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Related Experiment Videos

Avoidance and intrusion in posttraumatic stress disorder.

A C McFarlane1

  • 1Department of Psychiatry, University of Adelaide, Hillcrest Hospital, Greenacres, South Australia.

The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease
|July 1, 1992
PubMed
Summary

Intrusive memories of a natural disaster directly predict posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Avoidance behaviors do not cause PTSD but may be a coping mechanism, highlighting the importance of addressing distressing recollections.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Trauma Studies
  • Mental Health Research

Background:

  • Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health concern following traumatic events.
  • Understanding the etiological factors of PTSD is crucial for developing effective interventions.
  • The role of intrusive memories and avoidance behaviors in PTSD development requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the role of intrusive and distressing memories in the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among firefighters exposed to a natural disaster.
  • To investigate the relationship between intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, and PTSD onset.
  • To validate an information processing model of trauma.

Main Methods:

  • Longitudinal study of 290 firefighters post-natural disaster exposure.

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  • Questionnaires administered at 4, 11, and 29 months post-exposure.
  • Diagnostic interviews (Diagnostic Interview Schedule) conducted at 42 months on at-risk individuals and a comparison group.

    • Main Results:

    • The intrusion subscale score from the Impact of Events Scale was the sole predictor of the etiological link between the disaster and PTSD.
    • Avoidance behaviors showed no direct relationship with symptom onset and appeared to be a defensive strategy.
    • A bidirectional relationship was found between PTSD and intrusive recollections, indicating their mutual influence.

    Conclusions:

    • Intrusive memories are a key etiological factor in the development of posttraumatic stress disorder.
    • Avoidance should be differentiated from mood and arousal symptoms in PTSD.
    • An information processing model for trauma is robust and supported by the findings, emphasizing the significance of recurring traumatic memories.