Rajnish Kumar Gupta

Despite extensive research on cognitive conflict, the specific link between cognitive conflict and depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) remains underexplored, particularly among non‐clinical young adults. Therefore, we investigated the impact of DAS on cognitive conflict in university students and their potential association with cognitive conflict. The sample comprised 393 university students aged 18–25 years. Participants were grouped into high and low DAS groups based on their Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale‐21 (DASS‐21) scores. Cognitive conflict was assessed using a computerized Stroop task. The results indicated that the low DAS group showed significantly greater accuracy on incongruent (conflict) trials than the high DAS group. However, no significant difference was observed in reaction time. Correlation analysis suggested that higher levels of DAS were associated with lower accuracy on incongruent trials. The study highlights the crucial role of DAS symptoms on cognitive conflict and decision‐making processes in young adults; however, it does not establish causal mechanisms. The results have significant implications for designing educational and mental health interventions aimed at improving cognitive flexibility and goal‐directed behavior in the young population.

Cognitive conflict and risk-taking behaviors are linked in complex ways. This study examined whether threat sensitivity explains the relationship between conflict monitoring and risk-taking in young adults. A sample of 204 university students (ages 18–25, mean = 20.55, SD = 2.14) completed a computerized Stroop task (cognitive conflict), the RT-18 questionnaire (risk-taking), and the TF-44 Trait Fear Scale (dispositional threat sensitivity). Pearson correlations indicated that greater Stroop interference score (higher conflict) was associated with lower self-reported risk-taking and higher threat sensitivity. In turn, higher threat sensitivity predicted reduced risk-taking. Mediation analysis confirmed that cognitive conflict influenced risk-taking indirectly through threat sensitivity. The direct effect of conflict on risk-taking was non-significant, whereas the indirect path via threat sensitivity was significant, suggesting an indirect-only (complete) mediation. These results suggest that individuals experiencing higher internal conflict become more vigilant toward potential threats, which in turn deters them from risky actions. Understanding this pathway could guide interventions (i.e., cognitive control or anxiety-management training) to reduce maladaptive risk behaviors in young adults.

Advanced technologies enable mental health professionals to refine therapeutic approaches, enhancing responsiveness to patients' unique needs. In this chapter, we explored such approaches that integrate cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance mental health services. It begins by defining key concepts of both CBT and ML, focusing on how ML improves the accuracy, accessibility, and personalization of therapeutic interventions. Practical examples illustrate ML uses in therapy, such as chatbots that assist in CBT, virtual reality tools simulating therapeutic settings, and real-time monitoring tools for tracking patient progress. Ethical considerations are also discussed, highlighting the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality and the therapeutic relationship. The chapter concludes by noting how ML and CBT integration could improve mental health access, accuracy in diagnosis, and individualized treatment.

In the demanding landscape of academia, students grapple with many challenges that impact their mental and emotional well-being. In easing these difficulties, this chapter explores self-compassion's frequently underappreciated but mighty power. Understanding its vital role in supporting resilience and general well-being, we stress the importance of developing self-compassion to succeed personally and academically. This chapter highlights self-compassion's role in improving students' well-being and helping them effectively manage the challenges that come with the journey of a student's life.

Background: Promoting cognitive health is key to maintaining cognitive and everyday functions and preventing the risk of cognitive impairment or dementia. Existing scientific evidence shows the benefits of various training modalities on cognition. One way to promote cognitive health is through engagement in cognitive activities (eg, board and video games). Objective: This study aims to investigate the benefits of dynamic adaptive casual puzzle games on cognitive function and well-being in healthy adults and older people. Methods: A total of 12 adults and older people (female participants: n=6; mean age 58.92, SD 10.28 years; range 46-75 years) were included in this pilot randomized controlled trial. This study used a crossover design with two phases (8 weeks each) and three measurement waves (pretest, midtest, and posttest). The participants were randomly allocated either to the control or experimental group. In the control group, participants read newspapers between the pre- and midtest, then switched to cognitive training with puzzle games. In the experimental group, the interventions were reversed. Baseline measurements (pretest) were collected before the intervention. The interventions were delivered on tablet computers and took place unsupervised at participants’ homes. Results: The outcome measures included global cognitive function, higher cognitive function, and emotional well-being at 3 time points (pretest, midtest, and posttest) using standardized neuropsychological tests. The participants showed improvements in their visual attention and visuospatial measures after the puzzle game intervention. Conclusions: The study showed that digital games are a feasible way to train cognition in healthy adults and older people. The algorithm-based dynamic adaption allows accommodations for persons with different cognitive levels of skill. The results of the study will guide future prevention efforts and trials in high-risk populations.