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Seizer L, Löchner J. The influence of everyday emotions on mucosal immunity: An intensive longitudinal modeling approach. Psychophysiology 2024; 61:e14577. [PMID: 38549447 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Mucosal immunity is a multifaceted system of immunological responses that provides a barrier against pathogenic invasion and can be regulated by psychosocial and neuroendocrine factors. The present study aims to elucidate the association between everyday emotional states, emotion regulation skills, and mucosal immunity by utilizing an ambulatory assessment approach. 30 healthy subjects (61% male; M = 30.18 years old) completed an emotion questionnaire (PANAS) and collected saliva samples via passive drool to determine salivary immunoglobulin-A (S-IgA) excretion rate three times a day over a period of 1 week. In a multi-level model, the influence of emotions on S-IgA, both on a within-subject and between-subject level, was estimated. We found that most of the variation in S-IgA (74%) was accounted for by within-subject changes rather than stable between-subject differences. On a within-subject level, negative emotions had a significant positive effect on S-IgA levels (b = 1.87, p = .015), while positive emotions had no effect. This effect of negative emotions was moderated by the individual emotion regulation skills, with higher regulation skills corresponding to smaller effects (b = -2.67, p = .046). Furthermore, S-IgA levels decreased over the course of a day, indicating circadian rhythmicity (b = -0.13, p = .034). These results highlight the possibilities of intensive longitudinal data to investigate the covariance between psychological and immunological states over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lennart Seizer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Johanna Löchner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Tübingen, Germany
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Romero-Martínez Á, Beser-Robles M, Cerdá-Alberich L, Aparici F, Martí-Bonmatí L, Sarrate-Costa C, Lila M, Moya-Albiol L. The contribution of brain volume to explain autonomous imbalance during recovery from acute stress in batterers. Brain Struct Funct 2024; 229:797-808. [PMID: 38441643 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-024-02772-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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
AIM Many authors have suggested that intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetrators present an imbalance between both branches of the autonomous nervous system when coping with acute stress. Concretely, there is a predominance of the sympathetic branches over the parasympathetic ones when recovering from stress. This imbalance can be explained by their tendency toward anger rumination, and more concretely, by their focus on thoughts of revenge during this period. Unfortunately, there is a gap in the scientific literature in terms of using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to assess which brain structures would explain this tendency of IPV perpetrators when coping with acute stress. METHOD The main objective of this study was to assess whether the gray matter volume (GMV) of relevant brain structures, signaled in previous scientific literature, moderates the association between thoughts of revenge and sympathetic activation during the recovery period, based on skin conductance levels (SCL) after being exposed to stress, in a group of IPV perpetrators (n = 58) and non-violent men (n = 61). RESULTS This study highlighted that the GMV of the left nucleus accumbens, right lobules of the cerebellum, and inferior temporal gyrus in IPV perpetrators moderated the association between thoughts of revenge and SCL during the recovery period. Accordingly, the higher the thoughts of revenge, the higher the sympathetic predominance (or higher SCL levels), especially among IPV perpetrators with the lowest GMV of these brain structures. Nonetheless, those variables were unrelated in the control group. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights the involvement of certain brain structures and how they explain the tendency of some IPV perpetrators to ruminate anger or, more precisely, to focus on thoughts of revenge when they recover from acute stress. These results reinforce the need to incorporate neuroimaging techniques during screening processes to properly understand how IPV perpetrators deal with stress, which in turn helps target their needs and design concrete intervention modules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Romero-Martínez
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibañez, 21, 46010, Valencia, Spain.
| | - María Beser-Robles
- Biomedical Imaging Research Group (GIBI230), La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Leonor Cerdá-Alberich
- Biomedical Imaging Research Group (GIBI230), La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Fernando Aparici
- Biomedical Imaging Research Group (GIBI230), La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Luis Martí-Bonmatí
- Biomedical Imaging Research Group (GIBI230), La Fe Health Research Institute, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carolina Sarrate-Costa
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibañez, 21, 46010, Valencia, Spain
| | - Marisol Lila
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Luis Moya-Albiol
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibañez, 21, 46010, Valencia, Spain
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Ketcheson LR, Pitchford EA, Wentz FC, Loetzner F. Trajectories of physical activity among autistic children and their caregivers: Outcomes of a virtual 1-year longitudinal intervention. Disabil Health J 2024; 17:101538. [PMID: 37788962 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2023.101538] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Participation in regular physical activity (PA) is a critical component of overall well-being. However, opportunities to engage in health-enhancing PA for families who have an autistic child are relatively obsolete. A virtual PA intervention has the potential to address many participation barriers and represents a timely opportunity to promote positive trajectories of PA among vulnerable populations. OBJECTIVE To examine PA trajectories during a one-year virtual intervention for autistic children and their caregiver and to explore relationships in activity participation within child-caregiver dyads. METHODS Twenty-nine families, including autistic children and their caregiver participated in the full intervention. Caregivers completed questionnaires to measure PA behavior at baseline and four-month intervals throughout the intervention. RESULTS Reported PA significantly increased among autistic children and caregivers during the intervention. No association in PA was observed within dyads at baseline, but moderate relationships were observed during the intervention. CONCLUSION Findings demonstrate the initial effectiveness of a virtual PA intervention for autistic children and their caregiver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah R Ketcheson
- Wayne State University, 5101 John C Lodge Fwy, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA.
| | | | - F Chandler Wentz
- Wayne State University, 5101 John C Lodge Fwy, Detroit, MI, 48202, USA.
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Fecteau SM, Trudel M, Champagne N, Picard F. Are all parental experiences equal?: Cluster analysis of salivary cortisol and perception of parental stress in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 139:104550. [PMID: 37327575 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Many parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) report high stress levels related to their parenting role. The experience of stress is reflected in physical symptoms and well-being, as observed by abnormal patterns of cortisol regulation. However, it may be a mistake to conceive parenthood as unilaterally stressful as diverse experiences are possible. Mothers of children with ASD provided salivary cortisol samples and self-rated parental stress. The area under the curve with respect to ground was calculated in regard to three daily collection time points. As a group, mothers reported average levels of parenting stress and flat daily cortisol output. The current age of the child and age at the time of diagnosis moderately predicted overall daily cortisol. Hierarchical clusters analysis identified four distinct profiles of stress regulation based on daily cortisol regulation and perception of parental stress. Groups did not differ based on the severity of symptoms related to autism or demographic information. We suggest that other variables, such as stress mediators and secondary stressors, may explain variability in stress regulation. Future research and intervention should perceive the parental experience as heterogeneous and focus on individualizing the support offered in light of diverse experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie-M Fecteau
- Département de psychoéducation et de psychologie, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Canada.
| | - Marcel Trudel
- Département de psychoéducation, Faculté d'éducation, Université de Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Noël Champagne
- Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Canada
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Ketcheson LR, Wengrovius CM, Staples KL, Miodrag N. MYTime: A Mindfulness and Yoga Program to Promote Health Outcomes in Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Glob Adv Health Med 2022; 11:2164957X221110154. [PMID: 35959100 PMCID: PMC9358203 DOI: 10.1177/2164957x221110154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parenting a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder can be stressful and result in health consequences for the caregivers, a population that is often overlooked and underserved. While mind-body interventions such as mindfulness yoga can help promote positive health outcomes, limited research has explored the impact of such a program on caregivers of children on the autism spectrum. Objective The primary objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of a 12-week mindfulness yoga program (MYtime) on perceived stress, anxiety, and depression among urban caregivers of children on the autism spectrum. Methods Twenty-seven parents were randomized into either MYTime (n = 13) or the control group (n = 14). Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS) were administered. Results The MYTime group reported lower stress, depression and anxiety while the control group maintained similar scores across pre- and post-assessment. Following 12 weeks of participation the PSS and DASS scores improved by 25% and 49% respectively for parents in the MYTime group. In comparison, PSS scores worsened by 5% and DASS scores improved by 17% for the Control group. Differences in pre-and post-assessment scores were not significant for either group (P > .05). Conclusion The results from this pilot study indicate that a mindfulness yoga program could be considered among feasible interventions aimed at improving the health of parents of children on the autism spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah R Ketcheson
- Division of Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - Kerri L Staples
- School of Health Promotion and Kinesiology, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Nancy Miodrag
- College of Health and Human Development, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
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Romero-Martínez A, Lila M, Moya-Albiol L. Sympathetic Nervous System Predominance in Intimate Partner Violence Perpetrators After Coping With Acute Stress. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2022; 37:NP10148-NP10169. [PMID: 33435804 DOI: 10.1177/0886260520985494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
It has been suggested that intimate partner violence (IPV) against women perpetrators present emotional dysregulations when dealing with acute stress, which in turn could help to explain their proneness to violence. Emotional regulation can be objectively measured by means of psychophysiological parameters/variables/indicators of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity, such as cardiorespiratory (heart rate [HR], pre-ejection period [PEP] and respiratory sinus arrythmia [RSA]) and electrodermal (skin conductance levels [SCL]) signals. Therefore, this study aims to assess whether IPV perpetrators (n = 107) present differential psychophysiological and psychological state changes when coping with an acute cognitive laboratory stressor (a set of cognitive tests performed in front of an expert committee) in comparison with nonviolent men (n = 87). Moreover, the study assesses whether psychological state variables foster the psychophysiological response to acute stress. Our results demonstrate that, compared to nonviolent controls, IPV perpetrators showed higher HR and SCL values, shorter PEP, and lower RSA values during recovery from stress. They also presented higher negative affect (i.e., more anger and worse mood) after stress. Thus, high baseline anger explained the increases in emotional arousal when measured as SCL increases. The present study contributes evidence showing that IPV perpetrators and nonviolent men cope differently with stress. These findings might help forensic science to identify characteristics of violent individuals to establish their therapeutic needs. Furthermore, it would be appropriate to combine psychophysiological measurements with self-reports, thus increasing the reliability of the assessment of violent individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Lila
- University of Valencia, Spain
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Matsuda Y, McCabe BE, Behar-Zusman V. Mothering in the Context of Mental Disorder: Effect of Caregiving Load on Maternal Health in a Predominantly Hispanic Sample. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc 2021; 27:373-382. [PMID: 32102585 PMCID: PMC8560279 DOI: 10.1177/1078390320907693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mothering in the context of mental disorders presents with multiple challenges. However, this phenomenon is poorly understood: It is not known how child caregiving affects the health of their mothers. AIMS The purpose of this study was to examine associations between child caregiving load and health indicators in mothers receiving outpatient behavioral health services for mental or substance use disorders. METHOD A total of 172 mothers (80% Hispanic/Latina) completed surveys on their mental and physical health, and children's behaviors and medical problems. Child caregiving load consisted of number of children living with the mother, and presence of children's internalizing, externalizing, or medical problems. RESULTS Child caregiving load had significantly positive associations with mother's psychological distress, fatigue, pain, and body mass index. Child internalizing and medical problems were associated with mothers' poor health status. CONCLUSIONS Hispanics/Latinos experience health disparities, and Hispanic/Latina mothers who are already at risk due to their mental disorders experience an additional health burden associated with caring for children with emotional or health problems. Psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioners should assess child caregiving impact on mothers with mental disorders and seek to mitigate their caregiving burden and maintain their health. Further research is needed to clarify child characteristics and the mechanisms associated with maternal caregiver burden, suboptimal self-care, and adverse health outcomes. Structural Ecosystems Therapy for women in Recovery (SET-R) study/Healthy Home; Clinical Trial ID NCT02702193.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yui Matsuda
- Yui Matsuda, PhD, APHN-BC, MPH, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Brian E McCabe
- Brian E. McCabe, PhD, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
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Romero-Martínez Á, Blanco-Gandía MC, Rodriguez-Arias M, Lila M, Moya-Albiol L. Hormonal Differences in Intimate Partner Violence Perpetrators When They Cope with Acute Stress: A Pilot Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115831. [PMID: 34071628 PMCID: PMC8198212 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only a few studies have paid attention to the ability of perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPVAW) against women to cope with acute stress, including hormonal parameters. In fact, previous studies assessed how salivary testosterone (Tsal) and cortisol (Csal) changed after coping with an acute emotional stressor (directly related to IPVAW), and they concluded that an imbalance between the two hormones might be characteristic of these men. Nevertheless, they neglected to examine the role of other hormones, such as salivary oxytocin (OXsal), which also seemed to play an important role in behavioral regulation, and whether this response could be generalized to other types of stress not directly related to IPVAW. METHODS This study aims to assess whether IPVAW perpetrators (n = 19) present differential hormonal (Tsal, Csal, OXsal and their ratios) and psychological state (anxiety, anger, and general affect) responses when coping with an acute cognitive laboratory stressor (a set of neuropsychological tests performed in front of an expert committee) in comparison with non-violent men (n = 16). This quasi-experimental study also assessed whether the psychological state variables drive this different hormonal response. RESULTS Our results revealed that IPVAW perpetrators had lower Csal and higher Tsal/Csal ratio levels during the post-task period, as well as higher total levels (average) of OXsal than controls. We also found that, only in IPVAW perpetrators, high levels of baseline anxiety and negative affect were related to high rises in Csal during the stress task. CONCLUSIONS These data present a background showing that IPVAW perpetrators and non-violent men cope differently with stress. These findings might help to identify idiosyncratic profiles of IPVAW perpetrators that can then be employed to establish their therapeutic needs. Moreover, we reinforced the importance of combining biological markers with self-reports, thus increasing the reliability of these forensic assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel Romero-Martínez
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, 46010 València, Spain; (M.R.-A.); (L.M.-A.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Marta Rodriguez-Arias
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, 46010 València, Spain; (M.R.-A.); (L.M.-A.)
| | - Marisol Lila
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Valencia, 46010 València, Spain;
| | - Luis Moya-Albiol
- Department of Psychobiology, University of Valencia, 46010 València, Spain; (M.R.-A.); (L.M.-A.)
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March-Luján VA, Prado-Gascó V, Huguet JM, Cortés X, Arquiola JMP, Capilla-Igual M, Josefa-Rodríguez-Morales M, Monzó-Gallego A, Armero JLP, Ortí JEDLR. Impact of BMGIM Music Therapy on Emotional State in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Clin Med 2021; 10:1591. [PMID: 33918724 PMCID: PMC8069074 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a high prevalence of emotional disturbances which worsen the symptoms of the disease. As a therapeutic alternative that is part of a comprehensive care alongside medication, the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (BMGIM) music-assisted therapy has achieved promising emotional improvements in patients with chronic diseases. The objective of the study was to determine the impact of a treatment based on a BMGIM group adaptation on patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and their emotional state, therefore analyzing state of mind, quality of life, anxiety, depression, immunocompetence as a marker of well-being, and levels of acute and chronic stress. METHODS Longitudinal, prospective, quantitative, and experimental study including 43 patients with IBD divided into an intervention group (22 patients), who received eight sessions over eight weeks, and a control group (21 patients). A saliva sample was taken from each patient before and after each session in order to determine cortisol and IgA levels. Similarly, a hair sample was taken before the first and after the last session to determine the cumulative cortisol level. All molecules were quantified using the ELISA immunoassay technique. In addition, patients completed several emotional state questionnaires: HADS, MOOD, and CCVEII. RESULTS An improvement was observed in the following states of mind: sadness, fear, anger, and depression. No significant effect was observed in state of mind in terms of happiness or anxiety, in the levels of cortisol in hair, and in patients' perceived quality of life. A reduction in cortisol was observed in saliva, although this did not significantly affect the IgA titer. CONCLUSIONS BMGIM seems to improve the emotional state of patients with IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Alejandro March-Luján
- Department of Teaching and Learning of Physical, Plastic and Musical Education, Catholic University San Vicente Martir, 46110 Valencia, Spain
| | - Vicente Prado-Gascó
- Department of Social Psychology, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - José María Huguet
- Digestive Disease Department, General University Hospital of Valencia, 46014 Valencia, Spain; (J.M.H.); (A.M.-G.)
| | - Xavier Cortés
- Digestive Disease Department, Hospital of Sagunto, 46520 Valencia, Spain; (X.C.); (M.J.-R.-M.)
- Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
| | | | - María Capilla-Igual
- Research Foundation of the General Hospital of Valencia, 46014 Valencia, Spain;
| | | | - Ana Monzó-Gallego
- Digestive Disease Department, General University Hospital of Valencia, 46014 Valencia, Spain; (J.M.H.); (A.M.-G.)
| | - José Luis Platero Armero
- Department of Nursing, Catholic University San Vicente Martir, 46001 Valencia, Spain; (J.L.P.A.); (J.E.d.l.R.O.)
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A Systematic Review: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for the Parents of Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:124-141. [PMID: 33635420 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-04923-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review investigated the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for the parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. PsychInfo, CINAHL, PubMed, Science Direct, and Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection were searched using the terms "acceptance and commitment", "autism" and "parent". A total of eight articles met the eligibility criteria. One study was a randomized controlled trial, one was quasi-experimental, and the other six were exploratory. Study outcomes concerned ACT processes, mental health, and quality of life. These studies showed that ACT interventions can be helpful for the parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Nevertheless, as this field of research is relatively new, future research would benefit from creating a standard procedure and larger randomized controlled trials .
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Dijkstra-de Neijs L, Leenen PJM, Hays JP, van der Valk ES, Kraaij R, van Rossum EFC, Ester WA. Biological Consequences of Psychological Distress in Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and its Potential Relevance to Other Chronic Diseases Including Cancer. CURR EPIDEMIOL REP 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40471-020-00237-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Caregivers of children with a chronic illness are a neglected group in medical research and patient care, and are frequently confronted with chronic psychological distress. The biological consequences of this chronic distress are unclear but highly relevant, as these caregivers have a lifelong task in caring for their child. In this review, the authors specifically describe caregiver distress related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but the review may be relevant to other chronic diseases, including cancer.
Recent Findings
Epidemiological evidence illustrates the increased mortality risk in caregivers of children with ASD although some individual factors appear to diminish these risks. Biological studies demonstrate that caregiver distress can lead to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-axis, a pro-inflammatory state of the immune and central nervous system, and gut microbiome imbalance.
Summary
Caregivers of children with a chronic illness like ASD deserve more health-related attention with respect to their psychological and physical well-being. Such attention would benefit individual caregivers, as well as their children, as both are highly interconnected. Structural psychological and physical screening of caregivers can be considered.
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Díaz-Silveira C, Alcover CM, Burgos F, Marcos A, Santed MA. Mindfulness versus Physical Exercise: Effects of Two Recovery Strategies on Mental Health, Stress and Immunoglobulin A during Lunch Breaks. A Randomized Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17082839. [PMID: 32326082 PMCID: PMC7215846 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This research analyses the effects of mindfulness meditation (MM) and physical exercise (PE), practised as daily recovery activities during lunch breaks, on perceived stress, general mental health, and immunoglobin A (IgA). A three-armed randomized controlled trial with 94 employees was conducted for five weeks including two follow-up sessions after one and six months. Daily practice lasted 30 min maximum. Perceived stress and general mental health questionnaires and saliva samples were used. There were significant differences in time factor comparing pre- and post-test of Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ) both for PE [Mdiff = 0.10, SE = 0.03, p = 0.03], and for MM [Mdiff = 0.09, SE = 0.03, p = 0.03]. Moreover, there were significant differences of interaction factor when comparing MM vs. PE in total score at pre-post [F = −2.62 (6, 168.84), p = 0.02, ω2 = 0.09], favoring PE with medium and high effect sizes. Regarding General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) variable, practicing MM showed significant effects in time factor compared to pre-Fup2. No significant differences were found for IgA. Thus, practicing both MM and PE as recovery strategies during lunch breaks could reduce perceived stress after five weeks of practice, with better results for PE. Moreover, practicing MM could improve mental health with effects for 6 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cintia Díaz-Silveira
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avda. Atenas s/n, Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain; (C.D.-S.); (C.-M.A.)
| | - Carlos-María Alcover
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avda. Atenas s/n, Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain; (C.D.-S.); (C.-M.A.)
| | - Francisco Burgos
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, c/Juan del Rosal 10, 29040 Madrid, Spain; (F.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Alberto Marcos
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, c/Juan del Rosal 10, 29040 Madrid, Spain; (F.B.); (A.M.)
| | - Miguel A. Santed
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia, c/Juan del Rosal 10, 29040 Madrid, Spain; (F.B.); (A.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-646-51-75-77
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Abstract
This meta-analysis investigated relationships between self-compassion and (1) physical health and (2) health-promoting behaviour in a large pooled sample (N = 29,588) sourced from 94 peer-reviewed articles. As hypothesised, omnibus analyses revealed positive associations between self-compassion and both physical health (r = .18) and health behaviour (r = .26). Moderation analyses using 290 effects found that both associations varied according to health domain, participant age, intervention duration, and self-compassion measure. Self-compassion predicted outcomes in most health domains, with the strongest effects observed on global physical health, functional immunity, composite health behaviour, sleep, and danger avoidance. It did not predict frailty, maladaptive bodily routines, and substance abuse. Multi-session interventions designed to boost self-compassion predicted increased physical health and health behaviour, thereby supporting causal links between self-compassion and health outcomes. The effects of single-session inductions were non-significant. The mean effect of self-compassion on physical health was non-significant for young participants (12.00-19.99) and its effect on health behaviour was weakest among older participants (40.00+). Results support the proposition that self-compassion can promote better physical health. Practical implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy J Phillips
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
| | - Donald W Hine
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
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Lynn CD, Howells M, Herdrich D, Ioane J, Hudson D, Fitiao STU. The evolutionary adaptation of body art: Tattooing as costly honest signaling of enhanced immune response in American Samoa. Am J Hum Biol 2019; 32:e23347. [DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michaela Howells
- Department of AnthropologyUniversity of North Carolina Wilmington Wilmington North Carolina
| | - David Herdrich
- American Samoa Historic Preservation Office (ASHPO) American Samoa
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15
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Krause-Parello CA, Friedmann E, Wilson C, Hatzfeld JJ, Kolassa J, Hackney A, Morales KA. Relation of post-traumatic stress disorder symptom severity to the efficacy of an animal-assisted intervention for stress reduction after military aeromedical evacuation. Stress Health 2019; 35:480-490. [PMID: 31274219 DOI: 10.1002/smi.2881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) have been found to decrease stress in some settings, but it is not known if AAI is feasible in an aeromedical staging facility or effective in reducing stress following aeromedical evacuation (AE) of military personnel. An experimental design was used to evaluate the efficacy of AAI at reducing stress in AE military patients (N = 120). Patients participated in a 20-min AAI (n = 60) or 20-min informational session about assistance dogs as an attention-control group (n = 60). Demographics, post-traumatic stress symptom severity (PTSSS), and stress biomarkers (cortisol, alpha-amylase, and immunoglobulin A) were collected regular intervals. AAI was found feasible and efficacious at reducing stress. Cortisol decreased significantly (p < .05) in the AAI group compared with the attention-control group. PTSSS moderated the immunoglobulin A responses to AAI as demonstrated by the interaction of PTSD Checklist-Military Version score, group, and time, F(1, 111.23) = 4.15 p = .044; effect size: d = 0.31. This research supports AAI as a stress-reducing modality in AE patients, particularly those who report higher PTSSS. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Krause-Parello
- Florida Atlantic University, Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Canines Providing Assistance to Wounded Warriors (C-P.A.W.W.), Boca Raton, Florida, United States
| | - Erika Friedmann
- Office of Research and Scholarship, University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Candy Wilson
- Daniel K. Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Jennifer J Hatzfeld
- TriService Nursing Research Program, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - John Kolassa
- Department of Statistics, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States
| | - Alisha Hackney
- Office of Research and Scholarship, University of Maryland School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Kristie A Morales
- School of Professional Psychology, Spalding University, Louisville, Kentucky, United States.,Canines Providing Assistance to Wounded Warriors (C-P.A.W.W.), United States
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16
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Pattini E, Carnevali L, Troisi A, Matrella G, Rollo D, Fornari M, Sgoifo A. Psychological characteristics and physiological reactivity to acute stress in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. Stress Health 2019; 35:421-431. [PMID: 31025526 DOI: 10.1002/smi.2870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Stress related to parenting a child with autism spectrum disorder can differently affect caregiver's physiological reactivity to acute stress. Here, parental stress levels, psychological characteristics, and coping strategies were assessed alongside measures of heart rate, heart rate variability, and cortisol during a psychosocial stress test in mothers of children with ASD (M-ASD, n = 15) and mothers of typically developing children (n = 15). M-ASD reported significantly higher levels of parental stress, anxiety, negative affectivity, social inhibition, and a larger preference for avoidance strategies. M-ASD showed larger heart rate and cortisol responses to the psychosocial stress test. A positive relationship was found between parental stress levels and the magnitude of the cortisol stress response in both groups. The present findings indicate exaggerated physiological reactivity to acute psychosocial stress in M-ASD and prompt further research to explore the role of individual differences in mediating the effects of parental stress on physiological stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Pattini
- Centro per la Cura, la Diagnosi e lo Studio dei Disturbi della Comunicazione e della Socializzazione, Ausl Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Luca Carnevali
- Stress Physiology Lab, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Alfonso Troisi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Matrella
- Department of Engineering and Architecture, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Dolores Rollo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Sgoifo
- Stress Physiology Lab, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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17
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Romero-Martínez Á, Vitoria-Estruch S, Moya-Albiol L. Emotional and autonomic dysregulation in abstinent alcoholic men: An idiosyncratic profile? Alcohol 2019; 77:155-162. [PMID: 30664984 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Men who misuse alcohol tend to experience negative affect, which may entail difficulties in regulating emotions to cope effectively with stressful or anxiety-provoking situations, thus increasing the risk of alcohol relapse. This dysphoric state has been associated with alexithymia, which compromises an individual's abilities to acknowledge, recognize, and regulate emotional states. A physiological correlate of emotional regulation is autonomic flexibility, as shown by emotional dysregulation in men who misuse alcohol being correlated with reduced parasympathetic activation to control heart rate variability during stress and/or conflict situations. Hence, the main aim of this study was to investigate whether long-term abstinent alcoholic (LTAA) men exhibit higher levels of negative affect and sympathetic activation (cardiovascular and electrodermal) in response to acute standardized laboratory stress than non-alcoholic controls. In addition, we hypothesized that the higher the alexithymic traits, the greater would be the increase in negative affect and sympathetic activation in response to stress, especially in LTAAs. Our data demonstrated that LTAAs experienced slightly greater increases in anxiety, states of anger, and worsening of mood than controls. Moreover, they exhibited lower high-frequency heart rate variability, respiratory sinus arrhythmia values, shorter pre-ejection periods, and higher respiratory rates than controls. Finally, alexithymic traits imply greater worsening of mood and sympathetic predominance (shorter pre-ejection periods and smaller magnitude of response), with the associations being stronger in LTAAs. These findings indicate a different emotional and cardiovascular response to psychosocial stress in LTAA than non-alcoholic men. Improving our knowledge of the way this population reacts to stress may help identify risk factors for alcohol relapse.
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18
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Abstract
Psychological adjustment to having one's child diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder has important implications for a parent's mental health. In a longitudinal study, we examined the association between maternal adjustment to the diagnosis and measures of distress and well-being in 90 mothers of children with autism (baseline and 18 months). We used a novel 30-item scale "Adjustment to the Diagnosis of Autism." Factor analysis identified three dimensions of adjustment: acceptance, self-blame, and despair. Acceptance appeared to be a protective response, as it was associated with lower depressive symptoms, cross-sectionally and over time. Conversely, caregivers with increasing levels of self-blame and despair about the diagnosis over 18 months had worsening of mental health and satisfaction with life during this period.
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19
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Radin RM, Mason AE, Laudenslager ML, Epel ES. Maternal caregivers have confluence of altered cortisol, high reward-driven eating, and worse metabolic health. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216541. [PMID: 31075126 PMCID: PMC6510426 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models have shown that chronic stress increases cortisol, which contributes to overeating of highly palatable food, increased abdominal fat and lower cortisol reactivity. Few studies in humans have simultaneously examined these trajectories. We examined premenopausal women, either mothers of children with a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder (n = 92) or mothers of neurotypical children (n = 91). At baseline and 2-years, we assessed hair cortisol, metabolic health, and reward-based eating. We compared groups cross-sectionally and prospectively, accounting for BMI change. Caregivers, relative to controls, had lower cumulative hair cortisol at each time point, with no decreases over time. Caregivers also had stable levels of poor metabolic functioning and greater reward-based eating across both time points, and evidenced increased abdominal fat prospectively (all ps ≤.05), independent of change in BMI. This pattern of findings suggest that individuals under chronic stress, such as caregivers, would benefit from tailored interventions focusing on better regulation of stress and eating in tandem to prevent early onset of metabolic disease, regardless of weight status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M. Radin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Ashley E. Mason
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Mark L. Laudenslager
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Elissa S. Epel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
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20
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Padden C, Concialdi-McGlynn C, Lydon S. Psychophysiological measures of stress in caregivers of individuals with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review. Dev Neurorehabil 2019; 22:149-163. [PMID: 29652216 DOI: 10.1080/17518423.2018.1460769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often self-report heightened levels of stress and physical health problems. This paper reviewed studies assessing physiological measures of stress among parents of children with ASD. METHODS Systematic database searches identified 15 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Studies were reviewed to determine: (a) control group characteristics; (b) caregiver and care recipient characteristics; (c) setting; (d) physiological measures employed; (e) physiological outcomes; and (f) stressor type. A measure of methodological quality was also applied. RESULTS Salivary cortisol was the most common physiological measure employed. A pattern of blunted physiological activity emerged within the reviewed studies, though some studies reported normal or even higher physiological activity among this population. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggested dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-axis and autonomic nervous system for some, but not all, parents of children with ASD. Further research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara Padden
- a Tizard Centre , University of Kent , Canterbury , UK
| | | | - Sinead Lydon
- b School of Psychology , Trinity College Dublin , Dublin , Ireland.,c School of Medicine , National University of Ireland Galway , Galway , Ireland
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21
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Ram S, Howland MA, Sandman CA, Davis EP, Glynn LM. Prenatal Risk for ASD: Fetal Cortisol Exposure Predicts Child Autism-Spectrum Disorder Symptoms. Clin Psychol Sci 2018; 7:349-361. [PMID: 33758678 DOI: 10.1177/2167702618811079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is multifactorial and complex and likely involves interactions among genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. With respect to environmental influences, a growing literature implicates intrauterine experiences in the origin of this pervasive developmental disorder. In this prospective longitudinal design, we examine the hypothesis that fetal exposure to maternal cortisol may confer ASD risk. In addition, because ASD is four times more prevalent in males than females and because sexually dimorphic responses to intrauterine experiences are commonly observed, we examine whether or not any associations differ by fetal sex. Maternal plasma cortisol was measured at 15, 19, 25, 31, and 37 weeks' gestation in a sample of 84 pregnant women. ASD symptoms were assessed in their 5-year old children with the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). Fetal exposure to lower levels of maternal cortisol was associated with higher levels of ASD symptoms among boys only. The observed hypocortisolemic profile exhibited by these mothers may indicate a risk factor that precedes the stress of caregiving for a child with ASD and may not be solely a consequence of the stress of caregiving as previously thought. Further, these findings confirm the value of examining prenatal hormone exposures as predictors of ASD risk and support the premise that altered prenatal steroid exposures may play a role in the etiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena Ram
- Graduate School of Education and Psychology, Pepperdine University, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mariann A Howland
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Curt A Sandman
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Elysia Poggi Davis
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Laura M Glynn
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.,Department of Psychology, Chapman University, Orange, CA USA
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22
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Tomiyama S, Kikuchi M, Yoshimura Y, Hasegawa C, Ikeda T, Saito DN, Kumazaki H, Naito N, Minabe Y. Changes in maternal feelings for children with autism spectrum disorder after childbirth: The impact of knowledge about the disorder. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201862. [PMID: 30071114 PMCID: PMC6072130 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The social interactions between caregivers and their children play a crucial role in childhood development; therefore, caregivers’ feelings for children are critical for the development of social minds. Mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are known to experience higher levels of stress. However, knowledge regarding mothers’ feelings for their children before receiving a clinical diagnosis is limited. This study retrospectively investigated the time course of mothers’ feelings from the time of birth and the effect of protective factors. The participants were 5- to 8-year-old children with an ASD diagnosis and their mothers. The mothers of the children with ASD had less positive feelings toward their children than the mothers of the typically developed (TD) children before receiving a clinical diagnosis. Intriguingly, prior knowledge of ASD may relieve maternal mental distress during the child-rearing years and at the time of diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Tomiyama
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Socio-Cognitive-Neuroscience, Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Kikuchi
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Socio-Cognitive-Neuroscience, Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Kanazawa, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Yuko Yoshimura
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Socio-Cognitive-Neuroscience, Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Kanazawa, Japan
- Institute of Human and Social Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Chiaki Hasegawa
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Takashi Ikeda
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Socio-Cognitive-Neuroscience, Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Daisuke N. Saito
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Socio-Cognitive-Neuroscience, Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kumazaki
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Socio-Cognitive-Neuroscience, Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Nobushige Naito
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yoshio Minabe
- Research Center for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
- Division of Socio-Cognitive-Neuroscience, Department of Child Development United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University and University of Fukui, Kanazawa, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
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23
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Romero-Martínez Á, Moya-Albiol L. Stress-Induced Endocrine and Immune Dysfunctions in Caregivers of People with Eating Disorders. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14121560. [PMID: 29236043 PMCID: PMC5750978 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14121560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Caregivers have to cope repeatedly with acute stressors in their daily lives, and this is associated with disturbances in the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and the immune system. Such disturbances could contribute to the development of health problems in informal caregivers of people with chronic illnesses, such as eating disorders (EDs). The main objective of this study was to examine endocrine (salivary cortisol levels (Csal)), immune (immunoglobulin-A (IgA)), and psychological (anxiety, mood, and anger feelings) responses to an acute psychological stressor in a sample of informal caregivers of individuals with EDs compared to a sample of non-caregivers. In addition, it also aimed to analyze the potential relationship of the aforementioned endocrine and immune response parameters with psychological variables in the caregivers. Caregivers had lower Csal and IgA levels at all assessment points except baseline. Moreover, they also exhibited lower Csal and IgA responses and greater worsening of mood in response to acute psychosocial stress than the non-caregivers, which suggests that caregivers had dampened endocrine and immune reactivity to acute stress. On the other hand, endocrine and immune parameters were unrelated to psychological variables. These findings advance our understanding of how a chronically stressed population reacts to acute stress, and should be considered for the development of effective interventions focused on stress management that could help caregivers to reduce their stress levels, which, in turn, would improve their health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luis Moya-Albiol
- Psychobiology Department, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain.
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24
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Shivers CM, Krizova K, Lee GK. Types of strain among family members of individuals with autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2017; 68:42-51. [PMID: 28735161 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although increased caregiver strain is often found among family caregivers of individuals with autism spectrum disorder, it is still unclear as to how different types of strain relate to amount and types of caregiving across the lifespan. AIMS The present study examined different types of strain (i.e. subjective internalized strain, subjective externalized strain, and objective strain) and how such strain relates to the amount of caregiving responsibilities. METHODS Data was collected via online survey from a sample of 193 family caregivers of individuals with ASD from the United States, Canada, and the Republic of Ireland. Participants completed measures of strain and caregiving responsibilities, as well as coping, demographics, and services needed and received by the individual with ASD. RESULTS Caregivers reported higher levels of objective strain than subjective, and caregiving responsibility was related to objective and subjective internalized strain. Coping style was strongly correlated with all types of strain, and unmet service needs were significantly related to objective and subjective internalized strain. Caregiving behaviors were only related to objective strain. CONCLUSION The present results indicate that, although caregiving responsibility is related to objective and subjective internalized strain, the relationship is perhaps not as strong as the relationship between coping mechanisms and strain. Future research is needed to understand different types of strain and develop strategies to help caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M Shivers
- Virginia Tech, Department of Human Development, 366 Wallace Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States.
| | - Katarina Krizova
- Virginia Tech, Department of Human Development, 366 Wallace Hall, Blacksburg, VA, 24060, United States.
| | - Gloria K Lee
- Michigan State University, Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Special Education, 447 Erickson Hall, 620 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI, 48824, United States.
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25
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Romero-Martínez Á, Moya-Albiol L. Reduced cardiovascular activation following chronic stress in caregivers of people with anorexia nervosa. Stress 2017; 20:390-397. [PMID: 28618917 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2017.1343815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Caring for offspring diagnosed with eating disorders (EDs) puts caregivers under high levels of chronic stress, which have negative consequences for their health. Unfortunately, caregivers have received little attention from mental health professionals. Chronic stress experienced by informal caregivers has been associated with the alteration of body homeostasis, and therefore, the functioning of various physiological systems. This could be the basis of health problems in informal caregivers of people with EDs. The main objective of this study was to analyze physiological response, in terms of heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV), to an acute laboratory stressor in a sample of informal caregivers of individuals with anorexia nervosa (n = 24) compared to a sample of noncaregivers (n = 26). In addition, the relationship between depressive mood and the aforementioned cardiovascular response parameters was analyzed in the group of caregivers. Caregivers had higher high-frequency (HF) power HRV, and lower HR, low-frequency (LF) power HRV and LF/HF ratio values than noncaregivers, which suggests lower cardiovascular reactivity to the acute stressor than noncaregivers. Moreover, a blunted HR response to stress was associated with high depressive mood scores in caregivers. Hence, it seems that the worse the mood the lower the cardiovascular reactivity to stressful events in this population. Developing and implementing psychotherapeutic interventions focused on stress management would help caregivers to reduce their stress levels and cope more effectively with stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luis Moya-Albiol
- a Psychobiology Department , University of Valencia , Valencia , Spain
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26
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Birkett M, Johnson L, Gelety C. Investigation of Sex Differences In sIgA Response to the Trier Social Stress Test. Stress Health 2017; 33:158-163. [PMID: 27075235 DOI: 10.1002/smi.2680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Acute stressors can activate the immune system. While many immune system diseases disproportionally affect women, sex differences in adaptive immune response to acute, psychosocial stressors remain to be investigated. The present study tested the hypothesis that female participants experience increased immune response to acute psychosocial stress relative to male participants. Salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) was assessed before and after the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) and at two time points during a recovery period in healthy male (n = 25) and female (n = 24) participants. Exposure to the TSST resulted in significantly increased sIgA that returned to baseline during a subsequent recovery period. Baseline sIgA was higher among women, however, no differences between men and women in response to or recovery from the stressor were observed in the present study. This research describes an initial investigation of sex differences in immune response to acute psychosocial stressors and demonstrates similarity in sIgA response among male and female participants. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Birkett
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Lauren Johnson
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Christopher Gelety
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
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27
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Padden C, James JE. Stress among Parents of Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Comparison Involving Physiological Indicators and Parent Self-Reports. JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL AND PHYSICAL DISABILITIES 2017; 29:567-586. [PMID: 28747813 PMCID: PMC5502228 DOI: 10.1007/s10882-017-9547-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have been reported as experiencing higher levels of stress and poorer physical health than parents of typically developing children. However, most of the relevant literature has been based on parental self-reports of stress and health. While research on physiological outcomes has grown in recent years, gaps still exist in our understanding of the physiological effects, if any, of stress related to parenting a child with ASD. The present study compared parent-reported stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as selected physiological measures of stress (i.e., cortisol, alpha-amylase, and ambulatory blood pressure and heart rate) between matched groups of parents of children with (N = 38) and without (N = 38) ASD. Participants completed questionnaires, collected saliva samples for the purpose of measuring cortisol and alpha-amylase, and wore an ambulatory blood pressure monitor for 24 h. Parents of children with ASD reported significantly higher levels of parental distress, anxiety, and depression than parents of typically developing children. Parent-reported distress, anxiety, depression, and health were not correlated with physiological measures. With the exception that parents of children with ASD had significantly lower cortisol levels 30 min after waking, no other significant group differences were found for physiological measures. Parents of children with ASD reported significantly higher use of a number of adaptive coping strategies (e.g., emotional support) in comparison to parents of typically developing children. Results are discussed in the context of implications for future research directions, stress research, and practical implications for parental support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara Padden
- Tizard Centre, Cornwallis North East, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 7NF UK
- School of Psychology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Jack E. James
- School of Psychology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
- Department of Psychology, Reykjavik University, Reykjavik, Iceland
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28
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The Use of Testosterone/Cortisol Ratio in Response to Acute Stress as an Indicator of Propensity to Anger in Informal Caregivers. SPANISH JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2016; 19:E48. [PMID: 27641230 DOI: 10.1017/sjp.2016.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Caring for an offspring diagnosed with a psychological chronic disorder is used in research as a model of chronic stress. Indeed, it is usually associated with disturbances in the salivary cortisol (Csal) levels of the caregiver. An imbalance between salivary testosterone (Tsal) and Csal levels is a marker of proneness to social aggression. Given this, we aimed to establish whether the salivary testosterone/cortisol (Tsal/Csal) ratio response to acute stress could be employed as a marker of proneness to anger in informal caregivers of offspring with autism spectrum (ASD). Tsal/Csal ratio and anger responses to a set of different cognitive tasks as well as anger trait and expression were compared in these informal caregivers and controls. Caregivers, particularly those of offspring with ASD, had higher Tsal/Csal ratios than controls in response to acute stress, concretely after the stress in the case of fathers (p = .05) and before stress when analyzing mothers (p = .05). Moreover, ASD fathers and mothers obtained higher magnitude of the T/C ratio response to stress (p = .03 and p =.04, respectively), anger state (p = .02 and p = .02, respectively) and expression scores (p = .05 and p = .05, respectively) than controls. Finally, high Tsal/Csal ratio levels and response to stress were significantly associated with high anger feelings increases (p .05, respectively) and expression (p .05, respectively) in caregivers.
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Pilot Study of Parent Psychophysiologic Outcomes in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Cancer Nurs 2016; 40:E48-E57. [PMID: 27257801 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000000394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are at risk for psychological distress. This distress may result in aberrant immune, inflammatory, or endocrine effects. These physiologic outcomes have not been reported previously. MAIN OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to examine the feasibility of longitudinal testing of psychophysiological parameters of stress in parents of children undergoing HSCT. METHODS This pilot study was conducted at a large children's hospital in the Midwest and included parents of children who received autologous or allogeneic HSCT. Time points included before the start of HSCT conditioning and day +30, +60, and +100. Outcome variables included parent-perceived stress, lymphocyte subsets, C-reactive protein (CRP), proinflammatory cytokines, salivary cortisol, and salivary amylase. Effect sizes were calculated for each outcome. RESULTS Twelve parent-child dyads were enrolled (10 mothers, 2 fathers). Missing data were minimal. Parent-perceived stress significantly increased from pre-HSCT through day +100, and parent CD3+ T-lymphocyte counts decreased from pre-HSCT through day +100. No significant effects were observed for salivary studies, CRP, or proinflammatory cytokines. Effect sizes ranged from 1.23 (perceived stress) to 0.07 (CRP). CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that it is feasible longitudinally measure parent psychophysiologic outcomes in the pediatric HSCT setting. In addition, parent-perceived stress increased linearly from start of conditioning through day +100, whereas parent T-lymphocyte counts decreased concurrently. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Routine psychological and physical health screening of parents of children undergoing HSCT is needed. Multidisciplinary psychosocial support services should be offered to parents at regular intervals during their child's HSCT.
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Ruiz-Robledillo N, Romero-Martínez Á, Moya-Albiol L. Blunted Electrodermal and Psychological Response to Acute Stress in Family Caregivers of People with Eating Disorders. THE SPANISH JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2016; 19:E20. [PMID: 27160010 DOI: 10.1017/sjp.2016.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Caring for an offspring with an eating disorder (ED) is associated with high levels of distress, and health problems. Indeed, ED caregivers have to cope with a range of challenges related to their caring role, which represents a chronic stress situation. This tends to alter body homeostasis and caregivers' health status. This study aimed to analyse the electrodermal reactivity and psychological response to acute stress in ED caregivers compared to non-caregivers. As expected, caregivers showed lower electrodermal (p < .001, η2partial = .269 for SCL and p < .01, η2partial = .214 for NSCRs) and psychological response (p < .05, η2partial = .198) to acute stress than non-caregivers. The findings suggest the existence of physiological adaptation to chronic stress in family caregivers of people with EDs.
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Lower cardiovascular reactivity to acute stress in informal caregivers of people with autism spectrum disorder than in non-caregivers: Implications for health outcomes. Int J Psychophysiol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2015.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Abstract
Afferent neural signals are continuously transmitted from visceral organs to the brain. Interoception refers to the processing of visceral-afferent neural signals by the central nervous system, which can finally result in the conscious perception of bodily processes. Interoception can, therefore, be described as a prominent example of information processing on the ascending branch of the brain–body axis. Stress responses involve a complex neuro-behavioral cascade, which is elicited when the organism is confronted with a potentially harmful stimulus. As this stress cascade comprises a range of neural and endocrine pathways, stress can be conceptualized as a communication process on the descending branch of the brain–body axis. Interoception and stress are, therefore, associated via the bi-directional transmission of information on the brain–body axis. It could be argued that excessive and/or enduring activation (e.g., by acute or chronic stress) of neural circuits, which are responsible for successful communication on the brain–body axis, induces malfunction and dysregulation of these information processes. As a consequence, interoceptive signal processing may be altered, resulting in physical symptoms contributing to the development and/or maintenance of body-related mental disorders, which are associated with stress. In the current paper, we summarize findings on psychobiological processes underlying acute and chronic stress and their interaction with interoception. While focusing on the role of the physiological stress axes (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis and autonomic nervous system), psychological factors in acute and chronic stress are also discussed. We propose a positive feedback model involving stress (in particular early life or chronic stress, as well as major adverse events), the dysregulation of physiological stress axes, altered perception of bodily sensations, and the generation of physical symptoms, which may in turn facilitate stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Schulz
- Institute for Health and Behaviour, Integrative Research Unit on Social and Individual Development, University of Luxembourg Walferdange, Luxembourg
| | - Claus Vögele
- Institute for Health and Behaviour, Integrative Research Unit on Social and Individual Development, University of Luxembourg Walferdange, Luxembourg
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Klainin-Yobas P, Ignacio J, He HG, Lau Y, Ngooi BX, Koh SQD. Effects of a Stress-Management Program for Inpatients With Mental Disorders: A Feasibility Study. Biol Res Nurs 2015; 18:213-20. [PMID: 26183182 DOI: 10.1177/1099800415595877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Stress-management interventions have been integrated into treatments for people with mental disorders. Nevertheless, most studies on these interventions have been conducted on patients with schizophrenia in Western countries, and limited studies have used objective measurements of stress. We developed a group-based, four-session stress-management (S-Manage) program for people with mental disorders, consisting of two major components: psychoeducation and relaxation practice. This single-group, pretest-posttest, quasi-experimental study was undertaken to test the initial effects and determine the effect sizes of the program. A convenience sample of 55 inpatients were recruited from a mental health ward at a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Self-report questionnaires and physiological measures of stress (skin temperature and salivary immunoglobulin A [SIgA]) were used for data collection. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and repeated-measures analysis of variance. Most participants were Singaporean, female, single, and employed. Diagnoses included schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, and mixed diagnoses. All received standard care provided by the hospital. Participants had significant reductions in objective stress, measured by skin temperature (effect size = 0.54) and SIgA (effect size = 0.16), and subjective stress (effect size = 0.16) as well as improved psychological health (effect size = 0.40) in response to the intervention. This study provides preliminary evidence to support the positive effects of the S-Manage program on people with mental disorders. Future studies should further test the efficacy of the program using more rigorous methods such as randomized controlled trial and multicenter study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeanette Ignacio
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hong-Gu He
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ying Lau
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Soo Quee David Koh
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Nguyen CT, Fairclough DL, Noll RB. Problem-solving skills training for mothers of children recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder: A pilot feasibility study. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2015; 20:55-64. [PMID: 25896269 DOI: 10.1177/1362361314567134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Problem-solving skills training is an intervention designed to teach coping skills that has shown to decrease negative affectivity (depressive symptoms, negative mood, and post-traumatic stress symptoms) in mothers of children with cancer. The objective of this study was to see whether mothers of children recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder would be receptive to receiving problem-solving skills training (feasibility trial). Participants were recruited from a local outpatient developmental clinic that is part of a university department of pediatrics. Participants were to receive eight 1-h sessions of problem-solving skills training and were asked to complete assessments prior to beginning problem-solving skills training (T1), immediately after intervention (T2), and 3 months after T2 (T3). Outcome measures assessed problem-solving skills and negative affectivity (i.e. distress). In total, 30 mothers were approached and 24 agreed to participate (80.0%). Of them, 17 mothers completed problem-solving skills training (retention rate: 70.8%). Mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder who completed problem-solving skills training had significant decreases in negative affectivity and increases in problem-solving skills. A comparison to mothers of children with cancer shows that mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder displayed similar levels of depressive symptoms but less negative mood and fewer symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Data suggest that problem-solving skills training may be an effective way to alleviate distress in mothers of children recently diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Data also suggest that mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder were moderately receptive to receiving problem-solving skills training. Implications are that problem-solving skills training may be beneficial to parents of children with autism spectrum disorder; modifications to improve retention rates are suggested.
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Ruzich E, Allison C, Smith P, Watson P, Auyeung B, Ring H, Baron-Cohen S. Measuring autistic traits in the general population: a systematic review of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) in a nonclinical population sample of 6,900 typical adult males and females. Mol Autism 2015; 6:2. [PMID: 25874074 PMCID: PMC4396128 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-6-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 291] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) is a self-report measure of autistic traits. It is frequently cited in diverse fields and has been administered to adults of at least average intelligence with autism and to nonclinical controls, as well as to clinical control groups such as those with schizophrenia, prosopagnosia, anorexia, and depression. However, there has been no empirical systematic review of the AQ since its inception in 2001. The present study reports a comprehensive systematic review of the literature to estimate a reliable mean AQ score in individuals without a diagnosis of an autism spectrum condition (ASC), in order to establish a reference norm for future studies. A systematic search of computerized databases was performed to identify studies that administered the AQ to nonclinical participant samples representing the adult male and female general population. Inclusion was based on a set of formalized criteria that evaluated the quality of the study, the usage of the AQ, and the population being assessed. After selection, 73 articles, detailing 6,934 nonclinical participants, as well as 1,963 matched clinical cases of ASC (from available cohorts within each individual study), were analyzed. Mean AQ score for the nonclinical population was 16.94 (95% CI 11.6, 20.0), while mean AQ score for the clinical population with ASC was found to be 35.19 (95% CI 27.6, 41.1). In addition, in the nonclinical population, a sex difference in autistic traits was found, although no sex difference in AQ score was seen in the clinical ASC population. These findings have implications for the study of autistic traits in the general population. Here, we confirm previous norms with more rigorous data and for the first time establish average AQ scores based on a systematic review, for populations of adult males and females with and without ASC. Finally, we advise future researchers to avoid risk of bias by carefully considering the recruitment strategy for both clinical and nonclinical groups and to demonstrate transparency by reporting recruitment methods for all participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Ruzich
- />Cambridge Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, CB2 8AH Cambridge, UK
- />Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - Carrie Allison
- />Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - Paula Smith
- />Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
| | - Peter Watson
- />MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, 15 Chaucer Road, Cambridge, CB2 7EF UK
| | - Bonnie Auyeung
- />Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
- />Psychology Department, University of Edinburgh, 3 Charles Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9AD UK
| | - Howard Ring
- />Cambridge Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, CB2 8AH Cambridge, UK
- />NIHR CLAHRC for the East of England, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH England, UK
- />Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Peterborough, CB21 5EF UK
| | - Simon Baron-Cohen
- />Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH UK
- />NIHR CLAHRC for the East of England, Douglas House, 18B Trumpington Road, Cambridge, CB2 8AH England, UK
- />CLASS Clinic, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Peterborough, CB21 5EF UK
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Kawano A, Emori Y. The relationship between maternal postpartum psychological state and breast milk secretory immunoglobulin A level. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc 2015; 21:23-30. [PMID: 25589451 DOI: 10.1177/1078390314566882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal psychological state may influence the passive transfer of immune factors (e.g., immunoglobulin) via the mother's breast milk. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether a correlation exists between mothers' postpartum psychological state and their breast milk secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels. STUDY DESIGN Eighty-one mothers who delivered at an urban general hospital were included in our analysis. Two weeks after delivery, we measured their breast milk SIgA levels and simultaneously documented their psychological state using the Profile of Mood States (POMS), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) scales. RESULTS Breast milk SIgA levels were negatively correlated with negative POMS states (tension-anxiety, depression-dejection, anger-hostility, fatigue, and confusion). A negative correlation was also observed between SIgA levels and GHQ mental health (r = -.625, P = .000), and a similar negative correlation was observed with STAI trait and state anxieties. However, no correlation existed between breast milk SIgA levels and the positive POMS state (vigor). CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that the maternal psychological state may affect the immune properties of breast milk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Kawano
- Atsuko Kawano, RN, NMW, PhD, Yoko Emori, RN, NMW, PhD, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yoko Emori
- Atsuko Kawano, RN, NMW, PhD, Yoko Emori, RN, NMW, PhD, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Romero-Martínez A, Nunes-Costa R, Lila M, González-Bono E, Moya-Albiol L. Cardiovascular reactivity to a marital conflict version of the Trier social stress test in intimate partner violence perpetrators. Stress 2014; 17:321-7. [PMID: 24766372 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2014.919448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetrators have been categorized into two groups based on their heart rate (HR) reactivity to stress following Gottman's studies. Overall, type I perpetrators tend to show autonomic underarousal, whereas type II or reactive perpetrators present a hyper-reactivity in anticipation of stress. In this study, changes in HR, pre-ejection period (PEP), vagal ratio as well as psychological state variables (anxiety and anger) in response to stress were assessed, comparing a group of type II IPV perpetrators (based on violence reports and psychological assessment; n = 17; mean age = 37) with non-violent controls (n = 17; mean age = 35) using modified version of the Trier Social Stress Test. IPV perpetrators had higher HRs and lower vagal ratios than controls, particularly during the recovery period. Moreover, the former presented shorter PEPs than controls. There were no differences between groups in the magnitude of response of the HR, PEP or vagal ratio. High baseline anxiety and anger were associated with an HR increase during the preparation time in IPV perpetrators but not in controls. These findings indicate a different cardiovascular pattern of response to psychosocial stress in IPV perpetrators, especially during recovery. Thus, they contribute to understanding the biological functioning of violence sub-types, supporting the validity of cardiovascular measures as diagnostic indicators for IPV classification.
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Lindahl Norberg A, Mellgren K, Winiarski J, Forinder U. Relationship between problems related to child late effects and parent burnout after pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Pediatr Transplant 2014; 18:302-9. [PMID: 24483231 DOI: 10.1111/petr.12228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A few studies have indicated that parents' reactions to a child's serious disease may entail long-term stress for the parents. However, further knowledge of its consequences is valuable. The aim of the study was to investigate the occurrence of burnout in a Swedish national sample of parents of children who had undergone HSCT and survived. Burnout (Shirom-Melamed Burnout Questionnaire) and estimations of the child's health status (Lansky/Karnofsky estimations and study-specific questions) were self-reported by 159 mothers and 123 fathers. In addition, physicians made estimations of the child's health status (Lansky/Karnofsky estimations). Nonparametric tests revealed that burnout symptoms occurred more often among fathers of children who had undergone transplantation within the last five yr compared to fathers of children with no history of serious disease (34.4% vs. 19.9%). Burnout among mothers and fathers was associated with the child's number and severity of health impairments up to five yr after the child underwent HSCT (Spearman's rho for mothers 0.26-0.36 and for fathers 0.36-0.61). In conclusion, chronic stress in parents after a child's HSCT seems to abate eventually. However, parents should be monitored and offered adequate support when needed. Moreover, the situation of fathers in the often mother-dominated pediatric setting should receive more attention in research as well as in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Lindahl Norberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; U-CARE/Psychosocial Oncology and Supportive Care, Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Ruiz-Robledillo N, De Andrés-García S, Pérez-Blasco J, González-Bono E, Moya-Albiol L. Highly resilient coping entails better perceived health, high social support and low morning cortisol levels in parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2014; 35:686-695. [PMID: 24405793 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2013.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Revised: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The negative consequences of caring for people with developmental disabilities have been widely described. However, the ability to bounce back from the stress derived from care situations has been less studied. Those caregivers who have shown this ability are considered as resilient. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between resilience and self-reported health and cortisol awakening response (CAR) in a sample of caregivers of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). It also aims to evaluate the role of social support as a mediator in the association between resilience and health. Caregivers with higher resilience show better perceived health, lower morning cortisol levels, and less area under the curve with respect to ground (AUCg). Social support was positively related to resilience and mediated the relationship between resilience and perceived health. This mediating effect was not found in the association between resilience and CAR. Resilience could be a protective factor that modulates the negative consequences of chronic stress in the care context. Social support could be an important variable mediating the effects of resilience on health outcomes in caregivers. All these results must be considered when implementing effective psychological programs for helping caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Ruiz-Robledillo
- Department of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibañez, 21, Valencia, Spain.
| | - S De Andrés-García
- Department of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibañez, 21, Valencia, Spain.
| | - J Pérez-Blasco
- Department of Evolutionary and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibañez, 21, Valencia, Spain.
| | - E González-Bono
- Department of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibañez, 21, Valencia, Spain.
| | - L Moya-Albiol
- Department of Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Avenida Blasco Ibañez, 21, Valencia, Spain.
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González-Cabrera J, Fernández-Prada M, Iribar-Ibabe C, Peinado JM. Acute and chronic stress increase salivary cortisol: a study in the real-life setting of a national examination undertaken by medical graduates. Stress 2014; 17:149-56. [PMID: 24351081 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2013.876405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Spanish medical graduates who apply for a medical specialty training position (MIR) must take an examination that will shape their future personal and professional lives. Preparation for the test represents an important stressor that persists for several months. The aim of this study was to elucidate the stress pattern of this group and evaluate possible changes in the circadian rhythm of cortisol release in medical graduates preparing for this test. A repeated-measures longitudinal study was performed, measuring the salivary cortisol concentrations in 36 medical graduates (13 males and 23 females; mean age of 24.2 years) on five sampling days. Five cortisol samples were collected from 07:00 to 21:00 h in order to monitor changes in the circadian rhythm. On all sampling days (except on the day of the official examination), anxiety and psychological stress were evaluated with the Spanish versions of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). During the study period, participants showed higher levels of anxiety than the Spanish reference population as well as a progressive increase in self-perceived stress. A significant increase in salivary cortisol concentration was observed in both chronic (study and examination preparation) and acute (examinations) situations. Our results suggest that the cortisol awakening response (CAR) may be a good indicator of anticipatory stress but is unaffected by long-term examination preparation. Comparison of results between the official examination day and the mock examination days yielded evidence that learning may modulate the behavior of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J González-Cabrera
- Faculty of Education, International University of Rioja (UNIR) , Logroño , Spain
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Immunoglobulin A response to acute stress in intimate partner violence perpetrators: The role of anger expression-out and testosterone. Biol Psychol 2014; 96:66-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2013.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2013] [Revised: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Ruiz-Robledillo N, Moya-Albiol L. Lower Electrodermal Activity to Acute Stress in Caregivers of People with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Adaptive Habituation to Stress. J Autism Dev Disord 2013; 45:576-88. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-013-1996-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Chan ES, Koh D, Teo YC, Hj Tamin R, Lim A, Fredericks S. Biochemical and psychometric evaluation of Self-Healing Qigong as a stress reduction tool among first year nursing and midwifery students. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2013; 19:179-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2013.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 08/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Ruiz-Robledillo N, Moya-Albiol L. Self-reported health and cortisol awakening response in parents of people with asperger syndrome: The role of trait anger and anxiety, coping and burden. Psychol Health 2013; 28:1246-64. [DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2013.800517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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de Andrés-García S, Sariñana-González P, Romero-Martínez A, Moya-Albiol L, Gonzalez-Bono E. Cortisol response to stress in caregivers of offspring with autism spectrum disorder is associated with care recipient characteristics. Stress 2013; 16:510-9. [PMID: 23742094 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2013.798294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Providing care for people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is particularly stressful and frequently associated with disturbances in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis of the caregiver. This study examined whether the stress response is modulated by factors such as age of the care recipient and number of years spent by the caregiver in providing care for the ASD individual. Caregivers of children (n = 15), adolescents (n = 12), and adults (n = 11) with ASD were exposed to two episodes of acute psychosocial stressor in a 1 day session. Salivary cortisol samples were obtained before, during, and after the stressor episodes. Psychological characteristics (states of anxiety, anger, and mood) were measured before and after the stressor episodes. The characteristics of the ASD individuals (age, degree of autism, global activity, and level of autonomy) were also registered. A difference in stress response was found when caregivers of ASD children were compared with those of ASD adolescents and adults, ε = 0.25, F(2.24,53.65) = 5.82, p < 0.004; ε = 0.23 and F(2.11,48.43) = 4.88, p < 0.01, respectively. Thus, upon acute-stressor exposure, caregivers of ASD individuals presented a stress response that correlated with the age of the patient (the older the patient, the lower the cortisol response). Additional factors, such as number of years spent providing care and level of autonomy of the recipient, also significantly contributed to the stress response. Together, the results demonstrate that recipient characteristics contribute to the detection of high-risk individuals within a caregiver population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara de Andrés-García
- Department of Psychobiology, Psychology Centre, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Ruiz-Robledillo N, González-Bono E, Moya-Albiol L. Lack of institutional support entails disruption in cortisol awakening response in caregivers of people with high-functioning autism. J Health Psychol 2013; 19:1586-96. [DOI: 10.1177/1359105313496444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have found disruptions in cortisol awakening response in informal caregivers. Institutional support may modulate these effects, and this study analyses how the health of caregivers is affected when institutional support is provided for families of people with high-functioning autism. Self-reported health, depression and cortisol awakening response were analysed in three groups: supported caregivers, non-supported caregivers and non-caregivers. Non-supported caregivers presented higher somatic symptoms and lower cortisol awakening response than the supported caregiver and non-caregiver groups. A high number of somatic symptoms and low functionality of offspring were related to a lower cortisol awakening response only in the non-supported caregiver group. These findings demonstrate the importance of institutional support for improving the health of caregivers.
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