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Lyvers M, Robinson M, Watt B, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia and aspects of dreaming: Differential associations of alexithymia facets with dream variables. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 59:132-142. [PMID: 37864284 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Research on aspects of dreaming associated with alexithymia has yielded mixed results. The present study recruited a young adult online sample of 577 participants who completed validated indices of alexithymia, emotion suppression, negative moods, and eight aspects of dreaming, with a focus on evaluating a counterintuitive previous finding that alexithymia and two of its core facets were associated with greater self-reported typical emotional intensity of dreams. Total alexithymia and facet scores showed differential relationships to aspects of dreaming including dream recall frequency, emotionality, meaningfulness, nightmare frequency, nightmare distress, usefulness of dreams in problem-solving and creativity, and learning about oneself through dreams. Planned hierarchical regression controlling for demographics, alcohol use, and dream recall frequency indicated that the difficulties identifying feelings (DIF) facet of alexithymia was a significant positive predictor of dream emotionality, whereas the externally oriented thinking (EOT) facet was a significant negative predictor. Stress, but not emotion suppression, mediated the positive relationship between DIF and dream emotionality. The likely role of dream emotionality in higher ratings of nightmare distress, dream meaningfulness, and learning about oneself through dreams among those with higher DIF scores is noted, along with other findings and the strengths and limitations of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, QLD, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Morgana Robinson
- School of Psychology, Bond University, QLD, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Bruce Watt
- School of Psychology, Bond University, QLD, Gold Coast, Australia
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2
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Olsavsky AK, Chirico I, Ali D, Christensen H, Boggs B, Svete L, Ketcham K, Hutchison K, Zeanah C, Tottenham N, Riggs P, Epperson CN. Maternal Childhood Maltreatment, Internal Working Models, and Perinatal Substance Use: Is There a Role for Hyperkatifeia? A Systematic Review. Subst Abuse 2023; 17:11782218231186371. [PMID: 37476500 PMCID: PMC10354827 DOI: 10.1177/11782218231186371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The parent-infant relationship is critical for socioemotional development and is adversely impacted by perinatal substance use. This systematic review posits that the mechanisms underlying these risks to mother-infant relationships center on 3 primary processes: (1) mothers' childhood maltreatment experiences; (2) attachment styles and consequent internal working models of interpersonal relationships; and (3) perinatal substance use. Further, the review considers the role of hyperkatifeia, or hypersensitivity to negative affect which occurs when people with substance use disorders are not using substances, and which drives the negative reinforcement in addiction. The authors performed a systematic review of articles (published 2000-2022) related to these constructs and their impact on mother-infant relationships and offspring outcomes, including original clinical research articles addressing relationships between these constructs, and excluding case studies, reviews, non-human animal studies, intervention studies, studies with fewer than 30% female-sex participants, clinical guidelines, studies limited to obstetric outcomes, mechanistic/biological studies, and studies with methodological issues precluding interpretation. Overall 1844 articles were screened, 377 were selected for full text review, and data were extracted from 157 articles. Results revealed strong relationships between mothers' childhood maltreatment experiences, less optimal internal working models, and increased risk for perinatal substance use, and importantly, all of these predictors interacted with hyperkatifeia and exerted a marked impact on mother-infant relationships with less data available on offspring outcomes. These data strongly support the need for future studies addressing the additive impact of maternal childhood maltreatment experiences, suboptimal internal working models, and perinatal substance use, with hyperkatifeia as a potential moderator, and their interacting effects on mother-infant socioemotional outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aviva K. Olsavsky
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Isabella Chirico
- SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Diab Ali
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Hannah Christensen
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Brianna Boggs
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Lillian Svete
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | - Kent Hutchison
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Charles Zeanah
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | - Paula Riggs
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
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Fernández-Pérez D, Ros L, Jimeno MV, Latorre JM. Effect of the emotional valence of autobiographical memory and parental bonding on depressive symptoms in a community sample. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6722. [PMID: 37185929 PMCID: PMC10130174 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33916-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Retrospective perceptions of parental bonding may be a protective factor for emotional health. These perceptions are grounded in autobiographical memory, which plays a key role in the onset and maintenance of depressive symptomatology. The aim of the present study was to explore whether the emotional valence of autobiographical memories (positive and negative) and the dimensions of parental bonding (care and protection) have an impact on depressive symptomatology, examining the role of depressive rumination and possible age-related differences. A total of 139 young adults (18-28 years) and 124 older adults (65-88 years) completed the Parental Bonding Instrument, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), the Autobiographical Memory Test and the Short Depressive Rumination Scale. Our results show that positive autobiographical memories serve as a protective factor for depressive symptoms in both young and older adults. Additionally, in young adults, high paternal care and protection scores are associated with increased negative autobiographical memories, although this association has no effect on depressive symptomatology. In older adults, high maternal protection scores are directly related to greater depressive symptomatology. Depressive rumination significantly increases depressive symptoms in both young and older adults, with an increase in negative autobiographical memories in young adults, and a decrease in such memories in older adults. Our findings progress the understanding of the relationships between parental bonding and autobiographical memory with respect to emotional disorders, which, in turn, will help in the design of effective prevention measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolores Fernández-Pérez
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain.
- Neurological Disabilities Research Institute, Albacete, Spain.
| | - Laura Ros
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
- Neurological Disabilities Research Institute, Albacete, Spain
| | - María V Jimeno
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - José Miguel Latorre
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
- Neurological Disabilities Research Institute, Albacete, Spain
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Lyvers M, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia and Alcohol Use: Evaluating the Role of Interoceptive Sensibility with the Revised Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37361346 PMCID: PMC10072022 DOI: 10.1007/s10862-023-10034-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Alexithymia has been linked to risky or problematic alcohol use, with a common interpretation invoking deficient emotion regulation and use of alcohol to cope with distress. An alternative explanation positing a general deficit of interoception in alexithymia suggested that poor awareness of internal cues of overconsumption may promote excessive drinking. The present study assessed predictions based on these hypotheses in 337 young adult alcohol users recruited online. Participants completed validated questionnaire indices of alcohol use, alexithymia, emotion regulation, interoceptive sensibility, and sensitivity to reward and punishment. Alcohol use was positively correlated with alexithymia and reward sensitivity, and negatively correlated with emotion regulation as expected, but was uncorrelated with interoceptive sensibility. Alexithymia was not significantly correlated with most dimensions of interoceptive sensibility but was highly negatively correlated with emotion regulation. Hierarchical regression controlling for demographic variables indicated that alexithymia, emotion regulation, sex, and sensitivity to reward and punishment were significant predictors of alcohol use levels. Bootstrapped mediation test controlling for all other variables indicated mediation of the association between alexithymia and alcohol use by deficient emotion regulation but not interoceptive sensibility. Results supported the emotion regulation deficit interpretation of the association of alexithymia with alcohol use. Limitations concerning interoception measurement, online samples, self-report measures, cross-sectional designs, and collection of data during the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed. Future research could follow up on these findings by testing interoceptive accuracy in addition to interoceptive sensibility in relation to alexithymia and alcohol use.
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Macía L, Momeñe López J, Macía P, Herrero M, Jauregui P, Iruarrizaga I, Estévez A. Latent classes of eating disorders and addictions by sex: Implication of alexithymia and stressful life events in youths. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1088595. [PMID: 36844334 PMCID: PMC9950640 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1088595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Eating disorders (EDs) and behavioural addictions show common psychological vulnerability factors such as alexithymia and stressful life events (SLE). This study aims, firstly, to explore the prevalence and latent profiles of participants based on their risk of suffering EDs, gambling disorder (GD), alcohol and/or drug abuse, and compulsive buying (CB) by sex. Secondly, it aimed to test whether alexithymia and having experienced SLE are associated with group membership. Methods The sample was predominantly drawn from university students and social networks. It was composed of 352 young adults between 18 and 35 years old, of whom 77.8% were women and 22.2% men. Results The results showed that the most prevalent disorders of the sample were alcohol, EDs, CB, drugs and GD, respectively. Moreover, latent class analyses were conducted based on the risk of suffering EDs or addictions by sex. Three main profiles were found: 'Men with addictions', 'Healthy women' and 'Women with EDs'. Finally, differences in SLE and alexithymia levels were tested by latent classes. "Men with addictions" and "Women with EDs" had higher scores on alexithymia and SLE than the group of "Healthy women". However, the group of "Women with EDs" (class 3) reported significantly higher levels of SLE and alexithymia than the other two groups. Discussion and conclusion In conclusion, we discuss the possibility that some vulnerability factors operate generally and transdiagnostically in EDs and addictive disorders. The identification of clinical phenotypes could complement and deepen prediction, prevention and treatment research in clinical settings. The need to take sex and gender differences into account is reinforced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Macía
- Psychology Department, School of Health Sciences, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Janire Momeñe López
- Psychology Department, School of Health Sciences, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Patricia Macía
- Department of Basic Psychological Processes and their Development, University of the Basque Country/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea (UPV/EHU), Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain
| | - Marta Herrero
- Psychology Department, School of Health Sciences, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Paula Jauregui
- Psychology Department, School of Health Sciences, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Iciar Iruarrizaga
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Cognitive Processes and Speech Therapy, Faculty of Social Work, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Estévez
- Psychology Department, School of Health Sciences, University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain,*Correspondence: Ana Estévez, ✉
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Zamani S, Hasani J, Hatami M, Tadros E. Emotion Dysregulation and Alexithymia within Marital Burnout through an Emotion-Focused Therapy Lens. JOURNAL OF COUPLE & RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/15332691.2023.2165206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Solaleh Zamani
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Kharazmi University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar Hasani
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Kharazmi University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hatami
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Kharazmi University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eman Tadros
- IMFT, Governors State University, University Park, Illinois, USA
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Li R, Kajanoja J, Karlsson L, Karlsson H, Karukivi M. Sex-specific role of alexithymia in associations between parental bonding and mental health: A moderated mediation model. J Clin Psychol 2023; 79:126-142. [PMID: 35521753 PMCID: PMC10083977 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the role of alexithymia and potential sex differences in the associations between perceived parental bonding and mental health. METHODS The sample consists of 2421 parents from the FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study who completed the parental bonding instrument, the Toronto alexithymia scale, the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale, and the anxiety subscale of the symptom checklist-90. Moderated mediation analyses were conducted to examine the possible mediating role of alexithymia and moderating role of sex in the associations between parental bonding and depressive/anxiety symptoms. RESULTS Alexithymia was found to be a potential mediator and sex be a moderator in the relations between perceived dysfunctional parental bonding and the psychological symptoms. Specifically, dysfunctional paternal bonding, especially paternal overprotection, had stronger indirect effects (via alexithymia) on the psychological symptoms in males. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates the importance of alexithymia in the parenting-related mental health impacts and highlights the significance of paternal bonding for the development of alexithymia and mental health problems in male populations. The findings improve the limited understanding of sex-related parental factors for alexithymia and mental health problems. Future studies in longitudinal designs are warranted to clarify the causal process of the mediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jani Kajanoja
- Department of Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Psychiatry, Satakunta Hospital District, Pori, Finland
| | - Linnea Karlsson
- Department of Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Center for Population Health Research, Faculty of Medicine, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Hasse Karlsson
- Department of Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Center for Population Health Research, Faculty of Medicine, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Max Karukivi
- FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital and University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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Kumar L, Zhou A, Sanov B, Beitler S, Skrzynski CJ, Creswell KG. Indirect effects of theory of mind on alcohol use and problems in underage drinkers: The role of peer pressure to drink. Addict Behav Rep 2022; 16:100468. [DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2022.100468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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Associação entre vínculo parental e qualidade da vinculação amorosa em universitários no sul do Brasil. PSICO 2022. [DOI: 10.15448/1980-8623.2022.1.38132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
A partir das primeiras experiências de vinculação, serão internalizados modelos representacionais que servirão de protótipo para as relações amorosas no futuro. Este estudo investigou a associação entre a percepção de vínculo parental e a qualidade da vinculação amorosa em universitários no sul do Brasil. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, no qual foram utilizados o Questionário de Vinculação ao Pai e à Mãe e o Questionário de Vinculação Amorosa. A análise estatística foi baseada no modelo de Regressão Linear Múltipla. Foram avaliados 89 universitários. A cada aumento de um ponto no escore da inibição da exploração e da individualidade no vínculo materno, houve uma diminuição no escore da confiança e um aumento no escore da ambivalência no vínculo amoroso. Os resultados demonstram que dificuldades no estabelecimento de um vínculo precoce saudável podem ocasionar sentimento de insegurança, ambivalência e baixa confiança nos relacionamentos amorosos futuros.
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Kumar L, Skrzynski CJ, Creswell KG. Systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between theory of mind and alcohol problems in non-clinical samples. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2022; 46:1944-1952. [PMID: 36117380 PMCID: PMC9722547 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deficits in theory of mind (ToM) found in individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) are often thought to result from prolonged heavy alcohol use. However, links between deficits in ToM and greater alcohol problems are often also present in non-clinical samples (e.g., adolescents and young adults) who may not have a similar long-lasting history of alcohol consumption as individuals with AUD. The current study is the first to systematically review and meta-analyze results from studies examining associations between lower ToM and greater alcohol problems in non-clinical samples. Evidence of reliable associations in these non-clinical samples would support the idea that deficits in ToM might also precede the emergence of AUD. METHODS PsycINFO, PubMed, and Google Scholar were searched according to our preregistered International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) protocol (CRD42021225392) and following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology. We systematically reviewed sample characteristics and ToM measures in identified articles. We then meta-analyzed the findings of association between ToM and alcohol problems in non-clinical samples using random effects models. RESULTS Nearly all studies used a measure of ToM that assessed the ability to infer the mental states of others based on eye region cues. Meta-analytic results demonstrated that lower ToM was associated with more alcohol problems (r = -0.16, k = 6, CI = [-0.26, -0.04], p < 0.01, Q = 15.55, I2 = 67.85), and there was significant heterogeneity across studies. Gender (ß = 0.0003, CI = [-0.006, 0.007], z = 0.09, p = 0.93), age (ß = -0.008, CI = [-0.03, 0.01], z = -0.82, p = 0.42), and study quality (ß = -0.10, CI = [-0.35, 0.15], z = -0.82, p = 0.41) did not explain the heterogeneity. CONCLUSION In non-clinical samples, lower ToM is associated with more alcohol problems, indicative of a small effect size. Future longitudinal studies are needed to explore whether socio-cognitive deficits may also serve as a risk factor for alcohol misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Kumar
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Carillon J. Skrzynski
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, 1600 Pleasant St., Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Kasey G. Creswell
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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Honkalampi K, Jokela M, Lehto SM, Kivimäki M, Virtanen M. Association between alexithymia and substance use: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Scand J Psychol 2022; 63:427-438. [PMID: 35436351 PMCID: PMC9790486 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Alexithymia has been associated with substance use, but the magnitude of the association has not been evaluated and sub-group differences, if any, are unknown. The aim of this meta-analysis is to systematically review the association between alexithymia and substance use (alcohol or illicit drugs). We identified studies through a systematic review of PubMed and Web of Science and obtained a total of 52 publications using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 scale. Random effects meta-analysis was used to evaluate the overall and sub-group associations. Of the studies, 50 were cross-sectional and two longitudinal. Alexithymia was associated with any substance use (Cohen's d = 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49-0.76), with little difference between estimates for use of alcohol or illicit drugs. A stronger association was observed for the alexithymia dimension "Difficulty in Identifying Feelings" (d = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.47-0.81) and "Difficulty in Describing Feelings" (d = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.32-0.55) than for "Externally Oriented Thinking" (d = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.09-0.28). The association was stronger in studies with clinical patient populations (d = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.62-1.05) than in those investigating general or student populations, and in studies with a majority of male rather than female participants. These findings suggest a strong overall association between alexithymia and substance use and a very strong association among clinical patient populations. The association may be stronger with the emotion-related dimensions than with the cognition-related dimension of alexithymia. As nearly all the studies were cross-sectional, more longitudinal studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsi Honkalampi
- School of Educational Sciences and PsychologyUniversity of Eastern FinlandJoensuuFinland
| | - Markus Jokela
- Department of Psychology and LogopedicsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Soili M. Lehto
- Department of Psychology and LogopedicsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Institute of Clinical MedicineUniversity of OsloOsloNorway,R&D department, Division of Mental Health ServicesAkershus University HospitalLørenskogNorway,Department of PsychiatryUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Mika Kivimäki
- Clinicum, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Epidemiology and Public HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Marianna Virtanen
- School of Educational Sciences and PsychologyUniversity of Eastern FinlandJoensuuFinland,Division of Insurance MedicineKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
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Chu Y, Zhang Y, Yang D, Wang S, Liang C, Wang X, Dai H. Influence of family function on social anxiety among Chinese nursing students: The mediating role of alexithymia. Nurs Open 2022; 10:1356-1366. [PMID: 36168112 PMCID: PMC9912435 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.1385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS This study aims to explore the relationship between family function, alexithymia and social anxiety among Chinese nursing students, especially to determine whether alexithymia acts as a mediator between family function and social anxiety among this social group. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. METHODS From January to March 2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted among 204 Chinese nursing students at a nursing school of a medical university in the Northeastern Region of China. The interaction anxiousness scale, APGAR family function scale and Tronto alexithymia scale were used for measurement of social anxiety, perceived family function and alexithymia respectively. The data were subjected to correlation analysis, multiple linear regression and structural equation modelling (SEM). RESULTS Results indicated that social anxiety score was negatively correlated with perceived family function (r = -.232), but positively with alexithymia (r = .307). After controlling for demographic variables, family function and alexithymia could explain 14.5% of the total variance in social anxiety. The SEM results suggested that the effect of family function on social anxiety was partially mediated by alexithymia with a 36.9% mediating effect. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals that alexithymia might partially mediate the impact of family function and social anxiety in Chinese nursing students. In this sense, improvement of alexithymia is expected to be an effective strategy to ameliorate the severity social anxiety in Chinese nursing students, especially for those with a dysfunctional family context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Chu
- School of NursingJinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
| | - Yuqiang Zhang
- The First Affiliated HospitalJinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
| | - Dan Yang
- The First Affiliated HospitalJinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
| | - Suyan Wang
- The Centre for Mental Health GuidanceJinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
| | | | - Xue Wang
- School of NursingJinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
| | - Hongliang Dai
- School of NursingJinzhou Medical UniversityJinzhouChina
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Lyvers M, Truncali J, Stapleton P, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, reward sensitivity and excessive exercise in non-binge-eaters versus severe binge eaters: Implications for primary and secondary exercise dependence. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-14. [PMID: 35967495 PMCID: PMC9363868 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03511-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A distinction has been made between primary and secondary exercise dependence, with the latter defined as excessive exercise secondary to disordered eating and weight concerns. Based on theoretical considerations from research on the roles of trait factors in addictions, the present study used validated scales to assess alexithymia, sensitivity to reward and punishment, emotion regulation and interoception in relation to exercise dependence symptoms in Australian male and female non-binge eaters (n = 228) and severe binge eaters (n = 126) aged 18-30 yr. In both groups, exercise dependence symptoms were significantly positively associated with reward sensitivity and interoceptive awareness, with the latter two variables predicting exercise dependence symptoms in hierarchical regression models; punishment sensitivity was significantly negatively related to such symptoms. Alexithymia was significantly associated with exercise dependence symptoms only in non-binge eaters; in severe binge eaters, alexithymia explained 0% of unique variance. Male sex was associated with more exercise dependence symptoms in severe binge eaters only. Participants in the severe binge group scored significantly higher on measures of exercise dependence, alexithymia, risky alcohol use, and sensitivity to reward and punishment, and significantly lower on emotion regulation, compared to those in the non-binge group. Hierarchical regression models explained 25% of variance in exercise dependence symptoms in non-binge-eaters and 43% in severe binge eaters. Findings are discussed in terms of the distinction between primary and secondary exercise dependence, the role of alexithymia, study limitations including data collection during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia, and suggestions for future research.
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Lyvers M, Kelahroodi M, Udodzik E, Stapleton P, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia and binge eating: Maladaptive emotion regulation strategy or deficient interoception? Appetite 2022; 175:106073. [PMID: 35568089 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Alexithymia has been linked to various excessive behaviors as a likely risk factor, including binge eating. Such relationships are often attributed to deficient emotional self-regulation in alexithymia, ostensibly leading to the use of maladaptive, externalized behaviors as strategies for coping with distress. An alternative view is that alexithymia reflects a fundamental deficit of interoceptive awareness that, in the case of binge eating, would suggest that internal satiety cues are poorly recognized, promoting overconsumption. The present study assessed the relationship between alexithymia and binge eating in the context of these competing hypotheses. A large online sample of young adults (n = 532) completed validated measures of alexithymia, emotion regulation, interoception, binge eating, emotional eating motivation, and sensitivity to reward and punishment. Correlations were as expected except for interoception, which showed minimal association with alexithymia or binge eating. In a hierarchical regression controlling for age, gender, education level and student status as covariates, binge eating was predicted by emotional eating motivation, emotion regulation (a negative predictor), alexithymia, and reward sensitivity, with the final model explaining 53% of variance in binge eating. Bootstrapped path analyses controlling for all other variables indicated that the relationship between alexithymia and binge eating was mediated by deficient emotion regulation but not deficient interoception, and that the relationships of both alexithymia and emotion regulation with binge eating were mediated by emotional eating motivation. Results are consistent with the notion that the association of alexithymia with binge eating reflects deficient emotion regulation in alexithymia, which can lead to adoption of maladaptive, externalized behaviors such as binge eating for coping with distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia.
| | | | - Emily Udodzik
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia
| | - Peta Stapleton
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia
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15
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Lyvers M, Salviani A, Costan S, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, narcissism and social anxiety in relation to social media and internet addiction symptoms. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 57:606-612. [PMID: 35262189 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
There has been considerable interest in trait correlates of excessive or problematic use of the internet, known as internet addiction. However, the concept of internet addiction has been criticised as too broad. Specific forms of excessive internet use, for example, social media, may have different trait correlates compared to internet use in general. The present study compared levels of internet and social media addiction symptoms in relation to three traits previously linked to one or the other form of excessive behaviour: alexithymia, narcissism and social anxiety. There were 217 young adult social media- and internet-using participants aged 18-35 years recruited from two university campuses in southeast Queensland, Australia. They completed an online questionnaire battery that included a demographics questionnaire and widely used, validated measures of narcissism, alexithymia and social anxiety. Hierarchical regressions indicated that after controlling for demographic variables, internet addiction symptoms were predicted by social anxiety, narcissism and alexithymia, whereas social media addiction symptoms were predicted only by social anxiety and narcissism. Results suggest that the association of alexithymia with internet addiction symptoms does not encompass excessive use of social media, and support the contention that the concept of internet addiction may be too broad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, Australia
| | | | - Stephanie Costan
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, Australia
| | - Fred Arne Thorberg
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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16
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Lyvers M, Ryan N, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, attachment security and negative mood. AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/00050067.2022.2045173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Natasha Ryan
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Fred Arne Thorberg
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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17
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Lyvers M, Ryan N, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, negative moods, and fears of positive emotions. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02555-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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18
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Luo H, Zhao Y, Hong J, Wang H, Zhang X, Tan S. Effect of Alexithymia on Internet Addiction Among College Students: The Mediating Role of Metacognition Beliefs. Front Psychol 2022; 12:788458. [PMID: 35082726 PMCID: PMC8784415 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.788458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Previous studies have found that alexithymia plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Internet addiction. However, the effect of alexithymia on both metacognition and Internet addiction has yet to be examined. Methods: The Toronto Alexithymia Scale, Metacognition Questionnaire, and Internet Addiction Test were used to assess a sample of 356 college students. A parallel mediator effect analysis was applied to test the hypothesis that metacognition mediates the relationship between alexithymia and Internet addiction. Results: The parallel multiple mediator models showed that alexithymia predicted the five dimensions of metacognition and Internet addiction, and that three dimensions-cognitive confidence, positive beliefs about worry, and the need to control thoughts-partially mediated this relationship. Conclusion: Alexithymia could directly and indirectly predict Internet addiction via metacognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongge Luo
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
- College of Psychology, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Yanli Zhao
- Beijing Huilongguan Hospital, Peking University Huilongguan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangyue Hong
- Beijing Huilongguan Hospital, Peking University Huilongguan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Wang
- College of Psychology, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Xiujun Zhang
- School of Public Health, North China University of Science and Technology, Tangshan, China
| | - Shuping Tan
- Beijing Huilongguan Hospital, Peking University Huilongguan Clinical Medical School, Beijing, China
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19
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Alexithymia and Insecure Attachment among Male Intimate Partner Violence Aggressors in the Dominican Republic. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9121626. [PMID: 34946351 PMCID: PMC8700775 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9121626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The complexity of intimate partner violence and the impossibility of understanding it from single factors have been studied from different biological, psychological, and socio-cultural factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 187 men involved in legal proceedings for problems of violence in their intimate partner relationships in the Dominican Republic in order to explore whether insecure attachment represents a risk factor for alexithymia in men with violent behaviors. The attachment style was determinate by the Casullo and Fernández-Liporace Attachment Styles Scale, and alexithymia was assayed using the Latin American Consensual Toronto Alexithymia Scale (LAC TAS-20), a modification of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20). Chi-square test and multiple binary logistic regression analysis were performed to explore the phenomena of alexithymia and attachment styles in the context of a confinement center for male intimate partner offenders in the Dominican Republic. The results showed that insecure attachment represents a risk factor for alexithymia, being highest for avoidant attachment in the population studied. The results also highlight the influence of other factors such as education and maternal–familial relationships as a factor risk for alexithymia.
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20
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Linn BK, Zhao J, Bradizza CM, Lucke JF, Ruszczyk MU, Stasiewicz PR. Alexithymia disrupts emotion regulation processes and is associated with greater negative affect and alcohol problems. J Clin Psychol 2021; 77:2915-2928. [PMID: 34787929 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alexithymia is common among people who abuse alcohol, yet the mechanisms by which alexithymia exerts its influence remain unclear. This analysis tested a model whereby the three subscales of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale exert an indirect effect on alcohol problems through difficulties with emotion regulation and psychological distress. METHOD Men and women (n = 141) seeking alcohol use disorder (AUD) treatment completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, the Difficulties with Emotion Regulation Scale, the Brief Symptom Inventory, the Short Inventory of Problems, and the Alcohol Dependence Scale. RESULTS The Difficulty Identifying Feelings subscale of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale was positively associated with alcohol problems through emotion dysregulation and psychological distress. The other two subscales, Difficulty Describing Feelings and Externally oriented Thinking, were not associated with any other variables. CONCLUSION People with alexithymia may consume alcohol to help regulate undifferentiated states of emotional arousal. Given the prevalence of alexithymia among people who abuse alcohol, treatment supplements that enhance the identification of emotions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Braden K Linn
- Clinical and Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Junru Zhao
- School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Clara M Bradizza
- School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Joseph F Lucke
- Department of Psychiatry, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | | | - Paul R Stasiewicz
- School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
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21
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Raffagnato A, Angelico C, Fasolato R, Sale E, Gatta M, Miscioscia M. Parental Bonding and Children's Psychopathology: A Transgenerational View Point. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 8:1012. [PMID: 34828725 PMCID: PMC8618782 DOI: 10.3390/children8111012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Literature confirmed parental bonding as one of key factors influencing offspring's psychopathology; the present study aimed to investigate, with a case-control study, the relationship between parental bonding and psychopathology in an Italian adolescent sample. The clinical sample was composed of 64 adolescents from 12 to 18 years old (Mage 15.00; S.D. 1.70) attending a Neuropsychiatric Unit of Veneto; the non-clinical sample was composed of 61 adolescents, from 13 to 18 years old (Mage 14.80; S.D. 1.32) attending middle and high school in the province of Padua and Pesaro (Italy); their parents (mothers and fathers) were also involved. In the study, self-reported tests were administered (Parental Bonding Instrument, Child Behavior Checklist, Youth Self Report). Our study confirmed a correlation between parental bonding and adolescent psychopathology: dysfunctional parenting styles (characterized by low care and high control) were more frequent among cases in contrast to controls. An effect of gender also appeared. In the Italian adolescent clinical sample, parental bonding, especially low parental care, was correlated to the emergence of psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Raffagnato
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (C.A.); (R.F.); (M.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Caterina Angelico
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (C.A.); (R.F.); (M.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Rachele Fasolato
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (C.A.); (R.F.); (M.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Eleonora Sale
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, ULSS6 Padua, 35143 Padua, Italy;
| | - Michela Gatta
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (C.A.); (R.F.); (M.G.); (M.M.)
| | - Marina Miscioscia
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, University Hospital of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (C.A.); (R.F.); (M.G.); (M.M.)
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialization, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy
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22
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Lyvers M, Sweetnam T, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, rash impulsiveness, and reward sensitivity in relation to symptoms of exercise dependence in physically active young adults. AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00049530.2021.1981747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Taylor Sweetnam
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
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23
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The relationship between alexithymia and theory of mind: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:497-524. [PMID: 34599917 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Theory of Mind (ToM), the ability to represent the mental states of oneself and others, is an essential social skill disrupted across many psychiatric conditions. The transdiagnostic nature of ToM impairment means it is plausible that ToM impairment is related to alexithymia (difficulties identifying and describing one's own emotions), as alexithymia is seen across psychiatric conditions. Whilst many studies have examined links between alexithymia and ToM, results are mixed. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review is to provide a taxonomy of ToM tests and assess their relationship with alexithymia. Tests are grouped according to whether they assess propensity to engage spontaneously in ToM or accuracy of ToM inferences, with tests further subdivided into those that do, and do not, require emotion recognition. A review of 63 suitable studies suggests that alexithymia is often associated with reduced ToM, and inaccurate ToM when tasks require emotion recognition. This latter finding appears due to impaired emotion recognition, rather than ToM impairment per se. Further directions and considerations for future research are discussed.
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24
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Gerra ML, Gerra MC, Tadonio L, Pellegrini P, Marchesi C, Mattfeld E, Gerra G, Ossola P. Early parent-child interactions and substance use disorder: An attachment perspective on a biopsychosocial entanglement. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:560-580. [PMID: 34606823 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This review aims to elucidate environmental and genetic factors, as well as their epigenetic and neuroendocrine moderators, that may underlie the association between early childhood experiences and Substance Use Disorders (SUD), through the lens of parental attachment. Here we review those attachment-related studies that examined the monoaminergic systems, the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal stress response system, the oxytoninergic system, and the endogenous opioid system from a genetic, epigenetic, and neuroendocrine perspective. Overall, the selected studies point to a moderating effect of insecure attachment between genetic vulnerability and SUD, reasonably through epigenetic modifications. Preliminary evidence suggests that vulnerability to SUDs is related with hypo-methylation (e.g. hyper-expression) of high-risk polymorphisms on the monoaminergic and hypothalamic pituitary adrenal system and hyper-methylation (e.g. hypo-expressions) of protective polymorphisms on the opioid and oxytocin system. These epigenetic modifications may induce a cascade of neuroendocrine changes contributing to the subclinical and behavioural manifestations that precede the clinical onset of SUD. Protective and supportive parenting could hence represent a key therapeutic target to prevent addiction and moderate insecure attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Carla Gerra
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), SMI®, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Carlo Marchesi
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Elizabeth Mattfeld
- Drug Prevention and Health Branch, Prevention Treatment and Rehabilitation Section, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Gilberto Gerra
- Department of Mental Health, AUSL of Parma, Parma, Italy.
| | - Paolo Ossola
- Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain (CNAP), SMI®, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
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25
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Zimmermann KM, Schmidt KD, Gronow F, Sommer J, Leweke F, Jansen A. Seeing things differently: Gaze shapes neural signal during mentalizing according to emotional awareness. Neuroimage 2021; 238:118223. [PMID: 34098065 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2021.118223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies on social cognition often use complex visual stimuli to asses neural processes attributed to abilities like "mentalizing" or "Theory of Mind" (ToM). During the processing of these stimuli, eye gaze, however, shapes neural signal patterns. Individual differences in neural operations on social cognition may therefore be obscured if individuals' gaze behavior differs systematically. These obstacles can be overcome by the combined analysis of neural signal and natural viewing behavior. Here, we combined functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with eye-tracking to examine effects of unconstrained gaze on neural ToM processes in healthy individuals with differing levels of emotional awareness, i.e. alexithymia. First, as previously described for emotional tasks, people with higher alexithymia levels look less at eyes in both ToM and task-free viewing contexts. Further, we find that neural ToM processes are not affected by individual differences in alexithymia per se. Instead, depending on alexithymia levels, gaze on critical stimulus aspects reversely shapes the signal in medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC) and anterior temporoparietal junction (TPJ) as distinct nodes of the ToM system. These results emphasize that natural selective attention affects fMRI patterns well beyond the visual system. Our study implies that, whenever using a task with multiple degrees of freedom in scan paths, ignoring the latter might obscure important conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Marie Zimmermann
- Laboratory for Multimodal Neuroimaging, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany; Department of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation, Hospital zum Heiligen Geist, Academic Teaching Hospital of the Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), University of Marburg and Justus Liebig University Giessen.
| | - Kirsten Daniela Schmidt
- Laboratory for Multimodal Neuroimaging, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Franziska Gronow
- Laboratory for Multimodal Neuroimaging, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany; Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), University of Marburg and Justus Liebig University Giessen
| | - Jens Sommer
- Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), University of Marburg and Justus Liebig University Giessen; Core-Unit Brainimaging, Faculty of Medicine, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Frank Leweke
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Jansen
- Laboratory for Multimodal Neuroimaging, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany; Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (CMBB), University of Marburg and Justus Liebig University Giessen; Core-Unit Brainimaging, Faculty of Medicine, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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26
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Scigala DK, Fabris MA, Badenes-Ribera L, Zdankiewicz-Scigala E, Hintertan I, Longobardi C. Alexithymia and Adult Attachment: Investigating the Mediating Role of Fear of Intimacy and Negative Mood Regulation Expectancies. Psychol Rep 2021; 125:1896-1914. [PMID: 33878970 DOI: 10.1177/00332941211010252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Literature suggests an association between alexithymia and insecure adult attachment, but the mediation factors involved in this relationship are under-investigated. The study was carried out to test the possible mediation roles of the fear of intimacy and negative mood regulation expectancies in explaining this relationship. A convenience sample of 258 Polish adults (mean age: 30; 45% male), completed self-reporting measures related to adult attachment (RAAS), alexithymia (TAS-20), fear of intimacy (FIS) and negative mood regulation expectancies (NMRE). The results showed that alexithymia directly and indirectly predicts insecure adult attachment. Alexithymia positively predicts the fear of intimacy, which, in turn, positively predicts insecure adult attachment. Finally, alexithymia negatively predicts NMRE which, in turn, predict insecure adult attachment. It emerges from our data that the fear of intimacy and NMRE may be mediating factors in the relationship between alexithymia and adult attachment. Limitations, future directions of research and guidance for intervention are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Badenes-Ribera
- Department of Methodology of the Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Iwona Hintertan
- Faculty of Psychology, 86927SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poland
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27
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Alexithymia and Self Differentiation: The Role of Fear of Intimacy and Insecure Adult Attachment. CONTEMPORARY FAMILY THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10591-021-09567-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIt is suggested in literature that there is a link between Alexithymia and Self-Differentiation; however, little is known about possible mediation factors. The goal of this work is to test in a non-clinical population of adults the mediation role of Fear of Intimacy and Adult Attachment in the relationship between Alexithymia and Self-Differentiation. A sample of 258 participants self identified as gay or lesbian, aged 20–50 years (M: 30.29; SD: 7.27), 45% of whom were males, completed self-reported measures of Alexithymia (TAS-20), Self-Differentiation (SDI), Fear of Intimacy (FIS); and Insecure Adult Attachment (RAAS). Our results show that Alexithymia predicts Self-Differentiation both directly and indirectly, through Fear of Intimacy and Insecure adult attachment. In addition, Fear of Intimacy directly influences Self-Differentiation, and also mediates the relationship between Alexithymia and Adult Attachment which, in turn, negatively predicts Self-Differentiation. In conclusion, Alexithymia predicts Self-Differentiation while Fear of Intimacy and adult attachment may act as mediators of the report. Limitations of the study and directions of future research are described.
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28
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The rs6311 of serotonin receptor 2A (5-HT2A) gene is associated with alexithymia and mental health. J Affect Disord 2020; 272:277-282. [PMID: 32553368 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.03.153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Alexithymia, difficulties in identifying and describing one's own feelings, is related to substantial clinical practice. Inspired by the links between serotonin functions and affective disorders, this study investigated associations of the serotonin receptor 2A (5-HT2A) gene with alexithymia and mental health. METHODS We differentiated subjects according to two functional polymorphisms (i.e., rs6311 and rs6313) of 5-HT2A gene and scored alexithymia and mental health of college students with the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) and the Symptom Check List-90 (SCL-90), respectively. RESULTS The analyses basing on sample 1 (N = 566) and sample 2 (N = 602) indicated that the G allele of rs6311 was related to higher score on the TAS-20 as compared to the AA genotype. The analysis with 467 individuals from sample 2 indicated that the rs6311 was associated with mental health, and this association was mediated by alexithymia. LIMITATIONS The potential confounding variables such as depression and anxiety were neglected in the analyses. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate the contribution of the 5-HT2A to alexithymia, and highlight the link between alexithymia and mental health at genetic level.
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29
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Zdankiewicz-Ścigała E, Ścigała DK. Attachment Style, Early Childhood Trauma, Alexithymia, and Dissociation Among Persons Addicted to Alcohol: Structural Equation Model of Dependencies. Front Psychol 2020; 10:2957. [PMID: 32038366 PMCID: PMC6993624 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Attachment theory is a broadly used paradigm for understanding human affective development. It is recognized that alexithymia is a key factor responsible for the non-adaptive strategies of regulating emotions in people addicted to alcohol. In addition, an important role is attributed to early childhood trauma and dissociation. The theoretical model was examined, in which connections between attachment styles, trauma, and alexithymia and dissociation were investigated in persons addicted to alcohol. METHODS The total number of study participants amounted to 268 persons, including 116 women (43% of all subjects) and 152 men (57% of all subjects) at the age of 18-73 (M = 39.19; SD = 13.45). In order to measure the analyzed variables, the following questionnaires were applied: Michigan alcoholism screening test (MAST), attachment styles questionnaire (ASQ), 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), traumatic experiences checklist (TEC), and curious experiences survey (CES). RESULTS A comparative analysis between the group of alcohol addicts and non-addicts showed statistically significant differences related to attachment style, intensity of trauma, alexithymia, and dissociation. With structural equation models (i.e., AMOS and GLS), the adjustment of theoretical model to data was examined, which allowed the description of dependency paths. As a result of the conducted analysis of paths, it was found out that the model was accurately fitted to data, but only when an impact path related to a direct connection between an attachment style and an addiction was deleted. This impact is indirect, and from one side, it results from affective and cognitive deficits, i.e., alexithymia, and on the other side, from the intensity of traumatic experiences. No direct impact of dissociation on the development of an inclination to addiction was found, if contextual variables, i.e., alexithymia and trauma, are taken into account. The strongest direct relation was proven in the case of the anxious-ambivalent attachment style and alexithymia (β = 0.389; p < 0.01) and avoidant attachment style and alexithymia (β = 0.497; p < 0.01), which turned out a strong predictor fostering the development of alexithymia and the occurrence of traumas related to emotional negligence and mental violence and finally addiction. CONCLUSION Our studies revealed how important it is to investigate the role of individual variables in the context of developmental models. An extremely important element of the scientific achievement presented here is showing pillars of trauma, alexithymia, and dissociation in their cumulative impact on the development of emotional disorders resulting in addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dawid Konrad Ścigała
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Applied Social Sciences, The Maria Grzegorzewska University, Warsaw, Poland
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Orsolini L. Unable to Describe My Feelings and Emotions Without an Addiction: The Interdependency Between Alexithymia and Addictions. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:543346. [PMID: 33192657 PMCID: PMC7644516 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.543346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Orsolini
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.,Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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Burunat E. Love is a physiological motivation (like hunger, thirst, sleep or sex). Med Hypotheses 2019; 129:109225. [PMID: 31371074 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2019.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The multitude of terms associated with love has given rise to a false perception of love. In this paper, only maternal and romantic love are considered. Love is usually regarded as a feeling, motivation, addiction, passion, and, above all, an emotion. This confusion has consequences in the lives of human beings, leading not only to divorces, suicides, femicides but possibly also to a number of mental illnesses and suffering. Therefore, it is crucial to first clarify what is meant by emotion, motivation and love. This work aims to finally place love within the category of physiological motivations, such as hunger, thirst, sleep, or sex, on the basis that love is also essential for human survival, especially in childhood. Love is presented from an evolutionary perspective. Some other similarities between love and other physiological motivations are pointed out, such as its importance for appropriate human development, both its ontogeny and its permanence, and the long-lasting consequences of abuse and neglect. There are summarized reasons that account for this, such as the fact that physiological motivations are essential for survival and that love is an essential motivation for the survival of human offspring. Other reasons are that minimum changes in the quantity and quality of love alters development, that there can be a variety of neurophysiological and behavioural states within a motivation, and that motivations (also love) appear and change throughout development. Also, motivations and love sometimes may lead to an addictive behaviour. Finally, it is recognized that once physiological motivations (and love) appear, they become permanent. In a third section, some potential social, cultural, clinical and scientific consequences of the proposed consideration of love as a motivation are discussed. Accordingly, love's recognition as a motivation in the clinical field would imply a better understanding of its disorders and its inclusion in classifications manuals such as The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), or in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). Considering love as a motivation rather than an emotion could also impact the results of scientific research (an example is included). A comprehensive understanding of these questions could potentially allow for a new therapeutic approach in the treatment of mental illness, while offering an all-inclusive evolutionary explanation of cultural phenomena such as the origin and diffusion of both language and art. Love should be understood as a physiological motivation, like hunger, sleep or sex, and not as an emotion as it is commonly considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Burunat
- School of Health Sciences/School of Psychology, Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, University of La Laguna, P.O. Box 456, 38200 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain.
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