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Akram A, Arshad T. Alexithymia Reduction Treatment: A pilot quasi‐experimental study for remediation of alexithymia and its consequent effects on the general mental health of university students. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Akram
- Centre for Clinical Psychology University of the Punjab Lahore Pakistan
| | - Tehreem Arshad
- Centre for Clinical Psychology University of the Punjab Lahore Pakistan
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Tang WC, Lin MP, Wu JYW, Lee YT, You J. Mediating role of depression in the association between alexithymia and nonsuicidal self-injury in a representative sample of adolescents in Taiwan. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:43. [PMID: 35705987 PMCID: PMC9202208 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00477-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nock's (2009) integrated theoretical model suggests that specific intrapersonal vulnerability factors caused by distal risk factors contribute to the development of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). Alexithymia and depression have been found to predict NSSI. Based on Nock's model, alexithymia plays a distal risk factor role to increase the risk of depression-an intrapersonal vulnerability factor-and further increase the risk of NSSI. However, small or unrepresentative samples in past studies limit the generalizability of the results. This study examined the roles of depression and alexithymia in predicting NSSI, as well as the mediating effect of depression in the relation between alexithymia and NSSI in a large representative sample of adolescents in Taiwan. METHODS Using a cross-sectional study design, a large representative sample of 2,170 senior high school students in Taiwan was assessed by self-report measures of alexithymia, depression, and NSSI. Mediation analyses were performed to examine whether the relation between alexithymia and NSSI was mediated by depression. The questionnaires were administered in classrooms. RESULTS Results showed that alexithymia positively predicted NSSI (β = 0.23, p < .001) and depression can also positively predict NSSI (β = 0.41, p < .001). Additionally, the association between alexithymia and NSSI was fully mediated by depression. CONCLUSIONS This study data provided evidence for the mediating role of depression between alexithymia and NSSI, which can be explained by Nock's (2009) integrated theoretical model. The implications of the findings for future research and intervention were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ching Tang
- grid.412090.e0000 0001 2158 7670Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, No.162, Sec. 1, Heping E. Rd., Da-an District, 106 Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Min-Pei Lin
- Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University, No.162, Sec. 1, Heping E. Rd., Da-an District, 106, Taipei City, Taiwan.
| | - Jo Yung-Wei Wu
- Good-Day Psychology Clinic, 5F., No. 167, Xialin Rd., South District, 702 Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Ting Lee
- grid.412120.40000 0004 0639 002XDepartment of Counseling and Guidance, National University of Tainan, No.33, Sec. 2, Shu- Lin St, 700 Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jianing You
- grid.263785.d0000 0004 0368 7397Center for Studies of Psychological Application, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences (South China Normal University), & School of Psychology, Ministry of Education, South China Normal University, 510631 Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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Berman NC, Fang A, Hoeppner SS, Reese H, Siev J, Timpano KR, Wheaton MG. COVID-19 and obsessive-compulsive symptoms in a large multi-site college sample. J Obsessive Compuls Relat Disord 2022; 33:100727. [PMID: 35529829 PMCID: PMC9059345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocrd.2022.100727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic poses unique risks to college students' mental health, and specifically to symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). To better understand the relationship between COVID-19 impact and OC symptoms in this population, six colleges from across the US administered a battery of questionnaires and an emotion differentiation paradigm to eligible students (N = 841). We examined whether degree of pandemic-related disruption was associated with OC severity, and if so, whether this relationship was explained by trait (poor emotion regulation and differentiation) and state risk factors (poor sleep quality, less exercise frequency, less social support, thwarted sense of belongingness, and greater loneliness). Results indicated that the positive relationship between COVID-19 impact and OC severity was mediated by trait emotion-related processes (e.g., emotion regulation and differentiation), but no state risk factors emerged as significant mediators. Our findings contribute to the literature demonstrating a significant relationship between COVID-19 impact and OC severity, and highlight that emotion regulation difficulties may help explain this association. Our findings can inform evidence-based interventions on college campuses; however, the cross-sectional design precludes causal inferences. Future research should evaluate these relationships longitudinally and incorporate other psychosocial factors that may operate as mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angela Fang
- University of Washington, Department of Psychology, USA
| | - Susanne S Hoeppner
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, OCD and Related Disorders, USA
| | | | | | | | - Michael G Wheaton
- Barnard College of Columbia University, Department of Psychology, USA
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Eddy CM. The Transdiagnostic Relevance of Self-Other Distinction to Psychiatry Spans Emotional, Cognitive and Motor Domains. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:797952. [PMID: 35360118 PMCID: PMC8960177 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.797952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-other distinction refers to the ability to distinguish between our own and other people's physical and mental states (actions, perceptions, emotions etc.). Both the right temporo-parietal junction and brain areas associated with the human mirror neuron system are likely to critically influence self-other distinction, given their respective contributions to theory of mind and embodied empathy. The degree of appropriate self-other distinction will vary according to the exact social situation, and how helpful it is to feel into, or remain detached from, another person's mental state. Indeed, the emotional resonance that we can share with others affords the gift of empathy, but over-sharing may pose a downside, leading to a range of difficulties from personal distress to paranoia, and perhaps even motor tics and compulsions. The aim of this perspective paper is to consider how evidence from behavioral and neurophysiological studies supports a role for problems with self-other distinction in a range of psychiatric symptoms spanning the emotional, cognitive and motor domains. The various signs and symptoms associated with problematic self-other distinction comprise both maladaptive and adaptive (compensatory) responses to dysfunction within a common underlying neuropsychological mechanism, compelling the adoption of more holistic transdiagnostic therapeutic approaches within Psychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare M Eddy
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Emotion generation and regulation following an intrusion induction: Implications for taboo or autogenous obsessions. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2020; 69:101593. [PMID: 32574801 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2020.101593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Research demonstrates that autogenous (AO) and reactive obsessions (RO) differ in obsessional content; however, no experimental research has examined differences in emotion generation and regulation. Characterizing this taxonomy with respect to emotion generation and regulation could refine conceptualizations of obsessionality and optimize clinical interventions. METHODS Seventy undergraduates were randomly assigned to imagine a personally-relevant AO or RO. Subsequently, emotional reactivity was assessed. Participants then rated their emotion regulation efforts and the degree to which the intrusion violated their values. RESULTS Broadly aligning with expectations, bootstrapped linear regression models indicated that AOs led to a significant increase in self-conscious emotions (guilt, shame, and embarrassment), and these effects were stronger for those whose values were more severely threatened by the intrusion. A conditional process analysis revealed that the relationship between the AO condition and emotion regulation difficulties was explained by an increase in negative emotional reactivity, and the strength of this effect depended upon the degree of conflict with participants' values. LIMITATIONS The use of an analogue sample, and minimal emotional reactivity in the RO condition, threaten the ecological and external validity of the study. CONCLUSIONS The current study employed a novel experimental design demonstrating a meaningful relationship between AOs and both emotional activation and regulation. Results highlight the relevance of self-conscious emotions to the conceptualization of AOs and the utility of addressing them in the context of exposure therapy.
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ÜSTÜNDAĞ M, ŞEN GÖKÇEİMAM P. An investigation of Temperament, Character, and Alexithymia in Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. FAMILY PRACTICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2020. [DOI: 10.22391/fppc.756632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Alexithymia and self-harm: A review of nonsuicidal self-injury, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts. Psychiatry Res 2020; 288:112920. [PMID: 32279008 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.112920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suicide attempts are a significant global public health concern. Research into non-traditional factors, such as the presence of alexithymia, may shed light on the prediction of suicidal behaviours, which can aid intervention and prevention strategies. To ascertain whether alexithymia is a unique risk factor for suicide attempts, this article reviews the evidence on alexithymia related to suicidal ideation, attempts, and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). METHODS A literature search was conducted for original articles examining the general and psychiatric populations. RESULTS There is consistent evidence linking alexithymia with suicidal ideation and NSSI, but inconsistent evidence linking it to suicide attempts. CONCLUSION The relationship between alexithymia and suicidality seems to differ based on whether the research focuses on suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, or NSSI. The relationship between alexithymia and suicidality can be understood within the context of multiple code theory and childhood trauma. Future research should explore the whether alexithymia can reliably distinguish between those with a single attempt and those with multiple suicide attempts as well as alexithymia levels pre- and post-intervention with suicide-related behavior as outcomes in treatment studies.
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How are Experiential Avoidance and Cognitive Fusion Associated with Alexithymia? JOURNAL OF RATIONAL-EMOTIVE AND COGNITIVE-BEHAVIOR THERAPY 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10942-020-00359-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Association Between Alexithymia and Immature Coping Styles Is Mediated by Self-Inconsistency and Is Correlated to Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms. J Nerv Ment Dis 2020; 208:377-386. [PMID: 31977717 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate whether a multivariate association between alexithymia and coping styles is affected by self-inconsistency and whether the association contributed to obsessive-compulsive symptoms in 34 patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and 53 healthy participants. Alexithymia, coping styles, self-inconsistency, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms were evaluated using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20, the Coping Style Questionnaire, the Self-Consistency and Congruence Scale, and the Vancouver Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory, respectively. We found that self-inconsistency partially mediated the association between alexithymia and immature coping styles in the OCD patients but fully mediated the association in the healthy participants. Moreover, in the two groups, the alexithymia-coping coupling was related to contamination, obsession, indecisiveness, and ritualization, but not the checking symptom dimension. The findings suggest that the disturbance in identifying and describing feelings is associated with immature coping styles through disharmony between self-recognition and experience. The mechanism of the checking symptom seems to be distinct from other obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
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The speed of progression towards obsessive-compulsive disorder. J Affect Disord 2020; 264:181-186. [PMID: 32056748 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is current interest in the elaboration of early intervention programs for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). To this end, it is important to investigate the speed of progression from subthreshold symptoms to diagnosable OCD. In this study, we have retrospectively investigated the speed of progression towards full-blown OCD and sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with a faster transition. METHODS Patients enrolled in the Brazilian Research Consortium on Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders (N = 954) were interviewed with a comprehensive assessment battery that included the interval (in years) between the onset of subthreshold OCD symptoms and the onset of full-blown OCD. RESULTS It took a median of 7 years (interquartile range: 2-13 years) for subthreshold symptoms to convert to diagnosable OCD. Faster OCD onset was associated with lower age at the time of assessment, male gender, being in new romantic states as precipitants for compulsions, greater severity of sexual/religious symptoms and lower severity of hoarding and YBOCS compulsions severity scores, greater rates of generalized anxiety disorder and agoraphobia without panic disorder, and negative family history for OCD. LIMITATIONS The retrospective design of this study allowed for susceptibility to memory bias about age at onset of OCD symptoms. We were unable to capture progressions taking less than 12 months. CONCLUSIONS We could identify a specific phenotype that was more likely to escalate rapidly to clinical levels within this large clinical sample. This phenomenon may be particularly relevant in the context of selecting individuals for early intervention initiatives in situations when resources are scarce.
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Greene D, Boyes M, Hasking P. The associations between alexithymia and both non-suicidal self-injury and risky drinking: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2020; 260:140-166. [PMID: 31494366 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.08.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI; direct harm to the body without suicidal intent) and risky drinking are two behaviours that serve emotion regulatory functions. When underlying emotional problems are untreated, individuals may shift between NSSI and risky drinking. Both behaviours are associated with alexithymia, difficulties identifying and describing emotions and retaining an externally orientated thinking style. However, it is unknown to what extent the associations are similar and under what circumstances (e.g. sex, age) they may differ. METHOD To compare both associations we conducted an extensive review using several databases. Overall, 20 NSSI-related articles and 33 risky drinking-related articles met the inclusion criteria. RESULTS A meta-analysis revealed significant positive associations between total alexithymia scores, difficulties identifying feelings, difficulties describing feelings and both NSSI and risky drinking. However, these associations appear stronger for NSSI. Further, externally orientated thinking was associated with risky drinking but not NSSI. Age had opposing moderating effects on the relationships, with the association between alexithymia and NSSI being stronger in younger samples and the association between alexithymia and risky drinking being stronger in older samples. Further, the association between alexithymia and NSSI was stronger for female only samples compared to male only samples. LIMITATIONS The review was limited to English articles. High levels of heterogeneity were observed. The majority of the studies included were cross-sectional. CONCLUSION These results imply that NSSI and risky drinking may have both shared and distinguishable correlates. Alexithymia can be targeted in treatment to potentially reduce the likelihood of individuals shifting between behaviours to regulate their emotions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyelle Greene
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Kent St, Bentley, 6845, Australia
| | - Mark Boyes
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Kent St, Bentley, 6845, Australia
| | - Penelope Hasking
- School of Psychology, Curtin University, Kent St, Bentley, 6845, Australia.
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Berman NC. Treating Taboo or Forbidden Thoughts: Integrating Mindfulness, Acceptance, and Emotion Regulation Into an Exposure-Based Intervention. J Cogn Psychother 2019; 33:196-212. [PMID: 32746427 DOI: 10.1891/0889-8391.33.3.196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) who struggle with taboo or unacceptable obsessions (i.e., aggressive, sexual, or religious intrusions) tend to rely upon mental rituals to regulate their distress and possess difficulties labeling and regulating their affective state. Moreover, these individuals respond poorly to exposure with response prevention when the treatment is grounded in emotional processing theory. To improve patients' therapeutic outcomes, clinicians can consider integrating mindfulness- and acceptance-based skills into an exposure-based treatment to: facilitate the identification and acceptance of covert ritualistic urges, improve the accuracy of emotion labeling, and increase the efficiency of emotion regulation efforts. Additionally, in line with inhibitory learning theory, clinicians can design exposures to violate expectancies to promote the maintenance of long-term gains. Through a case vignette, the current article will demonstrate how to integrate these strategies into a standard exposure with response prevention intervention to meet the needs of a patient with taboo thoughts.
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Silvestri PR, Chiarotti F, Giustini S, Cardona F. Alexithymia and tic disorders: a study on a sample of children and their mothers. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2019; 28:461-470. [PMID: 30056587 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-018-1209-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Tic disorders are neurodevelopmental disorders characterised by the presence of motor or phonic tics, or both. Patients with tic disorders commonly report premonitory urges of tics. Alexithymia is a psychological trait characterised by a difficulty in identifying and expressing one's own feelings and by an externally oriented thinking. We aimed to explore alexithymia in children with tic disorders and in their mothers. Global alexithymia scores of both children with tic disorders and of their mothers did not differ from those of the participants from the control group. In the tic disorder group, however, both children and their mothers showed a cognitive style characterised by operational thinking and a lack of imaginative abilities. The mothers of children with tic disorder reported significantly higher parental stress. Alexithymia was not predictive of tic severity but was predictive of the severity of the premonitory urges. The implications of these findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola R Silvestri
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Chiarotti
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Sandra Giustini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Cardona
- Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Sabelli 108, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the first-choice intervention for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD); however, a notable proportion of patients either do not respond to treatment or relapse after CBT. Mindfulness-based treatment has been suggested as an alternative or complementary therapeutic strategy for OCD. However, only a few studies have focused on its application in clinical samples. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of a new treatment, called "Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for OCD." It is an 11-session manualized group intervention that integrates elements of CBT, mindfulness, compassion-focused therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. METHODS The program was delivered to 35 patients with a primary diagnosis of OCD. RESULTS Participants demonstrated good adherence to the intervention. There was a significant reduction in mean total score on the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS-TS) (P<0.001; Cohen d=-0.72). One third of the participants (n=13) showed at least a 25% reduction on the Y-BOCS-TS, and 40% of the sample (n=14) were assigned to a lower Y-BOCS severity category after treatment. Significant changes were also found in depression (P<0.001; d=-0.80), worry (P<0.001; d=-0.79), alexithymia (P<0.01; d=-0.41), dissociation (P<0.05; d=-0.46), and general psychopathology (P<0.001; d=-0.58). Repeated measures linear mixed models showed that OCD symptom reduction was associated with an increase in mindfulness skills, in particular on the acting with awareness (P=0.006), nonjudging (P=0.001), and nonreactivity (P=0.001) facets. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these findings are promising and they suggest that randomized controlled studies be conducted to test the effectiveness of this new treatment program for this challenging and disabling mental disorder.
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Lyvers, Scott, Thorberg. Social Anxiety and Alexithymia in Relation to Problematic Drinking and Theory of Mind. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.5406/amerjpsyc.132.3.0325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Taylor JK, Theiler S, Nedeljkovic M, Moulding R. A qualitative analysis of emotion and emotion regulation in hoarding disorder. J Clin Psychol 2018; 75:520-545. [PMID: 30431647 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The role of emotion regulation (ER) has been receiving increased attention in relation to various forms of psychopathology including hoarding disorder (HD). However, questionnaire designs are limited to finding associations of ER with symptoms or symptom groups, without finding out how such constructs might be involved in the disorder. METHODS This study was a qualitative investigation of ER in a clinical HD sample (N = 11). RESULTS Prominent themes provided support for ER difficulties in hoarding. In particular, difficulties with identifying and describing feelings, unhelpful attitudes toward the emotional experience, the use of avoidance-based strategies, and a perceived lack of effective ER strategies were prominent themes. Furthermore, emotional factors were identified as being associated with the onset and/or exacerbation of hoarding behavior, and possessions and acquiring behavior appeared to serve an ER function. CONCLUSION The current paper provides a nuanced account of the role of ER in hoarding difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine K Taylor
- School of Psychology, Swinburne University of Technology; Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Theiler
- School of Psychology, Swinburne University of Technology; Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maja Nedeljkovic
- School of Psychology, Swinburne University of Technology; Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard Moulding
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong; Deakin University Centre for Drug Use, Addictive and Anti-Social Behaviour Research (CEDAAR), Geelong, Victoria, Australia
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De La Vega D, Giner L, Courtet P. Suicidality in Subjects With Anxiety or Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders: Recent Advances. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2018; 20:26. [PMID: 29594718 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-018-0885-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Historically, anxiety disorders have not been considered as important determinants of suicide, but in the last years, many works have challenged this assumption. Here, we will review the available evidence on the relationship between suicide and anxiety disorders (e.g., obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and body dysmorphic disorder), with special emphasis on findings published in the last years. RECENT FINDINGS Overall, anxiety disorders increase the risk of suicide. Specifically, 16% of patients with social anxiety disorder reported suicidal ideation in the previous month, and 18% of them had a history of suicide attempts. Similarly, in patients with panic disorder, suicidal ideation prevalence ranged between 17 and 32%, and 33% of them had a history of suicide attempts. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) was the most frequent anxiety disorder in completed suicides (present in 3% of people who committed suicide) and also subthreshold GAD was clearly linked to suicide ideation. Post-traumatic stress disorder was positively associated with suicidal ideation, and in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder, suicide ideation rates ranged from 10 to 53% and suicide attempts from 1 to 46%. Body dysmorphic disorders presented a suicide ideation prevalence of about 80%. Suicide risk is increased in subjects with anxiety disorder. This risk is higher in the presence of comorbidities, but it is not clear whether it is independent from such comorbidities in some disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego De La Vega
- Unidad de Hospitalización de Salud Mental, Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Salud Mental del Hospital Virgen Macarena, Servicio Andaluz de Salud, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Lucas Giner
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Universidad de Sevilla, Av. Sánchez-Pizjuán s/n, 41009, Seville, Spain.
| | - Philippe Courtet
- CHRU Montpellier, University of Montpellier, INSERM unit 1061, Montpellier, France.,Fondamental Foundation, Créteil, France
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Westwood H, Kerr-Gaffney J, Stahl D, Tchanturia K. Alexithymia in eating disorders: Systematic review and meta-analyses of studies using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale. J Psychosom Res 2017; 99:66-81. [PMID: 28712432 PMCID: PMC5986724 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2017.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this review was to synthesise the literature on the use of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS) in eating disorder populations and Healthy Controls (HCs) and to compare TAS scores in these groups. METHOD Electronic databases were searched systematically for studies using the TAS and meta-analyses were performed to statistically compare scores on the TAS between individuals with eating disorders and HCs. RESULTS Forty-eight studies using the TAS with both a clinical eating disorder group and HCs were identified. Of these, 44 were included in the meta-analyses, separated into: Anorexia Nervosa; Anorexia Nervosa, Restricting subtype; Anorexia Nervosa, Binge-Purge subtype, Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. For all groups, there were significant differences with medium or large effect sizes between the clinical group and HCs, with the clinical group scoring significantly higher on the TAS, indicating greater difficulty with identifying and labelling emotions. CONCLUSION Across the spectrum of eating disorders, individuals report having difficulties recognising or describing their emotions. Given the self-report design of the TAS, research to develop and evaluate treatments and clinician-administered assessments of alexithymia is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Westwood
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Jess Kerr-Gaffney
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Daniel Stahl
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Department of Biostatistics, London, UK.
| | - Kate Tchanturia
- King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, London, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, National Eating Disorders Service, Psychological Medicine Clinical Academic Group, UK; Ilia State University, Tbilisi, Georgia.
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Duarte J, Pinto-Gouveia J. Correlates of psychological inflexibility mediate the relation between alexithymic traits and positive emotions. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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de Schutter MAM, Kramer HJMT, Franken EJF, Lodewijkx HFM, Kleinepier T. The influence of dysfunctional impulsivity and alexithymia on aggressive behavior of psychiatric patients. Psychiatry Res 2016; 243:128-34. [PMID: 27387554 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2016.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Current approaches in Dutch mental health care institutions towards inpatients' aggression have focused predominantly on environmental factors, such as training the staff in aggression management. However, personality traits might be an important factor in patients' aggression - as shown by incidents in the wards. This study explores the influence of dysfunctional impulsivity and alexithymia on psychiatric patients' aggressive behavior, through self-reports and through involvement in aggressive incidents. Personality traits influencing patients' aggression emphasize the importance of a more direct approach to their aggression. Clinical patients at Dutch mental health care institution Emergis (n=84) filled out questionnaires about their aggressiveness (using Buss and Perry's Aggression Questionnaire Short Form), dysfunctional impulsivity and alexithymia. Multiple regression analyses indicated that dysfunctional impulsivity positively related to self-reported aggressive behavior. The relationship, however, could not be confirmed for inpatients' aggression as reported by the staff on the wards. Unexpectedly affective alexithymia negatively related to hostility. Gender differences in self-reported aggression were found. Female patients showed higher levels of hostility. Regression analyses indicated that the male gender positively related to physical aggression. Findings emphasize the importance of a new approach in Dutch mental health care, in which patients may engage in aggression-regulation training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hein J M Th Kramer
- Eleos, Mental Health Care, Printerweg 21-23, 3821 AP Amersfoort, The Netherlands
| | - Ernest J F Franken
- Emergis, Mental Health Care, Oostmolenweg 101, 4481 PM Kloetinge, The Netherlands
| | - Hein F M Lodewijkx
- Open University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Stationsweg 3A, 4811 AX Breda, The Netherlands
| | - Tom Kleinepier
- Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, Mekelweg 2, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands
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Koh MJ, Kang JI, Namkoong K, Lee SY, Kim SJ. Association between the Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT) Val¹⁵⁸Met Polymorphism and Alexithymia in Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Yonsei Med J 2016; 57:721-7. [PMID: 26996573 PMCID: PMC4800363 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2016.57.3.721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Alexithymia, defined as a deficit in the ability to recognize and describe one's own feelings, may be related to the development and maintenance of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) Val¹⁵⁸Met polymorphism and alexithymia in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). MATERIALS AND METHODS We recruited 244 patients with OCD (169 males, 75 females). Alexithymia was assessed using the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and genotyping of the COMT Val¹⁵⁸Met polymorphism was evaluated. RESULTS Patients with the COMT Val/Val genotype had significantly higher total and "difficulty identifying feelings" (DIF) subdimension scores than those with the Val/Met or Met/Met genotypes. Patients with the COMT Val/Val genotype had significantly higher "difficulty describing feelings" (DDF) subdimension scores than those with the COMT Val/Met genotype. However, there were no differences in the scores for the "externally oriented thinking" (EOT) subdimension among the three genotypes. CONCLUSION These results indicate that the high-activity Val allele of the COMT Val¹⁵⁸Met polymorphism is associated with increased alexithymic traits in patients with OCD. The present finding suggests that alexithymia is an endophenotype of OCD that is mediated by the COMT Val¹⁵⁸Met polymorphism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jung Koh
- Department of Psychiatry, Bundang Jesaeng Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jee In Kang
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kee Namkoong
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Su Young Lee
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Cheil General Hospital & Women's Healthcare Center, Dankook University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Se Joo Kim
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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Kim H, Seo J, Namkoong K, Hwang EH, Sohn SY, Kim SJ, Kang JI. Alexithymia and perfectionism traits are associated with suicidal risk in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder. J Affect Disord 2016; 192:50-5. [PMID: 26707347 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2015.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Revised: 10/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited evidence on suicidality and its associated factors in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The present study investigated the potential contributing traits such as alexithymia and perfectionism and clinical risk factors including symptom dimensions associated with high suicidality in OCD patients. METHODS A total of 81 patients with OCD were included (mean age: 28.89 years, SD=7.95 years, 62% men). Suicidal risk was assessed using the Scale for Suicide Ideation and history taking. To assess alexithymia and perfectionism, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 and the Measure of Constructs Underlying Perfectionism were applied. Clinical characteristics of OCD were assessed with the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, the Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, and the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale. Among OCD patients, 37% had a history of previous suicidal attempt, and 56.8% had current suicidal ideation. RESULTS Those with lifetime suicide attempts scored significantly higher for alexithymia and ego-dystonic perfectionism than those without such history. In the binary logistic regression analysis, high score for alexithymia and the responsibility for harm, injury, or bad luck were significant determinants for lifetime suicide attempts. As for current suicide ideation, ego-dystonic perfectionism and the dimension of unacceptable thought were significant predictors of suicidal risk. LIMITATIONS The classification of suicidal risk and personality traits relied on self-report measures. CONCLUSION The present findings indicate that personality traits such as alexithymia and perfectionism may contribute to high suicidality in patients with OCD, and patients suffering with unacceptable thoughts need to be assessed more carefully for warning signs of suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heeyeon Kim
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jiwoo Seo
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kee Namkoong
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eun Hee Hwang
- Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Yun Sohn
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Se Joo Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Jee In Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea; Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
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Lack of Association between Oxytocin Receptor (OXTR) Gene Polymorphisms and Alexithymia: Evidence from Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143168. [PMID: 26599592 PMCID: PMC4658073 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin receptor gene single nucleotide polymorphisms have been associated with structural and functional alterations in brain regions, which involve social-emotional processing. Therefore, oxytocin receptor gene polymorphisms may contribute to individual differences in alexithymia, which is considered to be a dysfunction of emotional processing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between oxytocin receptor gene single nucleotide polymorphisms or haplotypes and alexithymia in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder. We recruited 355 patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (234 men, 121 women). Alexithymia was measured by using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale. We performed single-marker and haplotype association analyses with eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs237885, rs237887, rs2268490, rs4686301, rs2254298, rs13316193, rs53576, and rs2268498) in the oxytocin receptor gene. There were no significant associations between any of the eight single nucleotide polymorphism of the oxytocin receptor gene and alexithymia. In addition, a six-locus haplotype block (rs237885-rs237887-rs2268490-rs4686301-rs2254298-rs13316193) was not significantly associated with alexithymia. These findings suggest that genetic variations in the oxytocin receptor gene may not explain a significant part of alexithymia in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
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Scarpazza C, Làdavas E, di Pellegrino G. Dissociation between Emotional Remapping of Fear and Disgust in Alexithymia. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0140229. [PMID: 26462241 PMCID: PMC4604077 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0140229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence that individuals are able to understand others' emotions because they "embody" them, i.e., re-experience them by activating a representation of the observed emotion within their own body. One way to study emotion embodiment is provided by a multisensory stimulation paradigm called emotional visual remapping of touch (eVRT), in which the degree of embodiment/remapping of emotions is measured as enhanced detection of near-threshold tactile stimuli on one's own face while viewing different emotional facial expressions. Here, we measured remapping of fear and disgust in participants with low (LA) and high (HA) levels of alexithymia, a personality trait characterized by a difficulty in recognizing emotions. The results showed that fear is remapped in LA but not in HA participants, while disgust is remapped in HA but not in LA participants. To investigate the hypothesis that HA might exhibit increased responses to emotional stimuli producing a heightened physical and visceral sensations, i.e., disgust, in a second experiment we investigated participants' interoceptive abilities and the link between interoception and emotional modulations of VRT. The results showed that participants' disgust modulations of VRT correlated with their ability to perceive bodily signals. We suggest that the emotional profile of HA individuals on the eVRT task could be related to their abnormal tendency to be focalized on their internal bodily signals, and to experience emotions in a "physical" way. Finally, we speculated that these results in HA could be due to a enhancement of insular activity during the perception of disgusted faces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Scarpazza
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- CsrNC, Center for studies and research in Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Làdavas
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- CsrNC, Center for studies and research in Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe di Pellegrino
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- CsrNC, Center for studies and research in Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy
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The Contribution of Alexithymia to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Symptoms Dimensions: An Investigation in a Large Community Sample in Italy. PSYCHIATRY JOURNAL 2015; 2015:707850. [PMID: 26425542 PMCID: PMC4575735 DOI: 10.1155/2015/707850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Revised: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Poor attention has been dedicated to the relation between Alexithymia and specific OCD symptoms dimensions. Knowledge about which Alexithymia domains are the most affected ones in OCD dimensions could inform clinical practice, suggesting the need for the introduction of psychotherapeutic interventions targeting Alexithymia deficits. The current study aimed to investigate which OCD symptom dimension correlated with Alexithymia domains. A total of 425 community individuals (mean age = 27.80, SD = 9.89, 60% women) completed measures of Alexithymia, OCD symptoms dimensions, anxiety, and depression. Moderate correlations emerged between Difficulty Identifying Feelings and Hoarding (r = .36, p < .001) and Checking symptoms (r = .34, p < .001) and between Difficulty Describing Feelings and Pure Obsessing (r = .31, p < .001). Difficulty Identifying Feelings uniquely predicted OCD symptoms (β = 0.20, t = 3.96, and p < .001), after controlling for anxiety and depression. A main effect emerged of Alexithymia on Ordering (β = 0.70, t = 2.50, p < .05) and Pure Obsessing symptoms (β = 0.043, t = 2.08, and p < .05). Psychotherapeutic interventions specifically targeting Alexithymia should be integrated in the treatment of Ordering and Pure Obsessing symptoms. Difficulty Identifying Feelings and Difficulty Describing Feelings should be addressed in the psychotherapeutic treatment of Hoarding, Checking, and Pure Obsessing, respectively.
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Emotion and internal experience in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Reviewing the role of alexithymia, anxiety sensitivity and distress tolerance. Clin Psychol Rev 2014; 34:256-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2014.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Revised: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Porcelli P, Guidi J, Sirri L, Grandi S, Grassi L, Ottolini F, Pasquini P, Picardi A, Rafanelli C, Rigatelli M, Sonino N, Fava GA. Alexithymia in the medically ill. Analysis of 1190 patients in gastroenterology, cardiology, oncology and dermatology. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2013; 35:521-7. [PMID: 23664571 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2013.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2013] [Revised: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To use the Diagnostic Criteria for Psychosomatic Research (DCPR) for characterizing alexithymia in a large and heterogeneous medical population, in conjunction with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) and other DCPR criteria. METHOD Of 1305 patients recruited from 4 medical centers in the Italian Health System, 1190 agreed to participate. They all underwent an assessment with DSM-IV and DCPR structured interviews. A total of 188 patients (15.8%) were defined as alexithymic by using the DCPR criteria. Data were submitted to cluster analysis. RESULTS Five clusters of patients with alexithymia were identified: (1) alexithymia with no psychiatric comorbidity (29.3% of cases); (2) depressed somatization with alexithymic features (23.4%); (3) alexithymic illness behavior (17.6%); (4) alexithymic somatization (17%) and (5) alexithymic anxiety (12.8%). CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that DCPR alexithymia is associated with a comorbid mood or anxiety disorder in about one third of cases; it is related to various forms of somatization and abnormal illness behavior in another third and may occur without psychiatric comorbidity in another subgroup. Identification of alexithymic features may entail major prognostic and therapeutic differences among medical patients who otherwise seem to be deceptively similar since they share the same psychiatric and/or medical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piero Porcelli
- Psychosomatic Unit, IRCCS De Bellis Hospital, Castellana Grotte, Italy.
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Kang JI, Namkoong K, Yoo SW, Jhung K, Kim SJ. Abnormalities of emotional awareness and perception in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder. J Affect Disord 2012; 141:286-93. [PMID: 22542863 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Revised: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/02/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emotional awareness deficit may play a critical role in the production and maintenance of obsessive-compulsive symptoms and social dysfunction in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The aim of this study was to investigate characteristics of emotional awareness such as empathy and alexithymia in OCD patients. In addition, we examined whether impaired emotional awareness measured by self-assessment questionnaires was associated with emotional facial recognition ability in OCD patients. METHODS Study participants included 107 patients with OCD and 130 healthy age- and sex-matched volunteers. The Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) and Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 were applied as measures of empathy and alexithymia. A subset of 56 patients with OCD additionally performed the emotional perception task of face expression. RESULTS Patients with OCD scored significantly lower for perspective taking, and significantly higher for personal distress of IRI, and significantly higher for alexithymia compared to normal controls. Impaired emotional awareness such as lower perspective taking and fantasy seeking had a perception bias towards disgust in response to ambiguous facial expressions in OCD patients. LIMITATIONS The OCD group consisted of patients in different stages of the illness and with different degrees of severity. CONCLUSIONS OCD involves the impairment of emotional awareness and perception and it may relate to social dysfunction and to impairments in the ability to shift naturally from obsessive thoughts to other thoughts in response to social situations in patients with OCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee In Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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Lorey B, Kaletsch M, Pilgramm S, Bischoff M, Kindermann S, Sauerbier I, Stark R, Zentgraf K, Munzert J. Confidence in emotion perception in point-light displays varies with the ability to perceive own emotions. PLoS One 2012; 7:e42169. [PMID: 22927921 PMCID: PMC3425494 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0042169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
One central issue in social cognitive neuroscience is that perceiving emotions in others relates to activating the same emotion in oneself. In this study we sought to examine how the ability to perceive own emotions assessed with the Toronto Alexithymia Scale related to both the ability to perceive emotions depicted in point-light displays and the confidence in these perceptions. Participants observed video scenes of human interactions, rated the depicted valence, and judged their confidence in this rating. Results showed that people with higher alexithymia scores were significantly less confident about their decisions, but did not differ from people with lower alexithymia scores in the valence of their ratings. Furthermore, no modulating effect of social context on the effect of higher alexithymia scores was found. It is concluded that the used stimuli are fit to investigate the kinematic aspect of emotion perception and possibly separate people with high and low alexithymia scores via confidence differences. However, a general difference in emotion perception was not detected in the present setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britta Lorey
- Institute for Sports Science, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.
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