Clinical psychological aspects of genetic neurodevelopmental disorders: A Dialectical Behavior Therapy approach to emotion regulation in Neurofibromatosis Type 1

The main aim of this thesis is to improve understanding of the cognitive and psychological difficulties experienced by adults with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). In addition, the thesis explores whether a skills training programme based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is suitable as a transdiagnostic intervention for this group. NF1 is mainly known as a genetic condition that affects the skin and nervous system. However, psychosocial problems such as mood disorders, fatigue, and difficulties with emotion regulation often receive insufficient attention in mainstream care. Referral to mental health care usually only occurs when there are clear psychological complaints, following a predominantly categorical diagnostic approach, and without appropriate follow-up treatment. This practice fails to address the complexity of NF1. Therefore, this thesis investigated the cognitive and behavioral functions of people with NF1 and examined the extent to which DBT, as an integrated transdiagnostic approach focused on emotion regulation and psychosocial functioning, can meet the specific needs of people with NF1. DBT focuses on improving emotion regulation and psychosocial functioning through structured skills training. These skills include mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance. DBT is based on a dialectical framework that combines acceptance of current experiences with efforts to change maladaptive behaviour. As such, a broad treatment approach aimed at emotional and behavioral regulation may help individuals with NF1 gain more control over their emotional experiences and improve their overall psychological functioning.