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Relation between coping and posttrauma cognitions on PTSD in a combat-trauma population
Christina M Sheerin1, Nadia Chowdhury1, Mackenzie J Lind1
1Virginia Institute of Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University.
Summary
For combat veterans, avoidant coping and negative self-beliefs increase PTSD risk. Positive cognitive coping can mitigate this, suggesting joint assessment of thoughts and behaviors for effective intervention.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Military Medicine
Background:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is influenced by individual differences in cognition and coping.
- Combat-exposed service members returning from OEF/OIF/OND conflicts require understanding of PTSD etiology and early intervention.
- Cognitive-affective processes are crucial for understanding PTSD in military populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the effects of negative posttrauma cognitions and coping strategies on PTSD diagnosis in combat veterans.
- To investigate unique main and interactive effects of cognitive factors and coping mechanisms on PTSD.
- To inform PTSD assessment and intervention in military samples.
Main Methods:
- Study included 155 combat trauma-exposed veterans from OEF/OIF/OND conflicts.
- Utilized stepwise logistic regression to analyze PTSD diagnosis predictors.
- Assessed negative cognitions (self, world, self-blame) and coping strategies (positive, avoidant, social/emotional).
Main Results:
- Avoidant coping was positively related to PTSD diagnosis.
- Higher levels of negative self-beliefs (NS) were associated with PTSD diagnosis.
- Self-blame (SB) was associated with a decreased likelihood of PTSD.
- Positive cognitive coping weakened the relationship between negative self-beliefs and PTSD.
Conclusions:
- Jointly examining coping behaviors and negative self-thoughts is beneficial for PTSD assessment and intervention in combat veterans.
- Targeting avoidant coping and negative self-beliefs may reduce PTSD risk.
- Positive cognitive coping strategies can buffer the impact of negative cognitions on PTSD development.
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