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Objective. This study assessed the association between self-ratings and key-worker ratings of depression in people with mild learning disabilities. Method. The Zung Depression Scale was completed by 74 adults with mild learning disabilities and a modified version of the questionnaire was completed by two key-workers at two periods in time. Results. The correlations between ratings of depression by key-workers were high and key-worker ratings correlated significantly with self-rating. The depression scores were found to be temporally stable. Conclusions. The findings suggest that proxy raters appear to be able to make reliable and valid judgements about other people's self-reported levels of depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To assess the psychometric structure and construct validity of the alcohol use disorder identification test (AUDIT) in a Great Britain population sample. Methods: A stratified multi-stage random sample of 7849 participants completed the AUDIT as part of a computer assisted interview. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted testing one to three factor models. The factors in these models were correlated with demographic variables and scores relating to perceived wellbeing, verbal IQ, and neurotic and psychosis symptoms to assess construct validity of the factor solutions. Results: A two factor solution was deemed to appropriately fit the data, measuring alcohol consumption and alcohol related problems. Correlations between the two factors on demographic, wellbeing, neurosis and psychosis symptomology were significantly different. Conclusions: The two factor solution suggests an advantage to investigating factor specific cut off scores for both consumption and alcohol related problems given their difference in predictive validity on both health and demographic variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Previous research has suggested that psychosis is better described as a continuum rather than a dichotomous entity. This study aimed to describe the distribution of positive psychosis-like symptoms in two large community samples using an item response mixture model.Method: An item response mixture model was used to explain the pattern of psychosis-like symptom endorsement. This model incorporated two elements. First, a continuous non-normal latent variable to explain the observed pattern of data. Second, a categorical latent variable to explain the variation in the continuous non-normal latent variable.Results: For both samples, representing broadly and narrowly defined psychosis, the best fitting model was a four-class solution. In both cases, the classes differed quantitatively rather than qualitatively.Conclusions: The analysis showed that psychosis-like symptoms at the population level could be best explained by four classes that appeared to represent an underlying continuum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. The current study examined the types of borderline personality profiles, associated psychological disorders and stressful life-events. Design. Data from the British Psychiatric Morbidity Survey were used to examine homogeneous subtypes of participants based on their responses to nine borderline personality disorder (BPD) criteria. Methods. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify homogeneous groups, or classes, of individuals. A multinomial logistic regression model was used to estimate the association between classes and associated psychological disorders and stressful life-events. Results. A 4-class solution provided the best fit, ranging from a class with a low probability of showing any BPD symptoms to a class whose members had a relatively high probability of endorsing all criteria. Severity of BPD was associated with higher comorbidity and higher stressful life-events. Conclusions. Results suggest that four discrete classes make up the borderline continuum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. This study aimed to examine the structure of self-reported posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Design. Based on previous factor analytic findings and the DSM-IV formulation, six confirmatory factor models were specified and estimated that reflected different symptom clusters. Methods. The analyses were based on responses from 1116 participants who had suffered whiplash injuries and screened for full or subclinical PTSD using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire. Results. A correlated four-factor model with re-experiencing, avoidance, dysphoria and arousal factors fitted the data very well. Correlations with criteria measures showed that these factors were associated with other trauma related variables in a theoretically predictable way and showed evidence of unique predictive utility. Conclusions. These results concur with previous research findings using different trauma populations but do not reflect the current DSM-IV symptom groupings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The factor structure of the World Assumptions Scale (WAS) was assessed by means of confirmatory factor analysis. The sample was comprised of 1,710 participants who had been exposed to trauma that resulted in whiplash. Four alternative models were specified and estimated using LISREL 8.72. A correlated 8-factor solution was the best explanation of the sample data. The estimates of reliability of eight subscales of the WAS ranged from .48 to .82. Scores from five subscales correlated significantly with trauma severity as measured by the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, although the magnitude of the correlations was low to modest, ranging from .08 to -.43. It is suggested that the WAS has adequate psychometric properties for use in both clinical and research settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study aimed to describe the distribution of positive psychosis symptoms in a large scale, population-based sample. Data from the British Psychiatric Morbidity Survey was used to examine homogeneous sub-types of participants based on their responses to the five probe items of the Psychosis Screening Questionnaire. Latent class analysis was used to identify the underlying class structure of psychosis. Four classes of psychosis were identified. Associations between the latent classes and the demographic risk factors, clinical variables and reports of traumatic experiences showed significantly higher risks for the psychosis class, the paranoid class, and the intermediate class compared to the normative class. Four classes that appeared to represent an underlying continuum could best explain psychosis symptom expression at the population level. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: It is well established that the χ 2 test is influenced by sample size and will lead to over rejection of models tested using large sample sizes. In this paper it is shown that the population parameter values of a model can also influence the χ 2 and lead to erroneous decisions about model acceptance/rejection. It is concluded, based on the examination of hypothetical population factor analytic models, that incremental fit indices offer a useful source of information for the analyst to assist in the interpretation of the χ 2 test. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Data from the National Comorbidity Survey were used to estimate the relationship between occurrences of childhood trauma and self-reported experiences of hallucinations. Variables representing (1) childhood neglect, (2) childhood physical abuse, (3) rape under the age of 16, and (4) molestation under the age of 16 were used to predict experiences of visual, auditory and tactile hallucinations. After controlling for background variables (sex, age, depression, family history of depression, urbanicity, income, drug, and alcohol dependence), a history of childhood rape and molestation were significantly associated with visual, auditory and tactile hallucinations. Additionally, neglect was associated with visual hallucinations and physical abuse with tactile hallucinations. Experiencing multiple types of trauma was associated with increases in the likelihood of reporting each of the three types of hallucinations. Hallucinatory experiences are possible indicators of a traumatic childhood history. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: Previous research has suggested that psychosis is better described as a continuum rather than a dichotomous entity. This study aimed to describe the distribution of positive psychosis-like symptoms in the general population by means of latent class analysis. Method: Latent class analysis was used to identify homogeneous sub-types of psychosis-like experiences. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to interpret the nature of the latent classes, or groups, by estimating the associations with demographic factors, clinical variables, and experiences of traumatic events. Results: The best fitting latent class model was a four-class solution: a psychosis class, a hallucinatory class, an intermediate class, and a normative class. The associations between the latent classes and the demographic risk factors, clinical variables, and experiences of traumatic events showed significantly higher risks for the psychosis class, the hallucinatory class, and the intermediate class compared to the normative class. Furthermore there appeared to be a grading in the magnitude of the odds ratios: the odds ratios for the psychosis group were generally higher than those for the hallucinatory class, and the odds ratios for the hallucinatory class were generally higher than those for the intermediate class. Conclusions: The latent class analysis showed that psychosis-like symptoms at the population level could be best explained by four groups that appeared to represent an underlying continuum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The authors hypothesized that the likelihood of psychosis classification would increase with traumatic experiences. Method: Data from the National Comorbidity Survey were used to estimate the relationship between interpersonal trauma and the likelihood of a classification of psychosis. Results: Childhood physical abuse predicted psychosis, and there was a significant cumulative relationship between trauma and psychosis, with number of trauma types experienced increasing the probability of psychosis. Conclusions: Overall, physical abuse predicted psychosis. In addition, a significant gender-by-rape interaction was observed, with rape having higher predictive value for psychosis in male subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. This study applied the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) in an attempt to predict longitudinal growth of career exploratory behaviour in school pupils. The importance of information for making considered career decisions is indicated in theories of career development and choice, career education programmes, and concepts of career maturity. Aims. The study aimed to initially model individual and group levels of career exploratory behaviour and then to identify psychological variables that predicted such behaviour. Sample. Longitudinal data from a sample of 325 adolescents (mean age 16.4 years, SD = 0.77, 45% were male) was collected at three points in time. Method. A latent growth curve model was specified to account for initial status and subsequent linear growth of career exploratory behaviour. Variables representing the TPB were included in the model to explain the variation in the intercept and slope factors. Results. The latent growth curve model was found to be an acceptable description of the data, and indicated that there was significant individual variability in terms of the intercept and slope factors. Behavioural intention was found to be a significant predictor of the intercept factor, but not of the slope factor. Conclusions. It was concluded that the TPB remains a useful theoretical framework from which to explain career information-seeking behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The Coping Strategy Indicator (CSI), developed by , is intended as a ‘widely applicable’ self-report measure of situational coping encompassing the strategies of avoidance, problem solving and seeking social support. Nonetheless, the instrument’s initial development phase was exclusively premised on Californian samples, prompting to highlight the need for cross-validation with other populations. The aim of this study was to examine the factor structure of the Coping Strategy Indicator in a sample of 618 British individuals with a chronic health challenge, namely amputation of a limb(s). Confirmatory factor analyses were used to compare four different models of the CSI structure (one-factor, three-orthogonal factors, three-oblique factors and four-oblique factors). The results indicate that the oblique-three-factor model, coherent with the subscales derived in the original sample () provided adequate fit to the data. An oblique four-factor model described by provided the best fit. Further research is necessary in terms of developing and scoring the instrument as a four-dimensional tool. These results provide further support for the suggestion that the scale is generalizable across population, cultural, and situational variation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study tested alternative factor models of the General Health Questionnaire—12 (GHQ-12), based on previous research findings, with a large sample using confirmatory factor analysis. An alternative models framework was used to test 6 factor analytic models. A 3-factor model was the best explanation of the sample data. The 3 factors were labeled Anxiety-Depression, Social Dysfunction, and Loss of Confidence. The model was found to be factorially invariant between men and women. The utility of the 3 subscales, as opposed to the total GHQ-12 score, is questioned as they appear to provide little information beyond that of a general factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The longitudinal psychometric properties of SPPC were assessed using a sample of 157 schoolchildren across four time periods using structural equation modeling. The theoretically derived multidimensional structure of SPPC (Harter, 1985) and its associated reliabilities were found to be fairly consistent overtime. The stability of the factor structure, however, did vary across repeated administrations: the stability of the second-order self-perception factor was relatively low (0.629) between first and second administrations, increasing between times two and three (0.812), while reaching the highest point (0.941) across times three and four. This result could be attributable to either a growing familiarization with scale items, the response format, or natural respondent maturation. While the reason underlying temporal instability is uncertain, the results do suggest that caution should be exercised when interpreting SPPC scores particularly in intervention designs with comparatively long intervening periods. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives. In 1972, 13 civil rights marchers were killed in Londonderry, Northern Ireland, on what is known as Bloody Sunday. This study aimed to assess the psychological impact of this event on the families of victims as measured by the Revised Impact of Event Scale. Design. Cross-sectional self-report based study. Methods. The Impact of Event Scale--Revised was administered to 72 members of the families (immediate family, children of immediate family, cousins, and second cousins) of those killed on Bloody Sunday. Results. High levels of intrusion, avoidance, and hyperarousal were found. In addition, significant group differences were found. Those family members closest to the victims reported the highest levels of psychological distress. Conclusion. The findings were discussed within the transgenerational trauma context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two studies were conducted to examine the accuracy of personality assessment at zero acquaintance. In Study 1, participants were asked to rate head and shoulder colour photographs of strangers in terms of the extraversion, neuroticism and psychoticism dimensions. The stranger ratings were correlated with the targets’ self-report ratings on these dimensions using the EPQ-R. Significant self–stranger agreement was found for psychoticism but not for extraversion or neuroticism. Study 2 used the same general design, but the amount of visual information in head and shoulder colour photographs was manipulated and presented to strangers. In condition 1 head and shoulder colour photographs with profiles were used, in condition 2 head and shoulder colour photographs with profiles removed were used, and in condition 3 the images were cropped so that only the internal features of the face were visible. In all three conditions significant self–stranger agreement was found for psychoticism but not for extraversion or neuroticism as measured by the EPP. These consistent cross-study findings were discussed and further research suggested. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Previous research using exploratory factor analysis of the Impact of Event Scale (Horowitz et al., 1979) has suggested structures that are not consistent with the original two-factor model. IES data from 485 emergency service personnel who had experienced traumatic events during the course of their work were submitted to confirmatory factor analysis to test seven alternative factor models of the IES. This study is one of the most comprehensive analyses of the IES to date, investigating both theoretically and empirically derived models. The model of best fit was a four-factor model with a single second-order factor. This model comprised four first-order factors including intrusion, avoidance, numbing and sleep disturbance factors all subsumed by a second-order general distress factor. These results provide support for the multidimensionality of both intrusion and avoidance symptoms following traumatic experiences. Researchers and practitioners in the field of traumatic stress should be made aware of the assessment and treatment implications of this multidimensional structure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper reports tests of the factor structure of the original and Revised Expagg scales using a confirmatory factor analytic approach. Current evidence regarding the dimensionality of the Expagg scale [Campbell A et al. 1992. Aggr Behav 18:95–108] proposes that the scale measures a single bipolar instrumental-expressive social representation of aggression factor. In contrast, evidence on the Revised Expagg scale [Archer J and Haigh AM. 1997. Brit J Soc Psychol 36:83–105] suggests two unidimensional factors of instrumental and expressive aggressive beliefs. Furthermore, Campbell et al. [1999. Aggr Behav 25:435–444] claim that there is equal evidence for the Revised Expagg being either one- or two-dimensional. They also suggest a short modified version of the Revised Expagg. Current evidence, however, is based on traditional and flawed exploratory factor analytic methods of scale assessment. This paper addresses the limitations of the previous psychometric assessment of these measures by implementing confirmatory factor analytic methods in the assessment of construct validity. It thereby evaluates the previous claims regarding the factor structure of these measures. The results suggest that none of the a priori specifications of the Expagg and Revised Expagg adequately explain the sample data. The results are discussed in terms of the significance of demonstrating sufficient construct validity of measurement instruments in psychological research.Aggr. Behav. 28:11–20, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within contemporary psychology there is increasing interest in the role of religion on behaviour and psychological functioning. Such interest can be attested to by the growth in the number of pertinent books and articles that have been published and also the development of new self-report measures of religiosity. The Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire is one such recently developed measure. It is a brief self-report measure comprising 10 items that were designed to measure strength of religious faith regardless of religious denomination or affiliation. Although Plante and Boccaccini (1997a, 1997b) have provided some preliminary evidence for the reliability and validity of the scale, the factor structure of the scale has not yet been examined. The aim of the present paper was to confirm the factor structure of the scale. The hypothesised one-factor model was tested using confirmatory factor analytic methods. Data from a sample of 106 Northern Irish undergraduate university students were examined using confirmatory factor analytic methods. A one-factor model was tested and accepted on the basis of fit statistics, therefore supporting the hypothesised unidimensional structure of the scale. The present results provide further evidence that the Santa Clara Strength of Religious Faith Questionnaire is psychometrically sound and therefore it can be recommended for further use by researchers interested in the construct of strength of religious faith. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deals with a study which assessed the factor structure of the Impact of Event Scale, a measure of intrusion and avoidance, using a sample of World War II and Korean War veterans. Background information on the scale; Characteristics of the participants; Findings and conclusions.

This paper examines the validity of student evaluation of teaching (SET) in universities. Recent research demonstrates that evaluations can be influenced by factors other than teaching ability such as student characteristics and the physical environment. In this study, it was predicted that students' perception of the lecturer would significantly predict teaching effectiveness ratings. Using an 11-item student rating scale (N = 199), a two-factor confirmatory factor model of teaching effectiveness was specified and estimated using LISREL8; the factors were 'lecturer ability' and 'module attributes'. This initial model was extended to include a factor relating to the students' ratings of the lecturer's charisma. The model was an acceptable description of the data. The charisma factor explained 69% and 37% of the variation in the 'lecturer ability and 'module attributes' factors respectively. These findings suggest that student ratings do not wholly reflect actual teaching effectiveness. It is argued that a central trait exists which influences a student's evaluation of the lecturer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• More people suffered from major depression in February 2019 than in March-April 2020. • There was no change in the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder from February 2019 to March-April 2020. • There was no change in the prevalence of major depression and GAD during six weeks of lockdown. • Depression was predicted by age, non-city dwelling, loneliness, resilience, and somatic problems. • GAD was predicted by sex, COVID-19 infection status, working with the public, death anxiety, internal locus of control, conscientiousness, loneliness, and somatic problems. Few studies have examined changes in mental health before and after the outbreak of COVID-19. We examined changes in the prevalence of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) between February 2019 and March-April 2020; if there were changes in major depression and GAD during six weeks of nationwide lockdown; and we identified factors that predicted major depression and GAD across the six-week lockdown period. Nationally representative samples of Irish adults were gathered using identical methods in February 2019 (N = 1020) and March-April 2020 (N = 1041). The latter was reassessed six weeks later. Significantly more people screened positive for depression in February 2019 (29.8% 95% CI = 27.0, 32.6) than in March-April 2020 (22.8% 95% CI = 20.2, 25.3), and there was no change in GAD. There were no significant changes in depression and GAD during the lockdown. Major depression was predicted by younger age, non-city dwelling, lower resilience, higher loneliness, and higher somatic problems. GAD was predicted by a broader set of variables including several COVID-19 specific variables. These findings indicate that the prevalence of major depression and GAD did not increase as a result of, or during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Ireland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High risk of mental health problems is associated with loneliness resulting from social distancing measures and "lockdowns" that have been imposed globally due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study explores the interconnectedness of loneliness, anxiety and depression on a symptom level using network analysis. A representative sample of participants (N = 1041), who were of at least 18 years of age, was recruited from the Republic of Ireland (ROI). Loneliness, anxiety and depression were assessed using validated instruments. Network analysis was used to identify the network structure of loneliness, anxiety and depression. Loneliness was found to be largely isolated from anxiety and depression nodes in the network. Anxiety and depression were largely interconnected. "Trouble relaxing," "feeling bad about oneself" and "not being able to stop or control worrying" were suggested as the most influential nodes of the network. Despite the expectation that loneliness would be implicated more robustly in the anxiety and depression network of symptoms, the results suggest loneliness as a distinct construct that is not interwoven with anxiety and depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An understanding of the prevalence and risk factors of parental mental health problems is important for early intervention and prevention measures and shaping services for parents and their children. However, large representative surveys of parental mental health problems and associated risk factors are lacking. The aim of this study was to estimate prevalence rates of parental mental health problems using a standardised measure of psychiatric morbidity (General Health Questionnaire; GHQ‐12), in a representative sample of parents and caregivers of children and young people (2–19 years) in Northern Ireland. Further, this study explored associated risk factors of parental mental health problems. A random household survey of parents and children was conducted between June 2019 and March 2020. Parental responses on demographic, economic, familial and psychological measures were collected (N = 2815) and 22% of parents and caregivers screened positive for mental health problems. The STROBE checklist for observational research was adhered to. Multivariate logistic regression indicated that being in receipt of benefits, having poor family support, a history of adverse childhood experiences, a history of exposure to politically motivated violence (the Troubles), and a child with conduct problems and poor health were all independent risk factors of increased parental mental health problems. Findings will help to inform future commissioning and development of services and broaden understanding of the correlates of parental mental health problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: ICD-11 complex post-traumatic stress disorder is a more severe condition than post-traumatic stress disorder, and recent studies indicate it is more prevalent among military samples. In this study, we tested the psychometric properties of the International Trauma Questionnaire, assessed the relative prevalence rates of post-traumatic stress disorder and complex post-traumatic stress disorder in the sample population and explored relationships between complex post-traumatic stress disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder and a range of risk factors. Methods: Survey participants (N = 189) were mental health support-seeking former-serving veterans of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) recruited from primary care. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the factorial validity of the International Trauma Questionnaire. Results: The latent structure of the International Trauma Questionnaire was best represented by a two-factor second-order model consistent with the ICD-11 model of complex post-traumatic stress disorder. The International Trauma Questionnaire scale scores demonstrated excellent internal reliability. Overall, 9.1% (95% confidence interval = [4.8%, 13.5%]) met diagnostic requirements for post-traumatic stress disorder and an additional 51.4% (95% confidence interval = [44.0%, 58.9%]) met requirements for complex post-traumatic stress disorder. Those meeting diagnostic requirements for complex post-traumatic stress disorder were more likely to have served in the military for 15 years or longer, had a history of more traumatic life events and had the highest levels of depression, anxiety and stress symptoms. Conclusion: The International Trauma Questionnaire can effectively distinguish between post-traumatic stress disorder and complex post-traumatic stress disorder within primary care samples of Australian Defence Force veterans. A significantly greater proportion of Australian Defence Force veterans met criteria for complex post-traumatic stress disorder than post-traumatic stress disorder. Australian military mental health services should adopt the International Trauma Questionnaire to routinely screen for complex post-traumatic stress disorder and develop complex post-traumatic stress disorder specific interventions to promote recovery in Australian Defence Force veterans with complex post-traumatic stress disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the reliability and testing for differences of the Eysenck Personality Questionnare-Revised (EPQ-R). Use of the bootstrapping technique; Methodology of the research; Limitations of the procedure's application in psychological research.

Examines the dimensionality of Rosenberg's Self-esteem Scale, a widely used measure of global self-esteem. Testing of the factorial nature of the scale by applying a uni-dimensional confirmatory factor analytic model; Importance of assessing the dimensionality of scale for statistical reasons; Relevance of the goodness-of-fit statistic.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been repeatedly associated with a wide range of physical and mental health issues. Research has indicated high levels of anxiety and depression among university students, and a few studies have documented the relationship between ACEs and anxiety in the university student population. This study surveyed first year students at a university located in the most ethnically diverse district in England, with the second highest poverty rate. Eight hundred and fifty-eight responded; a response rate of 12%. The survey included questions about adverse childhood events, recent life stressors, current deprivation, quality of life, positive physical health and positive mental health, and used the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, a standardised measure. Thirty-seven percent of the responding students met the diagnosis for generalised anxiety disorder. In a multivariate multiple regression model, life stressors and childhood adversities were significantly associated with higher levels of anxiety and lower levels of physical and mental health. Only childhood adversities significantly predicted lower levels of quality of life. The findings highlight the importance of considering adverse childhood experiences in enhancing the wellbeing of the student population. Given the demographics of the student population at the University of East London, the high rates of ACEs and anxiety are likely to partially reflect poverty and racism. The implications of the findings for trauma-informed policies and practices in universities are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anticipatory grief (AG) is the process of experiencing loss prior to the death of a significant person. Coping with this multifaceted experience in the context of dementia caregiving is a relatively novel, yet significant area in caregiving literature. The Marwit-Meuser Caregiver Grief Inventory (MM-CGI) and its abbreviated MM-CGI-Short-Form (MM-CGI-SF) is the most widely used scale measuring AG. However, limited research has employed robust analytical strategies to assess its dimensional structure. This study employed contemporary factor analytical techniques to assess the dimensional structure of the MM-CGI/SF. Caregivers of persons with dementia (n = 508) completed a survey containing MM-CGI/SF and other associated psychological measures. Exploratory factor analysis was employed to compare eight alternative factor analytical models to determine the optimal model. Internal-consistency reliability was assessed by Cronbach's α and construct validity was assessed by Spearman's correlation-coefficient. The best fitting model was the MM-CGI-SF three factor model (Personal Sacrifice and Burden, Heartfelt Sadness and Longing and Worry and Felt Isolation). The MM-CGI-SF three factor model demonstrated internal consistency reliability and factor correlations with associated psychological measures indicated construct validity. The MM-CGI-SF three factor model demonstrated adequate fit and utility, however, the Worry and Felt Isolation subscale needs further replication and revision to assess its dimensionality. The MM-CGI-SF is the more useful tool due to its brevity and better model fit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objetivo: Los autores postularon que la probabilidad de una clasificación de psicosis aumentarla con las experiencias traumáticas. Métedos: Se utilizaron los datos del National Comorbidity Survey para calcular la relación entre el trauma interpersonal y la probabilidad de una clasificación de psicosis. Resultados: Los malos tratos físicos infantiles fueron un factor pronóstico de psicosis y se constató una relación acumulativa significativa entre el trauma y la psicosis, de manera que el número de tipos de traumas experimentados aumentaba la probabilidad de psicosis. Conclusiones: De forma global, los malos trams físicos pronosticaron la psicosis. Además, se constató una interacción sexo-violación significativa, y la violación fue el factor preclictivo más importante de psicosis en los vatones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is limited data available regarding the most common forms of psychiatric illness, the occurrence of childhood adversity, and the link between childhood adversity and criminal and psychiatric outcomes amongst forensic inpatients. Using census data for all Scottish forensic inpatients, we investigated the most common primary psychiatric diagnoses in forensic settings, the occurrence of childhood adversity amongst forensic inpatients, and whether childhood adversity experiences significantly predict a range of criminal and psychiatric outcomes. Data for the current study were drawn from 'The Scottish Forensic Network Inpatient Census' (N = 422). The Responsible Medical Officers and other members of the clinical team collected all data from official patient records. All forensic inpatients across high, medium, and low security sites were surveyed. The majority of patients had a psychotic disorder as their primary diagnosis (86.4%), with schizophrenia being the most common (70.0%). Childhood adversity was highly prevalent (79.2%), with physical abuse being the most common adverse experience (40.1%). Increased levels of childhood adversity were significantly associated with an increased risk of criminal convictions, self-reported abuse of animals, suicidal and self-injurious behaviour, and problematic use of drugs or alcohol. Considering the association between adversity and psychosis, trauma informed care is essential for the mental health and forensic needs of this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. International Classification of Diseases, 11th revision (ICD-11) adjustment disorder (AjD) is characterized by two main symptom clusters: preoccupation with the stressor and failure to adapt to the stressor. The network analytic approach provides important information on the structural validity of a disorder and reveals which symptoms are most prominent. To date, no study compared the network structure of AjD symptoms in clinical and nonclinical samples, which could potentially inform our understanding of psychopathological mechanisms that underlie AjD and identify core targets for therapy. Methods. A network analysis was conducted on AjD symptoms as assessed by the Adjustment Disorder—New Module (ADNM-8) using data from 330 clinical participants from the UK and a nonclinical sample of 699 participants from Switzerland. Results. Comparisons of network structure invariance revealed differences between the network structure of the clinical and the nonclinical samples. Results highlight that in terms of both edges strength and centrality, failure to adapt symptoms was more prominent in the clinical sample, while the preoccupation symptoms were more prominent in the nonclinical sample. Importantly, global strength was similar across networks. Conclusions. Results provide evidence of the coherence of AjD in the ICD-11 as assessed by the ADNM questionnaire. They tentatively suggest that subclinical AjD may be characterized by emerging preoccupation symptoms that may result in failure to adapt and functional impairment in clinical manifestation of AjD. However, there is a need for replication and longitudinal research to further validate this hypothesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

University students routinely participate in research, including research on trauma and adversity, but the unique implications of trauma and adversity for educational and developmental outcomes for this group have received less attention. This study surveyed first year undergraduate students at an urban university located in the most ethnically diverse district in England, with the second highest poverty rate. Of 7,110 students, 858 responded; a response rate of 12%. The survey included thirteen questions about adverse events and circumstances before age 18. Four in five students (79%) reported at least one adversity, 51% reported three or more, and 20% reported at least six. Female students reported a higher mean number of adversities than men, but men were significantly more likely to report having been "attacked, stabbed, shot or robbed by threat." Where comparisons were possible, rates were higher than for the general population or for the only other UK university survey. A Latent Class Analysis produced four groupings. Besides the 'No adversity' (36%) and "Intermediate" (46%) classes, there were two "High adversity" groups, differentiated by high (12%) or moderate (6%) adversities related to cohabitation (parental separation, lived with depressed person, lived with alcohol/drug user, and lived with incarcerated person). Higher rates of adversities, and latent class membership, were related to predictions that one would not complete one's degree. Implications and next steps are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dissociation is commonly reported by individuals who meet criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD). However, the association between the age of trauma exposure, dissociation, and CPTSD is not well understood. This study aimed to test whether dissociation mediated the relationship between the developmental stage of trauma exposure and CPTSD symptoms. Method: A nationally representative sample from Ireland (N = 1020) completed self-report measures on trauma exposure in childhood, adolescence, adulthood, current trauma symptomatology, and dissociation symptoms. A mediation analysis was conducted. Results: Childhood, adolescent, and adulthood trauma exposure were all related to dissociation and ICD-11 CPTSD symptom clusters. Dissociation mediated the effect of developmental stage of trauma exposure on PTSD and disturbances in self-organization(DSO). The direct and indirect effect models provided the best fit of the data. Childhood trauma exposure was the only developmental stage that was directly associated with both PTSD and DSO symptoms in our sample. Conclusion: Dissociation mediates the relationship between reported trauma exposure and the presence of ICD-11 CPTSD symptom clusters, and this relationship appears at its strongest when trauma occurs in childhood. CPTSD interventions should also promote dissociation management to aid recovery from this debilitating condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractOn February 6, 2023, an earthquake registering 7.8 on the Richter scale struck southeast Turkey, and this was followed by a second earthquake of magnitude 7.5. The earthquake resulted in widespread loss, devastation, and destruction, and is anticipated to bear a significant psychological toll on survivors. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and correlates of ICD-11 posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in those living in earthquake-affected areas of Turkey. The sample was a convenience sample of 527 adults living in earthquake-affected areas of Turkey. Prevalence rates and gender differences in exposure to earthquake-related traumatic events were investigated. Moreover, prevalence rates of ICD-11 PTSD were computed, and demographic and trauma-related correlates of ICD-11 PTSD were assessed using logistic regression analyses. Most of the sample (99.2%; n = 523) experienced at least one earthquake-related traumatic event, with the majority experiencing multiple events. Findings demonstrated high endorsement of the ICD-11 PTSD symptom clusters, with 54.1% meeting criteria for diagnosis of probable ICD-11 PTSD. Correlates associated with increased risk of PTSD include female gender, physical injury in the earthquake, physical injury of family or loved ones in the earthquake and being in the higher earthquake-related traumatic events exposure quartiles. These findings indicate high levels of trauma exposure and PTSD among survivors of the recent earthquakes which occurred in Turkey. The identification of correlates associated with increased risk of PTSD is useful for identifying Turkish earthquake survivors who are most likely to need psychological support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commonly identified patterns of psychological distress in response to adverse events are characterized by resilience (i.e., little to no distress), delayed (i.e., distress that increases over time), recovery (i.e., distress followed by a gradual decrease over time), and sustained (i.e., distress remaining stable over time). This study aimed to examine these response patterns during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Anxiety and depressive symptom data collected across four European countries over the first year of the pandemic were analyzed (N = 3,594). Participants were first categorized into groups based on the four described patterns. Network connectivity and symptom clustering were then estimated for each group and compared. Two thirds (63.6%) of the sample displayed a resilience pattern. The sustained distress network (16.3%) showed higher connectivity than the recovery network (10.0%) group, p =.031; however, the resilient network showed higher connectivity than the delayed network (10.1%) group, p =.016. Regarding symptom clustering, more clusters emerged in the recovery network (i.e., three) than the sustained network (i.e., two). These results replicate findings that resilience was the most common mental health pattern over the first pandemic year. Moreover, they suggest that high network connectivity may be indicative of a stable mental health response over time, whereas fewer clusters may be indicative of a sustained distress pattern. Although exploratory, the network perspective provides a useful tool for examining the complexity of psychological responses to adverse events and, if replicated, could be useful in identifying indicators of protection against or vulnerability to future psychological distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged grief disorder (PGD) is included in the 11th version of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD‐11). This study sought to test the validity and reliability of a new brief measure to screen for ICD‐11 PGD—the International Grief Questionnaire (IGQ). The psychometric properties of the IGQ were tested using data collected from two bereaved samples of adults from the United Kingdom (n = 1,012) and Ireland (n = 1,011). Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated that a correlated two‐factor model best captured the latent dimensionality of the IGQ in both samples. Estimates of internal reliability were high, whereas the convergent and concurrent validity of the scale were supported through strong associations with external measures. Measurement invariance and differential item functioning testing showed no statistically significant difference in the latent structure of the IGQ nor the functioning of the IGQ items by age, sex, and nationality. For participants who were bereaved for more than 6 months, the rates of probable PGD derived from the IGQ were 10.9% and 15.3% for the Irish and U.K. samples, respectively. The IGQ is a brief, easy‐to‐use, self‐report screening measure that captures all diagnostic criteria of PGD set forth in the ICD‐11. Findings from this study provide initial support for the validity, measurement invariance, and reliability of the IGQ among two national samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The International Classification of Diseases has recently defined Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) with symptoms such as longing, worry, and intense emotional pain that exceed sociocultural norms more than 6 months after the loss. This study aims to (a) estimate the prevalence of this new diagnostic category, (b) identify its sociodemographic and loss‐related predictors, and (c) assess the co‐occurrence of PGD with other psychological disorders and substance abuse. A large representative sample of Spanish adults (N = 1498) participated. Several multivariate binary logistic regression and multivariate logistic regression models were used. Results showed a 9.95% prevalence in the total sample. Catholic beliefs were a positive predictor, while higher income and more time since loss significantly decreased the odds of PGD. PGD significantly increased the likelihood of anxiety, depression, somatisation, post‐traumatic stress disorder, loneliness and substance use. Our study contributes to assessing the multicultural PGD validity, as our results from a large representative sample are comparable to those in other countries with the PGDS. Our findings have direct implications for the assessment and treatment of bereavement, identifying for practitioners variables that make individuals more vulnerable to PGD. Results highlighted the high co‐occurrence of PGD with other psychological illnesses and increased drug use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the 2016 EU referendum on Britain's membership in the European Union, many people described themselves as "Leavers" or "Remainers." Here, we examine the emotional responses associated with Brexit identities using survey data collected from two nationally representative samples of the British public in 2019 (N = 638) and 2021 (N = 2,058). Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that many in both samples had coherent Leave or Remain identities. Remain and, to a lesser extent, Leave identities (regardless of how people actually voted in the referendum) predicted distress about Brexit‐related events and clinical symptoms of depression and anxiety at both time points. Structural equation models suggested that the effect of identities on symptoms was largely mediated by distress about Brexit‐related events. We demonstrate a lasting impact of Brexit on the mental health of UK citizens and show that the formation of novel political identities has been more important in this process than voting behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dimensional models of psychopathology are increasingly common and there is evidence for the existence of a general dimension of psychopathology ('p'). The existing literature presents two ways to model p: as a bifactor or as a higher-order dimension. Bifactor models typically fit sample data better than higher-order models, and are often selected as better fitting alternatives but there are reasons to be cautious of such an approach to model selection. In this study the bifactor and higher-order models of p were compared in relation to associations with established risk variables for mental illness. Methods: A trauma exposed community sample from the United Kingdom (N = 1051) completed self-report measures of 49 symptoms of psychopathology. Results: A higher-order model with four first-order dimensions (Fear, Distress, Externalising and Thought Disorder) and a higher-order p dimension provided satisfactory model fit, and a bifactor representation provided superior model fit. Bifactor p and higher-order p were highly correlated (r = 0.97) indicating that both parametrisations produce near equivalent general dimensions of psychopathology. Latent variable models including predictor variables showed that the risk variables explained more variance in higher-order p than bifactor p. The higher-order model produced more interpretable associations for the first-order/specific dimensions compared to the bifactor model. Conclusions: The higher-order representation of p, as described in the Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology, appears to be a more appropriate way to conceptualise the general dimension of psychopathology than the bifactor approach. The research and clinical implications of these discrepant ways of modelling p are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has highlighted the role of dissociation in understanding the trauma–psychosis relationship. Moreover, it has been proposed that the association between trauma and psychotic symptoms may be both directly and indirectly explained by dissociative processes. The current study sought to investigate the relationship between age at first sexual trauma, dissociative experiences and psychotic‐like experiences (PLEs) in 269 female trauma survivors (overall mean age = 32.11, SD = 10.55). Mediation analyses were employed to estimate the direct effects of childhood sexual abuse (CSA; mean age at abuse onset = 6.53, SD = 3.98) and adult sexual assault (ASA; mean age at abuse onset = 18.72, SD = 2.59) on PLEs, and the indirect effects via the three subscales of absorption, depersonalisation and amnesia. The findings showed that the CSA group was significantly associated with each of the three dissociation variables (p < 0.01 for each variable), while the ASA group was significantly associated with absorption and depersonalisation (p < 0.01 for each variable). Depersonalisation partially mediated the effect between CSA and PLEs, whereas the relationship between ASA and PLEs was fully mediated via depersonalisation. The findings are consistent with, and complement, models implicating depersonalisation as a unique mechanism in the pathways between sexually based victimisation and PLEs. Key Practitioner Messages: CSA and ASA have both direct and indirect impacts on later psychological symptoms. Elucidating mechanisms by which sexual trauma leads to the transition to PLEs should be instrumental in treatment formulation.Depersonalisation is a complementary mechanism in the link between sexually based trauma and PLEs. Evaluating dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs is crucial for therapeutic intervention as these may contribute to the development and maintenance of symptoms. 'Investigate[s] the relationship between age at first sexual trauma, dissociative experiences and psychotic‐like experiences... in 269 female trauma survivors' [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigates the factor structure of the satisfaction with life scale by using a polychloric correlations matrix analyzed with the maximum likelihood method to replicate the analysis of Shevlin and Bunting in 1994. Estimation of parameters by 213 undergraduate students; Examination of data achieved from the subjects.

Background: People with an intellectual disability are more vulnerable to psychological trauma compared with the general population. The aim of this scoping review was to identify the current status of the literature on trauma that is specific to the experiences of adults with an intellectual disability, living in community settings. Methods: A scoping review was conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley (International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 2005, 8, 19) framework. Forty‐one international papers were reviewed spanning 2000–2020, and their quality assessed using the MMAT. Findings: (1) Aggressive behaviours can be symptoms of trauma, (2) there are appropriate assessment tools for the impact of trauma, (3) evidence‐based interventions for trauma may be effective, and (4) factors associated with disability can be experienced as traumatic. Conclusion: There is a growing body of literature highlighting assessment needs and potential interventions for people with an intellectual disability who have experienced psychological trauma. Further research is needed to develop trauma‐informed pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine (i) whether distinct groups of infants under 6 months old (U6M) were identifiable as malnourished based on anthropometric measures and if so to determine the probability of admittance to GOAL Ethiopia's Management of At Risk Mothers and Infants (MAMI) programme based on group membership; (ii) whether there were discrepancies in admission using recognised anthropometric criteria, compared with group membership and (iii) the barriers and potential solutions to identifying malnutrition within U6M.Design: Mixed-methods approaches were used, whereby data collected by GOAL Ethiopia underwent: factor mixture modelling, χ2 analysis and logistic regression analysis. Qualitative analysis was performed through coding of key informant interviews.Setting: Data were collected in two refugee camps in Ethiopia. Key informant interviews were conducted remotely with international MAMI programmers and nutrition experts.Participants: Participants were 3444 South-Sudanese U6M and eleven key informants experienced in MAMI programming.Results: Well-nourished and malnourished groups were identified, with notable discrepancies between group membership and MAMI programme admittance. Despite weight for age z-scores (WAZ) emerging as the most discriminant measure to identify malnutrition, admittance was most strongly associated with mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC). Misconceptions surrounding malnutrition, a dearth of evidence and issues with the current identification protocol emerged as barriers to identifying malnutrition among U6M.Conclusions: Our model suggests that WAZ is the most discriminating anthropometric measure for malnutrition in this population. However, the challenges of using WAZ should be weighed up against the more scalable, but potentially overly sensitive and less accurate use of MUAC among U6M. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The C19PRC study aims to assess the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the adult population of the UK, Republic of Ireland, and Spain. This paper describes the conduct of the first two waves of the UK survey (the "parent" strand of the Consortium) during March–April 2020. Methods: A longitudinal, internet panel survey was designed to assess: (1) COVID‐19 related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors; (2) the occurrence of common mental health disorders as well as the role of (3) psychological factors and (4) social and political attitudes, in influencing the public's response to the pandemic. Quota sampling (age, sex, and household income) was used to recruit a nationally representative sample of adults. Results: Two thousand and twenty five adults were recruited at baseline, and 1406 were followed‐up one‐month later (69.4% retention rate). The baseline sample was representative of the UK population in relation to economic activity, ethnicity, and household composition. Attrition was predicted by key socio‐demographic characteristics, and an inverse probability weighting procedure was employed to ensure the follow‐up sample was representative of the baseline sample. Conclusion: The C19PRC study data has strong generalizability to facilitate and stimulate interdisciplinary research on important public health questions relating to the COVID‐19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to (a) identify posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) trajectories in a sample of Danish treatment-seeking childhood sexual abuse (CSA) survivors and (b) examine the roles of social support, coping style, and individual PTSD symptom clusters (avoidance, reexperiencing, and hyperarousal) as predictors of the identified trajectories. We utilized a convenience sample of 439 CSA survivors attending personalized psychotherapy treatment in Denmark. Four assessments were conducted on a six monthly basis over a period of 18 months. We used latent class growth analysis (LCGA) to test solutions with one to six classes. Following this, a logistic regression was conducted to examine predictors of the identified trajectories. Results revealed four distinct trajectories which were labeled high PTSD gradual response, high PTSD treatment resistant, moderate PTSD rapid response, and moderate PTSD gradual response. Emotional and detached coping and more severe pretreatment avoidance and reexperiencing symptoms were associated with more severe and treatment resistant PTSD. High social support and a longer length of time since the abuse were associated with less severe PTSD which improved over time. The findings suggested that treatment response of PTSD in CSA survivors is characterized by distinct patterns with varying levels and rates of PTSD symptom improvement. Results revealed that social support is protective and that emotional and detached coping and high pretreatment levels of avoidance and reexperiencing symptoms are risk factors in relation to PTSD severity and course. These factors could potentially identify patients who are at risk of not responding to treatment. Furthermore, these factors could be specifically addressed to increase positive outcomes for treatment-seeking CSA survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine how UK military veterans with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) engage with psychological services. Qualitative interviews were conducted with eight veterans with CPTSD. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. UK veterans with CPTSD were found to experience a number of barriers in accessing and engaging with mental health services. That certain CPTSD symptoms (e.g., negative self-concept) may act as a deterrent to help-seeking warrants further exploration in future help-seeking initiatives to ensure that those with CPTSD are able to access appropriate care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ICD-11 Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a disorder of six symptom clusters including reexperiencing, avoidance, sense of threat, affective dysregulation, negative self-concept, and disturbed relationships. Unlike earlier descriptions of complex PTSD, ICD-11 CPTSD does not list dissociation as a unique symptom cluster. We tested whether the ICD-11 CPTSD symptoms can exist independently of dissociation in a nationally representative sample of adults (N = 1,020) who completed self-report measures. Latent class analysis was used to identify unique subsets of people with distinctive symptom profiles. The best fitting model contained four classes including a "low symptoms" class (48.9%), a "PTSD" class (14.7%), a "CPTSD" class (26.5%), and a "CPTSD + Dissociation" class (10.0%). These classes were related to specific adverse childhood experiences, notably experiences of emotional and physical neglect. The "PTSD," "CPTSD," and "CPTSD + Dissociation" classes were associated with a host of poor health outcomes, however, the "CPTSD + Dissociation" class had the poorest mental health and highest levels of functional impairment. Findings suggest that ICD-11 CPTSD symptoms can occur without corresponding dissociative experiences, however, when CPTSD symptoms and dissociative experiences occur together, health outcomes appear to be more severe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]