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Pezzi M, Zagaria A, Miguel-Alvaro A, Gámez-Guadix M, Gori A, Santoro G, Musetti A. Maladaptive daydreaming and problematic online behaviors: A network analysis approach. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 177:314-320. [PMID: 39067255 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Previous evidence showed that Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD) is positively associated with different Problematic Online Behaviors (POBs). This study aimed to investigate the mutual relationship between MD and several POBs. Data were collected from 1209 participants, aged 18-73 (M = 30.59, SD = 12.26), through self-report questionnaires assessing MD and POBs, including problematic online gambling, problematic online gaming, problematic cybersex, Problematic Social Media Use (PSMU), problematic online shopping, and cyberchondria. Two psychometric network analyses were performed to examine the associations between all POBs at item levels, and between MD and POBs at construct levels. Results revealed six distinct communities, supporting the specificity of each POB. Furthermore, MD was found to be more strongly associated with PSMU and cyberchondria, and weakly associated with problematic online gaming, problematic cybersex, and problematic online shopping. The mutual relationships between MD and POBs might have relevant implications for the assessment and treatment of these clinical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Pezzi
- University of Parma - Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, Parma, Italy.
| | - Andrea Zagaria
- Sapienza University of Rome - Department of Psychology, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Manuel Gámez-Guadix
- Autonomous University of Madrid - Department of Biological and Health Psychology, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Alessio Gori
- University of Florence - Department of Health Sciences, Florence, Italy; Integrative Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Institute (IPPI), Florence, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Santoro
- University of Parma - Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, Parma, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Musetti
- University of Parma - Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, Parma, Italy.
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Somer E, Otgaar H. Exploring the nexus between childhood adversities, trauma-related fantasy and memory in maladaptive daydreaming. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2024; 247:104301. [PMID: 38733744 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
We conducted a qualitative study investigating traumatic daydreaming themes among individuals with maladaptive daydreaming (MD). Forty-one participants were interviewed regarding connections between their traumatic daydreams and real-life adversity. Specifically, we asked participants about 1) childhood trauma experiences, 2) trauma-related daydreaming, 3) perceived relationships between such daydreams and authentic experiences, and 4) difficulty distinguishing traumatic memories originating from daydreams versus actual events. Many participants reported past trauma and frequent traumatic daydream themes. However, participants also noted their daydreams often depicted corrected, more positive versions of experienced events. Finally, most participants stated they did not confuse daydreaming with actual experiences. This study provides new data on the complex interplay between trauma, memory, and daydreaming in MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Somer
- University of Haifa Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Studies, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, Haifa 3498838, Israel.
| | - Henry Otgaar
- University of Maastricht Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Maastricht, the Netherlands; Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium.
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Hedderly T, Eccles C, Malik O, Abdulsatar F, Mitchell C, Owen T, Soffer‐Dudek N, Grose C, Fernandez TV, Robinson S, Somer E. Intense Imagery Movements May Lead to Maladaptive Daydreaming: A Case Series and Literature Review. Mov Disord Clin Pract 2024; 11:716-719. [PMID: 38533626 PMCID: PMC11145148 DOI: 10.1002/mdc3.14011] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This case series highlights the connection between childhood intense imagery movements (IIM) and adult-reported maladaptive daydreaming (MD). Motor stereotypies occur in typically developing children and also with co-occurring neurodevelopmental differences. A subgroup with complex motor stereotypies reports accompanying intense imagery, often enhanced by the movements. This phenomenon can persist into adulthood and, in some cases, will need active management to prevent significant distress and impairment. CASES Six adults, self-reporting maladaptive daydreaming associated with stereotypies, are presented to demonstrate the associations. LITERATURE REVIEW The clinical significance and function of IIM and MD are unclear, but several hypotheses are discussed, including the mechanism of emotional regulation through sensory seeking, as a process for processing childhood psychological trauma, as intrusive thoughts or images as part of a subtype of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or as a result of diverse attentional networks seen in neurodevelopmental disorders. CONCLUSIONS This paper highlights important connections between IIM and MD. Many adults with MD show a childhood origin of stereotypical movements. Whilst immersive daydreaming may provide creativity and emotional regulation, there is evidence of distress and impairment of function for some adults, leading to MD diagnoses. Recognizing this phenomenon is important for all neurologists and physicians working with stereotypical movements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammy Hedderly
- Tic and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM), Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Department of Women and Children's HealthSchool of Life Course Sciences (SoLCS), King's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Claire Eccles
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation TrustLeedsUK
| | - Osman Malik
- Tic and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM), Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Farah Abdulsatar
- Department of PaediatricsSchulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
- Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Clare Mitchell
- Department of PaediatricsSchulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
- Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, University of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Tamsin Owen
- Tic and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM), Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Nirit Soffer‐Dudek
- Department of PsychologyBen‐Gurion University of the NegevBeershebaIsrael
| | - Claire Grose
- Tic and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM), Children's Neurosciences, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Thomas V. Fernandez
- Child Study Center and Department of PsychiatryYale University School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Sally Robinson
- Essex Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, North East London NHS Foundation TrustRainhamUK
| | - Eli Somer
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health StudiesUniversity of HaifaHaifaIsrael
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Somer E. When Imagination Feels Like Reality: A Case Study of False Memories and Maladaptive Daydreaming in Visual Impairment. Case Rep Psychiatry 2024; 2024:9391645. [PMID: 38633732 PMCID: PMC11022530 DOI: 10.1155/2024/9391645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background When a person experiences maladaptive daydreaming (MD), they spend a prolonged period daydreaming with a strong sense of presence. The symptoms of MD are often excessive, interfere with functioning, and are linked to distress and comorbid mental disorders. In this paper, apparent false memory is described in the context of a woman with MD and visual impairment due to a progressive eye condition. Her vivid daydreams seemed indistinguishable from actual memories. Case Report. A 35-year-old woman with a lifelong MD reported three incidents of fabricating detailed false memories of events that her family confirmed never occurred: obtaining a new job, miscarrying twins, and hospitalization for COVID-19. She experienced anxiety and shame when the stories were disproven. The assessment confirmed MD, PTSD, OCD, and other disorders. Her verbal memory was below average, especially for longer narratives. Her misattributions of daydreams as real-life memories may relate to reliance on vivid mental images over deteriorating vision and source monitoring deficits. Conclusion This first reported case of confabulations in an individual with MD and visual disability suggests daydreams could potentially be mistaken for actual events in some MD cases. While sensitive, more research is needed on the prevalence of false memories among individuals with MD. The default mode network, prefrontal cortex, and their connectivity may be implicated in generating vivid daydreams and misattributing them to actual episodic events. Understanding the relationship between sensory impairments, dissociation, and susceptibility to memory distortions could inform interventions to improve reality testing for some MD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Somer
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Soffer-Dudek N, Oh H. Maladaptive daydreaming: A shortened assessment measure and its mental health correlates in a large United States sample. Compr Psychiatry 2024; 129:152441. [PMID: 38061294 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2023.152441] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD) is a suggested syndrome where individuals addictively engage in fanciful, narrative and emotional daydreaming for hours on end, often relying on stereotypical movements and music to facilitate the absorbed state. Many individuals suffering from MD to the point of clinically significant distress and functional impairment have advocated for its medicalization as a disorder. Maladaptive daydreamers exhibit high rates of psychopathology, but most studies were biased by self-selection. We developed a brief measure for efficient assessment of suspected MD and then administered it in a large non-selected US sample to gauge the significance of MD for public mental health. METHODS Two previous datasets were utilized to develop the 5-item measure, labeled the Maladaptive Daydreaming Short Form (MD-SF5). Then, a large survey was conducted using the Qualtrics panel, administering the MD-SF5 alongside several validated measures of mental health to a general sample of panelists (N = 2512, 84.6% females, age M = 39.74, SD = 18.53, Race/Ethnicity: 66.3% White, 14.7% Black, 9.3% Hispanic, and 9.7% Other). RESULTS The MD-SF5 showed good to excellent agreement with the existing measure. Generally, the new sample had high psychopathology rates. Suspected MD was associated with psychological distress, loneliness, psychotic experiences, heavy drinking, and suicidality. Notably, even after controlling for psychological distress, suspected maladaptive daydreamers were more than twice as likely to have recently attempted suicide (Odds Ratio = 2.44, 95% CI [1.44, 4.16], Wald = 10.86, p = .001). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS MD harbors public health significance and can be screened for with a short self-report tool. Thus, MD should be addressed by mental health practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirit Soffer-Dudek
- Department of Psychology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel.
| | - Hans Oh
- Suzanne Dworak Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Rodolico A, Cutrufelli P, Brondino N, Caponnetto P, Catania G, Concerto C, Fusar-Poli L, Mineo L, Sturiale S, Signorelli MS, Petralia A. Mental Pain Correlates with Mind Wandering, Self-Reflection, and Insight in Individuals with Psychotic Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1557. [PMID: 38002517 PMCID: PMC10670292 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13111557] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the cognitive processes that contribute to mental pain in individuals with psychotic disorders is important for refining therapeutic strategies and improving patient outcomes. This study investigated the potential relationship between mental pain, mind wandering, and self-reflection and insight in individuals diagnosed with psychotic disorders. We included individuals diagnosed with a 'schizophrenia spectrum disorder' according to DSM-5 criteria. Patients in the study were between 18 and 65 years old, clinically stable, and able to provide informed consent. A total of 34 participants, comprising 25 males and 9 females with an average age of 41.5 years (SD 11.5) were evaluated. The Psychache Scale (PAS), the Mind Wandering Deliberate and Spontaneous Scale (MWDS), and the Self-Reflection and Insight Scale (SRIS) were administered. Statistical analyses involved Spearman's rho correlations, controlled for potential confounders with partial correlations, and mediation and moderation analyses to understand the indirect effects of MWDS and SRIS on PAS and their potential interplay. Key findings revealed direct correlations between PAS and MWDS and inverse correlations between PAS and SRIS. The mediation effects on the relationship between the predictors and PAS ranged from 9.22% to 49.8%. The largest statistically significant mediation effect was observed with the SRIS-I subscale, suggesting that the self-reflection and insight component may play a role in the impact of mind wandering on mental pain. No evidence was found to suggest that any of the variables could function as relationship moderators for PAS. The results underscore the likely benefits of interventions aimed at reducing mind wandering and enhancing self-reflection in psychotic patients (e.g., metacognitive therapy, mindfulness). Further research will be essential to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rodolico
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Pierfelice Cutrufelli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Natascia Brondino
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Agostino Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Pasquale Caponnetto
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
- Department of Educational Sciences, Section of Psychology, University of Catania, Via Teatro Greco 84, 95124 Catania, Italy
| | | | - Carmen Concerto
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Laura Fusar-Poli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Via Agostino Bassi 21, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Ludovico Mineo
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Serena Sturiale
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Maria Salvina Signorelli
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
| | - Antonino Petralia
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123 Catania, Italy; (A.R.); (P.C.); (P.C.); (L.F.-P.); (L.M.); (M.S.S.); (A.P.)
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Pietkiewicz IJ, Hełka AM, Barłóg M, Tomalski R. Validity and reliability of the Polish Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (PMDS-16) and its short form (PMDS-5). Clin Psychol Psychother 2023; 30:882-897. [PMID: 36809856 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2844] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) defines excessive use of fantasy, which replaces human interaction and/or interferes with academic, interpersonal, or vocational functioning. This study tests psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (PMDS-16) and a short 5-item version derived from it (PMDS-5), and their capacity to screen for MD. The relationship between MD, resilience and the quality of life was also explored. Validity and reliability were examined in a sample of 491 participants in nonclinical (n = 315) and mixed-clinical (n = 176) groups who completed the tests online. The exploratory factor analysis with principal component analysis method of parameter estimation without rotation confirmed a one-factor solution of both instruments. Reliability of both versions was corroborated by Cronbach's alpha coefficient (PMDS-16: >.941; PMDS-5: >.931). The cutoff score maximizing sensitivity and specificity for MD was 42 in both instruments, but the short version had better discriminating properties. People who identified themselves as maladaptive daydreamers in comparison to those who did not had significantly higher scores in both instruments. Maladaptive daydreamers also had lower quality of life in the psychological and social relationships domains and poorer resilience. Both PMDS-16 and PMDS-5 proved to have satisfactory psychometric properties. They have similar psychometric properties, although PMDS-5 has better discriminating power and can be used effectively for the screening of MD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna M Hełka
- Institute of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mateusz Barłóg
- Institute of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Warsaw, Poland
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Kornacka M, Skorupski MS, Krejtz I. Maladaptive task-unrelated thoughts: Self-control failure or avoidant behavior? Preliminary evidence from an experience sampling study. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1037443. [PMID: 36998626 PMCID: PMC10043255 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1037443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionTask-unrelated thoughts (TUT) play an important role in everyday life functioning (e.g., anticipating the future, or providing a mental break). However, TUT might also be maladaptive, impairing cognitive performance emotion regulation, and increasing the risk of psychological disorders. In the present study, we aimed to test how self-reported control over TUT and task valence moderate the link between task difficulty and TUT intensity, testing the context regulation and avoidant alternative hypotheses of TUT occurrence.MethodForty-nine participants took part in an experience sampling study. They were asked to answer five times a day for 5 days a series of questions assessing the intensity, valence, control over TUT, and their momentary affect along with characteristics of the task they were currently performing. They also filled in trait questionnaires assessing their tendency to daydream, ruminate, and their beliefs on emotions' usefulness and controllability.ResultsThe results showed that both task difficulty and one's lower control over thoughts along with their interaction significantly increased TUT intensity. Task negative valence significantly predicted TUT intensity and moderated the link between task difficulty and TUT intensity. In addition, the tendency to daydream and beliefs in the controllability of negative emotions affect the relations in this model.DiscussionTo the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to provide quantitative evidence from an experience sampling study on the role of the valence of currently performed tasks and beliefs on emotions on TUT intensity. It might be an important indication for research and clinical practice that maladaptive TUT might not be only linked to self-control failure but also to emotion regulation strategies one is using.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Kornacka
- Emotion Cognition Lab, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Katowice, Poland
- *Correspondence: Monika Kornacka
| | - Michał S. Skorupski
- Emotion Cognition Lab, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Katowice, Poland
| | - Izabela Krejtz
- Insitute of Psychology, SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Warsaw, Poland
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Horváth-Labancz E, Sándor A, Balázs K, Molnár J, Kuritárné Szabó I. Pathological personality traits of maladaptive daydreamers measured by the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 in a psychiatric sample. Clin Psychol Psychother 2022. [PMID: 36541022 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2820] [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: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to estimate the frequency of maladaptive daydreaming and to explore the pathological personality traits of probable maladaptive daydreamers. Our sample consisted of 239 psychiatric patients. After screening, 42 persons were probable maladaptive, while 197 participants prove to be normal daydreamers. Two pathological domains and three facets measured by the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 showed a moderate significant correlation with the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale. The score of nearly every domain and facet was slightly higher among probable maladaptive daydreamers. To quantify the difference between the groups, effect sizes were calculated: Significant difference was found on the domain level in Antagonism, while on the facet level in Hostility, Grandiosity, Attention Seeking, Unusual Beliefs and Experiences, Cognitive and Perceptual Dysregulation. The group of probable maladaptive daydreamers was further examined to identify potential subgroups. Cluster analysis revealed heterogeneity in the severeness and patterns of pathological personality domains. Cluster 1 showed higher mean scores on the PID domains and on the MDS compared to Cluster 2. Clusters 1 and 2 broke further down into two subclusters: Cluster 1a and Cluster 1b differed in their mean scores on the domains of Antagonism and Detachment; the mean scores of Cluster 2a were uniformly low on each domain, while the mean values of Cluster 2b were scattered in a mixed way on the domains. Our results suggest that maladaptive daydreaming might manifest with differently pathological personality profiles in the background. This aspect might worth considering in planning treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Horváth-Labancz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary.,Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Sándor
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Katalin Balázs
- Faculty of Humanities, Institute of Psychology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Judit Molnár
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ildikó Kuritárné Szabó
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Behavioural Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Theodor‐Katz N, Somer E, Hesseg RM, Soffer‐Dudek N. Could immersive daydreaming underlie a deficit in attention? The prevalence and characteristics of maladaptive daydreaming in individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. J Clin Psychol 2022; 78:2309-2328. [PMID: 35355262 PMCID: PMC9790222 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) entails excessive immersion and engagement in complex fantasy worlds, causing distress and impairing functioning. Maladaptive Daydreamers often report that existing diagnostic labels are unhelpful for them. Previous studies reported high rates of comorbid attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among persons with MD, raising the question of their separateness. This study explored whether MD differs essentially from ADHD by examining an ADHD sample, hypothesizing a much lower incidence of MD. METHOD Adults diagnosed with ADHD (N = 83) were assessed for ADHD symptoms, MD, depression, loneliness, and self-esteem. Participants who exceeded the study's cutoff score for suspected MD were invited to participate in a structured diagnostic interview for MD. RESULTS In accordance with the hypothesis, only 20.5% of the ADHD sample met the proposed diagnostic criteria for MD. Compared with ADHD-only participants, this subgroup presented increased depression, loneliness, and lowered self-esteem. CONCLUSION MD has unique clinical characteristics that are distinct from ADHD. We suggest that in some cases presenting with ADHD symptoms, an MD conceptualization may better explain the clinical picture. Future research should aim at a better differentiation of daydreaming, ADHD, and related constructs such as mind-wandering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nitzan Theodor‐Katz
- Consciousness and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of PsychologyBen‐Gurion University of the NegevBeer‐ShevaIsrael,School of Social Work, University of HaifaHaifaIsrael
| | - Eli Somer
- School of Social Work, University of HaifaHaifaIsrael
| | - Rinatya M. Hesseg
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology and The Edmond J. Safra Brain Research Center for the Study of Learning DisabilitiesUniversity of HaifaHaifaIsrael
| | - Nirit Soffer‐Dudek
- Consciousness and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of PsychologyBen‐Gurion University of the NegevBeer‐ShevaIsrael
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Chirico I, Volpato E, Landi G, Bassi G, Mancinelli E, Gagliardini G, Gemignani M, Gizzi G, Manari T, Moretta T, Rellini E, Saltarelli B, Mariani R, Musetti A. Maladaptive Daydreaming and Its Relationship with Psychopathological Symptoms, Emotion Regulation, and Problematic Social Networking Sites Use: a Network Analysis Approach. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00938-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe present
study investigated the patterns of mutual associations between maladaptive daydreaming-related variables (MD, i.e., interference with life and somatosensory retreat), psychopathological symptoms (i.e., depression, anxiety, somatization, obsessive–compulsive, interpersonal sensitivity, psychoticism), emotion regulation strategies (i.e., cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression), and problematic social networking sites use (PSNSU). A total of 531 young adults completed self-report measures through an online survey shared on social network groups. Two network models were performed on 297 young adults with probable MD (MDers) (Mage = 23.2, SD = 2.7) vs. 234 non-MDers (Mage = 23.4, SD = 2.6). Results showed that, compared to non-MDers, MDers showed significantly higher scores in all the study variables, except for cognitive reappraisal. Moreover, in the MDers network, the following patterns were identified: (i) no connections between the cluster of psychopathological symptoms, and neither cognitive reappraisal nor expressive suppression; (ii) a connection, through obsessive–compulsive (OC) symptoms, between the cluster of psychopathological symptoms and MD-interference with life; and (iii) a connection between PSNSU and MD-interference with life. Accordingly, the Network Comparison Test evidenced that the network structures of MDers vs. non-MDers were significantly different (M = .24; p = .01). Overall, higher scores on psychopathological symptoms in MDers provide support to the assumption that MD is a clinical condition, in which OC symptoms may play a critical role. Additionally, the association of PSNSU and MD-interference with life suggests that MDers might rely on PSNSU as a maladaptive emotion regulation strategy. Under this scenario, MD may be regarded as a potential vulnerability factor for PSNSU.
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Soffer-Dudek N, Theodor-Katz N. Maladaptive Daydreaming: Epidemiological Data on a Newly Identified Syndrome. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:871041. [PMID: 35573338 PMCID: PMC9091653 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.871041] [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: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD) is a recently identified psychological disorder, characterized by excessively and addictively engaging in vivid, narrative, intensely emotional fantasy activity, at times with the aid of music and/or repetitive movements, causing distress and functional impairment. Over 100,000 self-diagnosed individuals are active online and thousands of them have been researched; yet there are no studies using clinical interviews on large, systematic general (non-MD) samples, to assess the estimated prevalence of this suggested disorder, and establish norms for its main psychometric tool. METHODS Four independent Israeli samples (three student samples, and one sample representing the general Jewish-Israeli population; total N = 1,023) self-reported MD. In two samples, those exceeding the cutoff score for suspected MD were invited for a structured clinical interview. RESULTS The skewness of most items of the 16-item Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16) supports the notion of MD as a binary construct rather than a normally distributed trait. In the community sample, 4.2% exceeded the cutoff for suspected MD. Rates were higher when focusing on the young adult age group or student samples (5.5-8.5%), suggesting a likely age effect. Following clinical interviews, only 60% of interviewed respondents met criteria for diagnosis, suggesting a true point-prevalence of 2.5% in the Israeli-Jewish population. CONCLUSIONS This is the first systematic clinical evaluation of the prevalence of MD. In an Israeli sample, a point-prevalence of 2.5% was found, like several other internalizing psychiatric syndromes. This result, along with the Non-normal nature of item distribution, both support the validity of MD as a psychological disorder, which should be considered as a potential addition to future psychiatric diagnostic manuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirit Soffer-Dudek
- Consciousness and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Nitzan Theodor-Katz
- Consciousness and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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13
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Personality traits and maladaptive daydreaming: Fantasy functions and themes in a multi-country sample. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2021.111194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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14
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Metin B, Somer E, Abu-Rayya HM, Schimmenti A, Göçmen B. Perceived Stress During the COVID-19 Pandemic Mediates the Association Between Self-quarantine Factors and Psychological Characteristics and Elevated Maladaptive Daydreaming. Int J Ment Health Addict 2021; 21:1-13. [PMID: 34840537 PMCID: PMC8608233 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00678-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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, almost all countries have employed varying degrees of lockdown measures to limit the spread of the infection. Previous studies showed that individuals with maladaptive daydreaming (MD) are affected negatively by the lockdown. In this study, we explored a set of lockdown measures (e.g., self-quarantine) and personal factors (e.g., education, history of depression, and personality traits) that might potentially exacerbate MD experienced during the lockdown period. We also examined whether perceived stress acted as a mediator in the relationship between these factors and MD. During the first lockdown from April to June, we analyzed data provided by 1083 individuals from the USA, the UK, Italy, and Turkey. A path analysis revealed that perceived stress mediated the effects on MD of self-quarantine, previous episodes of depression, low education level, and introversion and emotional instability. Our study suggests a conceptual framework for the factors that intensify maladaptive daydreaming under the threats of the pandemic and forced home confinement, offering implications for interventions with vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barış Metin
- Psychology Department, Üsküdar University, Altunizade Haluk Türksoy Sk. No:14, 34662 Üsküdar-İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Eli Somer
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Hisham M Abu-Rayya
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Buse Göçmen
- Psychology Department, Üsküdar University, Altunizade Haluk Türksoy Sk. No:14, 34662 Üsküdar-İstanbul, Turkey
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15
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Costanzo A, Santoro G, Russo S, Cassarà MS, Midolo LR, Billieux J, Schimmenti A. Attached to Virtual Dreams: The Mediating Role of Maladaptive Daydreaming in the Relationship Between Attachment Styles and Problematic Social Media Use. J Nerv Ment Dis 2021; 209:656-664. [PMID: 34448734 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Maladaptive daydreaming describes excessive fantasy activity that interferes with an individual's life. Surprisingly, the precursors of maladaptive daydreaming and its role in excessive involvement in virtual worlds have been scarcely investigated. In the current study, we examined the relationships among attachment styles, maladaptive daydreaming, and problematic social media use (PSMU) in a sample of community-dwelling adults. Eight hundred seventy-seven participants between 18 and 68 years old were recruited via an online survey and asked to fill out self-reported measures on attachment styles, maladaptive daydreaming, and PSMU. Mediation analyses showed that maladaptive daydreaming is a significant mediator in the relationships between preoccupied and fearful attachment styles and PSMU, suggesting that maladaptive daydreaming partly explains the established link between insecure attachment styles and excessive use of social media. Individuals with PSMU fostered by maladaptive daydreaming may benefit from clinical interventions that promote the use of adaptive regulatory strategies to develop feelings of security and self-confidence that may serve to reduce the excessive involvement in social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Costanzo
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna (UKE), Cittadella Universitaria, Enna (EN), Italy
| | - Gianluca Santoro
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna (UKE), Cittadella Universitaria, Enna (EN), Italy
| | - Santi Russo
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna (UKE), Cittadella Universitaria, Enna (EN), Italy
| | - Maria Silvia Cassarà
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna (UKE), Cittadella Universitaria, Enna (EN), Italy
| | - Laura Rosa Midolo
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna (UKE), Cittadella Universitaria, Enna (EN), Italy
| | - Joël Billieux
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna (UKE), Cittadella Universitaria, Enna (EN), Italy
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16
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Childhood traumatization and dissociative experiences among maladaptive and normal daydreamers in a Hungarian sample. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 42:9509-9525. [PMID: 34483632 PMCID: PMC8403514 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02223-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to identify some potential etiological segments of maladaptive daydreaming, especially the relationships between maladaptive daydreaming, childhood traumatization, and dissociative propensity. The questionnaire package included the Hungarian version of the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale, the Traumatic Antecedents Questionnaire, as well as the Dissociation Questionnaire. 717 participants were recruited online, 106 of whom were problematic daydreamers. The results revealed that certain types of childhood trauma occurred significantly more frequently in the group of maladaptive daydreamers. Furthermore, maladaptive daydreamers possessed a significantly higher level of dissociative propensity compared to normal daydreamers. The estimated SEM models showed that dissociative experiences - more precisely Identity confusion and fragmentation and Lack of control – mediated the relationship between certain childhood traumatic experiences and maladaptive daydreaming. The results suggest that we should consider childhood traumatization and increased dissociative propensity as potentially significant factors in the etiology of maladaptive daydreaming.
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17
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Salomon-Small G, Somer E, Harel-Schwarzmann M, Soffer-Dudek N. Maladaptive Daydreaming and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms: A confirmatory and exploratory investigation of shared mechanisms. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 136:343-350. [PMID: 33636690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD) is a newly proposed mental disorder characterized by excessive, vivid fantasy activity impairing functioning. There is a high comorbidity of MD with Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Symptoms (OCSS), yet the mechanisms responsible for this relationship are still unclear. The present study set out to explore the relationship between MD and OCSS by: (1) examining dissociation, trauma, sense of control, and mind-wandering as potential mediators; (2) exploring whether MD is more strongly related to obsessions or compulsions; and (3) identifying patterns of specific obsessions and/or compulsions common in an MD sample. A group of 510 participants with self-identified MD completed a battery of online questionnaires. Dissociation and sense of control significantly mediated the MD-OCSS association. MD was moderately related to both obsessions and compulsions but was significantly more strongly related to the former. Frequently endorsed obsessions and compulsions among MD participants included checking and repetition compulsions, intrusive obsessions, and body-related obsessions and compulsions. We conclude that dissociative mechanisms, including dissociative absorption, play a major role in the relationship between MD and OCSS and may lead to consequent checking when transitioning back to reality, altered embodiment, intrusive images, and thoughts, and an impaired sense of mental control. Clinicians working with OCSS should be aware of the possible role of MD in the development or maintenance of symptoms. Future work should develop useful interventions for this type of shared psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Salomon-Small
- The Consciousness and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
| | - Eli Somer
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| | | | - Nirit Soffer-Dudek
- The Consciousness and Psychopathology Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
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18
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Musetti A, Franceschini C, Pingani L, Freda MF, Saita E, Vegni E, Zenesini C, Quattropani MC, Lenzo V, Margherita G, Lemmo D, Corsano P, Borghi L, Cattivelli R, Plazzi G, Castelnuovo G, Somer E, Schimmenti A. Maladaptive Daydreaming in an Adult Italian Population During the COVID-19 Lockdown. Front Psychol 2021; 12:631979. [PMID: 33841264 PMCID: PMC8024516 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.631979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 outbreak, individuals with or without mental disorders may resort to dysfunctional psychological strategies that could trigger or heighten their emotional distress. The current study aims to explore the links between maladaptive daydreaming (MD, i.e., a compulsive fantasy activity associated with distress and psychological impairment), psychological symptoms of depression, anxiety, and negative stress, and COVID-19-related variables, such as changes in face-to-face and online relationships, during the COVID-19 lockdown in Italy. A total of 6,277 Italian adults completed an online survey, including socio-demographic variables, COVID-19 related information, the 16-item Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16), and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales-21 Items (DASS-21). Based on an empirically derived cut-off score, 1,082 participants (17.2%) were identified as probable maladaptive daydreamers (MDers). A binary logistic regression revealed that compared to controls, probable MDers reported that during the COVID-19 lockdown they experienced higher levels of anxiety and depression, decreased online social relationships, and, surprisingly, stable or increased face-to-face social relationships. Given the peculiar characteristics of the pandemic context, these findings suggest that the exposure to the risk of contagion had probably exacerbated the tendency of probable MDers to lock themselves inside their mental fantasy worlds, which in turn may have contributed to further estrangement from online social relationships and support, thus worsening their emotional distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Musetti
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Luca Pingani
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Emanuela Saita
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Vegni
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Corrado Zenesini
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna (ISNB), Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Vittorio Lenzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Società e della Formazione d'Area Mediterranea, Università per Stranieri Dante Alighieri, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Giorgia Margherita
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Lemmo
- Department of Humanities, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Corsano
- Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Lidia Borghi
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Cattivelli
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Psychology Research Laboratory, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Plazzi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna (ISNB), Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianluca Castelnuovo
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan, Italy
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Psychology Research Laboratory, Milan, Italy
| | - Eli Somer
- Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Society Sciences, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
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Sándor A, Bugán A, Nagy A, Bogdán LS, Molnár J. Attachment characteristics and emotion regulation difficulties among maladaptive and normal daydreamers. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-01546-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMaladaptive daydreaming is an excessive form of daydreaming which causes significant distress and functional impairment to the affected individuals. Research on maladaptive daydreaming has intensified in recent years, but its pathogenesis has not yet been clearly elucidated. The aim of the study was to examine the attachment characteristics and the difficulties in emotion regulation among maladaptive and normal daydreamers. 717 individuals were recruited online, 106 of whom were screened as maladaptive daydreamers. The results of the Attachment Style Questionnaire revealed a specific attachment style among maladaptive daydreamers, who were characterized by ‘Ambivalent-fearful’ attachment characteristics, while normal daydreamers showed ‘Secure-independent’ attachment style. Regarding emotion regulation difficulties, maladaptive daydreamers showed a significantly higher level of deficit on each subscale of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale compared to normal daydreamers. The findings highlighted the potential role of early attachment experiences in the etiology and pathogenesis of maladaptive daydreaming, as well as the presence of severe emotion regulation deficits among problematic daydreamers. The results revealed by the present study might give contributions to the development of psychotherapeutical treatment of maladaptive daydreaming.
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20
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Soffer-Dudek N, Somer E, Abu-Rayya HM, Metin B, Schimmenti A. Different cultures, similar daydream addiction? An examination of the cross-cultural measurement equivalence of the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:1056-1067. [PMID: 33141115 PMCID: PMC8969720 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2020.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD) is a proposed mental disorder, in which absorption in rich, narrative fantasy becomes addictive and compulsive, resulting in emotional, social, vocational, or academic dysfunction. Most studies on MD were carried out on aggregated international samples, using translated versions of the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16). However, it is unknown whether the properties of MD are affected by culture. Thus, we investigated the cross-cultural measurement invariance of the MDS-16. METHODS We recruited both individuals self-identified as suffering from MD and non-clinical community participants from four countries: the USA, Italy, Turkey, and the UK (N = 1,081). RESULTS Configural invariance was shown, suggesting that the hypothesized four-factor structure of the MDS-16 (including Yearning, Impairment, Kinesthesia, and Music) holds across cultures. Metric invariance was shown for Impairment, Kinesthesia, and Music, but not for Yearning, suggesting that the psychological meaning of the latter factor may be understood differently across cultures. Scalar invariance was not found, as MD levels were higher in the USA and UK, probably due to the over-representation of English-speaking members of MD communities, who volunteered for the study. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the urge to be absorbed in daydreaming and the fantasies' comforting and addictive properties may have different meanings across countries, but the interference of MD to one's daily life and its obstruction of long-term goals may be the central defining factor of MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirit Soffer-Dudek
- Department of Psychology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel,Corresponding author.
| | - Eli Somer
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Israel
| | - Hisham M. Abu-Rayya
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Israel,School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Barış Metin
- Faculty of Medicine, Üsküdar University, Turkey
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21
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Somer E, Abu-Rayya HM, Schimmenti A, Metin B, Brenner R, Ferrante E, Göçmen B, Marino A. Heightened Levels of Maladaptive Daydreaming Are Associated With COVID-19 Lockdown, Pre-existing Psychiatric Diagnoses, and Intensified Psychological Dysfunctions: A Multi-country Study. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:587455. [PMID: 33240135 PMCID: PMC7667241 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.587455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has been spreading globally since December 2019, bringing with it anxieties, mortal risk, and agonizing psychological suffering. This study aimed to explore the relationship between maladaptive daydreaming (MD)-an addictive mental behavior to vivid fantasy associated with distress and functional impairment-and forced COVID-19 pandemic-related self-isolation and quarantine. Previous literature indicated that individuals employ MD for the regulation of distress and boredom, wish fulfillment, and entertainment experiences. The literature on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health identifies a flareup in psychological difficulties in the general population. In this study we explored the associations between the pandemic threat and mental health indices among individuals with MD. We surveyed 1,565 adults from over 70 countries who responded to calls for participants posted in online MD communities and other general social media sites. Probable MD was determined based on an empirically derived cut-off score on a pertinent measure. After controlling for sociodemographic variables, a series of MANCOVAs, followed by post-hoc ANCOVAs, revealed that individuals with probable MD who were observing lockdown restrictions reported having spent more time in fantasy, experienced more intense and vivid daydreaming, and had a stronger urge to daydream than other participants. Similar statistical procedures indicated that, individuals with probable MD who reported pre-existing anxiety and depression disorders described a greater urge to daydream due to the pandemic and greater difficulty to control this addictive behavior. Compared to individuals with likely normal daydreaming, individuals with suspected MD reported more pandemic-attributed deterioration on a wide array of psychological distress indices. Our data show that the current worldwide pandemic threat is connected with an elevated intensity of this addictive form of mental activity, and that MD is associated with the exacerbation of psychological distress and dysfunction rather than with beneficial regulation of the experienced stressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Somer
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Hisham M. Abu-Rayya
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Bariş Metin
- Psychology Department, Üsküdar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Reut Brenner
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Erika Ferrante
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Buse Göçmen
- Psychology Department, Üsküdar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Alessia Marino
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
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22
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Sándor A, Münnich Á, Molnár J. Psychometric properties of the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale in a sample of Hungarian daydreaming-prone individuals. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:853-862. [PMID: 33027058 PMCID: PMC8943674 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2020.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study is to adapt the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16) to Hungarian, assess its psychometric properties, and establish its cut-off score. In addition, the relationship between maladaptive daydreaming and adverse childhood experiences was examined. METHOD Study participants were recruited online via snowball sampling. Based on three inclusion criteria (self-identified MDer status; control over daydreaming; frequency of daydreaming) 160 out of 494 respondents were included in the study. RESULTS Our results confirm both the high reliability and convergent validity of the questionnaire. The cut-off score of 60 percentiles can reliably discriminate between excessive and normal daydreamers. The general applicability of the MDS-16-HU was tested and confirmed by the use of the Adverse Childhood Experience Questionnaire (ACE-10), a short, self-report questionnaire. Its results showed that certain types of childhood adversities increase the likelihood of maladaptive daydreaming. CONCLUSIONS The instrument is a valid and reliable measure, therefore it can serve as a useful screening tool in clinical practice. In addition, our findings highlighted the role of childhood adversities in the aetiology of maladaptive daydreaming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Sándor
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Móricz Zsigmond krt. 22., H-4032, Debrecen, Hungary,Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary,Corresponding author. E-mail:
| | - Ákos Münnich
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1., H-4032, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Judit Molnár
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Móricz Zsigmond krt. 22., H-4032, Debrecen, Hungary
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23
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Ross CA, Ridgway J, George N. Maladaptive Daydreaming, Dissociation, and the Dissociative Disorders. PSYCHIATRIC RESEARCH AND CLINICAL PRACTICE 2020; 2:53-61. [PMID: 36101866 PMCID: PMC9176046 DOI: 10.1176/appi.prcp.20190050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Colin A. Ross
- The Colin A. Ross Institute for Psychological Trauma Richardson Texas
| | - Jane Ridgway
- The Colin A. Ross Institute for Psychological Trauma Richardson Texas
| | - Nevita George
- The Colin A. Ross Institute for Psychological Trauma Richardson Texas
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24
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Schimmenti A, Somer E, Regis M. Maladaptive daydreaming: Towards a nosological definition. ANNALES MEDICO-PSYCHOLOGIQUES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.amp.2019.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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25
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Schimmenti A, Sideli L, La Marca L, Gori A, Terrone G. Reliability, Validity, and Factor Structure of the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16) in an Italian Sample. J Pers Assess 2019; 102:689-701. [PMID: 31012744 DOI: 10.1080/00223891.2019.1594240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) is an extensive fantasy activity that replaces human interaction and interferes with work and interpersonal functioning. In this study, we investigated the nomological network of the MD construct and examined the psychometric properties of the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16) in an Italian sample. The MDS-16 is a self-report measure composed of 16 items designed to assess MD. Participants in this study were 468 individuals (333 volunteers, 56.8% female; 135 self-diagnosed maladaptive daydreamers, 78.5% female) between 18 and 56 years of age. MDS-16 scores showed good internal reliability. An exploratory factor analysis suggested a 2-factor solution (interference with life and sensory-motor retreat); this solution was consistent with theory, and all items loaded in the expected direction. MDS-16 scores were associated with global psychopathology, traumatic experiences, maladaptive personality features, alexithymia, dissociation, shame feelings, and anxious attachment styles. Furthermore, MDS-16 scores showed satisfactory incremental validity, and a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis suggested that a cutoff value of 51 best discriminates between cases and noncases of self-diagnosed MD. Results suggest that the scale is a suitable measure for assessing MD in Italian samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriano Schimmenti
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE - Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Lucia Sideli
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Clinical Neuroscience (BIONEC), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luana La Marca
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, UKE - Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
| | - Alessio Gori
- Department of Human Sciences, LUMSA University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Terrone
- Department of Humanities, Literature, and Cultural Heritage, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
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