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Abstract Background The International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) is used to measure posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) symptoms, and the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory-9 (PTCI-9) is used to measure posttraumatic cognitions. Both tools have been translated for use in Brazil. However, the psychometric properties of the Brazilian versions were not investigated, and no study has verified the invariance of these tools for many traumatic event types. Objective This study examined the validity, reliability, and measurement invariance of the Brazilian versions of the ITQ and the PTCI-9 for trauma type, gender, race, age group, education level, and geographical region. Methods A total of 2,111 people (67.74% women) participated in an online survey. The scale models were tested via confirmatory factor analyses and measurement invariance through multigroup analyses. Pearson’s correlation analyses were used to examine the relationships between PTSD, CPTSD, posttraumatic cognitions, and depressive symptoms. Results Except for the affective dysregulation factor, the reliabilities of the ITQ and PTCI-9 dimensions were adequate. Models with six correlated dimensions for the ITQ and three correlated dimensions for the PTCI-9 showed adequate fit to the data. The ITQ and PTCI-9 exhibited scalar invariance for gender, race, age group, education level, and geographical region. The ITQ also demonstrated full invariance for trauma type. The factors of both instruments were related to each other and to depressive symptoms, with higher effect sizes for posttraumatic cognitions and complex posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Conclusion We recommend using the Brazilian versions of the ITQ and PTCI-9, which are crucial tools for assessing and treating trauma-related disorders.

As the Syrian crisis has reached its 10th year, this paper explores posttraumatic growth and the related factors among Syrian refugees in Turkey, with the aim of having a better understanding of the predictors of PTG and the risk factors that may play a role in the inhibition of the growth. In this cross-sectional study, 217 displaced Syrian refugees completed the Post Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ), Brief COPE, General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), and sociodemographic information form by a self-reported online survey. Risk and protective factors were associated in bivariate analysis with growth p0.05). In conclusion, the findings have provided valuable insight into the domains of the growth among Syrian refugees and discussed both clinical and research-based future recommendations that could be made to improve the mental health of the refugees based on the obtained results. Key implications for practice • Mental health practitioners should focus on interventions highlighting personal strengths that increase active coping skills and self-efficacy and reduce self-blame • Policymakers should take actions to prevent the retraumatization of the refugees by considering the psychological impact of the lack of the host country’s language and the inconsistency of the refugees’ work with their education • Mental health researchers should focus on factors that explain posttraumatic growth and developing intervention tools that promote growth

The concept of psychological trauma implies a causal relation between the traumatic event and subsequent psychopathology. Difficulties in defining the characteristics of causal agent and establishing its firm correlation with signs and symptoms of disorder stem from the paradoxes embedded in the concept of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which ignores unconscious dynamics of posttraumatic states. In this article, we argue that the impact of extreme traumatization on personality can be made observable through analysis of unconscious mechanisms, processes and structures, such as capacity for symbolization/mentalization, representation and meaning making as well as thinking and intersubjective transformation. The article focuses on the theoretical background for creating a multifactorial, complex and biopsychosocial model of psychopathology of posttraumatic states and does not focus on treatment and psychosocial interventions directly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trauma‐informed care has emerged as a prominent strategy to eliminate coercive practices and improve experiences of care in mental health settings, with advocacy from international bodies for mental health reform. Despite this, there remains a significant gap in research understanding the integration of trauma‐informed care in mental health nursing practice, particularly when applied to the acute mental health or hospital‐based setting. The study aimed to explore the experiences of mental health nurses employed in acute hospital‐based settings from a trauma‐informed care perspective. The study design was qualitative, using a phenomenological approach to research. A total of 29 nurses employed in acute mental health or hospital‐based environments participated. Three over‐arching themes were uncovered: 'Embodied Awareness': highlighting mental health nursing emotional capabilities are deeply rooted in bodily awareness. 'Navigating Safety': signifying spatial elements of fear and how some mental health nurses' resort to coercive or restrictive practices for self‐preservation. 'Caring Amidst Uncertainty': revealing the relational influences of security guards in mental health nursing. The study reveals a significant gap in trauma‐informed care implementation when applied to the context of mental health nursing practice in this setting. Limited evidence on trauma‐informed care for mental health nurses, coupled with inadequate workforce preparation and challenging work environments, hinder the effective integration of it. To genuinely embed TIC in acute mental health settings, the study emphasises the need for a thorough exploration of what this entails for mental health nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Historical, cultural, and social trauma, along with social determinants of health (SDOH), shape health outcomes, attitudes toward medicine, government, and health behaviors among communities of color in the United States (U.S.). This study explores how trauma and fear influence COVID-19 testing and vaccination among Black/African American, Latinx/Indigenous Latin American, and Native American/Indigenous communities. Leveraging community-based participatory research methods, we conducted 11 virtual focus groups from January to March of 2021 with Black/African American (n = 4), Latinx/Indigenous Latin American (n = 4), and Native American/Indigenous (n = 3) identifying community members in Inland Southern California. Our team employed rapid analytic approaches (e.g., template and matrix analysis) to summarize data and identify themes across focus groups and used theories of intersectionality and trauma to meaningfully interpret study findings. Historical, cultural, and social trauma induce fear and mistrust in public health and medical institutions influencing COVID-19 testing and vaccination decisions in communities of color in Inland Southern California. This work showcases the need for culturally and structurally sensitive community-based health interventions that attend to the historical, cultural, and social traumas unique to racial/ethnic minority populations in the U.S. that underlie fear and mistrust of medical, scientific, and governmental institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Notre travail a visé à évaluer l'anxiété, la dépression et le trouble de stress post-traumatique post-maladie à coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) et à identifier les facteurs associés. Nous avons mené une étude transversale durant la période allant du 1er mars 2021 au 15 mai 2021 à l'unité COVID-19 du service de pneumologie à l'hôpital Hédi Chaker Sfax (Tunisie). L'évaluation psychométrique a été réalisée à l'aide des échelles « Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale », « Impact of Event Scale-Revised » et « Self-Reported Instrument Measuring COVID-19 Related Stigma ». Notre étude a inclus 154 patients. La prévalence de l'anxiété, la dépression et le trouble de stress post-traumatique étaient de 24,7 %, 11 % et 13,6 % respectivement. Nous avons constaté une association entre la dépression et le sexe féminin (p = 0,025), l'atteinte gastro-intestinale (p = 0,002) et la stigmatisation (p = 0,002). Nous avons trouvé une association entre l'anxiété et le niveau scolaire (p = 0,034), ainsi qu'entre l'anxiété et l'asthénie (p = 0,032). L'anxiété, la dépression et le trouble stress post-traumatique étaient indépendants de la majorité des caractéristiques de la maladie, notamment la sévérité de la COVID-19. Our study aimed to assess anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder in post coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and identify associated factors. Our study is a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study carried out during the period from March 1 to May 15th 2021 on patients who were hospitalized and discharged from the COVID-19 unit in the pneumology department at the Hédi Chaker hospital in Sfax (Tunisia). Patients who met all of the following criteria were included: aged 18 and over; having a diagnosis of COVID-19 by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or by CT scan; monitored at the COVID-19 unit and who their clinical conditions did not require intensive care; survivors after 3 months of discharge; and having given their informed and informal consent to participate in the study. Our study included 154 patients. The prevalence of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder was 24.7%, 11% and 13.6% respectively. We found an association between depression and female gender (P = 0.025), gastrointestinal involvement (P = 0.002) and stigma (P = 0.002). We found an association between anxiety and grade level (P = 0.034), and between anxiety and asthenia (P = 0.032). Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder were independent of the majority of disease characteristics including the severity of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the state of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, general mental health, and mental well-being among citizens after a crowd-crush disaster in Korea. Individuals who experienced the crowd crush had significantly higher anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) scores than those who did not (p < 0.001). Additionally, people who avoided the disaster area had significantly higher depression and PTSD scores than those who did not avoid the area (p < 0.001). Those who directly witnessed the Seoul Halloween crowd crush had a significant difference in PTSD levels in either group than those who experienced it indirectly (p = 0.005). There was a significant difference in PTSD scores in cases of direct damage or death of an acquaintance (p < 0.001). The Seoul Halloween crowd crush caused psychological damage through indiscriminate exposure to the public, and symptoms of PTSD appeared over a long period. It is crucial to provide essential resources for ongoing treatment and case management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Canadian Journal of Occupational Therapy is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Aim Design Methods Data sources Results Conclusion Implications for the profession and/or patient care What problem did the study address? What were the main findings? Where and on whom will the research have an impact? Patient or public contribution To facilitate an understanding of the risk for psychological trauma in labour and delivery nurses.Concept analysis.The Walker and Avant method of concept analysis was applied to 56 articles. The characteristics, antecedents, and consequences of psychological trauma in labour and delivery nurses were identified.Peer‐reviewed articles in English from CINAHL, PubMed and Google Scholar were reviewed on July 2023.The characteristics of psychological trauma in labour and delivery nurses are overwhelming distress, intrusive symptoms, avoidance and numbing behaviours, hypervigilance or hyperarousal, emotional dysregulation, cognitive distortions, and interpersonal challenges. The antecedents are exposure to one or more of the following nurse‐specific traumas: natural or person‐made disasters, historical role limitations, second victim situations, secondary trauma, system‐mediated or over‐medicalized care, insufficient resources, or workplace incivility. The consequences are disruptions in mental health, diminished physical health, alterations in relationships, and variable work performance.Labour and delivery nurses experience unique causes of psychological trauma due to their practice environment and patient population. The consequences of labour and delivery nurses' psychological trauma extend beyond individual health and impact the quality of patient care and organizational capacity.Furthermore, research is needed to inform education, support and policy measures to mitigate harm effectively.Nurse‐specific trauma theory has not been applied to the unique labour and delivery environment with a high incidence of patient trauma.Multiple causes of trauma in the perinatal context have created a pervasive yet largely preventable issue.This research will impact labour and delivery nurses, their leadership, and their patients.No patient or public contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) is used to measure posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) symptoms, and the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory-9 (PTCI-9) is used to measure posttraumatic cognitions. Both tools have been translated for use in Brazil. However, the psychometric properties of the Brazilian versions were not investigated, and no study has verified the invariance of these tools for many traumatic event types. Objective: This study examined the validity, reliability, and measurement invariance of the Brazilian versions of the ITQ and the PTCI-9 for trauma type, gender, race, age group, education level, and geographical region. Methods: A total of 2,111 people (67.74% women) participated in an online survey. The scale models were tested via confirmatory factor analyses and measurement invariance through multigroup analyses. Pearson's correlation analyses were used to examine the relationships between PTSD, CPTSD, posttraumatic cognitions, and depressive symptoms. Results: Except for the affective dysregulation factor, the reliabilities of the ITQ and PTCI-9 dimensions were adequate. Models with six correlated dimensions for the ITQ and three correlated dimensions for the PTCI-9 showed adequate fit to the data. The ITQ and PTCI-9 exhibited scalar invariance for gender, race, age group, education level, and geographical region. The ITQ also demonstrated full invariance for trauma type. The factors of both instruments were related to each other and to depressive symptoms, with higher effect sizes for posttraumatic cognitions and complex posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Conclusion: We recommend using the Brazilian versions of the ITQ and PTCI-9, which are crucial tools for assessing and treating trauma-related disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: It is widely acknowledged that emotional states can influence skin conditions, yet limited research has delved into the impact of stress on skin cancer development. This retrospective study sought to expand the perspective on skin cancer risk factors by investigating the complex relationship between stressful life events and the incidence of skin cancer. Methods: The sample included 268 individuals followed‐up in a dermatological clinic, in three groups: Patients who had previously been diagnosed with cutaneous melanoma and are currently in remission (32%), those who had been diagnosed with non‐melanoma skin cancer (30%), and a control group who are at risk for skin cancer (38%). Participants filled in questionnaires regarding childhood and adulthood life events, and loss and gain of resources following their subjectively most stressful event in adulthood. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the associations of life events with skin cancer occurrence, and mediating and moderating effects of resource loss/gain. Results: Adverse childhood experiences were associated with melanoma occurrence, with the melanoma group reporting significantly more such experiences compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Resource loss from subjectively significant stressful life events in adulthood partially mediated the association between adverse childhood experiences and melanoma incidence. Conclusions: The findings suggest that there may be intricate connections between stress, life events, adaptation to change, and skin cancer, which future research may further unravel. This study underscores the need for a more comprehensive approach to stress management, coping strategies development, and skin cancer prevention in healthcare settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Student nurses often do not receive adequate preparation, support, and debriefing related to witnessing or experiencing critical events in the clinical setting. The purpose of this analysis was to describe the experiences of student nurses who have witnessed critical events in the clinical setting, the support and preparation they received, and staff and faculty actions they perceived as facilitating or hindering their processing of the event. This is a sub-analysis of a Straussian Grounded Theory qualitative study. Staff and faculty actions that helped and hindered the processing of the critical event were identified at four time points: pre-event, during the critical event, immediately post-event, and in the days and weeks following. Students exposed to critical events during their clinical rotations can experience psychological trauma. If unresolved, this can result in new nurses entering the profession already in distress. Preparation and support for witnessing critical patient events should start at the beginning of nursing school. During critical patient events, students need faculty or staff to be actively present to explain the event and support the student throughout the event. Immediate debrief and follow-up is recommended and should continue weeks or months after the event. • Nurses are exposed to critical events more frequently than any other health profession, and students often witness these same events. • Exposure to critical events in the clinical setting can be traumatizing for those who witness them. • Clinical instructors, nursing staff, and other faculty should consider providing psychological support to these students. • Schools of nursing have a responsibility to prepare students for critical events and following up with students after events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractPhenomenonApproachFindingsInsightsLearners in medical education are often exposed to content and situations that might be experienced as traumatic, which in turn has both professional and personal implications. The purpose of this study was to synthesize the literature on how trauma has been conceptualized and approached within medical education, and the implications thereof.A metanarrative approach was adopted following the RAMESES guidelines. Searches of 7 databases conducted in January 2022 with no date limitations yielded 7,280 articles, of which 50 were identified for inclusion through purposive and theoretical sampling. An additional 5 articles were added from manual searches of reference lists. Iterative readings, interpretive and reflexive analysis, and research team discussions were performed to identify and refine metanarratives.Five metanarratives were identified, including the concept of trauma, the trauma event, the person with trauma, the impact of trauma, and addressing trauma, with each metanarrative encompassing multiple dimensions. A biomedical concept of trauma predominated, with lack of conceptual clarity. Theory was not integrated or developed in the majority of articles reviewed, and context was often ambiguous. Trauma was described in myriad ways among studies. Why certain events were experienced as trauma and the context in which they took place were not well characterized. The impact of trauma was largely concentrated on harmful effects, and manifestations beyond symptoms of post-traumatic stress were often not considered. Furthermore, the dominant focus was on the individual, yet often in a circumscribed way that did not seek to understand the individual experience. In addressing trauma, recommendations were often generic, and earlier research emphasized individually-focused interventions while more recent studies have considered systemic issues.Multiple dimensions of trauma have been discussed in the medical education literature and from many conceptual standpoints, with biomedical, epidemiologic, and individualized perspectives predominating. Greater precision and clarity in defining and understanding trauma is needed to advance research and theory around trauma in medical education and the associated implications for practice. Exploring trauma from intersectional and collective experiences and impacts of trauma and adapting responses to individual needs offers ways to deepen our understanding of how to better support learners impacted by trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Les dispositifs d'accueil et d'accompagnement des victimes d'événements violents sont constitués aujourd'hui, dès l'urgence, de soignants médico-psychologiques et de juristes. Or, même s'ils sont étroitement intriqués, les soins psychiques et la réparation s'inscrivent dans deux champs différents : celui de la clinique et celui du droit. Certains termes ont des acceptions clairement différenciées alors que d'autres, sous des vocables similaires, recouvrent des réalités pourtant bien différentes. Par ailleurs, l'usage des termes de « victime », de « traumatisme » et de « réparation » après un événement violent a été tellement étendu, qu'ils en ont perdu toute spécificité. Aussi nous apparaît-il fondamental de définir ces termes dans chacun de leurs champs respectifs. Dans un second temps, nous nous attacherons à différencier soins et réparation de façon à ne pas entretenir les confusions entre ce qui relève de la réalité judiciaire ou de la réalité psychique. Juristes et psychothérapeutes ne peuvent qu'enrichir leurs pratiques si chacun garde sa place tout en faisant le lien, en instaurant une nécessaire continuité entre ce qui rassemble et ce qui fait différence, différences qui par moments s'estompent, ou se rapprochent... dangereusement ? Today, care and support systems for victims of violent events are composed, from the very beginning of the emergency, of medico-psychological caregivers and legal experts. Although closely intertwined, psychological care and reparation fall into two different fields: the clinical and the legal. Some terms have clearly differentiated meanings while others, using similar terms, cover very different realities. Furthermore, the use of the expressions "victim", "trauma" and "reparation" following a violent event has become so wide spread that they have lost all specificity. We therefore feel it is fundamental to define these terms in each of their respective fields. Secondly, we will attempt to differentiate between care and reparation, so as not to maintain the confusion between what lies in the legal realm or in the psychological reality. Legal experts and psychotherapists can only improve their practices if each maintains their respective place while liaising, establishing the necessary continuity between what unites people and what makes them different, distinctions that at times become blurred, or that come dangerously close? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the Syrian crisis has reached its 10th year, this paper explores posttraumatic growth and the related factors among Syrian refugees in Turkey, with the aim of having a better understanding of the predictors of PTG and the risk factors that may play a role in the inhibition of the growth. In this cross-sectional study, 217 displaced Syrian refugees completed the Post Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ), Brief COPE, General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), and sociodemographic information form by a self-reported online survey. Risk and protective factors were associated in bivariate analysis with growth p<0.05 and were retained in multiple regression models to control the confounders. Participants' 60.7% were females, and the mean age was 32.6± 9.4 years. Growth was found to be highest in the Personal Strengths, New Possibilities and Appreciation of Life, Relating to Others, and Spiritual Change. While the consistency of job education, economic status, education level, number of children, level of self-efficacy, level of Turkish, active coping style, religious coping, and self-distraction (p<0.05) were protective factors, the number of traumatic events, and the PTSD symptoms and self-blame were risk factors (p<0.05) in multiple analysis. However, no significant relationship was found for the variables of marital status, taking support, self-distraction, emotional and instrumental support, positive reframing, planning, cultural perception, working type, and age (p>0.05). In conclusion, the findings have provided valuable insight into the domains of the growth among Syrian refugees and discussed both clinical and research-based future recommendations that could be made to improve the mental health of the refugees based on the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Psychiatria Hungarica is the property of Hungarian Psychiatric Association and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study examined the effects of online harassment on journalists' psychological trauma and their intention to leave work. It also investigated whether journalists' psychological trauma mediates the effects of online harassment on their intention to leave the profession and whether gender makes a difference in that relationship. An online survey of 404 South Korean journalists provided three categories of online harassment that journalists experience: (1) aggressive and abusive expression, (2) disclosure of private information, and (3) cyberstalking and hacking. The findings of this study show that aggressive and abusive expression was the most frequent type of online harassment whereas cyberstalking and hacking was the least frequent. As expected, online harassment was found to be positively associated with journalists' psychological trauma (PTSD symptoms) and intention to leave work. The results further indicate that journalists' psychological trauma originating from online harassment frequently resulted in an intention to leave work. Interestingly, journalists' psychological trauma was a significant mediator in the relationship between psychological trauma levels and intention to leave work for female journalists, but not for male journalists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Durban, South Africa, heavy rainfall leading to flooding has become more frequent over the past decade, resulting in devastating consequences for households. However, studies in South Africa have predominantly focused on understanding the impacts of flooding on rural livelihoods. With intense rainfall events that could result in localized flash flooding to be expected to increase in Durban in the near future, failure to understand how households prepare for flooding and the interventions implemented by local authorities could jeopardize the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 – resilient and sustainable cities. To address this gap, primary data were collected from purposively selected residents of the Amanzimtoti community in Durban using questionnaires that comprised both closed and open-ended questions. Additionally, secondary data were analyzed to determine the measures implemented by the eThekwini Municipality to mitigate the adverse effects of flooding. The findings indicate that flooding has triggered psychological trauma among residents. Regarding interventions to mitigate flooding impacts, some homeowners and business owners purchased insurance. Despite the municipality providing early warnings, a severe flood event in 2019 had a significant negative impact on households partly due to the municipality's failure to utilize preferred communication channels – such as X (formally known as Twitter) – that resonate with residents. The study also found that adoption of early warnings may be partly hinged on the extent to which they remember the last flood episode that resulted in disaster. The findings are discussed in terms of their implications for achieving SDG 11 in Durban.

BackgroundAfter decades of research output, it is well established that transnational adoptees—i.e., individuals who are placed for adoption outside their country of birth—exhibit an increased risk of various negative mental health outcomes. Even so, there is a lack of suggestions for preventive measures or treatment interventions targeting the transnational adoptee population in the literature.ObjectiveTo explore experiences, opinions, and needs among adult transnational adoptees in Sweden concerning healthcare in general and mental healthcare in particular.MethodsSixty-six adult transnational adoptees residing in Sweden, born in 15 different non-European countries, were recruited for individual in-depth interviews about their experiences and opinions regarding psychosocial support and healthcare. The interview data were analyzed employing a codebook thematic analysis approach.ResultsThree overarching themes were identified: (a) barriers to adequate treatment, (b) helpful resources in dealing with health-related issues, and (c) health-related needs and suggestions for the development of adequate support. Identified barriers include a lack of insight into and interest in adoptee health, colorblindness and unwillingness to address racism, expectations of gratitude, steep financial costs, lack of support from adoptive parents, and mistrust of support structures that involve adoptive parents or adoption organizations. Participants also describe helpful resources, such as the community of fellow transnational adoptees. Health-related needs and suggestions include more well-defined and easily accessible structures of support, improved knowledge and competence, a broader psychotherapeutic repertoire that better addresses adoption-related themes, improved support in situations that can be particularly stressful for adoptees (such as during pregnancy and as new parents), routine follow-up during childhood and adolescence, and education targeting adoptive parents. The need for greater attention to the well-being of children of transnational adoptees is also highlighted.ImplicationsBased on these findings, a number of recommendations can be made. For example, knowledge about adoptee health should be strengthened, and psychotherapeutic competence in addressing issues related to racism should become a priority. After over 20 years of discussion, one or more national research and knowledge hubs on transnational adoption should be created. Moreover, economic resources should be made available to support transnational adoptees in accessing adequate treatment.

BackgroundPosttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) are commonly reported co-occurring mental health consequences of psychological trauma exposure. The disorders have high genetic overlap. Trauma is a complex phenotype but research suggests that trauma sensitivity has a heritable basis. We investigated whether sensitivity to trauma in those with MDD reflects a similar genetic component in those with PTSD.MethodsGenetic correlations between PTSD and MDD in individuals reporting trauma and MDD in individuals not reporting trauma were estimated, as well as with recurrent MDD and single-episode MDD, using genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics. Genetic correlations were replicated using PTSD data from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium and the Million Veteran Program. Polygenic risk scores were generated in UK Biobank participants who met the criteria for lifetime MDD (N = 29 471). We investigated whether genetic loading for PTSD was associated with reporting trauma in these individuals.ResultsGenetic loading for PTSD was significantly associated with reporting trauma in individuals with MDD [OR 1.04 (95% CI 1.01-1.07), Empirical-p = 0.02]. PTSD was significantly more genetically correlated with recurrent MDD than with MDD in individuals not reporting trauma (rg differences = ~0.2, p < 0.008). Participants who had experienced recurrent MDD reported significantly higher rates of trauma than participants who had experienced single-episode MDD (χ2 > 166, p < 0.001).ConclusionsOur findings point towards the existence of genetic variants associated with trauma sensitivity that might be shared between PTSD and MDD, although replication with better powered GWAS is needed. Our findings corroborate previous research highlighting trauma exposure as a key risk factor for recurrent MDD.

The article is devoted to substantiate the need to clarify the definition of emotional intelligence (hereinafter referred to as EI). With consideration to the accumulated data on the neurophysiological foundations of EI and psychological trauma, as well as to the methods of psychotherapeutic work of various directions with human emotions and feelings, the introduction of a new element in the definition and structure of EI – emotional sensitivity (hereinafter referred to as ES) – is proposed and argued. ES is considered as the ability to focus attention on your emotions and feelings, be in contact with them, fully experience, be aware of them, immerse yourself into them, live deeply in safe conditions, distance yourself from them if necessary, and return to your experiences again. If the ability to realise one’s emotions and feelings is integrative, affective-cognitive in nature, then ES is the emotional basis of awareness of them, which is proposed to be distinguished separately as an independent and most important element of EI. In general, EI appears as an emotional-cognitive-personal education when the integrative essence of the concept, consisting in the unity of affective and cognitive processes of a person, is emphasised and reflected. In long-term psychotherapy, special and particular attention is given to the development of such an ability as ES. However, due to its important practical significance in people’s daily life, it should be showed in the definitions of EI and remembered in all forms of psychological work with a person.

The aim of the present study was to assess the impact of past traumatic war experiences on preadolescents in the Gaza Strip, which could be useful for psychological intervention with current and future child victims. Participants were 521 preadolescents from United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) schools, aged 11 and 13 years old. Sections I to IV from Iraqi Version-Arabic of Harvard Trauma Questionnaire was used to assess trauma experiences and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The results show that the preadolescents in the Gaza Strip witnessed the destruction of their homes and the murder of family members and friends. A quarter of the individuals assessed either suffered torture or witnessed others undergoing it, including sexual assaults. Almost half of them experienced a lack of food and clean water. The traumatic and torture experiences seriously affected preadolescents’ mental health as 26.29% met criteria for the diagnosis of PTSD. The data analysis revealed two PTSD modalities, with the severity of impact depending on whether social implications were involved. Further research is required to check whether these two modalities fit to PTSD and complex PTSD. Understanding the effects of past wars on preadolescents in Gaza and distinguishing between different PTSD types could enhance comprehension of the impacts of current attacks on child victims. It can also aid in determining the type of intervention needed to minimize the impact on the mental health of Palestinian youth, enhancing their resilience through psychological and social support.

This article examines how psychological trauma and colonial exploitation interact in Paul Harris Daniel's Red Tea, a book that describes the hardships faced by Indian workers on British-owned tea plantations in South India. The study uses psychoanalytic and Marxist frameworks to investigate how the coolies' identities and mental health are shaped by the severe material realities of colonialism. The paper examines the workers' coping strategies and resilience while highlighting issues of internalized oppression, class inequality, and labor injustice. Red Tea is positioned as an important literary work that challenges colonial power structures and their enduring effects on underprivileged groups as a result of this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores and analyses the theme of trauma in existential aspects within the three novels of Don DeLillo namely, Zero K, The Body Artist, and Falling Man. The research aims to explore and unravel the intricate layers of psychological trauma experienced by the characters in the select novels. By employing qualitative research methodology, this research conducts a complete examination of character development, which probes how DeLillo's protagonists pave their fractured realities in response to extreme existential crises. The analysis is based on existential philosophy and psychology which renders insights into human experience as manifested in the novels. The research seeks to contribute to an in-depth understanding of DeLillo's works which encapsulates the human predicament marked by human decision amidst uncertainty, mortality and meaning in the contemporary society. The cause and effect of psychological trauma and the existential action by the protagonists will be scrutinized to decipher the human decision taken during the psychological trauma to cope with it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Traumatic experiences are a significant risk factor for psychological disturbances, including disorders such as complex posttraumatic stress disorder, emotion-processing problems, and trauma-related dissociative experiences. The present investigation examined the coexistence of these symptoms using a network analysis model. Method: This study included a sample of 406 people referred to comprehensive health centers in Tehran from September to December 2023 with psychopathological syndromes. Variables were assessed using The International Trauma Questionnaire, International Measurement of Exposure to Traumatic Event checklist, Baker Emotional Processing Questionnaire, and Dissociative Experiences. A regularized partial correlation network and Glasso algorithm, in combination with Extended Bayesian information criteria, were applied to estimate the network structure. Results: Signs of unprocessed emotions and disturbance in self-organization symptoms were the most important symptoms in the symptom network, forming strong connections with other nodes. Thereby, these two symptoms can be regarded as the most important clinical manifestations in the symptom network following traumatic experiences. Three distinct symptom communities were identified: the community of traumatic experiences (childhood, adolescence, adulthood), the community of dissociative experiences (amnesia, depersonalization/derealization, and absorption), and the community of emotional processing (suppression, unpleasant emotional experience, Signs of unprocessed emotions, avoidance, and emotional control, posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and disturbance in self-organization symptoms). The strongest edges observed were between childhood trauma-adolescence trauma (0.473) in the community of traumatic experiences, between amnesia and depersonalization/derealization (0.644) in the community of dissociative experiences, and between disturbance in self-organization symptoms and unprocessed emotions (0.324) in the community of emotional processing, indicating the recurrent occurrence of these symptoms. Conclusion: In this study, disturbance in self-organization symptoms was identified as the central psychopathologic symptom in individuals experiencing traumas at different developmental stages. It seems that adolescent trauma and not childhood trauma plays a more decisive role in the symptoms that a person manifests after traumatic experiences. Also, posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and disturbance in self-organization symptoms were recognized in the cluster of emotional processing symptoms and can have substantial roles in prioritizing therapeutic measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Treating the consequences of psychological trauma and PTSD is of major concern to psychiatry although outcomes are often rather poor, often giving to the fact that the diagnose of PTSD is misused and no consideration of the trauma settings and its consequences on the brain. Aims: This paper looks at the impact of false or induced memories in the trauma narrative and their potential impact on therapy with examples from the everyday world. The consequences of this in civilian therapy sessions is discussed compared to the classical debriefing for PTSD in the armed forces. Methods: We take a theoretical overview of the interaction between therapist and patient with PTSD and consider the shortfalls of any therapy that requires the patient to recount their experiences. Results: We argue the uncritical acceptance of trauma history fails to take account of, and even lends itself, to induced or false memories which undermine treatment. Conclusions: We conclude that, this is also often leading to a wrong conception of the outcome of treatment for PTSD, which is often much more sombre than the treatment outcome of lesser conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) may be a risk factor for later-life cognitive disorders such as dementia; however, few studies have investigated underlying mechanisms, such as cardiovascular health and depressive symptoms, in a health disparities framework. Method: 418 community-dwelling adults (50% nonHispanic Black, 50% nonHispanic White) aged 55+ from the Michigan Cognitive Aging Project retrospectively reported on nine ACEs. Baseline global cognition was a z-score composite of five factor scores from a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Cardiovascular health was operationalized through systolic blood pressure. A mediation model controlling for sociodemographics, childhood health, and childhood socioeconomic status estimated indirect effects of ACEs on global cognition via depressive symptoms and blood pressure. Racial differences were probed via t-tests and stratified models. Results: A negative indirect effect of ACEs on cognition was observed through depressive symptoms [ β = −.040, 95% CI (−.067, −.017)], but not blood pressure, for the whole sample. Black participants reported more ACEs (Cohen's d =.21), reported more depressive symptoms (Cohen's d =.35), higher blood pressure (Cohen's d =.41), and lower cognitive scores (Cohen's d = 1.35) compared to White participants. In stratified models, there was a negative indirect effect through depressive symptoms for Black participants [ β = −.074, 95% CI (−.128, −.029)] but not for White participants. Conclusions: These results highlight the need to consider racially patterned contextual factors across the life course. Such factors could exacerbate the negative impact of ACEs and related mental health consequences and contribute to racial disparities in cognitive aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is frequent overlap between and the connective tissue diseases Joint Hypermobility Syndrome/Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (JHS/EDS) and disorders of the gut–brain interaction (DGBIs). Aims: Because not all JHS/EDS patients develop DGBIs, we sought to determine whether secondary environmental triggers may lead to development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD) in patients with JHS/EDS. Methods: We sent electronic surveys to 253 patients from a JHS/EDS support group, with responses collected over one year. IBS and FD were diagnosed by the Rome IV criteria, with additional validated assessments of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and traumatic stressors according to DSM-V criteria. We compared clinical and psychological characteristics of JHS/EDS patients with and without DGBIs using univariable and multivariable analyses. Results: We enrolled 193 JHS/EDS patients, of whom 67.9% met Rome IV criteria for IBS. The IBS and JHS/EDS overlap group reported significantly more traumatic exposures (P < 0.001) and were more likely to have experienced greater than 3 ACEs (P < 0.001) than JHS/EDS patients without IBS. FD was found in 35.2% of patients and was associated with significantly more traumatic exposures (P < 0.001) and were more likely to have experienced greater than 3 ACEs (P < 0.001) than JHS/EDS patients without FD. Conclusions: We found that JHS/EDS patients with IBS and FD overlap reported significantly more traumatic exposures and ACEs compared to JHS/EDS patients without overlapping IBS or FD. JHS/EDS patients may have increased susceptibility to DGBIs, with traumatic life experiences and/or ACEs acting a secondary environmental trigger driving the subsequent development of DGBIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study investigated the association between childhood trauma (CT), which is an environmental factor, and obesity. Methods: The study was planned as a cross-sectional descriptive survey. Our study was conducted between 01.07.2022 and 01.08.2022. After obtaining informed consent from all participants over 18 years of age who presented to our outpatient clinic, they were examined using a face-to-face questionnaire. All subjects were interviewed using a 28-item CT scale form and a researcher-prepared questionnaire with 25 questions. The data obtained from the study were analyzed using the SPSS statistics 21 program and p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: In our study, 63.67% of the 256 participants were female and 36.33% were male. The mean age of the participants was 38.53±14.61 years, and the mean body mass index was 30.01±7.14 kg/m2. No statistically significant association was found between the variables of current and childhood obesity status of the study participants and their CT questionnaire (CTQ) score (p>0.05). In the study, the mean CTQ total score was 36.92±11.88. There was no statistically significant association between children's overweight/obesity problem and their childhood CTQ subgroup scores compared with their childhood peers (p<0.05). Conclusion: In our study, no association was found between adult obesity and CTQ score. However, a significant association was found between emotional abuse, physical abuse, physical neglect, and obesity in adults, which are CTQ subsets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The principle of proportionality demands that a war (or action in war) achieve more goods than bads. In the philosophical literature there has been a wealth of work examining precisely which goods and bads may count toward this evaluation. However, in all of these discussions there is no mention of one of the most certain bads of war, namely the psychological harm(s) likely to be suffered by the combatants who ultimately must fight and kill for the purposes of winning in conflict. This paper argues that harms to one's own soldiers must be included in proportionality judgments, and goes on to argue that one of the most significant harms one's soldiers face are the psychological stresses and traumas associated with combat. The arguments draw on a growing wealth of psychological literature exploring the connections between combatancy and psychological trauma, and highlight, in particular, the uniquely negative impact which killing has on a combatant's mental well-being. The paper concludes that these factors place an almost certain and rather weighty negative weight in any proportionality calculations concerning wars with ground combatants who must fight "up close and personal", and that for more remote warfighters, there is also evidence to show that they may suffer deep psychological harm as a result of their combat roles as well. The argument, however, does not attempt to demonstrate that these factors render war impermissible. Rather, it merely shows that these harms, or bads, which can be quite significant, must be factored into our considerations of proportionality. The arguments themselves are rather uncontroversial, but they bring to light an element in the moral calculus which is sadly overlooked in most discussions of the ethics of war. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes cases of patients at a Singapore hospital with trauma-related nightmares treated with prazosin. A 25-year old Chinese woman with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) had reduced nightmares. A 25-year old Malay woman with PTSD, borderline personality disorder (PD) and MDD resolved her nocturnal enuresis. A 20-year old Malay woman with borderline PD, MDD, persistent depressive disorder and social anxiety disorder had reduced nightmares.

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Suicide and PTSD are pressing public health issues in the US, with discrimination and potentially traumatic experiences (PTEs) influencing mental health. However, the unique effects of these factors on Multiracial/ethnic adults' PTSD and suicidal thoughts/behaviors (STB) are not thoroughly researched. Using a cross-sectional design, an online survey was conducted (N = 1012) from October to December 2022. Multivariable logistic regression models analyzed relationships between PTEs, discriminatory events, and mental health outcomes, accounting for sociodemographics. After adjusting for demographics, exposure to PTEs and discrimination correlated with heightened odds of PTSD and STB. Individual lifetime discrimination experiences and specific PTEs demonstrated varying associations with STB and PTSD. The study underscores discrimination's relevance as a risk factor. The study's cross-sectional nature restricts causality or temporality interpretations. Moreover, the convenience sample of English-speaking online participants might not be reflective of all Multiracial/ethnic US adults. Findings underscore PTEs and discrimination's interconnectedness in Multiracial/ethnic mental health outcomes. Discrimination might pose similar risks to PTEs. Acknowledging discrimination as potential precursors for PTSD and STB aids accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. Incorporating racial/ethnic discrimination and traumatic experiences into PTSD conceptualization and assessment is pivotal. This knowledge informs tailored interventions and mental health education for this population. • Potentially Traumatic Experiences (PTE) are events that meet qualifying criteria for PTSD. • Discrimination is not currently included as a qualifying PTE. • PTEs & discrimination linked to 5–34 % higher odds of STB and PTSD in Multiracial/ethnic adults. • Discrimination may pose similar STB/PTSD risks as traditionally noted PTEs. • Consider including assessment of exposure to discrimination as risk factor for STB and PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sadly, much of the world is no stranger to Psychological Trauma, particularly in poorer areas with poor health infrastructure. Western Aid Organisations frequently deploy to such areas bringing with them a western psychiatric tradition of nosology and therapy which may not be appropriate in other cultures. We argue that imposing a western system of diagnosis and treatment may not only undermine local culture but may also be bad for the patient. We discuss this with reference to the WHO's Mental Health Gap initiative (MHGap). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Ciência & Saúde Coletiva is the property of Associacao Brasileira de Pos-Graduacao em Saude Coletiva and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The second victim phenomenon and moral injury are acknowledged entities of psychological harm for healthcare providers. Both pose risks to patients, healthcare workers, and medical institutions, leading to further adverse events, economic burden, and dysfunctionality. Preceding studies in Germany and Austria showed a prevalence of second victim phenomena exceeding 53 percent among physicians, nurses, emergency physicians, and pediatricians. Using two German instruments for assessing moral injury and second victim phenomena, this study aimed to evaluate their feasibility for general practitioners and healthcare assistants. Methods: We conducted a nationwide anonymous online survey in Germany among general practitioners and healthcare assistants utilizing the SeViD (Second Victims in Deutschland) questionnaire, the German version of the Second Victim Experience and Support Tool Revised Version (G-SVESTR), and the German version of the Moral Injury Symptom and Support Scale for Health Professionals (G-MISS-HP). Results: Out of 108 participants, 67 completed the survey. In G-SVESTR, the collegial support items exhibited lower internal consistency than in prior studies, while all other scales showed good-quality properties. Personality traits, especially neuroticism, negatively correlated to age, seem to play a significant role in symptom count and warrant further evaluation. Multiple linear regression indicated that neuroticism, agreeableness, G-SVESTR, and G-MISS-HP were significant predictors of symptom count. Furthermore, moral injury partially mediated the relationship between second victim experience and symptom count. Discussion: The results demonstrate the feasible use of the questionnaires, except for collegial support. With respect to selection bias and the cross-sectional design of the study, moral injury may be subsequent to the second victim phenomenon, strongly influencing symptom count in retrospect. This aspect should be thoroughly evaluated in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the number and severity of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) and associated caregiver distress between those with and without a noted history of psychological trauma among those referred to a specialised national dementia NPS support service. Methods: This was a 5‐year retrospective observational study of records from the Dementia Support Australia NPS support service. NPS were reported by formal or informal caregivers at service entry using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Nursing Home version or Questionnaire version. A history of psychological trauma was recorded in the person's social or medical history and/or endorsed as a contributor to NPS by a trained dementia consultant after a comprehensive clinical review. Regression was used to examine the impact of a recorded history of psychological trauma on NPS severity and associated caregiver distress, controlling for age and sex. Results: Among 41,876 eligible referrals with dementia, 6% (n = 2529) had some reference in their records to a history of psychological trauma. Referrals with a recorded history of psychological trauma were rated with a higher rate of both NPS severity (mean = 12.0) and associated caregiver distress (mean = 16.5) at service entry than those without a recorded history of psychological trauma (means = 10.7 and 14.5, respectively). A recorded history of psychological trauma was associated with higher odds of psychotic symptoms, agitation/aggression, irritability, disinhibition, affective symptoms and night‐time behaviours. Conclusions: Traumatic stress symptoms may represent a neglected target for intervention to reduce the impact of NPS in people with dementia. Key points: Psychological trauma is a putative risk factor for dementia, and dementia onset can also trigger the re‐emergence or exacerbation of traumatic stress. However, little is known about how trauma contributes to neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in dementia.People with dementia and a recorded history of psychological trauma were rated as having more frequent, more severe, and more distressing NPS than people without a recorded history of psychological trauma.Traumatic stress symptoms are modifiable and therefore may represent a neglected target for intervention to reduce the impact of NPS in people with dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Pathological responses can occur in the aftermath of traumatic experiences, alongside positive changes in levels of functioning, such as Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG). Neurocognitive flexibility involves the adaptive restructuring of information in response to changing conditions. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential impact of neurocognitive flexibility on PTG. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and PTG are examined together. Method: A total of 96 participants of had a traffic accident, consisting of 43 individuals with a diagnosis of PTSD and 53 without a diagnosis of PTSD, participated in the study. Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5, Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale, Sociodemographic and Trauma-Related Characteristics Data Form, Life Events Checklist for DSM-5, PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 42, Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory, Stroop Test, Trail Making Test, and Category Fluency Test were used as assessment tools. Results: According to correlation analyses, weak significant relationships were found between the PTG inventory subdimension of changes in life philosophy and neurocognitive flexibility scores. Statistically significant relationships were found between PTSD and neurocognitive flexibility scores. However, no significant relationship was found between PTSD and PTG. Linear regression analyses revealed a trend between PTG inventory and Category Fluency scores. Discussion: This study is the first in Turkey to examine the relationship between PTG and neurocognitive flexibility using neuropsychological tests. Including tests that measure neurocognitive flexibility in future studies with a larger sample size could yield more specific and robust findings. Investigating the impact of neurocognitive flexibility is theoretically important for understanding the cognitive variables that affect PTG and can help plan psychological interventions that encompass neurocognitive flexibility. This study was presented as a Poster Presentation at the 21st National Neuroscience Congress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]