Hysteria has been historically linked primarily to women; however, its importance in men has recently gained attention. This is why we found it interesting to study male hysteria. Therefore, understanding psychopathological theories offers a valuable framework for highlighting its clinical characteristics.

Describe the main psychopathological theories of male hysteria and its key clinical specifications referring to the theories.

We conducted a narrative literature review of articles and thesis published between 2009 and 2022, using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and HAS (Haute Autorité de Santé) with predefined keywords such as “men”, “hysteria”, “masculine” and “conversion”. This review culminated in a narrative synthesis that aims a cohesive discussion integrating key findings from the literature.

The bibliography first distinguished between two pairs in order to define masculine hysteria: Anatomical (male/female) and psychological (feminine/masculine), highlighting that masculine hysteria can occur in both men and women. Therefore, a male may identify with either masculine hysteria or feminine hysteria, the latter of which can be related to male homosexuality.

Research indicates that masculine hysteria is associated with theories of sexual identity conflict, which involve the repression of feminine traits and fears of castration. Additionally, cultural norms often restrict men’s emotional expression, favoring strength over vulnerability, along with personal, relational, and environmental influences.

Clinical observations suggest that masculine hysteria typically presents with physical symptoms and dramatic expressions. The type and intensity of these symptoms may vary based on different early life experiences.

Referring to literature, the specific clinical signs leading to a diagnosis of men hysteria seem to be difficult to identify and not well developed. We also concluded that hysteria is too much related to lived gender rather than anatomical gender.

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The biopsychosocial theory (Paris, 1996) considers the complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors in the development and manifestation of borderline personality disorder. Among the environmental factors are unstable family relationships, unresolved traumatic experiences, and adverse life events that can foster alexithymia and dissociative defense mechanisms, as supported by several studies in the literature (Carano et al., 2011; Caretti et al., 2005; Macrì et al., 2022).

The present study aims to investigate these constructs in a population of borderline patients admitted to the Psychiatry Department at Bufalini Hospital in Cesena.

The sample was selected using the SCID PD (Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5), followed by the administration of the following scales: TAS-20 (Toronto Alexithymia Scale), DES II (Dissociative Experiences Scale), SHI (Self-Harm Inventory), and BSQ (Body Shape Questionnaire). Multivariate analyses were applied, including non-parametric correlations (Spearman’s Rho) between variables using SPSS software.

The sample consisted of 20 individuals (F = 17; M = 3) with a mean age of 27.57 years (SD = 7.83). Regarding the TAS, 85% of the participants reported clinically significant scores (Tot >50) compared to the healthy adult population, whose Italian mean is 44. For the DES, 70% of the sample reached clinically significant scores (Tot >30), whereas the healthy adult population scores below 10.

The data revealed a statistically significant positive correlation between high TAS-20 and DES II scores, indicating a relationship between alexithymia and dissociative symptoms. Furthermore, while a trend toward correlation was observed between TAS-20 and BSQ, as well as DES II and BSQ, and SHI and BSQ, these correlations were not statistically significant.

In line with previous literature, most individuals with borderline personality disorder exhibit alexithymia (85%) and experience dissociative episodes (70%). The present findings demonstrate a significant relationship between alexithymia and dissociative symptoms, highlighting how individuals with greater difficulty recognizing and describing their emotions tend to report more frequent episodes of depersonalization and derealization. This suggests that those with such difficulties may use dissociation as a defensive strategy to avoid intense emotions and stressful situations. Additionally, it would be valuable to further explore the relationship between body satisfaction, dissociative symptoms, alexithymia, and self-harm, as these manifestations may be linked to emotional processing difficulties. These findings contribute to a better understanding of emotional and dissociative dynamics in patients with borderline personality disorder and underscore the importance of integrated assessment during treatment.

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Considering the need to conduct studies on the treatment of BPD and considering the high prevalence of this disorder and its negative effect on the quality of life, especially in young age range and possibility of this disorder being in the Bipolar spectrum, it is necessary to investigate the effect of lithium on mood improvement in patients with BPD. So, this study aimed to investigate the effect of lithium on mood improvement in these patients.

Due to the lack of an FDA approved treatment, as well as discussed in the introduction, we dicided to compare the effect of lithiumin mood improvement in this disorder with the effect of other mood stabilizers and antipsychotics.

For this reason, we reviewed the published articles on the effects of other mood stabilizers and antipsychotics on improving the mood of this patints and compare them with those related to lithium in order to make better treatment decision.

This study presents a comprehensive review of the studies conducted related to the effect of lithium in improving mood in BPD patients. We conducted a systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines of published and indexed articles from the following databases;

EMBASE, MEDLINE, Google scholar, SCOPUS.Cochrane Library, PsycINFO.

KEY WORD: Lithium, Mood stabilizer, borderline personality disorder. Of the 131 retrieved articles, 9 included our inclusion criteria.

The review of 9 selected studies showed that lithium is useful in reducing emotional and impulsive behaviors, mood stabilization and suicidal tendencies and was more effective than placebo in preventing recurrence of mood disorders. In the study significant heterogeneity was found between all group of patients which could be due to the difference in the selection of participants and different exposure in the pre-study phase. Quantitative data on participants general health and social functioning were not reported and the direction of effect was the same in all studies.

No studies reported a negative effect for lithium and compared to other mood stabilization, it is more effective in controlling emotional and mood changes and aggression, also its side effects are less if controlled regularly and consistently. However, due to the small number of studies in this field and small sample size in studies, we suggest that more studies be conducted in all age groups.

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Tattoos, once viewed primarily as symbols of rebellion or cultural affiliation, have become increasingly prevalent and socially accepted across diverse populations. This shift raises questions about the psychological motivations behind body art, particularly in individuals with personality disorders.

These case studies explore the potential significance of tattoos in the context of personality psychopathology, examining how tattoos may serve as externalized representations of inner conflicts, identity fragmentation, and unmet emotional needs.

Through the lens of theory, we will discuss how tattoos can function as a form of self-expression and self-regulation, offering insight into defense mechanisms such as splitting, projection, and sublimation in individuals with borderline, narcissistic, and antisocial personality disorders.

The presentation will also explore the therapeutic implications of tattoos, considering their potential as entry points for understanding the symbolic and emotional worlds of patients with personality disorders. We will also reflect on the clinician’s role in addressing tattoos in psychotherapy, balancing sensitivity with inquiry, and understanding how body art may influence the therapeutic alliance.

Through the session we aim to deepen our understanding of tattoos as meaningful psychological markers in modern psychiatric practice.

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The study of the neurobiological characteristics of borderline personality disorder (BPD) in youth is actual due to its high prevalence, but quantitative EEG studies of BPD have yielded mixed results.

The aim of the study was to assess the EEG features in patients with different clinical subtypes of borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Total of 52 patients aged 16-25 years (mean age 20.4±3.2 years) with BPD (F60.31 by ICD-10) were enrolled in the study. Three groups of patients with different subtypes of BPD (with predominance of “affective storm”, “addictive adrenalin mania” and “cognitive dissociation”) were identified based on clinical and psychopathological characteristics. A pre-treatment multichannel resting EEG was recorded with measurements of EEG spectral power and coherence in narrow frequency sub-bands. Between-group differences in clinical and neurophysiological parameters were identified using Mann-Whitney criteria.

The groups did not differ in EEG spectral power values, but significant (p<0.05) differences between the groups were revealed in the spatial organization of the EEG namely in the number of “highly coherent” functional connections (with coherence coefficients above 0.9) that was the least in the group with “cognitive dissociation”. Low values of the number of such connections in the alpha2 EEG sub-band (9-11 Hz) in the frontal-central-temporal brain regions reflect a relatively poor functional state of the prefrontal cortex in this group.

The noted features of the spatial functional organization of brain activity in patients with different BPD subtypes may underlie differences in their clinical conditions, in control of emotions and behavior.

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Hostility is defined as an enduring tendency in individuals to perceive the opinions and actions of others as negative or to anticipate aggression. This study examines how the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission of a critically ill family member influences the hostility levels of their relatives.

This study aims to assess the hostility levels of family members of ICU patients, focusing on their sociodemographic characteristics and the closeness of their relationship to the patient.

The study included first-degree relatives, close relatives, and intimate friends of ICU patients. Data were collected via written questionnaires completed by relatives during the first week of the patient’s ICU stay. Instruments used were a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Hostility and Direction of Hostility Questionnaire (HDHQ).

A total of 223 family members (mean age: 41.5 ± 11.9 years), representing 147 critically ill patients, participated. Among the participants, 81 (36.3%) were male and 142 (63.7%) were female. The majority were the patients’ children (40.8%), siblings (19.3%), or companions (16.1%). The mean hostility scores for male and female relatives were 20.54 ± 8.16 and 19.36 ± 7.43, respectively, with no statistically significant difference (P = 0.271). However, a statistically significant difference (P = 0.030) was found between relatives living in the same household as the patient (21.38 ± 8.47) and those living separately (18.92 ± 7.13).

This study highlights elevated hostility levels among relatives of ICU patients, suggesting that hostility may fluctuate in response to external stressors such as the critical illness of a loved one. The findings support the notion that hostility, while a personality trait, may also function as an adaptive behavior influenced by situational challenges, such as those faced when a family member is admitted to intensive care.

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Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is primarily characterized by emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and unstable relationships. While much of the research on BPD focuses on its impairments, recent studies suggest a possible link between certain BPD traits and enhanced creativity. Emotional intensity, cognitive disinhibition, and non-linear thinking—common in individuals with BPD—are also characteristics frequently associated with creative processes. This review aims to synthesize existing literature exploring the connection between BPD traits and creativity.

The primary objective is to review and summarize the existing literature on the association between BPD traits and creativity, focusing on how emotional and cognitive aspects of BPD may facilitate creative thinking.

A non-systematic review of the literature was conducted by searching academic databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar for articles published up to 2023. Search terms included “Borderline Personality Disorder,” “creativity,” “personality traits,” and “emotion regulation.” Articles were selected based on relevance to the topic, focusing on studies that explored the link between BPD traits and creativity.

The review identified studies showing a nuanced relationship between BPD traits and creativity. Individuals with BPD traits may access a wider range of emotional experiences, which can enhance creative expression. Impulsivity was linked to spontaneous idea generation and creative risk-taking, although it may also hinder the focus needed for refining creative work. Some research points out that the extreme emotional dysregulation associated with BPD can undermine creative productivity. While emotional intensity might inspire originality, it can also lead to difficulty in structuring ideas, or an inability to complete creative tasks. A few studies even suggest that high levels of interpersonal difficulties, common in individuals with BPD, may further complicate the consistent pursuit of creative projects, as social conflicts or emotional crises might divert focus and energy. In contrast, a smaller body of literature found that individuals with BPD traits might excel in creative fields that value expression, such as art, music, or writing, where emotional intensity and non-linear thinking can be channeled into meaningful creative outputs.

While the reviewed literature suggests that certain BPD traits may enhance creativity, the relationship is complex and multifaceted. Emotional intensity and impulsivity, while potentially beneficial for creative output, can also disrupt focus and long-term creative endeavors. Overall, while BPD traits may foster creativity, they also pose challenges to sustaining long-term creative productivity.

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Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) was historically an underdiagnosed condition in Kyrgyzstan, often identified only in extreme cases, such as when individuals engaged in self-harm or displayed severe emotional instability. Traditionally, psychiatric consultations for BPD were initiated not by the individuals themselves but by concerned family members, typically parents. As mental health was heavily stigmatized in Kyrgyz society, especially personality disorders, many individuals likely went undiagnosed or untreated.

From 2020 to 2022, the Institute of Behavioral Health at the American University of Central Asia (AUCA) identified only 15 cases of BPD, However, since 2022, there has been a significant rise in BPD diagnoses, with over 70 cases recorded in just two years.

This study aims to examine the factors contributing to the increase in BPD diagnoses in the Kyrgyz Republic over the past two years.

The study’s methodology includes the analysis of secondary data provided by mental health organizations, including the AUCA Institute of Behavioral Health, which has tracked BPD cases in recent years. Additionally, anecdotal reports from practicing clinicians offer insights into the evolving nature of mental health diagnoses and treatments in Kyrgyzstan.

Several key factors have contributed to the rise in BPD diagnoses in Kyrgyzstan over the past two years. First, socio-economic stressors have intensified, particularly following the political and economic challenges of 2022. Financial instability and high unemployment rates have exacerbated psychological stress for many individuals. These conditions often worsen emotional dysregulation, a core feature of BPD, particularly for those already predisposed to the disorder. Second, the proliferation of social media has played a notable role in shaping mental health patterns, especially among young people. Increased social media exposure has been linked to feelings of inadequacy, identity confusion, and emotional instability—all key components of BPD. Third, domestic violence and trauma remain significant public health concerns in Kyrgyzstan. BPD has long been associated with adverse childhood experiences, including emotional neglect, sexual abuse, and physical violence, making trauma a significant factor in the development of the disorder. As trauma rates rise, so too does the likelihood of developing BPD, especially in those with preexisting vulnerabilities. Moreover, the reduction in stigma surrounding mental health in recent years has also contributed to the rise in diagnoses. Consequently, mental health professionals are now diagnosing BPD earlier and more frequently than in previous years.

The sharp increase in BPD cases in Kyrgyzstan can be attributed to a combination of socio-economic, psychological, and cultural shifts. Addressing underlying socio-economic and trauma-related factors remains crucial.

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Personality disorders are often comorbid with anxiety and depression disorders, complicating the diagnostic process. Cancer patients with personality disorders who face the anxiety and discomfort associated with the diagnosis, symptoms, and medical treatment may encounter challenges. They might distort reality as a means of emotional self-preservation or display aggression.

This review seeks to delve into the challenges in cancer patients exhibiting dysfunctional personality traits or personality disorders.

A non-systematized literature review was carried out on PubMed and Google Scholar. The following terms were searched: (“personality disorders” OR “personality traits”) AND (“cancer” OR “cancer patients”).

Personality traits persistently influence behavior patterns, choices, environmental interactions, and stress responses. Personality can impact cancer development and progression through multiple avenues: by perpetuating unhealthy lifestyle behaviors rooted in personality traits; through negative affect such as depressive or anxious symptoms, as well as ineffective coping mechanisms; and by serving as an etiological factor for somatic diseases or mental disorders that predispose individuals to cancer. While some epidemiological studies have reported a positive association between personality and cancer development or progression, the majority find no significant correlation, leading researchers to conclude that there is no substantial link between personality and an increased risk of cancer.

Meeting the diverse challenges associated with cancer requires adaptability, flexibility, and resourcefulness. Research suggests that specific personality traits, like neuroticism and negative affectivity, are linked to lower quality of life among cancer patients, while extraversion and optimism are correlated with more favorable outcomes.

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Psychotic symptoms are frequently observed in individuals with borderline personality disorder. Numerous case reports in the scientific literature support this finding. This symptoms can significantly impair the patients daily functioning and quality of life. Antipsychotic medications have demonstrated efficacy in managing both psychotic symptoms and emotional dysregulation in this population.

This case report aims to explore the use of cariprazine in managing psychotic symptoms in patients with borderline personality disorder.

This case report describes a 28-year-old woman who sought mental health treatment for symptoms including emotional instability, lability, irritability, anxiety, and impulsivity. Her history includes childhood sexual abuse, which she identified as a significant source of distress. She also reported chronic auditory pseudo-hallucinations with derogatory content and visual pseudo-hallucinations of “small spiders.” She reported these experiences as distressing and disruptive to her daily life. The patient recognized the unreal nature of these hallucinations.

After initiating treatment with cariprazine 2.5mg, the patient demonstrated significant clinical improvement, including a reduction in the severity and impact of psychotic symptoms and a decreased risk of self-harm. Due to this positive response, cariprazine was continued, and the patient experienced increased emotional stability without requiring further acute care.

Studies have suggested the efficacy of second-generation antipsychotics in treating patients with borderline personality disorder. Beyond the remission of psychotic symptoms, these medications can lead to improvements in both affective and behavioral functioning.

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Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is characterized by instability in the area of one’s own self and affective reactions, instability in relationships, and impulsive behavior. BPD patients experience dissociative or quasi-psychotic symptoms much more often than the general population. These symptoms directly affect the daily functioning of patients, often preventing them from taking up professional work or having a stable family life. The etiology of dissociative experiences in BPD patients is still unknown. One of the biological models suggests that biological changes in the brain occur on the basis of a traumatic experience, which can produce symptoms. The arcuate fasciculus (AF) is a structure of white matter that interconnects Broca’s area and Wernicke’s area in the brain. AF is often considered in the context of research on psychotic symptoms. For this reason, we hypothesize that AF may be related to dissociative symptoms in BPD patients.

The aim of our study was to investigate a relationship between the integrity of AF and symptomatology of dissociation in patients with borderline personality disorder.

45 BPD subjects and 43 healthy controls (HC) participated in the study. A DTI analysis was performed on all study participants. The psychopathology of BPD was assessed using the Dissociative Experiences Scale - Taxon (DES-T). The AF analysis was then conducted using fractional anisotropy (FA) parameter.

BPD significantly more often than the control group experienced dissociative experiences. We could not identify differences in the integrity of the AF between the two groups. Nevertheless, we examined the correlation between the quality of the AF structure and the severity of dissociative symptoms (r=-0.0299, p=0.039).

The attenuation of the structure of AF may be involved in symptomatology of dissociation in patients with BPD. Further structural brain studies are needed in the BPD population.

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Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is one of the most prevalent and debilitating personality disorders in mental health. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affect, along with marked impulsivity.

Available epidemiological data suggest that BPD affects approximately 1-2% of the general population. However, variability in diagnostic criteria and assessment methodologies has made it difficult to obtain comparable results across different studies and geographic contexts.

This systematic review aims to synthesize current evidence on the epidemiology of BPD, exploring its prevalence and its sociodemographic correlates.

This systematic review focused on studies examining the prevalence of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in the general population, as well as the associated sociodemographic factors.

Articles that assessed the prevalence of BPD in adult community populations were included. BPD had to be diagnosed according to the DSM-IV, DSM-5, or ICD-10 criteria, and studies needed to use structured interviews or validated questionnaires. The minimum sample size for included studies was 300 participants to ensure the robustness of the data.

Studies focusing on specific populations (such as hospitalized patient groups) and those that did not differentiate between BPD and other personality disorders were excluded.

An extensive search was conducted in the PubMed and MEDLINE databases.

The initial search yielded a total of 325 results: 139 articles from PubMed and 186 from MEDLINE. Finally, 11 articles were included in the final review. The search and selection process is detailed in the provided image.

The prevalence of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in the general population varied considerably among the included studies. Notably, no studies from Africa or Asia met the inclusion criteria for this review, limiting the generalizability of the results on a global scale. Most of the included studies were conducted in European countries and the United States. Overall, the results suggest variability in BPD prevalence rates depending on geographic region and diagnostic methods employed.

Sociodemographic variables such as gender, age, ethnicity, education level, marital status, income level, location of residence, and employment status showed varying degrees of association with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

Image 1:

The final conclusions will be included in the full version of the systematic review, once all sociodemographic variables have been thoroughly evaluated. This detailed analysis will also assess the extent of these variables’ involvement, along with how the different diagnostic criteria used may influence the prevalence of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) observed in the samples from the various countries included in the study.

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Affective instability (AI) is a psychophysiological symptom reported in many neurological and psychiatric conditions. It has assumed more relevance in the psychiatric literature as a criterion for borderline personality disorder (BPD). Although extensively clinically used, its definition remains vaguely defined, and it ends up being used interchangeably with affective lability or emotional dysregulation, and it is often mistaken for mood lability, as described in bipolar disorders. To accurately diagnose this symptom and document variations in emotional experiences, it is essential to identify the factors associated with AI.

We aim to review the current definitions and conceptualizations of AI to provide more accurate use of the term.

Narrative literature review.

Current definitions of AI highlight the oscillation of emotions, often described as a series of intense emotional highs and lows that can shift within hours or even minutes, making it challenging for individuals to maintain a stable emotional baseline, significantly affecting an individual’s relationships, self-identity, and coping mechanisms. It is a complex construct, encompassing affective valence, affect amplitude, affective shifting with random patterning, reactivity thresholds to environmental triggers, and affective dyscontrolled modulation. Neurobiological research suggests that dysregulation in emotional processing areas of the brain, such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, may contribute to these rapid emotional shifts.

AI is a multifaceted construct with significant implications for mental health. The current definitions and conceptualizations underscore the complexity of emotional regulation and the need for a holistic approach to understanding and treating individuals experiencing these emotional fluctuations. Continued research into the neurobiological, psychological, and environmental underpinnings of affective instability will enhance the understanding of this phenomenon and improve treatment strategies for affected individuals.

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Alexithymia is a relatively stable personality construct that reflects the difficulty in distinguishing and describing one’s own emotions along with a concrete and externally directed style of thinking. Alexithymia increases the risk of development and worsens the course of several psychiatric illnesses, such as depression or addiction. It is also associated with the development of eating disorders and psychosomatic illnesses. Additionally, it has a negative impact on the ability to regulate emotions and is also associated with a reduced empathic capacity, interpersonal problems and even violent behaviors. Interestingly, in intimate partner violence, it has been observed that alexithymia is associated with both exercising and receiving abuse. However, social behavior, in dynamics of cooperation within pairs and groups of several individuals, has not been studied much in relation to alexithymia.

We evaluated the impact of alexithymia in social behavior in three aspects: generosity, trust and submission.

After completing an online survey that evaluated their levels of alexithymia using the TAS-20, as well as depression and loneliness, 67 participants (27 men), aged 19 to 46, attended our laboratory. There, after answering the PANAS survey, they played three economic games using tiles: the Dictator game, the Trust game, and the Public Goods game. Each participant played in a group of four, with three of the group members being confederates whose contributions were pre-established and consistent across all sessions and participants. In the Public Goods game, confederates initially contributed a significant percentage (80-95%) of their endowment in the first round, but in subsequent rounds, they drastically reduced their contributions to nearly nonexistent levels. After playing all three games, the PANAS was reassessed. Finally, on the same day as the face-to-face session, participants completed a second online survey that assessed cognitive and emotional empathy, early life adversity, resilience and perceived stress.

In the Public Goods game, the number of rounds in which participants contributed more than their initial contribution in the first round was used as a measure of submissive behavior. This variable correlated with the participants’ level of alexithymia (β=0.544). Additionally, this same index was also negatively associated with empathy and positively related to reported loneliness. A similar pattern was observed between alexithymia and empathy (β=-0.323) and loneliness (β=0.473). In contrast, total contributions made in the Public Goods game, the Dictator game (generosity), and the Trust game did not correlate with alexithymia.

Our results suggest that alexithymia is connected to greater submissive behavior in group interactions. It is possible that its link to reduced empathy and increased loneliness contributes to this behavior.

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Personality traits are enduring and stable characteristics that reflect an individual’s behaviour, thoughts and feelings. Research indicates that specific traits can affect not only the well-being of healthcare professionals but also their interactions with colleagues and patients.

This study aims to assess the personality traits of healthcare professionals using the Big Five Inventory (BFI).

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare personnel who consulted the department of occupational medicine of Hedi Chaker Hospital of Sfax to September 2024. The survey was conducted through a self-questionnaire that included sociodemographic data, lifestyles. We also used BFI which measures the Big Five personality traits through five key dimensions: extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism and openness.

The study involved 41 consultants (12 men and 29 women) with an average age of 31.2 ± 7.4 years. An urban origin was identified in 87.8% of the cases. Medical staff scored 3.36 ± 0.52 for extraversion, 3.21 ± 0.56 for agreeableness, 3.22 ± 0.61 for conscientiousness, 3.01 ± 0.78 for neuroticism and 3.2 ± 0.65 for openness. A significant association was found between neuroticism and urban versus rural origin (p=0.001). Moreover, associations were found between BFI dimensions: agreeableness with extraversion (p=0.007, r=0.41) and openness (p=0.002, r=0.46).

This study highlights the importance of assessing personality traits among healthcare professionals. Understanding these personality dimensions can provide valuable insights for improving workplace dynamics, enhancing team collaboration, and ultimately fostering better patient care outcomes.

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Severe personality disorders are characterized by deeply ingrained patterns of thought, behavior, and emotional functioning, along with impaired mental functioning in the areas of self-stability and identity formation. The challenges in interpersonal relationships and overall functioning result in a significant reduction in the capacity to adapt to social roles.

In this context, the present study aims to explore the severity of symptoms (SPrDP) in correlation with alexithymia (TAS-20) and dissociation (DES II) in individuals under the care of the Department of Mental Health of Forlì-Cesena.

The sample was selected using the SCID PD (Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5), followed by the administration of the following scales: SPrDP (Parma’s Scale), TAS-20 (Toronto Alexithymia Scale), and DES II (Dissociative Experiences Scale). Multivariate analyses were applied, including non-parametric correlations (Spearman’s Rho) between variables using SPSS software.

The sample consists of 55 individuals (F=38; M=17), of whom 42 have borderline personality disorder (BPD), 3 have narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), 6 have histrionic personality disorder (HPD), 3 have obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), and 1 has dependent personality disorder (DPD). The analysis did not reveal a significant correlation between SPrDP and the TAS-20 and DES II scales, although a trend was observed that could correspond to more compromised personality functioning in the presence of high scores on these scales. Furthermore, a statistically significant correlation was found between TAS-20 and DES II. Higher marginal means for TAS-20 were observed in individuals with OCPD. For DES II, the highest estimated marginal means were found in individuals with OCPD and BPD.

The symptom severity measured by SPrDP was not statistically significant in relation to TAS-20 and DES II. However, the presence of a trend between the scales suggests the possibility of further investigation with a larger sample. Additionally, the statistically significant correlation between alexithymia and dissociation may indicate that difficulties in identifying and managing intense emotions lead to the use of dissociative defense mechanisms. The higher average alexithymia scores in individuals with OCPD suggest a possible emotional rigidity with a tendency to control or suppress emotions. The frequency of dissociative symptoms observed in individuals with BPD and OCPD may indicate the centrality of alexithymia and dissociation in the impairment of emotional and relational functioning in severe personality disorders. Further studies are necessary.

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Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is characterized by important attachment issues and emotion dysregulation, particularly in response to psychosocial stressors. Emotions (mainly anger and sadness) may therefore be felt and expressed more intensively. Even though stress response is mainly regulated by cortisol, oxytocin is also involved in this response, and both hormones interact in a temporal dynamic. A previous pilot study carried-out by our group has shown that oxytocin displays less variation in naturalistic setting and lower reactivity during a stress task in patients with BPD when compared to healthy subjects.

We are now carrying out a larger-scale study to better understand the interplay between cortisol and oxytocin in every-day life and during stressful situations, but also which other factors may influence these hormonal changes like medication, hormonal contraceptives, childhood adverse events and other psychiatric comorbidities.

We aim to recruit 120 participants (60 per group). Each participant undergoes three visits. First visit: explanation of the global procedure and risks, signature of informed consent, as well as psychological screening and distribution of questionnaires and salivettes (to be returned during the second visit). Second visit: return of questionnaires and return of part of the salivettes collected during the morning + additional saliva sample and assessment of emotional state. Third visit: experimental procedures and return of remaining samples of salivettes collected in the previous days for circadian assessment (the afternoon of the second visit). Thus, the day of the third visit participants perform an experimental task, the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST), involving stress reactivity.

Currently, 28 BPD patients and 39 healthy controls completed protocol. We analyzed hormonal preliminary data of the first 20 participants of each group. Our initial analyses showed a hyporeactivity of cortisol during stress in BPD patients compared with healthy subjects (F= 5.27, p = .005).

Recruitment is still ongoing and further analyses will be conducted. Our study may offer a better understanding of the neurobiological underlying stress dysregulation in BPD, which may help to contribute to the development of new psychotherapeutic and pharmacological approaches.

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The war has affected every Ukrainian to some extent. With the mobilization comes the increased risk of people with dark triad traits (DT) (psychopathy, machiavellianism and narcissism) to be exposed to stress on the battlefield. Being vulnerable, these individuals are in need of protection for their mental health. One of such protections is the emotional intelligence (EI). This makes the relation between DT and EI highly valued as the basis for future development of effective measures against stress disorders for combatants.

The aim of this research is to study the existing knowledge exploring the relation between the emotional intelligence and dark triad traits and to determine the limitations of these studies.

In order to analyse this relation the literature review of scientific studies on the topic of the relation between the EI and DT was conducted.

The literature sources published in 1994-2023 years were reviewed for this study. 1,87% of studies showed that DT related negatively to general EI. 5,66% showed that some facets of DT related positively to some facets of EI, while 2,83% showed negative relation. 2,83% demonstrated that psychopathy (P) related positively to general EI, 13,21% reported negative relation, 0,94% showed no relation, 2,83% demonstrated mixed relation. 5,66% reported that some facets of P related positively to some facets of EI, while 38,68% discovered negative relation. 14,15% demonstrated that narcissism (N) related both positively and negatively to general EI, 4,72% observed no relation. 16,98% found that some facets of N related positively to some facets of EI, 21,7% showed negative relation. 5,66% demonstrated that M related positively to general EI, 7,55% reported negative relation. 10,38% found that some facets of M related negatively to some facets of EI.

Among reviewed papers most of them reported that some facets of DT related positively to some facets of EI, with P mostly relating negatively to general EI and some of its facets, N mostly relating positively to some facets of EI and M mostly relating negatively to general EI and some of its facets. Found and known limitations of mentioned studies included: sample population being too heterogenous, sample population including criminal offenders only, size of sample population being too small, use of self-report measures, lack of unified approach to measure EI, possibility of comorbidity influencing EI, possibility of individual’s secondary gain influencing EI measure, non-exclusion of individuals with mental disorders from general population. This highlights the need to take mentioned limitations into account in order to acquire accurate data in further research on the topic.

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Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is a complex psychiatric disorder often understood through a Western lens. This study explores AN in the Cambodian context, where the condition is not traditionally recognized, to uncover cultural and transcultural aspects of the illness.

This research aims to conduct an in-depth phenomenological exploration of AN cases in Cambodia, documenting the lived experiences of individuals and identifying cultural or transcultural elements within the universal description of AN.

Employing a qualitative research approach grounded in phenomenology, this study will involve in-depth interviews with Cambodian individuals experiencing AN. The data will be analyzed using both descriptive and interpretive phenomenological methods, ensuring the bracketing of researcher bias and fostering co-creation of interpretations.

Expected outcomes include a comprehensive phenomenological account of AN in Cambodia, shedding light on the lived experiences of individuals and potentially revealing unique cultural dimensions of the disorder. The study will contribute to the understanding of AN from a transcultural perspective, highlighting both universal and culturally specific aspects.

This research is anticipated to provide valuable insights into the phenomenology of AN in a non-Western context. The findings may have implications for clinical practice, research, and cross-cultural understanding of AN, emphasizing the importance of patient-centered approaches and the exploration of lived experiences in psychopathology.

S. Bora Grant / Research support from: International Exchange Award from the Renewing Phenomenological Psychopathology funded by the Wellcome Trust, R. Ngin: None Declared, S. Vilhem: None Declared

Søren Kierkegaard’s philosophy, particularly his exploration of anxiety, serves as a cornerstone in existential thought. His concepts of “authenticity,” “choice,” and the confrontation with the self underlie much of the contemporary understanding of anxiety as both a psychological and philosophical experience. Kierkegaard’s works, especially Either/Or, offer a profound analysis of human freedom, responsibility, and the resulting anxiety. The objective of this analysis is to bridge the philosophical with the practical and artistic, providing a multidimensional understanding of anxiety.

This study seeks to explore Kierkegaard’s conceptualization of anxiety, its application in psychotherapy, and its resonance in contemporary culture. Specifically, it investigates how these ideas can aid individuals in confronting existential anxiety in therapeutic settings.

A philosophical and qualitative approach is used, analyzing Kierkegaard’s Either/Or. The study incorporates interpretations from existential thinkers, psychotherapists and artists. Theoretical analysis is coupled with psychological insights, exploring anxiety as a pathway to self-awareness.

Kierkegaard presents anxiety as inherent to human freedom and choice. His stages of life—the aesthetic, ethical, and religious—represent different ways of engaging with anxiety. In the aesthetic stage, individuals pursue pleasure but encounter despair when they confront their limitations. The ethical stage offers structure but introduces existential guilt. The religious stage, requiring a leap of faith, is seen as the highest form of existence, where anxiety leads to transcendence. Kierkegaard’s ideas are reflected in existential psychotherapy, where anxiety is viewed not only as a symptom but as a catalyst for personal growth. Elliott Smith’s Either/Or album mirrors these themes, portraying modern struggles with freedom, despair, and self-doubt. Songs like “Between the Bars” and “Ballad of Big Nothing” articulate the tension between aesthetic escape and ethical responsibility, offering a visceral interpretation of Kierkegaard’s philosophical concerns.

Kierkegaard’s exploration of anxiety offers profound insights into human existence, emphasizing the need to confront, rather than avoid, existential dilemmas. His framework of life stages provides a guide for understanding the progression toward authenticity, where anxiety is a key driver. The study shows that Kierkegaard’s ideas remain relevant in psychotherapy, helping individuals navigate anxiety to achieve self-realization. Ultimately, this research affirms that embracing anxiety is crucial for personal freedom, growth, and authenticity, aligning with Kierkegaard’s vision of a life well-lived.

None Declared