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Waller R, Flum M, Paz Y, Perkins ER, Rodriguez Y, Knox A, Pelella MR, Jones C, Sun S, Denham SA, Herrington J, Parish-Morris J. Objective Linguistic Markers Associated with Callous-Unemotional Traits in Early Childhood. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2024:10.1007/s10802-024-01219-4. [PMID: 38874652 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-024-01219-4] [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] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Callous-unemotional (CU) traits are associated with interpersonal difficulties and risk for severe conduct problems (CP). The ability to communicate thoughts and feelings is critical to social success, with language a promising treatment target. However, no prior studies have examined objective linguistic correlates of childhood CU traits in early childhood, which could give insight into underlying risk mechanisms and novel target treatments. METHODS We computed lexical (positive emotion, sad, and anger words) and conversational (interruptions and speech rate) markers produced by 131 children aged 5-6 years (M = 5.98; SD = 0.54, 58.8% female) and their parents while narrating wordless storybooks during two online visits separated by 6-8 weeks (M = 6.56, SD = 1.11; two books, order counterbalanced). Audio recordings were diarized, time-aligned, and orthographically transcribed using WebTrans. Conversational markers were calculated using R and word frequencies were calculated using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) software. We examined links between child CU traits and linguistic markers, and explored whether relationships were moderated by child sex. RESULTS Higher CU traits were associated with fewer positive emotion words produced by parents and children. Higher CU traits were also associated with greater concordance in the degree of interruptions and expression of anger emotion words by parents and children. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that objective linguistic correlates of CU traits are detectable during early childhood, which could inform adjunctive treatment modules that improve outcomes by precisely tracking and targeting subtle communication patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Waller
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - M Flum
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Y Paz
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - E R Perkins
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Y Rodriguez
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - A Knox
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - M R Pelella
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - C Jones
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - S Sun
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - S A Denham
- George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - J Herrington
- Center for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylva, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - J Parish-Morris
- Center for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylva, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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2
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Facci C, Baroncelli A, Frick PJ, Ciucci E. Dimensions of Parenting and Children's Conduct Problems: The Importance of Considering Children's Callous-Unemotional Traits. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:779. [PMID: 38929025 PMCID: PMC11204080 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21060779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Research has clearly indicated that the development of serious behavioral problems in children and adolescents is influenced by parenting. However, recent research has refined the role of parenting by showing the importance of distinguishing between different types of parenting and in considering the role of callous-unemotional traits (CU traits) and conduct problems (CP) of the children. In the current study, we advance this research by distinguishing between emotional (e.g., parental warmth; parental hostility) and behavioral (e.g., use of positive reinforcement; inconsistent discipline/harsh discipline) aspects of parenting and by considering the way parents respond to children's emotions (i.e., coaching and dismissing). The sample consisted of 136 mothers (M = 38.09 years, SD = 4.51 years, 45.41% high school degree) with a child (age range 3-5 years) enrolled in kindergarten in central Italy. Multiple regression analyses indicated that, after controlling for level of CP, use of positive reinforcement (β = -0.31, p < 0.001) and warm feelings (β = -0.22, p < 0.05), remained associated with CU traits and punitive parenting was no longer significant. Consistent with predictions, use of positive reinforcement was no longer associated with conduct problems when controlling for CU traits and the positive associations with punitive parenting (β = 0.24, p < 0.05) and negativity (β = 0.36, p < 0.001) remained significant. These findings support the need for continued research that considers both the emotional and behavioral aspects of parenting and disentangles their associations with conduct problems and CU traits. Such research could not only advance causal theories for children with conduct problems but also help to guide more effective treatments, especially for those with elevated CU traits who often leave treatment with significant conduct problems remaining.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Facci
- Department of Education, Languages, Interculture, Literatures and Psychology, University of Florence, Via di San Salvi 12, Complesso di San Salvi Padiglione 26, 50135 Florence, Italy; (C.F.); (E.C.)
| | - Andrea Baroncelli
- Department of Philosophy, Social Sciences and Education, University of Perugia, Piazza Giuseppe Ermini 1, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paul J. Frick
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, 208 Audubon Hall, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA;
| | - Enrica Ciucci
- Department of Education, Languages, Interculture, Literatures and Psychology, University of Florence, Via di San Salvi 12, Complesso di San Salvi Padiglione 26, 50135 Florence, Italy; (C.F.); (E.C.)
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3
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Bégin V, Mavungu-Blouin C, Hamilton M, Therriault D, Le Corff Y, Déry M. Primary and Secondary Variants of Callous-Unemotional Traits in Children with Conduct Problems: A Longitudinal Follow-up During Adolescence. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2024; 52:933-948. [PMID: 38334909 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-024-01168-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Recent empirical work has suggested that youths with conduct problems and presenting high levels of callous-unemotional (CU) traits can be divided in two variants (i.e., primary, secondary) presenting specific characteristics and needs, but studies examining outcomes associated longitudinally with variants memberships remain scarce. Building on a previous investigation in which we identified variants of CU traits among children with conduct problems, we examined differences between groups on a wide range of behavioral/psychological, relational/social, and educational outcomes assessed during adolescence (n = 309, mean age = 17.4, SD = 0.96). When compared to those from the primary variant, youths from the secondary variant reported higher levels of conduct, opposition, attention deficit/hyperactivity and anxiety problems, had lower teacher-reported academic performance, experienced more conflictual relationships with their teachers, and were at higher risk of being victimized by their intimate partner. These results shed light on the specific clinical characteristics of children from the secondary variant that are likely to persist until adolescence. Providing these children with intensive preventive interventions targeting these long-term consequences could be particularly beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Bégin
- Department of Psychoeducation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada.
- Group for Research and Intervention on Children's Social Adjustment, Sherbrooke, Canada.
- Research Unit on Children's Psychosocial Maladjustment, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Corinne Mavungu-Blouin
- Department of Psychoeducation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
- Group for Research and Intervention on Children's Social Adjustment, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Mathis Hamilton
- Department of Psychoeducation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
- Group for Research and Intervention on Children's Social Adjustment, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Danyka Therriault
- Department of Psychoeducation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
- Group for Research and Intervention on Children's Social Adjustment, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Yann Le Corff
- Group for Research and Intervention on Children's Social Adjustment, Sherbrooke, Canada
- Department of Vocational Guidance, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Michèle Déry
- Department of Psychoeducation, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
- Group for Research and Intervention on Children's Social Adjustment, Sherbrooke, Canada
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4
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R Sanchez C, L Cooley J. Peer Victimization and Callous-Unemotional Traits: The Impact of Parents and Teachers. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2024:10.1007/s10802-024-01213-w. [PMID: 38819578 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-024-01213-w] [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] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Research on the link between peer victimization and callous-unemotional (CU) traits has primarily relied on cross-sectional designs and yielded equivocal findings. In light of the poor outcomes related to peer victimization and CU traits, it is important to determine whether this link is reciprocal in nature and to identify factors that may influence its strength. Accordingly, the current study investigated the bidirectional association between peer victimization and CU traits over a 6-month period, accounting for the moderating effects of parents (i.e., support and hostility) and teachers (i.e., support and conflict). Participants included 284 third- through fifth-grade students (ages 7-12; 51.8% boys; 51.1% Hispanic) and their homeroom teachers. Children provided ratings of peer victimization, parental hostility, and parent and teacher support. Teachers provided ratings of CU traits and student-teacher conflict. A series of cross-lagged panel models were estimated. Results revealed that, at higher levels of parental hostility, peer victimization predicted increases in CU traits over time; in contrast, peer victimization predicted decreases in CU traits at lower levels of parental hostility. Surprisingly, at higher levels of teacher conflict, peer victimization predicted decreases in CU traits over time. CU traits did not interact with parent or teacher variables to predict subsequent peer victimization. Moreover, parental hostility was positively associated with subsequent peer victimization, whereas teacher support predicted decreases in victimization over time. These findings build on previous research examining environmental influences on the expression of CU traits by highlighting peer victimization and parental hostility as potential risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos R Sanchez
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA.
| | - John L Cooley
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
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Fanti KA, Mavrommatis I, Díaz-Vázquez B, López-Romero L, Romero E, Álvarez-Voces M, Colins OF, Andershed H, Thomson N. Fearlessness as an Underlying Mechanism Leading to Conduct Problems: Testing the INTERFEAR Model in a Community Sample in Spain. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:546. [PMID: 38790541 PMCID: PMC11119632 DOI: 10.3390/children11050546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Conduct problems (CP) in childhood and adolescence have a significant impact on the individual, family, and community. To improve treatment for CP, there is a need to improve the understanding of the developmental pathways leading to CP in boys and girls. Prior research has linked the child's fearlessness and callous-unemotional (CU) traits, as well as experiences of parental warmth and punitive parenting, to CP. However, few studies have tested the interplay of these factors in contributing to future CP development. The present study aimed to test the InterFear model, which suggests that fearlessness in early childhood leads to CP through an indirect pathway involving low positive parenting, high negative/punitive parenting, and callous-unemotional (CU) traits. The sample included 2467 Spanish children (48.1% girls; Mage = 4.25; SD = 0.91), followed up across a five-year period. Besides a direct association between fearlessness in early childhood and future CP, the results found an indirect pathway whereby fearlessness reduces positive parenting and increases punitive parenting, which contributes to the development of CU traits and sets the stage for CP in later childhood. The specific indirect effect from fearlessness to CP via CU traits accounted for most of the variance, suggesting the existence of a temperamental pathway independent of parental variables. Further, two additional indirect pathways, exclusive of fearlessness, were identified, which started with low parental warmth and positive parenting, leading to CP via CU traits. These findings support the InterFear model, demonstrating multiple pathways to CP with the involvement of fearlessness, parenting practices, and CU traits. This model might play a pivotal role in the development of targeted prevention and intervention strategies for CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kostas A. Fanti
- Department of Psychology, Faculty od Social Sciences and Education, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, Nicosia 1678, Cyprus;
| | - Ioannis Mavrommatis
- Department of Psychology, Faculty od Social Sciences and Education, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, Nicosia 1678, Cyprus;
| | - Beatriz Díaz-Vázquez
- Instituto de Psicoloxía (IPsiUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (B.D.-V.); (L.L.-R.); (E.R.); (M.Á.-V.)
| | - Laura López-Romero
- Instituto de Psicoloxía (IPsiUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (B.D.-V.); (L.L.-R.); (E.R.); (M.Á.-V.)
| | - Estrella Romero
- Instituto de Psicoloxía (IPsiUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (B.D.-V.); (L.L.-R.); (E.R.); (M.Á.-V.)
| | - María Álvarez-Voces
- Instituto de Psicoloxía (IPsiUS), Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (B.D.-V.); (L.L.-R.); (E.R.); (M.Á.-V.)
| | - Olivier F. Colins
- Department of Special Needs Education, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Siences, Ghent University, Dunantlaan 1, 9000 Gent, Belgium;
| | - Henrik Andershed
- School of Behavioural, Social and Legal Sciences, Örebro University, 701 82 Örebro, Sweden;
| | - Nicholas Thomson
- Department of Surgery and Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
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Craig SG, Dawson A, Chen S, Moretti MM, Pepler DJ. A systematic review of callous-unemotional traits and attachment in children and adolescents. Attach Hum Dev 2024; 26:133-158. [PMID: 38704613 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2024.2349569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
METHODS The systematic review and meta-analysis included 17 research articles from 1994 to 2022. Results were summarized by developmental periods. RESULTS Attachment insecurity was associated with CU traits across development (r = .17). This association was marginally stronger for high-risk samples (e.g., clinical, justice) and for continuous attachment measures versus coding schemes. From early to middle childhood, attachment disorganization was associated with CU traits (r = .17). IMPLICATIONS Research on attachment and CU traits in childhood is still in its infancy. Changes in attachment measures from childhood to adolescence make developmental comparisons difficult. Results suggest attachment as a potential developmental mechanism for youth with CU traits, however, the area requires more research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexis Dawson
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Susan Chen
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | | | - Debra J Pepler
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada
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7
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Díaz-Vázquez B, López-Romero L, Romero E. Emotion Recognition Deficits in Children and Adolescents with Psychopathic Traits: A Systematic Review. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2024; 27:165-219. [PMID: 38240937 PMCID: PMC10920463 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-023-00466-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Children and adolescents with psychopathic traits show deficits in emotion recognition, but there is no consensus as to the extent of their generalizability or about the variables that may be moderating the process. The present Systematic Review brings together the existing scientific corpus on the subject and attempts to answer these questions through an exhaustive review of the existing literature according to PRISMA 2020 statement. Results confirmed the existence of pervasive deficits in emotion recognition and, more specifically, on distress emotions (e.g., fear), a deficit that transcends all modalities of emotion presentation and all emotional stimuli used. Moreover, they supported the key role of attention to relevant areas that provide emotional cues (e.g., eye-region) and point out differences according to the presence of disruptive behavior and based on the psychopathy dimension examined. This evidence could advance the current knowledge on developmental models of psychopathic traits. Yet, homogenization of the conditions of research in this area should be prioritized to be able to draw more robust and generalizable conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Díaz-Vázquez
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Facultade de Psicoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Vida, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Laura López-Romero
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Facultade de Psicoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Vida, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Estrella Romero
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Facultade de Psicoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Vida, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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Brady RG, Donohue MR, Waller R, Latham A, Ayala M, Smyser TA, Warner BB, Barch DM, Luby JL, Rogers CE, Smyser CD. Newborn Brain Function and Early Emerging Callous-Unemotional Traits. JAMA Psychiatry 2024; 81:303-311. [PMID: 38117491 PMCID: PMC10733851 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2023.4842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Importance Children with high callous-unemotional traits are more likely to develop severe and persistent conduct problems; however, the newborn neurobiology underlying early callous-unemotional traits remains unknown. Understanding the neural mechanisms that precede the development of callous-unemotional traits could help identify at-risk children and encourage development of novel treatments. Objective To determine whether newborn brain function is associated with early-emerging empathy, prosociality, and callous-unemotional traits. Design, Setting, and Participants In this prospective, longitudinal cohort study, pregnant women were recruited from obstetric clinics in St Louis, Missouri, from September 1, 2017, to February 28, 2020, with longitudinal data collected until March 20, 2023. Mothers were recruited during pregnancy. Newborns underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging shortly after birth. Mothers completed longitudinal follow-up when the children were aged 1, 2, and 3 years. Exposures The sample was enriched for exposure to socioeconomic disadvantage. Main Outcome and Measure Functional connectivity between hypothesized brain regions was assessed using newborn-specific networks and voxel-based connectivity analyses. Children's callous-unemotional traits were measured using the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits. Empathy and prosociality were assessed using the Infant and Toddler Socio-Emotional Assessment. Results A total of 283 children (mean [SD] gestational age, 38 [2] weeks; 159 male [56.2%]; 2 Asian [0.7%], 171 Black [60%], 7 Hispanic or Latino [2.5%], 106 White [38%], 4 other racial or ethnic group [1.4%]) were included in the analysis. Stronger newborn functional connectivity between the cingulo-opercular network (CO) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) was associated with higher callous-unemotional traits at age 3 years (β = 0.31; 95% CI, 0.17-0.41; P < .001). Results persisted when accounting for parental callous-unemotional traits and child externalizing symptoms. Stronger newborn CO-mPFC connectivity was also associated with lower empathy and lower prosociality at ages 1, 2, and 3 years using multilevel models (β = -0.12; 95% CI, -0.21 to -0.04; P = .004 and β = -0.20; 95% CI, -0.30 to -0.10; P < .001, respectively). Conclusions and Relevance Newborn functional connectivity was associated with early-emerging empathy, prosociality, and callous-unemotional traits, even when accounting for parental callous-unemotional traits and child externalizing symptoms. Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of empathy, prosociality, and callous-unemotional traits at the earliest developmental point may help early risk stratification and novel intervention development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca G. Brady
- Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Megan Rose Donohue
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Rebecca Waller
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Aidan Latham
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Mia Ayala
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Tara A. Smyser
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Barbara B. Warner
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Deanna M. Barch
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Mallinckrot Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Joan L. Luby
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Cynthia E. Rogers
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Christopher D. Smyser
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Mallinckrot Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
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Kaouar S, Fleming GE, Neo B, Hawes DJ, Eapen V, Kimonis ER. Dimensions of Warm Parenting Attributions Differentiate Conduct Problem Subtypes in Young Children. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2024; 52:223-236. [PMID: 37581855 PMCID: PMC10834570 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-023-01111-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the developmental psychopathology of child conduct problems (CP) has been advanced by differentiating subtypes based on levels of internalizing problems (INT) and/or callous-unemotional (CU) traits (i.e., low empathy/guilt, poor motivation, shallow/deficient affect). The current study sought to elucidate prior inconsistencies in the role of warm/positive and harsh/negative parenting subcomponents in CP by differentiating subtypes on the basis of INT and CU traits. Parents of 135 young children (M age = 4.21 years, SD = 1.29) referred to specialty clinics for the treatment of CP completed pre-treatment measures of parenting and rated their child's levels of CP, INT, and CU traits. Results of planned comparisons revealed that mothers of children classified as secondary CU variants (high CU/ high INT) reported fewer overall warm attributions toward their child, compared with CP-only (low CU) children. They also reported a more negative dyadic relationship characterized by feelings of anger/hostility, active avoidance and/or a desire to do harm to their child relative to primary CU variants (high CU/ low INT). Mothers of primary CU variants attributed fewer good and altruistic intentions towards others in their child, relative to CP-only children. Subtypes were undifferentiated on observed positive and negative parenting behaviors, indicative of a disconnect between parenting behaviors and cognitions for mothers of children high on CU traits. Findings are discussed in relation to their theoretical and practice implications, and in guiding future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Kaouar
- Parent-Child Research Clinic, School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Georgette E Fleming
- Parent-Child Research Clinic, School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bryan Neo
- Parent-Child Research Clinic, School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David J Hawes
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- School of Psychiatry, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Eva R Kimonis
- Parent-Child Research Clinic, School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Obando D, Hill J, Wright N. The Moderating Role of Maternal Praise and Positivity in the Association Between Callous-Unemotional (CU) Traits and Later Aggression: A Prospective Study in Preschool Children in Colombia. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:14-23. [PMID: 35708795 PMCID: PMC10796412 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01354-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Our previous findings in the UK and Colombia show that CU traits predict later aggression specifically among children who are already aggressive. We hypothesised that this effect would be reduced in the presence of maternal praise and positivity. In a sample of 220 mothers and children from Colombia, mother-child interactions were coded for maternal praise and positivity, and mothers reported on children's CU traits at age 3.5 and aggression at ages 3.5 and 5 years. The results show three-way interactions between CU traits, child aggression and observed parenting at age 3.5 years in the prediction of later child aggression, and two-way interactions indicating a protective effect of positive parenting in the high aggressive children. Based on our finding, it is plausible that positive parenting may modify the effect of CU traits in the highly vulnerable group of children who are already aggressive in early childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Obando
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de La Sabana, Chia, Colombia
| | - Jonathan Hill
- Department of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK.
| | - Nicola Wright
- Faculty of Health, Psychology and Social Care, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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11
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Sun S, Plate RC, Jones C, Rodriguez Y, Katz C, Murin M, Pearson J, Parish-Morris J, Waller R. Childhood conduct problems and parent-child talk during social and nonsocial play contexts: a naturalistic home-based experiment. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1018. [PMID: 38200250 PMCID: PMC10781972 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51656-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Parent-child interactions are a critical pathway to emotion socialization, with disruption to these processes associated with risk for childhood behavior problems. Using computational linguistics methods, we tested whether (1) play context influenced parent-child socioemotional language, and (2) child conduct problems or callous-unemotional traits were associated with patterns of socioemotional or nonsocial language across contexts. Seventy-nine parent-child dyads (children, 5-6 years old) played a socioemotional skills ("social context") or math ("nonsocial context") game at home. We transcribed and analyzed game play, which had been audio recorded by participants. The social context elicited more socioemotional and cognitive words, while the nonsocial context elicited more mathematical words. The use of socioemotional language by parents and children was more strongly correlated in the social context, but context did not moderate the degree of correlation in cognitive or mathematical word use between parents and children. Children with more conduct problems used fewer socioemotional words in the social context, while children with higher callous-unemotional traits used fewer cognitive words in both contexts. We highlight the role of context in supporting socioemotionally rich parent-child language interactions and provide preliminary evidence for the existence of linguistic markers of child behavior problems. Our results also inform naturalistic assessments of parent-child interactions and home-based interventions for parents and children facing socioemotional or behavioral challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Sun
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Levin Building, 425 S. University Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Rista C Plate
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Levin Building, 425 S. University Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Callie Jones
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Levin Building, 425 S. University Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Yuheiry Rodriguez
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Levin Building, 425 S. University Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Chloe Katz
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Levin Building, 425 S. University Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Melissa Murin
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Levin Building, 425 S. University Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jules Pearson
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Levin Building, 425 S. University Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Julia Parish-Morris
- Center for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca Waller
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Levin Building, 425 S. University Ave., Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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12
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Chau V, Eapen V, Hawkins E, Kohlhoff J. Parenting Characteristics and Callous-Unemotional Traits in Children Aged 0-6 Years: A Systematic Narrative Review. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2023:10.1007/s10578-023-01634-6. [PMID: 38127204 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-023-01634-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
There has been a growing interest in research examining the relationship between parenting and child callous-unemotional (CU) traits, particularly in early childhood. This study reviewed evidence from studies that investigated the relationship between parenting characteristics (e.g., caregiving beliefs, attitudes, behaviour or quality, or parental mental health) and callous-unemotional traits in children aged 0 to 6 years. A systematic search conducted according to PRISMA guidelines yielded 27 peer-reviewed articles. Analysis of the included articles suggested that there was strong evidence to support links between child CU traits and parenting characteristics (particularly, parental feelings about their child, warm parenting, and harsh/ inconsistent parenting). Taken together, the results of this review demonstrate the links between both positive and negative dimensions of parenting and CU traits in early childhood; however, mixed findings highlight the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Chau
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Valsamma Eapen
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Academic Unit of Child Psychiatry, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Erinn Hawkins
- School of Applied Psychology, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Jane Kohlhoff
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Karitane, Sydney, Australia
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13
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Roberts R, McCrory E, Joffe H, Phillips H, Gaule A, Viding E. Parenting boys with conduct problems and callous-unemotional traits: parent and child perspectives. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 32:2547-2555. [PMID: 36374342 PMCID: PMC10682176 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-02109-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Parenting children with conduct problems (CP) is challenging, yet very little research has examined parenting using both quantitative and qualitative methods, from the perspective of the child and their parent/caregiver, and separately for those with high vs. low levels of callous-unemotional traits (HCU vs. LCU). One hundred and forty-six boys aged 11-16 [Typically developing (TD) n = 31; CP/HCU n = 35; CP/LCU n = 35] and their parents/caregivers completed the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire and provided a written qualitative statement describing their respective experiences of parenting/being parented. Parents/caregivers of CP/HCU boys reported more difficulty with child monitoring and supervision than parents of TD boys. This was echoed in qualitative reports of parents of CP/HCU boys reporting concerns regarding their child's safety. Parents/caregivers of both groups of CP boys reported more inconsistent discipline than parents of TD boys. Parental qualitative descriptions of challenging behavior in CP/HCU boys, and difficulties with setting boundaries and motivating CP/LCU boys, provided further insight to the potential triggers for inconsistent discipline. Qualitative reports from boys with CP indicated that they understood the parenting challenges their parents/caregivers faced. These findings replicate and extend previous work on the associations between parenting and CP. Children with CP/HCU and CP/LCU show some commonalities and differences in their parenting experiences and CP children and their parents/caregivers do not necessarily share all the same perceptions or concerns. CP interventions often involve parent/family engagement and this research highlights the continued importance of examining both parent and child perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Roberts
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK.
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, UK.
| | - Eamon McCrory
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, UK
| | - Helene Joffe
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Harriet Phillips
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anne Gaule
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Essi Viding
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK
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14
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Wagner N, Perkins E, Rodriguez Y, Ordway C, Flum M, Hernandez-Pena L, Perelstein P, Sem K, Paz Y, Plate R, Popoola A, Lynch S, Astone K, Goldstein E, Njoroge WFM, Raine A, Pincus D, Pérez-Edgar K, Waller R. Promoting Empathy and Affiliation in Relationships (PEAR) study: protocol for a longitudinal study investigating the development of early childhood callous-unemotional traits. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e072742. [PMID: 37802613 PMCID: PMC10565261 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Children with callous-unemotional (CU) traits are at high lifetime risk of antisocial behaviour. Low affiliation (ie, social bonding difficulties) and fearlessness (ie, low threat sensitivity) are proposed risk factors for CU traits. Parenting practices (eg, harshness and low warmth) also predict risk for CU traits. However, few studies in early childhood have identified attentional or physiological markers of low affiliation and fearlessness. Moreover, no studies have tested whether parenting practices are underpinned by low affiliation or fearlessness shared by parents, which could further shape parent-child interactions and exacerbate risk for CU traits. Addressing these questions will inform knowledge of how CU traits develop and isolate novel parent and child targets for future specialised treatments for CU traits. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The Promoting Empathy and Affiliation in Relationships (PEAR) study aims to establish risk factors for CU traits in children aged 3-6 years. The PEAR study will recruit 500 parent-child dyads from two metropolitan areas of the USA. Parents and children will complete questionnaires, computer tasks and observational assessments, alongside collection of eye-tracking and physiological data, when children are aged 3-4 (time 1) and 5-6 (time 2) years. The moderating roles of child sex, race and ethnicity, family and neighbourhood disadvantage, and parental psychopathology will also be assessed. Study aims will be addressed using structural equation modelling, which will allow for flexible characterisation of low affiliation, fearlessness and parenting practices as risk factors for CU traits across multiple domains. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was granted by Boston University (#6158E) and the University of Pennsylvania (#850638). Results will be disseminated through conferences and open-access publications. All study and task materials will be made freely available on lab websites and through the Open Science Framework (OSF).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Wagner
- Department of Brain & Psychological Science, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Emily Perkins
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yuheiry Rodriguez
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cora Ordway
- Department of Brain & Psychological Science, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michaela Flum
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Lucia Hernandez-Pena
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Polina Perelstein
- Department of Brain & Psychological Science, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kathy Sem
- Department of Brain & Psychological Science, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yael Paz
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rista Plate
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ayomide Popoola
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sarah Lynch
- Department of Brain & Psychological Science, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kristina Astone
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ethan Goldstein
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Data Analytics Center, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wanjikũ F M Njoroge
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Adriane Raine
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Donna Pincus
- Department of Brain & Psychological Science, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Rebecca Waller
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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15
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Schütte S, Lohaus A, Symanzik T, Heinrichs N, Konrad K, Reindl V. Longitudinal Associations Between Parenting and Child Behaviour Problems and the Moderating Effect of Child Callous Unemotional Traits in Foster and Biological Families. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2023; 54:1274-1286. [PMID: 35239057 PMCID: PMC10435590 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01324-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The goals of the current study were to examine (i) differences in parenting between foster and biological parents, (ii) the longitudinal associations with children's internalising and externalising problems and iii) the potential moderation of these by children's callous-unemotional traits (CU traits). Data from 86 foster children (M = 4.44 years, male = 48%) and 148 biological children (M = 3.69 years, male = 49%) with their families were analysed in a longitudinal study with three measurement times. Parenting behaviour did not significantly differ between the foster and biological family groups. Significant longitudinal cross-lagged effects were found for parental warmth and support and children's externalising problems. CU traits moderated the relationship between warmth and support and externalising problems of children. Findings suggest that parenting behaviours and child psychopathology do influence each other over time reciprocally and to a similar extent in both groups. However, there was also evidence for greater temporal stability of psychopathological symptoms and reduced responsivity to parental warmth in children with higher CU traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Schütte
- Developmental Psychology and Developmental Psychopathology, Department of Psychology, University of Bielefeld, P.O. Box 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany.
| | - Arnold Lohaus
- Developmental Psychology and Developmental Psychopathology, Department of Psychology, University of Bielefeld, P.O. Box 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Tabea Symanzik
- Developmental Psychology and Developmental Psychopathology, Department of Psychology, University of Bielefeld, P.O. Box 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Nina Heinrichs
- Department of Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Kerstin Konrad
- Child Neuropsychology Section, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- JARA-Brain Institute II, Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, RWTH Aachen & Research Centre Juelich, Aachen, Germany
| | - Vanessa Reindl
- Child Neuropsychology Section, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
- JARA-Brain Institute II, Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, RWTH Aachen & Research Centre Juelich, Aachen, Germany
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16
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Pasalich DS, Aquilina B, Hassall A, Goulter N, Xyrakis N, Khoo A. Childhood Experiences of Alternative Care and Callousness/Unemotionality: A Conceptual Model, Scoping Review, and Research Agenda. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2023; 26:789-804. [PMID: 37436541 PMCID: PMC10465668 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-023-00445-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with experiences of alternative care (AC; i.e., out-of-home care and institutional care) are at high risk for various mental health and relational problems stemming from exposure to serious attachment disruptions, loss, and complex trauma. Yet, despite the interpersonal context of their significant adversities, surprisingly there is scant research explicitly focusing on callousness/unemotionality (e.g., lack of guilt, callous disregard for others) in this population. This paper provides the first conceptual model for, and systematic scoping review of, callousness/unemotionality in children and young people with experiences of AC. In a comprehensive search of nine databases, 22 articles involving samples of participants in AC or with histories of AC, were identified for inclusion. The pattern of findings revealed that callous-unemotional and psychopathic traits are elevated in children and young people with AC experiences, and positively associated with AC. Moreover, results showed associations between these traits and various psychosocial correlates, most consistently with externalizing and internalizing problems and attachment-related problems. Only two intervention studies were located, one of which found benefits of training and supporting foster caregivers for reducing callous-unemotional traits. These findings are discussed with respect to gaps in the literature, future research directions, and trauma-informed practice to assess and treat callousness/unemotionality in children and young people with experiences of AC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dave S Pasalich
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Building 39, Science Rd, ACT 2601, Canberra, Australia.
| | - Benjamin Aquilina
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Building 39, Science Rd, ACT 2601, Canberra, Australia
| | - Alison Hassall
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Building 39, Science Rd, ACT 2601, Canberra, Australia
| | - Natalie Goulter
- School of Psychology, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Nakiya Xyrakis
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Building 39, Science Rd, ACT 2601, Canberra, Australia
| | - Anderson Khoo
- School of Medicine and Psychology, Australian National University, Building 39, Science Rd, ACT 2601, Canberra, Australia
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17
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Perlstein S, Fair M, Hong E, Waller R. Treatment of childhood disruptive behavior disorders and callous-unemotional traits: a systematic review and two multilevel meta-analyses. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2023; 64:1372-1387. [PMID: 36859562 PMCID: PMC10471785 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with callous-unemotional (CU) traits are at high lifetime risk of antisocial behavior. It is unknown if treatments for disruptive behavior disorders are as effective for children with CU traits (DBD+CU) as those without (DBD-only), nor if treatments directly reduce CU traits. Separate multilevel meta-analyses were conducted to compare treatment effects on DBD symptoms for DBD+CU versus DBD-only children and evaluate direct treatment-related reductions in CU traits, as well as to examine moderating factors for both questions. METHODS We systematically searched PsycINFO, PubMed, Cochran Library (Trials), EMBASE, MEDLINE, APA PsycNet, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials, controlled trials, and uncontrolled studies evaluating child-focused, parenting-focused, pharmacological, family-focused, or multimodal treatments. RESULTS Sixty studies with 9,405 participants were included (Mage = 10.04, SDage = 3.89 years, 25.09% female, 44.10% racial/ethnic minority). First, treatment was associated with similar reductions in DBD symptoms for DBD+CU (SMD = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.45, 1.72) and DBD-only (SMD = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.38, 1.64). However, DBD+CU started (SMD = 1.18, 95% CI = 0.57, 1.80) and ended (SMD = 0.73, p < .001; 95% CI = 0.43, 1.04) treatment with more DBD symptoms. Second, although there was no overall direct effect of treatment on CU traits (SMD = .09, 95% CI = -0.02, 0.20), there were moderating factors. Significant treatment-related reductions in CU traits were found for studies testing parenting-focused components (SMD = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.06, 0.35), using parent-reported measures (SMD = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.04, 0.28), rated as higher quality (SMD = 0.26, 95% CI = 0.13, 0.39), conducted outside the United States (SMD = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.05, 0.32), and with less than half the sample from a racial/ethnic minority group (SMD = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.002, 0.30). CONCLUSIONS DBD+CU children improve with treatment, but their greater DBD symptom severity requires specialized treatment modules that could be implemented alongside parenting programs. Conclusions are tempered by heterogeneity across studies and scant evidence from randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maddy Fair
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania
| | - Emily Hong
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania
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18
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Mestermann S, Arndt M, Fasching PA, Beckmann MW, Kratz O, Moll GH, Kornhuber J, Eichler A. The Father's Part: Influences of Paternal Psychopathology and Parenting Behavior on Child and Adolescent Well-Being. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2119. [PMID: 37570360 PMCID: PMC10418667 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11152119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Family influences on child quality of life (QoL) are increasingly understood. Parenting behavior and parent individual psychopathology are among the established predictors of offspring mental health. However, literature often addresses these factors as 'parental', lacking further gender-specific differentiation while predominantly studying maternal aspects. Social and biological fathers are still underrepresented in family research. The aim of this study was to analyze paternal contributions to child well-being. A total of 197 father/mother-dyads gave a standardized self-report on parenting behavior and their own psychopathology at child primary school age (t1; 6-10 y). Ratings were compared mutually and associated with child self-rated QoL at t1 and adolescence (t2; 12-14 y). Fathers and mothers differed in psychopathology and most parenting behavior dimensions (positive parenting, involvement, responsible parenting, poor monitoring, and corporal punishment). Father psychopathology made a relevant predictive contribution to girls' QoL at t2. Boys' t1 QoL was significantly influenced by maternal parenting factors (positivity and corporal punishment). Compared to mothers, fathers are faced with different individual stressors; paternal parenting behavior is different, while fathers' influences are significant, particularly for daughters. Father-addressed pre- and intervention programs in child psychotherapeutic treatment are of high relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Mestermann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany (A.E.)
| | - Marie Arndt
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany (A.E.)
| | - Peter A. Fasching
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias W. Beckmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Oliver Kratz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany (A.E.)
| | - Gunther H. Moll
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany (A.E.)
| | - Johannes Kornhuber
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anna Eichler
- Department of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91054 Erlangen, Germany (A.E.)
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19
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Fanti KA, Mavrommatis I, Colins O, Andershed H. Fearlessness as an Underlying Mechanism Leading to Conduct Problems: Testing the Intermediate Effects of Parenting, Anxiety, and callous-unemotional Traits. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2023:10.1007/s10802-023-01076-7. [PMID: 37191864 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-023-01076-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates whether the longitudinal association between fearlessness and conduct problems (CP) is mediated by warm and harsh parenting, parent-child conflict, anxiety, and callous-unemotional (CU) traits. The constructs under investigation were assessed at five different time points, spanning a period of eight years. A multi-informant approach was followed, collecting data from parents and teachers (N = 2,121; 47% girls). The structural equation model pointed to both direct and indirect pathways between fearlessness and CP. Specifically, findings suggested that Time 1 fearlessness (age 3-5 years) increased the likelihood of Time 2 (age 4-6 years) harsh parenting and Time 3 (age 5-7 years) parent-child conflict. Further, fearlessness was positively associated with Time 4 (age 8-10) callous-unemotional traits and Time 5 (age 11-13) CP. The total indirect effect from fearlessness to CP through these variables was significant, although the specific indirect effect from fearlessness to CU traits to CP accounted for most of the variance. Warm parenting and anxiety did not mediate the association between fearlessness and CP. In addition to the identified pathways connecting fearlessness to CP, findings pointed to the existence of multiple developmental pathways to future CP, as well as gender differences in longitudinal associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kostas A Fanti
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, Nicosia, CY, 1678, Cyprus.
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20
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Todorov JJ, Devine RT, De Brito SA. Association between childhood maltreatment and callous-unemotional traits in youth: A meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 146:105049. [PMID: 36681371 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Callous-unemotional (CU) traits (i.e., lack of remorse or guilt, callous lack of empathy, deficient concern for the feelings of others) in youth with conduct problems confer risk for a particularly severe and persistent form of antisocial behaviour. Previous research has linked childhood maltreatment as a potential risk factor for CU traits, both primary (i.e., genetically underpinned) and secondary (i.e., environmentally influenced) variants, but findings have been inconsistent, and the association has not yet been tested in a meta-analysis. To address this gap, we conducted a meta-analysis to assess the nature and strength of the associations between childhood maltreatment and its subtypes with CU traits and potential variants (i.e., primary and secondary CU traits). A systematic search identified 29 eligible studies including 9,894 participants (42% female) between the ages of 3 and 18 years (Mage=14.22 years, SD = 1.07). Results revealed a significant moderate positive association between childhood maltreatment and CU traits. All subtypes of maltreatment bar sexual abuse were significantly associated with CU traits. However, it was not possible to compare primary and secondary CU traits directly due to inconsistencies in how they are defined. The limitations posed by current research signal the need for clinical and operational guidelines on how to define primary and secondary CU traits. Additionally, prospective longitudinal, genetically informed research is needed to clarify if maltreatment is a causal risk factor for CU traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J Todorov
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, UK.
| | - Rory T Devine
- Centre for Developmental Science, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Stephane A De Brito
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, UK.
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21
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De Wit-De Visser B, Rijckmans M, Vermunt JK, van Dam A. Pathways to antisocial behavior: a framework to improve diagnostics and tailor therapeutic interventions. Front Psychol 2023; 14:993090. [PMID: 36844347 PMCID: PMC9947159 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.993090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), and antisocial behavior (ASB) in general, is associated with significant impact on individuals themselves, their environment, and society. Although various interventions show promising results, no evidence-based treatments are available for individuals with ASPD. Therefore, making informed choices about which treatment can be applied to an individual patient is complicated. Furthermore, contradictory findings on therapy effectiveness and underlying factors of ASB, such as cognitive impairments and personality traits, fuel the debate whether the conceptualization of ASPD in the DSM-5 is accurate and whether this population can be seen as homogeneous. A conceptual framework, based on the reciprocal altruism theory, is presented in which we propose different pathways to ASB. These pathways suggest underlying dynamics of ASB and provide an explanation for previous contradictory research outcomes. This framework is intended to serve as a clinically relevant model that provides directions for improving diagnostics and matching treatments to underlying dynamics in the antisocial population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda De Wit-De Visser
- GGZ WNB, Research and Innovation, Halsteren, Netherlands,Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands,*Correspondence: Brenda De Wit-De Visser,
| | - Madeleine Rijckmans
- Fivoor, Fivoor Science and Treatment Innovation, Poortugaal, Netherlands,Clinical and Forensic Psychology, Department of Developmental Psychology, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Jeroen K. Vermunt
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Arno van Dam
- GGZ WNB, Research and Innovation, Halsteren, Netherlands,Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
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22
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Dotterer HL, Vazquez AY, Hyde LW, Neumann CS, Santtila P, Pezzoli P, Johansson A, Burt SA. Elucidating the role of negative parenting in the genetic v. environmental influences on adult psychopathic traits. Psychol Med 2023; 53:897-907. [PMID: 37132644 PMCID: PMC9976022 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721002269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychopathic traits involve interpersonal manipulation, callous affect, erratic lifestyle, and antisocial behavior. Though adult psychopathic traits emerge from both genetic and environmental risk, no studies have examined etiologic associations between adult psychopathic traits and experiences of parenting in childhood, or the extent to which parenting practices may impact the heritability of adult psychopathic traits using a genetically-informed design. METHODS In total, 1842 adult twins from the community reported their current psychopathic traits and experiences of negative parenting during childhood. We fit bivariate genetic models to the data, decomposing the variance within, and the covariance between, psychopathic traits and perceived negative parenting into their genetic and environmental components. We then fit a genotype × environment interaction model to evaluate whether negative parenting moderated the etiology of psychopathic traits. RESULTS Psychopathic traits were moderately heritable with substantial non-shared environmental influences. There were significant associations between perceived negative parenting and three of four psychopathy facets (interpersonal manipulation, erratic lifestyle, antisocial tendencies, but not callous affect). These associations were attributable to a common non-shared environmental pathway and not to overlapping genetic effects. Additionally, we found that primarily shared environmental influences were stronger on psychopathic traits for individuals with a history of greater negative parenting. CONCLUSIONS Utilizing a genetically-informed design, we found that both genetic and non-shared environmental factors contribute to the emergence of psychopathic traits. Moreover, perceptions of negative parenting emerged as a clear environmental influence on the development of interpersonal, lifestyle, and antisocial features of psychopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luke W. Hyde
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Survey Research Center of the Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Craig S. Neumann
- Department of Psychology, University of North Texas, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Pekka Santtila
- NYU-ECNU Institute for Social Development, NYU Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Patrizia Pezzoli
- Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Ontario, CA, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Ada Johansson
- Faculty of Arts, Psychology, and Theology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - S. Alexandra Burt
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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23
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Differences in Parenting Behavior are Systematic Sources of the Non-shared Environment for Internalizing and Externalizing Problem Behavior. Behav Genet 2023; 53:25-39. [PMID: 36327010 PMCID: PMC9823082 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-022-10125-8] [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: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Although there is evidence for non-shared environmental links between parenting and problem behavior, so far, age-, informant-, and parent-specific patterns for both internalizing and externalizing problem behaviors have not been examined within one study yet. Using the twin differences design, the present study aimed to test how maternal and paternal parenting systematically act as a source of non-shared environment for problem behavior across different age groups and informants. We examined 1327 monozygotic twin pairs and their parents drawn from three birth cohorts of the German TwinLife study. Our results revealed that particularly child-reported less positive and more negative parenting by both parents contribute significantly to the unique environmental variance of problem behavior, although we did not find a clear pattern across age groups. Our study underlines the necessity of controlling for genetic confounding to uncover the truly environmentally mediated (and thus environmentally influenceable) pathways between parenting and problem behavior. A practical implication could be that it may be useful to primarily consider the child's perspective and focus on maternal as well as paternal parenting in interventions that address parenting to reduce problem behavior.
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24
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Anaya C, Burt SA, Klump KL. An investigation of associations between parenting and binge eating across pubertal development in pre-adolescent and adolescent female participants. Int J Eat Disord 2022; 55:1811-1823. [PMID: 36199233 PMCID: PMC9742316 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Puberty is a period of increased risk for the development of binge eating in female adolescents. Although developmental changes in autonomy-seeking behaviors and body weight and shape may influence both parenting styles and binge eating during puberty, studies have yet to examine how parenting practices may be differentially associated with youth outcomes depending on developmental stage. The current study examines whether interactions between puberty and parenting are associated with higher levels of binge-eating symptoms during/after puberty in female youth. METHODS Analyses used cross-sectional data from a previous study of disordered eating and puberty in 999 female youth (ages 8-16) and their parents from the Michigan State University Twin Registry. Youth self-reported binge eating, pubertal development, and perceived parental care and overprotection. Both parents and youth reported on parent-child conflict. Mixed linear models were used to examine whether pubertal development moderates the strength of associations between parenting (parent-child conflict, parental care, and parental overprotection) and offspring binge eating. RESULTS Although higher levels of parental overprotection and conflict, and lower levels of parental care were all significantly associated with binge eating, none of the associations were significantly moderated by pubertal development or age. DISCUSSION The quality of the parent-child relationship is significantly associated with binge eating in female youth regardless of developmental stage, highlighting the need for targeting harmful parenting strategies during adolescent eating disorder intervention. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE This is the first study to examine whether parenting/binge-eating associations in female participants differ across pubertal development. In a large population-based sample, we found lower parental care, higher parent-child conflict, and higher parental overprotection were all associated with higher levels of binge eating. Notably, associations did not differ across pubertal stage or age, suggesting that parenting is significantly associated with binge eating, regardless of developmental stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Anaya
- Department of Psychology Michigan State University East Lansing Michigan USA
| | - S. Alexandra Burt
- Department of Psychology Michigan State University East Lansing Michigan USA
| | - Kelly L. Klump
- Department of Psychology Michigan State University East Lansing Michigan USA
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25
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Hyde LW, Dotterer HL. The Nature and Nurture of Callous-Unemotional Traits. CURRENT DIRECTIONS IN PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/09637214221121302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Callous-unemotional (CU) traits, a risk factor for psychopathy, delineate youths with relatively low empathy and guilt, and identify youths with high risk for chronic and severe antisocial behavior (e.g., rule breaking, aggression). We describe work identifying nature and nurture influences on the development of CU traits. Additionally, we clarify the relationship between CU traits and psychopathy, highlight potential misinterpretations of findings on influences of “nature” versus “nurture,” and discuss treatment implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke W. Hyde
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan
- Survey Research Center at the Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan
| | - Hailey L. Dotterer
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University
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26
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Tredoux A, Phillander N, Williams H, Ward CL, Schrieff-Brown L. Investigating parenting factors, traumatic brain injury and callous and unemotional traits among high school students in a South African setting. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/00812463221135256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Aggressogenic parenting styles are associated with increased rates of callous and unemotional traits, and in turn, with antisocial behaviours. Traumatic brain injury is also associated with antisocial behaviour, but not callous and unemotional traits specifically. No study has previously investigated these three variables, aggressogenic parenting, traumatic brain injury, and callous and unemotional traits, in a single study. The study setting was Cape Town, South Africa. The sample included high school boys ( N = 54), aged 13–21 years in an observational, descriptive study. We hypothesised that boys who reported that they had sustained a traumatic brain injury and who had been exposed to aggressogenic parenting would display increased levels of callous and unemotional traits, and that those with traumatic brain injury but had experienced positive parenting would display lower levels of such traits. The main measures included the Comprehensive Health Assessment Tool, the Inventory of Callous/Unemotional traits, and the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire. Results show that almost 41% (22/54) of participants reported sustaining a traumatic brain injury. Aggressogenic parenting significantly moderated callous and unemotional traits only in participants with traumatic brain injury, F(1.46) = 4.76, p = .03, while positive parenting and substance use did not. In conclusion, traumatic brain injury in the presence of aggressogenic parenting is associated with greater callous and unemotional traits in this sample of adolescent boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimee Tredoux
- Department of Psychology, ACSENT Laboratory, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nathan Phillander
- Department of Psychology, ACSENT Laboratory, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Huw Williams
- Centre for Clinical Neuropsychology Research, University of Exeter, UK
| | | | - Leigh Schrieff-Brown
- Department of Psychology, ACSENT Laboratory, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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27
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Perlstein S, Hawes S, Vazquez AY, Pacheco-Colón I, Lehman S, Parent J, Byrd A, Waller R. Genetic versus environmental influences on callous-unemotional traits in preadolescence: The role of parenting and parental psychopathology. Dev Psychopathol 2022; 34:1-16. [PMID: 36229943 PMCID: PMC10102260 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579422000888] [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] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Children with callous-unemotional (CU) traits are at risk for severe conduct problems. While CU traits are moderately heritable, parenting also predicts risk. However, few studies have investigated whether parenting factors (e.g., acceptance, conflict, parental psychopathology) moderate the etiology of CU traits, while accounting for gene-environment correlations. To address this knowledge gap, we used data from 772 twin pairs from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development Study to test bivariate models that explored overlapping etiological influences on CU traits and child reports of their parenting environment. We also used gene-by-environment interaction models to test whether parenting moderated genetic versus environmental influences. There were no overlapping etiological influences on CU traits and parental acceptance, but modest genetic and non-shared environmental overlap between CU traits and family conflict. Parental acceptance and psychopathology moderated non-shared environmental influences, with stronger non-shared environmental influences on CU traits among children who experienced lower parental acceptance and greater parental psychopathology. Family conflict only moderated environmental influences when models did not covary for conduct problems. Parental acceptance and parental psychopathology may be specific environmental protective and risk factors for CU traits, whereas family conflict may represent a general environmental risk factor for both CU traits and conduct problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samuel Hawes
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University
| | | | | | - Sarah Lehman
- Department of Psychology, Florida International University
| | | | - Amy Byrd
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh
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28
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Tomlinson RC, Hyde LW, Weigard AS, Klump KL, Burt SA. The role of parenting in the intergenerational transmission of executive functioning: A genetically informed approach. Dev Psychopathol 2022; 34:1-13. [PMID: 35957575 PMCID: PMC9922338 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579422000645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Deficits in executive functioning both run in families and serve as a transdiagnostic risk factor for psychopathology. The present study employed twin modeling to examine parenting as an environmental pathway underlying the intergenerational transmission of executive functioning in an at-risk community sample of children and adolescents (N = 354 pairs, 167 monozygotic). Using structural equation modeling of multi-informant reports of parenting and a multi-method measure of child executive functioning, we found that better parent executive functioning related to less harsh, warmer parenting, which in turn related to better child executive functioning. Second, we assessed the etiology of executive functioning via the nuclear twin family model, finding large non-shared environmental effects (E = .69) and low-to-moderate heritability (A = .22). We did not find evidence of shared environmental effects or passive genotype-environment correlation. Third, a bivariate twin model revealed significant shared environmental overlap between both warm and harsh parenting and child executive functioning (which may indicate either passive genotype-environment correlation or environmental mediation), and non-shared environmental overlap between only harsh parenting and child executive functioning (indicating an effect of harsh parenting separable from genetic confounds). In summary, genetics contribute to the intergenerational transmission of executive functioning, with environmental mechanisms, including harsh parenting, also making unique contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luke W. Hyde
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Kelly L. Klump
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - S. Alexandra Burt
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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29
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Frick PJ. Some critical considerations in applying the construct of psychopathy to research and classification of childhood disruptive behavior disorders. Clin Psychol Rev 2022; 96:102188. [PMID: 35878505 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2022.102188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The recent inclusion of callous-unemotional traits in the diagnostic criteria for serious conduct problems has led to renewed interest in more comprehensive integrations of the construct of psychopathy into research and clinical classification of childhood disruptive behavior disorders. There have been a number of recent reviews of research focusing the many potential benefits for this integration. However, there are also a number of issues that could reduce these benefits and even potentially lead to harmful effects. The current paper focuses on several of these issues, some of which are common when attempting to integrate research findings across areas that have been conducted independently of each other. Other issues are more specific to the construct of psychopathy. Specifically, the current paper focuses on the lack of agreement on the necessary and sufficient dimensions needed to define psychopathy, the need to consider developmental relationships among these dimensions, the implications of the different associations among the dimensions of psychopathy with conduct problems in children and adolescents, the need to consider how these dimensions relate to existing constructs used in the classification of disruptive behavior disorders, and the potential harmful effects of labeling something "a dimension of psychopathy". These issues have several clear implications for using the construct of psychopathy to guide research on and diagnostic classification of childhood disruptive behavior disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Frick
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, USA.
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30
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Tomlinson RC, Hyde LW, Dotterer HL, Klump KL, Burt SA. Parenting moderates the etiology of callous-unemotional traits in middle childhood. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:912-920. [PMID: 34796486 PMCID: PMC10049759 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Callous-unemotional (CU) traits are associated with chronic and escalating trajectories of antisocial behavior. Extant etiologic studies suggest that heritability estimates for CU traits vary substantially, while also pointing to an environmental association between parenting and CU traits. METHODS We used twin modeling to estimate additive genetic (A), shared environmental (C), and nonshared environmental (E) influences on CU traits, measured with the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits (ICU) and its subscales. Our sample included 600 twin pairs (age 6-11, 230 monozygotic) from neighborhoods with above-average levels of family poverty, a risk factor for antisocial behavior. We examined the extent to which correlations between parenting, measured via parent and child report on the Parental Environment Questionnaire, and CU traits reflected genetic versus environmental factors. Then, we tested whether parenting moderated the heritability of CU traits. RESULTS In the context of lower-income neighborhoods, CU traits were moderately to highly heritable (A = 54%) with similar moderate-to-high nonshared environmental influences (E = 46%). Bivariate models revealed that associations between CU traits and warm parenting were genetic (rA = .22) and environmental (rE = .19) in origin, whereas associations between CU traits and harsh parenting were largely genetic in origin (rA = .70). The heritability of CU traits decreased with increasing parental warmth and decreasing harshness. CONCLUSIONS Callous-unemotional traits are both genetic and environmental in origin during middle childhood, but genetic influences are moderated by parenting quality. Parenting may be an important target for interventions, particularly among youth with greater genetic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luke W. Hyde
- Department of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Kelly L. Klump
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - S. Alexandra Burt
- Department of Psychology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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31
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Simmons C, Mitchell-Adams H, Baskin-Sommers A. Environmental Predictors of Within-Person Changes in Callous-Unemotional Traits among Justice-Involved Male Adolescents. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2022:1-18. [PMID: 35900060 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2022.2093207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Youth who display elevated callous-unemotional (CU) traits are at risk for negative developmental outcomes. Previous studies demonstrate that environmental conditions contribute to elevated levels of CU traits, but the majority of this work focuses on a single source of environmental influence. To better understand how environmental conditions contribute to changes in CU traits during adolescence, the current study examined the time-varying relation between CU traits, parent, peer, and community conditions. METHOD Using data from the longitudinal Pathways to Desistance study (N = 1,026 males, Mage = 15.98, SD = 1.16; 40.94% Black, 34.11% Latino, 20.66% White, 4.29% Other), full-factorial fixed effect regression models were implemented to examine how parental hostility, antisocial peers, community violence, and neighborhood disorder are individually and interactively associated with within-person changes in CU traits during adolescence (15-21 years). RESULTS Results indicated that proximal conditions (i.e., negative parenting, antisocial peers) had more consistent associations with CU traits than distal conditions (i.e., neighborhood disorder, community violence). Affiliation with antisocial peers was not significantly related to CU traits when youth were simultaneously exposed to high community violence and low neighborhood disorder. Further, the association between CU traits and impact of living in high disordered, high violence neighborhoods was stronger for younger youth. CONCLUSION Results indicate that the association among parents, peers, and CU trait development is more nuanced than previously suggested, such that the risk that each environmental condition poses is moderated by a youth's age and their exposure to distal conditions.
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32
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Davis K, Hirsch E, Gee D, Andover M, Roy AK. Mediating role of the default mode network on parental acceptance/warmth and psychopathology in youth. Brain Imaging Behav 2022; 16:2229-2238. [PMID: 35648269 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-022-00692-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Humans are reliant on their caregivers for an extended period of time, offering numerous opportunities for environmental factors, such as parental attitudes and behaviors, to impact brain development. The default mode network is a neural system encompassing the medial prefrontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, precuneus, and temporo-parietal junction, which is implicated in aspects of cognition and psychopathology. Delayed default mode network maturation in children and adolescents has been associated with greater general dimensional psychopathology, and positive parenting behaviors have been suggested to serve as protective mechanisms against atypical default mode network development. The current study aimed to extend the existing research by examining whether within- default mode network resting-state functional connectivity would mediate the relation between parental acceptance/warmth and youth psychopathology. Data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development study, which included a community sample of 9,366 children ages 8.9-10.9 years, were analyzed to test this prediction. Results demonstrated a significant mediation, where greater parental acceptance/warmth predicted greater within- default mode network resting-state functional connectivity, which in turn predicted lower externalizing, but not internalizing symptoms, at baseline and 1-year later. Our study provides preliminary support for the notion that positive parenting behaviors may reduce the risk for psychopathology in youth through their influence on the default mode network.
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33
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Muarifah A, Mashar R, Hashim IHM, Rofiah NH, Oktaviani F. Aggression in Adolescents: The Role of Mother-Child Attachment and Self-Esteem. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:bs12050147. [PMID: 35621444 PMCID: PMC9137955 DOI: 10.3390/bs12050147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Every year, adolescents’ aggressive behavior in the world continues to increase, including in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Teenagers’ aggressive behavior in Yogyakarta leads to criminal acts resulting in physical sacrifices and death. The aggressive behavior of teenagers is known as Klithih. It develops and continues to increase every year, causing public anxiety and concern. This study aimed to examine the role of mother–child attachment and self-esteem against aggression. Aggression, mother’s attachment, and self-esteem scales were deployed to collect data and were filled out by 730 high school students between 15 and 19 years old from twenty-three schools in five municipalities in Yogyakarta Province (M = 16.52, SD = 0.793, 310 male students and 420 female students). Descriptive statistics described research data by IBM SPSS 23 and structural equation modeling by AMOS v20 to test research hypotheses. The results of the study showed a good fit, indicating that self-esteem might enhance the effect of each mother’s attachment style on aggression. Our study showed that insecure attachment positively and significantly affected aggression and negatively and significantly affected self-esteem. Furthermore, it also revealed that anxious attachment positively and significantly influenced aggression and negatively and significantly influenced self-esteem. Lastly, our finding revealed that self-esteem negatively and significantly affected aggression. These findings suggested that better mother’s attachment and higher self-esteem in adolescents may lower the possibility of aggression, whereas insecure attachment, anxious attachment, and low self-esteem may increase the risk of aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alif Muarifah
- Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Ahmad Dahlan University, Yogyakarta 55166, Indonesia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Riana Mashar
- Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Ahmad Dahlan University, Yogyakarta 55166, Indonesia;
| | | | - Nurul Hidayati Rofiah
- Graduate School for International and Cooperation, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 739-8511, Japan;
| | - Fitriana Oktaviani
- Faculty of Psychology, Ahmad Dahlan University, Yogyakarta 55166, Indonesia;
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34
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Huffman LG, Oshri A. Neural signatures of the development of antisocial behaviours and callous-unemotional traits among youth: The moderating role of parental support. Int J Dev Neurosci 2022; 82:205-221. [PMID: 35181902 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Comorbidity of antisocial behaviours (AB) and callous-unemotional (CU) traits characterizes a subgroup of youth at risk for chronic and severe AB in adulthood. Although aberrant neural response to facial emotion confers heightened risk for AB and CU traits, the behavioural effect of this neural response varies by family context. The present study examines the effects of neural response to emotional faces, parental support and the interaction between the two as predictors of AB and CU traits in a longitudinal sample of preadolescents (Nbaseline = 11,883; Mage = 9.5; 47.8% female). Low CU youth who evinced attenuated response to fearful faces within the left superior temporal sulcus and fusiform gyrus showed smaller decreases of AB over time; these associations did not extend to high CU youth. Among high CU youth reporting low parental support, blunted response to fearful faces within the bilateral inferior parietal sulcus predicted smaller decreases of AB. Study findings highlight neurobehavioural differences between youth with high and low CU traits, as well as the interacting roles of negative face processing and parental support in the development of AB.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Assaf Oshri
- Department of Human Development & Family Science, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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35
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Cavanagh C, Simmons C, Liggett OMalley R, Frick PJ, Steinberg L, Cauffman E. The Moderating Role of Maternal CU Traits in the Stability of Justice-Involved Adolescents' CU Traits. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2022:1-15. [PMID: 35394388 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2022.2051522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Callous-unemotional (CU) traits are associated with chronic and severe antisocial behavior. Although previous research has found that parents play an important role in the etiology and maintenance of youth CU traits, little research has examined the extent that parents' own CU traits impact the stability of their children's CU traits. The present study investigated the moderating role of maternal CU traits on developmental changes in youth CU traits. METHOD A sample of 346 mother-son dyads, in which all youth were justice-involved males (Mage = 15.81; 57.80% Latino, 20.52% White, 18.21% Black, 3.47% other race/ethnicity), across three states (California, Louisiana, and Pennsylvania) completed a semi-structured interview. RESULTS Youth exhibited a decrease in CU traits over 30 months. Mothers' CU traits moderated this relation, such that high maternal CU traits were associated with a smaller decrease in CU traits than low or average maternal CU traits, both when considering youth CU traits continuously and using a clinically significant cut score. The findings remained for continuous CU traits even after accounting for environmental factors (i.e., maternal warmth, maternal hostility, victimization, and witnessing violence), and these environmental factors did not vary over time. CONCLUSION The results highlight the importance of maternal influence in understanding how youth CU traits change over time, and have important implications for the use of parenting and family-level interventions among justice-involved youth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Paul J Frick
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University
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Wang W, Yuan Y, Zhang X, Song C. Mindfulness Moderates the Association Between Perceived Discrimination and Cyber Aggression Among Emerging Adults with Early Left-Behind Experience: A Longitudinal Study. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2022; 15:801-809. [PMID: 35414753 PMCID: PMC8994994 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s361501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Although the risk effect of perceived discrimination on left-behind youth’s mental health (mainly emotional problems) has been demonstrated in prior studies, there is a lack of longitudinal studies examining the effect of perceived discrimination on behavioral problems, particularly in emerging adults with early left-behind experience. In addition, little is known about individual differences in terms of this association. In the present study, we draw on the social information processing model of aggression to examine the effect of perceived discrimination and mindfulness on cyber aggression. Methods We used two-wave longitudinal panel data involving 535 emerging adults with early left-behind experience in rural China (M age = 19.89 years; SD = 1.20; 57.2% female). To test the moderating role of mindfulness, hierarchical multiple regression and simple slope test analyses were performed. Results The results of linear regression analysis demonstrated that higher levels of perceived discrimination at T1 were significantly associated with higher cyber aggression at T2; the strength of this association was buffered by mindfulness over time. Conclusion These findings suggest that the facilitation of mindfulness training may be an effective strategy for reducing the risk of perceived discrimination leading to cyber aggression in emerging adults with early left-behind experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchao Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yue Yuan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaomeng Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chao Song
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Chao Song, Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, No. 19 Xinjiekouwai Street, Beijing, 100875, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86 18810161767, Email
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Sutton C. Adverse childhood experiences are important but not the only risk to child development: Revisiting a full risk/resilience matrix. CRIMINAL BEHAVIOUR AND MENTAL HEALTH : CBMH 2022; 32:67-74. [PMID: 35778848 DOI: 10.1002/cbm.2238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Much research has sought to distinguish key interacting factors affecting children as they develop which influence later outcomes. Some factors, notably adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), pose serious risks for later health or mental health problems for the children or predispose them for involvement in offending behaviours. However, other experiences, alongside ACEs, also pose risks and yet others offer protection. A matrix showing interacting influences from the mother's pregnancy onwards was published earlier; a revised matrix has been developed, showing a fresh picture of cumulative risk and protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carole Sutton
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
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Childhood psychopathic traits and mental health outcomes in adolescence: compensatory and protective effects of positive relationships with parents and teachers. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022:10.1007/s00787-022-01955-2. [PMID: 35122539 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-01955-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
We identified mental health outcomes associated with specific developmental trajectories of psychopathic traits across childhood and tested whether positive relationships with parents and teachers have compensatory or protective effects. Participants were 1401 children (52.82% girls) from the Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development with available data on teacher-reported psychopathic traits (ages 6-12 years) and self-reported mental health outcomes (ages 15-17 years). Parents and teachers reported their levels of positive relationship with the child (ages 6-8 and 10-12 years). Trajectories of psychopathic traits (High-stable, Increasing, Decreasing, and Low-stable) were included as predictors of mental health outcomes (e.g., conduct disorder, anxiety) in structural equation models controlling for child sex, family SES, and earlier psychopathology. Compensatory effects were tested via main effects of positive relationships and protective effects were tested via their interactive effects with trajectories memberships. When compared to the Low-stable trajectory of psychopathic traits, the High-stable, Increasing, and Decreasing trajectories were associated with distinct sets of mental health outcomes, with children from the Increasing trajectory being at higher risk for both externalizing and internalizing psychopathology. Positive relationships with parents and teachers only partially compensated for these effects. Findings suggest that clinicians cannot expect the detrimental effects associated with psychopathic traits to be entirely prevented by children's positive relationships with parents and/or teachers. This study reinforces the importance of providing intensive preventive interventions to elementary school children with high levels of psychopathic traits to prevent the long-term negative consequences associated with these traits.
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Yu BL, Li J, Liu W, Huang SH, Cao XJ. The Effect of Left-Behind Experience and Self-Esteem on Aggressive Behavior in Young Adults in China : A Cross-Sectional Study. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:1049-1075. [PMID: 32438881 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520922373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
There is little investigation on the independent effects of left-behind experience (LBE) on self-esteem and aggressive behavior in Chinese young adult populations, or the interaction effects of LBE and self-esteem on aggressive behavior. Thus, a school-based health survey was conducted in Anhui province in China in 2017. A total of 4,154 college students completed standard questionnaires which contain details of left-behind-related characters, self-esteem, aggressive behavior, and sociodemographic profile. Of included students, 55.3% were those with LBE (LBEs). Compared to students without left-behind experiences (NLBEs), LBEs had significantly increased scores of aggressive behavior and decreased score of self-esteem. The increased aggression in LBEs was highly related to longer left-behind duration, younger age of left-behind for the first time, and decreased self-esteem. On the other side, the aggressive behavior was demonstrated negatively correlated with self-esteem in both LBEs and NLBEs. There was an interaction effect of left-behind duration and self-esteem on physical aggression and of frequency of contacting with parents and self-esteem on verbal aggression. Besides, the interaction of primary caregiver and self-esteem on hostility and aggression toward self were also observed, respectively. Our results indicated LBEs and low self-esteem are associated with increased risk of aggressive behavior in Chinese young adults. The increased aggressive behavior in LBEs were highly related to longer left-behind duration, younger age of left-behind for the first time and decreased self-esteem. In those LBEs with some certain left-behind-related characters, aggressive behavior decreased more prominently with the increase of self-esteem. Strategies to improve self-esteem, particularly among young adults who have certain characters of LBE, should be a significant component of prevention and interventions of aggressive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan Li
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | | | - Xiu-Jing Cao
- Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Québec, Canada
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Levantini V, Muratori P, Calderoni S, Inguaggiato E, Masi G, Milone A, Tonacci A, Billeci L. Parenting practices moderate the link between attention to the eyes and callous unemotional traits in children with Disruptive Behavior Disorder: An eye-tracking study. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 146:272-278. [PMID: 34776250 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Callous-unemotional (CU) traits are associated with gaze pattern deficits in youths, though it has not yet been explored if environmental factors could influence this relationship. Since parenting can influence both CU traits and children's emotion processing, the current study sought to test whether parenting moderated the relation between gaze pattern deficits and CU traits in a sample of children with Disruptive Behavior Disorder. The sample included 92 boys (aged 7-12 years) with Conduct Disorder (N = 12) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (N = 80). All children completed a task, during which they were presented with 24 images depicting happy, sad, fearful, disgusted, angry, and neutral facial expressions. Gaze pattern has been recorded throughout the task with an eye-tracker. Positive parenting moderated the association between CU traits and first fixation duration to the eyes of facial expressions depicting negative emotions. Negative parenting moderated the association between CU traits and fixation count and fixation duration to the eyes of negative emotions. Negative parenting along with reduced attention to emotional cues (i.e., eyes) may identify a group of youths with Disruptive Behavior Disorder diagnosis at risk for severe outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Levantini
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Pisa, Italy
| | - Pietro Muratori
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Sara Calderoni
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Pisa, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Emanuela Inguaggiato
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Masi
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Pisa, Italy
| | - Annarita Milone
- IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Tonacci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council of Italy, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lucia Billeci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council of Italy, CNR, Pisa, Italy
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Kofler L, Zhang W, Gao Y. Psychopathic Traits and Conduct Problems in Children: Effects of Collective Efficacy, Heart Rate, and Sex. JOURNAL OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10862-021-09944-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Perlstein S, Waller R, Wagner NJ, Saudino KJ. Low social affiliation predicts increases in callous-unemotional behaviors in early childhood. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:109-117. [PMID: 34128554 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Callous-unemotional (CU) behaviors predict risk for aggression and rule-breaking. Low social affiliation (i.e. reduced motivation for and enjoyment of social closeness) is hypothesized to be a phenotypic marker for CU behaviors in early childhood. However, studies need to establish observational methods to objectively assess social affiliation as well as to establish parenting practices that can buffer pathways from low social affiliation to CU behaviors. METHODS Using data from a longitudinal twin study of 628 children (age 2, 47% females; age 3, 44.9% females), we examined reciprocal associations between observed social affiliation, CU behaviors, and oppositional-defiant behaviors. We tested whether positive parenting moderated associations over time. RESULTS We established that an observed measure of social affiliation derived from the Bayley's Behavior Rating Scale and Infant Behavior Record showed high inter-rater reliability and expected convergence with parent-reported temperament measures. Lower social affiliation at age 2 uniquely predicted CU behaviors, but not oppositional-defiant behaviors, at age 3. Finally, low social affiliation at age 2 predicted CU behaviors at age 3 specifically among children who experienced low, but not high, levels of parental positivity. CONCLUSIONS An objective rating scale that is already widely used in pediatric settings reliably indexes low social affiliation and risk for CU behaviors. The dynamic interplay between parenting and low child social affiliation represents an important future target for novel individual- and dyadic-targeted treatments to reduce risk for CU behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Perlstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca Waller
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nicholas J Wagner
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kimberly J Saudino
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
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Joyner B, Beaver KM. Examining the potential link between child maltreatment and callous-unemotional traits in children and adolescents: A multilevel analysis. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 122:105327. [PMID: 34534846 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a great deal of research indicating that callous-unemotional traits in childhood are among the strongest predictors of adult psychopathy and psychopathic traits. As a result, there has been a recent surge of studies examining potential risk factors that may be related to the development of callous-unemotional traits. OBJECTIVE The current study sought to extend prior research examining potential risk factors for the development of callous-unemotional traits by estimating the extent to which child maltreatment related to callous-unemotional traits in children and adolescents. PARTICIPANTS To do so, the study uses a longitudinal sample of 4579 male and female youths drawn from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being (NSCAW I) across four waves of data. Data collection ran from November 1999 to December 2006. METHODS A series of multilevel random-effects models were estimated in order to examine the association between child maltreatment and callous-unemotional traits. RESULTS The results of the analyses revealed a significant association between child maltreatment and callous-unemotional traits across all the models. Additionally, our models demonstrated that the association between child maltreatment and callous-unemotional traits may be dependent upon the biological sex of the individual with child maltreatment having a stronger effect on males than females (β = 0.15*). CONCLUSIONS Overall, our analyses lend support to prior research examining child maltreatment as a risk factor for the development of callous-unemotional traits in youth. We conclude by discussing the implications of our study and considerations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Joyner
- College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Florida State University, 112 S Copeland St, Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA.
| | - Kevin M Beaver
- College of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Florida State University, 112 S Copeland St, Tallahassee, FL 32304, USA; Prince Mishaal bin Majed bin Abdul Aziz Center for Social and Humanities Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Waller R, Powell T, Rodriguez Y, Corbett N, Perlstein S, White LK, Barzilay R, Wagner NJ. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children's Conduct Problems and Callous-Unemotional Traits. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2021; 52:1012-1023. [PMID: 33405026 PMCID: PMC7786862 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-020-01109-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically altered family life, but whether family exposures to and worries about the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted child conduct problems (CP) and callous-unemotional (CU) traits is unknown. Thus, we evaluated 303 parents (Mage = 38.04; SD = 5.21; 92.4% biological mothers) and children (Mage = 6.43; SD = 2.13; 51.8% female) during a four-month period early in the pandemic. We examined associations between parental exposures to COVID-19, parental worries about the pandemic, harsh and warm parenting practices, and child CP and CU traits. Although more parental worries were not directly related to parenting practices, more worry about COVID-19 was specifically related to higher levels of child CP, particularly parental worries about themselves or family members contracting the virus. Our findings add to a growing literature demonstrating the burden that the pandemic has placed on families and its implications for children's mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Waller
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Tralucia Powell
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, 64 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Yuheiry Rodriguez
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Natalie Corbett
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Samantha Perlstein
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lauren K White
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Lifespan Brain Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ran Barzilay
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Lifespan Brain Institute, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Nicholas J Wagner
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, 64 Cummington Mall, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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Zhou J, Huebner ES, Tian L. Perceived Parental Warmth, Peer Perpetration, and Peer Victimization: Unraveling Within-Child Associations from Between-Child Differences. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2021; 23:295-305. [PMID: 34751887 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-021-01325-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Although perceived parental warmth and "peer victimization and peer perpetration" are believed to be unidirectionally related, researchers have not examined the possibility of bidirectional relations among them, especially with regard to within-child relations. We thus explored the dynamic longitudinal associations among children's perceived parental warmth (maternal warmth and paternal warmth), peer perpetration, and peer victimization at the within-child level. A total of 3720 Chinese children (Mage = 9.95 years at Time 1, 46.1% girls) were investigated on five occasions, every 6 months. Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Models (RI-CLPMs) were applied to estimate the within-child associations among these variables. The results were: (1) for peer perpetration, peer perpetration inversely predicted subsequent perceived parental warmth, while perceived maternal (but not paternal) warmth inversely predicted subsequent peer perpetration; (2) for peer victimization, perceived maternal and paternal warmth both inversely predicted a child's subsequent peer victimization, and perceived parental warmth and peer victimization bidirectionally predicted each other; and (3) peer perpetration and peer victimization bidirectionally predicted each other. These findings enhance understanding of how perceived parental warmth temporally interrelates with peer perpetration and peer victimization from a positive spillover theory perspective, as well as how peer perpetration temporally interrelates with peer victimization from a negative vicious cycle perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangying Zhou
- School of Psychology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China.,Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences (South China Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China.,Center for Studies of Psychological Application, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China.,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China
| | - E Scott Huebner
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Lili Tian
- School of Psychology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China. .,Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences (South China Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China. .,Center for Studies of Psychological Application, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China. .,Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510631, China.
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Gao Y, Huang Y, Li X. Selfish parents, parenting practices, and psychopathic traits in children. BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 2021; 39:624-640. [PMID: 34668235 DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Parental personality and parenting behavior have been associated with the development of psychopathic traits in offspring. However, no study has examined the effect of parental dispositional selfishness on the development of psychopathic traits in offspring, and the potential mechanism underlying this relationship. To address this issue, parents' reports on their dispositional selfishness, negative and positive parenting behavior, and child's psychopathic traits were collected for a group of children from the community (n = 118, 47% male, mean age = 14.1 years). Results showed that parental selfishness was associated with grandiose-manipulative (GM), daring-impulsive (DI), and callous-unemotional (CU) traits in children. In addition, the egocentric selfishness-GM relationship was indirectly mediated by parenting behavior including lack of involvement, poor monitoring, and inconsistent discipline, whereas the association with CU traits was directly mediated by lack of involvement. These effects remained significant after controlling for child's sex, age, race, social adversity, and a prior measure of psychopathic traits. Findings provide initial empirical evidence on the effect of parental selfishness on a child's psychopathic traits, and further support to the proposition that distinct etiology may underlie different dimensions of psychopathic traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- Department of Psychology, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yonglin Huang
- Department of Psychology, Brooklyn College of the City University of New York, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Xiaobo Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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47
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Goagoses N, Schipper N. Concurrent Associations between Parenting Dimensions, Callous-Unemotional Traits, and Externalizing Behaviour Problems during Adolescence. EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIOURAL DIFFICULTIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/13632752.2021.1979316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Naska Goagoses
- Carl Von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg,School of Educational and Social Sciences,Department of Special Needs Education and Rehabilitation,Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Neele Schipper
- Carl Von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg,School of Educational and Social Sciences,Department of Special Needs Education and Rehabilitation,Oldenburg, Germany
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DiLalla LF, Jamnik MR, Marshall RL, Weisbecker R, Vazquez C. Birth Complications and Negative Emotionality Predict Externalizing Behaviors in Young Twins: Moderations with Genetic and Family Risk Factors. Behav Genet 2021; 51:463-475. [PMID: 34047875 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-021-10062-y] [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: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
We examined interactions among genetic, biological, and ecological variables predicting externalizing behaviors in preschool and middle childhood. Specifically, we examined prediction of externalizing behaviors from birth complications and negative emotionality, each moderated by genetic risk for aggression and ecological risk factors of insensitive parenting and low family income. At ages 4 and 5 years, 170 twin pairs and 5 triplet sets (N = 355 children) were tested; 166 of those children were tested again at middle childhood (M = 7.9 years). Multilevel linear modeling results showed generally that children at high genetic risk for aggression or from low-income families were likely to have high scores on externalizing, but for children not at high risk, those with increased birth complications or more negative emotionality had high scores on externalizing. This study underscores the importance of considering biological variables as moderated by both genetic and ecological variables as they predict externalizing behaviors across early childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisabeth Fisher DiLalla
- Family and Community Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA.
| | - Matthew R Jamnik
- Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Riley L Marshall
- Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Rachel Weisbecker
- Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Cheyenne Vazquez
- Department of Psychology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
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Positive and negative parenting in conduct disorder with high versus low levels of callous-unemotional traits. Dev Psychopathol 2021; 33:980-991. [PMID: 32571444 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579420000279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Less is known about the relationship between conduct disorder (CD), callous-unemotional (CU) traits, and positive and negative parenting in youth compared to early childhood. We combined traditional univariate analyses with a novel machine learning classifier (Angle-based Generalized Matrix Learning Vector Quantization) to classify youth (N = 756; 9-18 years) into typically developing (TD) or CD groups with or without elevated CU traits (CD/HCU, CD/LCU, respectively) using youth- and parent-reports of parenting behavior. At the group level, both CD/HCU and CD/LCU were associated with high negative and low positive parenting relative to TD. However, only positive parenting differed between the CD/HCU and CD/LCU groups. In classification analyses, performance was best when distinguishing CD/HCU from TD groups and poorest when distinguishing CD/HCU from CD/LCU groups. Positive and negative parenting were both relevant when distinguishing CD/HCU from TD, negative parenting was most relevant when distinguishing between CD/LCU and TD, and positive parenting was most relevant when distinguishing CD/HCU from CD/LCU groups. These findings suggest that while positive parenting distinguishes between CD/HCU and CD/LCU, negative parenting is associated with both CD subtypes. These results highlight the importance of considering multiple parenting behaviors in CD with varying levels of CU traits in late childhood/adolescence.
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Autonomic Nervous System Inflexibility During Parent-child Interactions is Related to Callous-unemotional Traits in Youth Aged 10-14 Years Old. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2021; 49:1581-1592. [PMID: 34313902 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-021-00849-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Youth with callous-unemotional (CU) traits are at high risk for aggression and antisocial behavior. Extant literature suggests that CU traits are related to abnormal autonomic responses to negatively-valenced emotional stimuli, although few studies have tested autonomic responding specifically during social interactions. To address this knowledge gap, the current study tested whether CU traits were related to autonomic activity, assessed via respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), during several parent-child interaction tasks designed to provoke negative emotion. The sample was 162 clinically referred youth (M age = 12.03, SD = .92; 47% female). Using piecewise latent growth models, we estimated individual differences in RSA during three semi-structured social interaction tasks (reading aloud to a parent and research assistant; a recovery period from the reading task; and a parent-child conflict discussion) and tested whether CU traits were related to patterns of RSA responding across tasks. Overall, youth showed expected RSA decreases during the reading period, increases in RSA during recovery, and further decreases during the conflict discussion. However, youth with clinically-elevated CU traits had a different pattern of RSA change across tasks, such that CU traits were related to significantly less RSA change during reading and recovery. Findings suggest that less RSA engagement during social interactions and less RSA recovery may be a biomarker of CU traits. Future research is needed to examine whether this inflexibility contributes to the development of CU traits beginning early in childhood.
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