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Frontiers in Psychology 2024To explore the psychological personality characteristics of transgender groups and to determine whether these characteristics differ according to sociodemographic...
OBJECTIVE
To explore the psychological personality characteristics of transgender groups and to determine whether these characteristics differ according to sociodemographic factors.
METHODS
This cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2021 and April 2023 at a psychosexual outpatient clinic in a psychiatric hospital in Beijing, China. In total, 481 individuals were included in this study, and demographic information was collected using a self-administered general questionnaire. Psychological personality traits were assessed using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI).
RESULTS
The mean scores of the assigned male at birth (AMAB) group were significantly higher than those of the male controls for all 10 clinical factors of the MMPI ( < 0.01 or < 0.001). The scores for both the Masculinity-femininity (Mf) and Depression (D) factors in the AMABs group exceeded the clinical threshold ( > 60) and were the highest and second-highest scores on the entire scale, respectively. Individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) had significantly higher scores than female controls for Hysteria (Hy), Psychopathic Deviate (Pd), and Hypomania (Ma) ( < 0.05, < 0.01, and < 0.001, respectively). There were significant differences in the rates of abnormal values for the various factors of the MMPI ( > 60) according to gender, age, and education ( < 0.05, < 0.01, and < 0.001, respectively). Compared to AFABs, AMABs had higher rates of abnormal scores ( > 60) on the Hypochondriasis (Hs), D, Hy, Mf, Paranoia (Pa), Psychasthenia (Pt), Schizophrenia (Sc), and Social Introversion (Si) scales ( < 0.05, < 0.01, and < 0.001, respectively). Second, the transgender group aged ≤25 years had higher rates of abnormal scores ( > 60) on the Hs, D, Hy, Pd, Pa, Pt, Sc, and Ma scales ( < 0.05, < 0.01, and < 0.001, respectively). Finally, outliers ( > 60) for the Hs, D, Hy, Pd, Pa, Pt, Ma, and Si factors were more prevalent among those with a primary to high school level of education ( < 0.05, < 0.01, and < 0.001, respectively).
CONCLUSION
Assigned male at births may have a variety of psychological vulnerabilities, and there is a need to focus especially on those with a primary to high school level of education, those aged ≤25 years, and transgender females.
PubMed: 38933582
DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1416011 -
Brain Sciences Jun 2024Although previous behavioral studies have associated reactive aggression (RA) and proactive aggression (PA) with traditional masculinity, further investigation is needed...
Although previous behavioral studies have associated reactive aggression (RA) and proactive aggression (PA) with traditional masculinity, further investigation is needed into the traditional masculinity-linked neuroanatomical characteristics of RA and PA. This study analyzed the traditional masculinity-by-aggression interaction in 705 participants (350 men) by measuring grey matter volume (GMV). We have expanded on previous studies and found that traditional masculinity was not associated with RA and PA when not controlled for traditional femininity. However, the association appeared when controlling for it. Furthermore, we found significant traditional masculinity-by-RA interactions on the GMV in the bilateral superior frontal gyrus, a region known to be involved in cognitive control. When traditional masculinity scores were 1 standard deviation above the mean, there was a positive correlation between RA and the GMV in the bilateral superior frontal gyrus. Conversely, when traditional masculinity scores were 1 standard deviation below the mean, there was a negative correlation between RA and the GMV in the region. However, no traditional masculinity-linked neuroanatomical characteristics of PA were found. The results indicated that individuals with high/low traditional masculinity perceived RA as a different outcome (gain or loss) of self-control. The results supported an opportunity to develop prevention or intervention strategies for RA.
PubMed: 38928605
DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14060605 -
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 -
Reproductive Health Jun 2024Addressing attitudes is central to achieving sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and Agenda 2030. We aimed to develop a comprehensive index to measure...
BACKGROUND
Addressing attitudes is central to achieving sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and Agenda 2030. We aimed to develop a comprehensive index to measure attitudinal support for SRHR, expanding opportunities for global trend analyses and tailored interventions.
METHODS
We designed a new module capturing attitudes towards different dimensions of SRHR, collected via the nationally representative World Values Survey in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Zimbabwe during 2020-2021 (n = 3,711). We used exploratory factor analysis of 58 items to identify sub-scales and an overall index. Adjusted regression models were used to evaluate the index according to sociodemographic characteristics, stratified by country and sex.
RESULTS
A 23-item, five-factor solution was identified and used to construct sub-indices reflecting support for: (1) sexual and reproductive rights, (2) neighborhood sexual safety, (3) gender-equitable relationships, (4) equitable masculinity norms, and (5) SRHR interventions. These five sub-indices performed well across countries and socioeconomic subgroups and were combined into a comprehensive "SRHR Support Index", standardized on a 1-100 scale (mean = 39.19, SD = 15.27, Cronbach's alpha = 0.80) with higher values indicating more support for SRHR. Mean values were highest in Kenya (45.48, SD = 16.78) followed by Ethiopia (40.2, SD = 13.63), and lowest in Zimbabwe (32.65, SD = 13.77), with no differences by sex. Higher education and being single were associated with more support, except in Ethiopia. Younger age and urban residence correlated with more support among males only.
CONCLUSION
The SRHR Support Index has the potential to broaden SRHR attitude research from a comprehensive perspective - addressing the need for a common measure to track progress over time.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Reproductive Health; Adult; Sexual Health; Reproductive Rights; Adolescent; Young Adult; Africa South of the Sahara; Middle Aged; Surveys and Questionnaires; Sexual Behavior
PubMed: 38918832
DOI: 10.1186/s12978-024-01820-2 -
Archives of Sexual Behavior Jun 2024Guided by the dynamic model of masculinity and men's psychopathology, the current study aimed to explore the mediating role of masculine discrepancy stress and each of...
Guided by the dynamic model of masculinity and men's psychopathology, the current study aimed to explore the mediating role of masculine discrepancy stress and each of the muscle dysmorphia dimensions (drive for size, appearance intolerance, and functional impairments) in the association between masculine gender role discrepancy and masculine depression. For the present study, 936 Israeli men completed a structured self-report questionnaire. Masculine discrepancy stress and some of the muscle dysmorphia dimensions were found to partially mediate the association between masculine gender role discrepancy and masculine depression. The findings demonstrate how the internalization of social gender expectations and men's gender role discrepancy is reflected in the gap between perception of self and the typical man, which is eventually related to mental health outcomes. In turn, men attempt to mitigate the stress through what they perceive as masculine, reflecting muscle dysmorphia: drive for size, appearance intolerance, and functional impairments, which in turn predict masculine depression. Therefore, mental and physical health professionals are advised to be aware of these mechanisms, in order to recognize the negative mental health outcomes arising from traditional societal gender role expectations and provide specific solutions for them.
PubMed: 38918328
DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-02931-4 -
Indian Journal of Endocrinology and... 2024Assessment of genitalia is an important part of the neonatal examination. Regional, racial, and ethnic variations in phallic length have been documented. Clitoral...
INTRODUCTION
Assessment of genitalia is an important part of the neonatal examination. Regional, racial, and ethnic variations in phallic length have been documented. Clitoral dimensions may also show similar variations. Normal values for neonatal clitoral measurements may help the pediatrician/neonatologist to accurately diagnose clitoromegaly and underlying etiology to guide appropriate investigations. Data on clitoral measurements is limited with only one study from India (Kolkata). Hence we aimed in this study to generate south Indian data on neonatal clitoral dimensions, anogenital distance, and anogenital ratio. Two hundred and fifty two hemodynamically stable term female neonates without ambiguous genitalia/vulval masses born in a community hospital. Hospital-based cross-sectional study. 1. To measure clitoral dimensions, anogenital distance, and anogenital ratio in female neonates. 2. To correlate clitoral dimensions, anogenital distance, and ratio with anthropometric measurements, gestational age, and maternal comorbidities.
METHODS
Measurements were recorded using a digital vernier caliper, under strict aseptic precautions with labia majora gently separated and the baby held in a frog-leg position. Clitoral length, width, and anogenital distance were measured and anogenital ratio and clitoral index were calculated.
RESULTS
In term neonates, the mean ± SD of clitoral length (CL), clitoral width (CW), anogenital ratio (AGR) were 6.34 ± 1.75 mm, 6.39 ± 1.27 mm and 0.39 ± 0.05, respectively. The 3 and 97 centiles for mean clitoral length were 3.55 and 9.93 mm, for mean clitoral width were 3.37 and 8.35 mm, and for AGR were 0.28 and 0.48, respectively. These clitoral dimensions in south Indian neonates were higher than those from East India (Kolkata), lower than Nigerian babies, and similar to Israeli neonates. Mean CL and CW had no statistical correlation with birth weight, gestational age, head circumference, or length in term neonates. A significant correlation was noted between pregnancy-induced hypertension and mean clitoral width, and between gestational diabetes and AGR.
CONCLUSION
Normative values for clitoral dimensions (length and width) and AGR for south Indian term female neonates have been established. 97 centiles of 9.93 mm (CL) and 8.35 mm (CW) and 0.48 mm (AGR) may be used as practical cut-offs to diagnose clitoromegaly and virilization. Clitoral measurements had no statistical correlation with birth weight, gestational age, or anthropometry. Clitoral measurements exhibit ethnic and racial differences, thus emphasizing the importance of regional cut-offs and need for more studies from different parts of India on CL.
PubMed: 38911105
DOI: 10.4103/ijem.ijem_145_23 -
Health Promotion International Jun 2024Studies that have examined young people's drinking behaviour, particularly how they abstain from alcohol or drink lightly and their motivations, have focused on Western...
Studies that have examined young people's drinking behaviour, particularly how they abstain from alcohol or drink lightly and their motivations, have focused on Western contexts. Currently, studies on how and why young Africans abstain from alcohol or drink moderately are lacking. Therefore, there is a need to examine young people's drinking behaviours/practices on the continent to facilitate health promotion interventions. This study, which uses qualitative data elicited from 53 participants, explores how young Nigerian men and women who consume alcohol and drink heavily enact and negotiate abstinence and moderate drinking and the factors that motivate their choices. Some participants constructed situational abstinence, while others participated in temporary light drinking in their friendship networks, but these attracted some consequences. Peers pressured them, but some deployed the ability to offer 'valid' explanations and express self-determination and agency to ward off such pressures and negotiate situational abstinence or moderate drinking. Additionally, the fear of public embarrassment, negative publicity on social media due to intoxication and parental influences motivated some participants' occasional sobriety. Others relied on previous personal or friends' negative experiences of drunkenness or the consequences of heavy drinking represented in movies and books to construct occasional light drinking. The findings demonstrated how enacting and rejecting particular forms of masculinity and embodied gendered drinking practices, more generally, in some friendship groups, facilitated situational abstinence and moderation. Policymakers should partner with young people to design interventions that encourage abstinence or moderation and mitigate the current drinking practices in Nigeria, which will enhance health promotion.
Topics: Humans; Female; Male; Nigeria; Adolescent; Young Adult; Alcohol Drinking; Qualitative Research; Alcohol Abstinence; Motivation; Peer Group; Negotiating; West African People
PubMed: 38899832
DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daae068 -
Frontiers in Pediatrics 2024This study represents the first documentation of the coexistence of complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) with Müllerian duct remnants (MDRs) in mainland...
This study represents the first documentation of the coexistence of complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) with Müllerian duct remnants (MDRs) in mainland China. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature concerning CAIS with MDRs resulting from gene mutations. This study broadens the clinical spectrum of CAIS and offer novel insights for further exploration into Müllerian duct regression. A 14-year-old patient, initially raised as female, presented to the clinic with complaints of "primary amenorrhea." Physical examination revealed the following: armpit hair (Tanner stage 2), breast development (Tanner stage 4 with bilateral breast nodule diameter of 7 cm), sparse pubic hair (Tanner stage 3), clitoris measuring 0.8 cm × 0.4 cm, separate urethral and vaginal openings, and absence of palpable masses in the bilateral groin or labia majora. The external genital virilization score was 0 points. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone level was 13.43 IU/L, serum luteinizing hormone level was 31.24 IU/L, and serum testosterone level was 14.95 nmol/L. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) did not reveal a uterus or bilateral fallopian tubes, but nodules on both sides of the pelvic wall indicated cryptorchidism. The karyotype was 46,XY. Genetic testing identified a maternal-derived hemizygous variation c.2359C > T (p.Arg787*) in the gene. During abdominal exploration, dysplastic testicles and a dysplastic uterus were discovered. Histopathological analysis revealed the presence of fallopian tube-like structures adjacent to the testicles. The CAIS patient documented in this study exhibited concurrent MDRs, thus expanding the spectrum of clinical manifestations of AIS. A review of prior literature suggests that the incidence of CAIS combined with histologically MDRs is not uncommon. Consequently, the identification of MDRs in AIS cases may represent an integral aspect of clinical diagnosis for this condition.
PubMed: 38895190
DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1400319 -
Evolutionary Psychology : An... 2024Many researchers have proposed that women perceive men with masculine face shapes to be less suitable as parents and long-term partners than men with feminine face...
Many researchers have proposed that women perceive men with masculine face shapes to be less suitable as parents and long-term partners than men with feminine face shapes, causing women to find masculine men more attractive for short-term than long-term relationships. However, recent work shows that results obtained using the type of experimentally manipulated stimuli that were employed in studies presenting evidence for these claims are not necessarily observed when natural (i.e., unmanipulated) face stimuli were used to suggest that the evidence for these claims may need to be revaluated. Consequently, we tested for possible relationships between ratings of natural male faces for parenting- and relationship-related traits and shape masculinity (Study 1) and also tested whether women's preferences for shape masculinity were stronger when natural male faces were rated for short-term relationships than when natural male faces were rated for long-term relationships (Studies 2 and 3). We saw no evidence for either of these predictions, instead finding that men with more attractive faces were perceived to be better parents and better long-term partners. Thus, our findings do not support the widely held view that masculine men are more attractive for short-term relationships because they are perceived to be unlikely to invest time and effort in their romantic partners and offspring.
Topics: Humans; Female; Masculinity; Male; Adult; Young Adult; Social Perception; Sexual Partners; Facial Recognition; Choice Behavior; Face; Interpersonal Relations; Adolescent
PubMed: 38881307
DOI: 10.1177/14747049241262712 -
PCN Reports : Psychiatry and Clinical... Jun 2024The influence of surgeries on psychiatric symptoms and personality traits is not well known in patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). We investigated...
Surgical treatment may improve depressive and hysterical traits in temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis: Study using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory.
AIM
The influence of surgeries on psychiatric symptoms and personality traits is not well known in patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). We investigated changes in personality traits with respect to postoperative seizure outcomes, etiology, side of surgery, and sex differences.
METHODS
Clinical information was retrospectively collected for 44 patients whose Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) was examined before and 1 year after surgical treatment for drug-resistant TLE. Postoperative changes in MMPI -scores were analyzed using a paired -test. Participants were divided into two groups based on postoperative seizure outcome, the presence or absence of hippocampal sclerosis (HS) as the etiology, side of surgery, and sex differences. The effect of these clinical factors on postoperative changes in MMPI -scores was evaluated using analysis of covariance (-values < 0.05).
RESULTS
The hypochondria (Hs) scale decreased significantly in all patients ( = 0.022). The postoperative seizure-free group had a significant decrease in the depression (D) scale ( = 0.037). The HS group had significant decreases in the D scale and the hysteria (Hy) scale ( = 0.016 and 0.004, respectively), and a significant increase in the masculinity-femininity (Mf) scale ( = 0.009). No significant differences existed between the sides of surgery or sex.
CONCLUSION
Depressive traits were improved in patients with postoperative seizure freedom. Depressive and hysterical traits were improved in patients with HS, which may be attributed to a reduction in anxiety and fear associated with aura. Most personality traits are not significantly changed or exacerbated by surgical treatment of TLE.
PubMed: 38868085
DOI: 10.1002/pcn5.193