ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/bjhp.12049

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectivesDispositional optimism is often considered to be a unidimensional construct. Recent studies suggest, however, that optimism and pessimism are separate dimensions. In this study we investigated two issues. First, the levels of optimism and pessimism in adolescents with cancer compared with healthy controls and second, the individual effects of optimism and pessimism on concurrent and longitudinal well‐being.DesignA matched case‐control design was used to examine whether adolescents with cancer and healthy adolescents differed with regard to optimism and pessimism. The second part of the study was employed in a prospective design with assessments in the patient group at 3 and 6 months post‐diagnosis.MethodsThirty‐three adolescents with cancer (3 months post‐diagnosis) and 66 matched controls completed a measure on dispositional optimism (i.e., optimism and pessimism). In addition, patients completed measures on positive and negative aspects of well‐being at 3 and 6 months post‐diagnosis.ResultsAlthough adolescents with cancer were not more optimistic than their healthy peers, they were significantly less pessimistic. Zero order and semi‐partial correlations showed that optimism and pessimism are related to different aspects of well‐being. Specifically, we found a cohesive pattern in which optimism predicts positive aspects and pessimism negative aspects of well‐being.ConclusionsThe high levels of overall optimism often found in patients with cancer might in fact result from low pessimism instead of high optimism. Furthermore, as our study shows that optimism and pessimism are differentially associated with aspects of well‐being, it provides strong support for the bidimensionality of dispositional optimism.Statement of contributionThe level of dispositional optimism in adolescents with cancer compared to those of healthy controlsWhat is known on this subject?Research shows that the level of dispositional optimism (DOP) in recently diagnosed cancer patients is relatively high.What does this study add?The study provides more insight in the generally high levels of overall optimism often found in patients with cancer (i.e. high overall optimism reflects low pessimism instead of high optimism).Patients with cancer arenotoverly optimistic (high levels of DOP represent low pessimism instead of high optimism).It might be that low pessimism is a factor related to resiliency.The dimensionality of dispositional optimism (DOP): associations of optimism/pessimism with different aspects of well‐beingWhat is known on this subject?There is controversy in the literature about the dimensionality of dispositional optimism (DOP) Most studies in the field of oncology have examined DOP as an unidimensional construct. There is also research showing that optimism and pessimism are relatively separate dimensions.What does this study add?By showing that optimism and pessimism are related to different aspects of well‐being (both concurrently and prospectively), the study provides further support for the bidimensionality of DOP in adolescents with cancer.Further evidence for the bi‐dimensionality of DOP highlights the need for separate assessed optimism/pessimism.Interventions should focus on changing patient's negative cognitions,

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/j.2044-8287.2012.02096.x

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectivesNonmedical prescription stimulant (NPS) use is an important problem among university students. The present studies applied the prototype‐willingness model (Gibbons, Gerrard&Lane, 2003) to academic‐basedNPSuse and examined the impact of academic versus health information on university students'NPSuse cognitions.Design and MethodsStudy 1 used the prototype‐willingness model to examine cognitions associated with academic‐based willingness to useNPS. In Study 2, participants were randomly assigned to a control condition or to read information on the negative academic or negative health effects ofNPSuse. Beliefs, willingness, and expectation of engaging in futureNPSuse, prototypes of users, and perceived vulnerability were assessed.ResultsStudents without a prescription for stimulants or a diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) participated in each study (Ns = 555; 166). Twenty to thirty per cent reportedNPSuse, primarily for academic reasons. Controlling for pastNPS, alcohol, and marijuana use: friends'NPSuse, prototypes, perceived vulnerability, and negative health and positive academic beliefs were associated with willingness to useNPSin Study 1. Study 2 demonstrated that participants in the academic‐information condition reported the lowest willingness and expectations as well as the least favourable prototypes ofNPSusers. Participants in the health‐information condition reported the highest perceived vulnerability.ConclusionsThese studies highlight: the utility of using a health model framework to examineNPScognitions, the importance of examining beliefs about the behaviour, and the potential for academic and health information to reduce riskyNPSuse cognitions.Statement of contributionWhat is already known?Nonmedical prescription stimulant (NPS) use is a common health‐risk behaviour among college students. The most common reasons cited by students for NPS use are related to academics (e.g., increase concentration, stay awake to study).What does this study add?Shows the utility of the prototype‐willingness model to examine NPS use cognitions. Experimentally demonstrates the positive impact of academic and health information on NPS use cognitions. Reveals new relationships among health cognitions (including academic and health beliefs) that predict behaviour and are targets for fut

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/j.2044-8287.2012.02087.x

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectivesChronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is a serious condition characterized by debilitating but unexplained fatigue. Treatment alternatives are few, and especially so for young people. The aetiology ofCFS/MEis still unclear and controversial, but rehabilitative interventions seem so far most promising. The Lightning Process is a 3‐day training programme that has recently become available, but no outcome studies have yet been published. It is a non‐medical training programme that combines concepts from Neuro‐Linguistic Programming, Life Coaching and Osteopathy. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of young people withCFS/MEafter they had undergone the Lightning Process.DesignQualitative research study.MethodsSemi‐structured interviews were conducted with an opportunistic sample recruited through open advertisements of nine young people, aged 14–26, who had undergone the treatment, and three of their parents. Inductive thematic analysis was used to evaluate the content of the interviews.ResultsMostly positive experiences were reported of the Lightning Process. Two reported dissatisfaction and no improvement, while seven were satisfied and were much improved. Particular helpful aspects were the theoretical rationale, practical exercises, and the technique they learned. Less helpful aspects were the intensity and short duration of the treatment with little follow‐up, the secrecy surrounding it, and feelings of being blamed if the treatment did not work.ConclusionsAs this is the first report of young people's experiences with the Lightning Process, it will be important to consider the helpful and unhelpful treatment components for future refinement of interventions forCFS/ME.Statement of contributionWhat is already known on this subject?Treatment alternatives for people with CFS/ME are few, especially for young people. The Lightning Process is a popular treatment programme that has recently become available, but no studies involving the treatment have yet been published. Feelings of blame or dismissal in CFS/ME patients lead to withdrawal or disengagement from professionals.What does this study add?The Lightning Process for young people with CFS/ME encompasses many positive aspects, particularly the practical aspects of the treatment programme. The more extreme position taken by the Lightning Process in denying the limitations of the illness seem to produce divergent results in various young people; some found it liberating and therapeutic, whilst others did not respond well to it and were left feeling guilty

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/j.2044-8287.2012.02093.x

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectivesThis study examined the cross‐sectional and longitudinal relationships of illness perceptions, coping, and distress in women with breast cancer. Illness perceptions and coping at baseline and changes in these variables over time served as possible predictors of distress at two follow‐up points.Design and methodsFifty‐seven women with breast cancer who participated in a psychosocial aftercare programme completed a questionnaire before the start of the intervention, directly after the end of the intervention, and 1 year after the start of the intervention. Study variables were assessed with the Illness Perception Questionnaire‐Revised (illness perceptions), theCOPE(coping), and the Hopkins Symptom Check List (distress).ResultsResults showed that 43% of variance in distress at baseline was explained by participants' illness perceptions. Cyclical timeline perceptions were the strongest predictor of distress at baseline. Longitudinal data revealed that after the end of the intervention, the intensity of general distress and breast cancer‐related emotions had decreased significantly. Partial correlations showed that baseline illness perceptions were unrelated to distress at follow‐up. However, changes in illness perceptions (perceptions about the cyclical and chronic timeline and symptoms associated with breast cancer) showed significant associations with distress at both follow‐up assessments. Associations of follow‐up distress with coping styles were less consistent.ConclusionsOur results suggest that changes in illness perceptions are related to an improvement or worsening of patients' emotional well‐being over time. These findings hold promise for the development of interventions that specifically target patients' representations of their illness.Statement of contributionWhat is already known on this subject?Research has shown that 15%–30% of breast cancer survivors continue to experience elevated distress following treatment. Illness perceptions and coping have been found to contribute to distress in women with breast cancer.What does this study add?Cyclical timeline beliefs affect distress in breast cancer both in cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses. Baseline illness perceptions are less predictive of distress at follow‐up than change

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/j.2044-8287.2012.02100.x

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectiveBoth loneliness and poor sleep quality are common occurrences in late life and both are detrimental to physical and mental health. While loneliness may be difficult to intervene upon, there may be correlated factors, which, if alleviated, could mitigate the effects of loneliness and sleep quality on health in late life.DesignA longitudinal, observational study whereby we gathered predictive variables at baseline and dependent variable (sleep) at follow‐up.MethodWe investigated the relationship between loneliness at baseline and sleep quality at follow‐up in a group of 447 older adults attending the clinic for research participation. Loneliness, stress and sleep quality were all measured using self‐report validated psychometric tools.ResultsWe found that loneliness, specifically emotional loneliness, predicted sleep quality at follow‐up, controlling for demographic factors and for sleep quality at baseline. Upon applying mediation methods to the data, we then found that this relationship was mediated in part by perceived stress.ConclusionWe conclude that the impact of emotional loneliness on sleep quality in older adults is partly because of the stress experienced as a result of feeling lonely.Statement of contributionWhat is already known on this subject?Loneliness is associated with poor sleep quality. Perceived stress is also associated with poor sleep quality. Sleep quality is a significant issue among older adults.What does this study add?Emotional loneliness in particular predicts poor sleep quality at follow‐up. This relationship is mediated by perceiv

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/j.2044-8287.2012.02101.x

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectivesSocial support is thought to positively influence appraisals of stressors and coping resources, thereby attenuating the harmful effects of stress. Notably, perceived available support (rather than actually received support) is believed to benefit well‐being independent of the sense of obligation or threats to self‐esteem that receiving support may entail. This study examined whether perceived support levels were associated with reduced cardiovascular levels, an important predictor of cardiovascular disease risk, independent of broad trait personality variables frequently reported to overlap with perceived support. In doing so, we sought to determine whether the effects of perceived support are independent of links between personality and social support.DesignA cross‐sectional design was employed.MethodsResting cardiovascular levels were measured using aFinometer in a sample of healthy women (N = 145). TheShort‐FormSocialSupportQuestionnaire and theRevisedEysenck'sPersonalityQuestionnaire were used to assess support levels and personality. Regression was used to compare associations with psychometric indices of support (namely, perceived network size and perceived satisfaction with support) and personality (psychoticism, extraversion and neuroticism).ResultsSupport independently predicted systolic blood pressure (SBP;p = .03) andHR(p = .02) when personality was controlled for, while personality also predictedSBP(p = .01) andDBP(p = .02). Support effects were not mediated by personality.ConclusionsThe findings corroborate previous research indicating links between support and resting cardiovascular levels and additionally demonstrate these to be independent of associations between support and personality.Statement of contributionWhat is already known on this subject?Social support is known to have several physical health benefits particularly for cardiovascular function. Studies have demonstrated psychometrically assessed support to predict reduced resting cardiovascular levels. Other work links support significantly with trait personality, particularly extraversion and neuroticism.What does this study add?Corroborating previous studies, social support was associated with reduced systolic blood pressure and heart rate. Importantly, these results remained robust to controlling for trait personality. The effects of support on cardiovascular levels are independent of personality influences on soci

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/bjhp.12001

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectivesThe purpose of these two studies was to assess how repressors and defensive, high‐anxious individuals exhibit their psychological and health characteristics subjectively through self‐reports and objectively through physiological markers and ratings of emotional expression.DesignCross‐sectional descriptive design (study one) and randomized controlled design (study two).MethodsIn the first descriptive study, repressors, defensive, high‐anxious individuals and low‐anxious individuals were identified from a pool of 748 undergraduates. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires assessing psychological and health characteristics. In the second experimental study, the three groups were randomized into either emotional or non‐emotional writing conditions. Participants were asked to write three essays on either an emotional or a non‐emotional topic in a single day.ResultsIn the first study, defensive, high‐anxious individuals reported significantly more distress, symptoms, sickness behaviours and difficulty expressing anger relative to repressors. In the second study, there was a significant difference in salivary cortisol concentrations between the two writing conditions regardless of the emotional coping grouping. Analysis of the writing showed no significant differences among repressors, defensive, high‐anxious and low‐anxious individuals in their cognitive and affective expression.ConclusionsWhereas self‐reports of health outcomes and psychological traits clearly distinguish repressors and defensive, high‐anxious individuals, more objective indices of emotional expressiveness and physiology do not appear to do so. The results also indicate that expressive writing may be helpful to reduce physiological arousal towards emotionally charged memories.Statement of contributionWhat is already known on this subject?Emotion inhibition and Health: Emotional inhibition is associated with aversive health. Little previous work has differentiated emotional inhibition due to repression or suppression. Emotion expression and Health: Expressing emotions through expressive writing may be salutary. Little is known about the physiological basis to explain all the health‐relevant changes following expressive writing. A moderating role of dispositional emotional expressiveness in the context of expressive writing is inconclusive.What does this study add?Unlike repression, suppression (defensive, high‐anxious) was associated with poor self‐reported health. There was a greater reduction of cortisol response while writing emotionally compared with writing non‐emotionally. Repressors and suppressive (defensive, high‐anxious) individuals were distinctive on self‐reported health, but were similar in objective endocr

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/bjhp.12004

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectivesDevelopment and preliminary validation of a Portuguese measure of perceived Formal Social Support for Autonomy and Dependence in Pain (FSSADI_PAIN).MethodsOne hundred and fifty‐one older adults (88.1% women), between 56 and 94 years of age (M = 75.41;SD = 9.11), who attended one of the following institutions – day care centre (33.1%), nursing home (36.4%) and senior university (30.5%) – were recruited for this study. Along with theFSSADI_PAIN, participants filled out the Portuguese versions of the Brief Pain Inventory (Azevedoet al., 2007,Dor, 15, 6) and the Social Support Scale of Medical Outcomes Survey (Pais‐Ribeiro&Ponte, 2009,Psicologia, Saúde&Doença, 10, 163).ResultsThe factorial structure reflected the functions of perceived promotion of (1) dependence and (2) autonomy, showing good internal consistency (α > .70) and sensitivity indices. TheFSSADI_PAINshowed good content, discriminant and criterion validity; it differentiated the perceptions of promotion of dependence/autonomy according to individual's pain severity and disability, as well as the type of institution.ConclusionsThese preliminary findings suggest that theFSSADI_PAINis an innovative and promising measure of perceived formal social support adapted to pain‐related contexts.Statement of contributionWhat is already known on this subject?Some studies with Chronic Pain patients suggest a negative relationship between perceived social support (PSS) and pain interference and severity (e.g., Evers, Kraaimaat, Geenen, Jacobs&Bijlsma, 2003; Turk, Kerns&Rosenberg, 1992), avoidance of daily activities and associated physical disability (e.g., Cohen&Wills, 1985; Jamison&Virts, 1990) and emotional distress (e.g., depression, anxiety; Zyrianovaet al., 2006). Moreover, evidence shows that the higher the PSS, the less frequent the adoption of passive coping strategies, like physical and social activity avoidance or relational withdrawal (e.g., Katz, Ritvo, Ivine&Jackson, 1996). Overall, these studies emphasize the benefits of high PSS in chronic pain patients.What does this study add?This study brings theoretical and methodological innovations: The conceptualization and operationalization of the functions of perceived promotion of autonomy and perceived promotion of dependence (PPD). Our results stress the importance of taking into consideration and differentiating these functions of PSS. Highlights the central role of PPD among older adu

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/bjhp.12006

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY

摘要:

ObjectivePrevious studies have shown that gain‐framed messages (vs. loss‐framed messages) are more effective when advocating ‘low‐risk’ prevention behaviours (e.g., diet, exercise, dental flossing) that minimize the risk of a health problem.The objective of the reported research was to explore whether autonomy moderated the effectiveness of gain‐framed vs. loss‐framed messages encouraging fruit and vegetable consumption.DesignA prospective design was used for this study.MethodAt time 1, participants (N = 177) completed a measure of autonomy and read either a gain‐framed message (describing the benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption) or a loss‐framed message (describing the disadvantages of not eating fruit and vegetables). At time 2, participants reported their fruit and vegetable consumption over the preceding 7 days.ResultsAutonomy moderated the effect of message framing. Gain‐framed messages only prompted fruit and vegetable consumption amongst those with high levels of autonomy.ConclusionThe study identifies a key role for autonomy in shaping recipients' responses to framed messages promoting fruit and vegetable consumption.Statement of contributionWhat is already known on this subject?Previous studies have shown that gain‐framed messages (vs. loss framed messages) are more effective when advocating low‐risk prevention behaviours (e.g., diet, exercise, dental flossing) that minimize the risk of a health problem.What does this study add?The current study is the first to demonstrate that the success of a gain‐framed message to promote fruit and vegetable consumption is dependent on r

ISSN:1359-107X    

DOI:10.1111/bjhp.12007

年代:2013

数据来源: WILEY