Negative Self-image Research Articles

Role of sociodemographic characteristics on self-stigma among young MSM living with HIV in Yogyakarta, Indonesia: A cross-sectional study.

Our study aimed to determine the role of sociodemographic characteristics on self-stigma among young men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This cross-sectional observational study was conducted from August-November 2022. Participants were recruited from outpatient clinics at Dr. Sardjito, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The Indonesian version of the Berger HIV Stigma Scale measured self-stigma. The statistical analysis utilized a 95% confidence level and determined significance by p-values <0.05. 72 young MSM were enrolled and completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic and self-stigma. The average self-stigma score was 98.97. Education level was significantly associated with severe self-stigma in the bivariate analysis (p < .05). In the multivariate analysis, those with higher levels of education were significantly more likely to experience severe self-stigma (r = 2.938, p < .05). Employment status, family support, and education level were significantly associated with increased concerns in the disclosure, negative self-image, and public attitudes subscales (all p < .05). The results demonstrate associations between sociodemographic and self-stigma levels among young MSM living with HIV in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Further research regarding the educational level, employment status, and family support that can influence the perception and quality of life of PLHIV may need to be carried out.

Multilevel factors associated with HIV-related stigma among women living with HIV in Guangdong Province, China: a social-ecological model-informed study

BackgroundHIV-related stigma continues to hinder optimal HIV care, and its determinants should be understood at multiple levels. Based on the social-ecological model, this study aimed to explore factors associated with HIV-related stigma among women living with HIV in Guangdong Province, China.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2022 to recruit newly reported women living with HIV with a history of pregnancy or current pregnancy in 2021 in 21 cities in Guangdong Province. HIV-related stigma was assessed using an abbreviated Chinese version of Berger's HIV Stigma Scale. Univariate and multivariable hierarchical regression analyses based on the social-ecological model were conducted to explore factors associated with HIV-related stigma and its four dimensions (personalized stigma, disclosure concerns, negative self-image and concerns about public attitudes) at the community/hospital, interpersonal, and individual levels.ResultsA moderate level of HIV-related stigma was found among the 360 participants included, with a mean score of 45.26. Multivariable hierarchical regression analysis showed that at the community/hospital-level, individuals were more likely to experience high levels of HIV-related stigma if they had experienced the discriminatory behaviors from health care workers (aOR = 2.34, 95%CI: 1.48–3.70) and if they rated serostatus disclosure services as less helpful (aOR = 0.69, 95%CI: 0.48–0.98). At the interpersonal-level, individuals with an HIV-positive partner (aOR = 1.71, 95%CI: 1.01–2.90) were more likely to experience high levels of HIV-related stigma than those with an HIV-negative or unknown partner. Individuals with high resilience (aOR = 0.22, 95%CI: 0.13–0.35) had lower levels of HIV-related stigma at the individual-level. In addition, ever experiencing discriminatory behaviors from health care workers, thinking serostatus disclosure services helpful, having ever seen publicity about personal interest protection services and complaint channels for people living with HIV(PLHIV), knowing about care and support services for PLHIV from social organizations at the community/hospital-level, partner notification and support at the interpersonal-level, and violations of personal interests, resilience at the individual-level were also associated with different dimensions of HIV-related stigma.ConclusionsHIV-related stigma was moderate among women living with HIV. The social-ecological model can facilitate a better understanding of factors associated with HIV-related stigma. Multilevel intervention strategies need to be tailored to reduce HIV-related stigma.

Behind the mask: Stuttering, anxiety, and communication dynamics in the era of COVID-19.

While wearing masks during the pandemic poses communication and social challenges for people in everyday life, those with social anxiety might find them plausible, aligning with contemporary cognitive theories. Social anxiety involves fearing negative assessments and holding a negative self-image. Concealing anxiety symptoms during mask use may contribute to a more positive self-perception. Given that up to 60% of adults seeking stuttering treatment also meet criteria for social anxiety disorder, this study aims to investigate the complex relationship between communication freedom, self-perceived stuttering and anxiety in adults who stutter (AWS). The unique context of mandatory mask-wearing during the pandemic provides an opportunity to explore these dynamics and understand the conflicting relationships between stuttering, anxiety-related safety behaviours and the need for open communication in AWS. Twenty AWS participated in interviews, responding to open-ended questions to elucidate their affective, cognitive and behavioural experiences while wearing masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thematic analysis was used to identify the emerging themes and subthemes based on information-rich quotes, employing a six-phase recursive process. Various speech and anxiety-related measures were used to describe the characteristics of the study participants. Three main themes and sub-themes emerged. The first theme highlights communication challenges for AWS wearing masks, impacting verbal and nonverbal interactions. The second theme reveals AWS wearing masks to conceal stuttering cues, experiencing reduced stress. The third theme indicates that, despite the comfort in concealment, most AWS prefer speaking freely without a face mask. The conflict between the desire for authentic, fluent communication and the ease of hiding stuttering symptoms poses a major dilemma for AWS. According to the results of this study, most adults who stutter prioritize open communication. However, there were some individual differences. A major factor influencing their decision was their fear of negative evaluation. What is already known on the subject The prevalence of social anxiety is higher among adults who stutter (AWS), possibly stemming from their prior negative experiences with stuttering. In response, AWS may adopt adaptive or maladaptive coping behaviours to manage stuttering and mitigate fears of negative evaluation. Maladaptive strategies, like avoiding certain communication situations, can diminish their satisfaction with everyday speaking situations. What this study adds This study leveraged the mask-wearing mandate during the pandemic to explore the intricate relationship between anxiety-related symptoms and communication. While some participants saw masks as a plausible means to conceal stuttering and anxiety, most preferred open communication without the challenges posed by masks. Our findings offer additional support for the varied emotional, cognitive and behavioural responses that AWS may display in response to changes in daily life, emphasizing the individual differences within this population and highlighting that stuttering goes beyond observable speech dysfluencies. What are the clinical implications of this work? Our study underscores the need for comprehensive therapeutic interventions addressing both the physical and cognitive-emotional aspects of stuttering in AWS. Recognizing the role of safety behaviours and self-focused attention emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach, enhancing communication efficacy and social well-being for AWS. Addressing speech fluency alone, without considering pertinent cognitive-emotional factors, falls short in providing adequate stuttering treatment.

HUBUNGAN PEER GROUP SUPPORT DENGAN CITRA TUBUH PADA REMAJA DI SMAN 1 BESUKI

A teenager is someone who experiences a period of behavioral change, both psychological and developmental. Adolescents are a vulnerable population aged 10-19 years (WHO, 2014). Physical changes experienced by adolescent boys and girls include the development of pubic hair, increasing voice, etc. . The aim of this research is to determine the relationship between peer group support and body image in adolescents at SMAN 1 Besuki. This research design uses a correlation design with a cross sectional approach. The population of this study was 154 respondents. The sampling technique uses random sampling. The data collection technique uses a questionnaire. The research found that peer group support with low support had a value of 32 (88.9%), the majority had adequate body image, peer group support with moderate support had a value of 59 (51.8%) the majority had adequate body image, peer group support with high support. The majority of those with a score of 4 (100.0%) have a good body image. The statistical test results show p value = 0.00 &lt; 0.05 using the Spearman Rank Rho' test. These results mean that H1 is accepted with a correlation coefficient (r) = 0.434, which shows that there is a significant relationship between peer group support and body image in teenagers at SMAN 1 Besuki. Teenagers who have a negative self-image make them experience many problems with themselves. The existence of peers among teenagers is very important. Because good peer acceptance will create positive behavior. Teenagers should never feel insecure about themselves so as to increase their positive feelings about their appearance. As peers, we must support and support each other.

Curve Progression and Clinical Outcomes in Pregnant Females with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Prior reviews investigating the impact of pregnancy on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) have reached different conclusions and a meta-analysis of curve progression among pregnant females with AIS and its effects on clinical outcomes has not previously been performed. A comprehensive search of major bibliographic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Scopus) was conducted for articles pertaining to spinal curve progression during pregnancy among patients with AIS. Patient demographics, scoliotic curve outcomes, and patient-reported quality of life measures were extracted. Ten studies, including 857 patients with a mean age of 28.7years, were included. Before pregnancy, 42.1% had undergone spinal fusion and 59.0% had a thoracic curve. Based on prepregnancy and postpregnancy radiographs, the curve increased from 33.9°-38.5°, and meta-analysis revealed a curve progression of 3.6° (range=-5.85 to 1.25, P= 0.003), primarily arising from loss of correction in the unfused group (Unfused=-5.0, P= 0.040; Fused=-3.0, P= 0.070). At the same time, 45.9% patients reported increased low back pain and many reported a negative body self-image and limitations in sexual function. However, 5 studies noted that pregnancy and number of pregnancies were not associated with curve progression, and multiple studies identified similar quality of life-related changes in non-pregnant patients with AIS. Among unfused pregnant females with AIS, the spinal curvature increased significantly by 5.0° from before to after pregnancy. However, these changes may be independent of pregnancy status and occur with time. Such curve progression can contribute to a negative body self-image, low back pain, and functional limitations irrespective of pregnancy state.

Prevalence of HIV-related stigma among people with HIV in Switzerland: addressing the elephant in the room.

We aimed to determine the prevalence of HIV-related stigma among people with HIV (PWH) in Switzerland. A cross-sectional multicentre study nested within the Swiss HIV Cohort Study (SHCS). We included adult PWH enrolled in the SHCS, attending follow-up between March 1st, 2020, and January 31st, 2021. Inability to speak English, French, German, or Italian was the only exclusion criterion. Participants were invited to complete a validated 12-item HIV-stigma questionnaire comprising four stigma subscales (negative self-image, personalised stigma, disclosure concerns, and concerns regarding public attitudes), plus two healthcare-related stigma items. Questionnaire responses were graded using a four-point Likert-type scale, higher scores indicating higher stigma. "Non-applicable", inferring HIV-status non-disclosure, was possible for personalised stigma; stigma scores from participants answering "non-applicable" to ≥1 items were analysed separately. Factors associated with HIV-stigma were identified through multivariable linear models. Of 9643 PWH with a SHCS visit, 5563 participated in the study: 26% were female, 13% Black and 37% heterosexual; median age was 53 years (interquartile range 44-59); 2067 participants (37%) gave ≥1 "non-applicable" responses. Disclosure concerns had the highest stigma scores and were reported by 4656/5563 (84%). HIV-stigma was reported across all demographic groups. However, being female, Black, and heterosexual were independently associated with higher scores. Higher education and longer follow-up duration were associated with lower scores. Healthcare-related stigma was reported in 37% of participants. HIV-stigma was prevalent across all demographic groups. The association with being female and Black suggests that HIV-stigma accentuates pre-existing gender and race inequalities.

A path to tertiary desistance: A qualitative metasynthesis

The emergence of tertiary desistance underscores the need to go beyond the current focus on behavioral and identity/cognitive transformation in desistance research and take into account the social context that impacts desisters. This study aims to explore the experiences of people with a criminal history during the tertiary desistance phase by conducting a qualitative metasynthesis. We conducted literature searches across seven databases in January 2023: CINAHL, MEDLINE, ProQuest, PubMed, PsychINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. After screening and assessing the quality of identified qualitative studies on tertiary desistance, we selected 13 relevant studies. Our synthesis indicates that desisters commonly encounter numerous challenges due to the stigma associated with their past criminal activities, which may result in feelings of insecurity, a negative self-image, and a reluctance to socialize with others. However, once desisters are recognized and trusted by significant others and society, they utilize the recognition and trust to overcome the stigma and experience a positive change in their sense of belonging. Given that tertiary desistance is an interactive process involving both people with a criminal history and society, it falls upon society to afford them a second chance at rehabilitation and reintegration.

Stigmatization experiences of healthcare workers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review

BackgroundDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers face the stigmatization of those caring for COVID-19 patients, creating a significant social problem. Therefore, this study investigated the stigmatization of healthcare workers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsIn this scoping review study, searches were conducted from December 2019 to August 2023 in Persian and English using various databases and search engines including PubMed (Medline), Embase, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, ProQuest, Science Direct, Springer, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and national databases. The study used English keywords such as Social Stigma, Health Personnel, Healthcare Worker, Medical Staff, Medical Personal, Physicians, doctors, Nurses, nursing staff, COVID-19, and coronavirus disease 2019, and their Persian equivalents, and their Persian equivalents to explore healthcare workers’ experiences of COVID-19-related stigma.ResultsFrom a total of 12,200 search results, 77 eligible studies were included in this study. stigmatization of healthcare workers caring for COVID-19 patients was evident from the literature because of fear, misinformation, and negative self-image. Manifestations were violence and deprivation of social rights, resulting in adverse biopsychosocial, occupational, and economic consequences. This condition can affect negatively health staff themselves, their families, and society as well. Anti-stigmatization measures include informing society about the realities faced by healthcare workers, presenting an accurate and empathetic image of health workers, providing psychosocial support to health workers, and encouraging them to turn to spirituality as a coping mechanism. There are notable research gaps in comprehending the phenomenon, exploring its variations across diverse healthcare roles and cultural contexts, examining its long-term effects, and monitoring shifts in stigma perceptions over time.ConclusionThe COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the stigmatization of healthcare workers, causing mistreatment and rights violations. This stigma persists even post-pandemic, posing a psychological dilemma for caregivers. Addressing this requires comprehensive strategies, including tailored stigma prevention programs and research to understand its psychological impact.

Are Patients With Adult Traumatic Brachial Plexus Injuries Satisfied With Their Appearance?

Adult traumatic brachial plexus injuries (tBPI) are devastating physically and emotionally. In addition to the physical loss of function and pervasive neuropathic pain, patients describe difficulty with negative self-image and social relationships. Our goal was to gain an initial understanding of body image and satisfaction with appearance among tBPI patients. Among 126 patients in a prospective cohort study, 60 completed a brachial plexus injury-specific modification of the Satisfaction with Appearance survey. The survey encompasses three major domains: social discomfort because of the affected limb, interference with relationships because of the affected limb, and appearance of the affected limb. We performed a cross-sectional descriptive analysis to provide an initial understanding of these domains among brachial plexus injury patients. Among all 60 patients, nearly half (27/60, 45%) reported they are satisfied with their overall appearance. The appearance of their affected hand(s) was the body part with which patients expressed the most concern. Patients also reported feeling increasingly uncomfortable among those less familiar to them: 11/60 (18%) were uncomfortable around family, 18/60 (30%) were uncomfortable around friends, and 19/60 (32%) were uncomfortable around strangers. One-quarter (15/60, 25%) of brachial plexus injury patients agreed that their injury interfered with relationships and that their tBPI was unattractive (16/60, 27%) to others. Almost half of patients who have experienced tBPI endorse dissatisfaction with their appearance, which can subsequently interfere with their personal relationships. Further, tBPI may influence patients' comfort levels in unfamiliar social surroundings and may influence how patients feel they are perceived by others. The patient's perception of their affected limb and its influence on their daily social interactions should be recognized by their tBPI care team, noting opportunities for improved counseling.

Does Resilience Mediate the Relationship Between Negative Self-Image and Psychological Distress in Middle-Aged and Older Gay and Bisexual Men?

Aging gay and bisexual men may have negative self-images due to body image dissatisfaction and internalized ageism, resulting in psychological distress. Gay and bisexual men with HIV may be at greater risk for distress because of research linking HIV to accelerated aging. We examined associations between self-image and psychological distress, and potential mediating effects (resilience, fitness engagement), and whether these relationships were moderated by HIV serostatus. We tested our hypotheses with structural equation modeling using data from gay and bisexual men with HIV (n = 525, Mage = 57.6) and without HIV (n = 501, Mage = 62.2). We observed significant positive associations between self-image and distress and significant mediation effects (resilience, fitness engagement) that were moderated by HIV serostatus (resilience was only significant for men with HIV). We conclude that resilience interventions may be beneficial in alleviating distress from negative self-image among aging gay and bisexual men with HIV.

Male genital self-image, premature ejaculation, and affecting factors.

Negative genital self-image is associated with sexual unresponsiveness and dysfunction. This study aims to determine the relationship between men's genital self-image and premature ejaculation, with identifying influencing factors. The research is designed as a descriptive and correlational study. The sample consists of 188 men aged 18 to 60 years who volunteered to participate in the study. A negative correlation was observed between genital self-image and premature ejaculation (P < .05). The average age of the participating men was 39.5 ± 9.79 years (mean ± SD), with 91.5% being married. The average age of the participants' first sexual encounter was 20.43 ± 4.01 years, and 38.3% reported experiencing premature ejaculation. The mean score for the Male Genital Self-image Scale was 21.10 ± 5.59, and that for the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool was 6.96 ± 3.73. As a result of the study, it was revealed that participants who experienced premature ejaculation were not at peace with their bodies and were dissatisfied with their sexual experiences and their genital size and function, with significantly lower levels of genital self-image (P < .05). Identifying factors that affect men's genital self-image is crucial for maintaining sexual functions. In Turkey, sexuality is a taboo subject, often considered shameful and rarely discussed, making it challenging to find participants willing to engage in research. Men's genital self-image influences the characteristics of premature ejaculation.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT AND SYMPTOMS OF CPTSD IN VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Objective. The article is devoted to the peculiarities of traumatization of persons affected by domestic violence. The subject is the nature of the relationship between perceived social support (PSS) and symptoms of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) for the development of methods of helping victims of domestic violence. Long-term traumatic impact on the injured person from a significant loved one, in the absence of adequate and sufficient social support, can manifest itself in re-experiencing, hypervigilance, emotional dysregulation, the formation of a negative self-image, and disturbances in close relationships. Methodology. The study was carried out using the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). 99 people aged 18 to 61 years old with experience of domestic violence were interviewed. The methods used were descriptive analysis, checking the normality of variables using the Kolmagorov-Smirnov test, and C. Spearman’s correlation analysis. Results. Individuals with more severe CPTSD symptoms were found to demonstrate lower levels of PSS. Therefore, to minimize the symptoms of CPTSD, it is advisable to develop skills related to social interaction and building close relationships. Practical implications. The results are applicable in the process of providing crisis and rehabilitation psychological assistance to victims of domestic violence.

The prevalence of internalized stigma and its association with HIV viral suppression among fully disclosed adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV) receiving HIV care in an HIV clinic in Plateau State, Nigeria.

Internalized stigma, a condition characterized by negative self-stereotyping and social alienation, recently impacted the adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYLHIV) epidemic curve and treatment adherence. While prior research has focused on the impact of internalized stigma among adults living with HIV, few studies focused on this AYLHIV. The study aims to determine internalized stigma proportion and its relationship to HIV viral suppression in AYLHIV. A cross-sectional study involved 93 fully disclosed AYLHIV receiving HIV care in Faith Alive Foundation in Jos North, Plateau State, from January to March 2023. Internalized stigma was measured using the adapted Berger HIV Stigma Scale under the domains personalized stigma (18 item questions) and negative self-image subscales (13 item questions), measured on a 4-scale of strongly disagree (1), disagree (2), agree (3), and strongly agree (4). Scores summed up to give the domain composite score with a maximum obtainable score of 72 for personalized stigma and 52 for negative self-image. A total of 93 respondents, female-63 (68%) and male-30 (32%), were involved in the study and their mean age at full disclosure was 15.7 ± 2.8 years. During the study their mean age was 19.5 ± 5.4 years, with 62% (58) ages 10-19 years and 38% (35) ages 20-26 years. Furthermore, 70% of the participants had secondary educational status, 77% had viral load results <1000 copies/ml), and 57% were on ART for up to 6 years. The average scores for personalized and negative self-image were 36.3 and 28.9, with 53% (49/93) and 52% (48/93) scoring higher than the average respectively. Further subclassification of the participants by the presence of internalized stigma domains reported 62% (58/93) with both domains, 20% (19/93) with at least one domain, and 38% (35/93) with none of the domains. Negative self-image stigma was reported more among participants 10-19 years (63%), male (31%), of secondary educational level (71%), virally unsuppressed (23%), and ≤ 6 years on ART (42%). On the other hand, personalized stigma was more among the female participants (73%), ages 20-29 years (41%), educational level (6% and 27% had primary and tertiary level of education respectively), virally suppressed (80%), and up to 6 years on ART (63%). The correlation between the internalized stigma domains and suppressed viral load using a binary multivariate regression method at 95% CI and a p-value of 0.05 was not statistically significant with personalized stigma (p = 0.73) and negative self-image (p = 0.92). The adjusted odds ratio of having internalized stigma among the virally suppressed were personalized stigmas [OR; 1.21, 95% CI; 0.42-3.47] and that of negative self-image [OR; 1.06, 95% CI; 0.38-2.95]. This study showed a high proportion of internalized stigma among females, ages 10-19 years, and virally suppressed with more odds for personalized stigma domain. However, the study reported no statistically significant association between internalized stigma domains and viral suppression.

SELF-IMAGE AND SELF-ESTEEM IN CHILDREN WITH DYSLEXIA

Children with dyslexia often face challenges beyond academic performance, which can lead to negative self-perceptions and reduced self-esteem. The association between self-image and self-esteem was assessed in the current study of sixty children with dyslexia (boys = 36, girls = 24). It was assumed that the self-image and self-esteem of children with dyslexia were directly associated with dyslexia. It was also hypothesized that children with dyslexia would have a negative self-image and low self-esteem. Children of 7-12 years (M = 9.7 SD = 1.66) were recruited from English medium schools of Faisalabad for the study. The Bangor Dyslexia Test was used as a quick screening device for finding out whether the subject’s difficulties were or were not typically dyslexic. Urdu version of Self Image Profile (Butler, 1998) was administered to children to find their self-image (positive and negative) and self-esteem (low and high). The results suggested that most children with dyslexia had a negative self-image and low self-esteem. Results depicted that 63 % of the sample had a negative self-image and 60 % of the sample had low self-esteem. Boys showed more negative self-image than girls; on the contrary, girls showed lower self-esteem than boys. It was concluded that children with dyslexia showed a negative self-image and low self-esteem. The findings of the current study might be helpful for the parents and the school teachers to get acquainted with the issue of dyslexia in the school population and its impact on their academic performance.

Group Intervention Program to Facilitate Post-Traumatic Growth and Reduce Stigma in HIV.

Background: Research on post-traumatic growth (PTG) and HIV is scarce and the relationship between PTG and stigma is controversial. Group psychotherapeutic interventions to facilitate PTG in clinical samples are effective but none exist to simultaneously decrease stigma in the HIV population. The main objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention in increasing PTG and decreasing stigma in HIV, as well as to explore relationships between the variables. Methods: Quasi-experimental design with a sample of 42 HIV-positive adults (M = 46.26, SD = 11.90). The experimental group (EG) was subjected to a 9-week group intervention. Instruments: CBI, PTGI-X, PSS-10, HIV stigma, emotional expression, HIV stress indicators, HIV literacy, and skills. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to assess the relationship between the variables. Results: There was an increase in PTG and a significant decrease in stigma in all domains and subscales in the EG. Compared to the control group, stigma (t(42) = -3.040, p = 0.004) and negative self-image (W = -2.937, p = 0.003) were significant, showing the efficacy of the intervention. Discussion: The intervention demonstrated success in facilitating PTG, attesting that in order to increase PTG, personal strength, and spiritual change, it is necessary to reduce stigma and negative self-image. The research provides more information on group interventions for PTG in HIV, relationships between variables, and population-specific knowledge for professionals.

Guilt and Shame in Patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

Introduction: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a tremendous psychiatric illness with a variety of severe symptoms. Feelings of shame and guilt are universal social emotions that fundamentally shape the way people interact with each other. Mental illness is therefore often related to pronounced feelings of shame and guilt in a maladaptive form. Methods: A total of 62 participants (38 women and 24 men) were clinically and psychometrically investigated. Results: The OCD patients (n = 31) showed a maladaptive guilt and shame profile, characterized by increased interpersonal feelings of guilt accompanied by a stronger tendency to self-criticism and increased punitive sense of guilt with a simultaneous prevailing tendency to perfectionism, as well as an increased concern for the suffering of others. The proneness to profuse shame in OCD patients seems to be in the context of the violation of inner values and a negative self-image with persistent self-criticism. Conclusion: Although there are limitations with a small sample size in this monocentric approach, our study underlines the importance of an individual consideration of the leading obsessive-compulsive symptomatology, especially in the context of very personal feelings of guilt and shame. Further multidimensional studies on guilt and shame could contribute to their implementation more strongly in individualized psychotherapy.

Perceptions of fatherhood among people displaced by war in the southern Philippines

ABSTRACT This study interrogates the experiences of people in conflict-induced internal displacement, specifically, among the internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the southern Philippines. The interest is to describe and examine how IDPs, particularly male parents, navigate their families through the hardships of being uprooted from their traditional communities because of war. The study was participated by 13 Maranao Muslim IDP fathers through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews. Findings revealed three major themes; the paternal miseries in displacement, perceptions of paternal roles, and the consequences of displacement-induced poverty on self-perceptions of fatherhood. The findings show that being continually confronted by unfulfilled roles together with an underlying social expectation attached to gender, fathering not only becomes a difficult task to accomplish but is also creating a negative self-image of fatherhood.

Comparing Symptoms of Major Depression in Youth with Confirmed Versus Suspected Bipolar Disorder.

Background: While numerous studies have compared symptoms of major depressive episodes (MDEs) associated with bipolar disorder (BD; i.e., bipolar depression) versus major depressive disorder (MDD; i.e., unipolar depression), little is known about this topic in youth. We compared MDE symptoms in youth with BD with youth with suspected BD who have similar clinical and familial characteristics aside from having BD. Methods: MDE symptoms based on Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School Age Children (K-SADS) Depression Rating Scale items for the most severe past episode were compared in youth, ages 13-21 years, with BD (n = 208) versus suspected BD (n = 165). Diagnoses were confirmed via semistructured interviews. Symptoms with between-group differences (p < 0.05) in univariate analyses were evaluated in a multivariate forward stepwise regression. All analyses controlled for age and sex. Results: Youth with BD had significantly higher (more severe) ratings on depressed mood (p = 0.001, η2 = 0.05), irritability (p = 0.037, η2 = 0.02), anhedonia (p = 0.004, η2 = 0.04), negative self-image (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.07), hopelessness (p = 0.04, η2 = 0.02), fatigue (p = 0.001, η2 = 0.05), hypersomnia (p = 0.001, η2 = 0.05), suicidal ideation (p = 0.04, η2 = 0.02), and recurrent thoughts of death (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.05). In regression analyses, the only symptom that remained significant in the BD group was depressed mood (p = 0.002). Conclusions: These findings demonstrate greater severity of depressive symptoms in youth with BD versus MDD across mood, and cognitive and neurovegetative symptom domains. These differences are especially noteworthy given that the MDD group was highly similar to the BD group, aside from BD diagnosis. Present findings emphasize the need for novel treatment approaches to bipolar depression in youth, and for studies examining potential mechanisms underlying the increased severity of bipolar depression.

Do attachment styles influence the sexual function of an individual?

IntroductionAttachment theory, first proposed by John Bowlby and later extended by Mary Ainsworth and others, outlines how experiences of early childhood attachment with caregivers can affect one’s emotional and interpersonal relationships throughout adulthood. Typically, attachment styles are categorised into four main types: secure, anxious-ambivalent, avoidant and disorganised. Conversely, it is recognised that various biological, psychological, relational, social and iatrogenic factors elements can impact an individual’s sexual function.ObjectivesOur aim with this research was to present the most current literature on whether there is a correlation between attachment styles and sexual function.MethodsWe conducted a non-systematic review on the topic using PubMed and PsycInfo.ResultsThere is evidence indicating a link between attachment styles and sexual function.People with secure attachment styles tend to experience more positive and fulfilling sexual relationships. Such individuals typically have a more positive self-image, they feel at ease with emotional intimacy, and are therefore able to openly communicate their needs and desires. They exhibit a healthy balance between seeking closeness and maintaining independence.Individuals with anxious attachment styles may experience heightened levels of sexual anxiety and insecurity. Concerns regarding rejection or abandonment within sexual relationships may impact their sexual function and satisfaction. These individuals usually have a negative self-image and may be more prone to seek reassurance and validation through sexual activities.People with avoidant attachment styles may encounter obstacles in developing emotional intimacy and closeness, which can negatively affect their sexual relationships. Such individuals might experience commitment anxiety and prioritise physical aspects of sexual activity over emotional bonding, ultimately decreasing sexual satisfaction for both them and their partners.Disorganised attachment styles are linked with challenges in regulating their emotions and behaviours in intimate situations, which can have a negative impact on sexual function and satisfaction.ConclusionsWhile the literature proposes attachment styles may impact sexual function, it is important to acknowledge other factors that contribute to sexual function. In addition to biological and iatrogenic factors, individual personality, relationship dynamics, past experiences, and cultural influences all have a significant role in shaping one’s sexual behaviour and satisfaction. All of these should be addressed in order to alleviate sexual difficulties.Moreover, attachment styles may develop and change over time through positive relationships and therapeutic interventions, potentially leading to changes in one’s sexual functioning and relationship dynamics.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

The Impact of Psychotropics on Sexuality: A Literature Review

IntroductionSexual dysfunctions related to psychotropic drugs are among the most distressing adverse effects and can lead to non-adherence to treatment.ObjectivesTo elucidate the mechanisms of psychotropic-induced sexual dysfunctions and to suggest strategies for their management.Methods Literature review based on the keywords “psychotropics,” “sexuality,” and “sexual dysfunction”.ResultsPsychotropic medications can impact sexuality either directly or indirectly. The direct effect is primarily due to a decrease in the mesocortical dopaminergic atmosphere, either by blocking D2 receptors or by stimulating 5HT2A receptors. D2 receptor blockade in the tubero-infundibular pathway triggers an increase in prolactin secretion, which can subsequently lead to erection problems, decreased libido, and difficulties achieving orgasm. Action in the nigrostriatal pathway may result in an extrapyramidal syndrome, which can, in turn, hinder intimate physical relations. The indirect effect can also be caused by metabolic complications, which are significant risk factors for sexual dysfunction, as they can lead to male hypogonadism and a negative self-image.Therapeutic strategies suggest either reducing doses (if the patient’s condition allows), changing the drug, or adding an adjunctive medication. Aripiprazole, being a partial agonist of D2 and 5-HT1A receptors and an antagonist of D3 and 5-HT2A receptors, appears to cause fewer sexual dysfunctions and can reduce hyperprolactinemia when added to other antipsychotics.ConclusionsHealthcare professionals must proactively gather information on sexuality given its impact on quality of life and treatment adherence. Prioritizing this dimension of well-being demonstrates a respectful approach toward the patient and establishes the foundation for a strong therapeutic alliance.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared