Browse Our Latest Psychology and Behavioral Science Journals
Psychological journals are peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journals that publish original work in some areas of psychology. The most common publications include cognitive, health and clinical psychology, applied, developmental, biological, social, experimental, and educational psychology, and psychoanalysis.
Behavioral Sciences
Men's attitudes toward third party casual sex
Predict rape myth acceptance
Abstract
The reproductive self-interest model of morality (RSIMM) is a framework for understanding moral judgments associated with sexual behavior. This model posits that individual differences in sexual strategies, mediated by one's religiosity and political orientation, casually influence people's moral judgments toward social hot-button issues. Previous work on the RSIMM has explained individual differences in attitudes toward abortion, prostitution, and contraception. Individuals more interested in long-term mating judged these behaviors as morally wrong. In this preregistered study, we proposed the RSIMM would account for individual differences in rape myth acceptance (RMA). RMA is the phenomenon of endorsing beliefs or stereotypes about rape that diminish the severity of assaults or shift blame from perpetrators to victims. We examined the relationship between political orientation, attitudes toward third-party casual sex, and RMA in a convenience sample of 308 participants (137 women). We predicted that more negative attitudes toward third parties' casual sex would correlate with increased RMA. Our hypothesis was supported for men but not women: Men who condemned others' casual sex, had more unrestricted attitudes about their own casual sex, and desired more casual sex were statistically more likely to accept more rape myths. In the discussion, we speculate that sex differences in the relationship between attitudes towards casual sex and RMA may be due to the costs of rape incurred by women but not men.
Abstract
Background
Although the correlation between substance use disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been largely studied, less is known about the correlation between behavioral addictions and ADHD. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of behavioral addictions in a large sample of adult patients with a primary diagnosis of ADHD and to compare the clinical profile of ADHD patients with and without behavioral addictions comorbidity.
Methods
248 consecutive adults newly diagnosed as ADHD patients were assessed through a series of validated scales for gambling disorder, internet, sex, shopping and food addictions. ADHD patients with at least one comorbid behavioral addiction were compared to non-comorbid patients on ADHD symptoms, impulsivity, mood and anxiety symptoms and functional impairment.
Results
58.9% of patients had at least one behavioral addiction comorbidity. Of the whole sample, 31.9% of the patients had a comorbidity with one behavioral addiction while the 27% showed a comorbidity with two or more behavioral addictions. Internet addiction was the most common comorbidity (33.9%) followed by food addiction (28.6%), shopping addiction (19%), sex addiction (12.9%) and gambling disorder (3.6%). ADHD patients with comorbid behavioral addictions showed higher ADHD current and childhood symptoms, higher cognitive and motor impulsivity, higher mood and anxiety symptoms and higher functional impairment.
Conclusions
Behavioral addictions are highly frequent in adult ADHD patients. Comorbid patients seem to have a more complex phenotype characterized by more severe ADHD, mood and anxiety symptoms, higher impulsivity levels and greater functional impairment.
The prevalence of body dysmorphic disorder and the acceptance of cosmetic surgery in a nonclinical sample of Hungarian adults
A testdiszmorfiás zavar prevalenciája és a kozmetikai sebészet elfogadottsága magyar felnőttek vizsgálati mintáján
Background: Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a common, often undiagnosed, serious condition. The relationship between body dysmorphic disorder and cosmetic surgery is rather complex, as many patients with body dysmorphic disorder search for cosmetic solutions for the imagined defect in appearance. Aims: To assess the prevalence of body dysmorphic disorder and its relationship to the acceptance and use of cosmetic services and body-related variables among Hungarian adults. Methods: Body weight and height, body satisfaction, health state, aesthetic intervention-related experiences, and plans were assessed by a self-report online questionnaire that included the Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire and the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale. Six hundred three subjects (94% women, n = 567, 6% men, n = 36, age M = 40.16 years, SD = 13.32 years) joined the research on a social media platform. Results: The prevalence of BDD is 8.1% (n = 49), 8.1% (n = 46) in women, and 8.3% (n = 3) in men. The BDD-positive group had higher BMI (U = 9641.5, p = 0.028), more plastic surgeries (χ2(1) = 19.682 , p = 0.012), and more acceptance of cosmetic surgery (U = 6664, p < 0.001). The risk of BDD is significantly higher in those who have a lower education (OR = 0.424, p = 0.031), accept cosmetic surgery (OR = 1.031, p = 0.025), plan plastic surgery (OR = 0.351, p = 0.027) and are more dissatisfied with their body (OR = 0.397, p < 0.001). Consideration of cosmetic surgery (U = 7433, p = 0.006) and planning for future plastic surgeries χ 2(1) = 7.943, p = 0.019) are more frequent in females. Sixty-six women (11.6%) have already had some intervention, 26.4% plan, and 10.4% probably plan cosmetic surgery, while these data are 11.1%, 8.3% and 5.6% in males. These symptoms occur more frequently among women according to Body Dysmorphic Disorder Questionnaire: avoidance behavior (33.9% vs. 16.7%, χ 2(1) = 4.539, p = 0.033), significant mental suffering caused by the perceived flaw(s) (29.8% vs. 13.9%, χ 2(1) = 4.178, p = 0.041). The Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale total score has a significant positive relationship with BDD caseness (β = 0.100, p = 0.011) and the number of blepharoplasties (β = 0.111, p = 0.005) and significant negative relationship with the planning of cosmetic surgery (β = –0.491, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The prevalence of body dysmorphic disorder is high in this non-clinical, unselected Hungarian sample. The risk for body dysmorphic disorder is higher in those interested in cosmetic services; screening for this body image disorder is necessary.
Abstract
Background and aims
The present study aimed to synthesize existing quantitative evidence on the relationship between problematic smartphone use (PSU) and academic achievement with a focus on quantifying its magnitude and examining its potential moderators.
Methods
Eligible studies were searched for up to February 10, 2023 in six different databases (i.e., MEDLINE, Current Contents Connect, PsycINFO, Web of Science, SciELO, and Dissertations & Theses Global). Studies were considered eligible if they provided information derived from self-report instruments that allowed statistical calculation of the relationship between PSU and academic achievement. Pooled effect sizes (r) were computed using a random-effects model. Meta-regressions were conducted to test the influence of study-level moderators on the relationship of interest. Influence analyses and a three-parameter selection model (3PSM) were conducted to examine the robustness of the results and publication bias, respectively.
Results
A total of 33 effect sizes from 29 studies (n = 48,490) were retrieved. Results showed a small effect size (r = −0.110), which tended to be larger in samples consisting of students from elementary and middle schools.
Discussion and Conclusions
Findings from the present study contribute to the understanding of a potential determinant of decreased academic achievement by providing evidence that PSU may be one of them.
Abstract
Background and aim
Problematic pornography use (PPU) can be a manifestation of compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD). Studies investigating PPU confirm approach-avoidance tendencies in response to pornographic stimuli in this population. This study show indications of the significance of the efficacy of imaginal retraining, a variant of approach bias modification, as an intervention for PPU.
Methods
A total of 274 participants (86.5% male; mean age = 30.65, SD = 10.13) with self-reported PPU were randomized to imaginal retraining (instruction video) or a waitlist control group. Assessments were conducted online at baseline and after the six-week intervention period. The primary outcome was a reduction in problematic pornography use. Compulsive sexual behavior, sexual desire, depressiveness, and satisfaction with the intervention served as secondary outcomes.
Results
Retention was low (51.7%), but comparable between groups. The retraining was performed at least once a week (the per-protocol [PP] criterion) by 51.4% of participants. The PP analyses of 111 participants showed a significant reduction in problematic pornography use (primary outcome) in the intervention compared to the control group. The intention-to-treat analyses (ITT), however, did not corroborate this result. Despite low adherence, participants rated their satisfaction with the intervention positively.
Discussion and Conclusion
Imaginal retraining can function as a low-threshold self-help intervention for PPU to overcome help-seeking barriers and may reduce PPU in a subgroup of users. Low adherence limits the results of this trial. Given the need for low-threshold interventions for PPU and/or CSBD, further research should focus on increasing adherence and should evaluate retraining for clinical groups. Modifications to augment efficacy are suggested.
Statisztikai elemzések a ROP-R szoftver segítségével és szemléltetésük egy kötődéskutatás adataival
Statistical analyses using ROP-R software and illustrating them with data from an attachment survey
Tanulmányunkban egy ingyenes, kétnyelvű (magyar és angol) és egyszerűen használható többváltozós statisztikai programcsomagot, a ROP-R-t mutatjuk be, amely jól használható pszichológiai kutatások statisztikai elemzésében. A ROP-R a ROPstat programcsomag olyan fejlesztésének tekinthető, amely a többváltozós statisztika három fontos témakörében (regresszióelemzés, főkomponens- és faktoranalízis, illetve klaszteranalízis) teljes körű statisztikai elemzések végrehajtására alkalmas. Különlegessége, hogy a statisztikai menüjében kiválasztott és beállított elemzésekhez R-scripteket ír, azokat automatikusan lefuttatja, majd a kapott eredményeket táblázatos formában ROP-R-ben megjeleníti, illetve az eredményekhez tartozó fontosabb grafikonokat standard formátumú (jpg vagy pdf) képfájlokban elmenti. A ROP-R moduljainak bemutatása után egy kötődéskutatás adatain végzett többváltozós elemzéssor segítségével szemléltetjük hasznosságát a pszichológiai kutatásokban.
Abstract
Background and aims
Nomophobia (NMP) is a contemporary digital ailment referring to the improper utilization of smartphones which can have significant impacts on the physical and mental health of college students. However, as a result of unclear cutoff points, the proportion of people with NMP may be exaggerated. This study therefore aimed to determine the critical value of NMP and assess the extent to which Chinese college students are impacted by NMP using the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q).
Methods
Latent profile analysis (LPA) and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) were combined to determine the critical value based on NMP-Q scores using a large sample of 3,998 college students (M age = 20.58; SD = 1.87).
Results
Based on latent profile (i.e., at-risk NMP group), ROC revealed an optimal cut-off point of 73 (Sensitivity = 0.965, Specificity = 0.970, Accuracy = 0.968, AUC = 99.60%, Youden's index = 0.935), and the percentage of NMP students being 28.04%, with 1,121 participants identified as positive cases (probable cases). Positive cases were found to exhibit more severe depression and anxiety symptoms, with a higher proportion of females were observed in the positive group (N = 829; 73.95%).
Conclusions
These findings provide evidence that the proportion of NMP individuals may have been overestimated in the past. Furthermore, this study helps to validate the NMP-Q as a valid tool to identify NMP in college-aged individuals.
Abstract
Background and aims
Compulsivity contributes to the development and maintenance of multiple addictive disorders. However, the relationship between compulsivity-related cognitive features and problematic usage of the internet (PUI), an umbrella term for various internet use disorders/interfering behaviors, remains largely unclear, partly due to the multidimensional nature of compulsivity. This scoping review utilized a four-domain framework of compulsivity to consider this topic and aimed to summarize available evidence on compulsivity-related neuropsychological characteristics in PUI based on this framework.
Methods
A systematic literature search was conducted by applying the combination of search term to the search engines of PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science. A four-domain framework of compulsivity, involving cognitive flexibility, set-shifting, attentional bias, and habit learning, was used to consider its complex structure and frequently used tasks. Main findings in related PUI studies were summarized based on this framework. Our secondary aim was to compare compulsivity-related features between different PUI subtypes.
Results
Thirty-four empirical studies were retained, comprising 41 task-results and 35 independent data sets. Overall, individuals with PUI showed more consistent deficits in attentional biases and were relatively intact in set-shifting. Few studies have examined cognitive flexibility and habit learning, and more evidence is thus needed to establish reliable conclusions. Moreover, most studies focused on internet gaming disorder, whereas other PUI sub-types were not sufficiently examined.
Conclusion
This systematic review highlights the use of the four-domain framework for advancing understanding of mechanisms underlying compulsivity in PUI. Related therapeutic implications and future directions are discussed.
Abstract
Background and Aims
The precise roles of screen media activity (SMA) and sleep problems in relation to child/adolescent psychopathology remain ambiguous. We investigated temporal relationships among sleep problems, SMA, and psychopathology and potential involvement of thalamus-prefrontal-cortex (PFC)-brainstem structural covariation.
Methods
This study utilized data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study (n = 4,641 ages 9–12) at baseline, Year1, and Year2 follow-up. Cross-Lagged Panel Models (CLPMs) investigated reciprocal predictive relationships between sleep duration/problems, SMA, and psychopathology symptoms. A potential mediating role of baseline Thalamus-PFC-brainstem covariation on SMA-externalizing relationships was examined.
Results
Participants were divided into discovery (n = 2,359, 1,054 girls) and replication (n = 2,282, 997 girls) sets. CLPMs showed 1) bidirectional associations between sleep duration and SMA in late childhood, with higher frequency SMA predicting shorter sleep duration (β = −0.10 [95%CI: −0.16, −0.03], p = 0.004) and vice versa (β = −0.11 [95%CI: −0.18, −0.05], p < 0.001); 2) externalizing symptoms at age 10–11 predicting sleep problems (β = 0.11 [95%CI: 0.04, 0.19], p = 0.002), SMA (β = 0.07 [95%CI: 0.01, 0.13], p = 0.014), and internalizing symptoms (β = 0.09 [95%CI: 0.05, 0.13], p < 0.001) at age 11–12; and 3) externalizing behavior at age 10-11 partially mediating the relationship between baseline thalamus-PFC-brainstem covariation and SMA at age 11–12 (indirect effect = 0.032 [95%CI: 0.003, 0.067], p-value = 0.030). Findings were replicable.
Conclusion
We found bi-directional SMA-sleep-duration associations in late childhood. Externalizing symptoms preceded future SMA and sleep disturbances and partially mediated relationships between structural brain covariation and SMA. The findings emphasize the need for understanding individual differences and developing and implementing integrated strategies addressing both sleep concerns and screen time to mitigate potential impacts on psychopathology.
Abstract
Background and aims
This study characterized chasing behaviour as the time to return to an online gambling website after a losing or a winning visit.
Methods
We analyzed a naturalistic dataset from an eCasino (PlayNow.com, the provincial platform for British Columbia, Canada), comprising 1,909,681 sessions from 15,544 individuals. Analyses distinguished sessions on slot machines, blackjack, roulette, video poker, probability games, or mixed-category sessions.
Results
Overall, gamblers on most games returned more slowly as a function of the prior loss, and more quickly as a function of the prior win. Loss chasing intensities in blackjack, probability, video poker, and mixed sessions did not differ significantly from slot machines, but roulette was associated with shorter intervals to return (b = −0.13, p < 0.001). Similarly, win chasing did not vary across slot machines, blackjack, probability games, and video poker, but roulette (b = −0.08, p < 0.001) and mixed (b = −0.02, p = 0.009) sessions were associated with shorter intervals.
Discussion and conclusions
The average behavioural patterns provide limited evidence for loss chasing but clearly indicate win chasing. Although slot machines are commonly considered a high-risk product, roulette in our analyses was associated with the greatest chasing intensities.
Abstract
Background and aims
Problematic smartphone use (PSU) has gained attention, but its definition remains debated. This study aimed to develop and validate a new scale measuring PSU-the Smartphone Use Problems Identification Questionnaire (SUPIQ).
Methods
Using two separate samples, a university community sample (N = 292) and a general population sample (N = 397), we investigated: (1) the construct validity of the SUPIQ through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses; (2) the convergent validity of the SUPIQ with correlation analyses and the visualized partial correlation network analyses; (3) the psychometric equivalence of the SUPIQ across two samples through multigroup confirmatory factor analyses; (4) the explanatory power of the SUPIQ over the Short Version of Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS-SV) with hierarchical multiple regressions.
Results
The results showed that the SUPIQ included 26 items and 7 factors (i.e., Craving, Coping, Habitual Use, Social Conflicts, Risky Use, Withdrawal, and Tolerance), with good construct and convergent validity. The configural measurement invariance across samples was established. The SUPIQ also explained more variances in mental health problems than the SAS-SV.
Discussion and conclusions
The findings suggest that the SUPIQ shows promise as a tool for assessing PSU. Further research is needed to enhance and refine the SUPIQ as well as to investigate its clinical utility.
Abstract
Background and aims
Celebrity worship, defined as an excessive admiration towards celebrities, has generated considerable research and public interest. A widely used assessment instrument to measure celebrity worship is the 23-item Celebrity Attitude Scale. However, concerns have been raised regarding the measurement, including the inconsistent factor structure and lack of a cut-off point to identify “celebrity worshipers”. The present study aims to address these concerns by testing the psychometric appropriateness of a short, 7-item version of the CAS (i.e., CAS-7) and estimating the prevalence of individuals with high-level celebrity admiration using a representative sample of Hungarian adults (between 18 and 64 years of age) according to gender, age, geographic location, and size of residence.
Methods
The total sample comprised 2028 respondents, of which 769 valid responses were administered from participants who reported having a favorite celebrity (51.11% men, M age = 36.38 years, SD = 13.36).
Results
Results indicated an excellent model fit for the two-factor and bifactor model of the CAS-7. Based on the suggested cut-off score of 26, the prevalence of high-level celebrity admiration is 4.53% in the Hungarian adult population (18–64 years of age) and 8.51% among young adults (18–34 years of age). Individuals with this high level of admiration towards a favorite celebrity reported more symptoms of problematic Internet use, depression, anxiety, and stress than individuals with general celebrity admiration levels.
Discussion and conclusions
The CAS-7 demonstrated sound psychometric properties, confirming its applicability in research and practice.
Abstract
Background and aims
Internet addiction (IA) has been identified as a major public health problem that is more prominent in adolescents and young adults. Some researchers have indicated certain advantages of family-based therapy over other treatments in participants with IA, but no conclusive evaluation has been reported. The present meta-analysis aims to review the efficacy of family-based therapy on Internet addiction in adolescents and young adults.
Methods
Relevant articles published from 1996 to February 15th, 2024, were searched from 14 databases, including three Chinese databases. A total of 19,590 articles were identified using a combination of three sets of search terms (Internet addiction, family therapy, and adolescents). Only RCTs and nonrandomized controlled trials were included.
Results
18 studies, most of which were conducted in Asian countries, were included in the final data analysis. The overall severity of Internet addiction in the family-based therapy group was significantly lower than that in the control group. However, significant heterogeneity was detected. Subgroup analysis showed a beneficial effect of family-based therapy when compared with non-intervention and when added to another psychological or behavioural therapy in psychiatric patients with co-medication. Few studies have examined secondary outcomes or follow-up effects.
Discussion and Conclusions
Family-based therapy is most effective in reducing the severity of Internet addiction when combined with other therapies, especially medication treatments in psychiatric patients. It might also be helpful to relieve depression and enhance family functions, which needs further evidence. More studies following up on the post-intervention effects are recommended in the future.
Abstract
Background
Although internet gaming disorder (IGD) has been included in the DSM-5 for approximately 10 years, debate remains regarding its existence and classification.
Methods
The current research incorporated three approaches. First, implicit association tests were used to examine for potential dissociation between wanting and liking in IGD. Second, brain features in wanting and liking circuits were tested and compared with tobacco use disorder (TUD) when performing a cue-craving task to explore the neural features of wanting and liking. Third, dopaminergic systems were investigated in IGD and TUD using neuromelanin-sensitive MRI.
Results
The implicit association test results supported a wanting-liking dissociation in IGD participants. Functional MRI data suggested neural correlates underlying wanting-liking dissociation in IGD and TUD participants, with positive correlations suggesting greater dissociation with increasing addiction severity. Neuromelanin results suggest dopaminergic differences in IGD and TUD relative to healthy control participants.
Conclusions
A wanting-liking dissociation in IGD participants suggests gaming motivations in IGD relating to incentive sensitization rather than hedonic responses. The neuromelanin-sensitive MRI results suggest dopaminergic involvement in IGD and TUD. The findings suggest similar brain-behaviour mechanisms for IGD and TUD based on an incentive-sensitization model for addiction, having implications for potential therapeutic strategies and policy-based interventions.
Abstract
Background and aims
Impaired inhibitory control accompanied by enhanced craving is hallmark of addiction. This study investigated the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on response inhibition and craving in Internet gaming disorder (IGD). We examined the brain changes after tDCS and their correlation with clinical variables.
Methods
Twenty-four males with IGD were allocated randomly to an active or sham tDCS group, and data from 22 participants were included for analysis. Participants self-administered bilateral tDCS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) for 10 sessions. Stop-signal tasks were conducted to measure response inhibition and participants were asked about their cravings for Internet gaming at baseline and post-tDCS. Functional magnetic resonance imaging data were collected at pre- and post-tDCS, and group differences in resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) changes from the bilateral DLPFC and nucleus accumbens were examined. We explored the relationship between changes in the rsFC and behavioral variables in the active tDCS group.
Results
A significant group-by-time interaction was observed in response inhibition. After tDCS, only the active group showed a decrease in the stop-signal reaction time (SSRT). Although craving decreased, there were no significant group-by-time interactions or group main effects. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) showed group differences in post- versus pre-tDCS rsFC from the right DLPFC. The rsFC between the ACC and left middle frontal gyrus was negatively correlated with the SSRT.
Discussion and conclusion
Our study provides preliminary evidence that bilateral tDCS over the DLPFC improves inhibitory control and could serve as a therapeutic approach for IGD.
Abstract
Background and aims
Since the inclusion of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) in the International Classification of Diseases (11th ed.), there has been little effort placed into developing clinical recommendations for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and queer (LGBQ) clients with this condition. Thus, we develop preliminary clinical recommendations for mental health professionals working with LGBQ clients who may be struggling with CSBD.
Methods
The present paper synthesizes the CSBD literature with advances in LGBQ-affirming care to develop assessment and treatment recommendations. These recommendations are discussed within the context of minority stress theory, which provides an empirically supported explanation for how anti-LGBQ stigma may contribute to the development of mental health conditions in LGBQ populations.
Results
Assessment recommendations are designed to assist mental health professionals in distinguishing aspects of an LGBQ client's sociocultural context from CSBD symptomology, given recent concerns that these constructs may be wrongly conflated and result in misdiagnosis. The treatment recommendations consist of broadly applicable, evidence-based principles that can be leveraged by mental health professionals of various theoretical orientations to provide LGBQ-affirming treatment for CSBD.
Discussion and Conclusions
The present article provides theoretically and empirically supported recommendations for mental health professionals who want to provide LGBQ-affirming care for CSBD. Given the preliminary nature of these recommendations, future research is needed to investigate their clinical applicability and efficacy.
Abstract
Psilocybe zapotecorum is a strongly blue-bruising psilocybin mushroom used by indigenous groups in southeastern Mexico and beyond. While this species has a rich history of ceremonial use, research into its chemistry and genetics has been limited. Herein, we report on mushroom morphology, cultivation parameters, chemical profile, and the full genome sequence of P. zapotecorum. First, we detail growth and cloning methods that are simple, and reproducible. In combination with high resolution microscopic analysis, the strain was identified by DNA barcoding, confirming the field identification. Full genome sequencing reveals the architecture of the psilocybin gene cluster in P. zapotecorum, and can serve as a reference genome for Psilocybe clade I. Characterization of the tryptamine profile revealed a psilocybin concentration of 17.9 ± 1.7 mg/g, with a range of 10.6–25.7 mg/g (n = 7), and similar tryptamines (psilocin, baeocystin, norbaeocystin, norpsilocin, aeruginascin, and 4-HO-tryptamine) in lesser concentrations for a combined tryptamine concentration of 22.5 ± 3.2 mg/g. These results show P. zapotecorum to be a potent and chemically variable Psilocybe mushroom. Chemical profiling, genetic analysis, and cultivation assist in demystifying these mushrooms. As clinical studies with psilocybin gain traction, understanding the diversity of Psilocybe expands the conversation beyond the molecule.
Abstract
Psychological flexibility has been proposed as a core process of change when psychedelics are used for therapeutic purposes, but to date empirical outcomes have only documented changes on the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ-II), a very general measure of psychological flexibility. This pilot study measured outcomes from psilocybin administered in a retreat setting across a range of measures assessing aspects of psychological flexibility. Nine participants attended a 7-day psilocybin retreat and completed measures at baseline, 2-, and 6-month follow up. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive defusion (Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire), valued living (Valuing Questionnaire), and Self-Compassion (Self-Compassion Scale), as well as a trend towards increased overall psychological flexibility (AAQ). Other outcome and process measures included measures related to acute effects of the psilocybin, belief in oneness, social safeness, mental health, burnout and emotion expressivity. These results offer preliminary evidence that therapeutic benefits obtained from psilocybin experiences may be linked to changes in psychological flexibility.
Abstract
Background and aims
First responders such as firefighters and police officers often experience traumatic events as part of their work. As a result, they are more likely to have mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety compared to the general population. Psychedelic-assisted therapy has emerged as a promising avenue to alleviate these issues, but little is currently known about first responders' interest in, and barriers to, these treatments. Here, we aimed to document first responders' attitudes towards LSD-assisted therapy and previous use of psychoactive drugs.
Methods
We recruited 102 participants through mailing lists of first responders' unions. Respondents were typically male firefighters in western Canada; others were police officers, paramedics, and military personnel across Canada and the United States. They were asked about their attitudes towards LSD- and marijuana-assisted therapies, previous psychiatric diagnoses, psychosocial impairments, and substance use.
Results
Respondents showed higher rates of distress and illicit drug use compared to the general population. Of those who sought professional treatment, a minority reported that the treatment had helped them. The respondents were generally interested in taking part in therapy or research involving LSD or marijuana. The setting (e.g., at home vs. a clinic), therapist presence, and drug dose were commonly reported to influence this participation.
Conclusions
First responders may particularly benefit from psychedelic therapy given their high interest in psychedelic drugs and high rates of treatment-relevant disorders. Better understanding the needs of this population will help inform future clinical trials and psychedelic therapies.
Abstract
Background and aims
Interest in psychedelic research has grown significantly in recent years and the naturally derived substance psilocybin, in combination with therapy, has shown promising results as a treatment for a range of psychiatric conditions. However, the negative effects and risks of psilocybin-assisted treatment are not well-established. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential negative effects of psilocybin-assisted psychological interventions in both the short and long term.
Method
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight psychedelic treatment providers and facilitators. Their content was thematically interpreted.
Results
Three themes of short-term negative effects were identified. They included negative reactions to psilocybin dosing sessions, undesirable processes in the therapeutic relationship, and difficult self-experiences. Four themes of long-term negative effects were identified. They included destabilization of the client, difficulties adapting to life post-treatment, complications in the treatment relationship, and undesirable outcomes.
Conclusions
These results highlight the multifaceted challenges clients may face, emphasizing the need for thorough pre-intervention assessment and post-intervention support. The findings both confirm previous research and highlight new aspects that can contribute to increased safety and be relevant for clinical implementation. Further rigorous research is needed to ensure safety, establish ethical guidelines, and optimize the positive effects of these experimental medicines. Integrating various research approaches and types of measurements will be vital to further our understanding of negative effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Background and Aims
Despite increasing public acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community and psychedelic medicines, published accounts of queer psychedelia are limited. Specifically, the queer nature of psychedelics and the parallels between narratives of being queer and of psychedelic experiences, are lacking. This report brings queer experiences of psychedelia out of the metaphorical closet and argues for the development of Queer Affirming models of Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy (QA-PAP).
Methods
This knowledge report examines the extant psychedelic literature as it relates to queerness, and positions it against reports of rising anti-2SLGBTQ+ sentiments, and legislation aimed at dismantling civil liberties.
Results
Specifically in Canada, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom, the current socio-political climate fosters increasingly positive attitudes towards psychedelic medicine, while recently won 2SLGBTQ+ civil rights are under attack. The convergence of these trends means the psychedelic community must guard against repetition of mistakes made during the first wave of psychedelic research.
Conclusions
Including queer narratives within psychedelic research is integral to the equitable, safe, effective and accessible implementation of emerging modalities of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies (PAP), and to ensure that ethical standards protect patients from sexual and gender based violence.
Abstract
Background and Aims
This study addresses the scarcity of research on Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) in non-Western cultures and women, exploring its prevalence, sociodemographic, sexual history characteristics, and sexual and psychological health factors in Iranian married women.
Methods
A cross-sectional study involving 772 heterosexual married women was conducted between 2022 and 2023, covering all 31 provinces of Iran. Participants were categorized as CSBD+ (at-risk individuals) and CSBD− (low-risk individuals) based on a pre-established cut-off point of ≥18 by the Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder Scale −7. Depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, self-esteem, sexual distress, sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, and sexual dysfunction were assessed as psychological and sexual health variables by standardized scales.
Results
The prevalence of CSBD was 3.8% in women. Linear regression analysis showed that lower education, being jobless, substance use, pornography use, paraphilic behaviors, conflict on sex frequency, relationship, orgasm and sexual dissatisfaction, higher sexual arousal, depression, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms were positively associated with CSBD. The univariate analysis, at a stringent significance level of 0.005, mirrored the regression findings. Additionally, women with CSBD+ exhibited lower religiousness and higher anxiety compared to those without CSBD−.
Discussion and Conclusions
Raising awareness of CSBD is crucial for health systems and individuals for better policy-making and help-seeking behavior. Identifying risk factors like substance use presents opportunities for prevention, and the association of CSBD with sexual and mental health variables suggests addressing co-occurring issues for improved treatment outcomes. Recognizing culture and gender-specific sexual and psychological correlates enables targeted and effective treatment approaches.
Abstract
Background and aims
While the concept of recovery is receiving increasing attention in the context of gambling disorder (GD), no consensus has yet been reached regarding its definition. This scoping review aims to map the literature on GD recovery, identify gaps, and provide insights for a more holistic and patient-centred perspective.
Methods
A systematic search of three databases was conducted (PubMed, PsycINFO, and ScienceDirect). Based on the method by which the results of these studies were produced, the studies included were sorted into four categories (quantitative, instrument validation, qualitative, and mixed studies) and subsequently examined using conceptual analysis.
Results
One hundred thirteen articles were included in this research after the screening process. In the quantitative and instrument validation studies, recovery was defined or operationalized in terms of abstinence, the absence of a GD diagnosis, or mild GD severity, or by reference to treatment outcomes or controlled gambling. A meta-synthesis of the results of the qualitative studies revealed four core features of recovery (insight, empowerment and commitment, wellbeing enhancement, and reconsideration of the issue of relapse).
Discussion
Discrepancies in definitions, outcomes, and variables used were evident across studies. Additionally, the quantitative and standardized approaches employed in most studies exhibited severe limitations with regard to defining recovery from the subjective and multidimensional perspectives of people recovering from GD.
Conclusions
This lack of definitional clarity emphasizes the necessity for further qualitative research. This research should encompass multiple stakeholder perspectives to develop a working definition promoting recovery from a holistic, patient-centred, and tailored approach.
Abstract
Background
Hypotheses surrounding the etiology of depressive disorders encompass a wide range of biological changes that can occur in a depressed individual, from gene variations to epigenetic modifications and not only serotonergic mechanisms. Once again, the therapy response of the patient to antidepressants is connected to modifications in the epigenetic regulation of genes within the serotonergic system. The persistence of depressive symptoms points to the possibility that stable molecular adaptations in the brain, particularly at the epigenetic level, may be involved.
Methods
Narrative review to first, discuss the historical evidence behind how serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) signaling and its associated actors are involved in various biological processes and second, examine the role of ketamine as one of the newer treatments for depression.
Results
There is increasing evidence that responses to psychotherapy for mood disorders are correlated with epigenetic alterations. Although therapy response appears to be associated with epigenetic changes in genes regulating the serotonergic system, there are multiple lines of research that provide additional data implicating epigenetic alterations in the glutamatergic system. Also, the epigenetic regulation of target genes along the HPA axis are becoming more intriguing in linking mood disorders with environmental stressors, and warrant a closer look. Recent research suggests that ketamine's antidepressant effects may be linked to epigenetic alterations. Considering the multiple studies linking BDNF with depression, further exploration of its relation with ketamine in the context of epigenetic signaling is warranted.
Conclusion
Understanding how and to what extent epigenetic mechanisms change gene expression and how these changes are influenced by environmental stressors may eventually allow mental health professionals to better understand the biological basis of depression as well as to gauge the efficacy, onset, durability and duration of therapies to treat mood disorders. Moreover, understanding the relation between serotonergic neurotransmission and epigenetic mechanisms of how these may be modified by ketamine should lead us to a greater knowledge of their therapeutic potential.
Abstract
As reliable facilitators of characteristically unique altered states of consciousness that are notoriously difficult to comprehend, psychedelics naturally attract a multidisciplinary scope for their research, with direct relevance to neuroscience, pharmacology, psychology, as well as philosophy of mind, metaphysics, and epistemology — disciplines united by the common inquiry into the nature of conscious experience. Accordingly, the central focus of this paper concerns the metaphysical debate between internalism and externalism about whether psychedelic phenomenology — in particular, its ‘breakthrough’ level — could be said to directly ontologically depend on external factors, as well as the interpretive implications arising from each of those positions. The main contributions of the author of this paper include the provision of a coherent account of the essential phenomenal characteristics of psychedelic experiences, the integration of relatively fragmented philosophical debates on psychedelic phenomenology into the traditional internalist-externalist framework in metaphysics, as well as the exploration of the extent to which the externalist position on psychedelic phenomenology — traditionally associated with non-naturalism — is compatible with naturalistic explanatory frameworks. In Part 1, psychedelic phenomenology will be outlined first, after which the central inquiries of this paper will be contextualised and qualified. In Part 2, the internalist position on psychedelic phenomenology — both its strong and weak versions — will be discussed. In Part 3, the externalist position will be explored, which will be followed by a final evalutation between the three positions presented in this paper. The paper will conclude in favour of the weak internalist position, and that whilst the externalist position remains significantly more speculative than both the strong and the weak internalist positions, the externalist position cannot be rejected altogether until further progress in consciousness research is made.
Abstract
Workplace learning is a necessity for the organizational growth of all types of organizations, including higher education institutions. There are different directions proposed on how to make the implementation of workplace learning realistic, however, the best practices in one context may not apply well in another. This paper investigated the conditions required for the implementation of workplace learning in the case study of Laotian higher education. Firstly, 12 faculty members were invited to a semi-structured interview. The study employed a deductive category assignment of QCA in analyzing the data. The findings revealed that three conditions, namely, individual-related, organizational-related, and environmental-related conditions, appear to be key and are taken into account in developing favorable workplace learning. A further quantitative study in this area is strongly recommended.
A szociálisprobléma-megoldás és a szorongás jellemzői perfekcionista és nem perfekcionista serdülők körében – egy longitudinális vizsgálat eredményei
Characteristics of social problem-solving and anxiety among perfectionist and non-perfectionist adolescents – First results of a longitudinal study
Háttér és célkitűzések
A maladaptív perfekcionizmussal jellemzett serdülők szociálisprobléma-megoldásának egyik igen fontos jellemzője a problémához való negatív viszonyulás, illetve a problémahelyzetből való minél gyorsabb kilépés, ha úgy érzékelik, megoldásuk nem felel meg maximálisan az általuk vagy a környezetük által megfogalmazott elvárásoknak. A kétéves (2021–2022) követéses vizsgálat első mérési pontján 11–12 éves és 16–17 éves diákok (N2021 = 305, N2022 = 290) körében vizsgáltuk, milyen arányban fordul elő körükben adaptív és maladaptív perfekcionista, milyen különbség azonosítható kortársakkal kapcsolatos problémáik megoldásában, bevonva az elemzésbe a szorongást is, mivel ennek szerepe az elkerülő viselkedésben és főként a maladaptív perfekcionizmusban jelentős.
Módszer
A szociálisprobléma-megoldás jellemzőit a Social Problem-Solving Inventory–Revised (D’Zurilla és mtsai, 2002), az állapot- és a vonásszorongást a State–Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (Sipos és mtsai, 1978) kérdőívvel vizsgáltuk. A perfekcionizmust az Almost Perfect Scale Revised (Slaney és mtsai, 2001) és az Frost Multidimensiol Perfectionism Scale (Frost és mtsai, 1990) eszközzel tártuk fel, melyekkel együttesen a személyes, a környezettől származó és külön a szülői elvárások, a kételkedés, a hibázástól való félelem, a megfelelés hiányának érzése és a rendezettség, rendszeretet jellemzői azonosíthatók.
Eredmények
Mindkét évben közel hasonló a nem perfekcionisták, az adaptív és a maladaptív perfekcionisták aránya, mely arányok egy év elteltével nem változtak, és mindkét életkorban a perfekcionisták harmada a maladaptív perfekcionizmus jeleit mutatja. A maladaptív perfekcionistákra jellemző legnagyobb mértékben a negatív problémaorientáció és az elkerülő viselkedés, utóbbi – főként az idősebbeknél – a vonás- és állapotszorongással és a szülői kritikával együtt markáns hatással bír a maladaptív perfekcionista diákok személyes elvárásaira és a megfelelés hiányának érzésére.
Következtetések
Ezek az eredmények többnyire alátámasztják a külföldi kutatási adatokat, és arra hívják fel a figyelmet, hogy az iskolai nevelés során mindenképpen szükséges a jelenleginél mélyrehatóbban foglalkozni a perfekcionizmus serdülőkori megjelenésével, felismerésével, okaival, alakulásával és következményeivel, megfelelő pedagógiai eszközökkel segíteni az adaptivitás erősödését, illetve kezelése során figyelembe kell venni más területekkel való kapcsolatát. E longitudinális felmérésből is úgy látszik, a maladaptív perfekcionizmusnak a társas problémák nem hatékony megoldásával és a szorongással is egyre szorosabb a kapcsolata serdülőkorban, mely kapcsolatrendszer kevésbé hatékony életvezetést eredményezhet mind társas, mind teljesítményhelyzetekben.
Abstract
Background and objectives
Work addiction (WA), characterized by dimensions such as overcommitment, difficulties in detachment from work, and work-life imbalance, is presumed to be associated with increased smartphone usage, even during risky activities like driving. The study investigated the connection between WA and future problematic and hazardous smartphone use, considering personality factors: anxiety, rumination, and worry.
Methods
A three-wave longitudinal study (N = 1,866) was conducted from March to July 2019, June to September 2020, and June to November 2021, involving a representative sample of 18-34-year-old residents in Hungary's capital. The study employed Hungarian versions of the Bergen Work Addiction Scale, Problematic Mobile Phone Use Questionnaire, Ruminative Response Scale, Anxiety subscale of the Brief Symptom Inventory 18, and Penn-State Worry Questionnaire. Additionally, author-developed questions on mobile phone use while driving were included.
Results
At baseline, those at risk for WA showed more frequent mobile phone use while driving at both time points 2 and 3 compared to the non-risk group. Path analyses revealed rumination, anxiety at time 1, and worry at time 2 as significant mediators between baseline WA and mobile phone use while driving at time 3. However, when analyzing all three mediators together, only anxiety at time 1 and worry at time 2 remained significant.
Discussion and conclusion
This study demonstrates that WA predicts future mobile phone use while driving through mediation by anxiety and worry. Our findings add to the growing evidence highlighting the detrimental aspects of WA, emphasizing the need for improved prevention and treatment strategies.
Illúzió a szabad akarat? Idegtudományi-pszichológiai-filozófiai megfontolások
Is free will an illusion? Related aspects revealed by neuroscience, psychology and philosophy
A szabad akarat képessége magától értetődőnek tűnhet, azonban a tudománytörténetben az erre vonatkozó determinisztikus (a szabad akarat lehetőségével összeegyeztethetetlen) és nem determinisztikus (a szabad akaratot megengedő) felfogás évszázadokra visszamenően követhető. A legfontosabb alapfogalmak tisztázását követően az akaratlagos mozgással kapcsolatos megfigyeléseket és ezek értelmezési lehetőségeit tekintjük át, többségében azokat, melyek az akaratlagos mozgás szándékát több 100 ms-mal megelőző felkészülési potenciál jelenségét alapul véve megengedik, vagy kizártnak tartják a szabad akarat lehetőségét. A kérdés szempontjából lényeges lehet annak mérlegelése, hogy képes lehet-e az idegrendszer termékeként felfogható pszichés tevékenység visszahatni magára az azt létrehozó rendszerre. Amennyiben ez lehetséges, ez nyitva hagyhatja a szabad akarat megvalósulásának lehetőségét.
Abstract
Background
An imbalance between model-based and model-free decision-making systems is a common feature in addictive disorders. However, little is known about whether similar decision-making deficits appear in internet gaming disorder (IGD). This study compared neurocognitive features associated with model-based and model-free systems in IGD and alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Method
Participants diagnosed with IGD (n = 22) and AUD (n = 22), and healthy controls (n = 30) performed the two-stage task inside the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanner. We used computational modeling and hierarchical Bayesian analysis to provide a mechanistic account of their choice behavior. Then, we performed a model-based fMRI analysis and functional connectivity analysis to identify neural correlates of the decision-making processes in each group.
Results
The computational modeling results showed similar levels of model-based behavior in the IGD and AUD groups. However, we observed distinct neural correlates of the model-based reward prediction error (RPE) between the two groups. The IGD group exhibited insula-specific activation associated with model-based RPE, while the AUD group showed prefrontal activation, particularly in the orbitofrontal cortex and superior frontal gyrus. Furthermore, individuals with IGD demonstrated hyper-connectivity between the insula and brain regions in the salience network in the context of model-based RPE.
Discussion and Conclusions
The findings suggest potential differences in the neurobiological mechanisms underlying model-based behavior in IGD and AUD, albeit shared cognitive features observed in computational modeling analysis. As the first neuroimaging study to compare IGD and AUD in terms of the model-based system, this study provides novel insights into distinct decision-making processes in IGD.
Abstract
Introduction
The overall prevalence of gambling problems across prison populations is currently unknown. The objective of the present study was therefore to quantitatively synthetize prevalence estimates of gambling problems in prison populations using a random effects meta-analytic model and to investigate if the estimates were moderated by time frame, cut-off levels, and sample size.
Methods
To be included the studies had to report original data on the prevalence of gambling problems in a prison sample and to be written in a European language, whereas data based on abstracts or qualitative reports were excluded. The search ended on December 1, 2023 and were conducted in Web of Science, PubMed, Cinahl, PsycINFO, Embase, Google Scholar, Grey Literature Report, and GreyNet. Risk of bias was assessed with a standardized 10-item measure for epidemiological studies.
Results
A total of 26 studies comprising 9,491 participants were included. The vast majority of the participants were males. The most commonly used instrument for assessment of gambling problems was the South Oaks Gambling Screen. The pooled random-effects gambling problems prevalence estimate was 30.8% (95% CI = 25.1–37.3). The meta-regression analysis showed that none of the three moderator variables (criteria, timeframe, sample size) were related to the gambling problems prevalence. Common limitations of the included studies entailed not being representative nationally or for the target population, lack of randomization, and low response rate. The meta-analysis was restricted to studies published in a European language.
Conclusions
Overall, the studies show that 1 in 3 prisoners has gambling problems and suggests that more emphasis on relevant prevention and treatment is warranted for this population. The study was funded by the Norwegian Competence Center for Gambling and Gaming Research and pre-registered at PROSPERO (CRD42023390552).
Abstract
The fundamental role of higher education is to help students learn to cope in a constantly changing and uncertain world. The key to this is to support the development of their agency and commitment to learning. Although technology is the main tool of knowledge transfer, according to the OECD, it is teachers who represent the values of their field and that of knowledge and learning.
Since academic development is a relatively recent topic in the Hungarian literature, the present research aims to explore teachers' role interpretation, goals, missions, approaches to teaching, and their commitment to academic development at one of Hungary's leading business universities, the Budapest Business University (BBU). The study is based on 33 semi-structured interviews recorded at BBU involving 33 teachers of economics-related subjects in three faculties of the university. The interview transcripts were analysed by thematic analysis.
The results show that participants have markedly different teaching approaches, and the interrelationships between their objectives, missions and academic development can be seen as constituting a system. Finally, the potential interrelationships among the different themes were examined. The findings show that the teachers' goals and missions are strongly related, although more affective factors can be identified in relation to missions. These affective factors include inspiring enthusiasm and building partnership and mutual learning. In line with this, most participants adopt a teacher/student interaction strategy, only few cases of student focus were identified.
Jövőbe látó lélektan – Gépi tanulás a pszichológiai kutatásmódszertanban
Predictive psychology – applying machine learning in psychological research methodology
Háttér és célkitűzés
A pszichológiai kutatásmódszertan eljárásait (főképp a p értékre építkező bizonyításokat) számos kritika érte az utóbbi évtizedek során. A kutatói elfogultság és a módszertanok (például az adatgyűjtés, az adatszelekció vagy a statisztikai próbák) könnyű manipulálhatósága teret adott a félrevezető és nehezen reprodukálható kutatásoknak. A gépi tanulás elterjedése megfigyelhető a pszichológia területén is, új eszköztárat biztosítva a kutatók számára. Az eljárás áthelyezi a hangsúlyt a statisztikai bizonyításról az előrejelzésre, valamint az ehhez kapcsolódó validációs folyamatokra, ezáltal lecsökkentve a kutatói szubjektivitás hatását. Jelen tanulmány célja gyakorlati példákon keresztül betekintést nyújtani a gépi tanulás módszertanába, fókuszálva a pszichológiai alkalmazhatóságára.
Módszer
A vizsgálati szakasz első részében két, a gépi tanulás használatára irányuló tanulmány kerül bemutatásra a humán döntéshozatali mechanizmusok, valamint a pandémiás helyzet okozta mentális hatások területére vonatkozóan. A vizsgálati szakasz második részében egy klasszifikációs feladat (filmpreferencia és nemi identitás kapcsolata) keretén belül kerül összehasonlításra egy nem parametrikus statisztikai módszer és két, gépi tanuláson alapuló eljárás.
Eredmények
A kapott eredmények bemutatják a gépi tanulás által nyújtott előnyöket (validációs eljárások és többletinformáció kinyerése), párhuzamot vonva a nem parametrikus eljárással.
Következtetések
A tanulmány népszerűsíteni és alátámasztani hivatott a gépi tanulás alkalmazhatóságát a kutatói szektorban tevékenykedő pszichológusok számára. A bemutatott kutatás reprodukálhatóságának érdekében az adatok és programozási kódsorok szabadon felhasználhatók a tanulmányban megadott elérhetőségeken keresztül.
A Tárgyiasított Testtudat Skála (OBCS) működése magyar nyelven
The validation of the Objectified Body Consciousness Scale (OBCS) in Hungarian
Háttér és célkitűzések: A nőket jelentős szociokulturális nyomás éri a fizikai megjelenésükkel kapcsolatban. A Tárgyiasított Testtudat Skála (Objectified Body Consciousness Scale) képes kimutatni a nők közötti egyéni különbségeket abban, hogy a fizikai megjelenésükre vonatkozó társadalmi elvárásokat mennyire internalizálják. Jelen kutatás célja kettős. Egyrészt szeretnénk reflektálni egy korábbi magyar cikkre, amely a fenti kérdőívvel foglalkozott. Másrészt szeretnénk bemutatni, hogy ez a több nyelven is jól mérő kérdőív magyar nyelven is használható az eredeti faktorokkal. Módszer: Első vizsgálatunkban egy online kérdőívcsomagot használtunk, amelyet 770 nő (M = 30,1 év; SD = 11,3; 18–71 év) töltött ki. A kérdőívcsomag a Tárgyiasított Testtudat Skálát (OBCS), a Kozmetikai Műtét Elfogadása Skálát (ACSS) és a Testedzésfüggőség Skálát (EAI) tartalmazta, továbbá felmérte a saját testtel kapcsolatos elégedettség szintjét is. Második vizsgálatunkban 102 egyetemista nő (M = 20,7 év; SD = 2,13; 18–29 év) vett részt. Az adatfelvétel személyesen történt, ahol a priming helyzet után a következő kérdőívcsomagot használtuk: Tárgyiasított Testtudat Skála (OBCS), Kozmetikai Műtét Elfogadása Skála (ACSS) és a Rosenberg-féle Önértékelés Skála (RSES). A faktorstruktúra vizsgálatához a JASP, míg a validáláshoz a Jamovi programot használtuk. Eredmények: Elemzéseink szerint a Tárgyiasított Testtudat Skála magyar verzióján is jól működik az eredeti hármas faktorstruktúra. A három faktor a következő lett: Test felügyelet, Testszégyen, Kontroll hiedelmek. Az elvárásoknak megfelelően a magasabb fokú tárgyiasítás szignifikánsan összefügg a saját testtel való magasabb elégedetlenséggel, a kozmetikai műtétek iránti nagyobb nyitottsággal, a testedzésfüggőség kialakulásának fokozott veszélyével, illetve az alacsonyabb önértékeléssel. Következtetések: Összességében, a Tárgyiasított Testtudat Skála magyar nyelven is megfelelőnek bizonyult a nők testükkel kapcsolatos, tárgyiasításhoz fűződő tapasztalatainak mérésében, az eredetileg meghatározott faktorstruktúrát alkalmazva.
Abstract
Background and Aims
The high prevalence of internet addiction (IA) has become a worldwide problem that profoundly affects people's mental health and executive function. Empirical studies have suggested trait anxiety (TA) as one of the most robust predictors of addictive behaviors. The present study investigated the neural and socio-psychological mechanisms underlying the association between TA and IA.
Methods
Firstly, we tested the correlation between TA and IA. Then we investigated the longitudinal influence of TA on IA using a linear mixed effect (LME) model. Secondly, connectome-based predictive modeling (CPM) was employed to explore neuromarkers of TA, and we tested whether the identified neuromarkers of TA can predict IA. Lastly, stressful life events and default mode network (DMN) were considered as mediating variables to explore the relationship between TA and IA.
Findings
A significant positive correlation between TA and IA was found and the high TA group demonstrated higher IA across time. CPM results revealed that the functional connectivity of cognitive control and emotion-regulation circuits and DMN were significantly correlated with TA. Furthermore, a significant association was found between the neuromarkers of TA and IA. Notably, the CPM results were all validated in an independent sample. The results of mediation demonstrated that stressful life events and correlated functional connectivity mediated the association between TA and IA.
Conclusions
Findings of the present study facilitate a deeper understanding of the neural and socio-psychological mechanisms linking TA and IA and provide new directions for developing neural and psychological interventions.
A Liebowitz Szociális Szorongás Kérdőív magyar nyelvű validálása, faktorstruktúráinak összehasonlítása és tételeinek modern tesztelméleti elemzése
The Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale: Validation and psychometric properties of the Hungarian version
Bevezetés: A szociális szorongás olyan társas helyzetekben megjelenő félelem vagy szorongás, amelyben az egyén mások figyelmének lehet kitéve. Az egyén attól fél, hogy mások negatívan ítélik őt meg, és az ebből fakadó distressz képzelt és valós szociális deficitekhez vezethet. A szorongás ezen fajtájának szubklinikai formája korábbi kutatások alapján a teljes lakosság akár negyedét is érintheti. Célkitűzés: Jelen tanulmány célja a Liebowitz Szociális Szorongás Skála magyar nyelvű adaptációja és pszichometriai mutatóinak feltárása, valamint annak megállapítása, hogy mely nemzetközileg elfogadott verzió faktorstruktúrája alkalmazható hazai mintán. Módszer: Összesen 476 fővel (350 nővel és 126 férfival) készült keresztmetszeti, kérdőíves kutatásunk során a Liebowitz Szociális Szorongás Skálát, korábbi tapasztalatra vonatkozó tételeket, és a Kognitív Érzelemszabályozás Kérdőív rövidített verzióját vettük fel. A Liebowitz Szociális Szorongás Skála pszichometriai mutatóit klasszikus (faktoranalízis) és modern (IRT-elemzés) tesztelméleti módszerrel is megvizsgáltuk. Eredmények: A Liebowitz Szociális Szorongás Skála megfelelő pszichometriai mutatókkal rendelkezik, és a kérdőív tételei jól diszkriminálnak a látens változó különböző szintjével (−1 és 3 szórás között) rendelkező személyek között. A nemzetközileg is jelenleg legszélesebb körben elfogadott faktorstruktúrát kis módosítással replikálni tudtuk. A kérdőív nagy szórástartományban megbízhatóan mér, így a szociális szorongás mértékéről a populáció nagy részében képes információt adni, az érintett személyeket képes jól kiszűrni. A kérdőív skálái ellenőrző kérdések alapján is megfelelően diszkriminálnak a kitöltők között, és a kognitív érzelemszabályozás adaptív és maladaptív stratégiáival az elvártnak megfelelő irányú (negatív, illetve pozitív) korrelációkat találtunk. Következtetések: A Liebowitz Szociális Szorongás Skála összességében magyar mintán megbízható és érvényes kérdőív. Alkalmazhatósága az átlagpopuláció szűrésénél, prevencióknál kiemelten fontos lehet.
A Női Színlelt Orgazmus Kérdőív magyar változata (FOS)
Hungarian version of the Faking Orgasm Scale for Women (FOS)
Elméleti háttér
A női orgazmusszínlelés jelenségének tanulmányozására fejlesztett egyik mérőeszköz a Faking Orgasm Scale for Women (FOS; Női Színlelt Orgazmus Kérdőív), amely a nők orgazmusszínlelési szokásait vizsgálja két különböző helyzetben. Ennek köszönhetően alaposabb megértést nyerhetünk az orális szex fogadásakor és közösüléskor alkalmazott orgazmusszínlelés komplex folyamata mögött meghúzódó okokról.
A kutatás célja
A vizsgálat célja a Faking Orgasm Scale magyar változatának elkészítése, pszichometriai ellenőrzése és validálása.
Módszer
A kutatásban használt két mintán online kérdőívcsomagokkal végeztük a felmérést. A kérdőív faktorszerkezetének elemzésekor 2220 női kitöltő (átlagéletkor = 24,4 év; SD = 7,48 év; 18–80 év között) adataival dolgoztunk. A validáláshoz az előző minta egy része, 768 nő (átlagéletkor = 22,6 év; SD = 4,54 év; 18–48 év között) töltötte ki a kérdőívcsomagot: Női Színlelt Orgazmus Kérdőív (FOS), a Nők Szexuális Működési Modelljei Kérdőív (WSWMS), és a Szexuális Motiváció Kérdőív (YSEX?-HSF).
Eredmények
A faktorelemzés megmutatta, hogy a Női Színlelt Orgazmus Kérdőív magyarra fordított változata illeszkedik az eredeti változat faktorstruktúrájára. A különböző okokból színlelt orgazmus eltérő szexuális működési modellekkel és szexuális motivációkkal mutat együtt járást. Továbbá a színlelő és nem színlelő nők között különbség mutatkozott a szexuális elhatárolódásuk mértékében és partnerük gondoskodásának megélésében. A színlelőkre jellemzőbb, hogy személyes szexuális céljaik elérése érdekében és az érzelmi nehézségekkel való megküzdésként vesznek részt szexuális tevékenységekben, mint nem színlelő társaikra.
Következtetések
Eredményeink azt mutatják, hogy a magyar mintát vizsgáló kutatók számára egy megbízható, jól hasznosítható eszköz áll rendelkezésre. Mivel a Női Színlelt Orgazmus Kérdőív magyar változata egy prediktív eszköznek tekinthető, számos szexualitással és párkapcsolattal összefüggő kutatásban alkalmazható.
A szülői értékpreferenciák hatása a kollektív áldozati vélekedések transzgenerációs átadására
The influence of parental value preferences on the transgenerational transmission of collective victim beliefs
Háttér és célkitűzések: Korábbi kutatások alapján a kollektív áldozati vélekedések továbbadásra kerülnek szülők és gyermekeik között. Az értékek számos vizsgálat szerint összefüggenek a politikai preferenciákkal, illetve a nemzeti identitással. Jelen tanulmány összefüggéseket célzott meg feltárni a szülői értékpreferenciák és a fiatal felnőtt gyermekek kollektív áldozati vélekedései között. Módszer: Kérdőíves vizsgálatunk során 114 szülő-gyermek diád szerepelt a mintában. Vizsgálati eszközeink között felhasználtuk a Nemzeti azonosulás magyar kérdőívét, a Kollektív áldozati tudat kérdőívet, illetve a Schwartz motivációs értéktípusai kérdőívet (Portrait Values Questionnaire). Eredmények: Eredményeink szerint kapcsolat van a szülők által vallott értékek, illetve a szülők és gyerekeik nemzeti identitáshoz kapcsolódó kötődés és glorifikáció dimenziói, illetve kollektív áldozati vélekedései között, továbbá vizsgálatunk megerősítette, hogy a szülők, illetve gyermekeik értékei között pozitív együtt járás figyelhető meg, alátámasztva korábbi kutatások eredményeit. Jelen kutatásban a konzervációhoz köthető értékek esetében láthattuk a legerősebb összefüggést, ezek külön-külön is összefüggést mutatnak az exkluzív áldozati vélekedésekkel és az áldozati tudat észlelt fontosságával, illetve a nemzeti azonosulás kötődés és glorifikáció dimenzióival. Következtetések: Eredményeink szerint a szülők értékrendje nem közvetlenül kapcsolódik a gyerekeik nemzeti identitáshoz tartozó nézeteihez, hanem a szülői nemzeti identitással kapcsolatos nézetein, valamint a kollektív áldozati vélekedésen keresztül. A saját csoport felsőbbrendűségét, illetve a saját csoport áldozatiságát illető vélekedések tehát kapcsolatban állnak a szülők által vallott értékekkel.
Abstract
Though several treatments effectively address the pervasive impact of trauma, they do not achieve complete symptom resolution for all clients, inspiring the search for alternatives. Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy has grown popular, especially in informal psychedelic-assisted treatments (PAT). Compared to stereotypes of empirically validated, exposure-based treatments, IFS has novel facets with widespread appeal. The model encourages improved quality of interactions among multiple, naturally arising “parts” or subpersonalities potentially generated by traumatic experience. The body of IFS literature is extensive, enthusiastic, and thought-provoking. Outcome data for applying the model to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder are limited. Attempts to operationalize and falsify the theory's assumptions and proposed mechanisms will likely prove challenging. Nevertheless, the model's popularity underscores a problem with perceptions of the empirically-supported treatments. Contemplating ethical ways to present the IFS approach given the state of relevant research, we note strategies that would apply to recommendations for PAT of any type. These strategies include detailed psychoeducation about empirically-supported treatments, candid description of the experimental nature of alternatives, frequent assessments of improvement, and detailed monitoring of potential iatrogenic effects. Drawing on facets of IFS to improve perceptions of the empirically validated treatments might provide an efficient way to appeal to more clients, decrease drop out, and increase gains as we await results of empirical investigations of IFS-influenced PAT. These steps can allow clients to choose an approach consistent with their own impressions of a credible intervention, potentially leading to better outcomes.
Abstract
Background and aims
Emerging research indicates that psychedelics may have therapeutic potential by fostering meaningful experiences that act as “inflection points” in people's narratives of personal development. However, psychedelic research has largely failed to address pertinent developmental considerations. We investigated whether attachment-related variables were associated with psychedelic experiences and whether psychedelic experiences moderated expected links between perceived attachment history and current adult attachment orientations.
Methods
We administered an online survey to an international Jewish sample (N = 185) with psychedelic experience. The survey included measures about recollection of attachment interactions with parents (perceived attachment history), adult attachment orientations (anxiety, avoidance), and psychedelic phenomenology (mystical experiences, challenging experiences, emotional breakthrough, ego dissolution, sensed presence) associated with respondents' most memorable psychedelic experiences.
Results
Perceptions of an insecure attachment history were positively linked to all measures of psychedelic phenomenology (r's = 0.19–32, p's mostly < 0.01). In contrast, adult attachment orientations were unrelated to psychedelic phenomenology. Also, psychedelic phenomenology mostly did not moderate the links observed between perceptions of an insecure attachment history and adult attachment orientations.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that perceptions of early attachment experiences may be relevant to psychedelic phenomenology. However, subjective experiences associated with naturalistic psychedelic use do not typically attenuate links between a perceived insecure attachment history and attachment insecurity at present.
Abstract
Gambling disorder is a severe mental health and behavioural problem with harmful consequences, including financial, relationship and mental health problems. The present paper initiates discussion on the use of psychedelics combined with psychotherapeutic support as a potential treatment option for people living with a gambling disorder. Recent studies have shown promising results using psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) to treat anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and various substance use disorders. Considering the similarities in the underlying psychosocial and neurobiological mechanisms of gambling disorder and other addictive disorders, the authors suggest that psychedelic-assisted therapy could be effective in treating gambling disorder. The paper also underscores the need for further research into the viability and effectiveness of psychedelic-assisted therapy for gambling disorder.
Abstract
Background and Aims
Problematic Social Networking Site Use (PSNSU) is not a formally recognised addiction, but it is increasingly discussed as such in academic research and online. Taking a quantitative, exploratory approach, this study aims to (1) determine whether PSNSU is presented like clinically defined addictions by the affected community and (2) address how well measurements of PSNSU fit with the thematic content found within the associated discourse.
Methods
Four corpora were created for this study: a corpus concerning PSNSU and three control corpora concerning established addictions, including Alcohol Use Disorder, Tobacco Use Disorder and Gaming Disorder. Keywords were identified, collocates and concordances were explored, and shared themes were compared.
Results
Findings show broad thematic similarities between PSNSU and the three control addictions as well as prominent interdiscursive references, which indicate possible confirmation bias among speakers.
Conclusions
Scales based upon the components model of addiction are suggested as the most appropriate measure of this emerging disorder.
Abstract
Background and aims
COVID-19 lockdowns limited access to gambling but simultaneously elevated psychosocial stressors. This study assessed the relative effects of these changes on gambling risk status during and after the Australian COVID-19 lockdown from late-March to late-May 2020.
Methods
The study administered three surveys to people who had gambled within the past year at T1. Wave 1 asked about before (T1, N = 2,125) and during lockdown (T2, N = 2,125). Subsequent surveys focused on one year (T3; N = 649) and two years after lockdown (T4, N = 458). The dependent variable was changes in reporting any problem gambling symptoms (PGSI 0 vs 1+). Bivariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression tested for significant associations with: demographics, psychosocial stressors (perceived stress, psychological distress, loneliness, health anxiety about COVID, financial hardship, stressful life events), gambling participation and gambling frequency.
Results
Gambling participation and at-risk gambling decreased between T1 and T2, increased at T3, with little further change at T4. When gambling availability was curtailed, decreased gambling frequency on EGMs, casino games, sports betting or race betting, and lower psychosocial stress, were associated with transitions from at-risk to non-problem gambling. When gambling availability resumed, increased EGM gambling frequency, decreased online gambling frequency, and higher psychosocial stress were associated with transitions from non-problem to at-risk gambling.
Discussion and conclusions
Gambling availability appears a stronger influence on gambling problems, at the population level, than psychosocial risk factors. Reducing the supply of high-risk gambling products, particularly EGMs, is likely to reduce gambling harm.
Abstract
Background and aims
Decisions and learning processes are under metacognitive control, where confidence in one's actions guides future behaviour. Indeed, studies have shown that being more confident results in less action updating and learning, and vice versa. This coupling between action and confidence can be disrupted, as has been found in individuals with high compulsivity symptoms. Patients with Gambling Disorder (GD) have been shown to exhibit both higher confidence and deficits in learning.
Methods
In this study, we tested the hypotheses that patients with GD display increased confidence, reduced action updating and lower learning rates. Additionally, we investigated whether the action-confidence coupling was distorted in patients with GD. To address this, 27 patients with GD and 30 control participants performed a predictive inference task designed to assess action and confidence dynamics during learning under volatility. Action-updating, confidence and their coupling were assessed and computational modeling estimated parameters for learning rates, error sensitivity, and sensitivity to environmental changes.
Results
Contrary to our expectations, results revealed no significant group differences in action updating or confidence levels. Nevertheless, GD patients exhibited a weakened coupling between confidence and action, as well as lower learning rates.
Discussion and conclusions
This suggests that patients with GD may underutilize confidence when steering future behavioral choices. Ultimately, these findings point to a disruption of metacognitive control in GD, without a general overconfidence bias in neutral, non-incentivized volatile learning contexts.
