Journal Of Clinical Psychology[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Distinct Longitudinal Contributions of Social Anxiety and Self-Consciousness to Interpersonal Dysfunction.
Maffly-Kipp J, Nagel K, Fournier JC
J Clin Psychol · 2026 May · PMID 42212659 · Publisher ↗
We examined whether social anxiety (SA) and self-consciousness (SC) predicted unique variance in functioning among young adults with internalizing symptoms. We hypothesized that each would independently predict poorer in...
We examined whether social anxiety (SA) and self-consciousness (SC) predicted unique variance in functioning among young adults with internalizing symptoms. We hypothesized that each would independently predict poorer interpersonal functioning and quality of life cross-sectionally and over 12 months. Participants (N = 152; ages: 18-30) included individuals with elevated depression and anxiety symptoms as well as healthy controls. At baseline, participants completed measures of SA, SC, and assessments of quality of life, social/leisure satisfaction, and four domains of interpersonal problems, with reassessments at 6 and 12 months. Baseline SA and SC both uniquely predicted greater interpersonal problems, and SA predicted lower social satisfaction, controlling for depression and anxiety severity. Quality of life was more strongly associated with SC than SA. However, in longitudinal models, all significant effects of baseline SA diminished over time and were no longer significant at the 12-month follow-up. In contrast, baseline SC demonstrated more stable relationships with impaired social functioning across the longitudinal period. Our findings suggest that SA may reflect a more state-like vulnerability that varies with time and circumstances, while SC may be associated with more stable interpersonal problems. These distinctions may ultimately allow clinicians to more effectively separate features associated with shorter-term interpersonal challenges from those associated with longer-term problems, and therefore to select more targeted and appropriate treatments.
Assessing the Czech Version of the Inventory of Personality Organization in Relation to Borderline Personality Disorder in the ICD-11.
Riegel KD, Ksinan AJ
J Clin Psychol · 2026 May · PMID 42207962 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the Czech version of the Inventory of Personality Organization (IPO-CZ) in relation to borderline personality disorder (BPD) as defined in the ICD-11 model for PDs and defensive functionin...
OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the Czech version of the Inventory of Personality Organization (IPO-CZ) in relation to borderline personality disorder (BPD) as defined in the ICD-11 model for PDs and defensive functioning in BPDs. The IPO-CZ was used as a proxy measure of personality functioning (PF), although not fully identical to the conception of PF within the ICD-11 framework defined by the severity of self-other impairment. METHODS: The IPO-57, Borderline Personality Questionnaire, and Defense Style Questionnaire were administered to general population volunteers (n = 371) and mixed psychiatric patients (n = 293). RESULTS: Three-factor solution of the IPO-CZ (i.e., Instability of self and others [ISO]; Instability of goals and behaviors [IGB]; and Psychosis) was confirmed, to a large extent reflecting Kernberg's initial concept of personality organization. Since the measurement invariance of the 57-item version was not confirmed across samples, a 14-item version of the IPO-CZ was developed. ISO was strongly associated with self-other pathology in both samples, IGB showed to be an indicator of immature defensive functioning in both samples and mature-neurotic defenses in clinical sample when IPO-14 was used. CONCLUSION: While ISO appears to be an indicator of PF in terms of general self-other disturbance, IGB may be considered a specifier of the defense mechanism-based management of impulsive aggression typical of BPD patients that should not be ignored. Moreover, the study found measurement invariance across general and clinical sample for IPO-14.
A Longitudinal Analysis of Self-Rated Health Correlates and Predictors in Hurricane Survivors.
Pavlacic JM, Walker JH, Andrews AR … +2 more , Galea S, Ruggiero KJ
J Clin Psychol · 2026 May · PMID 42176344 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Poor self-rated health (i.e., perceived health status relative to same-aged individuals) is associated with elevated all-cause mortality. Research examining post-disaster self-rated health is limited but co...
INTRODUCTION: Poor self-rated health (i.e., perceived health status relative to same-aged individuals) is associated with elevated all-cause mortality. Research examining post-disaster self-rated health is limited but could inform disaster theory and interventions. Identifying and subsequently mitigating individual and contextual determinants of self-rated health could address adverse, downstream effects. METHOD: The current study includes secondary analyses from a randomized controlled trial of a digital mental health intervention in a diverse sample of 1357 hurricane-affected adults (49.5% Latine ethnicity). We examined longitudinal relations between baseline (post-disaster) mental health outcomes, baseline social support, demographics, and baseline and follow-up self-rated health (calculated as a change score and 12-month follow-up score). We hypothesized those with elevated baseline psychopathology would be more likely to select the "fair/poor" health category (relative to "good/very good/excellent" self-rated health), and that greater social support would longitudinally predict improved self-rated health. Older individuals were also expected to select the "fair/poor" health category. RESULTS: Individuals with higher baseline depressive symptoms and sleep disturbances were more likely to report "fair/poor" self-rated health at baseline and 12 months. Controlling for baseline self-rated health, depression remained a significant predictor of worse 12-month self-rated health in binary and ordinal logistic regressions. Social support did not predict baseline or 12-month self-rated health. Age and gender were non-significant moderators; no variables predicted change scores. CONCLUSION: Depressive symptoms appear to be a key predictor of self-rated health one year post-disaster. Addressing depression post-disaster may mitigate adverse health outcomes.
Engagement With Online Sexual Trauma-Related Content Among Women Who Have Experienced Sexual Trauma.
Obenauf C, Owens GP, Shinew H … +1 more , Mitchell L
J Clin Psychol · 2026 May · PMID 42155077 · Publisher ↗
Seeking online social support has become increasingly common due to widespread use of social media; however, little is known about the experiences of women survivors of sexual trauma who engage with online sexual trauma-...
Seeking online social support has become increasingly common due to widespread use of social media; however, little is known about the experiences of women survivors of sexual trauma who engage with online sexual trauma-related content and whether this has implications for physical and mental health. This mixed-methods study examined somatic and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) among 173 women (mean age = 37) with a history of unwanted sexual contact, comparing those who engaged with online trauma-related content to those who did not. Women were asked about their online experiences to gain a better understanding of their perceptions of engagement with this content via an online survey, which also included measures of somatic symptoms, PTSS, stress reactivity, emotion regulation, mindfulness, and meaning made. Many identities were represented in the sample (17% non-cisgender, 35% non-heterosexual, and 34% racial/ethnic minorities). Results revealed that meaning-making was associated with fewer somatic symptoms, while stress reactivity predicted greater PTSS and somatic symptoms among women engaging with online sexual trauma-related content. Qualitative findings identified three themes with corresponding subthemes: (1) Intrapersonal experiences (positive affective experiences, negative affective experiences, meaning-making, skill development), (2) Interpersonal experiences (healing through community, barriers to interpersonal interaction, disengagement from community), and (3) Engagement with the online modality. Results underscore the clinical importance of addressing social media use in trauma recovery and inform the development of trauma-informed, evidence-based digital tools for survivors.
The Helping Alliance Questionnaire for Children and Their Caregivers-Validation in a German Sample of Pediatric Chronic Pain Patients.
Rau LM, Schmidt AF, Wager J
J Clin Psychol · 2026 May · PMID 42095497 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: The "helping alliance" between patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals (HCPs) plays an important role in the evaluation of therapeutic interventions. The aim of this study was to develop a German v...
OBJECTIVES: The "helping alliance" between patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals (HCPs) plays an important role in the evaluation of therapeutic interventions. The aim of this study was to develop a German version of the Helping Alliance Questionnaire for pediatric patients (HAQ-P) and caregivers (HAQ-CG). METHODS: The questionnaire was adapted from the original version of the HAQ for adults and improved using feedback from HCPs, patients with chronic pain and their caregivers. It was then validated in a sample of N = 216 patients with chronic pain aged 8-17 years, along with their caregivers and HCPs. RESULTS: Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a good model fit for the 2-factor structure of the HAQ-P and HAQ-CG, with the two subscales relationship and outcome satisfaction demonstrating good to excellent internal consistency across all subgroups. Multi-group analyses showed that the model structure was similar for patients, caregivers, and HCPs. However, means of the three groups differed systematically (e.g., caregivers reported higher satisfaction), thus not allowing for direct comparison of group means. CONCLUSIONS: The HAQ-P and HAQ-CG have strong psychometric properties, and may be useful in clinical practice and research for monitoring, predicting, and improving therapeutic outcomes.
Investigating Suicidal Ideation in Iranian Individuals With Emotional Disorders Through the Lens of the Three-Step Theory.
Sardarzehi R, Mohajerin B, Kianimoghadam A … +1 more , Bakhtiari M
J Clin Psychol · 2026 May · PMID 42087702 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Suicidal ideation (SI) in emotional disorders has received increasing attention in recent decades, but the specific psychological factors associated with SI in emotional disorders according to recent theories...
OBJECTIVE: Suicidal ideation (SI) in emotional disorders has received increasing attention in recent decades, but the specific psychological factors associated with SI in emotional disorders according to recent theories are not well understood. The current study sought to assess the emotional pain × hopelessness in relation to the three-step theory (3ST) among individuals with emotional disorders. METHODS: Participants who were diagnosed with emotional disorders (n = 119) completed self-report measures assessing SI, hopelessness, emotional pain, and connectedness. Regression analysis was conducted to examine the association of the interaction of emotional pain and hopelessness with SI. The potential moderating role of connectedness was also assessed. RESULTS: Findings indicated that a substantial variance of SI (45%) was explained by an interactive model of emotional pain and hopelessness . Additionally, connectedness did not moderate the association between emotional pain and SI . An exploratory three-way interaction (i.e., emotional pain × hopelessness × connectedness) was marginally significant , suggesting its role may depend on hopelessness levels. CONCLUSION: The findings offer novel insights into the psychological correlates of SI in emotional disorders by underscoring the significant association of emotional pain and hopelessness. Despite that, the factors related to SI in individuals with emotional disorders are complex and warrants further evaluation through longitudinal studies.
Lessons Learned: A Straight Therapist's Perspective on Treating a Gay Woman's Romantic Breakup.
Jackson DA
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42059539 · Publisher ↗
This article presents the retrospective insights of a straight female psychologist working with a gay female patient through the emotional aftermath of a romantic breakup. Central to this case study is the therapist's jo...
This article presents the retrospective insights of a straight female psychologist working with a gay female patient through the emotional aftermath of a romantic breakup. Central to this case study is the therapist's journey toward understanding the culturally specific dynamics that shape the breakup experiences of non-heterosexual individuals differently from those of heterosexual individuals. In addition to deepening her understanding of important therapeutic considerations unique to a non-heterosexual breakup, the author explores how certain cultural norms within the queer community, including close-knit support systems and the prevalence of post-breakup friendships, may intensify and prolong the grieving process. In addition, the author identifies universal aspects of romantic breakups, including loss, betrayal, and self-reconstruction. The author's reflections highlight several key areas of learning: the necessity of recognizing one's own assumptions and biases, the importance of creating a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment, and the critical role of culturally competent practice. The author covers the therapeutic techniques employed, adaptations made to standard practice, and the role of ongoing education and consultation in enhancing therapeutic outcomes. By integrating personal observations with existing literature, the therapist provides a candid account of the professional growth experienced through this case. This article contributes to the broader dialogue on how therapists can more effectively address the needs of patients from diverse sexual backgrounds, advocating for a more informed approach to psychological practice.
Highest Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) Screener Item Endorsed by Individuals Who Attempted Suicide Within 30 Days of Pretrial Detention.
Arias SA, Weinstock LM, Cinader MK … +4 more , Schall G, Pawlaczyk A, Chukwuorji JC, Johnson JE
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42048567 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: The Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (Posner et al.; C-SSRS) is a widely used measure, both in research and clinical practice, for the detection of suicide risk. The current study examines responses to...
OBJECTIVES: The Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (Posner et al.; C-SSRS) is a widely used measure, both in research and clinical practice, for the detection of suicide risk. The current study examines responses to the C-SSRS by individuals who attempted suicide in the 30 days before pre-trial jail detention. METHODS: Data were analyzed from the Suicide Prevention Intervention for at-Risk Individuals in Transition (SPIRIT) trial, which was conducted from May 2016 to November 2018 and included 800 individuals in pretrial jail detention with the primary inclusion criterion being endorsement of suicidal ideation with some intent to act (endorsement of C-SSRS C4 or C5) and/or a suicide attempt in the past month. This paper focuses on the first five screener items of the C-SSRS, which assess the highest level of suicidal ideation in the past month. RESULTS: Most (65%) individuals who reported making a past 30-day suicide attempt indicated their highest level of suicidal ideation at the time of attempt was at the C4 (active suicidal ideation with some intent to act, without a specific plan), rather than the C5 level (active suicidal ideation with a specific plan and intent). CONCLUSION: Fewer than one-third of individuals who had made at least one past 30-day suicide attempt in our sample had made specific plans. Findings highlight the unplanned nature of many suicide attempts and the risk for suicide among individuals without detailed suicide plans. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The SPIRIT (Suicide Prevention Intervention for at-Risk Individuals in Transition) trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02759172), Registered 3 May, 2016.
Compassion Focused Therapy to Address Shame and Guilt: A Case Study of a Client With Complex PTSD.
Lee D, King D, Kirby JN
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42048537 · Publisher ↗
This paper presents the case of "Ava" a woman in her late 40s diagnosed with ICD-11 Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), whose life was shaped by chronic childhood abuse, pervasive shame, and intense self-criti...
This paper presents the case of "Ava" a woman in her late 40s diagnosed with ICD-11 Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), whose life was shaped by chronic childhood abuse, pervasive shame, and intense self-criticism. Ava struggled with intrusive trauma memories, relational hypervigilance, fears of compassion, and enduring guilt regarding the impact of past substance misuse on her children. A phased Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) approach was implemented to address her chronic threat state (persistent hypervigilance and relational alarm) and facilitate a shift from shame-based self-attack toward compassionate self-relating. Phase 1 involved 12 group sessions focused on developing compassionate resilience and social safeness. Phase 2 consisted of 28 individual sessions integrating trauma memory processing with compassion focused interventions. Phase 3 included an optional, pilot 8-session group, consolidating compassionate identity and values-based living. The therapeutic journey involved relational challenges, including fears of judgment, ambivalence about relinquishing self-criticism and moments of alliance strain. Over the course of treatment, Ava demonstrated clinically significant reductions in CPTSD symptoms and trauma related shame, alongside increased self-reassurance, emotional regulation, and consolidation of a compassionate identity. Clinical implications of trauma focused CFT for those with complex PTSD are discussed.
The Comparative Effectiveness of a Group Therapy for Overcontrol (Group Radical Openness) When Delivered In-Person vs. Remotely: Findings from a Retrospective Naturalistic Service Evaluation.
Twomey C, Duffy S, Egan R
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42044294 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: Group Radical Openness (GRO) is a group therapy for the treatment of costly and harmful overcontrol. The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the remote delivery of GRO, notwithstanding its highly interpersonal the...
OBJECTIVES: Group Radical Openness (GRO) is a group therapy for the treatment of costly and harmful overcontrol. The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the remote delivery of GRO, notwithstanding its highly interpersonal therapeutic focus. Based on positive service user feedback, the option to attend remotely was maintained after the pandemic. This service review evaluates this continued provision, through an assessment of the comparative effectiveness of GRO within in-person and videoconferencing (VC) formats. METHODS: A retrospective naturalistic evaluation of routine pre- and post- clinical outcome data was conducted at a not-for-profit mental health service in Ireland. The in-person and VC-GRO comparison groups arose organically in the context of responsiveness to service user preference. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 101 GRO participants (72 in-person and 29 VC), aged between 18 and 68 years (M = 41.2 years, SD = 13.00). Based on main effect interpretations from ANOVAs, the overall effectiveness of GRO was supported for both primary outcomes: difficulties associated with overcontrol (F (1, 100) = 84.92; p < 0.01); and general psychological distress (F (1, 100) = 44.32; p < 0.01). There were no significant differences between the in-person and VC groups for any of GRO's primary or secondary outcomes. Concerns that more avoidant participants might opt for VC-GRO over in-person attendance were also not supported, as the groups presented similarly in terms of clinical and demographic characteristics at baseline. CONCLUSION: These preliminary and naturalistic findings support the effective delivery of GRO both in-person and remotely. This should allay any concerns surrounding the potential unhelpful impact of delivering GRO remotely. These findings are applicable to similar VC therapy groups.
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury as a Low-Effort Strategy for Avoiding Negative Affect.
Roske C, Musicaro R, Franz PJ
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42044263 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is primarily performed for negative reinforcement, which may be accomplished by facilitating avoidance of negative affect. This study aimed to identify whether an aversion to c...
BACKGROUND: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is primarily performed for negative reinforcement, which may be accomplished by facilitating avoidance of negative affect. This study aimed to identify whether an aversion to cognitive effort in the form of effort discounting underlies NSSI and other avoidant emotion regulation strategies. METHODS: Adults (N = 149), 52% with a history of NSSI, completed a behavioral measure of effort discounting, the preference to expend less effort despite attaining less relief from an aversive experience. We used confirmatory factor analysis to identify dimensions of avoidant and engagement-oriented affect regulation strategies, and we extracted factor scores from these dimensions. Participants self-reported their past engagement in NSSI, perception of the effort required by non-NSSI affect regulation strategies, and past use of such strategies. RESULTS: Effort discounting was not significantly associated with avoidant affect regulation strategy use but was modestly associated with lower engagement-oriented coping. Avoidant affect regulation strategy use was not positively associated with NSSI frequency, and this association did not vary based on whether individuals reported engaging in NSSI for affect regulation. In contrast, endorsement of NSSI for negative reinforcement was strongly associated with greater NSSI frequency. Among participants with a history of NSSI, greater NSSI frequency was associated with perceiving non-NSSI affect regulation strategies as more effortful. CONCLUSIONS: Rather than reflecting a general tendency toward avoidant coping, more frequent NSSI appears to be linked to its negative reinforcement value and to perceptions that alternative emotion regulation strategies require greater effort.
Combining Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy With Escitalopram for Cognitive and Emotional Recovery in Older Adults With Treatment-Resistant Depression.
Wei Z, Zhang S, Ma J … +3 more , Zhang Y, Li Y, Wen A
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 42023679 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the adjunctive effects of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) combined with escitalopram hydrobromide on cognitive function and emotional well-being in older adults with treatme...
OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the adjunctive effects of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) combined with escitalopram hydrobromide on cognitive function and emotional well-being in older adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). We hypothesized that this combined approach would lead to greater enhancements in cognitive abilities and overall well-being compared to escitalopram hydrobromide alone in this vulnerable population. METHODS: A total of 230 older adults with TRD and cognitive impairment were randomly assigned into two groups: an experimental group receiving MBCT plus escitalopram (n = 115) and a control group receiving escitalopram alone (n = 115). Cognitive function, depression severity, and quality of life were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), and General Quality of Life Index-74 (GQOLI-74). RESULTS: The experimental group demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive function (MoCA scores) and quality of life (GQOLI-74 scores) compared to the control group at both 6 and 12 weeks (p < 0.05). Additionally, depression severity (HAM-D scores) was significantly reduced in the experimental group (p < 0.05). The combined therapy also resulted in higher rates of significant and effective treatment outcomes, with fewer cases of average or ineffective responses (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The integration of MBCT with escitalopram hydrobromide significantly enhances cognitive function, reduces depressive symptoms, and improves quality of life in older adults with TRD. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Clinicians should consider incorporating mindfulness-based interventions alongside pharmacological treatments for older adults with TRD. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was retrospectively registered with ClinicalTrials. gov (Identifier: NCT07077291).
Body Image and Paranoia-Findings From a Large-Scale Community Sample Using Network Analysis.
Piwińska J, Bagrowska P, Gawęda Ł
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41999079 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Body image - the way individuals perceive, think, and feel about their own body, is a subjective psychological construct shaped by biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Negative body image is...
BACKGROUND: Body image - the way individuals perceive, think, and feel about their own body, is a subjective psychological construct shaped by biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Negative body image is linked not only to psychological distress and reduced quality of life, but also to paranoia-like thoughts. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: This study applied a network approach to psychopathology, to explore the associations among negative body image, paranoia, and related psychological constructs. METHODS: A large non-clinical sample of 2605 participants (51.6% female, mean age = 46.96) completed the online study. RESULTS: The network analysis revealed a highly interconnected structure with no isolated nodes, supporting the hypothesis that all included variables: negative body image, paranoia-like thoughts, self-esteem, negative affect, sleep quality, interoceptive awareness, self-focused attention, trauma, and internalized stigma, form a single cohesive system. Body image emerged as the most central node, indicating strong associations with multiple psychological variables. Additionally, body image had one of the highest predictability values, just behind self-esteem and emotional dysregulation. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that negative body image may play a central role as a vulnerability factor linking internal experiences with paranoia. Furthermore, a comparison between male and female networks revealed that the female network was more strongly centered on body image and negative emotions, whereas the male network showed greater centrality around paranoia and emotion regulation. The results highlight the importance of targeting body image, self-esteem, and emotion regulation in preventive and therapeutic efforts aimed at reducing paranoia and enhancing psychological well-being.
Differentiating the Course of Symptom Improvement Between Two Treatments for Childhood Anxiety Disorders.
Whiteside SPH, Gloe LM, Biggs BK
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41961062 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVES: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most researched treatment for childhood anxiety disorders (CADs). Improving outcomes and efficiency of CBT will require identifying and optimizing the most efficaciou...
OBJECTIVES: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most researched treatment for childhood anxiety disorders (CADs). Improving outcomes and efficiency of CBT will require identifying and optimizing the most efficacious therapeutic components. Towards this end, a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) found that Parent Coached Exposure Therapy (PCET) led to greater symptom improvement in less time than traditional CBT. To better understand and maximize these advantages, the current study explores the timing and course of symptom improvement in these two treatments for CADs, CBT, and PCET. METHODS: In this secondary analysis of data from the RCT, 56 youth aged 7-17 years (73.2% female) and a parent provided weekly ratings of anxiety symptom severity. RESULTS: The mean anxiety severity ratings decreased significantly in both conditions, but a significant condition by time interaction suggested that the pace of change differed between treatment for parent report, F (6.2, 335) = 2.96, p = 0.007. A series of post-hoc comparisons indicated that the ratings became significantly lower in the PCET group beginning in session 3 (effect size = 0.77) through post-treatment assessment. In addition, within each treatment condition the largest change in severity ratings occurred after the introduction of exposure, effect sizes of 0.68 for PCET and 0.56 for CBT. The child severity ratings followed a similar pattern but did not reach statistical significance. DISCUSSION: The implications of these exploratory and hypothesis-generating findings for designing treatment protocols to deliver exposure in a manner to maximize the amount, and pace, of improvement are discussed.
Are Online Social Experiences Associated With General Interpersonal Problems? A Circumplex Assessment.
Smith TW, Marquez G, Dolister DA … +2 more , Uchino BN, Jordan KD
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41931461 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Social media use can promote social connection but also often includes negative experiences, raising questions about its associations with broader interpersonal functioning. METHODS: This preregistered study u...
OBJECTIVE: Social media use can promote social connection but also often includes negative experiences, raising questions about its associations with broader interpersonal functioning. METHODS: This preregistered study used the interpersonal circumplex (IPC) to examine associations of self-reported online social support and negativity, and excessive social media use with self-reports of general interpersonal problems, compared to associations for offline support and social anxiety, in a representative sample of U.S. adult social media users (n = 1356; mean age = 44.9; 52% women; 61.9% non-Hispanic White; median income $50k-75k). RESULTS: Online negativity and excessive social media use were strongly associated with more severe general interpersonal problems; online support had a small positive association with greater problems. These associations were stronger for men than women, and weaker for older participants. In contrast to online support, off-line social support was inversely associated with interpersonal problems, and the positive association for social anxiety was similar in magnitude to those for online negativity and excessive social media use. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that online social experiences and excessive social media use are associated with broader interpersonal difficulties, and that the interpersonal perspective may be useful in understanding psychosocial issues emerging in the digital age.
Psychometric Evaluation and Clinical Norms of a Dutch Version of the Body Uneasiness Test Among Individuals With Self-Reported Eating Disorder Pathology.
van Uffelen LM, de Beurs E, Melisse B
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Apr · PMID 41931402 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The present study evaluates the psychometric properties and provides normative data for the Dutch Body Uneasiness Test. The instrument was administered to a clinical sample (N = 448) and a community-based s...
INTRODUCTION: The present study evaluates the psychometric properties and provides normative data for the Dutch Body Uneasiness Test. The instrument was administered to a clinical sample (N = 448) and a community-based sample (N = 223). The Body Uneasiness Test was translated and back-translated. METHODS: Internal consistency, item-rest correlation, test-retest reliability, and concurrent validity were assessed. The Body Shape Questionnaire and the Eating Disorder Examination-Shape concern subscale were used as reference measures. To establish criterion validity, a receiver-operating-characteristic curve-analysis was performed using both groups as reference groups. Confirmatory factor analysis tested five- and eight-factor structures. Norms (population-based T-scores and percentile scores) were established. RESULTS: The psychometric properties were good, with the Body Uneasiness Test distinguishing well between individuals with and without eating disorder pathology (area-under-the-curve value = 0.77-0.88). The Body Uneasiness Test-A had a five-factor structure, and the Body Uneasiness Test-B had an eight-factor structure. In accordance with other samples, clinical cut-off for the Body Uneasiness Test A was 1.2. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggested that the Dutch Body Uneasiness Test is a useful tool for screening various aspects of body image in individuals with eating disorder pathology in research and in clinical practice.
Cross-Cultural Influences on the Association Between Rumination and Psychopathology: A Systematic Review.
Li JH, Madsen J, Wong J … +2 more , Liddell B, Jobson L
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Jul · PMID 41915409 · Full text
Rumination is a transdiagnostic process associated with psychopathology. While culture shapes cognitive and emotion processing, cultural influences on rumination remain unclear. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to...
Rumination is a transdiagnostic process associated with psychopathology. While culture shapes cognitive and emotion processing, cultural influences on rumination remain unclear. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to examine cultural differences in the association between rumination and psychopathology. To address this aim, we conducted a literature search (May 2024), which identified 24 eligible studies. We conducted an exploratory meta-analysis examining whether cultural group moderated the association between rumination and psychopathology. First, we found cultural differences in the association between rumination and psychopathology under certain conditions. Second, we identified three culture-specific mechanisms that may shape the relationships between rumination and psychopathology: (1) social support was less eroded by rumination in Japanese versus German participants and correlated with weaker rumination-wellbeing associations; (2) self-doubt attributions mediated the association between rumination and depression symptoms in European Americans but not Asians; and (3) happiness levels moderated the relationship between rumination and depression symptoms in European Americans but not Asian Americans. Third, given the limited studies available, meta-analyses could only be conducted comparing Western and Asian samples for depression symptoms. This exploratory analysis highlighted cultural group did not significantly moderate the relationship between rumination and depression. Finally, the review highlighted the scarcity of sufficient studies to draw definitive conclusions about the role of culture in rumination and psychopathology and the need for research focusing on diverse cultural groups, clinical samples and disorder-specific measures of rumination. Advancing this research is crucial for informing the integration of culture into theories of rumination and enhancing cultural tailoring of interventions.
Rumination and Rejection Sensitivity: A Meta-Analysis.
Stewart LC, Sorid SD, Olino TM
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Jul · PMID 41915014 · Publisher ↗
Rumination and rejection sensitivity are positively associated with maladaptive outcomes and have been identified as vulnerability factors for psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety. These constructs sha...
Rumination and rejection sensitivity are positively associated with maladaptive outcomes and have been identified as vulnerability factors for psychological disorders, such as depression and anxiety. These constructs share cognitive features, including negative biases and repetitive self-focused thinking, though they are described as conceptually distinct. Several studies have evaluated the association between these constructs, although there is no consensus on the degree of overlap across findings. The present meta-analytic study examined the relationship between rumination and rejection sensitivity across 21 studies (N = 6868) and examined potential moderators that may influence the magnitude of the relationship between these constructs. A moderate positive association (r = 0.43) was found between rumination and rejection sensitivity. The association was not significantly influenced by age, sex, the conceptualization of rumination (sadness/depressive rumination vs. another type of rumination) or the conceptualization of interpersonal functioning (rejection sensitivity vs. interpersonal sensitivity). These findings support that rumination and rejection sensitivity overlap significantly, yet are distinguishable constructs. The evidenced association between these constructs may inform treatment and prevention efforts aimed at reducing psychological vulnerability. It is possible that the estimated association between rumination and rejection sensitivity generalizes across the study and sample features examined; however, it is challenging to draw this conclusion due to limits on predictive power in our moderator analyses. Further research is needed to clarify the association between rumination and rejection sensitivity, particularly over time and across development, and to identify factors that influence the association between these constructs.
The Role of Self-Compassion and Experience in Psychologists' Latent Emotional Labour Strategy Profiles.
Clarke JJ, Mancini VO, Rees CS … +1 more , Breen LJ
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Jul · PMID 41910994 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: Emotional labour has long been associated with personal and organizational outcomes such as burnout. However, theoretically dichotomising regulation into surface and deep acting may constrain the ecological va...
OBJECTIVE: Emotional labour has long been associated with personal and organizational outcomes such as burnout. However, theoretically dichotomising regulation into surface and deep acting may constrain the ecological validity of research as iterative and person-centered approaches to emotion regulation are not considered. Furthermore, recent research suggests self-compassion and experience may predict emotional labour regulation in psychologists, but specific mechanisms accounting for this relationship are unknown. We addressed these concerns by examining how self-compassion and career experience predict latent profiles of emotional labour regulation strategies in psychologists and subsequent burnout. METHOD: We performed latent profile analysis, multinomial logistic regression, and a one-way between-groups ANOVA on data from 232 international psychologists across two time points. RESULTS: We found a similar but not identical pattern of latent profiles when compared to previous studies in different occupations. Self-compassion and career experience significantly predicted subsequent profile membership and profiles characterized by less surface acting and more authentic and genuine emotional displays had statistically significantly lower levels of emotional exhaustion. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that self-compassion promotes adaptive emotional labour regulation strategies in psychologists, that experienced clinicians express emotion more authentically, and that regulation that involves authentic and genuine expression is linked with lower emotional exhaustion.
Association of Online Parent-Child Interactions With Depressive Symptoms Among Middle-Aged and Older Empty Nesters in China.
Leung WY, Lu P
J Clin Psychol · 2026 Mar · PMID 41910718 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Depression is prevalent among empty nest older adults who do not live with their children. With rapid technological development, online interaction presents a new opportunity to improve older adults' mental he...
OBJECTIVE: Depression is prevalent among empty nest older adults who do not live with their children. With rapid technological development, online interaction presents a new opportunity to improve older adults' mental health. However, the relationship of online parent-child interaction with depressive symptoms among empty nesters remains under-examined. Guided by the social support theory, this cross-sectional study examined the association between online parent-child interaction and depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older Chinese empty nesters. METHODS: A total of 5198 Chinese empty nesters aged 45+ from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were included. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Participants reported the frequency they contacted their children via online. Negative binomial and Poisson regression were utilized. Interaction terms examined the moderation role of gender, marital status, and education in the relationship. RESULTS: 36.5% of participants reported elevated depressive symptoms and 59.8% of them contacted their children weekly or biweekly. More frequent online parent-child interaction was significantly associated with lower risk of depressive symptoms (incident rate ratio = 0.981, 95% CI = 0.972, 0.990; relative risk = 0.978, 95% CI = 0.963, 0.993). The moderation role of gender and education was not significant (p > 0.05). However, married/partnered participants had stronger association than their partnerless counterparts. CONCLUSION: Online parent-child interaction was associated with fewer depressive symptoms among Chinese empty nesters in this cross-sectional study. These findings suggest that digital family communication may be a meaningful social context to understand their psychological well‑being.
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