PREVALENCE OF ALEXITHYMIA AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN THE CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN REGIONS OF SIBERIA

Abstract

Aim. To study the prevalence of alexithymia among adolescents in the central (Krasnoyarsk city/Caucasians) and southern (Abakan, the Republic of Khakassia, Caucasians/Khakasses) regions of Siberia, taking into account ethnicity and gender differences. Materials and methods. Interviewing schoolchildren of various ethnic backgrounds aged 15-18 years is carried out using the Toronto Alexithymic Scale (TAS-26). Results. Mong Caucasian adolescents from different regions of residence (Krasnoyarsk and Abakan, the Republic of Khakassia), the prevalence rates of alexithymia were comparable (30,0% and 34,2%). For Khakas teenagers in Abakan, the Republic of Khakassia, this indicator (56.3%) was statistically significantly higher (p<0,001) in comparison with Caucasian teenagers, which we regard as a manifestation of the ethno-specific component of the Khakas personality in adolescence. Gender differences were established, manifested by a small number of non-alexithymic Khakass girls (6,8%) in comparison with Khakass boys (p=0,0360). Conclusion. Identification among practically healthy adolescents of subjects with signs of alexithymia is necessary for the timely implementation of preventive measures, and corrective measures should be targeted at girls and boys. Rational implementation of preventive measures and dynamic monitoring of alexithymic adolescents will reduce the risk of psychosomatic disorders and the frequency of adverse outcomes.