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Psychological Reports Oct 2023The notion of psychological androgyny as a research tool loiters on in an incapacitated state. The lack of a general theory and the belief that the biological gender... (Review)
Review
The notion of psychological androgyny as a research tool loiters on in an incapacitated state. The lack of a general theory and the belief that the biological gender differences are insignificant to non-existent has been the seeds for its de-construction. Over the decades, the testing of ideas associated with androgyny has declined. Indeed, the debates over its usefulness as a construct ended long ago. The judgment nowadays is that debating the constructs of masculinity, femininity, and androgyny as behavioral traits has been long settled, and a contemporary revisiting of androgyny is not warranted. However, from another contemporary viewpoint, if androgyny is to have any future, it needs a new theory devoid of masculinity and femininity. We present a novel theory with the potential to do just that. This article details a new de-gendered theory of psychological androgyny, neo-androgyny, as a candidate to replace traditional models that are now considered outdated and irrelevant. We present five potential factors for inclusion in a de-gendered model: social efficacy, creativity, capability, eminence, and determination. We review these factors concerning the future of androgyny theory.
Topics: Male; Female; Humans; Gender Identity; Masculinity; Creativity; Sex Factors
PubMed: 35343328
DOI: 10.1177/00332941221076759 -
Reproductive Sciences (Thousand Oaks,... Nov 2023While polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age, the psychosocial impact of PCOS has not... (Review)
Review
While polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age, the psychosocial impact of PCOS has not been evaluated across different quality of life (QoL) indicators. We rigorously analyzed available evidence pertaining to the psychosocial burden of PCOS in women of reproductive age and compared validated QoL scores of women with and without PCOS before and after treatment. We searched and considered publications from PubMed, PsychINFO, Embase, and Cochrane Library that evaluated the association between diagnosed PCOS and QoL by standardized and validated questionnaires at baseline and after treatment. Reviewers assessed the risk of bias using established Cochrane and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale guidelines. A total of 33 studies were included in the review: 14 randomized controlled trials and 19 observational studies. The 36-Item Short Form Survey and World Health Organization Quality of Life - BREF questionnaire both revealed that the diagnosis and life experience of PCOS had a disability score that was similar to or surpassed that of heart disease, diabetes mellitus, or breast cancer. QoL scores, associated with mental health issues, infertility, sexual dysfunction, obesity, menstrual disorder, and hirsutism, were lower at the baseline than after treatment in the majority of instruments measuring these variables in women with PCOS. PCOS is associated with significant psychosocial stress and reduced QoL across baseline measures and in comparison, to other diseases. Evidence suggests that treatment with therapy, medications, and lifestyle management decreased psychosocial burdens and alleviated QoL experienced by women with PCOS.
Topics: Female; Humans; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Quality of Life; Hirsutism; Infertility; Life Style
PubMed: 37341924
DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01285-x -
Psycho-oncology Nov 2023To evaluate the evidence base for patient, oncological, and treatment prognostic factors associated with multiple mental wellbeing outcomes in prostate cancer patients. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the evidence base for patient, oncological, and treatment prognostic factors associated with multiple mental wellbeing outcomes in prostate cancer patients.
METHODS
We performed a literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases including studies evaluating patient, oncological, or treatment factors against one of five mental wellbeing outcomes; depression, anxiety, fear of cancer recurrence, masculinity, and body image perception. Data synthesis included a random effects meta-analysis for the prognostic effect of individual factors if sufficient homogenous data was available, with a structured narrative synthesis where this was not possible.
RESULTS
A final 62 articles were included. Older age was associated with a reducing odds of depression (OR 0.97, p = 0.04), with little evidence of effect for other outcomes. Additionally, baseline mental health status was related to depression and increasing time since diagnosis was associated with reducing fear of recurrence, albeith with low certainty of evidence. However, few other patient or oncological factors demonstrated any coherent relationship with any wellbeing outcome. Androgen deprivation therapy was associated with increased depression (HR 1.65, 95% CI 1.41-1.92, p < 0.01) and anxiety, however, little difference was seen between other treatment options. Overall, whilst numerous factors were identified, most were evaluated by single studies with few evaluating masculinity and body image outcomes.
CONCLUSION
We highlight the existing evidence for prognostic factors in mental wellbeing outcomes in prostate cancer, allowing us to consider high-risk groups of patients for preventative and treatment measures. However, the current evidence is heterogenous with further work required exploring less conclusive factors and outcomes.
Topics: Male; Humans; Prostatic Neoplasms; Depression; Prognosis; Androgen Antagonists; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; Quality of Life
PubMed: 37789603
DOI: 10.1002/pon.6225 -
Nicotine & Tobacco Research : Official... Jul 2023The health effect of premium cigar smoking is determined by patterns of use and perceptions, which are shaped by marketing messages. The tobacco industry uses...
INTRODUCTION
The health effect of premium cigar smoking is determined by patterns of use and perceptions, which are shaped by marketing messages. The tobacco industry uses brand-owned media promotion on social media to market its product. However, premium cigar brands' promotion of their products on social media is unknown.
AIMS AND METHODS
Forty-seven premium cigar brands were reviewed. For each brand, we identified the social media accounts and examined the content of the 10 most recent posts of each social media platform to identify the marketing themes in July 2022. We also assessed the presence of age-gating and the dates of the posts.
RESULTS
Of the 47 brands, 65% (n = 31) had Facebook and Instagram, 56% (n = 27) had Twitter, 21% (n = 10) had YouTube, and 17% (n = 8) had "other" (e.g. LinkedIn and Pinterest) accounts. Age-gating across these platforms ranged from 0% to 49%. Marketing themes identified from 981 social media posts included product features, alcohol, holidays, events and festivals, discounts and sweepstakes, taste, family, quality, lounges and clubs, culture, innovation, masculinity, and "other" (e.g. fundraising for charity and celebrity endorsement).
CONCLUSIONS
Premium cigar brands are using brand-owned social media to promote their products using similar strategies (e.g. discounts and sweepstakes) used by other tobacco industries but also using novel themes (e.g. fundraising for charity, events and festivals) to enhance engagement. Ongoing comprehensive surveillance of premium cigars' marketing is needed on social media to inform marketing restrictions to protect public health, including priority populations such as youth.
IMPLICATIONS
This study is the first to identify that premium cigar brands are promoting their brands and products on brand-owned social media, using diverse themes and strategies to engage and appeal to the public. Age gating of the promotional content on social media was low. Findings suggest that marketing restrictions to reduce the appeal of premium cigars among youth is needed to reduce tobacco-related harm.
Topics: Male; Adolescent; Humans; Social Media; Tobacco Products; Marketing; Tobacco Industry
PubMed: 37506234
DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntad007 -
Annals of the Academy of Medicine,... Dec 2023Two decades after the Rotterdam 2003 consensus workshop, there have been considerable advances in elucidating the pathophysiology and epidemiology of polycystic ovary... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Two decades after the Rotterdam 2003 consensus workshop, there have been considerable advances in elucidating the pathophysiology and epidemiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This has prompted the re-examination of the features that characterise this common condition. Current definitions have led to great heterogeneity in the prevalence of PCOS and have contributed to inconsistent treatment protocols and assessment of therapeutic outcomes. Diagnosis is further complicated by the lack of universal agreement on threshold cut-offs for ovarian dysfunction and ethnic differences in hirsutism; both of which are key features in the definitions that are commonly used currently. These challenges often result in dissatisfaction with medical care among PCOS patients and their physicians.
METHOD
Our factor analysis mathematically identified anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), associated polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) and serum testosterone as the only significant cluster associated with menstrual cycle length variability.
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION
As such, we propose a simplified criteria wherein the presence of at least 2 of the 3 features below would be sufficient to define PCOS: (1) chronic oligo-ovulation or anovulation as indicated by oligomenorrhea (cycle lengths >35 days) or amenorrhea; (2) PCOM: raised AMH ≥37.0 pmol/L instead of transvaginal ultrasound assessment of ovaries; and (3) Androgen excess, or raised serum androgens above the laboratory reference for women. Further studies are required to examine whether the proposed criteria would reduce diagnostic confusion and improve care and outcomes, especially among patients of East Asian ethnicities.
Topics: Humans; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Female; Testosterone; Phenotype; Anti-Mullerian Hormone; Asian People; Hirsutism; Oligomenorrhea; Anovulation; Factor Analysis, Statistical; Amenorrhea; Menstrual Cycle; Ovary; East Asian People
PubMed: 38920160
DOI: 10.47102/annals-acadmedsg.202369 -
Journal of Cancer Survivorship :... Oct 2023Men diagnosed with cancer are underrepresented in existing supportive care programming and related research, with preliminary indications that men face unique challenges... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
Men diagnosed with cancer are underrepresented in existing supportive care programming and related research, with preliminary indications that men face unique challenges in accessing and engaging with such services. This study aims to identify barriers and facilitators related to the supportive care service access and use among men diagnosed with cancer.
METHODS
From March to May 2021, thirty-one Quebec men (M = 52.7, range:(26-82 years) diagnosed with various cancer types were recruited to take part in individual telephone interviews (n = 14) or online focus groups (n = 17) addressing experiences of cancer supportive care services. Content analysis of qualitative data was performed.
RESULTS
Barriers and facilitators to men's supportive care access and use were grouped into four categories: (1) alignment between services and men's needs and preferences; (2) delivery of services in an accessible, inclusive, and responsive way; (3) communication and promotion of services in ways that are acceptable, appealing, and attractive to men; and (4) social norms and perceptions of gender and masculinity affecting men's perceptions of and engagement with services.
CONCLUSIONS
Barriers and facilitators influencing access and use of supportive care services in men are numerous and diverse. These findings may inform the development of new and the adaptation of current supportive care strategies to better address men's needs and preferences after a cancer diagnosis.
IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS
Increased adequacy of services tailored to men's needs and preferences, with an emphasis on supporting men to take an active role in their recovery, could improve access and adherence to care. Services adopting a more integrated, patient-centered, and holistic approach to service delivery could positively impact the cancer care trajectory and health outcomes of men. Larger systemic changes may be needed to support men in engaging in currently existing activities and services.
PubMed: 37853270
DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01467-1 -
Sociology of Health & Illness Sep 2023Anxiety is the most prevalent mental disorder experienced by young men, and when untreated, is predictive of co-morbid mental health challenges and suicide. Despite the...
Anxiety is the most prevalent mental disorder experienced by young men, and when untreated, is predictive of co-morbid mental health challenges and suicide. Despite the rising prevalence, there is a conspicuous absence of qualitative research to distil and theorise young men's anxiety. Twenty-five young Australian men (15-25 years), who had been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder or self-reported anxiety symptoms, took part in individual semi-structured interviews. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a constructivist grounded theory approach. A three-process grounded theory (Resisting-Reckoning-Responding; Triple R Anxiety Model) depicted young men's experiences of anxiety, gilded and guided by their masculine socialisation. Initially, young men noticed somatic symptoms (i.e., headaches, nausea and myalgia) but did not connect these symptoms to anxiety. Avoiding anxiety (e.g., denying, distracting) proved unhelpful in the longer term and as symptoms diffused, a subsequent process of reckoning anxiety (i.e., meaning making) ensued. As young men gained insight to the life limiting bounds of their anxiety, some were prompted towards actions of acceptance, seeking help proactively and employing strength-based adaptive coping strategies. This theoretical conceptualisation of young men's anxiety has the capacity to enhance identification and treatment efforts, improving young men's mental health outcomes across the lifespan.
Topics: Male; Humans; Masculinity; Australia; Men; Men's Health; Anxiety; Anxiety Disorders
PubMed: 37032499
DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13641 -
Annual Review of Clinical Psychology Feb 2024This in-depth review delves into the multifaceted realm of mass shootings and explores their epidemiology from a psychological perspective. The article presents a... (Review)
Review
This in-depth review delves into the multifaceted realm of mass shootings and explores their epidemiology from a psychological perspective. The article presents a comprehensive examination of the prevalence, perpetrator and victim profiles, motives, and contributing factors associated with mass shootings. By investigating the intricate relationship between masculinity, domestic violence, military service, social media, fame-seeking, suicidal ideation, mental illness, and firearms, this article sheds light on the multifaceted nature of mass shootings. Moreover, it discusses the importance of implementing effective prevention strategies to address this growing public health concern. The findings from this review serve as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, policy makers, and the community at large, facilitating a deeper understanding of mass shootings and fostering the development of evidence-based solutions to prevent these tragic incidents. Expected final online publication date for the , Volume 20 is May 2024. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
PubMed: 38346290
DOI: 10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-081122-010256 -
The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and... Dec 2023To assess novel morphometric measurement strategies and observer perception ratings as potential metrics for evaluating gender-affirming transvestibular...
OBJECTIVES
To assess novel morphometric measurement strategies and observer perception ratings as potential metrics for evaluating gender-affirming transvestibular chondrolaryngoplasty in reducing contour protrusion of the neck.
METHODS
High-resolution preoperative and 3-month postoperative photographs of a pilot series of 10 patients (n = 10) who underwent endoscopic transvestibular chondrolaryngoplasty were collected. Morphometric measurements of "light reflex" and lateral view thyroid protrusion angles of the neck contours were analyzed. Pre- and postoperative photographs were presented in random order in a survey to 17 untrained judges and rated on perceived masculinity/femininity and thyroid notch protrusion on a 7-point scale. A pre- to postoperative change in morphometric angles and subjective ratings was assessed using paired -tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.
RESULTS
Mean light reflex angles were reduced after surgery from 78.6° to 40.5° in the anterior neutral view ( = .0003), from 45.2° to 24.4° in the anterior extended view ( = .003), and from 7.03° to 4.32° in the lateral view ( = .006). Median survey ratings of neck photographs were improved after surgery, from 4 to 3 in gender perception toward more feminine perception ( < .0001) and from 4 to 2 in thyroid protrusion toward less protrusive perception ( < .0001).
CONCLUSIONS
Morphometric analysis in anterior and lateral views as well as subjective gender perception and contour protrusion measures following feminization chondrolaryngoplasty by endoscopic transvestibular scarless approach demonstrate encouraging possibilities as outcome evaluation measures for chondrolaryngoplasty.
Topics: Male; Female; Humans; Thyroid Cartilage; Surveys and Questionnaires; Neck
PubMed: 37183949
DOI: 10.1177/00034894231173482 -
Culture, Health & Sexuality Dec 2023Managing fertility and sexual and reproductive health across the life course is associated with numerous responsibilities disproportionately experienced by women. This...
Managing fertility and sexual and reproductive health across the life course is associated with numerous responsibilities disproportionately experienced by women. This extends beyond dealing with the physical side effects of contraception and can include the emotional burden of planning conception and the financial cost of accessing health services. This scoping review aimed to map how reproductive responsibilities were defined and negotiated (if at all) between heterosexual casual and long-term partners during any reproductive life event. Original research in high-income countries published from 2015 onwards was sourced from Medline (Ovid), CINAHL and Scopus. In studies that focused on pregnancy prevention and abortion decision making, men felt conflict in their desire to be actively engaged while not wanting to impede their partner's agency and bodily autonomy. Studies identified multiple barriers to engaging in reproductive work including the lack of acceptable male-controlled contraception, poor sexual health knowledge, financial constraints, and the feminisation of family planning services. Traditional gender roles further shaped men's involvement in both pregnancy prevention and conception work. Despite this, studies reveal nuanced ways of sharing responsibilities - such as companionship during birth and abortion, ensuring contraception is used correctly during intercourse, and sharing the costs of reproductive health care.
Topics: Pregnancy; Humans; Male; Female; Heterosexuality; Men; Contraception; Reproduction; Family Planning Services
PubMed: 36752653
DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2023.2173800