Dissection of the vertebral arteries: case report and discussion.

Vertebral artery dissection is an unusual condition with potentially protean neurologic presentations. It may occur spontaneously or follow apparently minor neck trauma. Ischemic symptoms related to the posterior circulation ensue and may be due to obstruction or embolization. The ensuing stroke is ischemic, although subarachnoid hemorrhage may be a complication as well. A case of vertebral artery dissection in a young woman who developed symptoms approximately one week after mild neck injury is reported, and the topic is reviewed.

Temperament as a predictor of psychological adjustment in female adult incest victims.

Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the relation between temperament and psychological adjustment in a sample of female adult incest victims (N = 57). Several dimensions of temperament, including activity level, mood, approach/withdrawal, flexibility (adaptability), and rhythmicity were significant predictors of various indicators of adjustment and self-esteem. The findings suggest that temperamental characteristics may moderate the effects of childhood incest on adult adjustment.

Temperament, adjustment, and alcoholism in adult female incest victims.

Female adult incest victims differing in history of alcoholism were compared to an alcoholism-only and a no incest/no alcoholism group on dimensions of temperament, psychological adjustment, and self-esteem. Incest victims with histories of alcoholism were more alienated and withdrawn, less rhythmical in their daily behavior, and evidenced lower self-esteem, more negative mood, greater social nonconformity, and more emotional discomfort than women in the other three groups. Women in the no incest/no alcohol group showed the best self-esteem and psychological adjustment and were generally more positive in the expression of various temperamental characteristics. The findings also suggested an association between incestuous victimization and an alcoholic family of origin.