Self-construal modulates default mode network connectivity in refugees with PTSD.
Belinda J Liddell1, Pritha Das2, Gin S Malhi3
1School of Psychological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Australia; School of Psychology, UNSW Sydney, Australia.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|June 12, 2024
Summary
Self-construal influences brain connectivity in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In refugees with PTSD, higher collectivistic self-construal correlated with reduced connectivity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC).
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Self-construal and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are independently linked to altered self-referential processing and default mode network (DMN) activity.
- Previous research has not investigated the impact of self-construal on DMN connectivity in individuals with PTSD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine how self-construal affects default mode network (DMN) connectivity in a sample of refugee participants with PTSD.
- To explore the neural underpinnings of PTSD by considering the role of self-construal.
Main Methods:
- Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to assess DMN connectivity in 93 refugee participants (48 with PTSD, 45 controls).
- A self-construal index was computed by subtracting collectivistic from individualistic scores on the Self-Construal Scale.
- Independent components analysis identified functional network connectivity patterns.
Main Results:
- A significant interaction between PTSD status and self-construal index was found in the anterior ventromedial DMN, specifically involving the left ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) and ventral anterior cingulate cortex.
- Connectivity within the vmPFC was reduced in individuals with PTSD who exhibited higher levels of collectivistic self-construal.
Conclusions:
- Self-construal may play a role in shaping the neural architecture of PTSD.
- Functional disruptions in the vmPFC are implicated in core PTSD mechanisms like emotion dysregulation and self-referential processing.
- Findings suggest self-construal is a crucial factor for consideration in PTSD assessment and treatment, though results may not generalize beyond refugee populations.
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