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Background: E-cigarettes are the most-used tobacco product among US adolescents and are associated with nicotine addiction. This qualitative investigation aimed to understand adolescents' experiences and perceptions with nicotine addiction, and related influences of addiction, to inform product regulation, health communication, and cessation resource development. Methods: Between May 2020 and December 2021, in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with 47 California (United States) adolescents ages 13–17 who reported recent tobacco use (primarily e-cigarette use). The topic of addiction both arose organically and followed specific interviewer questions. Researchers used thematic analysis techniques to identify unifying themes related to addiction. Results: Adolescents described e-cigarette addiction in ways that reflected a loss of control over their routines and activities and as physical symptoms, including reward and withdrawal. While some viewed addiction risk as a reason not to vape, others perceived it possible to use e-cigarettes and avoid or manage addiction. Specific characteristics of e-cigarette devices, particularly disposable nicotine-salt products, including flavors, "cool" designs, concealable size and odor, low price, and ease-of-use, were seen as enhancing addiction risk. Quit attempts were difficult and usually unsupported by adults or formal cessation aids. Conclusions: For many adolescents, addiction is a major component of their experience with e-cigarettes, often in ways that disrupt their routines and reduce their quality of life. Tobacco control or regulation could target e-cigarette product characteristics to decrease potential for addiction among adolescents. Needed are youth-targeted public communication about nicotine addiction and adolescent-tailored, evidence-based cessation support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Design and Methods Results Conclusions To measure a multivariate analysis of social media addiction and cognitive‐behavioral physical activity associated with several sociodemographic characteristics in adolescent girls.A cross‐sectional study. The sample consisted of adolescent girls studying in a vocational high‐school in the Middle‐Black‐Sea region in Türkiye (n = 333). A questionnaire, Social Media Addiction Scale‐for‐Adolescents (SMAS‐A), and Cognitive‐Behavioral Physical Activity Questionnaire (CBPAQ) were used to collect the data.The mean age was 15.35 (SD = 1.15), and 29.4% were the ninth‐class students. Of the adolescent girls, 85.9% were social‐media users, 59.8% used the internet 2‐hours‐or‐more/daily, 67.9% declared themselves as moderately‐active. The mean scores of the SMAS‐A and the CBPAQ were 3.40 (SD = 1.61) and 21.03 (SD = 7.64), respectively. There was a significantly‐negative correlation between cognitive‐behavioral physical activity and social‐media addiction levels. The One‐Way MANOVA results showed significant differences in the academic level, family income, mother education, and physical activity measurement application usage affected to cognitive‐behavioral physical activity. Social media usage habit affected to the social media addiction level.Daily internet usage time and self‐declared physical activity level were the mutually affected factors. School nurses should act to improve healthy social media usage habits to promote well‐being and encourage the positive attitudes towards regular physical activity in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Considering recent and proposed bans on menthol cigarettes, methods are needed to understand the substitutability of potential menthol cigarette alternatives (MCAs) for menthol cigarettes. This study examined the prospective relationship between behavioral economic demand indices and subjective effects of usual brand menthol cigarettes (UBMC) and preferred MCAs with subsequent performance on a laboratory-based concurrent-choice task comparing UBMC and MCAs. Methods Eighty participants who typically smoked menthol cigarettes completed this clinical laboratory study. After sampling each product, participants completed the cigarette purchase task (CPT) and modified cigarette evaluation questionnaire (mCEQ). Following 1 week of substituting their preferred MCA for their UBMC, participants completed a 90-minute concurrent-choice self-administration (SA) task comparing their UBMC and preferred MCA. Linear regression models explored associations between CPT demand indices and mCEQ subjective effects in the laboratory with subsequent response effort for UBMCs on the concurrent-choice task. Results Three demand indices for UBMC were positively associated with UBMC response effort: essential value (EV; p  = .02), O max (p  = .02), and breakpoint (p  = .04). Four CPT demand indices for the preferred MCA significantly corresponded with UBMC response effort: EV (p  = .03), price associated with maximal expenditure (P max) (p  = .04), maximal expenditure (O max) (p  = .03), and breakpoint (p  = .03). Subjective effects captured by the mCEQ were not associated with response effort. Conclusions Demand indices reflecting Persistence (ie, sensitivity to escalating price) predicted effort to obtain UBMC puffs on the concurrent-choice task. Among this sample, the CPT captured information on the relative reinforcing value (ie, addiction potential) of combustible tobacco products similar to the longer SA task. Implications In an ever-changing product market, assessing the reinforcing efficacy of menthol cigarettes and putative substitutes quickly and with validity is an important methodological tool for understanding abuse liability. Results suggest that behavioral economic demand indices of CPT efficiently capture information on the relative reinforcing value of UBMC and plausible alternative tobacco products, similar to a 90-minute in-laboratory SA task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Desire thinking, within the metacognitive model of addictive behaviors, is conceptualized as a transdiagnostic process linked to the escalation and maintenance of craving for various addictive disorders; however, its application to the understanding of gambling and the Chinese community remains at an early stage. The present study aimed to introduce desire thinking into gambling research in the Chinese context by: (1) testing the applicability of its two-factor conceptualization and assessment tool, the Desire Thinking Questionnaire (DTQ), and (2) exploring its association with dysregulated and regulated engagements in gambling (i.e., Gambling Disorder [GD] and responsible gambling [RG], respectively). We conducted a telephone survey in Macao, China, and obtained a probability sample of 837 Chinese adult past-year gamblers (48.5% men; age: M = 41.11, SD = 14.31) with a two-stage cluster random sampling method. Our data indicated the psychometric adequacy of the two-factor DTQ (i.e., verbal perseveration and imaginal prefiguration) for measuring Chinese gamblers' desire thinking about gambling. After controlling for craving and demographics, desire thinking contributed to an additional 12.1% and 18.9% variance explained in GD tendency and RG behaviors, respectively. This study provides the first empirical evidence of the utility of desire thinking and the DTQ in facilitating gambling research on Chinese gamblers. Our findings also suggest the value of incorporating desire thinking in detecting and treating GD and in promoting RG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meta-analyses have concluded that positive emotions do not reduce appetitive risk behaviors (risky behaviors that fulfill appetitive or craving states, such as smoking and excessive alcohol use). We propose that this conclusion is premature. Drawing on the Appraisal Tendency Framework and related theories of emotion and decision-making, we hypothesized that gratitude (a positive emotion) can decrease cigarette smoking, a leading cause of premature death globally. A series of multimethod studies provided evidence supporting our hypothesis (collective N = 34,222). Using nationally representative US samples and an international sample drawn from 87 countries, Studies 1 and 2 revealed that gratitude was inversely associated with likelihood of smoking, even after accounting for numerous covariates. Other positive emotions (e.g., compassion) lacked such consistent associations, as expected. Study 3, and its replication, provided further support for emotion specificity: Experimental induction of gratitude, unlike compassion or sadness, reduced cigarette craving compared to a neutral state. Study 4, and its replication, showed that inducing gratitude causally increased smoking cessation behavior, as evidenced by enrollment in a web-based cessation intervention. Self-reported gratitude mediated the effects in both experimental studies. Finally, Study 5 found that current antismoking messaging campaigns by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention primarily evoked sadness and compassion, but seldom gratitude. Together, our studies advance understanding of positive emotion effects on appetitive risk behaviors; they also offer practical implications for the design of public health campaigns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The objective was to evaluate mental disorders and addictive behaviours in gold miners treated in the psychiatry department of the Yalgado Ouédraogo University Hospital in Burkina Faso. Patients and methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, and analytical study with retrospective recruitment of 174 patients over a 10-year period from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2020. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22 software. Results: The study population was exclusively male and predominantly young, with a mean age of 28.16 +/- 5.79 years. Most patients were single (59.8%) and had a low level of education (58.82%). Acute psychotic disorders (48.85%) and the mental and behavioral disorders related to the use of psychoactive substances (41.38%) were the most common. 78.73% of patients were users of psychoactive substances (PAS). The most used psychoactive substances were tobacco (75.28%), cannabis (62.64%), alcohol (48.27%) and tramadol (32.18%). Conclusion: The occurrence of mental disorders among gold miners has become a real public health problem in Burkina Faso, given the growing number of gold mining sites throughout the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Opium use is one of the most common problems that impose significant social, psychological, and economic burdens on societies. Understanding the factors involved in the treatment of opium use is essential. This study aimed to evaluate inhibitory response and impulsivity in opium users. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 170 opium users (139 men and 31 women) who visited the Methadone Maintenance Treatment Center in Gorgan, Iran during 2022, selected through convenience sampling. The Stop Signal Task (SST) was used to assess participants' inhibitory response, and the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS) was used to measure impulsivity levels. Results: The average overall impulsivity score was 67.8±11.85. The average correct responses were 45.09±5.67, incorrect responses were 4.51±3.95, and delays were 0.96±2.32. The mean response time to each stimulus was 1290±512.83 milliseconds. There was a statistically significant correlation between impulsivity dimensions and age, correct responses and education level, and response time for inhibitory control with age and education level (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant correlation between the various dimensions of inhibitory response and impulsivity (cognitive impulsivity, nonplanning impulsivity, and motor impulsivity) and overall impulsivity. Conclusion: Opium users are generally impulsive. Additionally, younger individuals and those with lower education levels are more impulsive compared to others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social jetlag, the misalignment between biological and social rhythms, can lead to adverse health outcomes. This study explored the association between social jetlag and hazardous alcohol consumption, as well as the sex differences in this association. This study included a nationally representative sample of Korean workers consisting of 11,462 individuals (5479 women). Social jetlag was calculated as the difference in the mid-point between sleep onset and offset on free days and workdays. Hazardous alcohol consumption was determined using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test–Consumption (range 0–12), with a cutoff of ≥6 for men, ≥5 for women, and ≥3 for those aged ≥65. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Among men, 599 out of 5983 individuals (10.0 %) had ≥120 min of social jetlag. Among women, 550 out of 5479 individuals (10.0 %) had ≥120 min of social jetlag. The prevalence of hazardous alcohol use was 56.2 % for men and 27.3 % for women. In the regression analysis, there was a significant sex interaction, where social jetlag ≥120 min was associated with hazardous alcohol consumption in female workers (OR: 1.52, 95 % CI: 1.18–1.96), but not in male workers (OR: 1.04, 95 % CI: 0.84–1.29). High social jetlag was associated with an increased likelihood of hazardous alcohol consumption among women. Our findings underscore the importance of considering sex differences in future research and policy interventions regarding social jetlag and its associated behavior outcomes. • Social jetlag, a misalignment of biological and social time, is associated with adverse health outcomes. • This study explored the association between social jetlag and hazardous alcohol consumption among Korean workers. • Female workers with ≥2 h of social jetlag had 1.5-fold increased odds of hazardous alcohol consumption. • No clear association was observed in male workers. • There were significant differences between the sexes in the association between social jet lag and hazardous alcohol consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid growth of fantasy sports might facilitate constant play and harm. Micro-betting allows constant and impulsive betting, possibly augmenting the risk for gambling disorder. This work provides a rapid scoping review of recent publications regarding micro-betting and fantasy sports betting, including characteristics, prevalence, and causes across different age groups. A search in the PubMed database was set for November 2014–November 2019, with inclusion criteria of human studies and written in English. The search terms included: "Sports betting AND children", "Sports betting AND young adult", "Sports betting AND adult". One hundred and thirty-one references were found and 13 complementary reference was added to the discussion and methods sections. Following elimination of 49 duplicate references and 73 other references deemed not of relevance to the study's objectives, a total of 22 references was selected for inclusion. Current evidence suggests a number of public health problems linked to fantasy sports and micro-betting, including (a) that micro-betting is related to severe problem gambling and impulsivity, (b) frequent participation of high school students in fantasy sports relates to a higher risk of gambling problems, and (c) special control should be exerted on youth regarding access to websites of fantasy football for protecting them of harm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Twitter data have been used to surveil public sentiment about tobacco products; however, most tobacco-related Twitter research has been conducted with English-language posts. There is a gap in the literature on tobacco-related discussions on Twitter in languages other than English. This study summarized tobacco-related discussions in Spanish on Twitter. Methods A set of Spanish terms reflecting electronic cigarettes (eg, "cigarillos electrónicos"), cigarettes (eg, "pitillo"), and cigars (eg, "cigaro") were identified. A content analysis of tweets (n  = 1352) drawn from 2021 was performed to examine themes and sentiment. An initial codebook was developed in English then translated to Spanish and then translated back to English by a bilingual (Spanish and English) member of the research team. Two bilingual members of the research team coded the tweets into themes and sentiment. Results Themes in the tweets included (1) product promotion (n  = 168, 12.4%), (2) health warnings (n  = 161, 11.9%), (3) tobacco use (n  = 136, 10.1%), (4) health benefits of vaping (n  = 58, 4.3%), (5) cannabis use (n  = 50, 3.7%), (6) cessation (n  = 47, 3.5%), (7) addiction (n  = 33, 2.4%), (8) policy (n  = 27, 2.0%), and (9) polysubstance use (n  = 12, 0.9%). Neutral (n  = 955, 70.6%) was the most common category of sentiment observed in the data. Conclusions Tobacco products are discussed in multiple languages on Twitter and can be summarized by bilingual research teams. Future research should determine if Spanish-speaking individuals are frequently exposed to pro-tobacco content on social media and if such exposure increases susceptibility to use tobacco among never users or sustained use among current users. Implications Spanish-language pro-tobacco content exists on Twitter, which has implications for Spanish-speaking individuals who may be exposed to this content. Spanish-language pro-tobacco-related posts may help normalize tobacco use among Spanish-speaking populations. As a result, anti-tobacco tweets in Spanish may be necessary to counter areas of the online environment that can be considered pro-tobacco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aim: There is a lack of understanding of how social anxiety may affect Internet addiction among adolescents. Based on several theories, the purpose of this study was to investigate the multiple mediating roles of loneliness and coping styles in the association between social anxiety and Internet addiction in Chinese adolescents. Methods: This study used the Social Anxiety Scale, Internet Addiction Test, Loneliness Scale, and Simple Coping Style Questionnaire to investigate 1188 students in two junior high schools and senior high schools in Henan Province, China. We adopted Pearson's correlation analysis and the PROCESS Macro Model 81 in regression analysis to explore the relationships among social anxiety, loneliness, coping styles, and Internet addiction. Results: We found that social anxiety not only directly affects teenagers' Internet addiction, but also affects teenagers' Internet addiction through loneliness and coping styles. Conclusions: These results emphasize the importance of improving social anxiety to reduce Internet addiction among adolescents. At the same time, it also emphasizes the need to reduce adolescents' loneliness and cultivating positive coping styles. In addition, this study has certain theoretical significance for teenagers' mental health and intervention studies on Internet addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: cross-sectional school-based epidemiological survey, conducted in 2016 and 2017, from a representative sample of 15 to 19-year-old students enrolled in the Greater Vitória Metropolitan Region (RMGV-ES), Espírito Santo, Brazil. Objectives: to analyze the association between Internet Addiction, sociodemographic characteristics and the pattern of Internet and social media use. Methods: cross-sectional study with 2293 students. The sociodemographic data of the individuals and information on internet and social media dependence were verified using the Internet Addiction Test (IAT). Frequencies were calculated and Chi-square and Binomial Logistic Regression tests were applied. Results: internet addiction was associated with adolescents in the early years (p = 0.001), those with less-educated household heads (p = 0.018), and those who spent four or more hours a day surfing the internet (p < 0.001) and those who used the Internet every day of the week (p = 0.004). Internet addiction was also associated with the use of Twitter (p-value = 0.040), subjective reasons for use (p = 0.001) and those who stopped using it for social reasons (p = 0.001). Conclusion: It is recommended that daily screen time should not exceed four hours. Therefore, the implementation of public policies aimed at educating adolescents and their families, as well as protection aimed at the most susceptible individuals, are essential for the best growth and development of adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Problematic pornography use (PPU) is a common manifestation of the newly introduced Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder diagnosis in the 11th edition of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. Although cultural, gender‐ and sexual orientation‐related differences in sexual behaviors are well documented, there is a relative absence of data on PPU outside Western countries and among women as well as gender‐ and sexually‐diverse individuals. We addressed these gaps by (a) validating the long and short versions of the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS and PPCS‐6, respectively) and the Brief Pornography Screen (BPS) and (b) measuring PPU risk across diverse populations. Methods: Using data from the pre‐registered International Sex Survey [n = 82 243; mean age (Mage) = 32.4 years, standard deviation = 12.5], a study across 42 countries from five continents, we evaluated the psychometric properties (i.e. factor structure, measurement invariance, and reliability) of the PPCS, PPCS‐6, and BPS and examined their associations with relevant correlates (e.g. treatment‐seeking). We also compared PPU risk among diverse groups (e.g. three genders). Results: The PPCS, PPCS‐6, and BPS demonstrated excellent psychometric properties [for example, comparative fit index = 0.985, Tucker–Lewis Index = 0.981, root mean square error of approximation = 0.060 (90% confidence interval = 0.059–0.060)] in the confirmatory factor analysis, with all PPCS' inter‐factor correlations positive and strong (rs = 0.72–0.96). A total of 3.2% of participants were at risk of experiencing PPU (PPU+) based on the PPCS, with significant country‐ and gender‐based differences (e.g. men reported the highest levels of PPU). No sexual orientation‐based differences were observed. Only 4–10% of individuals in the PPU+ group had ever sought treatment for PPU, while an additional 21–37% wanted to, but did not do so for specific reasons (e.g. unaffordability). Conclusions: This study validated three measures to assess the severity of problematic pornography use across languages, countries, genders, and sexual orientations in 26 languages: the Problematic Pornography Consumption Scale (PPCS, and PPCS‐6, respectively), and the Brief Pornography Screen (BPS). The problematic pornography use risk is estimated to be 3.2–16.6% of the population of 42 countries, and varies among different groups (e.g. genders) and based on the measure used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atopic dermatitis (AD) stands as a prevalent chronic inflammatory skin disorder with a global reach. Beyond its cutaneous manifestations, AD is accompanied by comorbidities and psychological issues, significantly compromising the overall quality of life for individuals who suffer from AD. Previous research has evidenced a heightened prevalence of addictive disorders among dermatological patients when compared to the general population. Considering these findings, this study endeavors to examine the prevalence of addictive disorders among AD patients and, furthermore, to discern potential risk factors associated with this comorbidity. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was conducted involving patients with AD diagnosed by dermatologists within a large university hospital in Munich, South Germany, between January 2016 and December 2019. Patients received an anonymous paper-based questionnaire comprising standardized and reliable assessment tools concerning disease severity, quality of life, sexual dysfunction, well-being, and anxiety disorder as well as screening tools for various addictive disorders (compulsive internet use, drug abuse, pathological alcohol consumption, and smoking). Data were analyzed descriptively, and a multivariate logistic regression model was conducted. A total of 208 patients participated in the study, comprising 38% males and 62% females with a mean age of 44.8 ± standard deviation:17.9 years. Females showed a higher mean POEM (Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure) score compared to males (female 14.6 ± 7.8; male 12.5 ± 7.7), as well as a higher DLQI (Dermatology Life Quality Index) (female 8.5 ± 6; male 6.5 ± 6.5). Positive addictions were found in 14.9% for daily smoking, 15.4% for critical alcohol consumption, 16.8% for compulsive internet use, and 5.8% for drug abuse. Younger patients were more likely to be affected by one or multiple addictions than older patients. Patients with at least one addiction showed significantly impaired well-being and increased severe anxiety symptoms. Given the notable prevalence of addictive disorders among individuals with AD, it could be useful to implement systematic screening for such conditions as part of patient-centered care, especially focusing on young AD patients or those displaying concurrent indications of depression or anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A better understanding of adolescent recovery is needed and will create opportunities to enhance recovery-oriented systems of care. The current study surveyed adolescents on behavioral and social indicators, substance use problem resolution and recovery status, and elements of recovery. The most commonly endorsed element of problem resolution was "stop completely," followed by "not hanging out with friends who use a lot," and "getting counseling for alcohol/drug use." Approximately 40% of youth in recovery did not select abstinence as a key element of recovery. Additional research on recovery identity among adolescents is needed to clarify this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Problematic use of internet (PUI) may have negative impacts on psychological distress and quality of life (QoL). This situation might be more profound in people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) due to poorer behavioral control and regulatory capacity. However, there is little evidence regarding mediated effects in the associations between PUI, psychological distress, and QoL in people with ADHD. Aims: To investigate mediating effects of psychological distress in the associations of problematic smartphone use (PSPU), problematic use of social media (PUSM), and problematic gaming (PG) with QoL in individuals with ADHD. Methods and Procedures: PUI behaviors of participants with ADHD (n = 99) were assessed using the Smartphone Application-Based Addiction Scale, Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, and Internet Gaming Disorder-Short Form. Psychological distress was assessed using the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale and QoL using the Kid-KINDL. Outcomes and Results: Psychological distress mediated the associations between PUI and different domains of QoL, except for self-esteem QoL. There were also positively direct effects between PG and physical QoL, PUSM and friends' QoL, and PSPU and physical QoL. Conclusions and Implications: PUI may associate with poor QoL in people with ADHD via psychological distress. Programs on reducing PUI for people with ADHD are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growth of Internet pornography and the impacts of problematic pornography use (PPU), the validation of short and psychometrically sound screening instruments in different cultures is needed to identify individuals with PPU who may benefit from intervention. This study sought to validate the Bangla version of the Brief Pornography Screen (BPS) and examine its psychometric properties in a large adult sample of men and women. Using an online platform in Bangladesh, we recruited 6023 participants (39.9% women, Mage = 22.7 years; SD = 5.0) with lifetime pornography use for the study. To examine the psychometric properties of the BPS, confirmatory factor analysis and gender-based measurement invariance testing were conducted. We assessed theoretically relevant correlates (i.e., self-perceived PPU, depressive and anxiety symptoms) as elements of validity for the scale. The findings suggested that the Bangla BPS version demonstrated strong psychometric properties in terms of factor structure, reliability (i.e., Cronbach's alpha =.86, composite reliability =.93), and measurement invariance (i.e., men vs. women). The BPS score positively correlated with self-perceived PPU, and anxiety and depressive symptoms, supporting elements of discriminant validity. The Bangla BPS is a reliable and valid self-report scale to assess PPU in the Bangladeshi cultural context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, video games are considered a hobby that in some cases can become a behavioral problem. The aim of this research was to explore the differences to video games addictive behavior in students according to their educational level and gender. A non-experimental, cross-sectional, ex post facto was design. Through a non-probabilistic sampling, by quotas, a questionnaire was applied to 520 public schools students of the State of Veracruz, Mexico (130 students at each school level: elementary, middle, high school and associate's degree). The Game Addiction Scale for Adolescents (GASA) Short version made of seven items was used. Girls in elementary school presented a significantly higher percentage of symptoms related to addictive behavior to video games in comparison to male students. In contrast, male middle school, high school, and associate's degree students registered significantly higher percentages of addiction to video games compared to females. The findings obtained allow us to understand that at a higher level of studies the way in which men and women relate to video games changes; at elementary school women presented higher percentages of probable addiction to video games, which decreased in those who presented a higher scholar level. In men, an inverse situation was observed, which allows us to identify that the use of video games is colored by the construction of identity and aspects related to a change when passing from adolescence to youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Mexico is one of the countries with the highest prevalence of childhood obesity worldwide. The increase of addictive behaviors at an early age is a possible cause of its development. The Yale Food Addiction Scale for Children (YFAS-C) allows identifying children with food addictive behaviors. Objective: to validate the YFAS-C scale in Spanish in a population sample of Mexican children and adolescents. Material and methods: an exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was performed. The study sample consisted of 448 children from seven to 14 years of age. The first stage involved translation into Spanish; a second stage involved the solution of questions with discrepancies; then, a reverse translation into the original language and a review by experts on the subject of eating disorders in pediatric population were performed; and in the last stage, a pilot test in order to culturally adapt the instrument and the evaluation of the psychometric properties was carried out. Results: using the principal component extraction method, four components were identified that explained 47.1 % of the sample variance. In the confirmatory factor analysis, it was found that the goodness-of-fit indices met the required values (CFI = 0.906: GFI = 0.932; AGFI = 0.915, SRMS = 0.007 and RMSEA = 0.043). Conclusions: a validated Spanish version of the YFAS-C scale was obtained for Mexican children and adolescents to assess food addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detecting factors associated with relapse during smoking cessation treatment is a challenge. In the present study, we evaluated the predictive and mediating capacity of different factors to predict the number of relapses after 12 months. Ninetythree smokers (34 men and 59 women, age range: 27-69, Mage = 46.34, SDage = 8.28) seeking smoking cessation treatment at the occupational risk prevention service of the University of Granada provided carbon monoxide samples to determine abstinence. At baseline we assessed depression and anxiety (The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), decision-making (Iowa Gambling Task), impulsivity (Barratt Impulsivity Scale), and level of dependence (Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence). Results showed that decision-making and anxiety were predictors for the number of relapses after 12 months. Mediation analysis revealed a significant indirect pathway between relapse and decision-making through anxious symptomatology. These findings contribute to understanding why certain smokers are more likely to relapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over recent decades, the use of the Internet has dramatically increased, both for professional purposes and entertainment. We investigated the link between social media use, video games, dating apps, and pornography on men's sexual health, which makes life easier, but also carries potential threats. Online surveys including The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale questionnaires were spread to young, sexually active men. We asked about demographics, sexual activity, and the use of social media, video games, dating apps, and pornography. We enrolled 702 men aged 18 to 60 years (mean 24.06 ± 5.70). In general, 1.6% of men were exposed to social media addiction. Social media addiction had a negative impact on IIEF scores, while pornography in general had no impact on men's sexual health. However, more extensive use of pornography was correlated with lower IIEF scores. A negative impact of dating apps use on the IIEF score was also found but the correlation was weak (p = 0.049). No correlation was found between playing games and IIEF. We conclude that social media addiction negatively affected men's sexual functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The development of strategies for the safe use of the Internet and dissemination of this knowledge through social media campaigns can help young people to recognize the first symptoms of social media addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gambling disorder (GD) is often a concern for people living in poverty. Although GD has been correlated with homelessness, there has been no study of factors related to chronic homelessness among veterans with GD. This study used data from specialized homeless programs from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Homeless Operations Management System to explore prevalence and correlates of chronic homelessness among veterans with GD in this program and to describe initial descriptive epidemiology. Chi-square tests, analyses of variance, and logistic regressions were conducted to examine differences in sociodemographic, military, clinical, and behavioral characteristics between veterans with versus without chronic homelessness. Of 6053 veterans with GD, 1733 (28.6%) had chronic homelessness. Veterans with versus without chronic homelessness were more likely to be older, male, unemployed, and of low educational attainment and report having spent fewer years in the military. Chronic homelessness was associated with elevated odds of mental health and medical diagnoses, traumatic experiences, incarceration, and suicidal thoughts. Veterans with versus without chronic homelessness more frequently reported needing substance use, medical and psychiatric treatments but expressed low interest in participation in psychiatric treatment. Veterans with GD and chronic homelessness have more clinical and behavioral concerns and needs for treatment, but participate in treatment at lower rates. It may be important to address both chronic homelessness and GD concurrently in order to effectively support veterans facing these challenges. • Veterans are vulnerable to both homelessness and gambling disorder (GD). • Of 6053 veterans with GD, 28.6% were chronically homeless. • Chronic homelessness had more adverse clinical and behavioral correlates. • Victimization and trauma were prevalent in chronically homeless veterans with GD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19-related national lockdowns worldwide have had repercussions on people's well-being and have led to increased substance use. Mindfulness has previously been associated with reduced psychological distress and benefits in terms of addictive behaviors. We aimed to assess whether dispositional mindfulness protected against increased tobacco and alcohol use in hospital workers after France's first lockdown started. All workers in two French hospitals were contacted by email to participate in an online survey. Three hundred eighty-five workers answered. We ran two separate logistic regression models to test for associations between the level of dispositional mindfulness and both increased tobacco and alcohol use, after adjusting for affect deterioration. Dispositional mindfulness was associated with a lower likelihood of increased tobacco (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) [95% CI] 0.71 [0.51; 0.99], p = 0.046) and alcohol (0.66 [0.50; 0.87], p = 0.004) use. The effect of mindfulness on tobacco use was partially mediated by affect deterioration. Dispositional mindfulness appeared to be a protective factor against lockdown-related tobacco and alcohol use increases in French hospital workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In Brazil, there are still few studies related to the use of software in Virtual Reality (VR) as adjuvants in the treatment of Mental Disorders. The present study aims to adapt the Therapy of Exposure to Environmental Cues in Virtual Reality (TEPARV) to the Brazilian context through a narrative review, development of a manual for Brazilian culture and testing using a software with a preliminary sample of 7 patients. with Alcohol Use Disorder (AU), in hospital. Methods: For the tests with the patients, the Oculus Quest 1 device and the software from the French company C2 CARE specific for TUA were used. In this sample of severely alcoholic hospitalized patients who experienced immersion in the proposed environment, with the sight of drinks, breathing and heart sounds, the triggering of craving was not noticed. Questionnaires were used to assess depressive and anxious symptoms, sense of presence in a virtual environment and instruments to assess addictive behavior, in addition to monitoring vital signs. Results: Possible limitations associated with the intervention may be related to the small sample, with the version with more basic sound of the version of the software, the software not presenting virtual environments with people ingesting alcohol for the Oculus Quest 1 used in the test, the number of sessions performed. Conclusion: Despite this, the literature points out that this type of technique, with adequate patients and virtual environments, can be very promising for the treatment of AUT, due to safety, easy handling, environment controlled by the professional and low potential for adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many diseases and degenerative processes affecting the nervous system and peripheral organs trigger the activation of inflammatory cascades. Inflammation can be triggered by different environmental conditions or risk factors, including drug and food addiction, stress, and aging, among others. Several pieces of evidence show that the modern lifestyle and, more recently, the confinement associated with the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to increasing the incidence of addictive and neuropsychiatric disorders, plus cardiometabolic diseases. Here, we gather evidence on how some of these risk factors are implicated in activating central and peripheral inflammation contributing to some neuropathologies and behaviors associated with poor health. We discuss the current understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the generation of inflammation and how these processes occur in different cells and tissues to promote ill health and diseases. Concomitantly, we discuss how some pathology-associated and addictive behaviors contribute to worsening these inflammation mechanisms, leading to a vicious cycle that promotes disease progression. Finally, we list some drugs targeting inflammation-related pathways that may have beneficial effects on the pathological processes associated with addictive, mental, and cardiometabolic illnesses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Despite its inclusion in the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases, there is a virtual paucity of high-quality scientific evidence about compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD), especially in underrepresented and underserved populations. Therefore, we comprehensively examined CSBD across 42 countries, genders, and sexual orientations, and validated the original (CSBD-19) and short (CSBD-7) versions of the Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder Scale to provide standardized, state-of-the-art screening tools for research and clinical practice. Method: Using data from the International Sex Survey (N = 82,243; Mage = 32.39 years, SD = 12.52), we evaluated the psychometric properties of the CSBD-19 and CSBD-7 and compared CSBD across 42 countries, three genders, eight sexual orientations, and individuals with low vs. high risk of experiencing CSBD. Results: A total of 4.8% of the participants were at high risk of experiencing CSBD. Country- and gender-based differences were observed, while no sexual-orientation-based differences were present in CSBD levels. Only 14% of individuals with CSBD have ever sought treatment for this disorder, with an additional 33% not having sought treatment because of various reasons. Both versions of the scale demonstrated excellent validity and reliability. Discussion and conclusions: This study contributes to a better understanding of CSBD in underrepresented and underserved populations and facilitates its identification in diverse populations by providing freely accessible ICD-11-based screening tools in 26 languages. The findings may also serve as a crucial building block to stimulate research into evidence-based, culturally sensitive prevention and intervention strategies for CSBD that are currently missing from the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Hypersexual disorder is characterized by recurrent and intense sexual fantasies, sexual urges, or sexual behaviors that can lead to clinically relevant levels of distress and adverse consequences for affected individuals. Earlier research has established a connection between sexual phenomena, such as compulsive sexual behavior, and personality features. The aim of the present study was to gain further insights into the associations of personality maladjustment and HD. Methods: The present study applied the dimensional approach of personality maladjustment presented in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to connect compulsive sexual behavior to personality maladjustment. We investigated 47 men suffering from HD (age: M = 36.51, SD = 11.47) and 38 matched men without HD (age: M = 37.92, SD = 12.33) regarding personality maladjustment using a 100-item version of the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 (PID-5-BF). Results: The men with HD showed higher levels of personality maladjustment regarding all PID-5-BF domains (negative affect, detachment, psychoticism, antagonism, and disinhibition) and significantly differentiated from men without HD in the level of subordinate facets. However, no domain of personality differentiated significantly between groups using a binary stepwise logistic regression analysis. Discussion and conclusions: In sum, the findings of the study underline the extent of personality maladjustment in men with HD. Interpersonal difficulties which men with HD frequently experience can contribute to clinically relevant levels of distress and adverse consequences reported by affected individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Recently, the high prevalence of problematic digital media use among youth has become a public concern. Therefore, this study investigated digital citizenship's moderating effects on a supportive school environment, parental pressure to achieve, academic stress, problematic digital media use, and happiness in school‐aged children. METHODS: This cross‐sectional study involved secondary data analysis of national data from the 11th Panel Study on Korean Children 2018 on 1342 families of fourth‐grade students. Structural equation modeling assessed the relations among variables. RESULTS: A multigroup analysis verified that digital citizenship significantly moderated the paths from supportive school environment to problematic digital media use, supportive school environment to happiness, and problematic digital media use to happiness. Specifically, problematic digital media use had a significant positive effect on happiness in the low‐digital citizenship group and a significant negative effect in the high‐digital‐citizenship group. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that digital citizenship as a competency should be fostered to prevent problematic digital media use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the serious effects of coronavirus disease 2019 on academic burnout, this study aims to examine the multiple mediating roles of negative emotions and phubbing in the relationship between parental marital conflict and academic burnout. A total of 1353 college students participated in this study. The results showed that parental marital conflict not only had a direct effect on academic burnout but also affected academic burnout through three indirect paths: parental marital conflict‐negative emotions‐academic burnout, parental marital conflict‐phubbing‐academic burnout, and parental marital conflict‐negative emotions‐phubbing‐academic burnout. The parental marital conflict increased the risk of negative emotions and phubbing in college students and had a subsequent impact on academic burnout. Implications for prevention and intervention are discussed. Highlights: Parental marital conflict significantly predicted academic burnout in college students.Parental marital conflict affected academic burnout through the indirect effect of negative emotions and phubbing.Negative emotions and phubbing played chain‐mediating roles in the relations between parental marital conflict and academic burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introductions: Adiction is a pattern of substance abuse behavior characterized by overuse of the substance (compulsive use), the safety of its availability, and a high likelihood of relapse after discontinuation. There are 3 (three) stages of addiction, those are a stage of internal change, lifestyle change, and life breakdown. Objectives: This study aims to explore the I-PACE concepts about its components and their relation with the emergence of addictive usage of certain internet services including gaming, online gambling, pornography addiction, online shopping, and social networking. Methods: This study is a literature review that collects from various source of scientific journals related to the psychiatric management of the disorder. Several studies from the international database Pubmed Central including textbooks review papers, comments, and editorials are reviewed to evaluate I-PACE concepts concerning the components and their interaction with addictive behavior. Results: The findings show that the I-PACE model which includes the P component (person), the A component (affective), the C component (cognitive), and the E component (executive function) explains the disruption in a person's decision-making. The anatomy of the frontostriatal circuit, notably between the ventral striatum, amygdala, and dorsolateral prefrontal area, is particularly significant for the early stages of the addictive process and the dorsal striatum for the latter stages. Conclusions: Interactions between components that occur in certain situations will result in addictive behavior due to the formation of satisfaction and compensation related to that behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A major concern is how to tackle student smartphone addiction (SSA). First, however, analysis of the definition, causes, and consequences of SSA is necessary. There is a lack of consensus in this regard, and little research considers its multidisciplinary nature. This article first reviews the key literature across different disciplines. Based on this review, a conceptual model of SSA, its causes, and its consequences is proposed. Qualitative analysis is then used to explore this model empirically for the case of elementary and high school students. A total of 90 articles were reviewed. In addition, 33 in-depth interviews with experts and teachers from four European countries were conducted. The literature review shows the multifaceted nature of SSA. According to the literature, SSA is the result of biological, psychological, social, and technological factors and leads to health, performance, and social problems. The qualitative analysis identifies specific areas to develop this proposed conceptual model, based on the views of experts and teachers in relation to SSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Problematic mobile phone use (PMPU) is becoming increasingly popular and has serious harmful effects on physical and mental health among adolescents. Inadequate health literacy (HL) is related to some risky behaviors and mental health problems in adolescents. Nevertheless, few studies have explored the relationship between HL and PMPU and the gender difference in the relationship among Chinese adolescents. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between HL and PMPU and explore gender difference in the associations. Methods: A total of 22,628 junior and senior high school students (10,990 males and 11,638 females) in 6 regions of China participated in this study. HL and PMPU were measured by self-report validated questionnaires. Chi-square tests and logistic regression analysis were conducted in the study. Results: Logistic regression analysis showed that students with inadequate HL are likely to have PMPU (OR = 2.013, 95% CI: 1.840–2.202), and different degrees of association can be seen in six dimensions. Besides, in both males and females, students with inadequate HL had a higher risk of PMPU (ORmale = 1.607, 95% CI: 1.428–1.807; ORfemale = 2.602, 95% CI: 2.261–2.994). Regarding the gender difference, the results showed that males had more PMPU than females, and the difference was more significant for students with adequate HL than those with inadequate HL (ORinadequate = 1.085, 95% CI: 1.016–1.159; ORadequate = 1.770, 95% CI: 1.490–2.101). Similarly, there were associations in the six dimensions. Conclusions: HL decreases PMPU, and males have a higher risk of PMPU than females. These findings suggest a reasonable strategy to reduce PMPU by improving the HL level of adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There are several negative impacts on the physical and mental health of people presenting internet addiction, including development of mood disorders, such as depression. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between internet addiction and depressive symptoms, as well as to test the mediating role of physical activity in this association. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with undergraduate students from three universities (one private and two public institutions) in southern Brazil. Depressive symptoms were measured with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-21), internet addiction with the Internet Addiction Test (IAT-20), and physical activity with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ - short version). Poisson regression and the Karlson-Holm-Breen mediation method were used for statistical analyses. Results: We observed a dose-response relationship between internet addiction and depressive symptoms. Levels of physical activity mediated the association between moderate internet addiction and depressive symptoms, accounting for 10.7% of the effect observed. Conclusion: Internet addiction can be detrimental to individuals' health, contributing to development of depressive symptoms. Along with psychological and pharmacological therapies, prescription of physical activities is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing use of Instagram use leads to the internalization of unrealistic standards of society that youth intend to be a part of is likely to lead to several psychological concerns. The current study investigates the relationship between Instagram usage with body surveillance and fear of missing out. The study also aimed to find a gender difference in Instagram usage, body surveillance, and fear of missing out. A correlational study design was used. A sample of 200 males and females were included between the ages of 18-25 years recruited from different universities in Lahore. Instagram addiction scale, Body Surveillance Scale, and Fear of missing out scale were used in the study. Pearson Product Moment Coefficient and Independent Sample t-test were used to test the objectives of the study using SPSS-21. The finding showed a positive association between Instagram usage with body surveillance. Among study variables, an essential gender difference was observed. Males scored higher on Instagram usage and fear of missing out whereas females scored higher on body surveillance. The findings suggest that body-related concerns and disorders have high associated when it comes to social media therefore activities and awareness can be carried out at preliminary levels to reduce the negative impact on young minds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine Turkish validity and reliability of the Smartphone Overuse Screening Questionnaire. The study group consisted of 400 students enrolled in different departments of a public university. The Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version and the Young's Internet Addiction Test-Short Form were used for criterion validity. For the internal consistency of the scale, the Cronbach's alpha was calculated. Five items were removed from the questionnaire due to high covariance error in the items loaded into different factors. The new 23-item scale consisted of 6 factors with acceptable goodness-of-fit values. (χ²/ df = 2.83, root mean square error of approximation = 0.06, Comparative Fit Index = 0.90, Goodness of Fit Index = 0.87, Incremental Fit Index = 0.90). For the total score of the scale, the Cronbach's alpha was 0.93 and test-- retest reliability coefficient was .79. (p < .001). The total item correlation was found to be between .386 and .768. The Turkish Smartphone Overuse Screening Questionnaire showed a positive correlation with both the Young's Internet Addiction Test-Short Form and the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version. The results indicate that the Smartphone Overuse Screening Questionnaire can be used as a valid and reliable scale by both researchers and practitioners while examining problematic smartphone use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Internet addiction has recently become a prevalent health problem. Although many studies indicate a link between internet addiction and various diseases, no studies have examined its consequences on asthma control or medication adherence. The purpose of this study was to determine how internet addiction affects asthma control and medication adherence. Materials and Methods: Study participants were grouped as asthmatics and healthy controls whom were aged between 18 and 77. Asthma control test (ACT) and medication adherence report scale (MARS-5) were fulfilled by asthma patients, whereas short version of Young Internet Addiction Test (s-IAT) was applied to all participants. Pulmonary function test was performed to all subjects. Results: Forty-nine healthy volunteers and 54 asthmatic subjects were enrolled. Age and gender profiles within the study groups were similar. There was no significant difference in means of problematic and pathological (s-IAT ≥ 31) s-IAT scores between asthma and control groups (24.1% and 20.4%, p=0.41), as well as between asthma patients with controlled and uncontrolled ACT scores (24.1% and 24%, p=0.99), and those with and without medication adherence (16.7% and 27.8%, p=0.50). s-IAT scores were found to be linked to higher educational level (p=0.01, r=0.37), and better FEV1 (p=0.04, r=0.27) in asthmatic patients. In addition, MARS-5 was correlated with older age (p=0.02, r=0.29), and low FEV1 (p=0.01, r= -0.35). Conclusion: Internet addiction did not seem to directly affect asthma control or medication adherence. However, it appeared to be associated with a high level of education and FEV1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to traumatic experiences represent one factor that may contribute to the development of hypersexual behaviors. We investigated the associations between posttraumatic stress symptoms and hypersexual behaviors by analyzing survey data from 2 samples. The first sample consisted of n = 585 college students, and the second consisted of n = 786 adults recruited via Amazon's Mechanical Turk (MTurk), n = 337 of whom completed a 6-month follow-up survey. We conducted 3 hierarchical regression analyses adjusting for age, gender, sexual orientation, impulsivity, drug use, alcohol use, and gambling. The primary outcomes for this investigation were associations between posttraumatic stress symptoms, measured using the PTSD Checklist for DSM-IV and DSM-5 (PCL-C and PCL-5), and hypersexual behaviors, measured using the Hypersexual Behavior Inventory (HBI). A significant regression, R 2 = 0.230, R 2 adjusted = 0.211, F (14,570) = 12.17, P <.001, revealed posttraumatic stress symptoms were associated with hypersexual behaviors in the university student sample (β = 0.154). A significant regression using the MTurk sample, R 2 = 0.403, R 2 adjusted = 0.392, F (14,771) = 37.13, P <.001, confirmed this finding (β = 0.259). In addition, a significant regression, R 2 = 0.562, R 2 adjusted = 0.541, F (15,321) = 27.42, P <.001, indicated that posttraumatic stress symptoms were longitudinally associated with increased hypersexual behaviors (β =.190) after adjusting for all variables, including baseline hypersexuality. Results suggest that individuals experiencing posttraumatic stress symptoms are at increased risk for current and future hypersexual behaviors. This investigation involved secondary analyses of adults who had gambled at least once in their lives and findings may not generalize to those who have never gambled. Furthermore, longitudinal findings may be impacted by selection bias (42% completion rate) and may not generalize to follow up periods longer than 6-months. This study provides support for the hypothesis that posttraumatic stress symptoms are associated with increased hypersexual behavior, and further research is indicated to explore the etiology and directionality of this relationship. Rosansky JA, Borgogna NC, Kraus SW, et al. Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Associations Between Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Hypersexual Behaviors Among Individuals Who have Gambled in Their Lifetimes. J Sex Med 2022;19:1813–1823. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Internet gaming disorder (IGD) among adolescents is a widespread public health issue, with far-reaching negative impacts on adolescents’ health and relationships with their families. This study evaluated the preliminary outcomes of a two-session Group Motivational Interviewing (GMI) programme designed to address the risk of IGD among students across primary, secondary, and university levels. Conducted in-person during short periods of time when schools were open during the COVID pandemic, the programme used experiential activities and guided discussions to (1) facilitate participants’ reflection on time management, life goals, and gaming behaviours, and (2) cultivate readiness for change. Fifty-five students, aged 9 to 21, participated in the study, and outcomes were evaluated using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data tracked changes in severity of IGD symptoms, motivation for change, and time consumption on gaming, studying, and outdoor activities. The qualitative component involved analysing goal-setting worksheets to understand participants’ motivations and potential barriers to change. Intervention fidelity was monitored using a modified checklist from the Assessment of Motivational Interviewing Groups– Observer Scale. Results revealed significant pre- to post-treatment reductions in gaming time and enhancements in motivation for change, but there was no significant change in the risks of IGD from baseline to post-treatment or three-month follow-up. Changes in the Contemplation Ladder indicated a sustained increase in motivation for change over the three-month follow-up. Furthermore, qualitative analysis revealed academic study as a crucial factor, serving both as a goal (improving academic results) and a barrier (alleviating academic stress) for changes in gaming behaviour. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the two-session GMI programme is a feasible and potentially effective approach to engage students in reflecting on their gaming habits and promoting readiness for change. These preliminary results also provide support for conducting a full clinical trial on the effectiveness of the programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Problem gambling has recently been reclassified as a non-substance-associated behavioral addiction. To the associated vital impact (family, social, labor, and economic), we must add its increasing incidence in recent years, which has led to prioritizing the problem from the point of view of public health. Although the effects of advertising on gambling behavior have been explored since the second half of the twentieth century, there is a lack of research regarding its underlying mechanisms. Thus, the objective of this review is to present an update on the effects of advertisements on gambling attitudes and behavioral intentions, as well as to present the neurobiological correlates of gambling-related cues as a possible hypothesis for this effect. Advertisements in various formats may act both as a precipitating factor and as a maintenance factor for the gambling disorder, changing both attitudes and beliefs about gambling. Activation of brain areas related to reward, such as accumbens nucleus, to memory, such as hippocampus or amygdala, and to executive functions could be the underlying mechanism of this effect. Also, ads promoting responsible gambling do not appear to be effective in reducing behavior or encouraging self-control, but the available evidence is scarce. Therefore, the number of studies on this topic needs to increase. In addition, the available evidence questions the effectiveness of responsible gambling policies to promote self-control in this population, as well as to reduce the negative impact of this disorder, so future research on neural-cue reactivity to gambling-related stimuli may serve to improve the design of advertising strategies that increase the impact of these messages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases. First-line medications consist of drugs that act by counteracting dopamine deficiency in the basal ganglia. Unfortunately, iatrogenic impulsive-compulsive behaviors (ICBs) can occur in up to 20% of PD patients over the course of their illness. ICBs must be considered multifactorial disorders that reflect the interactions of the medication with an individual's vulnerability and the underlying neurobiology of PD. We aimed to explore the predictive genetic, psychopathological and neurological factors involved in the development of ICBs in PD patients by building a complete model of individual vulnerability. Methods: The PARKADD study was a case/non-case study. A total of 225 patients were enrolled ("ICB" group, N 575; "no ICB" group, N 5150), and 163 agreed to provide saliva samples for genetic analysis. Sociodemographic, neurological and psychiatric characteristics were assessed, and genotyping for the characterization of polymorphisms related to dopaminergic and opioid systems was performed. Results: Factors associated with "ICBs" were younger age of PD onset, personal history of ICB prior to PD onset and higher scores on the urgency and sensation seeking facets of impulsivity. No gene variant was significantly associated, but the association with the opioid receptor mu 1 (OPRM1) rs1799971 polymorphism was close to significance. Discussion and conclusions: The influence of gene-environment interactions probably exists, and additional studies are needed to decipher the possible role of the opioid system in the development of ICBs in PD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are families characterized by negative behavior patterns framed by drug abuse at home. Parental drug use can affect the development of executive functions. Objective: to determine the relationship between family functionality with executive functions and dopamine in adolescent children of adults addicted to marijuana. Method: Correlational and applied study of clinical and comparative methodological design, with a sample of 35 adolescents distributed in two groups. The instruments used were FACES III, Stroop Color Word and Barratt Impulsivity Scale. Dopamine was measured in urine through the ELISA test. R was used considering a level of significance p=.05. Results: The mean age was 14.11±2.53 years. The mean dopamine for the study group was 228.83±83.40 ng/ml and for the comparison group 182.19±24.52 ng/ml. There is a correlation of -.605 with a significance of .003 between the cohesion dimension of family functionality and cognitive impulsivity. Conclusion: There are differences between the groups, but there is no statistically significant data that family functionality alters executive functions and dopamine in adolescent children of adults addicted to marijuana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this commentary paper, it is discussed if Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) is best categorized as an Impulse Control Disorder, an Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or in light of the overlap of characteristics with both Gaming and Gambling Disorder as an addictive behavior. The overlapping features are: loss of control over the respective excessive behavior, giving increasing priority to the excessive behavior under investigation and upholding such a behavior despite negative consequences. Besides empirical evidence regarding underlying mechanisms, phenomenology also plays an important role to correctly classify CSBD. The phenomenological aspects of CSBD clearly speak in favor of classifying CSBD under the umbrella of addictive behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper by Sassover and Weinstein (2022) contributes to a timely and complex debate related to the classification of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD). The recent inclusion of CSBD as an impulse-control disorder in the ICD-11 has generated debate since a competitive view is that CSBD should rather be classified as an addictive disorder. Sassover and Weinstein (2022) reviewed existing evidence and concluded it does not support the conceptualization of CSBD as an addictive disorder. Although we agree regarding the relevance and timely nature of considering the classification of CSBD, we respectfully disagree with the position that relying on the components model of addiction (Griffiths, 2005) is the optimal approach for determining whether or not CSBD is an addictive disorder. In this commentary, we discuss potential pitfalls of relying on the components model to conceptualize CSBD as an addictive disorder and argue that considering a process-based approach is important for advancing this timely debate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building on the conclusions of the debate papers by Gola et al. (2022) and Sassover and Weinstein (2022), the present commentary further addressed the contradictions between the current classification, nomenclature, and diagnostic criteria of Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder (CSBD) with elaborating on the potential roles impulsivity and compulsivity may play in CSBD, and how these characteristics may relate to addictive behaviors in particular. Moreover, it briefly discussed how the classification of CSBD might impact research and clinical practice and proposed potential future research directions that may help to reach a consensus on the classification and core symptoms of CSBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specific personality traits may predispose individuals to various forms of addictive behaviors. This study aimed to investigate the association between personality traits of university students and Internet addiction (IA). A sample of 1051 university students was recruited from the largest university in Eastern Croatia. A structured anonymous questionnaire that included questions regarding students' sociodemographic information and Internet usage patterns, the Young Internet Addiction Test and Big Five Inventory served as a research tool. The study revealed that 1.0% of the studied sample expressed severe IA while 24.6% of study participants expressed some signs of addiction. The IA was detected in 576 (80.0%) students who used the Internet mainly for social networking, in 30 (78.9%) students who mainly used it for online gaming, and in 153 (52.2%) students who mainly used it for university assignments (p < 0.001). Higher neuroticism, higher extraversion, and higher openness to new experiences were connected with IA in general (p < 0.001). Higher neuroticism, higher extraversion, and higher openness to new experiences were significantly associated with addictive behavior during social networking (p < 0.001). Higher extraversion and higher openness to new experiences were significantly associated with addictive behavior during Internet usage for university assignments (p = 0.025), while there were no significant associations between specific personality traits and addictive behavior during online gaming (p = 0.059). Personality traits must be taken into account while developing programs and implementing interventions for preventing IA in the university student population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Gambling disorder (GD) and cocaine use disorder (CUD) share features. • Craving is relevant to GD and CUD. • Intrinsic connectivity distribution (ICD) is a novel data-driven approach. • ICD implicated posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) connectivity in GD and CUD craving. • PCC connectivity was decreased in a cue-diagnosis-related way in GD and CUD. Cue reactivity is relevant across addictive disorders as a process relevant to maintenance, relapse, and craving. Understanding the neurobiological foundations of cue reactivity across substance and behavioral addictions has important implications for intervention development. The present study used intrinsic connectivity distribution methods to examine functional connectivity during a cue-exposure fMRI task involving gambling, cocaine and sad videos in 22 subjects with gambling disorder, 24 with cocaine use disorder, and 40 healthy comparison subjects. Intrinsic connectivity distribution implicated the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) at a stringent whole-brain threshold. Post-hoc analyses investigating the nature of the findings indicated that i ndividuals with gambling disorder and cocaine use disorder exhibited decreased connectivity in the posterior cingulate during gambling and cocaine cues, respectively, as compared to other cues and compared to other groups. Brain-related cue reactivity in substance and behavioral addictions involve PCC connectivity in a content-to-disorder specific fashion. The findings suggesting that PCC-related circuitry underlies cue reactivity across substance and behavioral addictions suggests a potential biomarker for targeting in intervention development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used eye tracking as a measure of attention to examine how preference for video gaming images may change across a continuum of video gamers (casual to heavy). During the eye tracking procedure, participants (ages 18-26, N = 73; 43 men, 30 women) viewed 45 image pairs, presented in random order, composed of video gaming, alcohol, and neutral images. Following, participants completed questionnaires about video gaming and alcohol behavior. Findings showed that self-reported measures of experience, including video gaming quantity (i.e., daily playtime) and consequences, showed a significant positive relationship to eye tracking metrics of initial fixation and dwell time toward video game images. Results also showed that participants who reported loss of control (i.e., binge gaming) also demonstrated greater preference for video game images. The findings suggest that the attentional allocation during the processing of video game images in young adults may be enhanced by experience such as daily playtime. Changes in attentional allocation and cue reactivity may further contribute to the development of problematic video gaming behavior through prioritization of video gaming over other appetitive behaviors. These findings have basic science and clinical implications, including treatment for gaming disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Evaluation of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may shed light on the underlying mechanisms of internet addiction (IA) due to the causal relationship between IA and ADHD. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between ADHD and IA. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 796 voluntary students between April and June 2018 at the Ondokuz Mayıs University Kurupelit campus. Data were collected using a sociodemographic data form, Young's Internet Addiction Test (IAT), and the ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). Results: The participants consisted of 375 males (47.1%) and 421 females (52.9%). The median IAT score was 35 (23-47) in males, and it was significantly higher than those in females [30 (22-40)] (z=2.87, p=0.004). There was no significant difference in the ASRS scores between males [30 (23-38)] and females [30 (24-38)] (z=0.21, p=0.836). Risky and addictive internet use was significantly higher in students who had higher ASRS scores than the cut-off value (79.7% and 100.0% vs. 20.3% and 0.0%, respectively). There was a significant positive correlation between the IAT and ASRS scores (rho=0.59, p<0.001). The "hyperactivity/impulsivity" and "attention deficit" sub-scores, which are sub-dimensions of the ASRS, also showed a significant positive correlation with the IAT scores (rho=0.57, p<0.001, and rho=0.59, p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: IA symptoms were found common among Turkish college students, especially in males. The presence of ADHD symptoms may be an essential risk factor for problematic internet use. Therefore, further studies supported by clinical diagnoses are needed to investigate the relationship between IA, ADHD, and gender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No data exist on the influence of meteorological factors on alcohol use disorders (AUD). The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between meteorological factors and AUD. All patients who were admitted to an emergency department (ED) in the Paris-region for an alcohol-related condition were included using the Oscour® database over the period January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019. Meteorological data were collected by Météo-France (French Weather service). All data were aggregated by week. We performed Pearson correlations between weather variables and the number of ED visits for AUD. We observed 98,748 ED visits for alcohol-related conditions over the study period. We found significant positive correlations between the number of alcohol-related ED visits and the mean temperature (r = 0.55; p = 1.87e −5, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.33, 0.72) and the duration of sunlight (r = 0.42; p =.0015, 95% CI = 0.17, 0.62). Negative correlations were also found significant with rain (r = −0.40; p =.0014, 95% CI = –0.62, –0.18), humidity (r = –0.41; p =.0023, 95% CI = –0.62, –0.16) and wind speed (r = −0.40; p =.0031, 95% CI = –0.60, –0.14). Emergency visits for AUD seem to increase with the temperature and duration of sunlight, and decrease with rain, humidity and wind speed. Further studies are needed on a larger scale and taking into account potential confounding factors to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Escapism is a tendency to seek escape and distraction from reality or real-life problems. Past research regards escapism as a negative inducement that leads to adverse consequences when combined with substance use and other addictive activities. Existing knowledge on escapism's connection to addiction is mostly based on studies with restricted populations and lacks a comprehensive view. Objectives: Using an extensive data set, our aim was to investigate whether escapism has a consistent association with different types of addictive behaviors. In this study, we examined (1) the extent to which escapism is related to alcohol consumption, smoking, drug use, and gambling and (2) whether escapism moderates the relation between problem drinking and life satisfaction. Methods: We used cross-sectional survey data from a nationally representative stratified random sample of 2,285 respondents aged 16 to 80 years (mean [M] 45.18; standard deviation [SD] 18.75; 51.25% males) living in Finland. Linear and logistic regression models estimated the association of escapism and alcohol consumption, smoking, drug use, and gambling. The second part of the analysis focused on life satisfaction. Results: Escapism was associated with alcohol consumption, smoking and drug use, but not with gambling. Escapism moderated the association between life satisfaction and problematic alcohol use, indicating that problem drinking with escapist motives predicts lower life satisfaction than problematic alcohol use alone. Conclusions/Importance: Escapism bears a consistent relation to substance use and is a particularly strong predictor of alcohol consumption. Escapism can serve as an initial motive, a reinforcer, and an amplifier of addictive behaviors. This study investigated the association of escapism with alcohol consumption, smoking, drug use and gambling. Escapism had a consistent relation to drinking, smoking and drug use. Problem drinking with escapist motives predicted lower life satisfaction than problematic alcohol use alone. The results suggest escapism can serve as a motive or an amplifier of addictive behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]