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Dixon HC, Reynolds LM, Consedine NS. Mindfulness Between the Sheets: Does a Brief Mindfulness Intervention Improve Community-Dwelling Populations' Sexual Experiences and Motivations, and Are Effects Moderated by Attachment Insecurity? JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024; 61:574-587. [PMID: 37071492 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2196279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Research is increasingly linking mindfulness with better relationship outcomes. Less clear is whether these benefits extend to the sexual domain or whether the benefits of mindfulness are moderated by individual characteristics. Accordingly, the current report tested whether a brief online mindfulness intervention improved the cognitive, affective, and behavioral aspects of sexual experiences and whether effects varied by attachment anxiety and avoidance. Participants (N = 90) first completed a measure of attachment before reporting their sexual experiences each day for 7-days. Participants then listened to a mindfulness recording every day for 4 weeks. Finally, sexual experiences were reported on every day for 7 days again. Consistent with previous studies, no benefits of the mindfulness intervention were detected for more avoidant persons. Less consistent with expectation, however, the mindfulness intervention did not improve sexual outcomes in general, nor did it buffer other-focused avoidance-based sexual motivations or bolster sexual communal strength among more anxiously attached persons. However, the intervention did increase reports of positive sexuality among more anxious persons. Results are discussed in terms of the differential utility and limits of short mindfulness interventions looking to enhance sexual functioning in different populations and the potential mechanisms behind the presence and absence of effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- H C Dixon
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland
| | - L M Reynolds
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland
| | - N S Consedine
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland
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Himanen M, Gunst A. Sexual Compliance in Finnish Committed Relationships: Sexual Self-Control, Relationship Power, and Experienced Consequences. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024; 61:515-527. [PMID: 37603708 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2023.2246965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
We studied sexual compliance (i.e., consensual engagement in partnered sexual activity despite lack of sexual desire) in committed relationships using a large Finnish sample. First, we tested if previous theories on sexual self-control and partner sexual relationship power could be extended to a Finnish setting. As little is known about the personal and relational consequences of compliance, we also explored the experienced consequences and their association with the aforementioned aspects. The convenience survey sample (n = 1,496) included individuals who were or had recently been in committed intimate relationships. As 93% of the participants were women, our analyses focused on these (64.3% heterosexual, 24.5% bisexual, 11.3% other). Sixty-five percent of women reported having complied at least once in their current or most recent relationship. Women with lower sexual self-control and higher partner sexual relationship power reported more compliance, corroborating previous research. Lower age was uniquely associated with more compliance, whereas the association between more compliance and lower education diminished when including sexual self-control and partner sexual relationship power in the regression model. Experienced consequences of compliance varied greatly among women. However, roughly two-fifths reported only negative consequences for their well-being and relationships. Fewer approach motives, more avoidance motives, lower sexual self-control, and higher partner relationship control were associated with experiencing fewer positive consequences. Our results corroborate previous studies conducted in North America, suggesting that sexual compliance is common among women in committed relationships. We suggest careful consideration in instances of compliance, considering possible negative consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annika Gunst
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University
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Zheng S, Armstrong HL. Exploring the association between sexual motivation and quality of life in China and the United Kingdom. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293566. [PMID: 38117797 PMCID: PMC10732451 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous research suggests that different sexual motivations may be associated with different sexual behaviours and levels of sexual satisfaction, and these may vary with cultural differences. As such, sexual motivations and cultural factors might also be associated with quality of life (QoL); however, this has not yet been explored. Using a biopsychosocial approach, this study aimed to explore associations between sexual motivation and quality of life between participants in the United Kingdom and China. 276 participants (143 British, 133 Chinese, mean age = 21.5 years) completed an anonymous online survey including validated measures for sexual motivation (YSEX?-SF) and QoL (WHOQOL-BREF). In multivariable linear regressions, pleasure motivations for sex were associated with increased physical health QoL (aOR = 0.20, 95%CI:.15-.65), while love and commitment motivations were associated with increased psychological health QoL (aOR = 0.13, 95%CI:.01-.43). Both love and commitment motivations (aOR = 0.21, 95%CI:.09-.35) and pleasure motivations (aOR = 0.20, 95%CI:.08-.36) were associated with increased social support QoL. A significant interaction was found between emotional motivations and culture (p = 0.037) such that among individuals from China, emotional motivations (i.e., love and commitment and expression) were positively associated with psychological QoL. This suggests culture may differentially affect how sexual motivations are associated with QoL and warrants further consideration in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijun Zheng
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Cengizhan SÖ, Uçar T. The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Sexual Counseling on Sexual Distress, Attitude Toward Sexuality, and Body Image Concerns in Pregnant Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Midwifery Womens Health 2023; 68:611-618. [PMID: 37294101 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual distress during pregnancy can cause a negative attitude toward sexuality during pregnancy, and this can be seen especially in conjunction with body image concerns. This study was conducted to determine the effects of mindfulness-based sexual counseling (MBSC) on sexual distress, attitudes toward sexuality, and body image concerns in pregnant women. METHODS A randomized controlled trial was conducted in a sample of women who experienced sexual distress presenting to a Healthy Living Center in eastern Turkey. Women (N = 134) were randomly assigned to receive a 4-week, 8-session counseling program based on mindfulness (experimental group; n = 67) or treatment as usual (control group; n = 67). The primary outcome of the study, sexual distress, was assessed using the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised. Secondary outcomes included attitude toward sexuality, assessed using the Attitude Scale toward Sexuality during Pregnancy, and body image concerns, using the Body Image Concerns during Pregnancy Scale. Outcomes were compared postintervention, correcting for baseline using analysis of covariance. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04900194). RESULTS Mean scores for sexual distress (7.69 vs 17.36; P < .001) and body image concerns (57.76 vs 73.88; P < .001) decreased significantly in the mindfulness group compared with the control group. Similarly, mean scores for attitudes toward sexuality significantly improved in the mindfulness group compared with the control group (133.52 vs 105.78; P < .05). DISCUSSION MBSC is a promising strategy to help women experiencing sexual distress during pregnancy to reduce their levels of sexual distress, raise their positive attitudes toward sexuality, and lower their body image concerns. Larger clinical trials of MBSC are recommended to support introduction of MBSC into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sıdıka Özlem Cengizhan
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Adıyaman University, Adıyaman, Turkey
| | - Tuba Uçar
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, İnönü University, Malatya, Turkey
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Lavery BM, Nelson M, Firican D, Prestley N, Kumru R, Jabs F, O'Loughlin J, Brotto LA. #DebunkingDesire: Sexual Science, Social Media, and Strategy in the Pursuit of Knowledge Dissemination. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2023; 50:1-17. [PMID: 37566559 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2023.2243923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 1 in 3 women experience low sexual desire. Despite this being a common concern, many women never seek professional help for their difficulties and will instead turn to online resources for information. We sought to address this need for digitally-accessible, evidence-based information on low sexual desire by creating a social media Knowledge Translation (KT) campaign called #DebunkingDesire. Our team led a 10 month social media campaign where our primary outcomes for the campaign were impressions, reach, and engagement. We generated over 300,000 social media impressions; appeared on 11 different podcasts that were listened to/downloaded 154,700 times; hosted and participated in eight online events; and attracted website users from 110 different countries. Over the course of the campaign we compiled lessons learned on what worked for disseminating our key messages and the importance of creating community for this population. These findings point to the utility of using social media as part of KT campaigns in sexual health, and to the importance of collaborating with patient partners and considering social media ads and podcasts to meet reach goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brynn M Lavery
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Melissa Nelson
- Women's Health Research Institute, BC Women's Hospital and Health Care, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Nicole Prestley
- Women's Health Research Institute, BC Women's Hospital and Health Care, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Rayka Kumru
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Faith Jabs
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Julia O'Loughlin
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lori A Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Women's Health Research Institute, BC Women's Hospital and Health Care, Vancouver, Canada
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Prekatsounaki S, Enzlin P. Luring the Elusive: Narratives about Sexual Desire for One's Partner by Women and Men in Heterosexual Romantic Relationships. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2022:1-18. [PMID: 36562453 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2022.2158975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In this qualitative study, we explored women's and men's experience of sexual desire for their romantic partner and its link to dyadic interactions. During interviews and focus group discussions, our participants described sexual desire as 'elusive', 'conditional', 'responsive' and 'malleable'. The subtheme 'elusive' refers to sexual desire having a will of its own, while the remaining three refer to prerequisites for, triggers of, and strategies for enhancing sexual desire respectively. These subthemes come together in the overarching narrative 'luring the elusive', which articulates one's responsibility to accommodate sexual desire for one's partner, but also the necessity to acknowledge its elusiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Prekatsounaki
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paul Enzlin
- Department of Neurosciences, Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Rullo JE, Sood R, Fokken SC, Sood A, Frohmader KS, Croghan IT, Schroeder DR, Faubion SS. Couples' Use of Online Stress Management and Resiliency Training for Sexual Health Concerns: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Sex Med 2021; 9:100404. [PMID: 34280591 PMCID: PMC8360907 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100404] [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: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mindfulness is a promising intervention for female sexual dysfunction (FSD); however, of the mindfulness interventions studied, few treat the woman and her partner. Aim We developed a brief online mindfulness, resilience, and psychoeducation intervention, Stress Management and Resiliency Training for Sexuality (Sex SMART), for women with sexual health concerns and their partners. Methods Women with female sexual interest/arousal disorder and their partners were recruited between February 24, 2015, and October 6, 2016, and randomized to treatment or control groups (received educational pamphlets). The treatment intervention comprised of an online SMART and sexual health psychoeducation module. Main Outcome Measures The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R), Sexual Desire Inventory-2 (SDI-2), Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale (RDAS), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and other subjective measures were used to assess sexual function and sexual distress at baseline and 12 weeks. Results The study included 60 women and their partners (30 couples in each group). In both groups, sexual function by total FSFI scores and sexual distress scores significantly improved at 12 weeks compared with baseline, with no significant between-group differences (FSFI effect estimate for Sex SMART vs control = +1.4 (90% CI [–0.6 to +3.4]; P=.13). Both participants and partners randomized to the intervention reported significantly improved attitude and feelings, comfort as a sexual person, and subjective sexual functioning at 12 weeks. The findings provide preliminary evidence for efficacy of an online intervention for couples with sexual health problems. Conclusions A brief online mindfulness, resilience, and psychoeducation–based intervention showed no significant improvement in many outcomes (FSFI, FSDS-R, SDI-2, RDAS) of sexual health versus controls. Although this is the first online randomized controlled trial to evaluate a mindfulness-based therapy intervention, it was limited by its lack of population diversity and high attrition rate. Significant improvements in subjective sexual health and partner sexual function by the International Index of Erectile Function were reported only in the intervention group. Rullo JE, Sood R, Fokken SC, et al. Couples’ Use of Online Stress Management and Resiliency Training for Sexual Health Concerns: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Sex Med 2021;9:100404.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan E Rullo
- Menopause and Women's Sexual Health Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; Department of Clinical Psychology, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
| | - Richa Sood
- Menopause and Women's Sexual Health Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; Center for Women's Health, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Shawn C Fokken
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Amit Sood
- Viterbo University, La Crosse, Wisconsin
| | | | - Ivana T Croghan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota; Division of Epidemiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Stephanie S Faubion
- Center for Women's Health, Rochester, Minnesota; Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
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Yazdani Aliabadi M, Javadnoori M, Saki Malehi A, Aslani K. A study of mindfulness-based stress-reduction training effects on menopause-specific quality of life in postmenopausal women: A randomized controlled trial. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2021; 44:101398. [PMID: 33915368 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2021.101398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Physical and psychological changes in most postmenopausal women tend to lower their quality of life. Various medical/psychological interventions have been applied to improve the postmenopausal quality of life. This study set out to investigate the effect of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training on the Menopause-specific quality of life (MENQOL). METHODS This RCT was conducted on 66 postmenopausal women aged 47-62 in Iran. Participants were randomly assigned to either the MBSR or the control group. The menopause--specific quality of life was assessed in two groups via MENQOL questionnaire prior to, immediately and three months after the intervention. RESULTS The findings revealed a significant improvements in MENQOL (P < 0.001),as well as physical(P = 0.001), psychosocial(P = 0.001) and sexual(P < 0.001)dimensions of the intervention groups compared to the control group, immediately and 3 months after the intervention. CONCLUSION MBSR program can be safely applied to improve menopausal women's quality of life and curb the postmenopausal symptoms. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER IRCT2015072523344N1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoomeh Yazdani Aliabadi
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Mojgan Javadnoori
- Reproductive Health Promotion Research Center, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Amal Saki Malehi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Khaled Aslani
- Department of Counseling, School of Education and Psychology, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran.
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Banbury S, Lusher J, Snuggs S, Chandler C. Mindfulness-based therapies for men and women with sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2021.1883578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Banbury
- School of Psychology, London Metropolitan University, London, UK
| | - Joanne Lusher
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of West Scotland, London, UK
| | - Sarah Snuggs
- School of Psychology, London Metropolitan University, London, UK
| | - Chris Chandler
- School of Psychology, London Metropolitan University, London, UK
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Khan HSUD, Zhiqiang M, Siddiqui SH, Khan MAS. Be Aware Not Reactive: Testing a Mediated-Moderation Model of Dark Triad and Perceived Victimization via Self-Regulatory Approach. Front Psychol 2020; 11:2141. [PMID: 33041884 PMCID: PMC7522326 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Generally, it is difficult to work efficiently in a toxic environment. Surprisingly, leaders are found to be liable for such toxic atmosphere because they possess certain traits that employees perceive as victimization. This research assesses the relationship between the dark triad (narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy) and perceived victimization with a focus on the mediating effect of abusive supervision and the moderating effect of mindfulness. For this purpose, we surveyed 274 employees in the healthcare sector of Pakistan by using random sampling technique in three waves. To analyze the data, the structural equation model with partial least squares and PROCESS were used. The findings suggest that abusive supervision plays a mediating role in the association between the dark triad and perceived victimization. The results did not support the mediating role of abusive supervision in the association between narcissism and perceived victimization, however, the mediated moderation model was supported. Further, the findings suggest that mindfulness weakens the effect of abusive supervision on perceived victimization. Finally, the theoretical and practical implications of the results are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ma Zhiqiang
- School of Management, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shakira Huma Siddiqui
- Adjunct Faculty Member Air University School of Management (AUSOM), Air University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Ventus D, Gunst A, Arver S, Dhejne C, Öberg KG, Zamore-Söderström E, Kärnä A, Jern P. Vibrator-Assisted Start-Stop Exercises Improve Premature Ejaculation Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:1559-1573. [PMID: 31741252 PMCID: PMC7300103 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-019-01520-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Premature ejaculation (PE) is associated with decreased quality of life, lower confidence and self-esteem, and higher levels of depression, anxiety, and interpersonal difficulties. Here we investigated the effectiveness of vibrator-assisted start-stop exercises for treatment of PE, and whether the treatment effect could be enhanced by an additional psychobehavioral intervention. Fifty participants with a mean age of 41.7 years were included and randomized into two treatment groups and a waiting list control group. Participants were instructed to perform start-stop exercises while stimulating the penis with a purpose-made vibrator, 3 times a week for 6 weeks. Additionally, participants in one of the treatment groups received additional psychoeducation and performed mindfulness meditation-based body scan exercises three times a week. Data were gathered through online questionnaires before and after treatment, as well as 3 and 6 months after treatment. The interventions reduced PE symptoms with large effect sizes (partial η2 = .20 across the three groups, d [95% CI] = 1.05 [.27, 1.82] and 1.07 [.32, 1.82] for treatment groups compared to waiting list control group). The additional psychobehavioral intervention did not further reduce PE symptoms, but did decrease PE-associated negative symptoms such as levels of sexual distress, anxiety, and depression. No side effects were reported. Vibrator-assisted start-stop exercises can be offered as an adequate treatment option for PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ventus
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Fabriksgatan 2, 20500, Turku, Finland.
- Anova, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Annika Gunst
- Department of Psychology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Anova, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stefan Arver
- Anova, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Dhejne
- Anova, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katarina G Öberg
- Anova, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | - Patrick Jern
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Fabriksgatan 2, 20500, Turku, Finland
- Department of Psychology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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