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Lin S, Cheng G, Sun S, Feng M, Bai X. Emotional Regulation of Displaced Aggression in Provocative Situations among Junior High School Students. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:500. [PMID: 38920832 PMCID: PMC11200697 DOI: 10.3390/bs14060500] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the emotion regulation effect of displaced aggression among junior high school students after provocation through two experiments. Experiment 1 examined the effect of displaced aggression on the negative and positive emotions of junior high school students after low- and high-level provocation. The results showed that only after high-level provocation did individuals experience a significant decrease in negative emotions and a significant increase in positive emotions after engaging in displaced aggression. Experiment 2 explored the effect of aggressive intensity on negative and positive emotions after provocation. The results indicated that, in terms of changes in positive emotions, low-intensity aggression showed a significant increase in positive emotions after aggression. Regarding changes in negative emotions, both low-intensity aggression and high-intensity aggression resulted in significant decreases in negative emotions after aggression. In conclusion, this research showed that, in highly provocative situations, displaced aggression among junior school students, especially low-intensity displaced aggression, could increase positive emotions and decrease negative emotions. These results support the emotional regulation theory of aggression. However, considering that displaced aggression violates social norms, efforts should be made to avoid individuals regulating their emotions through displaced aggression, instead guiding them toward using more appropriate methods for emotional regulation in future research and practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Lin
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China; (S.L.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (M.F.)
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Gonglu Cheng
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China; (S.L.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (M.F.)
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Shinan Sun
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China; (S.L.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (M.F.)
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Mengmeng Feng
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China; (S.L.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (M.F.)
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China
| | - Xuejun Bai
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China; (S.L.); (G.C.); (S.S.); (M.F.)
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387, China
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Quansah JE, Gagnon J. Toward an Integrative Approach to the Study of Positive-Affect-Related Aggression. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2023:17456916231200421. [PMID: 37938111 DOI: 10.1177/17456916231200421] [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: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Research on aggression usually aims at gaining a better understanding of its more negative aspects, such as the role and effects of aversive social interactions, hostile cognitions, or negative affect. However, there are conditions under which an act of aggression can elicit a positive affective response, even among the most nonviolent of individuals. One might experience the "sweetness of revenge" on reacting aggressively to a betrayal or social rejection. A soldier may feel elated after "shooting to kill" in the name of the flag. There are many factors that contribute to the appeal of aggression, but despite growing interest in researching these phenomena, there is still no unitary framework that organizes existing theories and empirical findings and can be applied to a model to generate testable hypotheses. This article presents a narrative review of the literature on positive-affect-related forms of aggression and explores the role of aggression in eliciting positive affect across diverse social situations and relational contexts. An integrative model that unifies existing theories and findings is proposed, with the objective to inspire and inform future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Emma Quansah
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Laboratoire d'Électrophysiologie en Neuroscience Sociale, University of Montreal
| | - Jean Gagnon
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Rehabilitation of Greater Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Laboratoire d'Électrophysiologie en Neuroscience Sociale, University of Montreal
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Understanding the relations between narcissistic rivalry and reactive aggression: The roles of status-seeking motivation, hostile attribution bias and mindfulness. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2023.112154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
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Sarkar A, Wrangham RW. Evolutionary and neuroendocrine foundations of human aggression. Trends Cogn Sci 2023; 27:468-493. [PMID: 37003880 DOI: 10.1016/j.tics.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Humans present a behavioural paradox: they are peaceful in many circumstances, but they are also violent and kill conspecifics at high rates. We describe a social evolutionary theory to resolve this paradox. The theory interprets human aggression as a combination of low propensities for reactive aggression and coercive behaviour and high propensities for some forms of proactive aggression (especially coalitionary proactive aggression). These tendencies are associated with the evolution of groupishness, self-domestication, and social norms. This human aggression profile is expected to demand substantial plasticity in the evolved biological mechanisms responsible for aggression. We discuss the contributions of various social signalling molecules (testosterone, cortisol, oxytocin, vasopressin, serotonin, and dopamine) as the neuroendocrine foundation conferring such plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amar Sarkar
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Richard W Wrangham
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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Harati H, Mohsenipouya H, Mousavinasab N, Sangani A, Alam MK, Mamun MA. The relationship between spirituality and aggression in the workplace during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study among Iranian nurses. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0279247. [PMID: 36542619 PMCID: PMC9770337 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aggression towards nurses in the workplace arises from various reasons, reportedly increasing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Where aggression can be maintained by spiritual well-being, as it is said that spirituality is a coping skill and psychological well-being maintainer-but there is little known, especially during the pandemic. Thus, this study explored the effect of spirituality on aggression among the nurses working in the COVID-19 wards. METHODS This cross-sectional data from 200 nurses involved in the COVID-19 patient treatment were collected using a random sampling method from four hospitals in East Mazandaran province, Iran. Responses were collected based on socio-demographics, Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire, and Paloutzian & Ellison Spiritual Well-being Scale. T-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multiple linear regression were applied for data analysis. RESULTS The mean age of nurses was 31.49±6.88 (range: 21-48) years. Nurses working in the COVID-19 wards have a mean score of spiritual health of 67.21±12.84 (out of 120), whereas 51.77±10.96 (out of 116) was for aggression. The results showed a significant negative weak correlation between aggression and spiritual health (r = -.285, p<0.01). As per regression analysis, spiritual health [β = -.264], age [β = -.374], and working experience [β = 4.156] were the significant factors associated with aggression (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS It is evident that nurses who consider spirituality in their life actions are in a state of reduced negative emotions, such as aggression. Thus, policymakers and managers of the healthcare settings are suggested to promote spirituality among the nurses through spiritual care education, providing the ground for promoting spirituality and a positive attitude towards it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Harati
- Faculty of Nursing, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hossein Mohsenipouya
- Health Education and Promotion, Faculty of Nursing, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- * E-mail: (HM); (MAM)
| | - Nouraddin Mousavinasab
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Health, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Alireza Sangani
- Department of Cultural Psychopathology, Farabi, Psychological Sciences Research Center, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Md. Khorshed Alam
- Department of Information Management, The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammed A. Mamun
- CHINTA Research Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- * E-mail: (HM); (MAM)
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Schmitt S, Robjant K, Elbert T, Carleial S, Hoeffler A, Chibashimba A, Hinkel H, Koebach A. Breaking the cycles of violence with narrative exposure: Development and feasibility of NETfacts, a community-based intervention for populations living under continuous threat. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275421. [PMID: 36534649 PMCID: PMC9762574 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interpersonal violence damages mental health and frequently leads to aggressive defence strategies. If survivors are subsequently blamed for the events, both consequences worsen. Stigma flourishes, especially when survivors are silenced so that details of the trauma remain unknown. Breaking the secrecy both at the individual and collective level is key to enable the healing and reconciliation of individuals and communities living under continuous threat. METHOD The NETfacts health system is a stepped care model with three components: (1) Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET), an evidence-based trauma therapy that includes survivor testimony (2) NET for Forensic Offender Rehabilitation (FORNET) acknowledges that perpetrators are frequently also victims and assists in reducing aggression and the attraction to violence, and (3) a community intervention disseminating and discussing Facts derived from NET treatment (NETfacts) to challenge the collective avoidance of atrocities and other traumatic material. The intervention was piloted in a community with 497 adult residents in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The willingness of clients to consent to sharing their anonymised testimonies (with a focus on sexual violence survivors and ex-combatants) was investigated, together with other components of feasibility including security and clinical safety, extent of support of respected local authorities and participation rates. As secondary outcomes, clinical and social measures were assessed before and post NETfacts among 200 village residents of whom 160 self-enrolled and 40 had not participated in any form of treatment. RESULTS Implementation was feasible with 248 clients from a partner project giving consent to use their testimonies and high support of respected local authorities and participation rates (56% of residents self-enrolled in NETfacts). Immediate beneficial effects were shown for posttraumatic stress and rejection of rape myths among NETfacts participants who experienced multiple traumatic events in their own past. Attitudes towards ex-combatants improved and the perceived lack of social acknowledgement after trauma increased independent from participation. No significant change was observed for depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION NETfacts is a feasible and promising approach to challenge the culture of secrecy surrounding trauma, suppression and social exclusion. Long term effectiveness requires further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Schmitt
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Non-Governmental Organization Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Katy Robjant
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Non-Governmental Organization Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Non-Governmental Organization Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Samuel Carleial
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anke Hoeffler
- Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Amani Chibashimba
- Non-Governmental Organization Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Anke Koebach
- Department of Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Non-Governmental Organization Vivo International e.V., Konstanz, Germany
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Dumke L, Haer R, Zawadka A, Salmen C, Hecker T. The role of violence perpetration in driving externalizing problems and offending behavior among youth from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. J Trauma Stress 2022; 35:1696-1708. [PMID: 36047455 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Youth in conflict-affected regions are exposed to a multitude of traumatic events. These individuals often witness violence; experience it firsthand; and, in some cases, become perpetrators. The interplay of events shapes systematic trauma histories that may have unique implications for youths' mental health. In a cross-sectional study conducted in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), we interviewed 295 war-affected youth (63.4% boys, Mage = 16.70 years), including former child soldiers (n = 171), regarding their traumatic experiences and mental health. Using latent class analysis, we identified four common trauma history classes categorized by (a) low exposure, (b) medium exposure, (c) high exposure, and (d) high exposure/perpetration. Across the sample, gradual increases in trauma load corresponded with increased vulnerability to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, ηp 2 = .36, and internalizing problems, ηp 2 = .12; however, only youth from the high exposure/perpetration class differed significantly from other youth in their levels of externalizing problems, ηp 2 = .13, and offending behaviors, ηp 2 = .17. A longer time in armed groups was related to a higher risk of both experiencing and perpetrating violence. The results indicate that it is not child soldier status, per se, but the perpetration of violence that reinforces a cycle of violence in conflict-affected societies by contributing to increased externalizing problems and offending behaviors. In conflict regions, integrated approaches are needed to address both trauma and externalizing problems of war-affected youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Dumke
- Department of Psychology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Roos Haer
- Institute of Political Science, University of Leiden, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Annika Zawadka
- Department of Psychology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | | | - Tobias Hecker
- Department of Psychology, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
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Robjant K, Schmitt S, Carleial S, Elbert T, Abreu L, Chibashimba A, Hinkel H, Hoeffler A, Rukundo Zeller AC, Rockstroh B, Koebach A. NETfacts: An integrated intervention at the individual and collective level to treat communities affected by organized violence. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2204698119. [PMID: 36306329 PMCID: PMC9636916 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2204698119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
War and crises affect mental health, social attitudes, and cultural norms, which can exacerbate the state of long-term insecurity. With decades of armed conflict, the Democratic Republic of Congo is one example, and violence has become normalized in civilian settings. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of the NETfacts health system, an integrated model of evidence-based individual trauma treatment (Narrative Exposure Therapy [NET]) and a trauma-informed community-based intervention (NETfacts). Alongside changes in mental health outcomes (posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, social disapproval, and shame) we also investigated change in attitudes, including rape myth acceptance, stigmatization of survivors of sexual violence, and skepticism about the reintegration of former combatants. To test whether the additional community intervention is superior to individual NET alone, we implemented a randomized controlled design with six villages and interviewed a sample of 1,066 community members. Our results demonstrate that the NETfacts health system in comparison with NET alone more effectively reduced rape myth acceptance and with it ongoing victimization and perpetration. Community members of the NETfacts group also presented with less stigmatizing attitudes against survivors of sexual violence. Skepticism about the reintegration of former combatants declined in both groups. NETfacts appears to have increased motivation to engage in individual treatment. Synergizing the healing effects of individual and collective trauma exposure, the NETfacts health system appears to be an effective and scalable approach to correct degrading or ignominious norms and restore functioning and mental health in postconflict communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Robjant
- Nongovernment organization vivo international e.V., 78430 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Sabine Schmitt
- Nongovernment organization vivo international e.V., 78430 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Samuel Carleial
- Department of Psychology, Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Nongovernment organization vivo international e.V., 78430 Konstanz, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Liliana Abreu
- Department of Politics and Administration, Development, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Amani Chibashimba
- Nongovernment organization vivo international e.V., 78430 Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Anke Hoeffler
- Department of Politics and Administration, Development, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anja C. Rukundo Zeller
- Nongovernment organization vivo international e.V., 78430 Konstanz, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Brigitte Rockstroh
- Nongovernment organization vivo international e.V., 78430 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anke Koebach
- Nongovernment organization vivo international e.V., 78430 Konstanz, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Clinical and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
- Department of Politics and Administration, Development, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
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Cen Y, Su S, Dong Y, Xia LX. Longitudinal effect of self-control on reactive-proactive aggression: Mediating roles of hostile rumination and moral disengagement. Aggress Behav 2022; 48:583-594. [PMID: 35853143 DOI: 10.1002/ab.22046] [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: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Self-control is a well-known inhibitor of aggression, but the effect of self-control on different kinds of aggression (such as reactive-proactive aggression) and the underlying mediating mechanisms of these effects are unclear. We developed a mediation model to address these issues. A three-wave study was conducted with a sample of 1203 qualifying Chinese undergraduates to test the model. The results showed that self-control at Wave 1 negatively predicted reactive aggression at Wave 3 through mediating effects of hostile rumination and moral disengagement at Wave 2 at the same time, while self-control at Wave 1 negatively predicted proactive aggression at Wave 3 only through moral disengagement at Wave 2. Furthermore, the longitudinal relationship between hostile rumination and moral disengagement is mutual. The current findings support our hypotheses regarding the mediation model of self-control inhibiting reactive-proactive aggression and suggest that moral disengagement should be a common and basic variable to predict most kinds of aggression; further, hostile rumination only has a particular effect on reactive aggression. The present study used motivation theory to explain its mediation model, which develops aggressive theory regarding varied common influencing factors and underlying mediating mechanisms of reactive and proactive aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yushan Cen
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Shu Su
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Dong
- Department of Psychology, Renmin University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Ling-Xiang Xia
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, Chongqing, China
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Against Aggression? Revisiting an Overlooked Contender for Moral Bioenhancement. NEUROETHICS-NETH 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12152-022-09501-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIn moral bioenhancement (MBE) discourse, aggression has been identified as one potential target of biomedical intervention. Early suggestions that aggression might be modulated to improve moral outcomes were met with strong opposition from those claiming it is impossible to modulate aggression without harming traits of distinct social and agential value. If we are to preclude (or endorse) particular paths to moral enhancement then we ought to establish sound reasons for doing so. However, in paying due consideration to contemporary aggression studies we will see that current efforts to rule out aggression as one such path are untenable. I argue that the rejection of aggression-reduction as a viable target of MBE is a mistake, and that this arises from a rudimentary view of aggression which is incompatible with current scientific consensus. Drawing on contemporary psychological views I argue that it is necessary to distinguish subtypes of aggression, and that once these distinctions are recognised there is a potential space for MBE to target the biological correlates of specific kinds of aggressive behaviour. Ultimately, I suggest that aggression remains a legitimate target of inquiry, and that mitigating deleterious manifestations may yet offer one prospect for MBE.
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Sangeetha J, Mohan S, Hariharasudan A, Nawaz N. Strategic analysis of intimate partner violence (IPV) and cycle of violence in the autobiographical text - When I Hit You. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09734. [PMID: 35761928 PMCID: PMC9233205 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a globally recognized societal problem that requires intensive research to raise public awareness. Aim Accordingly, the purpose of the study is to analyze IPV at the physical, psychological, and social aspects of abuse. Method The methodology of the study correlates IPV to the personal experiences of notable Indian writer, Meena Kandasamy, according to the autobiographical account of her abusive married life in the award-winning novel When I Hit You, which depicts the horrible treatment of women by their perpetrators within a closed sphere. To substantiate, the selected autobiographical work is compared with Lenore Edna Walker’s prominent Cycle of Violence theory, which best describes why women become victims and also the abuser’s tactics in controlling the women in a violent relationship. Results The study’s findings suggest that IPV, a serious global problem, requires government intervention and severe legal enforcement to protect women’s lives from the clutches of the abuser.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Sangeetha
- Research Scholar, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Anand Nagar, Krishnankoil, 626126, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S. Mohan
- Faculty of English, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Anand Nagar, Krishnankoil, 626126, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - A. Hariharasudan
- Faculty of English, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Anand Nagar, Krishnankoil, 626126, Tamil Nadu, India
- Corresponding author.
| | - Nishad Nawaz
- Department of Business Management, College of Business Administration, Kingdom University, Riffa, 40434, Bahrain
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Romero-Martínez Á, Sarrate-Costa C, Moya-Albiol L. Reactive vs proactive aggression: A differential psychobiological profile? Conclusions derived from a systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 136:104626. [PMID: 35331815 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Scholars have established subcategories of aggressive behavior in order to better understand this construct. Specifically, a classification based on motivational underpinnings makes it possible to differentiate between reactive and proactive aggression. Whereas reactive aggression is characterized by emotional lability, which means it is prone to impulsive reactions after provocation, proactive aggression is driven by low emotionality and high levels of instrumentality to obtain benefits. Some authors have conceived these two types as having a dichotomous nature, but others argue against this conceptualization, considering a complementary model more suitable. Hence, neuroscientific research might help to clarify discussions about their nature because biological markers do not present the same biases as psychological instruments. AIM The main objective of this study was to carry out a systematic review of studies that assess underlying biological markers (e.g., genes, brain, psychophysiological, and hormonal) of reactive and proactive aggression. METHODS To carry out this review, we followed PRISMA quality criteria for reviews, using five digital databases complemented by hand-searching. RESULTS The reading of 3993 abstracts led to the final inclusion of 157 papers that met all the inclusion criteria. The studies included allow us to conclude that heritability accounted for approximately 45% of the explained variance in both types of aggression, with 60% shared by both, especially, for overt and physical expression forms, and 10% specific to each type. Regarding allelic risk factors, whereas low functioning variants affecting serotonin transport and monoaminoxidase increased the risk of reactive aggression, high functioning variants were associated with proactive aggression. Furthermore, brain analysis revealed an overlap between the two types of aggression and alterations in the volume of the amygdala and temporal cortex. Moreover, high activation of the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) facilitated proneness to both types of aggression equally. Whereas stimulation of the right ventrolateral (VLPFC) and dorsolateral (DLPFC) reduced proneness to aggression, inhibition of the left DLPFC increased it. Finally, psychophysiological and hormonal correlates in general did not clearly differentiate between the two types because they were equally related to each type (e.g., low basal cortisol and vagal variability in response to acute stress) CONCLUSIONS: This study reinforces the complementary model of both types of aggression instead of a dichotomous model. Additionally, this review also offers background about several treatments (i.e., pharmacological, non-invasive brain techniques…) to reduce aggression proneness.
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Joseph JJ, Mela M, Pei J. Aggressive behaviour and violence in children and adolescents with FASD: A synthesizing review. Clin Psychol Rev 2022; 94:102155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2022.102155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Womersley JS, Xulu KR, Sommer J, Hinsberger M, Kidd M, Elbert T, Weierstall R, Kaminer D, Malan-Müller S, Seedat S, M J Hemmings S. Associations between telomere length and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder and appetitive aggression in trauma-exposed men. Neurosci Lett 2021; 769:136388. [PMID: 34890718 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to community violence is common in South Africa and negatively impacts on biopsychosocial health. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterised by symptoms of intrusion, avoidance, hypervigilance and negative alterations in cognition and mood, and can develop consequent to trauma exposure. Individuals who repeatedly experience and witness violence may also come to view it as appealing and rewarding. This appetitive aggression (AA) increases the likelihood of perpetrating violence. Telomeres are repetitive nucleotide sequences that protect the ends of chromosomes. Telomere length (TL) attrition is a stress-sensitive marker of biological aging that has been associated with a range of psychiatric disorders. This study investigated the cross-sectional relationship between TL and symptoms of PTSD and AA in South African men residing in areas with high community violence. PTSD and AA symptom severity was assessed in 290 men using the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale - Interview (PSS-I) and Appetitive Aggression Scale (AAS), respectively. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed on DNA extracted from saliva and used to calculate relative TL (rTL). Regression models were used to assess the relationships between rTL and PSS-I and AAS scores. Network analyses using EBIC glasso methods were performed using rTL and items from each of the AAS and PSS-I measures. Both PSS-I (p = 0.023) and AAS (p = 0.016) scores were positively associated with rTL. Network analyses indicated that rTL was weakly related to two PSS-I and five AAS items but performed poorly on indicators of centrality and was not strongly associated with measure items either directly or indirectly. The positive association between rTL and measures of AA and PTSD may be due to the induction of protective homeostatic mechanisms, which reduce TL attrition, following early life trauma exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline S Womersley
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council / Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Khethelo R Xulu
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Jessica Sommer
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.
| | | | - Martin Kidd
- Centre for Statistical Consultation, Department of Statistics & Actuarial Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Roland Weierstall
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany; Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany; Oberberg Clinics, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Debbie Kaminer
- Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Stefanie Malan-Müller
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council / Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Sian M J Hemmings
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council / Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
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15
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Lee HJ, Park BM. Feelings of Entrapment during the COVID-19 Pandemic Based on ACE Star Model: A Concept Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:1305. [PMID: 34682983 PMCID: PMC8544561 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9101305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the concept of the "feelings of entrapment" during the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic using a systematic review. We included literature based on content and outcomes related to feelings of entrapment, such as antecedents, attributes, and consequences. The exclusion criteria were studies that did not have inappropriate subject, content, conceptual definition, and degree thesis was excluded. Walker and Avant's process of concept analysis was used in this systematic literature review. The attributes of the concept of feelings of entrapment during the COVID-19 pandemic were found to be feelings of: (1) being out of control, (2) no escape, (3) being trapped, (4) being robbed, and (5) hopelessness. The causes for these were identified as (1) the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) lockdown system, (3) restricted situation, (4) uncertain future, (5) economic hardship, and (6) poor coping abilities. Consequences of the concept were: (1) increased suicide, (2) decreased mental health, and (3) decreased well-being. In situations such as COVID-19, it is important need to know what feelings of entrapment's antecedents and attributes are to prevent suicide and enhance mental health and well-being. Based on the results of this study, counseling services, policies, and systems for relieving feelings of entrapment in the COVID-19 situation are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jung Lee
- Department of Nursing, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul ST. Mary’s Hospital, Seoul 06591, Korea;
| | - Bom-Mi Park
- Department of Nursing, Konkuk University, Chungju-si 27478, Korea
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16
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Abreu L, Koebach A, Díaz O, Carleial S, Hoeffler A, Stojetz W, Freudenreich H, Justino P, Brück T. Life With Corona: Increased Gender Differences in Aggression and Depression Symptoms Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic Burden in Germany. Front Psychol 2021; 12:689396. [PMID: 34385959 PMCID: PMC8353131 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.689396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Gender differences (GD) in mental health have come under renewed scrutiny during the COVID-19 pandemic. While rapidly emerging evidence indicates a deterioration of mental health in general, it remains unknown whether the pandemic will have an impact on GD in mental health. To this end, we investigate the association of the pandemic and its countermeasures affecting everyday life, labor, and households with changes in GD in aggression, anxiety, depression, and the somatic symptom burden. We analyze cross-sectional data from 10,979 individuals who live in Germany and who responded to the online survey "Life with Corona" between October 1, 2020 and February 28, 2021. We estimate interaction effects from generalized linear models. The analyses reveal no pre-existing GD in aggression but exposure to COVID-19 and COVID-19 countermeasures is associated with sharper increases in aggression in men than in women. GD in anxiety decreased among participants with children in the household (with men becoming more anxious). We also observe pre-existing and increasing GD with regards to the severity of depression, with women presenting a larger increase in symptoms during the hard lockdown or with increasing stringency. In contrast to anxiety, GD in depression increased among participants who lived without children (women > men), but decreased for individuals who lived with children; here, men converged to the levels of depression presented by women. Finally, GD in somatic symptoms decreased during the hard lockdown (but not with higher stringency), with men showing a sharper increase in symptoms, especially when they lived with children or alone. Taken together, the findings indicate an increase in GD in mental health as the pandemic unfolded in Germany, with rising female vulnerability to depression and increasing male aggression. The combination of these two trends further suggests a worrying mental health situation for singles and families. Our results have important policy implications for the German health system and public health policy. This public health challenge requires addressing the rising burden of pandemic-related mental health challenges and the distribution of this burden between women and men, within families and for individuals who live alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Abreu
- Development Research Group, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anke Koebach
- Development Research Group, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- Clinical Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Oscar Díaz
- ISDC – International Security and Development Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Samuel Carleial
- Clinical Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anke Hoeffler
- Development Research Group, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Stojetz
- ISDC – International Security and Development Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanna Freudenreich
- Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Großbeeren, Germany
| | - Patricia Justino
- World Institute for Development Economic Research, United Nations University, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tilman Brück
- ISDC – International Security and Development Center, Berlin, Germany
- Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Großbeeren, Germany
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Chatham Maritime, United Kingdom
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17
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Schmitt S, Robjant K, Koebach A. When reintegration fails: Stigmatization drives the ongoing violence of ex-combatants in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Brain Behav 2021; 11:e02156. [PMID: 33942549 PMCID: PMC8213920 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Reintegration of ex-combatants involves multiple challenges. In addition to the trauma-related psychological sequelae, social obstacles in the community can aggravate psychopathological aggressive tendencies and lead to the continuation of violence in civilian life. However, the association between others' negative attitudes and ex-combatants' ongoing perpetration of violence remains largely unexplored. Between September 2018 and May 2019, we assessed a representative community sample of adults in Eastern DR Congo (N = 1,058) and measured trauma exposure, perpetration, mental health problems (PTSD, depression, and appetitive aggression), perceived stigma (shame, perceived lack of social acknowledgement), experienced stigma, and skepticism toward reintegration with ex-combatants. Male ex-combatants (12%, n = 129) had more past trauma and violence perpetration than other community members and a greater number of recent conflicts (including both victimization and perpetration) within the community and with strangers/organized violence. They reported more experienced stigma, more severe PTSD symptoms but were less skeptical about reintegration. Ex-combatants' ongoing violence was predicted by an interplay of the community's skepticism toward reintegration and ex-combatants' perceived and recently experienced stigma (often attributed to the armed group history) and mental health problems, in addition to lifetime traumatization. These findings promote the need for combined interventions that address individual mental health problems including aggression and collective discriminatory attitudes and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Schmitt
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Non‐Governmental Organization Vivo InternationalKonstanzGermany
| | - Katy Robjant
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Non‐Governmental Organization Vivo InternationalKonstanzGermany
| | - Anke Koebach
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of KonstanzKonstanzGermany
- Non‐Governmental Organization Vivo InternationalKonstanzGermany
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18
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Kizilhan JI, Steger F. The socialpsychology of Islamist terror – interdisciplinary perspectives on violence and ISIS totalitarian structures. GLOBAL SECURITY: HEALTH, SCIENCE AND POLICY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/23779497.2021.1927796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Ilhan Kizilhan
- Institute for Psychotherapy and Psychotraumatology, University of Duhok, Duhok, Iraq
- Institute for Transculutral Health Science, State University Baden-Württemberg, Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
| | - Florian Steger
- Institute for Transculutral Health Science, State University Baden-Württemberg, Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany
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19
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Santamaría-García H, Baez S, Aponte-Canencio DM, Pasciarello GO, Donnelly-Kehoe PA, Maggiotti G, Matallana D, Hesse E, Neely A, Zapata JG, Chiong W, Levy J, Decety J, Ibáñez A. Uncovering social-contextual and individual mental health factors associated with violence via computational inference. PATTERNS (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 2:100176. [PMID: 33659906 PMCID: PMC7892360 DOI: 10.1016/j.patter.2020.100176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The identification of human violence determinants has sparked multiple questions from different academic fields. Innovative methodological assessments of the weight and interaction of multiple determinants are still required. Here, we examine multiple features potentially associated with confessed acts of violence in ex-members of illegal armed groups in Colombia (N = 26,349) through deep learning and feature-derived machine learning. We assessed 162 social-contextual and individual mental health potential predictors of historical data regarding consequentialist, appetitive, retaliative, and reactive domains of violence. Deep learning yields high accuracy using the full set of determinants. Progressive feature elimination revealed that contextual factors were more important than individual factors. Combined social network adversities, membership identification, and normalization of violence were among the more accurate social-contextual factors. To a lesser extent the best individual factors were personality traits (borderline, paranoid, and antisocial) and psychiatric symptoms. The results provide a population-based computational classification regarding historical assessments of violence in vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernando Santamaría-García
- Doctorado de Neurociencias, Departamentos de Psiquiatría y Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
- Centro de Memoria y Cognición Intellectus, Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Diego Mauricio Aponte-Canencio
- Universidad Externado de Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
- Agencia para la Reincorporación y la Normalización (ARN), Bogotá, Colombia
- Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University, Finland
| | - Guido Orlando Pasciarello
- Multimedia Signal Processing Group–Neuroimage Division, French-Argentine International Center for Information and Systems Sciences (CIFASIS)–National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Rosario, Argentina
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging and Neuroscience (LANEN), INECO Foundation Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Patricio Andrés Donnelly-Kehoe
- Multimedia Signal Processing Group–Neuroimage Division, French-Argentine International Center for Information and Systems Sciences (CIFASIS)–National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Rosario, Argentina
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging and Neuroscience (LANEN), INECO Foundation Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | | | - Diana Matallana
- Doctorado de Neurociencias, Departamentos de Psiquiatría y Fisiología, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Eugenia Hesse
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San Andrés, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Alejandra Neely
- Latin American Institute for Brain Health (BrainLat), Center for Social and Cognitive Neuroscience (CSCN), Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | | | - Winston Chiong
- UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan Levy
- Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya (IDC), Israel
- Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University, Finland
| | | | - Agustín Ibáñez
- Cognitive Neuroscience Center (CNC), Universidad de San Andrés, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET), Argentina
- Latin American Institute for Brain Health (BrainLat), Center for Social and Cognitive Neuroscience (CSCN), Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Santiago de Chile, Chile
- Universidad Autónoma del Caribe, Barranquilla, Colombia
- Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI), University of California San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
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20
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David KB, Aborode AT, Olaoye DQ, Enang NV, Oriyomi AK, Yunusa I. Increased Risk of Death Triggered by Domestic Violence, Hunger, Suicide, Exhausted Health System during COVID-19 Pandemic: Why, How and Solutions. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2021; 6:648395. [PMID: 34169112 PMCID: PMC8219049 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2021.648395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections, just like many other public health emergencies, is a well-established global health burden that has resulted in several changes in routines and lifestyles of people globally. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has directly or indirectly involved in the loss of lives of more than 3.24 million as of 6th May, 2021. The increasing threats posed by this pandemic were subsided by the swift and drastic measures put in place by different countries. As other causes of death before the emergence of COVID-19 still exist, the pandemic has further worsened their impact. The increased risks of COVID-19 deaths are not only due to the health burden it possesses, but also due to some other factors. These factors include domestic violence that becomes rampant, especially during lockdowns; hunger due to low economic development, unemployment, and loss of jobs; suicide due to depression; exhausted health system due to high level of COVID-19 cases and inability to contain it. As we move from the response phase into recovery, the pandemic's direct and broader impacts on individuals, households, and communities will influence the capacity to recover. An understanding of these impacts is therefore required to develop priorities to support recovery. This paper identifies other causes of death amidst the pandemic, such as domestic violence, hunger, suicide, and exhausted health system, and how to minimize their effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Bitrus David
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Heslington, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
- *Correspondence: Kenneth Bitrus David, Abdullahi Tunde Aborode,
| | - Abdullahi Tunde Aborode
- Department of Chemistry, University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Nigeria
- *Correspondence: Kenneth Bitrus David, Abdullahi Tunde Aborode,
| | | | | | - Aboaba Kazeem Oriyomi
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Ismaeel Yunusa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Outcomes Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Columbia, SC, United States
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21
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Xulu KR, Womersley JS, Sommer J, Hinsberger M, Elbert T, Weierstall R, Kaminer D, Malan-Müller S, Seedat S, Hemmings SMJ. DNA methylation and psychotherapy response in trauma-exposed men with appetitive aggression. Psychiatry Res 2021; 295:113608. [PMID: 33290938 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to violence can lead to appetitive aggression (AA), the positive feeling and fascination associated with violence, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), characterised by hyperarousal, reexperience and feelings of ongoing threat. Psychotherapeutic interventions may act via DNA methylation, an environmentally sensitive epigenetic mechanism that can influence gene expression. We investigated epigenetic signatures of psychotherapy for PTSD and AA symptoms in South African men with chronic trauma exposure. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: narrative exposure therapy for forensic offender rehabilitation (FORNET), cognitive behavioural therapy or waiting list control (n = 9-10/group). Participants provided saliva and completed the Appetitive Aggression Scale and PTSD Symptom Severity Index at baseline, 8-month and 16-month follow-up. The relationship, over time, between methylation in 22 gene promoter region sites, symptom scores, and treatment was assessed using linear mixed models. Compared to baseline, PTSD and AA symptom severity were significantly reduced at 8 and 16 months, respectively, in the FORNET group. Increased methylation of genes implicated in dopaminergic neurotransmission (NR4A2) and synaptic plasticity (AUTS2) was associated with reduced PTSD symptom severity in participants receiving FORNET. Analyses across participants revealed a proportional relationship between AA and methylation of TFAM, a gene involved in mitochondrial biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khethelo R Xulu
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Jacqueline S Womersley
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council / Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Jessica Sommer
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.
| | | | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Roland Weierstall
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany; Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Debbie Kaminer
- Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Stefanie Malan-Müller
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council / Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Sian M J Hemmings
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council / Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa.
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22
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Koebach A, Robjant K. NETfacts: a community intervention integrating trauma treatment at the individual and collective level. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1992962. [PMID: 34868485 PMCID: PMC8635579 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1992962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this article is to present a research-based rationale for NETfacts, a newly developed integrated approach at the individual and the community level in order to mitigate the mental and social sequelae of war and crisis. To this end, we provide a selective review of relevant literature from neuroscience, clinical psychology, and social science. In psychotraumatology, individual avoidance describes the effort to prevent exposure to trauma reminders. Among patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), this becomes pathological, exacerbating distress and preventing recovery. This silence resonates in traumatized communities and consequently taboo builds - ultimately to the advantage of the perpetrators. The resulting collective avoidance leads to a fragmented collective memory about trauma or human rights violations in the community so that a shared account of the group's history becomes impossible. The deficient collective memory promotes ambiguous truths and anxiety, enabling a reactive construction of safety based on selective information that leads to an endorsement of extreme opinions. Ongoing insecurity, violence and crime lead to increasing anxiety and fear. The self-interest of the perpetrators and the abnormal behaviour of survivors leads to an escalation in stigma and social exclusion resulting in the prevention or limitation of community exposure to traumatic material, i.e., to reduce tension and protect the construction of safety. The exposure to and recognition of traumatic facts subject to avoidance is key to a coherent collective memory and sense of communion, and to prevent further cycles of violence. The NETfacts health system combines individual and community-based intervention to treat the structure of memory at both the individual and collective levels. Abbreviations: NET: narrative exposure therapy; FORNET: narrative exposure therapy for forensic offender rehabilitation; NETfacts: facts derived from narrative exposure therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Koebach
- University of Konstanz, Department of Psychology; and Department of Politics and Public Administation, Konstanz, Germany.,NGO vivo international, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Katy Robjant
- University of Konstanz, Department of Psychology; and Department of Politics and Public Administation, Konstanz, Germany
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23
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Siehl S, Robjant K, Crombach A. Systematic review and meta-analyses of the long-term efficacy of narrative exposure therapy for adults, children and perpetrators. Psychother Res 2020; 31:695-710. [PMID: 33205713 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2020.1847345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a short-term trauma-focused intervention originally developed for treating survivors of war and torture. The neurobiological theoretical foundations of NET would suggest that the approach should have long term beneficial effects. We tested this assumption and also provided an extensive overview of all NET studies for adults, for children (KIDNET), and for perpetrators (Forensic Offender Rehabilitation NET; FORNET).Method: Following a systematic literature review, we conducted meta-analyses with all studies that had control conditions, and with all Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). We assessed between-groups short- (< 6 months) and long-term (≥ 6 months) effect sizes for symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.Results: In a total of 56 studies from 30 countries comparing 1370 participants treated with NET to 1055 controls, we found large between group effect sizes regarding the reduction of PTSD symptoms in favor of NET. Analyses of RCTs with active controls yielded small to medium effect sizes in the short-term, and large effect sizes in the long-term.Conclusions: NET, KIDNET, and FORNET yield beneficial and sustainable treatment results for severely traumatized individuals living in adverse circumstances. Studies in highly developed health care systems comparing NET with other evidence-based trauma-focused interventions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Siehl
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Graduate School of Economic and Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.,Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Katy Robjant
- Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Psychology at the University of Konstanz, Experimental Clinical Psychology with a Teaching Focus on Clinical Psychology of Childhood and Adolescence.,Non-Governmental Organization Psychologues sans Frontières, Burundi, Bujumbura, Burundi.,Department of Clinical Psychology, Université Lumière de Bujumbura, Bujumbura, Burundi
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24
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Zeller AC, Conrad D, Schneider A, Behnke A, Pfeiffer A, Blum GF, Wilker S, Elbert T, Kolassa I. A combination of combat experience, early abduction, and severe traumatization fuels appetitive aggression and violence among abductees of rebel war in Northern Uganda. Aggress Behav 2020; 46:465-475. [PMID: 32643160 DOI: 10.1002/ab.21914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Individuals who perpetrate violence may likely perceive violence as appealing and infliction of violence to derive pleasure is termed as appetitive aggression. Individuals who were abducted as children into an armed group often experience a higher number of traumatic event types, that is traumatic load and are usually socialized in a violence-endorsing environment. This study aims to investigate the interaction between age at initial abduction with that of traumatic load, and their influence on appetitive aggression along with perpetration of violent acts by former members of an armed rebel group of both sexes. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among a target group of formerly abducted rebel-war survivors (including participants with and without combat experience) from Northern Uganda. Participants included 596 women and 570 men with N = 1,166 (Mage = 32.58, SDage = 9.76, range: 18-80 years). We conducted robust linear regression models to investigate the influence of age at initial abduction, traumatic load, combat experience, and biological sex on appetitive aggression as well as their perpetrated violent acts. Our study shows, appetitive aggression and the number of perpetrated violent acts were specifically increased in individuals who were abducted young, experienced several traumatic events in their lifetime, and with previous combat experience. For perpetrated violence men showed increased levels whereas for appetitive aggression the association was independent of biological sex. Therefore, early abducted individuals with a higher traumatic load, who have combat experience, need to be given special intervention to prevent any further violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja C. Zeller
- Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology University of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
| | - Daniela Conrad
- Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology University of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | - Anna Schneider
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | - Alexander Behnke
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | | | - Gerrit F. Blum
- Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | - Sarah Wilker
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, Department of Psychology University of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
| | - Iris‐Tatjana Kolassa
- vivo international e.V. Konstanz Germany
- Department of Clinical and Biological Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education Ulm University Ulm Germany
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Robjant K, Schmitt S, Chibashimba A, Carleial S, Elbert T, Koebach A. Trauma, Aggression, and Post Conflict Perpetration of Community Violence in Female Former Child Soldiers-A Study in Eastern DR Congo. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:533357. [PMID: 33132929 PMCID: PMC7574907 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.533357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Former combatants are exposed to multiple traumatic stressors during conflict situations and usually participate in perpetration of violence. Ongoing perpetration of violence in post conflict areas, linked to mental health problems and appetitive aggression, destabilises peace keeping efforts. The aim of this study is to investigate lifetime exposure to violence and the relationship between this exposure and mental health and current violent behaviour in a sample of female former child soldiers with a history of perpetration of violence in Eastern DR Congo. METHODS 98 female former child soldiers who had been abducted and forcibly recruited during the M23 insurgency (2012-2014) were assessed for lifetime exposure to trauma including perpetration of violence, clinical outcomes (PTSD and appetitive aggression), and current violent behaviour. RESULTS Female former child soldiers had been exposed to extremely high levels of trauma including perpetration of violence and presented with high levels of mental health problems. Linear regression models showed that current violent behaviour was predicted by both PTSD and appetitive aggression. CONCLUSIONS Trauma exposure predicts ongoing perpetration of violence post conflict via the resulting mental health problems. The findings imply that if PTSD and appetitive aggression symptoms are successfully treated, ongoing violent behaviour in the community post conflict will also decrease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Robjant
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Sabine Schmitt
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Amani Chibashimba
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Samuel Carleial
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anke Koebach
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
- vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
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Nandi C, Crombach A, Elbert T, Bambonye M, Pryss R, Schobel J, Weierstall‐Pust R. The cycle of violence as a function of PTSD and appetitive aggression: A longitudinal study with Burundian soldiers. Aggress Behav 2020; 46:391-399. [PMID: 32363661 DOI: 10.1002/ab.21895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
During deployment, soldiers face situations in which they are not only exposed to violence but also have to perpetrate it themselves. This study investigates the role of soldiers' levels of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and appetitive aggression, that is, a lust for violence, for their engaging in violence during deployment. Furthermore, factors during deployment influencing the level of PTSD symptoms and appetitive aggression after deployment were examined for a better comprehension of the maintenance of violence. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 468 Burundian soldiers before and after a 1-year deployment to Somalia. To predict violent acts during deployment (perideployment) as well as appetitive aggression and PTSD symptom severity after deployment (postdeployment), structural equation modeling was utilized. Results showed that the number of violent acts perideployment was predicted by the level of appetitive aggression and by the severity of PTSD hyperarousal symptoms predeployment. In addition to its association with the predeployment level, appetitive aggression postdeployment was predicted by violent acts and trauma exposure perideployment as well as positively associated with unit support. PTSD symptom severity postdeployment was predicted by the severity of PTSD avoidance symptoms predeployment and trauma exposure perideployment, and negatively associated with unit support. This prospective study reveals the importance of appetitive aggression and PTSD hyperarousal symptoms for the engagement in violent acts during deployment, while simultaneously demonstrating how these phenomena may develop in mutually reinforcing cycles in a war setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Nandi
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
- Department of PsychologyUniversity Lumière Bujumbura Burundi
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Konstanz Konstanz Germany
- Department of PsychologyUniversity Lumière Bujumbura Burundi
| | | | - Rüdiger Pryss
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University of Würzburg Würzburg Germany
| | - Johannes Schobel
- Institute of Databases and Information Systems, University of Ulm Ulm Germany
| | - Roland Weierstall‐Pust
- Dr. Amelung Private Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics Königstein im Taunus Germany
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Berceanu AI, Matu S, Macavei BI. Emotional and Cognitive Responses to Theatrical Representations of Aggressive Behavior. Front Psychol 2020; 11:1785. [PMID: 32922328 PMCID: PMC7456896 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Representation of human conflict is central to theater performance. In our study, we have used self-reported measures of emotional experience and a word recall task, in order to assess the effects of theatrical representations of violence. Forty participants were randomly assigned to the role of performer or spectator, in either a realistic representation of a script or in a version that recollected the same actions of the script in a series of intertwined monologs. The script represented an aggressive interaction between two work colleagues. Our results show both statistically significant differences in the levels of depression and positive emotions reported after enacting the script, as well as differences in the performance on the word recall task containing aggressive related and non-related stimuli. The results point to stronger effects for performing theatrical representations of violent actions, as compared to recollecting or watching such actions. The fact that actors experienced higher positive emotions is in line with the two-pedal model of aggressive behavior. This model suggests that negative emotions toward aggressive behavior might change to positive emotions due to the repetition in performing violent behaviors, as a key for the transition from reactive aggression to appetitive aggression. Other implications for the study of aggression in theatrical representations are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru I. Berceanu
- Laboratory for Cognitive Development and Applied Psychology through Immersive Experiences, CINETic Centre, National University of Theatre and Film “Ion Luca Caragiale”, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Silviu Matu
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeş-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Bianca I. Macavei
- Department of Psychology, Babeş-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Mazza M, Marano G, Lai C, Janiri L, Sani G. Danger in danger: Interpersonal violence during COVID-19 quarantine. Psychiatry Res 2020; 289:113046. [PMID: 32387794 PMCID: PMC7190494 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intimate partner violence (IPV) is defined as physical or sexual violence, emotional abuse and stalking. It is typically experienced by women but can also be experienced by men. During quarantine due to the COVID-19, home risks to become a very dangerous place for victims of domestic violence. METHOD Very recent studies focusing on abusive situations during COVID emergence were identified in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Embase. RESULTS During the COVID-19 outbreak people have encountered an invisible and dark enemy and an experience of impotence. Due to the feelings of frustration and agitation, aggression arises with possible transgenerational transmission of trauma and violence. CONCLUSIONS Especially during quarantine and COVID emergence around the world there is a need of programs aimed to prevent acts of domestic violence and to achieve accurate assessment of multiple domains of abuse (psychological, physical, sexual) provided by trained multidisciplinary staffs (including psychiatrists, psychologists, social and legal services).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Mazza
- Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology, Department of Geriatrics, Neuroscience and Orthopedics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy,Corresponding author. Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology Department of Geriatrics, Neuroscience and Orthopedics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Marano
- Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology, Department of Geriatrics, Neuroscience and Orthopedics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Lai
- Dynamic and Clinical Psychology Department, Sapienza University of Rome
| | - Luigi Janiri
- Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology, Department of Geriatrics, Neuroscience and Orthopedics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sani
- Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology, Department of Geriatrics, Neuroscience and Orthopedics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Robjant K, Koebach A, Schmitt S, Chibashimba A, Carleial S, Elbert T. The treatment of posttraumatic stress symptoms and aggression in female former child soldiers using adapted Narrative Exposure therapy – a RCT in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Behav Res Ther 2019; 123:103482. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2019.103482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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30
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Long-term effects of psychotherapy in a context of continuous community and gang violence: changes in aggressive attitude in high-risk South African adolescents. Behav Cogn Psychother 2019; 48:1-13. [PMID: 31148534 DOI: 10.1017/s1352465819000365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-traumatic stress but also aggressive attitudes and behaviour can be found in adolescents living in a context of ongoing community and gang violence in the low-income urban areas of Cape Town, South Africa. AIMS We investigated the long-term effects (15-20 months after therapy) of (a) Narrative Exposure Therapy for Forensic Offender Rehabilitation (FORNET) and (b) the cognitive behavioural intervention 'Thinking for a Change' (CBT) on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and aggression compared with a waiting list. METHOD Fifty-four young males participated in the treatment trial, of which 17 completed the FORNET intervention, 11 the CBT intervention, and 26 were on a waiting list. The primary outcome was the change score for the Appetitive Aggression Scale; secondary outcomes were the PTSD Symptom Scale-Interview change scores, and the number of perpetrated violent event types. RESULTS The reduction in scores for PTSD that had been observed in FORNET completers at the first follow-up were still significant at the second long-term follow-up (Cohen's d = 0.86). In this treatment arm (FORNET), the scores for appetitive aggression were also significantly reduced (Cohen's d = 1.00). There were no significant changes observed for CBT or for the waiting list. CONCLUSIONS The study indicates that FORNET can successfully reduce post-traumatic stress as well as the attraction to violence even for individuals living under conditions of continuous traumatic stress.
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Animal Models of (or for) Aggression Reward, Addiction, and Relapse: Behavior and Circuits. J Neurosci 2019; 39:3996-4008. [PMID: 30833504 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0151-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inappropriate and pathological aggression plays a leading role in the suffering and death of millions of people, and further places an untenable strain on the caregivers and families of those afflicted. In some cases, such as addictive drugs, aggression can be highly rewarding (appetitive) and continually pursued despite short- and long-term negative consequences. Similarly, recidivism (relapse) rates for repeat violent offenders are as high as relapse rates for drug addicts. Appetitive aggression and relapse to aggression seeking can be modeled in mice studies using conditioned place preference and self-administration procedures followed by a period of abstinence and subsequent tests for relapse to aggression preference and aggression seeking. These procedures allow for the study of the mechanisms that control the appetitive versus the consummatory (attack) phases of aggressive behavior. In this review, we first discuss the behavioral procedures developed to probe appetitive aggression in mouse models, spanning from Pavlovian to operant tasks, and we also describe the recently proposed phenomenon of "aggression addiction." Next, we discuss the pharmacological and circuit mechanisms of aggression conditioned place preference and aggression self-administration, seeking, and relapse, highlighting mechanistic congruence and divergence between appetitive and consummatory phases of aggression. We conclude by discussing clinical implications of the studies reviewed.
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32
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Baez S, Santamaría-García H, Ibáñez A. Disarming Ex-Combatants' Minds: Toward Situated Reintegration Process in Post-conflict Colombia. Front Psychol 2019; 10:73. [PMID: 30761041 PMCID: PMC6361777 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Collective violence in the context of armed conflict impacts the economy, health systems, and social stability of affected countries. This is considered a complex phenomenon with interwoven biological, psychological, social, cultural, and political factors. However, most of the research on this topic still lacks suitable established integrative approaches to assess multilevel perspectives. Social, cognitive and affective mental processes (SCAMP) are critical factors that should be considered in multilevel approaches. In this article, we critically discuss some of the classically isolated approaches used in violence research, the absence of successful interventions for ex-combatants reintegration, and the specific neglect of SCAMP in these interventions. We present the case of post-conflict Colombia as a unique opportunity to study the different roots of collective violence, and we call for a more robust and situated approach to understanding of and intervention in this multifaceted phenomenon. In addition, we suggest a two-stage approach for addressing ex-combatants’ reintegration programs, which considers the situated nature of post-conflict scenarios and the urgent need for evidence-based interventions. This approach focuses on the comprehensive scientific assessment of specific factors involved in violence exposure and the subsequent design of successful interventions. The implementation of this approach will contribute to the effective reintegration of individuals who have been exposed to extreme violence for more than 50 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Baez
- Departamento de Psicología, Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Hernando Santamaría-García
- Centro de Memoria y Cognición, Intellectus-Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia.,Physiology and Psychiatry, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Agustín Ibáñez
- Laboratory of Experimental Psychology and Neuroscience, Institute of Cognitive and Translational Neuroscience, INECO Foundation, Favaloro University, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Center for Social and Cognitive Neuroscience, School of Psychology, Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Santiago, Chile.,Universidad Autónoma del Caribe, Barranquilla, Colombia.,ARC Centre of Excellence in Cognition and its Disorders, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Cell-Type-Specific Role of ΔFosB in Nucleus Accumbens In Modulating Intermale Aggression. J Neurosci 2018; 38:5913-5924. [PMID: 29891732 PMCID: PMC6021989 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0296-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing number of studies implicate the brain's reward circuitry in aggressive behavior. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms within brain reward regions that modulate the intensity of aggression as well as motivation for it have been underexplored. Here, we investigate the cell-type-specific influence of ΔFosB, a transcription factor known to regulate a range of reward and motivated behaviors, acting in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a key reward region, in male aggression in mice. We show that ΔFosB is specifically increased in dopamine D1 receptor (Drd1)-expressing medium spiny neurons (D1-MSNs) in NAc after repeated aggressive encounters. Viral-mediated induction of ΔFosB selectively in D1-MSNs of NAc intensifies aggressive behavior without affecting the preference for the aggression-paired context in a conditioned place preference (CPP) assay. In contrast, ΔFosB induction selectively in D2-MSNs reduces the time spent exploring the aggression-paired context during CPP without affecting the intensity of aggression per se. These data strongly support a dissociable cell-type-specific role for ΔFosB in the NAc in modulating aggression and aggression reward.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Aggressive behavior is associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders and can be disruptive for affected individuals as well as their victims. Studies have shown a positive reinforcement mechanism underlying aggressive behavior that shares many common features with drug addiction. Here, we explore the cell-type-specific role of the addiction-associated transcription factor ΔFosB in the nucleus accumbens in aggression. We found that ΔFosB expression promotes aggressive behavior, effects that are dissociable from its effects on aggression reward. This finding is a significant first step in identifying therapeutic targets for the reduction of aggressive behavior across a range of neuropsychiatric illnesses.
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Hemmings SMJ, Xulu K, Sommer J, Hinsberger M, Malan-Muller S, Tromp G, Elbert T, Weierstall R, Seedat S. Appetitive and reactive aggression are differentially associated with the STin2 genetic variant in the serotonin transporter gene. Sci Rep 2018; 8:6714. [PMID: 29712944 PMCID: PMC5928100 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25066-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Appetitive aggression is a sub-category of instrumental aggression, characterised by the primary intrinsic enjoyment of aggressive activity. Aggression is heritable, and serotonergic and monoaminergic neurotransmitter systems have been found to contribute to the underlying molecular mechanisms. The aim of this study was to investigate the role that genetic variants in the serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) and monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) genes play in the aetiology of appetitive aggression in South African Xhosa males (n = 290). SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR, rs25531, and STin2 variants, as well as MAOA-uVNTR were investigated for their association with levels of appetitive aggression using Poisson regression analysis. The STin2 VNTR12 allele was found to be associated with increased levels of appetitive aggression (p = 0.003), but with decreased levels of reactive aggression (p = 7 × 10-5). This study is the first to investigate genetic underpinnings of appetitive aggression in a South African population, with preliminary evidence suggesting that SCL6A4 STin2 variants play a role in its aetiology, and may also be important in differentiating between appetitive and reactive aggression. Although the results require replication, they shed some preliminary light on the molecular dichotomy that may underlie the two forms of aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sian Megan Joanna Hemmings
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.
| | - Khethelo Xulu
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Jessica Sommer
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Stefanie Malan-Muller
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Gerard Tromp
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Roland Weierstall
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
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Vasileva M, Petermann F, Nitkowski D, Petermann U. Den transgenerationalen Kreislauf der Gewalt durchbrechen. KINDHEIT UND ENTWICKLUNG 2018. [DOI: 10.1026/0942-5403/a000249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung. Die langfristigen Folgen des transgenerationalen Kreislaufs der Gewalt belegen die Notwendigkeit für evidenzbasierte Interventionen, um aggressiv-dissoziales Verhalten von Jugendlichen mit Misshandlungs- und Gewalterfahrungen abzubauen. Es erfolgt ein Überblick über solche Therapieansätze und ihre Wirksamkeit. Es werden etablierte Programme dargestellt, deren Wirksamkeit in randomisierten Kontrollgruppenstudien überprüft wurde. Es existieren wenige manualisierte Therapierogramme, die den Abbau aggressiven Verhaltens bei Jugendlichen mit Misshandlungs- und Gewalterfahrungen evaluieren. Solche Therapierogramme bauen aggressives Verhalten bei Jugendlichen mit traumatischen Erfahrungen effektiv ab. Ihre Effektivität wurde in sehr unterschiedlichen Kontexten beurteilt, was einen Vergleich erschwert. Komponenten, die wiederholt erfolgreich angewandt wurden, waren die Aufklärung und Sensibilisierung gegenüber dem Thema „Gewalt“ und die Aufarbeitung einer Narration, die darauf abzielt, die traumatische Erfahrung in das autobiographische Gedächtnis einzuordnen und eine Habituierung zu fördern. Daraus wird geschlossen, dass eine Bearbeitung von Traumata häufig im Vorfeld notwendig ist, um aggressiv-dissoziales Verhalten zu verringern oder abzubauen. Für einen langfristigen Erfolg im Rahmen des Abbaus von aggressiv-dissozialem Verhalten sind jedoch Therapieverfahren notwendig, die sich spezifisch auf aggressiv-dissoziales Verhalten als primäres und nicht sekundäres Ziel (neben der Traumabewältigung) beziehen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mira Vasileva
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
| | - Franz Petermann
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
| | - Dennis Nitkowski
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
| | - Ulrike Petermann
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
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Abstract
Zusammenfassung. Aggressives und oppositionelles Verhalten tritt im Kindes- und Jugendalter nicht nur sehr häufig auf, sondern es besitzt auch eine sehr ungünstige Prognose. In der Regel sind begleitend zu diesen Auffälligkeiten eine Vielzahl von komorbiden Störungen beobachtbar (z. B. ADHS, Depression, Störung mit Substanzmissbrauch). Zur Entwicklung dieser Störung existieren sehr viele Befunde aus Längsschnittstudien, die verschiedene Entwicklungswege belegen konnten. Die Behandlungsmethoden dieser sehr schwer beeinflussbaren Störung konzentrieren sich auf verschiedene verhaltenstherapeutische Ansätze.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz Petermann
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
| | - Ulrike Petermann
- Zentrum für Klinische Psychologie und Rehabilitation der Universität Bremen
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37
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Schauer M, Robjant K. Commentary on Scheidell et al. (2018): En-counting adversities; the 'building blocks' of psychopathology. Addiction 2018; 113:57-58. [PMID: 29226536 DOI: 10.1111/add.14067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Schauer
- Center of Excellence for Psychotraumatology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
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38
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Affiliation(s)
- Brad J Bushman
- School of Communication and Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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Moran JK, Crombach A, Elbert T, Nandi C, Bambonyé M, Wienbruch C, Lommen U, Weierstall R. The individual contribution of DSM 5 symptom clusters of PTSD, life events, and childhood adversity to frontal oscillatory brain asymmetry in a large sample of active combatants. Biol Psychol 2017; 129:305-313. [PMID: 28958482 PMCID: PMC5678498 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2017.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been linked to deviations in lateralized frontal functional oscillatory activity. This is possibly because left and right DLPFC have differential roles in regulating both memory and stress response, which are both dysfunctional in PTSD. However, previous results are heterogeneous, and could be attributable to individual symptom clusters, traumatic or aggressive life events, early life stress, or the interaction of these factors. In a large sample of active combatants (N=401), we regressed these factors on frontal electroencephalography (EEG) asymmetry across 5 frequency bands (delta: 2-4Hz; theta: 4-8Hz; alpha: 8-12Hz; beta: 12-24Hz; gamma: 24-48Hz). Negative cognition and mood was associated with stronger relative left delta and theta band power. Traumatic life events showed stronger right alpha and beta band power. Traumatic life events in interaction with hyperarousal predicted stronger relative right left-right imbalance (theta, alpha, and beta bands), whereas childhood adversity, in interaction with negative cognition and mood, predicted stronger relative left left-right imbalance (delta, theta, alpha and beta bands). The contribution of lateralized DLPFC dysfunction to PTSD is thus dependent on the individual complexities of subsymptom clusters and life history, and future studies need to take these factors into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- James K Moran
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; Department of Psychology, University Lumière of Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; Department of Psychology, University Lumière of Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Corina Nandi
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Manassé Bambonyé
- Department of Psychology, University Lumière of Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Christian Wienbruch
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Ursula Lommen
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Roland Weierstall
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; MSH Medical School Hamburg, University of Applied Sciences and Medical University, Germany
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