Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Residential Care After an Earthquake: A Follow-Up Study

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Disaster Mental Health

Background:

• Earthquakes trigger significant psychological distress, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly in vulnerable youth.
• Adolescents in residential care settings face unique challenges in disaster recovery.
• This study addresses a critical gap in understanding PTSD in institutionalized adolescents post-natural disaster.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and persistence of PTSD in adolescents residing in care versus family settings after a natural disaster.
• To identify risk factors for PTSD, including childhood trauma, in these distinct adolescent groups.
• To compare the long-term mental health outcomes between institutionalized and family-raised adolescents post-earthquake.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 48 adolescents in residential care and 54 living with families (aged 12-18).
• Utilized validated instruments: Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), Children's PTSD Reaction Index, and Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia.
• Conducted initial assessments one month post-earthquake with follow-ups at three months.

Main Results:

• Adolescents in residential care showed persistent PTSD symptoms, unlike family-raised peers whose symptoms significantly decreased.
• Higher rates of comorbid psychiatric disorders were observed in the residential care group.
• Lower levels of physical neglect significantly predicted PTSD, with increased sexual abuse also noted as a relevant predictor.

Conclusions:

• Adolescents in residential care exhibit more persistent PTSD symptoms and greater childhood adversity post-disaster.
• Childhood neglect and abuse are significant predictors of PTSD, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
• Further research with larger cohorts and extended follow-up periods is essential to fully understand long-term impacts.