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Richardson E, Beath A, Boag S. The Development of the Attachment Defenses Questionnaire (ADQ-50): A Preliminary Examination of Reliability, Validity, and Factor Structure. J Pers Assess 2024:1-15. [PMID: 38776445 DOI: 10.1080/00223891.2024.2353142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
This paper marks the initial phase in the development of the Attachment Defenses Questionnaire (ADQ-50), a self-report tool crafted to assess defense mechanisms associated with attachment processes, catering to both clinical and research contexts. Anchored in the theoretical framework of attachment theory, the ADQ posits that an individual's internalized attachment style plays a influential role in predicting their defense mechanisms. The paper outlines the comprehensive development and refinement process of the ADQ-50. In Study 1 a preliminary 176-item version of the ADQ was examined. Data was collected online drawing from participants sourced from Prolific and undergraduate students (N = 1994). Study 2 further refined the ADQ, evaluating its initial convergent validity with a diverse participant pool (N = 726), including undergraduates, Prolific contributors, general practice medical patients, and individuals from social media. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a robust ten-factor structure, resulting in a 50-item scale aligning with theoretical expectations and demonstrating good psychometric properties. Findings, limitations, strengths and future research directions are discussed. We posit that the ADQ holds great potential to deepen our comprehension of defense mechanisms linked to attachment, with wide-ranging implications for clinical practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Richardson
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alissa Beath
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Simon Boag
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Gagliardini G, Pandolfi G, Colli A. Attachment, Mentalization, Emotion Dysregulation, and Empathy in Eating Disorders: Comparing Anorexic and Bulimic Patients. J Nerv Ment Dis 2024:00005053-990000000-00167. [PMID: 38704653 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Eating disorders (EDs) represent a wide range of clinical symptoms related to food intake, body image, and weight issues, and include anorexia nervosa-restricting type (AN-R), anorexia nervosa-binge-purge type (AN-BP), and bulimia nervosa (BN). The aim was to investigate the characteristics of attachment, mentalization, emotion dysregulation, and empathy in a sample of 102 patients with EDs. A sample of 102 patients and therapists completed a series of measures for the assessment of ED pathology, mentalization, empathy, and emotion dysregulation. Pearson correlations and analysis of variance were used to test the characteristics of the variables among the groups. In relation to attachment and emotion dysregulation, no significant differences were found. In relation to mentalization, significant difference in good mentalization was found in AN-R subtype compared with the BN subtype. In relation to empathy, results showed significantly lower scores in BN subtype on affective empathy compared with the AN-BP subtype, and in AN-R subtype on cognitive empathy. Finally, we used Z-scores for each item ranked by value (higher to lower) to develop different clinical prototypes for each group. Our results point toward the clinical need to address the assessed variables, specifically mentalization, emotion dysregulation, and empathy, in the diagnosis and treatment of EDs.
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Hüwe L, Laser L, Andreas S. Observer-based and computerized measures of the patient's mentalization in psychotherapy: A scoping review. Psychother Res 2024; 34:419-433. [PMID: 37356814 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2023.2226812] [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: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In recent decades, mentalizing has found its permanent place both in therapeutic practice and in psychotherapy research. Inconsistent results and null results are often found. Therefore, the different methodological approaches should be examined in more detail. A scoping review was conducted to provide an overview of the approaches that measure the patient's mentalizing ability based on therapy sessions or in the course of psychotherapy. METHOD For the scoping review, a literature search was conducted in four databases. A total of 3217 records were identified. RESULTS We included 84 publications from 43 independent studies. Most studies used the Reflective Functioning Scale and applied the scale to therapy sessions or the Adult Attachment Interview. The other identified approaches used a computerized text analysis measure or clinician-report measures. Mostly good psychometric properties of the measures were reported. The Reflective Functioning Scale applied to the Adult Attachment Interview was the only measure that proved to be sensitive to change. CONCLUSION More economical variants to the time-consuming Reflective Functioning Scale applied to the Adult Attachment Interview are being developed continuously. In some cases, there is no standardized approach, or the measures are used only sporadically and require further and more comprehensive psychometric evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotta Hüwe
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - Levin Laser
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
| | - Sylke Andreas
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
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Xu K, Liang C, Zhao Y, Zhang F, Zhang C, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Jiang Z. Psychometric evaluation of the Chinese version of the Scale of Effects of Social Media on Eating Behaviour and research of its influencing factors. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:508. [PMID: 38368327 PMCID: PMC10874064 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17923-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social media has become an indispensable part of contemporary young people's lives, and the influence of social media on college students' eating and other health-related behaviors has become increasingly prominent. However, there is no assessment tool to determine the effects of social media on Chinese college students' eating behavior. This study aims to translate the Scale of Effects of Social Media on Eating Behaviour (SESMEB) into Chinese. Its applicability to Chinese college students was examined through reliability and validity indexes, and the influencing factors of SESMEB were explored. METHODS The questionnaire survey included 2374 Chinese college students. The Brislin translation model was used to translate the original scale into Chinese. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to test the construct validity of the scale, and the content validity of the scale was assessed through the content validity index. The internal consistency of the scale was assessed by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient, McDonald's Omega coefficient, split-half reliability, and test-retest reliability. Multiple stepwise linear regression analysis was performed to identify potential influences on the effects of social media on eating behavior. RESULTS EFA supported the one-factor structure, and the factor loadings of each item on this dimension were higher than 0.40. CFA showed good model fitness indexes. The content validity index of the scale was 0.94. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient and McDonald's Omega coefficient for the scale were 0.964, the split-half reliability coefficient was 0.953, and the test-retest reliability was 0.849. Gender, education, major, frequency of social media use, online sexual objectification experiences, fear of negative evaluations, and physical appearance perfectionism explained 73.8% of the variance in the effects of social media on eating behavior. CONCLUSIONS The Chinese version of the SESMEB has good psychometric properties and is a valid measurement tool for assessing the effects of social media on college students' eating behavior. Subjects who were female, highly educated, non-medical, had frequent social media use, online sexual objectification experiences, fear of negative evaluations, and physical appearance perfectionism used social media to have a higher impact on eating behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyan Xu
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou, 121001, P.R. China
| | - Chunguang Liang
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou, 121001, P.R. China.
| | - Ying Zhao
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou, 121001, P.R. China
| | - Fan Zhang
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou, 121001, P.R. China
| | - Chunyan Zhang
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou, 121001, P.R. China
| | - Yanhong Zhang
- Shenyang Jianzhu University Hospital, No. 25, Hunnan Middle Road, Hunnan District, Shenyang, 110168, P.R. China
| | - Yefan Zhang
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou, 121001, P.R. China
| | - Zhaoquan Jiang
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No. 40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou, 121001, P.R. China
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Kirkpatrick RH, Breton E, Biorac A, Munoz DP, Booij L. Non-suicidal self-injury among individuals with an eating disorder: A systematic review and prevalence meta-analysis. Int J Eat Disord 2024; 57:223-248. [PMID: 38041221 DOI: 10.1002/eat.24088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to quantify the prevalence of non-suicidal self-injury across eating disorders (EDs) and within diagnostic categories through systematic review and proportional, or so-called prevalence, meta-analysis. METHOD Included studies had to contain individuals with a verified diagnosis of an ED. The last literature search was conducted on September 11, 2023, for studies published on or before September 2023 without a restriction on earliest publication year. Results were synthesized and analyzed using the "metaprop" package in R and presented using forest plots. Bias was assessed by a Peters' regression test and funnel plot. RESULTS 79 studies published between 1985 and 2023 were included encompassing 32,334 individuals with an ED. Importantly, 42 studies were not included in any other meta-analyses on self-injury in EDs to date. Overall prevalence of non-suicidal self-injury was 34.59% (95%CI = 30.49-38.81). Prevalence in anorexia nervosa restrictive type, binge/purge type, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and other specified feeding/eating disorder were 23.19% (95%CI = 16.96-30.03%), 41.98% (95%CI = 32.35-51.91%), 36.97% (95%CI = 30.69-43.46%), 21.21% (95%CI = 14.93-28.12%) and 37.65% (95%CI = 28.59-47.09%), respectively. Prevalence estimations could not be estimated for other ED categories due to lack of a sufficient number of studies. DISCUSSION Non-suicidal self-injury is prevalent across both binge/purge and restrictive EDs. Considering the transdiagnostic nature of self-injurious behaviors in ED, the results highlight the importance of assessment and monitoring of self-injury in people with ED, irrespective of specific diagnoses. The method of determining self-injury varied across studies and may limit this study. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE This study highlights the prevalence of self-injury across eating disorders irrespective of diagnosis and within specific EDs. While diagnoses known to exhibit self-injurious behaviors (e.g., bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa binge/purge subtype) demonstrated the highest prevalence of self-injury, all diagnoses were found to have a prevalence greater than 20%. These findings suggest the importance of assessing and monitoring all individuals with an eating disorder for the presence of self-injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan H Kirkpatrick
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edith Breton
- Norwegian Centre for Mental Disorders Research, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, University of Oslo & Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Aleksandar Biorac
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Douglas P Munoz
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Linda Booij
- Eating Disorders Continuum, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal West Island Integrated Health and Social Services Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Quebec, Canada
- Research Centre, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Benfante A, Cisarò F, Ribaldone DG, Castelli L, Sandroni N, Romeo A. Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What Differences in Mentalization Abilities? A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:7125. [PMID: 38063555 PMCID: PMC10706729 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20237125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Mentalization is a psychological process that enables individuals to understand the self and others in terms of intentional mental states. The aim of this scoping review was to provide an overview of the findings on mentalization in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A literature search, in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols extension for Scoping Review guidelines, was conducted in the following bibliographic databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Databases were queried using the following strings (with Boolean operators): ("mentaliz*" OR "metacogniti*" OR "theory of mind" OR "ToM" OR "reflective function*") AND ("irritable bowel syndrome" OR "IBS" OR "inflammatory bowel disease" OR "IBD"). In line with the eligibility criteria, seven articles were included. Results showed that no significant differences in metacognitive ability were found between patients in the IBD and IBS groups. This review revealed the mentalizing difficulties for patients with IBD and IBS. These results should be interpreted with caution since they are based on a few studies that used different instruments to assess mentalizing processes. Future studies are needed to clarify the role of mentalization in patients with these gastrointestinal conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Benfante
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy; (L.C.); (N.S.); (A.R.)
| | - Fabio Cisarò
- Division of Digestive Endoscopy, Città della Salute e della Scienza University-Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Davide Giuseppe Ribaldone
- Division of Gastroenterology, Città della Salute e della Scienza University-Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Lorys Castelli
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy; (L.C.); (N.S.); (A.R.)
| | - Nikolas Sandroni
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy; (L.C.); (N.S.); (A.R.)
| | - Annunziata Romeo
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy; (L.C.); (N.S.); (A.R.)
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Sarig-Shmueli Y, Kurman J, Talmon S, Yoeli N, Gur E, Stein D, Rothschild-Yakar L. Mentalizing ability, mentalizing impairments, and anorexia nervosa: Validation of the Hebrew version of the Movie for the Assessment of Social Cognition (MASC). Clin Psychol Psychother 2023; 30:873-881. [PMID: 36869582 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2848] [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] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to validate the Hebrew version of the Movie for the Assessment of Social Cognition (MASC)-an ecological measure for assessing mentalizing ability-among patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and healthy individuals. We examined the validity of the MASC's general mentalizing ability scale and of its mentalizing impairments subscales using validated measures of mentalizing ability (Reading the Mind in the Eyes test, Cambridge Mindreading Face-Voice Battery, and Reflective Function questionnaire) among female patients with AN (N = 35) and control participants (N = 42). ED symptoms were assessed via self-report questionnaires. The MASCHeb correlated with measures of mentalizing ability and was found to significantly differentiate patients with AN from controls. In addition to differing on general mental ability, the groups differed on hypomentalizing (but not hypermentalizing). Based on our findings, the MASCHeb proved to be an ecologically valid tool for assessing mentalizing ability and impairments among patients with AN. Moreover, our findings demonstrated the role played by general mentalizing ability in EDs and specifically pointed to the importance of hypomentalization in EDs. These findings have therapeutic implications, as outlined in the Discussion section.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jenny Kurman
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shira Talmon
- Department of Psychology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Eitan Gur
- Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - Daniel Stein
- Sheba Medical Center, Safra Children's Hospital, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Azzi R, Mhanna M, Hallit S, Obeid S, Soufia M. Attachment styles and orthorexia nervosa among Lebanese adolescents: The indirect effect of self-esteem. Arch Pediatr 2023:S0929-693X(23)00077-5. [PMID: 37321950 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcped.2023.04.003] [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: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Orthorexia nervosa (ON), defined as the pathological obsession for pure foods, remains a novelty in the field of eating disorders. Many studies in the literature have shown that attachment styles correlate with the development of eating disorders. Patients with eating disorders were found to be more avoidant and anxious and less secure than individuals who do not have eating disorders. However, studies on the relationship between attachment styles and ON remain limited, particularly in adolescents. This study assessed the relationship between attachment styles and ON in Lebanese adolescents (15-18 years), along with evaluating the indirect effect of self-esteem on this association. METHODS This study used a cross-sectional design and was carried out during May-June 2020 with 555 students (15-18 years) enrolled. The Düsseldorf Orthorexia Scale was utilized to screen for ON tendencies. A linear regression was conducted taking the DOS score as the dependent variable. The PROCESS Macro was used to test the indirect effect of self-esteem between attachment styles and ON. RESULTS Higher fearful and preoccupied attachment styles, female gender, and more physical activity were significantly associated with more ON tendencies, whereas higher self-esteem was significantly associated with less ON tendencies. When adjusting for all sociodemographic characteristics and other attachment styles, none of the attachment styles remained significantly correlated with ON tendencies. Self-esteem mediated the association between secure attachment style and ON and between dismissive attachment style and ON. CONCLUSIONS The rise in ON warrants further studies and investigations to raise awareness and plan behavioral interventions in order to treat it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reine Azzi
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Mariam Mhanna
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon; Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan; Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
| | - Sahar Obeid
- Social and Education Sciences Department, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Jbeil, Lebanon
| | - Michel Soufia
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
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Rohde J, Obbarius A, Voigt B, Sarrar L, Biesenthal-Matthes S, Kind CS, Rose M, Hofmann T. Differences and similarities in personality functioning across different types of eating disorders. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1155725. [PMID: 37324816 PMCID: PMC10267354 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1155725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The classification of anorexia nervosa (AN) into subtypes is relevant due to their different symptomatology. However, subtypes (restricting type: AN-R; purging type: AN-P) differ also in terms of their personality functioning. Knowledge about these differences would allow for better treatment stratification. A pilot study indicated differences in structural abilities that can be assessed by the operationalized psychodynamic diagnosis (OPD) system. The aim of this study was therefore to systematically explore differences in personality functioning and personality between the two AN subtypes and bulimia nervosa (BN) using three personality (functioning) constructs. Methods A total of N = 110 inpatients with AN-R (n = 28), AN-P (n = 40), or BN (n = 42) were recruited in three clinics for psychosomatic medicine. Assignment to the three groups was performed using a comprehensive questionnaire validated for diagnostic purposes (Munich-ED-Quest). Personality functioning was examined using OPD Structure Questionnaire (OPD-SQ), personality by using the Personality Inventory for DSM-5-Brief Form and Big Five Inventory-10. (M)ANOVAs were used to examine differences across eating disorder groups. In addition, correlation and regression analyses were conducted. Results We observed differences on several sub- and main scales of the OPD-SQ. Whereas patients with BN showed the lowest levels, AN-R patients displayed the highest levels of personality functioning. On some sub- and main scales, such as "affect tolerance," the subtypes of AN differed from BN, whereas on the scale "affect differentiation," AN-R, differed from the other two groups. The total eating disorder pathology score of the Munich-ED-Quest best predicted overall personality structure [stand. β = 0.650; t(104) = 6.666; p < 0.001] and self-regulation [stand. β = 0.449; t(104) = 3.628; p < 0.001]. Discussion Our findings confirm most of the results of the pilot study. These findings can facilitate the development of stratified treatment approaches for eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Rohde
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Obbarius
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Dornsife Center for Self-Report Science, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Barbara Voigt
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lea Sarrar
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Sciences, Medical School Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Silke Biesenthal-Matthes
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Gemeinschaftskrankenhaus Havelhöhe, Berlin, Germany
| | - Clara-Sophia Kind
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Kliniken im Theodor-Wenzel-Werk, Berlin, Germany
| | - Matthias Rose
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Quantitative Health Sciences, Outcomes Measurement Science, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Tobias Hofmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, DRK Kliniken Berlin Wiegmann Klinik, Berlin, Germany
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Jewell T, Apostolidou E, Sadikovic K, Tahta-Wraith K, Liston S, Simic M, Eisler I, Fonagy P, Yorke I. Attachment in individuals with eating disorders compared to community controls: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Eat Disord 2023; 56:888-908. [PMID: 36916409 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23922] [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] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Individuals with eating disorders are known to have higher rates of insecure attachment compared to community controls, but the factors underlying this finding are poorly understood. We conducted the first meta-analysis comparing attachment in eating disorder samples compared to community controls that included quality assessment, publication bias and moderation analysis. METHOD We pre-registered our meta-analysis (CRD42019146799) and followed PRISMA guidelines. We searched PsychINFO, Embase, Medline, CINAHL, and Scopus for publications. Attachment scores were extracted, and Cohen's d calculated for each study using a random effects model. RESULTS In total, 35 studies were included in the meta-analysis and six studies were summarized in a narrative review. Eating disorder samples showed higher rates of insecure attachment compared to community controls, with a large effect size, across measurement methods and different attachment dimensions. Blinding of assessors moderated effect sizes for attachment interview studies, but no other moderators were significant. DISCUSSION Risk of insecure attachment is elevated in individuals with eating disorders, albeit heterogeneity is high and largely unexplained. Clinicians may need to take this into account in their work, particularly given the association between attachment insecurity and challenges to therapeutic alliance. Future studies comparing eating disorder samples with community samples should control for general psychopathology. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE Attachment is a broad concept referring to a person's thoughts, feelings and behaviors in relation to close others. This systematic review and meta-analysis found that individuals with eating disorders are lower in attachment security than community controls, regardless of attachment construct or measurement approach. Attachment may be relevant in influencing eating disorder recovery, the development of therapeutic alliance, and potentially clinical outcomes, although more research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Jewell
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK.,Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Eleni Apostolidou
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kevser Sadikovic
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Sarah Liston
- Leicestershire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Mima Simic
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ivan Eisler
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Peter Fonagy
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK.,Anna Freud Centre, London, UK
| | - Isabel Yorke
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Chevalier V, Simard V, Achim J. Meta-analyses of the associations of mentalization and proxy variables with anxiety and internalizing problems. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 95:102694. [PMID: 36905852 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Mentalization, the high-order function of detecting and interpreting one's own and others' mental states, has gained interest in the fields of clinical and developmental psychopathology. However, little is known about mentalization's associations with anxiety and broader internalizing problems. Using the framework of the multidimensional model of mentalization, the aim of this meta-analysis was to quantify the strength of the association between mentalization and anxiety/internalizing problems and to identify potential moderators of this association. A systematic review of the literature led to the inclusion of 105 studies (N = 19,529) covering all age groups. The global effect analysis showed a small negative association between mentalization and the overall anxious and internalizing symptomatology (r = -0.095, p = .000). Various effect sizes were found for associations between mentalization and specific outcomes (unspecified anxiety, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, and internalizing problems). The methods of assessment of mentalization and anxiety moderated their association. Findings support the presence of modest impairments in the mentalizing capacities of anxious individuals, likely influenced by their vulnerability to stress and the context in which they mentalize. Further studies are needed to draw a clear profile of mentalizing capacities with regard to specific anxious and internalizing symptomatologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Chevalier
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil J4K 0A8, QC, Canada
| | - Valérie Simard
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil J4K 0A8, QC, Canada; Charles-Le Moyne Research Center, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil J4K 0A8, QC, Canada; Research Center of the Sainte-Justine University Hospital, 3175 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montréal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada.
| | - Julie Achim
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil J4K 0A8, QC, Canada; Charles-Le Moyne Research Center, 150 Place Charles-Le Moyne, Suite 200, Longueuil J4K 0A8, QC, Canada; Research Center of the Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux du Nord-de-l'île-de-Montréal, Montréal Sacré-Coeur Hospital, 5400, Gouin Blvd West, Montreal H4J 1C5, QC, Canada
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12
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Sohn MN, Dimitropoulos G, Ramirez A, McPherson C, Anderson A, Munir A, Patten SB, McGirr A, Devoe DJ. Non-suicidal self-injury, suicidal thoughts and behaviors in individuals with an eating disorder relative to healthy and psychiatric controls: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Eat Disord 2023; 56:501-515. [PMID: 36647184 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23880] [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] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Eating disorders (ED) may be associated with an increased prevalence of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) relative to healthy (HC) and psychiatric (PC) controls. However, precise estimates of differences in prevalence between individuals with EDs and controls are unclear. We compared the prevalence of NSSI, suicidal ideation (SI), suicide attempts (SA), and deaths by suicide in controls and individuals with EDs. METHOD We searched MEDLINE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and CINAHL for peer-reviewed publications reporting the prevalence of NSSI and/or STBs in EDs and HC or PC group (PROSPERO: CRD42021286754). A series of random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimate pooled odds ratios (ORs) for NSSI, SI, SA, and death by suicide in EDs. RESULTS Across 32 studies, individuals with an ED had a significantly increased prevalence of NSSI (HC: OR = 6.85 [95% CI: 3.60, 13.04]; PC: OR = 2.74 [95% CI: 1.49, 5.06]), SI (HC: OR = 3.63 [95% CI: 2.43, 5.41]; PC: OR = 3.10 [95% CI: 2.01, 4.78]), and SA (HC: OR = 5.16 [95% CI: 4.27, 6.24]; PC: OR = 1.37 [95% CI: 0.37, 4.99]) relative to HC and PC groups. A 2.93-times increased odd of death by suicide did not achieve statistical significance. There was a high-level of heterogeneity between studies. DISCUSSION Our findings indicate that ED populations have an increased prevalence of NSSI, SI, and SA but not death by suicide compared to controls and emphasize the need for effective clinical strategies to address these behaviors in ED populations. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE This review provides evidence for an increased prevalence of non-suicidal self-injury, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempts in populations with eating disorders compared to controls. Our findings emphasize the need for effective clinical strategies to address these behaviors in patients with eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya N Sohn
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gina Dimitropoulos
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ana Ramirez
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Claire McPherson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alida Anderson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Amlish Munir
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Scott B Patten
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Alexander McGirr
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Daniel J Devoe
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Mount Royal University, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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13
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Stalujanis E, Zeeck A, Euler S. Mentalisieren und Mentalisierungsbasierte Therapie (MBT) bei Essstörungen. PDP - PSYCHODYNAMISCHE PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2023. [DOI: 10.21706/pdp-22-1-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
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14
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Woo J, Wrath AJ, Adams GC. The Relationship Between Attachment and Self-Injurious Behaviors in the Child and Adolescent Population: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Arch Suicide Res 2022; 26:406-427. [PMID: 32780672 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2020.1804024] [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] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Adolescents have high rates of self-injurious behavior (SIB), with suicide being the second leading cause of death. A consistent relationship between individual attachment and SIB was previously found in adult population; however, no such review has been undertaken for the child and adolescent population. A systematic search of PubMED, OVID, and PsychINFO up to March 31, 2020 was performed. Twenty-two articles met the inclusion criteria. Of the 22 articles, 21 found a positive association between attachment insecurity and SIB. Our results show a consistent relationship between attachment insecurity and SIB in children and adolescents, complementing the results found in the adult literature. These findings make a case for preventive strategies aimed at reducing self-injurious behaviors in youth by targeting attachment security.
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15
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Lenzo V, Sardella A, Barberis N, Isgrò C, Torrisi R, Giunta S, Petralia MC, Verrastro V, Quattropani MC. The Interplay of Attachment Styles and Defense Mechanisms on Eating Disorders Risk: Cross-Sectional Observation in the Community Population. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2022; 18:296-303. [PMID: 35126531 PMCID: PMC8808290 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20210603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Eating Disorders (Eds) are considered a broad group of pathological conditions characterized by dysregulated eating-related behaviors and habits. Attachment styles and defense mechanisms appear to be linked to the development of EDs-related unhealthy behaviors; however, these factors have been seldom investigated jointly. This study aimed at exploring the shared association between attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and EDs-related behaviors; additionally, we aimed at investigating whether defense mechanisms might be potential mediators of the association between attachment and Eds behaviors. METHOD A community-based sample was recruited (88% females, mean age= 22.33 ± 4.81 years) and underwent a comprehensive evaluation protocol assessing attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and risk of eating disorders. RESULTS Several shared associations between attachment styles, defense mechanisms, and eating disorders scores were found. Additionally, a maladaptive defense style appeared to be a significant mediator of the association between attachment styles and EDs-related symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The integrated evaluation of attachment and defense mechanisms could generate a more comprehensive framework of the psychological antecedents related to Eating Disorders, and it could be a beneficial factor involved in therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Lenzo
- Department of Social and Educational Sciences of the Mediterranean Area, University for Foreigners "Dante Alighieri" of Reggio Calabria, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Alberto Sardella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Nadia Barberis
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Carmen Isgrò
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberta Torrisi
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | | | - Valeria Verrastro
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria C Quattropani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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16
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Giles EM, Cross AS, Matthews RV, Lacey JH. Disturbed families or families disturbed: a reconsideration. Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27:11-19. [PMID: 33721219 PMCID: PMC8860793 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-021-01160-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between anorexia nervosa (AN) and family disturbance has been a subject of debate since its first description. What began as a clear view of the pathologically disturbed family causing AN has become ever more complex over the decades. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to explore the literature to examine the changes and evolution of clinical opinion around family dysfunction and AN over the last 20 years. METHODS A narrative review of heterogeneous studies in peer-reviewed publications sourced from the major databases, including PubMed and ScienceDirect, to illuminate the topic of family distress and AN by highlighting the conflicting and complementary ways it has been studied. RESULTS This review has highlighted the complexity of the relationship between anorectic sufferers and their families. It has explored the literature about parental burden, emotions and cognitive mechanisms together with parental attitudes about weight and shape. It is clear that there is no consistent psycho-social pathology in families which has been shown to be causative. However, over the last twenty years, research has highlighted the distress and family dysfunction caused by having to look after an anoretic child with poor mentalisation skills, insecure attachment and emotion dysregulation. CONCLUSION The area has become clearer over the last 20 years; research suggests a bi-directional relationship between AN and family dysfunction, with difficult dynamics becoming entrenched within the family. This is best addressed, the consensus suggests, by specialist family therapy and carer skills interventions. Longitudinal research is needed to definitively answer the question with rigorous scientific certainty. EMB RATING Level V. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level I: Evidence obtained from: at least one properly designed randomized controlled trials; systematic reviews and meta-analyses; experimental studies. Level II: Evidence obtained from well-designed controlled trials without randomization. Level III: Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case-control analytic studies. Level IV: Evidence obtained from with multiple time series analysis such as case studies. Dramatic results in uncontrolled trials might also be regarded as this type of evidence. Level V: Opinions of respected authorities, based on descriptive studies, narrative reviews, clinical experience, or reports of expert committees.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - J Hubert Lacey
- Schoen Clinic Newbridge, Birmingham, UK.
- St Georges, University of London, London, UK.
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17
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Woźniak-Prus M, Gambin M, Cudo A, Sharp C. Investigation of the Factor Structure of the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (RFQ-8): One or Two Dimensions? J Pers Assess 2022; 104:736-746. [PMID: 35015610 DOI: 10.1080/00223891.2021.2014505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
There is a need to have reliable and accessible screening measures of mentalizing ability to investigate the role of this capacity in social functioning and its development, emergence of psychopathological conditions, as well as to understand its role in psychotherapeutic processes. The 8-itemed Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (RFQ-8) has been developed for this purpose, however its factor structure and psychometric properties are unclear. The aim of the current study was to further investigate the factor structure of the RFQ-8 and explore its psychometric properties in a Polish sample. 538 participants aged 17-50 (M = 21.44, SD = 2.92) took part in the study. They were asked to complete the RFQ-8, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), the Relationship Structures (ECR-RS) questionnaire and the Borderline Personality Inventory (BPI). Results of both exploratory and confirmatory analysis indicated that the RFQ-8 may be regarded as a scale measuring a unidimensional construct. Our results confirmed good construct validity for the unidimensional RFQ-8, suggesting that the one-dimensional RFQ specifically assesses uncertainty concerning mental states. Our findings highlight the need for further studies investigating the factor structure and psychometric properties of the RFQ-8.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrzej Cudo
- Institute of Psychology, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
| | - Carla Sharp
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, Texas
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18
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Zeeck A, Taubner S, Gablonski TC, Lau I, Zipfel S, Herzog W, Wild B, Friederich HC, Resmark G, Giel K, Teufel M, Burgmer M, Dinkel A, Herpertz S, Löwe B, Tagay S, von Wietersheim J, De Zwaan M, Zettl M, Meier AF, Hartmann A. In-Session-Reflective-Functioning in Anorexia Nervosa: An Analysis of Psychotherapeutic Sessions of the ANTOP Study. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:814441. [PMID: 35677868 PMCID: PMC9169151 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.814441] [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: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous research suggests that patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) show an impaired capacity to mentalize (reflective functioning, RF). RF is discussed as a possible predictor of outcome in psychotherapeutic processes. The study aimed to explore RF in sessions of patients with AN and its association with outcome and type of treatment. METHODS A post-hoc data analysis of selected cases from a randomized trial on outpatient psychotherapy for AN was conducted. Transcripts from 84 sessions of 28 patients (early phase, middle phase, and end of treatment) were assessed using the In-Session-Reflective-Functioning-Scale [14 cognitive-behavior therapy, enhanced (CBT-E); 14 focal psychodynamic therapy (FPT); 16 with good, 12 with poor outcome after 1 year]. Relations between the level of RF, type of treatment, and outcome were investigated using mixed linear models. Additionally, associations with depressive symptoms, weight gain, and therapeutic alliance were explored. RESULTS Mean in-session RF was low. It was higher in FPT when compared to CBT-E treatments. The findings point to an association between RF increase and a positive outcome. An increase in BMI in the first half of treatment was associated with higher subsequent in-session RF. There was no association between RF and depressive symptoms or the therapeutic alliance. DISCUSSION Patients with AN show a low capacity to mentalize in sessions, which seems to be at least partly dependent on the degree of starvation. The results suggest a possible relationship between an increase in in-session RF and outcome, which has to be replicated by further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almut Zeeck
- Center for Mental Health, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine und Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Svenja Taubner
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute for Psychosocial Prevention, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thorsten C Gablonski
- Department for Psychology, Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis, Institute for Psychology, University of Klagenfurth, Klagenfurth, Austria
| | - Inga Lau
- Center for Mental Health, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine und Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Stephan Zipfel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Herzog
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Beate Wild
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans-Christoph Friederich
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gaby Resmark
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Katrin Giel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Martin Teufel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Markus Burgmer
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LWL-Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany.,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | - Andreas Dinkel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephan Herpertz
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LWL-University Clinic, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Bernd Löwe
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sefik Tagay
- TH Köln, University of Applied Sciences, Köln, Germany
| | - Jörn von Wietersheim
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martina De Zwaan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Max Zettl
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Institute for Psychosocial Prevention, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alexander F Meier
- Center for Mental Health, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine und Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Armin Hartmann
- Center for Mental Health, Department of Psychosomatic Medicine und Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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19
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Kuipers GS, Bekker MHJ, Riem MME. Pretreatment unresolved-disorganized attachment status in eating disorder patients associated with stronger reduction of comorbid symptoms after psychotherapy. Eat Disord 2021; 29:661-676. [PMID: 32228371 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2020.1738129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Research shows that the Unresolved-disorganized attachment representation (U), resulting from experiences of loss or abuse, is associated with a range of psychiatric conditions. However, clinical implications of U are yet unclear.Objective: To investigate how U is related to symptoms and recovery of eating disorder (ED) patients.Method: First, 38 ED patients starting psychotherapeutic treatment were compared to 20 controls without ED on the prevalence of U, assessed with the Adult Attachment Interview. Second, in the patient group relations between U and ED symptoms, depression, anxiety and subjective experience of symptoms were investigated. Third, we compared, 1 year afterwards, recovery of patients with and without U.Results: The prevalence of U was higher in ED patients than in controls. Symptom severity was not related to U. ED patients with U at the start of treatment improved significantly more regarding anxiety, depression and subjective experience of symptoms than did patients without U.Discussion: The differential recovery of ED patients with or without U confirms the trauma-related heterogeneity of patients found in other diagnostic groups and calls for further investigation into the treatment needs of patients with different attachment representations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greet S Kuipers
- Private Practice, Van der Does de Willeboissingel 5, 5211 CA 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Marrie H J Bekker
- Tilburg University, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, 5000 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Madelon M E Riem
- Tilburg University, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, 5000 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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20
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Katznelson H, Daniel SIF, Poulsen S, Lunn S, Buhl-Nielsen B, Sjögren JM. Disturbances in the experiences of embodiment related to attachment, mentalization and self-objectification in anorexia nervosa. J Eat Disord 2021; 9:137. [PMID: 34688309 PMCID: PMC8542305 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-021-00463-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Body image disturbance is central to both the understanding and treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN); however, the underlying psychological processes involved are still not well understood. One way towards a better understanding of these mechanisms may be to explore the sense of embodiment in these patients in an attempt at integrating the role of the body in our understanding of the development of self in AN. It is hypothesized that difficulties in affective experiences of embodiment is related to insecure attachment, deficits in mentalization and self-objectification. METHODS Sixteen inpatients with AN were interviewed with the Mirror Interview (MI). In the interview, the individual is asked a set of questions related to thoughts and feelings about the body while standing in front of a full-length mirror. Furthermore, all patients were assessed with the Adult Attachment Interview, which was coded for both attachment and mentalization (operationalized by the Reflective Functioning scale; RF). Self-objectification was measured with the Objectified Body Consciousness Scale (OBCS). RESULTS Results from a multiple regression analysis showed that Global MI scores were significantly associated with Coherence of mind as an indicator of attachment, RF and scores on the OBCS. CONCLUSIONS The study suggests that affective experiences of embodiment in patients with AN are associated with negative attachment representations, mentalizing impairments and objectified body consciousness. Body image disturbance is a key diagnostic feature in anorexia nervosa but the underlying psychological processes are poorly understood. Recently, there has been a growing interest in how disturbances in the more psychological experience of the body (embodiment) in anorexia nervosa is related to both attachment, how individuals make sense of both themselves and others and the degree to which they tend to experience ourselves from the outside. In this pilot study, this was assessed with an innovative interview, the Mirror Interview, where the individual is asked a set of question while standing in front of a full length mirror. Results showed that difficulties in embodied experiences in patients with anorexia nervosa were related to more fundamental representations of self and self-objectification. This has potential implications for both the understanding and treatment of anorexia nervosa, as disturbances in body image may be seen as an underlying factor in the development of an eating disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Katznelson
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | - Stig Poulsen
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susanne Lunn
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bernadette Buhl-Nielsen
- Psychotherapy Clinic, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Region Zealand, Denmark
| | - Jan Magnus Sjögren
- Unit for Eating Disorders, Capital Region of Copenhagen, Psychiatric Centre Ballerup, Ballerup, Denmark
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21
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Zeeck A, Endorf K, Euler S, Schaefer L, Lau I, Flösser K, Geiger V, Meier AF, Walcher P, Lahmann C, Hartmann A. Implementation of mentalization-based treatment in a day hospital program for eating disorders-A pilot study. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2021; 29:783-801. [PMID: 34272786 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aim of the pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a day hospital program for eating disorders (EDs) after implementation of mentalization-based treatment (MBT), including a comparison to a historical matched control group. METHOD All consecutively admitted patients with an ED were included in a prospective, observational study over a period of 2 years. Main outcome criteria were eating and overall psychopathology. Furthermore, changes in the capacity to mentalize (reflective functioning [RF]), difficulties with affect regulation and interpersonal problems were assessed at admission, discharge and a three months follow-up. RESULTS Thirty-eight out of fourty patients could be included. The program led to significant reductions in eating and general pathology. There was significant improvement in RF, difficulties in emotion regulation and interpersonal functioning. However, there was no advantage in comparison to a matched control group (main outcomes). ED symptoms showed a slight renewed increase after discharge, while body mass index further increased. RF change was predictive of change in overall psychopathology, but not ED symptoms. Drop-out rate was 13.2%. CONCLUSION The program showed no advantage in comparison to a historical control group concerning a reduction in eating and overall psychopathology. However, it was associated with low drop-out rates, and changes which MBT targets: An increase in RF and a reduction of interpersonal problems as well as difficulties in emotion regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almut Zeeck
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Katharina Endorf
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Sebastian Euler
- Department of Consultation Psychiatry and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Laura Schaefer
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Inga Lau
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | | | - Valeria Geiger
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Alexander Ferdinand Meier
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Peter Walcher
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Claas Lahmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Armin Hartmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Center for Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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22
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Cortés-García L, McLaren V, Vanwoerden S, Sharp C. Attachment, mentalizing, and eating disorder symptoms in adolescent psychiatric inpatients and healthy controls: a test of a mediational model. Eat Weight Disord 2021; 26:1159-1168. [PMID: 32989688 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-020-01017-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Research has supported a link between insecure attachment and eating disorders (EDs) in adolescents; however, mechanisms accounting for this association remain unclear. Growing evidence suggests impaired mentalizing as a potential mechanism. Yet, little is known about the relationship between mentalizing and ED symptoms or how it relates to the link between attachment and EDs in adolescents. This study examined mentalizing deficits in adolescents with ED symptoms relative to psychiatric and healthy controls and tested a mediational model, wherein mentalizing capacity mediates the relationship between attachment and ED symptoms. METHOD Inpatient adolescents with EDs and other pathology (n = 568) and healthy controls (n = 184) were administered the child attachment interview, the movie for the assessment of social cognition and the diagnostic interview schedule for children to assess attachment, mentalizing and ED symptoms, respectively. RESULTS Inpatients showed lower attachment security and more hypermentalizing than healthy adolescents. Hypermentalizing explained the association between insecure attachment and ED symptoms. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest potential utility of targeting mentalizing in prevention and treatment of EDs in adolescents. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, case-control analytic study.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Cortés-García
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Santiago de Compostela. Campus Vida, Calle Xosé María Suárez Núñez, s/n, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain.
| | - V McLaren
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - S Vanwoerden
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - C Sharp
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
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23
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Monteleone AM, Corsi E, Cascino G, Ruzzi V, Ricca V, Ashworth R, Bird G, Cardi V. The Interaction Between Mentalizing, Empathy and Symptoms in People with Eating Disorders: A Network Analysis Integrating Experimentally Induced and Self-report Measures. COGNITIVE THERAPY AND RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10608-020-10126-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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24
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Simonsen CB, Jakobsen AG, Grøntved S, Kjaersdam Telléus G. The mentalization profile in patients with eating disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nord J Psychiatry 2020; 74:311-322. [PMID: 31910059 DOI: 10.1080/08039488.2019.1707869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Context: Patients with eating disorders (EDs) may have a lower mentalization ability. To the best of our knowledge, no meta-analysis has so far addressed the multidimensional mentalization profile within these patients.Objective: To summarize the existing evidence of the mentalization profile and its association with EDs.Data sources: We searched for articles in PsychINFO, Embase and PubMed using the search terms mentalization, reflective function, adult attachment interview, alexithymia, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, eye test, Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test, Theory of Mind, mind-mindedness, mind-blindness, facial expression recognition, metacognition, ED, anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN).Studies included: Quantitative studies including diagnosed patients with an ED, healthy controls (HCs) and relevant test methods.Data synthesis: Forty-four studies were included. Nine studies were eligible for the meta-analysis. Significantly lower mentalization ability about oneself was found in patients with an ED when compared to HCs. Groups were more comparable when dealing with mentalization ability of others. Non-significant but clinically relevant results include a tendency for a lower mentalization ability in patients with AN compared to patients with BN.Conclusion: The mentalization profile is complex and varies across dimensions of mentalization in patients with an ED. Different degrees of mentalization between various EDs were found, implying the necessity for further research on mentalization profiles in different ED diagnoses. The sparse existing literature was a limitation for this meta-analysis, emphasizing that further research on the mentalization profile in patients with EDs is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Bach Simonsen
- Faculty of Psychology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Simon Grøntved
- Department of Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Gry Kjaersdam Telléus
- Department of Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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25
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Jain FA, Fonagy P. Mentalizing Imagery Therapy: Theory and case series of imagery and mindfulness techniques to understand self and others. Mindfulness (N Y) 2020; 11:153-165. [PMID: 32042350 PMCID: PMC7009316 DOI: 10.1007/s12671-018-0969-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Facilitating mentalization, or the ability to understand mental states and their link to behavior, is increasingly viewed as a common mechanism of action across effective psychotherapies. Here we present an overview of a new set of contemplative psychotherapeutic techniques, Mentalizing Imagery Therapy (MIT), that uses guided imagery and mindfulness practices to facilitate mentalization. MIT aims to reduce negative psychological symptoms by stimulating an understanding of mental states and their links to behavior in self and others, including in challenging interpersonal situations. Case discussions of MIT in personality disordered and depressed patients are used to illustrate theoretical points and the specific practical benefits of MIT. We conclude that there are promising indications that the imagery and mindfulness practices of MIT, that are specifically targeted to facilitate insight in the context of attachment relationship challenges, may help to improve mentalization and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Both in practice and with respect to its articulated goals, MIT promotes a distinct set of capacities from other mindfulness or compassion based therapies. Further research is required to determine the clinical efficacy of MIT in controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe A. Jain
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter Fonagy
- Psychoanalysis Unit, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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26
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Ramsauer B, Mühlhan C, Lotzin A, Achtergarde S, Mueller J, Krink S, Tharner A, Becker-Stoll F, Nolte T, Romer G. Randomized controlled trial of the Circle of Security-Intensive intervention for mothers with postpartum depression: maternal unresolved attachment moderates changes in sensitivity. Attach Hum Dev 2019; 22:705-726. [PMID: 31726954 DOI: 10.1080/14616734.2019.1689406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Postpartum depression is related to inadequately sensitive caregiving, putting infants at risk for insecure attachment. Therefore, promoting sensitive maternal caregiving and secure child attachment is particularly important in postpartum depressed mothers and their infants. In this randomized-controlled-trial, we evaluated the efficacy of the Circle of Security-Intensive (COS-I)-intervention in supporting maternal sensitivity and mother-infant-attachment compared to treatment-as-usual (TAU) with unresolved-maternal attachment as a moderator of treatment effect. Eligible mothers with infants (N=72) 4-9 months-old were randomly assigned to treatment (n=36 dyads). Infant attachment was rated at follow-up (child age 16-18 months) (Strange-Situation-procedure). Maternal sensitivity was measured at baseline and follow-up (Mini-Maternal-Behavior-Q-sort). Maternal-unresolved-attachment was assessed at baseline (Adult-Attachment-Interview). We found no significant differences between treatments in infant attachment nor changes in mothers' sensitivity. However, in COS-I, unresolved-mothers exhibited significantly more change in sensitivity than non-unresolved-mothers, whereas in TAU, the opposite was true. These findings may help to optimize clinical use of COS-I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Ramsauer
- Medical School Hamburg MSH, University of Applied Sciences and Medical University , Hamburg, Germany.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Muenster , Muenster, Germany
| | - Christine Mühlhan
- Medical School Hamburg MSH, University of Applied Sciences and Medical University , Hamburg, Germany
| | - Annett Lotzin
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sandra Achtergarde
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Muenster , Muenster, Germany
| | - Jessica Mueller
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf , Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Krink
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Muenster , Muenster, Germany
| | - Anne Tharner
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam , Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Georg Romer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Muenster , Muenster, Germany
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Abstract
Self-injurious behaviors (SIB) continue to afflict a significant segment of the clinical and general population, sometimes with fatal consequences. The development of SIB seems to share developmental pathways and mechanisms similar to attachment insecurity. To date, no reviews have explored their relationship. A search of publication databases PubMed and PsychInfo from 1969 through April 2018 was conducted and 17 papers met inclusion criteria. Of the 17 articles identified, 13 reported a positive relationship and 1 reported a negative relationship between attachment insecurity and SIB. Both attachment anxiety and avoidance seem to play a role in the risk for SIB, possibly through different mechanisms and likely with different impacts on the choice for either self-harm or suicide attempts.
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28
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Maas J, van Balkom T, van Assen M, Rutten L, Janssen D, van Mastrigt M, Bekker M. Enhancing Autonomy-Connectedness in Patients With Anxiety Disorders: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:665. [PMID: 31572243 PMCID: PMC6752630 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autonomy-enhancing treatment (AET) is a person-centered, gender-sensitive treatment, targeting transdiagnostic personal autonomy deficits. The current study was set up as a first pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to investigate the preliminary efficacy of AET. Earlier small non-controlled plots showed AET to be feasible and acceptable. In the current study (Trial Code 3513), patients receiving 15-session group-based AET (N = 43) were compared with those in a waitlist control condition (N = 40). Both the intention-to-treat and completers analyses suggested a larger decrease in agoraphobic symptoms in the experimental treatment than in the waitlist condition. In both analyses, effect sizes were small. The completers analyses showed additional beneficial effects in two of three autonomy-connectedness components, as well as psychoneuroticism, anxiety, and depression, which disappeared after correcting for multiple testing. AET may alleviate agoraphobic symptoms in a patient sample with severe anxiety. Future research, including more stringent inclusion criteria and follow-up assessment, is needed to further evaluate whether AET may serve as a promising alternative or addition to existing approaches. Clinical Trial Registration: www.trialregister.nl, identifier NTR3513.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Maas
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry GGZ inGeest, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Multidisciplinary Specialist Center Centre for Eating Disorders, GGZ Oost-Brabant, Helmond, Netherlands
| | - Ton van Balkom
- Department of Psychiatry GGZ inGeest, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marcel van Assen
- Department of Methodology and Statistics, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
- Department of Sociology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth Rutten
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Daniella Janssen
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | | | - Marrie Bekker
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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29
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Shaw C, Lo C, Lanceley A, Hales S, Rodin G. The Assessment of Mentalization: Measures for the Patient, the Therapist and the Interaction. JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PSYCHOTHERAPY 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10879-019-09420-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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30
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Cortés-García L, Takkouche B, Seoane G, Senra C. Mediators linking insecure attachment to eating symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0213099. [PMID: 30845244 PMCID: PMC6405186 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0213099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last two decades, the number of studies focused on the mediators connecting insecure attachment with Eating Disorders (EDs), at both clinical and sub-clinical level, has considerably increased. However, there has not been a systematic synthesis of this literature to date. To fill this gap, the current meta-analytic review aimed at identifying and quantifying the extent to which mediators contribute to the explanation of this relationship. The present study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42017076807). A comprehensive search process in seven different electronic databases retrieved 24 studies that examined how insecure attachment leads to ED symptoms through mediation analysis. Standardized regression coefficients of the indirect and total paths of 21 mediation models were pooled. Studies were coded and ranked for quality. We found evidence to show that maladaptive emotion regulation and depressive symptoms had the highest effect size for mediation (mediation ratio [PM] = 0.71). Further, body dissatisfaction, neuroticism, perfectionism, mindfulness and social comparison had significant, but moderate to low mediating effects (PM = 0.21–0.58). The methodological quality of these studies was mostly low to moderate and potential areas for development were highlighted. Our findings support the direct targeting of these psychological constructs in prevention programs and treatment of EDs. Future investigations addressing the time sequence between the variables will provide valuable clues to untangle the prospective contribution of each variable on the development and maintenance of eating pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cortés-García
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
- * E-mail:
| | - Bahi Takkouche
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBER-ESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gloria Seoane
- Department of Social Psychology, Basic and Methodology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
| | - Carmen Senra
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
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31
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Dagan O, Facompré CR, Bernard K. Adult attachment representations and depressive symptoms: A meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2018; 236:274-290. [PMID: 29751243 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.04.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attachment theory has long argued that insecure and disorganized attachment representations are associated with vulnerability to psychopathology in general, and depressive symptoms in particular. However, studies assessing the link between insecure and disorganized attachment and depressive symptoms report inconsistent results. The primary aim of this meta-analysis was to examine the extent to which adult attachment representations are associated with depressive symptoms. METHODS We conducted a literature search for published studies using PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and ProQuest in March 2017, identifying 55 samples (N = 4,386). Eligible studies assessed depression using a well-validated self-report or clinical diagnostic measure of depression and attachment using the Adult Attachment Interview. RESULTS Results demonstrated that insecure individuals had higher levels of depression than secure-autonomous individuals (d = 0.21, 95% CI [0.08-0.33]). Specifically, insecure-preoccupied individuals (d = 0.48, 95% CI [0.30-0.65]), but not insecure-dismissing individuals (d = 0.09, 95% CI [-0.03-0.22]), exhibited significantly more depressive symptoms than the secure-autonomous individuals. Additionally, unresolved adults had higher levels of depression than adults with organized attachment classifications (d = 0.29, 95% CI [0.13-0.44]). LIMITATIONS Due to the nature of the studies reviewed, causal inferences regarding the links found between adult attachment representations and depressive symptoms may not be drawn. Further, the aggregate effect sizes do not solely reflect the magnitude of the association between attachment representations and clinically-diagnosed major depressive disorder. CONCLUSIONS The results of this meta-analysis have important conceptual and practical implications for attachment-based prevention and intervention efforts, as they suggest that attachment representations, specifically insecure-preoccupied and unresolved, are associated with depressive symptoms in adulthood. Future research using longitudinal and intervention-based designs should examine the extent to which insecure-preoccupied and unresolved attachment lead to increased depressive symptoms, as well as the mechanisms by which these attachment patterns across the life span may increase vulnerability to depressive symptoms in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Or Dagan
- Department of Psychology, The New School for Social Research, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Christopher R Facompré
- Department of Psychology, New York University - Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kristin Bernard
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
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32
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Kuipers GS, van Loenhout Z, van der Ark LA, Bekker MHJ. Is reduction of symptoms in eating disorder patients after 1 year of treatment related to attachment security and mentalization? Eat Disord 2018; 26:263-269. [PMID: 29125797 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2017.1384916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
In a sample of 38 eating disorder (ED) patients who received psychotherapeutic treatment, changes in attachment security, and mentalization in relation to symptoms reduction were investigated. Attachment security improved in 1 year but was unrelated to improvement of ED or comorbid symptoms. Mentalization did not change significantly in 1 year. Pretreatment mentalization was negatively related to the severity of ED symptoms, trait anxiety, psycho-neuroticism, and self-injurious behavior after 1 year of treatment. We conclude that for ED patients, improving mentalization might increase the effect of treatment on core and comorbid symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greet S Kuipers
- a Unit for Eating Disorders, GGZ Breburg , Tilburg , The Netherlands
| | - Zara van Loenhout
- a Unit for Eating Disorders, GGZ Breburg , Tilburg , The Netherlands
| | - L Andries van der Ark
- b Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam , Amsterdam , The Netherlands
| | - Marrie H J Bekker
- c Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University , Tilburg , The Netherlands
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33
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McAdams CJ, Harper JA, Van Enkevort E. Mentalization and the left inferior frontal gyrus and insula. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2018; 26:265-271. [PMID: 29464819 DOI: 10.1002/erv.2580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if an interpersonal attribution bias associated with self-perception, the externalizing bias, was related to neural activations during mentalization. METHODS A functional magnetic resonance imaging task involving verbal appraisals measured neural activations when thinking about oneself and others in 59 adults, including healthy women as well as women with and recovered from anorexia nervosa. Whole-brain regressions correlated brain function during mentalization with the externalizing bias measured using the Internal, Personal, and Situational Attributions Questionnaire. RESULTS Women with anorexia nervosa had a lower externalizing bias, demonstrating a tendency to self-attribute more negative than positive social interactions, unlike the other groups. The externalizing bias was correlated with activation of the left inferior frontal gyrus and posterior insula, when comparing thinking about others evaluating oneself with direct self-evaluation. DISCUSSION Externalizing biases may provide an office-based assay reflecting neurocognitive disturbances in social self-perception that are common during anorexia nervosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie J McAdams
- Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Psychiatry, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.,Psychiatry, Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jessica A Harper
- Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Erin Van Enkevort
- Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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34
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Kuipers GS, Hollander SD, van der Ark LA, Bekker MHJ. Recovery from eating disorder 1 year after start of treatment is related to better mentalization and strong reduction of sensitivity to others. Eat Weight Disord 2017. [PMID: 28643289 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-017-0405-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether recovery from an eating disorder is related to pre-treatment attachment and mentalization and/or to improvement of attachment and mentalization during treatment. METHOD For a sample of 38 anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) patients receiving treatment the relations between attachment security, mentalization, comorbidity and recovery status after 12 months (not recovered or recovered), and after 18 months (persistently ill, relapsed, newly recovered, or persistently recovered) were investigated. Attachment security and mentalization were assessed by the Adult Attachment Interview at the start of the treatment and after 12 months. Besides assessing co-morbidity-for its effect on treatment outcome-we measured psycho-neuroticism and autonomy because of their established relations to both eating disorder symptoms and to attachment security. RESULTS Recovery both at 12 months and at 18 months was related to higher levels of mentalization; for attachment, no significant differences were found between recovered and unrecovered patients. Patients who recovered from AN or BN also improved on co-morbid symptoms: whereas pre-treatment symptom severity was similar, at 12 months recovered patients scored lower on co-morbid personality disorders, anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviour and psycho-neuroticism than unrecovered patients. Improvement on autonomy (reduced sensitivity to others; greater capacity to manage new situations) in 1 year of treatment was significantly higher in recovered than in unrecovered patients. CONCLUSION A focus on enhancing mentalization in eating disorder treatment might be useful to increase the chances of successful treatment. Improvement of autonomy might be the mechanism of change in recovering from AN or BN. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III cohort study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greet S Kuipers
- Unit for Eating Disorders, GGZ Breburg, PO Box 770, 5000 AT, Tilburg, The Netherlands.
| | | | - L Andries van der Ark
- Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, PO Box 15776, 1001 NG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marrie H J Bekker
- Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, PO Box 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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35
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Buser JK, Gibson S. Protecting Women from the Negative Effects of Body Dissatisfaction: The Role of Differentiation of Self. WOMEN & THERAPY 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/02703149.2017.1352277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Juleen K. Buser
- Department of Graduate Education, Leadership, and Counseling, Rider University, Lawrenceville, New Jersey
| | - Sandy Gibson
- Department of Counselor Education, The College of New Jersey, Ewing, New Jersey
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Bekker MHJ, van Assen MALM. Autonomy-connectedness mediates sex differences in symptoms of psychopathology. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181626. [PMID: 28771498 PMCID: PMC5542470 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine if autonomy-connectedness, capacity for self-governance under the condition of connectedness, would mediate sex differences in symptoms of various mental disorders (depression, anxiety, eating disorders, antisocial personality disorder). METHOD Participants (N = 5,525) from a representative community sample in the Netherlands filled out questionnaires regarding the variables under study. RESULTS Autonomy-connectedness (self-awareness, SA; sensitivity to others, SO; capacity for managing new situations, CMNS) fully mediated the sex differences in depression and anxiety, and partly in eating disorder -(drive for thinness, bulimia, and body dissatisfaction) and anti-social personality disorder characteristics. The mediations followed the expected sex-specific patterns. SO related positively to the internalizing disorder indices, and negatively to the anti-social personality disorder. SA related negatively to all disorder indices; and CMNS to all internalizing disorder indices, but positively to the anti-social personality disorder. CONCLUSION Treatment of depression, anxiety, but also eating disorders and the antisocial personality disorder may benefit from a stronger focus on autonomy strengthening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marrie H. J. Bekker
- Department of Clinical and Medical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
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Maxwell H, Tasca GA, Grenon R, Ritchie K, Bissada H, Balfour L. Change in attachment states of mind of women with binge-eating disorder. Clin Psychol Psychother 2017. [PMID: 28639313 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Insecure and unresolved/disorganized attachment states of mind may impact affect regulation and interpersonal functioning that contribute to binge eating in women with binge-eating disorder (BED). Group psychological treatment may facilitate changes from insecure to secure and from unresolved-disorganized to non-unresolved/disorganized attachment states of mind. This study used attachment theory to understand better the psychopathology of BED and co-morbid overweight status and to understand better the treatment response of patients with BED who receive group psychotherapy. Women with BED attended group psychodynamic interpersonal psychotherapy and completed the Adult Attachment Interview pretreatment and 6 months posttreatment. Matched samples of overweight women without BED and normal-weight women without BED completed the Adult Attachment Interview at 1 time point. Women with BED had significantly higher rates of preoccupied and unresolved/disorganized attachment states of mind compared to normal-weight women without BED and had similar rates of insecure and unresolved/disorganized attachment states of mind compared to overweight women without BED. Of the women with BED who had an insecure and/or unresolved/disorganized attachment states of mind at pretreatment, about 60% demonstrated clinically relevant changes to secure and to non-unresolved/disorganized states of mind at 6 months post group psychodynamic interpersonal psychotherapy. Results indicated that some women with BED may benefit from interventions that help them regulate hyperactivated affect and create coherent narratives. Both women with BED and overweight women without BED may benefit from treatments that help them develop more adaptive affect regulation strategies related to unresolved/disorganized attachment states of mind.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giorgio A Tasca
- University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Kerri Ritchie
- University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Hany Bissada
- University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Louise Balfour
- University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
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Marszał M, Jańczak A. Emotion Dysregulation, Mentalization and Romantic Attachment in the Nonclinical Adolescent Female Sample. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2017; 37:894-904. [PMID: 30416323 PMCID: PMC6208846 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-017-9573-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The main goal of the current study is to verify the relationships between emotion dysregulation, mentalization, and romantic attachment in late adolescent girls (N = 120). Adolescence is a very dynamic and sensitive period, in which many changes occur in attachment and emotion regulation. The role of the primary attachment figures is gradually taken over by peers, and the beginnings of the development of romantic attachment are seen. In summary, this study was able to determine that the level of dysregulation of emotions in girls during late adolescence can be partially explained by mentalization and levels of anxiety (though not of avoidance) regarding a romantic partner, though attachment anxiety is more important for explaining emotion dysregulation than the level of mentalization. Only two aspects of emotion dysregulation show relationships with mentalization: nonacceptance of emotional responses and lack of emotional clarity. Adolescence is considered to be a critical period for interventions to protect against the onset of psychopathology. Confirmation of these relationships appears to be important for the design of therapeutic interventions. Our findings may suggest that attachment patterns, mentalization and emotion dysregulation may be good targets for therapeutic intervention in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Marszał
- 1Institute of Psychology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań, Poland
| | - Anna Jańczak
- 2SWPS University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznań, Poland
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