Neurostructural abnormalities associated with axes of emotion dysregulation in generalized anxiety.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite the high prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and its negative impact on society, its neurobiology remains obscure. This study characterizes the neurostructural abnormalities associated with key symptoms of GAD, focusing on indicators of impaired emotion regulation (excessive worry, poor concentration, low mindfulness, and physiological arousal).

Methods

These domains were assessed in 19 (16 women) GAD patients and 19 healthy controls matched for age and gender, using questionnaires and a low demand behavioral task performed before and after an induction of perseverative cognition (i.e. worry and rumination). Continuous pulse oximetry was used to measure autonomic physiology (heart rate variability; HRV). Observed cognitive and physiological ch

SUBMITTER: Makovac E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4683456 | biostudies-literature | 2016

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature