Publications

2023

The Sociostructural-Intersectional Body Image (SIBI) framework: Understanding the impact of white supremacy in body image research and practice

Study-In-Brief: This paper highlights the historical and contemporary ways in which white supremacy is intertwined with body image research. The authors discuss how white supremacy relates to various body image theories (e.g., thin ideal, drive for muscularity), measures, assessment, and interventions. The authors conclude by describing the Sociostructural-Intersectional Body Image framework which aims to increase inclusivity and capture intersectionality in body image research. Read more here: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2023.101674

Recommendations on Inclusive Language and Transparent Reporting Relating to Diversity Dimensions for the Journal of Pediatric Psychology and Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology

Study-In-Brief: This editorial aims to provide a resource to researchers and journalists in the field of Pediatric Psychology that is one, of many, steps towards enhancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) reporting practices. The resource, known as the Diversity Dimensions Checklist (DDC), serves as a living document aimed at increasing inclusive language, planning, dissemination, and reporting in the field consequentially resulting in representative studies and improved clinical practice. The DDC is set up using the ADDRESSING (age and generation, developmental disability/ acquired disability, religion, ethnicity/race, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, indigenous group, national origin/language, and gender) framework which is understanding of the complex nature of identity. The authors recognize the limitations (time, resources, and geographic) with the DDC, but hold the intention of updating the document yearly. https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsad094 

Weight Stigma Associated with Mental Health Concerns Among College Students

Study-In-Brief: This study looked at how weight stigma was related to mental health concerns among college students, and how this association differed across intersectional identities. The research team found that students who reported interpersonal or anticipated weight stigma had higher odds of mental health concerns (binge eating, purging, anxiety, depression). This relationship was stronger for cisgender female students (compared to cisgender male students) and sexual minority students (compared to heterosexual students). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amepre.2023.09.021  

Strengths-Based Factors Related to Post-Traumatic Stress Problems in Black Youth With High Body Weights

Study-In-Brief: Discrimination is a risk factor for post-traumatic stress problems and is common among Black youth (racial discrimination) and individuals with high body weights (weight-related discrimination). Therefore, Black youth with high body weights represent a particularly important group to understand. This study found that higher youth reported resilience and lower discrimination, while caregiver reported higher youth weight-related quality of life was associated with fewer post-traumatic stress problems. https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsad030

A Randomized Pilot Trial of a Mobile Delivered Brief Motivational Interviewing and Behavioral Economic Alcohol Intervention for Emerging Adults

Study-In-Brief: Individuals between 18-25 are at a higher risk of alcohol misuse that can have lasting negative effects. In-person interventions such as brief motivational interviewing (BMI)/substance-free activity session (SFAS) have been shown to be effective, and mobile platforms may be one way to expand the availability of these interventions. The present study tested a mobile, counselor administered BMI and SFAS intervention against a control group. The intervention was found to be feasible, acceptable, and resulted in a 41% decrease in past-month heavy drinking episodes. https://doi.org/10.1037/adb0000838

Spirituality and Religiosity Profiles among Diverse Young Adults: The Relationship with Meaning Making

Study-In-Brief: This study explored how patterns of spirituality/religiosity relate to meaning-making among 199 racially diverse young adults. Latent profile analysis revealed four profiles: “Average Spirituality/Religiosity, Higher Negative Religious Coping Class (AHNR),” “High Religiosity, Mixed Spirituality (HRMS),” “Low Religiosity, Lower Spirituality (LRLS),” and “Highest Spirituality/Religiosity, Lower Negative Religious Coping (HLNRC).” https://doi.org/10.1080/19349637.2022.2074338

How Psychologists Can Help Achieve Equity in Health Care - Advancing Innovative Partnerships and Models of Care Delivery: Introduction to the Special Issue

Study-In-Brief: This special issue is about how psychologists can help understand and fix the unequal distribution of good health in the United States. Psychologists can help by working with other people and groups to make sure everyone has the same chance to be healthy. There are 14 articles in this special issue, covering three themes: (a) working together, (b) social drivers of health, and (c) social systems. The articles show that psychologists can make a big difference by working with others to find new ways to help people be healthy, and by speaking up for what is right. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0001153 

Limits of the Bogus Pipeline Condition: An Examination of Null Findings in an Experimental Study

Study-In-Brief: The study investigated how three experimental conditions affected levels of antisemitism, right-wing authoritarianism (RWA), religious fundamentalism, and social desirability among university students. The participants were randomly assigned to either the control group or two experimental conditions (bogus pipeline and altered bogus pipeline), and completed surveys measuring demographics, social desirability, antisemitism, RWA, and religious fundamentalism. The results indicated that there were no significant differences in antisemitism, RWA, and religious fundamentalism across the groups. However, social desirability was significantly lower in the bogus pipeline condition, suggesting potential limitations in the efficacy of this method. https://www.jasnh.com/pdf/Vol19-No2-article1.pdf

Demographics Factors, Personal Life Experiences, and Types of Intimate Partner Violence

Study-In-Brief: Research on Intimate partner violence (IPV) has lacked analysis on demographic and personal life experiences. The authors note the importance of the relative resource theory, which examines violence between partners in relation to unequal resource accessibility, rather than resource-related power. Some of the demographic-related factors included in the article include age (e.g. older women are typically more protective against physical IPV) , employment (e.g. unemployed women see higher rates of IPV), and income (e.g. women with lower income report more IPV). Early intervention through education and community/school-based programs is noted as an important factor in reducing the impact of personal life experiences on IPV frequency. https://doi.org/10.1037/tra0001171

Promoting Anti-Racism in the Legal System: An Application of the STYLE Framework

Study-In-Brief: This article recommends the use of the STYLE (Self-Examination, Talk about racism, yield time to anti-racism work, learn about structural racism, Evaluate policies and practices) framework in approaches of addressing systematic racism. The authors intend for the STYLE framework to be used by professionals in psychology related fields (e.g. social work, public health, etc.). The authors relate the STYLE framework to legal practice as racism is propogated by the legal system and many patients of psychologists may have interactions the system. There is an urgency towards educating future (and current) professionals of these fields about systemic racism and how to combat it in their practice. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1061637 

2022


Unraveling the Meaning of Weight Misperception in a Sample of College Students: Unaware of Body or Satisfied?

Study-In-Brief: In our study, we aimed to understand the meaning of weight misperception by examining associations of weight perception with body satisfaction and body awareness along with healthy ideals and culturally normative body ideals. Findings suggest that weight misperception reflects body satisfaction, and not a lack of awareness of body weight/size, definitions of healthy bodies, or culturally normative body ideals. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.08.007

We Are Not All the Same: Protective Effects of Being Raised in Wakanda

Study-In-Brief: This study aimed to highlight justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) practices in STEM. Racial and ethnic data from the Entomology Department at Texas A&M University revealed that many of the BIPOC faculty in STEM are typically foreign-born nationals (i.e., born outside the U.S.), who were embraced as a majority in their society before moving to the U.S. The experience  and benefits of growing up in a place where you are the majority, compared to growing up as a "minority," is called the “Wakanda Effect."  Building allyships between foreign and native born BIPOC faculty could have powerful results in regard to DEI.               https://doi.org/10.1093/ae/tmac054

Measuring Weight- and Shape- Based Social Identity Threat Vulnerability in Young Adults

Study-In-Brief: Our study assessed the factor structure of a novel self-report measure of weight- and shape-based social identity threat vulnerability, Social Identities, and Attitudes Scale-Weight and Body Shape (SIAS-WBS). The SIAS-WBS had an acceptable factor structure with 15 subscales that were invariant across race, ethnicity, gender, weight perception, and CDC-defined weight groups.  https://doi.org/10.1093/ae/tmac054

Social Support for Mothers Living with HIV: A Pilot Investigation of the Beneficial Roles of Positive Parenting and Community Cohesion 

Study-In-Brief: This pilot study explored associations between familial social support and personal (spirituality, depressive symptoms), relational (parenting practices), and environmental (friend support, community cohesion) factors among 55 Mothers Living with HIV (MLH). Results showed that greater positive parenting, less negative parenting, and greater community cohesion were significantly associated with higher familial social support. Our findings highlight the importance of relational and environmental determinants of social support and suggest potential avenues for prevention and intervention among MLH. https://doi.org/10.1080/15381501.2021.2016538

The Scale Matters: Assessing Body Size with Figure Rating Scales in a Diverse Sample of Young Adults

Study-In-Brief: Our study explored the intersectional differences in weight perception accuracy in a diverse sample of young adults using CDC-defined weight status labels and four separate figure rating scales (FRS). We found that weight perception labels were ineffective in assessing weight status, and FRS accuracy varies by race and gender, suggesting the value of gender and culturally tailored scales. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40519-021-01166-9 

2021


Associations Between Substance Use and Depressive Symtpoms Among Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence 

Study-In-Brief: This study looked at how the frequency of Intimate partner violence (IPV), substance abuse, and demographics (age, income, etc.)  were associated with depression symptoms in women. They found that frequent IPV and tobacco use was correlated with higher depressive symptoms. Factors such as age, income, and alcohol were not associated with depressive symptoms. The study suggests that incorporating measures assessing the frequency of IPV and tobacco use could benefit survivors in treatment. https://doi.org/10.1080/15299732.2020.1869646

Parenting in Matched-Pairs of Women of Color Experncing Intimate Partner Violence Living with and Without HIV

Study-In-Brief: Our study explored the associations between depression and parenting among women of color with low-income levels exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV) and HIV. We found an association between depressive symptoms and negative parenting, which was moderated by HIV status. These findings highlight the added burden that a physical health condition puts on parenting practices and the need to develop family-based strategies to decrease these practices. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.22737

Upending Racism in Psychological Science: Strategies to Change How Science Is Conducted, Reported, Reviewed, and Disseminated

Study-In-Brief: This study aimed to consider anti-racist steps needed to improve psychological science. This article presents examples of epistemic oppression within psychological science, including how science is conducted, reported, reviewed, and disseminated. This article offers a needed contribution by providing specific concrete recommendations for different stakeholders, including those involved in the production, reporting, and gatekeeping of science as well as consumers of science. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000905

Social Support as a Moderator Between Syndemics and Posttraumatic Stress Among Women Experiencing Adversity 

Study-In-Brief: Our study looked at the relationship between experiencing one or more of the adversities that make up the SAVA syndemic (Substance Abuse, Violence, and AIDS/HIV) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in women. We found that experiencing more than one SAVA was associated with higher PTSS. Additionally, social support moderated the relationship between SAVA and PTSS, with women who experienced one SAVA and high social support showing lower PTSS, while women with exposure to one SAVA and low levels of social support had higher levels of PTSS. These findings demonstrate the effect of co-occurring adversities on PTSS, and also indicate the protective role that social support can play in this relationship. https://doi.org/10.1080/10926771.2020.1783732

Diversity Accountability Index for Journals (DAI-J): Increasing Awareness and Estabilshing Accountability Across Psychology Journals

Study-In-Brief: In order to hold publishers accountable for promoting diversity and diminishing racism in psychological science, a table with 25 benchmarks was created. Journals can be rated from 0-2 on their ability to include diversity within their publications and research. A score of 0 entails less than 24% of publications met the criteria, while a score of 2 indicates that more than 33% met the criteria. Examples of benchmarks include the recruitment of diverse samples or the use of diversity science approaches. https://psyarxiv.com/zp9em

The Protective Roles of Ethnic Identity and Community Cohesion on Substance Use Among Black Women Experiencing Adversity

Study-In-Brief: This study seamlessly intertwined the roles that ethnic identity and community cohesion play in lowering substance use among Black women. Results showed that Black women facing adversity can benefit from a strong sense of ethnic identity and greater unity within their community as these protective factors can significantly lower substance use.  https://doi.org/10.1080/15332640.2019.1622477 

Developmental Assets, Defiance, and Caregiver Communication Among Black Adolescents with High Body Weights

Study-In-Brief: In our study, we used a strengths-based approach to assess whether adolescent assets strengthen or weaken the relation between adolescent oppositional defiant behaviors and adolescent-caregiver communication among Black adolescents with high body weights. Overall, assets were associated with adaptive adolescent–caregiver communication and acted as a buffer among Black adolescents with high body weights. Our findings highlight the value of strengths-based interventions among adolescent–caregiver dyads who experience barriers to open communication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-021-02043-w

Anti-Racism Strategies in Pediatric Psychology: Using STYLE Can Help Children Overcome Adverse Experiences with Police

Study-In-Brief: This project introduces STYLE (Self-examination, Talk about community-police relations and racism, Yield space and time to anti-racism work, Learn about how structural racism impacts child health, Evaluate policies and practices through an anti-racism lens). STYLE offers a framework through which professionals in pediatric psychology can engage in anti-racist work across contexts from clinical care to academic and advocacy settings.   https://doi.org/10.1007/s10880-021-09804-1 

Examining Resource-Driven Resilience and Intimate Partner Violence in Women

Study-In-Brief: Our study investigated how resilience resource variables across the social ecology cluster relate to an individual's ability to bounce back after experiencing IPV. Four resource profiles emerged: (a) generally high (GH); (b) low individual and cultural (LIC); (c) high physical (HP); and (d) low social (LS). These findings suggest nuanced variations in resources and resilience among women exposed to IPV. https://doi.org/10.1891/PA-2020-0017

Weight-Focused Public Health Interventions - No Benefit, Some Harm

Study-In-Brief: This study assessed the efficacy of weight-related public health interventions in youth. In a study done by Madsen et al, it was found that there was no difference in BMI between students whose parents were and were not notified. Furthermore, those who had their weight assessed had an increase in weight-related talk and a decrease in body satisfaction. Solmi et al found that between 1986 to 2015, youth reported higher intentions to lose weight, increased dieting, increased exercise, and increased youth identifying themselves as overweight. Those who perceived themselves as overweight were more likely to have depressive symptoms. The study concluded that weight-focused public health interventions were more damaging while interventions targeted at weight-related behaviors were more successful. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2772998   

Self-Reported Eating Disorders and Sleep Disturbances in Young Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study

Study-In-Brief: This study sought to determine if there is a correlation between eating disorders, disordered eating behaviors, and sleep disturbances in young adults. Self-reports of an ED diagnosis, restrictive eating behaviors (fasting/skipping meals), compensatory behaviors (vomiting, laxatives, weight loss pills), loss of control or overeating were used along with self-reported sleep disturbances (trouble falling or staying asleep) at a 7-year follow up. All four exposures predicted sleep disturbances in the follow up. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40519-020-00888-6 

Adolescent Engagement in a Binge-Eating Behavioral Health Intervention: Influence of Perceptions of Physical Appearance and Locus of Control

Study-In-Brief: Our study provided treatment to adolescents who struggle with binge eating and emotional eating. We were curious about how adolescent’s body image and beliefs about whether they can control their health would influence how well they responded to our emotional overeating treatment. We found that adolescents who believe that they have control over their own health and who have more positive body image had the best responses to our treatment. https://doi.org/10.3390/children8020102

Spirituality and Parenting Among Women Experiencing Intimate Partner Violence

Study-In-Brief: Our study looks at the relationship between parenting and the spirituality of female caregivers who suffered recent domestic violence by a current or former intimate partner. Our findings show that positive parenting practices, more comfort in talking about their experience with domestic violence, and less comfort discussing substance use were all related with increased spirituality. This shows the importance of parenting and communication strategies for female caregivers suffering recent domestic violence. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-020-00158-0

Associations Between Profiles of Maternal Strengths and Positive Parenting Practices Among Mothers Experiencing Adversity 

Study-In-Brief: This study examines how patterns of maternal strengths are associated with positive parenting practices using a latent profile analysis, which generated classes of individual, relational, and contextual factors to represent the profiles of mothers experiencing adversity. Results show that mothers who endorse greater individual, relational, and contextual factors utilize more positive parenting techniques. https://doi.org/10.1080/15295192.2020.1729611

2020


Associations between Spirtuality and Mental Health in Women Exposed to Adversity

Study-In-Brief: Our study explores the associations between demographics, HIV status, the severity of domestic violence by an intimate partner, spirituality, and symptoms of depressive, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress. Results demonstrate that women living with both HIV and experiencing severe domestic violence have increased mental health symptoms. Findings also revealed that spirituality has an effect on the relationship between HIV and mental health, such that higher spirituality is associated with greater mental health symptoms of depressive, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress.  https://doi.org/10.1037/rel0000254

Introduction to the Special Issue: Addressing Health Disparities in Pediatric Psychology

Study-In-Brief: This article aimed to move pediatric psychology from solely using the documentation of health disparities for understanding mechanisms driving disparities, to developing and testing interventions, strategies, and solutions for eliminating inequities. The authors came up with three main conclusions. The first being work surrounding pediatric health disparity should be centered around the correct Kilborne et al. (2006) phase. Second, authors should clearly define race during the design phase of research, include patient input on priority of population being studied, identify political/clinical implications of research, and cite BIPOC experts in systemic racism and health disparities. Lastly, diversity, inclusion, and health disparity topics should be acknowledged and discussed in the majority of pediatric psychology research. https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsaa066

An Exploration of U.S. Southern Faith Leaders' Perspectives of Sexuality and Sexual Health Teachings

Study-In-Brief: Our study provided strategies on increasing respectful and useful conversations to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS. We were curious to see how faith leaders in mainly Black congregations can help reduce HIV infections. We found that, although faith leaders felt comfortable discussing sexuality, the Scripture and the stigma around sexuality and homosexuality limited the conversations. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165734

The Role of Multiracial Identity and Integration in the Relation Between Racial Discrimination and Depression in MultiRacial Young Adults

Study-In-Brief: Our study explores whether an individual’s experience of racial conflict and racial distance affects the relationship between racial discrimination and depression. Results show that this conflict and distance does play a role in the relationship between racial discrimination and depression. However, further research is needed to pinpoint where this experience affects the relationship. https://doi.org/10.1037/pro0000315

How Peer Conflict Profiles and Socio-Demographic Factors Influence Type 1 Diabetes Adaption

Study-In-Brief: This study aimed to find a measure of peer conflict in youth with type 1 diabetes. Demographic variables, illness duration, adherence, quality of life, and peer conflict were reported by the youth with T1D; and HbA1c was extracted from medical records. A four-factor structure emerged; general friend conflict, general nonfriend conflict, T1D friend conflict, and T1D nonfriend conflict. Using latent profile analysis, four profiles were made; low overall conflict, moderate overall conflict, nonfriend conflict, friend conflict. The LOC profile reported the best glycemic control, and the FC profile had the lowest adherence behaviors.  https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsaa036

Childhood Exposure to Partner Violence as a Moderator of Current Partner Violence and Negative Parenting 

Study-In-Brief: In our study, we were interested in whether the mother’s exposure to domestic violence by an intimate partner as a child, and the amount of violence experienced with a current partner, has an impact on negative parenting practices. Our findings suggest that the association between current domestic violence severity and negative parenting practices was affected by the exposure as a child to domestic violence. This further shows the intergenerational nature of violence, meaning it carries over to the next generations. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077801219847291

A Cross-Sectional Examination of Intimate Partner Violence and Mother-Child Communication

Study-In-Brief: Although parent-child communication about substance use, violence, and HIV/AIDS may be a preventative factor for future generations experiencing the same, mothers have a hard time with this type of conversations. Our study focuses on factors that affect the mothers’ comfort with having these conversations. Results show that mother’s who are victims of and perpetrators of violence are less willing to communicate with their children about their experiences. We found that the child’s age is a significant factor in this relationship. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-019-01617-z

Acceptance-Based Skill Acquisition and Cognitive Reappraisal in a Culturally Responsive Treatment for Binge Eating in Adolescence 

Study-In-Brief: Our study focuses on Black adolescents who go through a 10-week group intervention to prevent their emotional-overeating and binge-eating behaviors. During this intervention, they learn skills like accepting reality, tolerating distress, regulating emotions, achieving personal goals, and more. Our results show the participants found that the acceptance-based skills were the most helpful part of treatment.                                        https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-019-01617-z

External Factors Associated with Community Cohesion in Women Living With HIV

Study-In-Brief: How can we increase community cohesion for women living with HIV (WLVH). Dr. Thurston and colleagues discuss how a higher level of resilience and social support can be strongly associated with community cohesion for WLWH as they face adversity on a daily basis. As we know that community connectedness has many benefits, their studies find that it serves as a protective factor along with support networks and positive, resilience resources. https://doi.org/10.1097/JNC.0000000000000123

Risk and Protective Factors Associated with Depressive Symptoms in Young Adults With Overweight and Obesity

Study-In-Brief: About 33% of college students are considered "overweight" or "obese", so Dr. Thurston and her colleagues looked into what role positive body image plays in their  depressive symptoms. In simple terms, the results show that more exercise and body positivity are associated with a lower level of depression symptoms.  https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2018.1536057  

48. Eating Disorders and Sleep Disturbances in Young Adults: A Prospective Cohort Study

Study-In-Brief: The study sought to determine the association between eating disorders, disordered eating behaviors, and sleep disturbance, and evaluate how depression contributes. The study was done on 12,082 young adults (aged 18-26). The study found that an eating disorder diagnosis, unhealthy weight control behaviors, and overeating/loss of control of eating were all significantly associated with trouble falling asleep and trouble staying asleep. The study’s recommendation was that clinicians that care for young adults with eating disorders (or who engage in disordered eating behaviors) should test for and intervene on sleep disturbances. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2019.11.051

Psychological Research Examining Antisemitism in the United States: A Literature Review

Study-In-Brief: In our study, we were interested in if factors that influence one’s development, such as parents, caregivers, the environment, etc., impacted one’s prejudice against Jewish people. Our findings show that there are several of these factors related with increased prejudice against Jewish people.                           https://www.muse.jhu.edu/article/767677

2019

The Differential Effects of Percieved Social Support on Adolescent Hope: Testing the Moderating Effects of Age and Gender

Study-In-Brief: This study sought to find a connection between the amount of social support received and levels of hope retained throughout adolescents. Perceived social support from parents significantly predicted later hope for adolescents, only moderated by age. However, perceived social support from other outlets, teachers, classmates, and friends, did not predict later hope. It is important for families to especially consider the developmental ages to emphasize providing support.                         https://doi.org/10.1007/s12187-019-9628-x 

From Conversion Toward Affirmation: Psychology, Civil Rights, and Experiences of Gender-Diverse Communities in Memphis 

Study-In-Brief: This article aimed to highlight a wide set of conversion strategies, especially toward Black transgender people in Memphis. In addition, it also focuses on the deliberate negative impact that Christian organizations have on access to affirmative care; as well as how the LGBTQ+ community has excluded many people on the terms of race, class, and gender identity. This lack of inclusion specifically causes Black transgender people to be less supported. Lastly, they cover affirmation and liberation. There are many things that impact the LGBTQ+ community in Memphis. Some of the most damaging are lack of access to affirmative care, the enforcement of binary conceptualizations of gender in medical practice, deliberate structural violence and abuse focused on changing gender identity/expression, and the pain that church environments can cause.Psychologists must step up and ally with the leaders that are acting, to provide care for the transgender community, especially in the fields of intersectional race and class justice issues. There must also be an intentional focus on documenting the roles of transgender and nonbinary people, especially those of color, in social justice movements.          https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000558

Implementing a Condensed Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Group for Binge Eating Behaviors in Adolescents 

Study-In-Brief: Binge Eating disorder (BED) can cause harmful psychological and physical effects on today’s youth. In this impactful study, a condensed dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills intervention is used to examine the emotionally driven over eating behaviors in participants ages 14-18. Results reveal that DBT can be a potential remedy to  the Symptoms of BED and potentially to the full development of it as well. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40519-018-0580-4 

Positive Strategies to Enhance Problem-Solving Skills (STEPS): A Pilot Randomized, Controlled Trial of a Multicomponent, Technology-Enhanced, Customizable Antiretroviral Adherence Intervention for HIV-Infected Adolescents and Young Adults 


Study-In-Brief: Adolescents in the United States are disproportionately impacted by HIV, and strict adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for optimal effects. However, adolescents face unique barriers to adhering to daily medication regimens. The "Positive Strategies To Enhance Problem-solving Skills (Positive STEPS)" intervention was developed to address these barriers by combining five counseling sessions with daily text message reminders. A pilot randomized controlled trial showed that the Positive STEPS intervention was practical and acceptable to participants, and resulted in significantly higher ART adherence compared to a standard-of-care group. Further testing of the intervention in a fully powered randomized controlled trial is needed to determine efficacy.          https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0000558 

2018


The Mediating Role of Internalized Weight Stigma on Weight Perception and Depression Among Emerging Adults: Exploring Moderation by Weight and Race

Study-In-Brief: Our study took a look at how internalized weight stigma (IWS), or self-directed ridicule about one’s body size, is related to depression and how one perceives their body size in young adults. We found that in higher-weight and lean, Black individuals, IWS influences the relationship between how one perceives their body size and depression.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2018.10.004  

Resilience as a Moderator Between Syndemics and Depression in Mothers Living With HIV

Study-In-Brief: Researchers examined the co-occurrence of substance abuse, violence, and HIV/AIDS (SAVA) adversities in mothers living with HIV. They were also concerned with how resilience can serve as a moderator in this relationship. Using a syndemic conceptual framework, findings showcased that SAVA adversities heightened depression in mothers living with HIV while resilience was a protective factor that lowers these effects. https://doi.org/10.1080/09540121.2018.1446071 

Description of an Intervention to Treat Binge-Eating Behaviors Among Adolescents: Applying the Template for Intervention Description and Replication

Study-In-Brief: Our team designed a 10-week group intervention that teaches dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) skills to adolescents that struggle with binge and emotional eating, called the Emotional Overeating Intervention. In this paper, we describe a checklist that can be used for other researchers and clinicians to apply this intervention. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.22954 

Relating Shape/Weight Based Self-Esteem, Depresion, and Anxiety with Weight and Perceived Physical Health Among Young Adults

Study-In-Brief: This study examines the effects of self-esteem, depression, and anxiety on weight and perceived physical health in young adults. Latent profile analyses revealed 3 profiles: 1) High Shape/Weight Influence (HSWI), 2) Low Shape/Weight, Depression, and Anxiety Influence (LSWDAI), and 3) High Depression and Anxiety Influence (HDAI). Findings demonstrate that overvaluation of shape and weight is associated with elevated weight and worse perceived health. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2018.04.003 

The Moderating Role of Resilience on the Relationship Between Perceived Stress and Binge Eating Symptoms Among Young Adult Women

Study-In-Brief: Our study examines the protective role of resilience when looking at the relationship between stress and binge eating symptoms among adult female college students. While higher stress levels were significantly associated with serious binge eating symptoms, resilience was found to level out this relationship. High resilience levels were also associated with less serious binge eating symptoms in participants who viewed themselves as having high stress levels.                      https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2018.03.009 

Systemic Factors Associated with Prosocial Skills and Maladaptive Functioning in Youth Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence

Study-In-Brief: Unfortunately, It is not rare for children to witness sexual, physical, and /or psychological intimate partner violence (IPV) in their household. Exposure to IPV can be detrimental but can also build resilience as a result. This study found that after examining youth maladaptive functioning and pro social skills, exposure to IPV can produce positive or negative functioning outcomes. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260518766420 

To Screen or Not to Screen: Overreliance on Risk Without Protective Factors in Violence Research

Study-In-Brief: The article discusses the development of an algorithm by Cohen et al. to identify which adolescents are most likely to perpetrate partner violence. The algorithm focuses on identifying risk factors for physical and sexual violence perpetration, such as domestic violence exposure, childhood maltreatment, and deficits in conflict resolution. However, there are ethical concerns about labeling adolescents as perpetrators of future violence so early in life and the potential stigma associated with such labeling. Additionally, the article suggests the need for a more balanced assessment of multilevel protective factors and the use of a guiding theory, such as syndemics, to select relevant study variables. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for caution in applying perpetration screening tools without considering contextual variables and the stigmatizing consequences of labeling.

https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2018-0075 

Black and White Parents' Willingness to Seek Help for Children's Internalizing and Externalizing Symptoms

Study-In-Brief: This study examines factors which influence parent’s intentions of seeking formal and informal help for child internalizing and externalizing psychopathology. Results demonstrated that problem recognition was linked with higher intentions of seeking help from almost all informal and formal resources. The study underscores the importance of reducing barriers to help-seeking and increasing parent’s problem recognition to improve health equity. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.22495 

JPP Student Journal Club Commentrary: Toward a More Complete Understanding of Disruption and Resilience Among Latino and Non-Latino White Youth with Spina Bifida

Study-In-Brief: This commentary discusses a study conducted with Latino and non-Latino White youth with spina bifida and how family functioning impacts their psychosocial functioning. The study highlights the importance of examining disruption and resilience in the context of chronic illness across racial and ethnic identities, and a need for more research that examines psychosocial and family dynamics in Latino youth with spina bifida.              https://doi.org/10.1093/jpepsy/jsx143 

Interdisciplinary Management of Pediatric Obesity: Lessons Learned in the Midsouth  

Study-In-Brief: The Healthy Lifestyle Clinic (HLC) is a weight management clinic aimed at combating the high rates of pediatric obesity and related health problems in the midsouth region of the US. The clinic evaluated 609 patients during its first two years, with a subset of 380 patients, primarily non-Hispanic black (67.1%) with severe obesity, being followed for at least 6 months. The cohort had high rates of insulin resistance and other comorbidities, and many faced challenges due to limited resources for lifestyle and behavioral changes. This article discusses the challenges faced by the clinic in treating pediatric obesity and offers guidance for emerging programs, as well as highlighting the need to investigate environmental and cultural factors that contribute to high attrition rates in treatment. https://doi.org/10.1177/0009922817730345 

Protective Factors Associated with Fewer Generalized Anxiety Disorder Symptoms Among Women Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence

Study-In-Brief: There is not enough literature on generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)  as it can co-exist within women who are exposed to Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). In this paper, Dr. Thurston and colleagues examine GAD and the protective roles of essential support systems such as family, community, and friends as it relates to IPV. Results showcased the importance of examining various supports for women who are experiencing IPV. https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260518817027 

2017


Longitudinal impact of weight misperception and intent to change weight on body mass index of adolescents and young adults with overweight or obesity

Study-In-Brief: This study took previous research about weight perception and weight loss, and focused on the indirect effect of weight change intention in the relationship between weight perception and BMI change. The sample was made up of over 2,000 overweight/obese adolescents; associations between weight perception status (accurate or not) and weight loss intent on BMI change were examined. An accurate perception was linked to a higher likihood to report weight loss intention. Howeve, weight change intention did not emerge as an indirect effect. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2017.08.002

The Mediating Role of Apperance Comparisons on the Relationship Between Negative Appearance Commentary and Binge Eating Symptoms

Study-In-Brief: This study looked at the impact of negative comments about appearance on binge eating in college women. The study included 317 women from universities in the southwest and midsouth US, and controlled for body mass index. Researchers found that appearance comparisons to others play a role in the relationship between negative appearance comments and binge eating. The study suggests that interventions for eating disorder psychopathology among college women should address the impact of negative appearance commentary and appearance comparisons simultaneously.     https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eatbeh.2017.03.008 

Qualitative Comparison of Barriers to Antiretroviral Medication Adherence Among Perinatally and Behaviorally HIV-Infected Youth

Study-In-Brief: This study involved 30 interviews with youth who were HIV positive through behavioral (i.e., through unprotected sex) or perinatally (i.e., a pregnant person living with HIV passed it to them as a baby). The goal was to determine things that got in the way of taking their antiretroviral medication so that future interventions could be improved upon. For youth who were perinatally infected, barriers included reactance, complicated regimens, HIV fatigue, and difficulty transitioning to autonomous care. Youth who were behaviorally infected had barriers such as HIV related shame and difficulty initiating medication. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049732317697674

Protective Misperception? Prospective Study of Weight Self-Perception and Blood Pressure in Adolescents with Overweight and Obesity 

Study-In-Brief: This study aimed to examine the connection between weight under perception in adolescents and future blood pressure. A nationally representative sample of overweight and obese adolescents was used along with a multivariable linear regression. Smoking, alcohol consumption, household income, age, gender, education level, race/ethnicity, and BMI were controlled for. Youth with weight underperception were found to have lower blood pressure as adults. When gender was stratified, it was found that weight underperception is greatly beneficial to young women, but not so much for young men. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jadohealth.2016.12.017

Condom Carnival: Feasibility of a Novel Group Intervention for Decreasing Sexual Risk

Study-In-Brief: This study examined the effects of a brief, peer-led, group sexual risk reduction program in a predominantly Black young adult population. Participants reported significant increases in lubricant safety awareness and intentions to use condoms, but only three-quarters of participants endorsed the intention to always carry a condom. Findings point to a need to explore the disconnect between the intention to use and the intention to carry a condom and develop strategies to promote condom carrying among young people. https://doi.org/10.1080/14681811.2016.1252741

Children's Attitudes Toward Aggression: Associations with Depression, Aggression, and Perceived Maternal/Peer Resonses to Anger

Study-In-Brief: Our study sought to examine self, peer, and parent factors that contribute to children’s attitudes toward aggression. Using a sample of 3rd-5th grade children in which boys and girls were analyzed separately, depressive symptoms, peer overt aggression behaviors, and perception of maternal and peer responses to anger were assessed as predictor variables for maladaptive attitudes toward aggression. For girls, there was a positive correlation between depressive symptoms and maladaptive attitudes toward aggression. In boys, child-reported supportive maternal responses to the child’s anger was negatively correlated with maladaptive attitudes toward aggression while peer-reported overt aggression positively predicted these attitudes. These results highlight the importance of studying social predictors for aggression and how they differ based on gender, and indicate potential targets for future interventions. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-016-0612-5 

Cross-Sectional and Prospective Examination of Weight Misperception and Depressive Symptoms Among Adolescents with Overweight and Obesity

Study-In-Brief: This study examined associations between weight misperception and depressive symptoms among higher weight (BMI categories of “overweight” or “obese”) youth of cross-cultural backgrounds. Findings demonstrate that misperceiving weight as “average” was associated with significantly lower depressive symptoms compared to those whose weight perception matched with their BMI, particularly among White youth. Clinical and population interventions should consider the benefits of weight misperception on mental health in the context of higher weight youth.        https://doi.org/10.1007/s11121-016-0714-8 

Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, and Nutritional Risk Profiles and Relations to Body Mass Index, Obesity, and Overweight in Eighth Grade

Study-In-Brief: In this study, varying patterns of physical activity, sedentary behavior, and nutritional intake and its effects on youth demographics, BMI, and psychosocial functioning were determined from the 2007 8th Grade Early Childhood Longitudinal Study Cohort. Differing patterns of physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and nutritional intake were found to predict the BMI and psychosocial functioning. https://doi.org/10.1080/08964289.2015.1039956