 itens com valores de confiabilidade muito bons ­coeficiente ômega­ (comportamentos destrutivos ω = 0.88; comportamentos construtivos ω = 0.79). Por fim, foram realizadas análises de regressão hie- rárquica, que determinaram que os traços da Tríade escura predizem melhor o desenvolvimento de comportamentos destrutivos, enquanto os traços positivos predizem comportamentos construtivos

Uso pasivo de redes sociales y malestar psicológico. El rol de la comparación social / Passive use of social media sites and psychological distress. The role of social comparison

Resumen La presente investigación se focalizó en los diferentes tipos de uso (activo/pasivo) que hacen los usuarios de redes sociales y los efectos psicológicos que esto puede conllevar, sobre todo en aquellos sujetos tendientes a compararse con los demás. Por un lado, se examinó el poder predictor de variables relacionadas al uso de redes sociales (i. e., tiempo de conexión, tipo de uso -pasivo/activo-, motivaciones de uso) y la comparación social, sobre el malestar psicológico percibido (i. e., depresión, ansiedad, estrés). Por otro lado, se analizó el rol mediador de la comparación social en la relación entre el uso pasivo de redes sociales y la percepción de malestar psicológico percibido. La muestra fue de conveniencia y estuvo compuesta por 420 sujetos de población general (211 hombres, 209 mujeres), con una media de edad de 40.29 años (DE = 14.93). Se utilizaron los siguientes instrumentos de recolección de datos: Motives for SMSs use Scale; Iowa-Netherlands Comparison Orientation Measure (INCOM-E), Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) y una escala diseñada ad-hoc para evaluar el uso activo y pasivo que se hace de redes sociales. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que la comparación social es el principal predictor de malestar psicológico junto con el motivo de uso relacionado con pasatiempo/exhibicionismo. Además, se pudo comprobar un efecto indirecto del uso pasivo sobre el malestar psicológico considerando a la comparación social como variable mediadora. Por lo tanto, usar pasivamente las redes generaría mayor malestar si el usuario tiende a compararse con quienes realizan las publicaciones.

Abstract The present investigation is framed in the field of cyberpsychology. It aimed to analyze the predictive power of variables related to the use of social media sites -SMSs- (i. e., connection time, type of use -passive / active-, motivations for use) and social comparison, on perceived psychological distress (i. e., depression, anxiety, stress). Furthermore, the mediating role of social comparison in the relationship between the passive use of SMSs and the perceived psychological distress, was also analyzed. It is important to study these topics since different international studies have shown inconsistent and contradictory results regarding the effects of SMSs use on individuals' well-being (e. g., Frison y Eggermont, 2015; Kraut et al., 2002; Nie et al., 2015). Consequently, some studies have focused on understanding whether the manner in which people use the networks, whether actively or passively, explains how technology impacts on users' well-being and/or psychological distress (Verduyn et al., 2015). The negative impact of passive use of SMSs can be explained by the Social Comparison Theory (Festinger, 1954), which suggests that people tend to evaluate themselves in comparison with others. These comparisons might generate negative effects on the individual (Giagkou et al., 2018) and, according to Lup et al. (2015), social comparison may be a mediating variable in this association. Regarding participants of the study, a convenience sample of 420 subjects of general population was studied (211 men, 209 women). The mean age was 40.29 years old (SD = 14.93). The majority of the participants (n = 278) lived in Buenos Aires City and surroundings. In terms of variables related to the use of SMSs, when asked about type of SMSs, most participants reported using more than one SMS, mainly Facebook (72 %) and Instagram (57 %). Regarding time spent on SMSs, 60 % of the respondents used their favorite SMS more than three times a day. The mean daily time engaged on all the SMSs exceeded five hours. Data were gathered using the Motives for SMSs use Scale (Lupano Perugini y Castro Solano, 2021a), the Iowa-Netherlands Comparison Orientation Measure (INCOM-E) (Buunk et al., 2005; Gibbons y Buunk, 1999), the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) (Antúnez y Vinet, 2012; Lovibond y Lovibond, 1995). Furthermore, a survey to assess individuals' use of social networks was designed. The first part explored the most frequently used SMSs, the number and type of friends/followers, and the time spent on SMSs. The main SMSs were listed and participants were asked to indicate whether they used them or not, and if they did, they rated the amount of time spent on SMSs daily. The total amount of time per day was also surveyed. The second part of the survey was designed based on The Passive Active Use Measure (PAUM, Gerson et al., 2017) and some users' suggestions. This instrument assesses the frequency of certain activities performed on the networks to find out if participants make active use (e. g., posting information, commenting) or passive use (e. g., viewing profiles and posts, scrolling). The obtained results showed that social comparison is the main predictor of psychological distress. The motivation for use related to pass time / exhibitionism was also a significant predictor. In addition, an indirect effect of passive use on perceived psychological distress could be verified, considering social comparison as a mediating variable. Therefore, using the social networks passively would generate greater discomfort if the user tends to compare themselves with those who make the publications. The results of this study allow both users and healthcare and education providers to have greater knowledge of the consequences of using social media on individuals' overall well-being, and to promote their proper use.

Análisis psicométricos del Inventario de los Cinco Continuos de la Personalidad, versión corta (ICCP-SF) / Psychometric analyses of the Five Continua Personality Inventory, Short Form (FCPI-SF)

Resumen El objetivo de este trabajo fue generar una versión corta del Inventario de Cinco Continuos de la Personalidad (ICCP; de la Iglesia y Castro Solano, 2021). Para ello se analizó una muestra de 2 183 adultos de población general de edad promedio de 39.04 años (DE = 14.18; 51.95 % mujeres, 47.64 % varones, 0.41 % otro). Se obtuvo una versión corta de 55 elementos que cumplían con los criterios de calidad interna, externa y de juicio esperados. Los elementos resultaron claros, no redundantes y altamente correlacionados con la puntuación total de la escala a la que pertenecían (entre .89 y .96). Además, la estructura factorial de diez rasgos de la personalidad presentó un buen ajuste y buena consistencia interna. Las correlaciones entre las versiones cortas de las escalas y las largas fueron todas positivas y altas (entre .89 y .96). Además, los análisis de asociación con los criterios externos resultaron como se esperaba: los rasgos patológicos correlacionaron de manera directa con la presencia de sintomatología psicológica (entre .26 y .64) y de manera inversa con el bienestar (-.18 y -.43); los rasgos positivos y los índices de ajuste correlacionaron de manera inversa con la presencia de sintomatología psicológica (entre -.09 y -.53) y de manera directa con el bienestar (entre .11 y .44). Se concluye que la versión corta del ICCP resulta ser una medida psicométrica apropiada y se sugiere su uso para el ámbito de investigación o para instancias de rastrillaje en el ámbito aplicado.

Abstract This research aimed at developing a short version of the Five Continua Personality Inventory (FCPI; de la Iglesia y Castro Solano, 2021). The FCPI is a 120 item measure that operationalizes the Dual Personality Model (DPM). The DPM proposes that personality traits may and must be assessed in their pathological and positive aspects conjointly. DPM is based on the notion of traits conceived as dimensional and in the notion of continuum of traits. These two pillars allow to study the degree of presence of each trait (dimensionally) and their pathological and positive aspects (continuum). Pathological traits included in the model are negative affect, detachment, antagonism, disinhibition and psychoticism. Positive traits are serenity, humanity, integrity, moderation and sprightliness. An assessment of this kind would provide a notion of the total personality adjustment that considers both aspects of the phenomenon as well as an integrated view of personality functioning as a whole, in contrast to a dissociated one. The strengths of the DPM are: (1) the integrated view of personality that includes healthy and pathological aspects simultaneously; (2) the use of dimensional measures in contrast of categories; and (3) its link to current diagnostic nosologies (DSM-5). Since the FCPI could be considered too long for many instances of psychological assessment, the development of a shorter version could provide a more versatile measure. Shorter versions of this type of instruments are recommended for long research surveys and longitudinal studies since they would prevent the undesirable effect than long scales have on attrition rates or attention levels. To develop a shorter version three main aspects were considered: (1) the characteristics of the items that can be assessed by studying their association with each other (internal item qualities); (2) the correlation of the new instrument with other variables or indicators (external item qualities); and (3) the properties that exceed statistical analyses, such as clarity, non-redundancy, invasiveness and "face" validity (judgmental item qualities). Sample was composed of 2 183 adults of the general population with a mean age of 39.04 (SD = 14.18; 51.95 % female, 47.64 % male, 0.41 % other). A shorter version was obtained which had 55 items that met the internal, external and judgement quality criteria expected. Selected elements were clear, non-redundant and had a high correlation with the total score of the scale they belonged to (between .89 and .96). In addition, evidence of the ten-trait personality model (five pathological traits and five positive traits) was obtained by means of a confirmatory factor analysis since the structure showed an excellent fit. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach, ordinal and Omega alphas and their values were as expected and also indicated a good psychometric functioning of the scale. Associations between the long version and the short version of each scale were all positive and strong (between .89 and .96). Additionally, correlation analyses with external criteria resulted as expected: pathological traits were positively associated with psychological symptoms (between .26 and .64) and negatively associated with well-being (between -.18 and -.43); positive traits and adjustment indexes were negatively related to psychological symptoms (between -.09 and -.53) and positively related to well-being (between .11 and .44). An interesting result is that, when compared with the ten individual traits, indexes had stronger associations with psychological symptoms and well-being. It is possible that these combined measures have greater explanatory power since they provide an integrated view of personality in contrast to a disaggregated assessment. It is concluded that the short version of the FCPI meets the three criteria sought and it is an appropriate psychometric measure and it is suggested to be used for research purposes or for screening assessments in the applied fields.

Rasgos de personalidad, bienestar y malestar psicológico en usuarios de redes sociales que presentan conductas disruptivas online / Personality traits, well-being and psychological distress in users who present online disruptive behavior

Resumen El presente estudio se propuso investigar perfiles de usuarios de redes sociales que presentan conductas disruptivas online. Para tal fin se diseñó un índice que permite evaluar el nivel en el que se presentan dichas conductas y se analizó la relación entre la intensidad de la conducta disruptiva online con variables sociodemográficas, motivos de usos de redes, variables de personalidad (normales, patológicas y rasgos vinculados a tríada oscura), bienestar y malestar psicológico. Participaron 858 adultos (421 hombres y 437 mujeres) que tenían en promedio 39.16 años (DE = 14.14). Para la recolección de datos se administraron: Dark Triad Scale, Big Five Inventory, Inventario para Trastornos de la Personalidad para el DSM-5, Mental Health Continuum . Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, y se diseñaron dos escalas: Índice de Conductas Disruptivas Online y Motivos de Utilización de Redes Sociales. En cuanto a las variables sociodemográficas, se halló que los más jóvenes de sexo masculino y que no trabajaban eran quienes presentaban un mayor nivel de comportamientos disruptivos online. En cuanto a los motivos de uso de redes, se observó que preferían usarlas con fines meramente exhibicionistas, de ocio o para iniciar nuevas relaciones. Por otro lado, en relación con rasgos de personalidad, aquellos que diferenciaban los perfiles en cuanto a la intensidad de las conductas disruptivas fueron: bajos niveles de responsabilidad y altos niveles de desinhibición, narcisismo y maquiavelismo. Por último, se demostró que presentar este tipo de conductas se asocia con mayor nivel de estrés y menor de bienestar social.

Abstract The present study focused on the analysis of online disruptive behavior that usually occurs among social network users. Individuals who perpetrate such behavior are commonly known as trolls or haters (Cheng, Danescu-Niculescu-Mitzil, & Leskovec, 2015). In general, they post comments, photos or provocative videos that do not pursue any purpose other than annoying or obtaining pleasure or fun (Brandel, 2007; Phillips, 2011). Recent studies have shown that certain personality traits are associated with the presence of such disruptive behavior. In this research, we studied normal personality traits, psychopathological traits, and dark personality traits in relation to disruptive behavior. The normal personality traits were considered from the classic Five Factor Model (FFM) - Openness to experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism (Costa, & McCrae, 1985); the psychopathological traits, from the latest version of the DSM - Negative Effect, Detachment, Antagonism, Disinhibition and Psychoticism (DSM-5, American Psychiatric Association, 2013); and the dark personality traits from the so-called Dark Triad model - Narcissism, Machiavellianism and Psychopathy (Palthus, & Williams, 2002). This latter model has a growing interest in the international literature, related to dysfunctional Internet use, particularly to social networks. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze profiles of social network users who present online disruptive behavior. For this purpose, an index was designed to assess the level of occurrence of such behaviors. First, the relationship between the intensity of online disruptive behavior and sociodemographic variables (i. e., sex, age, studies, occupation and nationality) and motives for social network use (i. e., Relationship maintenance; Passing time and Exhibitionism; Relationship Initiation and Search for companionship) were assessed. Then, the relationships among personality variables (i. e., normal, psychopathological and traits related to the dark triad); well-being (i. e., emotional, social and personal) and psychological distress (i. e., anxiety, stress and depression) were analyzed. The sample consisted of 858 adults (421 men, 49.1 % and 437 women, 50.9 %) with a mean age of 39.16 years (SD = 14.14). The majority (67.9 %; n = 583) lived in Buenos Aires, Argentina). For data collection, the following questionnaires were used: Dark Triad Scale (DTS), Big Five Inventory (BFI), Personality Disorder Inventory (PID-5-BF), the Mental Health Continuum (MHC-SF), and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Additionally, two scales were designed: Online Disruptive Behavior Index, and Motives for Social Networks Use. The SPPS 24.0 statistical package was used for data analysis. Overall, the results are consistent with those reported in the international literature. Regarding sociodemographic variables, it was found that male, younger and unemployed individuals are those who presented higher level of online disruptive behavior. Considering motives for social network use, it was observed that individuals who tend to behave in a dysfunctional manner, preferred to use social networks purely for exhibitionism, pastime or relationships initiation. Regarding personality traits, those who differentiated profiles in terms of intensity of disruptive behaviors were: low levels of responsibility and high levels of disinhibition, narcissism and Machiavellianism. Thus, it might be concluded that the overall personality profile tends to be dysfunctional in terms of its characteristics. Finally, it was shown that presenting this type of behavior is associated with higher levels of stress and lower levels of social wellbeing. Therefore, it might be interpreted that although individuals who behave disruptively tend to obtain gratification from injury and deceit to others, this behavior does not result in positive results for them, but rather results in feelings of discomfort from a personal and social point of view.

Influencia de virtudes organizacionales sobre satisfacción, compromiso y performance laboral en organizaciones argentinas / Influence of organizational virtues on satisfaction, commitment and job performance in Argentinean organizations

El trabajo que se informa se basa en las propuestas de la Psicología Organizacional Positiva (POP) que intenta integrar a la mirada clásica de estudios organizacionales (que ponen el foco en analizar condiciones negativas), una perspectiva positiva que visualice variables que contribuyan a resultados óptimos y no solo las que lo impiden (Cameron & Spreitzer, 2012). Se propuso analizar la influencia directa e indirecta de las virtudes organizacionales sobre los niveles de satisfacción laboral, compromiso organizacional y performance individual y organizacional. Para ello, se validó un instrumento para la medición de dichas virtudes, el Inventario de Virtudes Organizacionales (IVO), que consta de tres dimensiones: Apoyo y respeto, Significado e inspiración y Perdón. Luego, se puso a prueba un modelo de predicción mediante ecuaciones estructurales. Se trabajó con una muestra de 569 empleados argentinos con una edad promedio de 36.7 años, pertenecientes a empresas públicas y privadas. Para la recolección de datos se administraron las siguientes pruebas: el Inventario de Virtudes Organizacionales (IVO), la Escala de Compromiso Organizacional, el Cuestionario de Estrés Laboral, la Escala de Satisfacción con la Vida (SWLS), la Escala de Bienestar Laboral (BIEN T) y algunas encuestas diseñadas ad-hoc tales como encuestas sociodemográfica, organizacional, de satisfacción laboral, de desempeño organizacional e individual. Los resultados mostraron un efecto directo de las virtudes sobre los niveles de satisfacción laboral y de ésta, sobre el compromiso organizacional. También se verificó la influencia directa de las virtudes sobre la performance. Sin embargo, no se verificó una influencia indirecta sobre la performance, teniendo a la satisfacción y el compromiso como variables mediadoras.

This study is based on Positive Organizational Scholarship (POS). This perspective tries to integrate classical organizational studies (which analyze the negative conditions) with a positive perspective that analyzes variables that contribute to optimal results and not just those which impede them (Cameron & Spreitzer, 2012). This research aimed to analyze influence of organizational virtues on job satisfaction, organizational commitment and individual and organizational performance levels. For this purpose, an instrument for measuring these virtues was adapted Positive Practices Survey (Cameron, Mora, Leutscher & Calarco, 2011). The original instrument has 29 items and six dimensions: Dignity and respect, Support, Caring, Meaning, Inspiration and Forgiveness. The adapted version Organizational Virtues Inventory (IVO) has 13 items and three dimensions: Support and respect, Meaning and Inspiration, Forgiveness. This instrument utilizes a 5-point Likert scaling format ranging from 1: completely disagree to 5: completely agree. A convenience sample of 569 Argentinean employees was studied. The mean age was 36.3 years old. The majority of the participants lived in Buenos Aires. The participants belong to public companies (n = 79) and private companies (n = 379). For data collection was used: Organizational Virtues Inventory (IVO), Organizational Commitment Scale, Job Stress Questionnaire, Life Satisfaction Scale (SWLS), Workplace Well-Being Scale (BIEN-T), and surveys designed ad-hoc: sociodemographic, organizational, job satisfaction, organizational and individual performance surveys. Data analysis was conducted using SPPS 18.0, AMOS 16.0, and EQS 6.2. Regarding data analysis, first, the original instrument was translated. The method used for translation was forward translation. Two researchers were involved in the translation process. Both have a PhD in Psychology and a good command of the English language. Then, an exploratory factor analysis was performed; as a result of this process 13 items, that had high factor loading in more than one factor, were eliminated. The resulting structure was three factors that explain 64% of the total variance. This structure was also confirmed using confirmatory analysis. In this process another three items were eliminated, so the final version of the Organizational Virtues Inventory (IVO), has 13 items. Furthermore, IVO has shown excellent internal consistency (Support and respect: .89; Meaning and Inspiration: .87; Forgiveness: .75). On the other hand, it was obtained evidence of criterion validity because the results positively correlated with measures of employee well-being, and were negatively associated with measures of job stress. As a whole, the current findings confirm that IVO is a valid and reliable instrument for research purpose based on POS. The most important objective of this study was to analyze direct and indirect influence of organizational virtues on job satisfaction, organizational commitment and individual and organizational performance levels. For this purpose, it was developed a model of structural equations (SEM) with EQS. It was hypothesized a direct effect of organizational virtues on levels of job satisfaction and of organizational / individual performance. Also, a direct effect of job satisfaction on organizational commitment was hypothesized. Finally, it was hypothesized an indirect effect of organizational virtues on levels of performance (organizational and individual) having satisfaction and commitment as mediating variables. The results showed an effect direct of virtues on performance and job satisfaction levels (which in turn influence the organizational commitment). No indirect influence on performance, taking satisfaction and commitment as mediating variables, was verified. These findings demonstrate, as has been proposed in previous research (e.g., Cameron et al., 2011; Lyubomirsky et al., 2005), that the perception of virtuous practices of the organization in which people work collaborates to feel satisfied with their work, wishing to stay in it and have better performance levels.

Virtudes y fortalezas del carácter en población adulta de Buenos Aires. Un estudio con un enfoque mixto émico/ético / Virtues and character strengths in Buenos Aires adult population. A study with a mixed emic/etic approach

El presente estudio tiene como objetivo establecer la validez cultural de la clasificación VIA (24 fortalezas en 6 virtudes) mediante la utilización de un enfoque mixto (ético/émico). Se intentó determinar si la clasificación VIA resultaba relevante culturalmente para poder capturar las respuestas de personas legas en ocasión de describir las características positivas de personajes protípicos admirados en un formato de respuesta libre (free listing). Participaron del estudio una muestra de 378 personas adultas de población general no consultante argentina, varones y mujeres. Los resultados señalan que las fortalezas más frecuentes fueron la integridad, la persistencia, la bondad y el amor, lo que da lugar a dos perfiles diferenciados de personajes prototípicos de características positivas. No se encontraron diferencias según sexo y edad. Los resultados sugieren que la clasificación VIA debe ser ajustada en función de las variables culturales.

The purpose of the present study is to establish the cultural validity of the Values in Action (VIA) classification through the use of 24 character strengths contained in 6 virtues, by implementing a combined emic-etic approach. A group of 378 male and female Argentinian adults participated from this research. The aim was to determine if the VIA classification was culturally relevant to portray the answers of the participants involved. Results indicate that the most frequent strengths listed by the participants were integrity, persistency, kindness and love. No differences regarding age and gender were found. The results also suggest that the VIA classification needs to be adjusted according to cultural variables.

The relationships between character strengths and life fulfillment in the view of lay-people in Argentina

Se examinó la importancia de las fortalezas del carácter para el desarrollo positivo desde el punto de vista de las personas legas. Una muestra de 687 adultos evaluó la importancia de las 24 fortalezas del carácter de la clasificación Values in Action para cinco áreas: bienestar personal, metas personales, relaciones personales y laborales y contribuir a un país mejor. Se diseñó un instrumento basado en la metodología de la encuesta que estaba compuesto por 24 ítems. Cada uno evaluaba una fortaleza en cada una de las cinco áreas comentadas. La confiabilidad global del mismo fue igual a .98. Los datos se analizaron mediante la inspección de las frecuencias (por ej.: grado de respaldo a cada una de las fortalezas en relación con el desarrollo positivo), considerando aquellas fortalezas que se encontraban por encima del percentil 90. En general, los resultados han mostrado que la fortaleza del carácter honestidad es un importante recurso personal para las cinco áreas consideradas en este estudio. Específicamente, amor, honestidad y vitalidad son las fortalezas del carácter más importantes para el bienestar personal; perseverancia y autorregulación, para lograr metas vitales, honestidad y gratitud para el desarrollo de relaciones positivas; compañerismo e imparcialidad para las relaciones laborales positivas, e imparcialidad y honestidad para contribuir a un país mejor. Se analizaron las diferencias por género y edad y se encontró que las mujeres consideraban a las fortalezas mucho más importantes que los varones para la mayoría de las áreas vitales consideradas. Este estudio señala que las concepciones implícitas de las personas legas deberían ser tomadas en cuenta a la hora de diseñar estrategias de intervención positivas basadas en las fortalezas del carácter.

The idea underlying this work is that character strengths are an essential component for achieving life fulfillment. In order to determine the extent to which strengths of character are essential to living a good life, this study was conducted from lay-people’s point of view. This work took as theoretical framework Seligman’s recent theory, known under the acronym of PERMA, which proposes that human strengths are vehicles for achieving positive emotions, engagement (flow), enriching relationships, meaning in life, and accomplishment of personal goals. This study considered life fulfillment beyond the hedonic conception of subjective well-being emphasizing the importance of both individual and social meaning; the relationship with others; and the achievement of personal goals, among others. A sample of 687 adults evaluated the importance of 24 character strengths from the Values in Action classification for the five areas that contribute to a fulfilling life: personal well-being, personal goals, personal relationships, work relationships, and contributing to a better country. This study used a similar methodology to Biswas-Diener (2006), who studied the attitudes towards the 24 VIA character strengths with members of dissimilar cultural groups. An instrument was designed comprising 24 items in a survey-format. Each item assessed one character strength for each of the five areas under study. Cronbach’s alpha reliability test for the overall scale was .98. Data was analyzed by calculating frequencies (e.g., the degree of endorsement to the character strengths in relation to life fulfillment) and conducting chi-square tests (e.g., gender and age differences). The character strengths over the 90th percentile were considered. The results showed that the character strength honesty is an important personal resource for the five areas studied. Specifically, love, honesty and zest were the major character strengths for personal well-being; persistence and self-regulation for achieving life goals; honesty and gratitude for developing positive personal relationships; citizenship and fairness for positive work relationships; and, fairness and honesty for contributing to a better country. Differences by gender were found. For the majority of the areas of life explored, women placed more importance on character strengths than men. The main finding of this study is that people consider the strengths of character from the VIA classification as important elements for life fulfillment. Most participants in this study showed a high degree of endorsement (60 to 70%) to each of the character strengths of the VIA classification for all the areas, i.e., achieving personal well-being, accomplishing life goals, enriching personal relationships, working well with others, and contributing to a better country. Based on these results, it can be concluded that from the point of view of lay-people, character strengths are not only fundamental to feel good but also to function well both in relation to themselves and to the world. Overall, intervention strategies, from the Positive Psychology perspective, tend to be generic and unspecific, without considering individuals’ particular points of view. Knowing people’s implicit ideas in relation to the strengths that contribute most to life fulfillment would allow generating more accurate and culturally adjusted interventions to the particular group in question. This adjustment not only operates as a key motivational aspect but also a reinforcement of the effect of the intervention. Future studies should experimentally compare the effectiveness of generic interventions on character strengths versus interventions focused on those strengths that the group under study deems important, especially in Latino populations in which the efficacy of these interventions has not been tested yet, and little has been studied in relation to this topic.

Predictores de la adaptación sociocultural de estudiantes universitarios extranjeros en Argentina / Predictors of socio-cultural adaptation of foreign university students in Argentina

El interés para realizar esta investigación surgió a partir de que Argentina recibe un número creciente de estudiantes de otros países latinoamericanos, atraídos por el idioma, el prestigio académico y las condiciones económicas. Como resultado del contacto intercultural, los estudiantes atraviesan el proceso psicológico denominado aculturación, que implica cambios afectivos, comportamentales y cognitivos. En virtud de lo antedicho, este estudio se propuso identificar predictores de adaptación sociocultural en función de variables sociodemográficas, culturales y psicológicas de estudiantes que decidieron realizar sus estudios universitarios en Argentina. Participaron 216 estudiantes migrantes que se encontraban cursando diferentes carreras universitarias, el 57% eran mujeres (n = 124) y el 43% varones (n = 92), con un promedio de edad de 24.18 años (DE = 4.55). El 86% (n = 186) había nacido en Latinoamérica. El restante 14% provenía de países de Europa y Asia. El tiempo promedio de residencia en Argentina era de 3.31años. Se emplearon diferentes instrumentos diseñados ad hoc y/o adaptados para medir las variables involucradas en el estudio. A partir de los resultados obtenidos, no se pudo corroborar la influencia por parte de variables sociodemográficas (edad y tiempo de residencia). En cambio, entre las variables culturales se constató que percibir bajos niveles de discriminación y ansiedad intergrupal predice buenos niveles de adaptación sociocultural. En cuanto a las variables psicológicas, se corroboró que el apoyo social y la satisfacción percibida contribuyen a la adaptación sociocultural. En términos globales, las variables culturales y psicológicas predicen con mayor éxito la adaptación sociocultural en relación alas sociodemográficas.

The interest of this research arises from that Argentina received a growing number of students from other Latin-American countries. International migration has risen exponentially in recent decades due to advances in technology and communications. According to the International Organization for Migration (OIM, 2010), the estimated number of international migrants in the world for that year was 214 million, doubling the previous two decades. Globalization has promoted exchanges among different cultures, but also caused the collision between different value systems, beliefs and customs that, in many cases, generates situations of confusion or discomfort in people (Furnham & Bochner, 1986). Approximately 2.9million people each year decide to make or complete their studies in other countries (OECD, 2008). Argentina receives an increasing number of students from other Latin-American countries, attracted by the language, the academic prestige of the local universities and the favorable economic conditions (Filmus, 2007). At the present, international students represent 1.6% of university students in Argentina. Therefore, Argentina is the fourth host country of America, after United States, Canada and Uruguay. As a result of intercultural contact, students go through the psychological process called acculturation, which involves affective, behavioral and cognitive changes. Taking into account the antecedents mentioned, this research proposed to identify predictors of socio-cultural adaptation based on socio-demographic, cultural and psychological variables, in international students who decided to make their university studies in Argentina. The participants of the study were 216 migrant students who were studying different careers. 57% were women (n = 124) and 43% males (n = 92) with an average age of 24.18 years (SD = 4.55). 86% (n = 186) were born in Latin-America. The remaining 14% came from Europe and Asia. The average residence time in Argentina was 3.31 years. The reasons for their arrival in Argentina were diverse, 50% (n = 108) of them considered that Argentina was a good place to study for its academic prestige and low costs. The remaining half was divided between family reasons (n = 47, 21%), to have a different cultural experience (n = 30, 14%), for student exchange (n = 19, 9%) or others reasons (n = 13, 6%). Regarding socio-economic status, the majority of respondents said they were in the middle class (n = 107, 50%) and upper middle (n = 82, 38%). Different instruments, designed ad hoc or adapted, were used to measure the variables involved in the study. To measure cultural variables were used instruments to assess perceived cultural distance, frequency of contact with foreigners and local habitants, intergroup anxiety and perceived discrimination. To measure psychological variables, were used instruments to assess social supportand life satisfaction. Besides, were used instruments to assess the level of socio-cultural adaptation. Based on results obtained, it could not be verified influence by socio-demographic varia bles (age and residence time). In contrast, among the cultural variables it was found that low levels of perceived discrimination an inter-grupal anxiety predicts good levels of socio-cultural adaptation. Regarding psychological variables, it was confirmed that social support and perceived satisfaction contribute to this adaptation. In summary, cultural and psychological variables predict most successful socio-cultural adaptation than socio-demographic variables. One of the limitations of the study was the low inclusion in the sample of immigrants from countries with greater cultural distance. Futures studies can focuses on the analysis of the processes of adaptation with foreign students with language and customs more distant than Latin-American students. Other future re search can study the perceptions of those who receive foreign students (host country) and analyze their relationship and influence on the perception of discrimination and prejudice from immigrants.

Validez Factorial del Inventario de Virtudes y Fortalezas Para Niños (I.V.yF. Niños) / Factorial Validity of the Children´s Strengths and Virtues Questionnaire (IVyF CHILDREN)

El objetivo de este estudio es verificar las propiedades psicométricas del Inventario de Virtudes y Fortalezas Para Niños (I.V.yF. Niños) cuyo propósito es evaluar las 24 fortalezas de carácter propuestas por la clasificación de Peterson y Seligman (2004) denominada Valores en Acción. La muestra se conformó por 518 alumnos de entre 10 y 12 años, pertenecientes a quinto, sexto y séptimo grado de educación primaria de siete centros educativos privados y uno público ubicados en la ciudad de Buenos Aires y en el conurbano bonaerense. El análisis factorial exploratorio permitió extraer seis factores que explicaban el 46.15% de la varianza. El análisis factorial confirmatorio mostró un adecuado ajuste al modelo.

El análisis de las virtudes y fortalezas en la infancia / The analysis of the virtues and strengths in childhood

Dentro del marco de la psicología positiva existe una línea de investigación centrada en el estudio de las virtudes y fortalezas, entendidas como una familia bien constituida de rasgos positivos del carácter, las cuales permiten adoptar una perspectiva más abierta respecto al potencial humano, sus motivaciones y capacidades (Sheldon & King, 2001). La infancia constituye un momento propicio para detectar y potenciar las vir tudes y for talezas que propone la psicología positiva, debido a que provee al niño una base que le permitirá afrontar los retos más importantes de la adolescencia (Park & Peterson, 2006). El presente artículo se propone realizar una revisión sobre las investigaciones efectuadas en el ámbito de la infancia acerca de las virtudes y fortalezas. Asimismo, se describen algunos de los beneficios que el estudio de las potencialidades puede tener en el desarrollo de programas educativos de prevención y de intervención.

Within the framework of positive psychology there is a line of research focused on the study of the virtues and strengths, understood as a well established family of positive character traits, which allow to take a wide perspective on human potential, their motivations and capabilities (Sheldon & King, 2001). Childhood is a good time to identify and promote the virtues and strengths that Positive Psychology proposes, because the child provides a base that allows you address the major challenges of adolescence (Park & Peterson, 2006). This article proposes a review of investigations conducted in the ield of children about the virtues and strengths. It also describes some of the beneits that the study may have potential in developing educational programs for prevention and intervention.

La evaluación de las competencias culturales: Validación del inventario ICC / Assessment of cultural competence: Validation of the inventory ICC

Este trabajo tuvo como objetivo el diseño y la validación de un inventario en idioma español (Inventario de Competencias Competencias Culturales - ICC) que evaluase las dimensiones relativas al contacto intercultural relevantes para la adaptación cultural y psicológica de residentes temporarios (soujourners). Se tomó como base su predecesor, el IAC (Inventario de Adaptación Cultura - Castro Solano, 2011) que constaba de tres dimensiones. La versión final del ICC consta de cinco dimensiones, tres correspondientes al IAC: Apertura a Experiencias Nuevas, Autonomía e Independencia, Aceptación de la Diversidad Cultural, y dos que se incluyen en este estudio: Inestabilidad Emocional y Vínculos. Participaron 334 sujetos (150 hombres y 184 mujeres) que tenían en promedio 33.86 años (DE = 13.84) y residían en la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (n = 228, 68%) y en el Conurbano Bonaerense (n = 106, 32%). Los resultados obtenidos permiten afirmar que el ICC presenta propiedades psicométricas satisfactorias (fiabilidad y validez). En cuanto a su validez interna, los análisis pudieron verificar que el ICC estaba compuesto por cinco dimensiones. En cuanto a su validez externa el ICC presenta evidencias de validez convergente con el BFI (Big Five Inventory), con el CAO (Cuestionario de Apertura al Otro) y con el SWLS (Satisfacción Con La Vida).

The global dimension of the contemporary world has led to an increase of the migration and contact between people of different nations and cultural backgrounds. While globalization has facilitated contact it also generated unrest among the various actors as a result of the conflict between systems of values, beliefs and customs. Different groups of migrants must face the daily challenge of trying to understand the language spoken by members of the host culture, interact with different people in a context of prevailing values, traditions and customs other than their own. International students, expatriates leaders, diplomats, soldiers serving on peacekeeping missions must adapt effectively to the host culture and succeed in their assigned task. Migrant populations are called temporary residents (sojourners) because they are people who migrate to a different cultural context for a relatively long time (6 months to 5 years) to perform a certain task bringing into play the skills of socio-cultural adaptation, which is defined as cultural competence. These skills are central to the effective performance of temporary residents who have to perform tasks in a different setting other than their own. There are a number of psychological instruments that predict the effective adaptation of the sojourners to a culturally diverse environment, evaluating specific traits that predict success or the global competence itself in a direct way. This study is part of the evaluation of cultural competence related to more stable traits linked to personality traits. This study aimed to design and validate a Spanish-language inventory (Inventory of Cultural Competence, ICC) to assess the dimensions of intercultural contact relevant to socio-cultural and psychological adaptation of temporary residents (sojourners). It was based in a previous inventory: IAC (Inventory of Cultural Adaptation, Castro Solano, 2011) consisting of three dimensions. The final version of the ICC consisted of five dimensions (three belonged to the IAC: Openness to New Experiences, Autonomy and Independence, Acceptance of Cultural Diversity and two were included in this study: Emotional Instability and Relationships). 334 subjects participated of this study (150 male and 184 female) who had an average of 33.86 years (SD = 13.84). All of them were residents of the City of Buenos Aires (n = 228, 68%) and the suburbs (n = 106, 32%). The results support the conclusion that the ICC has satisfactory psychometric properties (reliability and validity). We could verify evidences of internal validity. The ICC was composed of five dimensions. Of the eight original scales proposed for the ICC analysis only five could be retained in the final analysis. Regarding external validity, the ICC has evidence of convergent validity with the BFI (Big Five Inventory), with the CAO (Questionnaire Openness to Others) and the SWLS (Satisfaction With Life Scale). The results suggested that in the background underlies a unique dimension related to the degree of interest and willingness to get in contact with groups of different cultural backgrounds, called for some authors multicultural strength (Fowers & Davidov, 2006). Bennett and Bennett (2004) called this competence cultural sensitivity (cultural mindset) and it was considered the awareness that your values are different from the host cultural group. This representational domain includes attitudes such as curiosity about diversity and tolerance of ambiguity.

Estrategias de aculturación y adaptación psicológica y sociocultural de estudiantes extranjeros en la Argentina / Acculturation strategies and psychological and sociocultural adaptation of foreign students in Argentina

Sobre la base del modelo de Berry se diseñó un estudio que tenía como objetivo analizar las estrategias aculturativas empleadas por un grupo de estudiantes extranjeros que habían migrado para realizar estudios universitarios en la Argentina. Se analizó el grado de éxito alcanzado en la implementación de dichas estrategias analizando la adaptación psicológica, la sociocultural, la académica, la satisfacción vital y la discriminación percibida. Se tomó en cuenta la perspectiva del migrante y la de los miembros de la cultura huésped. Participaron del estudio dos muestras de estudiantes universitarios (125 estudiantes extranjeros de diferentes carreras universitarias y 121estudiantes universitarios argentinos). Los instrumentos utilizados fueron los siguientes: las formas real e ideal de la Encuesta de Estrategias Aculturativas de Berry (1997), una escala de discriminación percibida y para examinar las medidas de adaptación, se administraron escalas de adaptación sociocultural y de adaptación académica diseñadas ad-hoc y la Escala de Satisfacción con la Vida (Diener, Emmons, Larsen & Griffin, 1985). Los resultados señalan que la estrategia preferida es la integración y la menos utilizada, la de marginalización. Tanto la percepción del migrante como la del estudiante huésped coinciden con respecto al uso de la estrategia aculturativa preferida, coincidiendo las percepciones tanto del propio sujeto en proceso de aculturación como la de los miembros de la cultura receptora. La integración es la estrategia que trae mejores resultados adaptativos. Aquellos que optaron por el estilo integrativo, eran los migrantes que percibían mayor satisfacción con la vida y un mejor ajuste a la vida académica en general.

At present the number of foreign university student is one of the largest in modern history. It has been characterized as those who reside voluntarily and temporarily abroad in order to participate in educational exchange with the intention of returning to their country once they have achieved the purpose of their trip. These kinds of student have been classified as sojourners (temporary residents) and they are people who migrate from one cultural context for a relatively long time (6 months to 5 years). In the last decade Argentina start hosting a large amount of foreign university students, attracted by the language, the favorable economic conditions and the prestige of universities in Latin America. University students have to deal with a psychological phenomenon called acculturation and it is the process of psychological and cultural change resulting from intercultural contact. Adaptation to this event can be either psychological or cultural. The psychological is related to the well-being experienced as a result of cultural contact. Cultural adaptation involves the implementation of social skills needed to function effectively within a complex cultural environment. Based on acculturation Berry´s model a study was designed to test the acculturative strategies applied by a group of foreign students who had migrated to carry on university studies in Argentina. Berry propose two separate dimensions: (1) immigrants feel their cultural identity and customs as valuable enough to keep them in the host society (maintenance) and (2) relationships with other people or groups in society are truly valuable to identified and encouraged (participation). These dimensions lead to four acculturation strategies. (a) Integration: the migrant try to maintain their cultural heritage and also maintains contact with the dominant cultural group. (b) Assimilation: the individual does not retain their native culture and attempts to maintain contact only with dominant culture members. (c) Marginalization: occurs when the migrant has no interest or ability to pursue their native culture and it is unlikely to come into contact with the host culture. (d) Separation: this occurs when the migrant is able to maintain their original culture but avoid or cannot have interaction with the dominant group. We analyzed the degree of success achieved in implementing these strategies, assessing the psychological and sociocultural adjustment, academic achievement, life satisfaction, and perceived discrimination. It also was taken into account the perspective of the members of the host culture. This study involved two samples of university students (125 students of different nationalities and 121 Argentine university students). The instruments used were: Acculturative Strategies Survey (real and ideal forms - Berry, 1997), a scale of perceived discrimination, a psychological adjustment scale, a scale of adaptation sociocultural adaptation designed ad-hoc academic, and The Satisfaction with Life Scale (Diener, Emmons, Larsen, & Griffin, 1985). The results indicate that the most preferred strategy is the integration and the least used was marginalization. The acculturation process is carried out taking into account aspects of both cultures. Perceptions of university students and members of the host culture are congruent. Integration is the strategy that brings better adaptive results. Migrants who opted for the integrative strategy perceived more life satisfaction and a better adjustment to academic life. By contrast, students who chose to retain only aspects relating to their cultural identity and avoid contact with the host culture (separation) are those with less sociocultural adaptation and also feel discriminated as a cultural group. Findings presented are important because the research using Berry´s model in Latin American population is scarce. There are also few investigations analyzing differential perceptions taking into account not only the point of view of the minority group (migrant population) but also the majority group (host culture).

Las habilidades cognitivas en niños preescolares: un estudio comparativo en un contexto de pobreza / Cognitive skills in pre-school children. A comparative study in a context of poverty / Habilidades cognitivas em pré-escolares. Um estudo comparativo em um contexto de pobreza

Con el propósito de describir las habilidades cognitivas simultáneas y secuenciales de niños en situación de pobreza de San Miguel de Tucumán (Argentina), se evaluaron 283 niños de 3 a 5 años que concurrían a control pediátrico a Centros de Atención Primaria de la Salud. Las habilidades cognitivas se discriminaron a partir de la Batería de Evaluación de Kaufman para niños (K-ABC). Además se administró una encuesta sociodemográfica a sus padres. Los análisis estadísticos multivariados mostraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el desempeño cognitivo según los niveles de pobreza en los grupos de 4 y 5 años, particularmente en las habilidades secuenciales. El estudio aporta datos de particular interés por su utilidad en la planificación de los currículos escolares en el nivel inicial.

In order to describe the sequential and simultaneous cognitive skills of children under poverty conditions in San Miguel de Tucuman (Argentina), 283 children between 3 and 5 years old who attended Primary Health Care Centres for paediatric control were assessed. The cognitive skills were identified with the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC). Additionally, a socio-demographic survey was administered to their parents. The multivaried statistical analyses showed significant differences in the children's cognitive performance according to poverty levels in the 4-and 5-year-old groups, particularly in sequential skills. The study provides data that are particularly useful for planning school curricula in the pre-school level.

Para descrever as habilidades cognitivas simultâneas e seqüenciais de crianças em situação de pobreza em San Miguel de Tucumán (Argentina), foram avaliadas 283 crianças de 3 a 5 anos que assistiam a controle pediátrico em centros de Cuidados de Saúde Primários. As habilidades cognitivas foram discriminadas aplicando a Bateria de Avaliação de Kaufman para crianças (K-ABC). Além disso, os seus pais responderam um levantamento demográfico. A análise estatística multivariada mostrou diferenças estatisticamente significativas no desempenho cognitivo de acordo com os níveis de pobreza em grupos de 4 e 5 anos, sobretudo nas habilidades seqüenciais. Este estudo fornece dados de interesse particular para a sua utilidade no planejamento de currículos escolares de ensino inicial.

Adaptación y validación argentina de la Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale / Argentinian adaptation and validation of the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale

La deseabilidad social es la necesidad de los sujetos de obtener aprobación respondiendo de un modo culturalmente aceptable y apropiado. Uno de los instrumentos más utilizado para medirla es la Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale (MCSDS), desarrollada por los autores en 1960. Es de frecuente aplicación en diversos tipos de estudios de diferentes áreas de la Psicología y la Medicina. Resulta adecuada tanto para estimar sesgos de respuestas en un sentido socialmente deseable como para operacionalizar constructos psicológicos, tales como de necesidad de aprobación o de defensividad. Es la medida estándar para discriminar entre los estilos de respuesta al estrés del modelo de Weinberger, Schwartz y Davidson (1979). A lo largo del tiempo, diversos autores le han realizado modificaciones tales como: cambios de formato de administración, abreviaciones, traducciones y adaptaciones a diversas culturas. En este estudio se describe el desarrollo de la Escala de Deseabilidad Social de Crowne y Marlowe (EDSCM) que es una adaptación argentina de la escala completa MCSDS en su formato original de papel y lápiz. Los datos obtenidos a través de diferentes muestras (estudiantes universitarios, adultos y solicitantes de empleos) respaldan que la EDSCM posee adecuadas confiabilidad y validez de constructo, como lo demuestra el estudio de su validez convergente, validez divergente, validez por técnica de instrucciones diferenciales y validez de grupos conocidos. Se sugiere el uso de la EDSCM para investigaciones en diferentes áreas de Psicología y Medicina en poblaciones argentinas.

Crowne and Marlowe (1960) developed the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale (MCSDS) that is a widely used scale to measure social desirability defined as "the need of subjects to obtain approval by responding in a culturally appropriate and acceptable manner" (p. 353). Several studies from psychology and medicine areas have included the MCSDS. The MCSDS is used both to asses and to control for response bias in a socially desirable manner as well as to measure psychological concepts, such as defensiveness or need for approval. Moreover, the MCSDS is the standard measurement to categorize the four coping styles from Weinberger, Schwartz, and Davidson model (1979). Since the MCSDS first appeared, investigators have proposed several changes such as, short forms, computerized administrations, translations and adaptations to diverse cultures. In this study of development of the Escala de Deseabilidad Social de Crowne y Marlowe (EDSCM) is described. The EDSCM Scale is an adaptation to the Argentinian culture of the original MCSDS full scale with a paper-and-pencil administration form. A pilot study with a sample of Psychology student volunteers was conducted to adapt the MCSDS to Argentinian culture. One hundred nineteen psychology college students (93 women and 26 men (M = 28 years; SD = 9.6) from two universities of the Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (República Argentina) volunteered to participate in reliability and validity studies of the EDSCM Scale. The student sample participants completed the EDSCM, the Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (BDI-II), and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ). For this student sample, the EDSCM scores ranged from 0 to 27, with a mean of 14.13 (SD = 4.99). EDSCM scores were normally distributed with no outlier values. The internal scale reliability of the EDS­CM measured with Cronbach's alpha was .76. No statistically significant mean difference between sexes was found for the EDSCM Scale. A statistically significant association between the L Scale of EPQ and the EDSCM, with a large correlation effect size, provided convergent validity evidence for the EDSCM Scale. With regard to the divergent validity of the EDSCM Scale, a small to medium correlation effect size between the BDI-II and the EDSCM provided evidence that the EDSCM is a social desirability scale independent from psychopathology. A sub-sample of students (n = 52) who previously completed the EDSCM Scale, completed the EDSCM again with instructions to imagine being in a hiring process. Comparing the normal (M = 15.94; SD = 4.81) and the differential instruction condition (M = 28.67; SD = 4.67) a statistically significant increase in the EDSCM scores was detected. To provide known-groups validity, the EDSCM scores derived from an adult sample were compared with the EDSCM scores derived from an applicant sample. The adult sample included 120 participants (73 women and 47 men; M = 35.6 years; SD = 15.9) and the applicant sample included 134 people (61 women and 73 men; M = 28.9 years, SD = 3.4). Both for the adult sample and the applicant sample, there was not statistically significant sex difference for the EDSCM Scale. The applicant condition (M = 23.66; SD = 5.37; a = .75) showed statistically significant higher EDSCM scores than the normal condition (M = 16.09; SD = 5.18; a = .84). In this article, the validity and reliability of the EDSCM Scale have been analyzed, as indicated by the study of convergent and divergent validities, differential instructions technique, and known-groups technique, as well as internal consistency analyses. All consdired, the findings presented appropriate psychometric properties of the Argentinian culture adaptation of the MCSDS. The use of EDSCM Scale is suggested for researches related to psychology and medicine areas in Argentinian samples.

Perfiles aptitudinales, estilos de pensamiento y rendimiento académico / Ability profiles, cognitive styles and academic achievement

El estudio tiene por objetivo identificar perfiles aptitudinales y estilos de pensamiento en distintos grupos de carreras universitarias y encontrar factores predictores de rendimiento académico sobre la base de un amplio conjunto de variables cognitivas, socio-demográficas y culturales. Se presentan resultados correspondientes a una muestra de 298 estudiantes universitarios cursantes en cuatro facultades disímiles en cuanto a sus áreas disciplinares (Cs. Exactas, Ingeniería, Cs. Sociales y Psicología). Se administraron las pruebas de Matrices Progresivas (Raven), cinco pruebas integrantes del DAT-Forma T, el Inventario de Estilos de Pensamiento (Sternberg) y una Escala de Autoevaluación de Aptitudes. Se han podido definir perfiles diferenciales para la mayoría de las habilidades y competencias cognitivas estudiadas. Se obtuvieron diferencias significativas por carreras en la escala de autoevaluación de aptitudes y en los estilos de pensamiento. La conjunción de razonamiento verbal, habilidad de cálculo y razonamiento abstracto se muestra como un buen predictor de rendimiento académico.

Influencia de los valores sobre los estilos de liderazgo: un análisis según el modelo de liderazgo transformacional - transaccional de bass / Influence of values on leadership styles: an analysis according to bass' transformational-transactional leadership model

Se presentan datos correspondientes a un estudio realizado con 224 líderes (142 hombres y 84 mujeres) residentes en la ciudad autónoma de Buenos Aires y en el conurbano, que se desempeñaban en empresas pequeñas, medianas y grandes, el cual tuvo como objetivo principal determinar la influencia que ejercen los valores del líder sobre su estilo de liderazgo. Se observó que los valores de autotrascendencia y apertura al cambio predecían el estilo de liderazgo transformacional, mientras que los valores de autopromoción predecían el estilo de liderazgo transaccional. No se observó interacción entre los valores de conservación y el estilo de liderazgo transaccional.

Data corresponding to a study made with 224 low and high level leaders (142 men and 84 women) resident appear inBuenos Aires, which worked in small, medium and big companies which had as primary target to determine theinfluence that exerts the values of the leader on their leadership style. It was observed that the self transcendence andopenness to change values predicted transformational leadership style whereas the self promotion values predicted thetransactional leadership style. There was no interaction between conservation values and transactional leadership style.

Prototipos de liderazgo en población civil y militar / Leadership prototypes in civilian and military population

El presente estudio pretende identificar (en población civil y militar) los prototipos internalizados de liderazgo, los atributos que tienden a ser asignados a los líderes y las dimensiones de liderazgo privilegiadas en dichos entornos. Participaron 488 cadetes militares (el 64% tenía personal a cargo) y 194 civiles, todos ocupaban cargos directivos y tenían personal a cargo. Se diseñó un instrumento ad-hoc, en el que se solicitaba a los participantes que nombraran a un líder efectivo, justifiquen su elección y señalen en una lista aquellos atributos que creían corresponder al líder elegido. Los resultados señalan que la población militar exhibe preferencia por personajes de trayectoria política y militar. Los civiles mostraron mayor variación en el prototipo de líder elegido, aunque se inclinaron a identificar como tales, a jefes cercanos a su ámbito laboral. Con respecto a los atributos asignados, los civiles identificaron con mayor frecuencia características individualistas como innovación, talento y logro de objetivos; mientras que los militares privilegiaron las características personales asociadas a la relación con el subalterno (consideración, motivación, abnegación). En el ámbito castrense se reconocieron atributos correspondientes al liderazgo orientado al grupo, en tanto los civiles se orientarían hacia un liderazgo carismático. Además, tanto civiles como militares exhibieron una actitud negativa hacia el liderazgo orientado hacia sí mismo. Los resultados obtenidos aportan evidencias sobre la existencia de diferencias significativas en la percepción del liderazgo en ambos contextos ya que se han observado discrepancias en los prototipos de líderes internalizados

The objective of this research consisted in identifying, in civilian and military population, leadership internalized prototypes, attributes which are frequently assigned to leaders, and leadership dimensions that are privileged in these contexts. Participants of this study were 488 cadets. [ … ] 64% (n = 312) of cadets directed other people. [ … ] On the other hand, 194 civilians participated (37% males, 63% females), all of hem directed people and occupied management positions. Data collection was realized in an anonymous and collective way using instruments designed ad-hoc, in which the participants were requested to name a person perceived by them as an effective leader and justify their choice. Moreover, the people would have to indicate, in a list, the attributes which they believed corresponded to the selected leader. [ … ] In military context there is a preference for leaders who have a political or military background. Civilians show more variety in the selected internalized prototypes, but hey selected people from their work contexts. In relation to selected attributes by the interviewed people, civilian participants identified individualistic characteristics with greater frequency, as innovation, talent and attainment of objectives; while the military participants assigned greater importance to the characteristics related to the consideration of he followers –consideration, motivation, abnegation. In the military context, attributes related to group orientation were selected; [ … ] On the other hand, military and civilian participants, show a negative attitude towards self orientated leadership. [ … ] The results contribute to show evidences on the existence of significant differences in the attribution of leadership in the general population and the military context. Discrepancy was identified between the internalized prototypes of leadership in both contexts.

Las habilidades cognitivas y la pobreza: un estudio preliminar con niños desnutridos de Tucumán (Argentina) / Cognitive abilities and poverty: a preliminary study carried out with children with malnourished children from Tucumán (Argentina)

San Miguel de Tucumán (Argentina), se evaluaron 80 niños desnutridos y eutróficos de 4 y 5 años que concurren a control pediátrico a Centros de Atención Primaria de la Salud (CAPS) de la zona sur de la ciudad. Esto constituye una submuestra intencional de una investigación más amplia que abarca el Gran San Miguel de Tucumán. Se discriminaron las habilidades secuenciales y simultáneas a partir de la Batería de Evaluación de Kaufman para niños (K- ABC), prueba basada en el modelo del procesamiento de información de Luria. No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en el desempeño de ambos grupos, aunque las puntuaciones de los niños de 5 años desnutridos fueron levemente superiores en las pruebas de procesamiento secuencial. Sólo se hallaron asociaciones estadísticas muy débiles entre las puntuaciones de las pruebas del K-ABC y el NES bajo, sobre todo en los tests que implican el manejo de estímulos de modo serial. El estudio aporta datos sobre las habilidades cognitivas secuenciales y simultáneas de niños que viven bajo condiciones de pobreza, de particular interés por su utilidad en la planificación de las currículas escolares, considerando la franja de edad analizada.

Inteligencia fluida en adolescentes: generalización de la estructura factorial del Test de Matrices Progresivas en diferentes grupos / Fluid intelligence in adolescents: Standard Progressive Matrices´ factorial structure and its generalization into different groups

Se presentan resultados de un análisis factorial confirmatorio calculado sobre las respuestas de 591 adolescentes residentes en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina, a la Escala General del Test de Matrices Progresivas, de Raven. Se pusieron a prueba dos modelos rivales de tres y cuatro factores, que conservaron, respectivamente, 13 y 12 ítems de los 60 originales, verificándose un mejor ajuste del segundo a los datos. Asimismo, se comprobó la posibilidad de generalizarlo al segmentar la muestra según sexo y edad, así como replicando los análisis a otra muestra de 156 sujetos residentes en otra región de la Argentina (Tucumán). Se discuten los resultados a la luz de las tareas eductivas o fluidas que los sujetos deben realizar para responder exitosamente a los reactivos.

La evaluación de los valores humanos con el Portrait Values Questionnaire de Schwartz / Human values assessment with Schwart's[sic] Portrait Values Questionnaire

El estudio de los valores puede ser abordado desde múltiples perspectivas (filosófica, psicológica, sociológica, etc.). En Psicología, el análisis de las orientaciones valóricas de los individuos ha cobrado especial importancia a partir de las conceptualizaciones de Schwartz (1992, 2001) quien verificó una estructura de diez valores (Poder, Logro, Hedonismo, Estimulación, Autodirección, Universalismo, Benevolencia, Tradición, Conformidad y Seguridad), los cuales se organizan en cuatro bipolaridades (Autotrascendencia, Autopromoción, Conservación y Apertura al cambio) en más de 60 países, dando soporte empírico a la clasificación de los valores humanos. Este estudio tiene como objetivos: (a) adaptar y validar el Portrait Values Questionnaire (PVQ) de Schwartz (1992, 2001) y (b) verificar si existen diferencias individuales según dos contextos objeto de estudio (civil y militar) y según sexo y edad. Se recogieron datos de una población argentina (N = 692) en tres contextos diferentes: (a) población civil (n = 471), (b) oficiales militares (n = 97) y (c) cadetes (n = 124). El estudio permitió verificar parcialmente la estructura de los valores propuestos por el autor. La fiabilidad del PVQ resulta muy adecuada en los tres contextos estudiados. Asimismo se pudo verificar que los civiles están más orientados hacia el logro de objetivos personales (Autopromoción) y la independencia para decir y hacer lo que uno quiere (Apertura al cambio), mientras que los militares están más orientados hacia los valores relacionados con el mantenimiento del orden social, la seguridad, la conservación de las tradiciones (Tradición y Conformidad). Por otra parte, los resultados mostraron que no existen diferencias en las orientaciones valóricas según sexo y edad

The study of human values can be approached from multiple perspectives (philosophical, psychological, sociological, etc.). In Psychology, the analysis of individual differences on value orientation has grown exponentially since Schwartz's works (1992, 2001) who verified a structure of ten universal values (Power, Achievement, Hedonism, Stimulation, Self-transcendence, Self-enhancement, Conservatism and Openness to change) [ ... ] The main goals for this study are: (a) to adapt and validate the PVQ (Portrait Values Questionnaire) for the assessment of human values and (b) to verify individual differences in two contexts (civil and military), as well as in gender and age. Data were taken from an Argentinian population (N=692) in three different contexts: (a) a civil setting (n=471), (b) among military officers (n=97), and (c) military cadets (n=124). The study allowed us to verify patially the value structure proposed by the author. PVQ reliability is adequate in all three contexts applied. We were also able to verify that the civil population is more oriented by Self-enhancement and Openness to change (Achievement and Hedonism) compared to military population. The latter were more oriented by values related to Conservatism (Tradition and Conformity). We found no differences related to gender and age