Ricerca pubblicazioni scientifiche

@article{Pellegrini2025,

title = {Development, validation, and psychometric properties of the Italian and English version of the Boredom Intolerance Scale (BIS)},

author = {Valerio Pellegrini and Estelle Leombruni and Stefania Iazzetta and Marco Saettoni and Andrea Gragnani},

editor = {Elsevier},

url = {https://apc.it/2025-gragnani-development-validation-and-psychometric-properties/},

doi = {doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2025.113151},

issn = {0191-8869},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-07-01},

urldate = {2025-07-01},

journal = {Personality and Individual Differences},

volume = {240},

abstract = {The present paper proposes developing and validating the Boredom Intolerance Scale (BIS) – the first and only measure assessing the degree to which individuals are able to stand the experience of boredom. Across three studies (N = 1397), the psychometric properties of the BIS are presented. Exploratory factor analysis, implemented in Study 1, suggested a unidimensional and 6-item structure with high reliability. Study 2 ratified the emerged structure by using a confirmatory factor analysis. Corroboration of the measure's robustness was provided by a multigroup CFA, which yielded evidence for the gender invariance of the BIS Italian version. Study 3 validated the English version of the BIS, indicating a robust factor structure with high reliability and invariance across participants' gender. Study 3 also proved the BIS's invariance across English and Italian versions. Construct validity was examined across Studies 2 and 3, yielding significant associations of the BIS with measures of trait and state boredom, relaxation sensitivity, neuroticism, anxiety, anger, impulsiveness, depression, life satisfaction, and purpose in life. These findings suggest that the BIS is a psychometrically sound measure with possible implications for researchers and practitioners.

Keywords: Boredom Intolerance Scale; Emotions; Boredom; Exploratory factor analysis; Confirmatory factor analysis; Convergent validity; Discriminant validity; Construct validity},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Femia2025,

title = {PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF THE INVENTORY OF GOALS AND ANTI-GOALS},

author = {Giuseppe Femia and Isabella Federico and Guyonne Rogier and Francesca D’Olimpio and Francesco Mancini and Andrea Gragnani},

editor = {Franco Angeli Editore},

url = {https://apc.it/2025-mancini-preliminary-development-and-validation-of-the-inventory/},

doi = {doi.org/10.36131/cnfioritieditore20250108},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-03-10},

journal = {Clinical Neuropsychiatry},

volume = {22},

number = {1},

pages = {99-108},

abstract = {Objective: The clinical and empirical investigation of the role of investment in goals and anti-goals is limited by the lack of an easy-to-use tool. This is critical, as psychopathology, and specifically pathological personality, is characterized by an overinvestment in goals and anti-goals, rigidity in these investments and, consequently, by a poor existential plan that generates suffering and resistance to change. To develop a preliminary version of a self-report questionnaire measuring investment levels in goals and anti-goals, described as core features of the most common psychopathological conditions. To test the factorial structure of the tool and examine preliminary data on its construct validity.

Method: The Inventory of Goals and Anti-Goals (IGAG) was developed. A total of 572 participants (Mage= 33.05 years; SD= 10.01; 61.62 % females), including community participants (n =424) and patients (n =148), was asked to complete a battery of questionnaires including the IGAG, the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 and the Symptom-Checklist-90-Revised. Exploratory factor analysis, Mann-Whitney U tests and correlations were computed.

Results: Analyses identified an eight-factor structure and significant differences between groups on several factors. IGAG scores were largely significantly and positively correlated with the PID-5 and SCL-90-R in the expected directions. Conclusions: The IGAG appears to be a promising instrument for both research and clinical practice. Results suggest a strong relationship between overinvestment in goals and anti-goals and psychopathology. Several limitations necessitate future modifications of its content and additional efforts for validation.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Visco-Comandini2025,

title = {The Body as a Vessel for Trauma: The Clinical Case Study of Aisha},

author = {Federica Visco-Comandini and Alberto Barbieri and Francesco Mancini and Alessandra Ciolfi},

editor = {MDPI},

url = {https://apc.it/2025-mancini-the-body-as-a-vessel-for-trauma/},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15010094},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-20},

journal = {Brain Science},

volume = {15},

number = {94},

issue = {1},

abstract = {This case study examined the process of integration of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and sensorimotor psychotherapy (SP) in three-phase trauma treatment with a 32-year-old female Bengali refugee with Complex Post Traumatic Disorder (C-PTSD). The treatment was provided in a Western country. The client’s improvement was assessed by using self-report assessments of post-traumatic, dissociative, and depressive symptoms. Psychodiagnostics’ scores gathered after 2 years of treatment showed significant improvements in post-traumatic, dissociative, and depressive symptoms. Although firm conclusions cannot be drawn due to the limitations of this study, results suggest that integrating CBT and SP in a phase-trauma approach may be an effective treatment for C-PTSD in a transcultural setting. However, replicating and standardizing such preliminary results on larger samples is necessary. Background/Objectives: SP is an innovative psychotherapeutic intervention aimed at treating trauma through a bottom-up approach, however, little research exists regarding the efficacy of this psychotherapy. This case study aims to investigate the efficacy of the combination of CBT and SP in treating a C-PTSD patient in a transcultural setting. Methods: Three questionnaires were administered to investigate post-traumatic, depressive, and dissociative symptoms. Results: Clinical and psychodiagnostic outcomes highlight significant psychological improvements in the patient. Conclusions: Although any firm conclusion cannot be drawn because of various intrinsic limitations (i.e., single case study) that straiten our ability to extend these results, this case study suggests that the integration of CBT and SP may be an effective treatment for C-PTSD in a transcultural setting.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Salvo2025,

title = {Bidirectional interplay of disgust and morality: Meta-analytic investigations},

author = {Giuseppe Salvo and Cristina Ottaviani and Francesco Mancini},

editor = {Elsevier - ScienceDirect},

url = {https://apc.it/2025-mancini-bidirectional-interplay-of-disgust-and-morality/},

doi = {doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2024.113032},

issn = {0191-8869},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-16},

urldate = {2025-01-16},

journal = {Personality and Individual Difference},

volume = {236},

abstract = {Two separate meta-analyses were conducted to test the hypotheses that moral transgressions elicit disgust and that inducing disgust may intensify moral judgments. The data supported both the elicitation hypothesis (k = 78; g = 0.55) and the amplification hypothesis (k = 101; g = 0.40). When examining the moderating effects of person- and measurement-related characteristics, a stronger link between morality and disgust was found in Western and Caucasian cultures compared to Asian and Eastern cultures. Trait disgust sensitivity, as opposed to state disgust sensitivity, had a more pronounced impact on moral attitudes. Disgust was most strongly associated with violations of purity and deontological morality, particularly in relation to sex- and religion-related issues. Larger effects were also observed when the direction of disgust aligned with the orientation of moral judgment. Keeping in mind the limitation of substantial heterogeneity, these findings underscore the importance of methodological approaches, sample characteristics, and individual differences in studying the bidirectional relationship between disgust and morality},

keywords = {Deontological; Disgust; Meta-analysis; Morality; Obsessive-compulsive; Religion; Sexuality},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Papa2024b,

title = {“I am longing and afraid to depend on you”: A case report on breakdowns of therapeutic alliance and interpersonal cycles in complex trauma},

author = {Carolina Papa and Erica Pugliese and Claudia Perdighe and Ramona Fimiani and Francesco Mancini },

editor = {MDPI},

url = {https://apc.it/2024-mancini-i-am-longing-and-afraid-to-depend-on-you/},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14121207},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-11-28},

journal = {Brain Science},

volume = {14},

issue = {12},

abstract = {Background: Patients with Complex Trauma (CT) may have an impaired ability to trust others and build intimate relationships due to non-integrated representations of self and others. This sometimes leads to an oscillation between needing and fearing intimacy in their adult relationships. This dynamic can occur in the therapeutic relationship, undermining the effectiveness of therapy

and affecting the mental health of both the patient and the therapist. To date, no study has analyzed interpersonal patient–therapist dynamics in cases of CT. The present case aims to fill this gap by exploring relational cycles between the therapist and the patient during the therapeutic process in terms of goals and self–other beliefs. Methods: The methodology consisted of a shared and integrated reconstruction by the patient and therapist, both with clinical expertise in psychology, of the impasse in their therapeutic relationship. The reading was done through the lens of the cognitive model of Pathological Affective Dependence, a theory of traumatic relationships, by describing the primary interpersonal cycles occurring in the therapeutic relationship (altruistic, deontological, and vulnerable). Results: The condition of CT leads to several alliance breakdowns and specific interpersonal cycles, leading to new healing meanings for the patient and the relationship itself. Limitations: The study’s main limitation is that it consists of a qualitative analysis of the therapeutic relationship without data that can quantify the clinically observed changes. Conclusions: This case report demonstrates how CT, PAD and the fear of intimacy can be risk factors for the therapeutic alliance and how the therapeutic relationship constitutes a fundamental tool for intervention effectiveness in patients who experience unmet primary needs},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Papa2024,

title = {“You’re Ugly and Bad!“: a path analysis of the interplay between self-criticism, alexithymia, and specific symptoms},

author = {Carolina Papa and Francesca D'Olimpio and Vittoria Zaccari and Micaela Di Consiglio and Francesco Mancini and Alessandro Couyoumdjian },

editor = {Springer Lynk},

url = {https://apc.it/2024-mancini-youre-ugly-and-bad-2/},

doi = {doi.org/10.1007/s12144-024-06653-7},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-09-17},

urldate = {2024-09-17},

journal = {Current Psychology},

abstract = {Self-criticism is a transdiagnostic factor of significant clinical relevance. Research has studied its detrimental role on mental health without discriminating how this differs based on individual psychological functioning. Furthermore, little research has considered the lack of emotional awareness as an essential competence that contributes to dysfunctional self-critical processes and, consequently, to psychopathological outcomes. The objective of the study was to investigate how different forms of self-criticism are associated with specific symptoms, considering social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive, and eating disorder symptoms. Furthermore, we wanted to explore the role of alexithymia in this relationship. The sample comprised 564 subjects (M = 35.12, SD = 12.8), 389 females and 175 males. Participants completed online questionnaires to investigate levels of self-criticism, alexithymia, and specific symptoms. Hierarchical regression and path analyses showed that aspects of self-criticism have different importance in psychopathological features. Furthermore, the subscales of alexithymia differently mediate the relationship between self-criticism and symptomatological features, depending on the type of feature considered (social anxiety, eating or obsessive-compulsive). In light of the results, since self-criticism is a contributing factor to the onset and maintenance of many mental disorders, it becomes important to distinguish its specific characteristics and how they are linked to the disorders. A better understanding of these processes would help to prepare more targeted interventions.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Pugliese2024,

title = {Understanding Trauma in IPV: Distinguishing Complex PTSD, PTSD, and BPD in Victims and Offenders},

author = {Erica Pugliese and Federica Visco-Comandini and Carolina Papa and Luciana Ciringione and Lucia Cornacchia and Fabiana Gino and Loreta Cannito and Stefania Fadda and Francesco Mancini

},

editor = {MDPI },

url = {https://apc.it/2024-mancini-understanding-trauma-in-ipv/},

doi = {doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14090856},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-08-25},

journal = {Brain Sciences},

volume = {14},

number = {9},

abstract = {This work aims to shed light on the differential diagnosis of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (cPTSD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and borderline personality disorder (BPD) within the context of intimate partner violence (IPV), which represents a highly innovative field of clinical research. To this end, a critical review of the literature was conducted to identify and compare the clinical patterns and symptomatic overlaps among cPTSD, PTSD, and BPD, with an emphasis on their manifestation in both IPV victims and offenders. The results show that despite some symptomatic similarities, cPTSD, PTSD, and BPD have distinct clinical patterns of interpersonal violence. Specifically, disturbances in self-organization (DSO) are more commonly found in offenders, while the diagnosis of cPTSD seems more aligned with the psychological functioning of victims. In addition, cPTSD and specific characteristics of BPD, such as fear of rejection and instability of identity, constitute risk factors for IPV victimization. cPTSD is shown as a predisposing factor not only for IPV victims but also for offenders, while PTSD emerges as a consequential factor. The specific pathways linking PTSD, cPTSD, and BPD with IPV have significant implications for clinical practice. Further research is needed to understand these profiles and the mechanisms linking trauma-related features to IPV, which is crucial for implementing effective violence prevention programs.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Tenore2024,

title = {Group imagery imagery rescripting via telehealth decreases dysfunctional personality beliefs and the meta‑emotional problem but does not increase positive self‑compassion},

author = {Katia Tenore and Umberto Granziol and Olga Ines Luppino and Francesco Mancini and Alessandra Mancini},

editor = {Springer Lynk },

url = {https://apc.it/2024-mancini-group-imagery-imagery-rescripting-via-telehealth-decreases/},

doi = {doi.org/10.1007/s12144-024-05815-x},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-03-24},

urldate = {2024-03-24},

journal = {Current Psychology},

abstract = {Imagery rescripting (ImR) has shown to reduce negative belief about the self, negative emotions and emotional dysregulation. However, the mechanisms through which this improvement in emotion regulation takes place is currently the object of investigation. An untested hypothesis is that ImR reduces the negative emotional response to primary emotions (i.e. the Meta-emotional problem) associated to difficulties in emotional regulation. In this study, the researchers aimed to investigate the impact of group ImR delivered via telehealth on dysfunctional personality beliefs, the Meta-emotional problem, difficulties in emotional regulation, and self-compassion in a non-clinical sample of participants. A total of 45 community sample participants received three sessions of group ImR delivered via telehealth. Personality dysfunctional beliefs, meta-emotions, self-compassion and emotional dysregulation were measured before ImR and in three follow-up sessions. Dysfunctional personality beliefs, specifically those associated with the dependent, obsessive–compulsive, antisocial, and histrionic personality disorders, were significantly reduced after the ImR intervention. Additionally, the Meta-emotional problem and difficulties in emotional regulation were also reduced. Moreover, negative self-compassion showed a significant decrease after ImR, but positive self-compassion remained unchanged. These findings suggest that group ImR delivered via telehealth can effectively reduce negative beliefs about oneself, negative emotions, and emotional dysregulation. However, it seems that this intervention does not increase a more benevolent attitude towards oneself, possibly due to the less direct intervention of the therapist in the group telehealth setting. The researchers discuss the implications of these findings for clinical practice in a group telehealth context.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Zaccari2024,

title = {State of the art of the literature on definitions of self-criticism: a meta-review},

author = {Vittoria Zaccari and Francesco Mancini and Guyonne Rogier},

editor = {Frontiers in Psychiatry},

url = {https://apc.it/2024-mancini-state-of-the-art-of-the-literature-on-definitions-of-self-criticism-a-meta-review/},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-02-19},

volume = {15},

abstract = {Background: Several authors have developed important theoretical models on an important transdiagnostic factor in psychopathology: self-criticism (SC). Currently, there are substantial variations in the theoretical definition of SC. The lack of awareness of similarities and differences between models may in turn impact the comparison between empirical results, limiting their clinical implications.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Saliani2024,

title = {Treating guilt-inducing self-talk in OCD with dramatized Socratic dialogue: A step by step intervention},

author = {Angelo Maria Saliani and Claudia Perdighe and Vittoria Zaccari and Olga Ines Luppino and Alessandra Mancini and Katia Tenore and Francesco Mancini},

editor = {Franco Angeli Editore},

url = {https://apc.it/2024-mancini-treating-guilt-inducing-self-talk-in-ocd-with-dramatized-socratic-dialogue/},

doi = {doi.org/10.36131/cnfioritieditore},

issn = {2385-0787},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-02-01},

urldate = {2024-02-01},

abstract = {Objective: Fear of moral guilt and conseque:nt increased attention to personal actions and intentions are the main ingredients of the self-criticism in patients

suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This pathogenic attitude takes shape in a typical guilt-inducing self-talk.

The purpose of this work is to describe in detail a novel cognitive therapeutic procedure for OCD called “Dramatized Socratic Dialogue” (DSD).

Method: DSD is a theory-oriented intervention that combine elements of Socratic dialogue, chairwork, and cognitive acceptance strategies derived from Mancini’s

model, which posits that obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms stem from a fear of deontological guilt.

Results: DSD appears to have many strengths, being a theory-oriented treatment and focusing, as a therapeutic target, on the cognitive structures that determine

pathogenic processes and OC symptoms. Furthermore, it is a short, flexible and tailormade intervention.

Conclusions: Detailed description of the intervention could foster future research perspectives and thus be used in evidence-based effectiveness studies to establish whether DSD reduces OC symptoms and to investigate its mechanism of action.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Giacomantonio2024,

title = {In/stability of moral sense of self and OCD},

author = {Mauro Giacomantonio and Valeria De Cristofaro and Francesco Mancini},

editor = {Elsevier},

url = {https://apc.it/2024-mancini-in-stability-of-moral-sense-of-self-and-ocd/},

doi = {doi.org/10.1016/j.jocrd.2024.100857 },

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-01-17},

urldate = {2024-01-17},

journal = {Journal of Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders},

volume = {40},

abstract = {Why are people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) susceptible to deontological (vs. altruistic) guilt? The present research addresses this question by examining the association of OC tendencies with deontological rather than altruistic guilt. Specifically, we conducted two correlational studies in which we examined whether and

how the perceived instability of the moral sense of self (i.e., instability of morality) is associated with OC tendencies and deontological (vs. altruistic) guilt. As predicted, the results of path analysis models showed that the susceptibility to deontological (vs. altruistic) guilt typical of individuals with OC traits is primarily associated

with the perceived instability of morality relative to the perceived status of morality (Study 1) and instability of extraversion (Study 2). These results suggest that deontological guilt and its association with OC traits can be understood better when the instability of the moral sense of self and vulnerability to sudden changes in moral status are considered. We discuss how these results contribute to theory, research, and clinical practice on OCD, morality, and guilt. },

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Giorgetta2023,

title = {Guilt, shame, and embarrassment: similar or different emotions? A comparison between Italians and Americans},

author = {Cinzia Giorgetta and Francesca Strappini and Alessandra Capuozzo and Elisa Evangelista and Antonella Magno and Cristiano Castelfranchi and Francesco Mancini},

editor = {Frontiers in psychology },

url = {https://apc.it/2023-mancini-guilt-shame-and-embarrassment-similar-or-different/},

doi = {doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1260396},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-12-12},

urldate = {2023-12-12},

abstract = {Introduction: Guilt, shame, and embarrassment represent affective experiences with social implications and diverse self-relevant negative affect. While the distinction between these emotion terms has been extensively investigated, little is known about how they diverge and are related to each other and their crosscultural differences.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Grossi2023,

title = {Psychopathic Traits, Externalizing Problems, and Prosocial Behavior: The Role of Social Dominance Orientation},

author = {Giuseppe Grossi and Francesca Strappini and Enrico Iuliano and Ylenia Passiatore and Francesco Mancini and Valentina Levantini and Gabriele Masi and Annarita Milone and Erica Santaguida and Randall T. Salekin and Pietro Muratori and Carlo Buonanno},

editor = {MDPI },

url = {https://apc.it/2023-mancini-psychopathic-traits-externalizing-problems-and-prosocial/},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12103521},

issn = {2077-0383},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-05-17},

urldate = {2023-05-17},

journal = {Journal of Clinical Medicine},

volume = {12},

number = {351},

issue = {10},

abstract = {Psychopathic traits in community and referred youths are strongly associated with severe externalizing problems and low prosocial behavior. However, less is known about the mechanisms that may link youth psychopathy and these outcomes. Social dominance orientation (SDO), defined as the general individual orientation toward unequal and dominant/subordinate relationships, might represent a valuable construct to explore to better understand the association between psychopathic traits, externalizing problems, and prosocial behavior. Based on this, the current study aimed to investigate the relationship between psychopathic traits, SDO, externalizing problems, and prosocial behavior in a community sample (N = 92, 45.57% females, mean age = 12.53, and SD = 0.60) and in a clinical (N = 29, 9% female, mean age = 12.57, and SD = 0.57) samples of adolescents with Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Conduct Disorder. Results showed that SDO mediated the relationship between psychopathic traits and externalizing problems and between psychopathic traits and prosocial behavior only in the clinical sample. These findings can provide valuable information on psychopathic trait correlates in youths with aggressive behavior disorders; treatment implications are discussed.},

keywords = {social dominance; psychopathic traits; externalizing problems; prosocial behavior; conduct problems},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Luppino2023,

title = {The Role of Childhood Experiences in the development of Disgust Sensitivity: a preliminary study on early moral memories},

author = {Olga Ines Luppino and Katia Tenore and Francesco Mancini and Alessandra Mancini},

editor = {Giovanni Fioriti Editore s.r.l. },

url = {https://apc.it/2023-mancini-the-role-of-childhood-experiences/},

doi = {doi.org/10.36131/ cnfioritieditore2023020},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-04-01},

urldate = {2023-04-01},

journal = {Clinical Neuropsychiatry},

volume = {20},

number = {2},

pages = {109-121},

abstract = {bjective: Disgust is a basic emotion evolved to safeguard our omnivorous species from contagion. Although the factors eliciting disgust typically involve concerns related to physical contamination, physical disgust responses are also prompted by moral transgressions, (i.e. cannibalism, pedophilia, betrayal). The link between the general propensity to experience disgust (i.e. “Disgust Sensitivity”) and morality, in particular in the deontological domain, is supported by an increasing amount of data on clinical and non-clinical sample. Evolutionistic explanations of this link posit that disgust evolved to indicate the presence of a threat to the integrity of the individual not only in the physical domain but also in the social and moral domain. In addition to the evolutionary point of view, this link could also be better investigated in terms of individual development. To the best of our knowledge, literature is scarce regarding which early experiences are associated to high DS. Therefore, this study aims to explore the content of early memories associated with disgust. Based on the strict link between disgust and morality, we hypothesized an association between DS and early memories of moral criticism.

Method: 60 non-clinical participants filled in measures of DS. They were then

presented with an auditory disgust induction, after which they recalled early memories

through the technique of the “affect bridge”. 10 independent raters assessed the

emotional content of the memories on visual-analogical scales.

Results: Results showed a positive association between disgust sensitivity and

the propensity to experience deontological guilt. There was also a significant positive

association between disgust sensitivity and moral memories, in particular relating to

early experiences of being the object of contempt, moral criticism, anger, and of being

held responsible.

Conclusions: These data directly support the centrality of early morally-loaded

interpersonal experiences in the development of DS, confirming the link between

disgust and morality also at the level of individual historical developme},

keywords = {Deontological guilt, Disgust, early autobiographical memories, Early maladaptive schemas, imagery, Morality},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Pugliese2023b,

title = {Pathological Affective Dependence (PAD) as an Antecedent of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV): A Pilot Study of PAD’s Cognitive Model on a Sample of IPV Victims},

author = {Erica Pugliese and Oriana Mosca and Angelo Maria Saliani and Fridanna Maricchiolo and Teresa Vigilante and Francesca Bonina and Erika Cellitti and Grazia Foschino Barbaro and Marvita Goffredo and Paola Lioce and Ermelinda Orsini and Chiara Quintavalle and Sandra Rienzi and Alessia Vargiu and Francesco Mancini},

editor = {Scientific Research Publishing },

url = {https://apc.it/2023-mancini-pathological-affective-dependence-pad/},

doi = {DOI: 10.4236/psych.2023.142018},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-28},

urldate = {2023-02-28},

journal = {Psychology},

volume = {14},

pages = {305-333},

abstract = {The present paper has the aim of presenting a preliminary measure of the construct of Pathological Affective Dependence (PAD). The scale has been built on the basis of a cognitive model of PAD and characteristics of a typical affective dependent person (Saver, Unworthy, Traumatic, and Mixed). These profiles have been tracked, using a framework of anti-goals, self/other beliefs, and intrapsychic conflicts (absent, alternate, or akrasic conflict) as obstacles to a healthy and safe separation. PAD scale (PADS) was tested on a clinical sample of 25 people (F = 21, 84%; M = 4.16%; age ranged between 29 and 61 years) recruited in an online anti-violence mutual-support group called Millemé (http://www.milleme.it/) and a psychotherapeutic center (https://www.spc.it/).

We selected only patients in maladaptive relationships according to the specific characteristics of PAD, whose cognitive model will be explained in this paper. Other scales were administered to test convergent and discriminant validity through Pearson’s r correlations. The preliminary results support both research objectives and the PADS appears to have good validity. Furthermore, these preliminary results showed that PAD is both a stable trait and a latent psychological condition triggered by the abusive partner (i.e. a state component). This work is part of a larger project aimed at developing a measurement of PAD and cognitive-behavioral intervention protocols that reduce the morbidity and suffering of patients with PAD and the resulting high costs to our society. Understanding the antecedents of gender-based violence, such as PAD, is an essential protective factor also for the development of effective prevention strategies against Intimate Partner Violence (IPV).},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Cheli2023,

title = {A pilot randomized controlled trial comparing a novel compassion and metacognition approach for schizotypal personality disorder with a combination of cognitive therapy and psychopharmacological treatment},

author = {Simone Cheli and Veronica Cavalletti and Paul H. Lysaker and Giancarlo Dimaggio and Nicola Petrocchi and Francesca Chiarello and Consuelo Enzo, Francesco Velicogna and Gil Goldzweig},

editor = {BMC Psychiatry},

url = {https://apc.it/2023-mancini-a-pilot-randomized-controlled-trial/},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-023-04610-5},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-20},

volume = {23},

number = {113},

abstract = {Background

Schizotypal personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of maladaptive behavior that has been associated with the liability for schizophrenia. Little is known about effective psychosocial interventions. This pilot non-inferiority randomized controlled trial aimed to compare a novel form of psychotherapy tailored for this disorder and a combination of cognitive therapy and psychopharmacological treatment. The former treatment – namely, Evolutionary Systems Therapy for Schizotypy—integrated evolutionary, metacognitively oriented, and compassion focused approaches.



Methods

Thirty-three participants were assessed for eligibility, twenty-four randomized on a 1:1 ratio, nineteen included in the final analysis. The treatments lasted 6 months (24 sessions). The primary outcome was change across nine measurements in personality pathology, the secondary outcomes were remission from diagnosis and pre-post changes in general symptomatology and metacognition.



Results

Primary outcome suggested a non-inferiority of the experimental treatment in respect to control condition. Secondary outcomes reported mixed results. There was no significant difference in terms of remission, but experimental treatment showed a larger reduction of general symptomatology (η2 = 0.558) and a larger increase in metacognition (η2 = 0.734).



Conclusions

This pilot study reported promising results about the effectiveness of the proposed novel approach. A confirmatory trial on large sample size is needed to provide evidence about relative effectiveness of the two treatment conditions.},

keywords = {Compassion Evolution Evolutionary systems therapy for schizotypy Metacognition Schizotypal personality disorder Schizotypy},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Siciliano2023,

title = {The role of the cerebellum in sequencing and predicting social and non-social events in patients with bipolar disorder},

author = {Libera Siciliano and Giusy Olivito and Michela Lupo and Nicole Urbini and Andrea Gragnani and Marco Saettoni and Roberto Delle Chiaie and Maria Leggio},

editor = {Frontiers},

url = {https://apc.it/2023-gragnani-the-role-of-the-cerebellum/},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2023.1095157},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-02-15},

urldate = {2023-02-15},

journal = {Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience},

abstract = {Introduction: Advances in the operational mode of the cerebellum indicate a role in sequencing and predicting non-social and social events, crucial for individuals to optimize high-order functions, such as Theory of Mind (ToM). ToM deficits have been described in patients with remitted bipolar disorders (BD). The literature on BD patients’ pathophysiology reports cerebellar alterations; however, sequential abilities have never been investigated and no study has previously focused on prediction abilities, which are needed to properly interpret events and to adapt to changes.



Methods: To address this gap, we compared the performance of BD patients in the euthymic phase with healthy controls using two tests that require predictive processing: a ToM test that require implicit sequential processing and a test that explicitly assesses sequential abilities in non-ToM functions. Additionally, patterns of cerebellar gray matter (GM) alterations were compared between BD patients and controls using voxel-based morphometry.



Results: Impaired ToM and sequential skills were detected in BD patients, specifically when tasks required a greater predictive load. Behavioral performances might be consistent with patterns of GM reduction in cerebellar lobules Crus I-II, which are involved in advanced human functions.



Discussion: These results highlight the importance of deepening the cerebellar role in sequential and prediction abilities in patients with BD.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Olivito2023,

title = {The Cerebellum Gets Social: Evidence from an Exploratory Study of Cerebellar, Neurodevelopmental, and Psychiatric Disorders},

author = {Giusy Olivito and Libera Siciliano and Silvia Clausi and Michela Lupo and Roberto Baiocco and Andrea Gragnani and Marco Saettoni and Roberto Delle Chiaie and Fiorenzo Laghi and Maria Leggio },

editor = {MDPI},

url = {https://apc.it/2023-gragnani-the-cerebellum-gets-social/},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11020309},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-22},

journal = {Biomedicin},

volume = {11},

number = {309},

abstract = {Social prediction is a key feature of social cognition (SC), a function in which the modulating role of the cerebellum is recognized. Accordingly, cerebellar alterations are reported in cerebellar pathologies, neurodevelopmental disorders, and psychiatric conditions that show SC deficits. Nevertheless, to date, no study has directly compared populations representative of these three conditions with respect to SC and cerebellar alterations. Therefore, the present exploratory study aimed to compare the SC profiles of individuals with cerebellar neurodegenerative disorders (CB), autism (ASD), bipolar disorder type 2 (BD2), or healthy subjects (HS) using a battery of social tests requiring different degrees of prediction processing. The patterns of cerebellar gray matter (GM) alterations were compared among the groups using voxel-based morphometry. Compared to HS, the clinical groups showed common SC deficits in tasks involving a moderate to high level of prediction. The behavioral results of the clinical groups are consistent with the presence of overlapping GM reduction in cerebellar right Crus II, an area notably involved in complex social processing and prediction. Although exploratory and preliminary, these results deepen the cerebellar role in social prediction and highlight the transdiagnostic value of the cerebellum in social functioning and prediction in pathologies of different aetiologies, forecasting novel possibilities for shared interventions.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{Pugliese2023,

title = {When the War Is in Your Room: A Cognitive Model of Pathological Affective Dependence (PAD) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)},

author = {Erica Pugliese and Angelo Maria Saliani and Oriana Mosca and Fridanna Maricchiolo and Francesco Mancini},

editor = {MDPI},

url = {https://apc.it/2023-mancini-when-the-war-is-in-your-room-2/},

doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/su15021624},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-01-13},

urldate = {2023-01-13},

journal = {Sustainability},

abstract = {In the last decade, Pathological Affective Dependence (PAD)—as a risk factor for Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)—has undergone considerable attention among clinical and social psychologists. However, the psychological nature of PAD has been described in discordant terms throughout the literature. We try to give a clear definition of the construct (1), theorize a first cognitive model of PAD (2), and describe the prototypical characteristics of a pathological affective dependent (in terms of goals, anti-goals, and dysfunctional self-other beliefs) based on goal-oriented theories (3). We finally present (4) the resulting specific TADs (typical affective dependent) profiles (Saver, Unworthy, Traumatic, and Mixed). We believe that our manuscript on the PAD makes a significant contribution to achieve the fifth UN Sustainable Development Goal aimed at eliminating “all forms of violence against all women”: in fact, understanding the psychological risk factors of IPV as PAD is an essential protective factor for designing effective prevention social strategies against IPV. Moreover, this work contributes to achieving one of the “outcome targets” of the sixteenth UN Sustainable Development

Goal. It is dedicated to the promotion of “peaceful and inclusive societies”, through the reduction of

all forms of violence and the protection of children from abuse. Indeed, IPV strongly affects (physical

and mental) health and social sustainability of well-being. However, empirical studies on this topic

are limited and there is a lack of a theoretical model of PAD. This work represents a theoretical

starting point for a broader project aimed at building a cognitive-behavioral protocol and social

interventions for the reduction of negative consequences on IPV victims},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}