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Carone N, Benzi IMA, Muzi L, Parolin LAL, Fontana A. Problematic internet use in emerging adulthood to escape from maternal helicopter parenting: defensive functioning as a mediating mechanism. RESEARCH IN PSYCHOTHERAPY (MILANO) 2023; 26. [PMID: 37946531 DOI: 10.4081/ripppo.2023.693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of the Internet has raised concerns about its problematic use, particularly among emerging adults who grew up in a highly digitalized world. Helicopter parenting, characterized by excessive involvement, overcontrol, and developmentally inappropriate behavior, has been identified as a potential factor contributing to problematic Internet use (PIU). Under these circumstances, considering that emerging adults navigate their adult lives and strive to reduce their sense of being in-between, implicit emotion regulation strategies, such as defense mechanisms, may help comprehend PIU. The present questionnaire-based study investigated the associations between maternal and paternal helicopter parenting and PIU through defensive functioning among a community sample of 401 cisgender emerging adults (71.82% females; 82.04% heterosexuals; Mage=24.85, SD=2.52) living in Italy. About one-fourth (25.19%) reported PIU. Greater maternal, B=0.904, SE=0.235, p<.001, but not paternal, B=0.343, SE=0.188, p=.068, helicopter parenting was significantly associated with PIU through a less mature defensive functioning. Conversely, neither maternal, B=1.158, SE=0.722, p=.109, nor paternal, B=0.355, SE=0.731, p=.628, helicopter parenting had a direct association with PIU. The results suggest the importance for psychotherapists to incorporate individuals' defense mechanisms and parent-child relationship history when designing tailored interventions for effective treatment of PIU. This emphasis is crucial because, in the context of a developmentally appropriate parenting style, relying on more mature defenses after psychotherapeutic intervention can lead to healthier adjustment among emerging adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Carone
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia.
| | | | - Laura Muzi
- Department of Philosophy, Social Sciences, Humanities and Education, University of Perugia.
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2
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Germani A, Lopez A, Martini E, Cicchella S, De Fortuna AM, Dragone M, Pizzini B, Troisi G, De Luca Picione R. The Relationships between Compulsive Internet Use, Alexithymia, and Dissociation: Gender Differences among Italian Adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6431. [PMID: 37510663 PMCID: PMC10379441 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Internet Gaming Disorder, Internet Addiction, Problematic Internet Use and Compulsive Internet Use cause distress and significant impairment in important areas of a person's functioning, in particular among young people. The literature has indicated that males show higher levels of problematic internet use than females. People can use the internet to avoid or alleviate negative affects; in fact, problematic internet use is associated with alexithymia and dissociation. Few studies have focused on the different stages of adolescence, gender differences, and the relationships between the aforementioned variables. This research aims to fill this gap. Five hundred and ninety-four adolescents aged between 13 and 19 filled in the Compulsive Internet Use Scale, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, the Adolescents Dissociative Experiences Scale, and other ad hoc measures. Surprisingly, females reported higher compulsive internet use compared with males. Moreover, they referred more difficulties/symptoms and greater levels of alexithymia than males. No differences across the stages of adolescence were found. Different strengths in the relationships between variables were found according to gender. Moderated mediation analyses indicated that dissociation is an important mediator in the relation between alexithymia and Compulsive Internet Use only among females. This study shed new light on gender differences around problematic internet use and some related risk factors, in order to identify and develop prevention and treatment programs to face this topical and relevant issue.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonella Lopez
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, 82100 Benevento, Italy
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, 70122 Bari, Italy
| | - Elvira Martini
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Sara Cicchella
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Angelo Maria De Fortuna
- Department of Communication Sciences, Humanities and International Studies (DISCUI), University of Urbino, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Mirella Dragone
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Barbara Pizzini
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, 82100 Benevento, Italy
| | - Gina Troisi
- Faculty of Law, Giustino Fortunato University, 82100 Benevento, Italy
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3
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Marino C, Manari T, Vieno A, Imperato C, Spada MM, Franceschini C, Musetti A. Problematic social networking sites use and online social anxiety: The role of attachment, emotion dysregulation and motives. Addict Behav 2023; 138:107572. [PMID: 36502744 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Problematic Social Networking Sites Use (PSNSU) and social anxiety are associated. SNSs users may develop online social anxiety that may become a standalone problem. The present study aims to test the mediating role of emotion dysregulation and motives (coping, conformity, social, and enhancement) between attachment (anxiety and avoidance) and two outcomes (PSNSU and online social anxiety) in an integrated theory-driven model. Self-report questionnaires were completed by 756 SNSs users (50.4 % females; mean age = 28.74 years, SD = 8.00). Results of the path analysis supported the partial mediating role of emotion dysregulation in the association between attachment anxiety and both the outcomes and the serial mediating role via four and three motives in the association with PSNSU and online social anxiety, respectively. This study highlighted the role of several relational, emotional, and motivational factors that should be taken into account to tackle PSNSU and online social anxiety through clinical and prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Marino
- Dipartimento di Psicologia dello Sviluppo e della Socializzazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy; Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | - Tommaso Manari
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Dipartimento di Psicologia dello Sviluppo e della Socializzazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Imperato
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marcantonio M Spada
- Division of Psychology, School of Applied Sciences, London South Bank University, London, UK
| | | | - Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.
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Eşkisu M, Boysan M, Çam Z. A Mixture Modeling of the Predictors of Internet Addiction: Cognition and Dissociation. Psychol Rep 2023:332941221149180. [PMID: 36596295 DOI: 10.1177/00332941221149180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the heterogeneity in the symptoms of pathological Internet use. The predictive role of online cognitions and online dissociative experiences on pathological Internet use were investigated. Three hundred and ninety Turkish undergraduate students (261 females) participated in the study. Latent class analysis (LCA) was performed. Items responses on the 26-item Chen Internet Addiction Scale were subjected to LCA. The LCA identified three latent classes: (1) Normal Internet Users (n = 141, 36.15%), (2) Problematic Internet Users (n = 148, 37.95%), and (3) Pathological Internet Users (n = 101, 25.90%). The multinomial regression analysis showed that online cognitions, anxious arousal, and online dissociation were significantly associated with pathological Internet use. Our findings showed that the online dissociation as measured by the Van Online Dissociative Experiences Schedule and mental dissociation as indexed by the Dissociative Experiences Scale are qualitatively different constructs in relation to addictive behaviors on the net. Online dissociation and online cognitions seem to be crucial vulnerability factors for pathological Internet use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Eşkisu
- Faculty of Education, 162315Erzincan Binali Yıldırım University, Turkey
| | - Murat Boysan
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Social Sciences University of Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zekeriya Çam
- Faculty of Education, 162324Muş Alparslan University, Turkey
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5
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Paulus FW, Joas J, Gerstner I, Kühn A, Wenning M, Gehrke T, Burckhart H, Richter U, Nonnenmacher A, Zemlin M, Lücke T, Brinkmann F, Rothoeft T, Lehr T, Möhler E. Problematic Internet Use among Adolescents 18 Months after the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:1724. [PMID: 36360452 PMCID: PMC9689314 DOI: 10.3390/children9111724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Studies in recent years and especially since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic have shown a significant increase in the problematic use of computer games and social media. Adolescents having difficulties in regulating their unpleasant emotions are especially prone to Problematic Internet Use (PIU), which is why emotion dysregulation has been considered a risk factor for PIU. The aim of the present study was to assess problematic internet use (PIU) in adolescents after the third wave (nearly 1.5 years after the onset in Europe) of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the German region of Siegen-Wittgenstein, all students 12 years and older from secondary-level schools, vocational schools and universities were offered a prioritized vaccination in August 2021 with an approved vaccine against COVID-19. In this context, the participants filled out the Short Compulsive Internet Use Scale (SCIUS) and two additional items to capture a possible change in digital media usage time and regulation of negative affect due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A multiple regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of PIU. The original sample consisted of 1477 participants, and after excluding invalid cases the final sample size amounted to 1268 adolescents aged 12-17 (x = 14.37 years, SD = 1.64). The average prevalence of PIU was 43.69%. Gender, age, digital media usage time and the intensity of negative emotions during the COVID-19 pandemic were all found to be significant predictors of PIU: female gender, increasing age, longer digital media usage time and higher intensity of negative emotions during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with higher SCIUS total scores. This study found a very high prevalence of PIU among 12- to 17-year-olds for the period after the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has increased significantly compared to pre-pandemic prevalence rates. PIU is emerging as a serious problem among young people in the pandemic. Besides gender and age, pandemic-associated time of digital media use and emotion regulation have an impact on PIU, which provides starting points for preventive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank W. Paulus
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Jens Joas
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Ida Gerstner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Anna Kühn
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Markus Wenning
- Medical Association, Westfalen-Lippe, 48151 Münster, Germany
| | - Thomas Gehrke
- Medical Association, Westfalen-Lippe, 48151 Münster, Germany
- Vaccination Center, 57072 Siegen, Germany
| | - Holger Burckhart
- School of Education and Psychology, Siegen University, 57072 Siegen, Germany
| | - Ulf Richter
- School of Education and Psychology, Siegen University, 57072 Siegen, Germany
| | | | - Michael Zemlin
- Department of General Pediatrics and Neonatology, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Lücke
- Medical Association, Westfalen-Lippe, 48151 Münster, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, Ruhr University, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Folke Brinkmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Ruhr University, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Tobias Rothoeft
- Department of Pediatrics, Ruhr University, 44791 Bochum, Germany
| | - Thorsten Lehr
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Eva Möhler
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
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The Doctor Is In(ternet): The Mediating Role of Health Anxiety in the Relationship between Somatic Symptoms and Cyberchondria. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12091490. [PMID: 36143275 PMCID: PMC9504509 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12091490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyberchondria is a dysfunctional behavioral pattern characterized by an excessive and anxiety-amplifying engagement in searching for reassuring health information on the Internet. Research demonstrated that somatic symptoms and health anxiety might foster maladaptive health-related behaviors, such as cyberchondria. However, the relationships between somatic symptoms, health anxiety, and cyberchondria have been scarcely examined. Accordingly, this study aimed to test the mediating effect of health anxiety on the association between somatic symptoms and cyberchondria. Four hundred and thirty-one adults from the community (158 males, 36.66%), aged between 18 and 74, were recruited via an online survey. Participants completed self-report measures of somatic symptoms, health anxiety, and cyberchondria. A mediation analysis demonstrated that the severity of somatic symptoms predicted increased levels of cyberchondria and that health anxiety partially mediated this association. Therefore, interventions aimed at decreasing health anxiety may also play a role in decreasing the risk of developing cyberchondria.
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Russo A, Santoro G, Schimmenti A. Interpersonal Guilt and Problematic Online Behaviors: The Mediating Role of Emotion Dysregulation. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2022; 19:236-247. [PMID: 36101646 PMCID: PMC9442854 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20220406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The positive association between problematic Internet use (PIU) and emotion dysregulation (ED) is well documented. Research has also found that interpersonal guilt is positively associated with ED. Nevertheless, the influence of interpersonal guilt on PIU has been scarcely examined. In the current study, we investigated the relationships among the three constructs, and tested if emotion dysregulation mediates the association between interpersonal guilt and different types of PIU, namely problematic online gaming, problematic social media use, and problematic online pornography use. METHOD A sample of 434 adult participants (210 males, 48.4%) aged between 18 and 69 years old completed self-reported measures on interpersonal guilt, ED, and PIU. A structural equation modeling (SEM) framework was used to test the mediation models. RESULTS SEM analyses showed that ED mediates the relationship between interpersonal guilt as antecedent, and problematic online gaming, problematic social media use, and problematic online pornography use as outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that emotion dysregulation deriving from experiences of interpersonal guilt can amplify the risk of using gaming, social media, and online pornography in a problematic way. Implications for prevention and treatment of PIU are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Russo
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy,Corresponding author Dr. Angela Russo, Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Santoro
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE – Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE – Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
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Quattropani MC, Geraci A, Lenzo V, Sardella A, Schimmenti A. Failures in Reflective Functioning, Dissociative Experiences, and Eating Disorder: a Study On a Sample of Italian Adolescents. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2022; 15:365-374. [PMID: 35600515 PMCID: PMC9120272 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-022-00450-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Although impairments in mentalizing and dissociation have been linked to the onset of eating disorders, there is still a paucity of studies investigating their relationships among adolescents. This study aimed at investigating the role of failures in reflective functioning and dissociation in predicting the risk of eating disorders during adolescence. The Eating Disorder Inventory-3 (EDI-3), the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (RFQ), and the Adolescent Dissociative Experiences Scale (A-DES) were administered to a sample of 427 adolescents between 13 and 20 years old. Results of correlational analysis showed that the risk of eating disorders was positively correlated with uncertainty about mental states. Eating disorder risk was also inversely correlated with certainty about mental states. Dissociation scores and its domain scores were all positively related to the risk of eating disorders. Results of regression analysis displayed that uncertainty about mental states and dissociation were statistically significant predictors of an increased risk of eating disorders. Gender and BMI were also significant predictors in the final model, which explained 24% of the variance. Regarding the specific dissociative domains, findings indicate that the depersonalization/derealization factor was the only significant predictor for the risk of eating disorder. The present study points out that uncertainty about mental states and dissociation could play a relevant role in increasing the risk of eating disorders during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Geraci
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Vittorio Lenzo
- Department of Social and Educational Sciences of the Mediterranean Area, University for Foreigners “Dante Alighieri” of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Alberto Sardella
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE – Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
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9
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Lenzo V, Franceschini C, Manari T, Corsano P, Quattropani MC, Musetti A. Psychotic Experiences and Sleep Quality in the Emerging Adulthood: The Interplay Between Emotional Neglect, Bodily Threat, and Defense Mechanisms. J Nerv Ment Dis 2022; 210:365-372. [PMID: 35413030 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The present study investigated the integrated role of emotional neglect, bodily threat, and defense mechanisms in understanding sleep quality and psychosis experiences in a sample of emerging adults. A sample of 898 emerging adults (295 males) with an age range between 19 and 30 years participated in this study. The emotional neglect and bodily threat factors of the Traumatic Experiences Checklist, the Defense Style Questionnaire-40, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the psychosis factor of the Inventory of Personality Organization were administered. Results of path analyses showed that the emotional neglect and bodily threat factors predicted lower sleep quality. A path from emotional neglect and bodily threat to sleep quality via defense styles was also found. The defense styles mediated the relationships between emotional neglect and bodily threat factor with psychosis experiences. These findings provide new insight into the psychological mechanisms underlying the onset of poor sleep quality and psychotic experiences during emerging adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Lenzo
- Department of Social and Educational Sciences of the Mediterranean Area, University for Foreigners "Dante Alighieri," Reggio Calabria
| | | | - Tommaso Manari
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma
| | - Paola Corsano
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma
| | | | - Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma
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10
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Caner-Yıldırım S, Yıldırım Z. Psychometric Properties of Turkish Version of Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale-2 and the Relationship Between Internet Use Patterns and Problematic Internet Use. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00819-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Zhou Y, Li H, Han L, Yin S. Relationship Between Big Five Personality and Pathological Internet Use: Mediating Effects of Loneliness and Depression. Front Psychol 2022; 12:739981. [PMID: 34975630 PMCID: PMC8716369 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.739981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological Internet use will have a serious impact on normal individual study and work and has become one of the most important factors hindering the growth and development of contemporary college students. The purpose of this study was to examine the mechanisms of loneliness and depression in the relationship between the Big Five personality traits and pathological Internet use (PIU). A total of 1,179 college students were studied using the Chinese version of the Big Five Personality Scale, Loneliness Scale, Depression Scale, and Pathological Internet Use Scale. The results showed that loneliness partially mediated the relationship between extraversion and PIU and completely mediated the relationship between agreeableness and PIU and neuroticism and PIU. Depression completely mediated the relationship between agreeableness and PIU, neuroticism completely mediated the relationship with PIU, and sense of responsibility partially mediated the relationship with PIU. This study revealed the relationship between different personality traits and PIU and the mediating role of loneliness and depression, suggesting that we should carry out targeted interventions on PIU for college students with different personality traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhou
- Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Hui Li
- Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Han
- Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
| | - Suyue Yin
- Shandong Normal University, Jinan, China
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12
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Diotaiuti P, Mancone S, Corrado S, De Risio A, Cavicchiolo E, Girelli L, Chirico A. Internet addiction in young adults: The role of impulsivity and codependency. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:893861. [PMID: 36147985 PMCID: PMC9485605 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.893861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Excessive Internet use has demonstrated comorbidity with other psychological symptoms and psychiatric disorders, as well as impairments in the management of daily life, relationships and emotional stability. Recent findings in the literature have consistently supported the relationship between impulsivity and Internet addiction. The present study hypothesized that, in addition to impulsivity, a further predictor of Internet addiction might be relational co-dependency, which is also associated in the literature with addiction phenomena, but mainly substance addiction. This paper investigates the role and predictive weight of impulsivity and codependency on Internet addiction on a sample of young adult university students (n = 481) by using a hierarchical regression analysis. The participants were administered the UADI-2, the BIS-11 and the SFCDS. In terms of percentage distribution, 38 % of the participants were in the dependency range, while 37.7 % demonstrated Internet abuse behavior. The results confirmed the role of impulsiveness (β = 0.312) and added to the literature by showing the significant role of relational codependency (β = 0.275), gender (β = 0.174) and age (β = 0.196). Thus, male participants were more dependent, more impulsive and more co-dependent, with increasing age in the given range (18-30). The present study shed light to the presence of this issue among young adults and that, as a preventive and restraining measure, there is a need not only for targeted awareness-raising programmes but also for interventions to promote greater emotional control and a more balanced management of personal relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Diotaiuti
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy
| | - Stefania Mancone
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy
| | - Stefano Corrado
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy
| | - Alfredo De Risio
- Department of Human Studies, Communication, Education, and Psychology, Libera Università Maria SS. Assunta (LUMSA), Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Cavicchiolo
- Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Laura Girelli
- Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Andrea Chirico
- Department of Psychology of Development and Socialization Processes, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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13
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Guerrini Usubini A, Terrone G, Varallo G, Cattivelli R, Plazzi G, Castelnuovo G, Schimmenti A, Musetti A, Franceschini C. The Mediating Role of Emotion Dysregulation and Problematic Internet Use in the Relationship Between Negative Affect and Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: A Structural Equation Model. Nat Sci Sleep 2022; 14:291-302. [PMID: 35237080 PMCID: PMC8885123 DOI: 10.2147/nss.s346485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study aimed to explore the mediating role of emotion dysregulation and problematic Internet use in the relationship between negative affect and excessive daytime sleepiness. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 664 Italian adults aged between 18 and 70 years (M = 32.13; SD = 11.71). Participants were asked to complete the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, the Compulsive Internet Use Scale-7, and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale to assess negative affect, emotion dysregulation, problematic internet use, and excessive daytime sleepiness, respectively. RESULTS According to our results there are significant associations between negative affect, emotion dysregulation, problematic Internet use, and daytime sleepiness. Moreover, the structural equation model showed good fit indices. Emotion dysregulation and problematic Internet use partially mediated the relationship between negative mood and excessive daytime sleepiness. CONCLUSION By exploring the role of emotion dysregulation on the association between excessive daytime sleepiness and its possible predictors, our study might represent an important step toward the implementation of psychological intervention for reducing excessive daytime sleepiness. Emotion dysregulation appears to play a significant role in explaining the relationship between negative affect, problematic Internet use, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Thus, it should be considered a treatment target for reducing excessive daytime sleepiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Guerrini Usubini
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Psychology Research Laboratory, Milan, Italy.,Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Grazia Terrone
- Department of History, Cultural Heritage, Education and Society, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Varallo
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Psychology Research Laboratory, Milan, Italy.,Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Plazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, 41125, Italy.,IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna (ISNB), Bologna, 40139, Italy
| | - Gianluca Castelnuovo
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Psychology Research Laboratory, Milan, Italy.,Department of Psychology, Catholic University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE-Kore University of Enna, Cittadella Universitaria, Enna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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14
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Musetti A, Manari T, Billieux J, Starcevic V, Schimmenti A. Problematic social networking sites use and attachment: A systematic review. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2022.107199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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15
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Diotaiuti P, Girelli L, Mancone S, Corrado S, Valente G, Cavicchiolo E. Impulsivity and Depressive Brooding in Internet Addiction: A Study With a Sample of Italian Adolescents During COVID-19 Lockdown. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:941313. [PMID: 35898621 PMCID: PMC9309336 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.941313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This contribution presents a study conducted on a sample of Italian adolescents (n = 411) in the period of the first COVID-19 lockdown. The study investigated the role and predictive weight of the impulsivity and depressive brooding variables on Internet addiction, using a hierarchical regression analysis. The participants were administered the Uso-Abuso e Dipendenza da Internet [Internet Use-Abuse and Addiction] (UADI-2), the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (BIS-11), and the Ruminative Response Scale (RRS). In terms of percentage distribution, 28% of the participants were in the full dependency range, while 34.7% demonstrated Internet abuse behavior. The results highlighted not only the predictive value of impulsiveness (β = 0.323) and ruminative thinking (β = 0.258), but also the role of gender (β = -0.205) on Internet addiction. Thus, male participants showed higher levels of Internet addiction, with higher scores on impulsiveness and brooding way of thinking. The study shows that the issue in question is significantly present among adolescents; in addition, not only targeted awareness programmes but also psycho-educational and clinical interventions to promote greater emotional and cognitive control would be necessary as a preventive and mitigating measure. Psychological interventions can help increase self-awareness, develop emotional regulation and impulse control, and correct maladaptive cognitions which in adolescents are mostly driven by a ruminative cognitive style.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluigi Diotaiuti
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy
| | - Laura Girelli
- Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Stefania Mancone
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy
| | - Stefano Corrado
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Valente
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, Cassino, Italy
| | - Elisa Cavicchiolo
- Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Sciences, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
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16
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Santoro G, Midolo LR, Costanzo A, Schimmenti A. The vulnerability of insecure minds: The mediating role of mentalization in the relationship between attachment styles and psychopathology. Bull Menninger Clin 2021; 85:358-384. [PMID: 34851682 DOI: 10.1521/bumc.2021.85.4.358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Insecure attachment is linked to mentalizing difficulties and psychopathology. The current study aimed to examine if failures in mentalization, as observed in the form of uncertainty about mental states, mediated the relationship between attachment styles and global psychopathology in a group of 812 adults (66.5% females) from the community. Participants completed measures on attachment styles, uncertainty about mental states, and clinical symptoms. The authors found that uncertainty about mental states was a partial mediator of the associations between attachment styles and psychopathology. Furthermore, the findings supported the role of secure attachment in protecting from mentalization failures and psychopathology; on the contrary, increased scores on attachment styles involving a negative view of the self (preoccupied and fearful attachment styles) predicted high levels of uncertainty about mental states and psychopathology. Accordingly, clinicians may wish to promote mentalizing abilities in individuals who display a negative view of the self embedded in their attachment styles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE - Kore University of Enna, Cittadella Universitaria, Enna, Italy
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17
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Lenzo V, Sardella A, Maisano Branca G, Bordino V, Aragona M, Garipoli C, Schimmenti A, Quattropani MC. The interplay between burnout risk and attachment styles among palliative care practitioners. PSYCHODYNAMIC PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14753634.2021.1922305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Lenzo
- Department of Social and Educational Sciences of the Mediterranean Area, University for Foreigners “Dante Alighieri” of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Alberto Sardella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giuliana Maisano Branca
- Medical Oncology Unit with Hospice, Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Valentina Bordino
- Palliative Home Care Service, Sisifo - Consortium of Social Cooperatives, Catania, Italy
| | - Marcello Aragona
- Medical Oncology Unit with Hospice, Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Claudia Garipoli
- Medical Oncology Unit with Hospice, Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE – Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
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18
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Terrone G, Gori A, Topino E, Musetti A, Scarinci A, Guccione C, Caretti V. The Link between Attachment and Gambling in Adolescence: A Multiple Mediation Analysis with Developmental Perspective, Theory of Mind (Friend) and Adaptive Response. J Pers Med 2021; 11:228. [PMID: 33810022 PMCID: PMC8005040 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11030228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Several studies have supported the evidence that attachment styles are a central factor in adolescent gambling problems. On this theoretical basis, the aim of the present study is to analyze a hypothesized mediation model exploring both the direct and indirect effects of insecure attachment on gambling disorder by investigating the role of the developmental perspective, theory of mind (friend) and adaptive response in that relationship. Method: The sample consists of 178 adolescents who underwent the Measures: South Oaks Gambling Screen-Revised for Adolescents and Friends and Family Interview. Result: The mediation analysis was conducted following Hayes' (2018) procedure, using Model 6. The results showed a significant association between insecure attachment and gambling disorder (β = 0.669; p < 0.001). The findings also highlighted a significant chained mediation model in which insecure attachment negatively influenced the developmental perspective (β = -0.742; p < 0.001), which affected the theory of mind toward one's own best friend (β = 0.352; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results highlighted a significant role of insecure attachment in predicting the symptomatic expression of gambling among adolescents, specifically impacting the development perspective, theory of mind toward one's best friend and adaptive response to stress, which were linked to each other by a sequential influence. Therefore, our results showed that a poor developmental self-vision predicted a dysfunctional theory of mind toward the best friend. This could hinder the formation of positive peer relationships, which are crucial for the development of one's identity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Terrone
- Department of History, Cultural Heritage, Education and Society, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessio Gori
- Department of Human Sciences, University of Florence, 50100 Florence, Italy;
| | - Eleonora Topino
- Department of Human Sciences, Lumsa University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.T.); (C.G.); (V.C.)
| | - Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy;
| | - Alessia Scarinci
- Department of Education Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Camilla Guccione
- Department of Human Sciences, Lumsa University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.T.); (C.G.); (V.C.)
| | - Vincenzo Caretti
- Department of Human Sciences, Lumsa University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.T.); (C.G.); (V.C.)
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19
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Abstract
In the effort to limit the transmission of COVID-19, countries around the world have instigated extended periods of restricted movement that has significantly impacted work, leisure, and social interaction. An indirect outcome of these restrictions is increased loneliness and social isolation. Here, data from an online survey carried out in the latter part 2020/early 2021, demonstrated that evening-type is associated with increased odds of reporting self-perceived loneliness, but with no evidence for a similar association in neither-types. What future working and leisure patterns (the 'new normal') will look like is unclear. Nevertheless, the current data suggest eveningness should be a consideration in any interventions designed to reduce the impact of loneliness on physical and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ray Norbury
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Division of Psychology, Brunel University London, London, UK
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20
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Boursier V, Gioia F, Musetti A, Schimmenti A. Facing Loneliness and Anxiety During the COVID-19 Isolation: The Role of Excessive Social Media Use in a Sample of Italian Adults. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:586222. [PMID: 33363484 PMCID: PMC7752864 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.586222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prompted people to face a distressing and unexpected situation. Uncertainty and social distancing changed people's behaviors, impacting on their feelings, daily habits, and social relationships, which are core elements in human well-being. In particular, restrictions due to the quarantine increased feelings of loneliness and anxiety. Within this context, the use of digital technologies has been recommended to relieve stress and anxiety and to decrease loneliness, even though the overall effects of social media consumption during pandemics still need to be carefully addressed. In this regard, social media use evidence risk and opportunities. In fact, according to a compensatory model of Internet-related activities, the online environment may be used to alleviate negative feelings caused by distressing life circumstances, despite potentially leading to negative outcomes. The present study examined whether individuals who were experiencing high levels of loneliness during the forced isolation for COVID-19 pandemic were more prone to feel anxious, and whether their sense of loneliness prompted excessive social media use. Moreover, the potentially mediating effect of excessive social media use in the relationship between perceived loneliness and anxiety was tested. A sample of 715 adults (71.5% women) aged between 18 and 72 years old took part in an online survey during the period of lockdown in Italy. The survey included self-report measures to assess perceived sense of loneliness, excessive use of social media, and anxiety. Participants reported that they spent more hours/day on social media during the pandemic than before the pandemic. We found evidence that perceived feelings of loneliness predicted both excessive social media use and anxiety, with excessive social media use also increasing anxiety levels. These findings suggest that isolation probably reinforced the individuals' sense of loneliness, strengthening the need to be part of virtual communities. However, the facilitated and prolonged access to social media during the COVID-19 pandemic risked to further increase anxiety, generating a vicious cycle that in some cases may require clinical attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Boursier
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Gioia
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Kore University of Enna, Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Enna, Italy
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21
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Perugini MLL, Solano AC. Normal and Maladaptive Personality Traits as Predictors of Motives for Social Media Use and Its Effects on Well-Being. Psychol Rep 2020; 124:1070-1092. [PMID: 32375534 DOI: 10.1177/0033294120922495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to identify the motives for social media sites use in the general population and determine what personality traits (normal and maladaptive) predict different motives for social media sites use. Another objective was to analyze which motives for SMSs use are related to well-being. The sample consisted of 420 subjects (211 men, 209 women), mean age 40.29 years (SD = 14.93). Data were gathered using the Big Five Inventory, the Personality Inventory for DSM-5-Brief Form -Adult, the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form, and a scale designed ad hoc to evaluate the motives for social media sites use. The results showed that the most frequent motives were Personal relationship maintenance/Search for information, Pastime/Exhibitionism, and Search for companionship. In addition, it was found that normal and, especially, maladaptive personality traits increased the explained variance for the three motives for social media sites use, beyond age and gender. Predictors of relationship initiation and pastime/exhibitionism motives were related to more negative features (e.g., antagonism and disinhibition) than predictors of personal relationship maintenance/search for information. Finally, personal relationship maintenance/search for information was positively related to all the components of well-being, while the other motives for social media sites use were negatively associated with well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Laura Lupano Perugini
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; 28206Universidad de Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alejandro Castro Solano
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; 28206Universidad de Palermo, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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22
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Zimmermann J, Kerber A, Rek K, Hopwood CJ, Krueger RF. A Brief but Comprehensive Review of Research on the Alternative DSM-5 Model for Personality Disorders. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2019; 21:92. [PMID: 31410586 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-019-1079-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Both the Alternative DSM-5 Model for Personality Disorders (AMPD) and the chapter on personality disorders (PD) in the recent version of ICD-11 embody a shift from a categorical to a dimensional paradigm for the classification of PD. We describe these new models, summarize available measures, and provide a comprehensive review of research on the AMPD. RECENT FINDINGS A total of 237 publications on severity (criterion A) and maladaptive traits (criterion B) of the AMPD indicate (a) acceptable interrater reliability, (b) largely consistent latent structures, (c) substantial convergence with a range of theoretically and clinically relevant external measures, and (d) some evidence for incremental validity when controlling for categorical PD diagnoses. However, measures of criterion A and B are highly correlated, which poses conceptual challenges. The AMPD has stimulated extensive research with promising findings. We highlight open questions and provide recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Zimmermann
- Department of Psychology, University of Kassel, Holländische Str. 36-38, 34127, Kassel, Germany.
| | | | - Katharina Rek
- Max-Planck-Institut für Psychiatrie, Munich, Germany
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23
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Maganuco NR, Costanzo A, Midolo LR, Santoro G, Schimmenti A. Impulsivity and Alexithymia in Virtual Worlds: A Study on Players of World of Warcraft. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2019; 16:127-134. [PMID: 34908947 PMCID: PMC8650179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Symptoms of problematic Internet use (PIU) may be increased in people who display an excessive involvement in Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs). Notably, impulsivity and alexithymia have not been investigated together in the literature addressing the predictors of PIU among gamers, despite evidence that these personality traits may play a pivotal role in the development of problematic gaming patterns. The purpose of this research was to explore the relationship between facets of alexithymia and impulsivity and PIU scores among MMORPG players. METHOD In the current study, 364 World of Warcraft (WoW) players (272 males, 74.7%) aged 18 to 48 years old provided socio-demographic information and completed questionnaires on PIU, time spent online playing WoW, alexithymia, and impulsivity. RESULTS PIU scores were negatively associated with age and positively associated with alexithymia scores, impulsivity scores, and time spent online playing WoW. A linear regression analysis showed that PIU scores were predicted by time spent online playing WoW, the alexithymic features concerning difficulties identifying and describing feelings, and attentional impulsivity. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that MMORPG players with difficulties concerning affect awareness and a tendency to be distracted by novel stimuli may spend an excessive amount of time playing video games and may also show prominent symptoms of PIU.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonino Costanzo
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE - Kore University of Enna, Italy
| | - Laura Rosa Midolo
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE - Kore University of Enna, Italy
| | - Gianluca Santoro
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE - Kore University of Enna, Italy
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE - Kore University of Enna, Italy
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