Emotion regulation unveiled through the categorical lens of attachment.

BACKGROUND: Emotion regulation, the process by which individuals manage and modify their emotional experiences, expressions, and responses to adaptively navigate and cope with various situations, plays a crucial role in daily life. Our study investigates the variations in emotion regulation strategies among individuals with different attachment styles (AS). Specifically, we examine how individuals with secure, anxious, avoidant, and fearful attachment styles effectively utilize cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression to regulate their emotions. METHODS: A total of n = 98 adults were instructed to attend, reappraise, or suppress their emotions while viewing negative and neutral images from the International Affective Picture System (IAPS) in an experimental emotion regulation task. After completing the task, participants rated the valence and arousal elicited by the images. Attachment styles were measured using the ECR-12 questionnaire and then categorized into four AS. RESULTS: Our study revealed that individuals with secure AS (n = 39) effectively reduced displeasure through cognitive reappraisal but experienced levels of displeasure with expressive suppression. Anxious AS (n = 16) individuals successfully reduced displeasure using cognitive reappraisal but struggled to regulate arousal and effectively use expressive suppression. Avoidant AS (n = 24) individuals could reduce displeasure with both strategies but experienced high arousal during suppression attempts. Fearful AS (n = 19) individuals effectively regulated both displeasure and arousal using either strategy. However, Secure AS individuals showed superior reappraisal efficacy, significantly reducing arousal levels compared to the Fearful AS group. Both Secure and Avoidant AS groups experienced higher valence during reappraisal relative to a baseline, indicating a decrease in displeasure. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with different AS exhibit variations in the effectiveness of their use of emotion regulation strategies. Our findings reinforce the significance of AS in shaping emotion regulation processes and emphasize the need for tailored approaches to support individuals with different attachment orientations.

Brain oscillations during emotion regulation and the two-dimensional model of adult attachment.

Emotion Regulation (ER) refers to the processes by which individuals influence their own emotions. It is a crucial aspect of human behavior, affecting everything from interpersonal relationships to mental health. The relationship between ER and Attachment Theory (AT) is pivotal. AT suggests that early bonds with primary caregivers influence future relationship expectations and behaviors. These initial experiences shape internal models of self and others, affecting how individuals regulate their emotions. Understanding the interplay between ER and AT is essential for comprehending the human affective system. In this study, we explored the neural underpinnings of ER, focusing on two distinct strategies: cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression. Using electroencephalography (EEG), we examined changes in neural oscillations from 52 adults during an ER task. Specifically, we observed increased frontal theta activity (3-6 Hz) during reappraisal compared to suppression strategies. This frontal theta activity suggests enhanced cognitive control engagement. Conversely, during suppression, we noted a decrease in beta frequency (15-30 Hz) activity from central electrodes, indicative of differing neural processes. Further integrating psychological theories, we explored the relationship between these neural markers and dimensions of human attachment. Employing the Experiences in Close Relationships-12 scale (ECR-12), we identified a negative correlation between attachment anxiety and frontal theta activity. Lower levels of attachment anxiety were associated with increased theta activity, reflecting potentially more effective emotion regulation. Additionally, we found that higher theta activity corresponded with fewer difficulties in emotional control measured by the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). Regarding central beta activity, our findings revealed an interesting correlation with Emotional Inattention, a concept tied to Attachment Avoidance. This suggests that central beta activity may serve as a neural marker for specific attachment-related ER processing. These results highlight the distinct neural pathways involved in different ER strategies and their relationship with the AT and neural responses during emotional processing.

An attachment-based pilot program to promote adolescent adjustment to parental divorce.

The study aimed to assess the impact of an attachment-based intervention on adolescent adaptation to parental divorce. The Adolescent Adjustment Pilot Program to Parental Divorce (AAPPD) employed an experimental group format, targeting improvements in various adaptation indicators (life satisfaction, positive affect, and negative affect). The sample comprised 30 Chilean adolescents aged 12 to 16 (M = 13.6, SD = 1.35), with 60% females and 40% males. After the intervention, the adolescents showed a decrease in negative affect at 6 and 12 months. However, no differences were identified in other dimensions of subjective well-being considered as indicators of divorce adaptation. The findings prompt discussion on theoretical and clinical implications.

Validación Chilena del Cuestionario de Evaluación de Apego en el adulto CaMir versión abreviada

El Cuestionario de Evaluación de Apego en el adulto CaMir, es un instrumento de auto-reporte basado en la Teoría del Apego que evalúa los modelos de relación en adultos y permite describir las estrategias de apego. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue desarrollar una versión breve para el contexto chileno, para lo cual se llevaron a cabo dos estudios. En el Estudio 1 se obtuvo una versión reducida del CaMir bajo una estrategia de validación cruzada. En el Estudio 2, se aplicó la versión reducida obtenida en el estudio 1 a una amplia muestra de adultos/as chilenos/as (n=1246). Los resultados muestran evidencias que apoyan la estructura interna propuesta, y los análisis de invarianza apoyan la existencia de equivalencia/invarianza de medida entre hombres y mujeres. Adicionalmente, esta versión obtuvo correlaciones significativas con la Escala de Dificultades de Regulación Emocional, el cuestionario de Experiencias en Relaciones Cercanas y la Escala de Depresión del Centro de Estudios Epidemiológicos. En síntesis, los resultados muestran que esta nueva versión abreviada del CaMir, es un instrumento apropiado para el estudio de los modelos de relación y las estrategias de apego en adultos/as chilenos/as.

The CaMir Adult Attachment Assessment Questionnaire is a self-report instrument based on Attachment Theory that assesses relationship models in adults and allows describing attachment strategies. The objective of this research was to develop a short version for the Chilean context. The results of two studies are presented. In Study 1, a reduced version of CaMir was obtained under a cross-validation strategy. In Study 2, the reduced version obtained in Study 1 was applied to a large sample of Chilean adults (n=1246). The results show evidence that supports the proposed internal structure, and the invariance analysis support the existence of equivalence/invariance of measurement between men and women. Additionally, this version obtained significant correlations with the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, the Experiences in Close Relationships questionnaire and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. In summary, the results show that this new abbreviated version of the CaMir is an appropriate instrument for the study of relationship models and attachment strategies in Chilean adults.

Emotion regulation strategies and the two-dimensional model of adult attachment: a pilot study.

Introduction: Emotion Regulation plays a crucial role in human's daily lives. Extensive research has shown that people with different attachment orientations exhibit divergencies in how they perform emotion regulation strategies. Methods: 44 adults performed an experimental emotion regulation task in which they were instructed to attend, reappraise, or suppress their emotions while viewing negative and neutral images taken from the International Affective Picture System (IAPS). Afterward, participants rated valence, arousal, and emotional dominance elicited by the images. Additionally, attachment orientations were measured using the ECR-12 questionnaire. Results: Results showed a relationship between attachment avoidance and the level of arousal during the reappraisal condition; specifically, the higher attachment avoidance levels, the greater the emotional intensity during the implementation of cognitive reappraisal strategy. Such results suggest an association between failing in downregulate intense emotions using cognitive reappraisal when there are higher levels of attachment avoidance. Consistently, we also found that lower dominance during reappraisal was associated with more levels of avoidance. Conclusion: These results indicate that people with higher levels of attachment avoidance experience difficulties when using the cognitive reappraisal strategy to reduce the emotional impact produced by negative emotional stimuli. Our findings reinforce the idea that avoidant people experience high physiological activation when experience emotions.

[Validation of a Dispositional Hope Scale for Chilean children and adolescents]. / Validación de una Escala de Esperanza Disposicional para población infantil y juvenil chilena.

According to Snyder's theory, hope is defined as a dispositional attribute consisting of two dimensions, agency and pathway thinking. This construct has been widely studied because of its association with quality and satisfaction with life. In the Chilean context, there is no valid measure adapted to the population of children and adolescents. OBJECTIVE: To assess the psychometric properties of the Dispositional Hope Scale for Chilean children and adolescents (NNA, for its acronym in Spanish). SUBJECTS AND METHOD: The study was conducted on 331 NNA, aged 10 to 20 years, from different educational centers in the country. Reliability was tested with Cronbach's alpha coefficient. In addition, one-factor vs two-factor models were compared using the Maximum Likelihood (MLR), while validity was analyzed in relation to other variables, specifically depressive symptoms. RESULTS: The scale showed a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.89 and an adequate fit to the two-factor model, keeping the original structure proposed by Snyder et al. It is negatively related to depressive symptomatology. CONCLUSIONS: The NNA Hope Scale shows appropriate psychometric properties for its use on Chilean NNA population.

Internalized homonegativity moderates the association between attachment avoidance and emotional intimacy among same-sex male couples.

Introduction: The present study aimed to examine dyadic associations between attachment insecurity and emotional intimacy in same-sex male couples, and to investigate whether and how each partner's internalized homonegativity (IH) moderated these associations. Methods: The sample included 138 same-sex male couples. Both dyad members completed self-report measures of attachment insecurity, emotional intimacy, and IH. The actor-partner interdependence model with moderation analysis was applied. Results: Indicated that higher levels of actor's and partner's attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance were associated with lower actor's emotional intimacy. IH moderated the partner effects of attachment avoidance on emotional intimacy. The partner's higher attachment avoidance was associated with one's own lower emotional intimacy at low (but not high) levels of one's own IH and at high (but not low) levels of the partner's IH. Discussion: Findings suggest that the partner's attachment avoidance may differently affect one's own emotional intimacy depending on the IH levels of both dyad members. Helping partnered sexual minority men decrease attachment insecurity while recognizing their own and their partners' IH may promote relationship quality.

Propuesta de Valores de Referencia para el Cuestionario de Evaluación del Apego Adulto: Experiences in Close Relationships (ECR-12), en población adulta chilena / Reference values for the Adult Attachment Assessment Questionnaire: Experiences in Close Relationships (ECR-12) in the Chilean Adult Population

El cuestionario de Experiencias en Relaciones Cercanas (ECR) es un instrumento de auto-reporte ampliamente utilizado para evaluar el apego en la adultez, a partir de dos dimensiones: la ansiedad y la evitación asociadas al apego. Este instrumento ha sido adaptado en múltiples contextos, incluyendo el chileno, del cual existe una versión abreviada (ECR-12), objeto de análisis del presente estudio. Si bien existe consenso en que la seguridad en el apego es mejor descrita en términos dimensionales, hay ámbitos, como en la práctica clínica donde contar con valores de referencia podría ser de utilidad. El objetivo de este estudio es proveer valores de referencia para la interpretación de los valores del ECR-12 en el contexto chileno. Para ello, una muestra de 6779 participantes respondió el ECR-12. Se utilizó el método de puntuación z con normalización para obtener los valores de referencia. Los análisis realizados evidenciaron la necesidad de construir baremos diferenciados por edad. Así, para el grupo de 29 años o menos, el punto de corte en la dimensión de ansiedad es de un promedio igual o superior a 4.4 puntos, y para la evitación, el punto de corte es de un promedio igual o superior a 2.5. En cambio, para el grupo de 30 años o más, el punto de corte en la dimensión de ansiedad es de un promedio igual o superior a 4.2, y para la evitación, es de un promedio igual o superior a 2.9. Estos hallazgos pueden ser relevantes no sólo para identificar a personas que puedan presentar niveles sustancialmente altos de ansiedad y/o evitación en el apego, sino, también puede constituirse como una herramienta clínica complementaria en contextos terapéuticos.

The Experiences in Close Relationships (ECR) questionnaire is a widely used self-report measure to assess adult attachment, based on two dimensions: attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance. This instrument has been adapted in multiple contexts, including the Chilean, for which there is an abbreviated version (ECR-12), that is the object of analysis in the present study. Although there is consensus that attachment security is best described in dimensional terms, there are areas, such as clinical practice, where having reference values could be useful. The aim of this study is to provide reference values for the interpretation of ECR-12 scores in the Chilean context. To do this, a sample of 6779 participants was evaluated using the ECR-12. The z-score normalization method was used to obtain the reference values. The analyzes carried out showed the need to build scales differentiated by age. Thus, for the group of 29 years or less, the cut-off point in the anxiety dimension is an average equal to or greater than 4.4 points, and for avoidance, the cut-off point is an average equal to or greater than 2.5. On the other hand, for the group aged 30 or older, the cut-off point in the anxiety dimension is an average equal to or greater than 4.2, and for avoidance, it is an average equal to or greater than 2.9. These findings can be relevant not only for identifying people who may present substantially high levels of anxiety and/or avoidance in attachment, but also as a complementary clinical tool in therapeutic contexts.

Psychological Adjustment Profiles of LGBTQ+ Young Adults Residing with Their Parents during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An International Study.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with poor mental health symptoms, particularly among vulnerable populations such as LGBTQ+ individuals. In the present study, we aimed to (i) identify different psychological adjustment profiles among LGBTQ+ young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and compare LGBTQ+ young adults in relation to (ii) sociodemographic characteristics and COVID-19-related experiences and (iii) the internal and external protective resources associated with each adjustment profile. An online questionnaire was administered to 1699 LGBTQ+ young adults from six countries (Brazil, Chile, Italy, Portugal, Sweden, and the UK). A cluster analysis was conducted, and four profiles of psychological adjustment were identified: unchallenged, resilient, distressed, and at-risk. The at-risk cluster scored lowest in social support (particularly from family). The profiles of participants who experienced the highest levels of pandemic adversity (at-risk and resilient) comprised mostly South American participants, those under lockdown at the time of survey completion, those who self-identified as transgender and non-binary, and those with a plurisexual sexual orientation. Interventions should consider strategies to help young adults maintain support systems and reinforce the value of positive family relationships. Specific groups within the LGBTQ+ community that seem to be in a particularly vulnerable situation may need additional tailored support.

Perceived Emotional Impact of COVID-19 and Depressive Symptoms among Male Same-Sex Chilean Couples: Direct and Indirect Dyadic Associations through Relationship Satisfaction.

Stressors arising from the COVID-19 pandemic can spill over into the quality of couple relationships, with negative consequences on mental health. The mental health impact of COVID-19 might be particularly pronounced in disadvantaged populations such as LGBT people. This study aimed to examine direct and indirect dyadic associations between emotional impact of COVID-19 and depressive symptoms through relationship satisfaction in male same-sex couples. Using a cross-sectional design, 158 male same-sex Chilean couples completed self-report measures of the emotional impact of COVID-19, relationship satisfaction and depressive symptoms. We used the actor-partner interdependence mediation model for indistinguishable dyads to explore the direct and indirect dyadic associations. Results indicated that each partner's perceived emotional impact of COVID-19 was associated with his own higher depressive symptoms directly and indirectly, through his own lower relationship satisfaction. The other partner's perceived emotional impact of COVID-19 was associated with one's own higher depressive symptoms only directly. Our findings reinforce the notion that satisfactory couple relationships can act as a protective factor against depression in the LGBT population. Programs to promote adaptive coping strategies to deal with the emotional impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may have beneficial effects for the emotional adjustment of male same-sex couples, also by promoting relationship satisfaction.

The negative effects of internalized homonegativity on sexual satisfaction: dyadic effects and gender-based differences in Chile.

Heterosexism is not only expressed through sexual prejudice as an external stressor, but also as an internalized rejection toward one's own (and others') sexually diverse identity. That is, lesbian women and gay men themselves internalize negative societal attitudes toward their sexual orientation and identity-a phenomenon called internalized homonegativity. A wealth of research shows that internalized homonegativity negatively affects the health and social adjustment of gay and lesbian people. However, the literature has documented this trend from an individual (over a dyadic) perspective, and largely among gay (over lesbian) samples. To address this oversight, we analyzed data from 210 gay and lesbian couples in Chile to examine both actor and partner effects of internalized homonegativity on their sexual satisfaction. Results from moderation analyses from an actor-partner interdependence model (APIM) approach show that partners' internalized homonegativity negatively affects actor sexual satisfaction, a pattern significantly moderated by gender; that is, only observed among lesbian couples. Our results further demonstrated that these effects hold above and beyond the actor and partner effects of age and relationship satisfaction, as well as relationship length. These results are consistent with the broader literature, which discusses the specific features of internalized homonegativity in lesbian women, characterized-among other aspects-by restrictive social demands over their sexuality. Accordingly, our findings highlight the deleterious relational consequences of internalized homonegativity and offer a relevant empirical contribution to the understanding of specific minority stress dynamics among lesbian women.

Efecto mediador de la motivación a buscar venganza en la relación de la ansiedad y la evitación en el apego con la calidad de vida / Mediating effect of revenge-seeking motivation on the relationship of attachment anxiety and avoidance to quality of life

OBJETIVO: Determinar el efecto mediador de la motivación a buscar venganza en la relación de la ansiedad y la evitación en el apego con la calidad de vida. METODOLOGÍA: estudio transversal correlacional. La muestra estuvo constituida por 558 personas de 18 a 65 años de la ciudad de Antofagasta, Chile. Fueron utilizados los instrumentos: Cuestionario WHOQoL-Bref; Experiencia en Relaciones Cercanas; y Motivación a buscar venganza. Se realizó un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales que consideró efectos directos, indirectos y totales. RESULTADOS: Del total de participantes, 289 (51,8%) fueron hombres. Las edades fluctuaron entre 18 y 65 años (M=39,7; ±13,42). Se encontraron efectos significativos en la relación entre la ansiedad y evitación en el apego en los dominios físico, psicológico y social-relacional de la calidad de vida. La motivación a buscar venganza tiene efecto de mediación total en la relación entre evitación en el apego y el dominio físico, y efecto de mediación parcial de la evitación en el apego sobre el dominio psicológico de la calidad de vida. CONCLUSIÓN: ansiedad y evitación en el apego disminuyen la calidad de vida y la motivación a buscar venganza media parcial o totalmente la relación entre la evitación en el apego sobre los dominios físico y psicológico de la calidad de vida.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the mediating effect of revenge-seeking motivation on the relationship between anxiety and avoidance in attachment and quality of life. METHODOLOGY: cross-sectional correlational study. The sample consisted of 558 people aged 18 to 65 years from the city of Antofagasta, Chile. The following instruments were used: WHOQoL-Bref Questionnaire; Experience in Close Relationships; and Motivation to seek revenge. Structural equation modeling was performed considering direct, indirect and total effects. RESULTS: Of the total number of participants, 289 (51.8%) were male. Ages ranged from 18 to 65 years (M=39.7; ±13.42). Significant effects were found in the relationship between anxiety and avoidance on attachment in the physical, psychological, and social-relational domains of quality of life. Revenge-seeking motivation has full mediation effect on the relationship between attachment avoidance and the physical domain, and partial mediation effect of attachment avoidance on the psychological domain of quality of life. CONCLUSION: Anxiety and attachment avoidance decrease quality of life, and revenge-seeking motivation partially or fully mediates the relationship between attachment avoidance and the physical and psychological domains of quality of life.

Estructura factorial e Invarianza Métrica del Test de Orientación Vital en niños valorado por los padres (LOT-P) / Factor structure and metric invariance of LOT-P on children, validated by parents

Antecedentes Basada en la teoría de Carver y Scheier, el optimismo es definido como un rasgo o disposición que consta de dos dimensiones, optimismo y pesimismo. Este constructo es ampliamente estudiado por su asociación con calidad de vida y bienestar psicológico. En el contexto nacional no se cuenta con un instrumento validado para medir este constructo en población infantojuvenil. En el presente artículo, se ofrece una alternativa para su evaluación en un amplio margen de edades a través de la medición realizada por los padres y madres en dos etapas del ciclo vital infantojuvenil. Objetivo El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la estructura factorial de la versión chilena del Test de Orientación Vital en niños, niñas y jóvenes, valorado por los padres, LOT-P. Para ello, se evaluó una muestra de 392 personas, padres y madres chilenos. Resultados Para el análisis, se revisó la fiabilidad para la muestra total, por género de padres, y por grupo etario. Asimismo, para el análisis factorial confirmatorio, se revisaron los índices de ajuste comúnmente utilizados en la práctica investigativa. Los datos obtenidos proporcionan evidencia que el instrumento se ajusta a la propuesta original de Lemola y colaboradores, correspondiente a una estructura bidimensional. Asimismo, se evidenció la equivalencia de la escala entre padres y madres, como para distintos tipos etarios. Conclusiones En conclusión, la escala LOT-P posee propiedades psicométricas adecuadas para la evaluación del optimismo de los niños, niñas y jóvenes, reportado por sus padres y madres. Algunas de las limitaciones de esta investigación se relacionan con la mayor participación de personas con un nivel educacional y socioeconómico alto, por ejemplo.

Background Based on the theory by Carver y Scheier, optimism is defined as a trait or disposition consisting of two dimensions, optimism and pessimism. This construct is widely studied for its association with quality of life and psychological well-being. In the Chilean context, this construct does not have a valid measure of children and youth. This paper offers, is offered an alternative for its evaluation in a wide range of ages through the measurement carried out by the fathers and mothers. Objective For the analysis, reliability was reviewed for the total sample, by gender of parents, and by age group. Likewise, for confirmatory factor analysis, the adjustment indices commonly used in research practice were reviewed. This study aims to assess the factor structure of LOT-P on Chilean children and youth, as reported by parents. Results Data obtained on a sample of 392 Chilean parents show a good fit with the two-dimensional structure proposed by Lemola et al. Additionally, results show metric invariance between mothers and fathers, s for different age types. Conclusions Therefore, LOT-P shows psychometric properties suitable for assessing NNA optimism, as reported by parents. This investigation has some limitations related with a high educational and socioeconomic level of the participants, for example.

Attachment and Dyadic Forgiveness in Individuals in Same-Sex Couple Relationships.

(1) Background: There is abundant evidence linking attachment insecurity to lower levels of interpersonal forgiveness. However, this association has been almost exclusively explored in people in a different-sex couple relationship, and there is little evidence referring to gay, lesbian, and bisexual (LGB) people in a same-sex relationship. The present study examines the association between romantic attachment and dyadic forgiveness in individuals involved in a same-sex couple relationship. (2) Methods: A total of 248 participants (52.8% female) aged 18-67 years (mean age: 31.02 ± 9.39) completed the Experiences in Close Relationships questionnaire and the Transgression-Related Interpersonal Motivation Inventory. (3) Results: Structural equation modeling showed that attachment avoidance was more strongly associated with dyadic forgiveness than attachment anxiety. Higher levels of attachment anxiety and avoidance were both linked to higher levels of avoidance motivation in response to partner transgressions, and higher attachment avoidance was linked to lower benevolence motivation. Multigroup analyses indicated a gender-specific association between attachment avoidance and revenge motivations, which was positive and significant among men only. (4) Conclusions: In the present study, we have identified that attachment avoidance plays a more prominent role in the tendency to forgive in same-sex couples. Implications at both theoretical and clinical practice levels are discussed.

Propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Confianza Diádica en personas gays y lesbianas en pareja / Psychometric Properties of the Dyadic Trust Scale in Gay and Lesbian People with a Partner

Resumen El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar las propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Confianza Diádica (ECD, Larzelere & Huston, 1980) en personas gays y lesbianas de Chile. Para ello, se evaluó una muestra de 360 personas chilenas gay o lesbianas involucradas en una relación de pareja. Los datos obtenidos proporcionan evidencia de que el instrumento se ajusta de manera aceptable a una estructura unidimensional y que es invariante entre personas gay y lesbianas. Adicionalmente, se identificó que posee una consistencia interna adecuada, así como una asociación inversa entre los niveles de confianza diádica y la ansiedad y evitación del apego. En conclusión, la ECD posee propiedades psicométricas adecuadas para la evaluación de la confianza diádica en personas gays y lesbianas en el contexto chileno.

Abstract The present study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chilean version of the Dyadic Trust Scale (DTS, Larzelere & Huston, 1980). For this purpose, a sample of 360 Chilean gay or lesbian people involved in a couple relationship was evaluated. The data obtained provide evidence that the instrument conforms acceptably to a unidimensional structure and scores are invariant between gay and lesbian persons. Additionally, it has adequate internal consistency, as well as an inverse association between levels of dyadic trust and attachment anxiety and avoidance. In conclusion, the ECD has adequate psychometric properties for the assessment of dyadic trust in gay and lesbian persons in the Chilean context.

Mental health in the Chilean LGBT population in times of COVID-19 / Salud mental en población LGBT chilena en tiempos de la COVID-19

Abstract Introduction There are few reports on mental health among the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) population in the context of COVID-19, especially in South America. Objective To describe the prevalence of symptoms associated with mental health disorders, as well as to analyze the risk of their occurrence, in different groups of the Chilean LGBT population in the context of COVID-19. Method A total of 1,181 LGBT people, ranged from 18 to 64 years participated in an online survey, using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-DASS-21. The central tendency measures were analyzed, then cut-off points were used to establish prevalence according to sex and sexual orientation. Finally, the probability of symptoms was analyzed using odds ratio. Results Lower levels of mental health were identified among the bisexual and other sexual orientations (pansexual, demisexual, asexual, etc.) population as compared with gays and lesbians, finding a greater presence of depressive symptoms (p = .000), anxious (p = .000) and related to stress (p<.001). Similarly, bisexual women are more likely to present symptoms associated with mental health disorders than men, as lesbians do, as compared with gays in the case of anxiety. Gays are at a higher risk of stress than lesbians. Discussion and conclusion Even though the pandemic affected the entire population, results give evidence of disparities among the various LGBT communities, showing the need to focus on preventive interventions and the implications of increased risk in bisexual population, particularly women, who are affected by various cross discriminations.

Resumen Introducción Existen pocos reportes sobre la salud mental en poblaciones de lesbianas, gays, bisexuales y transexuales (LGBT) en el contexto del COVID-19, especialmente en Sudamérica. Objetivo Describir la prevalencia de síntomas asociados a problemas de salud mental, así como analizar su riesgo de ocurrencia en diferentes grupos de población LGBT chilena en el contexto de la pandemia del COVID-19. Método Participaron en una encuesta en línea un total de 1,181 personas LGBT, con edades comprendidas entre los 18 y los 64 años, quienes completaron el cuestionario DASS-21 (del inglés Depression Anxiety Stress Scales). Primero se analizaron las medidas de tendencia central, luego se estableció la prevalencia según sexo y orientación sexual y finalmente se analizó la probabilidad de presentar síntomas mediante el odss ratio. Resultados Se identificaron menores niveles de salud mental en la población bisexual y otras orientaciones sexuales (pansexual, demisexual, asexual, etc.), en comparación con gays y lesbianas, debido a una mayor presencia de sintomatología depresiva (p = .000), ansiosa (p = .000) y vinculada al estrés (p<.001). Asimismo, las mujeres bisexuales fueron más propensas que los hombres a presentar síntomas asociados a trastornos de salud mental, al igual que las lesbianas, en comparación con los gays en el caso de la ansiedad. Los gays tienen un mayor riesgo de estrés que las lesbianas. Discusión y conclusión Aun cuando la pandemia afectó a toda la población, los resultados evidencian las disparidades entre las distintas comunidades LGBT, mostrando la necesidad de centrarse en las intervenciones preventivas y las implicaciones de un mayor riesgo en la población bisexual, especialmente en las mujeres, que se ven afectadas por diversas discriminaciones cruzadas.

Forgiveness in the Context of Divorce: A Cross-Cultural Measurement Invariance Study via Multiple-Group Factor Analysis (CFA) across Chile and Spain.

(1) Background: Current research on the factors involved in the adaptation process to divorce or separation has explored cross-cultural differences. An initial step in the cross-cultural field is to investigate whether the measurements applied are comparable in different cultural contexts. The aim of the present study is to test the measurement invariance of the Questionnaire of Forgiveness in Divorce-Separation (CPD-S); (2) Methods: The CPD-S was completed by 556 (M = 44.52, SD = 10.18) and 240 (M = 41.44, SD = 7.87) Chilean and Spanish divorced individuals, respectively. Confirmatory factor analyses in single samples and measurement invariance testing in a multi-group framework were conducted to test the cross-group equivalence; (3) Results: The single-factor structure of the CPD-S was supported in both countries. Measurement invariance analysis demonstrated that the CPD-S had partial scalar measurement invariance; (4) Conclusions: The evidence supports the conclusion that CPD-S operates similarly across both countries. Findings are discussed from a cross-cultural and methodological perspective.

Sociodemographic Characteristics, Gender Identification, and Gender Affirmation Pathways in Transgender People: A Survey Study in Chile.

Understanding the internal diversity of transgender communities is essential for developing optimal, inclusive policies and service provision. To date, research on this topic remains scarce in Chile. We conducted a survey study describing sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex assigned at birth, onset age, nationality, education, sex work, having a partner, having children, sexual orientation, religiousness, gender identification, and gender affirmation pathways). A snowball sample of 377 self-identified transgender adults living in Chile (Mage = 31.88, rangeage = 18-67) was collected for the purpose of this study. According to their sex assigned at birth, 139 participants were female and 238 male. Results revealed that sex assigned at birth was significantly associated with almost all the sociodemographic variables. Eight gender self-identification categories were obtained based on self-declaration. These gender identification categories varied according to sex assigned at birth. Finally, four patterns (clusters) of gender affirmative actions were identified among participants. These patterns indicated that the longer the gender affirmation pathway time, the greater the invasiveness level of the medical procedures used. Sex assigned at birth moderated the association between gender affirmation pathways and gender identity categories. Results were discussed highlighting the heterogeneity found in terms of sociodemographic characteristics, gender identification, and gender affirmation pathways.

Propiedades psicométricas de la versión en español de la Escala de Intimidad Emocional en personas heterosexuales, gais y lesbianas en pareja / Psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the Emotional Intimacy Scale with heterosexual, gay and lesbian individuals in couple relationships

Resumen: La Escala de Intimidad Emocional (EIE) es un instrumento de auto-informe que evalúa la intimidad emocional en relaciones cercanas. El objetivo de esta investigación fue examinar las propiedades psicométricas de la EIE para su uso en personas heterosexuales, gais y lesbianas involucradas en una relación de pareja. La muestra incluyó 883 personas chilenas (404 hombres y 479 mujeres; 565 heterosexuales y 318 homosexuales), entre 18 y 72 años. Mediante un Análisis Factorial Confirmatorio, se replicó la estructura unidimensional de la escala logrando un buen nivel de ajuste a los datos, mientras que el análisis multigrupo reveló que la EIE-E (versión en español) es invariante según sexo y orientación sexual. Los índices de consistencia interna mediante el alfa de Cronbach y McDonald Omega fueron apropiados y se observó una asociación positiva entre la intimidad emocional y la satisfacción con la relación de pareja. Finalmente, se identificó que las mujeres lesbianas evidencian mayores niveles de intimidad que el resto de los grupos. Se concluye que la EIE-E es un instrumento apropiado para el estudio de la intimidad emocional en personas que se encuentran en una relación de pareja, sean estas hombres o mujeres heterosexuales, gais o lesbianas.

Abstract: The Emotional Intimacy Scale (EIE) is a self-report instrument that assesses emotional intimacy in close relationships. The aim of this research was to examine the psychometric properties of the EIE for its use in heterosexual, gay and lesbian people who are currently involved in a couple relationship. The sample consisted of 883 Chileans, (404 men and 479 women; 565 heterosexuals and 318 homosexual), between the ages of 18 and 72. Using a Confirmatory Factor Analysis, the one-dimensional structure of the scale was replicated, achieving a good fit to the data, while the multi-group analysis revealed that the EIE-E (Spanish version) is invariant according to sex and sexual orientation. The internal consistency indices using Cronbach's alpha and McDonald Omega were appropriate, and a positive association was observed between emotional intimacy and relationship satisfaction. Finally, results showed that lesbian women showed higher levels of intimacy relative to the other groups. It is concluded that the EIE-E is an appropriate instrument for the study of emotional intimacy in people who are in a couple relationship, be they heterosexual men or women, gays or lesbians.

Dyadic Invariance of the Positive Sexuality Scale in Chilean Heterosexual Couples.

Gender differences in sexuality-related dimensions have long been investigated in close relationship research. An important assumption when comparing values across gender in dyadic research is that both partners conceptualize the construct under investigation in the same way. Thus, issues of measurement invariance should be considered when working with dyadic data. The aim of the present study was to test the dyadic invariance of the Positive Sexuality Scale (PSS) to assess an individual's sense of happiness and fulfillment with his/her sexual expression. The PSS was completed by 166 Chilean heterosexual couples, and measurement invariance was tested using confirmatory factor analysis within a dyadic framework. Configural, metric, scalar, and partial strict measurement invariance were supported for the PSS original one-factor model. No between-partner difference was found in the PSS latent factor mean. The functioning of the PSS and the meaning attributed to positive sexuality were the same for both partners. Hence, variations in the PSS levels between both partners in heterosexual couples can be interpreted as true mean differences rather than measurement artifacts.