Background The silent treatment, characterized by deliberate communication avoidance, is a common form of social exclusion that significantly impacts close adult relationships. Although, often regarded as a minor issue, its persistent use can lead to serious emotional and psychological consequences. Methods This systematic review aimed to consolidate research findings to identify the antecedents and consequences of the silent treatment in interpersonal relationships. Following PRISMA (2020) guidelines, 15 peer reviewed articles were analyzed, and sourced from databases and search engines including PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Web of Science. Results The antecedents identified through these studies were emotional regulation, personality traits, manipulation tactics, cognitive processes, relational contexts and to some extent gender. The consequences identified for both givers and receivers of the silent treatment were decreased overall psychological health with long-term emotional distress and poor relationship satisfaction. Conclusion These findings emphasize the need for improved communication strategies and interventions to address the detrimental effects of silent treatment in various relational contexts.

This study aims to understand how fathers and their emerging adult children (ages 18–25) social media use predicts rapport in their relationship. Data for this study were collected from 38 father–emerging adult child dyads ( N = 76). College students were recruited through convenience and snowball sampling to complete online surveys regarding their social media behaviors and their report of rapport with their fathers. Data was analyzed using actor–partner interdependence models (APIMs). Results revealed that when emerging adult children posted photos on social media, they reported higher rapport with their fathers; however, their fathers reported lower rapport for the same behavior. Also, children engaging in active social media behaviors were associated with higher perceived rapport with fathers, although fathers did not perceive these same increases in rapport. Results of this study can be used by family clinicians and therapists to support father–emerging adult child relationships as social media use remains high in families.

Cognitive impairment is a significant health concern in aging populations, but the interplay between biological aging, lifestyle factors, and genetic susceptibility remains unclear. This study examined whether accelerated biological aging is associated with cognitive impairment, whether lifestyle modifies this association, and how genetic background influences these relationships in Chinese older adults. In this cross-sectional study (2022-2023), 7033 participants from southwestern China were included. Accelerated biological aging was calculated as the residual difference between biological age (based on 10 biomarkers) and chronological age. Lifestyle was assessed via a composite index (smoking, alcohol, physical activity, diet, sleep). Cognitive function was measured using the Chinese Mini-Mental State Examination (C-MMSE), and genetic risk was evaluated through polygenic scores and APOE ε4 status. Linear and logistic regression models assessed associations between accelerated aging and cognition. Accelerated biological aging was associated with lower MMSE scores ( β = -0.243, 95% CI: -0.354, -0.133) and higher cognitive impairment prevalence (OR = 1.098, 95% CI: 1.040, 1.158). An unhealthy lifestyle exacerbated cognitive impairment in biologically older individuals (RERI = 0.25). Those with both accelerated aging and unhealthy lifestyle had the lowest MMSE scores ( β = -1.424, 95% CI: -1.846, -1.003) and highest odds of cognitive impairment (OR = 1.467, 95% CI: 1.194, 1.803). These effects were consistent across all genetic background subgroups. Accelerated aging was associated with lower cognitive function, especially in individuals with unhealthy lifestyles, regardless of genetic susceptibility. This highlights lifestyle modification as a potential intervention target for aging-related cognitive impairment.

This report leveraged the subsample of romantically involved participants in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development at the most recent assessment of the cohort (n = 505; Mage = 28.6 years; 58.1% female; 81.7% White/non-Hispanic) to study the role of three theoretically salient childhood interpersonal experiences as potential antecedents of self-reported romantic relationship adjustment in early adulthood. Predictors were measured multiple times prospectively in childhood through adolescence and included (a) direct observations of maternal sensitivity in dyadic interactions with participants from age 1 month through 15 years, (b) participants' reports of the quality of their best friendships from Grade 3 to age 15 years, and (c) participants' primary caregivers' reports about the quality of their own romantic relationships when target participants were being reared. Composite assessments of these three childhood interpersonal exposures were each uniquely predictive of participants' romantic relationship adjustment in young adulthood after accounting for demographic covariates, though the overall effect size was modest (ΔR² = .05). (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).

Background. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease frequently accompanied by cardiovascular, respiratory, skeletal, psychiatric, and neoplastic comorbidities that are associated with higher morbidity and poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study evaluated the associations between comorbidities and patient-reported physical health, emotional distress, daily functioning, and social relationships in adults with RA and explored patient-reported unmet needs relevant to integrated care. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 286 adults with physician-confirmed RA, using a structured questionnaire (ICRA-Q) administered between June and July 2025 via online platforms and in-hospital supervised completion. The survey captured demographics, patient-reported physician-diagnosed comorbidities (current and/or past), perceived disease impact, functional limitations, emotional and social consequences, access to treatment, financial burden, and support needs. Analyses included descriptive statistics, χ2 tests, t-tests/ANOVA, effect sizes (Cramer’s V and standardized mean differences), and multivariable logistic regression to explore predictors of high HRQoL impact and high difficulty in disease management. An exploratory classification into high-risk phenotypes was performed using predefined clinical, psychological, and socioeconomic criteria. Results. Most participants (98.6%) reported at least one comorbidity, most commonly hypertension, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease. Higher comorbidity burden and depression/anxiety were strongly associated with higher pain, reduced mobility, emotional distress, and financial strain. Exploratory high-risk phenotypes (severe somatic multimorbidity, high psychological vulnerability, high socioeconomic burden, and a composite very high-risk profile) were associated with poorer HRQoL indicators. Younger age, shorter disease duration, and higher perceived social support were associated with lower perceived burden. Conclusions. In this cross-sectional, patient-reported study, comorbidity burden—particularly psychological comorbidity—was strongly associated with poorer HRQoL and greater management difficulty in RA. These findings support the need for multidisciplinary, integrated care pathways; however, subgroup phenotypes should be considered exploratory and require external validation.

Minimal social co-presence modulates heartbeat evoked potentials and EEG dynamics during a parallel crafting task.

Purpose: This single-case study explored the effects of emotion-focused Reflected Image Meditation(RIM) on depressive affect in a middle-aged woman with a history of childhood emotional deprivation, sexual trauma, bereavement, and chronic conflict with her mother-in-law. The aim was to examine how biographical wounds and reactivated emotions in adult relationships could be processed and transformed through imagery-based intervention. Methods: The client received six sessions of emotion-focused RIM. Qualitative data (counseling transcripts, therapeutic drawings, and researcher process notes) were analyzed thematically, and quantitative change was assessed using the Burns Depression Checklist (BDC) and the Stress Response Inventory (SRI). Results: BDC scores decreased by 48.6% and SRI scores by 31.8%, indicating substantial reductions in depressive and stress-related symptoms. Qualitative analysis showed a progressive emotional shift “from suppression to integration” as the client encountered inner figures such as “the self in need of care,” “the self hiding in shame,” “the self longing to be loved,” “the self burdened by mother’s load,” and “the self afraid of separation.” Conclusion: Emotion-focused RIM on appears to facilitate the release of suppressed emotions, the emergence of self-compassion, and greater emotional integration in middle-aged women with chronic depressive affect, suggesting its clinical usefulness as a focused intervention for core depressive schemas.

The current study used a correlational design and aimed to examine the link among perceived parent–adult relationships, prosocial behaviors, and the mediating role of emotion regulation difficulties in young adults. The sample consisted of 470 students from a public-sector university, aged 18 to 25 years. Participants completed the Parent-Adult-Child Relationship Questionnaire (PACQ), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale–Short Form (DERS-SF), and the Prosocialness Scale for Adults (PSA). Later, data were analyzed using Hayes’ PROCESS Macro (Model 4). The analysis revealed that the relationship between parent–adult interactions and prosocial behavior was mediated by difficulties in emotion regulation. These findings align with collectivist cultural values in Pakistan, which emphasize interdependence, family dynamics, emotion regulation, and behavioral outcomes. The study offers implications for emotional-skills interventions and parenting practices among youth in similar cultural contexts.

Abstract Parental separation has significantly increased over the years, with research highlighting both positive and negative consequences for offspring. The long-term impact of parental separation on offspring romantic relationships remains underexplored in Lebanon, a context where parental separation and mental health can still be considered taboo. This qualitative study aims to (1) explore the impact of parental separation and absence on offspring’s romantic relationships, and (2) propose context-specific recommendations to support individuals affected by parental separation and absence. Nine adults ( N = 9) aged 18 and above with separated parents participated in semi-structured interviews. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed key themes related to family dynamics and the impact of parental separation on adult romantic relationships, while also considering intersectional factors. Case illustrations are presented to highlight these findings. Drawing on participants’ responses, the study offers recommendations for clinicians and policymakers to inform future interventions. It represents a pioneering effort to qualitatively investigate the consequences of parental separation on offspring romantic relationships in Lebanon.

Frailty is associated with numerous adverse health outcomes, and insulin resistance (IR) is a known risk factor for its development. However, it remains unknown whether non-insulin-based IR indicators are associated with frailty prevalence. This study investigated the association between the estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR, a noninvasive IR marker) and frailty, and examined the mediating role of systemic inflammation. Using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data (1999–2018), we performed weighted logistic regression and employed restricted cubic splines to analyze the eGDR-frailty relationship in adults ≥20 years. Mediation analysis quantified the contributions of 4 inflammatory biomarkers (systemic immune-inflammation index, systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, neutrophil-to-albumin ratio). Stratified analyses with interaction tests were visualized via forest plots. The study included 17,384 individuals (mean age 60.40 ± 15.26 years; 53.6% female). After full adjustment, each unit increase in eGDR was associated with a 16% reduction in frailty risk (odds ratio = 0.84; 95% confidence interval 0.83–0.86; P < .001). Restricted cubic splines confirmed a non-linear inverse association (P-nonlinear < .05). Mediation analysis revealed modest but significant mediation by inflammatory markers: neutrophil-to-albumin ratio showed the strongest effect (6.68%; P < .001), followed by SIRI (2.32%) and followed by SIRI (2.32%) and both neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and systemic immune-inflammation index (approximately 1.15%). Subgroup analyses demonstrated a consistent protective association between higher eGDR and reduced frailty prevalence across all subgroups (all P-interaction > .05). Higher eGDR exhibits an L-shaped inverse association with frailty in US adults, partially mediated (1.14–6.68%) by systemic inflammation (particularly the neutrophil-to-albumin ratio). These findings support targeting metabolic-inflammatory crosstalk for frailty prevention.

ABSTRACT While several studies point to decreased relationship quality among caregiving couples, few studies have examined the mechanisms through which providing care can shape or reshape the characteristics of romantic relationships. To shed light on this issue, we engage the frameworks of relational turbulence theory (RTT) and transition processing communication (TPC) to identify both (1) the ways caregiving for an aging adult influences marital relationships and (2) the maintenance strategies these couples engage in to sustain a healthy relationship. Using both quantitative and qualitative data, we identified eight everyday relationship experiences specific to caregiving, examined associations between TPC and relationship parameters described by RTT, and utilized rich description to illuminate caregivers’ experiences employing the four forms of TPC. Engaging in TPC was associated with improved relationship parameters, while cohabiting with an aging adult was associated with worsened relationship experiences. Results point to TPC as a potential communicative intervention for married caregivers.

IntroductionWithin sport for development (SFD), it has been widely established that coaches—and the presence of strong adult relationships—play a critical role in facilitating a broad array of positive youth outcomes. However, the ability of coaches to play a meaningful role is influenced by their involvement in coach education and the support they receive from learning communities. While coaching education is important, not all coaches can access it readily, due to a lack of programs in certain geographic areas, a lack of local/in-person expertise, financial or time constraints, and other factors that make it inaccessible. Virtual education has emerged as a potential strategy to overcome these challenges, but despite growing technological adoption, practice has outpaced research, and evidence supporting the efficacy of virtual coaching remains limited.MethodsGuided by the Task–Technology Fit Framework, this study assessed virtual coach education across ten sport-for-change organizations in ten countries to illustrate and understand access, strategies, strengths, and limitations associated with virtual coach education.ResultsFindings showed high motivation among the sport-for-change organizations to integrate virtual coach education into their coach education strategies and overall capacity building, revealed variation in the utility of virtual technology among organizations, challenges to technological use related to access and resources, and finally strategies employed to support learning in a virtual space.DiscussionOverall, the current study revealed a major equity issue in relation to SFD organizations engaging in virtual coaching training, highlighting the influence of structural inequities which continue to cause barriers to technology access that can exacerbate the equity gap. As is often the case, the communities that face the greatest marginalization experienced significant inequities in access to quality coach education. Building on creative strategies outlined in the article, it is recommended that researchers and practitioners continue to think “outside the box” on virtual coach education strategies as well as the broader role of coach education.

ABSTRACT Parent–child relationships observe many changes when adolescents grow up to be young adults. The Three Good Things intervention has been used in different contexts (e.g., couples' relationships) but not much in different relationship contexts such as parent–child relationships. Therefore, the present study aimed to adapt the ‘Three Good Things’ intervention for parent and adult child relationships and study its impact on the parent–child relationship. Intervention design (pre, post, and follow‐up) having two groups—intervention group ( n = 32 pairs) and control group ( n = 30 pairs) was utilised to study the intervention's impact on parent–child closeness, relationship, parental stress, emotional involvement and perceived criticism. Participants were college students (18–24 years old) and any one of their parents. The results of the study report that the intervention did not have any significant impact but resulted in a slight improvement in the relationship. The findings support the need for further studies applying this intervention in the context of parent–child relationships on varied children groups.

The current study explored how childhood exposure to domestic violence and abuse (DVA) influences adult relationships and mental health nurses' (MHNs) experiences and professional responses to these issues. A qualitative descriptive design was used, with semi-structured individual interviews conducted with 11 MHNs from diverse health care settings in the United Kingdom. Thematic analysis identified key themes highlighting participants' perceptions and clinical experiences. Five key themes emerged: (1) Conceptualizing DVA; (2) Mental Health Consequences and Trauma Triggers; (3) The Role of MHNs; (4) Psychological Interventions and Interprofessional Collaboration; and (5) Adult Relationships and the Long-Term Impact of DVA. Findings highlight significant gaps in MHNs' training and preparation for trauma-informed care, as well as systemic obstacles, such as time constraints, lack of standardized guidelines, and limited access to specialist services. These factors collectively hinder MHNs' ability to effectively support individuals affected by childhood DVA. Improved DVA education, standardized trauma-informed practices, and enhanced interprofessional collaboration are essential for strengthening MHN support. Addressing these gaps will enhance care for affected individuals and help break the cycle of intergenerational violence.

This article provides a detailed introduction to the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on people, and how this impact further affects the next generation through attachment patterns and intergenerational effects. ACEs can affect children's attachment patterns by influencing internal working models (IWMs), producing negative feedback, and ultimately leading to insecure attachments with lifelong effects. There are two types of insecure attachment: anxious and avoidant. Each type has its own distinct behavioral characteristics, which often carry over into adult intimate relationships. Children who grow up witnessing their parents unhealthy relationships are likely to experience psychological trauma. Meanwhile, parents with insecure attachment styles often struggle to build positive interactions with their children. Such a deficient parenting pattern can profoundly shape the attachment styles of the next generation, leading to long-term effects. The findings introduced the paths of intergenerational effects of ACEs, providing reference of early prevention and family-focused interventions to break the harmful cycle.

The development of parent-directed aggression in childhood.

Behaviour in children under 5 offers valuable insight into development and family wellbeing. To support children effectively, practitioners must understand the developmental stages that shape early emotional and behavioural expression, and recognise behaviour as a key form of communication. This article explores common challenges such as tantrums, biting, sibling rivalry, clinginess and sensitivity, showing how these often reflect typical development. Practical strategies are described, including modelling positive behaviour, maintaining consistent boundaries, supporting emotional regulation, and using play to build secure relationships. Case examples have been incorporated to illustrate how the understanding of child development can reduce parental anxiety and strengthen resilience. The article also identifies when behaviour may indicate underlying developmental differences, neurodiversity or safeguarding concerns, and it outlines appropriate assessment and referral pathways. Early intervention and the presence of trusted adult relationships are highlighted as some of the critical protective factors, supporting both immediate family functioning and longer-term outcomes for children.

The role of visuospatial working memory in numerical processing - an fMRI study.

BackgroundDepression is a modifiable risk factor for dementia. Prior studies on antidepressant use and dementia yielded conflicting results, potentially due to unmeasured potential confounding or potential effect modification by sex or frailty. This scoping review aimed to determine whether existing literature on antidepressant‐dementia relationship explored sex or frailty as confounders or modifiers in the antidepressant‐dementia relationship in adults over 55.MethodsWe searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases. Eligibility criteria were revised during screening due to the lack of eligible studies and to reduce ambiguity. Studies were included if sex or frailty of participants was described.ResultsAfter screening 7803 titles/abstracts and 47 full texts, we included 21 observational studies. None explicitly defined or investigated sex or frailty as primary objectives. Frailty was not described or measured in any of the included studies. As for exploring sex as an effect modifier, two studies (9%) included sex as an interaction term, but one included interaction term between gender and time, rather than gender and antidepressant use. Another assessed interaction between different sexes with regards to anticholinergic‐dementia relationship but not antidepressant‐dementia relationship. As for exploring sex as a confounder, twelve studies (57%) adjusted for sex as a covariate, and the studies differed widely with regards to study characteristics, participant characteristics, and methods for analysis, including effect measures. Sex/gender binary framework predominated.ConclusionFrailty was not explored as an effect modifier or confounder in the relationship between antidepressant use and dementia. Sex was also not explored as an effect modifier in the antidepressant‐dementia relationship. Two studies (9%) included sex as an interaction term, but they were included in such a way that the findings did not answer our research question. As for exploring sex as a confounder in the antidepressant‐dementia relationship, inconsistencies in study characteristics, participant characteristics, and methodologies (including effect measures) hinder a generalized conclusion as to whether or not sex is a confounder in the antidepressant‐dementia relationship. Future research could incorporate validated frailty measures, explore sex as an effect modifier, and include sex and gender definitions beyond the binary.

The role of internalising trajectories in adult wealth and social relationships following very preterm birth/very low birth weight.