Transdiagnostic Unified Protocol for Women with Breast Cancer: A Preliminary Study

This article aimed to explore the feasibility and clinical utility of the online Unified Protocol to improve emotional regulation with women diagnosed with breast cancer. Method. Research with a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive, and interactive approach, with a quasi-experimental design, pre-posttest for paired samples. Nine women with an average age of 53 years (SD= 9.5; range from 41 to 71) participated in a psychological intervention of 12 weekly 90-minute sessions. A statistically significant change (p < 0.05) between pre and post-test measurements in Anxiety (t= 2.777; p=.024), Quality of life (Z= -2.670; p=.008), Optimism (t= -2.785; p= .024) and Positive Affect (t= -3.834; p=.005) were found. The size of the effect was moderate in Optimism and big in Anxiety, Quality of life and Positive Affect. High levels of treatment satisfaction were found. The intervention was useful to improve the emotional regulation of women with a medical condition in a pandemic context. (AU)

Using ecological momentary assessment and machine learning techniques to predict depressive symptoms in emerging adults.

The objective of this study was to predict the level of depressive symptoms in emerging adults by analyzing sociodemographic variables, affect, and emotion regulation strategies. Participants were 33 emerging adults (M = 24.43; SD = 2.80; 56.3 % women). They were asked to assess their current emotional state (positive or negative affect), recent events that may relate to that state, and emotion regulation strategies through ecological momentary assessment. Participants were prompted randomly by an app 6 times per day between 10 am and 10 pm for a seven-day period. They answered 1233 of the 2058 surveys (beeps), collectively. The analysis of observations, using Machine Learning (ML) techniques, showed that the Random Forest algorithm yields significantly better predictions than other models. The algorithm used 13 out of the 36 variables adopted in the study. Furthermore, the study revealed that age, emotion of worried and a specific emotion regulation strategy related to social exchange were the most accurate predictors of severe depressive symptoms. By carefully selecting predictors and utilizing appropriate sorting techniques, these findings may provide valuable supplementary information to traditional diagnostic methods and psychological assessments.

Violencia psicológica en el noviazgo: análisis de las redes semánticas de estudiantes universitarios argentinos / Psychological Violence during Courtship: Analysis of the Semantic Networks of Argentine University Students

Resumen En la actualidad, la violencia psicológica (VP) en las relaciones de noviazgo es un fenómeno prevalente. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar y comprender las redes de significados acerca de la VP en el noviazgo según los estudiantes de la Facultad de Psicología de la Universidad del Aconcagua a través del software ATLAS.ti. Es una investigación cualitativa, estudio descriptivo, con un diseño fenomenológico en una muestra intencional de estudiantes universitarios argentinos. Participaron un total de 153 estudiantes de 1º y 4º año, de ambos sexos, con una edad promedio de 22 años (rango de 18 a 25) que hubieran mantenido alguna relación de noviazgo. La técnica utilizada fue el grupo focal y se usó el software ATLAS.ti para el análisis de los datos. Se obtuvieron cuatro líneas temáticas: Diferencias entre VP y violencia física, Emociones de la VP en el noviazgo, Conductas en la VP en el noviazgo y Consecuencias en futuras relaciones. Se concluye que la VP es considerada como más dañina, que pasa desapercibida y se naturaliza. Angustia, culpa y miedo son algunas de las emociones que provoca la VP, y la manipulación, el maltrato y el control algunas de las conductas que manifiestan VP en el noviazgo. Como consecuencias en futuras relaciones, destacan el miedo y el establecimiento de nuevas relaciones de pareja similares. Urge diseñar programas de prevención temprana para minimizar el impacto de sus consecuencias, fomentando el amor y el respeto en las relaciones entre jóvenes.

Abstract Introduction: Psychological violence (PSV) in dating relationships is currently prevalent. Objective: Analyze and understand the networks of meanings of PSV in the dating of students from the Faculty of Psychology of the University of Aconcagua by means of the ATLAS.ti software. Method: Qualitative research, descriptive study, with a phenomenological design in an intentional sample of university students from Argentina. A total of 153 students from 1st and 4th year, of both sexes, with an average age of 22 years (range of 18 to 25) who would have had some relationship. The instrument used was the focus group and the ATLAS.ti software was used to analyze the data. Results: Four thematic lines were obtained: Differences between PSV and physical violence, Emotions of PSV in courtship, PSV behaviors in in courtship and Consequences in future relationships. Conclusions: PSV was considered more harmful, unnoticed, and naturalized. Distress, guilt, and fear are some of the emotions that PSV provokes; and manipulation, abuse, and control are some of its behaviors. As consequences in future relationships the fear of the establishing new relationships with a similar partner stands out. There is an urgent need to design early prevention programs to minimize the impact of their consequences, fostering love and respect in relationships between young people.

Telepsychology: Clinical Utility of the Transdiagnostic Unified Protocol with University Students

This study examined the content validity and consumer satisfaction of a newly developed forensic interviewing protocol and accompanying barriers screen. Results suggest content experts rated the protocol as acceptable and that subjects rated the protocol slightly more favorably than the Forensic Experiential Trauma Interview. Further, although only a minority of subjects did not like the alternative hypotheses component, this component did not significantly decrease subjects’ favorable attitudes towards the protocol, suggesting that incorporating this element may not be as controversial as previously assumed. Last, providing resources to the victim via the barriers screen was rated favorably by participants, suggesting that this might be a useful tool to improve victim’s sense of support, overall satisfaction and possible willingness to pursue prosecution post-assault (AU)

Aplicación y evaluación de la eficacia del protocolo unificado transdiagnóstico con estudiantes universitarios españoles / Application and evaluation of the effi cacy of the Unifi ed Transdiagnostic Protocol with Spanish college students

Resumen Se presenta aplicación y evaluación del Protocolo Unificado Transdiagnóstico para los trastornos emocionales grupal, online sincrónico a estudiantes universitarios que solicitaron atención al Servicio de Atención Psicológica de la Universidad de Cádiz. Se implementó el Protocolo Unificado de ocho módulos desarrollado en 12 sesiones semanales con el objetivo de examinar su eficacia en un formato grupal online. Los objetivos específicos fueron los siguientes: Incrementar la calidad de vida, el optimismo y el afecto positivo y disminuir la sintomatología depresiva y ansiosa, el afecto negativo, las conductas rumiativas, el malestar psicológico y la evitación experiencial. La investigación tuvo un enfoque cuantitativo, exploratorio, descriptivo e interactivo, con un diseño cuasi-experimental, pre-post test para muestras pareadas. Los instrumentos de evaluación fueron los siguientes: OASIS, ODSIS, QLI-Sp, COP, PANAS, RRS, CORE-OM, BEAQ, ficha sociodemográfica ad hoc y una Escala de satisfacción/opinión. Participaron nueve estudiantes con una edad promedio de 21.11. Se hallaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las mediciones pre y pos test en afecto negativo (t = 3.250; p < .012) y en la escala Riesgo del CORE OM (t = 2.401; p < .043). La aplicación del PU en formato grupal online resultó eficaz en el contexto no clínico aplicado: los participantes evidenciaron un progreso en el tratamiento y mejoras en las variables en estudio.

Abstract: This study presents the results of the application of the Unified Transdiagnostic Protocol Treatment of Emotional Disorders in a group format in a non-clinical context, with university students who have asked for therapy at the University Psychological Services. The standardized eight modules-UP was implemented and it was administered in twelve group sessions. Synchronous online weekly and 90-minute long sessions were carried out. UP is an evidence-based cognitive behavioral intervention program to address a wide range of emotional disorders. The general target was to examine the efficacy of UP for the Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in an online group format. The specific targets were: (a) to increase quality of life, optimism and positive affect; and (b) to reduce depressive and anxious symptoms, negative affect, ruminant behaviors, psychological distress and experiential avoidance. This study was carried out with a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive and interactive approach. A quasi-experimental design, pre- and posttest for paired samples was used. Instruments: OASIS, ODSIS, QLI-Sp, COP, PANAS, RRS, CORE-OM, BEAQ, ad hoc socio-demographic file and Opinion Scale. A total of 9 students voluntarily participated in the study (Mean age = 21.11 years). After the intervention, statistically significant diffe- rences were found between the pre- and posttest measurements in negative affect (t = 3.250; p < .012) and in the CORE OM´ Risk Scale (t = 2.401; p < .043). The UP application in a group format with students that asked for therapy has proven to be effective in a non-clinical context, participants have shown progress in the treatment as well as in some psychological areas.

Eficacia de un programa grupal, online sincrónico de salud y bienestar para personas que trabajan con jóvenes y adultos con discapacidad intelectual / Effectiveness of a synchronous online, group health and wellness program for people who work with youths and adults with intellectual disabilities

Resumen Fundamentos. Se diseñó e implementó un programa de promoción de la salud destinado a personas que trabajan con jóvenes y adultos con discapacidad intelectual. Los objetivos perseguidos fueron evaluar la eficacia de un programa de promoción de la salud grupal, online sincrónico y promover el bienestar de los trabajadores. Método. Se trata de una investigación con un enfoque cuantitativo, exploratorio descriptivo e interactivo, con un diseño cuasiexperimental, pre pos test para muestras pareadas. Instrumentos: Cuestionario de Salud General (GHQ 12), Índice de Felicidad de Pemberton, Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), Inventario de ansiedad de Beck (BAI) y una ficha sociodemo- gráfica ad hoc. El programa de intervención desarrollado, "Bienestar y salud", constó de 8 sesiones grupales, online, sincrónicas (por Google meet), de frecuencia semanal, con una duración de 120 minutos. La participación fue voluntaria y firmaron un consentimiento informado. Resultados. Participaron un total de 35 trabajadores con una edad promedio de 31.11 años. Tras la intervención, se observó un incremento en el bienestar personal y la realización personal en el trabajo y una reducción en el nivel de malestar psicológico, ansiedad, agotamiento emocional y despersonalización. Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en las puntuaciones pre pos test del malestar psicológico y de la dimensión agotamiento emocional del MBI. Conclusión. Los hallazgos permiten concluir que participar en un programa de promoción de la salud en formato grupal en línea sincrónico resultó eficaz para incrementar el bienestar y la salud de los trabajadores.

Abstract Background. A health promotion program was designed and implemented for people who work with youths and adults with intellectual disabilities. The objectives were to evaluate the effectiveness of a synchronous online group health promotion program and to promote worker well-being. Method. It is an investigation with a quantitative, descriptive and interactive approach, with a quasi-experimental design, pre- and posttest for paired samples. Instruments: General Health Questionnaire (GHQ 12), Pemberton Happiness Index, Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and an ad hoc sociodemographic form. The intervention program carried out, "Well-being and health", consists of 8 group synchronous online sessions (on Google meet), with a weekly frequency, lasting 120 minutes. Results. Participation was voluntary and all signed an informed consent. A total of 35 workers with an average age of 31.11 years participated. After the intervention, there was an increase in personal well-being and personal fulfillment at work, and a reduction in the level of psychological discomfort, anxiety, emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. Statistically significant differences were observed in the scores pre- and posttest of psychological distress and emotional exhaustion. Conclusion. The results allow us to conclude that participating in a synchronous online group health promotion program was effective to increase the well-being and health of workers.

Una aproximación al quehacer del personal de salud que trabaja con adultos con discapacidad intelectual / An approach to the work of health personnel working with adults with intellectual disabilities

Objetivo: conocer las percepciones del personal de salud en el contexto institucional motivacional, ocupacional y su nivel de satisfacción laboral en el trabajo con adultos con discapacidad intelectual. Materiales y métodos: estudio con enfoque cuantitativo, alcance descriptivo y diseño no experimental-transaccional. Se utilizó una ficha sociodemográfica y laboral (ad hoc) que incluye hábitos y estilo de vida. Para analizar los resultados se utilizó el SPSS 21. Resultados: participaron 12 trabajadores, el 83% mujeres con promedio de 34,5 años de edad; el 67% trabaja más de 40 horas a la semana. El 50% reportó experimentar inseguridad laboral con distintos niveles de frecuencia. El 66,7% disfruta trabajar con personas con discapacidad. El 42% cree prioritarios cambios en la "conducción" y el 17% "mejorar la comunicación". Conclusiones: estos resultados permiten diseñar propuestas de formación y programas para la promoción de su salud y prevención de la enfermedad..Au

Objectives: to know the perceptions of health personnel in relation to the institutional context, their level of job satisfaction and aspects related to motivational dimension. Materials and methods: study with a quantitative approach, with a descriptive scope, with a non-experimental, transactional design. A sociodemographic and labor file was used, which includes sociodemographic and labor data (ad hoc), as well as aspects related to lifestyle habits. The institutional context, the level of worker satisfaction and other aspects related to the motivational dimension are investigated. SPSS 21 was used for the analysis of the results. Results: 12 employees participated; these were women (83%) with an average age of 34.5 years, 67% work more than 40 hours per week. A 50% reported experiencing a certain level of occupational insecurity with different frequencies. The 66.7% enjoy working with people with disabilities. A 42% believe priority changes are needed in "leadership" and a 17% in the "improvement in communication". Conclusions: it is considered convenient to know the reality of these workers to design training proposals and to plan programs for the promotion of their health..Au

Violencia psicológica en la relación de noviazgo en estudiantes universitarios mendocinos (Argentina) / Psychological violence in courtships of university students from Mendoza (Argentina)

Objetivo: describir las características de la violencia psicológica en las relaciones de noviazgo, respecto a su percepción, modalidades y respuesta hacia la misma,en estudiantes de la Facultad de Psicología de la Universidad del Aconcagua. Materiales y métodos: investigación cuantitativa, estudio descriptivo, diseño transversal con encuestas. Muestra intencional de 452 alumnos de las carreras Licenciatura en Psicología y Licenciatura en Niñez, Adolescencia y Familia, ambos sexos, edad promedio de 22 años, que hubieran mantenido o que mantuvieran en ese momento una relación de noviazgo. Instrumento: Cuestionario de Violencia Psicológica en las Relaciones de Noviazgo (Marchiori, Lucientes de Funes, Puente de Camaño y Bordón, 2013). Resultados: presencia, en frecuencias que van desde ocasionalmente hasta siempre, de veintitrés conductas o actitudes de la violencia psicológica en las relaciones de noviazgo. La conducta más frecuente en las relaciones de noviazgo de los participantes fue el Oposicionismo (72,1%) y la menos frecuente la Amenaza de muerte (3,1%). El 56% de los participantes experimentaron angustia ante la ocurrencia de tales conductas o actitudes, el 50% tristeza y el 49% enojo. Se encontraron diferencias entre las emociones más experimentadas por los hombres y mujeres de la muestra; también en lo que respecta a las conductas o actitudes que refieren recibir de parte de sus parejas hacia ellas o ellos. Conclusiones: las conductas o actitudes de la violencia psicológica en las relaciones de noviazgo han afectado a los participantes;y este tipo de violencia es considerado, mayormente, problema social y en menor medida como un problema de pareja..(AU)

Objective: to describe the characteristics of psychological violence in university students ´ courtship, with respect to their perception, modalities, and response to it, in students of the Psychology Faculty of the Universidad del Aconcagua. Materials and methods: quantitative research, descriptive study, cross-sectional design with surveys. The intentional sample was integrated by 452 students from two careers: Psychology and Childhood, Adolescence and Family, of both sexes, with an average age of 22 years old, that had maintained or were maintaining a courtship. Instrument: The Psychological Violence Questionnaire in courtships (Marchiori, Lucientes de Funes,Puente de Camaño and Bordón, 2013). Results: presence, in a variety of frequencies that goes from occasionally to always, of twenty three attitudes or behaviors related to psychological violence. The most frequent behavior reported by the participants was oppositions (72,1%) and the less frequent was death threat (3,1%). The 56% of participants experienced anguish because of this kind of behaviors, 50% sadness and 49% anger. Remarkable differences were found between the emotions experienced by men and women of the sample; and also in respect to the behavior and attitudes they received from their partners. Conclusions: the behaviors or attitudes related to psychological violence have affected the participants, and this type of violence is considered, mostly, as a social problem, and in a lower rate as a courtships´problem..(AU)