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Published on: March 8, 2018
Prior peritraumatic dissociative experiences affect autonomic reactivity during trauma recall
Eve M Sledjeski1, Douglas L Delahanty
1Department of Psychology, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio, USA. sledjeski@rowan.edu
Summary
High levels of peritraumatic dissociation (PD) in trauma victims correlate with greater physiological reactivity to traumatic reminders. This suggests individuals with higher PD may be more sensitive to trauma cues.
Area of Science:
- Psychophysiology
- Trauma Studies
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Peritraumatic dissociation (PD) is a common response to trauma.
- Understanding the psychophysiological correlates of PD is crucial for effective intervention.
- Previous research has yielded mixed findings on the physiological responses associated with PD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between self-reported peritraumatic dissociation (PD) and autonomic nervous system functioning.
- To examine sympathetic and parasympathetic responses during laboratory-induced stress in traumatized individuals.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-nine female undergraduates with trauma histories participated.
- Participants recalled their most distressing traumatic experience.
- Continuous measures of heart rate, pre-ejection period, and respiratory sinus arrhythmia were recorded.
Main Results:
- Individuals reporting higher levels of PD exhibited significantly greater increases in heart rate.
- High dissociators showed larger decreases in pre-ejection period and respiratory sinus arrhythmia during trauma recall.
- Findings indicated heightened physiological reactivity in high PD individuals.
Conclusions:
- Contrary to hypotheses, high peritraumatic dissociation may be associated with increased reactivity to trauma reminders.
- These findings suggest a more sensitive physiological response to traumatic cues in individuals with higher PD.
- Further research is needed to explore the implications for trauma treatment.
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