Activators and inhibitors of the progression of psychopathological symptoms associated with psychologica abuse

Abstract

Objective The aim of this paper was to identify psychological factors that intensify (activators) or attenuate (inhibitors) the progression of subclinical psychopathological symptoms in young adults exposed to psychological abuse during childhood and adolescence.

Method The study included 416 respondents (mean age, 18.73 ± 0.81 years) with a history of psychological abuse by parents or guardians during childhood and adolescence. Empirical data were collected using standardized self-report measures. Correlation analysis and undirected network analysis were performed.

Results Exposure to psychological abuse was correlated with the severity of subclinical psychopathological symptoms. The “core” of the subclinical condition among survivors of psychological abuse comprised obsessive-compulsive symptoms, interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety, and depression. Network analysis identified two functional groups: inhibitors (autobiographical memory specificity, flexibility and modeling, availability of social support, and trait detachment) and activators (early maladaptive schemas, hostility, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and psychotic symptoms).

Conclusions The findings indicate the transdiagnostic nature of subclinical distress in young adults with a history of psychological abuse and provide a basis for developing a system of early clinical psychological interventions. Intervention targets and possible strategies are proposed, including strengthening inhibitors and modifying activators.