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Linking Pathological Narcissism to PTSD in Veterans
No full textCombat deployments are well-known life events that confer risk for post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans. Since clinical intervention also relies on the identification of malleable predictors of PTSD, the present study sought to build on prior work demonstrating that narcissism is related to the development and maintenance of PTSD in civilians. Narcissism may leave one more vulnerable to trauma because of a fragile sense of self, but the strength of the association between pathological narcissism features and PTSD has yet to be examined in a veteran sample. The current study sought to address this gap by examining the incremental utility of narcissism for predicting PTSD symptoms relative to combat experience in a sample of post-9/11 veterans (N=179). Stepwise regression analyses showed that greater pathological narcissism features significantly incremented combat experience in the prediction of PTSD symptoms. When dimensions of narcissism features were examined as separate predictors of PTSD, vulnerable but not grsndiose narcissism features was found to have a significant effect. Our results align with recent work demonstrating that current personality features are likely just as important as past life events in the study of PTSD in veterans. Further re- search incorporating a greater variety of personality features and life events is needed to understand the role of pathological narcissism features in the development of PTSD
Examining the effects of manualized suicide intervention training on clinical psychology doctoral trainees: A quasi-experimental trial
Get PDFAlthough most clinical psychology doctoral trainees encounter at least one suicidal client over the course of their training (Dexter-Mazza & Freeman, 2003), there is notable variability in the degree of formal suicide risk assessment and intervention training offered across clinical psychology doctoral programs (Monahan & Karver, 2021). Most suicide-related training involves passive (e.g., lectures) rather than active (e.g., role-plays, experiential exercises) training techniques, despite evidence for the effectiveness of the latter in improving clinicians’ skills (Gryglewicz et al., 2020). The Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) is a manualized, evidence-based training incorporating didactics and role-plays (LivingWorks, 2013; Rodgers, 2010). The current study used quasi-experimental trial data—including two groups matched on key characteristics—to examine the impact of ASIST on different facets of suicide-related competence (perceived competence, knowledge, and intervention skills) and attitudes toward suicide among clinical psychology doctoral trainees. Quasi-experimental group and nonequivalent-control group participants completed self-report measures on suicide-related competence and attitudes toward suicide at pre-training, post-training, and 3-month follow-up. Results showed greater increases in suicide-related competence from pre- to post-training for trainees who completed ASIST compared to trainees who did not. This group difference was maintained when examining changes from pre-training to 3-month follow-up. Conversely, ASIST did not appear to facilitate significant changes in attitudes toward suicide over time. Findings from this study inform the utility of incorporating manualized suicide risk assessment and intervention training programs in clinical psychology doctoral training curricula
Developing a PBPK model for intranasal naloxone and opioid displacement from brain receptors
Get PDFThe therapeutic and nontherapeutic use of potent opioid agonists has increased dramatically over the past 20 years, with overdose trends following suit. Currently, naloxone is the primary drug used for treating emergency rescue from an opioid overdose. Naloxone works by displacing opioid agonists that are bound to receptors such as the μ-opioid receptor (MOR) in the brain, which are thought to be the sites of action responsible for symptoms due to overdosing, such as respiratory depression.
Intranasal (IN) administration of naloxone is an excellent alternative to the invasiveness of injections and poorly bioavailable oral formulation. However, the exact mechanism of how the drug enters the brain and how it produces its pharmacological response is not well-studied. While pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) data are available regarding the efficacy of naloxone in the reversal of prescription opioid overdose, their detailed mechanism in humans is not quantitatively fully understood. Also, there is very little research on IN naloxone PK and its application to the reversal of illicit high-potency synthetic opioids.
Taking advantage of drug transport to the brain by the IN route of administration requires a quantitative understanding of the general mechanisms and underlying processes for drug delivery to the brain. Modeling and studying IN naloxone administration can play an important role in future research by identifying appropriate dosing regimens for reversing different opioids and understanding the time course of respiratory depression recovery, as well as overcoming other side effects of opioids. It can also help to refine dosage regimens for special populations such as children and babies.
This project aims to build a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model describing naloxone disposition by IN and IV (intravenous) administration and evaluate the effects on displacement of opioid agonists. The goals were: Evaluate the physiological factors affecting naloxone deposition from IV bolus (intravenous) and IN administration, and review and analyze published literature data for relevant pharmacokinetic information. Develop a PBPK model for IV and IN naloxone delivery and disposition and numerically evaluate the systems of equations using the R programming language. The model included: 1) all relevant physiological compartments and processes; 2) pH, solubility, and partitioning considerations for naloxone (a weak base); and 3) interactions with MORs, including the rates and extents of binding and release. Extend the naloxone PBPK model to simultaneously account for the disposition and displacement kinetics of an opioid agonist that is initially bound to the MORs, which would model naloxone rescue from an opioid overdose. Simulate the effects of naloxone administration and deposition on the ensuing opioid agonist displacement and the resulting time course of pharmacological response vs. the agonist displacement time profile. Simulate results for a target patient population using physiologically relevant parameter values
“I am the ultimate caregiver”: Examining the Unique Challenges Experienced by Immigrant Mothers living in Vienna, Austria and the Services of a Community-Based Organization Designed to Empower Them
No full textMany women, at some point in their lives, will encounter social, career, and emotional disadvantages due to dual expectations to perform childcare tasks as well as participate in formal labor. In Vienna, Austria, a city where 45.9% of the population comes from a migrant background, challenges such as language barriers and legal complexities impede the accessibility of employment and social benefits. The Vienna Family Network (VFN) is a Vienna-based organization that provides support services specifically tailored to immigrant mothers. This qualitative case study explores the ways in which immigrant mothers living in Vienna, Austria experience motherhood uniquely, as well as the ways in which the VFN works to mitigate the effects of the distinctive challenges they face. Research was conducted in Vienna through postcolonial, CRT, and intersectional feminist lenses, utilizing a series of semi-structured interviews as well as a survey to members and leaders of the VFN. The study demonstrates that immigrant mothers living in Vienna, Austria use the VFN because it helps them overcome challenges within their social, work, and family lives by serving as a community builder and information hub, concluding that the VFN emerges as a significant contributor to enhancing the overall well being of immigrant mothers. The study also situated ‘Expat’ immigrant mothers within European postcolonial immigration regimes and hierarchies. This research sheds light on the unique challenges faced by immigrant mothers and highlights the role of community-based organizations in providing them with social and informational support, the role of their spouses in providing them with instrumental support, and some of the unique advantages faced by certain immigrant populations in the context of mother- hood, contributing valuable insight for the development of supportive family and immigration policies and practices
Friendship Dissolution: An Unspoken Loss During Emerging Adulthood
Get PDFThis research explored the phenomenon of friendship dissolution for emerging adults (18-25 years). While romantic dissolution in this age group has received extensive attention (Belu et al., 2016), there remains a notable gap in understanding friendship dissolution during emerging adulthood, despite the recognized significance of high-quality friendships during this transitional developmental period (Arnette, 2006; McNamara Barry et al., 2014). Eighteen emerging adult participants partook in a semi-structured interview asking them to describe their experience of a friendship dissolution with a close or best friend during emerging adulthood. Using Moustaka’s (1994) structured coding method, interview transcripts were methodically coded and analyzed. Through this process, seven key themes emerged: (a) definition of close/best friendship (b) underlying reasons for the dissolution (c) pathways to the dissolution (d) current state of the relationship (e) repercussions on self & other relationships (f) comparison of friendship and romantic dissolutions, and (g) commonality of the experience in contrast to societal expectations. Findings from this study revealed the nuances of the experience of friendship dissolution during emerging adulthood and uncovered the reasons for dissolution, the processes involved, and the emotional and identity-related implications. The study underscores the necessity for further investigation into this phenomenon and emphasizes the significance of recognizing and validating the experiences of friendship dissolution among emerging adults, despite the prevailing societal stigma surrounding it
The role of narcissistic personality traits in the afffective experience of using Instagram
Get PDFAs Instagram’s popularity has grown in recent years, so too has public and research interest grown in understanding the effects of Instagram use on young women. The present study joins a growing number of daily diary studies that explored momentary changes in negative affect, self-esteem, distress, vulnerable narcissism, and grandiose narcissism in response to browsing Instagram and exposure to distressing images. The role of narcissistic personality traits on such relationships was of particular interest. The present study implemented a naturalistic design with an in vivo procedure to also analyze post characteristics that contribute to negative emotional responses. Participants were 153 young adult women at a large urban university. Data were analyzed between- and within- subjects. At the average level, intense Instagram use was associated with increased negative affect, increased distress, and decreased self-esteem. Distress was associated with increased state vulnerable narcissism and decreased state grandiose narcissism. At the daily level, intense Instagram use was associated with decreased self-esteem and increased distress. Distress was associated with increased state vulnerable narcissism. Grandiose narcissism moderated the relationship between intensity of Instagram use and self-esteem at the daily level such that participants with higher levels of grandiose narcissism reported experiencing lower state self-esteem on days of intense Instagram use than those with lower levels of grandiose narcissism. Exploratory questions demonstrated the impact of image content and one’s relationship to the poster on emotional response. These results inform our understanding of the effects of using Instagram on young women both momentarily and over time
Exosomes: Tiny Cellular Messengers with Big Implications
No full textObjective: To review exosomes as a potential therapeutic drug delivery agent. Introduction: Exosomes are microscopic messengers, like cellular mail carriers, shuttling important molecules between cells. These fascinating nano-sized compartments, about 100,000 times smaller than a human hair, are produced by various cells throughout our body. This review highlights the significance of exosomes in drug delivery. Exosomes are formed within cells through a complex process and then released into the surrounding flu- ids like blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid. Each exosome carries a unique cargo of proteins, RNA molecules, and other cellular components, reflecting the cell it originated from. This cargo allows exosomes to act as signaling molecules, delivering messages to other cells and influencing their behavior. Here are some key things to know about exosomes: 1) Cellular Communication: Exosomes play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication, influencing various biological processes like development, immunity, and tissue repair. 2) Heterogeneity: No two exosomes are exactly alike. Their size, cargo, and properties can vary depending on the cell type and its physiological state. This diversity allows for targetAjinkya Atul Ahered communication between specific cell populations. 3) Biomarkers: The stability of exosomes in bodily fluids makes them promising candidates for biomarkers. Researchers are exploring the potential of using exosome content to diagnose diseases. Therapeutic Potential: The ability of exosomes to deliver specific molecules to target cells is being explored for developing novel therapeutic strategies for various diseases. Overall, exosomes are a rapidly evolving field of research with significant potential for improving our under- standing of cell communication and disease processes. As we learn more about these tiny messengers, they may hold the key to new diagnostic tools and therapeutic approaches. Conclusion- Exosome-based drug delivery represents a significant advancement in therapeutic strategies. Their inherent biocompatibility, targeting potential, and cargo versatility make them ideal carriers for diverse therapeutic molecules. Overcoming current challenges will pave the way for the clinical translation of this promising technology, ushering in a new era of personalized medicine
What Are the Adverse Effects of Social Media Consumption on the Attention Spans of Developing Youth and Adolescence?
No full textNew research investigates the adverse effects of social media consumption on the attention spans of adolescents aged 13 to 17. Utilizing a mixed -methods approach, this study involves a diverse sample of participants from various socio-economic backgrounds from all over The United States. Quantitative data was collected through surveys assessing social media usage patterns and attention span measures, while qualitative data was obtained through interviews to gain deeper insights. Results indicate a significant negative correlation between excessive social media usage and attention spans among adolescents, with heightened distraction and reduced ability to focus on tasks. Data analysis suggests that the impact varies based on frequency and type of social media platforms used. Conclusions underscore the detrimental influence of social media on attention spans during crucial developmental stages. Implications include the need for targeted interventions to mitigate these effects and promote healthier digital habits among youth. Future research directions involve longitudinal studies to explore the long-term consequences and potential interventions to alleviate attention span challenges associated with social media consumption among adolescents
Creating Inclusive Support: NGO Responses to Gender-Based Violence Among Marginalized Communities in Vienna, Austria
No full textGender-based violence (GBV) is a global epidemic that is rooted in gender inequality and perpetuated through cultural norms and patriarchal values. Violence against women is present within every country and culture. In Austria, 20% of women have reported experiencing physical or sexual violence within their lifetime, 15% have experienced stalking and over 100,00 people were registered as victims of human trafficking. Despite the prevalence of this issue, the discussion of GBV is still considered a taboo topic and due to the stigma surrounding it there is a severe underreporting amongst survivors, and the number of incidents of GBV is estimated to be significantly higher. The effects of GBV are even greater for individuals with intersecting marginalized identities. This qualitative case study explores how NGOs in Vienna, Austria address the needs of marginalized people who are experiencing GBV within a cultural and political framework that inadequately supports them. This research was conducted in Vienna, Austria utilizing semi-structured interviews, ethnographic research, field observations and an anonymous survey on Sexual Harassment in Vienna. Through the evaluation of the data collected from the survey responses and interviews, the re- search highlights the patriarchal culture that exists within Vienna, the ways in which violence manifests, and gaps in support marginalized communities face and how specific NGOs bridge those gaps. The survey participants and interviewees overwhelmingly expressed the need for change within the culture, political systems and gave insight into the effects GBV, street harassment and the systems of oppression have had on their mental health, safety and livelihoods
Social Workers: A Missing Piece of the Puzzle to School Gun Violence Intervention
No full textAccording to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023) data, firearm deaths among youth are a chief public health crisis in the United States. The problem of gun violence is particularly concerning when incidents occur in schools. School stakeholders expect schools to be safe havens, particularly parents and their children. Every reported fatal incident at a school violates safety and security expectations. When the fatality involves gun violence, reactions are quick, varied, and pronounced, reflecting a range of emotions, including outrage, concern, frustration, and resignation. This paper will build a framework for a model grounded in a comprehensive literature review. The specific focus will be on the role of social workers in addressing school violence, particularly gun violence. The foundation of this exploration will be my sustained belief that merging public health and emergency management perspectives in collaborative problem-solving holds potential solutions that have yet to emerge or to be systematically applied in the interest of school gun violence prevention. Gun violence as a public health issue, the role of social workers during a crisis or emergency, and the utilization of collaborative strategies and tactics will constitute the explored topic areas in search of a convergence that identifies a potentially practical and viable approach to school gun violence