Transdiagnostic profiles based on temperamental reactivity and effortful control dimensions in older adult...

This study explored transdiagnostic temperamental profiles, based on Effortful Control (EC), Behaviour Inhibition System (BIS) and Behaviour Activation System (BAS). The clinical relevance of these profiles was investigated by examining differences in psychopathology.

The objectives were examined in 305 older adult psychiatric inpatients (M = 66.71; SD = 4.77). Temperamental dimensions were measured by the BIS/BAS-scale and Effortful Control scale, while psychopathology was assessed with the SCL-90-R, ADP-IV, Utrecht Coping List and Young Schema Questionnaire.

Through a two-step cluster analysis, we identified two distinct profiles: a resilient group (n = 130) characterized by high EC, low BIS and BAS, and an overcontrolled/dysregulated group (n = 175) characterized by lower EC, high BIS and rather high BAS. We could not corroborate an undercontrolled profile. Compared to the resilient profile, individuals with the overcontrolled/dysregulated profile reported more dysfunctional characteristics, including increased clinical symptoms, personality disorders, maladaptive coping styles and schemas.

These findings highlight the protective role of high EC against psychopathology. Future research should explore the effectiveness of (neurocognitive) interventions aimed at improving top-down regulatory abilities such as EC in less resilient older adults. Understanding temperament-based profiles can inform transdiagnostic assessment and treatment approaches for older adults.