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Published on: March 8, 2018
Is peritraumatic dissociation a risk factor for PTSD?
Doris C Breh1, Günter H Seidler
1Psychomatic University Hospital Heidelberg, Department of Psychotraumatology, Heidelberg, Germany. d.breh@web.de
Summary
Peritraumatic dissociation is a moderate risk factor for developing Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This meta-analysis of 35 studies confirms a significant positive correlation, supporting its role in PTSD development.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Peritraumatic dissociation is widely recognized as a potential risk factor for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
- Numerous studies have explored the relationship between peritraumatic dissociation and PTSD.
- A systematic integration of existing research is needed to clarify this association.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically integrate findings from empirical studies on the connection between peritraumatic dissociation and PTSD.
- To differentiate between peritraumatic dissociation as a correlate versus a risk factor for PTSD.
- To assess the predictive value of peritraumatic dissociation for PTSD development.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a meta-analysis of 35 empirical studies examining the link between peritraumatic dissociation and PTSD.
- Calculated an overall effect size for the correlation.
- Performed subgroup analyses on quasi-prospective and retrospective studies to evaluate PTSD risk.
Main Results:
- A significant positive correlation (r=0.36) was found between peritraumatic dissociation and PTSD.
- Quasi-prospective studies showed a significant effect size (r=0.34), indicating a moderate risk.
- Methodological analysis supports peritraumatic dissociation as a moderate risk factor for PTSD.
Conclusions:
- Peritraumatic dissociation is confirmed as a moderate risk factor for developing PTSD.
- Further research is required to fully understand its conceptualization within psychotraumatic stress syndromes (e.g., predictor, symptom).
- The findings underscore the importance of addressing peritraumatic dissociation in trauma-focused interventions.
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