Journal article

Publication year: 2001

Pages: 279-296

Journal: Zeitschrift für klinische Psychologie, Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie

Volume number: 49

Issue number: 3

ISSN: 0723-6557

Publisher: Schöningh

Abstract: 

Time-series models were used increasingly for the analysis of complex interacting systems in psychological and social sciences research. Taking atopic dermatitis as a psychosomatic disease model, the interaction of moods (depression, activation and aggression) psychoneuroimmunological standard parameter such as salivary cortisol and secretory IgA (sIgA) and skin complaints is studied by vector auto regression (VAR)- und vector error correction (VEC)-models. Using a standardized diary technique, moods and skin symptoms were documented and saliva samples were secured. In addition, setting factors and the rhythm of the week were noted.

It could be shown by a VAR-model that the severity of skin symptomatology was predicted by a decrease of sIgA. If the skin was already affected, this was followed by a deactivated mood. Skin symptoms were also influenced by setting factors (family therapy and temporary discontinuation of the therapy). sIgA was modulated (VEC-model) by depressive, de-activated moods and psychosocial influences (weekend). Cortisol in saliva was increased by a family therapy session.

VAR- and VEC-models, therefore, may be used successfully in multivariate time-series models under control of autocorrelative processes. In addition, they enable the analysis of feed back circles in a bio-psycho-somatic process.

Harvard Citation style: Brosig, B. and Brähler, E. (2001) Skin, psyche, immune system: A vector-time series model, Zeitschrift für klinische Psychologie, Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, 49(3), pp. 279-296

APA Citation style: Brosig, B., & Brähler, E. (2001). Skin, psyche, immune system: A vector-time series model. Zeitschrift für klinische Psychologie, Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie. 49(3), 279-296.