Prevalence of internet addiction and psychological factors in adolescents during the covid-19 pandemic / Prevalência de dependência da internet e fatores psicológicos em adolescentes durante a pandemia de covid-19 / Prevalencia de la adicción a internet y factores psicológicos en adolescentes durante la pandemia de la covid-19

Addictive behaviors related to Internet are becoming more common and this tool has been essential once it enables home office, entertainment, homeschooling, and easy access to information. Despite the easiness brought by technology, the exaggerated use has affected users in different ways, including in the development of psychiatric disorders. This study aimed to assess internet addiction, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), attention, impulsivity, and stress in 48 adolescents (26 young women and 22 young men), aged from 15 to 18 years, with a mean age of 16.74 (0.61), mostly students of public schools, during COVID-19, to investigate correlations between these variables according to sex and sociodemographic aspects. To assess the factors, the Internet Addiction Test (IAT); the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale (SNAP-IV) Questionnaire ; the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress scale for brazilian adolescents (EDAE-A); the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11); and a sociodemographic questionnaire were applied. The data collection was performed in schools located in southern Brazil. The results indicated that 12 out of 48 adolescents were considered addicted to the Internet. Moreover, Internet addiction was a predictor of depression in regression analysis (p<0.001). In addition, participants classified as more addicted to the Internet scored lower averages in general attention (p<0.035) and higher averages in behavioral symptoms of inattention and ADHD (p<0.050), stress (p<0.003), anxiety (p<0.016), and depression (p<0.015), with effect sizes ranging from moderate to high. Therefore, the intense internet use by adolescents might cause psychological consequences such as depression in adolescents. Family support and professional intervention might help in the reduction of symptoms and consequences of internet addiction as well as in its prevention.(AU)

A dependência de internet é cada vez mais comum, pois essa ferramenta tem se tornado imprescindível, uma vez que possibilita home office, entretenimento, educação domiciliar e fácil acesso às informações. No entanto, o uso exagerado da tecnologia afeta os usuários de diversas formas, inclusive no desenvolvimento de transtornos psiquiátricos. Este estudo visou avaliar a dependência de internet, depressão, ansiedade, hiperatividade, atenção, impulsividade e estresse em 48 adolescentes (26 meninas e 22 meninos) de 15 a 18 anos, com idade média de 16,74 (0,61), estudantes de escolas públicas do Sul do Brasil durante a covid-19, para investigar correlações entre as variáveis anteriores de acordo com gênero e aspectos sociodemográficos. Para avaliar, aplicou-se o Internet Addiction Test (IAT), um teste de atenção, escala SNAP IV, escala de depressão, ansiedade e estresse para adolescentes (EDAE-A), escala de impulsividade de Barratt e um questionário sociodemográfico. Os resultados indicaram que 12 adolescentes foram considerados viciados em internet, e que a dependência desta foi preditora da depressão na análise de regressão (p < 0,001). Ainda, os participantes classificados como adictos tiveram médias mais baixas em atenção geral (p < 0,035) e mais altas em sintomas comportamentais de desatenção e hiperatividade (p < 0,050), estresse (p < 0,003), ansiedade (p < 0,016) e depressão (p < 0,015), com efeitos que variaram de moderado a alto. Portanto, o uso intenso da internet por adolescentes pode ter consequências psicológicas, como a depressão. Bom apoio familiar e intervenção profissional podem ajudar na redução dos sintomas e consequências, bem como na prevenção da dependência.(AU)

La adicción a Internet es cada vez más habitual, puesto que esta herramienta es esencial para el trabajo remoto, el entretenimiento, la educación domiciliar y el fácil acceso a la información. Sin embargo, su uso exagerado afecta a la vida de las personas de diferentes maneras, incluso en el desarrollo de trastornos psiquiátricos. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la adicción a Internet, depresión, ansiedad, hiperactividad, atención, impulsividad y estrés en 48 adolescentes (26 muchachas y 22 muchachos), de entre 15 y 18 años, con una edad promedio de 16,74 (0,61), en su mayoría estudiantes de escuelas públicas del Sur de Brasil, durante la pandemia de la COVID-19, para investigar las correlaciones entre las variables mencionadas según género y aspectos sociodemográficos. Para evaluar los factores, se aplicaron el Test de Adicción a Internet (TAI), un test de atención, la escala SNAP IV, la Escala de Depresión, Ansiedad y Estrés para adolescentes (EDAE-A), la escala de impulsividad de Barratt y un cuestionario sociodemográfico. Los resultados indicaron que 12 adolescentes fueron considerados adictos a Internet, además, la adicción a Internet fue un predictor de la depresión en el análisis de regresión (p<0,001). Igualmente, los participantes clasificados como más adictos a Internet tuvieron promedios más bajos en atención general (p<0,035), y más altos en síntomas conductuales de falta de atención e hiperactividad (p<0,050), estrés (p<0,003), ansiedad (p<0,016) y depresión (p<0,015), con efectos que varían de moderado a alto. Por lo tanto, el uso intenso podría producir consecuencias psicológicas como la depresión en los adolescentes. Tener un buen apoyo familiar e intervención profesional puede ayudar a reducir los síntomas y las consecuencias de la adicción a Internet, así como prevenirla.(AU)

Psychiatric Symptoms in Women with High-risk Pregnancy in the Postpartum Period: A Case-control Study

Abstract Objective: Psychiatric symptoms are common mental issues in pregnancy and the postpartum period. There is limited information regarding the psychiatric symptoms of women with high-risk pregnancy in the postpartum period. This study aimed to compare the severity of psychiatric symptoms and psychological distress in women with high-risk and low-risk pregnancies in the postpartum period. Methods: This case-control study examined 250 women in the postpartum period in two groups with low-risk (n = 112) and high-risk (n = 138) pregnancies. Women completed the Brief Symptom Inventory-53 (BSI-53) and the Risk Postnatal Psychosocial Depression Risk Questionnaire (PPDRQ). Results: The mean severity of psychiatric symptoms in women with high-risk pregnancies was significantly higher than that in women with low-risk pregnancies (39.34 ± 17.51 vs. 30.26 ± 17.08). Additionally, the frequency of psychological distress in women with high-risk pregnancies was approximately twice higher than that in women with low-risk pregnancies (30.3% vs. 15.2%). Furthermore, the risk factors for depression in women with high-risk pregnancies were almost 1.5 times (59.8% vs. 39.8%) higher than the factors in women with low-risk pregnancies. The results of the logistic analysis indicated that high-risk pregnancies could be twice the odds ratio of developing postpartum psychological distress (ß = 2.14, 95% CI 1.4-6.3, p= 0.036). Conclusion: Psychiatric symptoms and the psychological distress index are higher in postpartum women with high-risk pregnancies than in postpartum women with low-risk pregnancies. The study suggests that obstetricians and pregnant women's health care providers should strongly consider screening of psychiatric symptoms in women with high-risk pregnancies both during pregnancy and after delivery as the women's routine care priorities.

Soledad y ansiedad durante el confinamiento por COVID-19. El efecto mediador de la regulación emocional / Loneliness and anxiety during COVID-19 lockdown. The mediating effect of emotion regulation

Resumen El confinamiento ocasionado por la pandemia del COVID-19 ha impactado en la vida de los estudiantes universitarios en todo el mundo. Conocer sus efectos en la salud mental y el comportamiento será una prioridad en los siguientes años. En este contexto, el objetivo de la presente investigación fue analizar por primera vez las relaciones directas e indirectas entre la experiencia de soledad, las estrategias de regulación emocional desadaptativas (rumiación, evitación, supresión, catastrofización y autoculpa) y la ansiedad en una muestra de universitarios mexicanos. Con base en él, se hipotetizó que las estrategias de regulación emocional desadaptativas mediarían la relación entre la soledad y la ansiedad. Para lograr este propósito se especificó un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales. Un total de 824 estudiantes universitarios participaron en la presente investigación. Los resultados mostraron que los datos se ajustaron de manera adecuada al modelo estructural especificado. Por otra parte, también se encontró que la soledad tuvo un efecto directo que no fue estadísticamente significativo con la ansiedad. En conclusión, estos hallazgos revelan la presencia de un efecto de mediación al mostrar que la soledad estuvo relacionada indirectamente con la ansiedad por su relación con las estrategias de regulación emocional desadaptativas. Con ello, al analizar la función mediadora de las estrategias de regulación emocional desadaptativas se aportaron, por primera vez en México, nuevos elementos que permiten conocer con mayor profundidad los efectos directos e indirectos de estos tres constructos.

Abstract The lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the lives of undergraduate students around the world. Knowing its effects on mental health and behavior will be a priority for years to come. Due to the multiple negative effects that confinement by the COVID-19 pandemic has brought, this study aims to provide new scientific evidence that will allow a better understanding of the effects of the experience of loneliness caused by this pandemic. Based on the procedural model of emotion regulation created by Gross, the objective of this research was to analyze the direct and indirect relations between the experience of loneliness, maladaptive emotion regulation strategies (rumination, avoidance, suppression, catastrophizing, and self-blame) and anxiety in a sample of Mexican undergraduate students. Based on this goal, it was hypothesized that maladaptive emotion regulation strategies would mediate the relation between loneliness and anxiety. To achieve this purpose, a total of 824 undergraduate students participated in the present research. In addition to providing their sociodemographic data, they answered the De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale, the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, the Cognitive-Behavioral Avoidance Scale, the Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, and the Beck Anxiety Inventory. In order to carry out the mediating analysis, a structural equation model was created which included three latent variables (loneliness, maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and anxiety). This model was tested using the Lavaan software. The indirect effects were analyzed using the bootstrapping method. The results showed that maladaptive emotional regulation strategies had a mediating role which was positive and significant in the relation between loneliness and anxiety. Regarding the measurement model, confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the measurement model comprising the three latent variables. Results showed that the measurement model fit the observed data appropriately. Furthermore, with the purpose of examining the validity of the measurement model, the average variance extracted and square root of the average variance extracted were calculated. Findings indicated that the average variance extracted for each construct was higher than all the squared correlations involving that construct. This confirmed the discriminant validity of all variables of study. Regarding the structural model, results showed acceptable data fit. The model explained 48 % of the variance in anxiety. The structural equation analysis revealed that loneliness was related positively with maladaptive emotion regulation strategies. Similarly, maladaptive emotion regulation strategies were associated positively with anxiety. Likewise, it was possible to confirm the main hypothesis of this study which stated that maladaptive emotion regulation strategies would mediate the influence of loneliness on anxiety among Mexican university students. Finally, it was confirmed that loneliness had a nonsignificant direct effect on anxiety. Regarding the contribution of each of the five maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, rumination had a significant function in the mediating process showing that loneliness had an impact on anxiety via the continuous thoughts that participants had about their own emotions. In turn, because of the strategy of catastrophizing, participants intensified their thoughts and emotions waiting for the worse scenario which in turn increased their levels of anxiety. Likewise, the strategies of avoidance and suppression had also a significant contribution on the mediating role of maladaptive strategies. Finally, the strategy of self-blame was a significant contribution to the mediating function. Therefore, with the purpose of controlling emotions associated with loneliness, it was possible that participants could blame themselves as a mechanism to regulate their emotions. In conclusion, these findings reveal the presence of a mediating effect by showing that loneliness was indirectly related to anxiety via its relation with maladaptive emotion regulation strategies.

Predisposing factors for increased cortisol levels in oral cancer patients.

Cancer patients may have a dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and abnormal secretion of cortisol. Increased cortisol levels have been associated with worse prognosis in patients with different types of tumors. Although anxiety and depression can trigger an abnormal cortisol secretion, little is known regarding the influence of these emotional disorders on HPA axis dysregulation in cancer patients when evaluating together with demographic, clinicopathological and biobehavioral variables. This cross-sectional study analyzed the pre-treatment plasma cortisol levels of 133 patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and its association with demographic, clinicopathological, biobehavioral and psychological variables. Plasma cortisol levels were measured by electrochemiluminescence, and anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed using Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Depression (BDI), respectively. Demographic, clinicopathological and biobehavioral data were collected from patients' medical records. Results from multivariate analysis showed that the occurrence of cancer-induced pain was predictive for higher cortisol levels (OR = 5.388, p = 0.003). Men with OSCC were 4.5 times more likely to have higher plasma cortisol levels than women (OR = 4.472, p = 0.018). The effect of sex on cortisol concentrations was lost in the adjusted model for clinical staging (OR = 2.945, p = 0.116). The absence of chronic alcohol consumption history was a protective factor for highest hormone concentrations in oral cancer patients (OR = 0.104, p = 0.004). Anxiety symptoms measured by BAI as "hands trembling" (OR = 0.192, p = 0.016) and being "nervous" (OR = 0.207, p = 0.0004) were associated with lower cortisol levels. In contrast, the feeling of "fear of losing control" was a risk factor for highest hormone concentrations (OR = 6.508, p = 0.0004). The global score and specific symptoms of depression measured by the BDI were not predictive for plasma hormone levels (p > 0.05). Together, our results show that pain, alcohol consumption and feeling fear are independent factors for increased systemic cortisol levels in patients with oral cancer. Therefore, psychological intervention, as well as control of pain and alcohol consumption, should be considered to prevent the negative effects of cortisol secretion dysregulation in cancer patients.

Estados emocionales y estrategias de afrontamiento frecuentes en consulta para parejas infértiles / Emotional states and frequent coping strategies in the medical consultation for infertile couples / Estados emocionais frequentes e estratégias de enfrentamento em consulta para casais inférteis

RESUMEN Introducción: La infertilidad se conoce como la imposibilidad de concebir un hijo de forma natural o de llevar un embarazo a término, luego de un año de vida sexual activa. Por cuanto la procreación es un acontecimiento vital, no lograrla puede generar algunos trastornos psicológicos. Objetivo: Identificar los estados emocionales negativos, así como el estilo de afrontamiento utilizados por ambos miembros de parejas infértiles durante su tratamiento, en la consulta municipal de infertilidad del Policlínico Comunitario "30 de Noviembre", de Santiago de Cuba, durante el periodo enero de 2020 a febrero de 2021. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo con una muestra intencional de 85 parejas (n꓿85) que asistieron a dicha consulta. Se utilizó el método clínico, se revisaron las historias clínicas de los pacientes y se aplicaron técnicas psicológicas (Inventario de Ansiedad Rasgo-Estado de Ch. Spielberger, inventario de depresión de Beck y escala de afrontamiento de Lazarus). Resultados: Predominó el nivel alto de ansiedad como estado en el 61,18 % de los hombres y en el 68,24 % de las mujeres, no se encontró ningún miembro de las parejas infértiles que presentara niveles bajos de ansiedad, además, se constataron niveles severos de depresión en el 52,94 % de las mujeres y en el 44,71 % de los hombres. Predominó el modo de afrontamiento centrado en las emociones en el 90,59 % de la muestra estudiada. Conclusiones: La ansiedad y la depresión, así como la carencia de estrategias de afrontamiento eficaces son fenómenos psicológicos presentes en las parejas que asisten a la consulta municipal de infertilidad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Infertility is define by the failure to conceive a child naturally or achieve a pregnancy after one year of a sexually active life. Therefore, procreation is a vital aspect in humans, and fail to achieve it may generate some psychological disorders. Objective: To identify the negative emotional states, as well as the coping style used by both members of infertile couples during their treatment in the municipal fertility department at the Policlínico Comunitario "30 de Noviembre", Santiago de Cuba, during the period January 2020 to February 2021. Method: A descriptive study was conducted with a purposive sample of 85 couples (n꓿85) who attended such consultation. Method: a descriptive study was conducted with a purposive sample of 85 couples (n꓿85) who attended such consultation. It was used the clinical method, clinical histories were reviewed and various psychological techniques were applied (Ch. Spielberger's Trait-State Anxiety Inventory, Beck's depression inventory and Lazarus' coping scale). Results: High level of anxiety predominated in both sex, in male (61.18%) and in female (68.24%), with no member of the infertile couples showing up low levels of anxiety. In addition, severe levels of depression were found in 52.94% of women and 44.71% of men. The emotion-focused coping mode predominated in 90.59% of the studied sample. Conclusions: Anxiety and depression, as well as lack of effective coping strategies are psychological phenomena shows in couples attending the municipal fertility department.

RESUMO Introdução: A infertilidade é conhecida como a incapacidade de conceber um filho naturalmente ou de levar uma gravidez a termo, após um ano de vida sexual ativa. Como a procriação é um evento vital, sua não realização pode gerar alguns transtornos psicológicos. Objetivo: Identificar os estados emocionais negativos, bem como o estilo de enfrentamento utilizado por ambos os membros de casais inférteis durante seu tratamento, na consulta municipal de infertilidade da Policlínica Comunitária "30 de Noviembre", em Santiago de Cuba, no período de janeiro 2020 a fevereiro de 2021. Método: Foi realizado um estudo descritivo com uma amostra intencional de 85 casais (n꓿85) que compareceram à referida consulta. O método clínico foi utilizado, os prontuários dos pacientes foram revisados e as técnicas psicológicas foram aplicadas (Inventário de Ansiedade Traço-Estado de Ch. Spielberger, inventário de depressão de Beck e escala de enfrentamento de Lazarus). Resultados: O alto nível de ansiedade prevaleceu como estado em 61,18% dos homens e em 68,24% das mulheres, nenhum membro dos casais inférteis apresentou níveis baixos de ansiedade, além disso, foram encontrados níveis graves de depressão em 52,94% das mulheres e 44,71% dos homens. O modo de enfrentamento focado na emoção prevaleceu em 90,59% da amostra estudada. Conclusões: A ansiedade e a depressão, bem como a falta de estratégias de enfrentamento eficazes, são fenômenos psicológicos presentes em casais que frequentam o ambulatório municipal de infertilidade.

Alteraciones psicológicas en niños y adolescentes durante confinamiento social por COVID- 19. Policlínico René Vallejo Ortiz / Psychological alterations in children and adolescents during social confinement by COVID-19. René Vallejo Ortiz Polyclinic / Alterações psicológicas em crianças e adolescentes durante o confinamento social por COVID-19. René Vallejo Ortiz Policlínica

RESUMEN La pandemia COVID-19 es una emergencia sanitaria a nivel global, en este contexto es necesario subrayar que niños, niñas y adolescentes es un grupo vulnerable; ellos están expuestos a los graves efectos físicos, emocionales y psicológicos producto del confinamiento prolongado. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y transversal con el objetivo de analizar las alteraciones psicológicas en niños y adolescentes durante el confinamiento social por COVID-19, que asistieron a consultas de Psiquiatría infantil pertenecientes al Policlínico universitario René Vallejo Ortiz en el periodo del 23 abril a 30 de junio 2020. El universo de estudio quedó constituido por 73 pacientes mientras la muestra fueron 33 niños y adolescentes con cuadros psicológicos agudos a partir del mes de haberse orientado el confinamiento social. Se estudiaron variables como: edad, sexo, manifestaciones clínicas más frecuentes según edad y sexo, factores predisponentes y funcionamiento familiar. Durante el confinamiento por COVID-19 se determinó en la población estudiada la relación entre los estados afectivos emocionales negativos, alteraciones del comportamiento, factores de riesgos asociados y familias disfuncionales.

ABSTRACT The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health emergency, in this context it is necessary to underline that children and adolescents are a vulnerable group; they are exposed to the serious physical, emotional and psychological effects of prolonged confinement. A descriptive, retrospective and cross-sectional study was carried out with the objective of analyzing the psychological alterations in children and adolescents during social confinement due to COVID-19, who attended child psychiatry consultations belonging to the René Vallejo Ortiz University Polyclinic in the period of April 23 as of June 30, 2020. The study universe was made up of 73 patients while the sample consisted of 33 children and adolescents with acute psychological conditions from the month of having oriented the social confinement. Variables such as: age, sex, most frequent clinical manifestations according to age and sex, predisposing factors, and family functioning were studied. During confinement for COVID-19, the relationship between negative emotional affective states, behavioral alterations, associated risk factors and dysfunctional families was determined in the studied population.

RESUMO A pandemia COVID-19 é uma emergência global de saúde, neste contexto é necessário sublinhar que as crianças e adolescentes constituem um grupo vulnerável; estão expostosaos graves efeitos físicos, emocionais e psicológicos do confinamento prolongado. Realizou-se estudo descritivo, retrospectivo e transversal como objetivo de analisar as alterações psicológicas em crianças e adolescentes durante o confinamento social devidoao COVID-19, que compareceram a consultas de psiquiatria infantil da Policlínica Universitária René Vallejo Ortiz no período de 23 de abril a 30 de junho de 2020. O universo do estudo foi composto por 73 pacientes en quanto a amostra foi composta por 33 crianças e adolescentes com sintomas psicológicos agudos desde o mês de orientação ao confinamento social. Foram estudadas variáveis ​​como: idade, sexo, manifestações clínicas mais frequentes segundo idade e sexo, fatores predisponentes e funcionamento familiar. Durante o confinamento para COVID-19, a relação entre estados afetivos emocionais negativos, alterações comportamentais, fatores de risco associados e famílias disfuncionais foi determinada napopulação estudada.

Psychological evaluation of children victims of sexual abuse: development of a protocol.

Sexual abuse (SA) is associated with significant psychological problems in childhood, making it increasingly important to develop evaluation protocols. This study examined clinical aspects and cognitive measures of 49 children (24 with SA history and 25 controls). It employed a SA assessment questionnaire, clinical evaluations of posttraumatic stress disorder, risk indicators and neuropsychological tests in order to elaborate a specific forensic psychological evaluation protocol for this population. Conflicting couples (80%), separated parents (68%) and parents' alcohol/drug abuse (76%) were revealed as major risk factors. Fathers represented the primary perpetrator (24%). The main cognitive complaint was difficulty concentrating. Regarding the association between clinical and cognitive variables, it was observed that children who were anxious or referred to having fear, difficulties with operational memory and difficulty sleeping, had more trouble performing tasks that required attention and memory (operational, immediate and late). Children with SA history demonstrated inferior performance in visual attention/task switching and memory; with an emphasis in the loss of set in the Wisconsin test. The findings suggest the possibility of a primary attention deficit in children with SA history, possibly influencing the performance of other cognitive functions.

Menstrual cycle alters training strain, monotony, and technical training length in young.

The menstrual cycle (MC) phases carry to several psychophysiological alterations; however, no study has investigated the impact of MC phases on training load or technical training. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the follicular phase (FP), ovulatory phase (OP), and luteal phase (LP) on training load and technical training in young athletes. Twelve female athletes performed regular daily training sessions with the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and duration being registered every session. Training impulse (TRIMP), monotony and strain were calculated. MC symptoms, RPE, and duration were also measured during technical training, which was carried out on a specific day during each phase. The TRIMP was not affected by MC phases during regular training (p > .05), but training monotony and strain were higher in FP compared to OP (p < .05). During the technical training, MC phases did not affect RPE (p > .05), but the session was longer in both FP and LP, compared to OP (p < .05). MC symptoms were exacerbated in FP compared to both OP and LP (p < .05). These findings suggest that MC disorders were elevated during FP, which indicate that monitoring MC phases might provide important feedbacks for programming training and expected results during competitions.

Psychological disorders in adults with inherited cardiomyopathies and Takotsubo syndrome. / Trastornos psicológicos en adultos con miocardiopatías hereditarias y síndrome de Takotsubo.

We performed a narrative review about psychological disorders in adults with Takotsubo syndrome and inherited cardiomyopathies. Through the electronic database PubMed and PsycINFO we searched all relevant related manuscripts published between 2000 and 2015. We found twelve studies that explore psychological disorders in Takotsubo syndrome and eight about inherited cardiomyopathies: five enrolled patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, two dilated cardiomyopathy, and one arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. All papers reported the presence of psychological disorders. In Takotsubo syndrome, depression fluctuates between 20.5 and 48% and anxiety was present among 26 and 56%. A study reported that anxiety increases the probability of developing Takotsubo syndrome. In dilated cardiomyopathy, anxiety was present in 50% and depression in 22%. In arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, younger age, poorer functional capacity and having experienced at least one implantable cardioverter defibrillator shock, were significant independent predictors of both device-specific and generalized anxiety. In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, anxiety and depression were present in 45.2% and 17.9%, respectively. Thirty seven percent met diagnostic criteria for anxiety disorders and 21% for mood disorders. Nearby half hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients report triggering of chest pain, dyspnea, and dizziness by emotional stress. Due to the small number of studies, conclusions are limited. However, we discuss some results.

Realizamos una revisión narrativa sobre trastornos psicológicos en adultos con diagnóstico de síndrome de Takotsubo y miocardiopatías hereditarias. Utilizando las bases de datos PubMed y PsycINFO buscamos los trabajos relevantes publicados entre 2000 y 2015. Encontramos doce estudios que exploran alteraciones psicológicas en síndrome de Takotsubo y ocho estudios sobre miocardiopatías hereditarias: cinco enrolaron pacientes con miocardiopatía hipertrófica, dos miocardiopatía dilatada, uno miocardiopatía arritmogénica del ventrículo derecho. Todas las publicaciones reportaron la presencia de trastornos psicológicos. En el síndrome de Takotsubo, la depresión oscila entre el 20,5 y el 48% y la ansiedad estuvo presente entre el 26 y el 56%. Un estudio reporta que la ansiedad aumenta la probabilidad de desarrollar el síndrome de Takotsubo. En la miocardiopatía dilatada, la ansiedad estuvo presente en el 50% de los pacientes y la depresión en el 22%. En la miocardiopatía arritmogénica del ventrículo derecho, la edad más joven, peor capacidad funcional y haber experimentado al menos un shock por desfibrilador automático implantable, fueron predictores independientes significativos de ansiedad tanto específica por el dispositivo como generalizada. En la miocardiopatía hipertrófica, la ansiedad y la depresión estaban presentes en 45,2% y 17,9%, respectivamente. Treinta y siete por ciento cumplía con los criterios de diagnóstico para los trastornos de ansiedad y 21% para los trastornos del estado de ánimo. Cerca de la mitad de los pacientes con miocardiopatía hipertrófica informan dolor en el pecho, disnea y mareos desencadenados por estrés emocional. Debido al reducido número de estudios publicados, las conclusiones son limitadas. No obstante, presentamos algunos de los resultados.

As vivências de um grupo de pacientes com transtornos alimentares: a relação com o espelho e a imagem corporal / The experiences of a group of patients with eating disorders: the relationship with the mirror and body image / Experiencias de un grupo de pacientes con trastornos de la conducta alimentaria: la relación con el espejo y su imagen corporal / Les expériences d'un groupe de patients atteints de troubles d'alimentation: la relation avec le miroir et l'image corporelle

A incidência de transtorno alimentar (TA) na população vem aumentando progressivamente. Dentre os diferentes problemas relacionados à alimentação, destacam-se a anorexia nervosa (AN) e a bulimia nervosa (BN). O objetivo desta pesquisa é investigar como pacientes atendidos em um ambulatório de saúde mental vivenciaram o aparecimento de sintomas de TA. Foram convidados a participar voluntariamente deste estudo dez pacientes em atendimento junto ao Hospital das Clínicas de uma cidade do oeste paulista. Seis concordaram em participar. Para a coleta de dados, foi utilizada a entrevista semiestruturada. Os depoimentos revelam dois fatores que favoreceram o aparecimento de TA, segundo a ótica das entrevistadas: conflitos em relacionamentos interpessoais e pressão social para emagrecimento/estigmatização. Possivelmente, influências socioculturais permeiam as significações atribuídas pelas pacientes à sua imagem refletida no espelho, contribuindo para o aparecimento de distorções na percepção do peso e forma corporal. Os resultados deste estudo sugerem ainda que, muitas vezes, a tomada de consciência do problema demora a ocorrer. Assim, o envolvimento de familiares e o fornecimento de informações e orientações sobre a natureza do transtorno são essenciais no escopo das intervenções para tratamento do problema. Supõe-se que programas de natureza preventiva, destinados à melhoria do funcionamento interpessoal dos adolescentes, poderiam minimizar o risco do aparecimento de TA. Este estudo pretende contribuir com ações dessa natureza, além de subsidiar equipes multiprofissionais no atendimento aos pacientes.

The incidence of eating disorders (ED) in the population has been increasing steadily. Among the different issues related to food, the highlights are Anorexia Nervosa (AN) and Bulimia Nervosa (BN). The objective of this research is to investigate how patients treated at an outpatient mental health experienced the onset of symptoms of ED. Ten patients in care at the 'Hospital das Clínicas' of the West of São Paulo City were invited to participate, voluntarily in this study,. Six of them agreed to participate. For data collection, we used the semi- structured interview. Reports reveal two factors that favored the appearance of ED, according to the interviewees: conflicts in interpersonal relationships and social pressure for slimming/stigmatization. Possibly, sociocultural influences permeate the meanings attributed by patients to their mirror image, contributing to the emergence of distortions in the perception of body weight and shape. The results of this study also suggest that often the awareness of the problem has a delay to happen. Thus, the involvement of family members and the provision of information and guidance on the nature of the disorder are essential in the scope of interventions for treating the problem. It is assumed that preventive programs aimed at improving interpersonal functioning of adolescents, could minimize the risk of developing ED. This study aims to contribute to such actions, in addition to supporting multiprofessional teams in patient care.

La incidencia de los trastornos de la conducta alimentaria en la población ha crecido en los últimos años. Entre los distintos problemas relacionados con la alimentación destacan la anorexia nerviosa (AN) y la bulimia nerviosa (BN). El objetivo de este estudio es investigar cómo los pacientes atendidos en un ambulatorio de salud mental han experimentado la aparición de síntomas de trastornos de la conducta alimentaria. Diez pacientes del Hospital de las Clínicas de una ciudad del Oeste de São Paulo fueron invitados a participar en este estudio. Seis estuvieron de acuerdo en participar. Para la recogida de datos se utilizó una entrevista semiestructurada. Las respuestas revelan dos factores favorecedores de la aparición de los trastornos de la conducta alimentaria desde la perspectiva de los entrevistados: los conflictos en las relaciones interpersonales y la presión social para la pérdida de peso/estigmatización. Posiblemente las influencias socioculturales impregnan los significados atribuidos por los pacientes a su propia imagen reflejada en el espejo, lo que contribuye a la aparición de distorsiones de la percepción del peso y forma corporal. Los resultados de esta investigación también indican que a menudo la toma de consciencia del problema tarda en ocurrir. Por lo tanto, la participación de los familiares y la entrega de información y orientaciones acerca de la naturaleza del trastorno son esenciales en el alcance de las intervenciones para el tratamiento del problema. Se supone que los programas de prevención dirigidos a mejorar el funcionamiento interpersonal de los adolescentes podrían minimizar el riesgo de aparición de trastornos de la conducta alimentaria. Este estudio tiene como objetivo contribuir a este tipo de acciones, además de apoyar a los equipos multidisciplinarios en la atención a los pacientes.

L'incidence des troubles d'alimentation dans la population augmente progressivement. Entre les différentes questions liées à l'alimentation, on peut démarquer l'anorexie mentale et la boulimie. L'objectif de cette recherche est d'étudier la façon dont les patients traités dans une clinique de santé mentale ont connu l'apparition des symptômes des troubles d'alimentation. Dix patients en soins à l'hôpital das Clinicas dans une ville de Oeste Paulista ont été invités à participer à cette étude. Parmi ces invitations, six personnes ont accepté de participer. Pour la collecte des données, on a utilisé une interview semi-structurée. Les rapports révèlent deux facteurs qui ont favorisé l'apparition des troubles d'alimentation, d'après les patients interrogées: les conflits dans les relations interpersonnelles et la pression sociale pour la perte de poids / stigmatisation. C'est possible que le sens attribué par les patients à sa propre image reflétée dans le miroir soit imbu d'influences socioculturelles, ce qui contribue à la manifestation de distorsions dans la perception du poids et de la forme corporels. Les résultats de cette étude suggèrent également que, parfois, la prise de conscience du problème se produit en retard. Ainsi, la participation des membres de la famille et la fourniture d'informations et des conseils sur la nature de la maladie sont essentiels dans le cadre des soins pour traiter le problème. On présume que les programmes de prévention, visant à améliorer le fonctionnement interpersonnel des adolescents pourraient réduire le risque de l'apparition des troubles de l'alimentation. Cette étude tend à contribuer à ces actions et aussi de soutenir des équipes multidisciplinaires pour soigner les patients.

Aborto y salud mental de la mujer / Aborto e saúde mental da mulher / Abortion and the mental health of women

La existencia o no de alteraciones de la salud mental de la mujer como consecuencia del aborto es algo que suscita en el momento actual un vivo debate, pues, junto a convencidos profesionales que defienden su existencia, otros se manifiestan totalmente opuestos a ello. Para abordar este tema hemos evaluado algunas de las más recientes revisiones que nos han parecido de calidad metodológica contrastada, así como también algunos de los últimos artículos publicados. Podemos concluir que no existe un síndrome posaborto como tal, pero sí trastornos psicológicos secundarios al aborto. Finalmente, reflexionamos sobre en qué medida el sentimiento de culpabilidad que la mujer pueda experimentar por haber abortado podría influir en la presentación o no de trastornos psicológicos tras el acto abortivo.

The existence or the lack of alterations of mental health of women as consequence of abortion currently arises a lively debate, since, while there are convinced professionals defending its existence, others are completely opposed to it. In order to examine this issue we have evaluated some of most recent reviews considering they have contrasted methodological value, as well as some of the latest published articles. We can conclude that there is no post abortion syndrome as such, but there are secondary psychological disorders after abortion. Finally, we reflect about in which extent the feeling of guilt that woman may experiment for having aborted may influence the presentation or not of psychological disorders after the abortion act.

A existência ou não de alterações da saúde mental da mulher como consequência do aborto é algo que suscita no momento atual um vivo debate, pois, junto a convencidos profissionais que defendem a sua existência, outros se manifestam totalmente opostos a isso. Para abordar este tema avaliamos algumas das mais recentes revisões que nos pareceram de qualidade metodológica comprovada, assim como também alguns dos últimos artigos publicados. Podemos concluir que não existe uma síndrome pós-aborto como tal, mas sim transtornos psicológicos secundários ao aborto. Finalmente, refletimos sobre em que medida o sentimento de culpabilidade que a mulher pode experimentar por haver abortado poderia influir na apresentação ou não de transtornos psicológicos após o ato abortivo.

Efeitos da perda rápida de peso em atletas de combate / Effects of rapid weight loss in combat athletes / Efectos de la perda rápida de peso em atletas de combate

Em esportes de combate, a estratégia de perda rápida de peso é frequentemente utilizada com o propósito de obter vantagens sobre o oponente. Nesse processo, a redução de peso é extremamente acentuada com curta duração, o que pode provocar uma série de desordens fisiológicas, psicológicas e também quanto ao desempenho esportivo. Sendo assim, a presente revisão teve como objetivo compilar os principais achados quanto aos efeitos adversos devido à perda rápida de peso, tendo em vista o embasamento científico aos profissionais envolvidos com atletas de combate. Os estudos demonstram um grande número de atletas que se engajam em programas com tal propósito, repetindo inúmeras vezes ao longo da vida. Entretanto, os potenciais riscos à saúde causados por tal prática usualmente não são levados em consideração. Com base nos estudos apresentados, a perda rápida de peso deve ser avaliada cuidadosamente por educadores físicos, médicos, nutricionistas e demais profissionais da área da saúde, considerando os vários efeitos adversos que essa prática pode resultar. É importante ressaltar que a preservação da integridade e do bem-estar dos atletas envolvidos pode ser fator determinante na decisão de um combate.

In combat sports, the rapid weight loss is a strategy often used for the purpose of gaining an advantage over the opponent. In this process, the weight reduction is extremely sharp in a short period of time, which can cause a variety of physiological or psychological disorders, as well as a decreasing on sports performance. Therefore, this review aims to compile the main findings about the adverse effects due to rapid weight loss, in order to give a scientific base for professionals involved with combat athletes. Several studies have shown a large number of athletes who engage in programs for this purpose, repeating this procedure several times throughout life. However, potential risks to health caused by this practice usually are not taken into account. Based on the studies presented, the rapid weight loss should be carefully evaluated by physical educators, physicians, nutritionists and other health care professionals, considering the various adverse effects that this practice can result. It is important to remember that the preservation of the integrity and welfare of the athletes involved may be a determinant factor to decide a combat.

En los deportes de combate, la estrategia de rápida pérdida de peso es a menudo utilizada para el fin de obtener ventajas sobre su oponente. Lo proceso de reducción de peso es muy fuerte con una corta duración, que puede causar una variedad de trastornos fisiológicos, psicológicos, así como para el desempeño deportivo. Por lo tanto, esta revisión pretende recopilar las principales conclusiones sobre los efectos adversos debido a la pérdida rápida de peso, en vista de la base científica para los profesionales que trabajam com atletas de combate. Varios estudios muestran un gran número de atletas que participan en los programas para ese fin, repitiendo varias veces por toda la vida. Sin embargo, los riesgos potenciales para la salud causados por esta práctica no se suele tener en cuenta. Sobre la base de los estudios presentados, la pérdida rápida de peso debe ser evaluado cuidadosamente por los educadores físicos, médicos, nutricionistas y otros profesionales de la salud, teniendo en cuenta los efectos adversos diferentes que esto puede resultar. Es importante destacar que la preservación de la integridad y el bienestar de los atletas que participan pueden ser un factor determinante en la decisión de un concurso.

Social Skills and Psychological Disorders: Converging and Criterion-Related Validity for YSR and IHSA-Del-Prette in Adolescents at Risk / Habilidades sociales y trastornos psicológicos: validez convergente y de criterio para YSR e IHSA- Del-Prette en Adolescentes en riesgo

This study evaluated indexes of converging and criterion-related validity for the Social Skills Inventory for Adolescents (IHSA-Del-Prette) and the Youth Self-Report (YSR) in two samples: one referring to clinical service (CLIN), with 28 adolescents (64.3% boys), 11 through 17 years old (M = 13.75; SD = 1.74), and the other referring to a psycho-educational program (PME = 46.2%), mainly composed ofboys (91.7%) aged 13 through 17 (M = 15.33; SD = 1.47). Both samples completed the two inventories. Results showed a high incidence of psychological disorders in both samples (between 4% and 79% in the borderline or clinical range on YSR scales) and accentuated deficits in the general and subscale scores of IHSA-Del-Prette, especially on the frequency scale (25% to 58%). The correlations between the instruments in the two groups supported criterion-related and converging validity. Some issues concerning the differences between the samples and about the construct of social competence, underlying these inventories, are discussed.

Este estudio evaluó los índices de validez convergente y de criterio para el Social Skills Inventory for Adolescents (IHSA-Del-Prette) y el Youth Self-Report (YSR) en dos muestras: una que fue referida al servicio clínico (CLIN), con 28 adolescentes (64.3% hombres), entre 11 a 17 años de edad (M = 13.75; DE = 1.74), y otra que fue referida a un programa psico-educa-tivo (PME = 46.2%), principalmente compuesto de hombres jóvenes (91.7%) entre los 13 y los 17 años de edad (M = 15.33; DE = 1.47). Las dos muestras completaron los dos inventarios. Los resultados mostraron una alta incidencia de desórdenes psicológicos en ambas muestras (entre 4% y 79% en el límite o rango clínico en las escalas YSR) y déficits acentuados en las puntuaciones generales y subescala de IHSA-Del-Prette, especialmente en la escala de frecuencia (25% a 58%). Las correlaciones entre los instrumentos en los dos grupos apoyaron la validez de criterio y la convergente. Se discuten algunos aspectos que subyacen a estos inventarios relacionados con las diferencias entre las muestras y con respecto al constructo de la competencia social.

Impacto del paso de los huracanes Gustav e Ike en la salud psicológica de un grupo de escolares afectados / Impact of Gustav and Ike hurricanes crossing on the psychological health of a group of affected schoolchildren

OBJETIVOS: evaluar el impacto de los huracanes Gustav e Ike en la salud psicológica de un grupo de escolares. Caracterizar la representación psicológica que de los huracanes tuvieron estos, e identificar la presencia de síntomas psicológicos durante y posterior al paso de los meteoros por la localidad afectada. MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio de casos clínicos 3 meses después de haber pasado los eventos meteorológicos (noviembre 2008). Se seleccionaron 10 niños con edades entre 7 y 10 años, y se recogió el antecedente de daño parcial o total en sus viviendas. La comunidad escogida para el estudio fue Bacunagua, perteneciente al municipio de Los Palacios, el más afectado en la provincia de Pinar del Río. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron el dibujo libre, la composición con el tema El ciclón y la entrevista, además se realizó una entrevista a los padres, para recoger el comportamiento de los niños durante y después del paso del ciclón. RESULTADOS: se consideraron 3 categorías como representación psicológica, las cuales fueron destrucción, afección emocional y recuperación; y los síntomas identificados fueron la ansiedad y la tristeza, en 2 niños los síntomas fueron suficientes para considerar la posibilidad Trastorno de Adaptación con Sntoma Ansioso-depresivo. CONCLUSIONES: el trabajo nos permitió acercarnos a los efectos psicológicos de los desastres desde técnicas psicológicas proyectivas, y nos mostró las características en tanto representación y sintomatología psicológica que poseían los escolares del meteoro que los afectó, lo cual permitió acercarse al tratamiento pos desastre existente y proponer recomendaciones(AU)

OBJECTIVES: to assess the impact of hurricanes Gustav and Ike on the psychological health of a group of schoolchildren. To characterize the psychological representation that hurricanes had on they and to identify the presence of psychological symptoms during and after the passing of meteors by the affected place. METHODS: a study of three clinical cases was conducted three months after the passing of these metereological events (November, 2008). Ten children were selected aged between 7 and 10 and collecting the background of partial damage in their houses. Community selected for study was Bacunagua from the Los Palacios municipality because of this was the more affected one in the Pinar del Río province. The tools used were the free drawing, a composition called The Cyclone and an interview with the children as well as with parents to know the behavior of children during the cyclone passing. RESULTS: authors took into account three categories as psychological representation, which included destruction, emotional affection and recovery and the identified symptoms were enough to consider the possibility of Adaptation Disorder with Impatient-Depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: present paper allowed us an approach to psychological effects of disasters using projective psychological techniques showing the representation features and the psychological symptoms of schoolchildren due to the meteor affecting them and it was possible to come closer to existing post-disaster treatment and to propose the appropriate recommendations(AU)

Impacto del paso de los huracanes Gustav e Ike en la salud psicológica de un grupo de escolares afectados / Impact of Gustav and Ike hurricanes crossing on the psychological health of a group of affected schoolchildren

OBJETIVOS: evaluar el impacto de los huracanes Gustav e Ike en la salud psicológica de un grupo de escolares. Caracterizar la representación psicológica que de los huracanes tuvieron estos, e identificar la presencia de síntomas psicológicos durante y posterior al paso de los meteoros por la localidad afectada. MÉTODOS: se realizó un estudio de casos clínicos 3 meses después de haber pasado los eventos meteorológicos (noviembre 2008). Se seleccionaron 10 niños con edades entre 7 y 10 años, y se recogió el antecedente de daño parcial o total en sus viviendas. La comunidad escogida para el estudio fue Bacunagua, perteneciente al municipio de Los Palacios, el más afectado en la provincia de Pinar del Río. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron el dibujo libre, la composición con el tema El ciclón y la entrevista, además se realizó una entrevista a los padres, para recoger el comportamiento de los niños durante y después del paso del ciclón. RESULTADOS: se consideraron 3 categorías como representación psicológica, las cuales fueron destrucción, afección emocional y recuperación; y los síntomas identificados fueron la ansiedad y la tristeza, en 2 niños los síntomas fueron suficientes para considerar la posibilidad Trastorno de Adaptación con Sntoma Ansioso-depresivo. CONCLUSIONES: el trabajo nos permitió acercarnos a los efectos psicológicos de los desastres desde técnicas psicológicas proyectivas, y nos mostró las características en tanto representación y sintomatología psicológica que poseían los escolares del meteoro que los afectó, lo cual permitió acercarse al tratamiento pos desastre existente y proponer recomendaciones

OBJECTIVES: to assess the impact of hurricanes Gustav and Ike on the psychological health of a group of schoolchildren. To characterize the psychological representation that hurricanes had on they and to identify the presence of psychological symptoms during and after the passing of meteors by the affected place. METHODS: a study of three clinical cases was conducted three months after the passing of these metereological events (November, 2008). Ten children were selected aged between 7 and 10 and collecting the background of partial damage in their houses. Community selected for study was Bacunagua from the Los Palacios municipality because of this was the more affected one in the Pinar del Río province. The tools used were the free drawing, a composition called The Cyclone and an interview with the children as well as with parents to know the behavior of children during the cyclone passing. RESULTS: authors took into account three categories as psychological representation, which included destruction, emotional affection and recovery and the identified symptoms were enough to consider the possibility of Adaptation Disorder with Impatient-Depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: present paper allowed us an approach to psychological effects of disasters using projective psychological techniques showing the representation features and the psychological symptoms of schoolchildren due to the meteor affecting them and it was possible to come closer to existing post-disaster treatment and to propose the appropriate recommendations

Limitación cognitiva en niños con anemia drepanocítica sin historia de afectación neurológica / Cognitive limitation present in children with drepanocytemia without a neurologic affection history

En los últimos años se comunican dificultades cognitivas en niños con anemia drepanocítica (AD) sin afectación neurológica evidente y se insiste en la necesidad de atención especializada. Se estudiaron 29 pacientes sin ningún elemento recogido en sus historias clínicas que evidenciara afectación del SNC. Se aplicó la escala de inteligencia de Wechsler y se comparó con niños sanos. Se obtuvo información de sus maestros sobre el rendimiento en las asignaturas de Matemática y Español, interés mostrado en clases y disciplina. Se observó disminución en los cocientes de inteligencia (CI) de la escala total (p= 0,014) y de la escala ejecutiva (p= 0,008) y también en las subescalas semejanzas (p= 0,048), ordenar figuras (p= 0,017) y diseño de bloques (p= 0,001). Los maestros consideraron el rendimiento en Matemática (40 %) y Español (36 %) menor que en los demás alumnos. El déficit neurocognitivo esta presente en niños con AD sin historia previa de afectación del SNC, por lo que esta área debe evaluarse periódicamente como parte de su atención integral.

In past years cognitive difficulties are reported in children with drepanocytemia (SCA) without evident neurologic affection, and we emphasized the need of a specialized care. A total of 29 patients were studied without any element evidencing affection of central nervous system (CNS) in registered in their medical records. We applied the Wechsler intelligence scale compared to health children. We get information from their teachers on performance in subjects like Mathematics and Spanish, interest and discipline during the classes. We note a decrease in intelligence quotient (IC) from the total scale (p= 0,014), and from rendition scale (p= 0,008), and also in similarity scales (p= 0,048), to figures array (p= 0,017), and block design (p= 0,001). Professors considered that Mathematics and Spanish performance (40 % and 36 %, respectively) lower than in the other pupils. Neurocognitive deficit is present in children with SCA without a prior history of CNS affection, thus, this area must to be periodically assessed as part of its integral care.

Trastornos psíquicos y psicosomáticos: problemática de salud actual de los docentes mexicanos / Psychological and psychosomatic disorders: a survey of teachers in Mexico

Objetivo: Identificar las exigencias asociadas a problemas psíquicos y psicosomáticos en profesores que laboran en instituciones educativas públicas y privadas del nivel medio superior. Planteamiento del problema: Las condiciones de trabajo que enfrentan actualmente los profesores, han dado lugar a un incremento de trastornos psíquicos y psicosomáticos, dado que el trabajo que realizan es más de tipo intelectual y/o de servicio, con una baja exposición a riesgos laborales y un alto nivel de exigencias que se desprenden de la redistribución de las tareas y competencias laborales, entre otras características inherentes al modo en que el trabajo está organizado. Material y Método: Se realizó un estudio de prevalencia. Participaron 203 profesores de una escuela pública y 105 docentes de seis escuelas particulares. Se aplicó una encuesta individual, con el fin de detectar la relación de exigencias laborales con la presencia de problemas psíquicos y psicosomáticos. Los datos fueron procesados y analizados por medio de un programa computarizado diseñado para este fin. Resultados y conclusiones: Se detectó mayor número de exigencias derivadas de la organización de trabajo en las instituciones privadas, en tanto en la escuela pública, predominaron las exigencias que se desprenden de la infraestructura en la institución. La ansiedad, la depresión, los trastornos del sueño y la cefalea tensional, estuvieron asociados a horarios extensos, supervisión estricta, tareas repetitivas, entre otros. Por lo que es necesario implementar medidas preventivas, para mejorar las condiciones laborales y de salud de los docentes.

Objective: To Identify job demands associated with psychological and psychosomatic disorders among teachers working in public and private high schools in Mexico. Background: The working conditions faced by teachers today place them at an increased risk of psychological and psychosomatic disorders. Their work is more of an intellectual and/or service type, with little exposure to traditional workplace hazards, but there are high demands due to redistribution of job skills and tasks, among other characteristics inherent to the way their jobs are organized. Methods and Materials: A prevalence study was conducted. Study participants consisted of 203 public school teachers and 105 teachers from six private schools. An individual questionnaire was administered in order to explore the relationship between job demands and the presence of psychological and psychosomatic problems. The data were processed and analyzed using a computer program designed for this purpose. Results and conclusions. A greater number of demands arising from the organization of the work was observed among private school teachers. In public schools, demands related to school infrastructure predominated. Anxiety, depression, sleep disorders and tension headaches were associated with long hours, strict supervision, and repetitive tasks, among other factors. This points to the need for greater preventive efforts to improve working conditions and the health of teachers.

Nível de estresse entre trabalhadores em uma clínica odontológica / Level of stress among workers in an oncology center

Introdução - O trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o nível de estresse e os principais sinais e sintomas desta doença entre trabalhadores do Centro de Oncologia Campinas, SP. Material e Métodos - O estudo foi realizado no período de 15 de maio a 15 de junho de 2006. Dois questionários epidemiológicos semi-estruturados foram aplicados para um grupo de 26 trabalhadores da clínica. Os seguintes dados foram coletados: informações pessoais, tempo de trabalho na empresa, carga horária desenvolvida, doenças psicossomáticas, nível de estresse, e tolerância na vida cotidiana dos trabalhadores. Resultados - Os sintomas com maior freqüência foram: cansaço ao levantar (66,7%), alteração do sono (52,7%), ansiedade (47,6%), irritabilidade excessiva e esquecimento de coisas corriqueiras (42,9%). Em média, 85,5% de trabalhadores apresentaram estresse. Em relação à magnitude, 38% apresentaram nível baixo, 42,8% nível alto, 4,7% nível altíssimo. Em relação à tolerância diária, 76% apresentam sobrecarga, 4,7% sobrecarga excessiva, e 19% apresentaram quadro de tolerância. Conclusões - Verificou-se, portanto,um alto nível de estresse entre os trabalhadores e a necessidade de implementar medidas minimizadoras deste quadro. Propõe-se uma reestruturação da organização do trabalho, incentivos e valorização do desempenho dos trabalhadores. Tais medidas atuariam no resgate da autoestima, implicando na melhoria do trabalho e na qualidade de vida dos trabalhadores.

Introduction - We investigated signs, symptoms, and level of stress among workers at Centro de Oncologia Campinas, SP. Material and Methods - The study was carried out from May 15th through June 15th, 2006. Two semi-structered questionaries on epidemioly were applied to a group of 26 workers of the clinic. The following data were collected: personal information, time employed, working hours psychosomatic disorders, level of stress and daily life tolerance. Results - The main symptoms were: early morning fatigue (66.7%), sleep disorders (52.7%), anxiety (47.6%), excessive irritability as well as forgetfulness of common daily routines (42.9%). Inaverage, 85.5% of the workers presented stress, where 38% had low levels of stress, 42.8% high levels, and 4.7% had very high levels of stress. Regarding the daily tolerance, 76% showed an overcharge, 4.7% an excessive overcharge and 19% had signs of tolerance. Conclusions -Overall, we found high levels of stress among the studied workers. To overcome this situation, a few basic measures are proposed, as follows: organizational rearrangements, company incentives, and performance awards. Such measures would act to elevate the self-steem, thus resulting in the improvement of the work environment as well as the quality of life of the workers.

Trastornos y desajustes psicológicos asociados a la violencia delictiva, un estudio con mujeres costarricenses privadas de libertad / Psychological disorders and disturbances related to criminal violence: a study with Costa Rican female offenders

El propósito de la presente investigación fue explorar la asociación entre trastornos y desajustes psicológicos con la violencia desplegada por mujeres privadas de libertad durante la comisión de los hechos delictivos por los cuales se encuentran sentenciadas. Con este estudio se espera realizar un aporte empírico y conceptual al campo de la evaluación psicológica forense en el país, dado que a la fecha no se ha realizado suficiente investigación en esta área especializada. La muestra la constituyó un grupo de 60 mujeres privadas de libertad sentenciadas y ubicadas en el Centro de Atención Institucional. El Buen Pastor, quienes para efectos de esta investigación fueron clasificadas según su historia delictiva con tendencia violenta o no violenta. Como parte de los procedimientos para la recolección de datos se aplicaron, entre otros instrumentos, el Inventario Multifásico de Personalidad de Minessota-2 (MMPI-2) y la Lista de Chequeo de la Psicopatía-Revisada (PCL-R) de Robert Hare, los cuales mostraron índices de confiabilidad satisfactorios con esta población. En relación con los resultados ofrecidos por el PCL-R se hizo posible conocer con mayor certeza la prevalencia del trastorno de psicopatía en la muestra estudiada, así como el hecho de que no se detectarán diferencias significativas en la manifestación de este trastorno en ofensoras violentas y no violentas. Además, se pudo establecer que las ofensoras con una historia delictiva con tendencia violenta presentaron un mejor grado de ajuste emocional y social que aquellas privadas de libertad con una carrera criminal en la cual predominaban las ofensas no violentas. No obstante, al diferenciar el tipo de violencia empleada por las mujeres evaluadas, se notó en las ofensoras instrumentalmente violentas un patrón de características psicológicas menos adaptativas en comparación con las ofensoras reactivas/hostiles.

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between psychological disorders and disturbances with criminal violence in a sample of Costa Rican female offenders. This investigation intended to provide some empirical and conceptual support to the field of forensic psychological assessment given that there is not enough research in our country concerning this specialized area. The sample was comprised of 60 female incarcerated offenders located at the correctional center "El Buen Pastor", who were classified according to their criminal history as violent and nonviolent offenders. PCL-R and MMPI-2 were used among other instruments. These instruments showed good reliability coefficients with this sample of female offenders. On the other hand, PLC-R results made it possible to know the prevalence of psychopathy in this sample as well as the fact that no significant differences existed between violent and nonviolent female offenders related to this personality disorder. Likewise, this study allowed to find out that offender with violent criminal history manifested a better level of psychological and social adjustment than those offenders with no violent criminal history. Finally, it was observed that instrumental violent offenders showed a pattern of psychological features less functional than reactive/hostile violent offenders.