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Wülfing P, Spitzer C. A Network Analytic Approach to Dissociation: New Insights from Clinical Data. J Trauma Dissociation 2024:1-14. [PMID: 39329383 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2024.2407799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
The transdiagnostic construct of dissociation, characterized by a disintegration of specific psychological functions such as consciousness, memory, identity, perception, body representation, and behavior, remains elusive to a unified conceptualization. Specifically, its dimensionality is a matter of ongoing controversy. Empirical approaches applying factor analyses to the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) have yielded inconsistent findings. This study adopts a novel methodological approach, utilizing Exploratory Graph Analysis (EGA) to address this issue. In a sample of 668 day-hospital patients undergoing psychotherapy for a variety of mental disorders, a Gaussian graphical model was estimated for the 28 items of the DES. Additionally, the stability of the results was ensured by bootstrap procedures. While both the original EGA and the bootstrap EGA suggested four dimensions, the structural consistency of this solution was low due to an instability of 12 items. After excluding 10 of these unstable items, re-analyses again revealed a four-factor structure, but boot EGA indicated that one factor had unsatisfactory structural consistency due to the multidimensionality of its two items. Upon removing these, our final network consisted of 16 items mapping onto 3 dimensions. Our study, using data from a diagnostically heterogeneous sample, replicates and extends previous findings on the dimensionality of dissociation as captured by the DES. The three dimensions identified correspond to segregated processes, derealization/depersonalization, and absorption. This solution aligns with a bipartite model of dissociation with two broader categories referring to either altered states of consciousness (often named detachment) or to non-integrated mental modules (labeled as compartmentalization).
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Wülfing
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Rostock Germany
| | - Carsten Spitzer
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Rostock Germany
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2
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Cavicchioli M, Santoni A, Chiappetta F, Deodato M, Di Dona G, Scalabrini A, Galli F, Ronconi L. Psychological dissociation and temporal integration/segregation across the senses: An experimental study. Conscious Cogn 2024; 124:103731. [PMID: 39096823 DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2024.103731] [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: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
There are no studies that have experimentally tested how temporal integration/segregation of sensory inputs might be linked to the emergence of dissociative experiences and alterations of emotional functioning. Thirty-six participants completed 3 sensory integration tasks. Psychometric thresholds were estimated as indexes of temporal integration/segregation processes. We collected self-report measures of pre-task trait levels of dissociation, as well as pre- post-task changes in both dissociation and emotionality. An independent sample of 21 subjects completed a control experiment administering the Attention Network Test. Results showed: (i) a significant increase of dissociative experiences after the completion of sensory integration tasks, but not after the ANT task; (ii) that subjective thresholds predicted the emergence of dissociative states; (iii) temporal integration efforts affected positive emotionality, which was explained by the extent of task-dependent dissociative states. The present findings reveal that dissociation could be understood in terms of an imbalance between "hyper-segregation" and "hyper-integration" processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cavicchioli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Italy; Faculty of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Ripa di Porta Ticinese 77, Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessia Santoni
- School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Michele Deodato
- Psychology Program, Division of Science, New York University Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Giuseppe Di Dona
- School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Scalabrini
- Department of Human and Social Science, University of Bergamo, Mental Health, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Federica Galli
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, SAPIENZA University of Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Ronconi
- School of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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3
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Imperatori C, Schimmenti A, Raimondi G, Santoro G, De Rossi E, Innamorati M, Adenzato M, Carbone GA, Ardito RB, Farina B. Psychometric Properties of the Detachment and Compartmentalization Inventory (DCI) in an Italian Community Sample. J Trauma Dissociation 2024; 25:467-484. [PMID: 38444257 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2024.2323982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The Detachment and Compartmentalization Inventory (DCI) is a valid and reliable self-report instrument that assesses these two distinct forms of dissociative symptoms. However, there is limited research on the cross-cultural validation of the DCI. Therefore, this study aimed to develop an Italian translation of the DCI and examine its internal structure and psychometric properties (including internal consistency, convergent validity, and test-retest reliability) within an Italian-speaking community sample. The sample consisted of 1276 adults (887 females; mean age: 29.57 ± 10.96 years), who completed the DCI and other self-report measures evaluating dissociative experiences and childhood trauma. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the original two-factor model (χ2169 = 1312.80, RMSEA = 0.073, 95%CI 0.069-0.077; CFI = 0.94; TLI = 0.94; SRMR = 0.04). Additionally, the DCI exhibited good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity with another measure of dissociation. The study also confirmed the association between DCI scores and the severity of childhood trauma. Finally, a Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis demonstrated that the DCI effectively distinguishes individuals who screened positively for dissociative disorders. Overall, these findings indicate that the Italian translation of the DCI possesses satisfactory psychometric properties, suggesting its utility as a screening tool for assessing detachment and compartmentalization experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, UKE-Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Giulia Raimondi
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Developmental and Social Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Santoro
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elena De Rossi
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Innamorati
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Adenzato
- Department of Psychology, University of Turn, Turin, Italy
| | - Giuseppe A Carbone
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Psychology, University of Turn, Turin, Italy
| | - Rita B Ardito
- Department of Psychology, University of Turn, Turin, Italy
| | - Benedetto Farina
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Cavicchioli M, Ogliari A, Maffei C, Mucci C, Scalabrini A. Dissociative Dimensions and Their Implications for Emotional Dysregulation Underlying Borderline Personality Disorder Features. J Nerv Ment Dis 2023; 211:742-751. [PMID: 37734116 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Emotion dysregulation is considered a core feature of borderline personality disorder (BPD). The role of dissociation in BPD has been discussed from different perspectives. Nevertheless, implications of dissociation for BPD features are not clear. The current study estimated mediation effects of dissociative dimensions on the relationships between several emotion regulation strategies (ERSs) and BPD features among 281 adults recruited from the general population. The online survey administered a comprehensive self-report battery for the assessment of maladaptive and adaptive ERSs together with dissociative dimensions. Borderline personality disorder features were also self-report screened. Results showed significant indirect effects of dissociation on the relationships between ERSs and BPD features. Dissociation was a full mediator of the relationship between deficits with problem-solving skills and BPD criteria. The study confirmed that emotion dysregulation is a core feature of BPD and that the dissociative dimensions should be included as relevant maladaptive mechanisms sustaining BPD emotional difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cavicchioli
- Department of Psychology, University "Vita-Salute San Raffaele", Milan, Italy
| | | | - Cesare Maffei
- Department of Psychology, University "Vita-Salute San Raffaele", Milan, Italy
| | - Clara Mucci
- Department of Human and Social Science, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Andrea Scalabrini
- Department of Human and Social Science, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
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Poli A, Cappellini F, Sala J, Miccoli M. The integrative process promoted by EMDR in dissociative disorders: neurobiological mechanisms, psychometric tools, and intervention efficacy on the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1164527. [PMID: 37727746 PMCID: PMC10505816 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1164527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Dissociative disorders (DDs) are characterized by a discontinuity in the normal integration of consciousness, memory, identity, emotion, perception, bodily representation, motor control, and action. The life-threatening coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been identified as a potentially traumatic event and may produce a wide range of mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, and DD, stemming from pandemic-related events, such as sickness, isolation, losing loved ones, and fear for one's life. In our conceptual analysis, we introduce the contribution of the structural dissociation of personality (SDP) theory and polyvagal theory to the conceptualization of the COVID-19 pandemic-triggered DD and the importance of assessing perceived safety in DD through neurophysiologically informed psychometric tools. In addition, we analyzed the contribution of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to the treatment of the COVID-19 pandemic-triggered DD and suggest possible neurobiological mechanisms of action of the EMDR. In particular, we propose that, through slow eye movements, the EMDR may promote an initial non-rapid-eye-movement sleep stage 1-like activity, a subsequent access to a slow-wave sleep activity, and an oxytocinergic neurotransmission that, in turn, may foster the functional coupling between paraventricular nucleus and both sympathetic and parasympathetic cardioinhibitory nuclei. Neurophysiologically informed psychometric tools for safety evaluation in DDs are discussed. Furthermore, clinical and public health implications are considered, combining the EMDR, SDP theory, and polyvagal conceptualizations in light of the potential dissociative symptomatology triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Perona-Garcelán S, Rodenas-Perea G, Velasco-Barbancho E, Senín-Calderón C, Rodríguez-Testal JF, Moreno-Buzón R, Ruiz-Veguilla M, Crespo-Facorro B. Spanish validation of the Detachment and Compartmentalization Inventory (DCI) in a community and clinical sample. A new instrument for measuring dissociation. SPANISH JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY AND MENTAL HEALTH 2023; 16:102-108. [PMID: 33359120 DOI: 10.1016/j.rpsm.2020.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dissociative symptoms are a type of phenomenon which is present in a wide variety of psychopathological disorders. It is therefore necessary to develop scales that measure this type of experience for therapy and research. Starting out from the bipartite model of dissociation, this study intended to adapt and validate the Detachment and Compartmentalization Inventory (DCI) in Spanish. MATERIAL AND METHODS For this, 308 participants (268 from the community population and 40 with psychiatric pathology) completed the DCI, the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES-II), the Somatoform Dissociation Questionnaire (SDQ20) and the Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS). RESULTS The results showed that the Spanish version has a two-factor structure similar to the original version and was invariant across participants. The reliability of DCI scores was adequate and acquired evidence of validity related to other instruments. CONCLUSIONS It is concluded that the DCI is a valid scale for detecting detachment and compartmentalization dissociative experiences, both in the clinic and research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Juan F Rodríguez-Testal
- Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatment Department, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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7
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Dissoziation: ein transdiagnostisches Phänomen. DIE PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2023. [PMCID: PMC9982778 DOI: 10.1007/s00278-022-00641-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Der Begriff der Dissoziation wurde in frühen Anfängen der Neurosenlehre verwendet, hat sich seither gewandelt und ist Ausgangspunkt vieler Kontroversen. Unter Dissoziation wird i. Allg. die Abspaltung sonst integrierter Gedächtnis‑, Bewusstseins‑, Identitäts- und Wahrnehmungsfunktionen (eigene Person und Umwelt) verstanden. Dissoziation ist ein klinisches Kriterium von Belastungsstörungen und der emotional instabilen Persönlichkeitsstörung; dissoziative Symptome haben sind ebenfalls als Phänomene bei anderen Erkrankungen hochrelevant. Differenzialdiagnostisch ist Schizophrenie bedeutsam. Die Unterscheidung zwischen Dissoziation von Detachment- und Kompartmentalisationstyp sowie die Berücksichtigung möglicher Traumatatypen können die Entwicklung von Krankheitsmodellen unterstützen. Die Behandlung basiert auf akkurater Diagnostik, einschließlich Biografie und Beziehungen. Komplexe Dissoziationslagen erfordern eine komplexe Therapie, weil neben der psychischen Integration weitere psychosoziale Bedarfe zu bedienen sind.
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8
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Dissociative experiences of compartmentalization are associated with food addiction symptoms: results from a cross-sectional report. Eat Weight Disord 2023; 28:28. [PMID: 36867281 PMCID: PMC9984353 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-023-01555-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Studies have shown significant associations of dissociative symptoms with both eating and addictive disorders; however, the different forms of dissociation have been relatively understudied in relation to food addiction (FA). The main aim of this study was to investigate the association of certain forms of dissociative experiences (i.e., absorption, detachment and compartmentalization) with FA symptoms in a nonclinical sample. METHODS Participants (N = 755; 543 women; age range: 18-65; mean age: 28.22 ± 9.99 years) were evaluated using self-report measures of FA, dissociation, eating disturbances, and general psychopathology. RESULTS Compartmentalization experiences (defined as pathological over-segregation of higher mental functions) were independently associated with FA symptoms (β = 0.174; p = 0.013; CI = [0.008; 0.064]) even when confounding factors were controlled for. CONCLUSION This finding suggests that compartmentalization symptoms can have a role in the conceptualization of FA, with such two phenomena possibly sharing common pathogenic processes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.
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9
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Simeon D, Knutelska M, Putnam FW, Schmeidler J, Smith LM. Attention and Memory in Depersonalization-Spectrum Dissociative Disorders: Impact of Selective-Divided Attentional Condition, Stimulus Emotionality, and Stress. J Trauma Dissociation 2023; 24:42-62. [PMID: 35616140 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2022.2079798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
We investigated cognition in depersonalization-spectrum dissociative disorders without comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder to explore evidence for emotionally avoidant information processing. Forty-eight participants with DSM-IV dissociative disorder (DD) (Depersonalization Disorder - 37, Dissociative Disorder NOS -11), 36 participants with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and 56 healthy controls (HC) were administered the Weschler Adult Intelligence Scale-III (WAIS); the Weschler Memory Scale-III (WMS); and three Stroop tasks: the Standard Stroop, a selective-attention Emotional Stroop using neutral, dissociation, and trauma-related word categories, and a divided-attention Emotional Stroop using comparable words. Participants were also administered a paired-associates explicit and implicit memory test using emotionally neutral and negative words, before and after the Trier Social Stress Test. The DD and HC groups had comparable general intelligence and memory scores, though dissociation severity was inversely related to verbal comprehension and working memory. In the selective-attention condition, DD participants showed greater incidental recall across word categories with comparable interference. However in the divided-attention condition, DD participants significantly favored lesser attentional interference at the expense of remembering words. Across attentional conditions, DD participants had better recall for disorder-related than neutral words. Pre-stress, the DD group demonstrated better explicit memory for neutral versus negative words with reversal after stress, whereas the HC group demonstrated the opposite pattern; implicit memory did not differ. Cognition in the PTSD control group was generally dissimilar to the DD group. The findings in toto provide substantial evidence for emotionally avoidant information processing in DD, vulnerable to the impact of stress, at the level of both attention and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne Simeon
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Margaret Knutelska
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Frank W Putnam
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - James Schmeidler
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lisa M Smith
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Millman LSM, Hunter ECM, David AS, Orgs G, Terhune DB. Assessing responsiveness to direct verbal suggestions in depersonalization-derealization disorder. Psychiatry Res 2022; 315:114730. [PMID: 35870293 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The dissociative disorders and germane conditions are reliably characterized by elevated responsiveness to direct verbal suggestions. However, it remains unclear whether atypical responsiveness to suggestion is similarly present in depersonalization-derealization disorder (DDD). 55 DDD patients and 36 healthy controls completed a standardised behavioural measure of direct verbal suggestibility that includes a correction for compliant responding (BSS-C), and psychometric measures of depersonalization-derealization (CDS), mindfulness (FFMQ), imagery vividness (VVIQ), and anxiety (GAD-7). Relative to controls, patients did not exhibit elevated suggestibility (g = 0.26, BF10 = .11) but displayed significantly lower mindfulness (g = 1.38), and imagery vividness (g = 0.63), and significantly greater anxiety (g = 1.39). Although suggestibility did not correlate with severity of depersonalization-derealization symptoms in controls, r = -.03 [95% CI: -.36, .30], there was a weak tendency for a positive association in patients, r = .25, [95% CI: -.03, .48]. Exploratory analyses revealed that patients with more severe anomalous bodily experiences were also more responsive to suggestion, an effect not seen in controls. This study demonstrates that DDD is not characterized by elevated responsiveness to direct verbal suggestions. These results have implications for the aetiology and treatment of this condition, as well as its classification as a dissociative disorder in psychiatric nosology.
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Affiliation(s)
- L S Merritt Millman
- Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, 8 Lewisham Way, New Cross, London SE14 6NW, United Kingdom.
| | - Elaine C M Hunter
- Institute of Mental Health, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Rd, Fitzrovia, London W1T 7BN, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony S David
- Institute of Mental Health, University College London, Maple House, 149 Tottenham Court Rd, Fitzrovia, London W1T 7BN, United Kingdom
| | - Guido Orgs
- Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, 8 Lewisham Way, New Cross, London SE14 6NW, United Kingdom
| | - Devin B Terhune
- Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, 8 Lewisham Way, New Cross, London SE14 6NW, United Kingdom; Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AB, United Kingdom
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11
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Piazza GG, Iskandar G, Hennessy V, Zhao H, Walsh K, McDonnell J, Terhune DB, Das RK, Kamboj SK. Pharmacological modelling of dissociation and psychosis: an evaluation of the Clinician Administered Dissociative States Scale and Psychotomimetic States Inventory during nitrous oxide ('laughing gas')-induced anomalous states. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:2317-2329. [PMID: 35348804 PMCID: PMC9205822 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06121-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE A significant obstacle to an improved understanding of pathological dissociative and psychosis-like states is the lack of readily implemented pharmacological models of these experiences. Ketamine has dissociative and psychotomimetic effects but can be difficult to use outside of medical and clinical-research facilities. Alternatively, nitrous oxide (N2O) - like ketamine, a dissociative anaesthetic and NMDAR antagonist - has numerous properties that make it an attractive alternative for modelling dissociation and psychosis. However, development and testing of such pharmacological models relies on well-characterized measurement instruments. OBJECTIVES To examine the factor structures of the Clinician Administered Dissociative States Scale (CADSS) and Psychotomimetic States Inventory (PSI) administered during N2O inhalation in healthy volunteers. METHODS Secondary analyses of data pooled from three previous N2O studies with healthy volunteers. RESULTS Effect sizes for N2O-induced dissociation and psychotomimesis were comparable to effects reported in experimental studies with sub-anaesthetic ketamine in healthy volunteers. Although, like ketamine, a three-factor representation of N2O-induced dissociation was confirmed, and a more parsimonious two-factor model might be more appropriate. Bayesian exploratory factor analysis suggested that N2O-induced psychosis-like symptoms were adequately represented by two negative and two positive symptom factors. Hierarchical cluster analysis indicated minimal item overlap between the CADSS and PSI. CONCLUSION N2O and ketamine produce psychometrically similar dissociative states, although parallels in their psychosis-like effects remain to be determined. The CADSS and PSI tap largely non-overlapping experiences under N2O and we propose the use of both measures (or similar instruments) to comprehensively assess anomalous subjective states produced by dissociative NMDAR antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia G. Piazza
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Georges Iskandar
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK ,grid.439749.40000 0004 0612 2754Department of Anaesthesia and Perioperative Medicine, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Vanessa Hennessy
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hannah Zhao
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Katie Walsh
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jeffrey McDonnell
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Devin B. Terhune
- grid.4464.20000 0001 2161 2573Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK
| | - Ravi K. Das
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sunjeev K. Kamboj
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
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12
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Cavicchioli M, Scalabrini A, Northoff G, Mucci C, Ogliari A, Maffei C. Dissociation and emotion regulation strategies: A meta-analytic review. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 143:370-387. [PMID: 34592484 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinical and neurobiological models posited that dissociative mechanisms might affect processes involved in emotional generation and regulation. However, there is a lack of a comprehensive theoretical framework that systematically includes dissociation within emotional functioning. METHODS The current study aims at conducting a meta-analytic review on the relationship between dissociation and emotion regulation in order to empirically estimate to what extent dissociation is related to emotion regulation processes. The meta-analysis was based on r coefficient as effect size measure, using a random-effect approach. RESULTS The meta-analysis included 57 independent studies for a total of 11596 individuals. Findings showed an overall moderate relationship between dissociation and emotion regulation (rw = .32; p < .05). The association between dissociation and emotion regulation was the same among clinical samples than non-clinical ones. Furthermore, dissociation showed moderate to large relationships with maladaptive domains of emotion regulation, namely disengagement (rw = 0.34; p < .01) (i.e., behavioral avoidance, experiential avoidance, thought and emotional suppression) and aversive cognitive perseveration (rw = 0.38; p < .001) (i.e., rumination, worry and nonacceptance). The analysis did not find significant relationship between dissociation and adaptive domain of emotional regulation (i.e., problem solving, mindfulness). CONCLUSION Dissociation in the context of emotion regulation might be viewed as a basic neuro-mental mechanism that automatically contribute to the over-modulation of emotional states through avoidance reactions from internal and external reality. Future longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the causal relationships between dissociation and emotion regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cavicchioli
- Department of Psychology, University "Vita-Salute San Raffaele", Via Stamira d'Ancona 20, 20127, Milano (MI), Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, San Raffaele-Turro Hospital, Via Stamira d'Ancona 20, 20127, Milano (MI), Italy.
| | - Andrea Scalabrini
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences (DiSPuTer), G. d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 33, 66100, Chieti (CH), Italy.
| | - Georg Northoff
- Mental Health Centre, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Tianmu Road 305, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310013, China; Centre for Cognition and Brain Disorders, Hangzhou Normal University, Tianmu Road 305, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310013, China; The Royal's Institute of Mental Health Research & University of Ottawa. Brain and Mind Research Institute, Centre for Neural Dynamics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 145 Carling Avenue, Rm. 6435, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Clara Mucci
- Department of Human and Social Science, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Anna Ogliari
- Department of Psychology, University "Vita-Salute San Raffaele", Via Stamira d'Ancona 20, 20127, Milano (MI), Italy; Child in Mind Lab, University "Vita-Salute San Raffaele", Via Stamira d'Ancona 20, 20127, Milano (MI), Italy
| | - Cesare Maffei
- Department of Psychology, University "Vita-Salute San Raffaele", Via Stamira d'Ancona 20, 20127, Milano (MI), Italy; Unit of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, San Raffaele-Turro Hospital, Via Stamira d'Ancona 20, 20127, Milano (MI), Italy
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Somatoform Dissociative Symptoms Have No Impact on the Outcome of Trauma-Focused Treatment for Severe PTSD. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10081553. [PMID: 33917166 PMCID: PMC8067818 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10081553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
For patients with complex or other severe forms of PTSD, particularly in cases with dissociative symptoms, different treatment approaches have been suggested. However, the influence of somatoform dissociation on the effectiveness of trauma-focused treatment has hardly ever been studied. This study aims to test the hypotheses that (1) PTSD patients reporting a low level and those reporting a high level of somatoform dissociative symptoms would both benefit from an intensive trauma-focused treatment, and that (2) somatoform dissociative symptoms would alleviate. Participants were 220 patients with severe PTSD, enrolled in an intensive treatment program combining EMDR therapy and prolonged exposure therapy, without a preceding stabilization phase. Trauma history was diversified, and comorbidity was high. PTSD symptoms (CAPS-5 and PCL-5) and somatoform dissociative symptoms (SDQ-5 and SDQ-20) were assessed at pre-treatment, post-treatment and at six months after completion of treatment. The course of both PTSD and somatoform dissociative symptoms was compared for individuals reporting low and for those reporting high levels of somatoform dissociative symptoms. Large effect sizes were observed regarding PTSD symptoms reduction for patients with both low and high levels of somatoform dissociation. Somatoform dissociation did not impact improvement in terms of PTSD symptom reduction. The severity of somatoform dissociative symptoms decreased significantly in both groups. This decrease was greater for those with a positive screen for a dissociative disorder. These results add further support to the notion that the presence of strong somatoform dissociative symptoms in patients with PTSD does not necessarily call for a different treatment approach. Clinical implications are discussed.
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A new perspective and assessment measure for common dissociative experiences: 'Felt Sense of Anomaly'. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247037. [PMID: 33626089 PMCID: PMC7904139 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dissociative experiences occur across a range of mental health disorders. However, the term 'dissociation' has long been argued to lack conceptual clarity and may describe several distinct phenomena. We therefore aimed to conceptualise and empirically establish a discrete subset of dissociative experiences and develop a corresponding assessment measure. METHODS First, a systematic review of existing measures was carried out to identify themes across dissociative experiences. A theme of 'Felt Sense of Anomaly' (FSA) emerged. Second, assessment items were generated based on this construct and a measure developed using exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory (CFA) factor analyses of 8861 responses to an online self-report survey. Finally, the resulting measure was validated via CFA with data from 1031 patients with psychosis. RESULTS 'Felt sense of anomaly' (FSA) was identified as common to many dissociative experiences, affecting several domains (e.g. body) and taking different forms ('types'; e.g. unfamiliarity). Items for a novel measure were therefore systematically generated using a conceptual framework whereby each item represented a type-by-domain interaction (e.g. 'my body feels unfamiliar'). Factor analysis of online responses found that FSA-dissociation manifested in seven ways: anomalous experiences of the self, body, and emotion, and altered senses of familiarity, connection, agency, and reality (Χ2 (553) = 4989.435, p<0.001, CFI = 0.929, TLI = 0.924, RMSEA = 0.052, SRMR = 0.047). Additionally, a single-factor 'global FSA' scale was produced (Χ2 (9) = 312.350, p<0.001, CFI = 0.970, TLI = 0.950, RMSEA = 0.107, SRMR = 0.021). Model fit was adequate in the clinical (psychosis) group (Χ2 (553) = 1623.641, p<0.001, CFI = 0.927, TLI = 0.921, RMSEA = 0.043, SRMR = 0.043). The scale had good convergent validity with a widely used dissociation scale (DES-II) (non-clinical: r = 0.802), excellent internal reliability (non-clinical: Cronbach's alpha = 0.98; clinical: Cronbach's alpha = 0.97), and excellent test-retest reliability (non-clinical: ICC = 0.92). Further, in non-clinical respondents scoring highly on a PTSD measure, CFA confirmed adequate model fit (Χ2 (553) = 4758.673, CFI = 0.913, TLI = 0.906, RMSEA = 0.052, SRMR = 0.054). CONCLUSIONS The Černis Felt Sense of Anomaly (ČEFSA) scale is a novel measure of a subset of dissociative experiences that share a core feature of FSA. It is psychometrically robust in both non-clinical and psychosis groups.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer J Freyd
- Department of Psychology, University of Oregon , Eugene, OR, USA
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