Toxic Relationships: The Experiences and Effects of Psychopathy in Romantic Relationships

2021 ◽  
pp. 0306624X2110491
Author(s):  
Adelle Forth ◽  
Sage Sezlik ◽  
Seung Lee ◽  
Mary Ritchie ◽  
John Logan ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Romantic Relationships ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Psychopathic Traits ◽  
Depression Symptoms ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
Intimate Partners ◽  
Treatment Interventions ◽  
And Coping ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Mental And Physical Health

Limited research exists on the impact of psychopathy within romantic relationships. We examined mental and physical health consequences reported by intimate partners of individuals with psychopathic traits. Additionally, we explored whether psychopathy severity and coping impacted the severity of posttraumatic stress disorder and depression symptoms. Four hundred fifty-seven former and current intimate partners of individuals with psychopathic traits were recruited from online support groups. Victims reported a variety of abusive experiences and various negative symptomatology involving emotional, biological, behavioral, cognitive, and interpersonal consequences. Psychopathy severity and maladaptive coping were significantly related to increased PTSD and depression, while adaptive coping was only related to decreased depression. Regression analyses revealed that experiencing many forms of victimization predicted increased PTSD and depression symptoms. Examining the specific consequences experienced by intimate partners of individuals with psychopathic traits can aid the development of individualized treatment interventions aimed at symptom mitigation, recovery, and prevention of future victimization.

scholarly journals Delivering an efficient and effective support group for patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs): patient perspectives of key concerns and predictors of inclination to attend

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kathryn Murray ◽  
Kelly Buttigieg ◽  
Michelle Todd ◽  
Vicky McKechnie
Keyword(s):  
Support Groups ◽  
Support Group ◽  
Qualitative Data ◽  
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators ◽  
Cardioverter Defibrillator ◽  
And Coping ◽  
Patients Experience ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Cardioverter Defibrillators ◽  
Patient Concerns

Abstract Background A subset of patients experience psychological distress following insertion of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) and ICD support groups are recommended, however access to these groups is limited. This study aimed: to gauge a better understanding of patients’ key ICD-related concerns; to determine patient interest in a support group and topics deemed helpful to address in a support group; and to examine factors which affect patient inclination to attend. Methods One hundred and thirty nine patients completed the ICD Patient Concerns Questionnaire – Brief (ICDC-B) and a semi-structured survey. Non-parametric tests were used to examine associations and differences in the quantitative data. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results 42% of respondents said they would attend a support group and inclination to attend was associated with higher ICD concerns and a shorter time since implant. Topics considered important to address in a group were information about heart conditions and devices, the impact of an ICD on daily life and coping with fear of shocks. Conclusion We concluded that there is interest in further support amongst many patients and that ICD support groups may be delivered efficiently by targeting patients who have higher levels of ICD concerns and within the first few years after implant.

Do online support groups help individuals affected by HIV/AIDS?: A systematic review of the quantitative and qualitative literature (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Neil Stewart Coulson ◽  
Heather Buchanan
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Online Communication ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Qualitative Studies ◽  
Online Support ◽  
Illness Management ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Hiv Aids

BACKGROUND Online support groups provide opportunities for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS to seek information, advice and support from peers. However, if and how engagement with online support groups helps individuals affected by HIV/AIDS remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To systematically review the evidence (both quantitative and qualitative) around the benefits of online support groups for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS in terms of psychosocial wellbeing and/or illness management. In addition, the review sought to identify and describe any negative aspects experienced by individuals as well as the types of social support exchanged within such online groups. METHODS A systematic review of English language articles was undertaken using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Databases searched included Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, CENTRAL (Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials) and SCOPUS. Key findings were critically synthesized using a narrative and thematic approach. RESULTS 22 papers met the inclusion criteria from an initial pool of 4501 abstracts. These papers included 5 quantitative, 2 mixed-methods and 15 qualitative studies published between 2007 and 2019. CONCLUSIONS Some cross-sectional and qualitative studies suggest there may be an association between engagement and a range of psychosocial processes and outcomes. However, studies with robust methodological designs are needed to definitively establish whether HIV/AIDS-related online support groups improve psychosocial well-being and/or illness management. Qualitative data highlights users can have negative experiences in terms of interpersonal conflict and the challenges of encountering negative content. In addition, there may be aspects of the internet-mediated nature of the online communication which compromise member experiences. Finally, HIV/AIDS-related online support groups are venues through which individuals can solicit support, most commonly informational or emotional support. Future research should seek to examine the impact of engagement with online support groups over time including appropriate control or comparison groups. CLINICALTRIAL N/A

scholarly journals The impact of confinement in the psychosocial behaviour due COVID-19 among members of a Brazilian university

2020 ◽  
pp. 002076402097131
Author(s):  
Heloísa Monteiro Amaral-Prado ◽  
Filipy Borghi ◽  
Tânia Maron Vichi Freire Mello ◽  
Dora Maria Grassi-Kassisse
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Graduate Students ◽  
Coping Strategies ◽  
Perceived Stress ◽  
Depression Symptoms ◽  
University Environment ◽  
Final Exams ◽  
And Coping ◽  
The University ◽  
The Impact

Background: The current situation due COVID-19 may cause an eminent impact on mental health because the confinement restrictions. Aims: The aim of this study was to analyze and compare perceived stress, resilience, depression symptoms and coping strategies on the members of University of Campinas, in Brazil, before and during the outbreak of the COVID-19. Methods: Volunteers over 18 years of both sexes, members of the University of Campinas (Unicamp) in Brazil answered instruments related to perceived stress, depression, resilience and coping strategies during final exams at the end of semester during 2018 to 2020. Results: We obtained 1,135 responses (893 before COVID-19 and 242 during COVID-19). The volunteers did not show significant differences for perceived stress, depressive signs and resilience before and during the pandemic. In both periods, men exhibited lower scores for perceived stress and depression and higher scores for resilience when compared to women. Undergraduate and graduate students exhibited higher perceived stress scores, more pronounced depressive signs and lower resilience, and employees and professors presented lower scores for perceived stress, depressive signs and greater resilience. Conclusions: These first months of confinement did not directly affect the scores of perceived stress, depression and resilience, however, each subgroup adapted to the new routine by changing the coping strategy used. This study suggests the importance of monitoring the mental health of member in the university, especially in times of epidemic, in the search for policies that aim to improve the resilience of the population and seek positive and effective coping strategies within the university environment.

The Emergence of the Person in Dementia Research

1997 ◽  
Vol 17 (5) ◽  
pp. 597-607 ◽  
Author(s):  
MURNA DOWNS
Keyword(s):  
Support Groups ◽  
Sense Of Self ◽  
Medical Model ◽  
Disease Process ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Dementia Research ◽  
The Individual ◽  
And Coping ◽  
Person With Dementia ◽  
The Impact

The purpose of this review is to identify and explore the emerging attention being paid to the individual in dementia research. Following a brief introduction, the review will examine literature which recognises three aspects of the person with dementia: the individual's sense of self; the person's rights; and the value to be gained from a concern with the perspectives of people with dementia. To date the medical model has dominated dementia research. This model tends to reduce the person with dementia to his/her neurobiology or neuropsychology (Cotrell and Schulz 1993). The experience and manifestation of dementia has been attributed solely to the disease process, with a consequent neglect of the psychosocial context surrounding the individual (Lyman 1989). Research on the psychosocial aspects of dementia has concentrated on family carers. Keady (1996) provides a useful categorisation of this research into the following topics: gender and coping style; marital relationships and the impact of dementia; access to information and services; participation in and effectiveness of support groups; adjustment and circumstances surrounding admission into care; and perception of own health needs. No literature focuses on people with dementia.

A Qualitative Evaluation of the Impact of the First Love Yourself (FLY) Women’s Support Group

2016 ◽  
Vol 5 (2) ◽  
pp. 123
Author(s):  
Valerie Blackmon ◽  
Chalenna Cassell ◽  
Cathy Gilbert McElderry ◽  
Olawunmi Obisesan
Keyword(s):  
Social Support ◽  
Focus Group ◽  
Qualitative Analysis ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Support Group ◽  
Qualitative Evaluation ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Focus Group Study ◽  
And Coping ◽  
The Impact

Research has shown that social support groups not only have significant effects on the physical and mental health of individuals, but can also be used as predictors of health outcomes. It is, therefore, important that social workers and other public health professionals are aware of the social support groups that exist in communities so as to find ways to utilize these to meet health needs. The study aims to explore the First Love Yourself (FLY) group, an empowerment-based support group specifically designed to meet the needs of Healthy Start consumers, parents and consortium members. A qualitative analysis of the data gathered from this focus group study yielded several key themes. While participants described finding other community resources helpful, they reported having no other outlet for confidential self-expression and connection to peers other than the FLY group. Group members also reported having improved self-esteem, relationships with their children, partners, and family, and ability to cope as a result of participation in the group. Participants further described gaining knowledge and learning skills that were helpful. This included learning parenting, communication, stress and anger management, budgeting, goal-setting and coping skills and techniques. Finally, qualitative analysis of the data gained from the focus group with participants and the group leader revealed the presence of all 11 curative factors described by Yalom (2005). The primary areas for improvement noted by the group and its leader were related to the frequency of group meetings. Both audiences indicated that additional sessions would be beneficial.

scholarly journals What Was the Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Low Back Pain? Data from the PAMPA Cohort, Brazil.

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eduardo L Caputo ◽  
Paulo H Ferreira ◽  
Natan Feter ◽  
Igor R Doring ◽  
Jayne S Leite ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Low Back Pain ◽  
Back Pain ◽  
Total Sample ◽  
Activity Limitation ◽  
Anxiety And Depression ◽  
Depression Symptoms ◽  
Low Back ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Mental And Physical Health

Abstract Background: To evaluate how COVID-19 pandemic impacted low back pain (LBP) outcomes in southern Brazil. Methods: Data from the Prospective Study about Mental and Physical Health (PAMPA) Cohort were analyzed. Adults were recruited between June and July 2020 in the Rio Grande do Sul state using online-based strategies. Participants responded a self-reported, online questionnaire on LBP with two timepoints: before (retrospectively) and during COVID-19 pandemic. We assessed the presence of LBP, LBP-related activity limitation (no/yes), and LBP intensity (0 to 10 [strongest pain]). Results: From a total sample of 2,321 respondents (mean age: 37.6 ± 13.5; 75.4% women), the prevalence of LBP did not change significantly from before (74.7% [95%CI 72.3; 76.9]) to during the COVID-19 pandemic (74.2% [95%CI 71.9; 76.3]). However, an increased pain levels (β: 0.40; 95%CI 0.22; 0.58) and a higher likelihood for activity limitation due to LBP was observed during the pandemic (PR 1.14; 95%CI 1.01; 1.29). Longitudinal analyzes showed that age, gender, BMI, chronic diseases, physical activity and anxiety and depression symptoms, were associated with LBP during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Although the prevalence of LBP did not change during the COVID-19 pandemic, LBP-induced impairment in daily activities and LBP intensity was higher during than before the pandemic. Sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics were associated with increased LBP and related outcomes.

scholarly journals Analysis of benefits from being in a Alzheimer Internet support group for the caregivers of the people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease

2014 ◽  
Vol 83 (1) ◽  
pp. 65-72
Author(s):  
Bartosz Grobelny ◽  
Małgorzata Awdziejczyk ◽  
Wojciech Gorczyński ◽  
Marcin Janczyk ◽  
Marta Leszczyńska ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Daily Basis ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
Message Boards ◽  
The People ◽  
Polish Language ◽  
Internet Support ◽  
And Coping

Both emotional and physical demands faced by Alzheimer's disease caregivers are very difficult to meet. Often, the amount of strength and calmness needed to fulfil the role of caregiver is beyond the person’s adaptability. The aim of this article is the data analysis of the Alzheimer’s disease caregivers online support groups and problems the caregivers face on the daily basis. Authors compared discussions and solutions available in polish language with methods used in other countries. The study was conducted in late April and May of 2013 by analyzing the user posts found on Polish webistes that associates the caregivers of people suffering form Alzheimer’s disease. Authors assumed that there is a difference between citizens of different countries in the access to useful information that may help in solving daily problems. Confirmation of this hypothesis may indicate the need for modifications by creating a professional platform that associates Alzheimer’s disease caregivers. Authors also analyzed remedies caregivers use and emotional functioning. By presenting recurring problems regarding diagnosis, burnout and coping with daily stress. They try to answer important question: what must be done to meet the needs of caregivers presented via the message boards. They are trying to prove that access to professional knowledge and presence in the environment that brings together caregivers can significantly improve level of performance and satisfaction. Even if the aid is granted only through an online platform of information sharing, the support effects are clearly visible.

scholarly journals Experiences along the diagnostic pathway for patients with advanced lung cancer in the USA: a qualitative study

BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. e045056
Author(s):  
Morhaf Al Achkar ◽  
Monica Zigman Suchsland ◽  
Fiona M Walter ◽  
Richard D Neal ◽  
Bernardo H L Goulart ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Lung Cancer ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Targeted Therapies ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Advanced Lung Cancer ◽  
Online Support Groups ◽  
Care Seeking ◽  
Tissue Samples ◽  
The Usa ◽  
The Impact

BackgroundMost patients with lung cancer are diagnosed at advanced stages. However, the advent of oral targeted therapies has improved the prognosis of many patients with lung cancer.PurposeWe aimed to understand the diagnostic experiences of patients with advanced lung cancer with oncogenic mutations.MethodsQualitative interviews were conducted with patients with advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer with oncogenic alterations. Patients were recruited from online support groups within the USA. Interviews were conducted remotely or in person. Analysis used an iterative inductive and deductive process. Themes were mapped to the Model for Pathways to Treatment.Results40 patients (12 male and 28 female) with a median age of 48 were included. We identified nine distinct themes. During the ‘patient interval’, individuals became concerned about symptoms, but often attributed them to other causes. Prolonged or more severe symptoms prompted care-seeking. During the ‘primary care interval’, doctors initially treated for illnesses other than cancer. Discovery of an imaging abnormality was a turning point in diagnostic pathways. Occasionally, severity of symptoms prompted patients to seek emergency care. During the ‘secondary care interval’, obtaining tissue samples was pivotal in confirming diagnosis. Delays in accessing oncology care sometimes led to patient distress. Obtaining genetic testing was crucial in directing patients to receive targeted treatments.ConclusionsPatients experienced multiple different routes to their diagnosis. Some patients perceived delays, inefficiencies and lack of coordination, which could be distressing. Shifting the stage of diagnosis of lung cancer to optimise the impact of targeted therapies will require concerted efforts in early detection.

Emotions and health: The impact of emotions, emotions regulation, music, and acculturation on health

2008 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 112-115 ◽  
Author(s):  
Stephan Bongard ◽  
Volker Hodapp ◽  
Sonja Rohrmann
Keyword(s):  
Stress Responses ◽  
Physiological Stress ◽  
Anger Expression ◽  
Domain Specific ◽  
Cardiovascular Stress ◽  
Expression Behavior ◽  
Cardio Vascular ◽  
And Coping ◽  
Relationship Of ◽  
The Impact

Abstract. Our unit investigates the relationship of emotional processes (experience, expression, and coping), their physiological correlates and possible health outcomes. We study domain specific anger expression behavior and associated cardio-vascular loads and found e.g. that particularly an open anger expression at work is associated with greater blood pressure. Furthermore, we demonstrated that women may be predisposed for the development of certain mental disorders because of their higher disgust sensitivity. We also pointed out that the suppression of negative emotions leads to increased physiological stress responses which results in a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases. We could show that relaxation as well as music activity like singing in a choir causes increases in the local immune parameter immunoglobuline A. Finally, we are investigating connections between migrants’ strategy of acculturation and health and found e.g. elevated cardiovascular stress responses in migrants when they where highly adapted to the German culture.

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