CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study
The term "alexithymia" literally translates to a deficiency of words to express emotions. While it shares similarities with emotion dysregulation, alexithymia is considered a more distinct and specific form of emotion dysregulation, while emotion dysregulation encompasses a broader range of behaviors (Taylor et al., 1999). This unique psychological concept, coined by Sifneos in 1972, combines elements from various Greek words (López-Muñoz and Pérez-Fernández, 2020).
In recent decades, the field of psychiatry and psychology has witnessed a growing interest in studying alexithymia. Presently, alexithymia is defined by four key characteristics: “1) difficulties identifying feelings and distinguishing feelings from bodily sensations of emotional arousal; 2) difficulties describing and communicating feelings to others; 3) constricted imaginal processes, as indicated by a relative deficiency of affect-related fantasies; and 4) a style of thinking characterized by a fixation on external stimuli.”
Alexithymia was initially observed in patients who sought treatment for psychosomatic symptoms. A noteworthy subset of these patients, who experienced somatic symptoms like pain or fatigue, also reported personal distress but faced a remarkable challenge in effectively communicating their emotions to clinicians (Sifneos, 1973; Nemiah et al., 1976).
It might be assumed that the diminished emotional awareness in individuals with alexithymia would shield them from negative emotions and potentially reduce anxiety and depression. However, the impaired ability to differentiate emotional states in alexithymia actually leads to significant challenges in regulating and resolving negative affect. Consequently, there is an increased prevalence of affective disorders within this population (Lumley, 2000; Honkalampi et al., 2018).
Criticism has been directed towards the construct of alexithymia due to its significant overlap with depression, especially considering the strong correlation between self-reported alexithymia and depression among healthy individuals serving as control participants (e.g. r=0.60; (Bagby et al., 1986). Despite the observed connection, further factor analyses have demonstrated that the constructs of alexithymia and depression can be distinguished from each other in both healthy and clinical populations (Parker et al., 1991; Marchesi et al., 2000). Similarly, alexithymia has shown links to several other psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, eating disorders, and substance abuse, underscoring its importance in clinical settings.
Furthermore, psychotherapy outcomes have been found to be negatively influenced by alexithymia. This connection has been attributed to patients' challenges in expressing emotions, participating in emotional tasks, and establishing strong therapeutic alliances (da Silva et al., 2018). Several studies have found impaired emotion regulation abilities in individuals with elevated levels of alexithymia (Barrett et al., 2001; Swart et al., 2009).
The difficulties in emotion regulation associated with alexithymia seem to be related to higher rates of addictive behaviors, such as pathological gambling and excessive use of mobile phones and the internet (Elmas et al., 2016; Schimmenti et al., 2017; Gao et al., 2018) as well as substance addiction (Stasiewicz et al., 2012; Betka et al., 2018).
By examining the signs, symptoms, causes, and traits associated with alexithymia, this research seeks to enhance the understanding of this psychological phenomenon.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Alexithymia, characterized by difficulties in identifying and expressing one's own emotions, presents a significant psychological challenge that impacts individuals' emotional well-being. Although research has shed light on various aspects of alexithymia, several gaps in the existing literature remain. There is a need for further research to comprehensively explore the range of signs, symptoms, causes, and traits of alexithymia.
1.3 Aim of the Study
The study aims to examine the signs, symptoms, causes, and traits of alexithymia.
1.4 Objectives of the Study
The study had the following specific objectives:
1. To identify the signs and symptoms of alexithymia.
2. To explore the potential causes and contributing factors of alexithymia.
3. To examine the traits associated with alexithymia.
1.5 Research Questions
1. What are the signs and symptoms of alexithymia?
2. What are the potential causes and contributing factors of alexithymia?
4. What are the traits associated with alexithymia?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
H0: People with alexithymia will not exhibit distinct signs and symptoms, and these characteristics will be influenced by various causes and traits.
Ha: People with alexithymia will exhibit distinct signs and symptoms, and these characteristics will be influenced by various causes and traits.
1.7 Justification of the Study
Through this research, a deeper understanding of alexithymia can be attained, leading to improved identification, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition. Additionally, the findings of this study may have implications for mental health professionals, researchers, and clinicians, facilitating the development of tailored interventions that address the specific needs of individuals with alexithymia and promote their overall psychological well-being.
1.8 Scope of the Study
This research paper will provide an in-depth examination of alexithymia, focusing on its signs, symptoms, causes, and traits. It will draw upon existing literature, and empirical studies to present a comprehensive overview of this phenomenon. The study will not involve direct empirical data collection and will primarily rely on the analysis and synthesis of existing research and scholarly works.
