Executive Functions as Predictors of Anxiety and Depression in Patients with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Master’s Researcher,, Thikra Ebrahim Abdullah; شويخ, .; Associate Professor Of Psychology,, Eman Ezzat; Dr, Mohamed A Shalaby; Dr, Osama Yousef Safdar; Dr, Omymah Ali Fadl; Dr, Abdulkarim Alanazi; Dr, Saeed Alzabali

مجلة دراسات في علم نفس الصحة
Volume 10, Numéro 2, Pages 48-71
2026-07-02

Executive Functions As Predictors Of Anxiety And Depression In Patients With Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Authors : Master’s Researcher, Thikra Ebrahim Abdullah . شويخ . . Associate Professor Of Psychology, Eman Ezzat . Dr Mohamed A Shalaby . Dr Osama Yousef Safdar . Dr Omymah Ali Fadl . Dr Abdulkarim Alanazi . Dr Saeed Alzabali .

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the predictive role of executive functions in anxiety and depression among children and adolescents diagnosed with Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). A descriptive correlational design was employed. The study sample consisted of 40 patients with HUS, aged between 5 and 18 years, recruited from pediatric nephrology departments in specialized hospitals. The study instruments included the Executive Functions Scale, the Spielberger Anxiety Scale, and the Beck Depression Inventory, in addition to a demographic and clinical data form. Data were analyzed using non-parametric tests, correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis. Results revealed significant positive correlations between executive function deficits and levels of anxiety and depression. Impairments in working memory, inhibition, planning, and monitoring were significantly associated with higher anxiety and depressive symptoms. Regression analysis indicated that working memory and inhibition were significant predictors of both anxiety and depression, explaining 65% of the variance in anxiety and 66% of the variance in depression. Gender differences were not significant in most executive function dimensions or depression; however, females exhibited higher anxiety levels compared to males. These findings underscore the critical role of executive functions in emotional regulation among pediatric patients with HUS. The study highlights the importance of integrating psychological assessment and targeted interventions focusing on executive function deficits into routine medical care to reduce emotional distress and enhance psychological well-being.