A-082 SPECT Cerebral Blood Flow Differences between Self-Reported Low and High Feelings of Pessimism

Abstract

Abstract Objective To assess which brain areas, as measured by SPECT, are related to self-reported feelings of pessimism. Method Using a symptom checklist, participants were determined based on their self-reported feelings of pessimism. The participants were part of a large archival de-identified database. A total of 7,661 individuals were categorized into a low level of pessimism group (N = 3,495) and a high level of pessimism group (N = 4,166) who were primarily male (60.7%) with a mean age of 40.00 (SD = 15.69). Participants were placed in their respective groups based on whether their responses fell at or below the 25th percentile or at or above the 75th percentile of the sum of responses that indicated having problems related to pessimism. The two groups were then compared in 17 brain areas at baseline. Results Results from an Independent samples t-test showed mean differences in blood flow. Hyper-perfusion was seen in the group with high level of pessimism in the left Frontal t(7659) = −1.668, p < .007 and bilateral Parietal, left t(7659) = −1.333, p < .001 and right t(7659) = −1.159, p < .013. Conclusion Results indicate that individuals who report high levels of pessimism have an increased blood flow to several areas, increasing behavioral, cognitive, and emotional arousal. The increase of blood flow to the left frontal area suggests an over activation of cognitive reasoning and judgement, inhibiting a clear understanding of feelings of powerlessness and fear. The overwhelming feelings activate bilateral parietal lobes in carrying out motor behaviors to try and reduce feelings of hopelessness and fear.