12 years after Roboski: Prolonged grief and posttraumatic effects.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Trauma Studies
• Sociology

Background:

• The Roboski massacre resulted in 34 civilian deaths, including 19 children, causing profound psychological and social impacts.
• Understanding prolonged grief is essential for effective support and treatment of trauma survivors.
• This study examines long-term grief, PTSD, discrimination, and political trust among Roboski massacre survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between prolonged grief and posttraumatic stress, perceived discrimination, and political trust.
• To analyze the predictors of prolonged grief in the context of the Roboski massacre.
• To inform interventions for individuals experiencing prolonged grief after mass trauma.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 88 Kurdish individuals bereaved by the 2011 Roboski massacre participated.
• Data were collected using the Prolonged Grief Scale, PTSD Checklist, Perceived Discrimination Scale, and Political Trust Scale.
• Statistical analyses examined correlations and predictors of prolonged grief.

Main Results:

• Significant prolonged grief and posttraumatic stress symptoms persisted approximately 12 years post-massacre.
• Prolonged grief correlated positively with posttraumatic stress (r = .71) and perceived discrimination (r = .53).
• PTSD subdimensions (reexperiencing, negative cognitive alterations, perceived collective discrimination) predicted prolonged grief.

Conclusions:

• Professionals must identify bereaved individuals experiencing prolonged grief after traumatic events.
• Targeting specific symptoms of prolonged grief can mitigate long-term suffering.
• Interventions should address the complex interplay of trauma, grief, and social factors.