Same-gender couples face unique stressors that can impact relationship functioning, underscoring the need for culturally tailored, accessible interventions for this population. This study developed and tested a culturally adapted version of the evidence-based online OurRelationship program for relationally distressed same-gender couples. The tailored program included core activities from the OurRelationship program designed to address underlying relationship processes, enhanced with content addressing minority stressors, promoting relationship strengths unique to same-gender couples, and increasing representation of same-gender couples in program materials. The results showed significant within-group improvements over treatment in relationship satisfaction, emotional intimacy, communication during conflict, intimacy associated with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender identity, and several mental health symptoms (Cohen’s <em>d</em> = |0.41–1.07|), with a trend toward increased relationship confidence. No significant differences in treatment outcomes were found when compared to a matched subsample of mixed-gender couples who received the original, heteronormative version of the OurRelationship program in a previous study. Findings suggest that this adapted version is a promising and flexible intervention for distressed same-gender couples. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

The present study evaluated if transgender and nonbinary (TNB) adults in intimate relationships with other TNB partners (referred to as “transgender-for-transgender” or “T4T” relationships) have higher relationship satisfaction compared to TNB adults in relationships with cisgender partners (“TNB-cis” relationships) through the indirect pathway of partner gender affirmation. We recruited 256 TNB adults who were in relationships of at least 6 months. Approximately 55% of participants had cisgender partners, while 45% of participants had TNB partners. We utilized Hayes PROCESS models to assess the indirect effect of partner gender (cisgender vs. TNB) on relationship satisfaction through partner affirmation. All hypotheses were supported, demonstrating that TNB adults in T4T relationships reported higher levels of relationship satisfaction compared to TNB adults in TNB-cis relationships and preliminary evidence that this relationship functioned through the indirect pathway of higher reports of gender affirmation from their partners. Results suggest that T4T relationships may offer some strengths, on average, compared to TNB-cis relationships. Clinical implications include that partner gender affirmation may be a potential treatment target to improve relationship satisfaction in intimate relationships with one or more TNB partners. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Depression is associated with decreased relationship satisfaction, and identifying what may moderate this association is important for informing clinical interventions for individuals in romantic relationships and suffering from depression. Dyadic coping, how couples manage stress together, has been demonstrated to have strong associations with relationship satisfaction. Most past research on dyadic coping, however, has been conducted with predominantly White samples. To extend these findings, we conducted a study examining the associations between depressive symptoms, dyadic coping, and relationship satisfaction among Asian American individuals. We hypothesized that dyadic coping from a partner, particularly in the form of supportive dyadic coping (i.e., providing emotional or problem-focused support) and joint dyadic coping (i.e., both partners trying to manage stress and cope together), would moderate the association between depressive symptoms and relationship satisfaction. We found that supportive dyadic coping attenuated the relationship between depressive symptoms and relationship satisfaction, such that the negative association between depressive symptoms and relationship satisfaction was stronger when supportive dyadic coping was low and weaker when supportive dyadic coping was high. Supportive dyadic coping may be particularly beneficial for Asian American adults in romantic relationships with elevated depressive symptoms. This is important insofar as Asian Americans may be less likely than their White counterparts to adopt supportive dyadic coping. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

This study sought to understand the psychological and relational impact of infidelity in a sample of Colombian college students, their understanding of how this happened in their relationships, and how they coped with the aftermath. Participants were 16 women and five men (<em>M</em>_age = 21.5 years, <em>SD</em> = 2.0). The analytic method was thematic analysis, facilitating the identification of patterns (themes) within the data. Narratives about the relationship before the infidelity revealed patterns of conflict avoidance and gender-based inequality. In their explanations of the context of the infidelity, participants referred to relationship difficulties, gender-based social expectations, double standards about fidelity, and partners’ individual characteristics. Coping responses included both proactive efforts to maintain their well-being (taking care of own needs, seeking friends’ social support) and strategies to avoid dealing with emotions (drug abuse and casual sex). The implications of these findings for college-based relationship education programs are presented. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Anger is a significant problem for military veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Interventions designed to treat PTSD have been shown to decrease anger, which may be associated with improvements in psychosocial functioning. Couple-based PTSD treatments, which target both PTSD and relationship functioning, may be particularly useful for improving anger and associated psychosocial functioning. Thus, the present study sought to examine whether decreases in veterans’ and partners’ anger following participation in a brief couple-based treatment for PTSD (brief cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for PTSD) are associated with improvements in psychosocial impairment and relationship satisfaction, in addition to decreases in suicidal ideation. The sample included 184 veterans and their intimate partners (92 dyads). Each partner completed measures assessing several aspects of anger (angry temperament, angry reaction, and psychological aggression). Veterans also completed measures assessing their psychosocial impairment, relationship satisfaction, and suicidality. Latent growth curve models tested whether changes in anger over the course of treatment were associated with corresponding changes in veterans’ functional outcomes at the within-person and between-person levels. Findings showed that improvements in veterans’ anger were associated with improvements in their psychosocial impairment and relationship satisfaction over time. Partners’ psychological aggression was also associated with improvements in veterans’ psychosocial impairment over time. Neither veterans’ nor partners’ anger was associated with veterans’ suicidality. Findings add to the literature demonstrating that improvements in anger for both veterans and their partners in the context of PTSD treatment may be associated with improvements in broader psychosocial functioning for veterans. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Many studies have shown high rates of psychiatric comorbidity among post-9/11 veterans and highlighted the important role of intimate relationships in their functioning. However, none have identified (a) the degree of heterogeneity among profiles of veterans’ comorbid psychopathology symptoms and relationship satisfaction or (b) the predictors of which profile the veterans ultimately express. To examine this question, we used self-report survey data from 485 U.S. veterans in committed relationships across two timepoints (at baseline and 10-year follow-up) as part of the Veterans Integrated Service Network 6 Post-Deployment Mental Health Study. We conducted a latent profile analysis to examine (a) concurrent symptoms of depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and alcohol use and (b) relationship satisfaction at follow-up. Profiles were compared on military, psychological, physical, and contextual factors at each timepoint to determine which risk and protective factors predicted profile membership over time. A three-class solution identified a healthy group with minimal symptoms and higher relationship satisfaction (62.5%), a distressed group with clinically significant depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and lower relationship satisfaction (31.75%), and a mixed group with clinically significant depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and alcohol use and higher relationship satisfaction (6%). Veterans with higher levels of social support between baseline and the 10-year follow-up were more likely to be in the healthy group. Those in the mixed group were more likely to report higher lifetime trauma exposure and physical health symptoms over time. Ultimately, treatments for U.S. veterans should continue to consider comorbid symptom presentations, social support, and the integration of partners in health care as important clinical targets. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and their intimate partners often express a desire for partner involvement (e.g., communication with therapists) in veterans’ trauma-focused treatment, which can enhance treatment engagement and response. Although relationship satisfaction and PTSD symptoms in both partners may impact their interest in treatment involvement, there is a dearth of literature investigating these influences dyadically. The present study is a secondary analysis of data from veterans and their partners who completed a mailed survey as the veteran was beginning trauma-focused treatment through the Veterans Affairs (<em>n</em> = 211 dyads). We conducted an actor–partner interdependence model to examine the influence of veterans’ and partners’ relationship satisfaction, PTSD symptoms, and their interactions on each of their interest in having the partner talk with the therapist. Veterans were more interested in therapists speaking with their intimate partners when they experienced greater relationship satisfaction (β = .23, <em>SE</em> = 0.07) and when their partner had less relationship satisfaction and lower PTSD symptoms (<em>B</em> = −0.38, <em>SE</em> = 0.13). Intimate partners were more interested in speaking with the therapist when their own PTSD symptom severity was higher (β = .19, <em>SE</em> = 0.07) and when they experienced less relationship satisfaction and the veterans’ PTSD severity was high (<em>B</em> = −0.28, <em>SE</em> = 0.11). Results suggest the importance of considering interconnections between veterans’ and their partners’ PTSD symptoms and relationship satisfaction when determining when and how to encourage partner–therapist discussions during veterans’ trauma-focused treatment. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Behavioral parent training (BPT) is the gold standard treatment for behavior problems, but not all families benefit. Furthermore, it remains unclear whether adaptations to BPT such as mindfulness lead to improved outcomes. Separately from BPT, mindful parenting programs (MPPs) have been implemented with parents of children with problem behaviors. However, research examining BPT and MPP together is limited. This comparative account detailed the conceptual basis for these treatments, including their purported mechanisms, and compared elements in BPT and MPP protocols to identify unique and shared elements. Four shared elements in BPT and MPP were identified, while three MPP elements and one BPT element were identified as unique. This review considered limitations in the literature and suggested future directions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Parents of Black youth face numerous challenges when raising their children, such as promoting racial pride and preparing children for a racialized society. Racial socialization (RS) competency seeks to complement parents’ messaging by examining three distinct areas: skills, confidence, and stress. The current cross-sectional study explores how discrimination experienced by parents influences child behavioral outcomes and whether the relationship is moderated by RS competency. A sample of 359 Black parents from across the United States (<em>M</em>_age = 37.8) were asked questions regarding their oldest child under the age of 18 (<em>M</em>_age = 9.5). Black parents completed an online questionnaire that assessed their competency in RS conversations, experiences with racial discrimination, and perception of their child’s internalizing (i.e., feelings of sadness and unworthiness) and externalizing (i.e., aggression and combativeness) behaviors. Moderation analyses found that greater racial discrimination experienced by parents was associated with more child behavioral problems when parents’ RS stress was high and when RS confidence was low. Further resources should be directed toward parents who have experienced more frequent racial encounters, especially those who lack confidence in conveying RS messages. Future studies should investigate whether clinical interventions could increase parental RS competency and protect against negative child behaviors. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Anxiety sensitivity (AS), or fear of anxious arousal, has been posited as a risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but the origin of AS is less clear. Some have proposed environmental causes of elevated AS such as trauma exposure, but previous research has been inconsistent. Pinpointing AS as a risk factor for PTSD, and not simply an epiphenomenon of trauma exposure, is crucial in determining its relevance as an intervention target for those with PTSD. The current study examined trauma exposure, AS, and PTSD symptoms in a diverse cross-sectional sample of 404 undergraduates to elucidate trauma exposure’s role in heightened AS. We hypothesized AS, especially cognitive and physical subdomains, would be elevated among participants with trauma exposure and likely PTSD but not those with trauma exposure without PTSD or those without trauma exposure. Consistent with hypotheses, the analyses of covariance showed the highest levels of AS total and subdomain scores among those with trauma exposure and likely PTSD, with no difference between those with trauma exposure without PTSD and those with no trauma exposure (η² = .08). The results indicate AS is not simply an outcome of trauma exposure but a potentially relevant PTSD risk factor, underlining the potential value of AS-focused interventions in the prevention and treatment of PTSD. Future research should consider prospective designs and representative samples. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Opioid treatment programs (OTPs) are an important part of the U.S. strategy to address the opioid epidemic and reduce overdose deaths. OTP providers face a heightened risk for secondary trauma exposure and vicarious trauma (VT) reactions. This study is the first to characterize trauma, VT, and substance use histories among OTP staff and assess how these factors impact provider well-being. Staff across three OTP clinics (<em>N</em> = 40, 37.5% Hispanic/Latina) completed validated assessments of lifetime trauma, VT, posttraumatic stress, depression, anxiety, burnout, compassion satisfaction, and perception of workplace safety. Staff reported high rates of traumatic stress (62.5% with clinical symptoms) and VT (72.5% with moderate to high symptoms). Lifetime trauma exposure was associated with increased compassion satisfaction (β = .31, <em>p</em> = .04) and perceived workplace safety (β = .37, <em>p</em> = .04), while VT symptoms predicted higher burnout (β = .52, <em>p</em> < .01) and lower compassion satisfaction (β = −.39, <em>p</em> = .04). Staff with lived substance use disorder experience showed greater vulnerability to VT, including higher depression (β = .55, <em>p</em> = .02) and lower perception of workplace safety (β = −.51, <em>p</em> = .01). Results highlight the complexity of provider lived trauma and substance use disorder as both resilience and risk factors. To enhance provider well-being and quality of patient care, OTPs should implement strategies to reduce VT exposure and provide opportunities for staff to address trauma symptoms and participate in reflective trauma-informed supervision. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Mental health professionals working in the context of war face unique and complex issues related to trauma, stress, and mental health. However, little is known about the Professional Quality of Life (ProQoL) of these professionals in Ukraine since the Russian invasion. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the levels and possible predictors of compassion satisfaction, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress (STS) among Ukrainian mental health professionals. A sample of 137 Ukrainian mental health professionals completed an online survey about their ProQoL and their attitudes toward evidence-based practice between May 2022 and February 2023. Data were analyzed descriptively and through multiple regression. Participants reported moderate to high levels of compassion satisfaction (<em>M</em> = 40.63, <em>SD</em> = 4.13) and low to moderate levels of burnout (<em>M</em> = 19.74, <em>SD</em> = 3.69) and STS (<em>M</em> = 19.64, <em>SD</em> = 4.32). Attitudes toward evidence-based practice were associated with stronger compassion satisfaction and weaker burnout and STS. While working in the context of ongoing war is intensely stressful, mental health professionals in Ukraine reported favorable levels of ProQoL. Dissemination of evidence-based treatments might help to further improve the well-being of professionals working in contexts of war. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Exposure to disaster media coverage can result in negative mental health reactions, and this relationship has been observed for people directly exposed to a disaster and those who are not. Concurrently, the use of disaster media has been hypothesized to contribute to individual resilience and community resilience, which are protective against negative mental health reactions. Thus, there are possible negative and positive outcomes of disaster media use. The current study examined this dichotomy in adults affected by Hurricane Harvey. We found disaster exposure was related to worse posttraumatic stress (PTS) and depression after a disaster, though disaster media use was only connected to PTS. Additionally, more disaster media consumption was linked to more positive perceptions of community resilience, which was linked to fewer negative mental health reactions in a relationship mediated by individual resilience. Disaster media use was not directly related to individual resilience. From a resilience perspective, disaster media use is associated with perceptions of community resilience, which fosters individual resilience that is, in turn, protective against PTS and depression symptoms following a disaster. Implications and suggestions for future research in this area are suggested. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Co-occurring psychiatric problems can be conceptualized through their shared connectivity, such as whether there is a functional connection between them (dynamic) or not (static). This conceptual approach has been applied to case studies describing patients with co-occurring obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) following trauma exposure; yet, no study to date has examined the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of dynamic and static OCS and PTSS presentations. Accordingly, a convenience sample of 234 trauma-exposed adults with OCS (92% and 56% of whom indicated that they had been formally diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder, respectively) completed a series of self-report measures of trauma history, OCS, and PTSS. Most participants (88.5%) indicated a dynamic connection between their OCS and PTSS, endorsing more severe OCS and trauma-related cued emotional and physiological reactivity than those with a static presentation. Dynamic OCS and PTSS were also associated with a greater likelihood of being female, having indirect exposure to nontransportation accidents, and having direct exposure to sexual trauma and severe human suffering. Static presentations, conversely, were associated with direct exposure to a fire/explosion. Timing of OCS onset relative to trauma did not differ between individuals with static and dynamic presentations, suggesting that functional connectedness of symptoms may be more central to dynamic OCS and PTSS presentations than etiology. The findings support a holistic approach to assessment, conceptualization, and treatment of trauma-exposed individuals with OCS and PTSS. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Distal experiences of childhood maltreatment have been linked to allostatic load (AL) in middle adulthood. Despite findings that link maltreatment to AL, an indicator of cumulative physiological wear and tear, few studies have considered factors that contribute to changes in AL over time among survivors of maltreatment. Moreover, the moderating process and gender differences remain understudied. Change scores in stress were examined as a moderator of child maltreatment severity and AL over 12 years, and gender differences were tested. Using data from the study of Midlife Development in the United States, a sample of 479 adults was analyzed. Over approximately 12 years, adults participated in four waves of data collection that included surveys, telephone interviews, and fasting blood draws. Using the PROCESS macro, change scores in perceived stress moderated the association between child maltreatment and AL but only for women. Women who experienced a +1 <em>SD</em> increase in stress were associated with higher levels of AL. Changes in stress did not moderate the relationship between maltreatment and AL in men. The findings from the study indicate that as levels of childhood maltreatment and change scores in stress increased, so did AL among women. Addressing stress among midlife women would be a particularly fruitful area of prevention research. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected individuals both physically and mentally, emphasizing that mental health care workers are facing similar psychological difficulties and are not immune to mental illness. However, limited research exists on the mental health effects of the pandemic on mental health care workers, specifically those within the South African context. This study aimed to investigate the psychological effects of COVID-19 on mental health care workers in South Africa. Participants included 259 mental health care workers (i.e., clinical psychologists, counseling psychologists, counselors, and social workers) who completed a demographic survey and six electronic self-report questionnaires: Fear of COVID-19 Scale, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale, Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale, and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The results demonstrated that mental health care workers were experiencing lower levels of psychological distress compared to previous studies. The findings showed a significant relationship between COVID-19 fear and mental health outcomes (i.e., depression, anxiety, and loneliness) and a significant inverse association between resilience and social support and mental health outcomes. No moderating or mediating effects were found for resilience and social support relative to mental health outcomes. The study confirmed that the COVID-19 pandemic exhibited distinctive psychological effects on mental health care workers in South Africa. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Emergency nurses experience traumatic situations as part of their professional role, leaving them vulnerable to secondary traumatic stress (STS) and symptoms that negatively impact their well-being and ability to provide high-quality care. Emergency nurses have reported high STS levels, but the associations between demographic characteristics, coping strategies, and work-related factors with STS are unclear. This study aimed to describe postpandemic levels of this stress and explore demographics, coping, and work-related factors to identify explanatory variables of STS. Using a cross-sectional design with an online questionnaire, we collected data from nurses working in hospital-based emergency departments in the United States between June and August 2023. We used bivariate analysis to determine demographic, coping, and work-related candidate variables for further analysis. We then used multiple linear regression to explain the relationship of these variables to STS. Of 216 emergency nurses included in this study, 81% scored at or above the cutoff score for STS, with 60.6% scoring in the “severe” STS range. The regression model was significant, explaining 70% of the variation in STS. Several statistically significant coping strategies and work-related variables emerged, but no personal demographic variables were significant in the model. Differing from prior studies, this postpandemic study reported severe STS scores in this sample of emergency nurses. Modifiable variables identified in this study should guide strategic efforts to recognize STS and enable early intervention, prior to negative clinician and organizational impact. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Evidence suggests that racial discrimination plays a role in the development of posttraumatic stress disorder, but may also produce a set of symptoms that, while similar to posttraumatic stress disorder, has important distinctions from currently defined diagnoses. The Trauma Symptoms of Discrimination Scale (TSDS) was developed to evaluate the presence of trauma-related anxiety and avoidance symptoms that occur after experiencing discriminatory distress. Development and validation of symptom measures following discrimination are critical steps for understanding and measuring this construct empirically. Whereas initial validation of the TSDS provided evidence of good psychometric properties (e.g., internal consistency, convergent validity), this study aimed to confirm the factorial validity of the TSDS in a large sample of racial and/or ethnic minoritized students. A sample (<em>N</em> = 711) of undergraduate students at a large midwestern university completed the TSDS and additional self-report measures through an online platform. Confirmatory factor analysis suggested middling-to-poor fit for the original four-factor solution, resulting in subsequent exploratory factor analysis. However, factor retention methods (i.e., parallel analyses, scree plot inspection) failed to converge regarding the identification of an alternate factor structure. Thus, models ranging from one to five factors were conducted for descriptive purposes. Convergent validity was only supported for the TSDS total score. This study extends the existing literature by attempting to replicate the factor structure of the TSDS in a large sample of racial and/or ethnic minoritized students. These results indicate that its proposed factor structure lacks stability in the current configuration and warrants further exploration. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Child protective workers (CPWs) are at high risk for exposure to potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs). However, little is known about the types of PMIEs encountered by CPWs and the emotional and cognitive consequences of encountering PMIEs within this occupation. Forty-eight adults employed at the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services who had an occupational trauma exposure and PMIE exposure completed a survey that assessed for the CPW’s worst workplace PMIE, the frequency of exposure to PMIEs, PMIE-related deliberate and intrusive rumination, internalized shame, guilt, distress, depression, and anxiety symptoms. Each CPW’s worst workplace PMIE was coded using thematic analysis for the CPW’s role in the event, what occurred during the event, and who was responsible for the event. Participants mostly reported that their worst PMIE involved departmental betrayal, followed by child abuse or neglect. Correlational analyses revealed positive and large associations between PMIE-related shame with anxiety (<em>r</em> = .51) and depression (<em>r</em> = .55) symptoms. Correlations between PMIE-related guilt with anxiety (<em>r</em> = .34) and depression (<em>r</em> = .33) symptoms were moderate. Correlational analyses revealed positive and moderate to large associations between PMIE-related intrusive rumination with anxiety (<em>r</em> = .46) and depression (<em>r</em> = .39) symptoms and between PMIE-related deliberate rumination with anxiety (<em>r</em> = .38) and depression (<em>r</em> = .36) symptoms. Our findings suggest that CPWs commonly face PMIEs that involve systematic betrayal. Additionally, PMIE-related intrusive rumination and shame are strongly associated with psychopathology in CPWs exposed to PMIEs. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Childhood maltreatment (CM) is a critical risk factor for a wide range of long-term adverse outcomes, including marital distress; however, research on its dyadic effects on the marital system and the mechanisms underlying these effects remains limited. This study examined the dyadic associations between CM and perceived partner responsiveness (PPR), and the mediating role of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Method: A convenience sample of 277 mixed-sex, married couples completed self-report questionnaires. Analyses were conducted using the actor–partner interdependence model, which accounts for the dyadic effects between partners. Results: We found significant associations between CM and lower PPR, mediated by PTSS in both men and women. In women, PTSS fully mediated the link between CM and PPR, while in men, PTSS only partially mediated this relationship. Furthermore, a unique pathway was found where women’s CM experiences were indirectly associated with lower PPR in their male partners through women’s PTSS, indicating cross-generation and cross-partner associations of CM. Conclusion: The study highlights PTSS as a pathway through which CM is associated with PPR, potentially straining emotional connection within intimate relationships. These findings suggest that trauma-informed couples therapy could be beneficial when a partner is exposed to CM. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Child maltreatment (CM) in one generation can predict CM in the next, a concept known as the intergenerational continuity of CM. However, the specific forms of intergenerational CM remain unclear, and fathers are largely absent from this body of literature. This study examined second-generation CM typologies in families where intergenerational continuity was present and assessed the impact of parental CM on these typologies using multilevel latent class analyses. Method: Child protection data from families with confirmed intergenerational CM in Montreal were analyzed (<em>n</em> = 5,861 children). Two models were examined, one based on intergenerational CM on the mother’s side and the other on the father’s side. Results: In both models, four latent classes were identified: (a) sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect, (b) risk of CM, (c) psychological abuse and exposure to intimate partner violence, and (d) high polyvictimization. Child age and maternal histories of sexual and physical abuse were associated with child class membership, while no paternal CM experiences were associated. Conclusions: These findings clarify the co-occurrence of CM types and how parental CM influences child typologies of CM in a two-generation sample, providing crucial insights for CM prevention. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Recent research has increasingly focused on the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and prosociality, with debates due to inconsistent evidence. By comparing these studies, we assumed that different ways of classifying ACEs may affect the results of the analysis. Thus, we reviewed three theoretical frameworks for classifying ACEs and examined how these classifications impact the prediction on social mindfulness. Method: In Study 1, 781 Chinese university students (349 males, 432 females; <em>M</em>_age = 20.03) completed an online survey about social mindfulness and ACEs. In Study 2, as previous research indicates potential inconsistencies between self-report and behavioral measures, to further verify the findings of Study 1, 170 Chinese university students (50 males, 120 females; <em>M</em>_age = 21.17) completed a Social Mindfulness test and an ACE questionnaire. During the analysis, ACEs were classified using three frameworks: threat/deprivation, interpersonal/environmental, and process/context. Multiple linear regression, relative weight analysis, and Vuong’s test were used to assess and compare the predictive performance of these models. Results: The interpersonal/environmental model showed the strongest and most stable prediction of social mindfulness. Conclusions: The interpersonal/environmental model has unique advantages in explaining the impact of ACEs on social mindfulness. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Cumulative childhood interpersonal trauma (CCIT) is associated with important outcomes within romantic relationships, including lower dyadic empathy. Dyadic empathy is comprised of perspective-taking, that is, putting oneself in the partner’s place, and empathic concern, that is, emotions felt toward the partner’s emotional experience. As empathic difficulties may affect the quality of romantic relationships, it is important to better understand the mechanisms underlying the links between CCIT and empathy toward a partner. Hostile attribution bias (i.e., the tendency to perceive others’ intentions as negative), being positively linked to CCIT and negatively associated with empathy, appears to be a relevant, yet unexplored, mechanism in the link between CCIT and dyadic empathy. The present study examined the role of hostile attribution bias in the dyadic associations linking one’s CCIT to their own as well as their partner’s perspective-taking and empathic concern. Method: A sample of 190 couples aged 18 to 29 completed online questionnaires. Results: One’s CCIT was positively related to their own hostile attribution bias, which was negatively associated with both their own perspective-taking and their partner’s empathic concern. Conclusion: Targeting hostile attributions among individuals with CCIT might constitute an interesting pathway to enhance their own and their partner’s empathy within the relationship and, therefore, foster positive couple dynamics during young adulthood. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Insomnia within the immediate aftermath of trauma is a key risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, it is unknown who is most at risk for insomnia after trauma, obstructing the ability to identify high-risk groups in need of early intervention. We examined whether individuals with high sleep reactivity—a trait vulnerability to sleep disturbance after stress—are vulnerable to posttrauma insomnia and subsequent PTSD. Method: We recruited 88 participants hospitalized in a Level I trauma center in Detroit, MI following traumatic injury (<em>M</em>_age = 39.53 ± <em>SD</em> 14.31 years, 67.0% male, 67.0% Black, 47.7% income ≤$20,000). Patients reported trait sleep reactivity within 1 week of trauma (during hospitalization), posttrauma insomnia 1 month later (<em>n</em> = 61), and PTSD 2 months later (<em>n</em> = 59). Results: Patients without a history of insomnia who had high sleep reactivity were twice as likely to report acute insomnia 1-month posttrauma (55.2% vs. 28.6%) and 4.1 times more likely to report PTSD 2-month posttrauma (45.5% vs. 11.1%). The pathogenicity of insomnia on future PTSD was stronger for patients with high sleep reactivity: among patients with insomnia 1-month posttrauma, those with high sleep reactivity reported more severe PTSD 2-month posttrauma (<em>M</em>_PTSD = 29.94) than those with low reactivity (<em>M</em>_PTSD = 9.84; <em>g</em> = 1.43; <em>p</em> = .002). Conclusions: These novel longitudinal findings indicate highly reactive sleepers are most vulnerable to acute insomnia immediately after trauma that confers future risk for clinically significant PTSD symptoms. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Posttraumatic shame—an emotion stemming from harsh attitudes about the self after trauma—is central to posttraumatic stress disorder for many women following physical or sexual assault or abuse (interpersonal trauma [IPT]). However, knowledge of how shame is experienced in daily life post-IPT (e.g., frequency, intensity, and stability) is lacking. Additionally, though some research has explored shame-specific emotion regulation (ER) or processes aimed at changing emotional responses to shame, it remains unclear which ER strategies are effective in reducing shame. Method: We explored momentary experiences and regulation of posttraumatic shame via a secondary analysis of ecological momentary assessment data. Sixty women post-IPT completed assessments of shame and their use of six ER strategies (reflection, rumination, reappraisal, emotion sharing, emotion suppression, and distraction) five times per day for 14 days. Results: Women experiencing more severe baseline posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms reported more intense momentary shame. Experiencing more intense shame than typical was associated with greater next-assessment use of rumination, emotion sharing, and reappraisal. Higher than typical use of rumination, emotion suppression, and distraction was associated with more intense next-assessment shame, and higher than typical use of emotion sharing was associated with more severe next-assessment shame among women with low or moderate posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Conclusions: Findings suggest that women may use both avoidance- and approach-oriented ER strategies at times when shame is more intense. Future researchers should consider contextual factors that may shape the daily experience and regulation of posttraumatic shame post-IPT. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: While social support is believed to be a critical factor in posttrauma recovery, support interactions occur in context. Relatively few studies have examined public willingness to offer assistance to survivors, despite the potential for stereotypes about trauma and different exposure events to influence support. The present study examined the associations of stereotype endorsement and exposure event on willingness to offer support to hypothetical survivors. Method: University students (<em>N</em> = 223) completed online measures evaluating trauma stereotypes, state affect, and social desirability. Students attended a later lab session (<em>M</em> = 2.4 weeks) to rate willingness to offer friendship, emotional support, and practical support to hypothetical survivors of combat, disaster, motor vehicle, and sexual trauma. Bayesian regression was used to examine the unique effects of stereotype endorsement, vignette, social desirability, and state affect on ratings of support. Results: Stereotype endorsement predicted less willingness to offer friendship to survivors (<em>OR</em> = 0.53). Participants were less willing to offer friendship to combat veterans relative to survivors of sexual assault (<em>OR</em> = 3.84), accident (<em>OR</em> = 3.53), and disaster (<em>OR</em> = 3.32), with similar results for emotional support (assault: <em>OR</em> = 2.20; accident: <em>OR</em> = 2.45; disaster: <em>OR</em> = 2.23). Practical support was lower for combat relative to accident (<em>OR</em> = 1.55) and sexual assault (<em>OR</em> = 2.06) scenarios. Support ratings tended to be higher for trauma vignettes versus modal response to scenarios depicting nontrauma stressors. Conclusions: Trauma-related stigma and the type of exposure event may hold associations with support engagement in survivor communities. Results may hold implications for interventions looking to incorporate resources from potential support networks. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Past research shows that negative alcohol-specific social reactions to disclosures of alcohol-involved sexual assaults negatively impact survivor recovery. However, less is known about both survivor and informal support provider (SP) correlates of these reactions. Method: The present study explored correlates of alcohol-specific social reactions that a community sample of racially diverse sexual assault survivors reported receiving from their SP (<em>N</em> = 204 dyads) upon disclosure. Regression models examined survivor and SP correlates of survivor-reported negative alcohol-specific social reactions received from their SP. Results: Some demographic (e.g., race/ethnicity, education), assault history and index assault characteristics (e.g., child sexual abuse severity, alcohol/drug impairment, perpetrator force, postassault upset), disclosure, and survivor–SP relationship factors (e.g., disclosure characteristics, relationship type, and satisfaction) were related to negative alcohol-specific social reactions. In addition, several SP variables (e.g., SP rape myth acceptance, SP substance use in their past sexual assault, SP perception of survivor coping, and SP positive behaviors toward survivor) and recovery outcomes (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder, substance use coping, problem drinking) were also related to negative alcohol-specific social reactions to survivor sexual assault disclosures. Conclusions: Implications are drawn for future research and intervention with survivors and their informal SPs to reduce negative social reactions to alcohol-involved assaults. Education and training are needed for informal SPs to reduce their negative alcohol-specific social reactions to alcohol-involved assault disclosures. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Survivors of sexual assault engage in various adaptive coping strategies. Little in-depth research has addressed coping that facilitates recovery, particularly in dyadic samples of survivors and their informal supports. Method: In the present study, a diverse sample of female sexual assault survivors (<em>n</em> = 45; 75% racial/ethnic minorities) and their informal support providers (SP; e.g., family, friends, romantic partners) were interviewed separately about survivors’ experiences of disclosure and postassault coping. Adaptive coping strategies by survivors were described by 34 survivors and 23 SPs, of which 19 were matched survivor–SP provider dyadic pairs. Narrative data on the overarching concept of adaptive coping was analyzed using descriptive thematic analysis methods (Braun & Clarke, 2022). Results: Several themes emerged specific to adaptive coping: emotion-focused (e.g., spiritual, positive reappraisal, self-regulation), problem-focused (e.g., independence/stability actions, positive activities, sexual assault study participation), and relational (e.g., disclosing assault to others, seeking professional help, helping/caring for others, choosing healthier relationships) coping. Conclusions: Research and clinical implications are drawn to facilitate survivors’ adaptive coping from survivor and informal SP perspectives. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

Objective: Early-life stress (ELS) has been linked to the development of psychopathology-related outcomes, including posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Locus of control (LOC) is one factor thought to be critical to the development of PTSS. Method: The present study used latent profile analysis across two nonrepresentative samples (i.e., laboratory and online) of young adults (<em>N</em> = 164 and <em>N</em> = 665) to identify subgroups based on LOC orientation and PTSS severity and to explore early environmental correlates of individuals’ membership in distinct subgroups. Results: Across both samples, results of the latent profile analyses indicated a best fitting five-class solution. Cumulative ELS and perceived uncontrollability of ELS exposure emerged as significant predictors of subgroup membership in the Mechanical Turk sample. Conclusions: These findings suggest that associations between perceptions of control at the event (i.e., controllability during a stressful event) and global (i.e., LOC orientation) levels may play a role in the development of stress-related symptoms following ELS. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved)

A newly FDA-cleared PTSD treatment uses personalized brain mapping and magnetic stimulation to target abnormal brain activity, with a clinical trial reporting a 52% reduction in symptoms and 68% remission. Researchers believe the technology could transform PTSD care and pave the way for more precise treatments for other mental health conditions.

A psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms appears to have an unexpected effect: calming highly aggressive fish. Researchers discovered that low doses of psilocybin significantly reduced aggressive attacks in mangrove rivulus fish without disrupting their normal social interactions. The findings suggest psilocybin may selectively calm escalating aggression rather than simply suppressing all behavior.

Depression may not be one biological condition, but several distinct patterns of brain activity hiding under the same diagnosis. Researchers studying 263 people with depression identified five brain profiles, each showing different patterns of communication between brain regions and associations with symptoms such as anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse.

Couples who exercise together report better communication, healthier conflict resolution, and lower marital stress than those who work out alone. Even something as simple as taking a walk together may create valuable opportunities to talk, listen, and feel more connected.

A review of more than 265,000 people found that cannabis use was associated with higher rates of both committing violence and becoming a victim of it. The researchers say the link is significant but does not prove cannabis itself is the cause.

Researchers discovered a brain-based “brake” that can shut down chronic nerve pain in mice by calming an overactive pain circuit. Targeting this system more precisely could one day lead to powerful pain relief without affecting opioid receptors throughout the entire body.

An intensive seven-day meditation retreat triggered striking changes across the brain and body, including shifts tied to neuroplasticity, immunity, metabolism, and natural pain relief. Participants also showed brain connectivity patterns resembling those associated with psychedelic experiences, suggesting that powerful altered states may be achievable without drugs.

A prescription form of THC helped many people with PTSD escape recurring trauma-related nightmares, with more than one-third reporting that the nightmares disappeared completely after ten weeks. The results could point toward a long-awaited treatment for one of PTSD’s most distressing and stubborn symptoms.

A Rutgers study suggests GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy may weaken the link between impulsive tendencies and violent behavior. The surprising finding hints that these medications could affect how people act on impulses, though researchers stress that cause and effect have not been proven.

For millions battling chronic nerve pain, even the softest touch can feel agonizing — but scientists may have uncovered a radically new way to stop it at the source. Researchers at Duke University found that damaged nerves can be revived by supplying them with healthy mitochondria, the tiny energy producers inside cells.

A newly FDA-cleared PTSD treatment uses personalized brain mapping and magnetic stimulation to target abnormal brain activity, with a clinical trial reporting a 52% reduction in symptoms and 68% remission. Researchers believe the technology could transform PTSD care and pave the way for more precise treatments for other mental health conditions.

Researchers have uncovered three brain pathways linked to lasting improvements in people receiving deep brain stimulation for severe, treatment-resistant depression. They also discovered that patients who failed to improve after two years shared a striking pattern: insufficient stimulation of a crucial brain connection. The findings suggest that millimeters in electrode placement could make a major difference in treatment outcomes.

Scientists have discovered a surprising two-way relationship between sleep and growth hormone, revealing how the brain carefully balances physical recovery with wakefulness. The findings could help explain why poor sleep harms metabolism and brain health, potentially opening the door to new treatments for sleep and neurological disorders.

Yale scientists have uncovered how the stress hormone cortisol helps the brain turn emotional experiences into stronger, longer-lasting memories. The discovery reveals that stress can reshape communication between brain networks involved in emotion and memory, potentially explaining why certain moments are so difficult to forget.

Depression may not be one biological condition, but several distinct patterns of brain activity hiding under the same diagnosis. Researchers studying 263 people with depression identified five brain profiles, each showing different patterns of communication between brain regions and associations with symptoms such as anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse.

Researchers analyzing data from more than 1.9 million people found that ADHD is associated with substantially higher rates of digestive problems. People with ADHD had nearly double the odds of constipation, 58% higher odds of irritable bowel syndrome, and more than four times the odds of encopresis.

Semaglutide, the drug behind Ozempic and Wegovy, may have benefits that extend well beyond weight loss and diabetes. In a large Swedish study of nearly 15,000 people with bipolar disorder, its use was linked to a 21% lower risk of psychiatric hospitalization. Researchers think effects on inflammation and brain-related biological pathways could help stabilize mood, though other GLP-1 drugs did not show the same association.

Frequent cannabis users may wake up with unusually high levels of the stress hormone cortisol, suggesting their daily stress rhythms could be disrupted. Researchers say the finding raises questions about whether using cannabis for stress relief might, over time, interfere with the very system that helps the body handle stress.

Stress may literally scramble the brain’s internal GPS. Researchers found that cortisol, a hormone released during stress, made people significantly worse at navigating a virtual environment and disrupted the precise activity of grid cells, specialized brain cells that help us understand where we are in space. When landmarks were missing, this navigation system nearly stopped functioning, while another brain region appeared to step in and compensate.

A new wearable patch may help people reach REM sleep faster and remain there longer without medication or surgery. In a study of 28 participants, the device shortened the time to REM by 43 minutes and extended it by about 16 minutes. Researchers also observed signs of improved stress regulation and changes in brain circuits tied to emotion.