1
|
Matthys W, Schutter DJLG. Involving Parents in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children and Adolescents with Conduct Problems: Goals, Outcome Expectations, and Normative Beliefs About Aggression are Targeted in Sessions with Parents and Their Child. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2024:10.1007/s10567-024-00486-3. [PMID: 38850473 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-024-00486-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Children and adolescents with conduct problems participate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), either in individual or group format, in view of learning social problem-solving skills that enable them to behave in more independent and situation-appropriate ways. Parents must support their child's learning processes in everyday life and therefore these processes need attention in CBT sessions in which parents and their child participate. The social problem-solving model of CBT previously described (Matthys & Schutter, Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 25:552-572, 2022; Matthys & Schutter, Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 26:401-415, 2023) consists of nine psychological skills. In this narrative review we propose that instead of addressing each skill separately in sessions with both parents and their child, therapists work on three schemas (latent mental structures): (1) goals, (2) outcome expectations, and (3) normative beliefs about aggression. Based on social-cognitive and cognitive neuroscience studies we argue that these three schemas affect five core social problem-solving skills: (1) interpretation, (2) clarification of goals, (3) generations of solutions, (4) evaluation of solutions, and (5) decision-making. In view of tailoring CBT to the individual child's characteristic schemas and associated social problem-solving skills, we suggest that children and adolescents participate in individual sessions with their parents. The therapist uses Socratic questioning in order to find out characteristic schemas of the child, encourage reflection on these schemas, and explore alternative schemas that had previously been outside the child's attention. The therapist functions as a model for parents to ask their child questions about the relevant schemas with a view of achieving changes in the schemas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walter Matthys
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584, CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Dennis J L G Schutter
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584, CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kim AY, Kim YY. Reduced late positive potentials to distress in individuals with high psychopathic traits during pain judgment tasks. Biol Psychol 2024; 190:108810. [PMID: 38723762 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2024.108810] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
This study examined the empathic processing of individuals with psychopathic traits and healthy controls in response to pain, applying affective perspective-taking (Self vs. Other). Twenty subjects with high psychopathic traits and twenty control subjects performed pain judgment tasks in the study. During the tasks, late positive potentials (LPPs) of the participants were measured to assess emotional processing in reaction to visual stimuli depicting painful or non-painful situations. In early LPP time stage (500-700 ms), the control group and the psychopathic trait group exhibited comparable levels of empathic processing regarding pain. However, in late LPP time window (700-1100 ms), the control group showed a greater LPP amplitude to Pain stimuli than No-pain stimuli, whereas the psychopathic trait group exhibited non-significant amplitude differences between Pain and No-pain stimuli. These findings imply that individuals with high psychopathic traits may swiftly terminate the processing and encounter difficulties in reappraising distress cues, especially in the late stage, providing psychophysiological support for distinctive empathic processing with temporal aspects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ah Yeong Kim
- Department of Forensic Psychology, Kyonggi University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Young Youn Kim
- Department of Forensic Psychology, Kyonggi University, Suwon, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Spivey RB, Drislane LE. Meanness and affective processing: A meta-analysis of EEG findings on emotional face processing in individuals with psychopathic traits. Biol Psychol 2024; 187:108764. [PMID: 38350594 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2024.108764] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The triarchic model (Patrick et al., 2009) conceptualizes psychopathy as a multidimensional construct encompassing three biobehavioral dimensions: meanness, boldness, and disinhibition. Meanness entails low empathy, shallow affect, and lack of remorse, and is associated with poor facial emotion recognition; however, the mechanistic processes contributing to these deficits are unclear. Emotional face processing can be examined on a neurophysiological level using event-related potentials (ERPs) such as N170, P200, and LPP. No quantitative review to date has examined the extent to which amplitude of these ERP components may be modulated by psychopathic traits. METHOD The current study performed random-effects model meta-analyses of nine studies (N = 1131) which examined affective face processing ERPs in individuals with psychopathic traits to provide an overall effect size for the association between meanness, boldness, and disinhibition and N170, P200, and LPP amplitudes across studies. Analyses were also conducted examining potential moderators and publication bias. RESULTS N170 amplitudes were significantly smaller (r =.18) among individuals high in meanness when processing fearful faces. Significant effects were not found for N170 amplitude when processing angry or happy faces, nor for LPP and P200 amplitudes across stimulus types. Additionally, significant effects were not found for the association between N170 amplitude and other dimensions of psychopathy. Meta-regression analyses indicated the manipulation of facial stimuli was significant in explaining some between-study heterogeneity of the meanness N170-fear model. No evidence of publication bias was found. CONCLUSIONS Diminished amplitude of the N170 when viewing fear faces appears to be a neurophysiological marker of psychopathic meanness. Deficits in early encoding of faces may account for empathy deficits characteristic of psychopathy.
Collapse
|
4
|
Brady RG, Donohue MR, Waller R, Latham A, Ayala M, Smyser TA, Warner BB, Barch DM, Luby JL, Rogers CE, Smyser CD. Newborn Brain Function and Early Emerging Callous-Unemotional Traits. JAMA Psychiatry 2024; 81:303-311. [PMID: 38117491 PMCID: PMC10733851 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2023.4842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Importance Children with high callous-unemotional traits are more likely to develop severe and persistent conduct problems; however, the newborn neurobiology underlying early callous-unemotional traits remains unknown. Understanding the neural mechanisms that precede the development of callous-unemotional traits could help identify at-risk children and encourage development of novel treatments. Objective To determine whether newborn brain function is associated with early-emerging empathy, prosociality, and callous-unemotional traits. Design, Setting, and Participants In this prospective, longitudinal cohort study, pregnant women were recruited from obstetric clinics in St Louis, Missouri, from September 1, 2017, to February 28, 2020, with longitudinal data collected until March 20, 2023. Mothers were recruited during pregnancy. Newborns underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging shortly after birth. Mothers completed longitudinal follow-up when the children were aged 1, 2, and 3 years. Exposures The sample was enriched for exposure to socioeconomic disadvantage. Main Outcome and Measure Functional connectivity between hypothesized brain regions was assessed using newborn-specific networks and voxel-based connectivity analyses. Children's callous-unemotional traits were measured using the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits. Empathy and prosociality were assessed using the Infant and Toddler Socio-Emotional Assessment. Results A total of 283 children (mean [SD] gestational age, 38 [2] weeks; 159 male [56.2%]; 2 Asian [0.7%], 171 Black [60%], 7 Hispanic or Latino [2.5%], 106 White [38%], 4 other racial or ethnic group [1.4%]) were included in the analysis. Stronger newborn functional connectivity between the cingulo-opercular network (CO) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) was associated with higher callous-unemotional traits at age 3 years (β = 0.31; 95% CI, 0.17-0.41; P < .001). Results persisted when accounting for parental callous-unemotional traits and child externalizing symptoms. Stronger newborn CO-mPFC connectivity was also associated with lower empathy and lower prosociality at ages 1, 2, and 3 years using multilevel models (β = -0.12; 95% CI, -0.21 to -0.04; P = .004 and β = -0.20; 95% CI, -0.30 to -0.10; P < .001, respectively). Conclusions and Relevance Newborn functional connectivity was associated with early-emerging empathy, prosociality, and callous-unemotional traits, even when accounting for parental callous-unemotional traits and child externalizing symptoms. Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of empathy, prosociality, and callous-unemotional traits at the earliest developmental point may help early risk stratification and novel intervention development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca G. Brady
- Division of Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Megan Rose Donohue
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Rebecca Waller
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
| | - Aidan Latham
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Mia Ayala
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Tara A. Smyser
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Barbara B. Warner
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Deanna M. Barch
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Mallinckrot Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Joan L. Luby
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Cynthia E. Rogers
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| | - Christopher D. Smyser
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
- Mallinckrot Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, Missouri
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jiang Y, Gao Y, Dong D, Sun X, Situ W, Yao S. Brain Anatomy in Boys with Conduct Disorder: Differences Among Aggression Subtypes. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:3-13. [PMID: 35704134 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01360-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Aggression is a core feature of conduct disorder (CD), but the motivation, execution of aggression may vary. A deeper understanding of the neural substrates of aggressive behaviours is critical for effective clinical intervention. Seventy-six Boys with CD (50 with impulsive aggression (I-CD) and 26 with premeditated aggression (P-CD)) and 69 healthy controls (HCs) underwent a structural MRI scan and behavioural assessments. Whole-brain analyses revealed that, compared to HCs, the I-CD group showed significant cortical thinning in the right frontal cortex, while the P-CD group demonstrated significant folding deficits in the bilateral superior parietal cortex. Both types of aggression negatively correlated with the left amygdala volume, albeit in different ways. The present results demonstrated that the complex nature of aggression relies on differentiated anatomical substrates, highlighting the importance of exploring differential circuit-targeted interventions for CD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yali Jiang
- Medical Psychological Center, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, No. 139, Middle Renmin Road, 410011, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Radiology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139, Middle Renmin Road, 410011, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Brain, Cognition and Education Sciences, South China Normal University, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
- School of Psychology, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Studies of Psychological Application, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yidian Gao
- Center for Studies of Psychological Application, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daifeng Dong
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Sun
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weijun Situ
- Department of Radiology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 139, Middle Renmin Road, 410011, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Shuqiao Yao
- Medical Psychological Center, the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, No. 139, Middle Renmin Road, 410011, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Cognitive Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.
- Centre for Human Brain Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- Medical Psychological Center, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
- National Clinical Research Center on Psychiatry and Psychology, Changsha, China.
- Medical Psychological Institute of Central South University, Changsha, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Levantini V, Muratori P, Bertacchi I, Grilli V, Marzano A, Masi G, Milone A, Kimonis ER. The "Measure of Empathy in Early Childhood": Psychometric Properties and Associations with Externalizing Problems and Callous Unemotional Traits. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024:10.1007/s10578-024-01673-7. [PMID: 38261151 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-024-01673-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Empathy is crucial to the development of socio-emotional skills in youth and empathy development is central to understanding and subtyping youth with externalizing problems. This study explored for the first time the psychometric properties of the Measure of Empathy in Early Childhood (MEEC) in a sample of 652 Italian children aged 6 to 8 years. The gender invariance of MEEC scores and their associations with other measures of empathy and prosocial behavior, and children's externalizing problems and callous-unemotional (CU) traits were also evaluated. Results indicated that with some modifications, a 5-factor structure of the Italian version of MEEC scores fitted the data and was invariant across gender. Results further supported the reliability and validity of MEEC total and subscale scores. Practical implications of these results are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Levantini
- Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, IRCCS Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | - Pietro Muratori
- Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, IRCCS Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Iacopo Bertacchi
- Accademia di Neuropsicologia dello Sviluppo (A.N.Svi), Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Virginia Grilli
- Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, IRCCS Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Masi
- Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, IRCCS Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | - Annarita Milone
- Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, IRCCS Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | - Eva R Kimonis
- Parent-Child Research Clinic, School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Maurer JM, Anderson NE, Allen CH, Kiehl KA. Examining the Association between Psychopathic Traits and Fearlessness among Maximum-Security Incarcerated Male Adolescents. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:65. [PMID: 38255377 PMCID: PMC10814550 DOI: 10.3390/children11010065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Studies have reported positive associations between youth psychopathy scores and measures of 'fearlessness'. However, prior studies modified fearlessness items to be age appropriate, shifting from assessing hypothetical, extreme forms of physical risk-taking (e.g., flying an airplane) to normative risk-taking (e.g., riding bicycles downhill). We hypothesize that associations between youth psychopathy scores and alternative forms of sensation seeking (i.e., Disinhibition) have been conflated under a false fearlessness label. We tested this hypothesis among incarcerated male adolescents, investigating whether youth psychopathy scores were significantly associated with two different forms of sensation seeking: Disinhibition and Thrill and Adventure Seeking (TAS). Youth psychopathic traits were assessed using the Psychopathy Checklist: Youth Version (PCL:YV), Antisocial Process Screening Device (APSD), Child Psychopathy Scale (CPS), Inventory of Callous and Unemotional Traits (ICU), and Youth Psychopathic Traits Inventory (YPI). Disinhibition and fearlessness (i.e., TAS) were assessed using an unmodified version of the Zuckerman Sensation Seeking Scales (SSS). Consistent with hypotheses, youth psychopathy scores were associated with higher Disinhibition and lower TAS scores. Our results contribute to a growing body of literature suggesting that psychopathic traits, including among adolescents, are not concomitant with physical risk-taking and descriptions of psychopathy including fearlessness distort a precise understanding of psychopathy's core features.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Michael Maurer
- The Mind Research Network, 1101 Yale Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA; (J.M.M.)
| | - Nathaniel E. Anderson
- The Mind Research Network, 1101 Yale Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA; (J.M.M.)
| | - Corey H. Allen
- The Mind Research Network, 1101 Yale Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA; (J.M.M.)
| | - Kent A. Kiehl
- The Mind Research Network, 1101 Yale Boulevard NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA; (J.M.M.)
- Departments of Psychology, Neuroscience and Law, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kimonis ER. The Emotionally Sensitive Child-Adverse Parenting Experiences-Allostatic (Over)Load (ESCAPE-AL) Model for the Development of Secondary Psychopathic Traits. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2023; 26:1097-1114. [PMID: 37735279 PMCID: PMC10640461 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-023-00455-2] [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] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Understanding and treatment of antisocial behavior have improved through efforts to subtype individuals based on similar risk factors and outcomes. In particular, the presence of psychopathic traits is associated with distinct etiological factors and antisocial behavior that begins early in life, is aggressive, persistent, and less likely to normalize with traditional treatments, relative to individuals low on psychopathy or its childhood precursor, callous-unemotional (CU) traits. However, important distinctions can be made within individuals with CU/psychopathic traits according to the presence of elevated anxiety symptoms and/or adverse childhood experiences, known as secondary psychopathy/CU traits. This paper provides a broad and brief overview of theory and empirical literature supporting the existence of secondary psychopathy/CU variants as a distinct subtype of childhood antisocial behavior. It outlines the Emotionally Sensitive Child-Adverse Parenting Experiences-Allostatic (Over)Load (ESCAPE-AL) model for the developmental psychopathology of secondary psychopathic/CU traits and discusses research and theory supporting this perspective. Future research directions for testing this conceptual model and its implications for assessing and treating high-risk individuals with secondary CU/psychopathic traits are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eva R Kimonis
- Parent-Child Research Clinic, School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Werhahn JE, Smigielski L, Sacu S, Mohl S, Willinger D, Naaijen J, Mulder LM, Glennon JC, Hoekstra PJ, Dietrich A, Deters RK, Aggensteiner PM, Holz NE, Baumeister S, Banaschewski T, Saam MC, Schulze UME, Lythgoe DJ, Sethi A, Craig M, Mastroianni M, Sagar-Ouriaghli I, Santosh PJ, Rosa M, Bargallo N, Castro-Fornieles J, Arango C, Penzol MJ, Zwiers MP, Franke B, Buitelaar JK, Walitza S, Brandeis D. Different whole-brain functional connectivity correlates of reactive-proactive aggression and callous-unemotional traits in children and adolescents with disruptive behaviors. Neuroimage Clin 2023; 40:103542. [PMID: 37988996 PMCID: PMC10701077 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2023.103542] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disruptive behavior in children and adolescents can manifest as reactive aggression and proactive aggression and is modulated by callous-unemotional traits and other comorbidities. Neural correlates of these aggression dimensions or subtypes and comorbid symptoms remain largely unknown. This multi-center study investigated the relationship between resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) and aggression subtypes considering comorbidities. METHODS The large sample of children and adolescents aged 8-18 years (n = 207; mean age = 13.30±2.60 years, 150 males) included 118 cases with disruptive behavior (80 with Oppositional Defiant Disorder and/or Conduct Disorder) and 89 controls. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety symptom scores were analyzed as covariates when assessing group differences and dimensional aggression effects on hypothesis-free global and local voxel-to-voxel whole-brain rsFC based on functional magnetic resonance imaging at 3 Tesla. RESULTS Compared to controls, the cases demonstrated altered rsFC in frontal areas, when anxiety but not ADHD symptoms were controlled for. For cases, reactive and proactive aggression scores were related to global and local rsFC in the central gyrus and precuneus, regions linked to aggression-related impairments. Callous-unemotional trait severity was correlated with ICC in the inferior and middle temporal regions implicated in empathy, emotion, and reward processing. Most observed aggression subtype-specific patterns could only be identified when ADHD and anxiety were controlled for. CONCLUSIONS This study clarifies that hypothesis-free brain connectivity measures can disentangle distinct though overlapping dimensions of aggression in youths. Moreover, our results highlight the importance of considering comorbid symptoms to detect aggression-related rsFC alterations in youths.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia E Werhahn
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lukasz Smigielski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Seda Sacu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Susanna Mohl
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David Willinger
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jilly Naaijen
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Leandra M Mulder
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey C Glennon
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Conway Institute of Biomedical and Biomolecular Research, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Pieter J Hoekstra
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Dietrich
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Renee Kleine Deters
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Pascal M Aggensteiner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nathalie E Holz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sarah Baumeister
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Tobias Banaschewski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Melanie C Saam
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ulrike M E Schulze
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - David J Lythgoe
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Arjun Sethi
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Craig
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mathilde Mastroianni
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ilyas Sagar-Ouriaghli
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paramala J Santosh
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mireia Rosa
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuria Bargallo
- Clinic Image Diagnostic Center (CDIC), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Magnetic Resonance Image Core Facility, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josefina Castro-Fornieles
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology Department, Institute Clinic of Neurosciences, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, CIBERSAM, IDIBAPS, Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Celso Arango
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J Penzol
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marcel P Zwiers
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Franke
- Departments of Human Genetics and Psychiatry, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center. Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan K Buitelaar
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Center, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Walitza
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Brandeis
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Suk JW, Blair RJR, Vaughan B, Lerdahl A, Garvey WF, Edwards R, Leibenluft E, Hwang S. Mediating effect of amygdala activity on response to fear vs. happiness in youth with significant levels of irritability and disruptive mood and behavior disorders. Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1204574. [PMID: 37901308 PMCID: PMC10602729 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1204574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Irritability, characterized by a tendency to exhibit increased anger, is a common clinical problem in youth. Irritability is a significant clinical issue in youth with various psychiatric diagnoses, especially disruptive behavior, and mood disorders (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder). Although there have been previous studies focusing on functional alteration in the amygdala related to irritability, there is no comprehensive model between emotional, neuronal, and behavioral characteristics. Methods Using an functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) procedure, we investigated the relationships between behavioral irritability, selective impairments in processing facial emotions and the amygdala neural response in youth with increased irritability. Fifty-nine youth with disruptive mood and behavior disorder completed a facial expression processing task with an event-related fMRI paradigm. The severity of irritability was evaluated using the Affective Reactivity Index. Results In the result of behavioral data, irritability, and reaction time (RT) differences between interpreting negative (fear) and positive (happiness) facial expressions were positively correlated. In the fMRI result, youth showed higher activation in the right cingulate gyrus, bilateral cerebellum, right amygdala, right precuneus, right superior frontal gyrus, right middle occipital gyrus, and middle temporal gyrus, during the happiness condition vs. fear condition. No brain region exhibited greater activation in the fear than in the happiness conditions. In the result of the mediator analysis, increased irritability was associated with a longer RT toward positive vs. negative facial expressions. Irritability was also positively associated with the difference in amygdala blood oxygen level-dependent responses between the two emotional conditions (happiness > fear). This difference in amygdala activity mediated the interaction between irritability and the RT difference between negative and positive facial expressions. Discussion We suggest that impairment in the implicit processing of facial emotional expressions with different valences causes distinct patterns of amygdala response, which correlate with the level of irritability. These results broaden our understanding of the biological mechanism of irritability at the neural level and provide information for the future direction of the study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Woo Suk
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
- Digital Health Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Robert J. R. Blair
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Centre, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Emotion and Development Branch, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Brigette Vaughan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Arica Lerdahl
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - William F. Garvey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Ryan Edwards
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Ellen Leibenluft
- National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Soonjo Hwang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tkalcec A, Bierlein M, Seeger-Schneider G, Walitza S, Jenny B, Menks WM, Felhbaum LV, Borbas R, Cole DM, Raschle N, Herbrecht E, Stadler C, Cubillo A. Empathy deficits, callous-unemotional traits and structural underpinnings in autism spectrum disorder and conduct disorder youth. Autism Res 2023; 16:1946-1962. [PMID: 37548142 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Distinct empathy deficits are often described in patients with conduct disorder (CD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) yet their neural underpinnings and the influence of comorbid Callous-Unemotional (CU) traits are unclear. This study compares the cognitive (CE) and affective empathy (AE) abilities of youth with CD and ASD, their potential neuroanatomical correlates, and the influence of CU traits on empathy. Adolescents and parents/caregivers completed empathy questionnaires (N = 148 adolescents, mean age = 15.16 years) and T1 weighted images were obtained from a subsample (N = 130). Group differences in empathy and the influence of CU traits were investigated using Bayesian analyses and Voxel-Based Morphometry with Threshold-Free Cluster Enhancement focusing on regions involved in AE (insula, amygdala, inferior frontal gyrus and cingulate cortex) and CE processes (ventromedial prefrontal cortex, temporoparietal junction, superior temporal gyrus, and precuneus). The ASD group showed lower parent-reported AE and CE scores and lower self-reported CE scores while the CD group showed lower parent-reported CE scores than controls. When accounting for the influence of CU traits no AE deficits in ASD and CE deficits in CD were found, but CE deficits in ASD remained. Across all participants, CU traits were negatively associated with gray matter volumes in anterior cingulate which extends into the mid cingulate, ventromedial prefrontal cortex, and precuneus. Thus, although co-occurring CU traits have been linked to global empathy deficits in reports and underlying brain structures, its influence on empathy aspects might be disorder-specific. Investigating the subdimensions of empathy may therefore help to identify disorder-specific empathy deficits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Tkalcec
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Clinic, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maria Bierlein
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Clinic, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gudrun Seeger-Schneider
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Psychiatric University Clinic, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susanne Walitza
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Psychiatric University Clinic, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bettina Jenny
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, Psychiatric University Clinic, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Willeke M Menks
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, and Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Psychology of Language Department, Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Lynn V Felhbaum
- Jacobs Center for Productive Youth, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Reka Borbas
- Jacobs Center for Productive Youth, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - David M Cole
- Translational Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Clinic, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nora Raschle
- Jacobs Center for Productive Youth, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Evelyn Herbrecht
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Clinic, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christina Stadler
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Clinic, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ana Cubillo
- Child and Youth Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Clinic, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Winters DE, Leopold DR, Sakai JT, Carter RM. Efficiency of Heterogenous Functional Connectomes Explains Variance in Callous-Unemotional Traits After Computational Lesioning of Cortical Midline and Salience Regions. Brain Connect 2023; 13:410-426. [PMID: 37221853 PMCID: PMC10517336 DOI: 10.1089/brain.2022.0074] [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] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Callous-unemotional (CU) traits are a youth antisocial phenotype hypothesized to be a result of differences in the integration of multiple brain systems. However, mechanistic insights into these brain systems are a continued challenge. Where prior work describes activation and connectivity, new mechanistic insights into the brain's functional connectome can be derived by removing nodes and quantifying changes in network properties (hereafter referred to as computational lesioning) to characterize connectome resilience and vulnerability. Methods: Here, we study the resilience of connectome integration in CU traits by estimating changes in efficiency after computationally lesioning individual-level connectomes. From resting-state data of 86 participants (48% female, age 14.52 ± 1.31) drawn from the Nathan Kline institute's Rockland study, individual-level connectomes were estimated using graphical lasso. Computational lesioning was conducted both sequentially and by targeting global and local hubs. Elastic net regression was applied to determine how these changes explained variance in CU traits. Follow-up analyses characterized modeled node hubs, examined moderation, determined impact of targeting, and decoded the brain mask by comparing regions to meta-analytic maps. Results: Elastic net regression revealed that computational lesioning of 23 nodes, network modularity, and Tanner stage explained variance in CU traits. Hub assignment of selected hubs differed at higher CU traits. No evidence for moderation between simulated lesioning and CU traits was found. Targeting global hubs increased efficiency and targeting local hubs had no effect at higher CU traits. Identified brain mask meta-analytically associated with more emotion and cognitive terms. Although reliable patterns were found across participants, adolescent brains were heterogeneous even for those with a similar CU traits score. Conclusion: Adolescent brain response to simulated lesioning revealed a pattern of connectome resiliency and vulnerability that explains variance in CU traits, which can aid prediction of youth at greater risk for higher CU traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Drew E. Winters
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Daniel R. Leopold
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Joseph T. Sakai
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - R. McKell Carter
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience; Computer and Energy Engineering; University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
- Institute of Cognitive Science; Computer and Energy Engineering; University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
- Department of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering; University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cerrito P, Burkart JM. Human Amygdala Volumetric Patterns Convergently Evolved in Cooperatively Breeding and Domesticated Species. HUMAN NATURE (HAWTHORNE, N.Y.) 2023; 34:501-511. [PMID: 37735331 PMCID: PMC10543585 DOI: 10.1007/s12110-023-09461-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
The amygdala is a hub in brain networks that supports social life and fear processing. Compared with other apes, humans have a relatively larger lateral nucleus of the amygdala, which is consistent with both the self-domestication and the cooperative breeding hypotheses of human evolution. Here, we take a comparative approach to the evolutionary origin of the relatively larger lateral amygdala nucleus in humans. We carry out phylogenetic analysis on a sample of 17 mammalian species for which we acquired single amygdala nuclei volumetric data. Our results indicate that there has been convergent evolution toward larger lateral amygdala nuclei in both domesticated and cooperatively breeding mammals. These results suggest that changes in processing fearful stimuli to reduce fear-induced aggression, which are necessary for domesticated and cooperatively breeding species alike, tap into the same neurobiological proximate mechanism. However, humans show changes not only in processing fearful stimuli but also in proactive prosociality. Since cooperative breeding, but not domestication, is also associated with increased proactive prosociality, a prominent role of the former during human evolution is more parsimonious, whereas self-domestication may have been involved as an additional stepping stone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Cerrito
- Collegium Helveticum, ETH Zürich, Schmelzbergstrasse 25, Zürich, 8092, Switzerland.
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Judith M Burkart
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language Evolution (ISLE), University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
van de Groep IH, Bos MGN, Popma A, Crone EA, Jansen LMC. A neurocognitive model of early onset persistent and desistant antisocial behavior in early adulthood. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1100277. [PMID: 37533586 PMCID: PMC10392129 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1100277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
It remains unclear which functional and neurobiological mechanisms are associated with persistent and desistant antisocial behavior in early adulthood. We reviewed the empirical literature and propose a neurocognitive social information processing model for early onset persistent and desistant antisocial behavior in early adulthood, focusing on how young adults evaluate, act upon, monitor, and learn about their goals and self traits. Based on the reviewed literature, we propose that persistent antisocial behavior is characterized by domain-general impairments in self-relevant and goal-related information processing, regulation, and learning, which is accompanied by altered activity in fronto-limbic brain areas. We propose that desistant antisocial development is associated with more effortful information processing, regulation and learning, that possibly balances self-relevant goals and specific situational characteristics. The proposed framework advances insights by considering individual differences such as psychopathic personality traits, and specific emotional characteristics (e.g., valence of social cues), to further illuminate functional and neural mechanisms underlying heterogenous developmental pathways. Finally, we address important open questions and offer suggestions for future research to improve scientific knowledge on general and context-specific expression and development of antisocial behavior in early adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilse H. van de Groep
- Erasmus School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marieke G. N. Bos
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Arne Popma
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Mental Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eveline A. Crone
- Erasmus School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Lucres M. C. Jansen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Mental Health, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mathur A, Bashford-Largo J, Elowsky J, Zhang R, Dobbertin M, Tyler PM, Bajaj S, Blair KS, Blair RJR. Association Between Aggression and Differential Functional Activity of Neural Regions Implicated in Retaliation. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 62:805-815. [PMID: 36889505 PMCID: PMC10330338 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2023.01.021] [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: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The goal of the current study was to determine the extent to which atypical neural responsiveness during retaliation is associated with observed aggression in youth in residential care. METHOD This functional magnetic resonance imaging study involved 83 adolescents (56 male and 27 female; mean age, 16.18 years) in residential care performing a retaliation task. Of the 83 adolescents, 42 displayed aggressive behavior within the first 3 months of residential care, whereas 41 did not. During the retaliation task, participants were offered either fair or unfair divisions of $20 pots (allocation phase) and could either accept the offer or reject it, and, by spending $1, $2, or $3, punish the partner (retaliation phase). RESULTS The study's main findings were that aggressive adolescent showed the following: reduced down-regulation of activity within regions involved in representing the expected value of choice options (left ventromedial prefrontal cortex and left posterior cingulate cortex) as a function of offer unfairness and retaliation level; and reduced recruitment of regions implicated in response control (right inferior frontal gyrus and bilateral anterior insular cortex) and associated fronto-parietal regions as a function of retaliation level. The aggressive adolescents were also significantly more likely to have been aggressive prior to residential care and showed a strong trend for increased retaliation on the task. CONCLUSION We suggest that individuals with a greater propensity for aggression show reduced representation of the negative consequences of retaliation and associated reduced recruitment of regions potentially involved in over-ruling these negative consequences to engage in retaliation. DIVERSITY & INCLUSION STATEMENT We worked to ensure sex and gender balance in the recruitment of human participants. We worked to ensure that the study questionnaires were prepared in an inclusive way. We worked to ensure race, ethnic, and/or other types of diversity in the recruitment of human participants. We worked to ensure sex balance in the selection of non-human subjects. We actively worked to promote sex and gender balance in our author group. The author list of this paper includes contributors from the location and/or community where the research was conducted who participated in the data collection, design, analysis, and/or interpretation of the work. While citing references scientifically relevant for this work, we also actively worked to promote inclusion of historically underrepresented racial and/or ethnic groups in science in our reference list. While citing references scientifically relevant for this work, we also actively worked to promote sex and gender balance in our reference list. We actively worked to promote inclusion of historically underrepresented racial and/or ethnic groups in science in our author group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Avantika Mathur
- Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Boys Town, Nebraska
| | - Johannah Bashford-Largo
- Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Boys Town, Nebraska
| | - Jaimie Elowsky
- Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Boys Town, Nebraska
| | - Ru Zhang
- Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Boys Town, Nebraska
| | - Matthew Dobbertin
- Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Boys Town, Nebraska
| | | | - Sahil Bajaj
- Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Boys Town, Nebraska
| | - Karina S Blair
- Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Boys Town, Nebraska
| | - R James R Blair
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Center Research Center, Genthofte Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hawes DJ, Gardner F, Dadds MR, Frick PJ, Kimonis ER, Burke JD, Fairchild G. Oppositional defiant disorder. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2023; 9:31. [PMID: 37349322 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-023-00441-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a disruptive behaviour disorder involving an ongoing pattern of angry/irritable mood, argumentative/defiant behaviour and vindictiveness. Onset is typically before 8 years of age, although ODD can be diagnosed in both children and adults. This disorder is associated with substantial social and economic burden, and childhood ODD is one of the most common precursors of other mental health problems that can arise across the lifespan. The population prevalence of ODD is ~3 to 5%. A higher prevalence in males than females has been reported, particularly before adolescence. No single risk factor accounts for ODD. The development of this disorder seems to arise from the interaction of genetic and environmental factors, and mechanisms embedded in social relationships are understood to contribute to its maintenance. The treatment of ODD is often successful, and relatively brief parenting interventions produce large sized treatment effects in early childhood. Accordingly, ODD represents an important focus for research, practice and policy concerning early intervention and prevention in mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Hawes
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Frances Gardner
- Centre for Evidence-Based Intervention, Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mark R Dadds
- School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul J Frick
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Eva R Kimonis
- Parent-Child Research Clinic, School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D Burke
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tully J, Sethi A, Griem J, Paloyelis Y, Craig MC, Williams SCR, Murphy D, Blair RJ, Blackwood N. Oxytocin normalizes the implicit processing of fearful faces in psychopathy: a randomized crossover study using fMRI. NATURE MENTAL HEALTH 2023; 1:420-427. [PMID: 38665476 PMCID: PMC11041724 DOI: 10.1038/s44220-023-00067-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Adults with antisocial personality disorder with (ASPD + P) and without (ASPD - P) psychopathy commit the majority of violent crimes. Empathic processing abnormalities are particularly prominent in psychopathy, but effective pharmacological interventions have yet to be identified. Oxytocin modulates neural responses to fearful expressions in healthy populations. The current study investigates its effects in violent antisocial men. In a placebo-controlled, randomized crossover design, 34 violent offenders (19 ASPD + P; 15 ASPD - P) and 24 healthy non-offenders received 40 IU intranasal oxytocin or placebo and then completed an fMRI morphed faces task examining the implicit processing of fearful facial expressions. Increasing intensity of fearful facial expressions failed to appropriately modulate activity in the bilateral mid-cingulate cortex in violent offenders with ASPD + P, compared with those with ASPD - P. Oxytocin abolished these group differences. This represents evidence of neurochemical modulation of the empathic processing of others' distress in psychopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Tully
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Jubilee Campus, Nottingham, UK
| | - Arjun Sethi
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Julia Griem
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Yannis Paloyelis
- Centre for Neuroimaging Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Michael C. Craig
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Steven C. R. Williams
- Centre for Neuroimaging Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Declan Murphy
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Robert James Blair
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Centre, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nigel Blackwood
- Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bellamy NA, Salekin RT, Makol BA, Augenstein TM, De Los Reyes A. The Proposed Specifiers for Conduct Disorder - Parent (PSCD-P): Convergent Validity, Incremental Validity, and Reactions to Unfamiliar Peer Confederates. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2023:10.1007/s10802-023-01056-x. [PMID: 37097378 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-023-01056-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Youth who experience psychopathy display multiple impairments across interpersonal (grandiose-manipulative [GM]), affective (callous-unemotional [CU]), lifestyle (daring-impulsive [DI]), and potentially antisocial and behavioral features. Recently, it has been acknowledged that the inclusion of psychopathic features can offer valuable information in relation to the etiology of Conduct Disorder (CD). Yet, prior work largely focuses on the affective component of psychopathy, namely CU. This focus creates uncertainty in the literature on the incremental value of a multicomponent approach to understanding CD-linked domains. Consequently, researchers developed the Proposed Specifiers for Conduct Disorder (PSCD; Salekin & Hare, 2016) as a multicomponent approach to assess GM, CU, and DI features in combination with CD symptoms. The notion of considering the wider set of psychopathic features for CD specification requires testing whether multiple personality dimensions predict domain-relevant criterion outcomes above-and-beyond a CU-based approach. Thus, we tested the psychometric properties of parents' reports on the PSCD (PSCD-P) in a mixed clinical/community sample of 134 adolescents (Mage = 14.49, 66.4% female). Confirmatory factor analyses resulted in a 19-item PSCD-P displaying acceptable reliability estimates and a bifactor solution consisting of GM, CU, DI, and CD factors. Findings supported the incremental validity of scores taken from the PSCD-P across multiple criterion variables, including (a) an established survey measure of parent-adolescent conflict; and (b) trained independent observers' ratings of adolescents' behavioral reactions to laboratory controlled tasks designed to simulate social interactions with unfamiliar peers. These findings have important implications for future research on the PSCD and links to adolescents' interpersonal functioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Bellamy
- Comprehensive Assessment and Intervention Program, Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Biology/Psychology Building, Room 3123H, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Randall T Salekin
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Bridget A Makol
- Comprehensive Assessment and Intervention Program, Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Biology/Psychology Building, Room 3123H, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Tara M Augenstein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Andres De Los Reyes
- Comprehensive Assessment and Intervention Program, Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, Biology/Psychology Building, Room 3123H, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
van de Groep IH, G N Bos M, Jansen LMC, Popma A, Crone EA. Through the looking glass: the neural basis of self-concept in young adults with antisocial trajectories. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2023; 18:7156805. [PMID: 37154430 PMCID: PMC10165683 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-concept is shaped by social experiences, but it is not yet well understood how the neural and behavioral development of self-concept is influenced by a history of antisocial behavior. In this pre-registered study, we examined neural responses to self-evaluations in young adults who engaged with antisocial behavior in childhood and either desisted or persisted in antisocial behavior. A self-concept task was performed by 94 young adults (age range 18-30 years). During the task, participants with a persistent or desistent antisocial trajectory (n = 54) and typically developing young adults (n = 40) rated whether positive and negative traits in different domains (prosocial and physical) described themselves. We examined both the effects of a history of antisocial behavior as well as current heterogeneity in psychopathic traits on self-concept appraisal and its neural underpinnings. Participants endorsed more positive trait statements than negative across domains, which did not differ between antisocial-history groups. However, current psychopathic traits were negatively associated with prosocial self-concept and medial prefrontal cortex activity during self-evaluation. Together, these findings suggest that antisocial tendencies might indeed be reflected in self-concept development of young adults, specifically in the prosocial domain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilse H van de Groep
- Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Erasmus University, Rotterdam 3062 PA, The Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden 2300 RC, The Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1100 DD Amsterdam Zuidoost, The Netherlands
- Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden 2333 AK, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke G N Bos
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden 2300 RC, The Netherlands
- Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden 2333 AK, The Netherlands
| | - Lucres M C Jansen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1100 DD Amsterdam Zuidoost, The Netherlands
| | - Arne Popma
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, 1100 DD Amsterdam Zuidoost, The Netherlands
| | - Eveline A Crone
- Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Erasmus University, Rotterdam 3062 PA, The Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden 2300 RC, The Netherlands
- Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Leiden University, Leiden 2333 AK, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies consistently indicate differences in emotion processing in youth with conduct problems. However, no prior meta-analysis has investigated emotion-specific responses associated with conduct problems. This meta-analysis aimed to generate an up-to-date assessment of socio-affective neural responding among youths with conduct problems. A systematic literature search was conducted in youths (ages 10-21) with conduct problems. Task-specific seed-based d mapping analyses examined responses to threatening images, fearful and angry facial expressions, and empathic pain stimuli from 23 fMRI studies, which included 606 youths with conduct problems and 459 comparison youths. Whole-brain analyses revealed youths with conduct problems relative to typically developing youths, when viewing angry facial expressions, had reduced activity in left supplementary motor area and superior frontal gyrus. Additional region of interest analyses of responses to negative images and fearful facial expressions showed reduced activation in right amygdala across youths with conduct problems. Youths with callous-unemotional traits also exhibited reduced activation in left fusiform gyrus, superior parietal gyrus, and middle temporal gyrus when viewing fearful facial expressions. Consistent with the behavioral profile of conduct problems, these findings suggest the most consistent dysfunction is found in regions associated with empathic responding and social learning, including the amygdala and temporal cortex. Youth with callous-unemotional traits also show reduced activation in the fusiform gyrus, consistent with reduced attention or facial processing. These findings highlight the potential role of empathic responding, social learning, and facial processing along with the associated brain regions as potential targets for interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Berluti
- Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Montana L Ploe
- Department of Psychology, Washington State University, Pullman, DC, USA
| | - Abigail A Marsh
- Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dugré JR, Potvin S. Neural bases of frustration-aggression theory: A multi-domain meta-analysis of functional neuroimaging studies. J Affect Disord 2023; 331:64-76. [PMID: 36924847 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.03.005] [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: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early evidence suggests that unexpected non-reward may increase the risk for aggressive behaviors. Despite the growing interest in understanding brain functions that may be implicated in aggressive behaviors, the neural processes underlying such frustrative events remain largely unknown. Furthermore, meta-analytic results have produced discrepant results, potentially due to substantial differences in the definition of anger/aggression constructs. METHODS Therefore, we conducted a coordinate-based meta-analysis, using the activation likelihood estimation algorithm, on neuroimaging studies examining reward omission and retaliatory behaviors in healthy subjects. Conjunction analyses were further examined to discover overlapping brain activations across these meta-analytic maps. RESULTS Frustrative non-reward deactivated the orbitofrontal cortex, ventral striatum and posterior cingulate cortex, whereas increased activations were observed in midcingulo-insular regions. Retaliatory behaviors recruited the left fronto-insular and anterior midcingulate cortices, the dorsal caudate and the primary somatosensory cortex. Conjunction analyses revealed that both strongly activated midcingulo-insular regions. LIMITATIONS Spatial overlap between neural correlates of frustration and retaliatory behaviors was conducted using a conjunction analysis. Therefore, neurobiological markers underlying the temporal sequence of the frustration-aggression theory should be interpreted with caution. CONCLUSIONS Nonetheless, our results underscore the role of anterior midcingulate/pre-supplementary motor area and fronto-insular cortex in both frustration and retaliatory behaviors. A neurobiological framework for understanding frustration-based impulsive aggression is provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jules R Dugré
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada.
| | - Stéphane Potvin
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montréal, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Matthys W, Schutter DJLG. Moral Thinking and Empathy in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Children and Adolescents with Conduct Problems: A Narrative Review. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2023; 26:401-415. [PMID: 36905479 PMCID: PMC10123041 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-023-00429-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for conduct problems in children and adolescents aims to decrease behaviors which may be considered moral transgressions (e.g., aggressive and antisocial behavior) and to increase behaviors that benefit others (e.g., helping, comforting). However, the moral aspects underlying these behaviors have received relatively little attention. In view of increasing the effectiveness of CBT for conduct problems, insights into morality and empathy based on studies from developmental psychology and cognitive neuroscience are reviewed and integrated into a previously proposed model of social problem-solving (Matthys & Schutter, Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 25:552-572, 2022). Specifically, this narrative review discusses developmental psychology studies on normative beliefs in support of aggression and antisocial behavior, clarification of goals, and empathy. These studies are complemented by cognitive neuroscience research on harm perception and moral thinking, harm perception and empathy, others' beliefs and intentions, and response outcome learning and decision-making. A functional integration of moral thinking and empathy into social problem-solving in group CBT may contribute to the acceptance of morality-related issues by children and adolescents with conduct problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walter Matthys
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Dennis J L G Schutter
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Everett VS, Drabick DAG. Community Violence Exposure and Generalized Anxiety Symptoms: Do Callous-Unemotional Behaviors Moderate this Relation Among Urban Youth? Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2023; 51:87-102. [PMID: 36306004 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-022-00973-7] [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: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Community violence exposure (CVE; i.e., direct victimization and witnessed violence) is a major public health concern among youth who reside in low income, urban neighborhoods, who tend to experience CVE chronically and disproportionately. Frequent CVE is associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) symptoms, such as persistent or excessive worry and difficulty concentrating. However, not all youth experiencing CVE exhibit such symptoms. One understudied factor that may moderate this relation is callous-unemotional (CU) behaviors (e.g., behaviors consistent with lack of guilt, low levels of empathy). CU behaviors are associated with lower levels of responsiveness to contextual processes; as such, CU behaviors may be associated with lower levels of GAD symptoms in the context of CVE. However, little research considers CU behaviors and GAD symptoms concurrently. To address this gap, the present study examined associations among witnessed and direct CVE, CU behaviors, and GAD symptoms among low-income, urban youth (N = 104, 50% male, Mage = 9.93 ± 1.22 years old, 95% African-American/Black). Multiple regression analyses indicated teacher-reported CU behaviors moderated the relations between CVE and caregiver-reported GAD symptoms. Post-hoc probing revealed that among youth with higher levels of CVE, higher levels of CU behaviors were associated with elevated GAD symptoms compared to their peers with lower levels of CU behaviors. Youth with lower levels of CU behaviors evidenced moderate levels of GAD symptoms regardless of their levels of CVE. Thus, low-income, urban youth who experience elevated levels of CVE may be at increased risk for co-occurring GAD and CU symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerie S Everett
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Weiss Hall 1701 N 13th Street, 19122-6011, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Deborah A G Drabick
- Department of Psychology, Temple University, Weiss Hall 1701 N 13th Street, 19122-6011, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Predicting youth aggression with empathy and callous unemotional traits: A Meta-analytic review. Clin Psychol Rev 2022; 98:102186. [PMID: 36240695 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2022.102186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Historically, empathy has been thought to motivate prosocial behaviour and inhibit aggressive behaviour. Contrary to current assumptions and theoretical support, a meta-analysis revealed a small effect of empathy on aggression among adults (Vachon, Lynam, & Johnson, 2014). The current study sought to determine whether broadening the focus from empathy to include other socially relevant affective characteristics (i.e., callous-unemotional traits) was advantageous in predicting aggressive behaviour. As little is known about the strength of this association among youth, the current study meta-analytically examined 192 unique effect sizes drawn from published and unpublished studies reporting on samples of children and adolescents. Analyses were conducted across general, cognitive, and emotional empathy, as well as callous-unemotional traits, and general, direct, indirect, proactive, and reactive aggression. Significant variability was noted across effect sizes. Consistent with a prior meta-analysis involving adults (Vachon et al., 2014), small to moderate associations were identified between aggression and traditional measures of empathy (i.e., general, emotional, cognitive); these effects ranged from r = -0.06 to -0.26. Among broader measures of emotional style (i.e., callous-unemotional traits), moderate to large effects were found; ranging from r = 0.30 to 0.37. Results suggested that broader affective measures may be more strongly associated with aggression than empathy alone. The results raise questions about the nature of empathy assessment and indicate the utility of targeting multiple emotion-related factors during treatment to effectively reduce aggressive behaviour. In particular, the results underscore of the importance of considering the limited prosocial emotions specifier (perhaps trans-diagnostically given the varied nature of the sample) when considering implications for prognosis and treatment targets.
Collapse
|
25
|
Ibrahim K, Kalvin C, Morand-Beaulieu S, He G, Pelphrey KA, McCarthy G, Sukhodolsky DG. Amygdala-prefrontal connectivity in children with maladaptive aggression is modulated by social impairment. Cereb Cortex 2022; 32:4371-4385. [PMID: 35059702 PMCID: PMC9574236 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhab489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Aggressive behavior is common across childhood-onset psychiatric disorders and is associated with impairments in social cognition and communication. The present study examined whether amygdala connectivity and reactivity during face emotion processing in children with maladaptive aggression are moderated by social impairment. This cross-sectional study included a well-characterized transdiagnostic sample of 101 children of age 8-16 years old with clinically significant levels of aggressive behavior and 32 typically developing children without aggressive behavior. Children completed a face emotion perception task of fearful and calm faces during functional magnetic resonance imaging. Aggressive behavior and social functioning were measured by standardized parent ratings. Relative to controls, children with aggressive behavior showed reduced connectivity between the amygdala and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) during implicit emotion processing. In children with aggressive behavior, the association between reduced amygdala-ventrolateral PFC connectivity and greater severity of aggression was moderated by greater social impairment. Amygdala reactivity to fearful faces was also associated with severity of aggressive behavior for children without social deficits but not for children with social deficits. Social impairments entail difficulties in interpreting social cues and enacting socially appropriate responses to frustration or provocation, which increase the propensity for an aggressive response via diminished connectivity between the amygdala and the ventral PFC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karim Ibrahim
- Address correspondence to Karim Ibrahim, PsyD, Yale University School of Medicine, Child Study Center, 230 South Frontage Road, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. ; Denis G. Sukhodolsky, PhD, Yale University School of Medicine, Child Study Center, 230 South Frontage Road, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| | - Carla Kalvin
- Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | | | - George He
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Kevin A Pelphrey
- Department of Neurology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Gregory McCarthy
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Denis G Sukhodolsky
- Address correspondence to Karim Ibrahim, PsyD, Yale University School of Medicine, Child Study Center, 230 South Frontage Road, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. ; Denis G. Sukhodolsky, PhD, Yale University School of Medicine, Child Study Center, 230 South Frontage Road, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Dissociation of behavioral and neural responses to provocation during reactive aggression in healthy adults with high versus low externalization. COGNITIVE, AFFECTIVE, & BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2022; 22:1130-1144. [PMID: 35091989 PMCID: PMC9458579 DOI: 10.3758/s13415-021-00981-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The externalizing spectrum describes a range of heterogeneous personality traits and behavioral patterns, primarily characterized by antisocial behavior, disinhibition, and substance (mis)use. In psychopathology, abnormalities in neural threat, reward responses and the impulse-control system may be responsible for these externalizing symptoms. Within the non-clinical range, mechanisms remain still unclear. In this fMRI-study, 61 healthy participants (31 men) from the higher versus lower range of the non-clinical variation in externalization (31 participants with high externalization) as assessed by the subscales disinhibition and meanness of the Triarchic-Psychopathy-Measure (TriPM) performed a monetary modified Taylor-Aggression-Paradigm (mTAP). This paradigm consisted of a mock competitive-reaction-time-task played against a fictional opponent with preprogrammed win- and lose-trials. In lose-trials, participants were provoked by subtraction of an amount of money between 0 and 90 cents. As a manipulation check, provocation induced a significant rise in behavioral aggression levels linked with an increased activation in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). High externalization predicted reduced ACC responses to provocation. However, high externalizing participants did not behave more aggressively than the low externalization group. Additionally, the high externalizing group showed a significantly lower positive affect while no group differences emerged for negative affect. In conclusion, high externalization in the non-clinical range was related to neural alterations in regions involved in affective decision-making as well as to changes in affect but did not lead to higher behavioral aggression levels in response to the mTAP. This is in line with previous findings suggesting that aberrations at multiple levels are essential for developing externalizing disorders.
Collapse
|
27
|
Penagos-Corzo JC, Cosio van-Hasselt M, Escobar D, Vázquez-Roque RA, Flores G. Mirror neurons and empathy-related regions in psychopathy: systematic review, meta-analysis, and a working model. Soc Neurosci 2022; 17:462-479. [PMID: 36151909 DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2022.2128868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Mirror neurons have been associated with empathy. People with psychopathic traits present low levels of empathy. To analyze this, a systematic review of fMRI studies of people with psychopathic traits during an emotional facial expression processing task was performed. The regions of interest were structures associated with the mirror neuron system: ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), inferior parietal lobe (IPL), inferior frontal gyrus and superior temporal sulcus. The analysis was also extended to structures related to affective empathy (insula, amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex) and to two more emotional processing areas (orbitofrontal cortex and fusiform gyrus). Hypoactivation was more frequently observed in regions of the mirror neuron system from people with high psychopathic traits, as well as in the emotional processing structures, and those associated with affective empathy, except for the insula, where it presented higher activity. Differences were observed for all types of emotions. The results suggest that the mirror neuron system is altered in psychopathy and their relationship with affective empathy deficits is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rubén A Vázquez-Roque
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemerita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, México
| | - Gonzalo Flores
- Laboratorio de Neuropsiquiatría, Instituto de Fisiología, Benemerita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, México
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Deming P, Heilicher M, Koenigs M. How reliable are amygdala findings in psychopathy? A systematic review of MRI studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 142:104875. [PMID: 36116578 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
The amygdala is a key component in predominant neural circuitry models of psychopathy. Yet, after two decades of neuroimaging research on psychopathy, the reproducibility of amygdala findings is questionable. We systematically reviewed MRI studies (81 of adults, 53 of juveniles) to determine the consistency of amygdala findings across studies, as well as within specific types of experimental tasks, community versus forensic populations, and the lowest- versus highest-powered studies. Three primary findings emerged. First, the majority of studies found null relationships between psychopathy and amygdala structure and function, even in the context of theoretically relevant tasks. Second, findings of reduced amygdala activity were more common in studies with low compared to high statistical power. Third, the majority of peak coordinates of reduced amygdala activity did not fall primarily within the anatomical bounds of the amygdala. Collectively, these findings demonstrate significant gaps in the empirical support for the theorized role of the amygdala in psychopathy and indicate the need for novel research perspectives and approaches in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip Deming
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Mickela Heilicher
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 6001 Research Park Blvd., Madison, WI 53719, USA
| | - Michael Koenigs
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 6001 Research Park Blvd., Madison, WI 53719, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Compton SAH, Ritchie M, Oliver L, Finger E, Mitchell DGV. Dissociable effects of acute versus cumulative violent video game exposure on the action simulation circuit in university students. Soc Neurosci 2022; 17:368-381. [PMID: 35786163 DOI: 10.1080/17470919.2022.2095018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
There is an ongoing debate as to whether violent video game exposure (VGE) has a negative impact on social functioning. This debate continues in part because of methodological concerns and the paucity of identifiable neurocognitive mechanisms. Also, little attention has been given to how specific personality characteristics may influence susceptibility to the purported effects. Using a combined experimental and cross-sectional approach, we examined the impact of VGE on action simulation as a function of trait coldheartedness in a sample of university students. Healthy adults played a violent or nonviolent version of Grand Theft Auto V before completing an fMRI measure of action simulation circuit (ASC) activity. Simulation-related activity was not significantly different between groups; however, greater overall activation was observed in left inferior frontal gyrus for those in the violent condition. Contrary to predictions, no evidence was observed that trait coldheartedness significantly interacts with violent gaming to influence ASC activation. However, prior cumulative VGE was negatively correlated with simulation-related activity in a subsection of the ASC. This study highlights a potential dissociation between the effects of acute versus cumulative violent gaming and may challenge assumptions that the directionality of effects for cross-sectional associations always mirror those of acute exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon A H Compton
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Brain and Mind Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mary Ritchie
- Brain and Mind Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Graduate Program in Clinical Science and Psychopathology, Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lindsay Oliver
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Finger
- Robarts Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Parkwood Institute, St. Joseph's Health Care, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Derek G V Mitchell
- Brain and Mind Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Science, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Northam JC, Kurukulasuriya N, Hunt C, Hawes DJ. Moral reasoning, emotion understanding, and callous-unemotional traits in early-to-middle childhood. BRITISH JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 40:306-319. [PMID: 34939686 DOI: 10.1111/bjdp.12402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Relatively little is known about features of moral reasoning among young children with callous-unemotional (CU) traits (e.g., lack of guilt and empathy). This study tested associations between CU traits and emotion attributions (i.e., identification of others' emotional states) and justifications (i.e., explanations for those emotional states), across social scenarios involving discreet versus salient distress cues. The participants were boys aged 6-to-10 years (N = 50; Mage = 7 years 7 months), who were interviewed about 12 hypothetical scenarios (eight with discreet and four with salient distress cues). Regression models indicated that CU traits, in interaction with high levels of antisocial behaviour, were associated with reduced emotion attributions of fear in discreet but not salient immoral scenarios. Higher CU traits were also associated with reduced justifications referencing others' welfare in discreet scenarios, and increased references to action-orientated justifications in salient scenarios. These findings suggest that CU traits are associated with early moral reasoning impairments and that salience of distress may be important to these processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaimie C Northam
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Caroline Hunt
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David J Hawes
- School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Elowsky J, Bajaj S, Bashford-Largo J, Zhang R, Mathur A, Schwartz A, Dobbertin M, Blair KS, Leibenluft E, Pardini D, Blair RJR. Differential associations of conduct disorder, callous-unemotional traits and irritability with outcome expectations and values regarding the consequences of aggression. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:38. [PMID: 35606814 PMCID: PMC9128221 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00466-x] [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: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous work has examined the association of aggression levels and callous-unemotional traits with outcome expectations and values regarding the consequences of aggression. Less work has examined the outcome expectations and values regarding the consequences of aggression of adolescents with Conduct Disorder (CD). Also, no studies have examined links between irritability (a second socio-affective trait associated with CD) and these social cognitive processes despite the core function of anger in retaliatory aggression and establishing dominance. METHOD The current study, investigating these issues, involved 193 adolescents (typically developing [TD; N = 106], 87 cases with CD [N = 87]). Participants completed an adaptation of the Outcomes Expectations and Values Questionnaire and were assessed for CU traits and irritability via the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional traits and the Affective Reactivity Index. RESULTS While CD was associated with atypical outcome expectations this was not seen within statistical models including CU traits and irritability. CU traits were associated with decreased expectation that aggression would result in feelings of remorse and victim suffering, as well as decreased concern that aggressive acts would result in punishment and victim suffering. Irritability was associated with increased expectations and concern that aggression would result in dominance and forced respect. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that CU traits and irritability, often present in youth with CD, are associated with different forms of maladaptive outcome expectations and values regarding the consequences of aggression. This suggests that the atypical social cognitive processes underlying aggressive behavior among youth exhibiting CU traits may differ from those exhibiting problems regulating anger.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Elowsky
- grid.414583.f0000 0000 8953 4586Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, 14015 Flanagan Blvd. Suite #102, Boys Town, NE 68010 USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - S. Bajaj
- grid.414583.f0000 0000 8953 4586Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, 14015 Flanagan Blvd. Suite #102, Boys Town, NE 68010 USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - J. Bashford-Largo
- grid.414583.f0000 0000 8953 4586Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, 14015 Flanagan Blvd. Suite #102, Boys Town, NE 68010 USA ,grid.24434.350000 0004 1937 0060Center for Brain, Biology, and Behavior, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - R. Zhang
- grid.414583.f0000 0000 8953 4586Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, 14015 Flanagan Blvd. Suite #102, Boys Town, NE 68010 USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - A. Mathur
- grid.414583.f0000 0000 8953 4586Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, 14015 Flanagan Blvd. Suite #102, Boys Town, NE 68010 USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - A. Schwartz
- grid.266862.e0000 0004 1936 81633Department of Psychology, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - M. Dobbertin
- grid.414583.f0000 0000 8953 4586Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, 14015 Flanagan Blvd. Suite #102, Boys Town, NE 68010 USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - K. S. Blair
- grid.414583.f0000 0000 8953 4586Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, 14015 Flanagan Blvd. Suite #102, Boys Town, NE 68010 USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - E. Leibenluft
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - D. Pardini
- grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - R. J. R. Blair
- grid.414583.f0000 0000 8953 4586Center for Neurobehavioral Research, Boys Town National Research Hospital, 14015 Flanagan Blvd. Suite #102, Boys Town, NE 68010 USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Section on Mood Dysregulation and Neuroscience, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.215654.10000 0001 2151 2636School of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ USA ,grid.466916.a0000 0004 0631 4836Child and Adolescent Mental Health Centre, Mental Health Services, Capital Region of Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Huffman LG, Oshri A. Neural signatures of the development of antisocial behaviours and callous-unemotional traits among youth: The moderating role of parental support. Int J Dev Neurosci 2022; 82:205-221. [PMID: 35181902 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Comorbidity of antisocial behaviours (AB) and callous-unemotional (CU) traits characterizes a subgroup of youth at risk for chronic and severe AB in adulthood. Although aberrant neural response to facial emotion confers heightened risk for AB and CU traits, the behavioural effect of this neural response varies by family context. The present study examines the effects of neural response to emotional faces, parental support and the interaction between the two as predictors of AB and CU traits in a longitudinal sample of preadolescents (Nbaseline = 11,883; Mage = 9.5; 47.8% female). Low CU youth who evinced attenuated response to fearful faces within the left superior temporal sulcus and fusiform gyrus showed smaller decreases of AB over time; these associations did not extend to high CU youth. Among high CU youth reporting low parental support, blunted response to fearful faces within the bilateral inferior parietal sulcus predicted smaller decreases of AB. Study findings highlight neurobehavioural differences between youth with high and low CU traits, as well as the interacting roles of negative face processing and parental support in the development of AB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Assaf Oshri
- Department of Human Development & Family Science, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Intention to Stop Bullying following a Condemning, Empathy-Raising, or Combined Message from a Teacher – Do Students’ Empathy and Callous-Unemotional Traits Matter? J Youth Adolesc 2022; 51:1568-1580. [PMID: 35430720 PMCID: PMC9013243 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-022-01613-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
AbstractKnowing which intervention strategies work best and for which student is essential for teachers when they intervene in cases of bullying. The effects of teachers’ (1) condemning, (2) empathy-raising, and (3) combined (including elements of both) messages on students’ intention to stop bullying were tested in a between-subject experimental design. A total of 277 seventh grade students (Mage = 12.93, SD = 0.49; 47% female) were asked to imagine they had bullied a peer and were invited to a discussion with a teacher. They saw a video vignette with one of the above messages. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that students’ intention to stop bullying was highest among those who saw the combined message. Callous-unemotional traits were negatively, and affective and cognitive empathy positively associated with intention to stop bullying. Students’ level of cognitive empathy moderated the relative effect of the condemning message on intention to stop bullying. At low levels of cognitive empathy, the condemning message was the least effective, whereas among those with high cognitive empathy, all messages were equally likely to lead to intention to stop bullying. Together, the findings suggest that for educators intervening in bullying among adolescents, an approach involving both condemning and empathy-raising messages is the ‘best bet’, most likely to lead to intention to stop bullying.
Collapse
|
34
|
Blair RJR, Mathur A, Haines N, Bajaj S. Future directions for cognitive neuroscience in psychiatry: recommendations for biomarker design based on recent test re-test reliability work. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2022.101102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
|
35
|
Task-based functional connectivity patterns: Links to adolescent emotion regulation and psychopathology. J Affect Disord 2022; 302:33-40. [PMID: 35085668 PMCID: PMC8941670 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.01.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence is a developmental period characterized by heightened emotional reactivity, neurobiological changes, and increased rates of anxiety and depression. Emotion regulation (ER) difficulties-or the inability to effectively regulate one's emotions-have been theoretically and empirically conceptualized as a transdiagnostic factor implicated in virtually all forms of psychopathology among youth. The current fMRI study investigates how young adolescents' ER abilities longitudinally mediate the relationship between their task-based (n=67) limbic-prefrontal functional connectivity values and subsequent levels of internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Findings revealed that adolescents with stronger limbic-prefrontal connectivity when viewing negative emotional images reported more ER difficulties one year later which, in turn, predicted higher levels of adolescent-reported internalizing and externalizing symptoms (with the exception of ADHD) two years later. This is the only study to date that provides compelling-albeit preliminary-evidence that ER problems longitudinally mediate the association between task-based functional connectivity patterns and future psychological symptoms among adolescents. Of note, participants were only scanned at baseline, limiting our ability to assess change in adolescents' task-based functional connectivity patterns as a function of developing ER abilities or burgeoning psychological symptomology. In sum, rather than conferring risk for any particular disorder, our results suggest that functional connectivity and subsequent ER abilities may serve a transdiagnostic risk factor for psychopathology. These findings may inform future emotion-focused prevention and intervention efforts aimed at youth susceptible to future internalizing and externalizing problems.
Collapse
|
36
|
Graziano PA, Landis T, Maharaj A, Ros-Demarize R, Hart KC, Garcia A. Differentiating Preschool Children with Conduct Problems and Callous-Unemotional Behaviors through Emotion Regulation and Executive Functioning. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2022; 51:170-182. [PMID: 31618114 PMCID: PMC7509846 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2019.1666399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Callous-unemotional (CU) traits are important characteristics for identifying severe patterns of conduct problems (CP). The current study focused on (a) identifying subgroups of young children displaying a combination of CP and CU behaviors and (b) examining the extent to which executive functioning (EF) and emotion regulation (ER) are associated with CU behaviors. Participants included 249 preschoolers (N = 249, 78% boys, Mage = 4.95 years; 81% Latino/Hispanic) referred to treatment because of externalizing behavior problems. CU behaviors and CP were measured via a combination of teacher/parent rating scales. A multimethod approach was used to measure EF and ER including parent/teacher rating scales, neuropsychological, and observational tasks. Poorer ER as rated by parents/teachers and observed was associated with greater levels of CU behaviors. Latent profile analyses identified three subgroups of children displaying (a) low CU/low CP, (b) moderate CU/moderate CP, and (c) high CU/high CP. Children in the high CU/high-CP group were rated as having significantly poorer rated ER compared to all other groups and poorer observed ER compared to the low-CU/low-CP group. Exploratory analyses found that children in the high-CU/high-CP group displayed marginally lower levels of rated ER but significantly better EF performance on standardized neuropsychological tasks compared to children in a low-CU/high-CP group.Children with higher levels of reported CU behaviors and CP display poorer ER yet may display relatively better EF performance compared to children with lower levels of CU behaviors and CP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo A Graziano
- Center for Children and Families, Department of Psychology, Florida International University
| | - Taylor Landis
- Center for Children and Families, Department of Psychology, Florida International University
| | - Andre Maharaj
- Center for Children and Families, Department of Psychology, Florida International University
| | - Rosmary Ros-Demarize
- Center for Children and Families, Department of Psychology, Florida International University
| | - Katie C Hart
- Center for Children and Families, Department of Psychology, Florida International University
| | - Alexis Garcia
- Center for Children and Families, Department of Psychology, Florida International University
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Matthys W, Schutter DJLG. Improving Our Understanding of Impaired Social Problem-Solving in Children and Adolescents with Conduct Problems: Implications for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2022; 25:552-572. [PMID: 35165840 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-021-00376-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) children and adolescents with conduct problems learn social problem-solving skills that enable them to behave in more independent and situation appropriate ways. Empirical studies on psychological functions show that the effectiveness of CBT may be further improved by putting more emphasis on (1) recognition of the type of social situations that are problematic, (2) recognition of facial expressions in view of initiating social problem-solving, (3) effortful emotion regulation and emotion awareness, (4) behavioral inhibition and working memory, (5) interpretation of the social problem, (6) affective empathy, (7) generation of appropriate solutions, (8) outcome expectations and moral beliefs, and (9) decision-making. To improve effectiveness, CBT could be tailored to the individual child's or adolescent's impairments of these psychological functions which may depend on the type of conduct problems and their associated problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walter Matthys
- Department of Clinical Child and Family Studies, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Dennis J L G Schutter
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Helmholtz Institute, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, 3584 CS, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Research on psychopathy has progressed considerably in recent years against the backdrop of important advances in the broader field of clinical psychological science. My major aim in this review is to encourage integration of investigative work on dispositional, biobehavioral, and developmental aspects of psychopathy with counterpart work on general psychopathology. Using the triarchic model of psychopathy as a frame of reference, I offer perspective on long-standing debates pertaining to the conceptualization and assessment of psychopathy, discuss how dispositional facets of psychopathy relate to subdimensions of internalizing and externalizing psychopathology, and summarize findings from contemporary biobehavioral and developmental research on psychopathy. I conclude by describing a systematic strategy for coordinating biobehavioral-developmental research on psychopathy that can enable it to be informed by, and help inform, ongoing research on mental health problems more broadly. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, Volume 18 is May 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
Collapse
|
39
|
Wagels L, Habel U, Raine A, Clemens B. Neuroimaging, hormonal and genetic biomarkers for pathological aggression — success or failure? Curr Opin Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
|
40
|
Large-scale functional brain networks of maladaptive childhood aggression identified by connectome-based predictive modeling. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:985-999. [PMID: 34690348 PMCID: PMC9035467 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01317-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Disruptions in frontoparietal networks supporting emotion regulation have been long implicated in maladaptive childhood aggression. However, the association of connectivity between large-scale functional networks with aggressive behavior has not been tested. The present study examined whether the functional organization of the connectome predicts severity of aggression in children. This cross-sectional study included a transdiagnostic sample of 100 children with aggressive behavior (27 females) and 29 healthy controls without aggression or psychiatric disorders (13 females). Severity of aggression was indexed by the total score on the parent-rated Reactive-Proactive Aggression Questionnaire. During fMRI, participants completed a face emotion perception task of fearful and calm faces. Connectome-based predictive modeling with internal cross-validation was conducted to identify brain networks that predicted aggression severity. The replication and generalizability of the aggression predictive model was then tested in an independent sample of children from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Connectivity predictive of aggression was identified within and between networks implicated in cognitive control (medial-frontal, frontoparietal), social functioning (default mode, salience), and emotion processing (subcortical, sensorimotor) (r = 0.31, RMSE = 9.05, p = 0.005). Out-of-sample replication (p < 0.002) and generalization (p = 0.007) of findings predicting aggression from the functional connectome was demonstrated in an independent sample of children from the ABCD study (n = 1791; n = 1701). Individual differences in large-scale functional networks contribute to variability in maladaptive aggression in children with psychiatric disorders. Linking these individual differences in the connectome to variation in behavioral phenotypes will advance identification of neural biomarkers of maladaptive childhood aggression to inform targeted treatments.
Collapse
|
41
|
Aggensteiner PM, Holz NE, Böttinger BW, Baumeister S, Hohmann S, Werhahn JE, Naaijen J, Ilbegi S, Glennon JC, Hoekstra PJ, Dietrich A, Deters RK, Saam MC, Schulze UME, Lythgoe DJ, Sethi A, Craig MC, Mastroianni M, Sagar-Ouriaghli I, Santosh PJ, Rosa M, Bargallo N, Castro-Fornieles J, Arango C, Penzol MJ, Vidal J, Franke B, Zwiers MP, Buitelaar JK, Walitza S, Banaschewski T, Brandeis D. The effects of callous-unemotional traits and aggression subtypes on amygdala activity in response to negative faces. Psychol Med 2022; 52:476-484. [PMID: 32624021 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291720002111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain imaging studies have shown altered amygdala activity during emotion processing in children and adolescents with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD) compared to typically developing children and adolescents (TD). Here we aimed to assess whether aggression-related subtypes (reactive and proactive aggression) and callous-unemotional (CU) traits predicted variation in amygdala activity and skin conductance (SC) response during emotion processing. METHODS We included 177 participants (n = 108 cases with disruptive behaviour and/or ODD/CD and n = 69 TD), aged 8-18 years, across nine sites in Europe, as part of the EU Aggressotype and MATRICS projects. All participants performed an emotional face-matching functional magnetic resonance imaging task. RESULTS Differences between cases and TD in affective processing, as well as specificity of activation patterns for aggression subtypes and CU traits, were assessed. Simultaneous SC recordings were acquired in a subsample (n = 63). Cases compared to TDs showed higher amygdala activity in response to negative faces (fearful and angry) v. shapes. Subtyping cases according to aggression-related subtypes did not significantly influence on amygdala activity; while stratification based on CU traits was more sensitive and revealed decreased amygdala activity in the high CU group. SC responses were significantly lower in cases and negatively correlated with CU traits, reactive and proactive aggression. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed differences in amygdala activity and SC responses to emotional faces between cases with ODD/CD and TD, while CU traits moderate both central (amygdala) and peripheral (SC) responses. Our insights regarding subtypes and trait-specific aggression could be used for improved diagnostics and personalized treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pascal-M Aggensteiner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nathalie E Holz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Boris W Böttinger
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sarah Baumeister
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sarah Hohmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Julia E Werhahn
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jilly Naaijen
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud University, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Shahrzad Ilbegi
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey C Glennon
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter J Hoekstra
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Dietrich
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Renee Kleine Deters
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Melanie C Saam
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Ulm, Germany
| | - Ulrike M E Schulze
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, University Hospital, University of Ulm, Germany
| | - David J Lythgoe
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Arjun Sethi
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Michael C Craig
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mathilde Mastroianni
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ilyas Sagar-Ouriaghli
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paramala J Santosh
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mireia Rosa
- Clinic Image Diagnostic Center (CDIC), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona; Magnetic Resonance Image Core Facility, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuria Bargallo
- Clinic Image Diagnostic Center (CDIC), Hospital Clinic of Barcelona; Magnetic Resonance Image Core Facility, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josefina Castro-Fornieles
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology Department, 2017SGR881, Institute Clinic of Neurosciences, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, CIBERSAM, IDIBAPS, Department of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Celso Arango
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J Penzol
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jorge Vidal
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, IiSGM, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Barbara Franke
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel P Zwiers
- Radboud University, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan K Buitelaar
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Walitza
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Banaschewski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Daniel Brandeis
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Introduction to the Special Section: What Do We Know About the Psychophysiology of Child Psychopathy and Conduct Problems? JOURNAL OF PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND BEHAVIORAL ASSESSMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10862-021-09950-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
|
43
|
Viering T, Naaijen J, van Rooij D, Thiel C, Philipsen A, Dietrich A, Franke B, Buitelaar J, Hoekstra PJ. Amygdala reactivity and ventromedial prefrontal cortex coupling in the processing of emotional face stimuli in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 31:1895-1907. [PMID: 34120213 PMCID: PMC9663339 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-021-01809-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Impaired emotion recognition is common in individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and may, via deficient emotion self-regulation, relate to the frequently co-occurring affective and social problems. The present study used an emotional face-matching task and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate neural responses during the processing of angry and fearful faces and visuo-spatial control stimuli. Additionally, measures for emotion dysregulation, ADHD type, and age were investigated in relation to the behavioral and neural fMRI data. We utilized a sample of 61 adolescents/young adults with ADHD and 51 age-matched healthy controls (age range: 12-28 years). Participants with ADHD had higher emotion dysregulation scores than controls. They also reacted slower and less accurate in response to emotional but not visuo-spatial control stimuli. Neural response differences between emotional and visuo-spatial trials were significantly smaller in cases, particularly in the left amygdala. While coupling between the right amygdala and bilateral ventromedial prefrontal cortex was stronger for emotional than visuo-spatial stimuli in control subjects, levels of positive coupling between the trial types did not significantly differ in participants with ADHD. Neither emotion dysregulation scores, nor ADHD type or age were related to the behavioral and neural processing alterations during the emotional face-matching task. Results indicate that emotion recognition deficits in ADHD are particularly associated with lower amygdala activation to emotional stimuli and alterations in the functional connections of the amygdala to medial prefrontal areas. Emotion recognition deficits and associated neural alterations were unrelated to emotion dysregulation, ADHD type, or age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tammo Viering
- Biological Psychology, Department of Psychology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl-Von-Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Postfach 2503, 26111, Oldenburg, Germany. .,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Jilly Naaijen
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands ,Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Radboud University, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Daan van Rooij
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Radboud University, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Christiane Thiel
- Biological Psychology, Department of Psychology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Carl-Von-Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Postfach 2503, 26111 Oldenburg, Germany ,Research Center Neurosensory Science, Carl-Von-Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany ,Cluster of Excellence “Hearing4all”, Carl-Von-Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Philipsen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andrea Dietrich
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Barbara Franke
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands ,Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Buitelaar
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands ,Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, Radboud University, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Nijmegen, The Netherlands ,Karakter Child and Adolescent Psychiatry University Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter J. Hoekstra
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Graziano PA, Garic D, Dick AS. Individual differences in white matter of the uncinate fasciculus and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus: possible early biomarkers for callous-unemotional behaviors in young children with disruptive behavior problems. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:19-33. [PMID: 34038983 PMCID: PMC9104515 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Callous-unemotional (CU) behaviors are important for identifying severe patterns of conduct problems (CP). One major fiber tract implicated in the development of CP is the uncinate fasciculus (UF), which connects amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). The goals of the current study were to (a) explore differences in the white matter microstructure in the UF and other major fiber tracks between young typically developing (TD) children and those with a disruptive behavior disorder (DBD) and (b) explore, within the DBD group, whether individual differences in these white matter tracts relate to co-occurring CP and CU behaviors. METHODS Participants included 198 young children (69% boys, Mage = 5.66 years; 80% Latinx; 48.5% TD). CU behaviors and CP were measured via a combination of teacher/parent ratings. Non-invasive diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) was used to measure fractional anisotropy (FA), an indirect indicator of white matter properties. RESULTS Relative to TD children, children in the DBD group had reduced FA on four out of the five fiber tracks we examined (except for cingulum and right ILF), even after accounting for whole brain FA, sex, movement, parental income, and IQ. Within the DBD group, no associations were found between CP and reduced white matter integrity across any of the fiber tracks examined. However, we found that even after accounting for CP, ADHD symptomology, and a host of covariates (whole brain FA, sex, movement, parental income, and IQ), CU behaviors were independently related to reduced FA in bilateral UF and left inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus (IFOF) in the DBD group, but this was not the case for TD children. CONCLUSIONS Alterations in the white matter microstructure within bilateral UF and left IFOF may be biomarkers of CU behaviors, even in very young children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo A. Graziano
- Department of Psychology Center for Children and Families Florida International University Miami FL USA
| | - Dea Garic
- Department of Psychology Center for Children and Families Florida International University Miami FL USA
| | - Anthony Steven Dick
- Department of Psychology Center for Children and Families Florida International University Miami FL USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Kundu A, Bej T, Dey KN. A Discourse on Teachers' Self-Concept Affecting Their Perceived Ease of ICT Use. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF E-ADOPTION 2022. [DOI: 10.4018/ijea.313914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to review the latest literature on self-concept and to explore its effect on teachers' perceived ease of information and communication technology (ICT) use. It reports descriptive survey results within the ex-post facto research design conducted among randomly selected 300 teachers of 50 Indian secondary schools. Regression was the main statistical measure used for assessing the percentage of the variance in the dependent variable that the independent variable explains. Findings revealed that teachers' ICT-related self-concept has been a significant predictor of their perceived ease of use (R=.88, R2=.77). For every one standard unit increase of self-concept, the perceived ease of use will be increased by .88 standard units. Based on these findings, the authors proposed a pertinent extension of the TAM3 viewing the complexities of today's e-adoption. The discourse ends with an anticipated counseling framework to fortify teachers' self-concept as an approach to boost their ICT use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tripti Bej
- Maniklal Singha Smriti Madhyamik Vidyalaya, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Tully J, Frey A, Fotiadou M, Kolla NJ, Eisenbarth H. Psychopathy in women: insights from neuroscience and ways forward for research. CNS Spectr 2021; 28:1-13. [PMID: 34906266 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852921001085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Psychopathy is a severe form of personality disturbance, resulting in a detrimental impact on individuals, healthcare systems, and society as a whole. Until relatively recently, most research in psychopathy has focused on male samples, not least because of its link with criminal behavior and the large proportion of violent crime committed by men. However, psychopathy in women also leads to considerable problems at an individual and societal level, including substance misuse, poor treatment outcomes, and contribution to ever-increasing numbers of female prisoners. Despite this, due to relative neglect, most research into adult female psychopathy is underpowered and outdated. We argue that the field needs revitalizing, with a focus on the developmental nature of the condition and neurocognitive research. Recent work international consortia into conduct disorder in female youth-a precursor of psychopathy in female adults-gives cause for optimism. Here, we outline key strategies for enriching research in this important field with contemporary approaches to other psychiatric conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John Tully
- Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Annalena Frey
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nathan J Kolla
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada and Research and Academics, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hedwig Eisenbarth
- School of Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Sukhodolsky DG, Ibrahim K, Kalvin CB, Jordan RP, Eilbott J, Hampson M. Increased amygdala and decreased frontolimbic r esting- s tate functional connectivity in children with aggressive behavior. Soc Cogn Affect Neurosci 2021; 17:634-644. [PMID: 34850939 PMCID: PMC9250305 DOI: 10.1093/scan/nsab128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Childhood maladaptive aggression is associated with disrupted functional connectivity within amygdala-prefrontal circuitry. In this study, neural correlates of childhood aggression were probed using the intrinsic connectivity distribution, a voxel-wise metric of global resting-state brain connectivity. This sample included 38 children with aggressive behavior (26 boys, 12 girls) ages 8-16 years and 21 healthy controls (14 boys, 6 girls) matched for age and IQ. Functional MRI data were acquired during resting state, and differential patterns of intrinsic functional connectivity were tested in a priori regions of interest implicated in the pathophysiology of aggressive behavior. Next, correlational analyses tested for associations between functional connectivity and severity of aggression measured by the Reactive-Proactive Aggression Questionnaire in children with aggression. Children with aggressive behavior showed increased global connectivity in the bilateral amygdala relative to controls. Greater severity of aggressive behavior was associated with decreasing global connectivity in the dorsal anterior cingulate and ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Follow-up seed analysis revealed that aggression was also positively correlated with left amygdala connectivity with the dorsal anterior cingulate, ventromedial and dorsolateral prefrontal cortical regions. These results highlight the potential role of connectivity of the amygdala and medial prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortices in modulating the severity of aggressive behavior in treatment-seeking children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denis G Sukhodolsky
- Correspondence should be addressed to Denis G. Sukhodolsky, Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, 230 South Frontage Road, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. E-mail:
| | - Karim Ibrahim
- Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Carla B Kalvin
- Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Rebecca P Jordan
- Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Jeffrey Eilbott
- Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA,SurveyBott Consulting, Guilford, CT 06437, USA
| | - Michelle Hampson
- Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA,Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Conduct problems among children in low-income, urban neighborhoods: A developmental psychopathology- and RDoC-informed approach. Dev Psychopathol 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s0954579421001103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractConduct problems are associated with numerous negative long-term psychosocial sequelae and are among the most frequent referrals for children's mental health services. Youth residing in low-income, urban communities are at increased risk for conduct problems, but not all youth in these environments develop conduct problems, suggesting heterogeneity in risk and resilience processes and developmental pathways. The present study used a developmental psychopathology- and Research Domain Criteria (RDoC)-informed approach for conceptualizing risk and resilience for conduct problems among children from low-income, urban neighborhoods. Participants were 104 children (M = 9.93 ± 1.22 years; 50% male; 96% African American, 4% Latinx). We assessed four constructs reflecting cognitive and neurobiological processes associated with conduct problems using multiple levels of analysis and informants: autonomic nervous system reactivity, limbic system/orbitofrontal cortical functioning, dorsolateral prefrontal cortical functioning, and conduct problems. Latent profile analysis identified four profiles: typically developing (TD, n = 34); teacher-reported conduct problems (TCP, n = 14); emotion processing (EP, n = 27); and emotion expression recognition (EER, n = 29). External validation analyses demonstrated that profiles differed on various indices of conduct problems in expected ways. The EP profile exhibited lower levels of emotional lability and callous–unemotional behaviors, and higher levels of prosocial behavior. The TD profile demonstrated elevated emotional lability. Implications for etiological and intervention models are presented.
Collapse
|
49
|
Palumbo IM, Latzman RD. Parsing Associations Between Dimensions of Empathy and Reactive and Proactive Aggression. J Pers Disord 2021; 35:56-74. [PMID: 33999656 DOI: 10.1521/pedi_2021_35_522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The broad dimension of empathy has been shown to underlie various forms of psychopathology, most extensively studied for the externalizing spectrum of psychopathology. However, associations between subdimensions of empathy and functions of aggression remain unclear. The current study (N = 409) aimed to investigate common and specific associations between a higher-order model of aggression, comprising reactive aggression (RA) and proactive aggression (PA) factors with an overarching general aggression factor, and item-level factor analytically derived dimensions of empathy: affective/self-oriented empathy and cognitive/other-oriented empathy. Results demonstrated specific and opposing associations between dimensions of empathy and the general aggression factor, such that affective/self-oriented empathy was positively associated, and cognitive/other-oriented empathy was negatively associated with general aggression. Affective/self-oriented empathy was positively associated with RA, whereas cognitive/other-oriented empathy was negatively associated with RA and PA. Results confirm the importance of considering the multidimensionality of empathy and aggression and suggest both common and distinct pathways from empathy to aggression.
Collapse
|
50
|
Bok S, Martin DE, Acosta E, Lee M, Shum J. Validation of the COVID-19 Transmission Misinformation Scale and Conditional Indirect Negative Effects on Wearing a Mask in Public. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11319. [PMID: 34769835 PMCID: PMC8583109 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic devastated the world economy. Global infections and deaths altered the behaviors of generations. The Internet acted as an incredible vehicle for communication but was also a source of unfounded rumors. Unfortunately, this freedom of information sharing and fear of COVID-19 fostered unfounded claims about transmission (e.g., 5G networks spread the disease). With negligible enforcement to stop the spread of rumors and government officials spouting unfounded claims, falsities became ubiquitous. Organizations, public health officials, researchers, and businesses spent limited resources addressing rumors instead of implementing policies to overcome challenges (e.g., speaking to defiant mask wearers versus safe reopening actions). The researchers defined COVID-19 transmission misinformation as false beliefs about the spread and prevention of contracting the disease. Design and validation of the 12-item COVID-19 Transmission Misinformation Scale (CTMS) provides a measure to identify transmission misinformation believers. Indirect COVID-19 transmission misinformation beliefs with a fear of COVID-19 decreased wearing a mask in public intentions. Callousness exacerbated COVID-19 transmission misinformation beliefs as a moderator.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Bok
- Marketing Department, California State University, 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd, Hayward, CA 94542, USA;
| | - Daniel E. Martin
- Management Department, California State University, 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd, Hayward, CA 94542, USA;
| | - Erik Acosta
- Marketing Department, California State University, 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd, Hayward, CA 94542, USA;
| | - Maria Lee
- Department of Urban Planning and Public Policy, University of California, Berkeley, CA 92697, USA;
| | - James Shum
- Accounting Department, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA;
| |
Collapse
|