Dorahy MJ, Corry M, Shannon M, Macsherry A, Hamilton G, McRobert G, Elder R, Hanna D. Complex PTSD, interpersonal trauma and relational consequences: findings from a treatment-receiving Northern Irish sample.
J Affect Disord 2009;
112:71-80. [PMID:
18511130 DOI:
10.1016/j.jad.2008.04.003]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2007] [Revised: 04/15/2008] [Accepted: 04/15/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
The relationship between PTSD and complex PTSD remains unclear. As well as further addressing this issue, the current study aimed to assess the degree to which DESNOS (complex PTSD) was related to interpersonal trauma and had relational consequences.
METHODS
Eighty one treatment-receiving participants with a history of exposure to the 'Troubles' in Northern Ireland, were assessed on various forms of interpersonal trauma, including exposure to the Troubles, and measures of interpersonal and community connectedness.
RESULTS
DESNOS symptom severity was related to childhood sexual abuse and perceived psychological impact of Troubles-related exposure. A lifetime diagnosis of DESNOS was related to childhood Troubles-related experiences, while a current diagnosis of DESNOS was associated with childhood emotional neglect. PTSD avoidance predicted current DESNOS diagnosis and severity. Feeling emotionally disconnected from family and friends (i.e., interpersonal disconnectedness) was related to all three indices of DESNOS (i.e., lifetime diagnosis, current diagnosis and current symptom severity).
LIMITATIONS
Sample characteristics (i.e., treatment-receiving) and size may limit the generalizability of findings.
CONCLUSIONS
Complex PTSD is associated with PTSD but when present should be considered a superordinate diagnosis.
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