Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference of the ACM Greek SIGCHI Chapter
Artistic creation using data that come from different domains such as the human body, environment... more Artistic creation using data that come from different domains such as the human body, environment, scientific measures etc. is not new to the contemporary artistic scene. The transformation of bodily data into other modalities through sonification or visualization in interactive music, dance performances, projections, procedural animation and live-coding is a common practice in the realm of digital and hybrid arts. From the perspective of Human-Computer Interaction, in this paper we pose the research question of if and how different forms of data that capture the embodied reactions to social issues can be re-usable for artistic creations for the global community through an online platform. Applying user-centred design methods, we report on the feasibility, implications and opportunities of such an approach. • Applied computing → Arts and humanities; • Human-centered computing → Empirical studies in HCI .
The present experiential qualitative study explored the lived experiences of "neo-homeless" peopl... more The present experiential qualitative study explored the lived experiences of "neo-homeless" people at a municipal shelter in Athens. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 6 participants (4 women and 2 men) who were rendered homeless as a result of the prolonged economic crisis in Greece. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the research material. Participant accounts revolved around the perceived negative effects of neo-homelessness such as detrimental personal consequences, stress, feelings of sadness and depression, depersonalization, a sense of hopelessness and lack of hope for the future. However, the participants speaking also about positive growth, a deeper apprehension of life's meanings, and the mobilization of personal and interpersonal resources. Implications for the work of counselors are discussed in terms of working towards empowering persons in homeless trajectories towards resilience in mental health, taking a stance of social justice.
The present qualitative inquiry explored psychological well-being among Greek children and adoles... more The present qualitative inquiry explored psychological well-being among Greek children and adolescents within the context of the Promoting Psychological Well-Being Globally project. The overall sample consisted of 25 primary and 23 secondary school students from three different school districts in the wider Athens area. Focus groups were conducted and thematic analysis was used to analyze the research material. Greek students’ narratives revealed experiences, perspectives, and practices associated with broader, more universal constructs that are important for understanding well-being as well as culture-specific themes and particularities. Sources of stress, coping mechanisms, and sources of support were also discussed. Student narratives reflected anxiety, fear, and uncertainty in relation to the present economic crisis in Greece. Special emphasis was placed upon the value of academic competence and interpersonal relations (e.g., family, friends, teachers) as important sources of support and well-being. Finally, this chapter presents prevention and intervention programs which were developed to promote well-being in the school community.
International journal of psychiatry research, Dec 30, 2021
Βreast cancer is amongst the most frequently occurring types of cancer amongst women worldwide. T... more Βreast cancer is amongst the most frequently occurring types of cancer amongst women worldwide. The present qualitative study explored experiences of long-term psychotherapy among women with breast cancer attending psychodynamic psychotherapy at an outpatient service specializing at providing psychotherapeutic interventions for cancer patients, in Greece. The sample was purposeful and comprised of six women who participated in individual interviews, consisting of questions framed in an open way to explore their lived experiences in the context of therapy. The research data was analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and produced five group experiential themes (superordinate themes) namely 1) the experience of breast cancer 2) psychosomatic aspects of cancer 3) psychotherapy as a process of self-awareness and growth 4) the process of change and 5) the therapistclient relationship. Participant women seemed to experience psychotherapy as a positive, even though challenging journey, that integrated past, present and future promoting post-illness and post-recovery well-being, and allowing for the exploration of different needs that surpass the event of the disease itself. Given the complex experiences and different needs of women with cancer, it seems important for further qualitative research to explore the experiences of patients in psychotherapy in different cultural contexts, and taking into account different theoretical orientations in order to offer appropriate therapeutic interventions.
IntroductionThe present study is part of a large-scale original action-research project aiming to... more IntroductionThe present study is part of a large-scale original action-research project aiming to assess the introduction and implementation of the Open Dialogue approach within the clinical practice of an established multidisciplinary team in a Day Centre in Athens, Greece. More specifically, it aimed to explore the experiences of professionals within the process of implementation both in relation to their clinical practice and their professional identity.MethodsData collection employed a focus group, which was set up to explore professional reflections of the implementation and research processes since the introduction of the model. Thematic Analysis of transcripts revealed two main themes that correspond to the impact of Open Dialogue on professionals’ clinical practice and on team dynamics, respectively.ResultsProfessionals identify several challenges in implementing OD, such as difficulties in linking theory to practice, containing uncertainty, and addressing cultural barriers ...
Although robust evidence has been accumulating over the last decades supporting the effectiveness... more Although robust evidence has been accumulating over the last decades supporting the effectiveness of career counseling in various populations, yet there are scarce conceptual or empirical studies investigating the impact of distinct approaches, such as traditional-“psychometric,” narrative, or a mixed (integrative) one. The primary aim of this paper is to make a contribution in the field, providing a synthetic overview of contemporary research findings regarding the effectiveness of narrative and mixed career counseling approaches with a special focus on university students. The recent trend of utilizing mixed approaches in career assessment and intervention is also emphasized in the article, suggesting they may have a great potential in helping young adults advance meaning-making about career and life design. Finally, a discussion of both benefits and challenges relating to narrative and mixed interventions along with recommendations for extending research in the area of assessing ...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
During large-scale disasters, social support, caring behaviours, and compassion are shown to prot... more During large-scale disasters, social support, caring behaviours, and compassion are shown to protect against poor mental health outcomes. This multi-national study aimed to assess the fluctuations in compassion over time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Respondents (Time 1 n = 4156, Time 2 n = 980, Time 3 n = 825) from 23 countries completed online self-report questionnaires measuring the flows of compassion (i.e., Compassionate Engagement and Action Scales) and fears of compassion toward self and others and from others (i.e., Fears of Compassion Scales) and mental health at three time-points during a 10-month period. The results for the flows of compassion showed that self-compassion increased at Time 3. Compassion for others increased at Time 2 and 3 for the general population, but in contrast, it decreased in health professionals, possibly linked to burnout. Compassion from others did not change in Time 2, but it did increase significantly in Time 3. For fears of compassion, fears o...
This mixed-methods study investigates the use of wearable technology in embodied psychology resea... more This mixed-methods study investigates the use of wearable technology in embodied psychology research and explores the potential of incorporating bio-signals to focus on the bodily impact of the social experience. The study relies on scientifically established psychological methods of studying social issues, collective relationships and emotional overloads, such as sociodrama, in combination with participant observation to qualitatively detect and observe verbal and nonverbal aspects of social behavior. We evaluate the proposed method through a pilot sociodrama session and reflect on the outcomes. By utilizing an experimental setting that combines video cameras, microphones, and wearable sensors measuring physiological signals, specifically, heart rate, we explore how the synchronization and analysis of the different signals and annotations enables a mixed-method that combines qualitative and quantitative instruments in studying embodied expressiveness and social interaction.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health , 2023
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference of the ACM Greek SIGCHI Chapter
Artistic creation using data that come from different domains such as the human body, environment... more Artistic creation using data that come from different domains such as the human body, environment, scientific measures etc. is not new to the contemporary artistic scene. The transformation of bodily data into other modalities through sonification or visualization in interactive music, dance performances, projections, procedural animation and live-coding is a common practice in the realm of digital and hybrid arts. From the perspective of Human-Computer Interaction, in this paper we pose the research question of if and how different forms of data that capture the embodied reactions to social issues can be re-usable for artistic creations for the global community through an online platform. Applying user-centred design methods, we report on the feasibility, implications and opportunities of such an approach. • Applied computing → Arts and humanities; • Human-centered computing → Empirical studies in HCI .
The present experiential qualitative study explored the lived experiences of "neo-homeless" peopl... more The present experiential qualitative study explored the lived experiences of "neo-homeless" people at a municipal shelter in Athens. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 6 participants (4 women and 2 men) who were rendered homeless as a result of the prolonged economic crisis in Greece. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the research material. Participant accounts revolved around the perceived negative effects of neo-homelessness such as detrimental personal consequences, stress, feelings of sadness and depression, depersonalization, a sense of hopelessness and lack of hope for the future. However, the participants speaking also about positive growth, a deeper apprehension of life's meanings, and the mobilization of personal and interpersonal resources. Implications for the work of counselors are discussed in terms of working towards empowering persons in homeless trajectories towards resilience in mental health, taking a stance of social justice.
The present qualitative inquiry explored psychological well-being among Greek children and adoles... more The present qualitative inquiry explored psychological well-being among Greek children and adolescents within the context of the Promoting Psychological Well-Being Globally project. The overall sample consisted of 25 primary and 23 secondary school students from three different school districts in the wider Athens area. Focus groups were conducted and thematic analysis was used to analyze the research material. Greek students’ narratives revealed experiences, perspectives, and practices associated with broader, more universal constructs that are important for understanding well-being as well as culture-specific themes and particularities. Sources of stress, coping mechanisms, and sources of support were also discussed. Student narratives reflected anxiety, fear, and uncertainty in relation to the present economic crisis in Greece. Special emphasis was placed upon the value of academic competence and interpersonal relations (e.g., family, friends, teachers) as important sources of support and well-being. Finally, this chapter presents prevention and intervention programs which were developed to promote well-being in the school community.
International journal of psychiatry research, Dec 30, 2021
Βreast cancer is amongst the most frequently occurring types of cancer amongst women worldwide. T... more Βreast cancer is amongst the most frequently occurring types of cancer amongst women worldwide. The present qualitative study explored experiences of long-term psychotherapy among women with breast cancer attending psychodynamic psychotherapy at an outpatient service specializing at providing psychotherapeutic interventions for cancer patients, in Greece. The sample was purposeful and comprised of six women who participated in individual interviews, consisting of questions framed in an open way to explore their lived experiences in the context of therapy. The research data was analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and produced five group experiential themes (superordinate themes) namely 1) the experience of breast cancer 2) psychosomatic aspects of cancer 3) psychotherapy as a process of self-awareness and growth 4) the process of change and 5) the therapistclient relationship. Participant women seemed to experience psychotherapy as a positive, even though challenging journey, that integrated past, present and future promoting post-illness and post-recovery well-being, and allowing for the exploration of different needs that surpass the event of the disease itself. Given the complex experiences and different needs of women with cancer, it seems important for further qualitative research to explore the experiences of patients in psychotherapy in different cultural contexts, and taking into account different theoretical orientations in order to offer appropriate therapeutic interventions.
IntroductionThe present study is part of a large-scale original action-research project aiming to... more IntroductionThe present study is part of a large-scale original action-research project aiming to assess the introduction and implementation of the Open Dialogue approach within the clinical practice of an established multidisciplinary team in a Day Centre in Athens, Greece. More specifically, it aimed to explore the experiences of professionals within the process of implementation both in relation to their clinical practice and their professional identity.MethodsData collection employed a focus group, which was set up to explore professional reflections of the implementation and research processes since the introduction of the model. Thematic Analysis of transcripts revealed two main themes that correspond to the impact of Open Dialogue on professionals’ clinical practice and on team dynamics, respectively.ResultsProfessionals identify several challenges in implementing OD, such as difficulties in linking theory to practice, containing uncertainty, and addressing cultural barriers ...
Although robust evidence has been accumulating over the last decades supporting the effectiveness... more Although robust evidence has been accumulating over the last decades supporting the effectiveness of career counseling in various populations, yet there are scarce conceptual or empirical studies investigating the impact of distinct approaches, such as traditional-“psychometric,” narrative, or a mixed (integrative) one. The primary aim of this paper is to make a contribution in the field, providing a synthetic overview of contemporary research findings regarding the effectiveness of narrative and mixed career counseling approaches with a special focus on university students. The recent trend of utilizing mixed approaches in career assessment and intervention is also emphasized in the article, suggesting they may have a great potential in helping young adults advance meaning-making about career and life design. Finally, a discussion of both benefits and challenges relating to narrative and mixed interventions along with recommendations for extending research in the area of assessing ...
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
During large-scale disasters, social support, caring behaviours, and compassion are shown to prot... more During large-scale disasters, social support, caring behaviours, and compassion are shown to protect against poor mental health outcomes. This multi-national study aimed to assess the fluctuations in compassion over time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Respondents (Time 1 n = 4156, Time 2 n = 980, Time 3 n = 825) from 23 countries completed online self-report questionnaires measuring the flows of compassion (i.e., Compassionate Engagement and Action Scales) and fears of compassion toward self and others and from others (i.e., Fears of Compassion Scales) and mental health at three time-points during a 10-month period. The results for the flows of compassion showed that self-compassion increased at Time 3. Compassion for others increased at Time 2 and 3 for the general population, but in contrast, it decreased in health professionals, possibly linked to burnout. Compassion from others did not change in Time 2, but it did increase significantly in Time 3. For fears of compassion, fears o...
This mixed-methods study investigates the use of wearable technology in embodied psychology resea... more This mixed-methods study investigates the use of wearable technology in embodied psychology research and explores the potential of incorporating bio-signals to focus on the bodily impact of the social experience. The study relies on scientifically established psychological methods of studying social issues, collective relationships and emotional overloads, such as sociodrama, in combination with participant observation to qualitatively detect and observe verbal and nonverbal aspects of social behavior. We evaluate the proposed method through a pilot sociodrama session and reflect on the outcomes. By utilizing an experimental setting that combines video cameras, microphones, and wearable sensors measuring physiological signals, specifically, heart rate, we explore how the synchronization and analysis of the different signals and annotations enables a mixed-method that combines qualitative and quantitative instruments in studying embodied expressiveness and social interaction.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health , 2023
This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative... more This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY
Ποιοτική Μεθοδολογία Έρευνας: Εφαρμογή στην Ψυχολογία και την Εκπαίδευση, 2015
Σύνοψη Αυτό το κεφάλαιο περιλαμβάνει ένα πλαίσιο για τον σχεδιασμό μιας ποιοτικής μελέτης το οποί... more Σύνοψη Αυτό το κεφάλαιο περιλαμβάνει ένα πλαίσιο για τον σχεδιασμό μιας ποιοτικής μελέτης το οποίο συν-δεέει το ερευνητικό θέμα, τον σκοπό, το θεωρητικό υπόβαθρο, τα ερευνητικά ερωτήματα, τις δειγματο-ληπτικές στρατηγικές, τις μεθόδους παραγωγής ερευνητικών δεδομένων, την ανάλυση του ερευνητικού υλικού, τα ζητήματα της αναστοχαστικότητας και της δεοντολογίας στην ποιοτική έρευνα. Πιο αναλυτι-κά, στο κεφάλαιο: (1) παρουσιάζονται τα συστατικά στοιχεία του ερευνητικού σχεδιασμού, (2) τονίζε-ται η σημασία της σύνδεσης του αντικειμένου της έρευνας ή του ερευνητικού πεδίου με τις οντολογικές και επιστημολογικές παραδοχές των ερευνητών, (3) επισημαίνεται η κεντρική θέση των ερευνητικών ερωτημάτων και η σύνδεσή τους αφενός με τις θεωρητικές και μεθοδολογικές θέσεις των ερευνητών και αφετέρου με τις μεθόδους παραγωγής δεδομένων,(4) εξετάζονται θέματα δειγματοληψίας,(5)ανα-δεικνύονται ζητήματα δεοντολογίας στην ποιοτική έρευνα. 1. Σχεδιάζοντας μια ποιοτική έρευνα 1.1 Συστατικά στοιχεία του ερευνητικού σχεδιασμού Ο σχεδιασμός αποτελεί ένα σημαντικό και κρίσιμο σημείο κάθε διερεύνησης. Δεν υπάρχει μόνο μία συνταγή για τον σχεδιασμό μιας ποιοτικής έρευνας, και το ερευνητικό σχέδιο καθοδηγείται κυρίως από τις θεωρητικές και επιστημολογικές παραδοχές καθώς και τους βασικούς σκοπούς της έρευνας. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, για τον ερευνητικό σχεδιασμό χρειάζεται να ληφθούν υπόψη: (1) το ερευνητικό πεδίο ή αντικείμενο της έρευνας, (2) ο σκοπός (ή στόχοι) της διερεύνησης, (3) το θεωρητικό και επιστημολογικό υπόβαθρο, (4) τα ερευνητικά ερωτήματα, (5) οι μέθοδοι παραγωγής ερευνητικού υλικού, (6) η στρατηγική της δειγματοληψίας, (7) η ανάλυση του ερευνητικού υλικού, (8) η αναστο-χαστικότητα των ερευνητή και (9) αρχές και ζητήματα δεοντολογίας στην ερευνητική διαδικασία.
Contributing to the growing body of research which explores the impact of COVID-19 on education, ... more Contributing to the growing body of research which explores the impact of COVID-19 on education, this study investigates university teachers' digital practices, emotions and attitudes before and during different phases of the online learning that took place during the pandemic, in the oldest higher institution in Greece, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA). An extended online questionnaire consisting of close and open questions was completed by 188 professors and lecturers from different departments and schools. Quantitative analysis of responses showed that, as expected, university teachers engaged in different teaching practices using a variety of digital tools during the two lockdown periods as compared to the pre-pandemic period. In terms of emotions, most participants reported significantly higher levels of negative emotions (fatigue, insecurity, anxiety, loneliness) during the first lockdown and the first exam period and higher levels of positive emotions during the second lockdown period. The findings showed no effect of gender, years of experience, age or scientific specialization on the participants' positive emotions and attitudes toward distance learning. However, it was found that only participants who had previous experience with online and distance education had significantly higher score in the factor "positive attributes of online education", indicating more positive attitude, compared to those without such experience.
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