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Dyar C, Crosby S, Newcomb ME, Mustanski B, Kaysen D. Doomscrolling: Prospective associations between daily COVID news exposure, internalizing symptoms, and substance use among sexual and gender minority individuals assigned female at birth. PSYCHOLOGY OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION AND GENDER DIVERSITY 2024; 11:139-152. [PMID: 38737889 PMCID: PMC11081596 DOI: 10.1037/sgd0000585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Cross-sectional studies have demonstrated associations between COVID news exposure, anxiety, and depression. However, longitudinal research examining the directionality of these associations is extremely limited. Further, most studies have focused on the general population and neglected sexual and gender minority individuals (SGM), a population disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. To address these limitations, the current study utilized data from a 30-day diary study of SGM assigned female at birth (N = 429). We examined concurrent and prospective associations between COVID news exposure, depressed and anxious affect, COVID distress, substance use, and motives for use. Further, we examined associations between cumulative COVID news exposure across the diary period and prospective changes in anxiety, depression, and COVID distress. When participants were exposed to more COVID news, they experienced more depressed and anxious affect, more COVID distress, less positive affect, and were more likely to use alcohol and cannabis to cope. Further, when participants were exposed to more COVID news, they experienced subsequent increases in depressed affect, decreases in positive affect, and increases in the likelihood of using cannabis to cope. Findings also provided evidence of bi-directional prospective associations between COVID news exposure and COVID distress and of a cumulative impact of COVID news exposure on anxiety, depression, and COVID distress. Findings suggest that individuals should balance the need to remain informed about the pandemic and their own mental health when considering how much COVID news to consume.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michael E. Newcomb
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
| | - Debra Kaysen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine
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2
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Šalčiūnaitė-Nikonovė L, Žemaitaitytė M, Šmigelskas K. Exploring the Prevalence and Predictors of Anxiety among Lithuanian Adolescents during Times of Crisis: A Cross-Sectional Study. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 11:32. [PMID: 38255346 PMCID: PMC10814592 DOI: 10.3390/children11010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Recent events in Europe, like the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 Russo-Ukrainian War (RUW), might have sparked anxiety among adolescents. This study aimed to compare anxiety levels in Lithuanian adolescents post-COVID-19 peak (Study 1, October 2021) and during the onset of the RUW (Study 2, April-June 2022). Data from 459 participants in Study 1 and 6637 in Study 2, aged 11-17, were collected through HBSC pilot and national surveys in Lithuania. Self-reported questionnaires assessed anxiety, social media use, stress, loneliness, self-efficacy, and peer support factors. Analysis was conducted using multivariable logistic regressions. Notably, anxiety prevalence in Lithuanian adolescents showed no significant difference between Study 1 and Study 2, stabilizing around 24%. In 2021, stress (OR = 5.89, 95% CI 3.11-11.17), problematic social media use (OR = 4.58, 95% CI 1.89-10.58), and female gender (OR = 2.87, 95% CI 1.58-5.22) significantly predicted anxiety. By 2022, stress (OR = 3.68, 95% CI 3.14-4.30), loneliness (OR = 2.85, 95% CI 2.43-3.35), and lower self-efficacy (OR = 1.40, 95% CI 1.20-1.60) emerged as important predictors. This study enhances our understanding of adolescent anxiety during crises, emphasizing the urgency of addressing multiple factors to manage and support vulnerable youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Šalčiūnaitė-Nikonovė
- Health Research Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Health Psychology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Monika Žemaitaitytė
- Health Research Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Kastytis Šmigelskas
- Health Research Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Health Psychology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-47181 Kaunas, Lithuania
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3
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Malecki WP, Bilandzic H, Kowal M, Sorokowski P. Media experiences during the Ukraine war and their relationships with distress, anxiety, and resilience. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 165:273-281. [PMID: 37549502 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the relationships between perceiving media as a positive or negative influence (both news media and fictional media) during the war in Ukraine in 2022 and anxiety, distress, and resilience. Corroborating existing research, our study (N = 393, 47.3% male) showed that there was a clear relationship between the perceived negative impact of both news and fictional media during the war and increased symptoms of anxiety (b = .09, SE = 0.04, p = .024; b = 0.16, SE = 0.04, p < .001, respectively) and distress (b = 0.08, SE = 0.04, p = .047; b = 0.17, SE = 0.04, p < .001, respectively) as well as lowered psychological resilience (b = -0.10, SE = 0.05, p = .047; b = -0.15, SE = 0.06, p = .009, respectively). The study is the first to demonstrate this association for fictional media. Contrary to expectations, however, the perception of a positive impact of both news and fiction was not associated with decreased symptoms of anxiety and distress or higher resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- W P Malecki
- Faculty of Philology, University of Wrocław, Plac Nankiera 15, 50-140, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Helena Bilandzic
- Department for Media, Knowledge and Communication, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstr. 10, 86159, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Marta Kowal
- Scientific Excellence Incubator 'Being Human', University of Wrocław, Plac Uniwersytecki 1, 50-137, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Piotr Sorokowski
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Dawida 1, 50-527, Wrocław, Poland
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4
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Li Y, Zhi W, Qi B, Wang L, Hu X. Update on neurobiological mechanisms of fear: illuminating the direction of mechanism exploration and treatment development of trauma and fear-related disorders. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1216524. [PMID: 37600761 PMCID: PMC10433239 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1216524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Fear refers to an adaptive response in the face of danger, and the formed fear memory acts as a warning when the individual faces a dangerous situation again, which is of great significance to the survival of humans and animals. Excessive fear response caused by abnormal fear memory can lead to neuropsychiatric disorders. Fear memory has been studied for a long time, which is of a certain guiding effect on the treatment of fear-related disorders. With continuous technological innovations, the study of fear has gradually shifted from the level of brain regions to deeper neural (micro) circuits between brain regions and even within single brain regions, as well as molecular mechanisms. This article briefly outlines the basic knowledge of fear memory and reviews the neurobiological mechanisms of fear extinction and relapse, which aims to provide new insights for future basic research on fear emotions and new ideas for treating trauma and fear-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- College of Education, Hebei University, Baoding, China
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Weijia Zhi
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Bing Qi
- College of Education, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| | - Lifeng Wang
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangjun Hu
- College of Education, Hebei University, Baoding, China
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathology, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
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Jović M, Šubelj L, Golob T, Makarovič M, Yasseri T, Krstićev DB, Škrbić S, Levnajić Z. Terrorist attacks sharpen the binary perception of "Us" vs. "Them". Sci Rep 2023; 13:12451. [PMID: 37528134 PMCID: PMC10394060 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39035-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Terrorist attacks not only harm citizens but also shift their attention, which has long-lasting impacts on public opinion and government policies. Yet measuring the changes in public attention beyond media coverage has been methodologically challenging. Here we approach this problem by starting from Wikipedia's répertoire of 5.8 million articles and a sample of 15 recent terrorist attacks. We deploy a complex exclusion procedure to identify topics and themes that consistently received a significant increase in attention due to these incidents. Examining their contents reveals a clear picture: terrorist attacks foster establishing a sharp boundary between "Us" (the target society) and "Them" (the terrorist as the enemy). In the midst of this, one seeks to construct identities of both sides. This triggers curiosity to learn more about "Them" and soul-search for a clearer understanding of "Us". This systematic analysis of public reactions to disruptive events could help mitigate their societal consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Jović
- Department of Mathematics and Informatics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Lovro Šubelj
- Faculty of Computer and Information Science, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tea Golob
- School of Advanced Social Studies, Nova Gorica, Slovenia
- Faculty of Information Studies in Novo Mesto, Novo Mesto, Slovenia
| | - Matej Makarovič
- School of Advanced Social Studies, Nova Gorica, Slovenia
- Faculty of Information Studies in Novo Mesto, Novo Mesto, Slovenia
| | - Taha Yasseri
- School of Sociology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Geary Institute for Public Policy, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Danijela Boberić Krstićev
- Department of Mathematics and Informatics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Srdjan Škrbić
- Department of Mathematics and Informatics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia
- Faculty of Information Studies in Novo Mesto, Novo Mesto, Slovenia
| | - Zoran Levnajić
- Faculty of Information Studies in Novo Mesto, Novo Mesto, Slovenia.
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La Greca AM, Burdette ET, Brodar KE. Climate change and extreme weather disasters: evacuation stress is associated with youths' somatic complaints. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1196419. [PMID: 37425189 PMCID: PMC10323363 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1196419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Climate-change has brought about more frequent extreme-weather events (e.g., hurricanes, floods, and wildfires) that may require families to evacuate, without knowing precisely where and when the potential disaster will strike. Recent research indicates that evacuation is stressful for families and is associated with psychological distress. Yet, little is known about the potential impact of evacuation stressors on child health. After Hurricane Irma, which led to a mass evacuation in Florida, we examined whether evacuation stressors and hurricane exposure were uniquely associated with youth somatic complaints, and whether youth psychological distress (i.e., symptoms of posttraumatic stress, anxiety, and depression) served as a potential mediating pathway between evacuation stressors, hurricane experiences, and somatic complaints. Method Three months after Irma, 226 mothers of youth aged 7-17 years (N=226; M age = 9.76 years; 52% boys; 31% Hispanic) living in the five southernmost Florida counties reported on evacuation stressors, hurricane-related life threat and loss/disruption, and their child's psychological distress and somatic complaints using standardized measures. Results Structural equation modeling revealed a good model fit (χ2 = 32.24, p = 0.003, CFI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.08, SRMR = 0.04). Even controlling for life-threatening hurricane experiences (β = 0.26) and hurricane loss and disruption (β = 0.26), greater evacuation stressors were associated with greater symptoms of youth psychological distress (β = 0.34; p's < 0.001), and greater psychological distress was associated with more somatic complaints (β = 0.67; p < 0.001). Indirect effects revealed that evacuation stressors (p < 0.001), actual life-threatening events (p < 0.01), and loss and disruption (p < 0.01) were all uniquely and indirectly associated with youths' somatic complaints via youth psychological distress. Discussion Findings suggest that even coping with the threat of a disaster may be sufficient to prompt psychological and physical health symptoms in youth. Due in part to climate change, threats of disaster occur much more often than actual disaster exposure, especially for areas that are prone to hurricanes or wildfires. Preparing youth and families residing in vulnerable areas for potential disaster evacuation or sheltering-in-place appears critical. Encouraging families to develop Disaster Plans and teaching stress management skills may reduce both youth distress and somatic health problems.
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Li H, He X, Hu TY, Xie X. Past lesson works: SARS memory moderates the relationship between media use and protective behavior during COVID-19 pandemic in China. J Health Psychol 2023; 28:203-215. [PMID: 35733346 PMCID: PMC9982424 DOI: 10.1177/13591053221105349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has become one of the top global health concerns. The present research examined the relationship between media use and protective behavior. The moderating role of SARS memory was also examined. A cross-sectional study found that media use was associated with more protective behaviors (i.e. preventive behavior, and avoidant behavior). We further found that SARS memory moderated the association between media use and avoidant behavior. Moreover, the moderating role of SARS memory on the relationship between daily media use and daily protective behavior was again tested using a daily design in Study 2. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
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Riad A, Drobov A, Alkasaby MA, Peřina A, Koščík M. Nuclear Anxiety Amid the Russian-Ukrainian War 2022 (RUW-22): Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3551. [PMID: 36834256 PMCID: PMC9962827 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear anxiety, which refers to the fear of nuclear war and its consequences, is expected to increase amid the Russian-Ukrainian War of 2022 (RUW-22). This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of nuclear anxiety and its associated variables among university students in the Czech Republic during the first weeks of RUW-22. A cross-sectional survey-based study was carried out from March-April 2022, utilizing a digital self-administered questionnaire (SAQ) to collect data from the target population. The SAQ consisted of multiple-choice items inquiring about demographic characteristics; generalized anxiety symptoms using generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7); depressive symptoms using patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9); and attitudes towards civilian uses of nuclear power, and nuclear war-related anxiety. Of the 591 participating students, 67.7% were females, 68.2% were Czech nationals, and 61.8% followed the RUW-22 news at least once daily. The mean GAD-7 score of our participants was 7.86 ± 5.32 (0-21); and their mean PHQ-9 score was 8.66 ± 6.29 (0-27). Regarding the civilian uses of nuclear power, most participants agreed that nuclear power was safe (64.5%), denied being afraid that civilian use of nuclear power might deteriorate their health (79.7%), and thought that public acceptance was important for building new nuclear power plants (56.9%). About 42.1% and 45.5% of the participants reported feeling depressed at the possibility of nuclear war and agreed that the chances that there would be a nuclear war in their lifetime were very high, respectively. When asked about their preparedness measures during the previous four weeks, less than one quarter (23.9%) reported looking for recommendations for protection against nuclear accidents, and less than one-fifth (19.3%) were looking for the nearest bomb shelter. The depression about nuclear war possibility was positively and relatively strongly correlated with the level of "feeling concerned about the RUW-22" (rs = 0.401), and it was moderately correlated with GAD-7 (rs = 0.377) and PHQ-9 (rs = 0.274) scores and weakly correlated with RUW-2-related news-following frequency (rs = 0.196). Within the limitations of the present study, nuclear anxiety was common among Czech university students. Its associated factors may include but are not limited to the female gender; common psychological disorders such as generalized anxiety and depression; RUW-22-related news following-frequency; and the level of "feeling concerned".
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Affiliation(s)
- Abanoub Riad
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Anton Drobov
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | | | - Aleš Peřina
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Koščík
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
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Zhang S, Zhang Y, Xue D, Zhang H, Chao M, Liu T. What Are the Differences in Psychological Outcomes Between People Who Posted COVID-19-Related Content on Social Media and Those Who Did Not? Psychiatry Investig 2023; 20:43-51. [PMID: 36721885 PMCID: PMC9890044 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2022.0146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE During the lockdown of cities and home quarantine, media became the only way for people to conveniently get coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19)-related information. And media engagement was closely related to psychological outcomes. But fewer researchers took COVID-19-related posting behaviors into consideration. Therefore, the present study aimed at examining the differences in psychological outcomes between people who posted COVID-19-related content on social media and those who did not. METHODS The present study included 917 participants (304 males, 613 females) who had answered the questionnaires of media engagement, positive affect, negative affect, depression, anxiety, stress, satisfaction with life, death anxiety, and meaning in life. RESULTS Results of t-tests showed that the Post group had lower levels of negative affect, anxiety, stress, and death anxiety than the Not Post (Npost) group. Network comparison tests indicated that the Npost group's network and the Post group's network differed in global strength, two edge-weights, and node centrality indices. CONCLUSION The results indicated that more attention should be paid to people who did not post any COVID-19-related content, especially when they have higher levels of stress and depression to prevent comorbidities. And for people who posted content, more attention should be paid when they have a higher level of negative affect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanwen Zhang
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students' Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China
| | - Dini Xue
- Institute of Developmental Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students' Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China
| | - Miao Chao
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students' Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China
| | - Tour Liu
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students' Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China
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10
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Wu Y, An Z, Lin Y, Zhang J, Jing B, Peng K. Social media use, uncertainty, and negative affect in times of pandemic crisis. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231181227. [PMID: 37334319 PMCID: PMC10272698 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231181227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective A common assertion in the social media literature is that passive media use undermines affective wellbeing, and active media use enhances it. The present study investigated the effects of social media use on negative affective wellbeing during pandemic crises and examined the mechanism underlying these effects through perceived uncertainty. Methods Three studies were conducted during the Delta variant phase in the post-peak period of the COVID-19 pandemic in China. Participants were recruited from the medium-high-risk infection areas in late August 2022. Study 1 used a cross-sectional survey to explore the relationships between social media use, uncertainty, and negative affect during the pandemic crisis. Study 2 employed a repeated-measures experiment to demonstrate how social media use and (un)certainty impact negative affect. Study 3 utilized a one-week experience sampling design to examine the role of uncertainty in the relationship between social media use and negative affect in real life. Results Despite some inconsistencies regarding social media use's direct effect on negative affect, across the three studies, perceived uncertainty was critical in linking pandemic-related social media use to individuals' negative affect, particularly for passive use. Conclusions The relationships between social media use and affective wellbeing are complex and dynamic. While the perception of uncertainty provided an underlying mechanism that links social media use to individuals' affective wellbeing, this mechanism may be further moderated by individual-level factors. More research is needed as we seek to understand how social media use impacts affective wellbeing in uncertain contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Wu
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zihao An
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yi Lin
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jingyue Zhang
- College of Letters and Science, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Bo Jing
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Kaiping Peng
- Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
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11
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Bauldry S, Stainback K. Media consumption and psychological distress among older adults in the United States. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0279587. [PMID: 36584144 PMCID: PMC9803103 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The consumption of news media covering national and global events, particularly those that invoke fear or worry, such as pandemics or terrorist attacks, may affect older adults' mental wellbeing. Using the COVID-19 pandemic as a case study, this research analyzes nationally representative data from older adults in the US to address the following research questions: (1) What is the relationship between COVID-19-based media consumption and psychological distress? (2) Does any relationship between media consumption and psychological distress vary by gender, race/ethnicity, education, and marital status? Results indicate that (1) older adults who closely followed the news about the pandemic scored higher on psychological distress than those following less closely and (2) this relationship was more pronounced among Hispanic older adults. These findings are contextualized in the broader stress process model with a focus on a macro-level stressor and differential exposure and vulnerability resulting in variability in the relationship between the stressor and psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn Bauldry
- Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kevin Stainback
- Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States of America
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12
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Genest C, Bergeron N, Provost-Tremblay É, Dufour MM, Guay S, Geoffrion S. Suicidal Ideation of Healthcare Workers During COVID-19: An Ecological Momentary Assessment. SCIENCE OF NURSING AND HEALTH PRACTICES 2022. [DOI: 10.7202/1095201ar] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the psychological health of healthcare workers (HCWs). Cross-sectional studies report suicidal ideation in this population during this period, but no longitudinal study has examined the evolution of these ideas over time.
Objectives: To assess the evolution of suicidal ideation of HCWs during the first two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic among Quebec (Canada) HCWs and to identify the risk factors involved.
Methods: A longitudinal study among Quebec (Canada) HCWs using ecological momentary assessment was conducted between May 8, 2020, and March 31, 2021 (corresponding to the second half of the first wave to the end of the second). Participants (n=865) answered weekly questions related to anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), suicidal ideation (PHQ-9 Q.9), exposure to COVID-19, exposure to COVID-19-related deaths, their infection status and that of their co-workers and loved ones, as well as the amount of time they spent consuming news related to COVID-19.
Results: Proportion of suicidal ideation increased from May to June 2020 (second half of the first wave) peaking at 18% before declining up to March 2021. Anxiety and depression symptoms severity increased those ideations as well as having a colleague confirmed positive to COVID-19. Social support does not appear to be a protective factor for suicidal ideation. Suicidal thoughts are associated with media consumption and appear to be mediated by the presence of clinical distress expressed as depressive or anxiety states.
Discussion and conclusion: Media consumption in a pandemic context is associated with anxiety and depression, the more severe states of which may express suicidal ideation. Without inferring causality relationship, it seems advisable for HCWs to limit their media exposure during a disaster such as a pandemic.
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Wider W, Lim MX, Wong LS, Chan CK, Maidin SS. Should I Help? Prosocial Behaviour during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192316084. [PMID: 36498158 PMCID: PMC9741476 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192316084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The Movement Control Order (MCO) enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly altered the social life and behaviour of the Malaysian population. Because the society is facing huge social and economic challenges that need individuals to work together to solve, prosocial behaviour is regarded as one of the most important social determinants. Because it is related with individual and societal benefits, participating in prosocial activities may be a major protective factor during times of global crisis. Rather than focusing only on medical and psychiatric paradigms, perhaps all that is necessary to overcome the COVID-19 risks is for individuals to make personal sacrifices for the sake of others. In reality, a large number of initiatives proven to be beneficial in decreasing viral transmission include a trade-off between individual and collective interests. Given its crucial importance, the purpose of this concept paper is to provide some insight into prosocial behaviour during the COVID-19 period. Understanding prosocial behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial because it may assist in the establishment of a post-COVID society and provide useful strategies for coping with future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walton Wider
- Faculty of Business and Communications, INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Mei Xian Lim
- Faculty of Business and Communications, INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Ling Shing Wong
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Choon Kit Chan
- Faculty of Engineering and Quantity Surveying, INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
| | - Siti Sarah Maidin
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, Nilai 71800, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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14
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Arnaud Y, Drouin O, Borgès Da Silva R. COVID-19 related information seeking: The impact of media on parental concerns. Front Public Health 2022; 10:977634. [PMID: 36311607 PMCID: PMC9608445 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.977634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The expansion of information sources and their use has accelerated since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, sometimes provoking significant concern in the daily lives of parents. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between COVID-19 related information sources and the level of concern about COVID-19 among parents of school-aged children. Using factor analysis and hierarchical ascending classification, we constructed groups according to the information sources they used. We performed ANOVA analysis and then binomial logistic regression to compare concern levels among the groups created. Overall, the 3,459 participants were mainly women (79.2%) and 59.5% reported being between 35 and 44 years old. The mean concern score in our sample was 9.5/15 (s.d. = 3.87). The whole sample fell into three groups: (1) Traditional Media (n = 1,610), who mainly used newspapers; (2) Online Social Networks and Entourage (n = 776), who mostly consulted online social media as well as friends and family; and (3) the Unplugged (n = 1,073), who consulted few or no information sources. Compared to the Unplugged, individuals in the other two groups had a higher risk of being concerned (Traditional Media, OR = 2.2; p < 0.001; Social Networks and Entourage, OR = 3.1; p < 0.001). Communication about pandemic risk should be conveyed based on reliable information and at moderate intervals to safeguard the mental health of individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yann Arnaud
- Center for Interuniversity Research and Analysis on Organizations (CIRANO), Montreal, QC, Canada,*Correspondence: Yann Arnaud
| | - Olivier Drouin
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada,Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Roxane Borgès Da Silva
- Center for Interuniversity Research and Analysis on Organizations (CIRANO), Montreal, QC, Canada,Department of Management, Evaluation and Health Policy, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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15
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Layug A, Krishnamurthy S, McKenzie R, Feng B. The Impacts of Social Media Use and Online Racial Discrimination on Asian American Mental Health: Cross-sectional Survey in the United States During COVID-19. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e38589. [PMID: 36121698 PMCID: PMC9488547 DOI: 10.2196/38589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased social media usage has led to worsened mental health outcomes for many people. Moreover, due to the sociopolitical climate during the pandemic, the prevalence of online racial discrimination has contributed to worsening psychological well-being. With increases in anti-Asian hate, Asian and Asian American social media users may experience the negative effects of online racial discrimination in addition to the reduced psychological well-being resulting from exposure to online COVID-19 content.
Objective
This study aims to investigate the impact of COVID-19–related social media use and exposure to online racial discrimination during the pandemic on the mental health outcomes (ie, anxiety, depression, and secondary traumatic stress [STS]) of Asian Americans compared with those of non-Asian Americans. In addition, this study explores the mediating role of negative affect and the moderating role of racial/ethnic identification.
Methods
An online survey was conducted through Amazon Mechanical Turk and a university-wide research portal from March 3 to March 15, 2021. A total of 1147 participants took the survey. Participants’ social media usage related to COVID-19 and exposure to 2 online forms of racial discrimination (individual and vicarious), mental health outcomes (anxiety, depression, and STS), racial/ethnic identification, negative affect, and demographics were assessed.
Results
Our results showed that COVID-19–related social media use, individual discrimination, and vicarious discrimination were predictors of negative mental health outcomes (anxiety, depression, and STS). Asian Americans reported higher vicarious discrimination than Latinx and White Americans, but Asian Americans’ mental health outcomes did not differ substantially from those of the other racial/ethnic groups. Racial/ethnic identification moderated the relationship between both types of discrimination and STS, and negative affect served as a mediator between both types of discrimination and all 3 mental health outcomes.
Conclusions
These results suggest that social media exposure continues to have a dire effect on mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study helps to contextualize the rise of anti-Asian American hate and its impact on mental health outcomes in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyan Layug
- Department of Asian American Studies, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | | | - Rachel McKenzie
- Department of Communication, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Bo Feng
- Department of Communication, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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16
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First JM, Shin H, Figueroa-Caballero A, Okker-Edging K, Spialek ML, Houston JB. Posttraumatic Stress Related to Orlando Nightclub Shooting: LGBTQ Identity and Media Use. JOURNAL OF LOSS & TRAUMA 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2022.2116823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M. First
- College of Social Work, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Haejung Shin
- Department of Communication, University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg, Missouri, USA
| | | | - Katherine Okker-Edging
- Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - J. Brian Houston
- Department of Communication, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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17
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Li S, Young HR, Ghorbani M, Lee BY, van Knippenberg D, Johnson RE. Keeping Employees Safe During Health Crises: The Effects of Media Exposure, HR Practices, and Age. JOURNAL OF BUSINESS AND PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 38:457-472. [PMID: 35968524 PMCID: PMC9362393 DOI: 10.1007/s10869-022-09837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Occupational health and safety are critical in promoting the wellness of organizations and employees. The COVID-19 pandemic is one of the most life-threatening viruses encountered in recent history, providing a unique opportunity for research to examine factors that drive employee safety behavior. Drawing from terror management theory, we propose and test a moderated mediation model using data collected from employees working during a peak of the pandemic. We identify two sources of influence - one external (i.e., media exposure), and one internal (i.e., HR practices) to the organization - that shape employees' mortality salience and safety behaviors. We find that COVID-19 HR practices significantly moderate the relationship between daily COVID-19 media exposure and mortality salience, with media exposure positively associated with mortality salience at lower levels of HR practices but its effects substituted by higher levels of HR practices. Moreover, our results also show that mortality salience spurs safety behaviors, with age moderating this relationship such that younger - but not older - employees are more likely to engage in safety behaviors due to mortality salience. Taken together, we offer theoretical implications for the safety behavior literature and practical implications for organizations faced with health crises or having employees who commonly work in hazardous conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqi Li
- Broad College of Business, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI USA
| | - Henry R. Young
- Broad College of Business, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI USA
| | - Majid Ghorbani
- School of Business, Renmin University of China, Mingde Shangxue Lou, 59 Zhongguancun Dajie, Beijing, 100872 China
| | - Byron Y. Lee
- China Europe International Business School, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Russell E. Johnson
- Broad College of Business, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI USA
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18
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Kim H, Jhon M, Kim JW, Kang HJ, Ryu S, Kim JM, Lee JY, Kim SW. Factors Associated With Depression and Anxiety in Korean Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Psychiatry Investig 2022; 19:551-561. [PMID: 35903057 PMCID: PMC9334801 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2021.0365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was performed to identify factors associated with depression and anxiety among Korean adolescents during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of 1,898 Korean adolescents (55.2% male, 44.8% female) ranging in age from 12 to 17 years (mean±standard deviaion age, 15.4±2.6 years). Depression and anxiety were defined as a Patient Health Questionnaire-9 score ≥10 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 score ≥10, respectively. Other questionnaires included sociodemographic data, psychosocial stresses, and experiences in association with COVID-19. Psychiatric scales included Gratitude Questionnaire-6, Perceived Stress Scale-10, and UCLA Loneliness Scale-3. RESULTS The prevalence rates of depressive and anxiety symptoms among participants were 13.8% and 21.0%, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that female sex, fear of COVID-19 infection, low gratitude were risk factors for depression. Fear of COVID-19 infection, increased TV watching time, and academic-related stress were risk factors for anxiety. CONCLUSION Depression and anxiety were prevalent during the pandemic in Korean adolescents, and were associated with fear of COVID-19 infection. Providing appropriate information on COVID-19, helping adolescents manage academic-related stress and maintain daily life patterns, and implementing interventions to foster gratitude are important for preventing depression and anxiety in Korean adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honey Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jhon
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Wan Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Ju Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghyong Ryu
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Min Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Yeon Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.,Gwangju Bukgu Community Mental Health and Welfare Center, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Wan Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Republic of Korea.,Gwangju Bukgu Community Mental Health and Welfare Center, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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19
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Liu N, Ma Z. Psychiatric reactions among the non-exposed population who viewed disaster-related short videos: Evidence from the 2021 Henan floods. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 150:21-33. [PMID: 35344924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Media-triggered mental disorders are common when people experience traumatic events. However, few studies have examined the underlying mechanism of how viewing disaster-related short videos triggers psychiatric reactions among non-exposed populations in the context of today's media ecology. Moreover, limited studies have employed psychological network analysis to comprehensively disentangle the associations between diverse forms of media exposure and psychological symptoms. To fill these research gaps, we conducted a survey on a non-exposed population (N = 516) during the 2021 Henan floods to test the effects of short video exposure on its mental status. Short video exposure behaviors were measured under 12 different scenarios, and the participants' mental status (i.e., depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD]) was measured using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale, and PTSD Check List-Civilian version (PCL-C). We employed both correlation and psychological network analyses to make estimations. The descriptive results revealed that short video exposure behaviors among almost all scenarios were positively associated with the scores of PHQ-9, GAD-7, and PCL-C. The network analysis revealed that both depression and anxiety were associated with the "Support (SVP)" scenario, whereas PTSD was directly linked to the "Help Seeking (SVP)" scenario. Among the three networks, "Help Seeking (SVP)" was the most central among the 12 scenarios of short video exposure. The central symptoms for depression, anxiety, and PTSD were "Concentration," "Relax," and "Reliving Trauma," respectively. The shortest paths between the central short video exposure item and central symptom among the three networks consisted of only two or three steps. This study's findings could assist researchers and policymakers in undertaking novel disaster-related practical activities worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Liu
- Institute of Communication Studies, Communication University of China, Beijing, 100024, China
| | - Zhihao Ma
- Computational Communication Collaboratory, School of Journalism and Communication, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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20
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Zhu J, Li B, Hao F, Luo L, Yue S, Zhai J, Chen M, Liu Y, Liu D, Wang J. Gender-Specific Related Factors for Suicidal Ideation During COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown Among 5,175 Chinese Adolescents. Front Public Health 2022; 10:810101. [PMID: 35309199 PMCID: PMC8924437 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.810101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Suicide was an urgent issue during the pandemic period in adolescents. However, few studies were focused on suicide during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic lockdown. Methods An online survey was conducted among 5,175 Chinese adolescents from June 9th to 29th in 2020 to investigate the prevalence of suicidal ideation (SI) during COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. A gender-specific stepwise logistic regression model was used. All analyses were performed with STATA 15.0. Results About 3% of the participants had reported having SI during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown period. The prevalence of female SI (3.64%, 95% CI: 2.97-4.45%) was higher than that of males (2.39%, 95% CI: 1.88-3.05%) (χ2 = 6.87, p = 0.009). Quarreling with parents [odds ratio (OR) = 9.73, 95% CI: 5.38-17.59], insomnia (OR = 5.28, 95% CI: 2.81-9.93), previous suicide attempt history (OR = 3.68, 95% CI: 1.69-8.03), previous SI history (OR = 2.81, 95% CI: 1.30-6.06), and feeling depressed during pandemic lockdown (OR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.22-4.18) were positively associated with the males' SI. However, having emptiness inside (OR = 4.39, 95% CI: 2.19-8.79), quarreling with parents (OR = 3.72, 95% CI: 2.16-6.41), insomnia (OR = 3.28, 95% CI: 1.85-5.80), feeling anxious (OR = 2.62, 95% CI: 1.46-4.70), and longing for father's emotional warmth (OR = 0.38, 0.20-0.72) were associated mostly with females' SI. Conclusions Female adolescents, who felt emptiness from their families and their fathers' emotional warmth, were at much higher risk of having SI during COVID-19 lockdown. We must specify a suicide prevention policy and interventions for adolescents in the pandemic crisis based on gender gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhu
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Behavioral Medicine, School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Shandong Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment and Behavioral Interventions of Mental Disorders, Institute of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Baohua Li
- Daizhuang Hospital of Shandong Province, Jining, China
| | | | - Linlin Luo
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Song Yue
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jinguo Zhai
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Daizhuang Hospital of Shandong Province, Jining, China
| | - Min Chen
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Daizhuang Hospital of Shandong Province, Jining, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Behavioral Medicine, School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Shandong Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment and Behavioral Interventions of Mental Disorders, Institute of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Debiao Liu
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - JianLi Wang
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.,Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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21
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Liu T, Zhang S, Zhang H. Exposure to
COVID
‐19‐related media content and mental health during the initial outbreak of
COVID
‐19 in China. Scand J Psychol 2022; 63:283-289. [PMID: 35279827 PMCID: PMC9115400 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tour Liu
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior Tianjin Normal University Tianjin China
- Faculty of Psychology Tianjin Normal University Tianjin China
- Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students' Mental Development and Learning Tianjin China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Faculty of Psychology Tianjin Normal University Tianjin China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior Tianjin Normal University Tianjin China
- Faculty of Psychology Tianjin Normal University Tianjin China
- Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students' Mental Development and Learning Tianjin China
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22
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Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic exerted an extraordinary impact on public mental health to an extent not yet fully understood. Risk perception shaped psychological and behavioral responses, including experiences of distress, psychiatric disorders, and engagement in pandemic-related health behaviors. COVID-19 created unique aspects of evolving risk with various communities disproportionately impacted. The unique nature and duration of the pandemic required public-private partnerships that leveraged and adapted promising practices to promote essential elements that foster well-being after disasters. Early findings are reviewed, and further research will inform on best practices for protecting public mental health during future pandemics.
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23
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Media Contact and Posttraumatic Stress in Employees of New York City Area Businesses after the September 11 Attacks. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2022; 16:163-169. [DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2020.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTObjective:The objective of this study was to examine associations between media contact and posttraumatic stress in a sample with a large number of individuals who were directly exposed to the September 11, 2001 (9/11) attacks and to compare outcomes in exposed and unexposed participants.Methods:Structured interviews and questionnaires were administered to a volunteer sample of 254 employees of New York City businesses 35 months after the attacks to document disaster trauma exposures, posttraumatic stress outcomes, and media contact and reactions.Results:Media variables were not associated with psychopathological outcomes in exposed participants, but media contact in the first week after the attacks and feeling moderately/extremely bothered by graphic 9/11 media images were associated with re-experiencing symptoms in both the exposed and unexposed participants. Feeling moderately/extremely bothered by graphic media images was associated with hyperarousal symptoms in exposed participants.Conclusions:The findings suggest that media contact did not lead to psychopathology in exposed individuals, although it was associated with normative distress in both exposure groups. Because of the potential for adverse effects associated with media contact, clinicians and public health professionals are encouraged to discuss concerns about mass trauma media contact with their patients and the public at large.
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24
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Zhang S, Liu T, Liu X, Chao M. Network Analysis of Media Exposure and Psychological Outcomes During the Initial Outbreak of COVID-19 in China. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022; 21:1-13. [PMID: 35095352 PMCID: PMC8783777 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00738-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
During the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in China, people spent a lot of time viewing or listening to COVID-19-related media content. And according to the conservation of resources theory, COVID-19-related media exposure would be related to multiple psychological outcomes, and different contents would have different associations with different psychological outcomes. Therefore, the present study aimed to clarify these relationships and find out the most important psychological outcome correlated with COVID-19-related media exposure. An online survey was conducted to collect information about individuals' media use behaviors and mental health status. A total of 917 participants were included in further analyses. The results proved that different kinds of content had different relationships with different psychological outcomes. To be more specific, the content about people being heroic and speeches from experts and the authorities were related to increases of positive affect, while reports from hospitals were correlated with increases of death anxiety. Moreover, positive affect was central nodes of the network. The current findings indicated viewing objective and positive content was associated with positive psychological outcomes while viewing negative one was correlated with negative psychological outcomes. Furthermore, positive affect was the most important psychological outcome related to COVID-19-related media exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
| | - Tour Liu
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387 China
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387 China
- Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students’ Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, 300387 China
| | - Xiaorui Liu
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387 China
| | - Miao Chao
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387 China
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387 China
- Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students’ Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, 300387 China
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25
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Levaot Y, Greene T, Palgi Y. The associations between media use, peritraumatic distress, anxiety and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 145:334-338. [PMID: 33187689 PMCID: PMC8702404 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between media use, experiences of media use as having a negative and/or positive impact on coping, peritraumatic distress, anxiety symptoms and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. A convenience sample of 902 Israeli adults (mean age = 46.21) completed measures of peritraumatic distress, anxiety symptoms and resilience, and reported on their media use experiences one month following the initial outbreak of the disease in Israel (April 2020). After controlling for COVID-19 related events and demographic covariates, experiencing media use as having a negative impact on coping was related to higher levels of peritraumatic distress and anxiety symptoms and lower levels of resilience. In contrast, experiencing media as having a positive impact was not related to peritraumatic distress, anxiety symptoms or resilience. The findings suggest that those reporting that media use had a negative impact on coping are at greater risk of experiencing higher levels of peritraumatic distress and anxiety symptoms as well as lower resilience. In addition, traditional media use was related to higher resiliency. Developing understanding of how media could be used to optimally support emergency responses is crucial in order to minimize psychopathology. Unified, clear, trustworthy and informative messaging has a special importance during a mass public health crisis. Further research will contribute to guidance of potential risk and resilience aspects of media use during emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Levaot
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Israel.
| | - Talya Greene
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Israel
| | - Yuval Palgi
- Department of Gerontology and the Center for Research and Study of Aging, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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26
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Cooper M, Reilly EE, Siegel JA, Coniglio K, Sadeh-Sharvit S, Pisetsky EM, Anderson LM. Eating disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine: an overview of risks and recommendations for treatment and early intervention. Eat Disord 2022; 30:54-76. [PMID: 32644868 PMCID: PMC7929530 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2020.1790271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with eating disorders (EDs) are at significant risk for increases in symptomatology and diminished treatment access during the COVID-19 pandemic. Environmental precautions to limit coronavirus spread have affected food availability and access to healthy coping mechanisms, and have contributed to weight-stigmatizing social media messages that may be uniquely harmful to those experiencing EDs. Additionally, changes in socialization and routine, stress, and experiences of trauma that are being experienced globally may be particularly deleterious to ED risk and recovery. This paper presents a brief review of the pertinent literature related to the risk of EDs in the context of COVID-19 and offers suggestions for modifying intervention efforts to accommodate the unique challenges individuals with EDs and providers may be experiencing in light of the ongoing public health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marita Cooper
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Erin E Reilly
- Department of Psychology, Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | - Jaclyn A Siegel
- Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Kathryn Coniglio
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Emily M Pisetsky
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lisa M Anderson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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27
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The Relationship among COVID-19 Information Seeking, News Media Use, and Emotional Distress at the Onset of the Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182413198. [PMID: 34948806 PMCID: PMC8701074 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Although several theories posit that information seeking is related to better psychological health, this logic may not apply to a pandemic like COVID-19. Given uncertainty inherent to the novel virus, we expect that information seeking about COVID-19 will be positively associated with emotional distress. Additionally, we consider the type of news media from which individuals receive information—television, newspapers, and social media—when examining relationships with emotional distress. Using a U.S. national survey, we examine: (1) the link between information seeking about COVID-19 and emotional distress, (2) the relationship between reliance on television, newspapers, and social media as sources for news and emotional distress, and (3) the interaction between information seeking and use of these news media sources on emotional distress. Our findings show that seeking information about COVID-19 was significantly related to emotional distress. Moreover, even after accounting for COVID-19 information seeking, consuming news via television and social media was tied to increased distress, whereas consuming newspapers was not significantly related to greater distress. Emotional distress was most pronounced among individuals high in information seeking and television news use, whereas the association between information seeking and emotional distress was not moderated by newspapers or social media news use.
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Ferreira S, Campos C, Marinho B, Rocha S, Fonseca-Pedrero E, Barbosa Rocha N. What drives beliefs in COVID-19 conspiracy theories? The role of psychotic-like experiences and confinement-related factors. Soc Sci Med 2021; 292:114611. [PMID: 34864602 PMCID: PMC8630839 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Rationale The COVID-19 pandemic is a worldwide threat to public health and the global economy. The climate of fear and uncertainty associated with the pandemic has fostered the emergence of a wide range of COVID-19 conspiracy theories that have the potential to shape public opinion and hinder the effective dissemination of valid information. Beliefs in conspiracy theories have been associated with maladaptive personality traits such as schizotypy and paranoia, as well as other non-psychotic psychological characteristics (e.g., social isolation, stress). Methods An online survey was conducted to examine the associations between beliefs in COVID-19 conspiracy theories and psychotic-like experiences in a Portuguese community sample (N = 438), while also addressing the role of sociodemographic variables, psychological outcomes (e.g., stress, affective states), confinement-related factors (e.g., confinement conditions/behaviors), and pandemic-related factors (e.g., health concerns, financial issues). Results Findings suggest that psychotic-like experiences are associated with beliefs in COVID-19 conspiracy theories, particularly perceptual abnormalities and persecutory ideation. Moreover, increased health-related concerns and reduced education levels also seem to be liability factors for these conspiracy beliefs. Conclusion These results add important insights into how the adherence to illogical and erroneous disease-related arguments can be related to psychotic-like experiences. COVID-19 conspiracy theories are yet another major challenge that governments and policymakers must contemplate when defining strategic directions to manage the current and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simão Ferreira
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos Campos
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Marinho
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | | | - Nuno Barbosa Rocha
- Center for Rehabilitation Research, School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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van Antwerpen N, Turnbull D, Searston RA. The role of anxiety in mediating the relationship between information consumption and COVID-19 protective behaviours. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2021; 27:2043-2056. [PMID: 34809517 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2021.2008994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, concerns have been raised about an 'infodemic', with information and misinformation being spread across multiple channels and mediums. Information consumption has also been associated with increased anxiety throughout the pandemic. Thus, the present study investigates the mediating role of state anxiety on the relationship between information consumption (defined as mean frequency of information consumption multiplied by number of information sources) and COVID-19 protective behaviours. We compare results across Australian and United States samples and account for personal risk perception and belief in misinformation about COVID-19. Cross-sectional data collected between 28 and 30 April 2020 were analysed using Bayesian structural equation modelling among participants from Australia (N = 201), and the United States (N = 306). State anxiety scores were above the conventional clinical cut-off. Information consumption was positively associated with state anxiety, personal risk perception, and COVID-19 protective behaviours in the Australian and the United States samples. Additionally, the relationship between information consumption and COVID-19 protective behaviours was positively mediated by state anxiety in both nations, suggesting some functional benefits of anxiety. Differences in risk perception and belief in misinformation existed between the Australian and United States sample. Findings provide support for current guidance from organisations such as the WHO, APA, and APS on limiting information consumption to reduce anxiety. To effectively communicate critical public health messaging while minimising potential burdens on mental health, there is a need to develop and test interventions that assist people in calibrating the extent and nature of their information consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deborah Turnbull
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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Orui M, Nakayama C, Moriyama N, Tsubokura M, Watanabe K, Nakayama T, Sugita M, Yasumura S. Those Who Have Continuing Radiation Anxiety Show High Psychological Distress in Cases of High Post-Traumatic Stress: The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182212048. [PMID: 34831804 PMCID: PMC8623122 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Background: this cross-sectional study aimed to clarify the associations among media utilization, lifestyles, and the strong radiation anxiety that has persisted 9 years after the 2011 nuclear accident. Moreover, the relationships among psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, and strong radiation anxiety were examined. Methods: for the multivariate regression analysis, the independent variables were radiation anxiety at the time of the accident and the current status, categorized as “continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety”. Media utilization (local, national, internet, and public broadcasts, and public relations information) and lifestyle variables (sleep quality, regular exercise, and drinking habits) were set as the dependent variables. Moreover, the psychological distress of residents with continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety was examined by an analysis of covariance stratified by post-traumatic stress. Result: there was no significant association between lifestyle variables and media utilization, except for local media (OR: 0.435, 95% CI: 0.21–0.90). Conversely, significantly high psychological distress was confirmed among residents with continuing/emerging radiation anxiety. The K6 score, representing psychological distress, for those with higher post-traumatic stress was 12.63; for those with lower post-traumatic stress, it was 5.13 (p = 0.004). Conclusions: residents with continuing/emerging strong radiation anxiety showed high psychological distress, which has been strengthened by higher post-traumatic stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatsugu Orui
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
- Sendai City Mental Health and Welfare Center, Sendai 980-0845, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-24-547-1180
| | - Chihiro Nakayama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
| | - Nobuaki Moriyama
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
| | - Masaharu Tsubokura
- Department of Radiation Health Management, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan;
| | - Kiyotaka Watanabe
- Department of Medicine, Teikyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 173-8606, Japan;
| | - Takeo Nakayama
- Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan;
| | | | - Seiji Yasumura
- Department of Public Health, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan; (C.N.); (N.M.); (S.Y.)
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Guedes ADC, Kantorski LP, Willrich JQ, Coimbra VCC, Wünsch CG, Sperb LCSDO, Sperb CB. Online mental health care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Rev Bras Enferm 2021; 75:e20210554. [PMID: 34706031 DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2021-0554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Identify users, services, and reasons for seeking online mental health care during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A descriptive, retrospective study, with documentary analysis of medical records of users served between April and July 2020. RESULTS Of the 258 accesses, 159 were complete, and 99 were offline messages. Although there were 61 (38.36%) consultations in May, in April, there were 49 (30.82%) in 18 days of reception. More than 89% of accesses were women between 40 and 59 years. Among the motivations in the search for care, anxiety, fear, depression, sadness, crying, stress, and suicidal ideation stand out. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS Chat is a quick, early and short-wait intervention opportunity for people in need of mental health care. Therefore, the study emphasizes the importance of investing in the training of nursing professionals to act in mental health.
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Giri SP, Maurya AK. A neglected reality of mass media during COVID-19: Effect of pandemic news on individual's positive and negative emotion and psychological resilience. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2021; 180:110962. [PMID: 34629579 PMCID: PMC8487296 DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2021.110962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated that mass media platforms are playing a crucial role in disseminating information about the COVID-19 pandemic. As media coverage of pandemic using frightening language has been speculated to induce emotional disturbances in people and fluctuations in their resilience level, this study was performed to explore the effect of COVID-19 related news on individual's emotions and resilience. It was hypothesized that altering the type of news would produce varying levels of emotions and resilience in participants. Both the recruitment of participants and the conduction of the study were done online in September when the pandemic hit the peak in India. Randomly assigned participants were exposed to three conditions: positive news (N = 56), negative news (N = 59), and neutral news (N = 60) related to COVID-19. Analyses revealed negative news significantly decreased positive emotions and resilience while positive news significantly reduced negative emotions and vice-versa. These finding suggest strong impact of mass media on individual's emotions and their own self-evaluation on resilience. The study highlights the responsibility of mass media and urges for bringing necessary changes in covering pandemic news and similar other uncertain situations in keeping people's emotions stable and increasing their psychological resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakshi Priya Giri
- Department of Psychology, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Xu J, Liu C. Infodemic vs. Pandemic Factors Associated to Public Anxiety in the Early Stage of the COVID-19 Outbreak: A Cross-Sectional Study in China. Front Public Health 2021; 9:723648. [PMID: 34527653 PMCID: PMC8435678 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.723648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Every outbreak of an epidemic or pandemic disease is accompanied by the tsunami of information, which is also known as the infodemic. Infodemic makes it hard for people to find trustworthy sources and reliable guidance when they need it, and causes social panic about health, widens the gaps between races and regions, and even brings the social chaos all over the world. While most researchers and related parties made efforts to control the inaccurate information spreading online during the COVID-19 pandemic, the infodemic influence caused by the overload of accurate information were almost or completely ignored, and this will hinder the control of infodemic in future public health crises. This study aims to explore the infodemic vs. pandemic influence on people's psychological anxiety across different media sources in the early stage of the COVID-19 outbreak in China. Methods: A cross-sectional study using online survey method was conducted by a data-collection service provider in April 2020. A total of 1,117 valid samples were finally collected from 5,203 randomly invited members via webpages and WeChat. The sample distribution covered the 30 provincial administrative divisions of mainland China. Results: Hierarchical regression analysis for the potential pandemic sources and infodemic sources of psychological anxiety showed that the infodemic factors of attention to the coronavirus information (β = 0.154, p < 0.001) and commercial media exposure (β = 0.147, p < 0.001) is positively related to the level of anxiety. Statistics indicated that influence of the infodemic factors is over and above that of the pandemic factors (ΔR 2 = 0.054, F = 14.199, and p < 0.001). Mediation analysis showed that information overload (B = 0.155, Boot SE = 0.022, and 95% Boot CI [0.112, 0.198]) mediates the link between attention to coronavirus information and anxiety; both information overload (B = 0.035, Boot SE = 0.014, and 95% Boot CI [0.009, 0.062]) and media vicarious traumatization (B = 0.106, Boot SE = 0.017, and 95% Boot CI [0.072, 0.140]) mediate the link between commercial media exposure and anxiety. Conclusion: This study suggested that the influence of infodemic with mixed accurate and inaccurate information on public anxiety does exist, which could possibly go beyond that of the pandemic. Information overload and vicarious traumatization explain how infodemic may be associated to public anxiety. Finally, commercial media could be a major source of infodemic in the Chinese media context. Implications for the related parties were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xu
- School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,China Institute for Urban Governance, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Cultural Innovation and Youth Development, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cong Liu
- School of Media and Communication, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Institute of Cultural Innovation and Youth Development, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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Bolaséll LT, da Cruz Oliveira VC, Kristensen CH. The Effects of Exposure to Factors Related to Death in Mental Health. JOURNAL OF LOSS & TRAUMA 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2021.1959854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Teixeira Bolaséll
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Centre of Studies and Research in Traumatic Stress, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Christian Haag Kristensen
- Department of Psychology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
- Centre of Studies and Research in Traumatic Stress, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Li M, Xu Z, He X, Zhang J, Song R, Duan W, Liu T, Yang H. Sense of Coherence and Mental Health in College Students After Returning to School During COVID-19: The Moderating Role of Media Exposure. Front Psychol 2021; 12:687928. [PMID: 34367012 PMCID: PMC8339212 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.687928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic not only threatens people's physical health, but also affects their mental health in the long term. Although people had returned to work and school, they are closely monitoring the development of the epidemic and taking preventive measures. This study attempted to examine the relationship between media exposure, sense of coherence (SOC) and mental health, and the moderating effect of media exposure in college students after returning to school. In the present study, we conducted a cross sectional survey on 424 college students returning to school around May 2020. Self-report questionnaires were used to assess media exposure scale, SOC, depression, anxiety and stress. Correlation and moderation analysis was conducted. The results showed that (1) negative epidemic information exposure, rather than positive epidemic information exposure, was significantly associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. (2) SOC was also associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. (3) The effect of SOC on depression was modified by negative epidemic information exposure. With the increase of negative epidemic information exposure, the predictive effect of SOC on depression is increasing gradually. These findings demonstrated that negative epidemic information exposure was associated with an increased psychological distress in the sample. A high SOC played a certain protective role in the adaptation of college students in the post-epidemic period. It is important to find more ways to increase the colleges' SOC level and avoid negative information exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Li
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Tianjin Normal University, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin, China,Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students’ Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhansheng Xu
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Tianjin Normal University, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin, China,Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students’ Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinyue He
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiahui Zhang
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China
| | - Rui Song
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenjin Duan
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China
| | - Tour Liu
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Tianjin Normal University, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin, China,Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students’ Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China
| | - Haibo Yang
- Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Tianjin Normal University, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin, China,Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students’ Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China,*Correspondence: Haibo Yang,
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Media Exposure and Substance Use Increase during COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18126318. [PMID: 34207964 PMCID: PMC8296128 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Lockdown measures because of COVID-19 are likely to result in deteriorating physical and mental health. In this study, our aim was to assess the impact of media exposure on increases in substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A nationally representative online survey of 1264 adults was collected during the pandemic in the United States. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between an increase in substance use since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and exposure to cable news or social media together with COVID-19 knowledge, while controlling for covariates. Results: In the multivariable-adjusted models, participants with the highest exposure to social media (at least daily) and low knowledge of COVID-19 were 9.9 times more likely to experience an increase in substance use since the pandemic began (OR = 9.90, 95% CI = 4.27–23.06). Participants with the highest exposure to cable news and low knowledge of COVID-19 were over 11 times more likely to experience an increase in substance use (OR = 11.64, 95% CI = 4.01–24.45). Conclusion: Based on our findings, we recommend that media organizations should aim to reduce uncertainty and also provide positive coverage to counter the negative information associated with pandemics.
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Beck K, Vincent A, Becker C, Keller A, Cam H, Schaefert R, Reinhardt T, Sutter R, Tisljar K, Bassetti S, Schuetz P, Hunziker S. Prevalence and factors associated with psychological burden in COVID-19 patients and their relatives: A prospective observational cohort study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250590. [PMID: 33951085 PMCID: PMC8099094 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the dramatic measures accompanying isolation and the general uncertainty and fear associated with COVID-19, patients and relatives may be at high risk for adverse psychological outcomes. Until now there has been limited research focusing on the prevalence of psychological distress and associated factors in COVID-19 patients and their relatives. The objective of our study was to assess psychological distress in COVID-19 patients and their relatives 30 days after hospital discharge. METHODS In this prospective observational cohort study at two Swiss tertiary-care hospitals we included consecutive adult patients hospitalized between March and June 2020 for a proven COVID-19 and their relatives. Psychological distress was defined as symptoms of anxiety and/or depression measured with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), i.e., a score of ≥8 on the depression and/or anxiety subscale. We further evaluated symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), defined as a score of ≥1.5 on the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). RESULTS Among 126 included patients, 24 (19.1%) had psychological distress and 10 (8.7%) had symptoms of PTSD 30 days after hospital discharge. In multivariate logistic regression analyses three factors were independently associated with psychological distress in patients: resilience (OR 0.82; 95%CI 0.71 to 0.94; p = 0.005), high levels of perceived stress (OR 1.21; 95%CI 1.06 to 1.38; p = 0.006) and low frequency of contact with relatives (OR 7.67; 95%CI 1.42 to 41.58; p = 0.018). The model showed good discrimination, with an area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.92. Among 153 relatives, 35 (22.9%) showed symptoms of psychological distress, and 3 (2%) of PTSD. For relatives, resilience was negatively associated (OR 0.85; 95%CI 0.75 to 0.96; p = 0.007), whereas perceived overall burden caused by COVID-19 was positively associated with psychological distress (OR 1.72; 95%CI 1.31 to 2.25; p<0.001). The overall model also had good discrimination, with an AUC of 0.87. CONCLUSION A relevant number of COVID-19 patients as well as their relatives exhibited psychological distress 30 days after hospital discharge. These results might aid in development of strategies to prevent psychological distress in COVID-19 patients and their relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Beck
- Medical Communication and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alessia Vincent
- Medical Communication and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Becker
- Medical Communication and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Emergency Department, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Annalena Keller
- Medical Communication and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Hasret Cam
- Medical Communication and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rainer Schaefert
- Medical Communication and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Medical Faculty of the University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Reinhardt
- Human Resources & Leadership Development, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Raoul Sutter
- Medical Faculty of the University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kai Tisljar
- Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefano Bassetti
- Medical Faculty of the University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philipp Schuetz
- Medical Faculty of the University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Division of Internal Medicine, Kantonsspital Aarau, Aarau, Switzerland
| | - Sabina Hunziker
- Medical Communication and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Medical Faculty of the University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Jain P. The COVID-19 Pandemic and Positive Psychology: The Role of News and Trust in News on Mental Health and Well-Being. JOURNAL OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2021; 26:317-327. [PMID: 34185615 DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2021.1946219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
As of writing of this paper, over 94 million people worldwide have been diagnosed with COVID-19 infection and over 2 million people have died. During crisis situations, people seek news to gain information and reduce uncertainty. Although news could provide some means of control, the constant access may also cause emotional distress. Research suggests that consumption of crisis news leads to high psychological distress and fear that may impact intentions to engage in healthy behavior. Fake news and widespread misinformation during this pandemic have obliterated public trust in news which can also affect mental health. Therefore, in this research we explore the impact of news exposure on mental well-being and test for plausible explanations. Utilizing survey methodology, we examine the role of news exposure on perceived stress, happiness, satisfaction, gratitude and the moderating impact of interest in COVID-19 news on the same. In addition, we propose trust in news as a mediator of the relationship between news exposure and abovementioned variables. The findings suggest that high levels of news exposure, combined with low levels of interest in COVID-19 news, led people to experience more stress and low satisfaction, gratitude, and happiness. However, when interest in COVID-19 news was high, people experienced more gratitude and happiness with increasing exposure. High levels of news exposure led to lower levels of trust that led to low satisfaction and happiness. Theoretical and practical implications of the study are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parul Jain
- Associate Professor, E.W. Scripps School of Journalism,Scripps College of Communication,Ohio University, Athens, OH
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Solomon Z, Ginzburg K, Ohry A, Mikulincer M. Overwhelmed by the news: A longitudinal study of prior trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder trajectories, and news watching during the COVID-19 pandemic. Soc Sci Med 2021; 278:113956. [PMID: 33930678 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE It has been recognized that exposure to mass trauma tends to increase the time spent watching television (TV) news. Yet, research on the effects of this tendency on individuals' well-being yielded inconclusive findings. OBJECTIVE The aim of this longitudinal study is to examine the effects of prior trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on changes in the amount of TV news watching and its effect on subsequent PTSD. More specifically, we examined the interrelations of prior exposure to war captivity, long-term PTSD trajectories, and amount of change TV news watching with PTSD severity during the COVID-19 pandemic, among aging Israeli combat veterans. METHODS One-hundred-and-twenty Israeli ex-prisoners of war (ex-POWs) from 1973 Yom Kippur War and 65 matched controls (combat veterans from the same war) were followed up at five points of time: 1991 (T1), 2003 (T2), 2008 (T3), 2015 (T4), and in April-May 2020 (T5), during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS Ex-POWs had higher odds of COVID-19 related increase in TV news watching, which, in turn, contributed to PTSD severity at T5. In addition, delayed PTSD trajectory was associated with COVID-19 related increase in TV news watching, which, in turn, contributed to more severe PTSD at T5. CONCLUSIONS These findings highlight the negative implications of TV news watching during a mass trauma for traumatized individuals. More specifically, they demonstrate its potential pathogenic role in exacerbating prior PTSD among trauma survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahava Solomon
- The Bob Shapell Scholl of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Karni Ginzburg
- The Bob Shapell Scholl of Social Work, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Avi Ohry
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University and the Reuth Medical and Rehabilitation Center, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Mario Mikulincer
- School of Psychology, Interdisciplinary Center (IDC), Herzliya, Israel
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Jaffe AE, Cero I, DiLillo D. The #MeToo Movement and Perceptions of Sexual Assault: College Students' Recognition of Sexual Assault Experiences Over Time. PSYCHOLOGY OF VIOLENCE 2021; 11:209-218. [PMID: 34970465 PMCID: PMC8713172 DOI: 10.1037/vio0000363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE On October 15, 2017, Alyssa Milano encouraged anyone who had been sexually harassed or assaulted to respond on Twitter with the phrase, #MeToo. Millions responded and a cultural reckoning ensued. Anecdotally, the #MeToo movement appears to have affected survivors' acceptance and acknowledgment of their own sexual assault experiences, but empirical evidence is lacking. To address this gap, the aim of this study was to examine associations between behavioral and labeled reports of sexual assault and time since the #MeToo movement began. METHODS Participants were 2,566 college students who completed a sexual assault survey over the course of three years, overlapping with the onset of the #MeToo movement. RESULTS Regarding our hypothesis that the prevalence of sexual assault - indicated by standardized behaviorally specific questions - would be relatively constant over time after controlling for demographics, a Bayesian logistic regression model yielded inconclusive results. However, among the 596 students who endorsed behaviorally specific screeners for sexual assault, a Bayesian linear regression model revealed that, after controlling for demographics and characteristics of the assault, participants were increasingly likely to label the experience a "sexual assault" with more time post #MeToo. CONCLUSIONS Overall, findings revealed no evidence for or against changes in prevalence of sexual assault, but suggested there were associations between the #MeToo movement and greater recognition of past unwanted sexual experiences as "sexual assault" over time. These findings highlight the importance of considering social context in research examining sexual assault survivors' cognitions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ian Cero
- University of Rochester Medical Center
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Pfefferbaum B, Palka JM, North CS. Associations between News Media Coverage of the 11 September Attacks and Depression in Employees of New York City Area Businesses. Behav Sci (Basel) 2021; 11:29. [PMID: 33673572 PMCID: PMC7997192 DOI: 10.3390/bs11030029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Research has examined the association between contact with media coverage of mass trauma events and various psychological outcomes, including depression. Disaster-related depression research is complicated by the relatively high prevalence of the major depressive disorder in general populations even without trauma exposure. The extant research is inconclusive regarding associations between disaster media contact and depression outcomes, in part, because most studies have not distinguished diagnostic and symptomatic outcomes, differentiated postdisaster incidence from prevalence, or considered disaster trauma exposures. This study examined these associations in a volunteer sample of 254 employees of New York City businesses after the 11 September 2001, terrorist attacks. Structured interviews and questionnaires were administered 35 months after the attacks. Poisson and logistic regression analyses revealed that post-9/11 news contact significantly predicted the number of postdisaster persistent/recurrent and incident depressive symptoms in the full sample and in the indirect and unexposed groups. The findings suggest that clinical and public health approaches should be particularly alert to potential adverse postdisaster depression outcomes related to media consumption in disaster trauma-unexposed or indirectly-exposed groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty Pfefferbaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, P.O. Box 26901, WP3217, Oklahoma City, OK 73126-0901, USA
| | - Jayme M. Palka
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6363 Forest Park Road, BL316, Dallas, TX 75390-9070, USA;
| | - Carol S. North
- Metrocare Services, 1250 Mockingbird Lane, Suite 330, Dallas, TX 75247-4914, USA;
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Suite NE5.102, Dallas, TX 75390-9070, USA
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Güzel A, Ergün G. The Mass Media Used by University Students for Becoming Informed about Disaster News and the Effects of Disaster News on Quaternary Victimization: The Example of Burdur Province in Turkey. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 36:246-258. [PMID: 33371808 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2020.1864557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of mass media used by university students to become informed about disaster news and the impact of disaster news on quaternary victimization. This is a cross-sectional epidemiological study. The universe of the study consisted of 20,681 students studying at Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, while the sample consisted of 1320 (1290) students. The quaternary effects of disasters on them were measured using the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSQW). Independent samples test and One-way ANOVA test were used in the data analysis. When the students watched disaster news in the media, they had worries for Turkey (12.5%), anxiety (11.2%), the thought of what would i do (13.4%), and a desire to help (12.6%). The students often used mass media to become informed about disaster news. The students were directly affected by the news they watched and thus they often felt worry, restlessness, thought about what they would do, and felt a desire to help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysun Güzel
- Department of Emergency Aid and Disaster Management, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
| | - Gül Ergün
- Department of Nursing, Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur, Turkey
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Looi JC, Allison S, Bastiampillai T, Maguire PA. Clinical update on managing media exposure and misinformation during COVID-19: recommendations for governments and healthcare professionals. Australas Psychiatry 2021; 29:22-25. [PMID: 33031704 DOI: 10.1177/1039856220963947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To provide a clinical update on the mechanisms of, and potential population mental health risks of, excessive media exposure and misinformation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. To outline guidance for government, health services, psychiatrists and health professionals in managing mental health effects of COVID-19 media exposure. CONCLUSIONS Social and traditional media businesses attract interest by reporting threats and negativity, and heavy media exposure during disasters is associated with increased depressive and post-traumatic symptoms. There are three main recommendations for mitigation of the adverse population mental health effects of excessive media exposure and misinformation. Clear, authoritative communication from governments, health authorities and health professionals is essential, combined with correction of misinformation and addressing mistrust. Specific warnings by governments, health authorities and clinicians of the potential adverse mental health consequences of excessive COVID-19 media consumption are needed. Limitation of exposure to media and disinformation regarding COVID-19 is crucial - the less, the better. Healthcare professionals can advise patients to check information once daily, and be guided by reliable public health authorities, as part of interventions for managing the mental health impact of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Cl Looi
- Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, Australian National University Medical School, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Stephen Allison
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Tarun Bastiampillai
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul A Maguire
- Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, Australian National University Medical School, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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Pfefferbaum B, Nitiéma P, Newman E. The association of mass trauma media contact with depression and anxiety: A meta-analytic review. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2020.100063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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Robert M, Stene LE, Garfin DR, Vandentorren S, Motreff Y, du Roscoat E, Pirard P. Media Exposure and Post-traumatic Stress Symptoms in the Wake of the November 2015 Paris Terrorist Attacks: A Population-Based Study in France. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:509457. [PMID: 34093248 PMCID: PMC8175798 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.509457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The intense mass media coverage of the Paris terrorist attacks on November 13, 2015 exposed a majority of the French population to the attacks. Prior research has documented the association between media exposure to terrorism and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). The present study replicated and extended these findings in a French sample. A population-based sample (N = 1,760) was drawn from a national web-enabled panel in June 2016. Hours of attack-related media exposure (i.e., TV-watching, viewing internet images, engaging in social media exchanges) in the 3 days following the attacks were assessed. Multivariate regression models, adjusting for gender, age, direct exposure (i.e., witnessing in person or knowing someone injured or killed), residential area, social support, pre-attack mental health service utilization, and other adverse life events, examined the association between media exposure and PTSS (assessed using the self-report PCL-5). Compared to those reporting less than 2 hours of daily attack-related television exposure, those reporting 2-4 hours (β = 3.1, 95% CI = 0.8-5.3) or >4 hours (β = 4.7, 95% CI = 2.0-7.4) of media exposure reported higher attack-related PTSS. This finding was replicated with social media use: those with moderate (β = 3.2, 95% CI = 0.9-5.5) or high (β = 6.8, 95% CI = 1.9-11.7) use reported higher PTSS than those reporting no use. Subanalyses demonstrated that media exposure and PTSS were not associated in those directly exposed to the attacks. Results highlight the potential public health risk of extensive mass media exposure to traumatic events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lise Eilin Stene
- Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dana Rose Garfin
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | | | | | - Enguerrand du Roscoat
- Santé publique France, Saint Maurice, France.,Laboratoire Parisien de Psychologie Sociale, EA 4386, Université Paris Ouest Nanterre-La Défense, Nanterre, France
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Stieger S, Lewetz D, Swami V. Emotional Well-Being Under Conditions of Lockdown: An Experience Sampling Study in Austria During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF HAPPINESS STUDIES 2021; 22:2703-2720. [PMID: 33424431 PMCID: PMC7778412 DOI: 10.1007/s10902-020-00337-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and attendant lockdown measures present serious threats to emotional well-being worldwide. Here, we examined the extent to which being outdoors (vs. indoors), the experience of loneliness, and screen-time are associated with emotional well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic using an experiencing sampling method. In April 2020, Austrian adults (N = 286, age M = 31.0 years) completed a 21-day experience sampling phase in which they reported their emotional well-being (i.e., happiness), whether they were indoors or outdoors, and loneliness at three random time-points each day, as well as their daily screen-time. Results indicated that being outdoors was associated with higher emotional well-being, whereas greater loneliness and greater daily screen-time were associated with poorer well-being. Additionally, the impact of loneliness on well-being was weaker when participants were outdoors than indoors. These results have health policy implications for the promotion of population well-being during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Stieger
- Department of Psychology and Psychodynamics, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr.-Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - David Lewetz
- Department of Psychology and Psychodynamics, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr.-Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Viren Swami
- School of Psychology and Sport Science, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Psychological Medicine, Perdana University, Serdang, Malaysia
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47
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Stieger S, Lewetz D, Swami V. Emotional Well-Being Under Conditions of Lockdown: An Experience Sampling Study in Austria During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JOURNAL OF HAPPINESS STUDIES 2021; 22:2703-2720. [PMID: 33424431 DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/qjhfp] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and attendant lockdown measures present serious threats to emotional well-being worldwide. Here, we examined the extent to which being outdoors (vs. indoors), the experience of loneliness, and screen-time are associated with emotional well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic using an experiencing sampling method. In April 2020, Austrian adults (N = 286, age M = 31.0 years) completed a 21-day experience sampling phase in which they reported their emotional well-being (i.e., happiness), whether they were indoors or outdoors, and loneliness at three random time-points each day, as well as their daily screen-time. Results indicated that being outdoors was associated with higher emotional well-being, whereas greater loneliness and greater daily screen-time were associated with poorer well-being. Additionally, the impact of loneliness on well-being was weaker when participants were outdoors than indoors. These results have health policy implications for the promotion of population well-being during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Stieger
- Department of Psychology and Psychodynamics, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr.-Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - David Lewetz
- Department of Psychology and Psychodynamics, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Dr.-Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Viren Swami
- School of Psychology and Sport Science, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Psychological Medicine, Perdana University, Serdang, Malaysia
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Siebenhaar KU, Köther AK, Alpers GW. Dealing With the COVID-19 Infodemic: Distress by Information, Information Avoidance, and Compliance With Preventive Measures. Front Psychol 2020; 11:567905. [PMID: 33224060 PMCID: PMC7674611 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.567905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, media reports have caused anxiety and distress in many. In some individuals, feeling distressed by information may lead to avoidance of information, which has been shown to undermine compliance with preventive health behaviors in many health domains (e.g., cancer screenings). We set out to examine whether feeling distressed by information predicts higher avoidance of information about COVID-19 (avoidance hypothesis), and whether this, in turn, predicts worse compliance with measures intended to prevent the spread of COVID-19 (compliance hypothesis). Thus, we conducted an online survey with a convenience sample (N = 1,059, 79.4% female) and assessed distress by information, information avoidance, and compliance with preventive measures. Furthermore, we inquired about participants' information seeking behavior and media usage, their trust in information sources, and level of eHealth literacy, as well as generalized anxiety. We conducted multiple linear regression analyses to predict distress by information, information avoidance, and compliance with preventive measures. Overall, distress by information was associated with better compliance. However, distress was also linked with an increased tendency to avoid information (avoidance hypothesis), and this reduced compliance with preventive measures (compliance hypothesis). Thus, distress may generally induce adaptive behavior in support of crisis management, unless individuals respond to it by avoiding information. These findings provide insights into the consequences of distress by information and avoidance of information during a global health crisis. These results underscore that avoiding information is a maladaptive response to distress by information, which may ultimately interfere with effective crisis management. Consequently, we emphasize the need to develop measures to counteract information avoidance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Georg W. Alpers
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
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Riehm KE, Holingue C, Kalb LG, Bennett D, Kapteyn A, Jiang Q, Veldhuis CB, Johnson RM, Fallin MD, Kreuter F, Stuart EA, Thrul J. Associations Between Media Exposure and Mental Distress Among U.S. Adults at the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Am J Prev Med 2020; 59:630-638. [PMID: 33011008 PMCID: PMC7351429 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2020.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Exposure to disaster-related media may be a risk factor for mental distress, but this has not been examined in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study assesses whether exposure to social and traditional media during the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with mental distress among U.S. adults. METHODS Data came from the Understanding America Study, conducted with a cross-sectional, nationally representative sample of adults who completed surveys online. Participants included 6,329 adults surveyed between March 10 and March 31, 2020. Regression analyses examined the associations of (1) self-reported average time spent on social media in a day (hours) and (2) number of traditional media sources (radio, TV, and newspaper) consulted to learn about COVID-19 with self-reported mental distress (4-item Patient Health Questionnaire). Data were analyzed in April 2020. RESULTS Participants responding at later survey dates reported more time spent on social media (β=0.02, 95% CI=0.01, 0.03), a greater number of traditional media sources consulted to learn about COVID-19 (β=0.01, 95% CI=0.01, 0.02), and greater mental distress (β=0.07, 95% CI=0.04, 0.09). Increased time spent on social media and consulting a greater number of traditional media sources to learn about COVID-19 were independently associated with increased mental distress, even after adjusting for potential confounders (social media: β=0.14, 95% CI=0.05, 0.23; traditional media: β=0.14, 95% CI=0.08, 0.20). CONCLUSIONS Exposure to a greater number of traditional media sources and more hours on social media was modestly associated with mental distress during the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira E Riehm
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Calliope Holingue
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Luther G Kalb
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland; Department of Neuropsychology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Daniel Bennett
- Center for Economic and Social Research, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Arie Kapteyn
- Center for Economic and Social Research, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Qin Jiang
- Center for Economic and Social Research, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Renee M Johnson
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - M Daniele Fallin
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Frauke Kreuter
- Joint Program in Survey Methodology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland; School of Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany; Statistical Methods Group, Institute for Employment Research, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Elizabeth A Stuart
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Johannes Thrul
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
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Kang E. Association between psychological morbidities and information provision, reliability, and satisfaction among disaster victims: A cross-sectional study. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 130:273-279. [PMID: 32861210 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Providing information about disaster relief services and recovery processes reduces the damage from disasters and enables disaster victims to respond to disasters effectively. The present study aimed to clarify the associations between provision, reliability, satisfaction of information and satisfaction with media coverage and the risk of psychological morbidities (post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD], depression, and anxiety). This was a cross-sectional survey - 1337 disaster victims who had experience of disasters within 2 years, such as earthquakes were enrolled in the 3rd Disaster Victims Panel Survey, 2018. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the associations between psychological morbidities and provision, reliability, and satisfaction of information. Reliability of information was assessed with a dichotomized variable and satisfaction with information or media was assessed 4 levels with 'neutral' by a single retrospective self-report item. The risks of depression (odds ratio [95% CI] = 1.478 [1.078-2.028]; p = 0.015) and anxiety (1.879 [1.262-2.798]; p = 0.002) were significantly higher in uninformed victims. Those who received reliable information were less likely to report depression (0.538 [0.381-0.758]; p < 0.001) and anxiety (0.362 [0.229-0.573]; p < 0.001), and those who received unreliable information were more likely to report PTSD (1.714 [1.045-2.810]; p = 0.033) and depression (1.742 [1.029-2.950]; p = 0.039). Satisfactory information was related to lower risks of depression (0.543 [0.380-0.778]; p = 0.001) and anxiety (0.352 [0.215-0.575]; p < 0.001). Disaster victims who were unsatisfied with media coverage had higher risks of PTSD (5.363 [3.672-7.833]; p < 0.001), depression (5.911 [3.377-10.347]; p < 0.001) and anxiety (5.840 [2.837-12.022]; p < 0.001). Providing information and providing reliable and satisfactory information might reduce the risk of psychological morbidities. Our results suggest that providing reliable and satisfactory information during disasters could reduce the psychiatric burden of disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunkyo Kang
- Public Healthcare Center, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea; Department of Family Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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