bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Language acquisition in relation to complex PTSD
Authors: Vuijk V. , Kleijn W.C. , Smid G.E. , Smith A.J.M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

European countries face immigration problems with refugees. Many refugees suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Numerous studies have shown that PTSD is associated with cognitive problems that interfere with language acquisition.

Objectives

In this study we have explored demographic and psychological variables that influence language acquisition. Expected is that low levels of language acquisition are associated with severeness of PTSD.

Aims

From clinical experience, we have noticed that Dutch fluency is an important factor in social adjustment and mental health. Furthermore it is expected that PTSD symptoms delay language acquisition.

Methods

Participants are 150 refuges with PTSD. The severeness of PTSD was assessed with a structured interview and self-rating questionnaires; HTQ, HSCL-25 and PILL scale. The ability to speak Dutch language was measured by the choice of refugees to have an interpreter or not. Demographic data for age, sex, education and years since resettlement are included. We searched for linear relations between PTSD and other variables.

Results

Results confirm our clinical observation of a relation between higher numbers of traumatic experiences related to complex PTSD and the choice to have a interpreter. There are correlations between complex PTSD, number of traumatic events, years since resettlement, age and language acquisition although multiple regressive analysis indicates this result is not significant because of the small variation in this group of refugees with severe PTSD.

Conclusion

This study stresses the necessity to include additional objective instruments to measure language acquisition of refugees.
Exploring mood variability in pregnancy and postpartum women
Authors: Bowen A. , Bowen R. , Muhajarine N.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Emotional and moody behaviour is often normalized in childbearing women. However, increased mood variability is associated with psychiatric problems (anxiety, depression, personality disorder), which are potentially deleterious to the health of the developing fetus and mother.

Purpose

To increase understanding about mood variability in childbearing women.

Method

Depression was measured using the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS). Mood variability was calculated from twice-daily diary ratings of “depressed”, “fear”, and “irritable” mood for one week each in early pregnancy, late pregnancy, and postpartum.

Findings

We recruited 47 women. Depression, as measured by the EPDS, and fear mood variability decreased from early pregnancy to postpartum. Depressed and irritable mood variability also declined during pregnancy, but increased in post-partum. Increases in mood variability (depressed, irritable) from late pregnancy to postpartum predicted higher postpartum EPDS. Mood diaries were available from 30 non-parturient women for comparison. Pregnant and postpartum women had higher irritable but not depressed or fear mood variability.

Conclusion

Mood, particularly anxiety, is variable over the course of pregnancy into early postpartum. This may be related to diminishing concerns about the pregnancy and baby's health after birth, sleep disruptions, or hormonal changes. Depressed mood variability is correlated with, but is distinct from depression as measured by the EPDS. We present results counter to the notion that all mood is amplified in childbearing women.
“My pregnancy was a flash of lightning!” the impact of the birth of premature babies on adolescent mothers
Authors: Chvatal V.L.S. , Vargas C.R.R. , Rivoredo C.R.S.F.d. , Turato E.R.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

The pregnancy and the motherhood of adolescents are complex phenomena that happen on the trajectory of life of the young persons under physical, psychological and social aspects.

Aim

To deepen knowledge of the emotional experiences of socially disadvantaged adolescent primiparous with premature babies.

Method

Qualitative-clinical. Criteria of inclusion: age group, to be primiparous with premature baby and acceptance in participating of the inquiry. The intentional sample was made up of five adolescents aged between 16 and 19. The study was carried between junho/2008 to outubro/2009. Semi-directed interviews based on the trigger question “Tell me about your pregnancy and your baby's birth”. The data were submitted for thematic analysis and from this the following categories emerged: 1. Late discovery of pregnancy: “Mine was a lightning pregnancy”; 2. The symbolization of the child: “It was a present for me…” discussed within a theoretical framework of reference, with special emphasis on the psychodynamic approach.

Results

On the psychological level, the adolescents presented feelings of omnipotence, unfamiliarity, shock, surprise, anger, fear, anguish and happiness at the birth of their child. They appeared to use immature, narcissistic and neurotic defense mechanisms such as denial, dissociation, acting out and idealization as well as revealing the desire to be good mothers and to engage in maternity.

Conclusion

These finds can subsidize the team of health responsible for the service in the UTIN, developing attitudes more effective of support and giving emotional presence aiming to reduce the fear and anguishes resulting from the situation.
Fluphenazine in the pregnancy
Authors: Dadić-Hero E. , Ružić K. , Grahovac T.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Mental illness and pregnancy have always represented a great challenge to psychiatrists. There are certain risks when dealing with severe, long-term and chronic mental illness requiring continuous medication such as schizophrenia, which is always treated by antipsychotics.

Objectives

A 40-year-old pregnant woman, primipara has been suffering from schizophrenia for 24 and has been married for the last 15 years. Although the pregnancy was unplanned, the patient decided to give birth and was fully supported by her husband. From the very beginning of the illness the patient has been treated by an antipsychotic- flufenazine decanoate, every four weeks. During her life-long illness the patient was hospitalised three times and since the last hospitalization (17 years ago), the patient has continued the treatment on an outpatient basis.The pregnancy itself represented a risk for further psychic decompensation, while the risk of antipsychotic effect on the fetus was also present. A specific life situation of the patient required the introduction of different treatment types in order to assure an intensive monitoring and observation of the patient’s mental state. Besides depot medication, high-risk pregnancy required the introduction of additional supportive therapy (once a week).

Conclusion

Due to a high-risk pregnancy a regular collaborative approach and care of the psychiatrist, gynaecologist and GP were the prerequisites for successful treatment. During pregnancy the remission of schizophrenia was maintained, while during delivery and the postpartum period no relapse occurred. The patient had a full-term pregnancy and a natural childbirth. After delivery ablactation was suggested.
Anxiety corresponds with emotional responses to IAPS pictures during pregnancy
Authors: Deak A. , Szentivanyi-Mako H.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Maternal anxiety during pregnancy can have many effects on the outcome of the pregnancy such as gestational length, birthweight, prenatal attachment, prepartum and intrapartum complications.

Objectives

Three categories of pictures were presented to 149 pregnant women:

1.

baby pictures as cues of prenatal attachment;

2.

couples in erotic and family situations as cues of relationship to the partner;

3.

other pictures related to pregnancy (such as the physical changes of the body, experiencing social support) as cues of potential fears and coping with stressful situations.

Aims

The aim of our study is to describe the relation between pregnant women's ratings to affective stimuli and their level of anxiety.

Methods

Affective ratings have been assessed on three dimensions: valence (ranging from pleasant to unpleasant), arousal (ranging from calm to excited), and dominance/control (ranging from being overwhelmed by emotions to controling an affective state). Anxiety has been measured with HADS.

Results

Women with high level of anxiety have rated the pregnancy related pictures less pleasant, less arousing but more overwhelming (lower level of control over an emotional state). Women with low level of anxiety have rated the pictures more pleasant, less arousing and less overwhelming (higher level of perceived control an emotional state).

Conclusions

High level of anxiety has correlated with special pattern of emotional reactions to pregnancy related pictures from the IAPS.
Perfectionism and other risk factors in postpartum depression: a case-control study
Authors: Gelabert E. , Subirà S. , Garcia-Esteve L. , Navarro P. , Plaza A. , Cuyàs E. , Martín-Santos R.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Although perfectionism has generally been associated with depressive illness in general, there are no studies on its role in major depression in the postnatal period. The aim of the present study was to explore the relationship between perfectionism and major postpartum depression.

Methods

In this case-control study, we compared the differences in perfectionism dimensions between 122 women with major postpartum depression (SCID-I; DSM-IV) and 115 healthy postpartum women. The Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (FMPS) was used to assess perfectionism. Other variables were also considered: Socio-demographic and obstetric data, psychiatric history, other personality traits, social support, life events and genotype combinations according to serotonin transporter expression (5-HTTLPR and Stin2 VNTR polymorphisms).

Results

Multivariate models confirmed perfectionism as an independent factor associated with major postpartum depression. The FMPS dimension concern over mistakes was associated with a 4-fold increase in risk for major postpartum depression (OR = 4.14; 95%CI: 1.24–13.81). Neuroticism, personal psychiatric history and 5-HTT low-expressing genotypes at one of the loci were also identified as independent factors.

Conclusions

Perfectionism, and particularly the concern over mistakes perfectionism dimension, is associated with major postpartum depression. These results highlight the importance of assessing personality traits together with other risk factors to identify women at risk of depression after childbirth.
When dreams become nightmares: Post traumatic stress disorder symptoms in mothers of NICU babies
Authors: Greenberg Y. , Naor N. , Sirota P. , Sirota L.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Having a critically ill baby in the NICU is very difficult to cope with, and mothers may feel a whole host of emotions as they cope with the loss of the last part of pregnancy, the dream of a healthy birth, the loss of the first weeks or months of their baby's life. This distress may resemble posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Objective

To examine mothers’ responses to having a baby (preterm or full term) in neonatal intensive -care unit and to determine if they fulfill the criteria for PTSD or depression.

Methods

Forty nine mothers of pre term babies and ten mothers of full term babies who had been hospitalized in NICU of Schneider Children's Hospital, Israel, were interviewed at the follow up clinic between 4–17 months after birth. The evaluation was carried out by one senior psychiatrist and was based on diagnostic criteria for PTSD and depression according to DSM-4. Severity of PTSD was measured by PSS-sr and the severity of depression by HAMD-Distress factors in NICU setting were evaluated by Parental Stressor Scale (M&F&C Scale).

Results

1.

50% of mothers of preterm babies and 40% of mothers of full term babies fulfill the criteria for PTSD (N.S.).

2.

25% (15/59) of the whole sample had moderate to severe PTSD.

3.

A strong correlation between PTSD and severity of stress during hospitalization in NICU was found.

Conclusion

The development of later ptsd and depression can be predicted by maternal responses to hospitalization of her baby in nicu.
Postpartal psychosis: Serbian experience
Authors: Jasovic-Gasic M. , Damjanovic A. , Ivkovic M. , Dunjic-Kostic B.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Childbirth and the postpartal period present a form of specific maturational crisis and an extremely vulnerable period for every woman, especially for those who have potential for some psychological disturbances.

Aim

We explored sociodemographic and clinical manifestations of women in the postpartal period who were hospitalized at the Institute of Psychiatry, Clinical Center of Serbia.

Method

This retrospective study included 60 patients with psychiatric disorders developed within six months after childbirth. Inclusion criteria were: negative psychiatric hystory, negative history of puerperal episode, and postpartal disorder as a first manifestation of psychiatric disturbances. Patients were diagnosed according to RDC criteria (research diagnostic criteria).

Results

Patients with psychotic features were predominant, average age 23.6; married; mothers of male offspring and with positive family history of psychiatric disorders in 30%. Subacute development of clinical manifestations was noticed, 3.5 weeks after childbirth on average. No psychopathology was observed before third postpartal day. Obstetric manifestations did not influence psychopathology.

Conclusion

Childbirth is a significant risk factor for the expression of mental dysfunction in the puerperal period. The most vulnerable group is women with clinical expression of dysfunction, specific sociodemographic characteristics, and positive family history of psychiatric disorders.
Neurocognitive outcome in a 6-year-old girl with a history of perinatal stroke
Authors: Matos-Pires A. , Cardoso-Pereira N.
Published: May 2011

Perinatal Stroke involves an often poorly understood neurocognitive events affecting the fetus and the new born with a potential for serious intellectual outcome.

Our aim is to present a case study on the issue of neurocognitive defects on domains such as intellectual performance, attention and vigilance, executive functioning, visual perception, speed of processing, verbal learning and memory, and working memory on a 6 year old girl with perinatal arterial ischemic stroke.
Post partum sexuality
Authors: Moutinho A. , Pereira A.V. , Jorge G.
Published: May 2011

In the post partum period many changes happen to the woman, including in the sexual life. Short-term post partum sexual problems are highly prevalent. Even though all kinds of dysfunction can arise, the most frequent are hypoactive sexual desire, vaginal dryness, orgasmic dysfunction and dyspareunia.

The aim of this poster is to overview six main etiological factors of the post partum sexual dysfunction: hormonal changes and breastfeeding, perineal trauma, fatigue, changes in social role, partner interaction and mood. The knowledge of these etiological factors and identification of the risk factors are important weapons in the prevention and approach to post partum sexuality by the couple and health professionals.
Emotional and physical support during labor for primiparouse women
Authors: Nasab L.H. , Shahoie R. , Zaheri F. , Ranaie F.
Published: May 2011

Background

The experience of labor varies markedly from women to Women. While medications can help women cope with the pain of labor, they usually come with side effects that women did not expect or want. There are many non medical ways to cope with the pain which has not side effect.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of emotional and physical support during labor for primiparouse women.

Method

In this clinical trial study, convenience sample of 80 primiparous women who fulfilled the inclusion criteria was recruited from one hospital in Sanandaj (Center of Kurdistan provenice), Iran. They were randomly divided in Two groups (Case and Control). Data were collected from May to October 2008 using a demographic form and Visual Analoge Scale(VAS).

Result

The study revealed that emotional and physical support during labor cause women has better tolerance of pain. Furthermore, comparison pain intensity among two groups in dillatation 8 and 10 cm was statically significant (p < 0/03& p = 0/000).

Conclusion

Emotional and physical support during labor can be considered as a non pharmacological therapeutic method to reduce labor pain and decrease side effect of drugs. In addition, education and using of this method increases women satisfying from labor and natural delivery and to make better experience of motherhood.
Metabolic syndrome and vision impairment in postpartum psychosis
Authors: Pirtovsek Savs A. , Derganc M. , Svab V.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome is an important cause of morbidity among patients with severe mental illnesses. A case of a patient with postpartum psychosis where treatment with olanzapine was followed by vision impairment, metabolic syndrome, and liver dysfunction is presented.

Case report

A 35-year old woman was admitted to our clinic 6 days after delivery. She was convinced that she influenced her baby through the posture of her body, and presented with some other acute psychotic symptoms. She was treated with olanzapine and a good remission of symptoms was achieved. After 2 years the treatment was discontinued and she relapsed. She was treated with olanzapine and she remitted once again. A year later she noticed visual problems. Upon ophthalmologist’s suggestion her blood was tested and the tests revealed elevated blood glucose, liver enzymes, and hyperlipidemia. Olanzapine was immediately discontinued and arypiprazole was introduced, along with oral antidiabetic and hypolipidemic therapy. After a week blood glucose dropped significantly. In the next two months all pathologic lab values were normalized. Hypolipidemic and oral antidiabetic therapy was consequently discontinued. The patient is still taking arypiprazole and she is in good remission.

Conclusion

Increased awareness of risks associated with metabolic syndrome, and optimal monitoring and management are required to minimize cardiovascular and other risk factors associated with the syndrome. Antipsychotic tretment should be chosen very carefully in order to avoid the development or aggravation of metabolic syndrome. In the presented case, metabolic syndrome appeared after years of treatment with olanzapine.
The comparison of sexual function and infertility in fertile and infertile couples
Authors: Ranjbar F. , Abbasalizadeh F. , Teimory P. , Alizadeh A.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Fertility is an important factor in life which can be disturb due to several factors.

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between infertility and sexual dysfunction.

Methods

In an analytic - descriptive study 384 fertile and 384 infertile referring women to obstetrics and gynecological clinics were studied. All these women were evaluated considering the sexual functions. Finally the results were analyzed statistically.

Results

The age average of these women was 27.84 4.67 and 27.38 5.45 in infertile and fertile groups respectively.

The sexual desire (Pv < 0.001), the sexual arousal (Pv < 0.001). The ability of reach to orgasm (Pv < 0.001) and satisfaction from intercourse was better in fertile women.

Conclusions

It was concluded that the sexual function was significantly better in fertile women.
The relationship between mammary gland permeability and the factors related to mothers and their babies
Authors: Serim B. , Ozbek A. , Ormen M. , Ergin C. , Aydın A. , Ozer E. , Ozkan H.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Studies have found that mothers normally have high sodium concentrations in their colostrum which shows a rapid decrease in the third day postpartum. A drop in breast milk sodium concentration is highly predictive for successful lactation.

Objectives and aims

In this study, the relationship between mammary gland permeability and the factors related to mothers and their babies were aimed to be investigated.

Method

The case group consisted of 150 consecutive healthy babies at postpartum 8–15 days. Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, State and Trait Anxiety Inventory and Relationship Scale Questionnaire were applied to the mothers. Milk samples from all mothers were collected. Weights of babies at first month were recorded.

Results

In babies with higher Na concentrations and Na/K ratio in their mothers’ milk, were found to gain less weight at the end of first month and also they were the first babies of the families included in the study. Mothers with higher concentrations of Na in their milk thought they were not appropriate to have a child, had poorer relationships with their own mothers, stated that they had no close friendships and had a past history of mental disorders at significance limits. The EPDS and STAI-I scores of mothers with elevated milk Na concentrations found to be higher.

Conclusion

Regarding this study's results, the risk factors causing an increase in the permeability of the mammary glands were determined as thoughts of not being suitable for motherhood, symptoms of postpartum depression and high levels of anxiety for the mothers.
Fears associated with pregnancy and childbirth among Kurdish women in Iran
Authors: Shahoei R. , Abed Saeedi Z. , Hesami K. , Khosrawi F.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Women may experience a variety of fears in association with pregnancy and childbirth. Fear can cause significant problem during childbirth and post partum. Fear has been associated with more reported pain in childbirth a longer first and second stage of labor and dissatisfaction with the childbirth experience.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to describe the fear and causes associated with pregnancy and childbirth among Kurdish women in Iran.

Methods

Twenty-two Kurdish pregnant women in Sanandaj (the capital of Kurdistan province in the West of Iran) were interviewed during third trimester of their pregnancy. A qualitative design was chosen and grounded theory was used for data analysis.

Findings

All women expressed at least some fears associated with pregnancy and/or childbirth. Women's fears were related to baby's well-being, process and procedure during labor and childbirth, family life, criticism of husband's family, and attitudes of hospital personnel. The reasons for their fears included: previous negative experiences, knowledge, maternity environment and hospital personnel, baby gender and financial situation.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that childbirth education and health care services requiring more attention and exploration. The findings also highlight the need for a careful review of the existing labor and delivery units and procedures. Midwives need further training in how to meet and support pregnant women with fear related to pregnancy and childbirth.
Melatonin for the prevention of relapse in postpartum onset bipolar disorder induced by jet lag
Authors: Thomas N. , Jayakrishnan S.
Published: May 2011

People with bipolar disorders may have relapse of mood episodes associated with sleep deprivation and postpartum states. Jet lag can cause sleep problems resulting in relapse of mood episodes in vulnerable people. Melatonin synthesized in the pineal gland will normalize the circadian rhythm and prevent the recurrence of mood episodes in predisposed people. We are reporting a case of successful use of melatonin in a 30-year old lady with history of postpartum onset mood disorder and multiple relapses of mania precipitated by jet lag.
Postnatal depression, mother-infant interaction and video interaction guidance
Authors: Vik K.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Postnatal depression as well as postnatal depressive symptoms may have detrimental effects in offspring.

Objective

The main objective of this study was to examine the nature of the video interaction guidance method Marte Meo offered new mothers experiencing depression or depressive symptoms.

Aim

The aim was to develop knowledge to be utilised in care in order to prevent sufferings for mothers, babies and their families.

Methods

Fifteen mothers were recruited from a health centre. They took part in Marte Meo guidance and in-depth interviews.

Results

All mothers experienced Marte Meo in a positive manner, the main point being that they viewed their babies and/or themselves in the videos “from the outside looking in”. This seemed to be the key to facilitating reflection, a renewed sense of vitality and increased capacity for mentalisation. This viewing thus had an overall positive influence on increasing sensitive mother-child interaction and decreasing maternal depressive symptoms as well as facilitating a mentalisation process in the participating mothers, increasing their ability to reflect on their own and others state of mind and in turn recognise their babies as subjects. The results are applied in both community and specialist health services.

Conclusion

Marte Meo may be a helpful method and can also be administrated on a community-based level where the threshold for seeking help is a low one.
Psychological well being and perceived quality of life in subjects with obesity and in controls
Authors: Cosci F. , Bernini O. , Berrocal C.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Obesity has been associated with low resilience and poor quality of life (QoL).

Objectives

Data on psychological well being (PWB), as a measure of resilience, in obesity are lacking.

Aims

Study the level of PWB and QoL among subjects with obesity.

Methods

28 subjects with obesity were compared with 28 healthy controls. PWB was measured by means of the PWB questionnaire according to the Ryff's construct, the health-related quality of life was assessed via the World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment. Both scales are self-administered. Statistical analyses focused on between-groups differences. Cases and controls were matched for age and gender.

Results

Cases had a statistically lower level of education and rate of current employment than controls. The two groups did not differ for lifetime diagnosis of psychiatric disorder or lifetime treatment with psychoactive drugs. However, cases had a significantly higher rate of current use of psychoactive drugs than controls. As what concerns PWB, cases had a lower total score than controls. In particular, Positive Relationship with others, Self-Acceptance, Purposes in Life, and Personal Growth were the PWB constructs significantly more impaired in cases. Similarly, cases had a worse perception of their general QoL, their physical and psychological health, their quality of social relationships and of environment.

Conclusions

Subjects with obesity have a lower level of PWB and QoL than healthy controls. Since, PWB therapy may increase the individual level of PWB, thus increasing the individual resilience, subjects with obesity should be considered as possible candidates for PWB interventions.
Substance abuse prevention during carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: “No hang over band”
Authors: Jaber J. , Hoffmann E. , Hoffmann A.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is one of the biggest popular events in the world, gathering millions of people from different countries, social status, beliefs and cultures. As in other events of such magnitude, there are substance abuse problems and, consequently, medical and public order issues.

Objectives

Since 2005, the “No Hang Over Band” (“Banda Alegria sem Ressaca”) is part of the Carnival schedule and parades through Copacabana beach, enhanced by dancers, celebrities, health professionals, public authorities, politicians, patients and their families, besides many supporters who join the group.

Aims

This study aims to reach a massive population with a campaign to prevent substance abuse giving information and alerts about the risks of it and, also, show professional from all around the world a way to do it.

Methods

A few months before Carnival, health professionals from Jorge Jaber Clinic present lectures about prevention quoting the preparations to the parade, as they gather supporters and sponsors. The message reaches the population through flyers, clothes and media (newspapers, T.V., radio and internet) before, during and after Carnival.

Results

The parade itself has been growing year after year, when it comes to supporters, sponsors and media exposure. Schools and other institutions have asked more often for lectures. Brazilian people have shown response to the campaign when they seek for more information and treatment.

Conclusions

With efforts from different parts of society and very little financial investment, it is possible to have real influence over a risk population even in adverse situation.
The estimation economic efficiency of projects in mental health care
Authors: Igumnov S.A.
Published: May 2011

Economic growth has no paramount value for population health, and population health becomes a determinative of maintenance of economic growth. The economic efficiency analysis - not unique, but the important criterion for decision-making at investment of resources in actions for a mental health care as he allows to consider directly financial and scientific consequences of various actions. The generalized indicators of mental health of the population pay off with use of health indicators of population. Health indicators provide a correct methodological basis for measurement of various conditions of decrease in functioning which the individual throughout a life faces. One from the most used indicators is the indicator of years of a life adjusted for disability (DALY) is. On the basis of the described indicators there is a possibility to estimate economic efficiency of projects in social or non-productive sphere of economy which even in intermediate term prospect, without speaking about long-term, there can be not less profitable, than projects in industrial sphere.
Internet for providing healthinformation and education to patients - knowledge, attitude and practice of mental health professionals in North Wales UK
Authors: Jauhari A. , Tiptur M.K. , Jauhari A. , Krishna M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Internet is the fastest growing medium and more than 50 million people seek health information online1. Almost a third of internet users with history of psychiatric disorder had used the internet to seek mental health information2.

Method

A survey was conducted amongst North Wales, UK mental health professionals to understand their knowledge, attitude and practice about this topic. A total of 100 questionnaires were distributed out of which 71 responses were received.

Result

About 39% mental health professionals believed that consultation is the best way to give mental health related information to the patients. Only 5% of mental health professionals always and 46% sometimes advised patients to look at internet for mental health related information. About 50% felt that internet will increase patient's understanding of their illness and 37% felt that it will improve their compliance. Sixty percent people felt that mental health information on internet is evidence-based. About 30% of the mental health professionals thought that the use of internet by mental health patients will increase the patient's anxiety and will increase their visit to the doctor. Majority did not have enough knowledge of websites to suggest to the patients.

Conclusion

Most professionals thought that it is a useful concept but further awareness about evidence-based website for professionals is needed.
Deficit in speech development at the age of five years predicts alexithymia in late adolescent males
Authors: Karukivi M. , Joukamaa M. , Hautala L. , Kaleva O. , Haapasalo-Pesu K.-M. , Liuksila P.-R. , Saarijärvi S.
Published: May 2011

Objective

Assessment of the etiology of alexithymia is in most studies hindered by recall bias. The aim of the present study was to assess the significance of individual developmental factors at the age of five years for alexithymia in late adolescence. By using data from a child welfare centre check-up at the age of five years, it was possible to avoid recall bias.

Methods

The sample consisted of 723 subjects, who were comprehensively examined at the age of five years at a child welfare centre where their state of health, verbal, gross motor, visuo-motor, socio-emotional, and cognitive development were assessed. In late adolescence (mean age 19 years) their alexithymic features were measured using the 20-Item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20).

Results

In females, none of the developmental factors remained associated with later alexithymic features in the multivariate analyses. However, in males, emphasis on the variables measuring speech development was important. In particular, a variable measuring the ability to comply with multi-part instructions was strongly related with alexithymic features in late adolescence.

Conclusion

The results suggest speech development is a significant factor in the developmental process of alexithymia, at least in males. It is possible that children who have impaired language skills and therefore struggle in social situations have a higher risk of developing alexithymia. This emphasizes the need for further research, to assess how the inadequate speech development predisposes to the emergence of alexithymic features and whether it is a gender-specific phenomenon.
Stigmatization of “psychiatric label” by medical and non-medical students
Authors: Maric N.P. , Totic Poznanovic S. , Stojiljkovic D. , Pavlovic Z. , Mihaljevic M. , Jasovic-Gasic M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Stigmatization of a psychiatric patient is present both in general population and among health-care professionals.

Aim

To determine the attitudes of medical students (MS) towards a person who goes to a psychiatrist, before and after psychiatric rotation, and to compare those attitudes between medical and non-medical students.

Methods

The study included 525 MS (2nd and 6th year of studies) and 154 students of law. The study instrument was a 3-part self-reported questionnaire (socio-demographic data, Rosenberg self-esteem scale and a vignette depicting young, mentally healthy person). The experimental intervention consisted of ascribing a “psychiatric label” to only one set of vignettes. All the vignettes (with or without “psychiatric label”) were followed by 14 statements addressing acceptance of a person described by vignette as judged by social distance.

Results

We found more stigmatizing attitudes of the MS in the final year, after psychiatric rotation. The non-medical students had similar tendency to stigmatize as MS before psychiatric rotation. A higher level of stigmatization was evident in regard to a closer relationship between a student and a hypothetic person who goes to a psychiatrist. Neither sex, nor the size of student's place of origin or average academic mark was associated with the tendency to stigmatize.

Conclusions

Psychiatric education can either reinforce stigma or reduce it. Therefore, detailed analyses of educational domains which reinforce stigma should be conducted at the university level, in parallel with national initiative to fight against stigma and discrimination attached to mental health problems and those living with them.
Family and psychopathological impact of sexual abuses
Authors: Novakovic M.P. , Despotovic V. , Naskovic Z. , Novakovic R. , Stevanovic O.
Published: May 2011

The aim of the study is family and psychopathological analysis of the sexual abuse in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the period 01. January 1999. to 31. December 2009, as well as the increase of sexual violence which is more expressed through the level of violence.

Methods

Experimental group consists of n = 150 forensically processed people, who are under security measures and under treatment after the rape. The control group consists of n = 150 forensically processed people after the recidivistic property delicts. The design is a multicentric longitudinal study of the sexual abudes acts.

Results

Socio-demographic differences for the gender are highly significant: p > 0.001, and broken family, migration, and diseases in family are of lower significance. EPQ test shows differences between groups - violent: M±SD = extroversion: 15.53 ± 7.55, neuroticism: 9.10 ± 6.23, psychoticisms: 14.03 ± 5.11, Lay -scale: 10.33 ± 6.70, and recidivists: extroversion: 19. 11 ± 6.55 neuroticism: 6.55 ± 3.11, psychoticims: 9.10 ± 3.05, Lay -scale: 11.20 ± 6.60. BAI test has these significances - violent: numbness: 3.77 ± 0.77 tension: 2.05 ± 0.78 uncontrolness: 1.62 ± 0.85, and recidivists: neurosis: 1.91 ± 0.71, fear: 1.60 ± 0.85 and sweating: 1.85 ± 0.60 with significance P < 0.01. PIE in violent has increased values of destruction and aggression, and in recidivists exploration and conformism.

Conclusion

The destruction score is high in violators in psychological tests, which results in the following psychopathological content: immaturity, personality disorder, post-traumatic conditions. Recommendations in the treatment of violators and recidivists also have forensic significance, except for expertise.
Suicidal and Parasuicid in Bosnia and Hercegovina
Authors: Novakovic M. , Despotovic V. , Naskovic Z. , Novakovic R. , Stevanovic O.
Published: May 2011

The aim of the study is to analyse the impacts of the suicidal and parasuicidal behaviour in B&H in relation to transition and structures of suicidal personalities.

Methods

Two self-destructive groups were tested in B&H in the period 01. January 1999. to 31. December 2009. The test group consists of n = 150 subjects who had suicide, and control group consists of n = 150 persons with parasuicidal behaviour. We used: GDL, EPQ, HDRS and Pluchic's test in a longitudinal study.

Results

Self-destructivity has been increasing in B&H. Socio-demographic data of the suicide are: gender = 71.11% ± 3.25 (m) 27.50% ± 3.30 (f), broken family = 35.50% ± 3.77, migration = 55.21% ± 3.20, heredity = 55.10% ± 2.11 and parasuicide: gender = 35.81% ± 4.31 (m), 27.60% ± 2.10 (f), broken family = 55.77% ± 3.90, migration = 58.60% ± 5.15, heredity = 43.50% ± 3.10. EPQ in suicide is: M ± SD-neuroticism = 17.10 ± 8.20, psychosis = 19.72 ± 7.10, and in parasuicide extroversion = 21.20 ± 5.30 and Lay -scale = 14.87 ± 4.40, and significance P < 0.01. HDRS is increased in suicide: H ± SD: depression: 3.30 ± 1.20, emotion of guilt = 3.10 ± 1.20, suicide = 5.80 ± 1.25, early insomnia = 2.20 ± 1.15, anxiety = 2.10 ± 1.15 with P < 0.01, and in parasuicide: hypochondria = 1.45 ± 1.10, depersonalization = 1.90 ± 0.70 with P < 0.01. Pluchic's test separates basic emotions, and all is gathered by matrix of discriminative function.

Conclusion

In the study is proven high level of self-destruction in suicidal and parasuicidal behaviour. Suicide shows faster self-destruction and a way of suicidal end, and parasuicide slower destruction with postponing the suicidal crash. Sign of suicide and parasuicide can be found in both groups of respondents and the ways of expression are different, but definite in suicide.
Psychosocial Characteristics of Homicides in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Novakovic M.P. , Despotovic V. , Naskovic Z. , Novakovic R. , Stevanovic O.
Published: May 2011

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify differences between the individuals who committed homicide in BiH during the period from 01. January 1999. to 31. December 2009. in the evidently “violent” and “non-violent” way.

Methods

Two groups were investigated: 125 “violent” cases who committed homicide of an intimate partner (or filicide) and 125 “non-violent homicides” who killed people who were not members of the immediate family. Social-demographic and psychosocial characteristics of the two groups were investigated and compared. Instruments used in the study included: General Data List (GDL), test of personality characteristics (EPQ - Eizenck HJ), anxiety test (BAI - Beck AT), and emotion index profile (P.I.E - Plutchik R.).

Results

Multivariant regressive analysis differentiates violent from non-violent murderers by predictors: education of father (R = 0.950, x2 = 35.10, df = 2, P < 0.001, OR = 0.125 (95%), Cl = 0.127–0.558), living in the place of the crime scene enviroment (R = 0.815, x2 = 46.75, df = 2, P < 0.001, OR = 0.105, CI = 0.110–0.217), gambling abuse and possible recidivism. Within the psycho-logical predictors domain, violent murderers are differentiated from the non-violent ones by psyhoticism (R = 0.750, df = 2, P < 0.001, OR = 0.710 (95%), CI = 0.290–1.770), destructiveness (R = 0.610, df = 2, P < 0.001, OR = 0.575 (95%), CI 0.970–1.435) incorporation in the PIE tests.

Conclusion

For the violent homicides, owing to personal and family history, presence of the microsocial model of violence transfer augmented by heredity. Important hereditary destructiveness was also found and stressed for the violent group. For the cases of nonviolent homicides several facts as poverty and long-term vulnerability were found to provoke accidental homicide.
Mental Disorders in Victimization
Authors: Novakovic M.P. , Novakovic R. , Despotovic V. , Maksimovic Z. , Novakovic D.
Published: May 2011

Aim

The aim of this study was to show the importance of mental disorders in victimologic analysis in the sexual violence in B&H in the post-war period from January 1st 1999. to December 31st 2009.

Method

Mental disorders in victimization was tested on a sample of 175 non-violent female victims with mental disorders. The control group consists of 175 victims of violent victimization.

Results

In a regressive analysis, violent persons were separated from the non-violent ones by these redicting predictive factors: age (R = 0.731, df = 3, x2 =3 .341, P = 0.007 OR = 0.520 (95%), CI = 0.820–0.950), father's education, house, mother's prostitution, sexual abuse and desire for victimization. Members of the control group had more often lived as lodgers (R = 0.015, x2 = 4.431, P = 0.005, OR = 0.203, Cl = 0.390–0.492), with alcohol abuse and high rate of the family violence, nicotinism and sexual abuse. Psychological predictive factors in dividing non-violent from violent victims are: psychoticism (R = 0.791, x2 = 4.783 df = 1, P < 0.001, OR = 0.749, (95%) Cl = 0.368–0,936), HDRS - total: (R = 1.174, x2 = 10.341, df = 1, P < 0.001, OR = 0.770 (95%) CI = 0.650–0.910), incorporation of P = 0.001 in Plutchi's test. Conclusion: Sexual violence among mentally disordered persons makes 20.50% of all victimizations which were committed by patients with personality disorders and neurotic persons. It has been demonstrated that females in B&H were more exposed to sexual violence because of poor mental health protection and increased violence in the family. Transgenerational model of the stress transmission, victimization in microsocial model of violence.
Anxiety Forms of Patients with Balcans Endemic Nephropaty
Authors: Novakovic M.P. , Mitrovic D. , Maksimovic Z. , Naskovic Z. , Novakovic R.
Published: May 2011

Aims

To analyze the forms of anxiety with BEN of the dialyzed patients with sub-hypothesis: socio-demographical, psychopathological, and biological influences.

Method

In B&H dialyzed in 2009. 2879 patients because of chronic renal insufficiency. Dialysis started in B&H on patients with BEN (n = 348) were in the first group, and other the N18 group was formed of patients with other diseases (n = 405). Controls group consists of the patients with other nephrology diseases. Clinical observation lasted from 01.01.2000. to 31.12.2009. when the study was done. Research is a comparative study cut, and the patients are questioned: Renal Registry of B&H, BAI, HDRS, and MMSE.

Results

Patients of the Cases group are the age of: 64.77 ± 8.86, and Controls 53.85 ± 13.6. High socio-demographic significations are the places of living of the Cases group (c2 = 23. 970), P < 0.01; renal diseases in the place of residence (c2 = 23. 970), P < 0.01; in the family (c2 = 23,970); P < =0.001 and the migration (c2 = 4,874); P < 0. 01. BAI scale has very significant group differences P < 0.001 and the level differences at the emerging of the fear, HDRS scale has group signification P < 0.001 and the variables point out depressive and anxiety differences and MMSE cognitive differences.

Conclusion

All patients which are interrogated at the dialysis in B&H from 2000. to 2009 have anxiety. Anxiety is more expressed in Cases group due to Control group, and comorbidity gives endemic factors for presuicidal risk for both groups.
The Evaluation of Burnout Syndrome in a Portuguese Sample of Health Professionals
Authors: Prata J. , Pereira S.M.
Published: May 2011

Introduction

The term burnout was first introduced by Freudenberger several decades ago but remains an important problem in modern working environments. Despite the lack of a generally accepted definition, Maslach and Leither consider that burnout results from chronic stress (in the workplace) that has not been adequately dealt with. Symptoms include emotional exhaustion and depersonalization and the burnout syndrome has also been associated with medical conditions such as headaches, sleep disturbances, irritability, hypertension, anxiety, depression and even acute heart disease. Other consequences include reduced performance and satisfaction at work. The Malasch Burnout Inventory is a widely used and reliable measure which has been used in different populations.

Methods

In this study the authors propose to evaluate the prevalence of burnout syndrome in a Portuguese sample of health professionals (doctors and nurses), working in five different hospital settings (surgery, medicine, psychiatry, anesthesiology and laboratory), and its relationship with variables such as social and demographic data, job profile and job satisfaction, and balance between job and personal life. The Portuguese version of the Malasch Burnout Inventory, which has been translated and adapted to the Portuguese population by Melo and Cruz, will be used as well as a semi-structured questionnaire for remaining data.
Prevalence and Burden of at-Risk Criteria of Psychosis and Help-Seeking Behaviour - a Population Survey
Authors: Schultze-Lutter F. , Michel C. , Schimmelmann B.
Published: May 2011

Objective

In the discussion of the inclusion of an at-risk syndrome of psychosis in DSM-V, the validity of current at-risk criteria had been questioned based on studies reporting much higher prevalence rates of psychotic-like experiences in general population samples (GPS) compared to psychotic disorders. Thus the 3-month prevalence of at-risk criteria and symptoms in GPS, age 16–35, was assessed by trained clinicians in telephone interviews using established standardized assessments.

Methods

Of 85 enrolled persons, 60 persons (70.5%) participated, two of them met exclusion criteria (psychosis, language problems). The 22 psychopathological at-risk symptoms were assessed for their occurrence and severity within the three months prior to the telephone interview using the

(i)

Schizophrenia Prediction Instrument, Adult version (SPI-A) and

(ii)

the Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes (SIPS).

Results

Only one person (1.7%) fulfilled ‘attenuated psychotic symptoms’ (APS)-criteria according to SIPS. At 1.7%, the 3-month prevalence of at-risk criteria was rather low; at 20.7%, the prevalence of sub-threshold at-risk symptoms, however, was much higher. Yet the presence of these sub-threshold symptoms was already associated with lower psychosocial functioning and with psychiatric axis I diagnoses.