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Fede SJ, Kisner MA, Dean SF, Buckler E, Chholak R, Momenan R. Alcohol attention bias modulates neural engagement during moral processing. Soc Neurosci 2024:1-18. [PMID: 39038485 DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2024.2377666] [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: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
The neurobiology of typical moral cognition involves the interaction of frontal, limbic, and temporoparietal networks. There is still much to be understood mechanistically about how moral processing is disrupted; such understanding is key to combating antisociality. Neuroscientific models suggest a key role for attention mechanisms in atypical moral processing. We hypothesized that attention-bias toward alcohol cues in alcohol use disorder (AUD) leads to a failure to properly engage with morally relevant stimuli, reducing moral processing. We recruited patients with AUD (n = 30) and controls (n = 30). During functional magnetic resonance imaging, participants viewed pairs of images consisting of a moral or neutral cue and an alcohol or neutral distractor. When viewing moral cues paired with alcohol distractors, individuals with AUD had lower medial prefrontal cortex engagement; this pattern was also seen for left amygdala in younger iAUDs. Across groups, individuals had less engagement of middle/superior temporal gyri. These findings provide initial support for AUD-related attention bias interference in sociomoral processing. If supported in future longitudinal and causal study designs, this finding carries potential societal and clinical benefits by suggesting a novel, leverageable mechanism and in providing a cognitive explanation that may help combat persistent stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Fede
- Clinical NeuroImaging Research Core, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Mallory A Kisner
- Clinical NeuroImaging Research Core, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sarah F Dean
- Clinical NeuroImaging Research Core, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Emma Buckler
- Clinical NeuroImaging Research Core, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Robin Chholak
- Clinical NeuroImaging Research Core, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Reza Momenan
- Clinical NeuroImaging Research Core, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Zizzi A, Berri IM, Berri A, Occhipinti M, Escelsior A, Guglielmo R, Pereira Da Silva B, Amore M, Serafini G. Psychological dimensions in alcohol use disorder: comparing active drinkers and abstinent patients. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1420508. [PMID: 38993382 PMCID: PMC11236675 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1420508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a major public health concern due to its various physical, psychological, and social consequences. Despite regulatory differences, abstinence remains the primary treatment objective. Addressing the multifaceted nature of alcohol use disorder requires a comprehensive approach. Methods 150 AUD patients (66%male) with a mean age of 54.10 ± 11.3 years were recruited for the study. Depression, impulsivity, alexithymia, and hopelessness were assessed to determine if there were significant differences in these dimensions between abstinent (N=72) and active drinkers (N=78). Results The study found significant differences in the psychological dimensions scores, active drinkers exhibited higher levels of depression, impulsivity, alexithymia, and hopelessness compared to abstinent patients. Conclusion Treatment outcomes for patients with AUD vary between regulatory agencies, but abstinence remains the safest and most preferred objective in managing AUD. Prioritizing abstinence-oriented interventions is crucial for achieving long term recovery and minimizing relapse risk. These results emphasize the intricate relationship between AUD and mental health issues, highlighting the need for comprehensive interventions addressing both alcohol consumption and associated psychological distress. Promoting abstinence (or at least reducing alcohol consumption) not only preserves mental health but also prevents life-threatening consequences such as suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Zizzi
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, and Mother-Child, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Andrea Escelsior
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, and Mother-Child, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
- San Martino Hospital (IRCCS), Genova, Italy
| | - Riccardo Guglielmo
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, and Mother-Child, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
- San Martino Hospital (IRCCS), Genova, Italy
| | - Beatriz Pereira Da Silva
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, and Mother-Child, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Mario Amore
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, and Mother-Child, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Gianluca Serafini
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, and Mother-Child, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
- San Martino Hospital (IRCCS), Genova, Italy
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Mansourkhani Z, Tamini BK, Pishevar Mofrad MH, Karimi M. Comparison of psychological reactions, fear of negative evaluation and mood-emotional alexithymia in successful and unsuccessful people in addiction recovery: a survey of Baluchestan in Iran. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38842598 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2024.2360734] [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: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine psychological responses, fear of negative evaluation, and mood-related alexithymia in individuals in addiction recovery who have succeeded versus those who have not. This study employed a causal-comparative design. The research focused on all individuals who sought treatment for addiction at clinics within a specific district in Zahedan city, Iran. Out of the group, 100 individuals were chosen (50 who successfully stopped their addiction and 50 who were unsuccessful in their attempts to quit) through convenience sampling. Data were gathered using the depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), Lori's fear of negative evaluation scale, and Toronto's mood-emotional alexithymia scale. Data were examined through both descriptive statistics and multivariate analysis of variance. Based on the results, successful and unsuccessful individuals in addiction recovery showed varying levels of depression, stress, fear of negative evaluation, and having no fear of negative evaluation (p < .01). In simpler terms, unsuccessful individuals in addiction recovery scored higher in depression, stress, fear of negative evaluation, inability feeling emotions, inability to express feelings compared to successful individuals. But successful individuals in addiction recovery obtained higher mean scores than unsuccessful individuals in addiction recovery on having no fear of negative evaluation. According to the findings psychological reactions, fear of negative evaluation and mood-emotional alexithymia play a significant role in addiction treatment and can be helpful in addiction recovery in unsuccessful people in addiction recovery. It is feasible to enhance the effectiveness of addiction recovery by implementing interventions that target the reduction of depression, stress, fear of negative evaluation, and alexithymia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Mansourkhani
- Department of Psychology, Islamic Azad University of Zahedan, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Bahman Kord Tamini
- Department of Psychology, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran
| | | | - Maryam Karimi
- Department of Psychology, Islamic Azad University of Zahedan, Zahedan, Iran
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4
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Polat H, Karakaş SA, Erçel Ş, Taşci G. Alexithymia and Forgiveness Levels of Forensic Psychiatric Patients. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2024; 62:27-35. [PMID: 37879088 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20231018-03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
The current cross-sectional study was performed to examine levels of alexithymia and forgiveness in forensic psychiatric patients. Data were collected between March 2022 and August 2022 at a high-security forensic psychiatric hospital affiliated with a city hospital in Turkey. A personal information form prepared by the researchers, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, and the Heartland Forgiveness Scale were used to obtain data. Participants comprised 132 forensic psychiatric patients who agreed to participate in the study. A significant negative correlation was found between alexithymia and forgiveness levels of participants (p < 0.01, r = -0.259). In other words, as alexithymia levels increased, participants were found to be less forgiving. In addition, results suggest that forensic psychiatric patients are susceptible to alexithymia and higher levels of forgiveness. Determining forgiveness and alexithymia levels of forensic psychiatric patients will contribute to the structuring of care to be offered to these patients. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 62(6), 27-35.].
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5
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Machado AS, Dias G, P Carvalho I. Disentangling the relationship between sensory processing, alexithymia and broad autism spectrum: A study in parents' of children with autism spectrum disorders and sensory processing disorders. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2024; 149:104742. [PMID: 38678875 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2024.104742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autistic features and sensory processing difficulties and their phenotypic co-expression with alexithymia share a transdiagnostic vulnerability. In this work, we explored whether the current concept of broad autism phenotype rather translates altered sensory processing (non-specific to autism), meaning that the characteristics of altered sensory processing should be overexpressed among individuals with heightened vulnerability to sensory processing atypicalities (parents of children with sensorial processing disorder, or SPD parents) and individuals with heightened vulnerability to autistic traits (parents of children with autism spectrum disorders, or ASD parents). In addition, the association between altered sensory processing and alexithymia was inspected. METHOD The Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile, Autism Spectrum Quotient, and Toronto Alexithymia Scale were completed by 31 parents of children with ASD, 32 parents of children with SPD, and 52 parents of typically developed (TD) children. RESULTS Extreme sensory patterns were overexpressed both in parents of children with SPD and parents of children with ASD when compared to parents of TD children. In addition, extreme sensory patterns were significantly associated with alexithymia scores. Specifically, sensory avoidance, low registration, and sensory sensitivity were positively correlated with alexithymia. No significant differences were found regarding the proportion of autistic traits and alexithymia between ASD and SPD groups of parents. CONCLUSIONS These results challenge the specificity of broad autism phenotype and suggest a neurodevelopmental atypicity with roots in altered sensory and emotional processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofia Machado
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Portugal; Psychiatry Service of São João University Hospital Center (CHUSJ), Porto, Portugal.
| | - Goretti Dias
- Child and Adolescence Psychiatry Service, Santo António University Hospital Center (CHUSA), Porto, Portugal
| | - Irene P Carvalho
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Portugal
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Kurihara K, Enoki H, Shinzato H, Takaesu Y, Kondo T. Cluster analysis of patients with alcohol use disorder featuring alexithymia, depression, and diverse drinking behavior. Neuropsychopharmacol Rep 2024. [PMID: 38773706 DOI: 10.1002/npr2.12449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to identify subgroups of alcohol use disorder (AUD) based on a multidimensional combination of alexithymia, depression, and diverse drinking behavior. METHOD We recruited 176 patients with AUD, which were initially divided into non-alexithymic (n = 130) and alexithymic (n = 46) groups using a cutoff score of 61 on the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20). Subsequently, the profiles of the two groups were compared. Thereafter, a two-stage cluster analysis using hierarchical and K-means methods was performed with the Z-scores from the TAS-20, the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report Japanese Version, the 12-item questionnaire for quantitative assessment of depressive mixed state, and the 20-item questionnaire for drinking behavior pattern. RESULTS In the first analysis, Alexithymic patients with AUD showed greater depressive symptoms and more pathological drinking behavior patterns than those without alexithymia. Cluster analysis featuring alexithymia, depression, and drinking behavior identified three subtypes: Cluster 1 (core AUD type) manifesting pathological drinking behavior highlighting automaticity; Cluster 2 (late-onset type) showing relatively late-onset alcohol use and fewer depressive symptoms or pathological drinking behavior; and Cluster 3 (alexithymic type) characterized by alexithymia, depression, and pathological drinking behavior featuring greater coping with negative affect. CONCLUSION The multidimensional model with alexithymia, depression, and diverse drinking behavior provided possible practical classification of AUD. The alexithymic subtype may require more caution, and additional support for negative affect may be necessary due to accompanying mood problems and various maladaptive drinking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Kurihara
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Enoki
- Major in Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Psychological Sciences, Hiroshima International University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hotaka Shinzato
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Takaesu
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kondo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
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Cservenka A, Donahue LC. Emotion Recognition and Self-Reported Emotion Processing in Alcohol and Cannabis Co-Using Young Adults. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:407. [PMID: 38785898 PMCID: PMC11117838 DOI: 10.3390/bs14050407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Alcohol and cannabis use are each associated with impairments in emotion recognition accuracy, which may promote interpersonal problems. It is unclear if emotion recognition or self-reported emotion processing differs between young adult alcohol and cannabis co-users (ACCs) and healthy controls (HCs). This study examined whether ACCs and HCs differed in their emotion recognition across two different behavioral tasks with static or dynamic faces and determined if there were differences in self-reported socio-emotional processing and alexithymia. 22 ACCs (mean age = 21.27 ± 1.75) and 25 HCs (mean age = 21.48 ± 2.68), matched on age, sex, and IQ, completed the Metrisquare Emotion Recognition Task and CANTAB Emotion Recognition Task. The ACCs and HCs were compared on task accuracy and self-reported measures, including the Social Emotional Questionnaire (SEQ) and the Perth Alexithymia Questionnaire (PAQ). No significant main effects of the Group variable or the Emotion-Group interaction variable were present for either task. The ACCs had lower SEQ (p = 0.014) and higher PAQ (p = 0.024) scores relative to the HCs, indicating greater difficulties in socio-emotional processing and identifying one's own emotions, respectively. Understanding the behavioral correlates of the self-reported difficulties in emotion processing reported by ACCs is needed to develop interventions to reduce these symptoms and promote healthy socio-emotional functioning in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Cservenka
- School of Psychological Science, Oregon State University, 2950 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA;
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8
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Liu Y, Duan L, Shen Q, Ma Y, Chen Y, Xu L, Wu Y, Zhang T. The mediating effect of internet addiction and the moderating effect of physical activity on the relationship between alexithymia and depression. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9781. [PMID: 38684733 PMCID: PMC11058241 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60326-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a certain relationship between alexithymia and depression, but further investigation is needed to explore their underlying mechanisms. The aims of this study was to explore the mediating role of internet addiction between alexithymia and depression and the moderating role of physical activity. A total of 594 valid responses were included in the analysis, with a mean age of 18.72 years (SD = 1.09). The sample comprised 250 males (42.09%) and 344 females (57.91%). These responses were utilized for descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and the development of mediation and moderation models. Alexithymia showed positive correlations with depression and internet addiction, and physical activity was negatively correlated with internet addiction and depression. Internet addiction partially mediated the relationship between alexithymia and depression, while physical activity weakened the association between internet addiction and depression, acting as a moderator. Our findings suggest that excessive Internet engagement may mediate the relationship between alexithymia and depression as an emotional regulatory coping strategy, and that physical activity attenuates the predictive effect of Internet addiction on depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- School of Sports Science, Jishou University, Jishou, China
| | - Liangfan Duan
- School of Sports Science, Jishou University, Jishou, China
| | - Qingxin Shen
- School of Sports Science, Jishou University, Jishou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Ma
- School of Sports Science, Jishou University, Jishou, China
| | - Yiyi Chen
- School of Sports Science, Jishou University, Jishou, China
| | - Lei Xu
- School of Sports Science, Jishou University, Jishou, China
- Institute of Physical Education, Shanxi University of Finance and Economics, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yawen Wu
- School of Sports Science, Jishou University, Jishou, China
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Lyvers M, Dark S, Jaguru I, Thorberg FA. Adult symptoms of ASD and ADHD in relation to alcohol use: Potential roles of transdiagnostic features. Alcohol 2024; 120:109-117. [PMID: 38552929 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2024.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common comorbidity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ADHD is a risk factor for alcohol misuse whereas ASD is often regarded as protective; however, research on ASD and alcohol use has yielded conflicting findings, sometimes implicating the role of comorbid ADHD. The possibility that certain transdiagnostic features (i.e., characteristics associated with multiple disorders) may underlie relationships of both disorders to alcohol use in adults was examined in the present study. A nonclinical young adult sample of 248 alcohol users (117 men, 131 women) completed validated self-report measures of ASD and ADHD symptoms as well as the transdiagnostic features alexithymia, impulsivity, and negative moods. ASD and ADHD symptoms were normally distributed, suggesting that the respective disorders represent extreme, dysfunctional ends of population distributions of symptoms. Path analysis indicated that the significant positive association between ASD and ADHD symptom measures was fully mediated by alexithymia, impulsivity, and negative moods. Hierarchical regression and path analysis indicated that the positive relationship between ADHD symptoms and alcohol use severity was fully mediated by transdiagnostic features, particularly alexithymia and impulsivity, whereas the relationship between ASD and alcohol use severity was positively mediated by these features (especially alexithymia), with a highly significant and negative direct effect. Present findings may help reconcile previous conflicting evidence on the relationship of ASD to alcohol use, and the role of comorbid ADHD, by emphasizing the roles of alexithymia and impulsivity in both ASD and ADHD as transdiagnostic traits promoting excessive drinking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, Australia.
| | - Saraid Dark
- Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours), Australia.
| | - Irene Jaguru
- Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours), Australia.
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Simoncini G, Borghesi F, Mancuso V, Pedroli E, Cipresso P. Assessing alexithymia: the proposal of a psychometric tool based on spheric videos. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1375342. [PMID: 38562229 PMCID: PMC10982385 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1375342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The present perspective introduces a novel psychometric tool designed to enhance the evaluation of alexithymia. Alexithymia, a condition marked by difficulties in recognizing and expressing emotions, along with a propensity to direct attention outside rather than toward one's own interior experiences, is commonly investigated through self-report questionnaires. These instruments assume that individuals have sufficient self-awareness and abstraction capabilities, which restricts the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of emotional recognition in individuals who do not possess these capacities. To address this lack, emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and 360° videos facilitate the recreation of immersive contexts, enabling subjects to engage with scenarios even remotely. Our innovative tool employs spherical video technology to recreate social and non-social scenarios that elicit emotions. Psychophysiological measures are collected during video observation; then, questions are asked to investigate how the subject consciously processes the emotions they experienced. This multimodal approach aims to capture both implicit and explicit emotion processing, providing a comprehensive assessment. Overall, the proposed psychometric tool offers the potential for a more nuanced understanding of alexithymic traits and their real-life impact, empowering clinicians to tailor treatment processes to individual needs based on a richer set of information.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Elisa Pedroli
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Italy
- Department of Geriatrics and Cardiovascular Medicine, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
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Lyvers M, Robinson M, Watt B, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia and aspects of dreaming: Differential associations of alexithymia facets with dream variables. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 59:132-142. [PMID: 37864284 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Research on aspects of dreaming associated with alexithymia has yielded mixed results. The present study recruited a young adult online sample of 577 participants who completed validated indices of alexithymia, emotion suppression, negative moods, and eight aspects of dreaming, with a focus on evaluating a counterintuitive previous finding that alexithymia and two of its core facets were associated with greater self-reported typical emotional intensity of dreams. Total alexithymia and facet scores showed differential relationships to aspects of dreaming including dream recall frequency, emotionality, meaningfulness, nightmare frequency, nightmare distress, usefulness of dreams in problem-solving and creativity, and learning about oneself through dreams. Planned hierarchical regression controlling for demographics, alcohol use, and dream recall frequency indicated that the difficulties identifying feelings (DIF) facet of alexithymia was a significant positive predictor of dream emotionality, whereas the externally oriented thinking (EOT) facet was a significant negative predictor. Stress, but not emotion suppression, mediated the positive relationship between DIF and dream emotionality. The likely role of dream emotionality in higher ratings of nightmare distress, dream meaningfulness, and learning about oneself through dreams among those with higher DIF scores is noted, along with other findings and the strengths and limitations of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, QLD, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Morgana Robinson
- School of Psychology, Bond University, QLD, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Bruce Watt
- School of Psychology, Bond University, QLD, Gold Coast, Australia
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12
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Morie KP, Zhai ZW, Crowley MJ, Potenza MN, Mayes LC. Relationships Between Prenatal Cocaine Exposure, Cannabis-Use Onset and Emotional and Related Characteristics in Young/Emerging Adults. Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:388-397. [PMID: 37964628 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2275558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Background: Exposure to substances in utero may have significant early-life consequences. Less is known about the effects in emerging adulthood, particularly regarding patterns of substance use and related characteristics.Objectives: In this study, we recruited emerging adults, followed since birth, who had been prenatally exposed, or not, to cocaine. Individuals reported on their cannabis, alcohol, and tobacco use, and measures of impulsivity, anhedonia, emotional regulation, and mental health were obtained. Comparisons were made between emerging adults with prenatal cocaine exposure and those without. Correlations were performed between psychological measures and substance use, and regression analyses were conducted to determine potential pathways by which such measures may relate to prenatal exposure or substance use.Results: Individuals with prenatal cocaine exposure (vs. those without) used cannabis at younger ages, reported greater cannabis-use severity, and demonstrated higher impulsivity, state anxiety, and alexithymia. Earlier age of onset of cannabis use was associated with higher impulsivity, state anxiety, alexithymia, and social and physical anhedonia. Cannabis-use age-of-onset mediated the relationship between prenatal cocaine-exposure status and state anxiety and between prenatal cocaine-exposure status and cannabis-use severity in emerging adulthood but not relationships between prenatal cocaine-exposure status and impulsivity or alexithymia in emerging adulthood. Findings suggest that adults with prenatal cocaine exposure may use cannabis at younger ages, which may relate to increased anxiety and more severe use.Conclusions: These findings suggest both mechanisms and possible intervention targets to improve mental health in emerging adults with prenatal cocaine exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen P Morie
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Zu Wei Zhai
- Department of Neuroscience, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT, USA
| | - Michael J Crowley
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Linda C Mayes
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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13
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Youssef L, Salameh P, Sacre H, Akel M, Hallit S, Obeid S. Association between alexithymia, emotional intelligence, smoking addiction, and alcohol use disorder among a sample of Lebanese adults. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0295114. [PMID: 38033004 PMCID: PMC10688648 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alexithymia can be associated with worse addictive traits, while emotional intelligence is associated with better addictive outcomes. In Lebanon, the prevalence of cigarette and waterpipe smoking is on the rise, although people are aware of the associated harms. Also, around 11% of Lebanese adults have experienced alcohol use disorder (AUD). This study aimed to assess the association between alexithymia, emotional intelligence, smoking (cigarette and waterpipe), and AUD among a sample of Lebanese adults. METHODS A web-based cross-sectional study carried out between February and April 2020, during the lockdown period, enrolled 408 community-dwelling adults. The survey link was shared on social media to reach participants from all Lebanese districts/governorates. RESULTS Taking antidepressants (Beta = 4.37) was significantly associated with more cigarette dependence, while female gender (Beta = -1.52) and having a high vs. low monthly income (Beta = 1.02) were significantly associated with less cigarette dependence. None of the variables, including alexithymia, were significantly associated with waterpipe dependence. Female gender (Beta = -0.15) and higher emotional intelligence (Beta = -0.003) were significantly associated with less AUD, whereas higher alexithymia (Beta = 0.003) was significantly associated with more AUD. CONCLUSION This study could demonstrate a significant association between alexithymia and cigarette smoking and alexithymia and alcohol consumption. Future research is warranted to investigate the mediating effect of emotional intelligence and how these results may be used to meet the needs of alexithymic individuals with addictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Youssef
- Modern Dagher Medical Laboratories, Batroun, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
- Institut National de Santé Publique, Epidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
| | - Hala Sacre
- Institut National de Santé Publique, Epidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon
- Drug Information Center, Order of Pharmacists of Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marwan Akel
- Institut National de Santé Publique, Epidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie (INSPECT-LB), Beirut, Lebanon
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jall-Eddib, Lebanon
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Sahar Obeid
- Social and Education Sciences Department, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
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14
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Li R, Kajanoja J, Karlsson L, Karlsson H, Nolvi S, Karukivi M. Longitudinal patterns of alcohol use and psychological symptoms during COVID-19 pandemic and role of alexithymia: A latent transition analysis in the FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study. J Affect Disord 2023; 338:440-448. [PMID: 37385387 PMCID: PMC10299841 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.06.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has been posing widespread influence on mental well-being. However, research on the dynamic relations between alcohol use and psychological symptoms in the context of the pandemic and the role of alexithymic traits in predicting the development of mental health problems longitudinally remains scarce. METHODS Latent profile and transition analyses were conducted to model the longitudinal patterns of transitions in the profiles of alcohol use and psychological symptoms across 10 months during the pandemic (from May 2020 to March 2021) and to investigate the role of alexithymia and its dimensions Difficulty Identifying and Describing Feelings (DIF and DDF), and Externally Oriented Thinking (EOT) in 720 parents from the FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study. RESULTS Three profiles, Risky Drinking, Distressed Non-Risky Drinking, and Non-Distressed, Non-Risky Drinking, and their transitions were identified. The role of alexithymia appeared to be stronger in Risky Drinking than Non-Distressed, Non-Risky Drinking. DIF predicted the development of symptoms in Risky Drinking, whereas DDF predicted Risky Drinking remaining stable over time and showed a trend towards psychological distress in Risky Drinking and Non-Distressed, Non-Risky Drinking. EOT was more likely to be a risk factor for Risky Drinking remaining constant and Non-Distressed, Non-Risky Drinking becoming Risky Drinking. LIMITATIONS This study was mainly limited by the generalizability of the findings. CONCLUSIONS Our findings add deeper insights into the longitudinal development of alcohol use and psychological symptoms as well as evidence on the role of alexithymia in shaping mental health, providing implications for tailoring clinical preventive and therapeutic measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Li
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland; FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Finland.
| | - Jani Kajanoja
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland; FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, Satakunta Hospital District, Pori, Finland
| | - Linnea Karlsson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland; FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Finland; Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland; Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland
| | - Hasse Karlsson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland; FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Finland; Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland
| | - Saara Nolvi
- FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Finland; Turku Institute for Advanced Studies, Department of Psychology and Speech-Language Pathology, University of Turku, Finland
| | - Max Karukivi
- FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Department of Clinical Medicine, Turku Brain and Mind Center, University of Turku, Finland; Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Finland
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15
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Wiśniewski P, Jakubczyk A, Trucco EM, Kobyliński P, Suszek H, Zaorska J, Rydzewska M, Kopera M. Interoception, alexithymia, and anxiety among individuals with alcohol use disorder. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1229985. [PMID: 37810600 PMCID: PMC10556496 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1229985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Interoception (i.e., the ability to recognize bodily signals), alexithymia (i.e., the inability to recognize emotional states) and negative affect (i.e., unpleasant feelings such as anxiety) have been associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Previous research suggests that interoception may underlie alexithymia, which in turn may be associated with negative affectivity. However, this remains to be empirically tested. This study investigates whether alexithymia mediates the association between interoception and anxiety and whether this association differs across individuals with AUD and a healthy control (HC) comparison group. Methods The AUD group consisted of 99 participants enrolled in an 8-week abstinence-based inpatient treatment program. The HC group included 103 healthy individuals. The heartbeat counting task (HCT) was used to assess interoception (cardiac interoceptive accuracy). The Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) was used to assess alexithymia. The Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) was used to assess anxiety. Results The moderated mediation model with interoception as the predictor, alexithymia as the mediator, and negative affect (i.e., state anxiety) as the dependent variable was tested. The analysis showed that the conditional indirect effect of interoception on anxiety via alexithymia was significant for individuals with AUD [ab = -0.300, bootstrap 95% CI = (-0.618, -0.088)], as well as for HCs [ab = -0.088, bootstrap 95% CI = (-0.195, -0.014)]; however, the conditional indirect effect significantly differed across HCs and individuals with AUD. Namely, the mediated effect was greater among individuals with AUD compared to the HC group. Conclusion The results suggests that interoceptive impairment contributes to greater negative affect (i.e., state anxiety) via alexithymia especially for individuals with AUD. Improving emotion recognition via therapeutic methods focused on strengthening interoceptive abilities could improve outcomes for individuals receiving treatment for AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Wiśniewski
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Jakubczyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elisa M. Trucco
- Department of Psychology, Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Addiction Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Paweł Kobyliński
- Laboratory of Interactive Technologies, National Information Processing Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Hubert Suszek
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Zaorska
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Maciej Kopera
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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16
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Kun B, Alpay P, Bodó V, Molnár Á, Horváth A, Karsai S, Somlai RS, Takacs ZK, Kökönyei G. Differences in the associations between psychoactive substance use and alexithymia: A series of Meta-analyses. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 103:102297. [PMID: 37290244 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2023.102297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The present meta-analytic study examined the association between alexithymia and psychoactive substance use. Studies published from 1988 to August 20, 2022 were identified by a systematic search and 168 eligible studies were included in five meta-analyses. Results showed that (1) the correlation between substance use and alexithymia is small but significant (r = 0.177); (2) substance users have substantially higher alexithymia than nonusers (g = 0.545); (3) alexithymic participants have significantly but slightly higher levels of substance use than non-alexithymics (g = 0.242); (4) substance users are significantly but only slightly more likely to be alexithymic than nonusers (OR = 2.392); and (5) alexithymic individuals are not more likely to be substance users than non-alexithymics. Larger effects were observed among samples diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD), and the use of depressants, alcohol, opiates, and illicit stimulants had stronger relation to alexithymia. We found a tendency for a larger association with problematic use as compared to other indicators (e.g., frequency and duration) of substance use. Among the components of alexithymia, difficulties in identifying feelings has the strongest association with substance use. Our findings support clinical practice by suggesting the improvement of emotion regulation in SUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Kun
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Pelin Alpay
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Doctoral School of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Viktória Bodó
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Doctoral School of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Molnár
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Horváth
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Doctoral School of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Szilvia Karsai
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; Doctoral School of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Róza Sára Somlai
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zsofia K Takacs
- School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Gyöngyi Kökönyei
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary; SE-NAP2 Genetic Brain Imaging Migraine Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Pharmacodynamics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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17
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Guo L, Huang C, Lu J, Wu X, Shan H, Chen T, Shao S, Li X, Du M, Du J, Jiang H, Deng M, Wen X, Zhu R, Zhong N, Su H, Zhao M. Decreased inter-brain synchronization in the right middle frontal cortex in alcohol use disorder during social interaction: An fNIRS hyperscanning study. J Affect Disord 2023; 329:573-580. [PMID: 36828147 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.02.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a widespread mental disorder and has thrust a heavy burden on the health system all over the world. Social cognition and function are reported to be impaired in AUD, but its neural mechanism is rarely investigated. The current study attempts to fill this gap. METHODS 28 subjects with AUD and 36 healthy controls (HC) were recruited in this study and were paired into 14 AUD dyads and 18 HC dyads. The drinking problems, depression, anxiety, and impulsivity of subjects were measured. Each dyad completed cooperation and competition tasks with simultaneous frontal functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) hyperscanning recording. The inter-brain synchronization (IBS) in the frontal cortex was calculated for each dyad and compared between AUD and HC. The significantly altered IBS in AUD was correlated with clinical measures to explore possible influencing factors. RESULTS The IBS in the right middle frontal cortex was significantly decreased in AUD under both cooperation (t = -2.257, P = 0.028) and competition (t = -2.488, P = 0.016) task. The IBS during the cooperation task in the right middle frontal cortex in AUD was negatively correlated with non-planning impulsivity (r = -0.673, P = 0.006). LIMITATIONS This study used cross-sectional data, which limited the causal inference. The synchronization between other brain regions besides the frontal cortex should be further explored in patients with AUD. CONCLUSION The current study could provide new insights into the neural mechanism of social dysfunction in AUD and facilitate clinical intervention in future practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Guo
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Chuanning Huang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaojun Wu
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Haidi Shan
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianzhen Chen
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuxin Shao
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoou Li
- College of Medical Instruments, Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, China; School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200093, China
| | - Mingfeng Du
- Substance Dependence Department, The Third People's Hospital of Fuyang, Fuyang, 236000, China
| | - Jiang Du
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Haifeng Jiang
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengqiao Deng
- Antai College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xifeng Wen
- Antai College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ruiming Zhu
- Antai College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Na Zhong
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hang Su
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China.
| | - Min Zhao
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wan Ping Nan Road, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology (CEBSIT), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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18
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Zaorska J, Rydzewska M, Kopera M, Wiśniewski P, Trucco EM, Kobyliński P, Jakubczyk A. Distress tolerance and emotional regulation in individuals with alcohol use disorder. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1175664. [PMID: 37252141 PMCID: PMC10213258 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1175664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Previous research suggests that low distress tolerance may be associated with poor emotion regulation, contribute to drinking to cope motives, and predict alcohol-related problems in non-clinical populations. However, little is known about the ability to tolerate distress among individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and its association with emotional dysregulation. The aim of this study was to examine the link between emotional dysregulation and a behavioral measure of distress tolerance among individuals with AUD. Methods The sample consisted of 227 individuals with AUD enrolled in an 8-week abstinence-based inpatient treatment program. Behavioral distress tolerance was assessed using a test of ischemic pain tolerance and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) was used to assess emotion dysregulation. Results Distress tolerance was significantly associated with emotional dysregulation even when accounting for alexithymia, depressive symptomatology, age, and biological sex. Conclusion The current study provides preliminary support for an association between low distress tolerance and emotion dysregulation in a clinical group of patients with AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Zaorska
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Maciej Kopera
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Wiśniewski
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elisa M. Trucco
- Department of Psychology, Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Addiction Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Paweł Kobyliński
- Laboratory of Interactive Technologies, National Information Processing Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Jakubczyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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19
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Lyvers M, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia and Alcohol Use: Evaluating the Role of Interoceptive Sensibility with the Revised Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37361346 PMCID: PMC10072022 DOI: 10.1007/s10862-023-10034-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Alexithymia has been linked to risky or problematic alcohol use, with a common interpretation invoking deficient emotion regulation and use of alcohol to cope with distress. An alternative explanation positing a general deficit of interoception in alexithymia suggested that poor awareness of internal cues of overconsumption may promote excessive drinking. The present study assessed predictions based on these hypotheses in 337 young adult alcohol users recruited online. Participants completed validated questionnaire indices of alcohol use, alexithymia, emotion regulation, interoceptive sensibility, and sensitivity to reward and punishment. Alcohol use was positively correlated with alexithymia and reward sensitivity, and negatively correlated with emotion regulation as expected, but was uncorrelated with interoceptive sensibility. Alexithymia was not significantly correlated with most dimensions of interoceptive sensibility but was highly negatively correlated with emotion regulation. Hierarchical regression controlling for demographic variables indicated that alexithymia, emotion regulation, sex, and sensitivity to reward and punishment were significant predictors of alcohol use levels. Bootstrapped mediation test controlling for all other variables indicated mediation of the association between alexithymia and alcohol use by deficient emotion regulation but not interoceptive sensibility. Results supported the emotion regulation deficit interpretation of the association of alexithymia with alcohol use. Limitations concerning interoception measurement, online samples, self-report measures, cross-sectional designs, and collection of data during the COVID-19 pandemic are discussed. Future research could follow up on these findings by testing interoceptive accuracy in addition to interoceptive sensibility in relation to alexithymia and alcohol use.
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20
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Vecchiotti R, Mansueto G, Marziali RA, Marconi M, Valchera A, Cosci F. The mediating role of alexithymia in the relationship between affective temperament and craving: Cross-sectional study conducted in a sample of bipolar and alcohol use disorder patients. J Affect Disord 2023; 325:110-118. [PMID: 36632847 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bipolar disorder (BD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) commonly co-occur and their interplay is influenced by several factors. Alexithymia is connected to BD and AUD; affective temperaments serve as risk factors for both; craving contributes to the development and maintenance of AUD. The present study tested whether alexithymia play a mediating role in the relationship between affective temperaments and craving in alcoholic bipolar patients. METHODS 151 alcoholic bipolar patients (38 % females, mean age: 45.69 ± 9.04 years) were enrolled. The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI), the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), the Temperament Evaluation of the Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego scale (TEMPS-A), and the Typology Craving Questionnaire (CTQ) were administered. Correlations among TAS-20, TEMPS-A, CTQ were conducted. Regression analyses were applied to verify the mediating hypothesis. RESULTS Difficulty in identifying feelings mediated the association between anxious temperament and craving (Indirect effect: 0.42, BCaCI: 0.22-0.69), cyclothymic temperament and craving (Indirect effect: 0.55, BCaCI: 0.30-0.87), irritable temperament and craving (Indirect effect: 0.45, BCaCI: 0.19-0.80). TAS-20 difficulty in communicating feelings to others mediated the association between anxious temperament and craving (Indirect effect: 0.20, BCaCI: 0.06-0.41). LIMITATIONS The sample size did not allow subgroup analyses. Data were collected cross-sectionally and in a single center. We did not investigate whether BD or AUD occurred first, although it might influence the mediation role of alexithymia. CONCLUSION Among alcoholic bipolar patients, assessing and targeting alexithymia may be useful to modulate craving and, in turn improve, the general mental status of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Vecchiotti
- Villa San Giuseppe Hospital, Hermanas, Hospitalarias, Ascoli Piceno, Italy; Polyedra Research, Polyedra, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Mansueto
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Pharmacopsychology Laboratory, University of Florence, Italy; Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Marconi
- Villa San Giuseppe Hospital, Hermanas, Hospitalarias, Ascoli Piceno, Italy
| | - Alessandro Valchera
- Villa San Giuseppe Hospital, Hermanas, Hospitalarias, Ascoli Piceno, Italy; Polyedra Research, Polyedra, Teramo, Italy
| | - Fiammetta Cosci
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Pharmacopsychology Laboratory, University of Florence, Italy; Maastricht University Medical Center, Dept. of Psychiatry & Psychology, School for Mental Health & Neuroscience, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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21
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Lee SH, Lee KT. Attentional Processing of Unpleasant Stimuli in Alexithymia. Psychol Rep 2022:332941221146917. [PMID: 36527407 DOI: 10.1177/00332941221146917] [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: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Alexithymia is a multi-faceted personality trait defined by difficulties in identifying and describing emotions and is considered a risk factor for multiple psychiatric disorders. Current alexithymia research debates the type of attention bias involved in the processing of negative emotional information, especially in anxiety-evoking situations that are frequently associated with stress states. Relatedly, this study aims to examine the role of emotional influence on the attentional processing of Taiwanese alexithymic individuals. Using the Chinese version of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 (TAS-20), individuals with high alexithymia (HA: TAS > 60, n = 26; Mage = 23.36) and individuals with low alexithymia (LA: TAS < 39, n = 26; Mage = 25.76) were recruited. Participants performed an emotional counting Stroop task preceded by anxiety-evoking (threatening and aversive pictures) or neutral pictures. Reaction times (RTs) of the emotional Stroop task were compared between HA and LA groups. Our results demonstrate that compared to individuals with LA, individuals with HA show early avoidance tendency (i.e., allocate less attentional resources to anxiety-evoking stimuli), and that negative affect therefore does not interfere with subsequent attention processing during the Stroop task, resulting in faster RT for unpleasant stimuli (Mthreatening = 683.87, Maversive = 685.87) than neutral stimuli (Mneutral = 695.64) (ps < .05). In addition, the attentional bias toward specific types of negative emotion was not differentiated in individuals with HA (p < .05), suggesting that alexithymic individuals' emotion schemas may be underdeveloped in terms of ability to specify exact emotions. This study provides evidence regarding early sensitization to negative stimuli during information processing, consistent with the notion that alexithymia is related to avoidant emotion regulation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Hui Lee
- Center for General Education, 34881National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Te Lee
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, 34881National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
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22
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Honkalampi K, Jokela M, Lehto SM, Kivimäki M, Virtanen M. Association between alexithymia and substance use: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Scand J Psychol 2022; 63:427-438. [PMID: 35436351 PMCID: PMC9790486 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Alexithymia has been associated with substance use, but the magnitude of the association has not been evaluated and sub-group differences, if any, are unknown. The aim of this meta-analysis is to systematically review the association between alexithymia and substance use (alcohol or illicit drugs). We identified studies through a systematic review of PubMed and Web of Science and obtained a total of 52 publications using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 scale. Random effects meta-analysis was used to evaluate the overall and sub-group associations. Of the studies, 50 were cross-sectional and two longitudinal. Alexithymia was associated with any substance use (Cohen's d = 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49-0.76), with little difference between estimates for use of alcohol or illicit drugs. A stronger association was observed for the alexithymia dimension "Difficulty in Identifying Feelings" (d = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.47-0.81) and "Difficulty in Describing Feelings" (d = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.32-0.55) than for "Externally Oriented Thinking" (d = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.09-0.28). The association was stronger in studies with clinical patient populations (d = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.62-1.05) than in those investigating general or student populations, and in studies with a majority of male rather than female participants. These findings suggest a strong overall association between alexithymia and substance use and a very strong association among clinical patient populations. The association may be stronger with the emotion-related dimensions than with the cognition-related dimension of alexithymia. As nearly all the studies were cross-sectional, more longitudinal studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsi Honkalampi
- School of Educational Sciences and PsychologyUniversity of Eastern FinlandJoensuuFinland
| | - Markus Jokela
- Department of Psychology and LogopedicsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Soili M. Lehto
- Department of Psychology and LogopedicsUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Institute of Clinical MedicineUniversity of OsloOsloNorway,R&D department, Division of Mental Health ServicesAkershus University HospitalLørenskogNorway,Department of PsychiatryUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Mika Kivimäki
- Clinicum, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland,Department of Epidemiology and Public HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Marianna Virtanen
- School of Educational Sciences and PsychologyUniversity of Eastern FinlandJoensuuFinland,Division of Insurance MedicineKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
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Mullet N, Hawkins LG, Tuliao AP, Snyder H, Holyoak D, McGuire KC, Earl AK, McChargue D. Early Trauma and Later Sexual Victimization in College Women: A Multiple Mediation Examination of Alexithymia, Impulsivity, and Alcohol Use. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP18194-NP18214. [PMID: 34388947 DOI: 10.1177/08862605211035876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Childhood abuse and sexual violence against women are prevalent in the United States. However, researchers have not fully explored the intersection among important predisposing factors that predict recent sexual violence experienced by women who are also survivors of childhood abuse. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships among early childhood trauma, alexithymia, impulsivity, alcohol use severity, and sexual victimization in later life among female college students from the United States (n = 1,178). Participants were part of a larger cross-cultural study, conducted between 2012 to 2014, which examined sexual aggression and victimization in the context of alcohol use. The current study aimed to examine if: (a) early trauma, impulsivity, alexithymia, and alcohol use severity impact sexual victimization in later life, and (b) if impulsivity, alexithymia, and alcohol use severity mediate the relationship between early trauma and victimization in later life. It was hypothesized that impulsivity, alexithymia, and alcohol use severity would significantly mediate the relationship between early trauma and sexual victimization in later life. Using a multiple mediation path analysis, results indicated that early childhood trauma was significantly linked with impulsivity, alcohol use severity, and sexual victimization in later life. A partial mediation through impulsivity and alcohol use severity was observed. Alexithymia did not produce mediation effects. These findings align with previous research examining how early childhood trauma influences the occurrence of sexual victimization in later life and provides further recommendations for helping professionals as they attempt to stifle the sexual victimization rates among female college students.
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Lyvers M, Truncali J, Stapleton P, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, reward sensitivity and excessive exercise in non-binge-eaters versus severe binge eaters: Implications for primary and secondary exercise dependence. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-14. [PMID: 35967495 PMCID: PMC9363868 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03511-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A distinction has been made between primary and secondary exercise dependence, with the latter defined as excessive exercise secondary to disordered eating and weight concerns. Based on theoretical considerations from research on the roles of trait factors in addictions, the present study used validated scales to assess alexithymia, sensitivity to reward and punishment, emotion regulation and interoception in relation to exercise dependence symptoms in Australian male and female non-binge eaters (n = 228) and severe binge eaters (n = 126) aged 18-30 yr. In both groups, exercise dependence symptoms were significantly positively associated with reward sensitivity and interoceptive awareness, with the latter two variables predicting exercise dependence symptoms in hierarchical regression models; punishment sensitivity was significantly negatively related to such symptoms. Alexithymia was significantly associated with exercise dependence symptoms only in non-binge eaters; in severe binge eaters, alexithymia explained 0% of unique variance. Male sex was associated with more exercise dependence symptoms in severe binge eaters only. Participants in the severe binge group scored significantly higher on measures of exercise dependence, alexithymia, risky alcohol use, and sensitivity to reward and punishment, and significantly lower on emotion regulation, compared to those in the non-binge group. Hierarchical regression models explained 25% of variance in exercise dependence symptoms in non-binge-eaters and 43% in severe binge eaters. Findings are discussed in terms of the distinction between primary and secondary exercise dependence, the role of alexithymia, study limitations including data collection during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia, and suggestions for future research.
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25
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Lyvers M, Kelahroodi M, Udodzik E, Stapleton P, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia and binge eating: Maladaptive emotion regulation strategy or deficient interoception? Appetite 2022; 175:106073. [PMID: 35568089 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Alexithymia has been linked to various excessive behaviors as a likely risk factor, including binge eating. Such relationships are often attributed to deficient emotional self-regulation in alexithymia, ostensibly leading to the use of maladaptive, externalized behaviors as strategies for coping with distress. An alternative view is that alexithymia reflects a fundamental deficit of interoceptive awareness that, in the case of binge eating, would suggest that internal satiety cues are poorly recognized, promoting overconsumption. The present study assessed the relationship between alexithymia and binge eating in the context of these competing hypotheses. A large online sample of young adults (n = 532) completed validated measures of alexithymia, emotion regulation, interoception, binge eating, emotional eating motivation, and sensitivity to reward and punishment. Correlations were as expected except for interoception, which showed minimal association with alexithymia or binge eating. In a hierarchical regression controlling for age, gender, education level and student status as covariates, binge eating was predicted by emotional eating motivation, emotion regulation (a negative predictor), alexithymia, and reward sensitivity, with the final model explaining 53% of variance in binge eating. Bootstrapped path analyses controlling for all other variables indicated that the relationship between alexithymia and binge eating was mediated by deficient emotion regulation but not deficient interoception, and that the relationships of both alexithymia and emotion regulation with binge eating were mediated by emotional eating motivation. Results are consistent with the notion that the association of alexithymia with binge eating reflects deficient emotion regulation in alexithymia, which can lead to adoption of maladaptive, externalized behaviors such as binge eating for coping with distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia.
| | | | - Emily Udodzik
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia
| | - Peta Stapleton
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia
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Ersöğütçü F, Kargin M. The relationship between self-esteem and alexithymia in individuals with substance use disorders. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2022.2098840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Filiz Ersöğütçü
- Faculty of Health Science Nursing Department, Firat University, Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Maral Kargin
- Faculty of Health Science Nursing Department, Cyprus Science University, Kyrenia, Cyprus
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Faye DA, Tadke R, Gawande S, Bhave HS, Kirpekar VC, Chatterjee A, Nathani Y, Singh D. Comparison of cognition and alexithymia in patients of schizophrenia with and without comorbid alcohol use: A cross-sectional exploratory study. Ind Psychiatry J 2022; 31:267-275. [PMID: 36419712 PMCID: PMC9678171 DOI: 10.4103/ipj.ipj_155_21] [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: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive impairment and alexithymia are commonly associated with schizophrenia and alcohol use disorder independently. Both can lead to poor prognosis and recovery. In patients with dual diagnosis, this association can be more prevalent and severe. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 75 participants were grouped into two (35 each): Group A, a Schizophrenia group and Group B with comorbid alcohol use. Sociodemographic factors, clinical profile, cognitive functions, and alexithymia were compared between the two groups using semi-structured pro forma, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Scale, Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) (subcategorized into three subscales (1) "Difficulty describing feelings" (DDF), (2) "Difficulty identifying feeling" (DIF), and (3) "Externally-Oriented Thinking" and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square tests and t-tests as applicable. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 33.61 (standard deviation [SD]-8.11), mean duration of schizophrenia was 70.8 months (SD-47.5) and mean duration of alcohol consumption was 9.10 years (SD-7.7). MoCA score was significantly lower (mean-21.80, SD-2.98) and TAS total score was significantly higher in Group B (Mean-67.31, SD-8.10). DDF (Mean-19.28, SD-4.02) and DIF scores (Mean-22.86, SD-4.66) were significantly higher in alcohol group compared to nonalcohol group. Furthermore, MoCA score was significantly impaired and TAS total, DDF and DIF scores were significantly higher in participants with AUDIT score >8 (P < 0.05). Lower score on MoCA correlated with the higher score of alexithymia. CONCLUSION Cognitive dysfunction and alexithymia were significantly more in patients of schizophrenia with comorbid alcohol use and positively correlated with the severity of alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Abhijeet Faye
- Department of Psychiatry, NKP Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rahul Tadke
- Department of Psychiatry, NKP Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sushil Gawande
- Department of Psychiatry, NKP Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - H Sudhir Bhave
- Department of Psychiatry, NKP Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vivek Chintaman Kirpekar
- Department of Psychiatry, NKP Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Anirban Chatterjee
- Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Yashika Nathani
- Department of Psychiatry, NKP Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Deepika Singh
- Department of Psychiatry, NKP Salve Institute of Medical Sciences and Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
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28
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Tang WC, Lin MP, Wu JYW, Lee YT, You J. Mediating role of depression in the association between alexithymia and nonsuicidal self-injury in a representative sample of adolescents in Taiwan. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:43. [PMID: 35705987 PMCID: PMC9202208 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00477-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nock's (2009) integrated theoretical model suggests that specific intrapersonal vulnerability factors caused by distal risk factors contribute to the development of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). Alexithymia and depression have been found to predict NSSI. Based on Nock's model, alexithymia plays a distal risk factor role to increase the risk of depression-an intrapersonal vulnerability factor-and further increase the risk of NSSI. However, small or unrepresentative samples in past studies limit the generalizability of the results. This study examined the roles of depression and alexithymia in predicting NSSI, as well as the mediating effect of depression in the relation between alexithymia and NSSI in a large representative sample of adolescents in Taiwan. METHODS Using a cross-sectional study design, a large representative sample of 2,170 senior high school students in Taiwan was assessed by self-report measures of alexithymia, depression, and NSSI. Mediation analyses were performed to examine whether the relation between alexithymia and NSSI was mediated by depression. The questionnaires were administered in classrooms. RESULTS Results showed that alexithymia positively predicted NSSI (β = 0.23, p < .001) and depression can also positively predict NSSI (β = 0.41, p < .001). Additionally, the association between alexithymia and NSSI was fully mediated by depression. CONCLUSIONS This study data provided evidence for the mediating role of depression between alexithymia and NSSI, which can be explained by Nock's (2009) integrated theoretical model. The implications of the findings for future research and intervention were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ching Tang
- grid.412090.e0000 0001 2158 7670Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, No.162, Sec. 1, Heping E. Rd., Da-an District, 106 Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Min-Pei Lin
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, No.162, Sec. 1, Heping E. Rd., Da-an District, 106, Taipei City, Taiwan.
| | - Jo Yung-Wei Wu
- Good-Day Psychology Clinic, 5F., No. 167, Xialin Rd., South District, 702 Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Ting Lee
- grid.412120.40000 0004 0639 002XDepartment of Counseling and Guidance, National University of Tainan, No.33, Sec. 2, Shu- Lin St, 700 Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jianing You
- grid.263785.d0000 0004 0368 7397Center for Studies of Psychological Application, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences (South China Normal University), & School of Psychology, Ministry of Education, South China Normal University, 510631 Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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29
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Brown S, Fite PJ, Bortolato M. The mediating role of impulsivity in the associations between child maltreatment types and past month substance use. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2022; 128:105591. [PMID: 35306342 PMCID: PMC9119917 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Child maltreatment has emerged as an important risk factor for substance use. However, despite evidence consistently demonstrating that substance use peaks during emerging adulthood, less is known about the specificity of maltreatment effects on substance use during this critical developmental period. Further, the factors that might play a role in these associations are not well understood. OBJECTIVE The current study examined the associations between child maltreatment types (i.e., physical abuse, physical neglect, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and emotional neglect) and past month marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco use among emerging adults, and tested whether impulsivity accounted for these associations. METHODS Participants were 500 emerging adults ranging in age between 18 and 25 years old (M = 18.96, SD = 1.22, 49.6% male) recruited from a large, public university in the Midwest United States. RESULTS Tests of indirect effects suggested that impulsivity accounted for associations between emotional abuse and past month marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco use. CONCLUSIONS Current findings provide support for impulsivity as a mechanism linking childhood emotional abuse to substance use among emerging adults, highlighting the need for targeted screening and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaquanna Brown
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA; Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, 2009 Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA.
| | - Paula J Fite
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, USA; Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, 2009 Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Marco Bortolato
- Consortium for Translational Research on Aggression and Drug Abuse (ConTRADA), University of Kansas, 2009 Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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30
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Emery NN, Walters KJ, Njeim L, Barr M, Gelman D, Eddie D. Emotion differentiation in early recovery from alcohol use disorder: Associations with in-the-moment affect and 3-month drinking outcomes. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2022; 46:1294-1305. [PMID: 35614525 PMCID: PMC9357131 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Background Early recovery from alcohol use disorder (AUD) is commonly associated with high levels of negative affect, stress, and emotional vulnerability, which confer significant relapse risk. Emotion differentiation—the ability to distinguish between discrete emotions—has been shown to predict relapse after treatment for a drug use disorder, but this relationship has not been explored in individuals recovering from AUD. Methods The current study used thrice daily random and up to thrice daily self‐initiated ecological momentary assessment surveys (N = 42, observations = 915) to examine whether 1) moments of high affective arousal are characterized by momentary differences in emotion differentiation among individuals in the first year of a current AUD recovery attempt, and 2) individuals’ average emotion differentiation would predict subsequent alcohol use measured by the timeline follow‐back over a 3‐month follow‐up period. Results Multilevel models showed that moments (Level 1) of higher‐than‐average negative affect (p < 0.001) and/or stress (p = 0.033) were characterized by less negative emotion differentiation, while moments of higher‐than‐average positive affect were characterized by greater positive emotion differentiation (p < 0.001). At the between‐person level (Level 2), participants with higher stress overall had lower negative emotion differentiation (p = 0.009). Linear regression showed that average negative, but not positive, emotion differentiation was inversely associated with percent drinking days over the subsequent 3‐month follow‐up period (p = 0.042). Neither form of average emotion differentiation was associated with drinking quantity. Conclusions We found that for individuals in early AUD recovery, affective states are associated with acute shifts in the capacity for emotion differentiation. Further, we found that average negative emotion differentiation prospectively predicts subsequent alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah N Emery
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Kyle J Walters
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, South Dakota, USA
| | - Lili Njeim
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maya Barr
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniella Gelman
- Emma Pendleton Bradley Hospital, Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Riverside, Rhode Island, USA
| | - David Eddie
- Recovery Research Institute, Center for Addiction Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Lyvers M, Salviani A, Costan S, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, narcissism and social anxiety in relation to social media and internet addiction symptoms. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 57:606-612. [PMID: 35262189 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
There has been considerable interest in trait correlates of excessive or problematic use of the internet, known as internet addiction. However, the concept of internet addiction has been criticised as too broad. Specific forms of excessive internet use, for example, social media, may have different trait correlates compared to internet use in general. The present study compared levels of internet and social media addiction symptoms in relation to three traits previously linked to one or the other form of excessive behaviour: alexithymia, narcissism and social anxiety. There were 217 young adult social media- and internet-using participants aged 18-35 years recruited from two university campuses in southeast Queensland, Australia. They completed an online questionnaire battery that included a demographics questionnaire and widely used, validated measures of narcissism, alexithymia and social anxiety. Hierarchical regressions indicated that after controlling for demographic variables, internet addiction symptoms were predicted by social anxiety, narcissism and alexithymia, whereas social media addiction symptoms were predicted only by social anxiety and narcissism. Results suggest that the association of alexithymia with internet addiction symptoms does not encompass excessive use of social media, and support the contention that the concept of internet addiction may be too broad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, Australia
| | | | - Stephanie Costan
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, Australia
| | - Fred Arne Thorberg
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, Australia
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32
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Lyvers M, Ryan N, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, attachment security and negative mood. AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGIST 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/00050067.2022.2045173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Natasha Ryan
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Fred Arne Thorberg
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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33
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Lyvers M, Ryan N, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, negative moods, and fears of positive emotions. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02555-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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34
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Ghogare A, Patil P, Vankar G. A case series of study of childhood psychological trauma and alexithymia among persons with alcohol dependence syndrome attending inpatient de-addiction facility from central rural India. ANNALS OF INDIAN PSYCHIATRY 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/aip.aip_37_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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35
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Linn BK, Zhao J, Bradizza CM, Lucke JF, Ruszczyk MU, Stasiewicz PR. Alexithymia disrupts emotion regulation processes and is associated with greater negative affect and alcohol problems. J Clin Psychol 2021; 77:2915-2928. [PMID: 34787929 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alexithymia is common among people who abuse alcohol, yet the mechanisms by which alexithymia exerts its influence remain unclear. This analysis tested a model whereby the three subscales of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale exert an indirect effect on alcohol problems through difficulties with emotion regulation and psychological distress. METHOD Men and women (n = 141) seeking alcohol use disorder (AUD) treatment completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, the Difficulties with Emotion Regulation Scale, the Brief Symptom Inventory, the Short Inventory of Problems, and the Alcohol Dependence Scale. RESULTS The Difficulty Identifying Feelings subscale of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale was positively associated with alcohol problems through emotion dysregulation and psychological distress. The other two subscales, Difficulty Describing Feelings and Externally oriented Thinking, were not associated with any other variables. CONCLUSION People with alexithymia may consume alcohol to help regulate undifferentiated states of emotional arousal. Given the prevalence of alexithymia among people who abuse alcohol, treatment supplements that enhance the identification of emotions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Braden K Linn
- Clinical and Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Junru Zhao
- School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Clara M Bradizza
- School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Joseph F Lucke
- Department of Psychiatry, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | | | - Paul R Stasiewicz
- School of Social Work, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
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Brewer R, Murphy J, Bird G. Atypical interoception as a common risk factor for psychopathology: A review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 130:470-508. [PMID: 34358578 PMCID: PMC8522807 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The inadequacy of a categorial approach to mental health diagnosis is now well-recognised, with many authors, diagnostic manuals and funding bodies advocating a dimensional, trans-diagnostic approach to mental health research. Variance in interoception, the ability to perceive one's internal bodily state, is reported across diagnostic boundaries, and is associated with atypical functioning across symptom categories. Drawing on behavioural and neuroscientific evidence, we outline current research on the contribution of interoception to numerous cognitive and affective abilities (in both typical and clinical populations), and describe the interoceptive atypicalities seen in a range of psychiatric conditions. We discuss the role that interoception may play in the development and maintenance of psychopathology, as well as the ways in which interoception may differ across clinical presentations. A number of important areas for further research on the role of interoception in psychopathology are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Brewer
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer Murphy
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, United Kingdom.
| | - Geoffrey Bird
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
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37
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Lyvers M, Sweetnam T, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, rash impulsiveness, and reward sensitivity in relation to symptoms of exercise dependence in physically active young adults. AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00049530.2021.1981747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Taylor Sweetnam
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
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38
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Lyvers M, Senturk C, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia, impulsivity and negative mood in relation to internet addiction symptoms in female university students. AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00049530.2021.1942985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Cagla Senturk
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Fred Arne Thorberg
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Saint Lucia, Australia
- School of Psychology and Counseling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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Hawkins LG, Mullet N, Tuliao AP, Gudenrath T, Holyoak D, Landoy BVN, Klanecky AK, McChargue DE. Alexithymia, Prior Trauma, Alcohol Use, and Sexual Aggression Perpetration: A Cross-Cultural Comparison of a Moderated Mediation Model. SEXUAL ABUSE : A JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2021; 33:455-474. [PMID: 32248750 DOI: 10.1177/1079063220912451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we examined the relationships between prior trauma, alexithymia, and sexual aggression perpetration among 610 U.S. college students and 107 college students from the Philippines utilizing a cross-sectional retrospective design. We tested a moderated mediation model with alexithymia as the mediator between prior trauma and sexual aggression perpetration, and alcohol use as a moderator of the alexithymia-sexual aggression link. Moreover, given that cultural norms may influence these relationships, we also examined the structural invariance of the proposed moderated mediation model. Path analyses and multiple group analysis were used to examine the moderated mediation model, and examine model differences between samples. We did not find evidence for alexithymia as a mediator, but there was a significant interaction between alcohol use severity and alexithymia on sexual aggression perpetration across both samples. Alexithymia is a key variable in understanding the alcohol use-sexual aggression perpetration relationship. Clinical implications and recommendations for future research are also discussed.
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40
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How is intolerance of uncertainty related to negative affect in individuals with substance use disorders? The role of the inability to control behaviors when experiencing emotional distress. Addict Behav 2021; 115:106785. [PMID: 33360277 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106785] [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: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We used structural equation modeling to assess the role of impaired emotional awareness and clarity (Impaired Awareness/Clarity) and inability to control behaviors when experiencing emotional distress (Inability to Control Behaviors) as an account for the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and negative affect (NA) in individuals with Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and healthy controls (HCs) used for comparison. One-hundred and thirty-one individuals with SUDs (42.75% female; mean age = 39.74 ± 11.83) and 131 sex-matched HCs (mean age = 40.02 ± 12.34) entered the study. Participants completed questionnaires assessing the constructs of interest. Single-group analyses aimed to identify a baseline model for each group and test the hypothesized direct/indirect relations' overall significance. Then, a multigroup analysis tested the invariance of model parameters between SUD and HC groups. The model in which IU had both direct and indirect relationships with NA through Impaired Awareness/Clarity and Inability to Control Behaviors was a good fit to the data. The indirect relationship of IU with NA through Inability to Control Behaviors was significant and moderate-sized. The relationship involving Impaired Awareness/Clarity and Inability to Control Behaviors was small-sized and significant in single group analysis only. The multigroup analysis supported the association of IU with NA through Inability to Control Behaviors in the SUD group. Overall, our study highlights the crucial role of the Inability to Control Behaviors in SUDs and suggests that its association with IU might fuel NA in this population.
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41
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Kaufman EA, Graves JL, Wallace ML, Lazarus SA, Stepp SD, Pedersen SL. Associations between physiological and self-reported indices of emotion dysregulation across varying levels of alcohol use among individuals with and without borderline personality disorder. Biol Psychol 2021; 160:108044. [PMID: 33571567 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2021.108044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Emotional functioning can be assessed across multiple levels of analysis (e.g., subjective, physiological). The degree of concordance/discordance across such indices may mark psychopathology risk. The current study assessed associations between physiological and subjective indices of emotional responding among drinkers, with (n = 39) and without (n = 42) borderline personality disorder. Subjective changes in affect were assessed by calculating difference scores on the Positive and Negative Affective Schedule, administered before and following a lab-based stress task. Physiological dysregulation was indexed by respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) reactivity. We created Discordance Index scores to examine the direction and magnitude of misalignment. More frequent alcohol use was associated with greater discordance between RSA and positive affect changes (β = -0.07, p-value = 0.009). Findings were confirmed with a response surface modeling analysis. Results highlight that individuals with greater discordance between indices of emotional responding may be at elevated risk for frequent alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin A Kaufman
- University of Western Ontario, Department of Psychology, 361 Windermere Road, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Jessica L Graves
- University of Western Ontario, Department of Psychology, 361 Windermere Road, London, ON, N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Meredith L Wallace
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 3811 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Sophie A Lazarus
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, 1670 Upham Drive, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| | - Stephanie D Stepp
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 3811 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Sarah L Pedersen
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, 3811 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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Is alexithymia related to retention and relapses in patients with substance use disorders?: A one year follow-up study. Addict Behav 2021; 113:106681. [PMID: 33038681 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Alexithymia is related to a higher severity of substance use disorders (SUD); however, few longitudinal studies have been performed on how alexithymia impacts treatment outcomes. This study aims to evaluate alexithymia as a factor that could influence retention and the time of the first relapse in a one-year follow-up in an outpatient treatment center for SUD. In total, 126 SUD outpatients (74.60% males; M age = 43.71, SD = 14.61 years) were evaluated at baseline with an AdHoc questionnaire for sociodemographic variables, the European Addiction Severity Index (EuropASI), the Semi-structured Clinical Interview for Axis I and Axis II Disorders of the DSM-IV, and the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20). The prevalence of alexithymia was 41.3% and the mean score of TAS-20, was 57.27 (SD = 12.84). At baseline, alexithymia was related to a lower education level, cannabis use disorder, the psychological item of EuropASI, and mood spectrum disorders. In the Kaplan-Meier analysis, SUD patients with alexithymia were in treatment for less time and presented earlier relapses than non-alexithymic patients. In the Cox regression, alexithymia was only associated with less time in treatment. Therefore, alexithymia may have an important role in the outcomes of SUD treatment, and hence, therapeutic approaches for SUD that cover emotional impairments associated with alexithymia should be investigated and developed.
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Kaur K, Mearns J. Negative mood regulation expectancies moderate the effect of childhood maltreatment on compulsive buying. J Clin Psychol 2021; 77:1116-1130. [PMID: 33420747 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Two studies investigated childhood maltreatment, alexithymia-the inability to identify one's mood-and negative mood regulation expectancies (NMRE)-confidence that one can alleviate one's negative moods-as predictors of compulsive buying (CB). METHOD Participants were recruited from internet CB forums and undergraduate psychology classes. Online, they completed questionnaires and a behavioral task that assessed impulsive spending. RESULTS In Study 1 (N = 646), analyses indicated that NMRE, alexithymia, and childhood maltreatment were significant independent predictors of CB. For Study 2, a subset of participants from the Study 1 pool (N = 295) who met the criterion for clinical levels of CB were selected, based on their self-report. Analyses revealed that NMRE buffered the effect of maltreatment: among participants with high NMRE-higher levels of maltreatment were associated with minimal increases in CB and impulsive spending behavior. CONCLUSION Being confident that one can control one's unpleasant moods was a protective factor from the maladaptive consequences of childhood maltreatment. Increasing NMRE early in psychotherapy for CB may result in clients' using more adaptive coping strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Kaur
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Jack Mearns
- Department of Psychology, California State University, Fullerton, California, USA
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44
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Palma-Álvarez RF, Ros-Cucurull E, Daigre C, Perea-Ortueta M, Serrano-Pérez P, Martínez-Luna N, Salas-Martínez A, Robles-Martínez M, Ramos-Quiroga JA, Roncero C, Grau-López L. Alexithymia in Patients With Substance Use Disorders and Its Relationship With Psychiatric Comorbidities and Health-Related Quality of Life. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:659063. [PMID: 33897505 PMCID: PMC8062860 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.659063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Alexithymia frequently correlates with several psychiatric disorders, including substance use disorder (SUD). However, most studies reporting the associations between alexithymia and psychiatric disorders have been performed in populations without SUD. This research, therefore, evaluates alexithymia in Spanish patients with SUD and the relationship among alexithymia, psychiatric comorbidities, psychological symptoms/traits, SUD variables, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 126 Spanish outpatients with SUD (75.4% males; mean age 43.72 ± 14.61 years), correlating their alexithymia levels (using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale 20 [TAS-20]) to their psychiatric comorbidities, psychological symptoms/traits, SUD variables, and HRQoL. Results: Alexithymia was significantly higher in patients who had cannabis use disorder. Higher alexithymia scores were also related to higher levels of depression, anxiety, impulsivity, and lower HRQoL. After multivariate analysis, trait anxiety, impulsivity, and the physical component summary of the HRQoL were found to be independently related to alexithymia. Conclusions: SUD patients with higher alexithymia levels have more frequently psychiatric comorbidities, present specific psychological features, and have worse HRQoL. Hence, it is important to evaluate these factors and offer more accurate psychotherapeutic approaches for this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul F Palma-Álvarez
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addiction, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Ros-Cucurull
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addiction, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Constanza Daigre
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addiction, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Perea-Ortueta
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addiction, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Serrano-Pérez
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addiction, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Anna Salas-Martínez
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Robles-Martínez
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Addictions (INAD), Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain.,Hospital del Mar Institute for Biomedical Research (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep A Ramos-Quiroga
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addiction, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Roncero
- Psychiatry Service, University of Salamanca Health Care Complex, Insitute of Biomedicine, Salamanca, Spain.,Psychiatry Unit, School of Medicine, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Lara Grau-López
- Department of Psychiatry, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.,Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addiction, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Spain
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45
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Morie KP, Potenza MN, Beitel M, Oberleitner LM, Roos CR, Yip SW, Oberleitner DE, Gaeta M, Barry DT. Alexithymia and pain experience among patients using methadone-maintenance therapy. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 218:108387. [PMID: 33168339 PMCID: PMC8103623 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alexithymia, difficulty identifying and describing one's emotions coupled with a tendency to externalize, is a potentially important yet understudied treatment target for patients with opioid use disorder. The aim of this study was to examine the role of alexithymia in pain experience among individuals with opioid use disorder. METHODS One-hundred-and-sixty-four patients receiving methadone maintenance treatment completed a battery of self-report measures related to alexithymia, drug use, and pain experiences. Comparisons were performed on the full sample between those with or without clinically significant levels of alexithymia. For a subsample reporting pain (n = 138), intercorrelations were performed to test whether drug use history, pain catastrophizing, pain acceptance, and alexithymia were related to pain severity and pain interference. Regression analyses were performed to test for serial mediation of pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance on the relationship between alexithymia and pain interference in this subsample. RESULTS Individuals with alexithymia showed increased pain catastrophizing and interference, and intercorrelations indicated that increased alexithymia was associated with increased pain interference, more pain catastrophizing, and reduced pain acceptance. A serial regression model among a subset of patients with pain indicated that pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance mediated the effect of alexithymia on pain interference. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that alexithymia, as well as both pain catastrophizing and pain acceptance, contribute to interference associated with pain and are potentially important intervention targets among methadone-treated patients with pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen P Morie
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA; Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Mark Beitel
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Pain Treatment Services, APT Foundation, Inc, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lindsay M Oberleitner
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Psychology, Western Connecticut State University, Danbury, CT, USA
| | - Corey R Roos
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sarah W Yip
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Marina Gaeta
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Pain Treatment Services, APT Foundation, Inc, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Declan T Barry
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Pain Treatment Services, APT Foundation, Inc, New Haven, CT, USA
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46
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Ghogare A, Patil P, Vankar G. A systematic review of childhood psychological traumas and alexithymia among persons with alcohol dependence syndrome. ANNALS OF INDIAN PSYCHIATRY 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/aip.aip_54_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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47
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Herman AM, Pilcher N, Duka T. Deter the emotions: Alexithymia, impulsivity and their relationship to binge drinking. Addict Behav Rep 2020; 12:100308. [PMID: 33364316 PMCID: PMC7752728 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2020.100308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The relevance of both emotion processing and impulsivity to alcohol use and misuse is increasingly recognised, yet there is a scarcity of studies addressing their reciprocal interaction. The present study aimed to examine the role that difficulties in emotion processing and trait impulsivity play in explaining binge drinking pattern of alcohol use in student population. We looked at binge drinking, as it is a risk factor to later alcohol abuse and is a common alcohol drinking habit among students. Alexithymia (from Greek as "deter/repel emotions"), a difficulty in identifying and describing feelings in self and others is increasingly recognised as a feature of alcohol misuse. Methods One-hundred and seventy-four student alcohol drinkers were assessed for their drinking habits (Alcohol Use Questionnaire), as well as for alexithymia (Toronto Alexithymia Scale) and impulsivity trait (Barratt Impulsiveness Scale); facial emotional expression judgements were also tested. Results A direct relationships between, both, alexithymia and impulsivity, and binge drinking was found. When combined, trait impulsivity partially mediated the relationship between alexithymia and binge drinking. Facial emotional expression judgements also showed a relationship with binge drinking. Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of both emotion processing and impulsivity in understanding binge drinking and indicate potential routes for prevention and intervention techniques, especially towards those who may be at risk of later alcohol abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra M Herman
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, UK.,School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
| | | | - Theodora Duka
- School of Psychology, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK.,Sussex Addiction Research and Intervention Centre, University of Sussex, Falmer, UK
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48
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Budak FK, Ersöğütçü F, Yilmaz E. The effect of mindfulness on negative automatic thoughts in cannabis users: a cross-sectional study. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2020.1856208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Funda Kavak Budak
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Filiz Ersöğütçü
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Fırat University, Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Emine Yilmaz
- Department of Psychiatric Nursing, Bingöl University, Bingöl, Turkey
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49
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Kopera M, Zaorska J, Trucco EM, Suszek H, Kobyliński P, Zucker RA, Nowakowska M, Wojnar M, Jakubczyk A. Childhood trauma, alexithymia, and mental states recognition among individuals with alcohol use disorder and healthy controls. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 217:108301. [PMID: 32979738 PMCID: PMC7736369 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2020.108301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although prior work indicates a link between childhood trauma, alexithymia, and mental states recognition, empirical support is limited. Moreover, findings based on adult samples are mixed. Previous studies demonstrate that childhood trauma might either enhance, preserve, or reduce mental states recognition in selected at-risk populations. The current study investigates whether alcohol use disorder (AUD) status moderates the association between childhood trauma, alexithymia, and mental states recognition in a treatment-seeking AUD sample and non-AUD healthy adults. METHODS Data comes from 255 individuals participating in an ongoing project that compares emotional and behavioral functioning of patients treated in an inpatient setting for AUD and a comparison sample of 172 healthy controls (HCs). Mental states recognition was measured using a computerized version of the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Task (RMET). The presence of childhood trauma was assessed with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Alexithymia was measured with the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20). Demographic information, as well as alcohol drinking and psychopathological symptoms were assessed. A moderated mediation model was estimated whereby alexithymia was included as a mediator in the association between childhood trauma and RMET performance, with AUD diagnosis status moderating the link between alexithymia and RMET performance. RESULTS Findings provide support for moderated mediation. Childhood emotional trauma impacted negative mental states recognition performance via difficulty describing feelings, but only among HCs (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the impact that AUD status has on the association between early life emotional trauma and difficulty describing feelings on individual differences in mental states recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Kopera
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, 27 Nowowiejska St., 00-665, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Zaorska
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, 27 Nowowiejska St., 00-665, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elisa M. Trucco
- Department of Psychology, Center for Children and Families, Florida International University, Academic Health Center 1, 11200 Southwest 8th Street, Miami, FL, 33199, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Addiction Center, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Hubert Suszek
- Department of Psychology, University of Warsaw, 5/7 Stawki St., 00-183, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Kobyliński
- National Information Processing Institute, Laboratory of Interactive Technologies, 188 b al Niepodległości, 00-608, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Robert A. Zucker
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, 530 Church St, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Addiction Center, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Malwina Nowakowska
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, 27 Nowowiejska St., 00-665, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Wojnar
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, 27 Nowowiejska St., 00-665, Warsaw, Poland,Department of Psychiatry, Addiction Center, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Andrzej Jakubczyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Warsaw, 27 Nowowiejska St., 00-665, Warsaw, Poland.
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50
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Lyvers M, Narayanan SS, Thorberg FA. Disordered social media use and risky drinking in young adults: Differential associations with addiction‐linked traits. AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ajpy.12236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Australia,
| | | | - Fred A. Thorberg
- National Centre for Dual Diagnosis, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brummundal, Norway,
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