A 'Problematic' Pattern of Power-system Functioning and its Association with psychopathological Symptoms

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• The two-dimensional model of attachment functioning uses hyperactivation and deactivation concepts.
• A recent two-dimensional model of the power behavioral system has been proposed.
• The power system regulates actions to maintain power or dominance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To test predictions from the two-dimensional power system model.
• To investigate the 'problematic' high-high pattern (coexisting hyperactivation and deactivation).
• To examine the link between this pattern and psychopathological symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A non-clinical sample of 385 Italian adults participated.
• Participants completed the Power Behavioral System Scale.
• Self-report measures assessed anxiety, depression, and executive control difficulties.

Main Results:

• Higher deactivation and hyperactivation scores significantly predicted anxiety symptoms.
• Higher deactivation and hyperactivation scores significantly predicted depression symptoms.
• The 'problematic' high-high pattern predicted difficulties in executive control.

Conclusions:

• Initial support for the pathogenic implications of the 'problematic' high-high power system pattern.
• This pattern may contribute to psychopathology.
• Further research is warranted on the power behavioral system's role in mental health.