| Title: Masthead |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| File: Masthead_V3I3_2021 |
| Title: Cross validation of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Inventory of Gambling Situations (CAMH-IGS). |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: cross-validation of the factor structure of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Inventory of Gambling Situations (CAMH-IGS) is described. The CAMH-IGS is based on a cognitive-behavioural approach and is intended for use in treatment planning to help therapists determine the patterns of behaviour, thoughts or feelings which may trigger problematic gambling, with the goal of developing tailored treatment and relapse-prevention approaches for clients. A sample of 994 gamblers was used to cross validate the factor structure of the CAMH-IGS. The results largely replicated the factor structure of the CAMH-IGS but suggest a small number of changes to the scoring of the CAMH-IGS. An exploratory second order factor structure identified two factors: positive and negative emotional states. Significant mean score differences were identified for subscales based on the client’s sex and age. Taken together, these findings confirm that each of the CAMH-IGS subscales contributes to the situational risk profile of gambling behavior for clients, and underscore the value of a situational profile in treatment planning. |
| Pages: 1-22 |
| Keywords: Cross-validation, Gambling Situations, Situational Risk, Treatment Planning, Problem Gambling, Gambling Disorder |
| Author: Nigel E. Turner, Jing Shi, Mark van der Maas, Sylvia Hagopian, Steve Cook, & Tara Elton-Marshall |
| File: Nigel-Turner-et-al |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/JDZS3581 |
| Title: Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (DDA) and the Transition to Online Support During COVID-19. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has been particularly challenging for individuals with concurrent mental health and addiction problems. Like other mutual aid groups, Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (DDA) of Oregon in the US and DDA-UK were forced to suspend face to face meetings during the pandemic. To continue to support its members, DDA began offering online meetings. Objectives: this study explored attendees’ perceived effectiveness, strengths, and limitations of online support within the context of the pandemic. Methods: A total of 92 DDA members from the US (n = 71) and the UK (n = 18) completed an online survey, which included quantitative scales and open questions. Feelings of inclusion in online versus in-person meetings were assessed using an adaptation of the Work Group Inclusion Test (Chung et al., 2020). A supplementary interview was conducted with a DDA facilitator. The open survey questions and the interview were independently thematically analyzed by two investigators. Results: Attendance of meetings significantly increased after the introduction of online meetings (p < 0.001). Approximately half of the participants (51.09%) indicated that DDA online support was the most helpful form of support they received during lockdown; 98.77% of participants agreed that online support should continue after the lockdown. There was no significant difference regarding feelings of inclusion in online versus in-person meetings. Conclusions: Online meetings allowed DDA to go global and provided effective support to people with complex needs during the COVID-19 lockdown. Participants experienced a continuity of inclusion and accessibility due to the online provision. Implications: It is suggested that going forward, online support should continue alongside traditional face to face meetings due to its potential to increase convenience, accessibility, and inclusivity. |
| Pages: 23-44 |
| Keywords: Dual Diagnosis Anonymous, dual diagnosis, online support, peer support, mutual aid, recovery, addiction, mental illness, mental health, substance misuse, COVID-19, lockdown, 12-steps |
| Authors: Raffaella Margherita Milani, Annalise Keller, & Sean Roush |
| File: MS_JULY_2021_1_Milani |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/JTFJ8349 |
| Title: Vaping and smoking behaviors among adolescents: Associations with demographic factors and mental health symptoms. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: Vaping behaviors are highly prevalent among adolescents. However, additional research is necessary to identify common risk factors associated with vaping and smoking. This study sought to identify current prevalence rates of vaping and smoking among adolescents while identifying whether rates of engagement in these behaviors differ by gender, age and the presence of mental health symptoms. Methods: 6,393 U.S. adolescents (50.4% male; Mage = 14.74, SD = 1.76) recruited from a representative sample of high schools in Wood County, Ohio, completed a self-report survey in 2019. Using chisquare and logistic regression analyses, the cross-sectional associations between various vaping (nicotine, non-nicotine, cannabis), smoking (cigarettes and cannabis), and multiple product use (smoking and vaping) were investigated by gender, age, and the presence of mental health symptoms (aggression, delinquency, depression and anxiety). Results: Overall, 17.4% of adolescents reported having vaped during the past month. No gender differences were noted among those reporting nicotine and flavor vaping. Males reported higher rates of cannabis vaping. Older adolescents reported higher rates of cannabis vaping while younger adolescents reported higher rates of flavor vaping. Logistic regression analyses revealed that greater levels of delinquency were associated with all forms of vaping, smoking and multiple product use. Whereas greater aggressive symptoms were associated with nicotine and flavor vaping, depressive symptoms were associated with cigarette smoking. Conclusion and Implication: A significant proportion of adolescents report past month vaping, cannabis and cigarette smoking, with the use of these substances being associated with greater mental health symptomatology. |
| Pages: 45-65 |
| Keywords: Adolescents; Vaping; Cannabis; e-cigarettes; Smoking; Mental Health |
| Authors: Jérémie Richard, Hanna Warith, William Ivoska, & Jeffrey Derevensky |
| File: Richard et al. |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/RJWO5160 |
| Title: The mapping of emotions in a respiratory illness: Transferability of illness experience from Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension to COVID-19. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: Objectives: Covid-19 poses an existential threat that has increased death anxiety at the individual and societal levels. In prior work, we have examined existential conversations in patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), an incurable respiratory disease with symptom overlap. In this mixed method study, we analyse the emotional qualities of these conversations in PAH. By understanding the emotions in PAH, we may learn something about the feelings that can also be evoked in people coping with Covid-19. Methods: We interviewed 30 PAH patients from 2016-2018 about the meaning and impact of illness on their lives. We analysed transcripts and audio recordings for heightened emotional moments and categorised the emotional responses and topics that were discussed. A multiple correspondence analysis was conducted to identify the associations between emotions and topics. Clinical illustrations are provided for interpretation. Results: Mean age and illness duration was 52 and 6 years, and 77% were female. Participants had a mean of 5 emotional moments, each lasting on average 20 seconds. Half occurred in the first 20 minutes. Coping with diagnosis and the healthcare system was accompanied by feelings of shock and unfairness; relational issues involving close others evoked complicated feelings of isolation, worthlessness, and self-blame; and the experience of physical limitations and mortality salience elicited much anger and fear. Conclusion: People confronted by the threat of mortality from disease may have powerful feelings that they would benefit from sharing. These emotions are readily expressed because opportunities to discuss them are rare. Psychoeducation about illness experiences may help healthy people to relate to the medically ill and destigmatise the discussion of illness-related concerns. Research on coping with existential distress may be applied to the illness experience of Covid-19. |
| Pages: 66-81 |
| Keywords: Chronic Lung Disease; Emotion; Existential Distress; Illness Experience; Progressive Illness; Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension; Covid-19 |
| Authors: Emily Slusarek, Vanessa Martin, Tasmie Sarker, Mary A. McCarthy, John Granton, Adrienne Tan, & Chris Lo |
| File: Emily-Slusarek_AUG21 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/UEJO5919 |
| Title: The Role of Perceived Feelings of Presence and Escapism in Problematic Mukbang Watching Among Emerging Adult Mukbang Watchers. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: A mukbang (“eating broadcast”) is a form of online video entertainment originating in South Korea, where the host eats a large amount of food while interacting with viewers. Recently, mukbang watching has been gaining popularity across the world. A number of studies have suggested that a minority of mukbang watchers may engage in the behavior excessively, problematically and/or addictively. However, there is still a dearth of studies examining the motivational and psychological correlates and health consequences (mental and physical) of problematic mukbang watching. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship of presence and escapism with problematic mukbang watching. Path analysis indicated that social presence associated with problematic mukbang watching, while spatial presence was not. |
| Pages: 82-86 |
| Keywords: Mukbang; Escapism; Adult |
| Authors: Kagan Kircaburun, Mustafa Savci, Emrah Emirtekin, & Mark D. Griffiths |
| File: Kircaburun_FINAL_MAY12 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/ZERE3813 |
| Title: The Association Between Gender-Based Violence, Wellbeing, and Mental Health Outcomes Among Palestinian Women. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: The current study was designed to investigate the association between gender-based violence (GBV), wellbeing, and mental health outcomes among Palestinian women. Methods: A correlational method was used to examine the relationship between study variables. A geographical representation of the female participants showed that 162 were from cities, 69 were from villages, and 18 were from Palestinian camps. Results: Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to test the relationship between GBV, wellbeing, and mental health outcomes. Results showed that GBV was negatively associated with well-being, r = -.20, p < .01, and positively associated with stress, r =.20, p < .01, depression, r =.25, p < .01, and anxiety, r = .14, p < .01. Results also indicated that wellbeing was negatively correlated with stress, r = -.30, p < .01, anxiety, r = -.32, p < .01, and depression, r = -.29, p < .01. Conclusion: The current study supported previous findings demonstrating that GBV is positively correlated with depression, stress, and anxiety, and negatively correlated with well-being among Palestinian women. Further studies concerning risk factors of GBV, the personal characteristics of women who experience GBV, and intervention programs that targeting mental health and well-being issues among women who suffer from GBV are recommended. |
| Pages: 87-104 |
| Keywords: Gender-Based violence; wellbeing; mental health outcomes; Palestinian women |
| Authors: Dana Bdier & Fayez Azez Mahamid |
| File: Bdier_MS_OCT_2020_3_FINAL |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/FXMG3412 |
| Title: Traumatic Life Events and Psychological Well-being Among Palestinian Adolescents: The Mediating Role of Resilience. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: Objectives: The current study was designed to investigate the relationship between stressful life events and psychological well-being, along with the mediating role of resilience among Palestinian adolescents. Methods: Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test a conceptual model, where resilience was identified as a mediator, traumatic life events as a predictor and well-being as an outcome variable. Participants were comprised of 240 Palestinian adolescents, 72 males and 168 females. Participants were recruited from online advertisements, e-mail campaigns, SMS campaigns, blogs, and social media. Results: Findings from correlational analyses showed that traumatic life events were negatively correlated with resilience (r =-.485, p < .01), and well-being (r =- .682, p < .01), while resilience was positively correlated with well-being (r =.775, p < .01). Results of structural equation modeling yielded a standardized total effect of resilience on well-being (βX,M = .61; p < .001) . However, this effect was composed of a statistically significant indirect effect (via resilience βX,M, Y = .26 p < .01) and a statistically significant direct effect (βX,Y,M = .35p < .01). The relationship between traumatic life events and psychological well-being was fully mediated by resilience. Conclusion: The current study supported results from previous findings, demonstrating that traumatic life events are negatively associated with psychological well-being and resilience, while resilience was found to be positively associated with psychological well-being. In addition, the relationship between traumatic life events and psychological well-being was mediated by resilience. Further investigation targeting Palestinian adolescents aimed to support psychological well-being and resilience, and alleviate the effects of traumatic life events are recommended. |
| Pages: 105-117 |
| Keywords: Traumatic life events; Psychological well-being; Resilience; Palestinian adolescents |
| Authors: Fayez Mahamid, Dana Bdier, & Priscilla Chou |
| File: Mahamid_MS_MAR_2021 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/GTBR1644 |
| Title: Experiences of suffering and therapeutic nomadism of Mayan people with seizures in the Highlands of Chiapas, Mexico |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: Background: The indigenous population in Mexico lives in rural areas has great difficulties accessing medical care, and its epidemiological profile differs from the general population, showing greater vulnerability to various illnesses. However, little is known about the impact of the epilepsy within this population. Objective: This study investigated how epilepsy affects indigenous Mexicans by reconstructing the therapeutic itineraries of Tzotzil and Tzeltal people from the Chiapas Highlands who experience seizures. Methods: Through an anthropological approach, combining participant observation and 132 open interviews we document sixteen cases on convulsive crises among Tzotzil and Tzeltal people of the Chiapas Highlands, who were interviewed between 2000 and 2012. Using the three analytical concepts of the experience of suffering, interpretative frames of the sickness and therapeutic nomadism, we analysed the following dimensions: (a) frequency of seizures; (b) health consequences of seizures; (c) disease onset and causes; (d) care trajectories; (e) the impact on the sick and on their family’s life, and (e) mediation of stigma and social discrimination in their experiences and in seeking care. Results: We observed an interweaving of structural and cultural processes that were threatening to the health of indigenous Mexicans. On one hand, there were structural dimensions such as poverty and ethnic discrimination. On the other, we found some problematic cultural dimensions, such as views related to gender, sickness, misfortune, and stigma associated with epilepsy. The interaction of both processes affected health seeking behaviour and health for these individuals, sometimes producing successful responses to cultural and structural oppression, but in most cases lead to uncontrolled convulsions and resulting suffering for them and their caregivers. Conclusion: The ethnographic perspective allowed to elucidate the complexity of broader sociocultural processes, which mediate the therapeutic itineraries of the participants. This underlines the profound neglect and suffering of these people and their caregivers, and the urgent need to carry out public policies that improve the timely diagnosis and care of epilepsy from a culturally and structurally relevant perspective. |
| Pages: 118-140 |
| Keywords: Epilepsy, Stigma, Indigenous peoples, Mental Illness, Therapeutic Nomadism, Therapeutic Itineraries, Experiences of Suffering |
| Authors: Enrique Eroza & Rubén Muñoz Martínez |
| File: Eroza_MS_APR_2021 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/VNZD4648 |
| Title: The Anxiety Epidemic Among Children and Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Review, Conceptualization, and Recommendations for Prevention and Intervention. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health crisis and a prolonged stress sequence that is especially challenging for children and adolescents. In the current article, contemporary research evidence is summarized which indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic and associated experiences have contributed to an epidemic of anxiety among children and adolescents. This article summarizes contemporary evidence of the widespread mental health problems being currently experienced by young people. It focuses on how the unique challenges and experiences associated with the global health crisis are exacerbating the already high levels of stress and distress found among young people and contribute to the development of heightened anxiety and complex psychological problems. The anxiety of children and adolescents is interpreted uniquely through the lens of the nteractional model of trait and state anxiety and its emphasis on multiple facets of trait-based vulnerabilities. This conceptual analysis underscores the need for additional theory-driven approaches that move beyond description and seek to explain anxiety and associated mental health concerns. The article concludes with a discussion of key themes to address in broad prevention and intervention efforts designed to help young people adapt to life during and after the pandemic. Key themes include developing a sense of perceived controllability, promoting a growth mindset, heightening mindfulness, fostering hope, increasing protective psychosocial resources such as mattering to others, and emphasizing adaptability as a distinct form of resilience. |
| Pages: 141-169 |
| Keywords: COVID-19 pandemic, children, adolescents, adaptability, resilience, anxiety, depression |
| Author: Gordon Flett |
| File: Flett_MS_SEP_2021 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/POEI3788 |
| Title: Resilience Intervention for Families of Autistic Children: Reviewing the Literature. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: Given the rising diagnostic rates of autism, it is imperative to investigate the well-being of families with autistic children. Families of autistic children report more mental health difficulties than families of typically developing children. Resilience is identified as a key protective factor for mental health difficulties in many populations, and research suggests that this construct is effective for coping with mental health difficulties in families of autistic children. However, reviews on resilience interventions for families of autistic children are lacking. Accordingly, this paper aims to report (a) common mental health difficulties that families of autistic children experience, (b) how resilience may reduce mental health difficulties, (c) interventions to enhance resilience in families of autistic children, and (d) discuss implications for practice and future research. Our review identified that mental distress resulting from feelings of uncertainty and helplessness following a diagnosis, in addition to caregiving stressors, is especially common among families of autistic children. Enhancing resilience is suggested to reduce those difficulties by tapping into strengths related to various positive psychological resources such as internal locus of control, positive cognitive appraisal, acceptance and self-efficacy. Interventions such as Dance Movement Psychotherapy and spirituality-based approaches, are deemed especially helpful to families of autistic children. However, research in this area is still underdeveloped, and there is a pressing need to build a more rigorous evidence base. Findings reviewed in the current work can aid families of autistic children, healthcare practitioners, and researchers to support the mental wellbeing of families of autistic children, which in turn would support the wellbeing of autistic children. |
| Pages: 170-186 |
| Keywords: family stress; autism; uncertainty; hopelessness; mental wellbeing |
| Authors: Yasuhiro Kotera, Melanie Pope, James Chircop, Ann Kirkman, Laura Bennett-Viliardos, & Shereen Sharaan |
| File: Kotera_MS_MAR_2021 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/SWJS6679 |
| Title: Editorial: Where does the field of gaming addiction studies need to go next? |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: Problematic gaming has been considered an issue of mental health (e.g., addiction) and ‘Gaming Disorder’ has been formally recognized in the 11th revision of the International Classification of Disease. This editorial argues that now is perhaps a good time to shift the focus from ‘disorder’ to ‘gaming’. Learning about the practice of gaming more holistically is one way to refine and extend attained knowledge in terms of our understanding of problematic gaming. A key aspect of gaming that needs to be explored is the current state of gaming, which can more likely be addressed from a game studies perspective as opposed to a purely psychological perspective. This editorial posits a number of key questions and approaches which could take the gaming addiction field forward from a more interdisciplinary perspective. |
| Pages: 187-192 |
| Keywords: Player-researcher Perspective, Gaming, Problem Gambling, Problem Gambling, Gambling Disorder |
| Authors: Ioannis Gkasionis, Daria J. Kuss, & Mark D. Griffiths |
| File: Gkasionis_Kuss_Griffiths_AUG30 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/IABX2279 |
| Title: Teaching Healthcare Professional Students in Online Learning during COVID-19: Reflection of University Lecturers. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: Online education has been regarded as a lifeline for many education institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering students a means to advance their education and career. While face-to-face teaching universities convert their education curricula to the online settings, many institutions lack effective online teaching strategies, leading to reduced student enrolment and satisfaction. Contrarily, we have been receiving an ever-increasing number of healthcare professional students in our learning department since the outbreak, while maintaining high satisfaction. These students work as registered professional key workers and study online. Among numerous measures taken to support this student group, this short paper reports four effective teaching practices we have implemented: (a) active use of adaptive learning, (b) Padlet discussions, (c) wellbeing webinars, and (d) resilience building. These teaching strategies are deemed to address weaknesses of online learning and offer emotional support to students. Our teaching practices will be useful to many universities supporting this crucial group of students in the online environment. |
| Pages: 193-201 |
| Keywords: online learning; healthcare professional students; COVID-19; resilience, adaptive learning |
| Authors: Yasuhiro Kotera, Rachel Spink, Michelle Brooks-Ucheaga, Pauline Green, Rebecca Rawson, Christine Rhodes, James Chircop, Alan Williams, Uche Okere, & Geraldine Lyte |
| File: Kotera_FEB_2021 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/QLOU9458 |
| Title: The Psychology of Working from Home and Returning to the Workplace: Reflection of Interview. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic saw a large-scale change in how work was performed with a rapid move to working from home where possible to support public health restrictions. This short article is based on the first author’s TV interview in ‘The Agenda’ on the CGTN Europe (2021), discussing the psychological impacts of this transition, with suggestions on how to mitigate the negative aspects of working from home, and considerations on supporting workers on returning to the workplace. Notable psychological impacts of working from home during COVID-19 pandemic included reduced feelings of connection with increased sense of isolation, raised levels of stress, and the phenomenon of ‘Zoom fatigue’. Building trust between organisations and employees has become even more crucial during COVID-19. As reported in some sectors, innovative practices need to be implemented to build trust, reframing this crisis into an opportunity. |
| Pages: 202-207 |
| Keywords: Work from home; TV interview; Work mental health; Isolation; Stress; Connection; Zoom fatigue; Trust |
| Authors: Yasuhiro Kotera & Chris Winson |
| File: YK-Kotera_MS_JUNE_2021 |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/MCPU8207 |
| Title: Book Review: Danto & Zangeneh (Eds.), Indigenous Knowledge and Mental Health: A Global Perspective. |
| Volume: 3 |
| Issue: 3 |
| Abstract: |
| Pages: 208-211 |
| Keywords: Indigenous; Global; Mental Health |
| Authors: Leswin Laubscher |
| File: MS_AUG_2021_Book Review_ Laubscher |
| DOI: https://doi.org/10.54127/KVJG7881 |