15 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE ANNOUNCEMENTS (ENGLISH)

15TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE A.P.P.A.C.
ASSOCIATION OF PSYCHOLOGY & PSYCHIATRY FOR ADULTS & CHILDREN
Neuropsychiatric, Psychological and Social Sciences Today
May 4 – 7, 2010 the Athens Hilton Hotel, GREECE
BOOK OF ABSTRACTS
ANNOUNCEMENTS (ENGLISH)
SPIRITUALITY, HEALTH, AND ARCHITECTURE: WITH RESPECT TO STRESS
A. Nejati
MS Student, Miami University, OH, USA
“We should become fully aware of the Spiritual Presence around us and in us as ‘God present to our spirit;’ Spirit not as a mysterious substance but
as God present in communities and personalities, grasping them, inspiring them, transforming them.” Paul Tillich. Despite the fact that many
contemporary wellness approaches are focused on physical and medical assets, there is a deep connection between spirituality and health, healing
and general wellbeing. According to the theory of Rudolf Steiner, the spiritual philosopher, the human being is a fourfold entity which includes
material (physical body), life (etheric body), soul (astral body or consciousness), and spirit (ego or self-consciousness). According to his
anthroposophical philosophy, understanding the human being as a whole can influence our perception of lifestyle which is essentially interrelated to
wellness. Currently, stress, anxiety and physical and mental pressure are the well-documented causes for many severe diseases such as cancer. I
pose ‘how can spirituality help the human being to manage their everyday stress and how can architecture enhance wellness, health and healing in
a spiritual way?’ In developed countries, such as the USA, the complexity of urban lifestyles does not always allow a separation or relief from
stressful environments. Living with high stress makes it difficult to find concentrated time to experience the distinct aspects of life beyond everyday
issues. Therefore, this paper addresses how environmental qualities can motivate the human spirit in order to deal with and counteract highpressured environments. In addition, this paper shows how returning to and focusing on inherent aspects of our being through architecture can
affect our real wellness, health, healing, and general wellbeing. My approach is based on personal and individual experiences woven with theoretical
viewpoints partially guided by Anthroposophy. Examining the English etymological root related to spirituality, health, healing and well-being is one
method for finding out how far our general contemporary understanding of terms is from the original concepts behind them. As a result, the concept
will be embodied in a spiritual wellness center in the heart of an urban environment where stress is one of the most relevant issues in all people’s
everyday lives, ignoring their gender, age and culture. So selecting the site of this project is one my most challenging issues in this process. The
program of my spiritual wellness center is different from a hospital or technical healthcare center because my audiences are broader than physical
or mental patients. The multifunctional program includes wellness educational practices, for example, libraries and lecture halls, some special
wellness methods like yoga, different recreational activities based on historical and traditional concepts, for instance, Roman Thermae, and finally a
small hotel.
THE UNCONSCIOUS IN PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC DISCOURSE: THE LANGUAGE OF EXPLANATION VERSUS THE
LANGUAGE OF OPERATION.
Prof. D.P. Fourie
PhD., Clinical Psychologist, Professor, Psychology Dept., University of South Africa, Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA
In the process of psychotherapy it can be useful to distinguish between the language of explanation and the language of operation. The latter refers
to the manner in which the therapist speaks to the client(s) while the language of explanation has to do with the way the therapist thinks about the
particular problem. A central concept which is widely used in both languages in the course of psychotherapy is that of the unconscious (mind) but
the way it is used often implies that the unconscious (mind) is a concrete entity located somewhere in the brain. This paper discusses the “reality” of
the unconscious and shows that this concept is flawed as an explanation of problem formation and problem resolution but that it can be fruitfully
employed in the language of operation. A case description is provided to illustrate how this can be done.
THE STUDY OF PSYCHOMETRIC EVALUATION OF THE CONNOR –DAVIDSON RESILIENCE SCALE (CD-RISC) IN
IRANIAN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
A. Ghamarani¹, Dr. M.B. Kajbaf², Dr. H.R. Oreizi² and Dr. S. Amiri²
¹ PhD Student, Psychology Dept., Educational Science and Psychology Faculty, University of Isfahan, IRAN
² PhD, Psychology Dept., Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, University of Isfahan
Introduction & Aim: The aim of this study was to investigation of the psychometric evaluation of the Connor –Davidson Resilience Scale (CDRISC,2003) in a sample of high school students in Iran. Method: To pursue this aim, above questionnaire was administered on 200 high school
students (100 girls and 100 boys). Results: Factor analysis yielded one general factor. The reliability coefficient of the Iranian version of CD-RISC,
was 0/91. Conclusions: Taken together, the result of this study indicated that the construct of resilience and its measurement from the West can
be helpful and applicable in understanding Iranian adaptive behaviors. Also, result demonstrated that the CD-RISC possesses good psychometric
qualities for use in Iran.
CHILDHOOD OBESITY AND MOTHERS’ EMOTIONAL STATE
Dr. M. Dixe¹, A. Querido², Dr. H. Catarino¹ and M. Lopes²
¹ PhD. Teacher, School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, PORTUGAL
² MsD. Teacher, School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria
Introduction and Aim: In Childhood obesity is important to notice mothers’ emotional state and their understanding of their emotional world. We
aim to determine the prevalence of obesity in children aged 6 to 12 years and the relationship between emotional state of mothers and childhood
obesity. Method: A correlational study using a non-probabilistic intentional sample of 107 mothers - 50 of normal weigh children and 57 overweighed
children. The prevalence of child obesity was 46.7%. A questionnaire of sociodemographic and family characteristics, weigh control; emotional state
- Brief Symptom Inventory (Canavarro, 1995) and NEO-FFI-20 (Bertoquini, & Ribeiro, 2006) to assess personality styles (emotional, interpersonal,
experiential, attitudinal, motivational) was applied to mothers visiting Portuguese health centers during 2009. Results: In both groups, averages of
anxiety /depression scale showed similar values with no statistically significant differences in emotional state of mothers (p> 0.05). Regarding
personality traits, overweight / obese children mothers had higher values in all dimensions, than normal weight children mothers, although with no
statistical significance (p> 0.05). Conclusion: No influence of parental variables on childhood obesity was found. However, parents’ personality
profile is stated as an important variable in overweight /obesity control programs. We suggest replication in larger samples.
CHILDHOOD OBESITY AND MOTHER/SON ATTACHMENT.
Dr. M. Dixe¹, A. Querido², Dr. H. Catarino¹ and M. Lopes²
¹ PhD. Teacher, School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, PORTUGAL
² MsD. Teacher, School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria
Introduction and aims: Identify the type of attachment and parental involvement of mothers of obese and non obese schoolchildren, and determine
the predictors of obesity in school-age children. Method: This study correlates childhood obesity and type of mother / son attachment. A nonprobabilistic intentional sample of 50 mothers of obese children and 57 mothers of non-obese children, aged 6 to 12 years, were asked a
questionnaire consisting of: sociodemographic and family characteristics, weight control, Mothers’ Perception of Child Attachment Behavior (Dias,
Soares & Freire, 2002) and Scale of Parental Involvement in Childhood (Gameiro et.al, 2006). Mothers were questioned in childhood health
consultations in Portuguese Health Centers during 2009. Results: In average, overweight / obesity children mothers’ had lower secure attachment
and lower parental involvement in all dimensions, than mothers of normal weight children. No statistical significance, contradicts other studies
including Trombin et.al (2003). Mothers’ age (younger) and their BMI (highest) are childhood obesity predictors (p <0.001), opposite to responsibility
and concern with children’s weight by mothers, which are not. Conclusion: In this study attachment and maternal involvement in children are not
predictors of childhood obesity. This could indicate that a holistic intervention preventing childhood obesity is needed.
WHY COGNITIVE SCHEMAS CAN PREDICT SEXUAL OFFENDERS: A CASE STUDY ANALYSIS
D.G. Lyrakos
Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Therapist, Athens, GREECE
Sexual offences over the past decade have been increased dramatically, mainly because the victims have a tendency to report them instead of
avoiding it, or blaming themselves. The present presentation is a case study based on a 30 year old male, who has been convicted for 4 sexual
offences (rapes) and he underwent cognitive therapy-schema focused approach. In the present case study we are going to present diagnostic
clusters of the patient and the schemas produced through the therapeutic sessions and how those schemas can explain and even predict sexual
offences.
THE IMPACT OF SELF ESTEEM ON THE PERCEIVED AFFILIATION GROUP AT ROMANIAN PREADOLESCENTS WITH
BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS.
Dr. R. Urea
Ph.D, Psychologist, Lecturer
Special Education Dept., Faculty of Psychology & Educational Sciences, Bucharest University, ROMANIA
It is well known that teenagers pass through a lot and dramatic psychological changes. A lot of researches have been done. But, most recently, the
attention of experts has focus on preadolescents, especially form the time that these children has an increase level of development, especially on
cognition level and a decrease level of stability at emotional field. Therefore, we made an investigation that has had the aim to reveal the specific of
the self esteem at Romanian preadolescents with behavioural problems and the impact on perceived school environment and school group. We
used in our research the following investigation methods: The Self esteem Questionnaire, The attitudinal Questionnaire, and the, and Social
Perception for Affiliations Group Quiz; all of these instruments were created for Romanian preadolescents. The results had revealed some basic
features of self esteem of Romanian preadolescents with behavioural problems and some features of their attitudes towards the educational
process. The conclusion, which came through from this research, is a specific typology of the influences of self esteem of Romanian preadolescents
with behavioural problems on the perceived school environment
INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS OF ADOLESCENTS AS A DETERMINANT OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
F. Nasir¹ and Prof. S. Munaf²
¹ Ph.D. Student, Clinical Psychology Dept., Institute of Clinical Psychology, University of Karachi, PAKISTAN
² Ph.D., Professor and Former Director of Institute of Clinical Psychology, University of Karachi
The aim of the study was to determine the relationship of emotional intelligence of adolescents with their interpersonal relationships. It was
hypothesized that there would be positive correlation of interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence scores of adolescents. Sample
included 188 students of secondary classes of different schools of Karachi, Pakistan. With the consent of the principals, adolescents were
approached in group settings. They were requested to sign the informed consent form, followed by the administration of demographic information
form, Emotional Quotient Inventory Youth Version (BarOn & Parker, 2000) and Clinical Assessment of Interpersonal Relationships (Bracken, 2006).
The tests were scored according to the standard procedures and Pearson product moment indicated positive correlation (r = .231, N = 188, p<.01)
between interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence scores. Thus the present research was done keeping in focus the opportunity to give
workshop on emotional intelligence which can improve the interpersonal relationships of adolescents.
INTERNALISING AND EXTERNALISING BEHAVIOUR PROBLEMS IN PAKISTANI ADOLESCENTS
N. Soomro¹ and Dr. J. Clarbour²
¹ Ph.D Student, Psychology Dept., University of York, U.K.
² Ph.D, C. Psych, C. Si, Chartered Forensic Psychologist, Senior Lecturer, Psychology Dept., University of York
The major aim of this study is to explore emotional styles and assess internalising and externalising behaviour problems among Pakistani
adolescents, using a newly developed scale — the Emotional behaviour Scale for Pakistani adolescents (EBS-PA). Like the original EBS (EBS;
Clarbour & Roger, 2004). It consists of three subscales: social anxiety, malevolent aggression and social self-esteem. A series of four studies were
conducted to evaluate the psychometric properties of the EBS-PA including factorial structure, content and discriminative validity and reliability.
These studies demonstrate the EBS-PA is a promising screening tool to measure emotional and behavioural problems in Pakistani adolescents. The
EBS-PA was administered to 750 Year 8 schoolchildren in Pakistan, where a significant gender difference was found on the EBS-PA subscales. The
results show that more girls than boys were categorised as being at an abnormal range for internalising behaviour. On the contrary, more boys were
found to be at high risk of externalising problems than girls. Overall, only 54% of adolescents were in the normal range for internalising behaviour,
whereas 81% were categorised in the normal range for externalising behavioural problems. Comparison data are also presented based on socioeconomic class. The implications of these findings for future assessment and intervention are discussed.
INCORPORATING SIBLINGS INTO FAMILY-BASED INTERVENTIONS: THE FAMILY CHECK-UP AS APPLIED TO
ADOLESCENT ALCOHOL USE
Dr. Ch. Slomkowski¹, Dr. R. Rende¹ and Prof. A. Spirito²
¹ PhD. Research Psychologists, Butler Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
² PhD Professor, Brown University, Providence, RI
Introduction and Aim: Most intervention focus on only one child per family. We present data on substance use patterns in siblings of adolescents
with alcohol problems in an ongoing study delivering a family-based psychosocial intervention (the Family Check-Up). We also explore how the
family dynamics differ when both siblings are currently using substances. Method: The IP, one or two parents, and an adolescent sibling have
undergone a baseline evaluation which includes assessment for current substance use and family interaction. Results: Over 50% of the siblings
endorse current substance use; older siblings are more likely to be using versus younger siblings. Older, but not younger siblings, as compared to
IP, are more likely to smoke cigarettes in addition to using alcohol. There are higher rates of substance-promoting behavior and undermining of
parental authority when both siblings are substance users. Conclusion: Adolescents with alcohol-related problems are likely to have siblings who
also use substances. Family-based interventions could gain an additional level of efficacy by including siblings as well as adolescents who are using
substances.
PSYCHOSOCIAL INTERVENTIONS FOR ADOLESCENT ALCOHOL USE IN THE GENOMIC ERA: EMERGING CONCEPTS
Dr. R. Rende¹, Dr. Ch. Slomkowski¹ and Prof. A. Spirito²
¹ PhD. Research Psychologists, Butler Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
² PhD Professor, Brown University, Providence, RI
Introduction and Aim: We describe on ongoing study delivering a family-based psychosocial intervention (the Family Check-Up) to adolescents
with alcohol-related problems and their adolescent siblings. Given the family-based design, we review the evidence for incorporating genetic
markers of risk for alcohol abuse within this type of study. Method: We provide a review of informative behavioural genetic studies to ascertain the
evidence supporting the role of genes in adolescent drinking and substance use, along with implications for psychosocial intervention. Results: Most
studies suggest the potential role of genes both in terms of pathways to seeking alcohol, as well as reactivity to alcohol. We provide a review of
these findings and provide a discussion of the most profitable linkages between specific intermediate phenotypes (e.g., impulsivity, risk-taking,
subjective reactions to alcohol) and candidate gene markers. Conclusion: There is a need to develop empirically-supported conceptual models that
posit the phenotypes of interest that may be targeted by an intervention, along with biologically-relevant candidate genes that could potentially
moderate the effects of psychosocial intervention.
IDENTIFYING AUTISTIC DISORDER IN CHILDREN UNDER 2 YEARS OF AGE.
Prof. R.L. Young
Associate Professor, School of Psychology, Flinders University of South Australia, Adelaide, AUSTRALIA
Background: The difficulty in identifying Autistic Disorder at an early age may partly arise from the fact that existing tools and the current diagnostic
criteria defined in the ICD-10 (1992) and DSM-IV-TR (2000) describe behaviors thought to occur later in the developmental pathology of the
disorder. Objectives: The ADEC (Autism Detection in Early Childhood; ACER, 2007) was developed to provide a psychometrically sound screening
tool for clinicians to more accurately identify autism in children under the age of three years. Methods: The referred sample ranged in age from 14 to
36 months. Data were collected from three groups; those who had received a diagnosis of Autistic Disorder, those at risk of developing the disorder
and typically developing children. The concurrent validity of the tool was examined by administering it together with the Childhood Autism Rating
Scale (CARS; Schopler, Reichler, De Vellis, & Daly, 1980), the Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R) (Le Couteur et al., 1989; Lord, Rutter,
& Le Couteur, 1994), DSM-IV-TR (APA, 2000) criteria and Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT). Other psychometric properties
relating to its validity and reliability are also addressed. Results: The ADEC was well-correlated with existing measures of Autistic Disorder some of
which are labour intensive and require staff highly trained in the administration and interpretation of these data. Further, when comparing the
development of skills in the autism group to that in typically developing group, the age at which the absence of these skills becomes of clinical
significance is noted. Conclusions: Results indicate that signs of autism are present in many children as early as 12 months. These behaviours
should thus be targeted in early intervention to minimise the effect on other behaviours that any delay in their acquisition may cause.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM AND ATTENTION-DEFICIT
HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER
I. Gul¹ and N.B. Yazdani²
¹ MSc., PhD Scholar, School of Health Studies, University of Bradford ,UK
Lecturer, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, PAKISTAN
² Graduate Student, Behavioral Science Dept., Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi
Introduction & Aims: Autism and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are childhood-onset neuro-developmental disorders which
significantly effect the cognitive functioning. The present study was conducted to assess and compare cognitive functioning of Children with Autism,
ADHD and Healthy controls. Methods: A sample of 90 children (8-12 years) with Autism, ADHD and Healthy controls (30 each) was selected. The
symptom severity of Autism and ADHD was assessed with Gilliam Autism rating Scale 2(GARS 2) and Strengths and Weakness of the ADHDSymptoms and Normal- Behavior (SWAN) respectively. Cognitive functioning in terms of, visuospatial processing, Memory, Executive and
Sensorimotor Functioning was assessed with four subtests of A Developmental neuropsychological Assessment (NEPSY 1). Results: Analysis of
Variance indicated a significant difference in all domains of cognitive functioning such as Executive functioning (F = 7.9; p = .001), Visuospatial
processing (F = 4.0; p = .02), Immediate Memory (F = 70.7; p =.001), Delayed Memory (F =68.0 p= .001) and Sensorimotor functioning (F = 4.1;
p = .02). Post-hoc analysis revealed that Cognitive functioning of Autistic children was more impaired as compared to ADHD and control group.
Conclusion: The study highlighted the importance of cognitive assessment of children with developmental disorders for rehabilitation and
management programs. This study would be a source of awareness and information for parents, and teachers who are working with these children.
AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS: THE CASE OF ASPERGER’S SYNDROME
Dr. P. Siaperas
Msc, PhD, CPsychol., Research Associate, Developmental Psychiatry Section, University of Cambridge, UK
The last few decades there is growing knowledge about pervasive developmental disorders. This term points to the fact that autism is a serious
abnormality with biological causes affecting the developmental process. Therefore it differs from mental disorders which do not impact so directly on
development. In addition, today we are used to talk about autism spectrum where on one side of the spectrum are people with autism (usually called
Kanner autism) who have additional severe and profound intellectual disabilities and on the other are people with the features of autism but without
intellectual disabilities and usually average or high performance on intelligence tests. People on this side of spectrum are diagnosed as high
functioning autism or Asperger’s syndrome (AS). The current paper is focused on this end of the autism spectrum and presents the different
psychological theories and observations that describe the syndrome.
COPING STRATEGIES USED BY PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM.
Dr. M. Dixe¹, A. Querido², Dr. H. Catarino¹ and M. Lopes²
¹ PhD. Teacher, School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, PORTUGAL
² MsD. Teacher, School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria
Introduction and aims: The purpose of this research was to determine the level of family adaptation among parents of children diagnosed with
autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and to identify differences in F-COPES scores based on family demographics, children characteristics and time of
ASD diagnosis. Methods. A Cross sectional co-relational study was conducted. A descriptive survey used a convenience sample of 50 parents (38
mothers and 12 fathers) of children with ASD. Family adaptation was measured by the Family Crisis Oriented Personal Evaluation Scales (FCOPESs). All data were analysed using SPSS 14.0 for Windows. Results: The analysis of the Means and standard deviation shows that parents
use more strategies of reframing (M=3,8; SD=0,7) than spiritual support (M=2,9; SD=0,9). Acquiring social support as neighbourhood were the less
used coping strategy (M=1,8; SD=0,8). We did not find statistical significant differences between coping strategies used by parents of children with
autism and childrens’ age at the time of diagnosis or gender (p>0,05). Families with no other children, mobilized to acquire and accept help and
acquired social support more frequently (p<0,05). Conclusions: These results will be useful to professionals working with families of children with
autism.
THE PREVENTING ROLE OF MATERNAL RESPONSIVENESS ON TURKISH PRESCHOOLERS’ EMOTION
DYSREGULATION
I. Metin¹, Prof. N. Aksan² and S. Cebioglu¹
¹ Psychologists, Academic Assistants, M.A. Students, Developmental Psychology Dept., Koc University, Istanbul, TURKEY
² Prof. Psychology Dept., Koc University, Istanbul
For many years, children’s emotion regulation has been focus of researchers. The previous studies have shown that deficiency in emotion regulation
is linked to important developmental outcomes such as behavioral problems and social incompetence. Therefore, the current study aimed to
investigate the mechanisms influencing children’s emotion regulation functioning. Specifically, the role of maternal responsiveness (sensitivity,
acceptance and cooperation) was examined with respect to Turkish children’s emotion regulation functioning. The sample consisted of 118
preschoolers, recruited from different preschools in Istanbul, their mothers and preschool teachers. Maternal responsiveness was observed through
mother-child contexts that contain typical naturalistic interactions such as snack time and play time during a laboratory session. Emotion regulation
was assessed through Emotion Regulation Checklist. Regression analysis showed that maternal responsiveness significantly accounted for the
prediction of emotion dysregulation that is, children with responsive mothers displayed lower levels of emotion dysregulation. This finding has
important implications for interventions that target reducing or preventing emotion regulatory problems. In conclusion, this study provides important
insights in an attempt of linking maternal responsiveness in combination to emotion regulation for the purpose of identifying origins of dysregulated
emotions, which put children at risk for psychopathological disorders.
OCCUPATIONAL STRESS & PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGIC DISORDER IN NIGERIA SOUTHWEST ORGANISATIONS
Dr. A. Ebiai
Ph.D., Senior Lecturer, Psychology Dept., Covenant University, Ota, NIGERIA
Stress is the non-specific response of the body to any demand made upon it. Stress reveals major physiological changes which can affect human
performance. Occupational stress has been seen to have some major influences in daily living and all stresses whether psychological or
physiological frequently implicates in ill health. The current paper aimed at finding out if certain occupations are more stressful than others, if there is
any difference between organisations in terms of workers Psychophysiologic disorder and if there is a relationship between stress, health and job
satisfaction. The participants in the study are 100 randomly selected organizational workers in South Western Nigeria, ranging between the ages of
25 and 55 years. All participants have been working in their various organisations for more than 12 months. The Life Experience Survey (LES) test,
the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the Job Satisfaction Questionnaire (JSQ) were administered to the participants. The result from the
ANOVA test to find out the difference between Bank workers, Police Officers, Health Personnel, Academic Persons and Civil Servants showed there
is no difference in their stress levels at F(4,95)=1.15 at P=0.05 level of significance. ANOVA test performed in finding out if there is a significant
difference between the above five organisation in terms of Psychophysiologic symptoms, results a significant difference in the mean which gave
F(4,95) = 2.71 which is significant at P=0.01 and P=0.05 level. The Pearson ® computation to find out the relationship between the five
organisations on Life Event Experience stress, general health and job satisfaction found that there is significant relationship between the five
organisations at 0.05 levels. The paper recommends that Government and Private Organisations should endeavour to make the physical
environment in organizations better for workers productivity.
THE ROLE OF GROUP-BASED SOCIAL SUPPORT IN MODERATING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EXPERIENCING
STIGMA AND ILL-HEALTH
Dr. M. Tarrant¹ and Dr. C. Farrow²
¹ PhD., School of Psychology, Keele University, UK
² PhD., Exercise and Health Sciences, School of Sport, Loughborough University, UK
Introduction and Aim: Discrimination can have a negative impact on psychological well-being, attitudes and behavior. This research evaluates the
impact of experiences of weight-based discrimination upon emotional eating and body dissatisfaction, and also explores whether people’s beliefs
about an ingroup’s provision of social support can moderate the relationship between experiences of discrimination and negative eating and weightrelated cognitions and behaviors. Methods: 197 undergraduate students completed measures about their experiences of weight-based
discrimination, emotional eating and body dissatisfaction. Participants also reported their beliefs concerning an ingroup’s attitude towards overweight
people (social support). Results: Recollections of weight-based discrimination significantly contributed to emotional eating and body dissatisfaction.
However, the relationships between experiencing discrimination and body dissatisfaction and emotional eating were weakest amongst participants
who believed the ingroup held a positive attitude towards overweight people. Conclusion: Beliefs about ingroup social support can influence the
relationships between weight-based discrimination and emotional eating and body dissatisfaction. Changing group perceptions to perceive it to be
unacceptable to discriminate against overweight people may help to protect victims of discrimination against the negative consequences of weightbased stigma.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ADJUSTMENT IN WOMEN WITH BREAST CANCER: AN INTERVENTION STUDY
Prof. R. Curtis¹, Dr. A.M. Groarke² and Prof. M. Kerin³
¹ PhD. Professor, Psychology Dept., National University of Ireland, Galway, IRELAND
² PhD. Psychologist, Galway
³ MD Professor of Surgery, National University of Ireland, Galway
Introduction: The number of women who survive breast cancer due to advances in detection and treatment has increased dramatically in recent
years with a 5 year survival rate reaching 86% .Many survive for many more years after that so quality of life issues and adjustment have become
increasingly important with current emphasis on identifying those patients who would most benefit from psychological intervention. Aim: This study
identifies predictors of adjustment and tests the efficacy of a psychological intervention with women diagnosed with breast cancer on their
adjustment over time. Method: All women aged 20-75 years attending the Breast Symptomatic Unit, University Hospital Galway, Ireland since
February 2005 newly diagnosed with breast cancer who met the inclusion criteria and were awaiting surgery were assessed. The study assesses
global and cancer specific stress, global and cancer specific coping and social support on depression, anxiety, positive and negative affect, body
image and benefit finding in women with first diagnosis of breast cancer. Results: First wave of results report on the predictors of psychological
adjustment pre and post surgery of 200 women recently diagnosed and on the efficacy of a cognitive behavioural intervention on 70 women who
have been randomized to the intervention. Conclusion: Results to date indicate that perceived stress is the strongest predictor of emotional
adjustment at diagnosis and post - surgery. ANOVA results demonstrate the effectiveness of the intervention in reducing levels of cancer specific
stress, distress and on increasing adaptive coping and benefit finding.
TYPE D PERSONALITY, PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH MYOCARDIAL
INFARCTION
I. Gul¹ and Prof. R.A. Bhatti²
¹ MSc., PhD Scholar, School of Health Studies, University of Bradford ,UK
Lecturer, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, PAKISTAN
² PhD Professor, Clinical Psychologist, School of Health Studies, University of Bradford
Introduction & Aim: Studies have shown that distressed personality (Type-D) is associated with Myocardial Infarction (MI) and have etiological and
prognostic implications. The present study was designed to assess Psychological distress and Quality of life (QOL) in MI patients. Methods: In this
cross-sectional study, 100(54 males, 46females) first time diagnosed (3-12 weeks) MI patients (WHO criteria) were selected. Type D personality
was assessed with Distress Scale (DS-14). Psychological Distress (Anxiety, Depression) was measured with Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale
(HADS) while QOL was assessed with WHO Quality of Life scale (WHOQOL-BREF). Results: 59% of MI patients were identified with Type D
personality traits (27Males, 32 Females). Type D personality was identified as significant predictor of impaired QOL [OR: 1.06; 95% CI (1.02 – 1.11),
p <.01], Depression [OR: 1.11; 95% CI (1.06 – 1.16), p <.01] and Anxiety [OR: 1.09; 95% CI (1.04 – 1.14), p <.01] .The results also revealed that
Type D MI patients have impaired QOL (mean= 73.3 [SD= 15.6] versus 85.9 [SD=17.3], respectively; t = 3.8, p <.01), elevated levels of Anxiety and
Depression as compared to Non-type D patients. Conclusion: This study highlighted the importance of Type D personality in research on MI as a
determinant of adverse psychosocial outcomes. It also emphasized the need for routine psychological assessment of MI patients along with medical
treatment to improve their QOL and rehabilitation.
SUICIDE AND RELATED HEALTH RISK BEHAVIORS AMONG SCHOOL LEARNERS IN SOUTH AFRICA
N.H. Shilubane¹, Dr. Rob Ruiter², Prof. B.H.W. van den Borne³ and Prof. P.S. Reddy⁴
¹ PhD Student, Lecturer, Maastricht University, NETHERLANDS
² Work and Social Psychology Dept., Maastricht University
³ Professor, Health Education and Promotion Dept., Maastricht University
⁴ Professor, South African Medical Research Council.
Introduction: Suicide attempt and completed suicide are increasingly becoming a problem among adolescent in South Africa. The aim is to
describe the relationship between suicide and related health risk behaviors among school learners in SA. Method: Data were derived from the 2002
South African Youth Risk Behavior Survey. The population comprised grades 8 to 11 learners in the nine provinces. Twenty-three schools per
province were randomly selected. This resulted in 10,699 learners participating in the survey. Key-measures were suicide ideation and suicide
attempts. Results: Of the total sample, 24.7% of the learners indicated having seriously considered and/or made a plan to commit suicide at least
once during the past six months. Nationwide, this number was significantly higher for girls (26.6%) than for boys (22.6%). The data pattern of suicide
attempt followed that of suicide ideation, 18.5% of the total sample reported having attempted suicide once during the past six months. Nationally, it
was higher for girls (19.5%) than for boys (17.3%). violence, substance use, unsafe sex, unhealthy eating and unsafe driving were significantly
related to both suicide measures. Conclusion: Suicide ideation and attempts among adolescents are high. More research is needed to determine
the trends and determinants of suicide among youngsters in order to develop strategies for suicide prevention and care.
FUNCTIONAL ORGANIZATION AND MENTAL ACTIVITY IN LEARNING DISABLED CHILDREN: A PSYCHO NEURO COGNITIVE STUDY.
Prof. H.F. Al Sheikh
PhD., Assistant Prof. and Head, Special Education Dept., Hail University
Psychologist, El-Abasiaa Mental Health Hospital, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
Over the decade, psychologists had studies the course of mental processes such as; perception and memory, speed and thought, and organization
of movement and action. The purpose of this research is to follow Luria’s suit in his description of brain development. The recent research describes
how the brain development cerebral hemispheres which are needed to higher forms of mental activity, i.e. perception and action, attention and
memory, speech and intellectual processes, and the individual brain system. By using (Luria Nebraska Neuro Psychological Battery) LNNB,
(Human, Tree, Person test) HTP, & (Electroencephalography) EEG, the research has examined 30 of children between 8-12 years , findings
demonstrated that first, there are differences between LD and normal children. Secondly, there are some of decreasing activity in LD children’s
occipital regions which govern visual perception, in the temporal regions that related with problems in auditory perception. Thirdly, in the parietal
reigns which are related to simultaneous syntheses. Finally, shortage in senorimotor and premotor regulation of mental activity; and shortage in one
or more perception, movement and action, attention, memory, speech, and thinking.
HEALTH SYMPTOMS AND THE MULTIFACETED PICTURE OF SCHOOL WELLBEING
A. Løhre
Psychologist, PhD Student
Public Health Dept., Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, NORWAY
Introduction & Aim: Children’s school wellbeing is not extensively studied in relation to health. We compared school wellbeing scores, as rated by
children, parents and teachers, and assessed associations of school wellbeing with the children’s perceived health. Method: In a cross-sectional
study of 419 children (55% boys) in grades 1-10, a school wellbeing- scale had options 1-4(best). Health status (1-5), children’s report only, included
happiness, anxiety, sadness, headache and stomach-ache. Concordance was analysed by cross-tables and Spearman’s rho, and proportional odds
logistic regression was used to assess associations of wellbeing with health status. Results: In reporting school wellbeing, the concordance
between informants was low to moderate (rho, 0.15-0.34) although their estimated mean (3.2-3.3) was approximately the same. Teachers and
parents expressed an essentially higher agreement with children who reported the best school wellbeing compared to children on the lower part of
the scale. Except for teachers, higher scores on reported school wellbeing were related to higher prevalence of happiness or equivalent lower
prevalence of health problems. We also revealed interesting gender differences. Conclusion: School wellbeing reported by children, parents and
teachers showed low to moderate concordance. Children’s and parents’ scores on school wellbeing were strongly associated with happiness
(positively) and with health problems (negatively).
ART PSYCHOTHERAPY IN TRAUMA INTERVENTION: WHAT HELPS? WHAT HINDERS?
A. Alexandraki
Psychologist, Counsellor, MSc Student, Art Therapy Dept., Queen Margaret Univ., Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
With the recent examples of Haiti and Chile, the number of traumatised populations has sounded an international call for effective trauma
interventions. Art psychotherapy uses creative expression to provide individuals with means for expressing emotions and experiences to support
recovery from psychological distress. This paper attempts to investigate the common resultants in quality and impact of psychoanalytically informed
art psychotherapy interventions in populations with trauma. The contemporary literature is reviewed, including discussions from qualitative research,
empirical and clinical case studies. The methodological limitations of the studies are reflected. The analysis goes over the literature’s theoretical
underpinnings, the relation between art psychotherapy, brain function and trauma. It mainly focuses on evaluating the common findings of the
current literature, and specifically those factors that contribute to an effective art psychotherapy intervention, including the non-verbal, sensory
access to the traumatic memories and the importance of cultural sensitivity.
WAYS OF COPING IN INDIVIDUALS HIGH VS. LOW IN EXPERIENTIAL AVOIDANCE
Dr. M. Karekla¹, Prof. G. Panayiotou², M. Kapsou³ and J. Jovanni⁴
¹ Ph.D., Lecturer and Licensed Clinical Psychologist, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, CYPRUS
² Ph.D., Assistant Professor and Licensed Clinical Psychologist, University of Cyprus
³ M.A., PhD. Student, the University of Cyprus
⁴ B.S., MSc Student, the University of Cyprus
Although inherently emotion regulation and the mechanisms individuals utilize to cope with unwanted internal experiences are not dysfunctional,
they can become dysfunctional when such regulation processes are needlessly utilized or when they are used inflexibly or applied too rigidly
(Forsyth, Eifert, & Barrios, 2006). Research suggests that excessive emotion regulation and high experiential avoidance may contribute to the
development of various forms of psychopathology (Amstadter, 2008; Hayes et al., 2004). The purpose of the present study was to examine ways of
coping among individuals high vs. low in experiential avoidance. One hundred and ninety-seven (126 female, M age= 44.29) participants were
recruited as part of an epidemiological study on anxiety disorders in Cyprus from a representative sample of community adults and completed a
packet of anxiety-related questionnaires including the AAQ-II and the brief-COPE. Participants who scored one SD or higher above the mean of this
sample (M =50.01; SD = 9.41) were classified as the low avoidance group (n = 33; score >59), whereas those with scores of one standard deviation
below the mean were classified as high in experiential avoidance (n = 35; score <41). Multivariate analysis of variance was used to investigate
whether individuals high vs. low in emotional avoidance (EA) differed on ways of coping. As expected, participants classified as high in EA reported
being more likely to utilize the following coping strategies: self distraction (M = 5.56; F (1, 61) = 13.30, p<.001), denial (M = 4.67; F (1, 61) = 26.52,
p<.001), emotional support (M = 5.29; F (1, 61) = 6.96, p<.05), behavioral disengagement (M = 3.69; F (1, 61) = 18.85, p<.001), venting (M = 5.42; F (1,
61) = 8.14, p<.01), and self blame (M = 6.52; F (1, 61) = 14.03, p<.001) compared to their low avoidance counterparts (self distraction: M = 4.00; denial:
M = 2.83; emotional support: M = 3.93; behavioral disengagement: M = 2.23; venting: M = 4.17; and self blame: M = 5.21). Individuals low in EA
reported being more likely to utilize positive reframing (M = 6.67; F (1, 61) = 26.52, p<.001) and acceptance (M = 6.21; F (1, 61) = 5.10, p<.05) than
those high in EA (positive reframing: M = 5.35; and acceptance: M = 5.27). The role of emotional avoidance after controlling for other variables such
as stress will also be presented. The theoretical and clinical implications of these data and future directions for this work will be discussed.
ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN PSYCHOPATHIC CHARACTERISTICS, EXPERIENTIAL AVOIDANCE AND ALCOHOL USE IN A
COMMUNITY SAMPLE.
Prof. G. Panayiotou¹, Dr. A. Loutsiou-Ladd² and D. Georgiou³
¹ Ph.D., Assistant Professor and Licensed Clinical Psychologist, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, CYPRUS
² PsyD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist & Director of Clinical Training, University of Cyprus
³ B.S., MSc Student, University of Cyprus.
Experiential avoidance (EA) involves attempts to cope with negative affect by not fully processing aversive experiences. EA has mostly been studied
in anxious and depressed individuals. It is theoretically important to document whether the aggressive, callous, disinhibited behaviour of people high
in psychopathy also entails EA. People also often use alcohol and other substances as a way of muting negative feelings, as has been proposed by
the self-medication hypothesis. It is yet unclear whether substance use (and perhaps other impulsive) behaviours associated with psychopathy
represent ways of avoiding negative affect. These questions were examined in a community male sample (N=375) aged 18-54 (M=20), who were
mostly national guard personnel. They responded to questionnaires, including the Alcohol Use & Dependence Inventory, facets of Impulsivity,
Excitement Seeking, Competence and Deliberation from the NEO-PI-R and the AAQ. A sub-sample (N=230) were also administered the
Psychopathic Personality Inventory Revised (PPI-R), which results in 8 subscales; Machiavellian Egocentricity (ME), Rebellious Noncomformity,
Blame Externalization (BE), Carefree Nonplanfulness, Social Influence (SI), Fearlessness (F), Stress Immunity (STI) and Coldheartedness. The
association between alcohol use and EA was not significant. Correlations indicated that alcohol use was positively related to Impulsivity and
Excitement Seeking and negatively to Competence and Deliberation. Linear regression showed that age explained a significant amount of variance
in alcohol use, and personality added a small amount of variance, with Deliberation being a negative predictor. EA did not explain additional
variance. High emotional flexibility (low EA) was associated with higher Impulsivity, ME and BE, whereas high EA was associated with high
Competence, SI (perceived ability to manipulate others), F and STI. Results indicate that among young males, drinking may serve functions that are
mostly unassociated with self-medication and EA. Younger age is a significant predictor of alcohol use. When it comes to the association between
psychopathic characteristics and EA, it appears that the harsh, selfish characteristics involved in psychopathy, along with impulsivity, are associated
with higher emotional flexibility, potentially reflecting the calculating, instrumental attitudes involved. To the contrary, fearless, apparently
unemotional characteristics are associated with high EA and probably represent a way of coping with negative affect, perhaps through denying or
muting it in order to achieve goals. Future research should also include measures of anxiety, so that in the same population, the full spectrum of
inhibited/disinhibited characteristics can be examined. It may be that characteristics falling at both extremes of this spectrum involve high EA as part
of an inflexible behavioural repertoire meant to cope with negative affect.
EXPERIENTIAL AVOIDANCE IN RELATION TO SENSITIVITY TO PUNISHMENT AND HIGH RISK DRIVING BEHAVIOR
Dr. A. Loutsiou-Ladd¹ and Prof. G. Panayiotou²
¹ PsyD, Licensed Clinical Psychologist & Director of Clinical Training, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, CYPRUS
² Ph.D., Assistant Professor and Licensed Clinical Psychologist, University of Cyprus
Experiential avoidance (EA) has been implicated in many clinical problems and disorders. The study of EA in non-clinical groups and in relation to
daily behaviors holds theoretical potential and is an important contribution to the literature. From a theoretical perspective, this study explores the
function of EA. Specifically, we investigated the relation between EA and individual differences in sensitivity to reward and sensitivity to punishment
in a non-clinical sample of young male drivers (under 30 years old with at least one year of driving experience). EA was expected to have a stronger
correlation to sensitivity to punishment than to reward. This study also anticipated that high EA would relate to worse driving behaviors. A total of
202 young male drivers (M age=19.5 (18-28 years), SD=1.29) volunteered to complete a packet of self-report questionnaires which included the
AAQ, the Sensitivity to Punishment/Sensitivity to Reward Questionnaire (SPSRQ - Torrubia et al. 2001), and a merged questionnaire of various
versions of the Driving Behavior Questionnaire (DBQ) (Reason et al., 1990). Participants were recruited from randomly selected military camps. All
instruments were adapted in Greek by two bilingual authors using the method of front and back translation. Participants who scored one standard
deviation or higher above the mean of the sample (M=4.10, SD=1,05) on the DBQ factor of Ordinary Violations were classified as the high-risk
drivers (N=46; score≥5.06) and those who scored one standard deviation or more below the mean were classified as the low risk drivers (N=48;
score≤3.05). Results suggest that participants high on EA are also likely to report higher sensitivity to punishment on the SPSRQ (r=-.19, p≤.01).
The correlation between the AAQ and Sensitivity to Reward was not significant (r=-104, p=.17). An ANOVA showed that there were significant
differences in AAQ scores among high and low risk drivers (F(1,78)=4.32, p≤.05). Specifically, the low-risk drivers scored higher on the AAQ,
suggesting more emotional flexibility, (M=38.89, sd=5.14) as compared to the high-risk drivers who scored lower on the AAQ, suggesting more
experiential avoidance, (M=36.69, sd=4.22). Taken together, these findings point to an escape-from-punishment function of EA and that risky driving
may be a behavior that partially functions to escape from painful internal experience. Implications for future research work and for prevention work
with high-risk drivers in relation to emotional flexibility will be discussed.
ARE INDIVIDUALS HIGH IN EXPERIENTIAL AVOIDANCE MORE LIKELY TO DEVELOP EATING PATHOLOGY COMPARED
TO THOSE LOW IN EXPERIENTIAL AVOIDANCE?
M. Kapsou¹, Dr. M. Karekla², Prof. M. Constantinou³ and Prof. D.A. Anderson⁴
¹ M.A., PhD. Student, the University of Cyprus, Nicosia, CYPRUS
² Ph.D., Lecturer and Licensed Clinical Psychologist, University of Cyprus
³ Ph.D., Assistant Professor & Licensed Clinical Psychologist, University of Nicosia
⁴ Ph.D., Assoc.Professor & Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Univ.at Albany, State University of New York, USA
High experiential avoidance has been linked with various forms of psychopathology, predominantly anxiety-related conditions and problems (Eifert &
Heffner, 2003; Kashdan, 2007; Stewart, Zvolesky, & Eifert, 2002). Studies have also provided evidence for links between EA and various other
forms of psychopathology, such as depression, substance abuse, and compulsive behavior, but also eating pathology (Westrup, 2001; Flessner &
Woods, 2006; Norberg et al., 2007; Begotka, Woods, & Wetterneck, 2004). College entry is a stressful period linked with lifestyle changes and
elevated rates of psychopathology (Rawson, Bloomer, & Kendal, 1994). Hence, disordered eating in college has been proposed to occur as a
response to negative mood in some students (Ruderman, 1985). The purpose of the present study was to examine whether experiential avoidance
is linked to higher rates of eating pathology in a sample of students entering college in Cyprus. Seventy-six participants (42 female, M age=19) were
recruited from the orientation program at the beginning of the academic year at the University of Nicosia. Participants completed a packet of eating
related measures (e.g. EAT-26; RRS; TFEQ; Weight goals questionnaire), including also the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (AAQ-II) and the
BDI. Participants who scored one standard deviation or higher above the mean of this sample of healthy undergraduate students (M = 203.07, SD =
13.15) were classified as the low avoidance group (high emotional flexibility; n = 13; score >216), whereas those with scores of one standard
deviation below the mean were classified as high in experiential avoidance (low emotional flexibility; n = 13; score <190). Multivariate analysis of
variance was used to investigate whether individuals high vs. low in emotional avoidance differed on several measures of eating pathology. As
expected participants classified as high in emotional avoidance reported higher levels of eating pathology [EAT26; M = 22.22; F (1, 17) = 5.28, p<.05,
η2=.24], more uncontrolled eating behavior [TFEQ-factor 2; M = 6.00; F (1, 17) = 6.10, p<.05, η2=.26], and depression [BDI; M = 17.78; F (1, 17) = 12.41,
p<.01, η2=.42] compared to their low avoidance counterparts [EAT26; M = 9.90; TFEQ-factor 2; M = 2.90; BDI; M = 3.20]. It is important to note that
individuals classified as high in experiential avoidance reported eating pathology and depression that falls within the range of clinical levels and
higher than expected from a college population sample.
LECTURES (ENGLISH)
Lecture: EVERYDAY LIFE STRESS IS A REAL TIME HUNTING!
T. Gaitani
Psychologist, D.E.S.S. in Social Psychology, GREECE
Even if thousands of pages have been written about it, we still miss the central point –thus failing to face it up in a radical way. We forget that is main
“ingredient” is the absolute, uncontrolled rush….which provokes a chain reaction that confuses the person and ends to unpleasant solutions. If we
see everyday stress and anxiety closer, then we realize its three main pillars. A. the “here and now” flight: from the slightest to the biggest
problem… they all have to do either with the past or with the future. Even if past is defined as the previous moment or as a story of the “deep”
past….and if future has to do with the next moment or with a long-time project, stress and anxiety are strongly present! B. the priorities confusion, as
a result of the first: the more we forget our “here and now” needs, thoughts, desires the less we can recognize what our present priorities are C. our
body is the most important “bell alarm”: given our education that overstresses the importance of the mind-underestimating, at the same time, the
body- we have never known how to recognize the bodily signs; even if we do, we have no means to “decode” them and do something useful to us.
As an impact come the vicious circle of the confusion and of a bigger anxiety….until the moment we decide to “forget about them” because they are
unbearable! In order to “break” this painful and hard to bear “chain reaction”, there are some steps we can do: Slow down! Even if it is hard at the
beginning (given the everyday hectic, quick rhythm of our lives), there are techniques that can help us “return” to the here and now reality. We’ll then
discover that priorities are wrongly put and bodily tension is manageable. Recognition and acceptance of the body stress- which can lead to a new
“automatism”: the place of “repulsion” takes a momentary body relaxation with simple techniques. Short inner dialogue. Little by little, we learn to
discern the two selves speaking: the rapid, rigid mind one the one side and the “fluctuating” feeling. The more we realize the difference between the
two, the less we consider these “ups and downs” as something “abnormal”!
Lecture: THE PRINCIPLE OF BENEFICENCE AND LIFE SPAN DEVELOPMENT: THE ROLE OF PERSONAL THERAPY
A. V. Parmenidou
BA(Hons) Psychology, MMedSci Psychiatry, Sheffield, UK, The British Psychological Society-European Family Therapy
Association
Background: For more of the twentieth century senior psychotherapists have struggled with the task of how best to impart the skills and techniques
of therapeutic work to novices trying to avoid charlatanism. Cultural pluralism is not yet reflected in students, faculty, curriculum or research of
psychotherapy training programs (Highlen, 1994), however, the vast majority of studies consisted of surveys of therapists' opinions indicate that
personal therapy has a positive effect on those therapist qualities often cited as constructive to client change (e.g. empathy, warmth, genuineness).
Objectives: The face of our world changes, so must the training of psychotherapists. It is evident that there needs more methodologically sound
research as well as a more theoretical understanding of how personal therapy affects clinical practice, before any firm conclusions can be drawn
about its usefulness. Method: The teleological nature of action is dependent on narratives therefore we adapt a life-span narrative research
perspective. The point of narrative research is to make explicit the view of lives, which is embodied in stories. The life story offers a template that
can be applied in many disciplinary settings or to fulfill much research needs. Results: The vision of the lives that the stories express and the
practices that they present have to be regarded as relevant not only to people involved but also to the researcher and his/her world. It is suggested
that it may be more useful for future research in this area to focus on therapy process rather than client outcome. Conclusion: On the assumption
that "people are not the problem they are the solution" therapy needs to attend to the political as well as the clinical symptoms of clients, that being
‘spiritual’ and ‘just’ as well as being ‘scientific’, ‘neutral’ and ‘professional’. No therapist however, has the omnipotence or the omniscience to decide
what is the best way for clients to restructure their lives since each life path and journey is unique.
Invited Lecture: A PSYCHOANALYTIC UNDERSTANDING OF SHAME: A CLINICAL REFORMULATION.
Prof. M. Handakas
Psy.D., Psychoanalyst, Assistant Professor, Psychology Dept., Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, USA
The nature of shame is explored in clinical work. The many and varying aspects of shame are highlighted, including, but not limited to, an
operational definition, a review of Freud’s writings on shame, a developmental overview, the relation of shame to the superego and ego ideal, a
differentiation of shame from other emotions, shame and its relation to defense and to affect theory, treatment implications and the relevance of this
topic to the field. The importance of shame in clinical work is described. Proactive identification of shame-based feelings is recommended to the
clinician. A theoretical model of shame is presenting as a primary organizing construct in the development of psychopathology. A hypothetical
vignette and case analysis (in which the subject is a Greek-American female) is presented to illustrate the application of the model.
Invited Lecture: DYADIC ADJUSTMENT SCALE: FIRST STUDY OF THE ITALIAN VERSION
Dr. C. Garbarini¹, Dr. L. Rollè², E. Gerino³, E. Marino³ and Prof. P. Brustia⁴
¹ PhD. Psychologist, Holder of Research grant, Psychology Dept., University of Turin, ITALY
² PhD. Psychologist-Psychoterapist, Dynamic Psychology Lecturer, Holder of Research grant, Psychology Dept., Univ. of Turin
³ Psychologists, PhD Students, Psychology Dept., University of Turin
⁴ Psychologist, Psychoterapist, Professor of Dynamic Psychology, Psychology Dept., University of Turin
Literature Review: The present work is focused on the conceptualization of couple adjustment as index of the relation quality. The scale is made up
of 32 items in 4 subscales. Aim: The final aim is to proceed with the Italian validation of DAS. In this study we will concern ourselves with a first
explorative analysis in order to assess the reliability of the Italian version. Tools: the research has been conducted via structured anonymous
questionnaires, the DAS (Spanier, 1976) in our first Italian adaptation and a rivisited version of the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desiderability Scale
(Crowne, Marlow, 1960). Sample: The total sample consists of 448 subjects residents in every Italian region. Results: The Cronbach’s Alpha
corroborates the internal consistency for each subscale in the Italian version and our results show a weakness related to the original version of the
Scale (Spanier, 1976). This explorative analysis shows some item of the original DAS are expressed in only one factor in the Italian version.
Conclusion: The present study intended to verify the possibility of using the DAS in the Italian context and it will be confirm by a confirmatory
analysis. However the global results show that the Italian version of DAS offers valid psychometric characteristics expressed by the reliability and
the factorial structure.
Lecture: CONSTRUCTING ABERRANT BEHAVIOUR: THE DSM AND THE CLASSIFICATION OF SEXUAL PARAPHILIAS.
Prof. R.S. Stewart¹ and Prof. S. Korol²
¹ PhD. Professor, Philosophy Dept., Cape Breton University, Sydney, NS, CANADA
² PhD. Assistant Professor, Psychology Dept., Cape Breton University.
The DSM has grown exponentially from its first edition in 1952, which listed only twenty six classified mental disorders, to 374 disorders in DSM IV,
published in 1994. Of particular concern in the recent past with respect to this mushrooming is the advent of designer drugs. Historically, drugs were
created in order to treat an already extant disease. With designer drugs, however, this process is reversed with a disease – such as Erectile
Dysfunction or Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder – being constructed only after a drug has been developed that treats the ailment – Viagra
and Ritalin in these cases respectively. A further complication of the designer drug scenario is the use of such drugs for non-indicated uses. Hence,
for example, there have recently been a number of studies exploring the effectiveness of designer drugs, particularly SSRIs, in treating Sexual
Paraphilias. If this trend continues, we would expect to see a corresponding rise in the number of diagnoses in this area, just as we witnessed huge
increases in diagnoses of Depression once SSRIs entered the marketplace. More particularly, and problematically, we suspect that diagnostic
increases will occur with respect to those Paraphilias that are deemed more benign and/or socially acceptable such as the Sexual Desire and
Sexual Arousal Disorders. Sexual Paraphilias that continue to have a great deal of negative social stigma, like Pedophilia, Necrophilia, and
Frotteurism, will, we suggest, continue to receive scant attention. This is problematic because, once again, psychological and psychiatric treatment
will be focused mostly on those ‘ailments’ that are relatively mild but easy to treat while those most in need of treatment will receive little.
Lecture: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EF, ADHD, OVEREATING AND OBESITY.
Prof. A. Dempsey
PhD., Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist, Board Certified
Assistant Professor of Nursing, College of Nursing, the University of Cincinnati, USA
Introduction: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) and obesity (BMI > 30) are complex and costly disorders with profound effects on the
physical, emotional, and social well-being of many. Prevalence studies reveal a disproportionate incidence of AD/HD in obese individuals, who often
require greater treatment time, incur greater treatment costs, and are frequently less successful treating their obesity than counterparts without
AD/HD. Impaired executive function (EF), is a fundamental characteristic of AD/HD. However, EF and AD/HD are rarely considered in assessment
or treatment of obese individuals. Hypothesis: Low EF in domains of attention and impulsivity is seen in individuals with 4 or more symptoms of
adult AD/HD, and is associated with specific overeating behaviors leading to obesity. Methods: Non-experimental single group design. Volunteer
convenience sample (n=125) completed: Stroop Test, Barratt Impulsivity Scale-11, EF measures; the Adult Self-Rating Scale–IV.I, adult AD/HD
symptoms, the Emotional Eating Scale and Eating Inventory, and BMI measures. Results: Path analysis tested the hypothesized/modified model.
Chi square (x²=6.15, 6df, p=0.4) and RMSEA (0.014) indicated very good fit for the data. Conclusions: Assessment of EF and AD/HD symptoms in
obese individuals is needed. Strategies to address challenges of individuals with AD/HD in managing overeating behaviors leading to obesity are
needed.
Lecture: THE MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT OF FORCED SEX ON SLEEP DIFFICULTIES AND MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS
IN A REPRESENTATIVE SAMPLE OF YOUNG AUSTRALIAN WOMEN
Prof. J. Astbury and Prof. D. Bruck
School of Social Sciences and Psychology, Victoria University, Melbourne, AUSTRALIA
Introduction and aim: Mounting evidence indicates that women’s mental health is severely compromised by all forms of gender based violence. Of
these, the least researched is sexual violence. The major aim of the current study was to examine the strength and precision of the relationship
between forced sex and a range of sleep difficulties taking into account the impact of mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, self
harm, high risk health behaviours such as alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use and socioeconomic indicators. Method: A cross sectional analysis of
data from Survey 3, on more than 9000 younger women (25-30 years) participating in the ongoing Australian Longitudinal Study of Women’s Health
(ALSWH) was undertaken. Univariate and bivariate analyses comparing young women who reported forced sex with those who did not, were
performed to identify significant differences between the two groups. This was followed by hierarchical logistic regression analysis to further clarify
the relationship between forced sex and sleep difficulties after controlling for all other significant differences. Results: Young women who reported
forced sex compared with those who did not, had significantly higher rates of a range of sleep problems over 3 time periods. The contribution of
forced sex to increased sleep difficulties remained significant in the hierarchical regression analysis even after the effects of depression, anxiety,
deliberate self harm, higher rates of substance use and prescription sleep medication and socioeconomic factors were statistically controlled.
Conclusion: Findings from this nationally representative survey of young Australian women indicate that forced sex is a risk factor for multiple sleep
and mental health problems, and substance use. Forced sex is not only a public health and human rights issue but exerts a profound impact on
women’s emotional health and well being. Clinicians need to take account of a history of such victimization in developing appropriate treatment
plans for such common presenting problems as insomnia, depression, anxiety and high risk substance use.
Lecture: TRAUMA SYMPTOMS IN A SAMPLE OF INTELLECTUALLY DISABLED SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT.
Dr. N.J. Shabalala¹ and A. Jasson²
¹ PhD, Psychologist, Senior Lecturer, Psychology Dept., Child Guidance Clinic, Cape Town University, Rondebosch, S.AFRICA
² Student, Psychology Dept., University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town
Research shows that the trauma of sexual assault results in emotional distress, with survivors likely to present with symptoms of PTSD. While it is
possible to elicit these in people who are able to communicate their emotional states, it is less clear how such trauma presents in intellectually
disabled people whose ability to communicate may impaired by the disability and other factors. The few studies that have been conducted with this
population group indicates that the trauma may present in behavioural problems, loss of self-care skills and other forms that are not adequately
represented in the DSM-IV TR criteria of PTSD. This study aimed to investigate the presence of PTSD symptoms in intellectually disabled people
with and without a known history of sexual assault. The Child PTSD Checklist (Amaya-Jackson, Duke Treatment Service) was administered to both
groups. In those with a known history of sexual assault (Sexual Assault group), the instrument was further administered to the care-givers to
investigate differences in symptom reporting. The Sexual Assault group reported significantly more flashbacks, dissociation, physiological reactions,
avoidance behaviours, aggression and anxiety than the Non-Sexual Assault group. The percentage of the Non-Sexual Assault group reporting
trauma symptoms was surprising but can be attributed to the high levels of violence in the communities from which both groups came as well as
possible un-reported sexual abuse in the context of high levels of gender-based violence in South Africa. The results suggest that the use of
structured instruments for assessing trauma are beneficial and can be used with higher functioning intellectually disabled people, as they were better
able than their care-givers to report on these. The results also suggest that intellectually disabled people are vulnerable to traumatic events, as
shown by symptoms reported by those with no known history of sexual assault.
Lecture: WITNESSING ADULT'S VIOLENCE: THE EFFECTS ON CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS
Dr. Z.A. Sourpi
MA, MSc, PhD. Life Sciences Dept., Univ.of Surrey, Roehampton, Tavistock and Portman Clinic, London, UK
Children, like adults, can directly experience or be witness to interpersonal violence either within or outside the family, on one or repeated occasions.
Intra-familial violence may result in the death or serious disablement of a parent or child, or may be experienced as child sexual abuse or chronic
domestic violence. Non-familial violence includes urban violence, now endemic in some communities, war and civil conflict, and vicarious violence,
such as in films and on television. Traumatic events can also occur by natural forces, for example, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, hurricanes. This
paper will focus mainly on the effects on children of witnessing severe or repeated violence, sometimes resulting in death, occuring to a member of
their family, perpetrated either by a parent or cohabitee or by a person or persons unrelated to them. The psychological symptoms of witnessing
violence are not the only consequences, particularly of violence resulting in bereavement. The effects of their disruption of attachment bonds,
particularly in young children who are totally dependent on their carers, need consideration, as do issues such as contact with a perpetrator parent.
Preventative interventions and therapies will be reviewed and some forensic issues, both civil and criminal, will be considered as they affect mental
health professionals.
Lecture: TAKING SHELTER FROM THE STORM: A CASE STUDY OF A SOCIAL INCLUSION SERVICE FOR PEOPLE
LIVING WITH SEVERE PSYCHIATRIC ILLNESS
M. Chase¹, C. Thomas² and Prof. A. Costall³
¹ MSc. Lecturer, PhD Student, Psychology Dept., University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
² Student, Psychology Dept., University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth
³ Professor, Psychology Dept., University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth
Efforts have intensified in the UK to dismantle barriers to social inclusion for people with severe and enduring mental health difficulties. Funding is
being prioritised for localised day-services that encourage and facilitate integration into mainstream environments (National Social Inclusion Project,
2009). The present study highlights the complexities and issues that face service-providers. A mixed-method case study design (Stake, 1995) was
used to evaluate a newly established social inclusion project in the South of England. The case study incorporated a quantitative audit of the uptake
and satisfaction of services provided, as well as participant observations and 1:1 interviews (n=20) with service users and staff. Although the
service was valued by participants, it fell short of achieving social inclusion targets. Ultimately people preferred to attend the project’s drop-in social
facilities and utilise peer support than pursue integration into more mainstream communities. The results are discussed in relation to the theoretical
and structural resources that need to be established to facilitate social inclusion. If we are serious about supporting people towards socially
inclusive environments then more resources and pragmatic methods of intervention need to be established, where the full complexities of living with
mental illness and stigma are acknowledged and confronted.
Lecture: DEPRESSION AND PHYSICAL ILLNESS: OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVESTIGATION AND COLLABORATION IN
PSYCHOSOMATIC MEDICINE.
Prof. M. Riba
MD, Clinical Professor, Psychiatry Dept., University of Michigan, USA
Associate Chair for Integrated Medical and Psychiatric Services, University of Michigan
Depressive disorders are common in primary care settings and even more prevalent in patients-throughout the life cycle - with chronic medical
illnesses. In patients with existing cardiovascular disease, depression predicts morbidity and death. There is strong evidence for poor postmyocardial infarction (MI) prognosis in patients with depression or depressive symptoms. Cardiac death risk in the six months after an acute MI is
approximately four times greater in patients with depression compared with post-MI nondepressed patients. In patients with cancer, the reported
prevalence of adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression and delirium, up to 50% during the course of care, varies because of different criteria and
rating scales used to define depression, different methodological approaches to the measurement of psychiatric conditions, and heterogeneity of
patient populations studied. Nevertheless, quality of life and adherence to treatment influence patients who have depression in the course of their
cancer care and is often not evaluated or undertreated. This presentation will present some of the work we are doing at the University of Michigan to
develop a network of depression centers; build our psychoncology and psychcardiology programs for children, adolescents and adults; and discuss
challenges and opportunities. Learning Objectives: By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to: (1) Identify some of the major topics
in psychosomatic medicine addressing depression (2) Learn the steps the University of Michigan has taken to build a depression center and the
future of a network of such centers (3) Review the clinical, research and educational opportunities and obstacles in developing psychoncology and
psychcardiology programs.
Lecture: PARENTAL SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CHILD OUTCOME: A RURAL COMMUNITY SAMPLE.
Prof. C.B. Asanbe¹, Dr. Ch. Bolden² and Ch. Hall³
¹ PhD., Psychologist, Psychology Dept., College of Staten Island, City University of New York, USA
² PhD. Lecturer, Behavior Analysis Dept., Tennessee Technological University, USA
³ Director, Humanities Division Dept., Cumberland County Center, Roane State, USA
Introduction and Aim: A growing number of children reside with methamphetamine-abusing parents in homes where the illicit drug is produced.
Yet, the effect of a methamphetamine environment on psychological child outcome is still unknown. In order to address this, two studies examined
the impact of methamphetamine-producing (MP) homes on the psychological functioning of children who lived with methamphetamine-addicted
parents in these homes. Method: The first study included 56 preschoolers; 31 from MP homes and 27 from non-producing (NP) homes, and the
second consisted of 78 school-age children; 40 from MP homes and 38 from the NP group. The participants were recruited from a rural community
in the southeastern part of the United States, and were matched for age, gender, and socioeconomic background. Both studies assessed and
compared the behavioral and emotional functioning of children in the MP and NP groups, using Behavior Assessment System for Children, BASCPRS-P and BASC-SRP forms. Results: Preschoolers from the MP homes showed higher aggression than their NP peers, and the school-age
children from MP homes showed more school maladjustment behaviors than their NP peers. Conclusion: These findings point to the need for
mental health screening when a child is removed from an MP home.
Lecture: INTEGRATING MENTAL HEALTH INTO PRIMARY HEALTH CARE.
Prof. M.R. Sadeghi
PhD., L. Psyche, Clinical & Health Psychologist
Prof., Psychiatry & Behavioural Sciences Dept., United Arab Emirates Univ., Al Ain, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Mental disorders affect millions of people and, if left untreated, create enormous suffering, disability and economic loss. Currently, neuropsychiatric
problems account for 11.5% of the global burden of disease and this figure is expected to rise to 15% by the year 2020. The disability caused by
mental disorders is substantial, accounting for a 25% of the total disability worldwide. Significantly, 5 of the 10 leading causes of disability worldwide
are neuropsychiatric disorders. Most mental disorders can be managed, treated, in many cases prevented, and effective intervention strategies do
already exist. Many countries are ill-equipped to address this burden, as mental health resources are scarce. Integrating mental health services into
primary care is the most viable way of closing the treatment gap and ensuring that people get the mental health care they need. Among the main
advantages integration not only ensures that the whole population has access to the mental health care that it needs, but also increases the
likelihood of positive outcomes. In general, this integration is possible across a range of circumstances and conditions, as well as in difficult
economic and political circumstances. In particular, specific models for integrating mental health into primary care vary greatly from one country to
another. While details differ, success could achieve uniformly through leadership, commitment, and local application of the WHO 10 principles.
Nonetheless, for health systems with well-functioning primary care, integrating mental health confers substantial benefits. Among the main
advantages integration ensures that the population as a whole has access to the mental health care that it needs, increases the likelihood of positive
outcomes, for both mental and physical health problems.
Lecture: AN EVALUATION OF THE EARLY INTERVENTION RESEARCH PROGRAM (EIRP) FOR CHILDREN WITH
AUTISTIC DISORDER (AD) AT FLINDERS UNIVERSITY IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA.
Prof. P. Williamson and Prof. R.L. Young
Associate Professors, School of Psychology, Flinders University of South Australia, Adelaide, AUSTRALIA
This paper will focus on the method and outcome of the Early Intervention Research Program (EIRP) for children with Autistic Disorder (AD) at the
Flinders University of South Australia. Although based on traditional ABA programs, the EIRP differs in that each child’s program is individualised
and targets core deficit-linked behaviours (e.g., imitation & joint attention), rather than targeting dominant secondary behaviours (i.e., stereotypic
rituals & routines). Children within the EIRP, undergo a 2 week 10x3 hour clinic-based intervention followed by an 18 week home-based intervention.
It was hypothesised that by intensively targeting the core deficit-linked behaviours, these behaviours may be reduced or ameliorated to a point
where one can minimise the onset of secondary behaviours. Data from more than 150 children who have participated will be presented. A within
subjects quasi experimental staggered baseline repeated measures design was used (initial, pre- intervention, 2 week intervention and 20 week
final). Analysis of test scores from initial to 20-week follow up assessments show a general trend towards improvement of autistic symptom severity
and an increase in adaptive functioning, beyond that which would have been predicted from baseline measures. The result of follow-up studies will
also be discussed.
Lecture: TIMING OF CONDITIONED EYEBLINK RESPONSES IN A RODENT MODEL OF ATTENTION-DEFICIT
HYPERACTIVITY (ADHD) DISORDER
A. Thanellou¹ and Prof. J.T. Green²
¹ Ph.D. Student, University of Vermont, USA
² Ph.D. Professor, Psychology Dept., University of Vermont
Reductions in the volume of the cerebellum and impairments in cerebellar-dependent eyeblink conditioning have been observed in attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Recently, it was reported that subjects with ADHD and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) (a traditional
animal model in the study of ADHD), exhibit a parallel pattern of timing deficits in eyeblink conditioning. We used Wistar-Kyoto Hyperactive (WKHA)
and Wistar-Kyoto Hypertensive (WKHT), rats bred out from the SHR strain in an attempt to isolate the hyperactivity from the hypertension genetic
component, to evaluate whether behavioral impairments in eyeblink conditioning in SHRs are due specifically to hyperactivity. We trained animals
with a long-delay (750-ms) eyeblink conditioning task. WKHAs and WKHTs acquired and extinguished CRs similarly. However, only WKHAs
displayed shortened onset and peak eyeblink CR latencies compared to WKHTs. Our results validate the hypothesis of cerebellar abnormalities in
an animal model of ADHD-like symptoms that does not also exhibit hypertension, and suggest the possibility that shortened eyeblink CRs in WKHAs
may be due to a deficit in inhibition of delay (IOD; defined as an increase in CR latency as learning progresses). Follow-up behavioral and
anatomical experiments support the hypothesis that timing deficits in WKHAs may be due to a deficit in IOD.
Lecture: A MULTI-LEVEL – MULTI-SOURCE EXAMINATION OF THE EFFECTS OF LUNCH BREAK ACTIVITIES ON
EMPLOYEES’ DAILY JOB FATIGUE
Prof. J.P. Trougakos¹, I. Hideg² and B. Cheng²
¹ PhD, Ass.Professor of Management, Rotman Graduate School of Management, Univ. of Toronto, CANADA
² PhD Students, Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto
Introduction and Aim: Modern employees are plagued with increasing levels of fatigue resulting in reduced well-being. Work recovery research has
examined how employees utilize various work breaks to off-set these negative consequences. However, no published studies have specifically
focused on the recovery effects of lunch breaks, despite their ubiquitous nature. This study seeks to examine how lunch break activities, especially
social activities, impact fatigue. We also consider boundary conditions of the social activity- fatigue relationship. Method: Seventy-eight full-time
employees completed experience-sampling measures regarding their lunch break activities over a 10-day period. Co-workers provided ratings of
employees’ end of day fatigue over this period. Additionally, employees’ supervisors rated the overall interpersonal likeability of the employees.
Results: Relaxing lunch activities were negatively related to fatigue. Socializing and work-related activities were positively related to fatigue.
Further, a significant interaction was found between socializing and work-related activities. Finally, the extent to which supervisors liked focal
employees also significantly interacted with social activity in predicting fatigue. Conclusion: Lunch breaks are an important aspect of employee wellbeing. Contrary to prior predictions, social activity was positively related to fatigue. Furthermore, the social activity-recovery relationship appears to
be subject to various boundary conditions. Future research should continue exploring these conditions.
Lecture: SIMILARITIES AND DIFFERENCES IN COGNITIVE ABILITIES BETWEEN YOUNG AND YOUNG-OLD CHILDREN
AND ELDERLY
Dr. E. Tsantali¹ ² ³, Prof. D. Economidis, MD¹, Dr. S. Rigopoulou³ and Prof. C. Porpodas²
¹ PhD, School of Medicine, 2nd Dept. Internal Medicine, Geriatric Unit, Hippokration Hospital, Aristotle University of
Thessaloniki, GREECE
² PhD. School of Humanities and Social Studies, Primary Education Dept., University of Patras, GREECE
³ Neurologist, B’ Hospital of the Institution of Social Insurance, Neurologic Clinic, Panagia Hospital, Thes/niki
Objective: Although cognitive development is rapid during childhood, cognitive abilities are advanced in different rhythms. We administered a
screening tool (MMSE) in order to assess the development and maintenance of some crucial cognitive abilities (time and place orientation,
calculation, language abilities and memory) during people’s growth. Methods: We recruited randomly 258 not institutionalized Greek participants,
aged from 7-87, divided into three subgroups. Eighty were attending the second and third class of the elementary school (MEAN Age=8, S.D=0.9),
97 the 5th and 6th class (MEAN Age=10.7, S.D=0.8) and 81 were elderly people with and without dementia,70.2 (S.D=7.6) years old and having 8.8
(S.D= 4.1) years of education. Results: The Anova analysis indicated statistically significant differences between groups (p=.000) to MMSE, as well
as to time and place orientation, calculation, language ability, eupraxia, delayed memory, but not to direct memory. The young children comparing to
the young-old ones showed statistically significant differences to MMSE, road orientation (p=.000) and overall place orientation (p=.000), calculation
(p=.000) and generally to language ability (p=.007). The older children showed significantly better performance to date (p=.003) and month
orientation (p=.000), delayed memory (p=.000), writing (p=.009), eupraxia ability (p=.000) and generally MMSE score (p=.000) comparing to the
elderly group. Conclusions: Our results suggest that older children have generally better cognitive performance (MMSE) than young children and
elderly with and without dementia. They are also better to time orientation, delayed memory and eupraxia than the elderly. Young children show
similar cognitive profile (MMSE ) comparing to elderly group but better performance to time and place orientation and delayed memory.
Lecture: COUNSELLING PSYCHOLOGY TRAINING IN THE U.K. KINGDOM FOR GREEK STUDENTS WHO COMPLETED
THEIR UNDERGRADUATE TRAINING IN GREECE: THEMES WHEN COMPARING THE TWO DIFFERENT
ORGANISATIONAL SETTINGS
Dr. P.C. Filippopoulos¹ and H. Manafi²
¹ PhD., School of Psychotherapy and Counselling Psychology Regent’s College London, UK
² Prof. Doctorate of Counselling Psychology, Programme Director, School of Psychotherapy & Counselling Psychology
Regent’s College London, UK
Counselling Psychology training is a very important aspect of the profession of counselling psychologists. In Europe there are countries that do not
include such training in their educational system with the result that a lot of Psychology graduates must move to a different country in order to qualify
as counselling psychologists. A number of students who completed their first degree in Greece have studied, and still are studying, counselling
psychology at a doctoral level in the United Kingdom. The present study interviewed students that have completed their first degree in Greece and
are currently studying Counselling Psychology at a British higher education institute. A thematic analysis was conducted and 4 main themes
emerged: Professional Identity, transformative learning, research and training for research, and feelings. In conclusion, all the participants expressed
ideas that their move to a British institute was a very good choice for both their training and their professional development.
Lecture: CHARACTERISTICS OF OLDER & OLDEST ADULT DRIVERS: UNDERSTANDING RISKY DRIVING
Prof. J.H. Ribak
PhD, APRN, PMHCNS-BC, Ass. Professor of Nursing, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio USA
Introduction: The United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 500 car crash injuries daily in adults over age 65. Driving is
fundamental to adult independence in American society. Aim: This investigation examined whether older drivers (65-74 years) differed in selected
characteristics and driving outcomes from oldest drivers (75 years+). The hypothesis: As compared to older drivers, oldest drivers have
significantly decreased visual acuity, cervical spine rotation and significantly increased risky driving practices (risky driving behaviors, driving
distraction) and adverse driving events (citations, crashes, injuries). Methods: Cross-sectional survey, convenience sample of older (n=75) and
oldest drivers (n=84). Visual acuity, cervical spine rotation were measured. Self-reported data identified driving behaviors and adverse events.
Licensure records documented citations, crashes. Results: Significant adjusted odds ratios (ORs) found in cervical spine rotation (OR 1.058,
p=.003), visual acuity (OR 1.492, p=043), driving distraction (OR 1.212, p=0.031). No significant differences between groups determined for
adverse driving events and risky driving behaviors. Conclusion: Hypothesis was partially supported. Compared to older drivers, oldest drivers
experienced significantly decreased visual acuity, cervical spine rotation. Driving distraction was significantly decreased for oldest compared to
older drivers. Results revealed oldest differed from older drivers signifying importance of individualized approaches assessing driving fitness.
Lecture: THE REALITY OF LEARNING DIFFERENT (LD) CHILDREN: HOW TO PROMOTE THEIR SOCIAL,
PSYCHOLOGICAL AND ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH EFFECTIVE COUNSELING AND ACADEMIC SUPPORT.
Dr. G.G. Thanopoulou –Papakonstantinou¹ and M. Protopapa²
¹ Ph.D., Ed.M., M.A, Harvard University, USA
Counseling Psychologist, Director of the Counseling Center “the International School of Athens” (ISA) GREECE.
² M.Sc., Counseling Psychologist, “the International School of Athens” (ISA), Athens.
This presentation will focus on analyzing the Psychological, Social & Academic profile of Children with Learning Differences (LD), and how these
children are marginalized and stigmatized within their families, at school, in their every day lives and especially in their relationship with self and
others. We will present the role of educational psychologists, counselors and special educators in supporting them in order to overcome their
difficulties by providing them with psycho-educational support, conflict resolution and problem-solving skills along with emotional care. In this
presentation, we will emphasize the ‘Vicious Cycle’ these children have to face that blocks their learning and limits their everyday relationships with
their own self and others. We will explain how they -esp. in adolescence- often feel ‘inadequate’ and are mislabeled as ‘lazy’, ‘indifferent’ or ‘bully’.
We will examine how they end up believing that they have low IQ, poor self-esteem, confused sense of self-identity, and, as a result, exhibit juvenile
delinquent, bullying behaviors and use ‘masks’ in order to cover up for their academic inabilities. In reality, these children can be charismatic
personalities with average to high IQ and developed EQ (Emotional Intelligence), if they receive an early and proper psychological and academic
intervention to enhance their unique abilities. Finally, in this paper we will present the innovative work that we do at the Counseling/Learning Center
of the International School of Athens (ISA), where an organized team of counseling and school psychologists, special educators, speech specialists,
play/occupational therapists and sensitive teachers support these students in order to build a strong faith in themselves, to build on their strengths
and to work around their weaknesses and finally to grow emotionally, socially and academically.
Invited Lecture: HOMOPHOBIA: FIRST STUDY ON TWO GROUPS OF STUDENTS
Dr. L. Rollè¹, Dr. C. Garbarini², E. Gerino³, E. Marino³ and Prof. P. Brustia⁴
¹ PhD. Psychologist, Psychoterapist
Lecturer of Dynamic Psychology, Holder of Research grant, Psychology Dept., University of Turin, ITALY
² PhD. Psychologist, Holder of Research grant, Psychology Dept., University of Turin
³ Psychologists, PhD Students, Psychology Dept., University of Turin
⁴ Psychologist, Psychoterapist, Professor of Dynamic Psychology, Psychology Dept., University of Turin
Introduction: With the word homophobia we mean the disease, the devaluation and the enmity for the homosexuals men or women. The
researches say high levels of homophobia are correlated with the belief that homosexuality is against nature. This thought may induce people to act
with aggressivity against LBG population. Aim: The aim of our research was to compare the level of homophobia between two Faculties’ students.
Tools: An Identifying Information Form was used to collect demographic information and the Italian scale, SIMO-G and SIMO-L (Lingiardi, 2005), to
evaluate the level of homophobia. Sample: Our sample was of 600 students of two Faculties in North Italy (min 19yo, max 45 yo, mean 20.55, SD
2.53). Conclusions: First results show a high correlation between religion, politics and high level of social homophobia. The politic orientation
presents a positive correlation with the homophobia against gay (r=0,342; p<0.01) and lesbian (r=0,363; p<0.01).
Lecture: SALIENCE OF ETHNIC IDENTITY FOR ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH: MODERATING EFFECT OF RACE.
Prof. S. Noh
PhD. Professor, Psychiatry Dept., University of Toronto, Ontario, CANADA
Co‐Head of Social Equity and Health Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Introduction & Aim: Self‐concept involves cognitive and emotional images evaluated based on physical, social, and moral views of the self. The
increasing diversity of North American societies highlights the importance of understanding the subjective experience of youth of different ethnic
backgrounds. Based on social identity theory and the ethnic identity development model, this study examines if ethnic and host society identities
promote the self‐concept of youth. Racial/ethnic variations are explored across Koreans, non‐Korean minorities, and Europeans/Whites. Method:
Data from the Growing Up Canadian Project, consisting of 585 adolescents and young adults in Toronto, Canada, are analyzed using multivariate
OLS. Moderation effects were evaluated based on the inspections of interaction terms in the OLS. Results: The results show that ethnic and host
society identities, especially the pride dimensions, are important resources for the self‐concept of racial/ethnic minorities. Interesting findings
occurred across racial/ethnic groups. First, ethnic pride promoted the self‐concepts of Koreans and non‐Korean minorities, but not
Europeans/Whites. Second, the amount of explained variance in self‐concept for the Korean ethnic group was smaller than that of the other two
groups. Finally, race/ethnicity status moderated the relationship between psychological self‐concept and the two demographic variables, gender and
nativity status. Conclusion: This study adds to the literature on the importance of ethnic identity for minority group members and suggests future
studies to investigate group‐specific factors of self‐concept.
Invited Lecture: HUMANITARIAN AID & PSYCHOLOGICAL EXPERIENCES TO NATURAL DISASTERS & WAR CONFLICTS
Dr. N. Dousis-Rassias
MD, President of Doctors of Peace, GREECE
My presentation will focus on the feelings of the persons I met and our feelings as well. The psychological effect of our presence to them and viceversa. It will cover a period of 19 years and mh physical presence to the following natural disasters: Hurricane Mitch in Honduras & Nicaragua
(1998) -Earthquake in Turkey (1999) -Tsunami in Sri Lanka (2004) -Earthquake in Pakistan (2005) -Earthquake in Aquila (Italy 2009) -Flood in
Albania (2010) -Earthquake in Haiti (2010). It will cover as well the following wars or conflicts: Kurdistan (1991) -Serbia (1999) -Afganistan (2003) Lebanon (2006) -South Osetia (2008) -Gaza Strip (2009) -Pakistan (2009).
Lecture: MEANING-MAKING BY A COMMUNITY THAT HAS EXPERIENCED LOSS: COLLECTIVE MOURNING AND ART
THAT “LASTS”
Prof. Μ.Α. Schina
Psy.D., Clinical Psychologist, Professor, University of Indianapolis, Athens, GREECE
This presentation examines the course of the mourning process experienced on a collective level by the members of a large community. The
catastrophic earthquakes of 1986 devastated the city of Kalamata, Greece, and led it initially to an agonized effort for the actual rebuilding of its
central part. Information obtained by the press and the city archives reveals a parallel search, lasting for over two decades, for ways to rebuild the
identity of the city, as well. This process, taking place on a latent cultural/psychological level, seems to be seeking expression through the arts. The
archives show numerous requests by city officials, groups, and individuals for creations of art ranging from the institutionalization of cultural events
to the erection of monuments. What these art suggestions have in common is the desire that the art products be publicly shared and of such
construction or organization that they will “last” in time. Paralleling the works of mourning of an individual, the collecive mourning seems to require
creative meaning-making processes and a play with phantasy and cultural symbols, in order to arrive at a secure sense of collective identity. The
presentation discusses the implications of its findings for the psychological sciences.
Invited Special Lecture: GENDER AND PSYCHOPATHOLOGY - FROM RESEARCH FINDINGS TO CLINICAL PRACTICE
Dr. E. Kakouros
Early Childhood Education Dept., Technological Educational Institution (TEI) of Athens
The prevalence and symptomatology of several mental disorders often differentiate between the two sexes. According to international research
findings (Cloninger et al., 1978), men display all different types of antisocial behaviour in a significant higher prevalence than women. On the other
hand, mood and anxiety disorders as well as eating disorders are much more frequent among the female population (Robins et al., 1984). In
addition, it has been documented that disorders usually first diagnosed in childhood (for example autistic spectrum disorder, conduct disorder, etc.)
concern mostly boys whereas those usually first diagnosed in adolescence (for example mood and anxiety disorders or eating disorders) concern
mostly girls (Hudziak, et al., 2008). Finally, it has been found that in cases where a disorder may present at similar rates between boys and girls at a
younger age (for example enuresis and stuttering), these same disorders are more frequent among boys at later ages. Scientific study of the abovementioned differences may facilitate the understanding of both their etiological mechanisms and their outcomes. The investigation of the factors that
put males and females at a more vulnerable position regarding different types of mental disorders may promote: a) the identification of risk factors
for the development of several disorders in males and females and b) the planning of more effective therapeutic programmes for males and females.
The aim of this presentation is to provide a summary of the most important research findings regarding sex differences in the prevalence and the
manifestation of several mental disorders, usually first diagnosed in childhood or adolescence. The main etiological theories of this phenomenon will
be presented and the possible effects of sex differences on the outcome of psychopathology in boys and girls will be analyzed. To conclude,
thoughts about the possible utility of the adoption of different diagnostic criteria for the two sexes for several developmental disorders will be
discussed and relevant perspectives for the forthcoming DSM-5 will be presented.
Lecture: CHALLENGES AND BENEFITS OF IMPLEMENTING AN ACADEMIC SERVICE LEARNING PRISON PROJECT:
THE INSIDE-OUT PRISON EXCHANGE PROGRAM.
Prof. K. Healey¹, Prof. S. Jacobs² and R. Morris³
¹ Ph.D. Psychologist, Prof. Psychology Dept., One University Place, Chester, USA
² Ph.D. Sociologist, Prof. Psychology Dept., One University Place, Chester
³ M.A., Prison Psychologist, Chester State Correctional Institution, Chester
Introduction: This poster presentation will provide an overview of the Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program. Examples of the challenges, benefits
and transformative value of traditional University students and incarcerated students attending semester length University level classes inside the
prison will be drawn from both the University and community partner perspective. Method: The basics for beginning an Inside-Out program and the
philosophy of the Program developed at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pensylvania, USA will be described. Dr. Jacobs’ recent ethnographic data
of the reentry of 35 African American men will augments current research on programming for prison timea as well as reentry. We will describe how
interested faculty at the University gained support from both the University and the prison, collaboration between faculty and prison staff and the
necessary steps to insure continuing support for the program in both institutions. Results: Data from across the United States on the efficacy of this
unique prison programmming will be shared with specific examples from different instituitons of higher education and detailed analysis of the course
evaluations and student observations. Conclusions: The benefits at both tangible and intangible levels of this academic service learning model
provide opening for new directions in both university and prison programming.
Special Lecture: MINDPOWER: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY PUBLIC MENTAL HEALTH STRATEGY.
Prof. J.L. Aicher¹ and Prof. W. Smith²
¹ MD, MPH, MURP, BES, FRCPC, Psychiatrist, Horizon Health Network, St. John Regional Hospital
Assistant Professor, Psychiatry Dept., Dalhousie University, Memorial University, CANADA
² MD, BSc, FRCPC, Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Saint John, CANADA
Introduction & Aim: Most mental health professionals now focus on detecting mental health disorders and trying to cure or at least manage
symptoms. Important efforts are underway to reduce stigma, enabling people to seek and get help. Unfortunately, our efforts are still analogous to
treating infectious illnesses like cholera -- but putting individuals back into the unhealthy environment that got them sick. We describe the process
used to launch Mindpower 2006! – an interdisciplinary community-based approach to promote mental health in Saint John, Canada. Method: We
first developed a robust, easy to understand and operationalize framework that all community members can use to promote their own mental health.
It combines a stress-support model of health promotion with a concept of “mental fitness” that encourages people to master instead of avoid life
challenges. Mental health experts, health care providers, community activists and change agents organized and facilitated a free, fun-filled festival
where the entire city was encouraged to participate. Results: Through a variety of interactive media (inspirational workshops, music, painting etc)
local heroes described how it would have been easier to “avoid” their particular challenge, but instead “mastered” and succeeded! At the interactive
“Stages of Life Exhibit” people worked together to identify specific challenges community members experience through the lifespan, and
conceptualized solutions. Festival organizers and community change agents had an opportunity to collaborate with each other and with government
officials to share ideas. Conclusion: With a limited budget, a small city in Canada organized a successful festival predicated on a novel framework
to promote mental fitness.
Special Lecture: A PSYCHO-ANALYTICAL APPROACH TO PROFILING SERIAL KILLERS
Dr. M. Pistorius
PhD. Psychologist, Pretoria, SOUTH AFRICA
Introduction and aim: The aim of this paper is to introduce delegates to the psycho-sexual developmental phases, characteristic of all serial killers,
and then to demonstrate by way of case studies, how this information is incorporated into profiling a serial killer. Method: By way of case studies,
the author will illustrate how Freud’s phases of psycho-sexual development, from the oral to the genital, can illuminate the hidden subconscious
motivation of serial killers to torture, mutilate and murder their victims. From analyzing the crime scene, the profiler can deduct in which psychosexual developmental phase the serial killer fixated as a child and how this fixation developed into a sexual fantasy, that eventually culminated in the
series of murders. The profiler compiles the profile of the unknown suspect, which is then used as a benchmark by the detective to identify and
eliminate suspects until the most likely suspect is arrested. Knowledge of the phase of fixation is incorporated into the interrogation strategy of the
suspect, which usually elicits a confession from the suspect. Results: This method has been successfully applied in the investigation and arrest of
thirty South African serial killers. Case studies will be used to illustrate during the presentation. Conclusion: Delegates will understand the hidden
motivation of serial killers with reference to their psycho-sexual developments and would be able to comprehend how a psychological profile of a
serial killer is compiled.
SYMPOSIA (ENGLISH AND GREEK)
Symposium: CLINICAL RECOGNITION OF ADHD IN ADULTS
Prof. T. Bilkey
MD. Psychiatrist, Director, Ontario Bilkey ADHD Clinics, Barrie & Stratford, Ontario, CANADA
Adj.Professor, Psychiatry Dept., Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario
General Abstract: Adult ADHD is a common and highly impairing psychiatric disorder, affecting approximately 5% of all adults. The persistence of
ADHD into adulthood is associated with numerous domains of impairment, including educational and occupational functioning. While both persistent
and impairing, ADHD in the adult population is also associated with numerous comorbidities, including high rates of mood and anxiety disorders and
addictions. Although awareness of ADHD in adults is growing, the disorder remains vastly under-recognized in clinical practice. The diagnosis can
be complex in that ADHD shares symptoms with other conditions and manifestations of ADHD change over time. Therefore, the educational
program FAST MINDS was developed to provide clinicians with a method to recognize the symptoms and patient presentations of Adult ADHD in
their practice. This program, which has received national accreditation through the College of Family Physicians of Canada, assists physicians in the
recognition of the red flag symptoms of ADHD using the acronym FAST MINDS. This presentation is 100% clinically oriented and demonstrates
interviewing techniques, through the use of video vignettes, based on 10 typical patient presentations of Adult ADHD.
Invited Symposium: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE QUALITATIVE FINDINGS IN WOMEN IMMIGRANTS AND REFUGEES IN
ATTICA COUNTY
Dr. K. Sklavou¹ and Dr. A. Koumoula²
¹ PhD. Social Worker, Child and Adolescents Psychiatric Dept., Sismanoglio General Hospital, Athens
² MD, Director of Child and Adolescents Psychiatric Dept., Sismanoglio General Hospital, Athens
Εισαγωγή: Η θεωρητική και ερευνητική µελέτη ανά τον κόσµο έχει αναδείξει την πολιτισµική διάσταση του φαινοµένου και τον υψηλό κίνδυνο
θυµατοποίησης των γυναικών που ανήκουν σε µειονοτικές/ εθνοτικές οµάδες. Σκοπός: Η παρούσα έρευνα εξετάζει τη διαπολιτισµική διάσταση
της ενδοοικογενειακής βίας. Συγκεκριµένα παρουσιάζονται οι επιπτώσεις της ενδοοικογενειακής βίας στη σωµατική, την ψυχική υγεία και την
κοινωνική ένταξη των αλλοδαπών γυναικών θυµάτων. Μέθοδος: Η ερευνητική διαδικασία διεξήχθη σε δυο στάδια. Η κύρια έρευνα στηρίχθηκε στο
ποιοτικό πρότυπο. Το δείγµα αποτέλεσαν 23 γυναίκες. Η συλλογή των δεδοµένων πραγµατοποιήθηκε µέσω ηµιδοµηµένων ατοµικών
συνεντεύξεων, ενώ η επεξεργασία στηρίχθηκε στην ανάλυση περιεχοµένου. Αποτελέσµατα: Η ανάλυση των ερευνητικών πορισµάτων
καταδεικνύει τις διαστάσεις του προβλήµατος και τις επιπτώσεις στη ζωή των θυµάτων. Οι γυναίκες του δείγµατος προσδιόρισαν ένα πλήθος
σωµατικών, ψυχολογικών και κοινωνικών προβληµάτων, ως επακόλουθα της βίας. Συµπεράσµατα: Η αποµόνωση και η έλλειψη πληροφοριών σε
συνδυασµό µε τα πολιτισµικά χαρακτηριστικά καθορίζουν τη στάση των κακοποιηµένων αλλοδαπών γυναικών, αναφορικά µε την αντιµετώπιση
των επιπτώσεων της βίας.
Symposium: CONSEQUENCES IN EVERY DAY PSYCHIATRIC CLINICAL PRACTICE RELATED TO LEGAL ISSUES NOT
APPARENTLY DEFINED
Dr. D. Petsas¹ and N. Petsas²
¹ Psychiatrist, 4th Psychiatric Emergency Dept., Psychiatric Hospital of Attica – Daphni
² Attorney - Private sector, Athens
Στην καθηµερινή κλινική πρακτική και στο σηµείο, που η Ψυχιατρική συναντά τη Νοµική επιστήµη, εµφανίζονται συχνά προβλήµατα, που θέτουν
διλλήµατα. Η Ψυχιατροδικαστική ή ∆ικαστική Ψυχιατρική ακόµη δεν έχει καταφέρει να καλύψει τα υπάρχοντα κενά και να δώσει ξεκάθαρες
απαντήσεις, καθώς φαίνεται να υπάρχει σηµαντική απόκλιση στις απόψεις µεταξύ νοµικών και ψυχιάτρων. Έτσι εξηγείται η χρονιότητα των προς
επίλυση θεµάτων και η διαιώνιση ενός κλίµατος ανασφάλειας µεταξύ των επαγγελµατιών ψυχικής υγείας, όσον αφορά στον τρόπο διαχείρισης
συγκεκριµένων καταστάσεων. Στη στρογγυλή αυτή τράπεζα γίνεται καταγραφή των προβληµάτων και εκτενέστερη αναφορά σε κάποια από αυτά,
ενώ περιγράφονται και υπογραµµίζονται οι επιπτώσεις, που η µη επίλυση τους επιφέρει στην πορεία της ψυχικής υγείας των ψυχικά ασθενών.
Υπογραµµίζεται, επίσης, η ανάγκη προάσπισης των δικαιωµάτων όχι µόνο των ψυχικά πασχόντων, αλλά και των επαγγελµατιών ψυχικής υγείας
και τονίζεται προς αυτή την κατεύθυνση, η ανάγκη εξοικείωσης των τελευταίων µε νοµικούς όρους, αλλά και γενικότερα µε τη νοµοθετική ή/και
δικαστική νοοτροπία. Προτείνεται η έναρξη ενός ουσιαστικού διαλόγου µε συµµετοχή όλων των εµπλεκόµενων πλευρών και φορέων, που θα έχει
ως στόχο το να οδηγηθούµε σε νέες, συµπληρωµατικές νοµοθετικές ρυθµίσεις, προκειµένου να δοθούν σαφείς, δίκαιες και ορθολογιστικές
απαντήσεις στα αντικρουόµενα και διφορούµενα ζητήµατα του σήµερα.
SYMPOSIUM (EN): The Psychological and Neurohormonal Impact of Infertility
PSYCHOLOGICAL EXPERIENCE IN THE IVF CLINIC- NEUROHORMONAL DATA INVOLVED IN THE INFERTILITY STRESS
V.Simoglou1, Prof. M. Venetikou2, A. Zafiropoulou3, K. Pantazopoulou3, Dr. Th. Paraschos4, Prof. Ch. Darviri5,
and Prof. G. Chrousos6
BASAL STRESS LEVELS AND MARITAL RELATIONSHIP IN A SAMPLE OF FERTILE COUPLES
A. Zafiropoulou3, K. Pantazopoulou3, Prof. M. Venetikou2, V.Simoglou1, Dr. L. Klentzeris7, Prof. Ch. Darviri5 and
Prof. G. Chrousos6
STRESS LEVELS DURING PROTOCOL PHASES IN IVF TREATMENT OF SUBFERTILE COUPLES
K. Pantazopoulou3, A. Zafiropoulou3, Prof. M. Venetikou2, V.Simoglou1, Ch. Germanou8, Dr. M. Mastrominas9,
Prof. Ch. Darviri5 and Prof. G. Chrousos6
MARITAL RELATIONSHIP IN COUPLES DURING ASSISTED REPRODUCTION
A. Zafiropoulou3, K. Pantazopoulou3, Prof. M. Venetikou2, V.Simoglou1, Ch. Germanou8, Dr. Th. Paraschos4, Dr.
M. Mastrominas9 and Prof. Ch. Darviri5
PERSONALITY VARIABLES IN THE SUBFERTILE POPULATION
K. Pantazopoulou3, A. Zafiropoulou3, Prof. M. Venetikou2, V.Simoglou1, Ch. Germanou8, Dr. Th. Paraschos4, Dr.
L. Klentzeris7 and Dr. M. Mastrominas9
HOLISTIC ASSESSMENT OF THE BIOLOGICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL VARIABLES IN ASSISTED REPRODUCTION
Prof. M. Venetikou2, V.Simoglou1, K. Pantazopoulou3, A. Zafiropoulou3, Ch. Germanou8, Dr. Th. Paraschos4, Dr.
M. Mastrominas9 and Dr. L. Klentzeris7
1 DEA, MA, IVF Psychologist, Embio IVF Centre, Athens
2 MD, DipEndo, PhD, Prof. of Pathophysiology-Nosology, Consultant Endocrinologist, TEI of Athens
Professor, Stress and Health Promotion, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy, Athens
3 Psychologists, MA Students, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy, Athens
4 MD, PhD, Consultant Gynaecologist, Embio IVF Centre
5 PhD, Professor, Public Health and Health Promotion, Technological Educational Institute (TEI) of Athens
Coordinator, Professor, of Stress and H. Promotion, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy, Athens
6 MD, PhD, FRCP, MACE, MACP, Professor of Paediatrics, University Clinic of Agia Sophia, Athens, GREECE
Coordinator and Professor, Stress and H. Promotion, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy, Athens
Georgetown University, ex-Director, Paediatric Endocrinology Section and Training Program NICH, NIH, USA
7 MD, PhD, FRCOG, Consultant Gynaecologist, Director of IVF Centre Mitera
8 IVF Psychologist, Embryogenesis IVF Centre, Athens
9 MD, PhD, Consultant Gynaecologist, Embryogenesis IVF Centre, Athens
ANNOUNCEMENTS & LECTURES (GREEK)
DESCRIPTION OF THE GREEK PERSONALITY ASSESSMENT INVENTORY
D.G. Lyrakos
Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Therapist, Athens
Τα τελευταία χρόνια στην Ελλάδα γίνεται µια προσπάθεια στάθµισης και οργάνωσης ψυχοµετρικών τεστ. Το Personality Assessment Inventory
(PAI) όπως είναι η Αγγλική του ονοµασία ή το Ερωτηµατολόγιο Αξιολόγησης της Προσωπικότητας όπως έχει κατοχυρωθεί στα Ελληνικά είναι ένα
εργαλείο αξιολόγησης όχι µόνο συµπτωµάτων ψυχοπαθολογίας, αλλά καλύπτει επίσης ένα µεγάλο εύρος παραµέτρων. Η χρήση του µπορεί να
βοηθήσει τον επαγγελµατία υγείας όχι µόνο στο κοµµάτι της διάγνωσης, αλλά µπορεί να δώσει πολύτιµες πληροφορίες για τον εξεταζόµενο όσο
αναφορά τάσεις συµπεριφοράς, κοινωνική κατάσταση και υποστήριξη, αποδοχή ψυχοθεραπείας και φαρµακευτικής θεραπείας κ.α.. Στην οµιλία
αυτή θα παρουσιάσουµε την ελληνική έκδοση και της ελληνικές κλείδες του Ερωτηµατολόγιο Αξιολόγησης της Προσωπικότητας που βγήκαν µετά
από την διαδικασία στάθµισης σε κλινικό και µη κλινικό πληθυσµό.
SEXUALITY AND GENDER: ATTITUDES OF YOUNG GREEKS TOWARDS HOMOSEXUAL RELATIONSHIPS.
Prof. A.V. Riga¹ and E. Papa²
¹ Professor of Social-Clinical Psychology and Qualitative Methodology, University of Crete
² Psychologist, Undergraduate studies, University of Crete
Attitudes towards homosexuality have been shown to vary along different demographic dimensions such as gender or political orientation, age and
others. The aim of this research was to study the attitudes of young Greek people regarding homosexual relationships and gives emphasis on 1) the
gay marriage, 2) the adoption of children by same-sex couples, 3) the children’s sexuality education from their parents and 4) the way homosexuals
are treated in their working environment. In the present study, the sample consists of 174 young people between 18 to 30 years old. For the data
collection it was used a questionnaire, of closed-ended and open-ended questions. The analysis was conducted with the statistical package for the
Social Sciences (SPSS). Results have shown that young Greeks, particularly young men, are more conservative than women, as far as questions
about very personal matters are concerned and much more open with matters of sexuality in the workplace. Overall, women appear to hold more
positive attitudes towards homosexuality.
SCHOOL PREDICTORS OF BULLYING AND VICTIMIZATION IN MIDDLE SCHOOL: RESULTS FROM A PILOT STUDY
K.D. Kapari¹ and P.D. Stavrou²
¹ PhD Student, Special Education Dept., Lab of Special and Curative Education, University of Ioannina
² Psychologist, Researcher, Lab. Psychologie Clinique et Psychopathologie, Univ.Paris V, Sorbonne, France
Numerous studies have focused on individual characteristics of bullies and victims, without careful examination of contextual factors that might
influence bullying and victimization in school settings. This pilot study examines the association of the school climate and the school’s response to
violence with the intensity of bullying and victimization in a sample of 114 students in three Greek public middle schools. The participants completed
a self-report questionnaire designed to assess their perceptions about: a) the school climate, b) the school’s response to violence, and c) the
intensity of bullying and victimization in their school. Internal consistency reliability scores were ranged from .62 to .93. Data was analyzed using
correlations (Pearson r) and multiple regressions. All the school climate variables (Fairness, School Belonging, Authoritarian Practices, Safety,
Discipline Management) were associated with the intensity of bullying and/or victimization. Two variables of the school’s response to violence
(Student Intervention, Teacher Intervention) explained 49% of the variance of the intensity of bullying. Two variables of the school climate (Safety,
Discipline Management) explained 47% of the variance of the intensity of victimization. Our findings are consistent with the research literature and
suggest the influence of school context on bullying and victimization.
FROM PLANNING TO IMPLEMENTATION OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES: THE CENTRE OF MENTAL HEALTH OF THE
G. HOSPITAL “SOTIRIA”.
Dr. G. Freris¹, Dr. K. Kondili², and Dr. M. Triandopoulou²
¹ Child Psychiatrist, Guidance Centre of General Hospital “Sotiria”, A.P.P.A.C. Board Member
² Psychiatrists, Mental Health Services of General Hospital “Sotiria”, Athens.
Στις 14-12-2010 ξεκίνησε την λειτουργία του το Κ.Ψ.Υ. του Γ.ΝΝ.Θ.Α. «Η Σωτηρία», στην περιοχή της Πλ. Αττικής και µε τοµεοποιηµένη περιοχή τον
∆. Γαλατσίου και το 6ο διαµέρισµα Αθηνών. ∆ροµολογήθηκαν όλες εκείνες οι διοικητικές και επιστηµονικές ενέργειες για την ορθότερη λειτουργία:
α) των δύο τµηµάτων (Παιδοψυχιατρικό, Ψυχιατρικό) και β) των διεπιστηµονικών οµάδων. Στο πρώτο 4µηνο λειτουργίας ανέπτυξε προγράµµατα
πρωτογενούς και δευτερογενούς πρόληψης για παιδιά, εφήβους και ενήλικες, ήτοι: α) διαγνωστικά και θεραπευτικά ραντεβού, β) οµάδες γονέων
παιδιών προσχολικής ηλικίας, γ) οµάδες στα Κ.Α.Π.Η. του ∆. Γαλατσίου, καθώς και εποπτείας του προσωπικού, δ) δράσεις δηµοσιοποίησης των
προσφεροµένων υπηρεσιών σε σχολεία και φορείς
“ACADEMIC PROBLEMS” IN INSTITUTIONS OF MENTAL HEALTH: GUIDANCE CENTRES VERSUS CENTRE OF
DIAGNOSIS & SUPPORT (C.D.D.S)
Dr. G. Freris¹, S. Spyrou², B. Andreadelli² and O. Kourella³
¹ Child Psychiatrist, Guidance Centre of General Hospital “Sotiria”, A.P.P.A.C. Board Member
² Clinical Psychologist, General Hospital of Mytilini
³ T.E. Nurse of Mental Health, Child Psychiatry Hospital of Attika
Τα Κέντρα ∆ιάγνωσης, ∆ιαφοροδιάγνωσης και Υποστήριξης (Κε.∆.∆.Υ.), αποτελούν υπηρεσίες του Υπουργείου Παιδείας, που ασχολούνται µε τις
µαθησιακές δυσκολίες των παιδιών και εφήβων, προσφέροντας σηµαντικό έργο. Όµως αν και το φάσµα των Ψυχικών διαταραχών δεν αποτελεί
προτεραιότητα των δραστηριοτήτων τους, συχνά εµπλέκονται µε αυτές. Από την δηµιουργία των πρώτων Κ.∆.Α.Υ. (Κέντρα ∆ιάγνωσης και
Αξιολόγησης και Υποστήριξης), έως την µετονοµασία τους από το 2008, σε Κε.∆.∆.Υ (Κέντρα ∆ιαφοροδιάγνωσης, διάγνωσης και Υποστήριξης)
έχουν παρέλθει 10 χρόνια περίπου και η εµπλοκή τους µε τις υπηρεσίες του Υπουργείου Υγείας αποτελεί ένα ζητούµενο. ∆ιαπιστώνονται: α)
συνεχείς ερµηνευτικές εγκύκλιοι που προσπαθούν να διαχειριστούν τις παραµέτρους σχετικά µε τις προφορικές εξετάσεις β) χρόνους αναµονής
για την µαθησιακή εκτίµηση έως και 2-3 χρόνια γ) συγχυτική πληροφόρηση του Υπουργείου Παιδείας, σχετικά µε την λειτουργία των
Ιατροπαιδαγωγικών Κέντρων, µετά από µια δεκαετία περίπου συνύπαρξης. Συµπερασµατικά τα Κε.∆.∆.Υ. φαίνεται ότι ακόµη προσπαθούν να
οριοθετήσουν το ρόλο τους σε σχέση µε το εξωτερικό περιβάλλον και κυρίως µε τις υπηρεσίες του Υπουργείου Υγείας, που άλλοτε τις επικαλούνται
και άλλοτε τις αγνοούν.
2001-2010: M.HEALTH PROGRAMMES FOR CHILDREN & ADOLESCENTS IN GREEK FRONTIER REGIONS
Dr. G. Freris¹, S. Spyrou², B. Andreadelli², O. Kourella³ and M. Mamidaki⁴
¹ Child Psychiatrist, Guidance Centre of General Hospital “Sotiria”, A.P.P.A.C. Board Member
² Clinical Psychologist, General Hospital of Mytilini
³ T.E. Nurse of Mental Health, Child Psychiatry Hospital of Attika
⁴ Social Psychologist, Centre of Prevention, Athens
Στις ακριτικές περιοχές της Ελλάδας, Β.Α. & Ν.∆. Αιγαίο (∆ωδεκάνησα, Μυτιλήνη, Λήµνος, κ.ά), Θράκη (Ξάνθη, Αλεξανδρούπολη, Κοµοτηνή)
δραστηριοποιούνται και καταγράφονται βασικές υπηρεσίες ψυχικής υγείας για το παιδί και τον έφηβο: Κέντρα Ψυχικής Υγείας, Κε.∆.∆.Υ., Κέντρα
Ψυχολογικής υποστήριξης, Ειδικά σχολεία, Κέντρα πρόληψης του ΟΚΑΝΑ, Ψυχολογικές και Ψυχιατρικές Υπηρεσίες στα Γενικά Νοσοκοµεία,
∆ηµοτικοί Συµβουλευτικοί Σταθµοί, ΚΕΚΥΚΑΜΕΑ, Πρόνοια, Εισαγγελία ανηλίκων). Τα προγράµµατα πρωτογενούς και δευτερογενούς πρόληψης
στην Ψυχικής υγείας σε παραµεθόριους περιοχές δεν αποτελούν προτεραιότητα, (λόγω γεωγραφικής κατανοµής και έλλειψης ανθρωπίνων
πόρων). Όµως, αν και µε άναρχο και ανοµοιογενή τρόπο, είναι σε δυναµική εξάπλωση η ευαισθητοποίηση στην Ψυχική Υγεία παιδιού και
εφήβου, ακόµα και σε δυσπρόσιτες περιοχές (Ποµακοχώρια, Λειψοί, Κάσος κ.ά.). Οι δράσεις υλοποιούνται, είτε από δηµόσιες ή δηµοτικές
υπηρεσίες (Ιατροπαιδαγωγικό Κέντρο Μυτιλήνης, ∆ηµοτικό Ιατροπαιδαγωγικό Κέντρο Ρόδου, Ψυχολογικό Κέντρο Β. Ελλάδας, κατά τόπους
Κε.∆.∆.Υ, Κοινωνικές Υπηρεσίες κ.ά.), είτε από Μ.Κ.Ο. (π.χ. «Ανοιχτή Αγκαλιά»). Ενεργή συµµετοχή σ’ αυτή την προσπάθεια είχε το
Πανεπιστήµιο Αιγαίου, µέσα από την υλοποίηση προγραµµάτων επιµόρφωσης, περίπου 1500 εκπαιδευτικών, την διετία 2009-2010, στην Ειδική
Αγωγή και την Ψυχική Υγεία).
NETWORKS IN THE MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN THE PREFECTURE OF ATTIKA: MARKERS OF FUNCTIONING AND
DYSFUNCTIONING IN CATCHMENT AREA
Dr. G. Freris¹, O. Kourella², S. Spyrou³, B. Andreadelli³ and S. Triandafillidou⁴
¹ Child Psychiatrist, Guidance Centre of General Hospital “Sotiria”, A.P.P.A.C. Board Member
² T.E. Nurse of Mental Health, Child Psychiatry Hospital of Attika
³ General Hospital of Mytilini
⁴ Social Worker, Archbishop of Athens
Από την σύσταση των 12 Τοµέων Ψυχικής Υγείας (Το.Ψ.Υ.) στο Ν. Αττικής (αριθ. Υ5α/Γ.Π. οικ.61133/23-6-2004) και άλλων αποφάσεων που
ακολούθησαν (Τροποποίηση της υπ΄ αριθµ. Υ5α/Γ.Π.οικ.61133 & Ένταξη των Μονάδων Ψυχικής Υγείας στους Τοµείς Ψυχικής Υγείας), έως
σήµερα, έχουν γίνει σηµαντικά βήµατα τόσο ως προς τον αριθµό των δοµών όσο και ως προς την κατεύθυνση της συνέργιας αυτών, ειδικά στο Ν.
Αττικής Έχουν, όµως, καταγραφεί ποικίλου τύπου δυσκολίες, οι οποίες ενίοτε λαµβάνουν και την µορφή σοβαρής δυσλειτουργίας, που συχνά
στρέφεται, άµεσα, κατά του ασθενούς. Καταγράφονται κλινικά παραδείγµατα, που αναδεικνύουν αυτά τα προβλήµατα και προτείνονται θεσµικές
και πρακτικές λύσεις όπως: α) τακτικό, τουλάχιστον για τα πρώτα χρόνια, επαναπροσδιορισµό συνολικά των τοµεοποιηµένων γεωγραφικά
περιοχών, β) θεσµική συνεργασία (σε τακτά διαστήµατα π.χ. κάθε 1-2 µήνες), των εµπλεκοµένων υπηρεσιών ψυχικής υγείας, του ιδίου τοµέα. γ)
αξιοποίηση και δικτύωση όλων των φορέων (∆ηµόσιο, Μ.Κ.Ο., κ.ά.), που ασκούν αντίστοιχες δράσεις, στον ίδιο τοµέα.
THE EXPERIENCE AFTER THE DIAGNOSIS FOR AN ADULT WITH ADHD, SEARCHING OF INFORMATION AND JOINING
AN ADULT ADHD SELF HELP GROUP.
S. Zorbas
Economist, Member of ADHD Hellas, Author, Adult with ADHD
Σκοπός: Nα αναδειχθεί η σηµασία που έχει για έναν ενήλικα µε ∆ιάσπαση Προσοχής, αφού λάβει την ∆ιάγνωση της ∆ιάσπασης Προσοχης να
αναζητήσει πληροφορίες για τα χαρακτηριστικά της ∆ιαταραχής από κάθε διαθέσιµη πηγή (όπως είναι το internet και η διαθέσιµη βιβλιογραφία)
και να συµµετέχει σε οµάδα ενηλίκων που έχουν ∆ΕΠ. Μέθοδος: Συµµετοχική Παρατήρηση σε 2 οµάδες ενηλίκων µε ∆ΕΠ/Υ που συντόνισα µαζί
µε έναν εργοθεραπευτή (01.02.2009 - 01.06.2009) και έναν παιδοψυχίατρο.(01.10.2009 - 31.12.2009). Αυτοπαρατήρηση: Σε σχέση µε την
αναγνωση βιβλίων για την ∆ιάσπαση Προσοχής και την εµπειρία από την επικοινωνία µε ενήλικες µε ∆ιάσπαση Προσοχής που γνώρισα στις
οµάδες. Αποτελέσµατα, Συµπέρασµα: Τα συµπεράσµατα από την εµπειρία της µετά τη διάγνωσης περιόδου θα αναλυθούν. Η ενηµέρωση για τα
χαρακτηριστικά της ∆ιάσπασης Προσοχής µέσω της ανάγνωσης βιβλίων που έχουν γράψει ειδικευµένοι ψυχολόγοι και ψυχίατροι που συχνά
έχουν και οι ίδιοι ή τα παιδιά τους ∆ΕΠ είναι πολύ κατατοπιστική. Η συµµετοχή στις οµάδες ενηλίκων µε ∆ΕΠ έδειξε πως το σηµαντικό δεν ήταν
ποιος ήταν ο εισηγητής ή αυτός που συντόνιζε την οµάδα, αλλά η εµπειρία να βρεθούν οι ενήλικοι µε άτοµα που βίωναν παρόµοιες καταστάσεις.
Κατανόηση, ανταλλαγή πληροφοριών και αίσθηση πως δεν είναι οι µόνοι που έβλεπαν τον εαυτό τους να έχει χαρακτηριστικά συµπεριφοράς που
συχνά δηµιουργεί η ∆ΕΠ.
THE EFFECTS OF ANXIETY IN BRAIN ACTIVITY OF CHILDREN: A BRAIN IMAGING STUDY.
Prof. A.V. Karapetsas¹ and Dr. N.C. Zygouris²
¹ Professor of Neuropsychology – Neurolinguistic, University of Thessaly
² PhD. Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Thessaly, Lab.of Neuropsychology -Univ. of Thessaly, Member
Υπάρχουν πολλές βιολογικές θεωρίες που υποστηρίζουν ότι το άγχος οφείλεται σε νευροχηµική δυσλειτουργία συγκεκριµένων νευροδιαβιβαστών,
όπως η σεροτονίνη, το γ – αµινοβουτυρικό οξύ (GABA) και η νορεπινεφρίνη. Οι ίδιοι νευροδιαβιβαστές διαδραµατίζουν σηµαντικό ρόλο στη
γένεση των κυµατοµορφών των Γνωστικών Προκλητών ∆υναµικών και ιδιαίτερα της κυµατοµορφής Ρ300. Με αυτό το σκεπτικό διενεργήθηκε µια
έρευνα στο Εργαστήριο Νευροψυχολογίας του Πανεπιστηµίου Θεσσαλίας µε χρήση Γνωστικών Προκλητών ∆υναµικών. Στόχος της έρευνας ήταν
να διερευνηθούν οι διαφορές στην εγκεφαλική δραστηριότητα µεταξύ παιδιών και εφήβων µε Γενικευµένη Αγχώδη ∆ιαταραχή σε σχέση µε την
οµάδα ελέγχου. Για το σκοπό αυτό αξιολογήθηκαν 6 παιδιά (3 αγόρια και 3 κορίτσια) µε Μ.Ο. ηλικίας τα 12 έτη που συµπλήρωναν τα κριτήρια του
DSM – IV για τη συγκεκριµένη διαταραχή αφενός και αφετέρου τα κριτήρια της Revised Children’s Manifest Anxiety Scales (RCMAS) για την ίδια
διάγνωση. Στη συνέχεια αξιολογήθηκε µε τη µέθοδο των Γνωστικών Προκλητών ∆υναµικών η εγκεφαλική τους δραστηριότητα. Καταγραφικά
ηλεκτρόδια τοποθετήθηκαν στις εξής εγκεφαλικές περιοχές: FP1, FPz, FP2, F3, Fz, F4, F7, F8, C3, Cz, C4, P3, Pz, P4, Oz. Η ίδια διαδικασία
αξιολόγησης ακολουθήθηκε και για τα 6 παιδιά που συµµετείχαν στην οµάδα ελέγχου, που είχαν ίδιο φύλο και ίδια ακριβώς ηλικία µε τα παιδιά
της πειραµατικής οµάδας. Από την ανάλυση των αποτελεσµάτων προκύπτει ότι ο χρόνος έκλυσης της κυµατοµορφής Ρ300 µπορεί να αποτελέσει
ένα αξιόπιστο δείκτη στη διάγνωση µεταξύ παιδιών µε Γενικευµένη Αγχώδη ∆ιαταραχή σε σύγκριση µε την οµάδα ελέγχου. Επίσης, προκύπτει ότι
η ύπαρξη της συγκεκριµένης ψυχοπαθολογίας ασκεί αρνητική επιρροή στις ανώτερες γνωστικές λειτουργίες (µνήµη, αντίληψη, προσοχή, µάθηση,
επίπεδο εγρήγορσης) των παιδιών που την εµφανίζουν. Τα αποτελέσµατα του συγκεκριµένου πρωτοκόλλου χρησιµοποιούνται σε µια έρευνα
πιλότο µε στόχο της εύρεση του κατάλληλου τόσο εκπαιδευτικού όσο και κλινικού νευροψυχολογικού προγράµµατος αποκατάστασης των παιδιών
που πάσχουν από Γενικευµένη Αγχώδη ∆ιαταραχή που διεξάγεται από το Εργαστήριο Νευροψυχολογίας του Πανεπιστηµίου Θεσσαλίας.
A CHILD COUNTS «STARS…. COUSELORS»: ACTIONS AND SIDE EFFECTS OF THEIR INVOLVEMENT IN MENTAL
HEALTH
S. Spyrou¹, K. Mihailidou², B. Tsihla², S. Firigοu², D. Paraskevopoulos³ and Dr. G. Freris
¹ Clinical Psychologist, General Hospital “Vostanio” of Mytilini
² Psychologists, Mental Health Centre, General Hospital “Sotiria”, Athens
³ Sociologist, Mental Health Centre, General Hospital “Sotiria”, Athens
⁴ Child Psychiatrist, Mental Health Centre, General⁴ Hospital “Sotiria”, Athens
Σκοπός της εργασίας είναι η ανάδειξη των δυσκολιών συνεργασίας µεταξύ των υπηρεσιών ψυχικής υγείας για το παιδί και τον έφηβο, µέσα από
την καταγραφή ενός κλινικού περιστατικού παραβατικότητας και των συνεπειών του. Μέθοδος: το υλικό προέρχεται: 1) από το αρχείο φακέλου
κλινικής περίπτωσης του γραφείου Ψυχολόγων, την Ψυχοδιαγνωστική εκτίµηση και την επίσηµη αλληλογραφία 2) τον αριθµό και το είδος των
παρεµβάσεων που επιχειρήθηκαν από τις υπηρεσίες ψυχικής υγείας προς το σχολείο, την οικογένεια και το κοινωνικό 3) τα αποτελέσµατα των
παρεµβάσεων. Αποτελέσµατα: Αναδεικνύεται η σπατάλη πόρων (ανθρώπινων και οικονοµικών) για την διαχείριση µιας περίπτωσης, όταν
εµπλέκονται πέντε φορείς (τρεις του Υπουργείου Υγείας και Κοινωνικής Αλληλεγγύης και δύο του Υπουργείου Παιδείας), παράλληλα µε τις
Κοινωνικές Υπηρεσίες τοπικών ∆ήµων και το Υπουργείο ∆ικαιοσύνης (Εταιρεία Προστασίας Ανηλίκων). Συµπεράσµατα: α) το παιδί εξακολούθησε
να έχει άρνηση στο σχολείο και παραβατική συµπεριφορά. Έδωσε µόνο του λύση στο πρόβληµα φεύγοντας από το σχολείο και
παρακολουθώντας νυχτερινό Γυµνάσιο, ενώ το πρωί εκπαιδεύεται σε χειρονακτική εργασία β) εξακολουθούν να εκκρεµούν συναντήσεις των
φορέων για να συνδιαλλαγούν στο πρόβληµα του µαθητή.
SENSITIVE SOCIAL GROUPS: THE WAY OF PROMOTION OF PISN (PEOPLE IN SPECIAL NEEDS) TO THE PRESS
Dr. M. Sidiropoulou¹ and E. Polivaka²
¹ PhD Social Anthropology, University of the Aegean, GREECE
² MEd Education, MA Philosophy and Education Dept., Education Sector Aristotelio University of Thessaloniki, GREECE
The models that have been molded concerning disability are three according to what is widely known : the moral, the social and the medical (Olkin,
1999:24-25). Each of these creates a different perspective about how we understand disability, where the problem lies and who is the better way to
“treat” it. The General Secretariat of Communication and information realizing the necessity to abide by the journalistic ethics concerning the
presentation of disability matters, adopted a journalistic guide , that aims to justify the disability with the release of thought from rooted stereotypes
and prejudices. Using the way the guide suggests, the Press will succeed in promoting the modern social model, which is the correct and just focus
to the man and not his disability, to the citizen with disability and not the disabled citizen, as the first one has rights, while the other cause
philanthropy. In order to draw conclusions in reference to the subject and the standard of the Press, we drew articles from five daily newspapers,
which related to disability matters during September and December 2006 and since they were categorized we qualitatively analyzed their content.
Bibliography and journalistic guide had been the source of our results and evaluation judgments.
THE IMAGE OF FATHER THROUGH ADVERTISEMENTS
Prof. T. Sidiropoulou¹, M. Zafeiropoulou², O. Tsakalou² and I. Halkiadaki²
¹ Ass.Prof. of Psychopedagogics, Early Childhood Dept., Technological Educational Institution (TEI) of Athens, GREECE
² Teachers of Early Childhood Education
The dominance of advertising in our everyday life, now has been a fact and their excessive use is an irrefutable evidence. Ads running everywhere,
no matter where we look, no matter what we do. The object of our study are in general the advertisements and more in particular those which
present the father, his role and the relationship with his kids. The centerpiece of our project is the use and presentation of ads, that are
representative to the way that they present the father figure. But before this is done, there are some data given about advertising, the means of midad delivery and the role in influencing the consumer behavior. Furthermore, the father’s role in society is been looked for and the stages from which
the father figure has passed. What is up next is the presentation of the ads, which have been placed in areas of the market for their better
examination. Based on the ads and utilizing in combination to the case study , we end up to our study results.
NEW FORMS OF MOTHERHOOD: THE REACTION OF NEW TEACHERS
Prof. T. Sidiropoulou¹, M. Zafiropoulou² , S. Soulele² , A. Antonarou² and S. Peyoglou²
¹ Ass.Prof. of Psychopedagogics, Early Childhood Dept., TEI of Athens, GREECE
² Teachers of Early Childhood Education
Motherhood consists of one of the most valuable contributions to human society, it constitutes of a “right” between others (Riga, 1990). This is a
“right” that more and more women nowadays “exercise” it either they are married or not and so new forms of family figures have been created.
Researches (Maratou, 1986, Riga, 1990) show that even Greek traditions and the central place that family takes in Greek society resist to the
European model s, “new” family figures are also being adopted from Greece. Family undergoes serious core and functional alterations. It is being
enriched by new elements, such as the establishment of the partners autonomy, the re-definition of father’s role and the co-responsibility all of the
extended family members to the economical, technological and social development. Society’s structure makes it hard for a woman to choose the
part in which she has to settle in. As the key to the parental effectiveness, it is being highlighted to be the mother’s general adjust. Nevertheless, a
younger or older mother who is socially and psychologically adjusted can be better prepared to confront the anxieties and agonies, which are related
to the baby’s upbringing, as mother’s activities are more effective (Riga, 2008). To the frame referred above, we studied the future teachers’ opinion
concerning the new forms of motherhood. The coincident sample was 340 students of the Preschool Education Department, who are aware of the
cognitive subject of the school’s lessons which relates to the family, the mother’s role and mainly to the children. Our first results show that students
have renounced the society’s stereotypes, since they seem to have accepted the changes of the traditional “image” of motherhood.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES: PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE IN GREEK EARLY YEARS CLASSROOM
S. Dimitriadi¹, T. Papadaki² and E.M. Makrogkika³
¹ MEd Education, Research Fellow, Early Childhood Education (E.C.E.) Dept., T.E.I. of Athens
² MEd Education, Early Years Teacher
³ Early Years Teacher
For many years there has been acknowledged a need to value, respect and treat all humans equally. This need becomes even more perceptible
now, as our society is rapidly transforming into a patchwork of different people with different backgrounds. Therefore, it is most important that today’s
children are educated for a harmonious life in a larger social universe. The fundamental stone should be set in early childhood programmes, as
during early years children develop their self-identity and form images about others through messages their environment conveys. The aim of this
study was to identify the extent of existing diversity as well as the equal opportunities principles and practice in greek early years classroom, with
special focus in infant – toddler curriculum. Primary research was conducted by collecting the data needed using the technique of oral
communication and more specifically, the technique of interview. The interviews were structured using open questions. Sampling for the interview
was made by means of an opportunity sample of early years teachers. The outcomes of this study proved that diversity existed to a considerable
extend in early years classroom while positive attitudes to equal opportunities practices within the early years curriculum were expressed. Given that
in working with children the aim is to lay positive and firm foundations, these results form one more brick to the equality building.
GENDERED DISTINCTIONS IN CHILDREN’S PLAY
M. Zerva¹, V. Salonidis², R. Iatrou², M. Daskalou² and Dr. M. Sidiropoulou³
¹ ΜSc Education, Research Fellow, Early Childhood Dept., Technological Educational Institution (TEI) of Athens, GREECE
² Teachers of Early Childhood Education
³ PhD. Social Anthropology, University of the Aegean
The social role of sex always constituted a decisive factor in choice of games from the children. The fact that even now days, the choice of a game is
made, based on the gender, gave us the spark to make a research so as to find the reason why the stereotypes of behavior play primary role for the
configuration of structures of modern society and consequently configure the game. The game is widely known that constitutes for a little child very
important parameter aw for his physical and emotional development. The sex is that which sets the physical differences between male and female,
as well as their moral attitude. Therefore, the social role of sex for the children is shaped mainly by the influences of adults while it is expressed
through various activities mainly during the game. According to the results of research, the gender is decisive factor for the choice of game. As it
results from the treatment of data, the stereotypes are largely realistic and play primary role for the configuration of game. On the contrary, factors
as the level of education of parents, the age and the nationality of children constitute characteristics that do not influence decisively the choice of the
kind of game. Therefore the intervention on gender is necessary to start from pre-school education, to be based on the principles of equality of
human rights and motivate all those who get involved in the educational process so as to focus on everyday practices in and out of school.
Necessary condition in order this to be achieved is to reconsider our perceptions and attitudes as far as gender roles concerned.
THE TRANSITION TO PRE –KINDERGARTEN
Prof. T. Sidiropoulou¹, S. Dimitriadi², A. Kalamata³ and S. Mitrovgeni³
¹ Ass.Prof. of Psychopedagogics, Early Childhood Dept., TEI of Athens, GREECE
² MA. in Education, Hull University, Research Fellow Early Childhood Dept., TEI of Athens
³ Teachers of Early Childhood Education
By the time they reach school age many children will already have experienced several transition periods. Transition means that young children will
experience changes to their physical environment, routine, curriculum and teacher. Therefore, transition has become a key focus for many schools,
with a range of activities planned throughout the year. This paper investigates parents’ views and attitudes to the school’s policies and practices on
transition from nursery to reception class. The method of triangulation was used and the sample was comprised of parents, early years teachers as
well as Kindergarten teachers and young children from pre - school centres in Attica prefecture. In order to collect the data the techniques of oral
and written communication were used by interviewing and administering questionnaires accordingly. Research outcomes show that there is an
effective consultation with all parties involved during times of transition, especially parents and teachers. Parents recognise, value and support
teachers’ practices in order to facilitate transition and teachers on the other hand, understand the importance of parents being involved in this
process. The crucial element to successful transitions proves to be continuity. Effort is being made to provide a framework for continuity in the
settings by well established routines in and outside the classroom. Evidence show that settings which invest time in planning for continuity will
benefit from having secure children, relaxed parents and confident teachers with the ability to cope with the social, emotional and educational needs
of their children.
EVALUATION OF EDUCATION WORK: THE POSITIVE EXPERIENCE
Prof. T. Sidiropoulou¹, Prof. K. Tsaoula², M. Nanouri³ and A. Poulakida⁴
¹ Ass.Prof. of Psychopedagogics, Early Childhood Dept., TEI of Athens, GREECE
² Prof. of Scientific Applications, Early Childhood Dept., TEI of Athens
³ Teachers of Early Childhood Education
⁴ ΜSc of Education Research Fellow Early Childhood Dept., TEI of Athens
The term of “evaluation” that has entered preschool education through the last decades, brought up a question, which concerns the teachers about
the purpose and the necessity of this procedure. It has developed a discussion about the forms and techniques that teachers can adopt, considering
the fact that the evaluation of the psycho pedagogical work of little children is not an easy procedure, since their development hasn’t been completed
yet. Using the term of “Alternative Evaluation”, we mean the form of evaluation, where apart from the outcome of learning procedures, we take into
account the forms of action, thought and judgment, the development of initiatives, cooperation, communication, autonomy, the child’s self-control
and the teacher’s personal and professional development. Focusing to the authentic evaluation of knowledge, through this frame, which associates
with the modification of a given social reality and to the active participation of those who are directly relevant social active, we used the teacher’s
“portfolio” as a tool. We created a working group of students (future teachers) and teachers who work voluntarily in random nursery schools and we
suggested the use and study of the portfolio in an electronic form. Specifically, we suggested that the group members should choose and present
what characterizes them in a positive way through their psycho pedagogical work which concerns activities with children, colleagues, parents and
social partners. Using portfolio highlights the fact that it gives information about misunderstood skills of traditional assessments, it presents a
spherical aspect of the teacher’s work with children and their parents, it methodizes the teacher’s self evaluation and it offers the opportunity to notify
the teacher’s work to the group. In conclusion, the portfolio can accompany the professional through his/her career starting with his student life,
having as a orientation not only continuous education and work publication, but also exchanges between his colleagues and people who specializes
in little children’s care and education.
THE PERCEPTION OF GENDER IN YOUNGER CHILDREN
Prof. T. Sidiropoulou¹, M. Shiza², A. Dimigeli³, E. Bastani³ and A. Satrazemi³
¹ Ass.Prof. of Psychopedagogics, Early Childhood Dept., TEI of Athens, GREECE
² ΜSc Education, Research Fellow, Early Childhood Dept., TEI of Athens
³ Teachers of Early Childhood Education
Children tend to socialize by observing and imitating adults. They conform to the standard which is acceptable by society and is defined according
to their gender. In every society, there is a complex system of unwritten laws relating to the forms of behavior that are to be appropriate for men and
women. These rules cover various sectors, by the way of dressing and the choice of activities and engagements, to the body language and the way
of expressing our feelings. Keeping those rules and satisfying the social expectations about the stereotype role of each gender, are necessary
prerequisites for the person’s smooth integration into the community. The aim of our study was to discover the perceptions of preschool children in
relation to their gender and how they project through the play time. Our study sample was 75 toddlers 4 to 5;6 years old, who come from three
different municipal and one private kindergartens. Children answered orally and by free drawing, during an interview of nine open and closed
questions. Shaping a behavior in proportion to the gender is a procedure that begins from infancy and continue through their whole life. During this
study we realized that children at the age of four are fully aware of the concept of gender and its permanence. Even if children of all civilizations
spend a lot of their time in groups divided by gender, however it seems that children like to play with both genders, regardless if they prefer to have
as their friends children of the same gender as them. Finally, it seems that preschool children are influenced by the stereotypes so as to choose their
toys and specifically by their parents. Parents offer different experiences of socialization to their children according to their gender, enforcing their
occupation to proper toys and encouraging the development of different interests and skills to both genders.
THE COOPERATION OF EDUCATORS, PARENTS AND ORGANISATIONS IN MEDICAL/ EDUCATIONAL MATTERS
Dr. E. Mousena¹ and I. Kioussi²
¹ PhD Educational Policy, Scientific Collaborator Early Childhood Dept. TEI of Athens
² Early Years Teacher
A child’s exit from the family and its attendance to a preschool education institution marks in some cases the emergence of specific problems. The
preschool educators are assigned with the responsibility of detecting these problems early and with the obligation to cooperate constructively with
parents and the respective organisations for a quick intervention. In this paper, the cases of preschool children which were noted with special needs
during their schooling in the kindergarten, the last two years in the Attica prefecture, were studied. The frequency of the cases, the type of recorded
needs and the intervention methods are examined. The research data were collected from the personal files of the children, were coded and
analysed. It was determined that: In most cases of detected behaviour and “learning” problems, there is a medical history such as earnest or early
child-birth, a low or unreported APGAR score in the children’s records. Linguistic development and expansive development disorder are the
symptoms with the highest frequency. Both the preschool educators and the medical / educational services note special needs in children. The early
confrontation of the special needs contributes to the smooth transition of children to the school. It is concluded that the cooperation of preschool
educators, parents and respective organisations along with responsible tackling of the special needs of children, is a basic element in the attempt to
confront early and solve them.
Lecture: THE EDUCATIONAL PHENOMENON AND EDUCATIONAL POLICY (THE SPECULATION OF EDUCATION WITHIN
THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC FRAME)
Prof. T. Kostopoulos¹, Prof. E. Valkanos², G. Mardas³ and D.E. Mardas⁴
¹ Associate Professor, Pantion University, Athens
² M.Sc., Ph.D. Assistant Prof., Educational and Social Policy Dept., University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki
³ Lecturer, University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki
⁴ Jurist, Thessaloniki
The verb ‘paidevo’ means nourish, bring up children, teach, let somebody be accustomed to something, correct, punish in the ancient Greek
language. Consequently, education refers to people’s physical, spiritual and mental development concerning mostly the young ones. Additionally,
the educator’s purposeful action addressing the trainee about the knowledge of managing a particular way of life and his/her proportional required
attitude and behaviour designates the content of education. The result of the influence of upbringing and training upon people called ‘education’
expresses a modern image for people concerning their entire ‘being’ (intellect, emotion, volition). With this new acquired ‘educational product’ people
are oriented and cohabited with other people, nature and society. Therefore, through the undoubted knowledge that they acquired, the certain skills
that they developed and the gentle morale that they shaped, people endeavour to achieve at ease after all the balance between themselves and
their environment. The educational system functions as a means or tool in order to conserve situations, as well as to change situations. As a subject
it expresses values, principles, traditions and culture independently and autonomously. At the same time, it transmits and diffuses all these, seeking
to empower the contemporary generation so that young people can face effectively future problems. Certainly, the types of educational systems
differ in proportion to culture, the form of society, the comprehensions and acceptances of society concerning human beings and finally the position
of human beings themselves within their social life. As a result, education lies in a dynamic interdependence with the form of society, its socioeconomic relations, the culture and the history of its members, as well as its productive and technological level. The subject of the educational policy
constitutes the most important index for any responsible criticism and more specifically for the social policy. The target of the educational
programming concerning the public sector is the provision, both qualitative and quantitative, of satisfying education and fair allocation and
consumption of the educational product on citizens’ part. Since education is related to the creation of human capital, then, as it happens in any kind
of investment, it aims at the increase of the Gross National Product (G.N.P.) and the improvement of personal welfare. This occurs because
education and training are connected to increased productivity and consequently to high salaries, profits and incomes.
Lecture: A.D.H.D. AND MEDICATION: MYTHES AND REALITY
Dr. G. Freris¹, Dr. K. Kondili², and Dr. M. Triandopoulou²
¹ Child Psychiatrist, Guidance Centre of General Hospital “Sotiria”, A.P.P.A.C. Board Member
² Psychiatrists, Mental Health Services of General Hospital “Sotiria”, Athens.
Η ∆.Ε.Π.Υ. παρουσιάζει µια ευρεία και προβληµατικής µορφής «διακύµανση» τόσο ως προς την συχνότητα (από 1-2% έως και 13-14% του
παιδικού πληθυσµού) ,όσο και ως προς την χορήγηση φαρµακευτικής θεραπείας (ραγδαία αύξηση χορήγησης διεγερτικών). ∆ιερευνώνται τα όρια
και τα κριτήρια της νοσολογικής οντότητας, α. όπως αυτά προσδιορίζονται στα συστήµατα ταξινόµησης DSM και ICD καθώς και β. τα όρια που
απαιτούνται για την χορήγηση φαρµακευτικής αγωγής, µέσα από την ανασκόπηση της βιβλιογραφίας των τελευταίων 10 ετών. Παρόλο που η
∆.Ε.Π.Υ. είναι ίσως η πιο µελετηµένη παιδοψυχιατρική διαταραχή, διαπιστώνεται σοβαρή απόκλιση απόψεων και δυσκολίες προσέγγισης τόσο
ως προς τα διαφοροδιαγνωστικά κριτήρια (ευκολία να τεθεί η διάγνωση), όσο και προς το διευρυµένο φάσµα συµπτωµάτων που χρήζει
χορήγηση φαρµάκων.
Lecture: IT IS THE TIME OF CHOICΕ: ARISTOTELIAN PSYCHIATRY OR HYPOSTATIC PERSON, THE PERSON’S
ΟNTOLOGY AND THE FUTURE OF PSYCHIATRY.
Dr. D.K. Geroukalis
Neurologist-Psychiatrist, Civil Society “Hippocrates”, Kos, Dodekanissa, GREECE
Aριστοτέλεια πρόσληψη του κόσµου, ο κόσµος του αισθητού, γραµµικό µοντέλο βασιζόµενο στην πρόβλεψη και έλεγχο της συµπεριφοράς.
Θεµελιώδες λάθος η παράβλεψη των αρχικών ευαίσθητων συνθηκών, οι οποίες περιορίζουν δραµατικά τις δυνατότητες της γραµµικής δυναµικής.
Οι βασικοί πυλώνες του ∆υτικού πολιτισµού (εσωτερικής φιλοσοφίας, επιστηµονικής κοσµοθεωρίας και κοινωνικής φιλοσοφίας) στηριγµένoι στην
Αριστοτελική πρόσληψη του κόσµου, στην Ευκλείδεια γεωµετρία και στον καπιταλισµό, καταρρέουν υπό το βάρος της αδυναµίας συγκροτήσεως
ικανού πολιτιστικού ρεύµατος και αναδύονται: 1) η οντολογία του προσώπου, 2) η προσωκρατική ελληνική σκέψη µε την σύγχρονη έκφραση της
Μη Γραµµικής ∆υναµικής και θεωρίας του χάους και 3) η άµεση δηµοκρατία. Πρόσωπο: Προσδιορίζει µιαν υπαρκτική ετερότητα. Το πρόσωπο
υποστασιάζει έναν τρόπο υπάρξεως. Η υπαρκτική ετερότητα κατανοείται ως ελευθερία από τον κοινό και αδιαφοροποίητο τρόπο υπάρξεως στη
φύση. Η ελευθερία του προσώπου ως ολότητα σηµαίνει ότι ενώ η ανθρώπινη φύση είναι µορφοκλασµατικό της φυσικής υπάρξεως, διαθέτει την
δυνατότητα αποδεσµεύσεως από το πεδίο της ανάγκης που επιβάλλει η ταυτότητα αυτή. Υπό το πρίσµα λοιπόν των αναδυοµένων πυλώνων,
συζητείται το µέλλον της ψυχιατρικής, απολίθωµα της Ευκλείδειας γεωµετρίας ή ουσία ενυπόστατος (πρόσωπο) της Μη Γραµµικής ∆υναµικής;
WORKSHOPS (ENGLISH AND GREEK)
Workshop: THE ‘TREE OF LIFE’: A NARRATIVE THERAPY INTERVENTION WITH MYRIAD POSSIBILITIES
E-G. Andreadi¹, Dr A. Byrne² and G. Iliopoulou³
¹ MSc Counselling Psychologist, MSc Family Therapist, Systemic Psychotherapist
London Borough of Hackney Children & Young People Services, London, UK
² PhD, Clinical Psychologist, Psychology Dept., BME Access Service (City & Hackney NHS Trust), London
³ MSc Counselling Psychologist, MSc Family Therapist, London Borough of Hackney Children & Young People Services
The ‘Tree of Life’ is a therapeutic intervention used with children and adults who have experienced loss and trauma in their lives: people who have
been stigmatised with mental health illness, immigrants who have lost their countries, refugees who still experience difficulties in their host countries,
people who’ve had their health compromised by serious illness, like HIV, and many others. With its roots in Narrative Therapy, the ‘Tree of Life’
intervention is based on the idea of using the tree as a creative metaphor to re-story one’s life in ways that are not re-traumatising; participants are
able to talk from a position of strength, reconnect with their history, acknowledge their skills and abilities and get in touch with their hopes and
dreams for the future. Through the use of multimedia, conference attendants will be briefed on the background of the intervention, its use with
community therapy groups, families and individuals and its outcomes. There will also be an opportunity for experiential learning of the main
principles guiding the ‘Tree of Life’ and its positive emotional impact.
Workshop: LEARNING DISABLED : HOW CAN THE TEACHER TO INTERVENE? REMEDIAL STRATEGIES AND
ENRICHING INTERVENTIONS FOR PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES
Prof. H.F. Al Sheikh
PhD., Assistant Prof. and Head, Special Education Dept., Hail University
Psychologist, El-Abasiaa Mental Health Hospital, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
Over the decade, psychologists had studies the course of mental processes such as; perception and memory, speed and thought, and organization
of movement and action. The purpose of this research is to follow Luria’s suit in his description of brain development. The recent research describes
how the brain development cerebral hemispheres which are needed to higher forms of mental activity, i.e. perception and action, attention and
memory, speech and intellectual processes, and the individual brain system. By using (Luria Nebraska Neuro Psychological Battery) LNNB,
(Human, Tree, Person test) HTP, & (Electroencephalography) EEG, the research has examined 30 of children between 8-12 years , findings
demonstrated that first, there are differences between LD and normal children. Secondly, there are some of decreasing activity in LD children’s
occipital regions which govern visual perception, in the temporal regions that related with problems in auditory perception. Thirdly, in the parietal
reigns which are related to simultaneous syntheses. Finally, shortage in senorimotor and premotor regulation of mental activity; and shortage in one
or more perception, movement and action, attention, memory, speech, and thinking.
Workshop: FAST MINDS MODULE II: RECOGNIZING AND MANAGING ATTENTION-DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY
DISORDER (ADHD) IN FEMALES ACROSS THE LIFESPAN: A CASE-BASED APPROACH
Prof. T. Bilkey
MD, Psychiatrist, Director, Ontario Bilkey ADHD Clinics, Barrie & Stratford, Ontario, CANADA
Adj. Professor, Psychiatry Dept., Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Western Ontario
In school-age children, ADHD is often unrecognized in females who may demonstrate inattentive symptoms of this condition, but who are not as
outwardly hyperactive as their male counterparts, and therefore do not come to the attention of educators. The ratio of ADHD in male and female
children is estimated to be 3:1. In adult self-referral clinics it has been noted that the ratio is 1:1, however ADHD in females continues to be underrecognized. The educational program FAST MINDS Module II focuses on the most recent data available on females with ADHD, and this scientific
evidence reveals the specific impact on this population, including educational impairment, driving impairment and comorbidities such as Bulimia
Nervosa, Bipolar Spectrum Disorder and internet addiction. Combined with this scientific data are female case studies, developed through the
review of numerous patient files. These case studies provide physicians with typical patient presentations of ADHD they might see in their practice.
Video vignettes of actors portraying females with ADHD provide physicians with further tools to aid in the recognition of ADHD, its impairments and
comorbid conditions.
Workshop: PROGRESSIVE MUSCLE RELAXATION TRAINING
Prof. M.R. Sadeghi
PhD., L. Psyche, Clinical & Health Psychologist
Professor, Psychiatry & Behavioural Sciences Dept., United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, UAE
One of the most simple and easily learned techniques for relaxation is Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR). Clinical research has shown that PMR
is quite effective in alleviating stress related disorders such as anxiety, ulcers, hypertension and insomnia. The PMR procedure teaches you to relax
your muscles through a two-step process: a) Deliberately tensing muscle groups. b) Releasing the induced tension and turn your attention to
noticing how the muscles relax as the tension flows away. This workshop presents a relaxation training that can be utilized to manage stress or
anxiety. PMR requires the individual to systematically tense and relax the major muscle groups of the body. Training requires attention to feelings of
tension and relaxation and it may have long-term positive effects. This PMR training session contain the following objectives by instructing
participants to: a) sit in a comfortable position with eyes closed, b) identify a muscle group and tense those muscles, c) attend to feelings associated
with tension, d) relax those muscles, e) attend to the relaxed feelings in those muscles, f) repeat for other muscle groups, g) instruct individual to
attend to relaxing thoughts and feelings. The most important objective of this workshop is to introduce the PMR and provide a training experience for
professionals and nonprofessionals on how to relax.
POSTERS
AGE OF ONSET AND COURSE OF SCHIZOPHRENIA IN PATIENTS COMORBID WITH ALCOHOLISM
Prof. A. Dvirsky, Dr. Y. Sirikov and Dr. A. Stephen
Psychiatry Dept., Crimean Medical State University, UKRAINE
Objective: To study the effect of concomitant alcoholism on the age of onset of schizophrenia and then correlate the effect of alcohol on the course
of disease. Methods: Clinical, Follow-up, Statistical. Material : The study involved 398 patients with schizophrenia comorbid with alcoholism (main
group), and 404 schizophrenic patients without concurrent alcoholism (control group). Results: The ratio of men and women, in the main group was
4.9:1 and control group was 4.4:1 the numbers of patients with schizophrenia did not differ (χ2=0.75 with k=1, p>0.3). In the age group of 20-24
years 29.6% of patients with alcohol dependence endogenously manifested schizophrenia which is 7.1% more than the control group of non
alcoholics who had disease manifestation of 22.5% (p<0.001).In mild schizophrenics of the age group of 25-34 years 27.4 % of patients with alcohol
dependence manifested schizophrenia which is 1.4 times lower than the control group of non alcoholics who had disease manifestation of 38.7%
(p<0,001). When the distribution (χ2=14.42 with k=2, p<0,001) in types of schizophrenia was compared, the main and control groups of patients
revealed differences (p<0,001). The frequency of continuous type of disease in patients with schizophrenia comorbid with alcohol dependence
syndrome was 52.5% which was 1.2 times higher when compared to non alcoholics (43.1%), An episodic course was discovered in 39.7 % of
alcoholics which is 1.2 times less in comparison with patients with schizophrenia without concomitant alcohol abuse (47,3%) (p <0.05). In groups
with remitting type of schizophrenia the frequency of disease did not differ and was 7.8 and 9.6% (p>0.3) respectively. Conclusion: Patients with
schizophrenia with comorbid alcohol dependence syndrome, compared with the control group, noted earlier onset and the prevalence of patients
with a continuous course of schizophrenia.
THE PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPLICATIONS IN TEENAGE EXPOSURE TO AGGRESSIVE BLOOD VISUAL STIMULI EVIDENCED
BY THE POLYGRAPH
Prof. M.I. Anitei¹ and Prof. M.N. Chraif²
¹ PhD Psychologist, Professor, Psychology Dept, Bucharest University, ROMANIA
² PhD Psychologist, Assistant Professor, Psychology Dept, Bucharest University
Previous studies had studied the influence of visual and audio stimuli utilizing the General Aggression Model, with an emphasis on aggressionrelated priming, to explore the different effects on hostility, physiological arousal, and state aggression (Anderson & Bushman, 2001; Anderson,
2004; AniŃei, Chraif, Papasteri & Neacşu, 2009). The objective of the study is to reveal the influence of aggressive blood visual stimuli in
physiological reactivity at polygraph. The method: the participants were 57 students at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Science, aged
between 18 and 22 years (m=19.4, S.D.=2.1). Instruments: polygraph Lafayette LX 4000 Series; audio stimuli. Results: The aggressive blood visual
stimuli had a strong impact in both galvanic skin response and heart rate recorded by polygraph. Applying Wilcoxon nonparametric test, the statistic
hypothesis has been confirmed (p<0.01) for the first 7 minutes of each experimental situations. The influence of blood aggressive visual stimuli
increased the GSR to higher amplitude than and to the aggressive stimuli. Conclusion: The teenagers exposed to aggressive blood visual stimuli
register for a short period of time a high sensorial reactivity and after, suffer a radical desensitization statistically significant than other visual
aggressive stimuli with no blood presence.
STUDENTS’ KNOWLEDGE ABOUT EATING DISORDERS
B. Valente¹, V. Fernandes¹, Dr. M. Dixe² and Dr. H. Catarino²
¹ Students, High School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, PORTUGAL
² PhD Teachers, High School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria
Introduction & aim: Much has been debated and studied about eating disorders. It is a public health problem, common in developed countries, that
affects mostly young adolescent girls, aged between 14 and 20, belonging to higher social classes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the
effectiveness of training in the acquisition and maintenance of knowledge about Eating Disorders. Method: We developed a quasi-experimental
study of pretest and post test type in a rank of 63 students of primary school at Leiria municipality, we applied a questionnaire (before, after and one
month and half after the education training. The training was applied in the 2nd time) with the variable under study: students’ level of knowledge
about Eating Disorders. Results: The students showed more knowledge about Eating Disorders at the end of the training and the difference was
statistically significant (p <0.001). We also verified that between the 2nd and 3rd time the students have lost information, this difference was not
significant (p> 0.005). Conclusion: The results of this study show that training was effective but it was necessary a roll-back training.
MEASURES TARGETING DECREASE OR DISCONTINUATION OF DRUGS AGAINST HYPOTENSION IN PSYCHOTIC
PATIENTS
I. Petsa¹, D. Petsas², T. Vervenioti¹, P. Athanasakou³, K. Parashakis² and K. Kontis²
¹ Residential Unit “Galini Α”, Aharne, Athens, GREECE
² MD., 4th Psychiatric Emergency Dept., Psychiatric Hospital of Attica – Daphni, Athens
³ Residential Unit “Galini B”, Zevgolatio Korinthias
Εισαγωγή : η λήψη φαρµακευτικών σκευασµάτων που προκαλούν αύξηση της αρτηριακής πίεσης (υδροχλωρική ετιλεφρίνη, µεθανοσουλφονική
διυδροεργοταµίνη -κλπ.) σε ψυχωτικούς ασθενείς είναι πολύ συχνή, αλλά συνδράµει µε τη σειρά της στην αύξηση της πολυφαρµακίας µε ό,τι
προεκτάσεις αυτό µπορεί να συνεπάγεται. Σκοπός : να εξετάσουµε το αποτέλεσµα των προσπαθειών ενδεδειγµένης (µη αυθαίρετης) διακοπής
χορήγησης των παραπάνω σκευασµάτων στους ενοίκους του οικοτροφείου Γαλήνη Α΄ της Α.Μ.Κ.Ε. Προµηθέας. Υλικό – Μέθοδος : κατεγράφη ο
αριθµός των ασθενών του οικοτροφείου Γαλήνη Α΄ της Α.Μ.Κ.Ε. Προµηθέας, που ελάµβαναν τέτοια σκευάσµατα προ διετίας και οι δοσολογίες
χορήγησης και έγινε σύγκριση µε τα αποτελέσµατα του ίδιου ελέγχου µετά την πάροδο αυτών των δύο ετών. Χρησιµοποιήθηκε η περιγραφική
µέθοδος. Αποτελέσµατα : προ δύο ετών η λήψη των αντιυποτασικών σκευασµάτων αφορούσε σε οκτώ ενοίκους, σήµερα συνεχίζουν να
λαµβάνουν τέσσερις µόνο ένοικοι. Και σε αυτούς τους τέσσερις ενοίκους, όµως, η δοσολογία µειώθηκε κατά 50%. Συµπεράσµατα : είναι εφικτή
η µείωση ή και η πλήρης και αιτιολογηµένη διακοπή των αντιυποτασικών σκευασµάτων σε ψυχωτικά άτοµα. Τα στελέχη της Πολυκλαδικής
Θεραπευτικής Οµάδας του συγκεκριµένου οικοτροφείου και του 4ου Ψυχιατρικού Τµήµατος, µε το οποίο υφίσταται διασύνδεση, απέδωσαν τη
διακοπή των αντιυποτασικών στη µείωση των ψυχιατρικών σκευασµάτων ή των δοσολογιών τους, στην αντιµετώπιση των υπονατριαιµιών, στη
βελτίωση των διατροφικών συνηθειών και στην αύξηση της κινητοποίησης των ενοίκων.
NON – PSYCHIATRIC MEDICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES’ ROLE AND ATTITUDE IN THE PSYCHIATRIC
REFORM
D. Petsas¹ ², A. Nalmpanti¹ ², M. Thomaidou², D. Mourouzidou¹, I. Sovolakis¹, K.Parashakis¹ and K. Kontis¹ ²
¹ MD., 4th Psychiatric Emergency Dept., Psychiatric Hospital of Attica – Daphni, GREECE
² Residential Unit “Thalia”, Psychiatric Hospital of Attica - Daphni
Εισαγωγή : η πορεία της Ψυχιατρικής Μεταρρύθµισης στη χώρα µας δεν αποτελεί µια διαδικασία αποκοµµένη από το υπόλοιπο υγειονοµικό
σχεδιασµό και προγραµµατισµό. Απαιτεί συναίνεση και συµµετοχή του συνόλου των επαγγελµατιών υγείας, αλλά και των στελεχών των
εµπλεκόµενων διοικητικών υπηρεσιών. Σκοπός : να εντοπίσουµε στην πράξη το βαθµό στον οποίο οι επαγγελµατίες υγείας (πλην των
επαγγελµατιών ψυχικής υγείας), αλλά και διοικητικοί υπάλληλοι υπηρεσιών γνωρίζουν για την Ψυχιατρική Μεταρρύθµιση γενικότερα ή/και αν
έχουν επίγνωση της ύπαρξης και του ρόλου των οικοτροφείων, ξενώνων και προστατευµένων διαµερισµάτων. Υλικό – Μέθοδος : ερωτήθηκαν 60
νοσηλευτές εξωνοσοκοµειακών στεγαστικών δοµών για το βαθµό στον οποίο - στα πλαίσια συνοδείας ενοίκων σε ιατρικές επισκέψεις ή και
νοσηλείες - το επιστηµονικό και διοικητικό προσωπικό των υγειονοµικών υπηρεσιών είχε επίγνωση των ανωτέρω (πόσοι και σε τι βαθµό).
Χρησιµοποιήθηκε η περιγραφική µέθοδος. Αποτελέσµατα : ότι γνώριζαν ΄΄οι περισσότεροι και πολλά΄΄ δεν εκτίµησε κανένας εκ των ερωτηθέντων,
2 (3,33%) θεώρησαν ότι ΄΄οι περισσότεροι ξέρουν λίγα΄΄, 1 (1,67%) ότι ΄΄ξέρουν οι µισοί πολλά΄΄, 14 (23,33%) ΄΄οι µισοί και λίγα΄΄, 4 (6,67%) ΄΄οι
λιγότεροι και πολλά΄΄, 23 (38,33%) ΄΄οι λιγότεροι και λίγα΄΄ και 16 (26,67%) ΄΄ελάχιστοι και σχεδόν καθόλου΄΄. Συµπεράσµατα : αποτελεί άµεση
και επιτακτική ανάγκη η ενηµέρωση για τις προεκτάσεις, τις προοπτικές, τις εκφράσεις και τις εκφάνσεις της Ψυχιατρικής Μεταρρύθµισης στη
χώρα µας, τόσο των επαγγελµατιών υγείας , που δεν ανήκουν στον ψυχιατρικό χώρο, όσο και των διοικητικών στελεχών των φορέων, που
εµπλέκονται κάποια στιγµή σε διαδικασίες που αφορούν σε ψυχικά πάσχοντα άτοµα.
AN INVESTIGATION OF THE INTERNAL VALIDITY OF THE JUNIOR BRIXTON SPATIAL RULE ATTAINMENT TEST
(JBSRAT)
N. Senturk¹ and Dr. N. Yeniceri²
¹ M.A. Student, Psychology Dept., Bogazici University, Istanbul, TURKEY
² PhD., Psychology Dept., Bogazici University, Istanbul
Executive Function (EF) deficit is observed in many child disorders, and establishment of valid and reliable EF instruments is crucial for research
and clinical use. The present study aims to investigate the construct validity of the Junior Brixton Spatial Rule Attainment Test (JBSRAT) in
comparison with the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST). The JBSRAT is a rule-attainment test adapted for 7- to 12-year-old children, and the
WCST measures abstract thinking and mental flexibility. Participants are 121 Turkish students from 1st and 2nd grades. They received JBSRAT,
WCST, and Backward Digit Span (BDS) test individually; and the nonverbal Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT®) in groups. Two principal component
analyses with a varimax rotation were held for the JBSRAT and the WCST separately. Similar two-factor solutions were found for each test: concept
formation, and perseveration. Plus, the BDS and the CogAT® were significantly correlated with specific WCST and JBSRAT scores, indicating that
significant relationship of EF with working memory and nonverbal reasoning is observed in each EF test. Conclusively, this study provides a proof of
the construct validity of the JBSRAT since similar factorial structure with the WCST was obtained and similar relations with other instruments were
observed for each EF measure.
COGNITIVE DYSFUNCTIONS IN A MIDDLE-AGED MAN WITH SEVERE INTRAVENTRICULAR HEMORRHAGE
SECONDARY TO MOYAMOYA SYNDROME: A 2-YEAR FOLLOW-UP CASE STUDY
I. Zalonis¹, F. Christidi², E. Kararizou³, N.I. Triantafyllou⁴, K. Spengos³, D. Vassilopoulos⁵
1st Dpt of Neurology, Neuropsychological Lab., Aeginition Hospital, Medical School, Athens National Univ., Athens, GREECE
¹ PhD., Lecturer, Neuropsychology Dept., Medical School, Athens National University
² Postgraduate Student in Clinical Neuropsychology, Medical School, Athens National University
³ MD, Assistant Professor, Neurology Dept., Medical School, Athens National University
⁴ MD, Associate Professor, Neurology Dept., Medical School, Athens National University
⁵ MD, Professor, Neurology Dept., Medical School, Athens National University
Introduction: Moyamoya syndrome is a rare cerebrovascular disorder of uncertain cause, characterized by progressive occlusion of supraclinoid
internal carotid artery and other vessels comprising the circle of Willis, resulting in formation of collaterals with a cloudy appearance on angiography.
Aim & Method: We report a follow-up case study (three neuropsychological examinations within 2-year time interval) of a previously high-capacity
43-year-old right-handed man, suffered two episodes of severe intraventricular hemorrhage secondary to confirmed moyamoya syndrome. Results:
At first evaluation, the clinical neurological examination did not reveal any neurological signs. The first neuropsychological assessment (five months
after the second hemorrhagic episode) showed significant cognitive deficits, mostly concerning complex attention and psychomotor-visuomotor
speed, working memory, verbal and visual immediate and delayed episodic memory, perceptual/constructional dexterities, visual reasoning, and
higher order control processes (mental organization and set-shifting ability). Immediate verbal span, verbal fluency, verbal reasoning and crystallized
cognitive processes (such as semantic knowledge) were relatively spared. Neuropsychological findings of follow-up evaluations resulted in a pattern
suggesting stability of neuropsychological deficits and trend towards slow recovery concerning speed of visuomotor tracking and information
processing, and mental activity rate. Yet the impact on daily life activities and thus patient’s quality of life was still significant. Conclusion: Patient’s
neuropsychological profile resulting from repeated neuropsychological testing, although mostly attributed to a secondary effect of moyamoya
syndrome, is discussed in the light of his computed tomography findings and disease’s management.
IMPORTANT LEGAL ISSUES RELATED TO THE RESIDENTIAL UNITS FUNCTIONING.
D. Petsas¹ ², M.Thomaidou², I.Sovolakis¹, An.Nalmpanti¹ ², D.Mourouzidou¹, K.Parashakis¹ and K.Kontis¹ ²
¹ MD., 4th Psychiatric Emergency Dept., Psychiatric Hospital of Attica – Daphni, GREECE
² Residential Unit “Thalia”, Psychiatric Hospital of Attica - Daphni
Εισαγωγή : θέµατα νοµικής φύσεως, που συνδέονται τόσο µε τη γενικότερη λειτουργία, όσο και µε την προάσπιση των δικαιωµάτων των ψυχικά
πασχόντων ενοίκων των δοµών ψυχοκοινωνικής αποκατάστασης, οφείλουν να απασχολούν ολοένα και περισσότερο τα στελέχη αυτών των
δοµών. Σκοπός : να γίνει µία προσέγγιση του βαθµού ενηµερότητας των στελεχών αυτών των δοµών απέναντι όχι σε ζητήµατα καθηµερινής
πρακτικής, αλλά στο νοµικό πλαίσιο από το οποίο αυτά καθορίζονται. Υλικό – Μέθοδος : 56 στελέχη εξωνοσοκοµειακών στεγαστικών δοµών
ρωτήθηκαν αν γνωρίζουν το περιεχόµενο του άρθρου 1668 του Αστικού Κώδικα, βάσει του οποίου ΄΄ Οι δηµόσιοι ή δηµοτικοί υπάλληλοι, οι
εισαγγελείς, τα όργανα των αρµόδιων κοινωνικών υπηρεσιών, καθώς και οι προϊστάµενοι µονάδων ψυχικής υγείας οφείλουν να γνωστοποιούν
στο δικαστήριο κάθε περίπτωση που µπορεί να συνεπάγεται την υποβολή ενός προσώπου σε δικαστική συµπαράσταση, αµέσως µόλις την
πληροφορούνται κατά την άσκηση των καθηκόντων τους΄΄, καθώς και για τις ενδεχόµενες ποινικές και αστικές ευθύνες, που µπορεί να
συνεπάγεται η µη τήρηση αυτού. Χρησιµοποιήθηκε η περιγραφική µέθοδος. Αποτελέσµατα : µόνο 7 στελέχη (ποσοστό 12,5%) απάντησαν ότι
ήταν ενήµεροι για τα ανωτέρω. Συµπεράσµατα : τα στελέχη των εξωνοσοκοµειακών στεγαστικών δοµών (οικοτροφείων, ξενώνων,
προστατευµένων διαµερισµάτων) καλούνται να έχουν ή πρέπει να αποκτήσουν γνώσεις που αφορούν στο σύνολο του νοµοθετικού πλαισίου, που
αφορά στο χώρο της ψυχικής υγείας, προκειµένου να ανταποκρίνονται στα καθήκοντα και τις τυπικές, αλλά και ουσιαστικές απαιτήσεις και
υποχρεώσεις, αλλά, ταυτόχρονα και για να αποτρέπουν την έκθεσή τους έναντι του νόµου.
PERSONALITY, PERCEPTIONS OF ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE AND PERCEIVED FIT: 50 YEARS OF ANTARCTIC
EXPEDITIONS
Dr. A. Sarris
PhD, Program Director, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, AUSTRALIA
Introduction and Aim: Analyses of data collected on returned Australian Antarctic personnel were conducted to examine links between personality
traits, perceptions of Antarctic station culture and perceptions of subjective fit with Antarctic station life and culture. Methods: Participants were 103
men who participated in Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions over a fifty-year period from 1950 to 2000 representing the first 50 years
of ANARE and all positions and occupations included in Australian Antarctic expeditions. Participants completed self-report measures of personality,
organizational culture and subjective fit. Results: Results showed that those who described the culture as satisfaction-oriented (more friendly and
participatory) reported better fit, increased satisfaction with their group membership, and less role conflict in terms of their work role. Results also
showed a relationship between personality, perceptions of behavioral norms and expectations, and perceived fit. Specifically, openness and
perceptions of station culture as satisfaction-oriented were identified as predictors of good fit with station life and culture. Conclusions: The
implications of the results for Antarctic personnel selection and recruitment are discussed and the importance of further research in other analogous
isolated, confined and extreme settings is highlighted.
NEGATIVE COGNITIVE PROCESS AND EMOTIONAL REACTION OF PSYCHOTIC PATIENTS’ CARERS
D. Petsas, An. Nalmpanti, D. Mourouzidou , I. Sovolakis, Ant. Limnioudis, K. Parashakis and K. Kontis
4th Psychiatric Emergency Department – Psychiatric Hospital of Attica - Daphni
Εισαγωγή : συχνά οι φροντιστές (συνήθως γονείς) σε υποτροπή ευρισκόµενων ψυχωτικών ασθενών αργούν να προβούν στις απαραίτητες
ενέργειες, προκειµένου να εκδοθεί εισαγγελική εντολή για εξέταση και πιθανή νοσηλεία. Σκοπός : να εντοπίσουµε το βαθµό στον οποίο διάφοροι
λόγοι αναστέλλουν εκ των πραγµάτων - προφανώς και δεν ακυρώνουν οριστικά – την προώθηση των απαραίτητων διαδικασιών. Υλικό –
Μέθοδος : σε 50 φροντιστές διαφορετικών ασθενών του 4ου Ψυχιατρικού Τµήµατος Επειγόντων του Ψυχιατρικού Νοσοκοµείου Αττικής τέθηκε το
ερώτηµα ΄΄τι ήταν αυτό, που σάς εµπόδισε να προβείτε νωρίτερα στις απαραίτητες ενέργειες προώθησης των διαδικασιών ακούσιας νοσηλείας΄΄.
∆όθηκαν τέσσερις απαντήσεις, τις οποίες έπρεπε οι φροντιστές να αξιολογήσουν, όσον αφορά στη σηµασία τους, από το 0 (καθόλου σηµαντικός
λόγος) ως το 10 (λόγος υπέρτατης σηµασίας). Οι ερωτηθέντες είχαν το δικαίωµα να προσθέσουν και οποιαδήποτε δική τους απάντηση και να την
αξιολογήσουν. Χρησιµοποιήθηκε η περιγραφική µέθοδος. Αποτελέσµατα : το σύνολο των ερωτηθέντων βαθµολόγησε και τις τέσσερις
προτεινόµενες αιτίες (θεωρώντας ότι τους αφορούσαν όλες), χωρίς να προσθέσει κάποια επιπλέον. Ο µέσος όρος βαθµολόγησης των απαντήσεων
ήταν : η αποφυγή της τραυµατικής για τους φροντιστές διαδικασίας και οι ενδεχόµενες τύψεις (8,82/10), ο φόβος των φροντιστών ότι ο ασθενής θα
αντιδράσει αρνητικά απέναντί τους - φόβος πρόκλησης θυµού ή/και εκδικητικών πράξεων (8,48/10), η αποφυγή της τραυµατικής για τον ασθενή
διαδικασίας (7,54/10), η ελπίδα ότι θα αποφευχθεί η νοσηλεία (6,42/10). Συµπεράσµατα : η απώλεια σηµαντικού χρονικού διαστήµατος από τους
φροντιστές. που έχει ως αποτέλεσµα την καθυστέρηση στην προώθηση των διαδικασιών για ακούσια νοσηλεία ευρισκόµενων σε υποτροπή
ψυχωτικών ασθενών, συνδέεται µε σηµαντικού εύρους συναισθηµατικές αντιδράσεις και αρνητικές γνωσιακές επεξεργασίες που προηγούνται
αυτών.
THE IMPORTANCE OF A STABLE HOME AND FAMILY ENVIRONMENT IN THE PREVENTION OF YOUTH OFFENDING IN
SOUTH AFRICA.
T.M. Lutya
Lecturer, Social Work and Criminology Dept., Faculty of Humanities, University of Pretoria, Gauteng Province, S. AFRICA
The ideas expressed in this paper are motivated by the research results I obtained in a research titled “Home and family circumstances of young
offenders: A social worker’s view” conducted in South Africa between 2004 and 2005 and eventually published in 2007. In this research, I
interviewed social workers and probation officers to determine the factors within the domestic and relational settings contributing to young offending.
I found out that socio-economic factors; inept parenting and socialisation practices; exposure to inter-parental violence; sibling criminality; parentchild relationship; parental response to deviant behaviour of the child as well as the lack of parental interest in the rehabilitation programmes offered
to their offending children increases the likelihood of a child partaking in criminal activities. Considering these results, this paper argues that in order
to prevent youth offending South Africa should consider the importance of a stable home and family environment in the prevention of youth
offending. Firstly, family planning is important. Secondly, parental involvement in a child’s activities is vital to ensure proper supervision and
monitoring. Thirdly, in the absence of adequate parenting skills, efficacy and management parenting programmes could help parents learn a
conforming manner of rearing their children. Lastly, once they have been caught committing a crime parents ought to take centre stage to ensure
that the child’s behavioural transformation takes place. Although children from stable backgrounds perform criminal activities, their criminal
behaviour is likely to subside owing to the resources and opportunities available to pursue career and individual development. On the other hand,
offending behaviour of children from dysfunctional home and family environments may persists and could be exacerbated by dire socio-economic
circumstances. To conclude, stability early in a child’s life is important in the reduction of young offending.
SUBJECT EXCLUSION CHARACTERISTICS OF A PHASE II RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL IN MAJOR AFFECTIVE
DISORDER
J. Garnham¹, C. Slaney¹ and Prof. C. O’Donovan²
¹ RN, Mood Disorders Program, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, CANADA
² MD, MB, FRCPC, Associate Professor, Mood Disorders, Psychiatry Dept., Dalhousie University Halifax, Nova Scotia,
CANADA
Introduction /Aim: Recruitment selection outcomes of a phase II placebo - controlled antidepressant trial were examined to identify the study
exclusion criteria that precluded enrolment of subjects. Method: Despite wide recruiting methods, 98 % of all potential subjects were recruited from
repeated radio ads. Demographic information, current episode characteristics, course of illness, current treatment, comorbid psychiatric and medical
illness, and substance use details were collected. Results: 145 people answered the radio ad. 27 could not be contacted; 118 were interviewed by
phone. Of these, data on 98 subjects were retrieved: 60 males and 38 females, mean age of 44± 12.6. More detailed clinical information was
obtained on 44 people: mean age at onset of depression = 28 ± 8.2, total number of depressive episodes mean = 3.5 ± 2.9 and current episode
mean duration of 11 ± 9 months. The main reasons for subject exclusion were recurrent depression not currently treated (n =36), 1st episode of
depression not treated (n=17), comorbid axis I diagnoses (n=12), and subject refusal due to the placebo arm (n=12). Conclusions: Restrictive
exclusion criteria prevented enrolment of many subjects into this trial. Radio advertising for this clinical trial was the most effective means of
recruitment. Results from this trial are unlikely to be generalisable.
STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES ABOUT EATING DISORDERS
B. Valente¹, V. Fernandes¹, Dr. M. Dixe² and Dr. H. Catarino²
¹ Students, High School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, PORTUGAL
² PhD Teachers, High School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria
Introduction & aim: Body dissatisfaction, the desire to be thin and behaviors to control weight are risk factors for developing eating disorders.
These affect most teenage girls, between 14 and 20 years of Caucasian. The aim was to assess the effectiveness of training in the acquisition and
maintenance of attitudes about Eating Disorders. Method: We developed a quasi-experimental study of pretest and post test type in a rank of 63
students of primary school at Leiria municipality, we applied a questionnaire (before, after and one month and half after the education training. The
training was applied in the 2nd time) with the variable under study: students’ attitudes about Eating Disorders (EAT - 26). Results: The students
showed better eating behaviors at the end and the difference was statistically significant (p < 0,005), indicating a change in their responses. We also
verified that between the 2nd and the 3rd time, the students were less assertive attitudes but the difference was not significant (p> 0.005).
Conclusion: The results of this study show that training was effective but it was necessary a roll-back training.
YOUNG MALE STUDENTS AND EATING DISORDERS
Dr. M. Dixe and Dr. P. Gaspar
PhD. Teacher, School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, PORTUGAL
Introduction and Aims: Eating disorders are characterized by deprivation of food ingestion, persistent or irregularly spaced, caused by
misconceptions of ideal weight, body image and eating. We aim to characterize eating behaviors of high School Students and to determine the
prevalence of eating disorders in a non-clinic population of male students. Methodology: In order to accomplish the goals we conducted a
descriptive study. The population for this study was composed by 617 High School male students studying in geographical center of Portugal. All
students filled in an anonymous questionnaire. The questionnaire applied was designed to access socio-demographic, family-related data, and
DMS-IV diagnostic criteria for eating disorders. Results: In a sample of 617 students aged between 18 and 25 years, mostly are single (86%) and
39,5% were living with their family. DMS-IV diagnostic criteria for eating disorders revealed 0,2% (1) of sub-clinical situations of restrictive anorexia,
0,8% (5) sub – clinical situations of anorexia bulimia and 0,6% (4) of bulimia. No cases of anorexia bulimia 0% (0) and restrictive anorexia were
found. Conclusion Experts estimate that 90 % of eating disorders occurred in females. However boys and young males also suffer from these
conditions.
NORMAL QTc RATES AS A RESULT OF AN ADAPTATIVE REACTION IN PSYCHOTIC PATIENTS ADMINISTERED
SERTINDOLE
I. Petsa¹, D. Petsas², P. Athanasakou³, K. Parashakis² and K. Kontis²
¹ Residential Unit “Galini Α”, Aharne, Athens, GREECE
² MD., 4th Psychiatric Emergency Dept., Psychiatric Hospital of Attica – Daphni, Athens
³ Residential Unit “Galini B”, Zevgolatio Korinthias
Εισαγωγή : η κλοζαπίνη είναι κατά γενική οµολογία το πλέον αποτελεσµατικό αντιψυχωτικό. Ο κίνδυνος πρόκλησης ακοκκιοκυτταραιµίας – µιας
δυνητικά θανατηφόρας κατάστασης – έχει περιορίσει τη χορήγησή της µόνο στις περιπτώσεις ανθεκτικής στη θεραπεία σχιζοφρένειας, µε τον
τακτικό εργαστηριακό έλεγχο να θεωρείται απόλυτα επιβεβληµένος. Η χορήγηση σερτινδόλης συνοδεύεται από ηλεκτροκαρδιογραφικό έλεγχο,
λόγω αναφερόµενης ενδεχόµενης αρρυθµιογόνου δράσης και παράτασης του QTc διαστήµατος. Παρουσίαση περιστατικού : άντρας, 52 ετών, µε
ιστορικό σχιζοφρένειας παρανοϊκού τύπου από τριακονταετίας περίπου και υπό αγωγή µε κλοζαπίνη 600 mg ηµερησίως, εµφανίζει πτώση των
τιµών των λευκών αιµοσφαιρίων (περίπου στις 3000 mm3). Ύστερα από σταδιακή (προκειµένου να αποφευχθεί υποτροπή) µείωση της κλοζαπίνης
στα 300 mg και συνεχείς ελέγχους των WBC (που παρέµεναν χαµηλά), αποφασίστηκε η έναρξη χορήγησης σερτινδόλης. Προηγήθηκε ΗΚΓ , στο
οποίο το QTc ήταν 450 msec. Η τιτλοποίηση της σερτινδόλης έγινε ξεκινώντας από τα 4 mg και αυξάνοντας κατά άλλα 4 mg τη δόση κάθε τρεις
εβδοµάδες, µε ταυτόχρονη περαιτέρω σταδιακή µείωση της κλοζαπίνης . Η έναρξη, αλλά και κάθε αύξηση στα πλαίσια της τιτλοποίησης ως και τα
16 mg, συνοδευόταν µετά από µία εβδοµάδα από ήπια αύξηση των τιµών του QTc (όχι πάνω από 10-15 msec) και µετά από άλλες δύο εβδοµάδες
από µείωση, που κυµαινόταν µεταξύ 10 – 25 msec. Η σερτινδόλη παρέµεινε στα 16 mg για άλλες οκτώ εβδοµάδες µε σταθερές έως και µειωµένες
τιµές QTc κατά τους εβδοµαδιαίους ελέγχους. Όταν την εικοστή εβδοµάδα έγινε αύξηση στα 20 mg, δεν παρατηρήθηκε καµία αύξηση του QTc, του
οποίου οι τιµές έκτοτε παραµένουν σε φυσιολογικά επίπεδα. Η διακοπή της κλοζαπίνης συνοδεύτηκε από σταδιακή επάνοδο των φυσιολογικών
τιµών των λευκών αιµοσφαιρίων. Συζήτηση : παρά το γεγονός ότι η τιτλοποίηση της σερτινδόλης συνδέεται µε την αποφυγή υποτασικών
επεισοδίων και όχι µε την προσπάθεια αποφυγής αύξησης του QTc διαστήµατος, η παρατεταµένης διάρκειας (ανά τρεις εβδοµάδες) τιτλοποίηση
στο ανωτέρω περιστατικό, µας οδηγεί στην υπόθεση ύπαρξης κάποιου είδους ΄΄αντίδρασης προσαρµογής΄΄. Κάτι τέτοιο, αν επιβεβαιωθεί,
ενδέχεται να αυξήσει τη δυνατότητα αξιοποίησης ενός σκευάσµατος µε εξαιρετικό κατά τα λοιπά προφίλ ανεπιθύµητων ενεργειών. Συµπέρασµα :
απαιτείται οργανωµένη µεθοδολογικά έρευνα σε ικανό στατιστικά αριθµό ασθενών, προκειµένου να επιβεβαιωθεί ή να διαψευσθεί η ανωτέρω
υπόθεση.
LONGITUDINAL STUDY OF THE SELF-REGULATION OF THE CHILDREN WITH PERINATAL ENCEPHALOPATHY
Dr. T. Goryacheva and E. Sedova
The Centre of the Psychodiagnostics and Psychocorrection of the Institute of Business and Politics, Moscow, RUSSIAN
FEDERATION
Spontaneous compensation of defects caused by injuries of brain during perinatal period does not always eliminate their consequences. Some
reasons of poor school progress, such as attention deficit, quick exhaustion, poor memory, are connected with perinatal encephalopathy. The threelevel’s model of self-regulation helps to explain the compensation actuators in those cases. The objective of this research was to define problems of
self-regulation in the age of 8 years at three levels: self-regulation of psychic states, operational level and motivation level and to trace the
compensation of those defects three years later. 30 pupils took part in the research. The basic method applied was the Luria’s neuropsychological
battery of tests, adapted by A.Semenovitch. The motivation of learning was studied with the tests of M.Guinsburg, O. Grebeniuk and A.Markova.
The group of “problem” pupils showed lower level of self-regulation as compared with the group of successful pupils. The main conclusions are: 1.
Defects of self-regulation of psychic states can cause problems in education even to children with safe intellect. 2. In the age of 8-9 years begins the
adoption of motivation level of self-regulation as a leading one. 3. The main compensation actuator of the defects of the self-regulation of psychic
states is maturing of the motivation level of self-regulation.
MENTAL ILLNESS STIGMA BEYOND THE BORDERS OF PSYCHIATRY, BUT WITHIN THE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
D. Petsas¹ ², D. Mourouzidou¹, M. Thomaidou², A. Nalmpanti¹ ², A. Limnioudis¹, K.Parashakis¹ & K. Kontis¹ ²
¹ MD., 4th Psychiatric Emergency Dept., Psychiatric Hospital of Attica – Daphni, GREECE
² Residential Unit “Thalia”, Psychiatric Hospital of Attica - Daphni
Εισαγωγή : οι ένοικοι των εξωνοσοκοµειακών στεγαστικών δοµών απευθύνονται για την κάλυψη των ιατρικών τους αναγκών στους ίδιους φορείς
– υπηρεσίες υγείας (εξωτερικά ιατρεία, τµήµατα επειγόντων περιστατικών κλπ.), όπως και κάθε πολίτης αυτής της χώρας. Σκοπός : να
εξακριβώσουµε αν υπάρχει διαφορετική αντιµετώπιση από τους λοιπούς (µη ψυχιατρικούς) λειτουργούς υγείας των ευρισκόµενων σε διαδικασία
κοινωνικής επανένταξης ψυχικά πασχόντων ατόµων, σε σχέση µε το λοιπό πληθυσµό. Υλικό – Μέθοδος : ζητήθηκε από 60 νοσηλευτές – στελέχη
οικοτροφείων ή/και ξενώνων που υπάγονται στο Ψυχιατρικό Νοσοκοµείο Αττικής – ∆αφνί και οι οποίοι συνόδευσαν ενοίκους τέτοιων δοµών σε
(µη ψυχιατρικές) υπηρεσίες υγείας, να αξιολογήσουν συγκριτικά σε σχετικό ερώτηµα την αντιµετώπιση των ψυχικά πασχόντων ατόµων από τους
επαγγελµατίες υγείας. Αποτελέσµατα : 12 νοσηλευτές (20%) θεώρησαν ότι τα ψυχικά πάσχοντα άτοµα έτυχαν καλύτερης αντιµετώπισης από
αυτής των υπολοίπων πολιτών, κανείς ( 0 %) πολύ καλύτερη, 17 (28,33%) ότι υπήρξε ισότιµη αντιµετώπιση, ενώ 9 (15%) έκαναν λόγο για
χειρότερη και 22 (36.67%) για πολύ χειρότερη αντιµετώπιση. Συµπεράσµατα : το στίγµα της ψυχικής ασθένειας και τα παρεπόµενα
συναισθήµατα επηρεάζουν µε αρνητικό τρόπο και σε σηµαντικό βαθµό τη στάση και των επαγγελµατιών υγείας απέναντι στο ψυχικά ασθενές
άτοµο. Οι επαγγελµατίες υγείας, που λειτουργούν σε µη ψυχιατρικούς φορείς, οφείλουν να συνεισφέρουν στη διαµόρφωση ενός κλίµατος που θα
ευοδώνει την επανένταξη των ψυχικά πασχόντων ατόµων στον κοινωνικό ιστό, κάτι που – ενδεχοµένως - προϋποθέτει την οργάνωση αντίστοιχων
προγραµµάτων.
PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION AND SUPPORT IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
Dr. P. Siaperas¹, P. Zoniopoulou², Dr. D. Potamitis-Komis³ and Dr. K. Papoutsakis4
Psychologist, Memory Center, Lyrakou Clinic, Athens, GREECE
¹ Msc, PhD, CPsychol. Psychologist
² Occupational Therapist
³ Psychiatrist
4 Neurologist-Psychiatrist
Even though today there is a growing knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease there are often observed diverse behavioural symptoms that affect the
quality of life of the sufferer and her/his carers. Clinicians from different disciplines during the years have been challenged to provide effective
evaluation and treatment to individuals that suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. It is now clear that in order to support individuals with Alzheimer
disease and their carers’ multidisciplinary intervesion is necessary. The combination of pharmaceutical therapy, cognitive evaluation and exercise,
psychological support for the behavioural symptoms, training on daily living skills and training of the carers, gives complete support for a sufferer
with Alzheimer’s disease. The main goal of the multidisciplinary therapeutic teams in the management Alzheimer’s disease is to maintain as much
independence as possible, to encourage physical fitness, to facilitate socialisation and communication, to increase sensory stimulation, to teach the
caregivers to cope with the stress and to maximise quality of life in all the stages of the disease. Under this perspective the Memory Centre of
Lyrakou Clinic provides services for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other similar conditions.