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Stickley A, Isaksson J, Koposov R, Schwab-Stone M, Sumiyoshi T, Ruchkin V. Loneliness and posttraumatic stress in U.S. adolescents: A longitudinal study. J Affect Disord 2024; 361:113-119. [PMID: 38852860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.06.015] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and posttraumatic stress (PTS) are common in adolescence. However, there has been little longitudinal research on their association. To address this deficit, this study examined the longitudinal association between these phenomena in a sample of U.S. school students while also exploring if gender was important in this context. METHODS Data were analysed from 2807 adolescents (52.1 % female; age at baseline 11-16 years (M = 12.79)) who were followed over a one-year period. Information was obtained on loneliness in year 1 using a single-item question, while PTS was assessed with the self-report Child Post-Traumatic Stress - Reaction Index (CPTS-RI). A full path analysis was performed to assess the across time associations. RESULTS Almost one-third of the students reported some degree of loneliness while most students had 'mild' PTS. In the path analysis, when controlling for baseline PTS and other covariates, loneliness in year 1 was significantly associated with PTS in year 2 (β = 0.06, 95%CI: 0.02, 0.09). Similarly, PTS in year 1 was significantly associated with loneliness in year 2 (β = 0.19, 95%CI: 0.15, 0.23). An interaction analysis further showed that loneliness was higher in girls with PTS than in their male counterparts. LIMITATIONS The use of a single-item measure to assess loneliness that used the word 'lonely' may have resulted in underreporting. CONCLUSION Loneliness and PTS are bidirectionally associated in adolescence. Efforts to reduce loneliness in adolescence may help in combatting PTS, while clinicians should intervene to address loneliness if detected in adolescents with PTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Stickley
- Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Johan Isaksson
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Center of Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Roman Koposov
- Regional Center for Child and Youth Mental Health and Child Welfare, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Mary Schwab-Stone
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Tomiki Sumiyoshi
- Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Kodaira, Tokyo, Japan; Japan Health Research Promotion Bureau, Toyama, Shinnjiku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Vladislav Ruchkin
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Regional forensic psychiatric clinic Sala, Sala, Sweden
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Vasantiuppapokakorn M, Pattanasin S, Kittiyaowamarn R, Chantraraprasat S, Winaitham S, Khongsom P, Woodring JV, O’Connor SM, Sukwicha W, Na-pompet S, Dunne EF. Depressive symptoms and HIV among a cohort of adolescent young men and transgender women who have sex with men, Bangkok and Nakhon Sawan, Thailand, 2017-2019. AIDS Care 2024; 36:974-982. [PMID: 38801820 PMCID: PMC11269011 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2354866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Screening for depression may identify persons for HIV prevention services and to ensure linkage to care for ART and mental health. We assessed factors associated with depressive symptoms using multiple logistic regression among 15- to 29-year-old gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women who have sex with men (TGW) attending HIV prevention clinics at Silom Community Clinic or Bangrak Hospital in Bangkok or Rainbow Clinic in Nakhon Sawan, Thailand. We defined depressive symptoms as a self-report of feelings of sadness that impacted daily life in the past one month. Among 192 MSM, 51 TGW, and 11 gender-questioning persons screened: 12.6% met the criteria for depression; 5.9% had new HIV diagnosis. Independently associated factors which increase the risk of depressive symptoms included: studying in a private school (AOR 7.17); experiencing any type of bullying (AOR 2.8); having a partner with HIV (AOR 4.1); and learning about the study from sources other than a friend (AOR 4.2). Given many youths had depressive symptoms, screening for depression and connection to mental health services would be beneficial in sexual health settings to meet the needs of HIV-vulnerable youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Vasantiuppapokakorn
- Division of AIDS and STIs, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - S. Pattanasin
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - R. Kittiyaowamarn
- Division of AIDS and STIs, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - S. Chantraraprasat
- Office of Disease Prevention and Control 3. Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - S. Winaitham
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - P. Khongsom
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - J. V. Woodring
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - S. M. O’Connor
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - W. Sukwicha
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - S. Na-pompet
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - E. F. Dunne
- Division of HIV Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Thailand Ministry of Public Health – U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Collaboration, Nonthaburi, Thailand
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Kwon M, Nam E, Lee J. Poly-tobacco use and mental health in South Korean adolescents. Tob Induc Dis 2024; 22:TID-22-83. [PMID: 38779296 PMCID: PMC11110650 DOI: 10.18332/tid/187077] [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: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With the advent of new tobacco products, poly-tobacco use among adolescents is increasing. Smoking among adolescents negatively impacts both their physical and mental health. This study aimed to determine poly-tobacco use among adolescents in South Korea and to identify the mental health problems caused by single-, dual-, and poly-tobacco use. METHODS Data from 54948 adolescents in the 2020 Korea Youth Behavior Web-based Survey were included. Mental health variables of our primary outcome were loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Descriptive statistics, Rao-Scott χ2 test and complex sample multivariable logistic regression analysis were conducted to determine the association between the type of tobacco product use and mental health. RESULTS Among the subjects, 95.2% were non-tobacco users, followed by single (3.0%), dual (1.1%), and poly users (0.7%). The subjects with poly-tobacco use had significantly higher rates of loneliness (33.2%, p<0.001), anxiety (22.3%, p<0.001), and depression (49.9%, p<0.001) than those who used fewer tobacco products. Subjects who used poly-tobacco products were 2.13 (95% CI: 1.61-2.83) times more likely to report loneliness, 1.52 (95% CI: 1.12-2.07) times more likely to report anxiety, and 2.18 (95% CI: 1.68-2.82) times more likely to report depression than non-tobacco users. CONCLUSIONS Among adolescents, poly-tobacco use is associated with symptoms of loneliness, depression, and anxiety, which are internalized mental health problems. Poly-tobacco use warrants early assessment of high-risk groups, education on the need for tobacco-use cessation, and active intervention for the psychological difficulties that these high-risk groups experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Kwon
- Department of Nursing, The University of Suwon, Hwaseong-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjeong Nam
- Department of Nursing, Seoul Women's College of Nursing, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhwa Lee
- Department of Nursing, University of Ulsan, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
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Gao Q, Mak HW, Fancourt D. Longitudinal associations between loneliness, social isolation, and healthcare utilisation trajectories: a latent growth curve analysis. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02639-9. [PMID: 38429539 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02639-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the longitudinal associations between eight-year trajectories of loneliness, social isolation and healthcare utilisation (i.e. inpatient, outpatient, and nursing home care) in US older adults. METHODS The study used data from the Health and Retirement Study in 2006-2018, which included a nationally representative sample of American adults aged 50 and above (N = 6,832). We conducted latent growth curve models to assess the associations between trajectories of loneliness and isolation and healthcare utilisation over 8 years. RESULTS Independent of sociodemographic and health-related confounders, social deficits were associated with a lower likelihood of baseline physician visits (loneliness β= -0.15, SE = 0.08; social isolation β= -0.19, SE = 0.08), but there was a positive association between loneliness and number of physician visits (β = 0.06, SE = 0.03), while social isolation was associated with extended hospital (β = 0.07, SE = 0.04) and nursing home stays (β = 0.05, SE = 0.02). Longer nursing home stays also predicted better trajectories of loneliness and isolation over time. CONCLUSION Loneliness and social isolation are cross-sectionally related to complex patterns of different types of healthcare. There was no clear evidence that social deficits led to specific trajectories of healthcare utilisation, but nursing home stays may over time help provide social contact, supporting trajectories of isolation and potentially loneliness. Non-clinical services such as social prescribing could have the potential to address unmet social needs and further promote patients' health-seeking profiles for improving healthcare equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Gao
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Hei Wan Mak
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK.
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Grygiel P, Dolata R, Humenny G, Muszyński M. Depressive symptoms and loneliness among early adolescents: a psychometric network analysis approach. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 65:199-214. [PMID: 37550521 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies demonstrate a high prevalence of depression and loneliness among adolescents. Although they often co-occur, the relationship between symptoms of depression and loneliness remains poorly understood. This study investigates: (a) the symptoms of depression that are connected to loneliness; (b) the role played by loneliness in the network of depression symptoms; and (c) whether the method used to measure loneliness (single-item direct or multi-item indirect) affects the relationship of loneliness with depressive symptoms. METHODS Participants were 496 Polish adolescents (50.8% girls) aged 11 to 13, who completed: (a) the 10-item Major Depressive Disorder subscale of the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale; (b) the 11-item De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale (indirect loneliness), and (c) a single direct question evaluating loneliness: 'I'm lonely'. Networks were estimated using a Gaussian Graphical Model. RESULTS Loneliness shows a direct relationship with three affective symptoms of depression: sadness, worthlessness, and anhedonia, which mediate relationships with somatic symptoms. In contrast to previous studies, loneliness has the lowest level of centrality among all elements of the network. The method used to assess loneliness did not significantly affect the connections between loneliness and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Loneliness and depression overlap since they are formed by the same cognitive biases and deficits in emotion regulation but differ in the level of generality. In loneliness, they have an interpersonal context, while symptoms of depression can be intrapersonal. This helps us to understand why cognitive interventions, as compared to those which are social, are more effective in reducing loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marek Muszyński
- Institute of Philosophy and Sociology Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
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Parlikar N, Kvaløy K, Strand LB, Espnes GA, Moksnes UK. Loneliness in the Norwegian adolescent population: prevalence trends and relations to mental and self-rated health. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:895. [PMID: 38037032 PMCID: PMC10688064 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05404-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness has become a significant public health problem and should be addressed with more research over a broader period. This study investigates the variations in the prevalence of loneliness among a nationally representative study population of Norwegian adolescents over the last three decades and whether age, gender, self-rated health, and mental distress are associated with these changes. METHODS Adolescents aged 13-19 years completed the structured and validated questionnaires from the three waves of the Young-HUNT Study: 1995-1997, 2006-2008, and 2017-2019. Loneliness was measured with one item asking, 'Are you lonely?'. Hopkins Symptom Checklist-5 was used to measure mental distress (cut-off ≥ 2). Self-rated health was assessed by a single question 'How is your health at the moment?' Measures were provided by self-report. Descriptive analyses were stratified by age, gender, self-rated health, and mental distress. Linear-by-Linear association test across survey years was performed to test time trends of loneliness. Logistic regression was used to analyze the cross-sectional associations of self-rated health and mental distress with loneliness, adjusting for sociodemographic factors in all three waves of Young-HUNT. RESULTS Loneliness prevalence doubled from 5.9% in 1995/97 to 10.2% in 2017/19 in the total population sample. The highest loneliness prevalence and an increase from 8.9% in 1995/97 to 16.7% in 2017/19 was observed in girls of 16-19 years. Among mentally distressed adolescents, loneliness increased from 22.3% in 1995/97 to 32.8% in 2006/08 and lowered to 27% in 2017/19. Increasing loneliness prevalence was seen in those with poor self-rated health, i.e., 14.6% in 1995-97 and 26.6% in 2017-19. Mental distress and poor self-rated health were associated with higher odds of loneliness in each wave (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The results highlight the increasing burden of loneliness in the Norwegian adolescent population, especially girls. Those with mental distress and poor self-rated health have a higher risk of experiencing loneliness. Thus, health-promoting upbringing environments for children and adolescents that support mutual affinity, social support, integration, and belongingness in adolescents' daily arenas are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayan Parlikar
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Kirsti Kvaløy
- HUNT Research Centre, Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Levanger, Norway
- Levanger Hospital, Nord-Trøndelag Hospital Trust, Levanger, Norway
- Centre for Sami Health Research, Department of Community Medicine, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Linn Beate Strand
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Geir Arild Espnes
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Unni Karin Moksnes
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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Darling-White M, Polkowitz R. Sentence Length Effects on Intelligibility in Two Groups of Older Children With Neurodevelopmental Disorders. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2023; 32:2297-2310. [PMID: 37625147 PMCID: PMC10567119 DOI: 10.1044/2023_ajslp-23-00093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of sentence length on intelligibility in two groups of older children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. METHOD Nine children diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP) and eight children diagnosed with Down syndrome (DS), between the ages of 8 and 17 years, repeated sentences varying in length from two to seven words. Three hundred forty adult listeners (20 listeners per child) provided orthographic transcriptions of children's speech, which were used to calculate intelligibility scores. RESULTS There was a significant main effect of sentence length on intelligibility for children with CP. Intelligibility significantly increased from two- and three-word sentences to four-, five-, and six-word sentences, then significantly decreased from four-, five-, and six-word sentences to seven-word sentences. There was a main effect of sentence length on intelligibility for children with DS. Intelligibility significantly increased from two-word sentences to four-, five-, and six-word sentences. CONCLUSIONS The primary findings of this study include the following: (a) Unlike in typically developing children, sentence length continues to influence intelligibility well into adolescence for children with neurodevelopmental disorders, and (b) sentence length may influence intelligibility differently in children with CP than in children with DS; however, other factors besides the type of neurodevelopmental disorder (e.g., severity of speech motor involvement and/or cognitive-linguistic impairment) could play a role in the relationship between sentence length and intelligibility and must be investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Darling-White
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson
| | - Rachel Polkowitz
- Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson
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Matthews T, Qualter P, Bryan BT, Caspi A, Danese A, Moffitt TE, Odgers CL, Strange L, Arseneault L. The developmental course of loneliness in adolescence: Implications for mental health, educational attainment, and psychosocial functioning. Dev Psychopathol 2023; 35:537-546. [PMID: 35109947 PMCID: PMC9346093 DOI: 10.1017/s0954579421001632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The present study examined patterns of stability and change in loneliness across adolescence. Data were drawn from the Environmental Risk (E-Risk) Longitudinal Twin Study, a UK population-representative cohort of 2,232 individuals born in 1994 and 1995. Loneliness was assessed when participants were aged 12 and 18. Loneliness showed modest stability across these ages (r = .25). Behavioral genetic modeling indicated that stability in loneliness was explained largely by genetic influences (66%), while change was explained by nonshared environmental effects (58%). Individuals who reported loneliness at both ages were broadly similar to individuals who only reported it at age 18, with both groups at elevated risk of mental health problems, physical health risk behaviors, and education and employment difficulties. Individuals who were lonely only at age 12 generally fared better; however, they were still more likely to finish school with lower qualifications. Positive family influences in childhood predicted reduced risk of loneliness at age 12, while negative peer experiences increased the risk. Together, the findings show that while early adolescent loneliness does not appear to exert a cumulative burden when it persists, it is nonetheless a risk for a range of concomitant impairments, some of which can endure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Matthews
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Pamela Qualter
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Bridget T. Bryan
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Avshalom Caspi
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Departments of Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and Institute for Genome Sciences and Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Andrea Danese
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- National and Specialist CAMHS Trauma and Anxiety Clinic, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Terrie E. Moffitt
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Departments of Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and Institute for Genome Sciences and Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Candice L. Odgers
- Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University and Department of Psychology and Social Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Lily Strange
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Louise Arseneault
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
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Özbiler Ş, Taner M, Francis M. New Paths for Parental Warmth and Subjective Well-Being: The Mediator Roles of Automatic Negative Thoughts. Psychol Rep 2023:332941231159606. [PMID: 36812349 DOI: 10.1177/00332941231159606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of studies have pointed out that parental acceptance-rejection, which is the degree of warmth in parenting, is an important factor that influences not only children's but also adults' subjective well-being. However, few studies have analyzed subjective well-being in adulthood based on the emergence of cognitive automatic thinking processes that are triggered by the level of parental warmth. Specifically, the mediator role of negative automatic thoughts in the relationship between parental warmth and subjective well-being is still under debate. This present study extended the parental acceptance and rejection theory by integrating automatic negative thoughts into the core concept of cognitive behavioral theory. The present study attempts to examine the mediator role of negative automatic thoughts in the relationship between retrospective reports of emerging adults' parental warmth and their subjective well-being. The participants consist of 680 of 49.4% women and 50.6% men Turkish-speaking emerging adults. The Adult Parental Acceptance-Rejection Questionnaire Short-Form was used to measure parental warmth for their past experience, the negative automatic thoughts measured by the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire, and life satisfaction, negative and positive emotions of participants were measured by the Subjective Well-being Scale for their present level. Mediation analysis through the bootstrap sampling method via indirect custom dialog was used to examine data. The models supported the hypotheses, the retrospective reports of parental warmth in childhood predict the subjective well-being of emerging adults. The automatic negative thoughts had competitive mediation on this relationship. The perceived parental warmth in childhood decreases automatic negative thoughts, then turns to affect greater subjective well-being in adulthood. The current study results contribute to the counselling practice by suggesting that decreasing negative automatic thoughts could benefit the subjective well-being of emerging adults. Further, parental warmth interventions and family counselling have the potential to enhance these benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şerife Özbiler
- Department Counselling Psychology, Cyprus International University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Meryem Taner
- Department Counselling Psychology, Cyprus International University, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Melanie Francis
- Department of Addictions Counselling, 4512University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Canada
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Pengpid S, Peltzer K. Food insecurity is associated with multiple psychological and behavioural problems among adolescents in five Caribbean countries. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2023; 28:291-304. [PMID: 34957886 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2021.2019813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The study aimed to assess associations between food insecurity and multiple psychological and behavioural problems among adolescents in five Caribbean countries. Data from national and cross-sectional school health surveys from 9,956 adolescents (15 years, median age) in Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Jamaica, Anguilla and the Dominican Republic in 2016-2017 were analyzed in 2016-2017. Results show that the prevalence of moderate (rarely or sometimes) past-month food insecurity was 35.9% and severe (mostly or always) food insecurity was 4.6%. Severe food insecurity among adolescents ranged from 2.9% in Dominican Republic to 11.2% in Suriname. In adjusted logistic regression analyses, the higher severity of food insecurity was associated with negative psychological outcomes (loneliness, suicidal ideation, suicide plan, suicide attempt, anxiety, current tobacco use and any trouble from alcohol use) and negative behavioural outcomes (truancy, bullied, physically attacked, physical injury, and multiple sexual partners). Two out of five adolescents experienced some form of food security. Food interventions, such as school feeding programmes, are warranted to reduce negative psychosocial outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supa Pengpid
- Asean Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.,Department of Research Administration and Development, University of Limpopo, Polokwane, South Africa
| | - Karl Peltzer
- Department of Research Administration and Development, University of Limpopo, Polokwane, South Africa.,Department of Psychology, College of Medical and Health Sciences, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
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11
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Vasan S, Eikelis N, Lim MH, Lambert E. Evaluating the impact of loneliness and social isolation on health literacy and health-related factors in young adults. Front Psychol 2023; 14:996611. [PMID: 36777213 PMCID: PMC9911678 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.996611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives In current study, we aim to extend previous research by investigating the unique impact of loneliness on health literacy and health-related factors of young adults, after controlling for social isolation, depressive symptomology, and social anxiety, as well as evaluate how social isolation and loneliness differ in their impact on health literacy, and health-related factors among young adults, after accounting for abovementioned concomitant variables. Methods Using a cross-sectional study design, 521 young adults completed an online survey in 2020, where they self-reported their loneliness, social isolation, health-related factors, and health literacy data. Results Increased loneliness was associated with decrease in several health literacy domains (e.g., poorer social support for health, lower appraisal of health information, among others) and increase in some health-related factors (e.g., higher perceived stress, higher negative affect), among young adults, even after controlling for social anxiety, depressive symptomology, and social isolation. Contrastingly, increase in social isolation was associated with changes in some health-related factors - more somatic health complaints, higher alcohol use, poorer cognitive and physical functioning, and lower scores for only one health literacy domain (i.e., social support for health) among young adults, after adjusting for the influence of social anxiety, depressive symptomology, and loneliness. Conclusion Even after accounting for the influence of several co-occurring social and mental health symptoms, higher loneliness was associated poorer health literacy and health-related factors in young adults. We also found loneliness and social isolation may differ in the mechanisms through which they impact health literacy and health-related factors in young adults.
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Qirtas MM, Zafeiridi E, White EB, Pesch D. The relationship between loneliness and depression among college students: Mining data derived from passive sensing. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231211104. [PMID: 38025106 PMCID: PMC10631337 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231211104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background While there is recognition of the relationship between loneliness and depression, specific behavioural patterns distinguishing both are still not well understood. Objectives Our objective is to identify distinct behavioural patterns of loneliness and depression from a passively collected dataset of college students, understand their similarities and interrelationships and assess their effectiveness in identifying loneliness and depression. Methods Utilizing the StudentLife dataset, we applied regression analysis to determine associations with self-reported loneliness and depression. Mediation analysis interprets the relationship between the two conditions, and machine learning models predict loneliness and depression based on behavioural indicators. Results Distinct behavioural patterns emerged: high evening screen time (OR = 1.45, p = 0.002) and high overall phone usage (OR = 1.50, p = 0.003) were associated with more loneliness, whereas depression was significantly associated with fewer screen unlocks (OR = 0.75, p = 0.044) and visits to fewer unique places (OR = 0.85, p = 0.023). Longer durations of physical activity (OR = 0.72, p = 0.014) and sleep (OR = 0.46, p = 0.002) are linked to a lower risk of both loneliness and depression. Mediation analysis revealed that loneliness significantly increases the likelihood of depression by 48%. The prediction accuracy of our XGBoost-based machine learning approach was 82.43% for loneliness and 79.43% for depression. Conclusion Our findings show that high evening screen time and overall phone usage are significantly associated with increased loneliness, while fewer screen unlocks and visits to fewer unique places are significantly related to depression. The findings can help in developing targeted interventions to promote well-being and mental health in students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malik Muhammad Qirtas
- School of Computer Science and Information Technology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Evi Zafeiridi
- School of Computer Science and Information Technology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Dirk Pesch
- School of Computer Science and Information Technology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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13
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Sipowicz K, Pietras T. THE FEELING OF LONELINESS IN SOMATIC DISEASES AND MENTAL DISORDERS AS A NEW CHALLENGE OF MODERN MEDICINE. POLSKI MERKURIUSZ LEKARSKI : ORGAN POLSKIEGO TOWARZYSTWA LEKARSKIEGO 2023; 51:276-279. [PMID: 37589116 DOI: 10.36740/merkur202303116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the paper to reflect on the meaning of the sense of loneliness caused by illness. The work is a selective narrative review with particular emphasis on attempts to define the feeling of loneliness, as well as the results of own research. The problem of loneliness affects not only patients, but also their families and caregivers. As it follows from the literature review, the issue of loneliness has been much better studied in mental disorders than in somatic diseases. In addition, the analysed research shows that the presence of the disease is the main variable determining the feeling of loneliness in the population of people in late adulthood. The feeling of loneliness turns out to be a key element of the psychosocial aspect of any disease. Therefore, it would be necessary to consider in the future how this adverse psychosocial phenomenon could be prevented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasper Sipowicz
- DEPARTMENT OF INTERDISCIPLINARY DISABILITY STUDIES, MARIA GRZEGORZEWSKA UNIVERSITY IN WARSAW, WARSAW, POLAND
| | - Tadeusz Pietras
- SECOND DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY, INSTITUTE OF PSYCHIATRY AND NEUROLOGY IN WARSAW, WARSAW, POLAND
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14
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Korzhina Y, Hemberg J, Nyman-Kurkiala P, Fagerström L. Causes of involuntary loneliness among adolescents and young adults: an integrative review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENCE AND YOUTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2022.2150088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Korzhina
- Department of Caring Sciences, Faculty of Education and Welfare Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Vaasa, Finland
| | - Jessica Hemberg
- Department of Caring Sciences, Faculty of Education and Welfare Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Vaasa, Finland
| | - Pia Nyman-Kurkiala
- Department of Social Sciences, Youth Science, Faculty of Education and Welfare Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Vaasa, Finland
| | - Lisbeth Fagerström
- Department of Caring Sciences, Faculty of Education and Welfare Studies, Åbo Akademi University, Vaasa, Finland
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15
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McClure-Thomas C, Lim C, Sebayang S, Fausiah F, Gouda H, Leung J. Perceived Loneliness, Peer, and Parental Relationship With Smoking: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Adolescents Across South-East Asia. Asia Pac J Public Health 2022; 34:770-777. [PMID: 35880310 DOI: 10.1177/10105395221115220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Tobacco use among youth in the South-East Asian region is quite prevalent. This study aims to examine if psychosocial factors (perceived loneliness, peer, and parental relationships) were associated with adolescent smoking, and whether the effects were different according to sex and age. Data came from the Global School-based Student Health Surveys collected between 2012 and 2015 in Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam. 64 578 (males = 48.5%) adolescents aged 13-18 completed the survey. Prevalence of past-month cigarette use was 10.6%. Adolescent smoking was associated with loneliness (OR = 1.75), lack of close friends (OR = 1.43), and lack of parental understanding (OR = 1.35). There was significant interactions between sex with loneliness, close friends, and parental understanding (p < .001). Interactions indicated having no close friends is associated with smoking and is stronger for females than males. Conversely, loneliness was associated with smoking more strongly in males than females. Results indicate that psychosocial factors are linked to adolescent smoking in South-East Asia, suggesting a further need for research on the relation of psychosocial factors with smoking, and their underlying factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin McClure-Thomas
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.,National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research (NCYSUR), Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Carmen Lim
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.,National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research (NCYSUR), Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Susy Sebayang
- Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Banyuwangi, Jawa Timur, Indonesia
| | - Fitri Fausiah
- Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Indonesia, Depok, Jawa Barat, Indonesia
| | - Hebe Gouda
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Janni Leung
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research (NCYSUR), Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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16
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Akçay E, Çöp E, Dinç GS, Göker Z, Parlakay AÖ, Demirel BD, Mutlu M, Kırmızı B. Loneliness, internalizing symptoms, and inflammatory markers in adolescent COVID-19 survivors. Child Care Health Dev 2022; 48:1112-1121. [PMID: 35946414 PMCID: PMC9537962 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concerns about the psychiatric sequelae after COVID-19 infection have increased as the pandemic spreads worldwide. The increase in self-isolation during this pandemic period has also revealed the importance of feelings of loneliness. This study aimed to examine the relationship between baseline inflammation levels, internalizing symptoms, and feelings of loneliness in adolescent COVID-19 survivors in the long term. METHODS A total of 74 adolescents (41 girls, 55.4%, mean age 14.88) and their parents were included in the study. This cross-sectional study assessed internalizing symptoms via Revised Children's Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS) and feelings of loneliness using the UCLA-loneliness scale. Baseline inflammatory markers at COVID-19 diagnosis were collected. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors for depression in adolescents. RESULTS The most common disorder was Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) (25.7%), and 33.8% of the adolescents were in the clinical range in at least one internalizing domain. Baseline C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels correlated weakly with MDD scores. Loneliness scores correlated with all internalizing symptoms, strong association with MDD scores. Loneliness, anxiety, and parental anxiety were associated with an increased likelihood of MDD. Baseline CRP positivity did not predict MDD in adolescent COVID-19 survivors. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that anxiety, loneliness, and parental anxiety play an important role in adolescents' experience of depressive symptoms after COVID-19 infection. Thus, screening parental psychopathology and loneliness in COVID-19 survivors seems to be preventive for adolescent mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Akçay
- Department of Child and Adolescent PsychiatryAnkara City HospitalAnkaraTurkey
| | - Esra Çöp
- Department of Child and Adolescent PsychiatryAnkara City HospitalAnkaraTurkey
| | - Gülser Senses Dinç
- Department of Child and Adolescent PsychiatryAnkara City HospitalAnkaraTurkey
| | - Zeynep Göker
- Department of Child and Adolescent PsychiatryAnkara City HospitalAnkaraTurkey
| | | | - Betül Damla Demirel
- Department of Child and Adolescent PsychiatryAnkara City HospitalAnkaraTurkey
| | - Müge Mutlu
- Department of Child and Adolescent PsychiatryAnkara City HospitalAnkaraTurkey
| | - Begüm Kırmızı
- Department of Child and Adolescent PsychiatryAnkara City HospitalAnkaraTurkey
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17
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Towner E, Tomova L, Ladensack D, Chu K, Callaghan B. Virtual social interaction and loneliness among emerging adults amid the COVID-19 pandemic. CURRENT RESEARCH IN ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 3:100058. [PMID: 35937279 PMCID: PMC9338168 DOI: 10.1016/j.cresp.2022.100058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Many social activities moved online during the global COVID-19 pandemic, yet research investigating whether virtual social interactions facilitate social connectedness has been inconclusive. In this study, participants completed online questionnaires assessing objective social isolation, loneliness, mental health, and virtual social interactions. There was clear evidence for worsening mental health among emerging adults during the COVID-19 pandemic characterized by large increases in depressive symptoms (mean increase = 8.35, 95% CI [6.97, 9.73], t(118) = 118, p < .001), and large decrements in happiness (mean decrease = -0.71, 95% CI [-0.84, -0.57], t(118) = 10.09, p < .001) and social satisfaction (mean decrease = -0.81, 95% CI [-1.00,-0.62], t(115) = 8.28, p < .001) post-pandemic onset. In line with expectations, those living in larger households amid the pandemic reported lower levels of loneliness and higher levels of happiness. A negative association was found between household size (an index of objective social isolation) and loneliness, b = -3.01, t(79) = 2.60, p = .011, 95% CI [-5.32, -0.71], and a positive association was found between household size and happiness, b = 22.86, t(75) = 3.30, p = .001, 95% CI [9.06, 36.65]. However, contrary to expectations, there was no association between loneliness and frequency of virtual social interactions. There was also no association between frequency of virtual social interactions and either happiness or depression. More research investigating social connectedness in the context of virtual social interactions is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Towner
- University of Cambridge, Department of Psychology
| | - Livia Tomova
- University of Cambridge, Department of Psychology
| | | | - Kristen Chu
- University of California, Los Angeles, Department of Psychology
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18
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Salmon M, Sibeoni J, Harf A, Moro MR, Ludot-Grégoire M. Systematic review on somatization in a transcultural context among teenagers and young adults: Focus on the nosography blur. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:897002. [PMID: 35958663 PMCID: PMC9358691 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.897002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Somatic complaints are a frequent cause for consultation in primary care. In a transcultural context, somatic complaints are typically associated with psychological distress. A recent review about somatic symptom disorders in adolescence showed some nosographic heterogeneity and outlined various etiological hypotheses (traumatic, environmental, or neurologic), separate from the cross-cultural considerations. Migrants' children encounter specific problems involving cultural mixing-issues of filiation (familial transmission) and affiliation (belonging to a group). This paper aims to provide a systematic review of somatization in transcultural contexts among teenagers and young adults, aged 13 to 24, over the past decade. Methods This review adheres to the quality criteria set forth by the PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Two authors queried three English databases (Medline, PsycInfo, WebOfScience) about somatization in transcultural contexts (migrant or non-Western population) among teenagers (13-18), young adults (19-24), or both. The methodological process comprised articles selection, data extraction, and then the analysis of emerging themes. Setting selection criteria to limit the transcultural field was difficult. Results The study analyzed 68 articles. We present a descriptive analysis of the results, centered on three main themes. First, the literature highlights a nosographic muddle reflected in the combination of anxious and depressive symptoms together with the highly variable symptomatology. Second, discrimination issues were prevalent among the migrant population. Lastly, the literature review points out possibilities for improving a care pathway and reducing the diagnostic delay induced by migrants' hesitancy about Western care and the recurrent use of inappropriate diagnostic criteria. Conclusion This review discusses the links between the nosographic muddle described here and the diagnostic delays these patients experience and raises concerns about rigid diagnostic compartmentalization. The work of the psychiatrist Frantz Fanon is here useful to understand externalized symptoms resulting from physical and psychological confinement. Discrimination issues raise questions about the cultural counter-transference health professionals experience in dealing with young migrants. Defining healthcare professionals' representations about somatic complaints in a transcultural context might be a fruitful path to explore in future research. Protocol PROSPERO registration number CRD42021294132. Available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021294132.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Salmon
- APHP, Hôpital Cochin, Maison de Solenn, Paris, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris-Saclay, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Jordan Sibeoni
- Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Adolescent, Centre Hospitalier d'Argenteuil, Argenteuil, France
- ECSTRRA Team, UMR-1153, Inserm, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Aurélie Harf
- APHP, Hôpital Cochin, Maison de Solenn, Paris, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, France
| | - Marie Rose Moro
- APHP, Hôpital Cochin, Maison de Solenn, Paris, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, France
- Université de Paris, PCPP, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | - Maude Ludot-Grégoire
- APHP, Hôpital Cochin, Maison de Solenn, Paris, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, France
- Université de Paris, PCPP, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
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19
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Trombetta A, De Nardi L, Cozzi G, Ronfani L, Bigolin L, Barbi E, Bramuzzo M, Abbracciavento G. Impact of the first COVID-19 lockdown on the relationship with parents and peers in a cohort of adolescents with somatic symptom disorder. Ital J Pediatr 2022; 48:104. [PMID: 35725564 PMCID: PMC9207852 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-022-01300-y] [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: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the coping strategies of a group of adolescents with somatic symptom disorder compared to non-somatic symptom disorder peers during the COVID-19 related lockdown. This cross-sectional study is the second part of a previously published study showing an improved trend in depression and anxiety in a group of patients with somatic symptom disorder compared to non-somatic symptom disorder peers. An anonymous semi-structured survey was distributed to two groups of Italian adolescents to measure the impact of quarantine on their daily life and coping strategies. We recruited 115 adolescents, 58 (50.4%) mean age 15.3, with a recent diagnosis of somatic symptom disorder and 57 (49.6%) mean age 15.8, control peers. The aim of this study was to detect differences in coping strategies and relationships with parents and peers, during the lockdown period in a group of adolescents with somatic symptom disorder and low disease burden when compared with a non-somatic symptom disorder group. The relationship with parents significantly worsened in 4 (6.9%) of adolescents with somatic symptom disorder compared to 12 (21.1%) adolescents in the non-somatic symptom disorder group (p = 0.048). The relationship with peers significantly improved in 13 (22.4%) of adolescents with symptom disorder versus 3 (5.3%) of peers of the non- somatic symptom disorder group (p = 0.013). Adolescents with somatic symptom disorder with a low burden of physical symptoms experienced less deterioration in their relationships with parents and peers than the non-somatic symptom disorder group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Trombetta
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Laura De Nardi
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giorgio Cozzi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34147, Trieste, Italy
| | - Luca Ronfani
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34147, Trieste, Italy
| | - Lara Bigolin
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy
| | - Egidio Barbi
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34137, Trieste, Italy.,Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34147, Trieste, Italy
| | - Matteo Bramuzzo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34147, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Abbracciavento
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Via dell'Istria 65/1, 34147, Trieste, Italy
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20
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Ashwin A, Cherukuri SD, Rammohan A. Negative effects of COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent health: Insights, perspectives, and recommendations. J Glob Health 2022; 12:03009. [PMID: 35596943 PMCID: PMC9123917 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.12.03009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ashwin Rammohan
- The Institute of Liver Disease & Transplantation, Dr. Rela Institute & Medical Centre, Bharath Institute of Higher Education & Research, Chennai, India
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21
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Kehusmaa J, Ruotsalainen H, Männikkö N, Alakokkare AE, Niemelä M, Jääskeläinen E, Miettunen J. The association between the social environment of childhood and adolescence and depression in young adulthood - A prospective cohort study. J Affect Disord 2022; 305:37-46. [PMID: 35231482 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.02.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Good social relationships with parents and peers protect children and adolescents from developing mental disorders in adulthood while several negative experiences increase the risk of depression in later life. METHODS We used population-based cohort data from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort (NFBC) 1986. Participants (n = 6147), their teachers and parents reported factors associated with the social environment of children and adolescents. Diagnoses of depression of cohort members were derived from Finnish nationwide registers. We conducted regression analyses to assess which factors of the social environment of childhood and adolescence were associated with depression in young adulthood. RESULTS Bullying victimization in adolescence was the strongest predictor of depression in young adulthood among girls (OR 2.23: 95% CI 1.47-3.39) and boys (OR 2.44: 95% CI 1.49-4.00). Loneliness and bullying behavior in childhood were associated with depression in boys only. Loneliness in adolescence (OR 1.63: 95% CI 1.30-2.04) was associated with depression among both genders. Spending with the family seemed to protect against the negative impact of bullying and loneliness. LIMITATIONS We used single-item study questions to measure social relationships. These questions do not necessarily describe the phenomena as accurately as the measures validated for them. CONCLUSION Problems in social relationships with peers in childhood and adolescence are associated with depression in young adulthood. Time spent with the family is emphasized in situations in which adolescents have problems in peer-relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Kehusmaa
- Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
| | - Heidi Ruotsalainen
- School of Health and Social Care, Oulu University of Applied Sciences, Oulu, Finland
| | - Niko Männikkö
- School of Health and Social Care, Oulu University of Applied Sciences, Oulu, Finland; Research Unit of Nursing Science and Health Management, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Anni-Emilia Alakokkare
- Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Mika Niemelä
- Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Erika Jääskeläinen
- Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jouko Miettunen
- Center for Life Course Health Research, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
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22
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Zsido AN, Arato N, Inhof O, Matuz-Budai T, Stecina DT, Labadi B. Psychological well-being, risk factors, and coping strategies with social isolation and new challenges in times of adversity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2022; 225:103538. [PMID: 35219042 PMCID: PMC8858700 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2022.103538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective COVID-19 triggers anxiety and fear due to several reasons, and thus, dealing with it requires prolonged coping mechanisms. When the number of infections soared, to slow the spread, many governments decided to close universities and dormitories and move teaching to online platforms. The majority of the university students decided to move back home to their parents changing their social lives. Here, we aimed to point to risk, as well as protective factors, and understand the influence of these factors on both physical and psychological indicators of well-being. Further, to discover how university students cope with maintaining their social lives during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method We collected online survey data from multiple university sources. Participants (N = 605) completed measures of emotion regulation strategies, knowledge on the disease, contamination fear, perceived social support, worrying and intolerance of uncertainty, quality of sleep, well-being, emotional stability, anxiety, and depression. Results Our results showed that the most prominent risk and protective factors that were most strongly associated with the indicators of well-being were rumination, catastrophizing, positive refocusing, and social support from family; respectively. Conclusion These results have implications for professionals working with and helping (e.g., as counselors) people during the challenges of an emergency.
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23
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Quynh Ho TT, Nguyen HT. Self- disclosure on social networking sites, loneliness and psychological distress among adolescents: The mediating effect of cyber victimization. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/17405629.2022.2068523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thi Truc Quynh Ho
- Department of Psychology – Education, University of Education, Hue University, Hue, VietNam
| | - Hung Thanh Nguyen
- Department of Psychology – Education, University of Education, Hue University, Hue, VietNam
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24
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Reer F, Wehden LO, Janzik R, Quandt T. Examining the Interplay of Smartphone Use Disorder, Mental Health, and Physical Symptoms. Front Public Health 2022; 10:834835. [PMID: 35493391 PMCID: PMC9049275 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.834835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study examined antecedents and possible consequences of smartphone use disorder (SmUD). In particular, we aimed to increase the understanding of the interplay of SmUD, mental health, and physical symptoms. Studies found that SmUD is associated with diverse psychological and physical health impairments, ranging from depression and anxiety to headaches and sleep disturbances. Based on existing works, we assumed that mental problems mediate the relationship between SmUD and bodily problems. We conducted a cross-sectional random-quota online survey among 938 German smartphone owners aged 14 to 64 years. An instrument based on the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) was used to measure SmUD severity. The data was analyzed using structural equation modeling. We identified a rate of 4.0% potentially disordered users. Males and younger participants showed more signs of SmUD. As expected, SmUD severity was found to be associated with physical (more frequent headaches, sleep disturbances, gastrointestinal problems) as well as psychological (higher levels of loneliness, stress, depression/anxiety) health impairments. Investigating the interplay of these variables showed that depression and anxiety, and stress partially mediated the relationship between SmUD severity and physical symptoms. Taken together, our results confirm that increased SmUD severity is associated with mental problems as well as with somatic symptoms. We assume complex (and presumably circular) relationships, which future studies should examine in more detail. SmUD prevention and intervention programs should follow a broad approach that considers decreases in physical and mental health, possibly causing or resulting from SmUD.
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Herrman H, Patel V, Kieling C, Berk M, Buchweitz C, Cuijpers P, Furukawa TA, Kessler RC, Kohrt BA, Maj M, McGorry P, Reynolds CF, Weissman MM, Chibanda D, Dowrick C, Howard LM, Hoven CW, Knapp M, Mayberg HS, Penninx BWJH, Xiao S, Trivedi M, Uher R, Vijayakumar L, Wolpert M. Time for united action on depression: a Lancet-World Psychiatric Association Commission. Lancet 2022; 399:957-1022. [PMID: 35180424 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)02141-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 297] [Impact Index Per Article: 148.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Helen Herrman
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Vikram Patel
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Sangath, Goa, India; Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christian Kieling
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil; Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Division, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT Institute, Geelong, VIC, Australia
| | - Claudia Buchweitz
- Graduate Program in Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Toshiaki A Furukawa
- Department of Health Promotion and Human Behavior, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine/School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ronald C Kessler
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brandon A Kohrt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Mario Maj
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania L Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Patrick McGorry
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Charles F Reynolds
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Myrna M Weissman
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA; Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dixon Chibanda
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe; Centre for Global Mental Health, The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Christopher Dowrick
- Department of Primary Care and Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Louise M Howard
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Christina W Hoven
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA; Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Martin Knapp
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
| | - Helen S Mayberg
- Departments of Neurology, Neurosurgery, Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brenda W J H Penninx
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Shuiyuan Xiao
- Central South University Xiangya School of Public Health, Changsha, China
| | - Madhukar Trivedi
- Peter O'Donnell Jr Brain Institute and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Rudolf Uher
- Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Lakshmi Vijayakumar
- Sneha, Suicide Prevention Centre and Voluntary Health Services, Chennai, India
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Antunes JT, Machado ÍE, Malta DC. Loneliness and associated factors among Brazilian adolescents: results of national adolescent school-based health survey 2015. J Pediatr (Rio J) 2022; 98:92-98. [PMID: 34043947 PMCID: PMC9432039 DOI: 10.1016/j.jped.2021.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the associated factors to loneliness among Brazilian adolescents, considering this is a knowledge gap and given its severity. The United Nations estimates that mental health problems affect approximately 20% of adolescents worldwide. METHODS This is a cross-sectional study with data from the National Adolescent School-based Health Survey 2015, conducted with students aged 13-17 in Brazil. The statistical analysis was performed with the calculation of the prevalence of feeling loneliness reported. Poisson regression with the adjusted Prevalence Ratio was used to evaluate the association between sociodemographic characteristics, family context, mental health and lifestyles, and feelings of loneliness. RESULTS 15,5% of Brazilian students reported loneliness in the last 12 months. Female gender, higher maternal education, insomnia and be bullying victims rarely or sometimes and most of the time or always had a higher prevalence rate of loneliness. Having friends, having a meal with parents or guardians 5 days or more a week and having understanding parents showed a lower prevalence ratio for loneliness. CONCLUSION Loneliness feeling is frequent among adolescents and is associated with female gender, less social and family support, intra-family violence and risk behaviors such as alcohol consumption and bullying. Policies to promote physical and mental well-being in this age group, stimulating friendship and family participation in the lives of adolescents should be made .
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ísis Eloah Machado
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Escola de Medicina, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
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Preston AJ, Rew L. Connectedness, Self-Esteem, and Prosocial Behaviors Protect Adolescent Mental Health Following Social Isolation: A Systematic Review. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2022; 43:32-41. [PMID: 34346800 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2021.1948642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Societal trends and COVID-19 quarantines have increased the number of adolescents experiencing social isolation, placing them at heightened risk for mental health issues. The aim of this review is to explore protective factors that might mitigate psychological harm in the presence of social isolation. A systematic literature review was conducted using Fink's step-by-step process. Four library databases were searched, and results were reported using PRISMA. Of the 246 studies reviewed, 12 studies were retained following the quality assessment. The sample includes 14,064 participants from USA, Australia, and Europe, ranging from 10-19 years old. Social connectedness (ie., family connectedness, school connectedness, social support), self-esteem, and prosocial behaviors were the most common protective factors to social isolation. Additional factors such as self-efficacy, optimism, and ethnic identity are discussed. Implications for future research are recommended, including the need to explore spiritual, biological, and sociocultural factors influencing social connectedness and mental health in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lynn Rew
- School of Nursing, University of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
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28
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The Effect of Loneliness in Psychological and Behavioral Profile among High School Students in Spain. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su14010168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Loneliness is a distressing feeling that can be a barrier to a student’s development and affect their mental health. This research aimed to analyse the effects of loneliness on psychological and behavioral factors among students aged 12–19 years in Spain. Loneliness, experiential avoidance, psychological inflexibility, physical activity, mobile phone use, and smoke habits were analysed in a sample of 110 men and 122 women assigned into two groups depending on their loneliness levels: higher loneliness group (HLG) and lower loneliness group (LLG). Results showed that experimental avoidance and psychological inflexibility were related with loneliness (r = 0.471; p = 0.000). Experiential avoidance and psychological inflexibility were higher in HLG than LLG. Regarding the use of mobile phones and smoking habits, LLG presented significantly higher values than HLG. Higher age correlated with lower loneliness values (r = −0.155; p = 0.017). The present research found how students with higher loneliness presented higher experiential avoidance and psychological inflexibility and lower age, use of mobile phone, and smoking habits. These findings reveal the importance of considering multiple social behaviours when examining adolescent mental health factors.
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Musetti A, Grazia V, Manari T, Terrone G, Corsano P. Linking childhood emotional neglect to adolescents' parent-related loneliness: Self-other differentiation and emotional detachment from parents as mediators. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 122:105338. [PMID: 34560397 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The detrimental role of childhood emotional neglect (CEN) on long-term affective and social development has received increasing attention in the literature. Individuals who were emotionally neglected during their childhood are more prone to feeling isolated and excluded by their parent during adolescence. However, little is known about the mediating processes underlying this association. OBJECTIVE This study investigated whether self-other differentiation (SOD) and emotional detachment from parents mediate the link between CEN and parent-related loneliness. METHOD AND PARTICIPANTS A sample of 535 high school students aged 13-18 years (63.6% female; Mage = 16.21; SD = 1.40) completed questionnaires regarding demographics, CEN, SOD, emotional detachment, and parent-related loneliness. RESULTS After controlling for demographic covariates, structural equation modeling (SEM) showed that (a) CEN was positively associated with parent-related loneliness (β = 0.64, p < .001), (b) SOD did not mediate the relationship between CEN and parent-related loneliness (β = -0.01, p = .142), (c) emotional detachment partially mediated the relationship between CEN and parent-related loneliness (β = 0.16, p < .001), and (d) SOD and emotional detachment partially and sequentially mediated the link between CEN and parent-related loneliness, albeit with a small effect size (β = 0.02, p = .027). CONCLUSIONS The findings underscore the significance of the link between CEN and parent-related loneliness in adolescence. Moreover, our results suggest that some adolescents with a history of CEN have difficulties in establishing clear boundaries between "self" and "other" and tend to engage in emotionally detached relationships with their parents, which may lead them to feel more parent-related loneliness. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Borgo Carissimi 10, 43121 Parma, Italy.
| | - Valentina Grazia
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Borgo Carissimi 10, 43121 Parma, Italy
| | - Tommaso Manari
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Borgo Carissimi 10, 43121 Parma, Italy
| | - Grazia Terrone
- Department of History, Cultural Heritage, Education and Society, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Cracovia 50, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Corsano
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Borgo Carissimi 10, 43121 Parma, Italy
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30
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Xu Z, Zhang D, Xu D, Li X, Xie YJ, Sun W, Lee EKP, Yip BHK, Xiao S, Wong SYS. Loneliness, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder among Chinese adults during COVID-19: A cross-sectional online survey. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259012. [PMID: 34673812 PMCID: PMC8530321 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to investigate the potential factors associated with mental health outcomes among Chinese adults during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic. METHODS This is an online cross-sectional survey conducted among Chinese adults in February 2020. Outcome measurements included the three-item UCLA Loneliness Scale (UCLA-3), two-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-2), two-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-2), and two items from the Clinician-Administered Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Scale. COVID-19 related factors, physical health, lifestyle, and self-efficacy were also measured. Univariable and multivariable logistic regressions were performed. RESULTS This study included 1456 participants (age: 33.8±10.5 years; female: 59.1%). The prevalence of depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, loneliness, and PTSD symptoms were 11.3%, 7.6%, 38.7%, and 33.9%, respectively. In multivariable analysis, loneliness was associated with being single, separated/divorced/widowed, low level of education, current location, medication, more somatic symptoms, lower self-efficacy, and going out frequently. Depression was associated with fear of infection, binge drinking, more somatic symptoms, lower self-efficacy, and longer screen time. Anxiety was associated with more somatic symptoms and lower self-efficacy. PTSD symptoms were associated with more somatic symptoms, lower self-efficacy, higher perceived risk of infection, fear of infection, and self-rated more negative influence due to the epidemic (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Mental health problems during the COVID-19 epidemic were associated with various biopsychosocial and COVID-19 related factors. Psychological interventions should be aware of these influencing factors and prioritize support for those people at higher risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Xu
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dexing Zhang
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Dong Xu
- ACACIA Labs, School of Health Management and Institute for Global Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yao Jie Xie
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wen Sun
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Eric Kam-pui Lee
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Benjamin Hon-kei Yip
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shuiyuan Xiao
- Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Samuel Yueng-shan Wong
- JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Jahng KE, Kim Y. Relationships Between Children's Shyness, Play Disconnection, and Loneliness: Moderating Effect of Children's Perceived Child-Teacher Intimate Relationship. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2021; 52:829-840. [PMID: 32980924 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-020-01069-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Loneliness is a significant problem that predicts immediate and long-term negative outcomes for young children. This study examines the mediating effect of children's play disconnection on the relationship between their shyness and loneliness, as well as the moderating effect of children's perceived child-teacher intimate relationship on the relationships between child shyness, play disconnection, and loneliness. Participants include 171 4 to 6 year old South Korean children and their teachers and mothers. Children's teachers were asked to respond to the questions measuring child shyness and play disconnection, and the mothers assisted their children to answer the questions measuring child loneliness and child-teacher intimate relationship. The results of the study are as follows. First, child shyness affected loneliness via play disconnection. Second, child-teacher intimate relationship moderated the relationships between child shyness and loneliness and between child shyness and play disconnection. However, the association between play disconnection and loneliness was not moderated by child-teacher intimate relationship. The findings of the study suggest that teachers not only provide shy children with emotional support but also build affectionate and intimate relationships with them to support their peer play and to reduce their feelings of loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Eun Jahng
- Department of Child and Family Studies, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Yaebin Kim
- Children, Youth & Families Extension, University of Nevada, Reno, 8050 Paradise Road Suite 100, Las Vegas, NV, 89123, USA
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Urbieta DA, Akin JL, Hamilton WM, Brock WW, Yablonsky AM. We're Stronger Together: A Collaboration to Support Military Families During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Mil Med 2021; 186:23-34. [PMID: 34469531 DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usab213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for every segment of the U.S. population, including military personnel and their families. The TriService Nursing Research Program's Military Family Research Interest Group (FIG) formed a collaboration with Blue Star Families, a civilian non-profit organization, to identify potential issues faced by military families during the pandemic. DATA COLLECTION METHODS The Pain Points Poll was introduced online by Blue Star Families, and findings were aggregated weekly between March 18 and May 26, 2020. Volunteer poll respondents were mainly recruited through social media outreach. FIG-informed questions were incorporated in week 4 of polling and focused on workplace environment, financial health, social support, physical and mental health, child behavior, utilization of family care plans, and general well-being. Data were collected to gain real-time insights into the major challenges posed by the pandemic. Findings from FIG-informed questions were collaboratively reviewed and analyzed by FIG and BSF teams. Data-driven recommendations were made to stakeholders to improve processes and reprioritize investments for services that aim to alleviate the impact of COVID-19 on military families. FINDINGS A total of 2,895 military family units (i.e., service members and spouses) responded to the poll, a majority of which (88%) represented active duty family units. Although the majority of families (range: 59%-69%) noted no impact to their finances, approximately one in five families endorsed dipping into their savings during the pandemic. A majority of respondents (69.5%) reported taking active measures to support their mental health, endorsing various strategies. Among parents of special needs children, 45% of active duty families and 60% of single-parent service members reported the inability to maintain continued services for their children. A majority of parents with school-aged children (65%) reported child behavioral changes due to their child's inability to socialize with peers. Among military service members, 41% were concerned about obtaining fair performance evaluations during the crisis. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic produced significant challenges for military families. Collaboration between military and civilian partners can inform policies and appropriate strategies to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 for military families. The findings presented here provide insight into areas where military families can be supported for optimal outcomes during unprecedented times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehussa A Urbieta
- Directorate for Professional Education, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - Jennifer L Akin
- Applied Research Team, Blue Star Families, Encinitas, CA 92023, USA
| | - Wendy M Hamilton
- Department of Inpatient Services, Evans Community Army Hospital, Fort Carson, CO 80913, USA
| | - Whitney W Brock
- Directorate for Professional Education, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - Abigail Marter Yablonsky
- Directorate for Professional Education, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command San Diego, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
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33
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Kim MH, An JH, Lee HR, Jeong SH, Hwang SJ, Hong JP. Social Isolation, Loneliness and Their Relationships with Mental Health Status in South Korea. Psychiatry Investig 2021; 18:652-660. [PMID: 34265197 PMCID: PMC8328830 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2021.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the prevalence and psychological impact of social isolation and loneliness in South Korea. Loneliness and social isolation have been regarded as a risk to both physical and mental health. However, most studies have focused on the elderly; hence, there are limited studies on the characteristics of socially isolated or lonely people considering age. METHODS A sample of 1,700 participants was selected from three major cities in South Korea. In-person interviews were conducted to evaluate loneliness, social isolation and mental health status. RESULTS Among the participants, the prevalence of social isolation and loneliness was 17.8% and 4.1%, respectively. Males decreased the odds of loneliness (AOR 0.49, 95% CI=0.28-0.87), while increasing the odds of social isolation (AOR 1.44, 95% CI=1.12-1.86) after adjusting for age and sex. Greater depressive and social phobic symptoms were associated with increased odds of loneliness and social isolation. CONCLUSION Social isolation and loneliness are prevalent among Koreans and associated with depression, social phobic symptoms, and suicidality. This study provides a foundation for further research to investigate nationwide prevalence and a more in-depth analysis of loneliness and social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Hyun Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hyun An
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Rin Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo Hyun Jeong
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Jin Hwang
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Pyo Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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34
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Rissanen ML, Kekkonen V, Kraav SL, Kivimäki P, Laukkanen E, Hintikka J, Tolmunen T. Social support may prevent self-cutting in adolescence: A 5-year follow-up study. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC NURSING 2021; 34:343-351. [PMID: 34164876 DOI: 10.1111/jcap.12341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Self-cutting is common among adolescents. However, studies examining protective factors are rare. It has been suggested that social support may protect against self-cutting in adolescence. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible association of social relationships with the initiation of self-cutting. METHODS The participants were community-dwelling Finnish adolescents (N = 4171) aged 13-18 years at baseline. The follow-up assessment was conducted 5 years later (N = 794). Those adolescents who had self-cut before the baseline assessment (N = 134) were excluded from the analysis, leaving a total of 660 participants to be analyzed. In this group, 37 adolescents initiated self-cutting during the 5-year follow-up period and 623 did not. Cox's proportional hazards models were used with several adjustments for possible confounding factors. FINDINGS A higher age, male gender, good relationships with siblings, weekly meetings with friends, and personal experience of not being lonely associated with the noninitiation of self-cutting during the follow-up period. Good relationships with parents or peers had no association with the initiation of self-cutting. Depressive symptoms mediated the effect of subjective loneliness on initiating self-cutting. CONCLUSIONS Social support produced by friends may have a protective effect against self-cutting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marja-Liisa Rissanen
- Unit of Health Care, Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Virve Kekkonen
- Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Siiri-Liisi Kraav
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu, Finland
| | - Petri Kivimäki
- Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.,City of Helsinki, Pitäjänmäki Health Station, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eila Laukkanen
- Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jukka Hintikka
- Department of Psychiatry, Päijät-Häme Central Hospital, Lahti, Finland.,Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tommi Tolmunen
- Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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35
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Klümper L, Sürth S. Keep me updated! Social support as a coping strategy to reduce the perceived threat caused by the cognitive availability of COVID-19 relevant information. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 42:6403-6418. [PMID: 34149268 PMCID: PMC8205514 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-01951-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The enormous amount of information about the COVID-19 pandemic in newspapers, TV channels, or social media reminds people every day of the potential threat the virus posed to their health and well-being in 2020. We examined if the cognitive availability of COVID-19 leads to the perception of heightened threat facilitating coping strategies and the moderating role of global self-efficacy and intolerance of uncertainty. A total of 235 participants randomly received either a newspaper article about the COVID-19 virus or Germany's soil condition and were asked to indicate their current level of the perceived threat of the virus and the use of different coping strategies. Results indicate that the cognitive availability of COVID-19 information leads to a higher perceived threat, leading to more seeking for social support. Although neither self-efficacy nor intolerance of uncertainty moderates the effect of cognitive availability on the perceived threat, both personality characteristics moderated the relationship between perceived threat and different coping strategies. We discuss our results in line with current research on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on coping strategies and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Klümper
- School of Human and Social Sciences, Social and Personality Psychology, Bergische Universität Wuppertal, Gaußstr. 20, 42119 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Svenja Sürth
- Bergische Universität Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
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36
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Qiu Y, Xu L, Pan Y, He C, Huang Y, Xu H, Lu Z, Dong C. Family Resilience, Parenting Styles and Psychosocial Adjustment of Children With Chronic Illness: A Cross-Sectional Study. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:646421. [PMID: 34054605 PMCID: PMC8149598 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.646421] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To evaluate the level of parent-reported family resilience, parenting styles and psychosocial adjustment of children with chronic illness and to identify the relationships between family resilience, parenting styles and psychosocial adjustment in families with children with chronic illness. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2019 and August 2019. A total of 236 parents of children with chronic illness and 98 parents with healthy children were recruited from general hospitals by convenience sampling. A parent completed the Chinese Family Resilience Assessment Scale, the Parenting Rearing Patterns Questionnaire and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Family resilience, parenting styles, and psychosocial adjustment of children with chronic illness were compared with those of healthy children. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was performed to explore the mediation effect of parenting styles between family resilience and psychosocial adjustment among children with chronic illness. Results: Parents of children with chronic illness reported lower level of family resilience and authoritative parenting, but more peer relationship problems compared to parents of healthy children. SEM showed that authoritative parenting fully mediated the relationship between family resilience and psychosocial adjustment of children with chronic illness. Conclusion: Childhood chronic illness reduces family resilience, authoritative parenting and children's psychosocial adjustment, but authoritative parenting mediated these effects, so authoritative parenting may be important for family resilience in families of children with chronic illness. Pediatric clinicians and nurses should provide family-centered interventions, as well as parenting training, to improve children's psychosocial outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Qiu
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liuqing Xu
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yinzhu Pan
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chunlei He
- Emergency Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yingying Huang
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Huan Xu
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhongqiu Lu
- Emergency Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chaoqun Dong
- School of Nursing, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Simonsen S, Bo S. Awakening to recognize the detrimental effects of social avoidance and the possibility of healing through reconnection. J Clin Psychol 2021; 77:1153-1161. [PMID: 33821501 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loneliness and social avoidance are widespread and serious mental health problems. People experiencing loneliness or social avoidance have difficulties maintaining ordinary life activities and often experience profound suffering. How do we as clinicians deal with or help people out of loneliness and social avoidance? AIMS In this paper, we introduce the issue on loneliness and social avoidance. We do so by first defining loneliness and social avoidance and outlining the impact on mental health issues of these phenomena. Next, we introduce the six papers central to the special issue along with some thoughts on how to understand therapy and treatment of social avoidance. DISCUSSION We discuss new directions and how to move beyond more conventional therapeutic approaches to these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sune Bo
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Region Zealand Psychiatry, Slagelse, Denmark.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Region Zealand Psychiatry, Roskilde, Denmark
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Wang C, Liu JL, Zhu Q, Yao J, Boyanton D. Covitality moderates the relationship between victimisation and loneliness. AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00049530.2021.1904494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cixin Wang
- Department of Counseling, Higher Education, and Special Education, Faculty Affiliate Asian American Studies Program, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Jia Li Liu
- Department of Counseling, Higher Education, and Special Education, Faculty Affiliate Asian American Studies Program, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Qianyu Zhu
- Department of Counseling, Higher Education, and Special Education, Faculty Affiliate Asian American Studies Program, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Jocelyn Yao
- Department of Counseling, Higher Education, and Special Education, Faculty Affiliate Asian American Studies Program, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Dengting Boyanton
- Positive Psychology Institute, Sino‐American Educational Research Association, Stone Mountain, GA, USA
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Ahinkorah BO, Aboagye RG, Arthur-Holmes F, Hagan JE, Okyere J, Budu E, Dowou RK, Adu C, Seidu AA. A Multi-Country Analysis of Prevalence of Anxiety-Induced Sleep Disturbance and Its Associated Factors among In-School Adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa Using the Global School-Based Health Survey. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9020234. [PMID: 33671775 PMCID: PMC7926929 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9020234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Among the health problems affecting adolescents, anxiety disorders are considered among the health-compromising or debilitating outcomes that affect adolescents' mental health. We examined the prevalence and factors associated with anxiety-induced sleep disturbance among in-school adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). (2) Methods: This study involved a cross-sectional analysis of data from the Global School-Based Health Survey (GSHS). We analyzed data on 25,454 in-school adolescents from eleven (11) countries in SSA with a dataset between 2010 and 2017. Two multivariable logistic regression models were built to determine the strength of the association between anxiety-induced sleep disturbance and the explanatory variables. The results of the regression analyses were presented using adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical significance was set at p-value < 0.05. (3) Results: The overall prevalence of anxiety-induced sleep disturbance among in-school adolescents in SSA was 12.2%. The prevalence ranged from 5.1% in Tanzania to 20.5% in Benin. The odds of anxiety-induced sleep disturbance was higher among adolescents aged 15 and above [aOR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.15, 1.39] compared to those aged 14 or younger. Additionally, the odds of anxiety-induced sleep disturbance was higher among adolescents who were bullied [aOR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.42, 1.67], those that felt lonely [aOR = 3.85, 95% CI = 3.52, 4.22], those who had suicidal ideations [aOR = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.52, 1.90], those who had suicidal plan [aOR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.13, 1.41], those who have had suicidal attempt [aOR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.08, 1.35], those who used marijuana [aOR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.06, 1.52], and those who were truant at school [aOR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.22, 1.46]. However, male adolescents had lower odds of anxiety-induced sleep disturbance [aOR = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.81, 0.95], compared to their female counterparts. (4) Conclusions: We found a relatively high prevalence of anxiety-induced sleep disturbance among in-school adolescents in SSA. Higher age, being female, being bullied, loneliness, having suicidal ideations/plan/attempt, use of marijuana and truancy were risk factors for anxiety-induced sleep disturbance. The findings, therefore, highlight the urgency for policies (e.g., early school-based screening) and interventions (e.g., Rational Emotive Behavioral Education (REBE), Social Emotional Learning (SEL) that target in-school adolescents within the most at-risk populations of anxiety-induced sleep disturbance in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright Opoku Ahinkorah
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia;
| | - Richard Gyan Aboagye
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho PMB 31, Ghana; (R.G.A.); (R.K.D.)
| | - Francis Arthur-Holmes
- Department of Sociology and Social Policy, Lingnan University, 8 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong, China;
| | - John Elvis Hagan
- Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast PMB, Ghana
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Bielefeld University, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Joshua Okyere
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast PMB TF0494, Ghana; (J.O.); (E.B.); (A.-A.S.)
| | - Eugene Budu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast PMB TF0494, Ghana; (J.O.); (E.B.); (A.-A.S.)
| | - Robert Kokou Dowou
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho PMB 31, Ghana; (R.G.A.); (R.K.D.)
| | - Collins Adu
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Disability Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi PMB AK, Ghana;
| | - Abdul-Aziz Seidu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast PMB TF0494, Ghana; (J.O.); (E.B.); (A.-A.S.)
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Services, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
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Hemberg J, Korzhina Y, Groundstroem H, Östman L, Nyström L, Nyman-Kurkiala P. Loneliness – two sides to the story: adolescents’ lived experiences. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENCE AND YOUTH 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2021.1883075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Pengpid S, Peltzer K. Loneliness is associated with poor mental health, social-environmental factors, and health risk behaviours among national samples of in-school adolescents in four Caribbean countries. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2021; 27:559-570. [PMID: 33586531 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2021.1883071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The goal of the study was to estimate associations of loneliness with poor mental health, social-environmental and health risk behaviour indicators among adolescents in the Caribbean. Cross-sectional national 'Global School-Based Student Health Survey (GSHS)' data of four Caribbean countries (N = 9,143 adolescents) in 2016-2017 were analysed. In adjusted logistic regression analysis, loneliness was significantly positively associated with all five poor mental health outcomes (having no close friends, anxiety-induced sleep disturbance, suicidal ideation, suicide plan and suicide attempt). Regarding social-environmental outcomes, loneliness was significantly positively associated with bullying victimization, having been physically attacked, involvement in fighting, frequent experiences of hunger and passive smoking (in particular among boys). In terms of health risk behaviour outcomes, loneliness significantly increased the odds for current tobacco use, ever drunk, trouble from alcohol use, ever amphetamine use, multiple sexual partners, leisure-time sedentary behaviour, injury and frequent soft drink consumption. In addition, among boys, loneliness increased the likelihood for current cannabis use. Loneliness is associated with poorer mental health, social-environmental risk factors and health risk behaviours. Results show the importance of taking loneliness into account in a number of mental, social, and physical health factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supa Pengpid
- 1ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Salaya, Thailand
| | - Karl Peltzer
- Department of Research Administration and Development, University of Limpopo, Polokwane, South Africa
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Ahinkorah BO, Aboagye RG, Arthur-Holmes F, Seidu AA, Frimpong JB, Budu E, Amoako BM, Hagan JE. Predictors of Anxiety-Induced Sleep Disturbance among in-School Adolescents in Ghana: Evidence from the 2012 Global School-Based Health Survey. Behav Sci (Basel) 2021; 11:bs11020020. [PMID: 33535435 PMCID: PMC7912318 DOI: 10.3390/bs11020020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Psychological problems of adolescents have become a global health and safety concern. Empirical evidence has shown that adolescents experience diverse mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, and emotional disorders). However, research on anxiety-induced sleep disturbance among in-school adolescents has received less attention, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study's central focus was to examine factors associated with t anxiety-induced sleep disturbance among in-school adolescents in Ghana. (2) Methods: Analysis was performed using the 2012 Global School-based Health Survey (GSHS). A sample of 1342 in-school adolescents was included in the analysis. The outcome variable was anxiety-induced sleep disturbance reported during the past 12 months. Frequencies, percentages, chi-square, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. Results from the multivariable logistic regression analysis were presented as crude and adjusted odds ratios at 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and with a statistical significance declared at p < 0.05. (3) Results: Adolescents who went hungry were more likely to report anxiety-induced sleep disturbance compared to their counterparts who did not report hunger (aOR = 1.68, CI = 1.10, 2.57). The odds of anxiety-induced sleep disturbance were higher among adolescents who felt lonely compared to those that never felt lonely (aOR = 2.82, CI = 1.98, 4.01). Adolescents who had sustained injury were more likely to have anxiety-induced sleep disturbance (aOR = 1.49, CI = 1.03, 2.14) compared to those who had no injury. Compared to adolescents who never had suicidal ideations, those who reported experiencing suicidal ideations had higher odds of anxiety-induced sleep disturbance (aOR = 1.68, CI = 1.05, 2.71). (4) Conclusions: Anxiety-induced sleep disturbance among in-school adolescents were significantly influenced by the psychosocial determinants such as hunger, loneliness, injury, and suicidal ideation in this study. The findings can help design appropriate interventions through effective strategies (e.g., early school-based screening, cognitive-behavioral therapy, face-face counseling services) to reduce psychosocial problems among in-school adolescents in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright Opoku Ahinkorah
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia;
| | - Richard Gyan Aboagye
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho PMB 31, Ghana;
| | - Francis Arthur-Holmes
- Department of Sociology and Social Policy, Lingnan University, 8 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong;
| | - Abdul-Aziz Seidu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast PMB TF0494, Ghana; (A.-A.S.); (E.B.)
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Services, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia
| | - James Boadu Frimpong
- Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast PMB TF0494, Ghana;
| | - Eugene Budu
- Department of Population and Health, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast PMB TF0494, Ghana; (A.-A.S.); (E.B.)
| | - Bernard Mensah Amoako
- Department of Counselling Psychology, University of Education, Winneba, Winneba PMB 25, Ghana;
| | - John Elvis Hagan
- Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast PMB TF0494, Ghana;
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Bielefeld University, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
- Correspondence:
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Fatores de risco e proteção e sintomas de depressão na adolescência. PSICO 2020. [DOI: 10.15448/1980-8623.2020.4.34353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Avaliou-se a relação fatores de proteção e risco e sintomas depressivos na adolescência. Foi realizado um estudo transversal com amostra de 388 adolescentes de Sergipe, estudantes do ensino médio. Utilizaram-se um questionário sociodemográfico/escolar e as escalas da Bateria de Avaliação de Indicadores de Depressão Infantojuvenil (BAID-IJ). Os dados foram analisados por meio do teste de Regressão Logística Multinomial. Observou-se que o sexo feminino (OR = 6,1) e ter idade igual ou superior a 16 anos (OR = 3,3) aumentaram consideravelmente as chances de os adolescentes pontuarem no estrato de elevada pontuação quanto à sintomatologia depressiva. Baixa pontuação em autoconceito (OR = 5,7), elevado desamparo (OR = 12,3), elevada solidão (OR = 7,0) e elevada desesperança (OR = 2,8) exibiram impacto significativo para a presença de sintomas de depressão. Acredita-se tais achados podem auxiliar na elaboração de intervenções eficazes frente aos sintomas depressivos na adolescência.
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Kekkonen V, Tolmunen T, Kraav SL, Hintikka J, Kivimäki P, Kaarre O, Laukkanen E. Adolescents' peer contacts promote life satisfaction in young adulthood — A connection mediated by the subjective experience of not being lonely. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2020.110264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Khan MMA, Khan MN. Effects of psychosocial and socio-environmental factors on anxiety disorder among adolescents in Bangladesh. Brain Behav 2020; 10:e01899. [PMID: 33085214 PMCID: PMC7749541 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety is a common psychiatric disorder among adolescents in developing countries. This study aimed to examine the risk factors of anxiety disorder and the adverse consequences of anxiety disorder among adolescents in Bangladesh. METHODS A total of 2,989 adolescent data of the 2014 Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS), Bangladesh, was analyzed WHO. The prevalence of anxiety disorder across psychosocial and socio-environmental factors was calculated as descriptive statistics, whereas their effects on occurring anxiety disorder were determined using the unadjusted and adjusted multivariable binary logistic regression model. The consequences of anxiety disorder were also determined using the multivariable binary logistic regression model. RESULTS The prevalence of anxiety disorder was 4.7%, which was found higher among female than their male counterparts. The psychosocial factors were found associated with the anxiety disorder are loneliness (AOR: 2.26, 95% CI: 1.08-4.72), being bullied (AOR: 6.00, 95% CI: 3.14-11.47), and physical abuse (AOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.07-4.21). Moreover, poor understandings with parents (AOR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.02-3.01) and lack of peer support (AOR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.18-4.23) were the socio-environmental factors that found associated with the anxiety disorder. Subgroup analysis across gender found these associations were consistent for adolescent male and female. Moreover, the likelihood increased with the increasing number of the adverse psychosocial, or socio-environmental factors. CONCLUSIONS Around 5% of school-going adolescents in Bangladesh reported anxiety associated with the exposure of single or multiple adverse psychosocial and socio-environmental factors including bullying and physical abuse. Early screening and interventions are essential, targeted to adolescent at risk, which could reduce the rate of anxiety disorder among adolescent in Bangladesh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Mostaured Ali Khan
- Department of Population Science and Human Resource Development, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh.,Practical Action, MEL and Research, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, 1205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Nuruzzaman Khan
- Research Centre for Generational Health and Ageing, School of Public Health and Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Department of Population Science, Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University, Mymensingh, 2220, Bangladesh
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Coelho CM, Suttiwan P, Arato N, Zsido AN. On the Nature of Fear and Anxiety Triggered by COVID-19. Front Psychol 2020; 11:581314. [PMID: 33240172 PMCID: PMC7680724 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.581314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Emergencies that occur during natural disasters, such as avalanches, earthquakes, and floods, tend to be sudden, unexpected, and ephemeral and recruit defensive responses, similar to the ones recruited when faced with dangerous animals. Defensive behaviors are triggered by activity in survival circuits that detects imminent threats and fear is the conscious emotion of that follows immediately. But this particular threat (COVID-19) is useable and mysterious, triggering anxieties much more than fear. We conducted a literature search on May 1, 2020 in Google Scholar, PsychInfo, and PubMed with search terms related to COVID-19 fears and found 28 relevant articles. We categorized the papers into six groups based on the content and implications: fear of the unknown, social isolation, hypochondriasis, disgust, information-driven fears, and compliance. Considering the nature of fear and anxiety, combined with the characteristics of the present COVID-19 situation, we contemplate that physicians and other health care workers of several specialties, as well as police officers, fire-fighters, and rescue personnel, and first responders might be more able to deal with COVID-19 if they have (a) some tolerance of the unknown, (b) low illness anxiety disorder, (c) tolerance to social isolation; (d) low levels of disgust sensitivity; (e) be granted financial support, (f) have priority if needed medical assistance (g) use caution relatively to the COVID-19 media coverage and (h) be trained to have high levels of efficacy. Possibilities for preventive and therapeutic interventions that can help both health care personnel and the general population are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos M. Coelho
- School of Psychology, ISMAI University Institute of Maia, Maia, Portugal
- School of Health of Porto Polytechnic, Psychosocial Rehabilitation Lab, Center for Rehabilitation Research, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Panrapee Suttiwan
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nikolett Arato
- Institute of Psychology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Loades ME, Chatburn E, Higson-Sweeney N, Reynolds S, Shafran R, Brigden A, Linney C, McManus MN, Borwick C, Crawley E. Rapid Systematic Review: The Impact of Social Isolation and Loneliness on the Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in the Context of COVID-19. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2020; 59:1218-1239.e3. [PMID: 32504808 PMCID: PMC7267797 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2020.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1199] [Impact Index Per Article: 299.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Disease containment of COVID-19 has necessitated widespread social isolation. We aimed to establish what is known about how loneliness and disease containment measures impact on the mental health in children and adolescents. METHOD For this rapid review, we searched MEDLINE, PsycInfo, and Web of Science for articles published between January 1, 1946, and March 29, 2020. Of the articles, 20% were double screened using predefined criteria, and 20% of data was double extracted for quality assurance. RESULTS A total of 83 articles (80 studies) met inclusion criteria. Of these, 63 studies reported on the impact of social isolation and loneliness on the mental health of previously healthy children and adolescents (n = 51,576; mean age 15.3 years). In all, 61 studies were observational, 18 were longitudinal, and 43 were cross-sectional studies assessing self-reported loneliness in healthy children and adolescents. One of these studies was a retrospective investigation after a pandemic. Two studies evaluated interventions. Studies had a high risk of bias, although longitudinal studies were of better methodological quality. Social isolation and loneliness increased the risk of depression, and possibly anxiety at the time at which loneliness was measured and between 0.25 and 9 years later. Duration of loneliness was more strongly correlated with mental health symptoms than intensity of loneliness. CONCLUSION Children and adolescents are probably more likely to experience high rates of depression and most likely anxiety during and after enforced isolation ends. This may increase as enforced isolation continues. Clinical services should offer preventive support and early intervention where possible and be prepared for an increase in mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Roz Shafran
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
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Kwan C, Gitimoghaddam M, Collet JP. Effects of Social Isolation and Loneliness in Children with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities: A Scoping Review. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E786. [PMID: 33126519 PMCID: PMC7693393 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10110786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Loneliness and social isolation have negative consequences on physical and mental health in both adult and pediatric populations. Children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD) are often excluded and experience more loneliness than their typically developing peers. This scoping review aims to identify the type of studies conducted in children with NDD to determine the effects of loneliness and/or social isolation. Three electronic databases (Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO) were searched from inception until 5 February 2019. Two independent reviewers screened the citations for inclusion and extracted data from the included articles. Quantitative (i.e., frequency analysis) and qualitative analyses (i.e., content analysis) were completed. From our search, 5768 citations were screened, 29 were read in full, and 12 were included. Ten were case-control comparisons with cross-sectional assessment of various outcomes, which limited inference. Autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and learning disorder were the most commonly studied NDD. This review showed that loneliness among children with NDD was associated with negative consequences on mental health, behaviour, and psychosocial/emotional development, with a likely long-term impact in adulthood. Lack of research in this area suggests that loneliness is not yet considered a problem in children with NDD. More studies are warranted using prospective designs and a larger sample size with a focus on the dynamic aspect of loneliness development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Kwan
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (C.K.); (M.G.)
| | - Mojgan Gitimoghaddam
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (C.K.); (M.G.)
- BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Jean-Paul Collet
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada; (C.K.); (M.G.)
- BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4H4, Canada
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Pengpid S, Peltzer K. Prevalence and Associated Factors of Loneliness Among National Samples of In-School Adolescents in Four Caribbean Countries. Psychol Rep 2020; 124:2669-2683. [PMID: 33084488 DOI: 10.1177/0033294120968502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The goal of the study was to estimate the prevalence and correlates of loneliness among adolescent school children in four Caribbean countries. METHODS Nationally representative cross-sectional data were analysed from 9,143 adolescents (15 years=median age) that took part in the "2016 Dominican Republic, 2016 Suriname, 2017 Jamaica and 2017 Trinidad and Tobago "Global School-Based Student Health Survey (GSHS)." RESULTS The prevalence of loneliness was 15.3% in four Caribbean countries, ranging from 12.1% in Dominican Republic to 18.6% in Jamaica. In adjusted logistic regression analysis, female sex, having no close friends, older age, anxiety induced sleep disturbance, frequent bullying victimization (≥3 days/month), having been physically attacked, parental emotional neglect, having sustained multiple serious injuries (past year) and not eating fruit and vegetables were associated with loneliness. In addition, in sex stratified adjusted logistic regression analysis, among boys, daily exposure to passive smoking, and being from Suriname, and among girls, frequent experience of hunger, low peer support, trouble from drinking alcohol and high leisure-time sedentary behaviour (≥8 hrs/day) were associated with loneliness. Moreover, in addition to above results, in unadjusted analysis, involvement in physical fight, parents never check on homework, parental disrespect of privacy, frequent school truancy (≥3 days/month), current tobacco use, having no physical education and drinking frequently soft drinks (≥3/day) were associated with loneliness. CONCLUSION Almost one in six students reported loneliness and several associated factors were identified which can aid intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supa Pengpid
- ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand; Department of Research Administration and Development, University of Limpopo, Turfloop, South Africa
| | - Karl Peltzer
- Department for Management of Science and Technology Development, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Faculty of Pharmacy, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Jenkins JH, Sanchez G, Lidia Olivas-Hernández O. Loneliness, adolescence, and global mental health: Soledad and structural violence in Mexico. Transcult Psychiatry 2020; 57:673-687. [PMID: 31648608 DOI: 10.1177/1363461519880126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this article, we call into question recent public health claims that loneliness is a problem of epidemic proportions. Current research on this topic is hindered by an overreliance on limited survey data and by paradigmatic imbalance that delineates the study of loneliness to psychological, cognitive, neuroendocrinological and immunological effects, social functioning, physical health, mortality, and gene effects. The article emphasizes that scientific approaches to the phenomena of loneliness are more appropriately conceived and investigated as inherently matters for social, relational, cultural, and contextual analysis of subjective experience. Studies of loneliness and possible relationships to mental health status require investigations of social, environmental, and institutional structures as well as families, peers, friends, counselors, and health providers. This article takes a step in this direction through examining the lived experience of 35 high school students and their families living under conditions of social adversity in Tijuana, B.C., Mexico, with attention to anxiety and depression. Utilizing ethnographic interviews, observations, and psychological screening tools, we provide an overview for the group and illustrate the interrelations of subjective experience and social environment through a case study. These data reveal the vital role of understandings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety from the perspectives of adolescents themselves. We conclude that future studies of loneliness are best informed by in-depth data on subjective experience in relation to social features to advance understandings within the field of global mental health and allied fields.
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