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Observational themes of social behavioral disturbances in frontotemporal dementia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 May 2014

Joseph P. Barsuglia*
Affiliation:
Veterans Health Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Neurobehavior Service (116AF), Los Angeles, California, USA
Frances R. Nedjat-Haiem
Affiliation:
Veterans Health Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Neurobehavior Service (116AF), Los Angeles, California, USA
Jill S. Shapira
Affiliation:
Veterans Health Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Neurobehavior Service (116AF), Los Angeles, California, USA Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
Christina Velasco
Affiliation:
Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
Elvira E. Jimenez
Affiliation:
Veterans Health Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Neurobehavior Service (116AF), Los Angeles, California, USA Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
Michelle J. Mather
Affiliation:
Veterans Health Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Neurobehavior Service (116AF), Los Angeles, California, USA Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
Mario F. Mendez
Affiliation:
Veterans Health Administration Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Neurobehavior Service (116AF), Los Angeles, California, USA Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California Department of Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
*
Correspondence should be addressed to: Joseph P. Barsuglia, PhD, Neurobehavior Service (116AF), West Los Angeles VA Healthcare Center; 11301 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA. Phone: +(310) 478-3711; Ext.: 42393; Fax: +(310) 268-4181. Email:joseph.barsuglia@va.gov.

Abstract

Background:

Caregivers report early disturbances in social behavior among patients with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD); however, there are few direct observational studies of these social behavioral disturbances. This study aimed to identify social behavioral themes in bvFTD by direct observation in naturalistic interactions. The identification of these themes can help caregivers and clinicians manage the social behavioral disturbances of this disease.

Methods:

Researchers observed 13 bvFTD patients in their homes and community-based settings and recorded field notes on their interpersonal interactions. A qualitative analysis of their social behavior was then conducted using ATLAS.ti application and a constant comparison method.

Results:

Qualitative analysis revealed the following themes: (1) diminished relational interest and initiation, indicating failure to seek social interactions; (2) lack of social synchrony/intersubjectivity, indicating an inability to establish and maintain interpersonal relationships; and (3) poor awareness and adherence to social boundaries and norms. These themes corresponded with changes from caregiver reports and behavioral scales.

Conclusion:

This analysis indicates that real-world observation validates the diagnostic criteria for bvFTD and increases understanding of social behavioral disturbances in this disorder. The results of this and future observational studies can highlight key areas for clinical assessment, caregiver education, and targeted interventions that enhance the management of social behavioral disturbances in bvFTD.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © International Psychogeriatric Association 2014 

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