Il Disturbo di Panico come Attacco di Solitudine: una ricerca empirica

Thesis Abstract The current study aims to theoretically and empirically expound upon the nature of Panic Disorder through a phenomenological-gestalt perspective, converging with Affective Neuroscience. This convergence has yielded an understanding of Panic Disorder that diverges from more traditional perspectives and standard treatment guidelines whereby Panic Attacks are driven by fear. Instead, Panic Disorder may be more aptly interpreted as an exaggerated response stemming from the PANIC/SEPARATION Motivational System, rather than the FEAR system. Panic Attacks are conceived as episodes of unmentalized solitude, whereby solitude connotes the absence of a sufficiently stable network of emotional bonds that would otherwise offer support to the individual, making them disproportionately vulnerable to environmental stimuli. Specifically, the transition from familial to societal relationships (Oikos to Polis) is highlighted as a period of heightened vulnerability. The significance of Alexithymia, characterised by emotional awareness deficits, in Panic Disorder is discussed, emphasising its prevalence and clinical implications. Our findings support the concept of Panic Disorder as a manifestation of unmentalized solitude. Individuals with Panic Attacks exhibited heightened activation of the PANIC/SEPARATION Motivational System, along with increased activity in the FEAR and CARE systems, indicating possible emotional dysregulation. Alexithymic traits were prevalent among panic sufferers, reflecting difficulties in emotional recognition. These insights enhance our understanding of Panic Disorder, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms of its symptomatology.