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Traumatic exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder among flood victims: Testing a multiple mediating model
Lijuan Quan1, Rui Zhen2, Benxian Yao1
1Anhui Normal University, China.
Journal of Health Psychology
|August 17, 2017
Summary
Traumatic exposure directly predicts posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in flood survivors. It also indirectly impacts PTSD through negative self-cognition and fear, influenced by feelings of safety.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Trauma Studies
- Disaster Mental Health
Background:
- Natural disasters like floods can lead to significant psychological distress.
- Understanding the pathways to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the direct and indirect effects of traumatic exposure on PTSD in flood victims.
- To explore the mediating roles of negative self-cognition and fear, and the moderating role of feelings of safety.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 187 flood victims from Wuhu, China, completed self-report questionnaires.
- Measures included traumatic exposure, feelings of safety, fear, negative cognition, and PTSD symptoms.
Main Results:
- Traumatic exposure was a direct predictor of PTSD.
- Negative self-cognition acted as a mediator in a one-step path from traumatic exposure to PTSD.
- Feelings of safety influenced fear and negative self-cognition, which in turn affected PTSD.
Conclusions:
- Traumatic exposure is a key factor in the development of PTSD following natural disasters.
- Interventions targeting negative cognitions and fear, and enhancing feelings of safety, may mitigate PTSD risk.
Keywords:
fearfeelings of safetyposttraumatic negative cognitionposttraumatic stress disordertraumatic exposureMore Related Videos
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