Using the trauma film paradigm to explore interpersonal processes after trauma exposure

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Social support is theorized to buffer against negative psychological outcomes.
• The role of social support in trauma symptomology requires further investigation.
• The trauma film paradigm offers a controlled method for studying acute stress responses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how social support influences trauma symptoms using the trauma film paradigm.
• To examine the impact of a romantic partner's presence on trauma-related distress.
• To explore the relationship between partner behaviors and participants' post-film adjustment.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-seven female undergraduates in romantic relationships were randomized.
• Participants viewed a stressful film clip depicting sexual assault.
• Conditions included viewing the film with (PP) or without (PA) their romantic partner present.

Main Results:

• Participants in the partner-present (PP) condition reported more intrusive memories than the partner-absent (PA) condition.
• In the PP condition, low relationship trust was associated with higher distress.
• Greater negative emotional expression from partners predicted increased negative affect and intrusive memories over time; positive support had no effect.

Conclusions:

• Interpersonal dynamics, specifically negative partner reactions, can exacerbate trauma symptoms.
• The trauma film paradigm is adaptable for studying interpersonal influences on post-trauma adjustment.
• Findings highlight the complex role of social support in trauma recovery.