Ego-defense mechanisms and brief psychotherapies for the management of major depressive disorder in adults: A longitudinal and quasi-experimental study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of psychotherapies on ego defense mechanisms and the reduction of depressive symptoms in a 12-month follow-up period. METHODS: This longitudinal and quasi-experimental study nested within a randomized clinical trial included a clinical sample of adults (18-60 years) diagnosed with major depressive disorder using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview. Two models of psychotherapy were used: Supportive Expressive Dynamic Psychotherapy (SEDP) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Defense Style Questionnaire 40 was used to analyze defense mechanisms and the Beck Depression Inventory was used to measure the depressive symptoms. RESULTS: The total sample comprised 195 patients (113 SEDP and 82 CBT), with the mean age was 35.63 (11.44) years. After adjustments, increased mature defenses was significantly associated with reduced depressive symptoms at all follow-up times (p < 0.001) and the decrease in immature defenses was significantly associated with the reduction of depressive symptoms at all follow-up times (p < 0.001). While neurotic defenses were not associated with a reduction in depressive symptoms at any time of follow-up (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Both models of psychotherapy were effective in increasing mature defenses and decreasing immature ones, as well as decreasing depressive symptoms at all evaluation times. With this, it is understood that a greater understanding of these interactions will allow a more adequate diagnostic and prognostic evaluation and the design of useful strategies that adapt to the patient's reality.

Immature defense mechanisms predict poor response to psychotherapy in major depressive patients with comorbid cluster B personality disorder

Objective: To evaluate the impact of defense mechanisms at baseline on depressive symptoms after brief psychotherapies and after 6-months of follow-up among depressed patients with and without cluster B personality disorders (PDs). Methods: This quasi-experimental study nested within a randomized clinical trial included a clinical sample of adults (18-60 years) diagnosed with major depressive disorder using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview. The Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III was applied to assess PD, the Defense Style Questionnaire 40 was used to analyze defense mechanisms, and the Beck Depression Inventory was used to measure the severity of depressive symptoms. Adjusted analysis was performed by linear regression. Results: The final sample consisted of 177 patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder, of whom 39.5% had cluster B PDs. Immature defenses at baseline significantly predicted the persistence of depressive symptoms at post-intervention and at 6-months of follow-up only in patients with PDs. Conclusion: In depressed patients with cluster B PDs, immature defenses predicted a poor response to brief therapies. The assessment of immature defenses at baseline can help identify patients at greater risk of poor therapeutic results and enable more appropriate treatment choices.

Immature defense mechanisms predict poor response to psychotherapy in major depressive patients with comorbid cluster B personality disorder.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of defense mechanisms at baseline on depressive symptoms after brief psychotherapies and after 6-months of follow-up among depressed patients with and without cluster B personality disorders (PDs). METHODS: This quasi-experimental study nested within a randomized clinical trial included a clinical sample of adults (18-60 years) diagnosed with major depressive disorder using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview. The Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III was applied to assess PD, the Defense Style Questionnaire 40 was used to analyze defense mechanisms, and the Beck Depression Inventory was used to measure the severity of depressive symptoms. Adjusted analysis was performed by linear regression. RESULTS: The final sample consisted of 177 patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder, of whom 39.5% had cluster B PDs. Immature defenses at baseline significantly predicted the persistence of depressive symptoms at post-intervention and at 6-months of follow-up only in patients with PDs. CONCLUSION: In depressed patients with cluster B PDs, immature defenses predicted a poor response to brief therapies. The assessment of immature defenses at baseline can help identify patients at greater risk of poor therapeutic results and enable more appropriate treatment choices.

Avaliação do controle postural em praticantes de dança de salão / Evaluation of postural control in practitioners of ballroom dancing

Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar o efeito imediato da prática de dança de salão sobre o controle postural estático de seus praticantes, juntamente aos fatores que possam influenciá-lo. Optou-se por um estudo transversal de caráter observacional quantitativo em uma amostra por conveniência, constituída por 19 homens e 19 mulheres praticantes de dança de salão, que participaram de uma prática de dança de 120 minutos. Foram coletados os dados sociodemográficos, antropométricos e sintomas osteomusculares. Para a avaliação do centro de pressão (COP), foi utilizado uma plataforma de força antes e depois da prática. O único fator que demonstrou diferença significativa no controle postural antes da prática de dança foi o sexo, sendo os homens que apresentam maiores deslocamentos no COP. Comparando o efeito da prática de 120 minutos de dança, em todos os participantes, houve uma diminuição do deslocamento do COP na posição bipodal no COPap (p= 0.028) e COPvel (p= 0.003), na posição unipodal COPvel (p= 0.006) e na posição semi-tandem COPml (p= 0.026). O efeito imediato de uma prática de dança de salão contribui para o controle postural em ambos os sexos. (AU)

This study aimed to analyze the immediate effect of the practice ballroom dancing on the static postural control of its practitioners, along with factors that can influence it. We opted for a cross-sectional study of quantitative observational in a sample of convenience of 19 men and 19 women practitioner's ballroom dancing, who participated in a dance practice about 120 minutes. We collected sociodemographic data, anthropometric and musculoskeletal symptoms. For the evaluation of center of pressure (COP), was used a force platform before and after practice. The only factor that demonstrated a significant association with postural control prior to dance practice was the genre, men show greater displacements at the COP. Comparing the effect of the practice of 120 minutes of dance, in all participants, a decrease in COP displacement in the bipedal position in COPap (p = 0.028) and COPvel (p = 0.003), in the single-leg position COPvel (p = 0.006) and in the semi-tandem position COPml (p = 0.026). The immediate effect of a ballroom practice contributes to postural control in both sexes. (AU)

Dropout in brief psychotherapy for major depressive disorder: Randomized clinical trial.

The aim of this paper is to analyse the factors associated with the dropout from brief psychotherapy for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) treated at a mental health outpatient clinic. This is a randomized clinical trial with two models of psychotherapy: cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and supportive expressive dynamic psychotherapy (SEDP). MDD and anxiety disorders were evaluated through the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview-Plus. The personality disorders were evaluated by the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III. The severity of depressive symptoms was measured using the Beck Depression Inventory-II and resilience through Resilience Scale. Of the 215 participants, 41.9% abandoned psychotherapy (n = 90), and, of these, 54.4% (n = 49) abandoned after the fourth session. The proportion of psychotherapy dropout was higher among those with nonwhite skin colour, belonging to economic classes C and D, who had children and whose depressive symptoms were moderate. Presence of obsessive-compulsive personality trait was protective against dropout. The damage caused by this abrupt interruption is evident for all those involved in the psychotherapeutic process, so the clinician should pay attention to the predictors found in this study in order to develop strategies that promote therapeutic adherence.

Lavender essential oil for spinal pain in obese women: a clinical trial / Óleo essencial de lavanda para dor na coluna vertebral em mulheres obesas: um ensaio clínico / Aceite esencial de lavanda para el dolor espinal en mujeres obesas: un ensayo clínico

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the effect of lavender essential oil associated with massage on spinal pain levels in obese women. Methods The sample included 49 obese women, between 20 and 60 years of age, randomly assigned to three groups: control (n=15), intervention (n=19) and placebo (n=15). The intervention and placebo groups were submitted to eight 35-minute sessions, twice a week for one month, but the essential oil of Lavandula angustifolia was used only in the intervention group. A placebo was used for the placebo group and the control group received no intervention. Pain levels were measured before and after the intervention using the Visual Analog Scale. Results There was a significant decrease in total spinal pain (p=0.004), in the cervical region (p=0.003) and in the lumbar region (p=0.008) in the intervention group. Conclusion Lavender essential oil had a positive impact on the reduction of pain in the spine of obese women, as well as in the specific areas of the cervical and lumbar regions compared to the control and placebo groups. Level of evidence I; Randomized clinical trial.

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar o efeito do óleo essencial de lavanda associado à massagem nos níveis de dor na coluna em mulheres obesas. Métodos A amostra incluiu 49 mulheres obesas com idades entre 20 e 60 anos, randomizadas em três grupos: controle (n = 15), intervenção (n = 19) e placebo (n = 15). Os grupos intervenção e placebo foram submetidos a oito sessões com duração de 35 minutos, duas vezes por semana durante um mês, sendo que o óleo essencial de Lavandula angustifolia foi usado apenas no grupo intervenção. Um placebo foi usado para o grupo placebo e o grupo controle não recebeu intervenção. Os níveis de dor foram medidos antes e depois da intervenção pela Escala Visual Analógica. Resultados Houve diminuição significativa da dor total na coluna (p = 0,004), na região cervical (p = 0,003) e na região lombar (p = 0,008) no grupo intervenção. Conclusão O óleo essencial de lavanda teve impacto positivo na redução da dor na coluna de mulheres obesas, bem como em áreas específicas das regiões cervical e lombar em comparação com os grupos controle e placebo. Nível de evidência I; Ensaio clínico randomizado.

RESUMEN Objetivo Analizar el efecto del aceite esencial de lavanda asociado al masaje sobre los niveles de dolor espinal en mujeres obesas. Métodos La muestra incluyó a 49 mujeres obesas con edades de 20 a 60 años, distribuidas aleatoriamente en tres grupos: control (n = 15), intervención (n = 19) y placebo (n = 15). Los grupos intervención y placebo se sometieron a ocho sesiones con 35 minutos de duración, dos veces por semana durante un mes, utilizándose el aceite esencial de Lavandula angustifolia solo en el grupo intervención. Para el grupo placebo se utilizó un placebo y el grupo control no recibió ninguna intervención. Los niveles de dolor se midieron antes y después de la intervención, utilizando la Escala Visual Analógica. Resultados Hubo una disminución significativa del dolor total en la columna (p = 0,004), en la región cervical (p = 0,003) y en la región lumbar (p = 0,008) en el grupo intervención. Conclusión El aceite esencial de lavanda tuvo un impacto positivo en la reducción del dolor de columna vertebral en mujeres obesas, así como en las áreas específicas de las regiones cervical y lumbar en comparación con los grupos control y placebo. Nivel de evidencia I; Ensayo clínico aleatorizado.

Anxiety symptoms and alcohol abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study with Brazilian dental undergraduate students.

AIM: The aim of this study is to assess whether anxiety symptoms are associated with alcohol abuse in Brazilian undergraduate dental students during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted. A semi-structured questionnaire addressing the variables of interest was hosted on Google Forms and shared with dental undergraduate students from all Brazilian regions between July 8 and 27, 2020. Alcohol abuse was measured using the Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye opener (CAGE) questionnaire score of ≥2. All participants responded to the seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Hierarchical logistic regression was also conducted. RESULTS: Among the 1050 students evaluated, 18.7% (n = 196) had a positive screening for alcohol abuse during the pandemic. The prevalence of mild (GAD-7 = 5-9), moderate (GAD-7 = 10-14), and severe (GAD-7 ≥15) anxiety among students were 31.3%, 29.6%, and 24.2%, respectively. The final hierarchical logistic regression model showed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, anxiety levels predict the likelihood of alcohol abuse among students with moderate (OR 10.05 [95% IC: 4.12-24.52]) or severe (OR 15.82 [95% IC: 6.46-38.73]) anxiety, especially for male students (moderate anxiety: OR 17.06 [95% CI: 8.36-34.78]; severe anxiety: OR 28.38 [95% CI: 8.62-38.24]). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of alcohol abuse and moderate or severe anxiety in Brazilian undergraduate dental students during the COVID-19 pandemic was high. Male students may be more sensitive to the presence of anxiety symptoms in this period, thus contributing to higher levels of alcohol consumption, in comparison to female students. Intervention strategies that promote the adoption of healthier lifestyles can enable the effective management of anxiety symptoms during the pandemic and thus, hold the potential to reduce exacerbated alcohol intake in this population.

Cognitive complaints in individuals recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder: A cross-sectional study.

AIM: To assess the differences in subjective cognitive dysfunction between major depressive disorder (MDD) and recently diagnosed Bipolar Disorder (BD) across euthymia and mood episodes. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study corresponding to the second wave of a longitudinal study. The first wave consisted of subjects aged between 18 and 60 diagnosed with MDD. In the follow up after three years (second wave), conversion from MDD to BD diagnosis was assessed by qualified psychologists using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI-Plus). Subjects were categorized in four diagnostic groups: euthymic MDD, MDD in a current mood episode, euthymic BD, and BD in a current mood episode. All subjects completed the Cognitive Complaints in Bipolar Disorder Rating Assessment (COBRA), an instrument specifically designed for detecting subjective cognitive deficits in BD. RESULTS: The total sample (n = 468) included 410 subjects with MDD and 58 individuals recently diagnosed with BD. We subdivided the 2 groups based on their current mood state, and found a significant difference in COBRA total scores between euthymic BD individuals (median 17.00 [IQR: 8.75 - 20.75]) and euthymic MDD subjects (median 8.00 [IRQ: 5.00 - 14.00], p = 0.002), showing higher subjective cognitive dysfunction in individuals recently diagnosed with BD. The differences remained significant after adjusting for the presence of lifetime psychotic symptoms. We found no differences between MDD and BD during an acute mood episode. LIMITATION: The small sample size of individuals with BD. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest a higher presence of subjective cognitive complaints among individuals recently diagnosed with BD in comparison to individuals with MDD during euthymia.

Factors Associated with the Oral Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Intellectual Disabilities / Factores asociados con la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud bucal en niños con discapacidad intelectual

Abstract: Different factors can influence the perception of quality of life in individuals with intellectual disabilities. This study investigated the factors associated with quality of life related to oral health in children with intellectual disabilities from the perspective of their parents. A cross-sectional study was carried out with Brazilian children from specialized institutions and their respective guardians. Data were collected through medical records, application of instruments and oral clinical examination (n=92). Most children had poor oral hygiene (64.10%) and a high caries experience (59.8%). The mothers' perception of quality of life related to oral health was low, however there was an association of greater perception when they had low education, female child, less brushing frequency and history of breastfeeding (p≤0.05). Although the perception of quality of life was low, the oral condition found evidences the need to promote oral health education actions with children with intellectual disabilities and their respective guardians.

Resumen: Diferentes factores pueden influir en la calidad de vida de personas con discapacidad intelectual. Este estudio investigó los factores asociados con la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud oral en niños con discapacidades intelectuales desde la perspectiva de sus cuidadores. Se realizó un estudio transversal con niños brasileños institucionalizados, que fueron evaluados clínicamente y sus respectivos tutores, quienes respondieron cuestionarios. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de registros médicos, aplicación de instrumentos de evaluación y examen clínico oral (n=92). La mayoría de los niños presentaban una higiene oral deficiente (64,10%) y una experiencia de caries alta (59,8%). Si bien la percepción específicamente de las madres respecto del impacto de las condiciones de la salud oral en la calidad de vida fue baja, mostró una tendencia a aumentar en cuanto disminuía el nivel educacional, la frecuencia de cepillado y la historia de lactancia materna (p≤0.05). El hecho de que la percepción del impacto en la calidad de vida por parte de los tutores no se condiga con las precarias condiciones de salud oral exhibida por los niños con discapacidad intelectual, no sólo demuestra el desconocimiento respecto de la importancia de la salud oral en un contexto general, sino que también evidencia la necesidad de promover acciones que incentiven el cuidado y educación en relación con este aspecto, tanto en los tutores como en los niños afectados.

Sleep alterations in individuals recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder across different mood stages.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the differences in sleep impairments in major depressive disorder (MDD) and individuals recently diagnosed with bipolar disorder (BD) across different mood stages. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study corresponding to the second wave of a prospective clinical cohort of a sample of outpatients. The first wave included subjects diagnosed with MDD aged 18 to 60 years. Averaging 3 years after the first phase (second wave), conversion from MDD to BD diagnosis was assessed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview. The total sample was divided into four groups: euthymic MDD, MDD in a current episode, euthymic BD, and BD in a current mood episode. The sleep alterations were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. RESULTS: The sample included 468 subjects (261 euthymic MDD, 149 MDD currently depressed, 16 euthymic BD, and 42 BDs currently in a (hypo)manic or depressive episode). Euthymic BD differed from euthymic MDD only in the domains of sleep efficiency and sleep disturbances, showing lower sleep efficiency (PR 4.91 [95%CI 1.94 - 12.42]) and higher sleep disturbances (PR 3.38 [95%CI 1.32 - 8.67]) in subjects recently diagnosed with BD during euthymia. These differences remained significant after adjusting for the potential confounding factors. CONCLUSIONS: The findings point out the relevance of regular sleep assessments in individuals recently diagnosed with BD, since the differences in sleep quality observed could provide insights regarding prognosis, treatment, and the extent to which these individuals display significant subsyndromal symptomatology, even in the absence of a mood episode.

Effects of depression and excess body weight on cognition and functioning in young adults: A population-based study.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to assess the independent effects of depression and excess body weight (EBW) on cognition and functioning in a community sample of young adults. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional of 943 young adults. The diagnosis of a current depressive episode was performed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). Cognition and functioning were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and the Functional Assessment Short Test (FAST), respectively. The EBW was defined as BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m2. The independent main effects of depression and EBW, as well as the analysis interaction were performed using two-way analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). RESULTS: The total sample comprised 943 adults, with 75 (8.0%) individuals diagnosed with a current depressive episode and 493 (52,6%) with EBW. Of the 75 subjects with depression, 40 were identified with EBW comorbidity. Subjects with depression and EBW comorbidity reported greater cognitive and functional impairment, as compared to individuals with depression without EBW. There was a significant interaction between depression and EBW on MoCA total (p<0.001) as well as FAST total (p=0.010), work (p=0.002), cognition (p=0.023), finances (p=0.032) and relationships domains (p=0.008). CONCLUSIONS: The adverse effects of depression and EBW are independent and cumulative with respect to cognition and functioning of individuals. The understanding of the complex interactions between cognition, functioning, EBW and depression are important for development of preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Resilience as a mediator factor in the relationship between childhood trauma and mood disorder: A community sample of young adults.

BACKGROUND: Studies on the field of mood disorders has mainly focusing on the risk factors associated to develop the illness or the clinical factors associated with the clinical progression. Less attention was given to factors such as resilience that may be associated with better outcomes in the course of mood disorders. In this study, we assessed the mediation effect of resilience on the relationship between childhood trauma and mood disorders, as well as the severity of depressive symptoms in a population-based sample. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with a community sample of young adults with bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and community controls without any mood disorder. The trauma experiences during childhood were assessed by Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). The severity of depressive symptoms was assessed using the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and to assess the resilience was used the Resilience Scale (RS-25). RESULTS: All subtypes of trauma were associated with both MDD and BD, however, only physical and emotional abuse differentiated BD from MDD subjects. Bootstrapping-enhanced mediation analyses indicated that resilience partly mediated the association of childhood trauma to both mood disorder and severity of depression. LIMITATION: The employed mediation analyses are cross-sectional in nature, which limits any firm conclusions regarding causality. CONCLUSIONS: The findings support the clinical assumption that resilient subjects may be partly protected against the detrimental long-term effects of childhood trauma. This study provides important information regarding the relationships among childhood trauma, resilience, and mood disorder.

Prevalência de ansiedade e fatores associados em adultos / Prevalence of anxiety and associated factors in adults

RESUMO Objetivo Identificar a prevalência de transtornos de ansiedade em uma amostra de base populacional e fatores associados. Métodos Estudo transversal de base populacional realizado com indivíduos entre 18 e 35 anos. As variáveis sociodemográficas, índice de massa corporal, presença de doença crônica, abuso de álcool e tabagismo foram analisadas. Os transtornos de ansiedade foram verificados pela Mini Internacional Neuropsychiatric Interview 5.0. Foi utilizado o teste Qui-quadrado, considerando o intervalo de confiança de 95%. Resultados A amostra foi constituída por 1.953 pessoas. A prevalência de transtornos de ansiedade foi de 27,4%. Agorafobia (17,9%) e transtorno de ansiedade generalizada (14,3%) foram os quadros mais prevalentes. Mulheres apresentaram maior prevalência de ansiedade, com 32,5%, quando comparadas aos homens (21,3%) (p < 0,001). As variáveis sexo, anos de estudo, renda, doença crônica, tabagismo e álcool foram associadas a mais de três transtornos de ansiedade investigados (p < 0,001). Conclusão Os dados demonstram que os transtornos de ansiedade são muito frequentes em adultos, sendo mais prevalentes entre as mulheres. Estão associadas aos transtornos ansiosos, principalmente, as condições socioeconômicas e substâncias licitas. Conhecer as prevalências dos transtornos de ansiedade e fatores associados pode auxiliar profissionais de saúde a elaborarem melhores diagnósticos e tratamentos.

ABSTRACT Objective Identify the prevalence of anxiety disorders in a population sample and associated factors. Methods A cross-sectional study of population base conducted with individuals between 18 and 35 years old. Sociodemographic variables, body mass index (BMI), presence of diseases, and use of alcohol and smoke were analyzed. The anxiety disorders were verified by the clinical interview Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview 5.0. For the analysis, was used the Chi-square test, considering a confidence interval of 95%. Results The prevalence of general anxiety was 27.4%. Agoraphobia (17.9%) and generalized anxiety disorder (14.3%) were the most prevalent. Women presented a higher prevalence of general anxiety with 32.5% when compared with man (21,3%) (p < 0.001). The variables gender, years of study, income, health problems, smoking, and alcohol were associated to more than three anxiety disorders investigated (p < 0,001). Conclusions The findings demonstrate that anxiety disorders are frequent in adults, being more prevalent among women. It was associated mainly with socioeconomic conditions and legal substances. Knowing the prevalence of anxiety disorders and associated factors can help health professionals to develop better diagnoses and treatments.

Persistence of symptoms after cognitive therapies is associated with childhood trauma: A six months follow-up study.

This study aims to assess the effect of childhood trauma on the outcomes of brief cognitive therapies for major depressive disorder. This is a follow-up clinical study nested in a randomized clinical trial of cognitive therapies. Sixty-one patients were assessed at baseline, post-intervention and six-month follow-up. The study showed that brief cognitive therapies improved depressive and anxious symptoms at post-intervention and six-month follow-up. Higher childhood trauma scores at baseline were significantly associated with higher severity of depressive and anxious symptoms at six-month follow-up. Longer courses of psychotherapy may be needed to improve the long-lasting effects of traumatic experiences.

Metabolic syndrome, depression and anhedonia among young adults.

The aim of this study was to assess the association between anhedonia and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a well-characterized community sample of individuals with a current depressive episode. This is a cross-sectional study with young adults aged 24-30 years old. Depressive episode and the presence of anhedonia was assessed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview - Plus version (MINI Plus). The MetS was assessed using the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP/ATP III). The sample included 931 subjects, being 22 had depression without anhedonia, whereas 55 had depression with anhedonia. MetS was more prevalent among subjects with depression and anhedonia (43.6%) when compared to individuals without anhedonia and population control group. Moreover, subjects with depression and anhedonia have a significant increase of levels of glucose, triglycerides, total-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol, as well as significant decreased in the HDL-cholesterol level. The present study showed that individuals with depression and anhedonia present higher prevalence of MetS. Our study suggests that the use of the concept of anhedonia may contribute to a better understanding of the complex relationship between depression and metabolic syndrome.

Atitudes de alunos expectadores de práticas de bullyng na escola / Attitudes of bullying practices bystanders students at school

The objective was to analyze the prevalence of students who were bystander's violence situations at school, making identification about attitudes of these observers on the issue of bullyingin Aracaju, Nossa Senhora do Socorro, Sergipe, Brazil. Cross quantitative study was carried out from August 2012 to September 2013. There were 753 adolescent's participants. The sampling plan was based on the population of students enrolled in public schools of Grande Aracaju. We used the questionnaire "Peer Violence". The subjects who have witnessed violent situations were (51.4%). On ways to more observed aggression, verbal bullying was the most frequent (55.60%), followed by physical bullying (29%). The main reactions of victims of bullying,and who witnessed some aggression situation was not retaliate (42.6%), asking the aggressor to stop (21.8%) and calling an adult (12.87%). The victims were supported positively by the bystanders when the perpetrator was mostly male, older and integrated in the same class. Support for the aggressor occurred when ill-treatment was perpetuated by older individuals, male and belonging to another class. Bystanders have no yet constituted a network of supporting, and they have been engaged passively in ending bullying.

O objetivo foi analisar a prevalência de alunos que testemunham situações de violência escolar, com identificação de atitudes desses espectadores na problemática do bullyingem Aracaju e Nossa Senhora do Socorro, Sergipe, Brasil. Estudo transversal de natureza quantitativa, desenvolvido no período de agosto de 2012 a setembro de 2013. Participaram 753 adolescentes. O plano amostral foi baseado na população de alunos matriculados em escolas públicas estaduais da Grande Aracaju. Foi utilizado um questionário validado de Violência entre Pares desenvolvido na Universidade de Lisboa. Mais da metade dos sujeitos da pesquisa (51,4%) testemunharam situações de violência. Entre formas de agressão mais observadas, o bullyingverbal teve maior frequência (55,60%), seguido do bullying físico (29%). As principais reações das vítimas de bullying,e dos que presenciaram alguma situação de agressão foi não revidar (42,6%), pedir ao agressor para parar (21,8%) e recorrer a um adulto (12,87%). As vítimas foram apoiadas positivamente pelos espectadores principalmente quando o agressor era do sexo masculino, mais velho e integrado na mesma turma. O apoio ao agressor ocorreu quando maus-tratos foram perpetuados por indivíduos mais velhos, do sexo masculino e pertencentes a outra turma. Os espectadores ainda não constituem uma rede de amparo, envolvendo-se passivamente no término do bullying

Demographic-socioeconomic profile and sexual behavior of pregnant adolescents in a city in northeastern Brazil / Perfil demográfico, socioeconômico e comportamento sexual de adolescentes grávidas de um município do nordeste brasileiro

Adolescence pregnancy pictures the interaction between the exertion of sexuality and the reproductive life, as a process influenced by the historical and social context of the embedded person. This study aims to portray the demographic and socioeconomic profile and the sexual behavior of pregnant teenagers. It is a cross- sectional study accomplished at Family Health Units in a Brazilian northeast city. Participated in the study 50 adolescents between 13 and 19 years of age. It was adopted a survey with open and closed ended questions. Among the adolescents menarche occurred at an average of 11.68 years of age (pd = 1.3); 48% of them had their first sexual intercourse before 16 years-old (group average = 14.30 ­ dp = 1.71); the majority were primigravidae; abstained from alcohol ingestion during the gestational period and did not use birth-control methods; 98% had low family income. The pregnancy was a reason for school evasion. The knowledge of birth-control methods was not an impedible factor to the early pregnancy. The appropriation of the guideline for birth control has become one of the biggest difficulties in the basic health basic system to avoid unplanned pregnancy. In this situational context, there are sociocultural, political and economic factors involved.

A gravidez na adolescência retrata a interação do exercício da sexualidade e da vida reprodutiva, sendo um processo influenciado pelo contexto histórico e social no qual o indivíduo está inserido. Este estudo teve como objetivo caracterizar o perfil demográfico, socioeconômico e o comportamento sexual de adolescentes grávidas. Trata-se de uma pesquisa transversal realizada em Unidades de Saúde da Família de um município do nordeste brasileiro. Foram cadastradas 50 adolescentes grávidas com idade entre 13 e 19 anos. Utilizou-se questionário com perguntas abertas e fechadas. Observou-se uma média de idade da menarca de 11,68 anos (dp = 1,3); 48% das adolescentes tiveram a primeira relação sexual antes dos 16 anos, sendo a média do grupo de 14,30 (dp = 1,71); a maioria era primigesta, abstinha-se do consumo de álcool no período gestacional e não utilizava métodos contraceptivos; 98% possuíam baixa renda familiar. A gravidez foi motivo para evasão escolar. Ter conhecimento de métodos contraceptivos não foi fator impeditivo para a gravidez precoce. A interiorização das normas contraceptivas tem se revelado como uma das grandes dificuldades da atenção básica de saúde para evitar uma gravidez imprevista. No contexto dessa situação, existem fatores socioculturais, políticos e econômicos envolvidos.

Escala de Crenças no Mundo Injusto (UWS): evidências de validade fatorial, convergente e precisão / Unjust World Scale (UWS): evidence of factorial, convergent validity and reliability / Escala de Creencias en el Mundo Injusto (UWS): evidencias de validez factorial, convergente y confiabilidad

O objetivo principal deste trabalho foi verificar evidências de validade e precisão da Escala de Crenças no Mundo Injusto, avaliando sua validade fatorial, convergente e precisão pelo alfa de Cronbach. Para tanto, contou-se com a participação voluntária de 254 estudantes de uma universidade privada do estado de Sergipe. Esses estudantes responderam a Escala de Crenças no Mundo Injusto (UWS), Escala de Crenças Gerais no Mundo Justo (GeJWS) e Escala de Crenças Globais no Mundo Justo (GJWS). Por meio da análise fatorial e análise fatorial confirmatória, os principais resultados corroboram a estrutura unifatorial da UWS, correlações negativas com as GeJWS e GJWS e um índice de precisão satisfatório. Conclui- -se que a UWS é uma medida unifatorial válida e precisa, podendo ser usada em outros estudos nesse contexto.(AU)

The main purpose of this paper was to verify evidence of validity and reliability of the Unjust World Scale (UWS), evaluating its factorial validity, convergent and Cronbach’s alpha reliability. We counted on the volunteer participation of 254 young students from a private university in the state of Sergipe, Brasil. These students answered the UWS, General Beliefs in the Just World Scale (GeJWS) and the Global Beliefs in the Just World Scale (GJWS). Through factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, the main results confirm the factor structure of UWS, correlations with the GeJWS and GJWS and a satisfactory reliability. We concluded that the UWS is a valid and reliability measure and can be used in other studies in this context.(AU)

El objetivo principal de este estudio fue verificar evidencias de validez y confiabilidad de la Escala de Creencias en el Mundo Injusto, evaluando su validez factorial, convergente y confiabilidad por el alfa de Cronbach. Para tanto, participaron voluntariamente 254 estudiantes de una universidad privada del estado de Sergipe, Brasil. Esos estudiantes respondieron a la Escala de Creencias en el Mundo Injusto (UWS), Escala de Creencias Generales en el Mundo Justo (GeJWS) y Escala de Creencias Globales en el Mundo Justo (GJWS). Por medio del análisis factorial y análisis factorial confirmatorio, los principales resultados corroboran la estructura unifatorial de la UWS, correlaciones negativas con las GeJWS y GJWS y un índice de confiabilidad satisfactorio. Se concluye que la UWS es una medida unifactorial válida y precisa y puede ser usada en otros estudios en ese contexto.(AU)

Escala de Crenças no Mundo Injusto (UWS): evidências de validade fatorial, convergente e precisão / Unjust World Scale (UWS): evidence of factorial, convergent validity and reliability / Escala de Creencias en el Mundo Injusto (UWS): evidencias de validez factorial, convergente y confiabilidad

O objetivo principal deste trabalho foi verificar evidências de validade e precisão da Escala de Crenças no Mundo Injusto, avaliando sua validade fatorial, convergente e precisão pelo alfa de Cronbach. Para tanto, contou-se com a participação voluntária de 254 estudantes de uma universidade privada do estado de Sergipe. Esses estudantes responderam a Escala de Crenças no Mundo Injusto (UWS), Escala de Crenças Gerais no Mundo Justo (GeJWS) e Escala de Crenças Globais no Mundo Justo (GJWS). Por meio da análise fatorial e análise fatorial confirmatória, os principais resultados corroboram a estrutura unifatorial da UWS, correlações negativas com as GeJWS e GJWS e um índice de precisão satisfatório. Conclui- -se que a UWS é uma medida unifatorial válida e precisa, podendo ser usada em outros estudos nesse contexto.

The main purpose of this paper was to verify evidence of validity and reliability of the Unjust World Scale (UWS), evaluating its factorial validity, convergent and Cronbach’s alpha reliability. We counted on the volunteer participation of 254 young students from a private university in the state of Sergipe, Brasil. These students answered the UWS, General Beliefs in the Just World Scale (GeJWS) and the Global Beliefs in the Just World Scale (GJWS). Through factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, the main results confirm the factor structure of UWS, correlations with the GeJWS and GJWS and a satisfactory reliability. We concluded that the UWS is a valid and reliability measure and can be used in other studies in this context.

El objetivo principal de este estudio fue verificar evidencias de validez y confiabilidad de la Escala de Creencias en el Mundo Injusto, evaluando su validez factorial, convergente y confiabilidad por el alfa de Cronbach. Para tanto, participaron voluntariamente 254 estudiantes de una universidad privada del estado de Sergipe, Brasil. Esos estudiantes respondieron a la Escala de Creencias en el Mundo Injusto (UWS), Escala de Creencias Generales en el Mundo Justo (GeJWS) y Escala de Creencias Globales en el Mundo Justo (GJWS). Por medio del análisis factorial y análisis factorial confirmatorio, los principales resultados corroboran la estructura unifatorial de la UWS, correlaciones negativas con las GeJWS y GJWS y un índice de confiabilidad satisfactorio. Se concluye que la UWS es una medida unifactorial válida y precisa y puede ser usada en otros estudios en ese contexto.

Evidências de validade de construto e precisão da Escala Geral do Mundo Justo / Evidence of construct validity and reliability of the General Just World Scale

um único componente que explicou 37,11 por cento da variância, com índice de precisão (Alfa de Cronbach) de 0,66. Realizando uma análise fatorial confirmatória foi possível corroborar o modelo teórico unifatorial. Concluiu-se que este instrumento é adequado psicometricamente, podendo ser utilizado para fins de pesquisa. Além disso, as pontuações nesta medida não são afetadas por variáveis de natureza demográfica.(AU)

This study aimed to validate the Just World General Scale to the Brazilian milieu, assembling empirical evidences of its construct validity and reliability. Participated in this research 254 undergraduate students of a private university in the Aracajú city, SE. Most of them were studying Psychology (44.9 percent) and Law (49.6 percent), female (64.8 percent) and with a mean age of 21.8 years (DP = 6.34). Principal Components Analysis revealed one component, taking into account 37.11 percent of the variance and reliability (Cronbach’s Alpha) of 0.66. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to confirm the theoretical model with one factor. It was concluded that it is a psychometrically reliable instrument and it can be used for research purposes. Moreover, its scores are not influenced by participants’ demographic characteristics.(AU)