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
Érzelmeink a társas térben: az interperszonális érzelemszabályozás
Our emotions in the social context: Interpersonal emotion regulation
Háttér és célkitűzés: A szociális kontextusban történő érzelemszabályozás, azaz az interperszonális érzelemszabályozás fogalma az elmúlt 10 évben került előtérbe. Interperszonális érzelemszabályozásnak nevezzük azt a folyamatot, amelyben két vagy több személy vesz részt, és amely során az egyén érzelmeit a társas interakció résztvevői szabályozzák. Jelen narratív összegzés célja az interperszonális érzelemszabályozással kapcsolatos ismeretek összefoglalása, valamint a főbb kutatási irányvonalak kijelölése. A tanulmány első lépésben bemutatja az intra- és interperszonális érzelemszabályozás főbb jellemzőit és modelljeit, majd felvázolja az interperszonális érzelemszabályozás mentális egészségre gyakorolt hatását. Végül kitér az intra- és interperszonális érzelemszabályozás közötti összefüggésekre is. A társas érzelemszabályozást gyakran szociális célok, például a társas kapcsolatok javításának vagy fenntartásának igénye vezérli. Ezeknek a céloknak a feltárása, valamint az intraperszonális érzelemszabályozási folyamatok figyelembevétele alapvető fontosságú a szociális érzelemszabályozás dinamikájának megértéséhez és feltérképezéséhez.
Abstract
This 33-month retrospective case report explores the impact of psilocybin truffle intake on the emergence (and persistence) of mental imagery in an autistic woman with aphantasia. Aphantasia refers to the inability to generate visual mental images, which can significantly affect individuals' experiences and cognitive processes.
The case study focuses on a 34-year-old autistic woman who had been living with aphantasia since childhood. After consuming psilocybin truffles, she reported experiencing vivid mental imagery for the first time, with the ability to manipulate and explore images in her mind. The effects persisted even after the psychedelic effects of psilocybin subsided. To document this change, she completed the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire at several timepoints. Retrospectively, she reported a baseline score of 16 (pre-intake) and a post-intake score of 80. A contemporaneous follow-up conducted 12 months later revealed a score of 59, and a subsequent assessment at 33 months showed a further increase to 68, slightly above the population average.
The findings align with previous research on the effects of psilocybin on brain connectivity, neuroplasticity, and visual processing. The case report highlights the potential of psilocybin to modulate mental imagery in individuals with (putatively congenital) aphantasia and suggests avenues for further research. Moreover, it raises questions about the classification and pathologization of aphantasia, encouraging a shift toward recognizing cognitive diversity rather than pathologizing neurocognitive differences.
Abstract
Background and aims
In recent years, there has been increasing attention on the potential for psychedelic-assisted therapies to be used in healthcare. However, the turbulent history of psychedelics challenges its implementation and concerns about cultural safety, equity, and diversity in research remain unresolved. In Āotearoa New Zealand, Pasifika populations face significant health disparities. Accordingly, New Zealand's Health Research Strategy calls for strategic research prioritisation that produces equitable outcomes for Pasifika peoples. This study endeavoured to proactively inform equitable future applications of psychedelic-assisted therapy for Pasifika communities.
Methods
The study used quantitative cross-sectional surveys (n = 106) followed by in-depth qualitative interviews (n = 15) to understand the awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and perspectives of Pasifika healthcare professionals regarding psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Results
Despite low awareness, participants supported further research in the area, believed that psychedelic-assisted therapy offers potential benefits, and prioritised consideration of spiritual and Indigenous elements. Openness to psychedelic-assisted therapy was associated with awareness and ethnic identity but was hindered by strong religious or spiritual beliefs, prior research roles, or having treated anxiety/depression in their professional roles. Qualitative insights corroborated these findings, revealing openness to research despite cultural and religious concerns, driven by inadequate mental health treatments, especially for Pasifika communities, but impeded by insufficient information on psychedelic therapy's efficacy.
Conclusions
Acceptability and culturally safe psychedelic treatment protocols for Indigenous populations require educating healthcare providers and co-designing with such communities, including religious and spiritual leaders.
Abstract
Background and Aims
Parental mental health has been identified as a risk factor for adolescent gaming disorder (GD). However, the association of parents' affective states and emotion regulation with adolescents' gaming behaviors and susceptibility to problematic gaming remains underexplored. This pilot study examined the associations between parents' daily affect intensity and fluctuations and their adolescent children's time spent gaming, using a dyadic ecological momentary assessment (EMA) approach. The study also investigated the relationship of parental emotion regulation with adolescents' risk of GD and explored factors influencing compliance with EMA.
Methods
Data were collected from 64 parent-child dyads in Hong Kong through a pre-EMA survey, a 14-day EMA, and a post-EMA survey.
Results
The pre- and post-EMA data revealed that adolescents were at higher risk of developing GD when their parents reported greater difficulties with emotion regulation. The EMA data revealed that adolescents spent more time gaming when their parents experienced greater intensity and fluctuations in their daily negative affect but not positive affect. The study achieved an average compliance rate exceeding 85% among parents and adolescents. Parent-child dyads were more likely to respond to EMA prompts when they were physically together or when they completed the prompts at the same time. In contrast, negative affect was associated with lower compliance rates.
Discussion and Conclusions
This study provides preliminary evidence on the association between parents' emotional states and adolescents' gaming duration in parent-child dyads' daily contexts and offers findings that support the feasibility of using EMA in family and GD research.
Abstract
Background and aims
Gambling Disorder (GD) is associated with maladaptive decision-making, possibly driven by biases in learning and confidence judgments. While prior research report abnormal learning rates and heightened overconfidence in GD, the affected cognitive mechanism producing these joint deficits has so far remained unidentified. Our study aims to fill this gap using a recently established reinforcement learning (RL) experimental and computational framework linking learning processes, outcome-valence effects and confidence judgments.
Methods
We pre-registered and tested the hypotheses that GD patients exhibit increased (over)confidence and confirmatory learning bias, and increased outcome valence effects on choice accuracy and confidence judgements in in 18 participants with GD and 19 matched controls.
Results
While our findings replicated the main behavioral patterns of choices and confidence judgments, and confirmed their computational foundations, we did not find any group differences between the controls and patients with GD.
Discussion and Conclusions
The current findings speak to the inconsistent findings of abnormalities in confidence and learning in GD. Systematic research is necessary to better understand the influence of possibly mediating factors such as disorder-related idiosyncrasies (e.g. skill- vs chance-based preferences) to further clarify if, when and how confidence and learning are affected in people with GD.
Abstract
Background and aims
Individuals with Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) exhibit a heightened reward responsiveness to gaming-related rewards, alongside a diminished response to natural rewards. However, the temporal dynamics and neural correlates underlying this imbalanced processing remain unclear.
Methods
This electrophysiological study investigated the neural responses associated with reward processing and their relationship to self-reported reward responsiveness. Using an Incentive Delay Task, we compared neural responses to gaming and monetary rewards between 25 IGD participants and 32 recreational game users (RGUs). Self-reported reward responsiveness was assessed with the Behavioral Approach/Inhibition System (BAS/BIS) scales.
Results
The IGD group scored higher on the BAS-responsiveness subscale. Correlation analysis indicated that enhanced BAS-responsiveness was associated with automatic attention (N1) to gaming feedback, but not with feedback monitoring (FRN) or emotional arousal (LPP). No such correlation was found in the monetary condition. Following initial automatic attention, the IGD group demonstrated selective feedback monitoring (FRN) for gaming rewards while neglecting monetary feedback.
Discussion and Conclusions
Gaming stimuli automatically capture the attention of individuals with IGD, triggering less top-down monitoring of other potential positive feedback. These findings suggest that attentional bias toward game-related stimuli serves as a sensitive biological marker of heightened reward responsiveness in individuals with IGD.
Abstract
Background
Problematic use of online pornography is considered a hallmark symptom of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD), but the role of other digisexual behaviors in CSBD remains largely unknown. Digisexuality encompasses a range of technologies mediating sexuality, such as online pornography and sexting (first-wave digisexualities), and simulating sexuality, such as virtual reality (VR-)pornography and highly realistic sex dolls/robots (second-wave digisexualities). The prevalence of these evolving behaviors across different generations and the relation to CSBD is still unclear.
Method
We conducted an online survey in 2023 with a sample of N = 3,564 individuals from Germany, selected to represent the German population by age, gender and regional distribution. The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence and frequency of digisexual behaviors and their relationship with CSB assessed with the CSBD-19 scale.
Results
First-wave digisexualities showed prevalences ranging from 19% (sexting erotic pictures) to 66.1% (pornography consumption). Second-wave digisexualities showed lower prevalences, with 5.3% for VR-pornography use and 3.9% for the use of highly realistic sex dolls/robots. Emerging and technologically advanced digisexualities were predominantly reported by younger generations. Additionally, all surveyed digisexualities showed medium ( r = 0.308; pornography use) to strong ( r = 0.529; casual sex via dating apps) correlations with CSBD-19 scores.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that interventions and research for CSBD need to extend beyond online pornography and include a broader range of digisexual behaviors. As technologized sexual practices continue to evolve, new opportunities and challenges arise, underscoring the need for future research and tailored therapeutic approaches to address potential risks.
Abstract
Background & aims
This conceptual paper explores the intersection of attachment theory, psychedelic research, and enculturation dynamics. We aim to understand how both attachment patterns and psychedelic use may jointly influence worldview transformations and enculturation processes.
Methods
We synthesize theoretical perspectives and empirical findings from multiple fields, including attachment-religion research in the psychology of religion, anthropological research on Ayahuasca use in shamanic tourism contexts, and preliminary attachment-psychedelics research.
Results
Our synthesis suggests that both attachment and psychedelics play an interacting role in facilitating enculturation and worldview transformations. This may be due to common mechanisms, including heightened epistemic trust at the psychological level and heightened serotonin 2a receptor-binding and associated hyper-plastic states at the neural level.
Conclusions
We outline future research directions and emphasize the ethical considerations that arise from these findings, particularly in the design and implementation of psychedelic-assisted therapies and cross-cultural psychedelic research.
Abstract
Background and aims
Compulsive Buying-Shopping Disorder (CBSD) is linked to disordered eating behaviors (DEB) and body image (BI) concerns, sharing traits like impulsivity and low self-control. Societal pressures and idealized body standards exacerbate body dissatisfaction, which may drive individuals toward buying/shopping or DEB as coping strategies. This review aims to clarify these connections, including from a gender-sensitive perspective.
Methods
This systematic review was pre-registered (PROSPERO CRD42023489555) and followed PRISMA guidelines. A search was conducted across PsycINFO, Web of Science, PubMed MEDLINE, and Scopus. Study quality was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Studies.
Results
CBSD is often associated with DEB regardless of gender, particularly binge-eating disorder. Women are more affected by CBSD than men, with higher rates of comorbid bulimia nervosa, and they experience greater psychological distress. Several studies found that CBSD and DEB are often linked through maladaptive coping strategies. Body dissatisfaction is consistently identified as a key predictor of CBSD, which may serve as a coping mechanism for emotional distress.
Discussion and Conclusions
Gender differences were analyzed in only 14 studies, limiting the generalizability of the findings. A significant gap in research on sexual and/or gender minorities (SGM) is highlighted. This gap is crucial to address, as SGM individuals often face unique stressors (e.g., social stigma) that may influence their mental health and coping behaviors differently than cisgender/heterosexual individuals. Future research should focus on more diverse, longitudinal studies.
Abstract
Background
Abnormal striatal cue reactivity is one of the neurobiological hallmarks of substance use disorders (SUDs). Cue reactivity is associated with relapse, prompting efforts to target its underlying mechanisms with therapeutic interventions. However, the neural correlates of cue reactivity in behavioral addictions, such as gambling disorder (GD), remain poorly understood. Here we investigated striatal cue reactivity and its associations with neurotransmitters in individuals with GD using multimodal neuroimaging.
Methods
Thirteen subjects with GD and 16 healthy controls (HC) underwent fMRI using a block-design consisting of three different types of visual stimuli: gambling-related, erotic, and neutral videos. The subjects also underwent brain PET imaging with three radiotracers to assess dopamine ([18F]FDOPA), opioid ([11C]carfentanil) and serotonin ([11C]MADAM) function.
Results
GD subjects showed a significantly greater BOLD response in the dorsal striatum compared to HC when viewing gambling-related versus neutral videos (pFWE<0.05). Enhanced cue-reactivity was specific to gambling, as there were no significant differences between the groups with natural reward cues (erotic vs. neutral videos). The dorsal and ventral striatum BOLD responses to gambling videos were coupled in HC (r = 0.7, p = 0.003) but not in GD (r = −0.1, p = 0.75; group difference p = 0.008). In GD, dorsal striatal BOLD response to gambling cues correlated with [11C]carfentanil, but not with [18F]FDOPA or [11C]MADAM, binding (r = 0.8, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
GD is characterized by increased gambling cue-induced activity in the dorsal striatum, which is linked to mu-opioid receptor availability. The findings highlight the potential role of the mu-opioid system in mediating cue-reactivity in behavioral addictions.
Abstract
Background and Aims
To analyze the bidirectional associations between smartphone multitasking and anxiety symptoms among college students.
Methods
A prospective cohort study was conducted from October 2021 to May 2022. Smartphone multitasking and anxiety symptoms were assessed using the Assessment of Smartphone Multitasking for Adolescents and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 items, respectively. Linear regression models were used to analyze the associations between smartphone multitasking and anxiety symptoms among college students. Autoregressive cross⁃lagged models (ARCLM) were used to analyze the bidirectional associations between smartphone multitasking and anxiety symptoms among college students.
Results
A total of 953 college students were included in this study, 323 (33.9%) of whom were males. The mean age of participants at baseline was 18.89 ± 1.33 years. The rates of depressive symptoms among college students were 28.1% at baseline and 29.0% at 6-month follow-up, respectively. Pearson correlation analysis showed significant positive correlations between all zero-level variables (p < 0.01). Linear regression analyses showed that after adjusting for demographic characteristics and health risk behaviors, smartphone multitasking was still positively correlated to anxiety symptoms at baseline (β = 1.30, 95%CI: 0.54–2.05) and 6-month follow-up (β = 0.84, 95%CI: 0.32–1.37). The results of ARCLM showed that smartphone multitasking at baseline was positively correlated with anxiety symptoms after 6-month (β = 0.03, p < 0.01), but anxiety symptoms at baseline did not significantly correlate to smartphone multitasking after 6-month among college students (β = 0.04, p = 0.51).
Discussion and Conclusions
Smartphone multitasking is associated with higher anxiety symptoms at baseline and follow-up, but no bidirectional relationship exists. Reducing smartphone use may improve mental wellbeing.
Abstract
Background
Short versions of problematic internet use (PIU) questionnaires may provide a convenient and effective way of assessing internet-related problems in various contexts, ranging from research to clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate whether single yes/no question (Q-single) regarding “functional impairment due to PIU” could serve as a screening tool to indicate the potential absence of PIU, given the lack of functional impairment.
Methods
Data from two online studies (N = 524 and N = 272) assessing internet-related behaviors among students were used for the analyses. Participants completed questionnaires (the nine-item Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire [PIUQ-9], the Compulsive Internet Use Scale [CIUS], the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire, depression module [PHQ-9], the seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale [GAD-7]), questions about their internet use time, besides answering the Q-Single question. Block-wise multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine the predictive effect of the Q-Single on PIU (as measured with the PIUQ-9 and the CIUS) and its association with depression and anxiety symptom scores (as measured with the PHQ-9 and the GAD-7).
Results
The Q-Single demonstrated a high negative predictive value in screening the absence of PIU, however positive predictive value was low to moderate. Q-Single proved to be a good predictor of PIU (β = 0.484, p < 0.001 [PIUQ-9] and β = 0.481, p < 0.001 [CIUS]) when controlling for age, gender, and internet use time. Adjusting for the same controlling variables, the Q-Single had a moderate association with depression symptoms (β = 0.385, p < 0.001 [PHQ-9]) and anxiety symptoms (β = 0.252, p < 0.001) [GAD-7]) supporting the validity of the single-question instrument.
Conclusions
The finding that a single question could predict absence of PIU in students, implies that functional impairment is an important indicator of PIU.
Abstract
Background and Objectives
As problematic internet use (PIU) becomes increasingly prevalent among university students, effective preventive measures remain scarce. This study aimed to investigate how the allocation of daily activity time influences PIU and PIU risk (PIU/PIUR) and to identify specific activities that serve as risk and protective factors along with their effect strength.
Methods
Data from 2,433 university students in 33 Chinese provinces were analyzed using compositional analysis, isotemporal substitution, and instrumental variable methods to determine causal relationships between activity allocation and PIU/PIUR and to calculate the specific effects of substituting one activity for another.
Results
After compositional adjustment, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and classroom learning statistically significantly reduced PIU/PIUR (ps < 0.001, except PIUR for classroom learning: p = 0.002), whereas short videos and gaming increased PIU/PIUR (ps < 0.001). Sleep (PIU: p = 0.023, PIUR: p = 0.009) and autonomous learning (PIU: p = 0.013, PIUR: p = 0.003) were negatively correlated with PIU/PIUR but had no significant causal effect. Light physical activity was not statistically significantly correlated with PIU/PIUR (PIU: p = 0.141, PIUR: p = 0.585). Substituting 30 min of short video time with MVPA reduced PIUR by 22.9%. Conversely, replacing MVPA with short video watching increased PIUR by 68.3%.
Discussion and Conclusions
Findings demonstrate the significant impact of 24-hour activity allocation on PIU/PIUR and suggest that time allocation strategies, particularly increasing MVPA while reducing short videos time, effectively reduce PIUR. These insights identify potential prevention for managing PIU via reallocation of daily activities.
Az algoritmikus gondolkodás teszt és az algoritmikus gondolkodás skálák magyar nyelvű adaptációja
Hungarian adaptation of the Computational Thinking Test and Computational Thinking Scales
Háttér és célkitűzések: Az algoritmikus gondolkodás (Computational Thinking; CT) a hatékony ember-számítógép interakciók alapját képező problémamegoldó készségek csoportját jelenti, amely egyre növekvő jelentőséggel bír az oktatásban és a mindennapi életben. A CT megbízható mérése különösen fontos az oktatásfejlesztés szempontjából. Tanulmányunk a CT fogalmának rövid áttekintését követően bemutatja a CT két standardizált mérőeszközének magyar nyelvű adaptációját. Módszer: A CT teljesítmény mérésére magyar nyelvre fordítottuk a 28 tételes algoritmikus gondolkodás tesztet (Computational Thinking test; CTt), valamint annak 5, felnőttek számára nehezített tételét. A CT önbevallásos mérésére elkészítettük az algoritmikus gondolkodás skálák (Computational Thinking Scales; CTS) magyar fordítását. A fordítási folyamatot követően az eszközöket 203 magyar egyetemi hallgató adatán, klasszikus tesztelméleti alapon, megerősítő faktorelemzéssel teszteltük. Eredmények: A magyar CTt egydimenziós, megfelelő diszkriminációs erővel bíró, megbízható mérési eszköznek bizonyult. Az ötdimenziós, 29 tételt tartalmazó CTS-t a szakirodalom és a faktorelemzés alapján 15 tételesre redukáltuk. A magyar CTS faktorstruktúrája megerősítést nyert, a teljes skála megbízhatónak bizonyult, ugyanakkor az alskálák külön használata megbízhatósági és diszkriminációs érvényességi elemzések alapján csak korlátozott mértékben javasolt. Következtetések: A standardizált CT-mérés kulcsfontosságú mind az oktatás, mind a CT és annak pszichológiai korrelátumai közötti összetett összefüggések feltérképezése szempontjából. A CTt és CTS magyar változatai alkalmazhatók felnőttek vizsgálatára a felnőttoktatásban, továbbképzésben és munkahelyi kiválasztásban. A CT vizsgálatát célzó kutatási programunk következő lépése a CT mérőeszközök alkalmazása és értékelése magyar középiskolás diákok körében.
Abstract
Background and aims
A mental health professional's background regarding psychedelics, including their attitudes, is important to the therapeutic effects of these drugs; however, no study has examined this in Asian populations. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of psychiatric professionals in Korea regarding the use of psychedelics in clinical practice.
Methods
An anonymous survey consisting of 15 questions was distributed to 200 participants at three academic psychiatric conferences in Korea. The survey assessed participants' knowledge of the history, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential of psychedelic drugs, as well as their attitudes towards their legalization and usage for psychiatric treatment.
Results
The survey had a 96.5% response rate (193/200), with 44% (85/193) of respondents being psychiatry residents. Disparities in prior knowledge of psychedelics, especially in their mechanisms of action, were found between residents and psychiatrists. Despite this, for all participants, there was a notable interest in the potential therapeutic applications of psychedelics, particularly for conditions that are difficult to treat, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, positive attitudes toward psychedelics were lower among women, with most respondents expressing a cautious optimism about the future integration of psychedelics into psychiatric practice, contingent upon further research and regulatory approval.
Conclusions
The study underscores the need for enhanced education and training on psychedelic drugs within the Korean psychiatric community. Increasing awareness and understanding of these substances could help align Korean psychiatric practices with global trends in fields of psychedelics and potentially improve treatment outcomes for patients with severe and refractory psychiatric conditions.
A Megküzdési Rugalmasság Skála magyar nyelvű adaptációja
The Hungarian adaptation of the Coping Flexibility Scale
Háttér és célkitűzések: A megküzdés konstruktumát a klasszikus kutatások során két fő csoportra, a maladaptív érzelem- és az adaptív problémaközpontú megküzdési módokra osztották fel. Egyre elterjedtebb azonban az az elképzelés, hogy ez a szigorú kategorizálás kevésbé célravezető, hiszen egy személy repertoárjában jelen lehetnek mindkét csoportba tartozó megküzdési módok. A megküzdés sikeressége nem a probléma- vagy érzelemközpontú megküzdési módok használatától függ, hanem attól, hogy a választott megküzdési mód az adott szituációnak mennyire felel meg. A megküzdési módok közötti adaptív váltás képességét nevezzük megküzdési rugalmasságnak, mely bejósolhatja a megküzdés sikerességét. A konstruktum operacionalizálására hozta létre Kato 2012-ben a Megküzdési Rugalmasság Skálát (Coping Flexibility Scale, CFS), melynek magyar mintára történő adaptálása és pszichometriai mutatóinak tesztelése teszi ki jelen kutatás célját. Módszer: A kutatás mintáját 606 fő 18–83 év közötti személy képezte (68,9% nő), akiket zömmel a közösségi médián keresztül online, nem valószínűségi mintavétellel értünk el. A Megküzdési Rugalmasság Skála érvényességének vizsgálatához felvételre került az Élettel Való Elégedettség Skála, a Connor–Davidson Reziliencia Kérdőív és az Énreflexió és Belátás Kérdőív. Eredmények: A Megküzdési Rugalmasság Skála eredeti faktorstruktúrája az elvégzett megerősítő faktorelemzés során jelen mintán jól illeszkedőnek bizonyult, valamint a megküzdési rugalmasság pozitív, szignifikáns összefüggést mutatott a rezilienciával és az élettel való elégedettséggel, míg a meta-megküzdés a belátással. Következtetések: A Megküzdési Rugalmasság Skála magyarra adaptált verziója érvényesnek és megbízhatónak mutatkozott. A kutatás a mintavétel sajátosságaiból adódóan bár próbatesztnek minősül, eredményei iránymutatásul szolgálhatnak a megküzdés árnyaltabb értelmezéséhez hazai mintán.
Abstract
Background and aims
Altered states of consciousness (ASC) represent acute and marked deviations from normal waking consciousness. Investigations into ASC are significant to problems in medicine, science, and philosophy, including the structure of conscious experience. Here, we conducted a preliminary investigation into the structure of ASC while addressing the role of psychedelics, which purportedly manifest features of mind.
Methods
We performed quantitative and qualitative analyses of 300 narrative reports across 12 ASC induction methods: meditation, float tank, psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), 5-methoxy-N,N-DMT (5-MeO-DMT), ketamine, salvia, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), cannabis, datura, and diphenhydramine (DPH). We hypothesized that reports from the psychedelics (serotonin 5-HT2A receptor agonists) would contain similar content with non-pharmacological induction methods, alongside greater positive sentiment and reported authenticity relative to reports from other substances.
Results
In quantitative analysis, most psychedelics, except LSD, as well as salvia and ketamine, shared similar content with non-pharmacological methods. In qualitative analysis, most psychedelics, except LSD, were deemed both positive and authentic, with authenticity predicting positive sentiment across the 12 ASC induction methods (R = 0.68; p = 0.015). We uncovered latent themes charting a trajectory of ASC from baseline to metaphysical experience, incorporating text-to-image generative artificial intelligence to illustrate underlying phenomenological structure.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that reproducible structural observations may be externally validated across methods to support a “mind-manifesting” characterization for some ASC induction methods, such as salvia, ketamine, or 5-MeO-DMT, but not for others, such as LSD, datura, or DPH, together informing future studies of psychedelics, ASC, and structuralism.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain fungi has long been used by Indigenous cultures within ritual and ceremony for healing and spiritual purposes (Spiers et al., 2024). While emerging evidence points to psychedelic agents being novel avenues for the treatment of substance use disorders, the predominantly Western medical models of psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) being developed lack Indigenous wisdom and input, raising concerns about cultural safety, efficacy, ownership, and continuing colonial dynamics. In Aotearoa (New Zealand), the enduring impacts of colonisation on Māori include the suppression of Indigenous wisdom, even as research affirming the knowledge and practice of traditional Māori healing is on the rise.
The Tū Wairua project will explore the integration of rongoā Māori (traditional Māori healing practices) with PAT for addressing problematic methamphetamine use (PMU) in Māori communities. This Māori-led project is driven by Kaupapa Māori methodology, rongoā Māori conceptualisations of health and informed by biomedical psychedelic science. Based at Rangiwaho Marae in Te Tairāwhiti (Gisborne), a community with a high Māori population and a significant burden of PMU, the project aims to develop a decolonised culturally-appropriate approach to PAT to explore the efficacy of psilocybin in treating PMU.
This research represents a shift toward health interventions that respect and extend Indigenous wisdom, addressing the unique needs of Māori communities. It also seeks to develop a skilled Māori workforce to continue these healing practices, and challenge current legislation that restricts the use of Indigenous psychedelic medicines. In creating sustainable pathways for collective healing through a community-driven, culturally-resonant PAT, Tū Wairua charts new directions in Indigenous-led psychedelic science.
Abstract
Background and aims
Online platforms are popular for exchanging information about psychedelics, including consumption advice. The recent resurgence of public interest in psychedelics will likely intensify this. We aim to further the understanding among researchers, policy makers, medical practitioners, harm reduction practitioners, and social workers, of contemporary psychedelic information exchange and its impact on consumption. With a social learning perspective and a focus on online content, we investigate the use of various sources and types of information by people who have used psychedelics therapeutically, non-therapeutically, or not at all.
Methods
We deployed an online survey, obtaining a purposive sample of over 1,200 respondents. Approx. 55% had used psychedelics. We included items on seeking, obtaining, and using information about psychedelics. Data was analyzed using comparative frequency tables, comparing respondents across lifetime use of psychedelics (yes/no) and reason for using (therapeutical/non-therapeutical).
Results
Data showed strong preference for, and use of, online psychedelic information in all groups of respondents. Across groups, considerable differences were observed in patterns of information exchange, including source preferences, sources where information had been obtained, and types of content accessed.
Conclusions
We found evidence of differing online social learning environments where consumption practices are exchanged. Despite an increasing public focus on psychedelic therapy, online content thus also affects other uses of psychedelics. This content is accessed by people who have or have not used psychedelics, and thus affects both present and potential future use. This can be leveraged by public health institutions wishing to gain a voice in the psychedelic resurgence.
Abstract
Background
Public health issues arising from excessive online gaming have garnered significant research interest. Existing studies indicate that, within the framework of the dual-systems theory, the equilibrium between the goal–directed and habitual control systems is disrupted in patients with Internet gaming disorder (IGD). Nevertheless, the understanding of how this imbalance manifests within the brain is limited. This study aims to investigate real-time brain activity in individuals with IGD during the activation of both the goal–directed and habitual systems using electrophysiological techniques.
Methods
Twenty-four individuals with IGD and twenty-three matched recreational game users (RGUs) underwent electroencephalography (EEG) data collection while completing an outcome devaluation task. Differences between the two groups at the Fz, Cz, and Pz electrodes were compared using repeated measures ANOVA.
Results
The behavioral results revealed that the RGU group exhibited higher accuracy than the IGD group during the learning phase (t(45) = −3.08, p < 0.001, η 2 = 0.42). During the slip-of-action test, the IGD group made more action-slip responses for devalued outcomes than the RGU group (F (1,45) = 6.22, p = 0.016, η 2 = 0.12). The EEG experiment results indicated that, upon stimulus presentation during the slip-of-action test, the IGD group had significantly more negative average amplitudes at the Fz and Cz electrodes compared with the RGUs (−7.26 ± 6.28 μV; −5.18 ± 5.49 μV; F (1,40) = 5.54, p = 0.024, η 2 = 0.12; F (1,40) = 4.92, p = 0.032, η 2 = 0.11). Concurrently, the single-group analysis based on RGU revealed that habitual control appears to be associated with greater N2 and P3 amplitudes during the stimulus-locked phase.
Conclusions
The goal–directed system of individuals with IGD is impaired, manifesting in the increased cognitive resources required to activate the goal–directed system when they need to disrupt habitual responses. This suggests that the imbalance due to IGD within the dual systems may originate from an impaired goal–directed system rather than the overactivation of the habitual system.
Abstract
Background and aim
Video gaming (VG) and cannabis use are two behaviors that are particularly prevalent among adolescents and young adults, as they can both be sedentary activities that are used to help decompress. As such, this raises questions about the possible relationship between VG and cannabis use. The aim of the present review is to document the relationship between VG and cannabis use.
Methods
A scoping review identified 25 articles published between 2000 and February 2025, and presenting original findings on the relationship between VG and cannabis use.
Results
Results demonstrate that existing literature is heterogeneous in its methods and measures. Nonetheless, evidence suggests that a relationship does exist, as the majority of studies did find a positive relationship between VG and cannabis use, although several studies also found no significant relationship, and a few even found a negative relationship.
Discussion
Being a new and emerging subject, few studies exist exploring the relationship between VG and cannabis use. Thus, there is much that needs to be explored before drawing clear conclusions on what type of relationship exists between both behaviours. An inability to draw clear conclusions is, in part, due to a lack of consistency in the way both VG and cannabis use have been operationalized, and the use of convenience samples, which have created additional challenges that the field will need to address moving forward.
Abstract
Background and aims
Based on the Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution (I-PACE) model, this study aimed to identify dynamic reconfiguration of the basal ganglia network (BGN), limbic network (LN) and frontal-parietal network (FPN) in individuals with internet gaming disorder (IGD) during a real gaming situation. This approach overcomes the indirectness of experimental task situations in previous studies, providing direct evidence for the underlying neural basis of IGD.
Methods
Thirty gamers with IGD and 37 gamers with recreational game use (RGU) were scanned during online gaming and immediate deprivation. Two coefficients (recruitment and integration) were calculated using community structure, an emerging method, to represent individual functional segregation and integration of brain networks over time, respectively.
Results
The IGD group showed greater recruitment of BGN and LN after deprivation of gaming, and greater integration between the inferior frontal gyrus in the FPN and BGN and between the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in the FPN and LN during deprivation. In contrast, the RGU group exhibited lower recruitment of BGN during deprivation than during gaming, stable recruitment of LN and stable integration between nodes in the FPN and BGN.
Conclusions
Gamers with RGU always maintain stable cognitive control and emotional regulation and could drop cravings/anticipation for continuing gaming after being interrupted gaming. However, gamers with IGD have stronger craving/anticipation and emotional responses after being interrupted gaming and insufficient control over cravings/anticipation and emotions. These findings help directly explain why gamers with IGD are addicted to gaming, despite having similar gaming experiences to those of gamers with RGU.
Abstract
The fictional story, Cornutopia, by British-Nigerian author Irenosen Okojie, offers a critical outsider's perspective on the enthusiasm surrounding psychedelic research, notably from outside the small world of psychedelic research. The protagonist, Amel Dyani, a young Black woman, participates in a psychedelic clinical trial but has a negative experience. This article aims to analyse the narrative to see what the sector can learn about minority views on psychedelic research, and what we can do to improve.
Amel's fictional experience touches on a number of issues within psychedelic clinical trials, such as bias and the vulnerability of patients under the influence of psychedelics. The protagonist comes away from the experience in a seemingly worse condition than when she started, which deviates from the often overwhelmingly positive coverage of the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy.
A theme of mistrust of healthcare professionals permeates the prose. This is significant in light of calls for greater diversity in psychedelic clinical trials, and the hypothesised role that race may have on the set and setting of a psychedelic experience. We must consider whether this means there is potential for there to be differences in clinical outcomes between racial groups for psychedelic-assisted therapy.
On the basis of themes raised in the story recommendations are made to inform future practice, such as improving researchers' awareness of barriers to inclusion for those from ethnic minority backgrounds as well as targeted attention towards the possibility of racial differences in therapy outcomes.
Abstract
Background and aims
Problematic smartphone use (PSU) has become an important public health issue in adolescence, and it is imperative to innovate treatments to improve and prolong the effectiveness of interventions. Considering that positive psychology interventions (PPIs) are highly effective in reducing addictive behaviors in adolescents, this study aims to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention program (PREIP, 8 weeks, 1 h/week) on adolescent PSU within a positive psychology framework.
Methods
Adolescents from China were randomly assigned to the personal resources energized intervention program (PREIP) intervention group (N = 30), the CBT control group (N = 30), and the waitlist (N = 28), which were measured at baseline, post-intervention, and 2-month follow-up.
Results
Participants in the PREIP intervention group had significantly lower levels of PSU, and loneliness, and significantly higher levels of perceived social support and well-being compared to the two control groups (CBT control and waitlist). Furthermore, although participants in the CBT control group were able to significantly reduce PSU symptoms, the improvements in the PREIP group were more sustained over the follow-up period.
Discussion and conclusions
In conclusion, this study supports the positive effects of PREIP on adolescent PSU and explained the underlying mechanisms for improving positive mood, reducing loneliness, and promoting perceived social support.
Az emetofóbia kognitív pszichológiai és viselkedéses háttere
The cognitive psychological and behavioral background of emetophobia
Cikkünkben arra fókuszálunk, hogy feltérképezzük a hányásfóbia (emetofóbia) kognitív pszichológiai hátterét, valamint a releváns, védekezést szolgáló viselkedési stratégiákat (elkerülő és biztonságkereső). Az emetofóbia egy, a társadalom által kevéssé ismert és megértett specifikus fóbia, a hányingertől és a hányástól való intenzív félelem. Az emetofóbia kialakulása egy averzív kulcsélményhez köthető, amely során az érintett személyek ténylegesen megtapasztalják a hányást, vagy mások hányásának lesznek szemtanúi. Tudományos témaválasztásunkat megalapozza az a tény, hogy az emetofóbia eddig csekély figyelmet kapott a kutatási gyakorlatban. Elsőként az emetofóbia etiológiáját, valamint két viselkedéses-kognitív modellt mutatunk be. Az emetofóbia egy kevéssé kutatott terület, azonban cikkünkben bemutatjuk a kurrens, főként kognitív viselkedésterápián alapuló vizsgálatokat. Kifejtjük a komorbiditás kérdését is: az emetofóbia pontos diagnózisának meghatározása rendkívül fontos szempont, hiszen az emetofóbiában az átlagpopulációhoz képest magasabb a mentális zavarokkal való komorbiditás aránya. Részletesen kitérünk az emetofóbia kapcsán releváns undor szerepére, valamint az elkerülő és biztonságkereső viselkedések komplex mechanizmusaira. Az áttekintett kutatási eredmények alapján az emetofóbia kapcsán egy olyan komplex jelenségről beszélhetünk, amely etiológiája körül rengeteg a kérdőjel, és amely rendkívül megnehezíti és korlátozza az érintett egyének életvezetését. Tudományos összefoglalónk célja abban is rejlik, hogy az emetofóbiában szenvedő személyek számára tudományosan megalapozott információkat adjunk át az emetofóbia hátteréről; a szakemberek számára pedig elindítsunk egy tudományos diskurzust.
Abstract
Background and aim
The present study stems from the need to deepen knowledge regarding understanding the psychological mechanisms underlying Love Addiction (LA) and investigate the role of attachment style as a theoretical framework. We conducted a systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis of the investigated topics to achieve this objective.
Method
Five databases (PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science) systematically searched for studies that analyzed the relationship between LA and attachment dimensions, published in all years until September 23, 2024.
Results
Overall, we found 27 studies; of these, we included 15 in the meta-analysis, with 3,628 participants. The analyses were conducted using the test of heterogeneity, effect dispersion, and moderator analysis (gender, age, research continent, quality of the studies, and types of attachment instruments). A significant and positive relationship (r = 0.39, p < 0 .05) was observed between Love Addiction and anxious attachment, while a significant and negative relationship was found with avoidant attachment (r = −0.09, p < 0.05).
Conclusions
The systematic review and meta-analysis provide an important starting point for understanding and operationalizing the construct. The association with attachment styles allows postulating the relational nature of Love Addiction, differentiating it from other addictions. In addition, the association with anxious and avoidant attachment shows promise in understanding Love Addict subtypes.
Abstract
Background and aims: With surges in digital technologies, concerns over adolescents' screen use have intensified. Previous studies often relied on self-reported screen time, neglecting the experiential and motivational aspects of different screen activities (e.g. social media, gaming, and smartphones), possibly leading to heterogeneous associations. This study aimed to examine whether the severity of problematic screen use, conceptualized as a continuous measure of screen-related functional impairment, plays a more central role in development than self-reported screen time or phone-checking frequency, and to explore its influence within the broader adolescent ecosystem (i.e. family conflict, peer involvement, and school participation). Methods: Cohort data were obtained from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study Release 5.1. Screen use was obtained from self-report questionnaires, capturing both activity time and functional impairments. Among cross-sectional networks derived from 9,054 youth (4,272 girls, 47.18%) at 2-year follow-up (T2, ages 11–12 years) and 4,007 youth (1,896 girls, 47.32%) at 4-year follow-up (T4, ages 13–14 years), problematic use showed higher centrality than screen time and checking behavior, owing to stronger connections with behavioral tendencies. Cross-lagged-panel-network analyses of problematic use included 3,954 youth (1,863 girls, 47.12%). Results: Problematic use exhibited high out-strength, which was associated with worsening psychopathologies and environmental conditions. Conversely, problematic use at T4 appeared less influenced by factors at T2. Conclusion: This study underscores the pivotal role of problematic screen use, which showed greater centrality and stronger predictive effects on adolescent well-being than self-reported screen time, highlighting the need for policies and interventions addressing screen-related functional impairments to promote healthier screen habits in developing youth.
Abstract
Background and aims
The shift from goal-directed to habitual control is a well-documented phenomenon in addiction research and is considered a critical factor in the development and maintenance of addictive behaviors. Whether Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is also associated with such a shift is not yet clear. The current study investigated the imbalance between goal-directed and habitual control in individuals with IGD.
Methods
Goal-directed and habitual control, as informed by model-based (MB) and model-free (MF) learning, were assessed with a two-step sequential decision-making task during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 33 young adults with IGD and 32 healthy controls (HCs). Self-report data regarding addictive symptoms, game craving, and impulsivity were also collected.
Results
Individuals with IGD relied more heavily on habitual control to guide subsequent choices compared to HCs. According to a hybrid reinforcement learning model, individuals with IGD also exhibited a reduced MB weight related to HCs, which was correlated with more severe addictive symptoms. fMRI results revealed that individuals with IGD showed increased MF reward prediction error (RPEMF) signals in the right triangular part of the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG). No significant group differences were found in the contrast of RPEMB maps.
Discussion and conclusions
Our study provides both behavioral and neural evidence highlighting an imbalance between goal-directed and habitual control, favoring habitual control in individuals with IGD. This imbalance is associated with the severity of addictive symptoms, suggesting an indication of habit inclination in IGD could potentially contribute to the development or maintenance of the addiction.
Abstract
The proliferation of hostile behaviors among players in online multiplayer video games has become a growing concern in recent years. Toxic behaviors negatively impact individual and team performance, diminish game enjoyment, and risk the psychological well-being of gamers. This paper overviews current scientific knowledge on the manifestations and characteristics of this phenomenon, provides a taxonomy of the various behaviors, and outlines future research directions. The authors suggest that further research needs to focus on a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying toxicity. Prevention and intervention efforts are crucial to reduce the harms associated with engagement in toxic interactions and to improve the safety and inclusivity of online gaming environments.
Abstract
Background and aims
Online shopping has become a primary form of consumption in daily life, inevitably accompanied by the emergence of problematic online shopping. Attentional bias towards online shopping cues influences individuals' online shopping behavior. This study examined attentional bias mechanisms in problematic online shoppers using two experiments.
Methods
This study combines the dot-probe task and eye-tracking technology to explore attentional bias and temporal dynamics toward shopping-related cues among problematic online shoppers. Experiment 1 recruited 84 participants to investigate attentional bias toward proximal cues, while Experiment 2 recruited 76 participants to examine attentional bias toward distal cues.
Results
The results of Experiment 1 showed that both problematic online shoppers and control individuals exhibited shorter first fixation latency, longer gaze duration, and total fixation duration toward proximal cues. And only problematic online shoppers exhibited slower first exit saccade velocity and average exit saccade velocity. The results of Experiment 2 indicated that problematic online shoppers exhibited longer gaze duration and total fixation duration, as well as faster first entry saccade velocity toward distal cues.
Discussion and conclusions
In summary, problematic online shoppers exhibit similar attentional bias toward both shopping proximal and distal cues, which are presented as the vigilance-maintenance pattern. For problematic online shoppers, distal cues have gradually acquired incentive value comparable to that of proximal cues. However, it should be noted that control individuals also exhibited attentional bias toward proximal cues.
Abstract
Background and Aims
This systematic review examines the association between psychedelic use and enhanced life purpose and meaning, as assessed by the Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ) and the Purpose in Life Scale (PILS). Interest in psychedelics' therapeutic potential has grown, with some studies suggesting that these substances encourage meaningful psychological insights that contribute to well-being. This review aims to determine whether psychedelics positively impact users' sense of life purpose.
Methods
Following PRISMA guidelines, using specific search terms, a comprehensive search was conducted in databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Eligible studies were those examining psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and ayahuasca and that reported results from MLQ or PILS. Studies were screened independently, and a narrative synthesis approach was adopted due to heterogeneity across designs.
Results
Seven studies met the inclusion criteria, encompassing clinical, ritualistic, and recreational settings. Overall, results indicate a generally positive association between psychedelic use and an enhanced sense of life purpose, particularly in structured clinical or ritual contexts. Recreational use produced mixed outcomes; however, intentional use combined with mindfulness practices was linked to greater life meaning.
Conclusions
Psychedelics, particularly in structured settings, may enhance life's purpose. The evidence supports moderate certainty regarding these effects, though further randomized controlled trials are needed to clarify the role of specific contextual and individual factors in moderating these outcomes. These findings suggest potential applications in clinical settings for enhancing psychospiritual well-being.
Abstract
Background
Research has shown that psychedelics may have therapeutic potential in treating mental disorders like depression and anxiety. However, the mechanisms and actions underlying their effects are still not fully understood. Similarly, while the significance of mindset and setting in shaping psychedelic experiences and therapeutic outcomes is well established, information about the influence of the body is comparatively scarce.
Aim
This paper introduces the concept of bodyset, defined as the state of the body, including both the body and brain. We suggest it as a vital element in preparing for psychedelic experiences and beyond, broadening the traditional ‘set and setting’ framework.
Methods
Through an extensive literature review, we demonstrate the likely importance of the body in wellbeing, peak performance and peak experiences.
Results
Comprehensive multidisciplinary research, particularly focusing on various biomarkers, is needed to elucidate the potential role of bodyset in the psychedelic experience and therapy outcomes, and to guide future treatment approaches for mental health disorders.
Conclusion
Our exploration of the bodyset concept emphasizes the importance of considering not only psychological and environmental factors (mindset & setting), but also the physical state of the body in preparation for psychedelic experiences and psychedelic therapy. This holistic perspective may enhance our comprehension of their effects, therapeutic potential and inform the application of other treatment modalities, such as breathwork, in mental health care.
Abstract
Background and aims
Researchers have suggested that subtypes of problematic social media use (PSMU) should be identified for purposes of prevention and intervention. However, most studies have overlooked the heterogeneous characteristics of PSMU trajectories, and no research has systematically examined which interpersonal factors could predict these trajectories. In the present study, we identified classes of developmental trajectories of PSMU and examined differences across classes in adolescents' interpersonal functioning in family, school, and peer contexts.
Methods
Participants were 357 Chinese adolescents enrolled in two middle schools in China (52.1% girls, aged 12–15 years). The students completed questionnaires in their classrooms over the course of one year in a three-wave longitudinal study.
Results
Latent growth mixture modeling (LGMM) revealed three developmental trajectory classes of PSMU based on the intercepts and slopes of PSMU scores over time: high risk-gradual increase group (37%), low risk-sharp increase group (39%), and low risk-stable group (24%). Parent-adolescent attachment (family context), teacher-student relationships (school context), and deviant peer affiliation (peer context) were associated with variations in developmental trajectories.
Conclusions
The findings can inform the design of prevention and intervention programs for specific subgroups of adolescents who show problematic social media use.
Abstract
Background and aims
Improved outcomes for substance use disorders have been described following non-clinical (“naturalistic”) psychedelic use. This exploratory study aimed to describe the naturalistic psychedelic experiences of people with substance use concerns and their reported needs and perceived utility of psychosocial support following naturalistic psychedelic use to integrate experiences and achieve positive change. We also explored preferred formats of delivery of integration support to inform future co-design processes necessary for developing new services.
Method
English-speaking participants aged ≥18 years, who were concerned about their substance use and had consumed a classical psychedelic (i.e. psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) or Ayahuasca, mescaline) at least once in the past year, were recruited online for a 10–20-minute survey. Questions explored experiences of psychedelic use and perceptions of the need for and models of integration support. Data were analysed descriptively.
Results
Of 108 participants, 94 (87.0%) thought that integration support following naturalistic psychedelic experiences would have been useful, with the majority of those interested (n = 61, 64.9%) endorsing a model of individual support, led by a psychologist (n = 63, 67.0%) or peer worker (n = 55, 58.5%) with lived experience of psychedelic use, and primarily focusing on how to apply the insights gained during the psychedelic experience into life (n = 68, 63.0%).
Discussion
In our sample of participants with substance use concerns, potential benefits of psychosocial support following naturalistic psychedelic experiences were identified. These findings could be complemented with a qualitative exploration of the desire for integration support following naturalistic psychedelic experiences.
Abstract
Background and aims
Psychedelic and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy are at the forefront of new treatment models for mental illnesses such as PTSD and depression, as well as improving well-being. Mindfulness meditation and loving-kindness meditation have also gained research traction, showing promise for enhancing emotional regulation and psychological well-being. This paper explores the therapeutic convergence of these modalities, highlighting their neurobiological, psychological, and phenomenological overlap, and suggesting potential bidirectional synergy as a foundation for psychedelic or MDMA-assisted therapy.
Methods
A narrative and theoretical review of the current literature was conducted, examining the neurobiological, psychological, and phenomenological effects of MDMA, psychedelics, and meditation. Studies focusing on their potential synergy and mechanisms of action were prioritized and used as a backing for a theoretical framework.
Results
Psychedelics may improve psychological flexibility, prosocial behaviors, empathy, and neuroplasticity. Meditation research suggests similar benefits, including enhanced decentering capacity, emotional regulation, and well-being. Both modalities influence overlapping neural circuitry, particularly the amygdala, hippocampus, and default mode network. Integrating meditation with MDMA or psychedelic-assisted therapy may stabilize insights gained during altered states of consciousness, promote sustained therapeutic benefits, and minimize distress during therapy.
Conclusions
The convergence of meditation and psychedelics or MDMA-assisted therapy is a novel and promising approach for enhancing mental health treatments. Future research should investigate structured protocols combining these modalities, focusing on optimizing “set and setting” and long-term integration practices.
Abstract
Background and aims
Sexual craving and the alleviation of negative emotions are fundamental driving forces underlying problematic pornography use (PPU). In healthy individuals, these processes can be effectively attenuated through cognitive strategies mediated by the prefrontal cortex. However, PPU is associated with impaired cognitive control functions. This study aimed to investigate whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) targeting the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) could enhance the regulation of craving and negative emotions in individuals at risk for PPU.
Methods
A randomized, within-subject, placebo-controlled design was used, in which 45 male individuals at risk for PPU (mean age = 20.18 years, SD = 1.03) received both active (2.5 mA for 20 min) and sham tDCS to the right DLPFC, with sessions separated by one week. During tDCS, participants at risk for PPU performed the regulation of craving (ROC) task, comparing cue-induced craving with instructed regulation, and the emotion regulation (ER) task, contrasting negative affect with instructed regulation. Subjective ratings of craving and negative emotions were collected for each trial.
Results
Our results demonstrated that individuals at risk for PPU effectively regulated their craving and negative affect when guided to use cognitive strategies. Furthermore, anodal tDCS of the right dlPFC during the craving regulation condition significantly reduced craving ratings compared to sham stimulation. However, no facilitative effect of right dlPFC anodal tDCS on ER was observed.
Discussion and conclusions
These findings highlight the potential of tDCS as a novel therapeutic intervention for individuals with PPU, offering the first experimental evidence to support its effectiveness in reducing craving.
Abstract
Background and aims
Scientific evidence for underpinning mechanisms of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) is still scarce. This study explores impaired sexual delay discounting in compulsive sexual behavior (CSB) and its relationship with sexual sensation seeking (SSS) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) features in a general population sample.
Methods
Data were collected via an online survey in a German convenience sample. Participants (n = 311; 71.3% women, 27.3% men, 1.6% gender-diverse individuals) completed the Sexual Delay Discounting Task (SDT), Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder Scale-19 (CSBD-19), Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS scale), and Borderline Symptom List-23 (BSL-23).
Results
Higher CSB and SSS were linked to greater sexual delay discounting and a lower preference for condom or dental dam use, particularly in women. BPD features were associated with higher levels of CSB and SSS but did not moderate the relationship between these behaviors and sexual delay discounting. Men exhibited significantly more symptoms of CSB and SSS than women.
Discussion and Conclusions
The findings contribute to our understanding of CSB, especially in women, and suggest a relationship between sexual delay discounting, SSS and CSB. This finding suggests a need for gender-sensitive approaches and awareness of excitement seeking behavior in research and clinical interventions for CSB.
Abstract
Background and aims
Problematic social media use (PSMU), a potential behavioral addiction, has become a worldwide mental health concern. An imbalanced interaction between Pavlovian and instrumental learning systems has been proposed to be central to addiction. However, it remains unclear whether individuals with PSMU also over-rely on the Pavlovian system when flexible instrumental learning is required.
Methods
To address this question, we used an orthogonalized go/no-go task that distinguished two axes of behavioral control during associative learning: valence (reward or punishment) and action (approach or avoidance). We compared the learning performance of 33 individuals with PSMU and 32 regular social media users in this task. Moreover, latent cognitive factors involved in this task, such as learning rate and reward sensitivity, were estimated using a computational modeling approach.
Results
The PSMU group showed worse learning performance when Pavlovian and instrumental systems were incongruent in the reward, but not the punishment, domain. Computational modeling results showed a higher learning rate and lower reward sensitivity in the PSMU group than in the control group.
Conclusions
This study elucidated the computational mechanisms underlying suboptimal instrumental learning in individuals with PSMU. These findings not only highlight the potential of computational modeling to advance our understanding of PSMU, but also shed new light on the development of effective interventions for this disorder.
Abstract
Background and Aims
The evidence concerning the relationships between loneliness, gambling to escape, and problem gambling is mixed. This study aimed to investigate how loneliness relates to gambling to escape and gambling problems using a longitudinal approach.
Method
This population-based, longitudinal study included five time points, with data having been collected between April 2021 (T1) and April-May 2023 (T5). Participants were 18–75-year-old Finnish residents. Only those who had taken part in the study at each time point (T1–T5) and had gambled at least once a month at some point in the follow-up period were included in the study (n = 612; 54.58% male; Mage = 51.85 years). Loneliness was measured with the UCLA 3-Item Loneliness Scale, and gambling to escape was measured with three questions concerning negative escapism taken from the Motivations to Play Inventory. Problem gambling was measured using the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). Random intercept cross-lagged panel modeling was used to analyze the relationships.
Results
Gambling problems predicted future loneliness on a within-person level, but loneliness did not predict future gambling problems. Also, gambling to escape predicted future gambling problems on a within-person level. On a between-person level, loneliness, gambling to escape and gambling problems were positively correlated.
Discussion and Conclusion
Gambling problems may predispose individuals to future loneliness. However, the relatively small effects observed indicate that individual differences play a significant role in this regard.
Abstract
Background
Existing research on facial emotion processing in Internet gaming disorder (IGD) has focused on single facial expression but little is known about crowd facial emotion (present multiple facial expressions simultaneously) ensemble coding. Thus, this event-related potential (ERP) study aimed to investigate temporal dynamics of crowd facial emotion ensemble coding under interference in IGD.
Methods
17 IGD and 17 control group (CG) participants completed a task of extracting mean emotion from crowd facial expressions under emotional interference while electroencephalographic activity was recorded.
Results
The N170 amplitudes elicited by crowd facial expressions in IGD were significantly smaller than in CG. Angry crowd faces evoked larger N170 amplitudes than happy crowd faces in IGD. Happy crowd faces elicited more negative early posterior negativity (EPN) amplitudes than angry crowd faces in CG, while no difference was found in IGD. In the later ensemble coding stage, we found a significant three-way interaction between the group, emotional valence and interference in the frontal negative slow wave component.
Conclusions
IGD participants exhibited weaker ensemble coding ability of crowd facial expressions. They showed an automatic processing bias towards angry crowd faces in the early stage, as well as insensitivity to happy crowd faces in the subsequent selective processing stage during mean emotion extraction. In the later stage, IGD participants failed to actively adopt appropriate cognitive strategies to inhibit interference. This study first provided electrophysiological evidence for the characteristics of crowd facial emotion ensemble coding in IGD and contributed to clarifying how IGD affects social cognition.
Az Episztemikus Bizalom, Bizalmatlanság és Hiszékenység Kérdőív (ETMCQ) magyar változata serdülő mintán
Hungarian validation of the Epistemic Trust, Mistrust and Credulity Questionnaire (ETMCQ) among adolescents
Háttér: A világban és a társadalomban való eligazodáshoz szükséges tudás megszerzésében alapvető szerepet játszik a gondviselő felé irányuló episztemikus bizalom kialakulása. A serdülőkor kiemelten fontos időszak ebből a szempontból. Célunk az episztemikus bizalom mérésére szolgáló kérdőív magyar nyelvű adaptációja volt. Módszer: A vizsgálatban kényelmi mintavétellel összesen 831 fő vett részt, kis serdülők (N = 342, Méletkor = 12,5, SD = 1,24) és serdülők (N = 489, Méletkor = 16,7, SD = 1,21), ebből 41% fiú és 59% lány. A résztvevők kitöltötték az Episztemikus Bizalom, Bizalmatlanság és Hiszékenység Kérdőív magyar változatát, a Mentalizáció Multidimenzionális Kérdőívét, a Torontói Alexitímia Skálát, a Rosenberg Önértékelés Skálát és az Általános Énhatékonyság Skálát. Ellenőriztük a kérdőív szerkezetét és megbízhatóságát, a nemi különbségeket és a pszichológiai változóval való kapcsolatát. Eredmények: Vizsgálatunk csak a 15–18 éves serdülők korosztályában erősítette meg az eredeti háromfaktoros szerkezetet, amelyet a bizalom, a bizalmatlanság és a hiszékenység skálák alkotnak, a teljes kérdőív 15 tételt tartalmaz. Az episztemikus bizalom pozitív összefüggést jelez a reflektivitással és a kapcsolati összehangoltsággal. A bizalmatlanság pozitív kapcsolata igazolódott a reflektivitással, a szegényes mentalizációval, az érzelmek azonosításának és kifejezésének nehézségével, negatív kapcsolata pedig az önértékeléssel. Az episztemikus hiszékenység az érzelmi diszkontrollal és az érzelmek azonosításának nehézségével mutat pozitív együttjárást. Az énhatékonyság elhanyagolható mértékű összefüggést mutatott a vizsgált változókkal. Következtetések: Az eredmények alapján a kérdőív alkalmas az episztemikus bizalom vizsgálatára serdülők körében.
Abstract
Psychedelic treatments like MDMA can sometimes have side effects which persist despite management with Western medical approaches. In what follows, we present a case study of an individual who suffered from insomnia, anxiety, tinnitus, and more for months following MDMA therapy. Ultimately, her symptoms responded to management within the Traditional Chinese Medicine framework. We present this case in detail, and argue that psychedelic management, especially in the integration phase, can benefit from the incorporation of techniques which engage with energies that Western medicine do not address.
Abstract
Aim
Exercise addiction is a compulsive need to engage in physical activity despite potential negative consequences. This study aims to analyze adolescents' psychosocial health in relation to the risk of exercise addiction, focusing on competition levels, sport types, gender, and age.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted with 7,596 participants (44.2% girls) aged 11–19. Data on physical activity (PAQ-C and PAQ-A), sleep quality (PSQI), anxiety (SAS), depression symptoms (BDI-II), eating disorders (EDI-3), and health-related quality of life (KIDSCREEN-52) were collected via validated questionnaires. The prevalence of exercise addiction risk (EAI) was assessed, and differences based on competition level, sport type, gender, and age were analyzed. Gamma GLMs factors-adjusted were used for statistical comparisons.
Results
6.4% of adolescents in non-competitive sports and 15.6% in competitive sports showed a risk of exercise addiction. The risk was higher in boys, but the difference diminished at higher competition levels. The risk of addiction increased notably in late adolescence. Competitive athletes, especially at high levels, were at greater risk compared to noncompetitive athletes. Those in individual sports were at higher risk than those in team sports. Adolescents at risk of exercise addiction reported poorer mental health, including sleep quality (β = 1.62, p < 0.001), anxiety (β = 3.58, p < 0.001), depression (β = 2.283, p < 0.001), and eating disorders (β = 3.101, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Exercise addiction is a significant concern among adolescents, especially in competitive and individual sports. It is associated with poorer mental health outcomes, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to reduce the risk of addiction and promote holistic health in adolescent athletes.
A Sternberg-féle Szerelem Kérdőív rövid változata (STLS-15)
Hungarian version of Short Triangular Love Scale (TLS-15)
Elméleti háttér: A szerelem világszerte ismert jelenség, amely hatással van az emberi élet számos aspektusára, különösen a romantikus partner kiválasztására, a vele való kapcsolat kialakítására és fenntartására. A szerelmi élmény tesztelésére szolgáló egyik legnépszerűbb eszköz Sternberg 45 tételes kérdőíve (STLS-45), amely három szerelmi komponenst mér: intimitást, szenvedélyt és elköteleződést. A tudományos konszenzus elérése, az eredmények megbízhatóságának, összehasonlíthatóságának és általánosíthatóságának javítása érdekében Kowal és munkatársai (2022) létrehozták a kérdőív rövid változatát (STLS-15). A kutatás célja: A kutatás célja az STLS-15 magyar változatának elkészítése, pszichometriai ellenőrzése és validálása volt. Módszer: Három online mintát használtunk. Az elsőn (1305 fő, 739 nő, 566 férfi) ellenőriztük a hármas faktorszerkezetet. A másodikon (465 fő, 319 nő, 146 férfi), amely az előző minta egy része volt, a Kapcsolati Elégedettség Kérdőív (RAS-H), a Páros Megküzdés Kérdőív (DCI-H) és a Szexuális Motiváció Kérdőív (YSEX?-HSF) alkalmazásával validáltuk az STLS-15-öt. E két minta az STLS-45 korábbi elemzéséből származik. Az ezekben szereplő 9 pontos válaszskálákat 5 pontossá transzformáltunk. A harmadik mintán (532 fő, 442 nő, 90 férfi) 5 pontos STLS-15-öt használtunk, újra ellenőriztük a faktorszerkezetet. Eredmények: A faktorelemzés megmutatta, hogy az STLS-15 magyar tételei ugyanolyan hármas szerkezetbe illeszkednek, mint a nemzetközi változatban. Az STLS-15 mindhárom skálája pozitív irányú, közepes erősségű korrelációt mutat a DCI-H összesített skáláival, valamint a RAS-H-val, és alacsony vagy értelmezhetetlenül alacsony korrelációt mutat a YSEX?-HSF-val. Következtetések: A Sternberg-féle Szerelem Kérdőív rövid magyar változata (STLS-15) az eredetivel megegyező faktorszerkezetű, magas belső megbízhatósági mutatókkal rendelkező valid eszköz, amely kiválóan alkalmas a magyar nyelvű kutatásokban a szerelem mérésére.
Abstract
Background and Aims
There is growing evidence regarding the overlap between trading behaviors and gambling. However, problematic trading behaviors are often assessed using gambling-related instruments, which may not fully capture the nuances of trading. The present study developed and evaluated the psychometric properties of the Trading Disorder Scale (TDS), grounded in in the research criteria proposed by Guglielmo et al. (2016), based on DSM-5 criteria for gambling disorder and internet gaming disorder.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was administered to 403 Spanish amateur traders. The TDS was tested for reliability, validity, and factorial structure. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify patterns of disordered trading.
Results
EFA and CFA supported a one-factor solution for the TDS, which showed strong internal consistency (ω u-cat = 0.938, KR-20 = 0.877). The scale showed good concurrent validity with PGSI (r = 0.559) and good convergent validity with trading-related variables. LCA identified three classes: non-disordered trading (72.2%), at-risk trading (17.6%), and disordered trading (10.2%). Individuals in the disordered trading group scored higher on TDS, traded more frequently, monitored markets more intensively, and exhibited higher rates of problem gambling (PGSI≥5), impulsivity, and substance use. Guglielmo's cut-off point (≥5 criteria) effectively differentiated individuals with disordered trading behaviors from those at-risk and those without disordered trading.
Conclusions
The TDS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing disordered trading among amateur investors. Further research is needed to explore the scale's predictive validity.
