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Childhood trauma is associated with a variety of negative outcomes in psychosis, but it is unclear clear if childhood trauma affects day-to-day social experiences. We aimed to examine the association between childhood trauma and functional and structural characteristics of real-world social relationships in psychosis. Participants with psychotic disorders or affective disorders with psychosis completed ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) over ten days (N = 209). Childhood trauma was assessed retrospectively using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Associations between childhood trauma and EMA-assessed social behavior and perceptions were examined using linear mixed models. Analyses were adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and psychotic and depressive symptom severity. Higher levels of childhood trauma were associated with more perceived threat (B = −0.19, 95 % CI [−0.33, −0.04]) and negative self-perception (B = −0.18, 95 % CI [−0.34, −0.01]) during recent social interactions, as well as reduced social motivation (B = −0.29, 95 % CI [−0.47, −0.10]), higher desire for social avoidance (B = 0.34, 95 % CI [0.14, 0.55]), and lower sense of belongingness (B = −0.24, 95 % CI [−0.42, −0.06]). These negative social perceptions were mainly linked with emotional abuse and emotional neglect. In addition, paranoia was more strongly associated with negative social perceptions in individuals with high versus low levels of trauma. Childhood trauma was not associated with frequency (i.e., time spent alone) or type of social interactions. Childhood trauma – particularly emotional abuse and neglect – is associated with negative social perceptions but not frequency of real-world social interactions. Our findings suggest that childhood trauma may affect day-to-day social experiences beyond its association with psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing appreciation of the impact of social cognition deficits on social functioning among people with serious mental illness (SMI) has led to the development of interventions that target them. The purpose of the present study was to conduct a qualitative analysis of the effectiveness of two group interventions, social cognition and interaction therapy (SCIT) and therapeutic alliance focused therapy (TAFT), and to explore the processes and factors that contribute to the SCIT and TAFT outcomes. Thirty-two participants (16 participants from each group) were interviewed after completing the interventions. Content analysis based on grounded theory was conducted by two psychologists. The majority of participants experienced the intervention they completed as beneficial. The completers attributed the positive changes to several factors including professional information, therapeutic alliance, and their own agency. Comparison of the two groups revealed that SCIT completers were more likely to report changes in their experience of self and in their daily coping, while TAFT completers were more likely to report changes in the way they felt. Although not the majority, five completers from each group reported a positive change in their interpersonal relationships. Integrative and flexible approaches to psychotherapy, which combine common factors and elicit health including actions, are important in order to improve social cognition deficits among people with SMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Continuity of care is considered an important treatment aspect of psychiatric disorders, as it often involves long-lasting or recurrent episodes with psychosocial treatment aspects. We investigated in two psychiatric hospitals in Germany whether the positive effects of relational continuity of care on symptom severity, social functioning, and quality of life, which have been demonstrated in different countries, can also be achieved in German psychiatric care. Methods: Prospective cohort study with a 20-months observation period comparing 158 patients with higher and 165 Patients with lower degree of continuity of care of two psychiatric hospitals. Patients were surveyed at three points in time (10 and 20 months after baseline) using validated questionnaires (CGI Clinical Global Impression rating scales, GAF Global Assessment of Functioning scale, EQ-VAS Euro Quality of Life) and patient clinical record data. Statistical analyses with analyses of variance with repeated measurements of 162 patients for the association between the patient- (EQ-VAS) or observer-rated (CGI, GAF) outcome measures and continuity of care as between-subject factor controlling for age, sex, migration background, main psychiatric diagnosis group, duration of disease, and hospital as independent variables. Results: Higher continuity of care reduced significantly the symptom severity with a medium effect size (p 0.036, eta 0.064) and increased significantly social functioning with a medium effect size (p 0.023, eta 0.076) and quality of life but not significantly and with only a small effect size (p 0.092, eta 0.022). The analyses of variance suggest a time-independent effect of continuity of care. The duration of psychiatric disease, a migration background, and the hospital affected the outcome measures independent of continuity of care. Conclusion: Our results support continuity of care as a favorable clinical aspect in psychiatric patient treatment and encourage mental health care services to consider health service delivery structures that increase continuity of care in the psychiatric patient treatment course. In psychiatric health care services research patients' motives as well as methodological reasons for non-participation remain considerable potential sources for bias. Trial registration: This prospective cohort study was not registered as a clinical intervention study because no intervention was part of the study, neither on the patient level nor the system level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Personality disorders (PDs) in adulthood are considered stable over time and are likely to have lasting psychosocial impact on the affected individual, including in areas like vocational functioning. The aim of this study was to study labor market marginalization (LMM) and receipt of social welfare bene- fits during 13 years from age 18 to 25 years in a sample of former psychiatric patients with and without PD. Methods: This study followed-up 186 former psychiatric patients who were thoroughly assessed in 2002-2004, including for PD, and compared them with controls. Participants were divided into three groups: former patients with PD, without PD, and a matched control group from the general population. Register data on employment, sick leave absence, disability pensioning, education, days of psychiatric care, income, and receipt of social welfare benefits in 2003-2016 were collected. Results: Former patients had more days of unemployment, sick leave absence, and disability pensioning and received more social welfare benefits than controls during the study period. Differences between patients with and without PD were smaller than expected, but significant as regards receipt of social welfare benefits. PD also had an effect on income at age 30 years. Conclusions: Early onset of psychiatric disorders impairs vocational functioning up to 13 years after diagnosis, and most in those with PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social impairments are common features of 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) allowed access to daily-life information in order to explore the phenomenology of social interactions. 32 individuals with 22q11DS, 26 individuals with ASD and 44 typically developing peers (TD) aged 12–30 were assessed during 6 days 8 times a day using a mobile app. Participants with 22q11DS and ASD did not spend more time alone but showed distinct implication in the social sphere than TD. Distinct profiles emerged between the two conditions regarding the subjective experience of aloneness and the subjective experience of social interactions. This study highlights distinct social functioning profiles in daily-life in 22q11DS and ASD that points towards different therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with schizophrenia exhibit a wide range of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional dysfunctions; among other difficulties, people with schizophrenia show disorganized speech, also called formal thought disorder or discourse disorder. The aim of this work is to analyze and find associations between disorganized speech, attention, cognitive impairment, and their relationship with the severity and social and adaptive functioning of patients with schizophrenia of chronic evolution living in an institution. A descriptive correlational and quantitative explanatory design is carried out with 71 patients diagnosed with chronic schizophrenia with different clinical scales, cognitive assessment scales and social functioning scales. The results show that people with schizophrenia have difficulties in all the areas assessed. Disconnected or disorganized speech is found to correlate positively with cognitive function, clinical severity, and social functioning. In conclusion, several associations between these variables are observed and need to be considered for proper intervention with this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) has been widely used for depression. However, current studies of IPT have been restricted to depressive symptoms, and the results for improving social functioning were controversial. A comprehensive literature search of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted through eleven databases. Data analysis was performed by RevMan5.3, and effects were summarized by using a random effects model of mean differences with 95 % confidence intervals. From 2443 records, eleven studies met inclusion and exclusion criteria were used for meta-analysis. The results showed that IPT had significant effects on improving social functioning (SMD: −0.53, 95 % CI: −0.80 to −0.26), reducing depression (SMD: −0.49, 95 % CI: −0.80 to −0.19) and anxiety (SMD: −0.90, 95 % CI: −1.28 to −0.52), but the effect on the overall functioning (SMD: −0.37, 95 % CI: −0.73 to −0.01) is not obvious. Moreover, subgroup analysis showed that IPT was effective in improving social functioning in adolescent depression (SMD: −0.35, 95 % CI: −0.58 to −0.13) and perinatal depression (SMD: −1.01, 95 % CI: −1.35 to −0.67), while there was no significant difference in the adult depression group (SMD: −0.39, 95 % CI: −1.05 to 0.27). The blind method cannot be carried out in most studies due to the particularity of psychotherapy, heterogeneity in some results. IPT has a significant effect on improving social functioning and reducing depression and anxiety, while the effect on overall functioning requires further research. Overall, IPT is one of the effective nonpharmacological treatments for depression. • Interpersonal psychotherapy can effectively improve the social functioning of patients with depression. • In adolescents with depression and perinatal depression, IPT has a more significant effect on social functioning. • In this meta-analysis, the effect of IPT on the overall function of patients with depression is not very obvious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metaverse is gaining traction in the general population and has become a priority of the technological industry. Defined as persistent virtual worlds that exist in virtual or augmented reality, the metaverse proposes to afford a range of activities of daily life, from socializing and relaxing to gaming, shopping, and working. Because of its scope, its projected popularity, and its immersivity, the metaverse may pose unique opportunities and risks for mental health. In this viewpoint article, we integrate existing evidence on the mental health impacts of video games, social media, and virtual reality to anticipate how the metaverse could influence mental health. We outline 2 categories of mechanisms related to mental health: experiences or behaviors afforded by the metaverse and experiences or behaviors displaced by it. The metaverse may benefit mental health by affording control (over an avatar and its virtual environment), cognitive activation, physical activity, social connections, and a sense of autonomy and competence. However, repetitive rewarding experiences may lead to addiction-like behaviors, and high engagement in virtual worlds may facilitate and perpetuate the avoidance of challenges in the offline environment. Further, time spent in virtual worlds may displace (reduce) other determinants of mental health, such as sleep rhythms and offline social capital. Importantly, individuals will differ in their uses of and psychological responses to the metaverse, resulting in heterogeneous impacts on their mental health. Their technological motivations, developmental stage, sociodemographic context, and prior mental health problems are some of the factors that may modify and frame the positive and negative effects of the metaverse on their mental health. In conclusion, as the metaverse is being scaffolded by the industry and by its users, there is a window of opportunity for researchers, clinicians, and people with lived experience to coproduce knowledge on its possible impacts on mental health and illness, with the hope of influencing policy-making, technological development, and counseling of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most common mental illnesses is schizophrenia and schizotypal disorders. According to the literature data, mortality among patients with schizophrenia is 1.5-2 times higher than among the general population. Patients with schizophrenia have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis in comparison with the general population. Such comorbid somatic diseases in the case of schizophrenia have a more acute course, a significant impact on the course of the underlying disease, the development of complications, decrease in quality of life and social functioning. The aim of the study was to study the presence and features of comorbidity, its impact on the quality of life and social functioning of patients with schizophrenia and schizotypal disorders. 100 patients were included in the study. They were divided into two groups: experimental (Group I) with schizophrenia and comparison (Group II), with other schizophrenic diseases, such as schizoaffective and schizotypal disorder. All patients were scaled according to the following methods: The Cumulative Illness Rating Scale (CIRS), Clinical Global Impression – Severity Scale (CGI-S), The Personal Social Performance Scale (PSP), CGI-S, and a short form of the questionnaire Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Status (SF-36). Charlson Index was also calculated for all patients included in the study. Due to CIRS, we detected undiagnosed comorbidity that aggravated the course of the underlying disease: 38% in Group I and 26% in Group II. The most common components in the structure of comorbidity in the patients with schizophrenia were diabetes mellitus, musculoskeletal diseases, cardiovascular diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Patients with schizotypal disorders were more often diagnosed with peripheral vascular diseases, chronic lung diseases, chronic kidney diseases, and upper gastrointestinal tract disorders. A comprehensive approach to be important in the treatment of such patients. The nature and extent of comorbidity should be definitely taken into account. This will promote the compliance and improve the indicators in the examined category of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a four-wave longitudinal design, three competing hypotheses (i.e., social selection, social causation, and reciprocal causation) were tested pertaining to the relation between social functioning and several indices of behavioral health [i.e., post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), distress, and alcohol-related problems] among military veterans exposed to trauma. Across two latent growth curve analyses, data largely supported longitudinal links between improved social functioning and positive behavioral health, often indicating that the improvements in social functioning frequently precede improvements in behavioral health. Overall, findings underscore the merit of directly targeting social functioning as part of mental health treatment among trauma-exposed individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has inflicted unprecedented damage on the hospitality and tourism industry. However, the mental health fallout of COVID-19 on hotel employees is yet to receive empirical attention. This study, therefore, examines the consequences of COVID-19 on the psychological well-being and financial anxiety of hotel employees. An online survey distributed via a social networking site generated 173 responses, which were analyzed using descriptive statistics and PLS-SEM. The results of the study indicated that COVID-19 risk perception intensified financial anxiety among hotel employees while reducing their social functioning capability. Financial anxiety elicits psychological distress among hotel workers while weakening their social functioning. The relationship between COVID-19 risk perception and psychological distress was mediated by financial anxiety. Implications for hotel practitioners and policymakers are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to examine the association between social withdrawal motivations (peer isolation, shyness, unsociability, low mood, and avoidance) and symptoms of hikikomori using both variable- and person-oriented analyses. Method: Adolescents (N = 212) participated in this cross-sectional study. Data were collected using the Social Withdrawal Motivations Scale and the Avoidance subscale of the Child Social Preference Scale-Revised, the 25-item Hikikomori Questionnaire, the Personality Inventory for the DSM-5 Brief Form, and the Interpersonal sensitivity subscale of the Brief Symptom Inventory. Results: Path analysis revealed that peer isolation, shyness, unsociability, and avoidance were associated with symptoms of hikikomori while covarying for age, sex, maladaptive personality, and interpersonal sensitivity. Cluster analysis based on social withdrawal motivations identified four subtypes of adolescents. The group with high social withdrawal motivations showed the highest level of overall personality dysfunction and interpersonal sensitivity. Additionally, the group with high social withdrawal motivations and the group with high avoidance demonstrated higher symptoms of hikikomori compared to the other two groups, after accounting for the effects of the covariates. Conclusions: The findings highlight that the evaluation of co-occurrent social withdrawal motivations may improve the ability to identify those adolescents most in need of support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Due to the rapid growth of the elderly population, it is very important to pay attention to their mental health indicators including feeling of loneliness, social functions and depression. This study aims to determine the mediating role of depression in the relationship between feeling of loneliness and social functioning in the elderly. Methods & Materials: In this correlational cross-sectional study, 318 older adults covered by the comprehensive health centers in Bushehr, south of Iran in 2018 were selected using a simple random sampling method. To collect data, Russell's UCLA loneliness scale (version 3), and Goldberg's general health questionnaire (Depression and social dysfunction subscales) were used. We applied the partial least squaresstructural equation modeling to analyze the data in PLS Graph version 3.00 software. The significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The mean age of the participants was 66.74±5.87 years; 55.3% were male and the rest were female. The results showed that feeling of loneliness directly (β=0.199, P<0.01) and through mediation by depression (β=0.183, P<0.001) could cause social dysfunction. Felling of loneliness and depression together explained 20% of the variance in social dysfunction. The outer and inner model fit indices indicated the models' good fit. Conclusion: Feeling of loneliness directly or by causing depression can reduce the social functioning of the elderly. The results of this study can be used in designing effective interventions to increase the social functioning of the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Difficulties in social functioning have been observed in youth at clinical high-risk (CHR) of psychosis even in those who do not go on to develop a psychotic illness. Few treatment studies have attempted to improve social functioning in this population. The aim of this study was to conduct a randomized trial comparing the effects of Cognitive-Behavioral Social Skills Training (CBSST) with a supportive therapy (ST). Methods Both CBSST and ST were weekly group therapies, delivered over 18 weeks. This was a 2-arm trial with single-blinded ratings and intention-to-treat analyses. Assessments occurred at baseline, end-of-treatment, and 12 months after the baseline assessment. The primary outcome was social and role functioning and defeatist performance attitudes were the secondary outcome. Attenuated positive and negative symptoms, anxiety, depression, self-efficacy, and beliefs about self and others were examined as exploratory outcomes. Results There were no significant differences between the 2 groups at baseline or either of the 2 follow-ups. However, at follow-ups, in each group there were significant improvements in clinical symptoms. These could not be attributed to group treatment since there was no control or wait-list group. Conclusions Since poor social functioning is one of the most observed difficulties in CHR individuals, and a decline in social functioning may be a significant predictor of later transition to psychosis, future work will be needed to find effective treatments for this decline in functioning for CHR youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS, previously referred to as "sluggish cognitive tempo") is a set of symptoms defined by excessive mind-wandering, mental confusion, and slowed behaviors separable from ADHD inattention. Method: Of the studies examining CDS in relation to psychosocial outcomes, one of the most established correlates of CDS is social withdrawal. However, studies have yet to test mechanisms or moderators of the link between CDS and social withdrawal. Results: As a parallel body of literature exists in developmental psychopathology on predictors and outcomes of social withdrawal, this review merges these literatures to identify themes and advance a conceptual model on mechanisms (e.g., task-unrelated thought, poorer social skills, social anxiety) and moderators (e.g., behavioral inhibition, sex, parenting) of the CDS and social withdrawal link. Conclusion: This model provides researchers and clinicians with testable hypotheses to better understand the link between CDS and social withdrawal and to identify treatment targets to improve the social engagement of youth with CDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the article is to present the results of a study conducted by the author on the influence of alcohol consumption on the social functioning of the individual. The topicality of the topic stems from the following circumstances: the level of alcohol consumed in developed countries is increasing annually; alcohol is among the substances that quickly lead to addiction; it is the cause of about two hundred types of organ disorders and diseases, a number of mental and behavioral disorders; harmful and risky alcohol consumption is the ultimate cause of 7.4% of all deaths and illnesses in the European Union; Bulgaria is one of the countries that occupy the leading places in Europe in terms of consumption of alcoholic beverages. The article presents the results of the author's study of the influence of alcohol consumption on the social functioning of persons with suspected alcohol dependence. The research was conducted in the time period June 2021- July 2022 among persons undergoing treatment in addiction treatment facilities, therapeutic centers, therapeutic communities, support groups and mutual aid groups operating on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria. The study involved seventy-two individuals who volunteered to remain anonymous. Due to the nature of the researched problem, a fixed time period is fixed for conducting the research, and the number of persons participating in it is determined by the method of respondents. The survey was conducted with an online questionnaire developed by the author specifically for the purposes of the study. The low number of persons who responded to fill out the questionnaire for the fixed time period shows that, regardless of the results of representative surveys for the country, which show a high proportion of Bulgarians who abuse or are addicted to alcohol, it is difficult for Bulgarians to publicly admit to an existing and aware problem. The results of the conducted research give reason to claim that alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence have a serious impact on the social functioning of the affected persons. They are the cause of poor health, loss of job, loss of financial means and property, breakup of families, neglect of children, loss of friends, deviant behavior, suicide attempts and suicide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: Negative symptoms can seriously affect social functioning in patients with schizophrenia. However, the role of various components of negative symptoms in social functioning remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the associations among three different dimensions of negative symptoms (i.e., communication, emotion, and motivation) and social functioning to identify potential therapeutic targets. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 202 Chinese participants with schizophrenia. Negative symptoms were evaluated using the Negative Symptom Assessment (NSA). Social functioning was represented by the Personal and Social Performance Scale (PSP) total score and employment status. Correlation analysis was conducted to clarify the relationship between negative symptoms and the PSP total score. Regression analysis was performed to explore the determinants of the PSP total score and employment status, considering negative symptoms and possible confounders, such as demographic features, positive symptoms, cognitive symptoms, depressive symptoms, and extrapyramidal side effects. Results: The PSP total score was correlated with all three dimensions of negative symptoms (i.e., emotion, motivation, and communication; rs = –0.509, –0.662, and –0.657, respectively). Motivation, instead of emotion or communication, predicted both low PSP total scores and unemployment. Conclusion: Social functioning in patients with schizophrenia was significantly related to motivation. Further studies should focus on motivation and consider it as a therapeutic target to improve patients’ social functioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In psychosis, treatment often focuses on symptom reduction whereas social functioning is also essential. In this study, we investigate positive psychotic symptoms and medication use in relation to social functioning over a 3-year time-period in 531 patients diagnosed with psychosis. Furthermore, relations of positive symptoms with needs for care and quality of life were also investigated. Method: Using repeated measures analysis, changes were measured over time. Hereafter, mixed model analyses were performed to determine the associations of social functioning, needs for care, and quality of life with psychotic symptoms and patient characteristics. Finally, we assessed differences in symptoms and medication dose between those with an increase and those with a decrease in social functioning. Results: Patients significantly improved in social functioning, while psychotic symptoms increased. Improvement in social functioning was associated with younger age, higher IQ, and lower social functioning at T1, but not with positive symptoms. Also, improvement in social functioning was found to be related to a decrease in the dose of clozapine. Improvement in social functioning occurs despite worsening of positive symptoms. Conclusions: The findings suggest the need to further explore the relation between symptomatology, social functioning, and medication use. In the treatment of psychotic disorders, one should reconsider the strong focus on reducing psychotic symptoms. The current focus needs to shift much more toward improving functional outcome, especially when the patient expresses a desire for change in this respect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eye region is thought to play an important role in the ability to accurately infer others' feelings, or empathic accuracy (EA), which is an important skill for social interaction. However, most past studies used static pictures, including only visual information, and knowledge about the contribution of the eye region to EA when visual information is presented together with verbal content is lacking. We therefore examined whether eye gazing contributes to EA during videos of emotional autobiographical stories including both visual and verbal content. One hundred seven perceivers watched videos of targets talking about positive and negative life events and continuously rated the targets' feelings during the videos. Simultaneously, perceivers' eyes were tracked. After each video, perceivers reported on their feelings and the extent to which they empathized with and took the perspective of the targets. In contrast to studies using static pictures, we found that gazing to the eyes of targets during the videos did not significantly contribute to EA. At the same time, results on the association between the amount of gaze towards the eye region of targets and perceivers' state and trait empathy ratings suggest that eye gazing might signal empathy and social engagement to others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term effects of adding individualized occupational therapy (IOT) to a three-months group occupational therapy (GOT) on social functioning in inpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder at a follow-up investigation five-years after discharge. Initially, patients were randomly assigned to GOT + IOT or GOT alone, with 102 patients, 48 in GOT + IOT and 54 in GOT alone, completing the five years follow-up. The primary outcome was change in social functioning assessed by the Social Functioning Scale (SFS) from baseline to five-year follow-up. Other outcomes included Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS), Schizophrenia Cognition Rating Scale (SCoRS), Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI), Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 (CSQ-8). There were significant improvements for the GOT + IOT group over GOT in the SFS total score, which could be explained by improvements in withdrawal/social engagement, interpersonal communication, pro-social activities, recreation, and independence-competence. Multiple regression analysis showed that the period from hospitalization to commencing occupational therapy, type of occupational therapy, BACS motor speed, BACS executive function, and IMI interest/enjoyment were significantly associated with SFS total score. Our findings suggest that adding IOT to GOT may improve the long-term outcome on social functioning in schizophrenic patients. However, the long time period between intervention and follow-up and the unavailability of treatment information during the follow-up period has to be mentioned as a limiting factor of this study. • Social functioning is a core concern in the treatment of schizophrenia. • An individualized occupational therapy (IOT) program was developed. • A five-year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial was conducted. • Adding IOT to standard care improves social functioning in schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deployment-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) impacts social functioning in families. Therefore, it is important to examine the factors that contribute to social functioning in families that are confronted with deployment-related PTSD. The goal of this study was to assess the association between PTSD symptom severity and social functioning using self-report questionnaires in an outpatient veteran sample and to test the mediating roles of emotion regulation (Study 1, N = 100) and mentalization (Study 2, N = 38). Study 1 demonstrated that emotion regulation problems fully mediated PTSD associated family dysfunctioning. Study 2 did not demonstrate a mediation role of mentalization, but also did not demonstrate an association between PTSD and social dysfunctioning. Maladaptive mentalization was associated with poor child adjustment. Critically, a between-study comparison revealed that PTSD symptom severity was significantly higher in Study 1 than in Study 2. Overall, our findings suggest that social dysfunctioning may only appear when a given severity threshold of PTSD is reached, in which emotion regulation might be a key clinical factor. Maladaptive mentalization may be critical for post-deployment child adjustment. Future research should further examine social functioning in samples with different PTSD severity profiles and include the role of mentalization. Longitudinal data are needed to gain further insight into the causal relationships among the factors considered and the etiological pathways that lead to developing social dysfunction over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between social anxiety and social cognition skills (emotion identification/discrimination, theory of mind, attribution bias, social functioning) and to investigate the predictive power of social cognition skills on social anxiety. In the study, it was also investigated whether social anxiety, social cognition skills and depression scores differed according to gender, age, reported diagnosis status and anxiety level. The sample of the study consisted of a total of 385 participants between the ages of 18-60. The research data were collected from the participants online using the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, the Facial Emotion Identification and Facial Emotion Discrimination Tests, Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test, the Internal, Personal and Situational Attributes Scale, the Social Functioning Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Sociodemographic Information Form. It was determined that there was a negative relationship between social anxiety and emotion recognition, emotion discrimination and mind reading, and a positive relationship with externalization bias and depression. It was found that depression, emotion recognition and discrimination, mind reading, and antecedent social activities scale scores significantly predicted social anxiety. These variables explain 52% of the total variance related to social anxiety. In addition, when the depression effect was controlled, it was seen that social cognition skills explained 32% of the variance related to social anxiety. It was determined that the deterioration in social cognition skills and depression scores were associated with an increase in social anxiety. According to the results obtained from the research, suggestions were made to prevent social anxiety. It is suggested that it would be beneficial to include activities to develop social cognition skills, which are important for individuals' interpersonal communication, within intervention programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the increasing prevalence of depression and poor mental health is concerning, more and more academics are studying happiness and developing evidence-based interventions to promote it. Strong evidence supports the benefits of both optimism and physical activity for physical health and well-being concepts such as mental health or mental illness. However, no research has examined the interplay between the two for increasing happiness. The purpose of this opinion piece is to review the science on the relationships between optimism, physical activity, and happiness, and propose a model on how optimism and physical activity interact to promote happiness. Together both optimism and physical activity are key influencers of happiness with notable mediators being physical health and social functioning. This paper provides a critical examination of the contributing factors to happiness, which is relevant on both a practical and scientific front. This paper can inform future efforts in science and practice in this field to better support optimism and physical activity and to best promote thriving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Social deficits are a significant feature among both individuals with psychosis and those at clinical high-risk (CHR) for developing psychosis. Critically, the psychosis risk syndrome emerges in adolescence and young adulthood, when social skill development is being fine-tuned. Yet, the underlying pathophysiology of social deficits in individuals at CHR for psychosis remains unclear. Literature suggests the cerebellum plays a critical role in social functioning. Cerebellar dysfunction in psychosis and CHR individuals is well-established, yet limited research has examined links between the cerebellum and social functioning deficits in this critical population. Method: In the current study, 68 individuals at CHR for developing psychosis and 66 healthy controls (HCs) completed social processing measures (examining social interaction, social cognition, and global social functioning) and resting-state MRI scans. Seed-to-voxel resting-state connectivity analyses were employed to examine the relationship between social deficits and lobular cerebellar network connectivity. Results: Analyses indicated that within the CHR group, each social domain variable was linked to reduced connectivity between social cerebellar subregions (e.g., Crus II, lobules VIIIa and VIIIb) and cortical regions (e.g., frontal pole and frontal gyrus), but a control cerebellar subregion (e.g., lobule X) and was unrelated to these social variables. Discussion: These results indicate an association between several cerebellar lobules and specific deficits in social processing. The cerebellum, therefore, may be particularly salient to the social domain and future research is need to examine the role of the cerebellum in psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There has been a recent increase in body-oriented interventions implemented in educational contexts. Body-oriented interventions are grounded on the body–mind relationship, involving body and movement awareness and expression. In this systematic review of the literature on body-oriented interventions implemented in preschool contexts, we review the scope and quality of the quantitative evidence of each type of body-oriented intervention regarding social-emotional competence. Seven databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs. Seven core body-oriented intervention programs were found (e.g., play, relaxation, and psychomotricity). Play programs were the most studied and appear to be the most effective to improve social-emotional competence. Nevertheless, the level of scientific evidence was compromised by the lack of studies with high methodological quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Despite the growing morbidity and mortality rates associated with opioid use disorder, a large gap still exists between treatment need and capacity. Low-threshold clinics utilizing medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment can increase treatment access but are understudied, and little is known about how patient demographic characteristics are associated with their social support and functioning in these settings. Methods We used multivariate regression to estimate associations between demographic characteristics and self-reported social support or functioning indicators among patients receiving MOUD in a low-threshold clinic using several validated instruments administered at intake: Behavior and Symptom Identification Scale, Brief Pain Inventory, and Life Events Checklist for DSM-5. Patients initiating MOUD treatment between April 1 and December 31, 2017, with complete surveys were included (N=582). Results Patients were primarily male (62%), aged 34 or older (53%), non-Hispanic White (79%), separated or not married (86%), and unemployed (64%). Over 20% did not live in a house or apartment in the past month. Women were more likely to “get along” with people outside their family or in social situations and to identify their partner as their source of support. Women, non-White, and older patients were at higher risk of social functioning-disrupting events (physical/sexual assaults or experiencing chronic pain), while employment and housing were protective against exposure to these trauma-related events. However, employment and housing also decreased the odds of talking with others about substance use. The aforementioned results were obtained from multivariate logistic regression models and were significant to p

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of philosophy education for children and group play therapy with cognitive-behavioral method on social performance of children with separation anxiety disorder. Research method in this study; The quasi-experimental was pretest and posttest with the control group. The statistical population was all children referred to Shamim Counseling Center in Kermanshah. The sample group consisted of 30 children with separation anxiety disorder. The sample was selected by purposive sampling and alternative by random sampling. First, social skills questionnair (Matson et al., 1983). Implemented for all three groups (pre-test). Then, the participants of one of the intervention groups received the philosophy training program for group child play therapy in 10 sessions of 60 minutes once a week, and the other intervention group received group play therapy with cognitive-behavioral method in 10 sessions of 60 minutes. ; While the control group did not receive any educational intervention. Then all three groups were re-evaluated with the mentioned questionnair (post-test). The follow-up stage was held 2 months after the post-test. The results showed that both methods in the intervention groups had a significant effect on increasing social performance. Of course, the effectiveness of the philosophy education program for children has been more than group play therapy in a cognitive-behavioral way.

In the research reported on here we explored educators’ experiences of learners’ social functioning in middle childhood in a South African context. Educators are important socialisation agents for learners in middle childhood, and we reasoned that they could offer valuable information to identify those key social skills and competencies that learners in this life phase need to function optimally. A qualitative exploratory design was used. Twenty-nine educators were purposefully selected as participants from 4 school districts in a demarcated area in the North-West province. Data were collected via 4 focus group interviews, with each focus group interview including the educators of 1 school per district. Thematic analysis of the data revealed the embeddedness of learners’ social functioning in the complex blend of South Africa’s unequal contexts and diverse cultures; the demonstration of inappropriate and appropriate behaviour as indicators of learners’ quality of social functioning in the learning environment; and the imperative to intentionally develop and strengthen the social skills and emotional competencies of learners in middle childhood. We recommend that learners in middle childhood be supported to acquire higher levels of social competence, in particular skills of communication and listening, conflict management, and problem-solving to improve innate social functioning.

Abstract Background The incidence of depression in human females rises steadily throughout adolescence, a critical period of pubertal maturation marked by increasing levels of gonadal hormones including estrogens and progesterone. These gonadal hormones play a central role in social and emotional development and may also contribute to the increased occurrence of depression in females that begins in early adolescence. In this study, we examine whether and how introducing synthetic estrogen and progestin derivatives through the use of combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC), affects adolescent females’ risk for developing depression. We further assess potential links between CHC use and alterations in stress responses and social-emotional functioning. Methods Using a longitudinal cohort design, we will follow a sample of adolescent females over the span of three years. Participants will be assessed at three time points: once when they are between 13 and 15 years of age, and at approximately 18 and 36 months after their initial assessment. Each time point will consist of two online sessions during which participants will complete a clinical interview that screens for key symptoms of mental health disorders, along with a series of questionnaires assessing their level of depressive symptoms and history of contraceptive use. They will also complete a standardized social-evaluative stress test and an emotion recognition task, as well as provide saliva samples to allow for assessment of their circulating free cortisol levels. Discussion In this study we will assess the effect of CHC use during adolescence on development of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). We will control for variables previously found to or proposed to partially account for the observed relationship between CHC use and MDD, including socioeconomic status, age of sexual debut, and CHC-related variables including age of first use, reasons for use, and its duration. In particular, we will discover whether CHC use increases depressive symptoms and/or MDD, whether elevated depressive symptoms and/or MDD predict a higher likelihood of starting CHC, or both. Furthermore, this study will allow us to clarify whether alterations in stress reactivity and social-emotional functioning serve as pathways through which CHC use may result in increased risk of depressive symptoms and/or MDD.

IntroductionSocial deficits are a significant feature among both individuals with psychosis and those at clinical high-risk (CHR) for developing psychosis. Critically, the psychosis risk syndrome emerges in adolescence and young adulthood, when social skill development is being fine-tuned. Yet, the underlying pathophysiology of social deficits in individuals at CHR for psychosis remains unclear. Literature suggests the cerebellum plays a critical role in social functioning. Cerebellar dysfunction in psychosis and CHR individuals is well-established, yet limited research has examined links between the cerebellum and social functioning deficits in this critical population.MethodIn the current study, 68 individuals at CHR for developing psychosis and 66 healthy controls (HCs) completed social processing measures (examining social interaction, social cognition, and global social functioning) and resting-state MRI scans. Seed-to-voxel resting-state connectivity analyses were employed to examine the relationship between social deficits and lobular cerebellar network connectivity.ResultsAnalyses indicated that within the CHR group, each social domain variable was linked to reduced connectivity between social cerebellar subregions (e.g., Crus II, lobules VIIIa and VIIIb) and cortical regions (e.g., frontal pole and frontal gyrus), but a control cerebellar subregion (e.g., lobule X) and was unrelated to these social variables.DiscussionThese results indicate an association between several cerebellar lobules and specific deficits in social processing. The cerebellum, therefore, may be particularly salient to the social domain and future research is need to examine the role of the cerebellum in psychosis.

Background: It has been shown that ketamine can improve suicidality and depression. Evidence for other dimensions of psychopathology is lacking. We undertook a systematic review to investigate the effect of ketamine on cognition, anxiety, quality of life, and social functioning in adults with psychiatric disorders. Methods: PubMed (Medline), Scopus, PsycINFO, and EMBASE were searched up to April 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on ketamine [or its S (+) enantiomer] reporting data on cognition, anxiety, quality of life, social functioning in adults with psychiatric disorders were included. Standardized mean difference (SMD) was used for summarizing continuous outcomes. Results: Twenty-two reports were included in the final selection, of which 20, corresponding to 1,298 participants, were included in the quantitative synthesis. Affective disorders were the predominant diagnostic category. Median follow-up time was 21 days. The evidence was rated moderate to very low. In most trials, ketamine was administered intravenously or as adjuvant to electro-convulsant therapy (ECT). Only 2 trials of intranasal esketamine were identified. The effect of ketamine on depression was confirmed (SMD: -0.61 [95% CI: -1.06; -0.16]). Furthermore, by pooling results of 6 RCTs, ketamine may be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms (SMD: -0.42 [95% CI: -0.84; 0.003]), particularly when administered not within ECT (5 trials; SMD: -0.58 [95% CI: -1.07; -0.09]). However, there was moderate heterogeneity of results. Patients treated with ketamine also had an improvement in social functioning (SMD: -0.31 [95% CI: -0.52; -0.10]), although the estimate was based only on 2 studies. No difference to comparators was found with respect to cognition and quality of life. Conclusion: Alongside the antidepressant effect, ketamine may also improve anxiety and social functioning in adults with affective disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People with severe mental illness (SMI) often suffer from long-lasting symptoms that negatively influence their social functioning, their ability to live a meaningful life, and participation in society. Interventions aimed at increasing physical activity can improve social functioning, but people with SMI experience multiple barriers to becoming physically active. Besides, the implementation of physical activity interventions in day-to-day practice is difficult. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness and implementation of a physical activity intervention to improve social functioning, mental and physical health. Methods: In this pragmatic stepped wedge cluster randomized controlled trial we aim to include 100 people with SMI and their mental health workers from a supported housing organization. The intervention focuses on increasing physical activity by implementing group sports activities, active guidance meetings, and a serious game to set physical activity goals. We aim to decrease barriers to physical activity through active involvement of the mental health workers, lifestyle courses, and a medication review. Participating locations will be divided into four clusters and randomization will decide the start of the intervention. The primary outcome is social functioning. Secondary outcomes are quality of life, symptom severity, physical activity, cardiometabolic risk factors, cardiorespiratory fitness, and movement disturbances with specific attention to postural adjustment and movement sequencing in gait. In addition, we will assess the implementation by conducting semi-structured interviews with location managers and mental health workers and analyze them by direct content analysis. Discussion: This trial is innovative since it aims to improve social functioning in people with SMI through a physical activity intervention which aims to lower barriers to becoming physically active in a real-life setting. The strength of this trial is that we will also evaluate the implementation of the intervention. Limitations of this study are the risk of poor implementation of the intervention, and bias due to the inclusion of a medication review in the intervention that might impact outcomes. Trial registration: This trial was registered prospectively in The Netherlands Trial Register (NTR) as NTR NL9163 on December 20, 2020. As the The Netherlands Trial Register is no longer available, the trial can now be found in the International Clinical Trial Registry Platform via: . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Theory of Mind deficits are present in schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease patients. • Theory of Mind deficits are transdiagnostically associated with social dysfunction. • This association partly depends on information processing speed. Social dysfunction is commonly present in neuropsychiatric disorders of schizophrenia (SZ) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Theory of Mind (ToM) deficits have been linked to social dysfunction in disease-specific studies. Nevertheless, it remains unclear how ToM is related to social functioning across these disorders, and which factors contribute to this relationship. We investigated transdiagnostic associations between ToM and social functioning among SZ/AD patients and healthy controls, and explored to what extent these associations relate to information processing speed or facial emotion recognition capacity. A total of 163 participants were included (SZ: n =56, AD: n =50 and age-matched controls: n =57). Social functioning was assessed with the Social Functioning Scale (SFS) and the De Jong-Gierveld Loneliness Scale (LON). ToM was measured with the Hinting Task. Information processing speed was measured by the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) and facial emotion recognition capacity by the facial emotion recognition task (FERT). Case-control deficits in Hinting Task performance were larger in AD (r rb = -0.57) compared to SZ (r rb = -0.35). Poorer Hinting Task performance was transdiagnostically associated with the SFS (β Hinting-Task = 1.20, p<0.01) and LON (β Hinting-Task = -0.27, p<0.05). DSST, but not FERT, reduced the association between the SFS and Hinting Task performance, however the association remained significant (β Hinting-Task = 0.95, p<0.05). DSST and FERT performances did not change the association between LON and Hinting Task performance. Taken together, ToM deficits are transdiagnostically associated with social dysfunction and this is partly related to reduced information processing speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In recent years, several variables in the course of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders have been studied. However, an instrumental analysis of the evolution of social functioning and behaviour problems has scarcely been explored. Aim: To analyse the evolution of social functioning and behaviour problems and find any diagnosis or gender differences. Method: The Social Functioning Scale (SFS) and the Behaviour Problems Inventory (BPI) were administered in Stages I (2003–2007) and II (2014–2017) to 100 close relatives of patients under treatment at a Community Mental Health Unit. A related samples t-test, analysis of variance and multivariate analysis of variance were performed to study the evolution and differences in social functioning and behaviour problems. Then a stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was done to predict the evolution of social functioning. Results: No deterioration in the evolution of social functioning or behaviour problems was observed, and schizophrenia patient scores were lower. Women scored higher in withdrawal/social engagement, interpersonal behaviour, independence-performance, independence-competence and total social functioning, with no significant differences in behaviour problems. Previous social functioning, underactivity/social withdrawal and education are predictive factors in the evolution of social functioning. Conclusion: The results show the need for implementing psychosocial intervention programs that promote functional recovery and keep problems from becoming chronic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Hypothesis Impaired insight into one's illness is common in first episode psychosis (FEP), is associated with worse symptoms and functioning, and predicts a worse course of illness. Despite its importance, little research has examined the effects of early intervention services (EIS) on insight. Designs This paper evaluated the impact of EIS (NAVIGATE) on insight compared to usual community care (CC) in a large cluster randomized controlled trial. Assessments were conducted at baseline and every 6 months for 2 years. Results A multilevel regression model including all time points showed a significant time by treatment group interaction (P <.001), reflecting greater improvement in insight for NAVIGATE than CC participants. Impaired insight was related to less severe depression but worse other symptoms and functioning at baseline for the total sample. At 6 months, the same pattern was found within each group except insight was no longer associated with depression among NAVIGATE participants. Impaired insight was more strongly associated with worse interpersonal relationships at 6 months in NAVIGATE than in CC, and changes in insight from baseline to 6 months were more strongly correlated with changes in relationships in NAVIGATE than CC. Conclusions The NAVIGATE program improved insight significantly more than CC. Although greater awareness of illness has frequently been found to be associated with higher depression in schizophrenia, these findings suggest EIS programs can improve insight without worsening depression in FEP. The increased association between insight and social relationships in NAVIGATE suggests these 2 outcomes may synergistically interact to improve each other in treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Children and adolescents who survive the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with an acquired brain injury (ABI) often demonstrate a variety of physical, cognitive, emotional/behavioral, and social sequelae termed post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). Social communication and interaction challenges have also been observed clinically, and there is growing literature documenting these occurrences in youth following ABI. The extent of these social changes varies among patients, and a subset of patients go on to exhibit social and behavioral profiles closely resembling those of autistic youth. We reviewed empirical research regarding social functioning in youth following ABI, as well as the overlap between individuals with ABI and autistic youth, published from January 2009 to August 2022 on PubMed and Scopus databases. Clinical case examples from a well-established post-PICU follow-up program are also provided to exemplify the complexity of this phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The moment a child walks into a new classroom, teachers and classmates form an impression based on minimal information. Yet, little is known about the accuracy of such impressions when it concerns children's social functioning at school. The current study examined the accuracy of children's, teachers' and adults' impressions of 18 unacquainted children based on thin slices of behavior. The likeability, popularity, prosocial behavior, aggression, and exclusion of these children were judged by 101 children, 79 elementary school teachers, and 68 young adults based on 20-second video clips. Judges were better than chance in predicting popularity and prosocial behavior, but worse than chance in predicting aggression and exclusion. Female judges were more accurate judging social exclusion of same-sex than other-sex targets. Teachers were more accurate than children in their judgments of prosocial behavior. The current study shows that confidence in one's impression of aggression and exclusion in unacquainted children based on minimal information is not warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to initiate and engage in relationships is a critical landmark and predictor of children's development and well-being. In kindergarten, children exhibit greater social participation outdoors rather than indoors. Indeed, the physical environment influences preschoolers' social proximity. In this study, we examine the relationship between the quality of kindergartens' outdoor physical environment and preschoolers' social functioning. Two kindergartens in Gondomar, Portugal, were selected to participate according to different levels of their physical environment outdoors (poor and fair quality) and measured by a specific physical environment rating scale. Twenty-six children (aged 3–6, 10 boys) participated in this study. Children's social proximity at the playground was measured through Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID). Mann–Whitney statistical tests were used to compare social proximity between groups. Our results showed that in the higher quality outdoor area, children spent less time alone and more time in social proximity with their peers in smaller groups (one or two children). More time was also spent in social proximity with different genders. Our study emphasizes the critical importance of reviewing kindergartens' outdoor physical environments to support preschoolers' social needs in a more challenging and diverse setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children born preterm with very low birthweight (VLBW) face long-lasting neurodevelopmental challenges, where multidisciplinary assessments are warranted. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) provides a framework for understanding and conceptualising these outcomes.Objectives: We aimed to review clinical and neuroimaging findings from birth to adulthood in a Norwegian cohort of individuals born preterm with VLBW (gestational age <37 weeks, birthweight ≤1500 g) within the framework of ICF.Data Sources: We searched PubMed and Embase for articles reporting results of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Low Birth Weight in a Lifetime Perspective study.Study Selection and Data Extraction: We included original articles reporting proportions of adverse outcomes, mean group differences, risk factors or associations between outcomes. Data were extracted according to ICF's two-level classification. Body functions and structures comprised outcomes of brain structures, cognition, mental health, vision, pain and physical health. Activities and participation comprised motor skills, general and social functioning, education, employment, and health-related quality of life.Synthesis: We performed a qualitative synthesis of included articles. Where mean (SD) was reported, we calculated group differences in SD units.Results: Fifty-eight publications were included. Within body functions and structures, increased prevalence of brain structure pathology, lower cognitive performance, mental health problems, visual and physical health impairments through childhood, adolescence and young adulthood were reported among preterm VLBW participants compared with controls. Within activities and participation, motor problems, lower general and social functioning, and lower academic attainment were found. Perinatal factors were associated with several outcomes, and longitudinal findings suggested persistent consequences of being born preterm with VLBW.Conclusions: Being born preterm with VLBW has long-term influences on body functions and structures, activities and participation. The ICF is appropriate for assessing general domains of functioning and guiding the management of individuals born preterm with VLBW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the impact of owning a hearing dog on self-reported hearing handicap, quality of life (QoL), and social functioning. Group comparison study design, utilising five surveys (General Information Survey, Hearing Information Survey, Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly/Adults, Medical Outcomes Survey, and Social Functioning Questionnaire). 23 respondents from the 2019 Australian Lions Hearing Dog waitlist (controls) and 58 respondents from all clients who had received a hearing dog through the Australian Lions Hearing Dog service (cases). No significant difference was found in Hearing Handicap Inventory or Social Functioning Questionnaire scores between the groups, although there was a tendency for improvement with dog ownership. The owner group scored significantly lower than the waitlist group on three Medical Outcomes Survey sub-items (general health, physical functioning, and role limitations due to physical health), along with total health-related QoL. These results contrasted with the broad emotional and psychosocial benefits identified through thematic analysis of responses. It is feasible, yet not certain, that owning a hearing dog may bring a reduction in hearing handicap, as well as emotional and social benefits to the QoL of individuals, but it also appears to be associated with poorer perception of health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the moderating role of emotion recognition on the association between preschoolers' ADHD behaviors and social functioning outcomes. Sixty preschoolers (48.3% female; Mage = 3.94, SDage =.56) were recruited from Head Start-affiliated classrooms. Teacher-rated ADHD behaviors and an objective measure of children's emotion recognition were assessed at the beginning of the school year. Teacher ratings of social functioning outcomes were obtained approximately three months after the start of school. Hierarchical regressions examined the unique and interactive effects of ADHD behaviors and emotion recognition on preschoolers' social functioning outcomes (i.e., oppositional behaviors, peer behavior problems, and social-emotional school readiness). The interaction between ADHD behaviors and emotion recognition predicted oppositional behaviors, peer behavior problems and social-emotional school readiness such that higher levels of emotion recognition appear to buffer the negative association between ADHD behaviors and adaptive social functioning. Preliminary considerations for interventions aimed at promoting preschoolers' social functioning are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Obesity and metabolic diseases such as metabolic syndrome (MetS) are more prevalent in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder (BD), and schizophrenia (SZ). MetS components might be associated with neurocognitive and functional impairments in these individuals. The predictive and discriminatory validity of MetS and its components regarding those outcomes were assessed from prospective and transdiagnostic perspectives. Methods: Metabolic syndrome components and neurocognitive and social functioning were assessed in 165 subjects, including 30 with SZ, 42 with BD, 35 with MDD, 30 with T2DM, and 28 healthy controls (HCs). A posteriori, individuals were classified into two groups. The MetS group consisted of those who met at least three of the following criteria: abdominal obesity (AO), elevated triglycerides (TG), reduced high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), elevated blood pressure (BP), and elevated fasting glucose (FPG); the remaining participants comprised the No‐MetS group. Mixed one‐way analysis of covariance and linear and binary logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: Cognitive impairment was significantly greater in the MetS group (n = 82) than in the No‐MetS group (n = 83), with small effect sizes (p < 0.05; η²p = 0.02 – 0.03). In both groups, the most robust associations between MetS components and neurocognitive and social functioning were observed with TG and FPG (p < 0.05). There was also evidence for a significant relationship between cognition and BP in the MetS group (p < 0.05). The combination of TG, FPG, elevated systolic BP and HDL best classified individuals with greater cognitive impairment (p < 0.001), and TG was the most accurate (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Specific MetS components are significantly associated with cognitive impairment across somatic and psychiatric disorders. Our findings provide further evidence on the summative effect of MetS components to predict cognition and social functioning and allow the identification of individuals with worse outcomes. Transdiagnostic, lifestyle‐based therapeutic interventions targeted at that group hold the potential to improve health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is common and a known risk factor for social disengagement in later life. This study explored social functioning following a diagnosis of ARHL. Using a constructivist grounded theory approach we developed an interview schedule to advance a grounded theory from data collected from six older adults who used either hearing aids or cochlear implants. Interview questions concerned social functioning as well as focusing on their perspective of the impact of ARHL on cognitive functioning. We describe a grounded theory conceived as 'Reconnecting to Others'. This theory posits that participants faced social challenges in relation to their ARHL, and resolved these challenges partly through the use of hearing aids and cochlear implantation. The theory also emphasises the importance of help from other hearing aid users for new users, and corroborates prior findings about strategies older adults with ARHL use to cope with their hearing impairment in various social situations. Once hearing aids and cochlear implants are used and adapted to with the help of peers, participants completed their journey by helping others who had received diagnoses of ARHL. Additionally, participants spoke of the pleasure of hearing again. Interestingly, no participant felt that their ARHL had impacted their cognitive functioning. Our theory provides a basis for explaining existing quantitative findings as well as creating new hypotheses for future testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Social cognition impacts social functioning in schizophrenia; however, little is known about how patients with schizophrenia themselves perceive social cognition. This study, using an internet survey, aimed to investigate their knowledge of social cognition, clinical experiences related to social cognition, awareness of social cognition's role in one's social life, and the relationships between subjective difficulties with social cognition and social functioning. Methods: Data from 232 outpatients with schizophrenia (SZ) and 494 healthy controls (HC) were obtained through an internet survey and were weighted according to the demographics of the national population. A newly developed survey questionnaire on knowledge, experience, and awareness of social cognition was administered. Subjective difficulties were evaluated using the Self‐Assessment of Social Cognition Impairments and the Observable Social Cognition Rating Scale. Results: Less than a quarter of both groups were familiar with the term or concept of social cognition. Less than 5% of both groups had experienced being assessed or treated for social cognition. More than half of both groups were aware of the relationship between social cognition and social functioning. The SZ group had higher levels of subjective difficulties than the HC group across all social cognitive domains. The attributional bias domain of subjective difficulties was negatively associated with social functioning. Conclusion: Patients with schizophrenia had substantial subjective difficulties in social cognition, which they perceived as being related to social functioning. However, their knowledge of social cognition was limited, and the assessment and treatment might not be widespread in regular clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Psychosocial late effects among survivors of pediatric brain tumors are common. For school-aged survivors, social skills deficits and isolation present a particular challenge. Social problem-solving is a social skill that is an important determinant of social outcomes and may yield a potential target for intervention.Methods: School-aged youth (N = 65) 8-12 years of age (10.59 ± 1.36 years; 55.4% female, 86.2% white) who were 5.23 (SD = 2.44, range 2-10.9) years post-treatment for a brain tumor completed the Attributions and Coping Questionnaire, a measure of social problem-solving that uses vignettes to assess attribution of intent, subsequent emotional response, and imagined behavioral response to an interpersonal problem. Youth also completed self-reports of social functioning (PROMIS Peer Relationships, Self-Perception Profile). A caregiver completed additional measures of child social functioning (NIH Toolbox-Emotion Measures).Results: Survivors attributed unpleasant situations to accidental causes (neutral attribution) and responded in ways that prioritized the friendship (appeasement) or relied on adult intervention. Self-reported social functioning was higher among those who were less likely to avoid challenging social problem-solving situations.Conclusions: Findings identified characteristic social problem-solving approaches among survivors, including a tendency to attribute ambiguous situations to accidental causes and to request adult assistance and/or maintain social relationships. This may indicate a possible avenue for intervention, with a focus on increasing survivors' understanding of the causes of potentially negative peer interactions and reducing their reliance on adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]