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Matcham F, Simblett SK, Leightley D, Dalby M, Siddi S, Haro JM, Lamers F, Penninx BWHJ, Bruce S, Nica R, Zormpas S, Gilpin G, White KM, Oetzmann C, Annas P, Brasen JC, Narayan VA, Hotopf M, Wykes T. The association between persistent cognitive difficulties and depression and functional outcomes in people with major depressive disorder. Psychol Med 2023; 53:6334-6344. [PMID: 37743838 PMCID: PMC10520589 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722003671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive symptoms are common during and following episodes of depression. Little is known about the persistence of self-reported and performance-based cognition with depression and functional outcomes. METHODS This is a secondary analysis of a prospective naturalistic observational clinical cohort study of individuals with recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD; N = 623). Participants completed app-based self-reported and performance-based cognitive function assessments alongside validated measures of depression, functional disability, and self-esteem every 3 months. Participants were followed-up for a maximum of 2-years. Multilevel hierarchically nested modelling was employed to explore between- and within-participant variation over time to identify whether persistent cognitive difficulties are related to levels of depression and functional impairment during follow-up. RESULTS 508 individuals (81.5%) provided data (mean age: 46.6, s.d.: 15.6; 76.2% female). Increasing persistence of self-reported cognitive difficulty was associated with higher levels of depression and functional impairment throughout the follow-up. In comparison to low persistence of objective cognitive difficulty (<25% of timepoints), those with high persistence (>75% of timepoints) reported significantly higher levels of depression (B = 5.17, s.e. = 2.21, p = 0.019) and functional impairment (B = 4.82, s.e. = 1.79, p = 0.002) over time. Examination of the individual cognitive modules shows that persistently impaired executive function is associated with worse functioning, and poor processing speed is particularly important for worsened depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS We replicated previous findings of greater persistence of cognitive difficulty with increasing severity of depression and further demonstrate that these cognitive difficulties are associated with pervasive functional disability. Difficulties with cognition may be an indicator and target for further treatment input.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. Matcham
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | - S. K. Simblett
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - D. Leightley
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - M. Dalby
- Muna Therapeutics, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S. Siddi
- Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Fundació San Joan de Déu, Universitat de Barcelona, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J. M. Haro
- Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Fundació San Joan de Déu, Universitat de Barcelona, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - F. Lamers
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Mental Health Program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - B. W. H. J. Penninx
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Mental Health Program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S. Bruce
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - R. Nica
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- The Romanian League for Mental Health, Bucharest, Romania
| | - S. Zormpas
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- EPIONI Greek Carers Network, Athens, Greece
| | - G. Gilpin
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - K. M. White
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - C. Oetzmann
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - P. Annas
- H. Lundbeck A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - M. Hotopf
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - T. Wykes
- The Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Gao S, Zhang L, Yao X, Lin J, Meng X. Associations between self-disgust, depression, and anxiety: A three-level meta-analytic review. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2022; 228:103658. [DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2022.103658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Baer MM, Tull MT, Gratz KL. Substance Use Frequency Relates to Suicidal Ideation Through Perceived Burdensomeness and to Suicide Attempts Through Capability for Suicide. Arch Suicide Res 2022; 26:1520-1540. [PMID: 34529923 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2021.1931595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although substance use has been linked to both suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, the factors underlying these relations remain unclear. The Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide (ITS) provides a framework for understanding how substance use may increase suicide risk. The purpose of the current study was to examine if frequency of substance use is indirectly related to suicidal ideation and suicide attempts through core ITS variables (i.e., burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and suicide capability). METHODS An online sample of Mechanical Turk workers (N = 365) completed measures assessing substance use frequency, burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, suicide capability, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts. RESULTS After controlling for relevant clinical and demographic covariates, substance use frequency was indirectly related to suicidal ideation through burdensomeness but not thwarted belongingness. Substance use frequency was indirectly related to suicide attempts through suicide capability only. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional design precludes conclusions about the precise nature and direction of the relations examined. The use of a community sample limits generalizability to more severe substance using samples. CONCLUSIONS Results highlight the relevance of distinct ITS factors in the relation between substance use frequency and both suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Results may inform specific targets for novel interventions aimed at reducing suicide risk among substance-using individuals.HighlightsSubstance use frequency was indirectly related to SI through burdensomeness.Substance use frequency was not indirectly related to SI through thwarted belongingness.Substance use frequency was indirectly related to SA only through suicide capability.
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Mason D, James D, Andrew L, Fox JRE. 'The last thing you feel is the self-disgust'. The role of self-directed disgust in men who have attempted suicide: A grounded theory study. Psychol Psychother 2022; 95:575-599. [PMID: 35229436 PMCID: PMC9313556 DOI: 10.1111/papt.12389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Globally, suicide affects more men than women. Emotional pain underpins many theoretical accounts of suicidality, yet little is known about the role of disgust in suicide. Self-directed disgust, whereby aspects of the self-serve as an object of disgust, has been hypothesised to factor in suicide. This research aimed to explore the processes which link self-disgust to attempted suicide in males. METHOD Nine men who had attempted suicide completed semi-structured interviews. The interview data were analysed using a constructivist grounded theory methodology. RESULTS Three concepts emerged out of the analysis: (1) self-disgust; (2) worthlessness; and (3) the endured emotional distress of 'the abyss'" - these concepts interweaved, leading the men to experience hopelessness, disconnection and an inability to cope, leading ultimately to their suicide attempt. Throughout this journey, various disgust-related processes worsened men's distress and increased their suicidal risk. Historic adversities prevailed across the data, as did the men's difficulties in understanding their emotions. CONCLUSION Self-disgust was an important emotion in the men's experiences of suicide and shaped their views of themselves and their lives. The distancing and repellent properties of self-disgust, in addition to the fear of having their 'disgustingness' exposed, increased suicidal risk. Self-disgust appeared more pervasive in the suicidality of men with a history of multiple childhood adversities. The limitations of this research are discussed as implications for clinical practice and directions for future research.
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Mayor R, Reuber M, Giga S, Simpson J. An exploration of the experiences of self-disgust in people with epilepsy. Epilepsy Behav 2022; 126:108435. [PMID: 34864376 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.108435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIM To explore the experiences of self-disgust in people with epilepsy and their understandings about this. DESIGN A qualitative study informed by thematic analysis. METHOD Ten adults (out of 43 individuals initially interested in taking part, with 38 of those with levels of self-disgust categorised as high) with epilepsy and uncontrolled seizures were recruited online and participated in a telephone semi-structured interview. RESULTS Three themes illustrated the development and experiences of self-disgust in adults with epilepsy and uncontrolled seizures, and how participants attempted to manage this. The first theme described the development of self-disgust as a result of the physical manifestations of seizures but also the experiences of others' disgust reactions to seizures and an expectation of rejection. The second theme described the enduring and often unescapable experiences of self-disgust, with the final theme illustrating how participants attempted to manage experiences of self-disgust, particularly through avoidance. DISCUSSION This study was the first to explore qualitatively the experiences of self-disgust in people with epilepsy. People with epilepsy experience disgust in reaction to the physical symptoms of seizures and these disgust-based feelings appeared to become internalized following others' disgust reactions. Avoidance as a strategy to manage self-disgust could be protective but might have inadvertently maintained feelings of self-disgust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Mayor
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YG, United Kingdom
| | - Markus Reuber
- Academic Neurology Unit University of Sheffield, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road Sheffield, S10 2JF, United Kingdom
| | - Sabir Giga
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YG, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Simpson
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YG, United Kingdom.
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The Experience of Self-conscious Emotions in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Thematic Analysis. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2021; 29:344-356. [PMID: 34950988 PMCID: PMC9184437 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-021-09778-0] [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] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have investigated emotional experiences in people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, self-conscious emotions, including embarrassment and shame, are indicated as a key factor in delayed help-seeking for bowel symptoms, which can result in poorer health outcomes. This study aimed to explore experiences of self-conscious emotions among people with IBD. Fifteen participants were recruited from outpatient IBD clinics and patient groups, and engaged in semi-structured interviews about their experiences of IBD-related self-consciousness. Data were analysed using thematic analysis following an inductive, semantic approach and conducted from a critical realist position. The analysis generated two themes, each with three sub-themes, which captured self-conscious emotions in relation to experiences which threatened participants' preferred identities. The first theme, 'Lack of control' encapsulated participants' distress relating to fundamental alteration in self-perception, and their attempts to mitigate this. The second, 'Lack of understanding' captured distress associated with awareness of being unfairly judged by other people. Clinical implications are identified, including consideration of therapeutic approaches which target self-conscious emotions such as shame, and continued societal efforts to educate others about invisible disabilities such as IBD. Experiences which threatened participants' identities were implicated in the generation of self-conscious emotions; these should be considered in work with clients with IBD. Future research should target further investigation of these constructs.
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Kot E, Grzegorzewski P, Kostecka B, Kucharska K. Self-disgust and disgust sensitivity are increased in anorexia nervosa inpatients, but only self-disgust mediates between comorbid and core psychopathology. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2021; 29:879-892. [PMID: 34655142 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2862] [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: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The possible role of abnormal disgust processing in the development and course of anorexia nervosa (AN) has been emphasized in theoretical models and research. However, disgust toward external stimuli and self-disgust have not yet been investigated together in a clinical sample of AN patients. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to measure these constructs and examine their role in shaping eating pathology in AN patients and healthy controls (HCs), considering comorbid depressive and anxiety psychopathology. The study also aimed at testing the possible mediational roles of both disgust types in the associations between comorbid psychopathology and eating disorders (EDs) characteristics. METHOD Altogether, 63 inpatients with AN and 57 HCs partook in the study. Participants completed the Eating Disorder Inventory-3, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Disgust Scale-Revised and Self-Disgust Scale. RESULTS AN patients manifested higher self-disgust and disgust sensitivity than HCs. In addition, self-disgust predicted the severity of EDs characteristics and mediated the links of depressive symptoms and trait anxiety with EDs characteristics in both groups. DISCUSSION Our findings imply the putative role of self-disgust in the development of EDs psychopathology in HCs and in its maintenance in AN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Kot
- Department of Neuroses, Personality Disorders, and Eating Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Grzegorzewski
- Department of Neuroses, Personality Disorders, and Eating Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Barbara Kostecka
- II Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kucharska
- Institute of Psychology, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Hamza CA, Goldstein AL, Heath NL, Ewing L. Stressful Experiences in University Predict Non-suicidal Self-Injury Through Emotional Reactivity. Front Psychol 2021; 12:610670. [PMID: 33927664 PMCID: PMC8076506 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.610670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Theoretical perspectives on non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI; direct and deliberate self-injury without lethal intent such as self-cutting or hitting) have long underscored the affective regulating properties of NSSI. Less attention has been given to the processes through which individuals choose to engage in NSSI, specifically, to regulate their distress. In the present study, we tested one theoretical model in which recent stressful experiences facilitates NSSI through emotional reactivity. Further, we tested whether the indirect link between stressful experiences and NSSI was moderated by several NSSI specific risk factors (e.g., having friends who engage in NSSI). Given the widespread prevalence of NSSI among community-based samples of adolescents and emerging adults, we surveyed 1,125 emerging adults in first-year university at a large academic institution (72% female, Mage = 17.96, 25% with a recent history of NSSI at Time 1). Participants completed an online survey three times (assessments were 4 months apart), reporting on their recent stressful experiences in university, emotional reactivity, NSSI, as well as three NSSI specific risk factors (i.e., close friend engagement in NSSI, high self-disgust, and low fear of pain). As expected, path analysis revealed that there was a significant indirect effect of recent stressful experiences on NSSI engagement, through emotional reactivity. However, this effect was maintained across moderator analyses. These novel findings underscore the salient role of proximally occurring stressors in the prediction of NSSI among emerging adults in university, and can inform developing theoretical perspectives on NSSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe A Hamza
- Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Abby L Goldstein
- Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nancy L Heath
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lexi Ewing
- Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, ON, Canada
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O'Neill C, Pratt D, Kilshaw M, Ward K, Kelly J, Haddock G. The relationship between self-criticism and suicide probability. Clin Psychol Psychother 2021; 28:1445-1456. [PMID: 33847028 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The relationship of self-to-self relating and suicide has received attention in explanatory models of suicide. However, exploration of specific types of self-relationships, namely feelings of inadequacy (associated with perfectionism), self-attacking and the ability to be kind and nurturing towards the self has received limited attention in a suicidal population. The present study assessed the relative contribution of self-criticism to suicide probability, alongside established predictors of suicidal ideation; hopelessness, depression, defeat and entrapment. Participants completed measures of inadequacy, self-attacking, self-reassurance, defeat, entrapment, depression and hopelessness (N = 101). A correlation, regression and mediation analysis was undertaken. Results demonstrated that self-attacking has a direct relationship with suicide probability, alongside established predictors; entrapment and hopelessness. Depressive symptomology was not found to be a significant predictor of suicide probability in this population. Addressing particularly hostile forms of self-criticism may be a promising area in terms of future research and clinical practice. Entrapment continues to be a significant predictor of suicide risk and interventions that target this experience should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine O'Neill
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
| | - Daniel Pratt
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
| | - Meryl Kilshaw
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
| | - Kate Ward
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
| | - James Kelly
- Early Intervention in Psychosis Team, Lancashire Care NHS Trust, Preston, UK
| | - Gillian Haddock
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, England, UK
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Jin Y, Ma H, Jiménez‐Herrera M. Self‐disgust and stigma both mediate the relationship between stoma acceptance and stoma care self‐efficacy. J Adv Nurs 2020; 76:2547-2558. [DOI: 10.1111/jan.14457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Jin
- Rovira i Virgili University Tarragona Spain
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Jin Y, Li Y, Gutiérrez-Colón M, Jiménez-Herrera M. Questionnaire for the Assessment of Self-Disgust: The psychometric testing among mental disorders in China. Clin Psychol Psychother 2020; 27:749-759. [PMID: 32307744 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Research on self-disgust is relevant to psychopathologic tendencies because it has been shown to play a critical role in several mental disorders. Examining self-disgust and exploring its role in mental health are significant goals. The purpose of this study was to translate the Questionnaire for the Assessment of Self-Disgust (QASD) into Chinese and evaluate its validity and reliability. The translation and validation of the QASD were guided by the World Health Organization's Process of Translation and Adaptation of Instruments. Three phases were undertaken: (a) professional translation and expert panel review, (b) pretesting, and (c) psychometric evaluation. The psychometric evaluation was tested among 1,068 patients who were recruited from two psychiatric hospitals and three psychological clinics of tertiary hospitals. In this study, multigroup confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported the two-factor structure of the original QASD construct. Measurement invariance showed that the QASD is invariant across the patients with heterogeneous mental health diagnoses. The correlation of QASD with the Self-Esteem Scale (SES) and the Trait Anger Scale (TAS) showed that it has good convergent validity and discriminative validity. Internal consistency and test-retest yielded acceptable results. Thus, the findings suggest that the Chinese version of the QASD is a reliable and valid instrument with adequate psychometric properties for assessment of self-disgust among patients with mental disorders in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Jin
- Rovira i Virgili University, Department of Nursing, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Yufeng Li
- Department of Nursing, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Mar Gutiérrez-Colón
- Rovira i Virgili University, Department of English and German Studies, Tarragona, Spain
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Zahn R, Lythe K, Gethin J, Green S, Deakin J, Workman C, Moll J. Negative emotions towards others are diminished in remitted major depression. Eur Psychiatry 2020; 30:448-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2015.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Revised: 12/01/2014] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractBackground:One influential view is that vulnerability to major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with a proneness to experience negative emotions in general. In contrast, blame attribution theories emphasise the importance of blaming oneself rather than others for negative events. Our previous exploratory study provided support for the attributional hypothesis that patients with remitted MDD show no overall bias towards negative emotions, but a selective bias towards emotions entailing self-blame relative to emotions that entail blaming others. More specifically, we found a decreased proneness for contempt/disgust towards others relative to oneself (i.e. self-contempt bias). Here, we report a definitive test of the competing general negative versus specific attributional bias theories of MDD.Methods:We compared a medication-free remitted MDD (n = 101) and a control group (n = 70) with no family or personal history of MDD on a previously validated experimental test of moral emotions. The task measures proneness to specific emotions associated with different types of self-blame (guilt, shame, self-contempt/disgust, self-indignation/anger) and blame of others (other-indignation/anger, other-contempt/disgust) whilst controlling for the intensity of unpleasantness.Results:We confirmed the hypothesis that patients with MDD exhibit an increased self-contempt bias with a reduction in contempt/disgust towards others. Furthermore, they also showed a decreased proneness for indignation/anger towards others.Conclusions:This corroborates the prediction that vulnerability to MDD is associated with an imbalance of specific self- and other-blaming emotions rather than a general increase in negative emotions. This has important implications for neurocognitive models and calls for novel focussed interventions to rebalance blame in MDD.
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Ypsilanti A, Robson A, Lazuras L, Powell PA, Overton PG. Self-disgust, loneliness and mental health outcomes in older adults: An eye-tracking study. J Affect Disord 2020; 266:646-654. [PMID: 32056941 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.01.166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-disgust has been associated with loneliness and mental health difficulties in clinical and non-clinical populations, but there is limited research on the role of self-disgust in loneliness and mental health outcomes in older adults. METHODS In Study 1 (N = 102; M age = 68.4 years, SD = 10.9, 68% females) we used a cross-sectional survey to explore the association between loneliness, self-disgust and mental health outcomes. In Study 2 (N = 80; M age = 68.8 years, SD = 11.4, 57% females) we used eye-tracking to investigate attentional vigilance, maintenance and avoidance in individuals with high (vs. low) self-disgust. RESULTS In study 1 we found that self-disgust mediated the associations of loneliness with anxiety and depressive symptoms, and in study 2 it was demonstrated that older adults with high (vs. low) self-disgust displayed attentional avoidance to their own faces, compared to the faces of unknown others, a process that may perpetuate loneliness. LIMITATIONS The cross-sectional design used in Study 1 limits our potential to make causal inferences. Additionally, both studies included a wide age range of older adults. CONCLUSIONS Our findings are novel and highlight the importance of self-disgust experiences in the context of loneliness and mental health outcomes in older adults. Implications for practice and interventions against loneliness in this age group are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Ypsilanti
- Department of Psychology, Sociology & Politics, Sheffield Hallam University, UK.
| | - Anna Robson
- Department of Psychology, Sociology & Politics, Sheffield Hallam University, UK
| | - Lambros Lazuras
- Department of Psychology, Sociology & Politics, Sheffield Hallam University, UK
| | - Philip A Powell
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, UK
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Simpson J, Helliwell B, Varese F, Powell P. Self-disgust mediates the relationship between childhood adversities and psychosis. BRITISH JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020; 59:260-275. [PMID: 32011749 DOI: 10.1111/bjc.12245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Traumatic events in childhood have been implicated in the development of psychosis, but given that trauma is not in itself sufficient to cause psychosis, researchers have started to investigate other psychological constructs potentially involved in explaining this relationship. Given that self-disgust as a transdiagnostic construct plays a role in the development/maintenance of a range of mental health difficulties, the objective of this study was to investigate whether self-disgust mediates the relationship between childhood trauma and psychosis. METHOD A cross-sectional quantitative study design was used. Seventy-eight participants (Mage = 37.64 years, SDage = 11.57 years; 77% women; 88% White Caucasian) who reported experiencing clinical levels of psychosis were recruited using social media. The participants completed online survey measures of childhood trauma, self-disgust, experiences of psychosis, self-esteem, and external shame. The data were analysed using correlation and mediation analyses. RESULTS Significant indirect effects of childhood trauma on both positive (β = .17, BC 95% CI [0.06, 0.30]) and negative symptoms (β = .26, BC 95% CI [0.14, 0.40]) of psychosis via self-disgust were observed. These effects remained despite the inclusion of self-esteem and external shame as control variables in the mediation models. CONCLUSION This study is the first to show a mediating role for self-disgust in the relationship between childhood trauma and later psychosis. Although the findings should be considered preliminary until strengthened by further research, they nevertheless provide corroboration of the potential utility of self-disgust as a transdiagnostic construct not only from a theoretical perspective, but also from its potential to inform formulation and interventions. PRACTITIONER POINTS When assessing individuals with psychosis, especially those with a trauma history explore experiences and feelings related to the construct of self-disgust. Such experiences are likely to centre on feelings of repulsion towards the self/need for distance and might also manifest in the content of their psychotic experiences. Individuals with significant levels or experiences of self-disgust are likely to need specific interventions to address these; while interventions seeking to improve positive aspects of their identity might well be useful, they are unlikely to address the specific maladaptive elements of self-disgust. While self-disgust-focused interventions have not been widely researched, limited current evidence suggests cognitive restructuring and affirmation techniques might be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Simpson
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, UK
| | - Ben Helliwell
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, UK
| | - Filippo Varese
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, UK.,Complex Trauma and Resilience Research Unit, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, UK
| | - Philip Powell
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, UK.,Department of Economics, University of Sheffield, UK
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Ypsilanti A, Lazuras L, Powell P, Overton P. Self-disgust as a potential mechanism explaining the association between loneliness and depression. J Affect Disord 2019; 243:108-115. [PMID: 30241025 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.09.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 03/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and self-disgust have been considered as independent predictors of depressive symptoms. In the present study, we hypothesized that self-disgust can explain the association between loneliness and depression, and that emotion regulation strategies interact with self-disgust in predicting depressive symptoms. METHODS Three hundred and seventeen participants (M = 29.29 years, SD = 14.11; 76.9% females) completed structured anonymous self-reported measures of loneliness, self-disgust, emotion regulation strategies, and depressive symptoms. RESULTS One-way MANOVA showed that participants in the high-loneliness group reported significantly higher behavioural and physical self-disgust, compared to those in the middle and low-loneliness groups. Bootstrapped hierarchical linear regression analysis showed that self-disgust significantly improved predicted variance in depressive symptoms, after controlling for the effects of loneliness. Regression-based mediation modelling showed that both physical and behavioural self-disgust significantly mediated the association between loneliness and depression. Finally, moderated regression analysis showed that expressive suppression interacted with self-disgust in predicting depressive symptoms. LIMITATIONS A cross-sectional design was used, and our study focused on expressive suppression and cognitive reappraisal but not on other aspects of emotion regulation or the modulation of emotional arousal and responses. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated, for the first time, that self-disgust plays an important role in the association between loneliness and depressive symptoms. Furthermore, variations in emotion regulation strategies can explain the association between self-disgust and depressive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Ypsilanti
- Department of Psychology, Sociology & Politics, Sheffield Hallam University, UK.
| | - Lambros Lazuras
- Department of Psychology, Sociology & Politics, Sheffield Hallam University, UK
| | - Phillip Powell
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, UK; Department of Economics, University of Sheffield, UK
| | - Paul Overton
- Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, UK
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16
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Clarke A, Simpson J, Varese F. A systematic review of the clinical utility of the concept of self-disgust. Clin Psychol Psychother 2018; 26:110-134. [DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aoife Clarke
- Division of Health Research; Lancaster University; Lancaster UK
| | - Jane Simpson
- Division of Health Research; Lancaster University; Lancaster UK
| | - Filippo Varese
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health; University of Manchester; Manchester UK
- Complex Trauma and Resilience Research Unit; Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre; Manchester UK
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17
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Lazuras L, Ypsilanti A, Powell P, Overton P. The roles of impulsivity, self-regulation, and emotion regulation in the experience of self-disgust. MOTIVATION AND EMOTION 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s11031-018-9722-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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18
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Palmeira L, Pinto-Gouveia J, Cunha M. The role of self-disgust in eating psychopathology in overweight and obesity: Can self-compassion be useful? J Health Psychol 2017; 24:1807-1816. [DOI: 10.1177/1359105317702212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explores the relationship between self-disgust and eating psychopathology and whether self-compassion plays a mediator role on this relationship. Participants were 203 adults, from both genders, with overweight and obesity ( MBMI = 31.17, standard deviation = 5.43). Women reported higher levels of self-disgust and eating psychopathology and lower levels of self-compassion than men. Path analysis results suggested that the effect of self-disgust on eating psychopathology occurred partially through one’s inability to be self-compassionate. The results highlight the damaging role of self-disgust on eating psychopathology and the importance of developing a more compassionate attitude towards the self to promote healthy eating behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marina Cunha
- CINEICC, Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal
- Miguel Torga Superior Institute (ISMT), Portugal
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19
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Brake CA, Rojas SM, Badour CL, Dutton CE, Feldner MT. Self-disgust as a potential mechanism underlying the association between PTSD and suicide risk. J Anxiety Disord 2017; 47:1-9. [PMID: 28126678 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Suicide risk is highly prevalent among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Self-disgust, defined as disgust directed internally and comprised of disgust with oneself (disgusting self) and with one's behaviors (disgusting ways), may impact this increased risk. The present study examined self-disgust as a putative mechanism linking PTSD symptoms with suicide risk. A sample of 347 trauma-exposed undergraduates completed measures of PTSD symptoms, suicide risk, self-disgust, and depressive symptoms. Controlling for depressive symptoms, a process model indicated PTSD symptoms were positively linked to suicide risk via increased disgusting self but not disgusting ways. Process models examining individual PTSD symptom clusters revealed positive, indirect links between all PTSD symptom clusters except alterations in arousal and reactivity and suicide risk via disgusting self. These findings expand on growing literature documenting the importance of self-disgust in trauma-related pathology by identifying connections with suicide risk. Future directions and clinical considerations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Alex Brake
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA.
| | - Sasha M Rojas
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Christal L Badour
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Courtney E Dutton
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Matthew T Feldner
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA; Laureate Institute for Brain Research, 6655 S. Yale Ave., Tulsa, OK, 74136, USA
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20
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Laffan AJ, Millar JFA, Salkovskis PM, Whitby P. Investigating perceptions of disgust in older adult residential home residents. Aging Ment Health 2017; 21:206-215. [PMID: 26457992 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2015.1093600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As people become increasingly physically dependent as they make the transition into older age, they may lose the ability to control bodily functions. Problems with eating, voiding and washing can be linked with feelings of disgust and, given the necessity for some of being assisted with intimate care activities, it has been suggested that self-focused disgust and concerns over the disgust of others may become important preoccupations in older people, with the potential to further impair their quality of life. METHOD In a mixed-methods study, feelings of disgust in 54 physically dependent older adults living in residential homes were investigated. Participants completed measures of disgust sensitivity, mood, and two new scales assessing feelings of self-disgust and perceived other-disgust related to intimate care activities. Six of the residents who reported high levels of self-disgust also participated in semi-structured interviews. RESULTS Results indicated that disgust was uncommon. Where present, self-disgust was related to perceptions of others' feelings of disgust and general disgust sensitivity. These results were benchmarked against 21 community-dwelling older adults, who reported believing they would feel significantly more disgusting if they were to start receiving assistance. A thematic analysis identified the importance of underlying protective factors, the use of strategies and carer characteristics in ameliorating feelings of disgust. CONCLUSION The results are discussed with reference to the disgust literature, with recommendations being made for ways in which self-disgust can be minimised in those making the transition to residential homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Laffan
- a Department of Psychology , University of Bath , Bath , United Kingdom
| | - J F A Millar
- a Department of Psychology , University of Bath , Bath , United Kingdom
| | - P M Salkovskis
- a Department of Psychology , University of Bath , Bath , United Kingdom
| | - P Whitby
- b CMHT (OA) , Green Lane Hospital , Devizes , United Kingdom
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21
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Olatunji BO, Cox R, Kim EH. Self-Disgust Mediates the Associations Between Shame and Symptoms of Bulimia and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1521/jscp.2015.34.3.239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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22
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Goerdeler KJ, Wegge J, Schrod N, Bilinska P, Rudolf M. “Yuck, that’s disgusting!”—“No, not to me!”: Antecedents of disgust in geriatric care and its relation to emotional exhaustion and intention to leave. MOTIVATION AND EMOTION 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s11031-014-9431-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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23
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Ille R, Schöggl H, Kapfhammer HP, Arendasy M, Sommer M, Schienle A. Self-disgust in mental disorders -- symptom-related or disorder-specific? Compr Psychiatry 2014; 55:938-43. [PMID: 24480418 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2013.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Revised: 12/26/2013] [Accepted: 12/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunctional disgust experiences occur in a variety of mental disorders. Previous research focused on disgust proneness directed towards stimuli in the external environment. However, self-disgust, the devaluation of one' own physical appearance and personality (personal disgust) as well as one' own behavior (behavioral disgust) has hardly been investigated thus far, although it may play a crucial role in specific psychopathologies. METHODS We investigated 112 patients diagnosed with different mental disorders (major depression, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder (BPD), eating disorders, and spider phobia) and 112 matched mentally healthy individuals. Participants answered the Questionnaire for the Assessment of Self-Disgust (QASD) with two subscales 'personal disgust' and 'behavioral disgust', and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) that provides an overview of patients' psychological problems and their intensity. RESULTS Compared to healthy controls self-disgust was elevated in mental disorders. Personal disgust was more pronounced than behavioral disgust in patients, whereas there was no difference in controls. Patients with BPD and eating disorders reported the highest scores on both subscales. Findings also suggest that self-disgust is related to specific psychological problems. In mental disorders psychoticism and hostility were the best predictors for personal disgust, while anxiety and interpersonal sensitivity predicted behavioral disgust. Additionally, we found disorder-specific predictors for personal disgust (e.g., hostility in schizophrenia). Finally, traumatic events during childhood constitute a risk factor for self-disgust. CONCLUSIONS The current study provides first evidence for the differential meaning of self-disgust for specific mental disorders and symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rottraut Ille
- Institute of Psychology, Karl-Franzens-University of Graz, Austria; University Hospital of Psychiatry, Medical University of Graz, Austria.
| | - Helmut Schöggl
- University Hospital of Psychiatry, Medical University of Graz, Austria
| | | | - Martin Arendasy
- Institute of Psychology, Karl-Franzens-University of Graz, Austria
| | - Markus Sommer
- Institute of Psychology, Karl-Franzens-University of Graz, Austria
| | - Anne Schienle
- Institute of Psychology, Karl-Franzens-University of Graz, Austria
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24
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Platten MJ, Newman E, Quayle E. Self-esteem and its relationship to mental health and quality of life in adults with cystic fibrosis. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2014; 20:392-9. [PMID: 23264083 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-012-9346-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Research from the general population indicates an important role for self-esteem in mental health, but limited research in this area exists in the cystic fibrosis (CF) literature. This study aimed to explore the predictive value of self-esteem and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in mental health symptoms in adults with CF. Seventy-four participants, recruited online, completed the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-Outcome Measure 34 (CORE-OM), Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale and Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R). Comparably high levels of self-esteem were found, but HRQoL was lower than previous research. Thirty percent of participants scored within the clinical range for mental health difficulty. Hierarchical regression, controlling for gender, explored the value of four CFQ-R subscales (physical, social, emotional and role functioning) and self-esteem in predicting CORE-OM total score. Gender accounted for 8.2% of the variance in mental health scores while the five independent variables accounted for a further 73.0% of variance. Of the five variables, CFQ-R emotional functioning and self-esteem were significant predictors of mental health symptoms. Results are discussed in relation to clinical implications and potential uses for internet technologies to promote socialisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Jane Platten
- Department of Psychological Services and Research, Dumfries & Galloway NHS Health Board, Nithbank, Dumfries, DG1 2SA, Scotland, UK.
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25
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Schienle A, Ille R, Sommer M, Arendasy M. Diagnostik von Selbstekel im Rahmen der Depression. VERHALTENSTHERAPIE 2014. [DOI: 10.1159/000360189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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26
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Powell PA, Overton PG, Simpson J. The Revolting Self: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the Experience of Self-Disgust in Females With Depressive Symptoms. J Clin Psychol 2013; 70:562-78. [DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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27
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Moncrieff-Boyd J, Byrne S, Nunn K. Disgust and Anorexia Nervosa: confusion between self and non-self. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/21662630.2013.820376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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28
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Powell PA, Simpson J, Overton PG. When disgust leads to dysphoria: A three-wave longitudinal study assessing the temporal relationship between self-disgust and depressive symptoms. Cogn Emot 2013; 27:900-13. [DOI: 10.1080/02699931.2013.767223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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29
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Morris C, Simpson J, Sampson M, Beesley F. Cultivating Positive Emotions: A Useful Adjunct When Working with People Who Self-Harm? Clin Psychol Psychother 2013; 21:352-62. [DOI: 10.1002/cpp.1836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2012] [Revised: 11/20/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Morris
- Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust, Psychological Therapies Services; Lancashire UK
| | | | - Mark Sampson
- 5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust; Warrington UK
| | - Frank Beesley
- 5 Boroughs Partnership NHS Foundation Trust; Warrington UK
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30
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Green S, Moll J, Deakin JFW, Hulleman J, Zahn R. Proneness to decreased negative emotions in major depressive disorder when blaming others rather than oneself. Psychopathology 2013; 46:34-44. [PMID: 22890331 DOI: 10.1159/000338632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 03/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One widespread view holds that vulnerability to major depressive disorder (MDD) is linked to overall increases in negative emotionality. In contrast, cognitive attribution theories emphasize the importance of blaming oneself rather than others for negative events. Thus far, the contrasting predictions of these models have not been directly compared. Following the attributional perspective, we tested the hypothesis that people with remitted MDD show no overall bias towards negative emotions, but a selective bias towards self-blaming emotions relative to those emotions associated with blaming others. SAMPLING AND METHODS We compared a remitted MDD and a control group on a novel experimental test that allowed us to directly compare proneness to specific emotions associated with different types of self-blame (guilt, shame, self-contempt/disgust) and blame of others (other-indignation/anger, other-contempt/disgust) whilst controlling for negative valence and medication status, and excluding comorbidity. RESULTS In agreement with our hypothesis, individuals with remitted MDD exhibited an increased self-contempt bias (difference between contempt/disgust towards self and others) but no increased proneness to any other negative emotion or overall increases in perceived negative valence of stimuli. Moreover, the remitted MDD group exhibited reduced contempt/disgust towards others. CONCLUSIONS Our results corroborate the prediction that vulnerability to MDD is associated with an imbalance of specific self- and other-blaming emotions rather than a general increase in negative emotions. Based on the composition of our sample, we speculate that self-contempt bias may be particularly characteristic of melancholic MDD subtypes and could be useful for stratification of depression in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Green
- The University of Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, School of Psychological Sciences, Neuroscience and Aphasia Research Unit, Manchester, UK
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31
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Badour CL, Bown S, Adams TG, Bunaciu L, Feldner MT. Specificity of fear and disgust experienced during traumatic interpersonal victimization in predicting posttraumatic stress and contamination-based obsessive-compulsive symptoms. J Anxiety Disord 2012; 26:590-8. [PMID: 22465821 PMCID: PMC3350597 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2012.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2011] [Revised: 02/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence has documented comorbidity between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) among individuals with a history of traumatic events. There is growing recognition of the importance of disgust in each of these conditions independently. No study, however, has examined the potential role of disgust in these conditions following traumatic event exposure. The current study examined the unique role of peritraumatic fear, self-focused disgust, and other-focused disgust in predicting posttraumatic stress symptoms and contamination-based OC symptoms among 49 adult women (M(age)=28.37, SD=13.86) with a history of traumatic interpersonal victimization. Results demonstrated that intensity of peritraumatic self-focused disgust was significantly related to contamination-based OC symptoms while peritraumatic fear and other-focused disgust were related to posttraumatic stress symptoms. These results highlight the need for future research aimed at elucidating the nature of the association between disgust experienced during traumatic events and subsequent psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christal L. Badour
- University of Arkansas, 216 Memorial Hall, Department of Psychology, Fayetteville, AR 72701
| | - Stephanie Bown
- University of Arkansas, 216 Memorial Hall, Department of Psychology, Fayetteville, AR 72701
| | - Thomas G. Adams
- University of Arkansas, 216 Memorial Hall, Department of Psychology, Fayetteville, AR 72701
| | - Liviu Bunaciu
- University of Arkansas, 216 Memorial Hall, Department of Psychology, Fayetteville, AR 72701
| | - Matthew T. Feldner
- University of Arkansas, 216 Memorial Hall, Department of Psychology, Fayetteville, AR 72701,Laureate Institute for Brain Research, 6655 S Yale Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74136
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